#iconic oregon content

[multidimensionimagines]

Alright, first part is officially finished! A request sent to me by a wonderful user that will be tagged. In the meantime, here is part 1 of

Sweater Weather (part 1)

part 2

Summary: you borrow Ford’s sweater when it gets cold

content warnings: fluff, smut, reader is fem/afab and uses she/her pronouns, minors do not interact!

Gravity Falls wasn’t a sunny paradise. Despite what the brochures and fake marketing wanted you to believe. Sure the summers there were nice. After all, living in Oregon meant getting a perfect balance of each of the seasons as they came. So, that meant hot, sunny summers and cold, bitter winters.

You did not take this into account when you first moved to Gravity Falls two years ago. Sure, you had some sweaters and pants good enough for the colder months, and you would think that living in the same place for two years would warrant you enough time to go shopping to acquire a proper wardrobe. But you, special as you were, had an extraordinary knack for forgetting things- giving your needs the old ‘eh, I’ll do it tomorrow’ and the next thing you know, winter had passed with you surviving on the tattered blankets and fireplace in your home.

Now was the end of fall, the day after Halloween- not to be confused with the iconic Gravity Falls tradition of Summerween- and while it had been chillier out it was now getting dangerously into nipping cold territory. And your boyfriend, as practical as he was, has not stopped having to remind you.

“Dear, don’t you think you’ll be cold going out in.. that?”

You paused, looking over your shoulder at him. He quickly stiffened.

“N-not that, I’m trying to tell you what to wear. I-I would never-! You’re free to dress how you wish I’m just..” he awkwardly cleared his throat. “worried.”

You chuckled, pulling on your lightweight cardigan over your top. “I know you wouldn’t. I’ll go shopping tomorrow, okay?”

You reassured him softly, walking up to give him a kiss on the cheek. He smiled shyly, rubbing the back of his neck.

“You’ve been saying that everyday since October 5th.”

You rolled your eyes and grinned, shoving your hands in your pockets. “Psh, oh come on, there’s no way I’ve been saying it every day-“

Ford reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a little booklet, one of those pocket colanders and flipped to the page with the current month, or well, month that just passed yesterday on it.

“Actually you have, I’ve been keeping track to see when you would actually follow through on your word.”

He explained somewhat smugly before tucking it back into his pocket, revealing your annoyed but.. slightly impressed face. Of course, only the Stanford Pines would keep track of something like that.

You gave him a look but he wouldn’t put away that stupid (cute) grin on his face and brushed past him towards the front door of the Mystery Shack. You and Soos were all going out to get some food shopping done since the kitchen was ransacked by vengeful gnomes yesterday when Stan refused to give any of them candy.

“Bein’ freakishly short and wearing dumb hats all year round doesn’t make you eligible now scram!”

Soos came out from the staff room having finished putting away the rest of the cheap Halloween decorations that were more than halfway from falling apart, but of course, your boss refused to buy any new ones till they were ‘as old as he and his brother’ which you found humorous.

Dusting his hands off each other with a proud smile, Soos closed the door behind him and sighed. “Huh, there, that ought to do it! Oh hey other Mr Pines!” He beamed and waved at Ford, seeming surprised but pleased to see him out in the open. Ford awkwardly shuffled his feet and returned his wave with a small smile.

“Ah.. Greetings, Soos. And, please, you can call me Ford, it’s a lot less formal don’t you think?”

“Oh no way dude. I respect you and Mr Pines wayyyy too much to do that.” Soos stated in a somewhat more serious tone, crossing a hand in front of him.

Ford chuckled, both amused and flattered that he thought that highly of him and his brother. “Very well then.” He shrugged, watching as Soos joined you, who had their hand on the knob as you waited semi-paitently at the front door.

“You ready to rock and roll dude?” He asked, twirling his keys around his finger.

You nodded. “Uh huh!” You turned your head back to Ford “see ya in a bit, sweetie!”

Ford smiled and returned your wave as you closed the door behind you and Soos. Even though you and Ford had been together for a good few months now, he still got a bit giddy at the feeling of you calling him sweet pet names like that. He wasn’t all that used to having someone consistently dote on him in that way, plus, you just made him weak in the knees. No matter what you did. He found you absolutely irresistible. He sighed, shaking off his wandering thoughts and opened the vending machine door, as he had important business to attend to down in his lab today. And he didn’t want any distractions whatsoever.

A little while after, Ford was tinkering away in his lab, experimenting with a new device he had been drafting blueprints for, and keeping notes on what seemed to work.

“Hm… fascinating..” he hummed to himself, a pleased smirk spread across his face as he ran another successful test. He was pulled quickly from his thoughts when there was a knock at the door, but didn’t cease writing.

“Yes, come in!” He called, eyes not tearing away from the his journal pages.

From the other side of the door, you smiled of relief. Happy to hear your boyfriend’s voice after a long day, even though it was mostly shopping, it wasn’t like it was any fun shopping. You gently and carefully opened the door to his workshop, always making sure to be cautious in your step when doing so since you never could really predict what kind of strange anomaly or new device that would be coming your way. Thankfully today however, it was just a few pieces of forest crystals that sat at his desk beside his furiously writing hand. You cleared your throat and approached behind him, standing with your hands clasped in front of your lap.

Ford hummed curiously, looking back over his shoulder and instantly brightening when he saw it was you. “Ah! Greetings, my dear! How was your excursion with Jésus?”

You giggled. “It’s just Soos. And it was great! We got everything on our list and then some… I also got you something~” you rocked back on your heels as a playful tone rang in your voice to which he perked up. Ford turned his body now towards you, resting one hand on his knee and tilting his head to one side inquiringly.

“Really?”

You nodded, reaching into your pocket to reveal a small white cloth bag which had a label in black cursive on them that read ‘Old Timey Style Jelly Beans’.

Ford chuckled and took the bag from you, prying it open with his two index fingers and peering inside. “Thank you, my dear. Although, you really didn’t have to get me anything.” He said, glancing back up at you through his glasses.

You shook your head. “I always have to get you something! I like doing it, it’s nice to see your face when I come home with something for you! Besides, you hardly ever leave here as it is, I might as well do all your shopping at this point.” You insisted, resting a hand on Ford’s shoulder to steady yourself as you took a seat on his lap, taking advantage of the openness of his current leg position. He grew shy, smiling and looking away from you with a soft blush in his cheeks.

“Ah… yes, well.. um..” he cleared his throat “thank you.” He snuck a hand around your waist to keep you upright on him, bringing his head back up to face you so that you could properly see him. You peered over his shoulder to look at his desk, eyeing the new paragraphs of cursive that filled journal number four.

“What’cha working on?” You chirped. Ford beamed.

“Ah! I’m glad you asked!” He swiveled around in his chair, keeping hold of you in his lap and setting the jellybeans aside. “I’m testing a new invention of mine that I’ve had in the works for a while. I just didn’t have the pieces to do it until now…”

as he rambled on, explaining his newest discovery, you couldn’t help but accidentally tune out his words, sure you were listening, you could hear him talking, but your processing gears were occupied by the gleam in his eyes and the added crinkles that formed around them when he smiled in the excitement of explaining something to you. You let out an internal, dreamy sigh as you focused on the way his one hand was gesturing to all the different things on his desk and how the other gripped your waist so comfortingly. His rough, gorgeous hands…

“Dear, are you alright?”

Your breath hitched, you blinked and looked at him as a slow blush began to creep onto your face. “O-oh! Yeah um.. sorry you just… look really cute when you’re explaining your.. science-y.. stuff..” you admitted sheepishly, feeling kinda bad that you didn’t catch most of what he said.

Ford felt a little taken aback by the sudden onset of adoration, not that he minded it one bit. He just wasn’t used to it, a few months of being with someone so intimately wasn’t nearly enough time to get used to 60 ish years of barely experiencing it at all. He chuckled slightly, bringing his other hand to wrap in front of your torso, now encircling you in a cocoon of his arms.

“I-it’s quite alright, I wouldn’t have expected you to understand even if you were listening.”

He said with the utmost affection and sincerity. The words alone coming out of his mouth didn’t always sound too flattering, but they were hardly ever out of malice, especially not when it came to you. You had been learning to both deal with, and let him know when to not say anything. But right now you giggled and brushed it off, knowing exactly what he meant.

You two had a brief moment of looking into each others eyes, taking in each others soft gaze on the other. Ford had such deep, beautiful brown eyes that reminded you of the very forests that he explored so much. And you, oh, Ford could fill more than 10 journals dedicated to the sheer remarkable beauty of yours. He still couldn’t believe that in all the dimensions, all the universes, all the galaxies and all the stars in the sky that you chose to be his. And he was forever grateful for it. You both seemed to have the same idea as you leaned in closer, inching forward to gradually meet each others lips. Ford hummed and closed his eyes, the stiffness in his shoulders he didn’t even know he was holding dropped. He gripped your waist tighter and subconsciously pulled you in closer to him and you brought your hands up to his face, cupping and caressing each cheek and running your fingers along his faint stubble. Ford was still a bit of an awkward and clumsy kisser, but you were more than happy to give him as many practice opportunities as he needed. You felt a shiver run up your spine as his thumbs began to rub into the divets of your flesh, as well as the cool air of the lab hitting your skin through your thin cardigan.

