#how to change play store location 2021

[fuckyeahgoodomens]

Oooh! A great Gavin Finney (Good Omens Director of Photography) interview with Helen Parkinson for the British Cinematographer! :)

HEAVEN SENT

Gifted a vast creative landscape from two of fantasy’s foremost authors to play with, Gavin Finney BSC reveals how he crafted the otherworldly visuals for Good Omens 2.  

It started with a letter from beyond the grave. Following fantasy maestro Sir Terry Pratchett’s untimely death in 2015, Neil Gaiman decided he wouldn’t adapt their co-authored 1990 novel, Good Omens, without his collaborator. That was, until he was presented with a posthumous missive from Pratchett asking him to do just that.  

For Gaiman, it was a request that proved impossible to decline: he brought Good Omens season one to the screen in 2019, a careful homage to its source material. His writing, complemented by some inspired casting – David Tennant plays the irrepressible demon Crowley, alongside Michael Sheen as angel-slash-bookseller Aziraphale – and award-nominated visuals from Gavin Finney BSC, proved a potent combination for Prime Video viewers.  

Aziraphale’s bookshop was a set design triumph.

Season two departs from the faithful literary adaptation of its predecessor, instead imagining what comes next for Crowley and Aziraphale. Its storyline is built off a conversation that Pratchett and Gaiman shared during a jetlagged stay in Seattle for the 1989 World Fantasy Convention. Gaiman remembers: “The idea was always that we would tell the story that Terry and I came up with in 1989 in Seattle, but that we would do that in our own time and in our own way. So, once Good Omens (S1) was done, all I knew was that I really, really wanted to tell the rest of the story.” 

Telling that story visually may sound daunting, but cinematographer Finney is no stranger to the wonderfully idiosyncratic world of Pratchett and co. As well as lensing Good Omens’ first outing, he’s also shot three other Pratchett stories – TV mini series  Hogfather  (2006), and TV mini-series The Colour of Magic (2008) and Going Postal (2010). 

He relishes how the authors provide a vast creative landscape for him to riff off. “The great thing about Pratchett and Gaiman is that there’s no limit to what you can do creatively – everything is up for grabs,” he muses. “When we did the first Pratchett films and the first Good Omens, you couldn’t start by saying, ‘Okay, what should this look like?’, because nothing looks like Pratchett’s world. So, you’re starting from scratch, with no references, and that starting point can be anything you want it to be.”  

Season two saw the introduction of inside-outside sets for key locations including Aziraphale’s bookshop. 

From start to finish 

The sole DP on the six-episode season, Finney was pleased to team up again with returning director Douglas Mackinnon for the “immensely complicated” shoot, and the pair began eight weeks of prep in summer 2021. A big change was the production shifting the main soho set from Bovington airfield, near London, up to Edinburgh’s Pyramids Studio. Much of the action in Good Omens takes place on the Soho street that’s home to Aziraphale’s bookshop, which was built as an exterior set on the former airfield for season one. Season two, however, saw the introduction of inside-outside sets for key locations including the bookshop, record store and pub, to minimise reliance on green screen.  

Finney brought over many elements of his season one lensing, especially Mackinnon’s emphasis on keeping the camera moving, which involved lots of prep and testing. “We had a full-time Scorpio 45’ for the whole shoot (run by key grip Tim Critchell and his team), two Steadicam operators (A camera – Ed Clark and B camera Martin Newstead) all the way through, and in any one day we’d often go from Steadicam, to crane, to dolly and back again,” he says. “The camera is moving all the time, but it’s always driven by the story.” 

One key difference for season two, however, was the move to large-format visuals. Finney tested three large-format cameras and the winner was the Alexa LF (assisted by the Mini LF where conditions required), thanks to its look and flexibility.  

The minisodes were shot on Cooke anamorphics, giving Finney the ideal balance of anamorphic-style glares and characteristics without too much veiling flare.

A more complex decision was finding the right lenses for the job. “You hear about all these whizzy new lenses that are re-barrelled ancient Russian glass, but I needed at least two full sets for the main unit, then another set for the second unit, then maybe another set again for the VFX unit,” Finney explains. “If you only have one set of this exotic glass, it’s no good for the show.” 

He tested a vast array of lenses before settling on Zeiss Supremes, supplied by rental house Media Dog. These ticked all the boxes for the project: “They had a really nice look – they’re a modern design but not over sharp, which can look a bit electronic and a bit much, especially with faces. When you’re dealing with a lot of wigs and prosthetics, we didn’t want to go that sharp. The Supremes had a very nice colour palette and nice roll-off. They’re also much smaller than a lot of large-format glass, so that made it easy for Steadicam and remote cranes. They also provided additional metadata, which was very useful for the VFX department (VFX services were provided by Milk VFX).” 

The Supremes were paired with a selection of filters to characterise the show’s varied locations and characters. For example, Tiffen Bronze Glimmerglass were paired with bookshop scenes; Black Pro-Mist was used for Hell; and Black Diffusion FX for Crowley’s present-day storyline.  

Finney worked closely with the show’s DIT, Donald MacSween, and colourist, Gareth Spensley, to develop the look for the minisode.

Maximising minisodes 

Episodes two, three and four of season two each contain a ‘minisode’ – an extended flashback set in Biblical times, 1820s Edinburgh and wartime London respectively. “Douglas wanted the minisodes to have very strong identities and look as different from the present day as possible, so we’d instantly know we were in a minisode and not the present day,” Finney explains.  

One way to shape their distinctive look was through using Cooke anamorphic lenses. As Finney notes: “The Cookes had the right balance of controllable, anamorphic-style flares and characteristics without having so much veiling flare that they would be hard to use on green screens. They just struck the right balance of aesthetics, VFX requirements and availability.” The show adopted the anamorphic aspect ratio (2:39.1), an unusual move for a comedy, but one which offered them more interesting framing opportunities. 

Good Omens 2 was shot on the Alexa LF, paired with Zeiss Supremes for the present-day scenes.

The minisodes were also given various levels of film grain to set them apart from the present-day scenes. Finney first experimented with this with the show’s DIT Donald MacSween using the DaVinci Resolve plugin FilmConvert. Taking that as a starting point, the show’s colourist, Company 3’s Gareth Spensley, then crafted his own film emulation inspired by two-strip Technicolor. “There was a lot of testing in the grade to find the look for these minisodes, with different amounts of grain and different types of either Technicolor three-strip or two-strip,” Finney recalls. “Then we’d add grain and film weave on that, then on top we added film flares. In the Biblical scenes we added more dust and motes in the air.”  

Establishing the show’s lighting was a key part of Finney’s testing process, working closely with gaffer Scott Napier and drawing upon PKE Lighting’s inventory. Good Omens’ new Scottish location posed an initial challenge: as the studio was in an old warehouse rather than being purpose-built for filming, its ceilings weren’t as high as one would normally expect. This meant Finney and Napier had to work out a low-profile way of putting in a lot of fixtures. 

Inside Crowley’s treasured Bentley.

Their first task was to test various textiles, LED wash lights and different weight loadings, to establish what they were working with for the street exteriors. “We worked out that what was needed were 12 SkyPanels per 20’x20’ silk, so each one was a block of 20’x20’, then we scaled that up,” Finney recalls. “I wanted a very seamless sky, so I used full grid cloth which made it very, very smooth. That was important because we’ve got lots of cars constantly driving around the set and the sloped windscreens reflect the ceiling. So we had to have seamless textiles – PKE had to source around 12,000 feet of textiles so that we could put them together, so the reflections in the windscreens of the cars just showed white gridcloth rather than lots of stage lights. We then drove the car around the set to test it from different angles.”  

On the floor, they mostly worked with LEDs, providing huge energy and cost savings for the production. Astera’s Titan Tubes came in handy for a fun flashback scene with John Hamm’s character Gabriel. The DP remembers: “[Gabriel] was travelling down a 30-foot feather tunnel. We built a feather tunnel on the stage and wrapped it in a ring of Astera tubes, which were then programmed by dimmer op Jon Towler to animate, pulse and change different colours. Each part of Gabriel’s journey through his consciousness has a different colour to it.” 

Among the rigs built was a 20-strong Creamsource Vortex setup for the graveyard scene in the “Body Snatchers” minisode, shot in Stirling. “We took all the yokes off each light then put them on a custom-made aluminium rig so we could have them very close. We put them up on a big telehandler on a hill that gave me a soft mood light, which was very adjustable, windproof and rainproof.” 

Shooting on the VP stage for the birth of the universe scenes in episode one.

Sky’s the limit 

A lot of weather effects were done in camera – including lightning effects pulsed in that allowed both direct fork lightning and sheet lightning to spread down the streets. In the grade, colourist Spensley was also able to work his creative magic on the show’s skies. “Gareth is a very artistic colourist – he’s a genius at changing skies,” Finney says. “Often in the UK you get these very boring, flat skies, but he’s got a library of dramatic skies that you can drop in. That would usually be done by VFX, but he’s got the ability to do it in Baselight, so a flat sky suddenly becomes a glorious sunset.” 

Finney emphasises that the grade is a very involved process for a series like Good Omens, especially with its VFX-heavy nature. “This means VFX sequences often need extra work when it comes back into the timeline,” says the DP. “So, we often add camera movement or camera shake to crank the image up a bit. Having a colourist like Gareth is central to a big show like Good Omens, to bring all the different visual elements together and to make it seamless. It’s quite a long grade process but it’s worth its weight in gold.” 

Shooting in the VR cube for the blitz scenes .

Finney took advantage of virtual production (VP) technology for the driving scenes in Crowley’s classic Bentley. The volume was built on their Scottish set: a 4x7m cube with a roof that could go up and down on motorised winches as needed. “We pulled the cars in and out on skates – they went up on little jacks, which you could then rotate and move the car around within the volume,” he explains. “We had two floating screens that we could move around to fill in and use as additional source lighting. Then we had generated plates – either CGI or real location plates –projected 360º around the car. Sometimes we used the volume in-camera but if we needed to do more work downstream; we’d use a green screen frustum.” Universal Pixels collaborated with Finney to supply in-camera VFX expertise, crew and technical equipment for the in-vehicle driving sequences and rear projection for the crucial car shots. 