“Mmm… dear..?” Ford mumbled against your lips, gently pulling you away. Your face was revealed to him in a slight pout, which he thought was adorable. But this was no time for him to swoon, he had a pressing question he almost forgot to ask you. “Did you remember to pick up something suitable for the cold?”

Your eyes widened. Oh, shoot. That’s what you forgot.

“Uhhhh…” you squinted, looking to the side to avoid his now disappointed stare. Ford grumbled. “Okay, I forgot! Ugh..” you groaned, throwing your head back.

Ford sighed and pulled your sweater sleeve up, revealing the goosebumps that littered your arm. “Darling, look at you, you’re freezing. You should get into something warmer.” He pressed, now sounding more like a worried mother than anything. You got up off his lap. “Yeah, I didn’t wanna say anything because I was hoping you wouldn’t notice but, your lab is fucking freezing.” You shivered, bringing your hands up to your forearms in a pathetic attempt to shield them. Ford chuckled and shook his head, waving you off.

“Go on, take your time, I’ll be here all evening.”

[luv-indigo]

okay so, redesigning nadine for the third and (hopefully) final time. i felt she looked too similar to soraya (my keyframes fall mc) so i changed nadine up a bit. also!! i was trying to find oc templates to fill out for my visual novel ocs and although there’s so many out there, none were exactly what i was looking for soooo…. I made my own! i’ll post my other our life ocs with them soon but first, nadine ! (again)

I’ve also changed my own mind. Nadine will be my MC for Qiu’s route.

Nadine introduction <3

Nadine spent much of her early childhood moving from place to place, all within her home state of California but oftentimes in different cities. Moving around so often made it hard to keep in contact with friends and after a while made it especially hard making friends in the first place.

When Opal tells Nadine they‘re moving once again, Nadine is surprised to learn they’re moving to Oregon, their neighboring state. This time, she learns it’ll be a more permanent location. Nadine doesn’t know exactly how to feel. She’s so used to moving around that being in a place for so long sounds foreign, weird and new. However, part of her can’t help but feel excited, especially since she gets her own room now! But no matter what, she knows mama will be with her every step of the way.

Upon meeting Qiu and Tamarack, Nadine quickly feels they can be the best of friends. Nadine has always been more of a quiet person but not necessarily shy. Spend enough time with her and you’ll find she can talk quite a lot. Yet she’s perfectly content with simply listening as well.

Nadine is mostly a rule follower. Rules are there for a reason right? She prides herself on being neat and orderly. All her belongings are pristine and in their place because that’s just how she likes it. During step 1, Nadine strongly dislikes getting dirty. Which can be difficult to avoid if you’re playing outside in the woods.

Step Two !!

After four years, Nadine has adjusted well into her new home. Although Nadine needs glasses she very much prefers to use eye contacts instead. It’s also the most convenient when ice skating. She’s taken on ice skating as her main past time and she’s fairly good. Her transportation of choice has been rollerblading so it makes sense she got into ice skating as well.

Her other hobbies are more on the creative side. She enjoys crafting and drawing on occasion. Cosplaying is also one of her major hobbies. For years she has worked on making her Halloween costumes with the help of Mama.

During this time Nadine becomes more of a shy person. During her earlier childhood, she had no problem voicing her thoughts and opinions but it seems now that sort of thing gets harder to do as you age. Thankfully, she has her two close friends to turn to whenever she needs a hand, and in turn she will be there for them as well.

Step Three !!

Nadine has less and less time to do things she wants. If this is how adult life is she wants zero part of it </3

Nadine has always prioritized their studies (although that became much harder to do when middle school started due to her procrastination habits). Now college is weighing on their mind. Nadine still very much enjoys ice skating yet she struggles to make time to practice. Similarly, cosplaying has turning into a year long project (for Halloween of course). Doing multiple cosplays a year is something she doesn’t have time for anymore. Although they are often busy, Nadine will always make time for a special someone and her best friend, Tamarack.

Step Four !!

Nadine’s all grown up </3

Throughout many years Nadine has learned things about themselves and grown into the person they are today. Her experiences and the people she has been around since she was ten years old have impacted her life to mold her into who she is, for better or worse. And honestly, they wouldn’t have it any other way.

And finally this little thing I made with all of Nadine’s doll icons. I had to edit many of them to fit the hair style and clothing options I wanted and it literally took forever </3 ouGh

Also, I apologize for the quality. I tried to preserve it as I was inserting the drawings into the template but resizing may have messed up the quality </3

[ritualove]

Walking through the picturesque streets of Cardinal Hill, you find Silas Addams, the 42 year old author originally from Portland, OR. Living alongside them in such a small town, you know that they're articulate and conceited, but what you might not know is that they are a human, and that they’re hiding something… ― Kieran Culkin, bisexual, male, and he/him.

-Content Warning: Drugs/Addiction, Neglect

 Author notes:

Full name: Silas Bartholomew Addams

Gender: Man

Pronouns: He/Him

Age: 42

Birthday: August 2nd, 1948

Zodiac: Leo

Sexuality: Bisexual

Occupation: Author

 Prologue: 

Born in Portland, Oregon, Silas’ childhood consisted of fancy holidays, nice dinners, and extravagant dinner parties. While they were nice, they all usually ended with his parents having a few too many glasses of wine, a loud shouting match, and forgetting to tuck Silas into bed before he goes to sleep. It was these lonely nights where he first learnt his love for books, being joined by the likes of Mary Shelley, H.P. Lovecraft, and Edgar Allen Poe. This horror influence can be seen through all of his writing throughout his life.

Silas got his start in writing from an early age, being gifted his very own typewriter for his thirteenth birthday. While his first writings are hardly to his standards for publishing, he couldn’t stop. There were times where he ran out of paper to write with as he used up the front, back, margins, and packaging of the fresh ream he opened in the morning. He would regularly lock himself in his room only to come down for dinner, just to run back up before his parents could finish their second bottle of wine, and that's saying something. 

Silas went from being a single child to a sibling on April 8th, 1965, with the birth of his brother Stoker. Stoker’s birth was a shock just about everyone, with most doctors writing off the chance of his mother conceiving about 3 years after she went through menopause, still, the little bastard made it. 

Silas tried his best to give Stoker a stable parental figure, something Silas never had. He would make sure to tell him right from wrong, and tried his hardest to steer him away from replicating their parents actions. He struggled however, as Stoker never took quite a liking to reading and writing and Silas did, however Silas still tried his hardest. 

At 19, Silas got his first novel published, “The Haunting of the Everwood Forest”, and started what many critics call his golden run. Iconic works of horror such as: “The Widows Crux”, “Sinister Reflections’, and less popular but still famous “A Phantom’s Kiss” became household names nearly overnight. At 26 Stilas moved out of home, and got a snazzy apartment in New York City.

Silas didn’t just stop there, he released hit after hit after hit, his publisher hit a proverbial goldmine. Fast forward a bit, got a dog, met his future husband, dabbled in painting, got divorced (lost the dog in the proceedings), and you catch up to Silas now. He hasn’t written a word for about 5 years, and is desperate to have anything come to his mind. Silas has recently come to Cardinal Hill to stay with his brother Stoker, and get what inspiration he can from the town's history of witchcraft, and Stoker’s crazy conspiracies.

Behind the words: A glimpse into Silas Addams -

What can be said about Silas Addams that can't be said about all the greats of history, smart, intelligent, good with the ladies. Some critics call him arrogant and conceited, but that's just part of the charm.

Silas’ perfect night would involve a nice dinner, a broadway show, and a long walk across the beach (the beach being code for a bar crawl). While he can be a little bit pompous, he is good at reading people, and loves to interact with a wide array of people. He claims it's a passion to learn about human nature, but deep down it's a desperate grab to think of anything to write about. 

[maddmuses]

mun is superior, pass it on.

Basics

Name: Madd, Maddlynn Maddithan, Maddie, Maddster, The Maddest, Waffles, Maddwaffles, Maddest One Around Age: 27+2 we ain't countin' them COVID years Gender: pebsi (fluid)

Favorites

Food(s): Barbacoa, Tacos, Tomato, Steak, Corn on The Cob, Salsa, Mint Ice Cream, Stroganoff, (still true af untouched except ig we can add caldo de res which I have been really about lately) Drink(s): Bepsi, Milk even tho it hurt me, Coors, Vanilla Bepis (even tho I can't fucking find it) Book(s): The Legends of Drizzt, Percy Jackson and The Olympians, The Heroes of Olympus, Assorted D&D Manuals, Any decent Graphic Novel, Strong Manga series; Hajime no Ippo, Eyeshield 21, Boku no Hero Academia, Bleach, Dragon Ball, Hikaru no Go, Yu Yu Hakusho, Yu-Gi-Oh/GX, Naruto, Slam Dunk, karate shoukoushi kohinata minoru, One Piece. We also addin' Chainsaw Man Favorite Author(s): R.A Salvatore, Ed Greenwood, Akira Toryiama, Tite Kubo, Masashi Kishimoto, Oda, Rowling (Pre-TERF) nah fuck that bitch not even pre-TERF she was wildly overrated, Tolkien Song(s): We don’t have time to be here all day, I’ll list some recent listens; Ocean Avenue - Yellow Card, No Flex Zone - Karmin and Watsky, I’m Something Else - SomethingelseYT, Dammit - Blink182, Punk Rock 101 - Blink182, Almost - Bowling For Soup, Stan - Eminem feat. Elton John, Absolutely - Nine Days, Simple Plan - Summer Paradise, So many Ninjasexparty songs, Rambe - Slow, Rambe - Don’t Greed, Zombie Love Song - YFM, Maroon 5 - Sugar, Reunion - Busted, Year 3000 - Busted Honestly those all slapped so imma add a few more recents: Montero, Good 4 u, My Nonfiction, Boyfriend Complex, anything by the nerdcore rappers

Movie(s): The New Guy, Spider-Man Homecoming (okay just that whole trilogy was best honestly), Spider-Verses too, Star Wars: A New Hope, Ed, Edd, ‘n Eddy: Big Picture Show, Hairspray (Musical)

TV Show(s): AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! Ed, Edd, ‘n Eddy, The anime adaptations of most of the manga I listed above, Ash Vs. The Evil Dead, King of The Hill, South Park (It fell off), Community, One-Punch Man, Gravity Falls, Scrubs, Venture Bros., Bob’s Burgers, Futurama, Daria, Star Vs. The Forces of Evil, The Boondocks, Saturday night Live when it’s decent, King of The Hill, Futurama, The Conners, As Told By Ginger, The Bear

Band/group(s): Busted, Blink 182, Maroon 5, Sum 41, Bowling For Soup, Ninja Sex Party Solo Artist(s): Rambe, Owl City, Billy Joel Place(s): Oregon, San Diego School Subject(s): Drawing, English, History Sport(s): Boxing, Karate, Football Male Actor: ?????????? Female Actor:  ???????????? I CAN LIST CRUSHES I GUESS BUT YOU DIDN’T ASK I DON’T THINK ABOUT ACTORS THAT MUCH

Life

Best Friend: Brandon (no longer roommate, he still isn’t on tumblr) Significant Other: Am the Single Pringle ;'( Siblings: TONS Dream Job:  Online Content Creator, Teacher, Professor Tattoos: Nada Piercings: Nope Languages: English, Spanglish, Spanish Lite

Tumblr

Reason Behind URL: Well Madd is a component to my standard web handle maddwaffles, for prefix being appropriated from an ex while we were dating (it was a cute thing because we matched) that just hasn’t really evaded me. When it was yallneedahero I would have a more clever answer for you. Reason Behind Icon: I love Isane Nami and you should too # of Posts: 20,535!!!! HOLY SHIT BEFORE IT WAS ONLY 5,235 I SCALE SO HARD Why You Joined: idk!?!!?!?!?!? # of Blogs: P much just this one now

tagging: @pick-your-poison-please @burdenedreverance @midnightactual @waspandr @thundertempo @linklewinklewoman @rangikuxmatsumoto @baiika @auburniivenus @badassbarmaid tagged by: stole from @orihimex and stealing again

[fanficandvidprompts]

I “blame” only So Help Me Todd’s newness as a fandom for why there hasn’t been some crossover-y content with it and Ace Attorney yet, as I mean come on, similar tones and loose-relationship-with-realistic (including how some of the iconic Portland things expied on SHMT kinda give it the same sort of slightly-askew-alternate-universe feel), similar sticking-up-for-the-little-guy vibes, and Wrights in legal professions on the side of the defense (I know it might be hard to fit SHMT’s parallel Oregon into the weirdness of the Ace Attorney setting but if you could make them mesh I could totally see a crossover-AU where, like, Todd and Phoenix were cousins or something and end up having to do some big legal family team-up because serious SHTF)

[spacedykez]

hello! its paper. been a while hasnt it? i keep meaning to send an ask just to say "hi! im still here!" but i keep forgetting. so i figured id send one now! i do have a sort of question tho. i havent been too aware of your recent interests but the newest one, team starkid i think it is, does seem cool. theyre like musicals right? so im asking if theres like a specific one i should start with first or if i can just go to whatever basically. bonus points for summaries of the plots :]

PAPER ANONNNN ITS BEEN SO LONG ITS NICE TO SEE U AGAIN!!!!!!! hope ur well!!! u caught me at the perfect time actually i am in the exact mood to activate Infodump Attack

SO !! team starkid !! they r a group who writes & performs original musicals. these range from parodies like Twisted (Aladdin, but from Jafar's POV) to the thing theyre most known for- the Hatchetfield universe

Hatchetfield is the name of a town on a fictional island in Lake Michigan in which this series/these musicals take place. Within the Hatchetfield universe there is TGWDLM, Black Friday, and Nightmare Time. Everything in the Hatchetfield universe is best described as horror comedy, and it does get quite dark at times.

TGWDLM (which stands for The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals) is where I would recommend you start. It's the easiest for a new Starkid viewer to understand, is almost entirely self-contained (bonus lore from other content is FUN but not at all NEEDED or important to understanding anything). It tells the story of Paul, the titular Guy Who Doesn't Like Musicals, and what happens to him when a meteor crashes into Hatchetfield and causes everyone to start singing and dancing! I would honestly recommend it anyways just because it's a really fun watch regardless. Warnings: guns, character death, [fake] blood & guts, body horror, mind control. Also, a song near the beginning has very explicit (sexual) lyrics.

Black Friday is best viewed as a sequel to TGWDLM. It gets a little more into the lore and sets up more of the overarching world. I honestly like Black Friday better than TGWDLM, but it is also even darker & more lore-heavy. Also it can be confusing on your first watch. It follows various citizens trying to buy a new toy called a Wiggly for Christmas, and the subsequent events that causes. Warnings: death, [fake] blood (not a ton! Less than TGWDLM), what could easily be seen as mob mentalities/near mind control, guns, what could be seen as stalking/hunting people.

Nightmare Time is best seen as a series of podcasts/seperate "episodes." You can listen to just the audio if you want, you won't miss anything important (although the actors are AMAZING so I would definitely say watching it is worth it). There are two seasons, which have 3-4 episodes each. They elaborate a LOT on the lore/world of Hatchetfield. If you need individual tws, they should be in the video descs. I will warn you the Hatchetfield series is very dark. I love it and it is a LOT of fun though! Latte Hatte is the #4 cause of my homosexuality (/silly). also nb rep that i as a nb person very much enjoy!! also more of lauren lopez being iconic. also a KILLER theme song.

Also recommended outside of Hatchetfield are Trail to Oregon & Firebringer. I personally don't love the amount of toilet humor in Trail to Oregon, but it's still a fun musical and the acting is phenomenal as always. Firebringer has iconic songs, a HILARIOUS narrator character, leabians, and Lauren Lopez as the lead. there is literally nothing more you could ask for. it's perfect. Gods I love Lauren Lopez she's so iconic.

[dankusner]

Troy Aikman ‘never lost at anything.’ He’s just now starting to enjoy it.

DALLAS — After he’s revved the room and made his pitch, Troy Aikman walks to the back and starts tending bar.

“What can I get ya?” he asks, flashing that famous half-smile over and over, probably because he knows the only beer on tap is his.

It’s a Monday afternoon, late summer, just north of Dallas.

Inside the events room at Andrews Distributing, employees of the biggest beer distributor in Texas are not merely allowed to enjoy a cold one at the end of the workday; they’re encouraged.

Aikman, the Dallas Cowboys icon, Hall of Famer and “Monday Night Football” analyst, has just wrapped a raucous sales rally for Eight, the beer company he founded in 2022, and now he’s manning the tap.

“How about that pour?” Aikman says, serving one up.

He knows he doesn’t have to be here, playing celebrity bartender, posing for photos, signing autographs, sharing stories about how Jimmy Johnson’s urgency shaped his Cowboys teams and how his own father’s work ethic shaped him.

He’s calling a game in Canton in three days and has a trip to New York to celebrate his daughter’s birthday in between.

A video message would’ve sufficed.

But that’d be too easy.

He hates easy.

He and his team worked on the recipe for two years.

Cases would show up on his doorstep from Oregon State University’s fermentation science program, which he partnered with, and they’d do blind taste tests over Zoom.

“Can we make it cleaner?” Aikman kept asking.

He was never going to just slap his name on the label.

He respects the business too much.

Aikman’s first gig in the beverage industry came in college, after his coach at Oklahoma, Barry Switzer, lined him up a summer job before he transferred to UCLA.