John Hamm was suspended in the middle of this lighting rig and superimposed into the feather tunnel.

Interestingly, while shooting at a VP stage in Leith, the team also used the volume as a huge, animated light source in its own right – a new technique for Finney. “We had the camera pointing away from [the volume] so the screen provided this massive, IMAX-sized light effect for the actors. We had a simple animation of the expanding universe projected onto the screen so the actors could actually see it, and it gave me the animated light back on the actors.”  

Bringing such esteemed authors’ imaginations to the screen is no small task, but Finney was proud to helped bring Crowley and Aziraphale’s adventures to life once again. He adds: “What’s nice about Good Omens, especially when there’s so much bad news in the world, is that it’s a good news show. It’s a very funny show. It’s also about good and evil, love and doing the right thing, people getting together irrespective of backgrounds. It’s a hopeful message, and I think that that’s what we all need.” 

Finney is no stranger to the idiosyncratic world of Sir Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman.

[thedevilrisen]

Axel Hughes

The Life of Axel Hughes and her best friend Freya Hischer

The mixed au I'm doing with the wonderful, @toasttt11 !

Axel Luquinn Hughes was born to Jack Hughes and now ex partner Julia Callahan on September 14 2021. 

Jack and Julia were very early in the stages of dating when Julia fell pregnant with Axel. Julia wanted nothing to do with Axel as she saw her as the reason her life was ruined. 

Axel spent the first 13 years of her life being tormented by her mothers presence and her cruel, snide and plain awful remarks. Julia stalked Jack and Axel, online, and in real life through tracking their locations on social media. This was put to a stop when Jack had filed for a restraining order when Axel was thirteen. 

Axel was born in Newark, New Jersey.

Jack chose the name Axel because from the first time he saw his daughter, he knew she needed a name that would be different. Axel was chosen because Jack described her birth as the day he felt his world get tipped on its axis. Luquinn in honor of his younger and older brothers and Axel obviously took her fathers last name. 

Axel lives in Jack and Luke’s shared apartment, which means that they also live in the same building as Nico Hischier and his daughter Freya. 

Freya and Axel have been friends before they could talk. They are born six months apart, Freya being the older one. They go to each other with everything.

Jack learnt the art of being a single parent from Nico, he was taught how to change diapers, braid hair even though both girls didn’t have enough hair yet. 

Axel wasn’t a needy baby, but for a long time, it was her way or the highway. Jack called Ellen within the first six months of Axel’s life saying to his mother, “Some small country is missing it’s dictator, and she’s living at my house.”

Jack never thought of getting a tattoo before Axel was born but on his left index finger he has ink that says 14/8/21 with a small gear wheel next to it. This is the finger Axel grabbed when he first held her.

Nico is Axel’s Godfather

Axel absolutely despises shopping, unlike her father. However, Nico’s daughter Freya, loves it just as much. So while Jack and Freya walk around shopping malls together gossiping about how different brands are better than others, Axel and her Godfather Nico sulk along behind betting how long they will be in each store.

Axel’s favorite pastime is to bully (playfully) her uncle Luke. Since forever, whenever Freya is around both her, and Axel gang up on Luke. 

Axel is very outgoing and has a big personality, but after certain issues with her ex-friends it has developed some trust issues and anxiety. One Christmas when she was 2 years old her grandparents Ellen and Jim were in town. They gave her a green weighted snake that she uses when she's older to help quell the panic attacks.

Axel’s first word wasn’t Dad it was actually reya. Because she couldn’t pronounce her F’s.

Whenever Quinn is in town Axel is always stuck to his side. She her own customized Canucks Jersey with her hockey number because when she was little she insisted on being on the ice with her Uncle ‘Winny’

Axel loves storms and rain, she makes her Dad run in the rain and jump in puddles when it does.

Axel of course has been playing hockey as soon as she could stand on skates and has always loved it. When she gets anxious she goes out onto the rink and just sits on the ice until her backside is numb.

[kanzgamesandtrailers]

Hogwarts Legacy - Tour the Slytherin Common Room | PS5, Ps4, Xbox One, P...

Hogwarts Legacy: Hogwarts Legacy is a role-playing video game (RPG) developed by Avalanche Software and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment in collaboration with Portkey Games. The game will be released in February 2023 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and PC (Windows, via Epic Games Store and Steam); in April 2023 on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and in July 2023 on Nintendo Switch. This game takes place in the world of wizards created by J. K. Rowling, without her being involved in the development and the scenario of the game. In 2022, Hogwarts Legacy is considered by some journalists to be the most anticipated video game of the year. Initially scheduled for 2021, the game's release was later announced for Christmas 2022. In August 2022, Avalanche Software announced the postponement of the game for the beginning of the following year, with a specific first release date. Hogwarts Legacy: Hogwarts Legacy, available Friday February 10, 2023 on PS5, PC and XBoxSeries. ----------------------------- What is Slytherin common room password? The password to the Slytherin common room is "pure blood," the unchanging house philosophy, as opposed to the Gryffindor word, always quirky and often changing. How do you enter Slytherin common room? Slytherin: Fly under the courtyard, where flying lessons take place. The Slytherin common room is opposite the greenhouses. Gryffindor: Go past the Fat Lady on the South Wing. Once you see a floating, white square, dismount and step on it and you'll be teleported into the Gryffindor common room. Where's the Slytherin common room? the dungeons Location of common room: The Slytherin common room is a low-ceilinged, dungeon-like room with greenish lamps and chairs. It is located in the dungeons, behind an apparently blank stretch of wall. The author has commented that it is actually located under the lake. Is the Slytherin common room cold? Common Room It was decorated with tapestries featuring the adventures of famous Medieval Slytherins. It had quite a grand atmosphere, but also quite a cold one. Whose skull is in the Slytherin common room? Although the Dark Mark was not strictly confined to Slytherin house, it shared an undeniable association with Slytherin. This was Lord Voldemort's dreaded sign: an ominous skull with a cascading tongue-like snake that evoked fear and dread in every witch or wizard who witnessed it. Who is the black guy in Slytherin? Blaise Zabini Blaise Zabini is a Hogwarts student in Harry's year. He is a member of Slytherin House. ---------------------------------------- *- What GPU does Hogwarts Legacy use?                     Recommended/High Specs RAM                                 16 GB GPU                                 NVIDIA GeForce 1080 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT or INTEL Arc A770 DX VERSION                         DX 12 STORAGE                        85 GB SSD ---------------------------------------------------------------------- *- Can you be a girl in Hogwarts Legacy? The open-world game allows the player to customize their character, and create a trans Hogwarts student if they like; the game has even introduced the series first canonical transgender character, Sirona Ryan. *- Is Hogwarts Legacy offline? A: Hogwarts Legacy is a single player experience and does not have online or co-op gameplay. Q: Does Hogwarts Legacy require an internet connection? A: Those who purchase a physical copy of Hogwarts Legacy will be required to connect to the internet to install a Day 1 patch. *- What computer is best for Hogwarts Legacy? You'll need at least an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Ti to play at 1440p, while the developer recommends jumping up to an AMD RX 7900 XT if you plan to play at 4K. Although the minimum system requirements don't seem like much, Hogwarts Legacy quickly becomes more demanding as you move past 720p.

[fidasayeed]

Digital Marketing Strategist

Digital marketing refers to the segment of marketing that utilizes the Internet and various online technologies such as desktop computers, mobile devices, and other digital platforms to promote products and services. Since the 1990s and 2000s, it has fundamentally changed how brands and businesses approach marketing through technology. As digital platforms have become more integrated into marketing strategies and daily life, and as consumers increasingly favor digital devices over physical stores, digital marketing campaigns have gained prominence. These campaigns often incorporate a mix of strategies, including search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), content marketing, influencer marketing, content automation, campaign marketing, data-driven marketing, e-commerce marketing, social media marketing, social media optimization, email marketing, display advertising, and the use of e-books and optical media. Moreover, digital marketing also covers non-Internet channels that deliver digital content, such as television and mobile communications (SMS and MMS), callbacks, and on-hold ringtones, which distinguishes it from online marketing.

Digital marketing strategies often leverage multiple online channels and techniques (known as omnichannel) to enhance brand awareness among consumers.

To build brand awareness, various methods and tools can be utilized, including:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) SEO techniques aim to enhance the visibility of business websites and content related to the brand for common industry search queries. The significance of SEO in boosting brand awareness is linked to the increasing impact of search results and features, such as featured snippets, knowledge panels, and local SEO, on consumer behavior.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Also referred to as pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, SEM involves purchasing ad space in prominent positions at the top of search results pages and websites. Research shows that search ads positively influence brand recognition, awareness, and conversions. Approximately 33% of users who click on paid ads do so because the ads directly relate to their specific search queries.

Social Media Marketing Social media marketing is characterized by its continuous interaction with consumers, focusing on content and engagement skills. The marketing process requires real-time monitoring, analysis, summarization, and management, with marketing targets adjusted based on immediate feedback from the market and consumers. In fact, 70% of marketers identify increasing brand awareness as their primary goal on social media platforms. Currently, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube are among the top platforms used by social media marketing teams. As of 2021, LinkedIn has also emerged as a significant platform for business leaders due to its professional networking features.

Content Marketing A majority of marketers (56%) believe that personalized content—such as brand-focused blogs, articles, social media updates, videos, and landing pages—enhances brand recall and engagement.