Imagine this scene today:

One of the most talented quarterbacks in the nation spending his offseason loading trucks, delivering cases, stocking shelves and building out displays in grocery stores across the state.

“My NIL deal,” Aikman jokes.

Star athlete or not, working wasn’t a choice.

Kenneth Aikman had his son shingling the roof at 12 and clocking in for his first job at 13.

“He treated me as a man from the time I was 6,” Troy says.

In high school he’d spend his Friday nights on the football field and his Saturday mornings installing tires, changing out dead batteries and fixing window units at the Western Auto down the road.

A lesson he learned then is printed on every can of his beer now:

No shortcuts.

Aikman believes it to be the spine of his success: without that wiring, there are no Super Bowls, no 23-year broadcasting career, no booming business ventures.

On paper, his was the archetype American success story, the country kid who made good because he was raised right. GQ once put him on the cover above the headline, “God’s Quarterback.”

But there’s another side to the story that God’s Quarterback rarely talks about.

The success everyone saw masked the inner turmoil no one knew about.

Aikman’s wrestled with it for decades, warring against his own happiness, chasing a finish line he isn’t even sure exists.

Then one day he looked up and realized his second marriage was crumbling.

“A failure,” Aikman calls it. “That was my rock bottom.”

Even now, years later, he’s embarrassed talking about it.

“For me,” he says over breakfast one morning in Dallas, “contentment was always a four-letter word. I never wanted to be content. I didn’t wanna be around anyone who was content. That’s just not a place I could land.”

He’s 57.

He hasn’t taken a warm shower in years.

He starts each morning with a cold one and a 20-minute walk in low-level sunlight to set his circadian rhythm.

He’s in bed by 9 p.m. unless he’s calling a game.

He lifts four days a week and adheres to a recovery routine that would probably make half the starting quarterbacks in the league feel guilty: cold plunges, stints in the sauna and hyperbaric chamber, plus regular red-light and plasma therapies.

For years Aikman jogged every summer afternoon at 3 p.m. — when it’s typically pushing 100 degrees in Dallas — partly because he craved the challenge, partly because he liked how it felt afterward.

He needed to hurt.

“If I didn’t keep myself in shape,” he says, “I’d feel like a fraud.”

He tracks his sleep.

He reads about biohacking.

“I’m obsessed,” he admits.

He carries around a gallon jug of water everywhere he goes, filling it up three times a day.

Wanting more flexibility, he took up yoga this spring, and for the first three months it absolutely wrecked him.

“It’s a b—-,” he says. “Hardest thing I’ve ever done.”

Class would finish and he’d just lie there, soaked in sweat, unable to move.

The quarterback who once finished a game as a rookie after being knocked out cold — Aikman had blood dripping from his ear on the sideline — couldn’t even muster the strength to stand.

He’s come to love it.

“I feel like I can do everything I did when I was in my 30s,” he says.

Even play in an NFL game?

“If I had to, yeah,” he says.

The work is what always separated him.

He didn’t have Dan Marino’s arm or Steve Young’s improvisation.

But the work never scared him.

The punishment, either.

Daryl Johnston, a teammate for 11 seasons in Dallas, remembers Aikman walking up to him during the 1993 NFC Championship Game against the 49ers, looking confused. “38-21?”

Aikman asked, reading the scoreboard aloud. “How’d we get on them so quick?” Johnston stood there, stunned.

The starting quarterback didn’t even know the score?

Then, after he watched Aikman slip an ammonia cap under his nose and inhale, Johnston put it together.

The QB had taken a vicious shot to the head early in the game.

Ninety minutes of his memory was gone.

The Cowboys won their second straight Super Bowl seven days later.

“I’ve always felt that my success as an athlete, and as a broadcaster, is not because I’m the most talented guy in the room,” Aikman says.

“It’s because I’m willing to do what most people are not.”

He’s also willing to say what others won’t.

It’s why Aikman remains one of the top TV analysts in sports: he not only prepares like he’s still playing, but he’s blunt when others tend to back away, unafraid to call it like he sees it.

He’s at his best when he says what the fans at home are thinking.

“Troy might be the most honest guy ever,” says Norv Turner, his former offensive coordinator in Dallas.

The routine never changes.

Aikman needs it.

After the game ends Monday night, he takes notes while he watches a replay on his flight home — Aikman owns his own jet and flies private to and from every game — then starts prep for the following week first thing Tuesday morning.

He designed his own spotting boards before his first year in the booth, back in 2001, and he’s been using them ever since.

He prints them out on Thursdays, color codes them, then adds notes all the way up until kickoff.

He refuses to go into a game anything less than completely prepared.

“It took me about a week of us working together to realize why the guy had won three Super Bowls,” says his on-air partner and close friend, Joe Buck.

The pair are the longest-tenured broadcast team in NFL history.

Their 23rd season together begins Monday night outside San Francisco, where they’ll call 49ers-Jets.

A few years ago, Aikman sent the spotting boards he uses for broadcasts to Greg Olsen, who was taking his old job at Fox; this spring, he sent them to Tom Brady. (Courtesy of ESPN)

In March 2023, after Aikman and Buck’s first year at the network, ESPN replaced a director and producer on the MNF team.

Rumors swirled that Aikman was behind the decision; not true, says a company source.

With its first Super Bowl broadcast looming in February 2027, ESPN wanted and needed a better fit for the duo it’s paying a combined $33 million annually.

Execs learned Aikman wanted to be coached hard, no different than when he was growing up in Oklahoma or suiting up for the Cowboys.

The personalities simply hadn’t meshed.

Aikman’s style isn’t for everyone.

He knows this.

But he’s not above showing others what works for him: a few years ago, Aikman sent his spotting boards to Greg Olsen, who was stepping into his old job at Fox; this spring he did the same with Tom Brady, who’ll slide into Olsen’s seat beginning Sunday.

It was important to Aikman to pay it forward. It’s what John Madden did with him.

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He doesn’t know how Brady will do as a broadcaster, but he expects the transition will take time.

“It’s not an easy thing to settle into right away,” Aikman says.

Analysts live in 15 to 20-second soundbites.

Then the ball is snapped.

Someone told Aikman early on that calling a game is like a prizefight — “Body blows, body blows, body blows,” he explains, “then every once in a while you have a chance at a knockout punch.”

It took years for him to learn that.

“There’s this idea that ‘I have this wealth of knowledge about the game, and now I get to take people behind the curtain,'” Aikman says.

“You don’t have that kind of time.

And it’s gotten harder over the years because teams are playing faster.

“Whether it’s Tom or Greg or Tony (Romo), you sort of figure that out as you go.”

Aikman also doesn’t downplay the competitive juices simmering in an industry that has seen salaries explode in recent years.

It’s there, whether it’s discussed publicly or not.

Two years after Romo made headlines, signing an extension with CBS that pays $18 million a year, Aikman jumped to ESPN on a similar deal. Brady hasn’t even called a game yet and is already the highest-paid commentator in history, starting a 10-year, $375 million deal with Fox.

“That’s the competitive nature of me, and I know these guys are competitive as well,” Aikman says.

“Every one of us wants to be the best. But whether it’s a new guy coming in or other guys being well-received, it doesn’t affect or change my approach. I go about it the same regardless.”

Maybe it doesn’t change his approach.

But Romo’s deal, Olsen’s popularity, the hype surrounding Brady’s debut … it’s caught his attention, right?

Buck, who knows Aikman about as well as anyone, has no doubt.

“We’ve never really talked about this, but it’s only natural. It’s what drives him to watch all that film.”

He’s raging on the sideline at Texas Stadium during a loss late in his career, ripping into his offensive line. “That’s a f—— embarrassment!” he screams. “F—— junior league!”

He’s standing next to an assistant coach, fuming about how far they’d fallen. “

I’m tired of being the guy who’s gotta run down everybody’s throat all the time … why don’t we have a coach who does that?”

Aikman hates these clips.

“Man, I don’t want my daughters seeing that stuff,” he’ll tell his old teammates.

“Troy,” Johnston will remind him, “that was part of your greatness.”

Most only remember the trophies.

Aikman remembers how much the beginning humbled him and how much the end hurt.

He went 0-11 as a rookie and used to walk off the field grumbling, “What’s it take to win a game in this league?” Two years later, fully healthy, he stood on the sideline and watched Steve Beuerlein start the first playoff game of the Jimmy Johnson era.

Turner had met him a year earlier. Aikman’s arm was in a sling.

The Cowboys’ new OC decided to make a joke to lighten the mood.

“We gotta get you to get the ball out a little quicker,” Turner told him.

Aikman didn’t laugh.

Even as the dynasty took off, he struggled to enjoy parts of the climb.

Aikman still remembers the visitor’s locker room at Candlestick Park, just after they’d beaten the 49ers to advance to their first Super Bowl.

Johnson stood on a table and screamed “How ’bout them Cowboys!”

Players yelled.

Players hugged.

The QB walked to the shower, muttering under his breath, “Well, if we don’t win in two weeks, this won’t mean sh–.”

He felt an immense weight before the game, mindful of how it’d shape his legacy.

He knew there was no going back.

“In three and a half hours,” Aikman told himself on the field, “this is either going to be the greatest day of my life or the worst.”

He carved up the Bills’ secondary for four touchdowns in a 52-17 rout.

A few hours later, the game’s MVP couldn’t find anyone to celebrate with.

Aikman walked into the Cowboys party with his girlfriend at the time, looked around, saw nothing but fans wanting autographs and sponsors wanting photos — “Jerry (Jones) making money,” he says — and walked out.

He went back to the hotel, looking for his teammates.

His girlfriend fell asleep.

He called room service and ordered some beer.

He called his parents’ room.

No answer.

Called his sister’s room. No answer.

“No way in hell I was going to bed,” he says.

He ambled down to the lobby, bumped into some members of the Dallas media and threw back beers with them until the sun came up.

He showed up to his MVP press conference the following morning having not slept a wink, head still ringing, “trying not to say anything stupid.”

He decided he was in charge of the Cowboys’ Super Bowl parties from there on out.

“We got better as we went along,” he says with a laugh.

He was the first quarterback to win three Super Bowls in four seasons, and his story was irresistibly American: he was the son of a rancher from Oklahoma, the No. 1 pick with the icy demeanor who’d stand in the pocket, take the hit and fire it on the money.

His name seemed dreamed up by the Football Gods.

He was Clint Eastwood in shoulder pads.

But there always seemed to be a joylessness to him.

He was so … robotic.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones once said that fans would write him letters, asking why his star quarterback didn’t have more fun on the field.

“I wasn’t out there to be anybody’s friend,” Aikman says.

By the time they won their third title, in January 1996, Aikman knew they were slipping.

“Hanging on by a thread,” Johnston says.

They escaped Super Bowl XXX with a 27-17 win over the Steelers largely because Pittsburgh quarterback Neil O’Donnell tossed two errant second-half interceptions.

Aikman barely threw for 200 yards.

The Cowboys were lined up in victory formation for the final snap when Steelers linebacker Kevin Greene let them hear it.

“You know we kicked your ass!” Greene screamed from across the line of scrimmage.

“You know we should’ve won this game!”

Aikman smirked.

“Yeah, well guess who’s getting the trophy?” he shouted back.

“Set hut!”

But in postgame interviews, he could barely allow a smile.

“Relief” was the word he kept using.

Johnson had been gone for two years, following a nasty falling out with Jones, two men wrestling over credit while their egos destroyed a dynasty from within.

Everything the coach had built — everything Aikman had bought into — was slowly unraveling.

His father had taught him there was a certain way of doing things; Johnson had done the same.

No shortcuts, remember.

Now Aikman was realizing that without that drive, he was miserable.

He once fumed when Switzer, hired to replace Johnson after the second title, called off practice when half the wide receivers room showed up hungover.

“What am I supposed to do, cut Michael Irvin?” Aikman remembers Switzer asking him.

“No, you don’t cut Michael Irvin,” Aikman told him. “But you cut that guy, and that guy, and that guy.”

By 2000, Aikman’s last year in Dallas, he was taking pain-killing shots before every game just to slog through another beating.

The Cowboys went 5-11.

He decided midway through the season he’d never play for them again.

It wasn’t the back issues.

It wasn’t the concussions.

He was disgusted at what America’s Team had become.

What pissed him off most — and what still irritates him to this day — is that it wasn’t the 49ers or Packers that dethroned them.

The NFL’s team of the 90s sabotaged themselves.

“Not one time did you ever read Michael Irvin complaining that he wasn’t getting enough credit, or Emmitt Smith complaining he wasn’t getting enough credit, or me complaining I wasn’t getting enough credit,” Aikman says, getting a bit heated over breakfast.

“Every player on those teams did what we had to do to win.

“And yet the two guys who led the organization couldn’t do it. That’s the part that was bullsh–.”

Turner puts it this way: “Deep down, Troy thinks they could’ve won a couple more.”

Ask Aikman which of the current coaches he’d like to play for, and his answers aren’t all that surprising: Kyle Shanahan, Sean McVay, Matt LeFleur.

Then he thinks about it a little more, and his response is telling.

“Tom (Brady) is gonna laugh at this,” he finally says. “But I would have loved to play for Bill Belichick.”

Dad would always ask him what he wanted to be when he grew up, and Troy would always give him the same answer: professional athlete.

As a kid, he’d spend nights alone in his bedroom, practicing his signature, perfecting it for the day he started getting autograph requests.

Kenneth Aikman took no issue with his son’s ambition — he just wanted him to know what it’d require.

Around the house, he was rigid and unrelenting.

When he laid down orders, he didn’t repeat himself.

“In some ways it was really good for me,” Troy says. “But you give up a lot of childhood in the process.”

The family moved from California to Oklahoma when Troy was 12.

His dad hired two carpenters and built their house from the ground up.

“A modern-day Wyatt Earp,” Troy has called him in interviews.

“He instilled the fear of God in me growing up.”

His older sisters, too.

Once, after one of them left a rotting banana peel on the kitchen counter, dad grew furious.

“If I find another one,” he warned, “you’re gonna eat it.” Not long after, he did. And he stuck to his word.

It’s not a story Aikman tells often.

He was actually better at baseball than football growing up, and he wasn’t even planning on going out for the high school team until his dad asked him about it. “You know football sign-ups are today, right? You’re signing up, right?”

Troy didn’t have it in him to tell him no. He needed to show the toughest man he knew that he was tough, too.

The resolve he built as a teenager never eased. Time and success only hardened it. He’d play half the NFC Championship Game with no memory of it. He’d unload on coaches and teammates when the standard wasn’t being met. He’d get pain-killing shots just so he could be on the field for a five-win team.

Even in retirement he felt a pull, like there was more to prove. He almost came back three times. He was ready to play for the Chargers in 2001; San Diego signed Doug Flutie instead. Then-Eagles coach Andy Reid called him in 2002 after Donovan McNabb broke his leg; Philadelphia was 7-3 and needed a quarterback for the playoff push. Aikman mulled it overnight but decided against it. A year later, the Dolphins thought they were a quarterback away. Turner was calling the plays. Aikman was in. He started training. Ultimately, Miami general manager Rick Spielman couldn’t get comfortable with Aikman’s injury history.

Broadcasting scratched an itch, but slowly Aikman learned the void would never again be filled. “You know the thing about this business that kills me?” he told Buck their first year together. “There’s no scoreboard.”

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GO DEEPER

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He poured himself into other pursuits. A restaurant. A car dealership. For a time he was part-owner of the San Diego Padres, then a NASCAR team. He quit golf for a while because it drove him nuts. “I can run a little hot sometimes,” Aikman says.

He moved on to the next thing, and the next thing, and the next thing. It was all he knew to do. Standing still scared him to death.

“There have been times when I’m like, ‘Bro, just chill, you don’t have to chase all this stuff,'” Buck says. “But any idea of him just drifting into a peaceful retirement, sitting on a beach somewhere, that’s just the furthest thing from his mind.”

Years passed. The more Aikman ran from contentment, the more it robbed him of his own happiness. His first marriage fell apart. Then his second. So he went to work on himself, trying to balance something that took years for him to accept: the traits that made him a Hall of Famer were the same ones keeping him from life’s simple joys.

He started meditating daily. He learned he could skip one workout a week and not beat himself up over it. He realized everyone doesn’t think like a quarterback, and that being content wasn’t a sign of weakness — or worse yet, a character flaw.

“It’s taken decades,” Aikman admits. “Not to get weird on you, but it’s taken a lot of personal work … finding it within myself to give myself grace. There was a lot of, ‘Why do I feel this way?’ There’s also been a curiosity that’s allowed me to unlock a lot of locked doors.”

That doesn’t mean the man’s lost his edge. A few years ago, he and Buck were standing on the sideline during a Cowboys walkthrough, prepping to call a game the next day. One of the coaches asked Aikman if he wanted to take a few snaps with the scout team. Are you kidding? He stepped into the huddle, on the wrong side of 50, determined to torch Dallas’ first-team defense.

“I’m gonna challenge them,” he told Buck. “You don’t run the scout team to be bad.”

Buck and Aikman kick off Year 23 of their partnership Monday night. (Courtesy of ESPN)

Aikman’s newest venture taps into some of the same competitive urges. Eight’s launch in 2022 was the biggest of any independent beer in the history of the state. But Aikman wasn’t thrilled with Year 2, so he spent a month recruiting Dave Reny, who at the time was working for Yuengling, to be his new CEO.

At first, Reny hesitated. He liked where he was at.

“Dave,” Aikman told him, “I’ve never lost at anything in my life. I’m not about to lose at this.”