Web Design Effective web design plays a crucial role in digital marketing by creating user-friendly, visually appealing websites that engage visitors. A well-designed website not only enhances user experience but also helps convey brand identity and message. Elements like responsive design, fast loading times, and clear navigation contribute to higher conversion rates, ultimately improving brand awareness and credibility. Aesthetic and functional web design ensures that visitors can easily find information, leading to longer site visits and increased likelihood of conversion.

Benefits of Digital Marketing Digital marketing offers several advantages, including:

24/7 Accessibility: Information can be accessed at any time and from any location, making it convenient for consumers to engage with brands.

Effective Engagement: Digital marketing excels at presenting valuable ways to reach, inform, engage, promote, and sell products and services to consumers.

Target Audience Insights: Businesses can gather data to identify their target audiences based on demographics such as age, location, interests, and education levels.

Cost-Effective: Digital marketing typically requires a lower investment, with the cost per lead being 61% less than that of traditional marketing methods.

Mobile Reach: With over 14 billion mobile devices in use worldwide and projections to increase to nearly 18 billion by 2024, businesses can effectively reach a vast audience of mobile users

for more : fidasayeed

[industrynewsupdates]

ATM Services Procurement Intelligence, 2030: Key Factors to Consider

The ATM Services category is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2023 to 2030. Asia Pacific region accounts for the highest ATM usage. According to Asian Banking & Finance, the Asia Pacific region accounted for more than 40% of the number of automated teller machines globally in 2021. Owing to technological advancement, the category has seen a drastic transformation and has changed the cash systems. Banks are aiming to enhance the speed, security, and user-friendliness of their ATMs. Some of the key trends in the industry include cash recycler, contactless transactions, cash withdrawals, more appealing user interfaces, mobile integration, biometric identification, and remote teller assistance to name a few. Cash recycling would help the machines to accept, sort, validate, and store banknotes. This can enable customers to use machines to withdraw and deposit cash eventually reducing labor costs. According to UK’s RBR 2023 report, from 2020 to 2021, the number of cash-recycling ATMs installed globally grew from 973,000 to more than a million.

Cardless ATMs technology, an emerging feature, allows users to withdraw money through apps installed on their mobiles without the necessity to physically operate the machines. In June 2023, the Bank of Baroda, a nationalized bank in India, announced the launch of a cardless cash withdrawal facility, where users can withdraw cash using the UPI system at the bank’s ATM. Additionally, face biometrics at cardless machines is enabling face-based authentication in order to avoid fraud through the use of stolen cards or fake cards. According to biometric update.com’s June 2023 report, around 13,000 of Japan’s seven bank ATMs possess face biometric technology.

Full-service machines can act as a customer's initial point of contact with the bank. Rather than solely performing transactions, ATMs have the potential to become instruments for fostering relationships between banks and customers by offering services such as opening accounts, issuing cards instantly, printing checkbooks, and utilizing other versatile technologies. Through Remote Teller Technology, video banking allows customers to engage with the bank and carry out a majority of branch activities using real-time communication and video.

Order your copy of the ATM Services Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030, published by Grand View Research, to get more details regarding day one, quick wins, portfolio analysis, key negotiation strategies of key suppliers, and low-cost/best-cost sourcing analysis

Manufacturing and installation of the machines may cost around USD 50,000 to 55,000. Cash services such as transporting cash between points, which is the major cost component, account for around 35 to 50% of the total cost. In-house service may cost up to 35% of the entire annual operational cost for the financial institutions whereas outsourcing the entire operations can save them up to 25%. ATM installation, maintenance, security, cash management, and compliance are some of the major cost components. Maintenance charges may vary on the basis of where the machine is located, and how much traffic it generates. Installation of ATMs may range from USD 200 to 300 per machine. ATM machine prices can range from USD 2,000 to 8,000. Carefully evaluating the nature of the service provider and the expenses associated can help the vendor to save on overall costs. 

The threat of substitutes is moderate. Although advancements in digital banking and online payment systems have reduced the dependence on physical cash, ATMs still play a crucial role in providing convenient access to cash withdrawals, balance inquiries, and other services. However, the emergence of alternative payment methods like mobile payment apps and digital wallets could potentially pose a substitute threat in the long run.

The category saw a slight reduction during the COVID-19 pandemic owing to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures that resulted in reduced foot traffic at ATMs. According to the Payments Industry Intelligence 2022 report, it is observed that there was a reduction in the number of ATMs by 2% in 2021 worldwide. Post-pandemic, as everything normalized, ATM usage saw an increase but precautions such as contactless transactions gained momentum which has resulted in the implementation of cardless services.

Outsourcing of ATM software development, testing, and distribution is the most preferred type of sourcing by banks. Banks, financial institutions, and other users are continuously seeking to outsource their category operations to third-party operators who can handle maintenance, cash management, and other responsibilities. This enables the banks, and financial institutions staff to deal with other priorities along with significantly saving on cost. Shifting the managing task to a third party can also boost customer satisfaction. Maintaining long-term relationships with the service provider is also considered to be beneficial as it helps the vendor such as banks, and financial institutions to know the service provider better and save on searching and evaluating new service providers. The use of such practices in sourcing the services can ensure customer satisfaction, and quality services over the long run.

ATM Services Procurement Intelligence Report Scope

• ATM Services Category Growth Rate: CAGR of 5.6% from 2023 to 2030

• Pricing growth Outlook: 5 - 10% (annual)

• Pricing Models: Full Service Outsource Pricing, Price for services offered, Competition based pricing

• Supplier Selection Scope: End-to-end service, cost and pricing, compliance, security and data protection, service reliability and scalability

• Supplier selection criteria: Machine quality, services offered, post-sale services, end to end services, track record and reputation, cash management, traffic handling capacity, technical support, upgrade timeline and options, multifunctional machine

• Report Coverage: Revenue forecast, supplier ranking, supplier matrix, emerging technology, pricing models, cost structure, competitive landscape, growth factors, trends, engagement, and operating model

Browse through Grand View Research’s collection of procurement intelligence studies:

• Debt Collection Services Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

• Accounting Services Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

Key companies profiled

• Diebold Nixdorf

• AGS Transact Technologies Ltd. 

• Brink’s Incorporated 

• AEPS India

• NCR Corporation

• Loomis Armored US, LLC

• Prineta LLC

• NationalLink Inc.

• ATM USA, LLC

• Hyosung Global

Brief about Pipeline by Grand View Research:

A smart and effective supply chain is essential for growth in any organization. Pipeline division at Grand View Research provides detailed insights on every aspect of supply chain, which helps in efficient procurement decisions.

Our services include (not limited to):

• Market Intelligence involving – market size and forecast, growth factors, and driving trends

• Price and Cost Intelligence – pricing models adopted for the category, total cost of ownerships

• Supplier Intelligence – rich insight on supplier landscape, and identifies suppliers who are dominating, emerging, lounging, and specializing

• Sourcing / Procurement Intelligence – best practices followed in the industry, identifying standard KPIs and SLAs, peer analysis, negotiation strategies to be utilized with the suppliers, and best suited countries for sourcing to minimize supply chain disruptions

[yourretailcoachae]

05 Unknown Facts About IKEA

IKEA is a worldwide company in Sweden that offers fully prepared furniture, kitchenware, and home goods. With more than 400 stores providing low-cost home items to thousands of clients, IKEA is the most significant furniture retailer in the world. Ingvar Kamprad, 17, founded Ikea in Sweden in 1943. He sold small items like pencils, handbags, picture frames, and pendulum clocks. IKEA has expanded into a global company with over 400 stores worldwide and more than $40 billion in annual sales.

Despite its current association with furniture, IKEA began selling various products such as pencils, wallets, photo frames, wall clocks, and housewares. IKEA has overtaken all other furniture retailers to become the biggest on the planet. Despite its well-known brand, Ikea still has room to expand since it only has 5 to 10% of the market share in the nations where it works. Although IKEA is well recognized today, the company invented flat-pack, self-assembly furnishings.

Fact # 1: IKEA Has A Unique Naming Scheme 

Every product category has a unique name that refers to that thing. Carpets are frequently named after locations in Sweden or Denmark, while fabrics and curtains are given the name after women. Mattresses, for instance, are named after Norway locations, while couches are modelled after Swedish cities. IKEA uses Nordic titles for its home furnishings for a reason, which some people may find confusing. To explain, let’s take a closer analysis of their naming system;

Friheten is a biweekly newspaper published in Norwegian, translated into Freedom in English. 

Hemnes is a region in Nordland County in Norway. 

Brimnes is a Swedish town.

Flekke means to peel in Norwegian.

METHOD refers to the producer or the creator in Swedish.

Fact #2: Disturbances Become Traction Strategies 

IKEA is aware of consumer distraction sources and works to reduce them. For instance, in 1960, Kamprad built a café inside an Ikea store after seeing too many customers left empty-handed due to hunger. The purpose of the in-store eateries was to satisfy the need of shoppers who’d spent an entire day in the shop and make them feel comfortable and cared for. Ikea Restaurant has demonstrated the ability to increase consumer enthusiasm, which increases the likelihood of purchase. They also include a children’s entertainment section. Parents could take their children to play in the “Smaland” kid’s zone. Parents may shop freely, and children can play for free. Also, Ikea has made the whole shop kid-friendly by placing play spaces for children next to parts of the store that parents often visit, such as the kitchens. Kids’ meals at the restaurant are inexpensive and nutritious.

Fact #3: IKEA’S Style Uses Emotions To Increase Sales 

It has been established that spontaneous and unforeseen purchases account for about 50% of consumer transactions. When designed effectively, store architecture encourages impulsive purchases. Logic and necessity only account for 20% of our purchasing decisions; emotions drive the other 80%. IKEA follows the same path. IKEA stores typically cover 300,000 square feet. IKEA considers how changing its floor plan might alter consumers’ purchasing habits.