In between the beer and the booth, Aikman devotes his time to his two 20-something daughters, Jordan and Alexa. “He couldn’t be a better dad,” Buck says. He’s got a soft side, his on-air partner vows, even if most don’t believe it. The tough-as-nails, fire-breathing quarterback who’s bitingly honest when he’s calling a game is actually an easy cry. When Aikman gave a speech at Buck’s wedding a handful of years ago, the entire room was left in tears, Aikman included.

Buck still remembers the first time they spoke, back in 2001, a few weeks after Fox paired them together. He nervously called up his new partner. “I know we don’t know each other real well, but I’ve got my St. Louis Children’s Hospital charity golf tournament coming up,” Buck said, “and I don’t know if there’s any chance you could come …”

“I’ll be there,” Aikman told him.

“That side of him’s never changed,” Buck says.

The loyalty runs both ways. During Aikman’s negotiations with ESPN in 2022, the two spoke every day. Aikman made it clear: he wasn’t making the move unless they made the move together.

“He lost a lot of sleep thinking he was going to have to start over,” Buck says. “Fox flashed Olsen and Brady at me before I left. I told them, ‘I’m sure Greg’s gonna be great. I’m sure Tom’s gonna be great. But I know what I’ve got with Troy.’

“We get along. We fit. We genuinely like each other, and that’s a really comforting feeling when you’re doing a Super Bowl for 115 million people.”

Aikman’s never had a problem fighting for his own. Last winter — after resisting for almost 30 years — Jones finally relented and inducted Johnson into the Cowboys Ring of Honor. What few knew was how central a role Aikman played behind the scenes. His coach deserved it. It was a wrong Aikman needed to see righted.

Back at the beer distributor in Dallas, Aikman finishes bartending and slips out the back. His plane’s waiting for him. After a busy summer traveling and promoting Eight, he’s anxious to get back to the rhythms of the season. He’s learned to enjoy it more than he did in the past.

More than that, he’s learned he’s allowed to enjoy it.

“I’ve found contentment, if you can believe it,” Aikman says. “And it’s a really good feeling.”

For him peace was a process, long and aggravating, thrilling in moments but draining in others, a journey littered with the triumphs everyone saw and the inner storms no one knew about. Only now does he know one doesn’t come without the other.

That would’ve been too easy, anyway. Troy Aikman’s always hated easy.

[mediamonarchy]

https://mediamonarchy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240827_MorningMonarchy.mp3 Download MP3 Suspended campaigns, arrested dev element and UBI elections + this day in history w/faulty solar panels and our song of the day by Jody Bigfoot on your #MorningMonarchy for August 27, 2024. Notes/Links: Vinyl Prices Have Outpaced Inflation. Are They Finally Flattening Out?; Experts say an improvement in COVID-era supply chain issues should be good news for physical music purchasers — though other factors may lead to a continued creep in prices. https://archive.is/3qpiy Fed’s Jerome Powell Signals Rate Cut: ‘Time Has Come for Policy to Adjust’; Inflation and labor market data indicate U.S. economy experiencing an evolving situation. https://archive.is/CPWSm Vo-Tech Education Is Taking Off, And It’s Not Your Dad’s Shop Class Anymore https://www.zerohedge.com/political/vo-tech-education-taking-and-its-not-your-dads-shop-class-anymore Foo Fighters Did Not Allow Donald Trump to Use ‘My Hero’ at Rally, Will Donate Any Royalties to Harris Campaign; Trump played the 1997 hit to bring Robert Kennedy Jr. to the stage in Glendale, Arizona. https://www.billboard.com/culture/politics/foo-fighters-donald-trump-my-hero-rally-1235760416/ Pop Star-In-Chief: How Politics Can Echo Fan Armies; The real fan army face-off is the election, where two icons with very different worldviews rally die-hard devotees. https://archive.is/7TMpG RFK Jr. Suspends Presidential Campaign, Backs Trump; Kennedy is withdrawing from the ballot in battleground states https://archive.is/LjqHk Video: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suspends presidential campaign, endorses Donald Trump (Audio) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESpNZNrWWQg LA Dreams – “Awakening” (Inst. // Vinyl // Audio) https://ladreams.bandcamp.com/track/awakening Your Android devices will soon join the Find My Device network https://support.google.com/android/answer/14796936?p=find_offline_devices&rd=1#finding_offline_devices People are now blurring their homes on Google Maps to deter potential burglars https://abc7.com/post/homeowners-now-blurring-properties-google-maps-deter-potential-burglars/15205761/ Pavel Durov detained in France: All you need to know about the Telegram founder https://archive.is/YXc0d Video: Telegram CEO reportedly arrested in France (Audio) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH1-KjrdGzg Instagram Connects Vast Pedophile Network; The Meta unit’s systems for fostering communities have guided users to child-sex content; company says it is improving internal controls (Jun. 7, 2023 ) https://www.wsj.com/articles/instagram-vast-pedophile-network-4ab7189 Speedworld – “Pacesetter” (Inst. // Cassette // Audio) https://www.discogs.com/release/30981802-Speedworld-Safari // https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYawktw52sQ NASA Decides to Bring Starliner Spacecraft Back to Earth Without Crew https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-decides-to-bring-starliner-spacecraft-back-to-earth-without-crew/ NASA: Astronauts stuck in space will not return on Boeing Starliner; Will wait for SpaceX https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/2024/08/27/astronauts-stuck-in-space-with-boeing-starliner-will-wait-for-spacex-nasa/74962955007/ Oregon Voters to Consider Approving Nation’s First Universal Basic Income; The proposal is meeting stiff bipartisan resistance from elected officials and pushback from the business community. https://archive.is/HQNKH Video: Oregon votes on taxing corporations for $1,600 rebates. #oregon #rebate #universalbasicincome (Audio) https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HNFWn-TfCiM Hatchie – “Sleep” (Vinyl // Audio) https://www.discogs.com/release/12434721-Hatchie-Sugar-Spice // https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugar_&_Spice_(EP) // https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icad1HjrmXs August 2014 – Page 1 – Media Monarchy https://mediamonarchy.com/2014/8/ Flashback: New Age Bullshit and The Suppression of The Sacred Masculine (Aug. 27, 2014) https://mediamonarchy.com/new-age-bullshit-and-suppression-of/ #MorningMonarchy: August 27, 2018 – John McCain Dead ...

[kicksaddictny]

Nike and LEGO Group Team Up to Enhance the Fusion of Sport and Creative Play

NIKE, Inc. and the LEGO Group are thrilled to announce a multi-year partnership that brings together the worlds of sport and creative play, offering exciting new opportunities for kids and families around the globe.

Both brands have long championed the importance of play in children's lives, understanding that both creative and physical activities are vital for a child’s development. By fostering these outlets, they help kids reach their full potential, building essential life skills that set them up for success as they grow.

Starting next year, families worldwide can look forward to a series of co-branded products, content, and experiences that blend the imaginative power of LEGO® bricks with Nike’s iconic "Just Do It" ethos, inviting all kids to engage in play and sport.

“At Nike, we believe in the power of sport to move the world forward, and that starts with kids,” says Cal Dowers, VP, Global Kids. “We’re committed to creating a more accessible and inclusive future that inspires kids of all ages and abilities to be more active. Together with the LEGO Group, we’re excited to invite all kids into a new vision of sport and creative play.”

Recent studies highlight the need for such initiatives. A LEGO Group survey revealed that a third of children globally have only three hours of playtime a week, while the World Health Organization reports that only one in five kids gets the physical activity they need. Additionally, 59% of parents expressed concerns that their children don’t have enough playtime or access to fun activities.

This partnership represents Nike’s latest effort to build an active, inclusive world that empowers all youth to play and reach their highest potential. Nike is dedicated to breaking down barriers for youth, especially girls, by focusing on quality coaching, increasing access, and addressing societal challenges. Now, with LEGO on board, these opportunities for kids will expand even further.

The collaboration underscores Nike and the LEGO Group’s shared mission to bring creativity, fun, sport, and imagination back into play, aiming to inspire, engage, and empower children worldwide.

"At the LEGO Group, we believe in the power of play to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow,” says Alero Akuya, VP of Brand Development at the LEGO Group. “By combining the creativity of LEGO play with the energy and passion of sport, we want to inspire new ways for kids to play and be creative. We are excited to partner with NIKE, Inc. on this journey and help reimagine how creative play and sport can unite. Together, we will create unique experiences that will engage and excite kids around the world, inspiring them to explore their imaginations.”

To celebrate the launch of this partnership, Nike and the LEGO Group have released a special digital animation designed to spark excitement and curiosity in kids, families, and adults alike. The animation creatively merges sport and play, featuring iconic elements from both brands.

At the heart of the animation is a specially designed LEGO Minifigure head with a Nike Swoosh for a smile, symbolizing the powerful fusion of sport and creativity. The scene is surrounded by sport references and iconic symbols from both brands, such as the orange Nike shoebox, the waffle outsole, Nike Air technologies, the LEGO brick, Minifigure, and more. Shared icons include the duck, a nod to both LEGO’s first product and Oregon, Nike’s birthplace; the Pegasus horse, a reference to an iconic Nike footwear innovation; and the G.O.A.T., representing some of the greatest athletes in Nike’s history.