Fact #4: IKEA’s Creative Marketing Strategies to Increase Walk-Ins

IKEA Dubai stated in 2021 that consumers could cover the cost of travel time. Whether dining room furniture, office chairs, or various household gadgets, it has initiated a promotion where customers may purchase from its stores and pay with time rather than money. Of course, it is now. Once IKEA personnel scan the items for their Google Maps records, customers can purchase items at a shop and pay according to the time recorded. This applies to Dubai but may spread as the campaign gains popularity. 

Fact #5: IKEA Embraces Technology

IKEA has technology that allows you to create interior designs. IKEA uses technology in several facets of its company, including its user-friendly interface. Their UI-UX is incredibly user-friendly, making selecting the ideal room furniture easier. 

For example, they have augmented reality (AR) software set up so clients can visually arrange furniture in their houses before buying it. This novel feature lets buyers see how the table will appear in their area, enabling a more thorough choice process. It also improves customer experience. IKEA keeps up with the times by adopting cutting-edge technology and giving consumers a simple and convenient shopping experience.

To sum up, IKEA has surpassed all of its rivals to become the most significant furniture retailer in the world. IKEA’s success is mainly due to its original idea for flat-pack, self-assembled furniture, despite its initial focus on small, miniature goods. Although having a well-known brand, IKEA still has room for growth as it accounts for a small portion of the market in the nations it serves.

[truonguyennha]

WEEK 6: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP CASE STUDY: SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS AND SLOW FASHION MOVEMENT

DEFINITION:

Fast fashion refers to the process of producing a large amount of garments in the shortest amount of time in order to ensure that consumers can be trendy and catch up with the latest fashion trends (Chi et al., 2021, p. 102). Thus, it damages the environment with carbon emissions, synthetic fibers (taking up to 200 years to decompose), water pollution, and other wastes (Brewer, 2019, p. 2). In contrast, slow fashion (aka sustainable/eco fashion, thrifting, and ethical consumption) focuses on people and the planet's long-term well-being and the quality of products (Domingos et al., 2022, p. 1). Hence, slow fashion garments need more production time compared to fast fashion.

SLOW FASHION INFLUENCERS AND HOW THEY CAN MAKE IMPACT ON THE MOVEMENT

Notably, it is seen that slow fashion is being supported by consumers over recent years (Domingos et al., 2022, p. 2), and social media influencers in the slow fashion industry play a crucial role in contributing to that positive result. And here are three examples showing how slow fashion influencers contribute to the slow fashion industry:

Promoting sustainable garment brands

According to Lai et al. (2017, p. 94), consumers will have the intention to buy slow-fashion garments if the garments are available and convenient for them to shop. As digital citizens, slow fashion influencers have the right to promote and advertise for brands (Jacobson & Harrison, 2021, p. 153), and this right contributes to the slow fashion movement when it increases the intention to buy slow fashion garments because consumers now know where to shop slow fashion garments conveniently. Kara Fabella (Instagram account: theflippside), a slow fashion influencer, has used Instagram to advertise Saver, a thrift store located in Walnut Creek, USA (Figure 1). By advertising Saver, consumers living in Walnut and nearby Walnut will be more convenient when buying slow-fashion products.  

Figure 1: Slow fashion influencer advertise a thrift shop

Changing perception

Regarding Ajzen (1991, as cited in Chi et al., 2021, p. 102), one of the factors that impacts consumers’ buying behaviors towards sustainable fashion products is their perception of doing a behavior. Particularly, if consumers perceive that it is hard to shop sustainably and ethically, they will not be likely to perform their actions. Thus, slow fashion influencers have the power to influence consumers to act on sustainable practices by communicating with them (Jacobson & Harrison, 2021, p. 154). Through communication, slow fashion influencers can persuade consumers that it is easy to take actions for the slow fashion movement, which is shown through the case of another slow fashion influencer, Heidi Kaluza (Instagram account: the_rogue_essentials), when she posted content showing how easy it is to take actions on the movement; those actions include consignment, resale, thrift, borrowing, swapping, mend, etc., and giving explanations about “emerging brands” to her audiences (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Changing consumers’ perception about taking actions for slow fashion movement

Promoting slow fashion’s behaviors

Short (2022) claims that consumers now depend more on social media influencers in their purchase journey (p. 16); thus, their behaviors are impacted by social media influencers because of observational learning. Understanding this, slow fashion influencer Kathleen Illustrated has created content promoting slow fashion’s behaviors, specifically thrifting, to her audiences. Thrifting is included in the message of slow fashion, which is not “do not buy” new clothes, but it is about reducing the consumption speed and the quantification and buying more sustainable products (Chi et al., 2021, p. 102). Kathleen’s content is about every aspect of thrifting, from thrifting trends to thrifting places to how to style thrifty outfits, etc; furthermore, her posting frequency is regular (Figure 3). Thus, influencing the consumers’ behaviors in the long term.

Figure 3: Promoting thrifting

In conclusion, slow fashion influencers contribute to the slow fashion movement in various ways, and they play a vital role in spreading the slow fashion movement.

REFERENCES

Brewer, M. K. (2019). Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility. Laws, 8(4), 1–9. MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/laws8040024

Chi, T., Gerard, J., Yu, Y., & Wang, Y. (2021). A study of U.S. consumers’ intention to purchase slow fashion apparel: understanding the key determinants. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 14(1), 101–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/17543266.2021.1872714

Domingos, M., Vale, V. T., & Faria, S. (2022). Slow Fashion Consumer Behavior: A Literature Review. Sustainability, 14(5), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14052860

Jacobson, J., & Harrison, B. (2021). Sustainable fashion social media influencers and content creation calibration. International Journal of Advertising, 41(1), 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/02650487.2021.2000125

Lai, Z., Henninger, C. E., & Alevizou, P. J. (2017). An Exploration of Consumers’ Perceptions Towards Sustainable Fashion – A Qualitative Study in the UK. In C. E. Henninger (Ed.), Sustainability in Fashion (pp. 81–101). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-51253-2_5

Short, H. L. (2022). EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS IN EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS IN PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE FASHION ON TWITTER PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE FASHION ON TWITTER (pp. i–59) [Master’s Theses].

[askgilbo]

How to Install locast.org/activate on Various Device?

"locast.org/activate" associated with Locast, a nonprofit streaming service that provides local TV channels in the United States. However, the installation and usage of Locast on various devices are relatively straightforward. Here's a general guide on how to install and use Locast on different devices:

Before You Begin:

Ensure you have a stable internet connection.

Create a Locast account on the official website (https://www.locast.org/) if you haven't already. It's free, but they may ask for a donation to support their service.

Installing and Using Locast on Different Devices:

1. Web Browser (Windows/Mac):

Open a web browser on your computer.

Visit the Locast website at https://www.locast.org/.

Log in to your Locast account.

Select your location to access local channels.

You can stream local channels directly from the website.

2. Mobile Devices (iOS/Android):

Go to your device's app store (Apple App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android).

Search for the "Locast" app and install it.

Open the Locast app.

Log in with your Locast account.

Select your location to access local channels.

You can watch local channels through the app.

3. Streaming Devices (e.g., Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV):

Go to your device's app store or channel store.

Search for the "Locast" app and install it.

Open the Locast app.

Log in with your Locast account.

Select your location to access local channels.

Use your streaming device's remote to navigate and watch local channels via the app.

Please note that the availability and compatibility of the Locast app may vary depending on your location and the specific device you're using. Additionally, the service's status and any changes to its activation process might have occurred after my last update in September 2021. Therefore, it's a good idea to visit the official Locast website or contact their support for the most up-to-date information on installation and activation.

[gtccabs]

How to book GTC Cabs at Delhi airport?

To book a GTC Cab at Delhi airport, you can follow these steps:

Visit the GTC Cabs website or download their mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store.

Enter your pick-up location as "Delhi Airport" and your destination.

Select the type of cab you want to book, such as a sedan, hatchback, or SUV, and enter the number of passengers and luggage.

Choose your payment method, such as cash, credit/debit card, or e-wallet.

Confirm your booking and wait for the driver to arrive at the airport. You can track the driver's location and estimated time of arrival on the GTC Cabs app.

Alternatively, you can also book a GTC Cab at the airport by visiting their kiosk, which is located within the airport premises. At the kiosk, you can provide your details, including your destination and preferred type of cab, and the GTC representative will help you book a cab.

Does GTC Cabs charge extra for airport?

GTC Cabs may charge extra for airport pick-up or drop-off depending on the type of cab you choose and the distance of your destination. The fare for an airport pick-up or drop-off is usually higher than a regular point-to-point trip due to additional charges like airport entry fee, parking charges, and other levies. However, the exact charges may vary depending on the time of day, type of cab, and other factors.

To know the exact fare for your trip with GTC Cabs, you can check their mobile app or website or contact their customer support. They may also provide you with an estimated fare before you confirm your booking. It is advisable to confirm all the charges and fares before booking a cab to avoid any confusion or surprise charges later.

Is GTC Cabs available 24 hours in Delhi?

Yes, GTC Cabs operates 24 hours a day in Delhi. You can book a GTC Cab at any time of the day or night, depending on your requirements. The cab service is available for both pick-up and drop-off to any location within and outside the city. You can book a GTC Cab through their mobile app or website or by visiting their kiosk, which is open 24/7. Additionally, GTC Cabs provides round-the-clock customer support to assist you with any queries or issues related to your booking or trip.

How much is a taxi from Delhi to Dehradun?

The taxi fare from Delhi to Dehradun can vary depending on several factors such as the type of taxi, the time of day, the distance of the journey, and the duration of the trip.

As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the approximate fare for a one-way taxi ride from Delhi to Dehradun ranges from INR 2500 to INR 4000 for a non-AC hatchback or sedan, while a larger vehicle like an SUV may cost between INR 4000 to INR 6000. These rates are subject to change and may vary based on current market conditions.

It is advisable to check with different taxi operators or cab services and compare their rates before booking a ride. Additionally, it is important to confirm all the charges and fares before booking to avoid any confusion or additional charges later.