Check out the digital animation below and visit nike.com/lego or lego.com/nike for more details about this exciting partnership.

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Siding Contractors St Johns OR - Copy

St Johns OR Siding Contractor St Johns #1 James Hardie Preferred Siding Contractor! ELITE Installation & ELITE Preferred Services. Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement Transformation The History of St. Johns Portland Oregon St. Johns is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Portland, Oregon, USA. Here's a brief overview of its history: - Early Settlement: St. Johns was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples of the Chinook tribe, who lived along the Willamette River for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The area was abundant in natural resources, including fish from the river and fertile land for agriculture. - European Settlement: In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving in the region, attracted by the opportunities for farming and logging. The establishment of the Oregon Trail and the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 further encouraged settlement in the area. - Development of St. Johns: St. Johns was founded as a separate city in 1902 by James John, a prominent early settler and businessman. The area was originally known as St. Johns by the Bridge due to its proximity to the St. Johns Bridge, which was completed in 1931 and spans the Willamette River, connecting St. Johns to the rest of Portland. - Industrial Growth: St. Johns experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century, fueled by its location along the river, which made it a hub for shipping, fishing, and industrial activities. Sawmills, shipyards, and other industrial facilities were established, providing jobs and economic opportunities for residents. - Annexation by Portland: In 1915, St. Johns was annexed by the city of Portland, becoming part of the larger metropolitan area. Despite this, St. Johns maintained its distinct identity as a neighborhood with its own commercial district and community institutions. - Economic Decline and Revitalization: Like many industrial areas, St. Johns faced economic decline in the latter half of the 20th century due to changes in industry and urban development patterns. However, in recent years, the neighborhood has undergone revitalization efforts, with the restoration of historic buildings, the development of new businesses, and a growing interest in its cultural heritage and community character. Today, St. Johns is known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and scenic riverfront location. It retains its historic charm while embracing new opportunities for growth and development in the modern era. Elite Home Exteriors NW is a local Siding Pros Contractor to the St.Johns area. We are LEAD Paint Certified and ready to help transform your homes exterior! Interesting Facts about St. Johns, Oregon - Oldest Neighborhood in Portland: St. Johns is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Portland, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1902. It was originally an independent city before being annexed by Portland in 1915. - St. Johns Bridge: The iconic St. Johns Bridge, completed in 1931, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the neighborhood. Designed by renowned engineer David B. Steinman, the bridge is known for its Gothic-style towers and greenish hue, which comes from the copper content in its steel. - Cathedral Park: Located beneath the St. Johns Bridge, Cathedral Park is a popular destination known for its stunning views of the bridge and the Willamette River. It's named for the cathedral-like appearance of the bridge's towers and is a favorite spot for picnics, concerts, and outdoor activities. - Historic Architecture: St. Johns boasts a variety of historic architecture, including Victorian homes, Craftsman bungalows, and commercial buildings from the early 20th century. Many of these buildings have been lovingly preserved and contribute to the neighborhood's unique character. - Community Events: St. Johns is known for its strong sense of community and hosts several annual events and festivals. These include the St. Johns Bizarre, a street fair featuring local artisans, musicians, and food vendors, as well as the St. Johns Parade, which celebrates the neighborhood's history and diversity. - Filming Location: St. Johns has served as a filming location for several movies and television shows, thanks to its picturesque scenery and historic charm. Notable productions filmed in the area include "Twilight" and the TV series "Grimm." - Urban Renewal: In recent years, St. Johns has undergone a revitalization, with efforts to preserve its historic buildings and promote economic development. New businesses, restaurants, and breweries have opened in the area, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. - Community Organizations: St. Johns is home to numerous community organizations and nonprofits dedicated to supporting local residents and preserving the neighborhood's heritage. These organizations work on issues such as housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Overall, St. Johns offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit that makes it a unique and beloved neighborhood in Portland. See what homeowners are saying about our work!   Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement today! - Portland OR - North Portland OR - St Johns OR - NE Portland OR - SE Portland OR - SW Portland OR - Northwest Portland OR - Southeast Portland OR - Southwest Portland OR - Gresham OR - North Gresham OR - Fairview OR - Troutdale OR - Corbett OR - Mt Hood OR - Welches OR - Happy Valley OR - Clackamas OR - Oregon City OR - Molalla OR - Sherwood OR - Estacada OR - West Linn OR - Tigard OR - Lake Oswego OR - Milwaukie OR - Gladstone OR - Beaverton OR - South Beaverton OR - Hillsboro OR - Aloha OR - Tualatin OR - Sherwood OR - Willsonville OR - Tanasbourne OR - North Plains OR - Cornelius OR - Forest Grove OR - Banks OR Read the full article

[sidingcontractorsnearme]

Siding Contractors St Johns OR - Copy

St Johns OR Siding Contractor St Johns #1 James Hardie Preferred Siding Contractor! ELITE Installation & ELITE Preferred Services. Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement Transformation The History of St. Johns Portland Oregon St. Johns is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Portland, Oregon, USA. Here's a brief overview of its history: - Early Settlement: St. Johns was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples of the Chinook tribe, who lived along the Willamette River for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The area was abundant in natural resources, including fish from the river and fertile land for agriculture. - European Settlement: In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving in the region, attracted by the opportunities for farming and logging. The establishment of the Oregon Trail and the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 further encouraged settlement in the area. - Development of St. Johns: St. Johns was founded as a separate city in 1902 by James John, a prominent early settler and businessman. The area was originally known as St. Johns by the Bridge due to its proximity to the St. Johns Bridge, which was completed in 1931 and spans the Willamette River, connecting St. Johns to the rest of Portland. - Industrial Growth: St. Johns experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century, fueled by its location along the river, which made it a hub for shipping, fishing, and industrial activities. Sawmills, shipyards, and other industrial facilities were established, providing jobs and economic opportunities for residents. - Annexation by Portland: In 1915, St. Johns was annexed by the city of Portland, becoming part of the larger metropolitan area. Despite this, St. Johns maintained its distinct identity as a neighborhood with its own commercial district and community institutions. - Economic Decline and Revitalization: Like many industrial areas, St. Johns faced economic decline in the latter half of the 20th century due to changes in industry and urban development patterns. However, in recent years, the neighborhood has undergone revitalization efforts, with the restoration of historic buildings, the development of new businesses, and a growing interest in its cultural heritage and community character. Today, St. Johns is known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and scenic riverfront location. It retains its historic charm while embracing new opportunities for growth and development in the modern era. Elite Home Exteriors NW is a local Siding Pros Contractor to the St.Johns area. We are LEAD Paint Certified and ready to help transform your homes exterior! Interesting Facts about St. Johns, Oregon - Oldest Neighborhood in Portland: St. Johns is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Portland, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1902. It was originally an independent city before being annexed by Portland in 1915. - St. Johns Bridge: The iconic St. Johns Bridge, completed in 1931, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the neighborhood. Designed by renowned engineer David B. Steinman, the bridge is known for its Gothic-style towers and greenish hue, which comes from the copper content in its steel. - Cathedral Park: Located beneath the St. Johns Bridge, Cathedral Park is a popular destination known for its stunning views of the bridge and the Willamette River. It's named for the cathedral-like appearance of the bridge's towers and is a favorite spot for picnics, concerts, and outdoor activities. - Historic Architecture: St. Johns boasts a variety of historic architecture, including Victorian homes, Craftsman bungalows, and commercial buildings from the early 20th century. Many of these buildings have been lovingly preserved and contribute to the neighborhood's unique character. - Community Events: St. Johns is known for its strong sense of community and hosts several annual events and festivals. These include the St. Johns Bizarre, a street fair featuring local artisans, musicians, and food vendors, as well as the St. Johns Parade, which celebrates the neighborhood's history and diversity. - Filming Location: St. Johns has served as a filming location for several movies and television shows, thanks to its picturesque scenery and historic charm. Notable productions filmed in the area include "Twilight" and the TV series "Grimm." - Urban Renewal: In recent years, St. Johns has undergone a revitalization, with efforts to preserve its historic buildings and promote economic development. New businesses, restaurants, and breweries have opened in the area, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. - Community Organizations: St. Johns is home to numerous community organizations and nonprofits dedicated to supporting local residents and preserving the neighborhood's heritage. These organizations work on issues such as housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Overall, St. Johns offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit that makes it a unique and beloved neighborhood in Portland. See what homeowners are saying about our work!   Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement today! - Portland OR - North Portland OR - St Johns OR - NE Portland OR - SE Portland OR - SW Portland OR - Northwest Portland OR - Southeast Portland OR - Southwest Portland OR - Gresham OR - North Gresham OR - Fairview OR - Troutdale OR - Corbett OR - Mt Hood OR - Welches OR - Happy Valley OR - Clackamas OR - Oregon City OR - Molalla OR - Sherwood OR - Estacada OR - West Linn OR - Tigard OR - Lake Oswego OR - Milwaukie OR - Gladstone OR - Beaverton OR - South Beaverton OR - Hillsboro OR - Aloha OR - Tualatin OR - Sherwood OR - Willsonville OR - Tanasbourne OR - North Plains OR - Cornelius OR - Forest Grove OR - Banks OR Read the full article