Which transport is best from Delhi to Dehradun?

There are several transport options available for travel from Delhi to Dehradun, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and travel needs.

Here are some of the most popular transport options for travel from Delhi to Dehradun:

Taxi/Cab: A taxi or cab is a convenient and comfortable option for traveling from Delhi to Dehradun. It offers the flexibility of choosing your own departure time and allows you to stop at any point during the journey. You can book a taxi or cab from various operators, including GTC Cabs, Ola, Uber, and local taxi operators.

Bus: Several private and government-operated buses are available from Delhi to Dehradun. The buses operate at regular intervals and are an affordable option for travel. The journey takes around 6-8 hours depending on the bus service and traffic conditions.

Train: Dehradun is well-connected to Delhi by train, and there are several trains that run between the two cities. The train journey takes around 5-6 hours, and it is a comfortable and budget-friendly option for travel.

Air: The fastest way to travel from Delhi to Dehradun is by taking a flight. There are several airlines that operate flights between Delhi and Dehradun, and the journey takes around 1 hour. However, this option can be more expensive compared to the other transport options.

In summary, the best transport option from Delhi to Dehradun depends on your budget, travel needs, and personal preferences. If you prefer comfort and flexibility, then a taxi or cab may be the best option for you. If you want a budget-friendly option, then a bus or train may be a good choice. And if you want to save time and don't mind paying a higher price, then a flight may be the best option for you.

[sandyzakk]

Metaverse NFTs: How to Profit in Virtual Worlds

The term Metaverse was first used in Neil Stephenson’s 1992 novel Snow Crash. Broadly speaking, it means a virtual world reminiscent of Ready Player One or games like Roblox or Fortnite.

People can live in the Metaverse via avatars, trading and managing digital assets anchored in a fully functioning real-world economy.

While the details of the Metaverse Development market are still abstract in some areas, the power of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) is increasing as a sort of infrastructure and economic foundation within the Metaverse. People are using NFTs within the Metaverse to purchase digital items such as virtual properties, event tickets, and avatars.

NFTs and real estate investments in the metaverse

virtual landlord

As mentioned above, one of the uses of NFTs within the Metaverse is the purchase of virtual real estate, such as the real estate “LAND” within the game platform “The Sandbox”. In such cases, NFTs are used instead of deeds to represent land ownership in the virtual world.

The Sandbox LAND is approximately 300 square feet (approximately 28 square meters) within the game world. On another platform, Decentraland, each parcel is 50 square feet.

Once users have enough land, they can combine them into a single lot. For example, one user combined 64 plots to create “The Secrets of Satoshi’s Tea Garden” on Decentraland. The land sold for 1.3 million MANA (equivalent to $80,000) in 2019 due to its size and location. It was perfectly surrounded by digital streets and had excellent access.

Virtual real estate company Metaverse Group will purchase land in Decentraland for 618,000 MANA in 2021. At the time, this was worth about $3.2 million. Just like in the physical world, location is everything in digital real estate. Land close to gateways and virtual stadiums to specific areas with high virtual traffic tends to increase in value.

land lease

Depending on market demand, NFTs can be rented out to earn unearned income. Landlords in the Metaverse can rent out their land through PARSIQ’s IQ Protocol, a DeFi platform that provides a way for game developers to generate income.

With the IQ Protocol, just like in traditional real estate, virtual landlords can negotiate with renters to earn rental payments through pre-determined terms executed in smart contracts.

Dividend

Apart from the royalties that go to creators when NFTs are sold or resold on the secondary market, investors can also earn passive dividends. One example is Monaco’s digital circuit in the game F1 Delta Time, which sold for $222,000 in December 2020.

Holders of NFTs representing this circuit will receive a 5% dividend from the proceeds of all races held there, including proceeds from race admission tickets to “Elite Events” where participants are required to stake REVV can receive money.

NFTs and games in the metaverse

P2E game items and rewards

P2E (play-to-earn) models such as Axie Infinity and Tamagotchi-inspired Aavegotchi reward users with in-game crypto assets and NFTs that can be traded, sold or borrowed. Giving is creating a whole new virtual economy.

In addition, games such as Battle Racer have made car parts even more useful by releasing them as separate NFTs. Users can purchase such parts and build their own vehicles or sell them on marketplaces like OpenSea.

It’s still a long way off, but this use of NFTs in a blockchain network could also be applied to skins and cosmetics (elements that change a character’s appearance) in more mainstream games such as Fortnite.

Not only will it allow players to better reflect the ownership and authenticity of the items they own, but it will also help increase in-game spending globally, which is expected to exceed $74.4 billion by 2025. It should be too.

Epic Games, the software developer behind Fortnite, welcomes NFT-enabled games to its store, but says it won’t release or be directly involved in NFTs due to fraud concerns. there is

NFT and virtual life

Avatars and social events

People also collect NFTs for social credibility, status, and a sense of belonging to a community of like-minded people, just as Twitter recently launched the ability to use NFTs as profile pictures. do.

For example, one example of avatars evolving within the Metaverse Development Services can be found in the NFT collection “Gutter Cat Gang” and its partnership with virtual reality studio “House of Kibaa.”

House of Kibaa will create an animated 3D avatar for every Gutter, and holders will be entered into a raffle to win free upgrades such as weapons, clothing, vehicles, pets, properties and more available in the House of Kibaa metaverse.

The term Metaverse was first used in Neil Stephenson’s 1992 novel Snow Crash. Broadly speaking, it means a virtual world reminiscent of Ready Player One or games like Roblox or Fortnite.

People can live in the Metaverse via avatars, trading and managing digital assets anchored in a fully functioning real-world economy.

While the details of the Metaverse market are still abstract in some areas, the power of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) is increasing as a sort of infrastructure and economic foundation within the Metaverse. People are using NFTs within the Metaverse to purchase digital items such as virtual properties, event tickets, and avatars.

NFTs and games in the metaverseP2E game items and rewards

P2E (play-to-earn) models such as Axie Infinity and Tamagotchi-inspired Aavegotchi reward users with in-game crypto assets and NFTs that can be traded, sold or borrowed. Giving is creating a whole new virtual economy.

In addition, games such as Battle Racer have made car parts even more useful by releasing them as separate NFTs. Users can purchase such parts and build their own vehicles or sell them on marketplaces like OpenSea.

It’s still a long way off, but this use of NFTs in a blockchain network could also be applied to skins and cosmetics (elements that change a character’s appearance) in more mainstream games such as Fortnite.

Not only will it allow players to better reflect the ownership and authenticity of the items they own, but it will also help increase in-game spending globally, which is expected to exceed $74.4 billion by 2025. It should be too.

Epic Games, the software developer behind Fortnite, welcomes NFT-enabled games to its store, but says it won’t release or be directly involved in NFTs due to fraud concerns. there is

NFT and virtual life

Avatars and social events

People also collect NFTs for social credibility, status, and a sense of belonging to a community of like-minded people, just as Twitter recently launched the ability to use NFTs as profile pictures. do.

For example, one example of avatars evolving within the Metaverse Development solutions can be found in the NFT collection “Gutter Cat Gang” and its partnership with virtual reality studio “House of Kibaa.”

House of Kibaa will create an animated 3D avatar for every Gutter, and holders will be entered into a raffle to win free upgrades such as weapons, clothing, vehicles, pets, properties and more available in the House of Kibaa metaverse. can participate exclusively in

private events and parties

NFT tickets can be used to generate revenue from virtual events, parties, concerts and more held in various metaverses. Rapper, avid NFT fan, and entrepreneur Snoop Dogg will host a private party in September 2021 in partnership with The Sandbox.

NFT Investing in the Metaverse: Advanced

Total spending on NFTs will reportedly exceed $12.6 billion by 2021. Here are some examples of how buyers can earn passive income and get the most out of their investment.

Yield-Generating NFTs: Timing the Web3 market is nearly impossible for even the most seasoned investors. So, in order to create more realistic incentives and reduce the impact of NFT sector volatility, there are many projects that generate passive returns by issuing governance tokens.

For example, Genesis Cyber ​​Kongz, set to generate 10$ BANANA tokens every day for the next 10 years. Other projects include SupDucks ($VOLT) and Mutant Cats ($FISH). Bored Ape Yacht Club is also expected to launch its own token in the first quarter of 2022, although the use case remains unclear.

Staking: Besides collecting NFTs that generate passive returns, investors can also benefit from the combination of NFTs and DeFi protocols by staking, locking up their assets into smart contracts and getting rewarded. can also

Due to the strict rules surrounding securities, these rewards are often project-specific tokens used for common functions such as governance and voting rights. Still, if the token is traded on a decentralized exchange such as SushiSwap or Uniswap, it can be sold.

Nested NFTs: NFTs used to be pretty static. In many cases, something someone made and bought on the secondary market couldn’t be changed. However, with the advent of platforms such as Charged Particles, NFTs can now be layered on top of other NFTs into virtual baskets containing multiple ERC-based tokens.

These new types of nested NFTs, such as endlessly linking rare NFTs to other rare NFTs, add unique value to collections and turn speculative investments into profitable assets. can be converted to

Nested NFTs help provide value to users within the metaverse by customizing virtual items and adding new functionality. Charged Particles co-founder Ben Lakoff shared some use cases in a webinar. These include weapons that increase in power as the included NFTs earn interest, and paintings that change according to the number of tokens deposited.

[xtruss]

Storm chasers stop near a tornado formed under a supercell thunderstorm. While scientists have a clear understanding of how climate change will influence disasters like floods and fires, the influence it has on tornadoes is under investigation. Photograph By Mike Theiss, National Geographic Image Collection

Environment: Why we Still Don’t Fully Understand The Tornado-climate Change Relationship

Unlike heat waves and floods, research on climate change and tornadoes is still in its infancy.

— By Sarah Gibbens | March 27, 2023

Natural disasters like heat waves, fires, and floods are growing more dangerous because of climate change, but the effect a warming world has on tornadoes is complicated and inconclusive.

There’s been a recorded increase in the overall number of observed tornadoes since 1950, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data, but experts say that’s largely a result of better technology such as Doppler radar. There’s been no observed increase in the frequency of major tornadoes over time.

But given the pervasive influence of global warming on the atmosphere, it's unavoidable that climate change would impact tornadoes too, says Victor Gensini, an extreme weather expert at Northern Illinois University.

“Instead of asking: ‘Did climate change cause this tornado?’ It’s better to operate under the assumption that climate change did play a role,” he says. “Start from the premise that every extreme event is being affected by climate change.”

How Tornadoes Form

To understand how climate change could impact tornadoes, it helps to understand how warm, humid air flowing beneath cool, dry air creates the unstable atmospheric conditions in which they form.

As warm air rises into cooler air, wind shear—a sudden change in the wind’s speed or direction—can spin this upward-moving air like a top, creating a tornado.

As the climate warms, it’s heating the atmosphere and creating more energy to power tornadoes. Large December tornadoes are rare because December tends to be cool—but in December 2021, a rare tornado hit western Kentucky, killing 74 people.

Changing Winds

How climate change will alter the winds that bring tornadoes to life is still unclear.

Warmer conditions actually may be diminishing the wind shear that spins up tornadoes; the Arctic is warming more quickly than lower latitudes, which may be weakening the strength of jet stream winds and the resulting wind shear.

“It’s anybody's guess how that’s going to play out,” says Jeff Masters, a meteorologist at Yale Climate Connections.

When conditions are ripe for a tornado, however, more heat will mean “you can have bigger outbreaks because there’s more energy” stored up, Master says. That means more tornadoes could spin out of storms. One study published in 2016 found that, since 1954, single storms were producing more tornadoes.

Research on tornadoes is challenging because small tornadoes have been historically more difficult to observe, making it challenging to conclusively say how they have changed.

More Storms in the Southeast

One study published in 2018 looked at tornado observations since 1979 and observed a shift in tornado locations, from slightly west of the Mississippi River to east of the river, in more populated states like Kentucky and Arkansas.

“We think it might be climate change. But it might also be natural variability,” says Gensini, an author on the study. “We stepped on the scale, and we know we gained 15 pounds, but we don’t know if it’s poor diet or lack of exercise.”

However even a slight geographic shift could have major consequences if storms become more common in more densely populated parts of the country. A tornado striking a cornfield is less dangerous than one tearing through a subdivision.

“The scary part of this is, in the Southeast [there are] an increasing number of manufactured homes,” says Stephen Strader, a geographer studying extreme weather risk at Villanova University. “The odds are stacked against us [there].”

Overall, Americans have made great progress in protecting ourselves against tornadoes: When population increase is taken into account, the tornado fatality rate has declined dramatically over the past century, in large part because of improved weather forecasting and warning systems.

But how we build our communities has a major impact on how much death and destruction they cause in future.

Strader notes one simple solution: “We could save countless lives if we improved how mobile homes are anchored to the ground.”

[cryptoonus]

What is Polygon? (MATIC)

Table of content - Who Developed Polygon? - How Does Polygon (MATIC) Work? - Why Does MATIC Have Value? - Why Use MATIC? - A polygon with comparison to Ethereum: - FAQs about Polygon: Who Developed Polygon? In 2017, the Thematic Network, a predecessor of Polygon, was developed in India. Three seasoned Ethereum developers—Jayanti Kanani, Sandeep Nailwal, Anurag Arjun—and Mihailo Bjelic- were behind it. Some of the greatest names in the decentralized finance (DeFi) industry, including MakerDAO and Decentraland, have joined the Matic Network since its establishment in 2020. The Matic Network became Polygon in February 2021. valuation-powered components from the main blockchain before they are performed elsewhere, including on sidechains. As a result, the mainchain's throughput increases, and the network's proficiency in evaluating performance is distributed. As they are crucial to the widespread acceptance of cryptographic currency, Layer-2 solutions are becoming increasingly well-known. Polygon's modular platform for creating custom networks enables developers to deploy pre-set blockchain networks swiftly. Any blockchain can easily collaborate freely with another blockchain, thanks to Polygon. Think of the MATIC sidechain as an essential component of the enormous Ethereum ecosystem that offers users standardized project implementation and a productive environment. Any decentralized Ethereum application or another Ethereum-viable blockchain can be transferred to the Matic Sidechain to operate in a substantially improved environment. Customers who wish to interact with decentralized applications that have migrated to the MATIC Sidechain must: - Verify the purported Predicate Contract transmitted on the Ethereum network, enabling the tokens to be sent on the MATIC Sidechain. - Tokens will be stored on the MATIC Sidechain automatically following the predicate contract's verification. In this cycle, the "ChildChainManager" smart contract, activated by the "RootChainManager" smart contract, generates the appropriate number of bolted or stored tokens on the MATIC network. How to withdraw tokens from Ethereum: - The Matic sidechain must be burnt before the tickets can be used. - It is necessary to verify this burned exchange to the Ethereum mainchain. When this cycle is complete, the Ethereum mainchain's "RootChainManager" smart contract will store back resources for the client's location (wallet). How Does Polygon (MATIC) Work? The MATIC Sidechain from Polygon operates similarly to other blockchains that rely on Proof-of-Stake. Its structure, currency, client nodes, local Dapps, validator nodes, etc., are comparable to other networks, except that exchanges are clustered and settled over the Ethereum mainchain. It's good that Polygon has promoted a layer-2 network for creating interoperable, Ethereum-viable blockchain networks. Technologies for layer-2 scalability refer to off-chain solutions. This involves reducing or removing e A scaling solution called Polygon, known initially as the Matic Network, aims to provide multiple tools to improve the speed and simplify transactions on blockchain networks. At the heart of Polygon's vision is Ethereum, a platform that hosts a variety of decentralized applications, including those that allow you to join virtual worlds, play games, buy art, and participate in various financial services. However, with so much activity on its blockchain, Ethereum has become almost unusable, as transmission costs are rising, and traffic is becoming clogged. currently a polygon. Because Polygon calls itself a layer-2 network and doesn't try to change the fundamental structure of the blockchain, it works as an extension of Ethereum. Polygon has a wide range Why Does MATIC Have Value? The Polygon network's native cryptocurrency, MATIC, can be used for staking, paying transaction fees, and promoting network growth. Users can earn MATIC tokens by supplying computing resources and services to the Polygon network. This can be performed through the network's execution of smart contracts or transaction validation. Additionally, users can vote on network upgrades by holding and staking the cryptocurrency MATIC, with each vote being proportional to the amount of MATIC they have. There will always be at most 10 billion MATIC coins in circulation because, like many other cryptocurrencies, the quantity of MATIC tokens is constrained. Why Use MATIC? The Polygon Network's ability to scale Ethereum may attract supporters, and developers can use Polygon's technology to create more user-friendly decentralized applications (daps) on its blockchain. Sushi, a decentralized trading platform; Augur, a prediction market platform. And Ocean Protocol, a platform that enables companies and individuals to trade and monetize data and data-based services, is a few examples of Dapps built on Polygon. If investors think Layer-2 fixes can enhance the Ethereum Network, they might try to purchase MATIC and include it in their portfolio. A polygon with comparison to Ethereum: You must first have some familiarity with Ethereum and some blockchain developer lingo in order to comprehend Polygon. The "blockchain trilemma" refers to the difficulty blockchain engineers face balancing scalability, security, and decentralization. Ethereum has its problems. Remarkably, the No. 2 cryptocurrency has a scaling issue, which is evident in the speed at which transactions are completed. Scalability has been neglected in Favour of decentralization and security in Ethereum, and transactions may be expensive and cumbersome. That's where Polygon steps in, emphasizing offering Ethereum with lower prices and better transaction times. Developers have a platform to create and manage decentralized applications (dApps), smart contracts, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and other things on layer-one blockchains like Ethereum. A Layer 2 blockchain called Polygon aims to aid Ethereum's scalability. Instead of attempting to duplicate Ethereum's functionality, Polygon acts as a Layer 2 protocol. Instead, it helps to speed up transaction times and reduce expenses for developers. Think of it as a local train traveling next to a quicker, less-stoppered express train. Currently, Polygon can process transactions at speeds of up to 7,000 TPS, compared to Ethereum's 14 TPS limit. As a result, everything created on the blockchain is much faster and cheaper, similar to an HOV lane on a highway. Experts predict that Ethereum will soon increase its TPS following its eagerly anticipated network upgrade in September 2022. However, Polygon's lower fees should continue to draw developers and support the cryptocurrency's narrative even after the Merge. FAQs about Polygon: What Is a Side Chain's Expected TPS Rate? The scalable capacity of a single side chain is over 65,000 transactions per second. Where Are the Staked Tokens? In an intelligent contract on the Ethereum blockchain, staked tokens are secured, and the tickets assigned to validators are not in their actual custody. How to Purchase Polygon Go to Kriptomat's How to buy Polygon (MATIC) website and select your preferred payment option to purchase MATIC. How To Sell Polygon If you already have MATIC in your Kriptomat exchange wallet, you may quickly sell it by navigating the site and selecting your preferred payment method. Read the full article

[genshin-impact-updates]

"Shadows Amidst Snowstorms" Version 2.3 Update Notice

To ensure all Travelers have the best-possible Genshin Impact experience, our developers will soon begin performing update maintenance. After this is complete, the game will update to a new version.

After Travelers install the new game client, they will be able to continue playing. It is recommended to install the update over a Wi-Fi connection owing to the large file size.

While the update maintenance is in progress, Travelers will be unable to log in to the game. Please take note of the update time and schedule your game time accordingly to avoid losing your progress. We hope Travelers will bear with us during the disruption. > <

〓Update Schedule〓

Update maintenance begins on 2021/11/24 06:00 (UTC+8) and is estimated to take 5 hours.

〓How to Update Game Client〓

PC: Close the game, open the Genshin Impact Launcher, and click Update.

iOS: Open the App Store and tap Update.

Android: Open the game and follow the directions on-screen.

PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5: Highlight Genshin Impact from the Home Screen, press the "OPTIONS" button, and select "Check for Update."

Please do not hesitate to contact Customer Service if you encounter any issues installing the new version. We will do our very best to resolve the issue.

〓Compensation Details〓

Maintenance Compensation: Primogems ×300

(60 Primogems for every hour the servers are down. No change to compensation amount if the update is completed early.)

〓Eligibility〓

Maintenance Compensation: Travelers who reach Adventure Rank 5 or above before 2021/11/24 06:00 (UTC+8).

Please claim before the end of Version 2.3.

Our developers will distribute compensation to Travelers via in-game mail within 5 hours after the update maintenance is finished. The mail will expire after 30 days, so don't forget to claim the attached compensation in time.

〓Update Details〓

I. New Characters

5-Star Character "Hanamizaka Heroics" Arataki Itto (Geo)

◇ Vision: Geo

◇ Weapon: Claymore

◇ The first and greatest head of the Arataki Gang, famed throughout Inazuma City's Hanamizaka... Wait, what? You've never heard of them? Are you trying to be funny here?

4-Star Character "Canine Warrior" Gorou (Geo)

◇ Vision: Geo

◇ Weapon: Bow

◇ The great general of Watatsumi Island's forces. He is deeply trusted by his subordinates.

II. New Domain

New Domain of Blessing: Slumbering Court

◇ This great hall stood when Seirai Island neither had the name it has now, nor had it yet been stained with the color of thunder. The scenery within will probably never change, either.

◇ Unlock Criteria: Reach Adventure Rank 30 or above and complete the quest "Ritou Escape Plan."

◆ Challenge the Domain to obtain artifacts in the Ocean-Hued Clam and Husk of Opulent Dreams sets.

Located at Seirai Island.

III. New Equipment

1. New Weapons

Cinnabar Spindle (4-Star Sword)

Redhorn Stonethresher (5-Star Claymore)

2. New Artifact Sets

Husk of Opulent Dreams (4-Star and 5-Star)

Ocean-Hued Clam (4-Star and 5-Star)

IV. New Events

"Shadows Amidst Snowstorms" Event: Take part and obtain the event-exclusive weapon, Cinnabar Spindle (Sword)

During the "Shadows Amidst Snowstorms" event, take part in "Born of the Snow" gameplay and complete various challenges in the Dragonspine area to obtain Cinnabar Spindle (Sword). Collect Snowstrider Emblems and Mysterious Emblems to exchange for rewards such as event-exclusive Weapon Refinement Materials, Crown of Insight, Weapon Ascension Materials, Talent Level-Up Materials, Hero's Wit, Mora, and Mystic Enhancement Ore from the Event Shop.

〓Event Duration〓

〓Eligibility〓

Reach Adventure Rank 20 or above and complete the Archon Quest "For a Tomorrow Without Tears"

Complete Princeps Cretaceus Chapter: Act I - "Traveler Observation Report" and Joel's "Lost in the Snow" Quest

*During the event, the Adventure Rank required to accept Albedo's Story Quest "Traveler Observation Report" will be adjusted to 20. Story Keys will not be required to unlock it.

V. New Main Story

1. New Story Quest

Arataki Itto's Story Quest - Taurus Iracundus Chapter: Act I "Rise Up, Golden Soul"

2. New Hangout Events

Hangout Events: Series IV

Hangout Event: Gorou - Act I "The Canine General's Special Operations"

Hangout Event: Beidou - Act I "When the Crux Shines Bright"

VI: New Gadget

Omni-Ubiquity Net

VII. New Enemy

Golden Wolflord

◇ King of the Riftwolves.

VIII. Other Additions

● Gameplay

1. New Recipes: Unagi Chazuke, Five Pickled Treasures, Sakura Shrimp Crackers, Victorious Legend, and Way of the Strong

2. New Achievements added to the "Wonders of the World" and "Memories of the Heart" categories

3. New Namecards: Travel Notes: Lyratum, Gorou: Leisurely Hound, and Itto: Oni Face

4. New Furnishings: Leisure Device: Rhythmic Sprinter, Lingering Moment, and more

5. New companion added to the Serenitea Pot Move-In System: Paimon

6. Optimization for set retrieval function: it is now possible to retrieve missing Furnishings in a specific set in your home with one click (Furnishings cannot be in other sets)

7. Adjustments to the default sorting sequence of the Artifacts tab in the Inventory and on the Character Artifacts page. After the adjustment, the default Artifact sorting sequence is now: Quality > Level > Set > Location > Quantity of Affixes

8. New locking function in the Artifacts acquisition screen

9. Click on "Stardust Exchange" in the Source section of Character Level-Up Materials in the Inventory to go directly to the Stardust Exchange page

10. After using Domain Reliquary, you can view Artifact Attributes on the acquisition screen

11. Adds some prompts for loading screens.

12. In Co-Op Mode, when a Traveler leaves the party, their vacancy will be filled by a corresponding character from the host's original party composition before they entered Co-Op Mode

13. Spiral Abyss

Floor 11 Ley Line Disorders changed to:

• Geo DMG dealt by all party members increased by 60%.

• Physical DMG dealt by all party members' increased by 60%.

Updated the monster lineup on Floors 11 – 12 of the Spiral Abyss.

Starting from the first time that the Lunar Phase refreshes after updating to Version 2.3, the three Lunar Phases will be as follows：

Phase I:

Exacting Moon

You will obtain 1 Extract stack after obtaining a shard created through the Crystallize reaction, which will increase the DMG dealt by your active character by 8% for 10s. Max 3 stacks. When characters possessing 3 stacks obtain more Crystallize reaction-created shards, they will unleash a shockwave that deals True DMG to opponents. Shockwaves created this way can occur every 3s.

Phase II:

Stonesoul Moon

When there is a Geo construct near your active character, your Charged Attacks deal 30% more DMG and the Stamina they consumed is decreased by 50%.

Phase III:

Pureshade Moon

When a character deals Elemental DMG to opponents with a Normal ATK, Charged ATK, Plunging ATK, Elemental Skill, or Elemental Burst, all party members gain 10% Bonus DMG for that element, and will gain 10% more Bonus DMG every 3s until they obtain 100% Bonus Elemental DMG through this Blessing of the Abyssal Moon. When a character deals a different type of Elemental DMG to an opponent this way, the previous Elemental DMG Bonus gained will reset.

● Characters

1. The characters "Wise Innocence" Yanfei (Pyro), "Mujina Ninja" Sayu (Anemo), and "Crowfeather Kaburaya" Kujou Sara (Electro) will each have a new set of idle animations.

● Others

1. Adds a maximum limit to single-instance DMG of character and enemy Skill DMG, Elemental Reaction DMG, DMG dealt by mechanisms, and other DMG. Maximum DMG will not exceed 9,999,999.

2. Added support for the Chroma feature on Razer devices. If Travelers are using a Chroma-ready Razer device, you must update the Razer Synapse Control Panel to Version 3.6.515 or above and activate it to enable the Chroma feature.

〓Optimizations〓

● Characters

1. Optimizes the time of disappearance for the Dango during Thoma's idle animation.

● Enemies

1. Reduces the homing ability of the Hydro Specter's water ball attack.

2. Reduces the interruption ability of the Hydro Specter's water ball attack and the Geo Specter's rock attack.

3. Optimizes the explosion process of the Specters when they are defeated in their Petrification and Frozen states.

4. Decreases the distance traveled by the Rifthound when knocked back.

5. Optimizes the graphic performance of material effects of the Ruin Sentinel in its Frozen state.

● Audio

1. Adjusts and optimizes the Japanese, Korean, and English voice-over for certain characters and quests.

2. Adjusts and optimizes the sound of the "Floral Zither" gadget when playing.

● Other

1. Addition of Thunder Sakura Bough in a Thunder Barrier of the Autake Plains in Inazuma.

*For details on other bug fixes, please see the Version Update Details notice to be posted at 2021/11/24 07:00 (UTC+8).

*This is a work of fiction and is not related to any actual people, events, groups, or organizations.

[samirkotecha]

who: @domenicochambers​ location: domenico and samir’s flat when: 1st may, 2021

It was a shorter day, just one transport an hour out of town and back. Normally Samir would find other things to do to help out or at the very least, hang around. But, today he chose to take his leave and head to the grocery store to restock the kitchen. He strangely enjoyed grocery shopping. All the colors, smells, and it was always so bright in the store. Very relaxing. He filled the reusable bags and brought them home to put away. After, he promptly changed into a t-shirt featuring a cartoon character and some plaid lounge pants. Gaming headset in one hand and controller in the other, he settled onto the couch to play some games. 

“GOOOOOOOOOOAL!” He belted out just as he heard the apartment door shut behind him. Samir’s face reddened a bit from being caught in a momentary celebration. He removed one side of the headphones from his ears. “Hey Dom,” he greeted his roommate, a soft chuckle coming out from his welcoming performance. “I got some groceries on my way home, your half is forty pounds.” Domenico and him found it easier to split everything down the middle. Just about as easy it was to live together. Over time he’d even grown used to it and grown a fondness for him. 

“I’m about to play another round if you want to get in on it.” He’d decided to play Rocket League that day instead of FIFA or some kind of shooter. So far, he’d lost one and won one. But with Dom on his team they were sure to be unstoppable. “Uh, how was your day?” He added, in effort to be more personable or whatever. Something his superiors at M15 said he needed to work on. Though his opposites in War never seemed to mind.

[another-rpg-sideblog]

Since we launched Darrington Press, one product has been asked for again and again: the popular and out-of-print Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting.

Today, we are delighted to announce that the sourcebook is coming back, in a shiny new form: Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn—lovingly hashtagged #TalDoreiReborn for short. This definitive sourcebook brings the locations, people, creatures, and character options of Critical Role’s Tal’Dorei to your gaming table, complete with 5th edition stats for new magic items, subclasses, and even the members of Vox Machina. Whether you’re a fan of the original sourcebook or are totally new to Tal’Dorei, this book is for you.

Vastly More Pages and a Changed World

Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn updates, revises, and expands significantly upon the original. It nearly doubles the page count at a whopping 280 pages, adding content across the board. Further, the very state of the world has changed: the setting of Tal’Dorei has been advanced two decades in its future, to the time of the Mighty Nein in the second campaign of Critical Role. See how the adventures of Vox Machina and the conclusion of Campaign 1 have affected the land!

Everything You Need

Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn contains everything needed to unlock the rich campaign setting of Tal’Dorei and make it your own:

A guide to each major region of Tal’Dorei, with story hooks to fuel your campaign

Expanded character options, including 9 subclasses and 5 backgrounds

Magic items such as the Vestiges of Divergence, legendary artifacts that grow in power with their wielders

Dozens of creatures, many featured in the Critical Role campaigns

New lore and updated stat blocks for each member of Vox Machina

An Unbeatable Creative Team

The sourcebook’s lead designers are Critical Role Game Master and Chief Creative Officer Matthew Mercer, Hannah Rose (Explorer’s Guide to Wildemount, The Wild Beyond the Witchlight, Mythic Odysseys of Theros), and James J. Haeck (Explorer’s Guide to Wildemount, Waterdeep: Dragon Heist, Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus). Additional contributions are provided by Critical Role cast members Laura Bailey, Taliesin Jaffe, Ashley Johnson, Liam O’Brien, Marisha Ray, Sam Riegel, and Travis Willingham; as well as John Stavropoulos (Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft, X-Card, Wizards of the Coast: Game Design Coach) and Aabria Iyengar (Exandria Unlimited, Misfits and Magic, Pirates of Salt Bay).

Release Information

Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn will release in late 2021/early 2022, first at Darrington Press Guild stores and Critical Role shops (US, UK, CA, and AU) and followed two weeks later at other friendly local gaming stores.

Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn will also receive a deluxe treatment from the team at Beadle & Grimm’s, featuring in-world player handouts, battle maps, a GM screen, and much more. Be on the lookout for future details from Beadle & Grimm’s coming soon!

What's new from the original Tal'Dorei Campaign Setting?

This book totals 138 pages above the original Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting, published in 2017 by our friends at Green Ronin. It applies updates and improvements throughout, in addition to advancing the setting two decades into the future, up to the time of Campaign 2 of Critical Role featuring the Mighty Nein.

Existing owners of the book can look forward to all manner of new content in Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn:

Over a hundred new illustrations and maps

Over a dozen new magic items

4 all new subclasses, and a slew of updated subclasses for play in Exandria and beyond

Dozens of new creatures and adversaries, amounting to 18 new stat blocks

All members of Vox Machina (and some companions!) have been given full stat blocks as well, perfect for bringing these adventurers directly into your games

Oodles of updated lore and setting information, including information about who sits on the Tal’Dorei Council and what has happened in the two decades following the end of the Vox Machina campaign

Both the original book and Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting Reborn use the 5th edition ruleset, so content across both sourcebooks remain compatible at the same table.

Which formats will the book release in?

On the Critical Role shops, sales of the book come bundled with a free PDF. In brick and mortar stores, sales of the book are print-only. There will be no sales of PDF-only products at launch.

[only-johnny-deppp]

Johnny on the Russian Talk-show “Evening Urgant” [FULL INTERVIEW] (April 22, 2021)

Last Thursday (April 22), Johnny gave a 10 minute and half video link interview for the “Meeting at a Safe Distance” segment on the Russian late night talk-show “Evening Urgant” hosted by Ivan Urgant. Johnny talked about his musical and movie career, working with famous rock stars, Nicolas Cage, his last visit in Moscow and his upcoming movie “Minamata” that premiered on that day in Russia. Although the entire interview was made in English, and you can hear a little of what is being said, the interview was dubbed in Russian for the audience and when was aired on TV. But just in case, you wanna know what was talked in the interview I made a lengthy review/transcription about the show:

Johnny’s interview starts at minute 11:27 and after a loudy greeting from Ivan and the audience and a funny test of communication (because we know that Johnny’s video link is not that good in quality). Johnny’s video is being screened in a TV that is being hold by Ivan’s assistant Dmitriy Khrustalyov, who uses his legs as an extension of Johnny body. (It was funny, but poor Dimitry...)

The host Ivan Urgant started asking questions about his musical and movie career. First he asked if it was true that Johnny became a musician and a guitar player earlier than an actor. Johnny confirmed that and talked about how he discovered the guitar, or as he said, “this beautiful instrument” at the age of 12 and knew on that moment that he unquestionably had found his first love and his future.

Talking about guitars, Ivan asks what was his first guitar and who bought to him, and Johnny remembers when he talked to his mom into buying an Japanese electric guitar for 25 dollars.

Still on the music theme, Ivan remembers about when Johnny and Keith Richards worked together, as son and father in “Pirates of the Caribbean”, and asks if it’s true that Johnny invited him just because he wanted somebody to jam with. Johnny, who was drinking, almost chokes and laughs. Then he answers that he didn’t think about it on that way, but that it work very well.

Ivan also jokes and asks who is better: Johnny as guitar player or Keith Richards as an actor, and Johnny kept the joke answering that Keith is better in both.

Another musician, Ivan asked about was Paul McCartney. And he asks Johnny’s feelings while playing with a musician so well known, because to every single person on the planet, specially Johnny who started playing at 12 years old, this is the summit, this is the dream come true. Johnny answers that he “can never have 10 seconds without looking around and thinking: how did I ever ended up here in this situation”, because, as he says, “it’s an impossibility”. And now he feels very blessed, very lucky for working with some of the great actors and musicians like Paul McCartney, Joe Perry, Alice Cooper and Jeff Beck.

To finish the questions about his musical life, Ivan asks to compare and choose The Beatles or The Rolling Stones. Johnny explains that to him they are “different animals” and how the The Beatles sounds as kind of a vocal group in a harmony, while the Stones are more into the R ‘n B and the blues. Ivan agrees but he jokes saying that he (Ivan) always chose The Beatles, making Johnny laughs again.

Then Ivan starts to talk about Johnny’s movie career, and remember when years ago (in September 23, 2016), Nicolas Cage went to the show and told them a funny story of when he met Johnny (when he just had moved to L.A) and let him stay at his place. Then Nicolas started to notice that his money was disappearing. Ivan asks if it’s true or not and Johnny, always smiling, confirms the story. While everyone is laughing Ivan asks how much he got, and Johnny explain that “Nick” failed to mention that all the money he took was in Pesos from Nicolas trips to Mexico and that he used to left around the house. So Johnny ended up picking the money and then going to change at the corner store, and, laughing, Johnny said that thanks to that he was able to buy something to eat for a week and a pack of cigarettes.

Ivan then asks about the day Johnny went to Moscow (during the Hollywood Vampires 2018 Tour at the end of May) and he visited the Mayakovsky Museum. Johnny reveals that when he was a kid, his older brother gave him a lot of books that might be considered intellectually difficult for his age (around 11, 12 years old) and that he felt connected to his Mayakovsky poetry. “You feel a connection to those writers that you admired for so long and Mayakovsky for me was a wonderful journey” ~Johnny Depp And that’s why he wanted to visit the place where Mayakovsky died. Johnny also revealed being a great admirer of Russian arts of that period as well, like El Lissitzky (artist, designer, photographer, typographer and architect), the Russian avant-garde artist Kazimir Malevich, and the artist Ilya Chashnik.

 Lastly, Ivan asks about his new movie “Minamata” which has an important, real and tragic story. Than he asks to explain about the movie and his character. 

Johnny explain how throughout the 60’s, there was a large corporation in the south of Japan, located close to a very poor and simple small fishing village called “Minamata”. There they used to make money by selling, as well as used to consume the results of fishing, but meanwhile their water was being filled with mercury by this large corporation. Then he explains that the character he plays, who was a real person, was a war correspondent for a number of years and reluctantly goes to Minamata and sees what’s going on there and ended up being completely taken aback by the effects of this poison. So he and Aileen, the woman with who he marries, become part of the fight and Minamata becomes they’re saving grace in what they did, opening the story of the disaster to the world. Johnny concludes saying that what happened in Minamata it’s not different from what’s going on today in a lot of places in the world.

 Ending the Interview, Ivan shows a snipped of the movie and after thanks Johnny, saying that he’d love and dreamt to play guitar with him. He even had a guitar with him there and Johnny says that they can set up something together to the next time he goes in person to the show and Ivan jokes that although Johnny is one of the best actors in the world, he can see that he is lying, and this makes Johnny laughs again.

Before finishing the interview, Ivan thanks thanks Johnny again, says that they really wants him on the show, in person, someday while Johnny, still smiling, greets the audience one last time.

> Curiosities: * Although the show was aired at night, it was previously recorded hours earlier in the afternoon. And it seems that Johnny’s interview was indeed realized on that day. 

* Johnny was really comfortable in the interview. Smiling, joking, and even less nervous than when he is in person. It seems that video link interviews for Johnny brings a little bit of a relief.

* The fact of Johnny being a great admirer of Russian artists caught many people by surprise. Although it’s known that Johnny is a “bookworm” and is really interested in arts in general, some Russian fans admired him, because neither most of them didn’t know who was the artists he was citing.

* You can watch the full interview on Youtube. (Starts at minute 11:27 and goes until minute 21:54)