[sidingprocontractorvancouverwa]

Siding Contractors St Johns OR - Copy

St Johns OR Siding Contractor St Johns #1 James Hardie Preferred Siding Contractor! ELITE Installation & ELITE Preferred Services. Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement Transformation The History of St. Johns Portland Oregon St. Johns is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Portland, Oregon, USA. Here's a brief overview of its history: - Early Settlement: St. Johns was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples of the Chinook tribe, who lived along the Willamette River for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The area was abundant in natural resources, including fish from the river and fertile land for agriculture. - European Settlement: In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving in the region, attracted by the opportunities for farming and logging. The establishment of the Oregon Trail and the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 further encouraged settlement in the area. - Development of St. Johns: St. Johns was founded as a separate city in 1902 by James John, a prominent early settler and businessman. The area was originally known as St. Johns by the Bridge due to its proximity to the St. Johns Bridge, which was completed in 1931 and spans the Willamette River, connecting St. Johns to the rest of Portland. - Industrial Growth: St. Johns experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century, fueled by its location along the river, which made it a hub for shipping, fishing, and industrial activities. Sawmills, shipyards, and other industrial facilities were established, providing jobs and economic opportunities for residents. - Annexation by Portland: In 1915, St. Johns was annexed by the city of Portland, becoming part of the larger metropolitan area. Despite this, St. Johns maintained its distinct identity as a neighborhood with its own commercial district and community institutions. - Economic Decline and Revitalization: Like many industrial areas, St. Johns faced economic decline in the latter half of the 20th century due to changes in industry and urban development patterns. However, in recent years, the neighborhood has undergone revitalization efforts, with the restoration of historic buildings, the development of new businesses, and a growing interest in its cultural heritage and community character. Today, St. Johns is known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and scenic riverfront location. It retains its historic charm while embracing new opportunities for growth and development in the modern era. Elite Home Exteriors NW is a local Siding Pros Contractor to the St.Johns area. We are LEAD Paint Certified and ready to help transform your homes exterior! Interesting Facts about St. Johns, Oregon - Oldest Neighborhood in Portland: St. Johns is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Portland, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1902. It was originally an independent city before being annexed by Portland in 1915. - St. Johns Bridge: The iconic St. Johns Bridge, completed in 1931, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the neighborhood. Designed by renowned engineer David B. Steinman, the bridge is known for its Gothic-style towers and greenish hue, which comes from the copper content in its steel. - Cathedral Park: Located beneath the St. Johns Bridge, Cathedral Park is a popular destination known for its stunning views of the bridge and the Willamette River. It's named for the cathedral-like appearance of the bridge's towers and is a favorite spot for picnics, concerts, and outdoor activities. - Historic Architecture: St. Johns boasts a variety of historic architecture, including Victorian homes, Craftsman bungalows, and commercial buildings from the early 20th century. Many of these buildings have been lovingly preserved and contribute to the neighborhood's unique character. - Community Events: St. Johns is known for its strong sense of community and hosts several annual events and festivals. These include the St. Johns Bizarre, a street fair featuring local artisans, musicians, and food vendors, as well as the St. Johns Parade, which celebrates the neighborhood's history and diversity. - Filming Location: St. Johns has served as a filming location for several movies and television shows, thanks to its picturesque scenery and historic charm. Notable productions filmed in the area include "Twilight" and the TV series "Grimm." - Urban Renewal: In recent years, St. Johns has undergone a revitalization, with efforts to preserve its historic buildings and promote economic development. New businesses, restaurants, and breweries have opened in the area, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. - Community Organizations: St. Johns is home to numerous community organizations and nonprofits dedicated to supporting local residents and preserving the neighborhood's heritage. These organizations work on issues such as housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Overall, St. Johns offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit that makes it a unique and beloved neighborhood in Portland. See what homeowners are saying about our work!   Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement today! - Portland OR - North Portland OR - St Johns OR - NE Portland OR - SE Portland OR - SW Portland OR - Northwest Portland OR - Southeast Portland OR - Southwest Portland OR - Gresham OR - North Gresham OR - Fairview OR - Troutdale OR - Corbett OR - Mt Hood OR - Welches OR - Happy Valley OR - Clackamas OR - Oregon City OR - Molalla OR - Sherwood OR - Estacada OR - West Linn OR - Tigard OR - Lake Oswego OR - Milwaukie OR - Gladstone OR - Beaverton OR - South Beaverton OR - Hillsboro OR - Aloha OR - Tualatin OR - Sherwood OR - Willsonville OR - Tanasbourne OR - North Plains OR - Cornelius OR - Forest Grove OR - Banks OR Read the full article

[sidingprocontractorportlandor]

Siding Contractors St Johns OR - Copy

St Johns OR Siding Contractor St Johns #1 James Hardie Preferred Siding Contractor! ELITE Installation & ELITE Preferred Services. Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement Transformation The History of St. Johns Portland Oregon St. Johns is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Portland, Oregon, USA. Here's a brief overview of its history: - Early Settlement: St. Johns was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples of the Chinook tribe, who lived along the Willamette River for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The area was abundant in natural resources, including fish from the river and fertile land for agriculture. - European Settlement: In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving in the region, attracted by the opportunities for farming and logging. The establishment of the Oregon Trail and the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 further encouraged settlement in the area. - Development of St. Johns: St. Johns was founded as a separate city in 1902 by James John, a prominent early settler and businessman. The area was originally known as St. Johns by the Bridge due to its proximity to the St. Johns Bridge, which was completed in 1931 and spans the Willamette River, connecting St. Johns to the rest of Portland. - Industrial Growth: St. Johns experienced rapid growth in the early 20th century, fueled by its location along the river, which made it a hub for shipping, fishing, and industrial activities. Sawmills, shipyards, and other industrial facilities were established, providing jobs and economic opportunities for residents. - Annexation by Portland: In 1915, St. Johns was annexed by the city of Portland, becoming part of the larger metropolitan area. Despite this, St. Johns maintained its distinct identity as a neighborhood with its own commercial district and community institutions. - Economic Decline and Revitalization: Like many industrial areas, St. Johns faced economic decline in the latter half of the 20th century due to changes in industry and urban development patterns. However, in recent years, the neighborhood has undergone revitalization efforts, with the restoration of historic buildings, the development of new businesses, and a growing interest in its cultural heritage and community character. Today, St. Johns is known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and scenic riverfront location. It retains its historic charm while embracing new opportunities for growth and development in the modern era. Elite Home Exteriors NW is a local Siding Pros Contractor to the St.Johns area. We are LEAD Paint Certified and ready to help transform your homes exterior! Interesting Facts about St. Johns, Oregon - Oldest Neighborhood in Portland: St. Johns is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Portland, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1902. It was originally an independent city before being annexed by Portland in 1915. - St. Johns Bridge: The iconic St. Johns Bridge, completed in 1931, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the neighborhood. Designed by renowned engineer David B. Steinman, the bridge is known for its Gothic-style towers and greenish hue, which comes from the copper content in its steel. - Cathedral Park: Located beneath the St. Johns Bridge, Cathedral Park is a popular destination known for its stunning views of the bridge and the Willamette River. It's named for the cathedral-like appearance of the bridge's towers and is a favorite spot for picnics, concerts, and outdoor activities. - Historic Architecture: St. Johns boasts a variety of historic architecture, including Victorian homes, Craftsman bungalows, and commercial buildings from the early 20th century. Many of these buildings have been lovingly preserved and contribute to the neighborhood's unique character. - Community Events: St. Johns is known for its strong sense of community and hosts several annual events and festivals. These include the St. Johns Bizarre, a street fair featuring local artisans, musicians, and food vendors, as well as the St. Johns Parade, which celebrates the neighborhood's history and diversity. - Filming Location: St. Johns has served as a filming location for several movies and television shows, thanks to its picturesque scenery and historic charm. Notable productions filmed in the area include "Twilight" and the TV series "Grimm." - Urban Renewal: In recent years, St. Johns has undergone a revitalization, with efforts to preserve its historic buildings and promote economic development. New businesses, restaurants, and breweries have opened in the area, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. - Community Organizations: St. Johns is home to numerous community organizations and nonprofits dedicated to supporting local residents and preserving the neighborhood's heritage. These organizations work on issues such as housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Overall, St. Johns offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit that makes it a unique and beloved neighborhood in Portland. See what homeowners are saying about our work!   Get a Free Estimate on Your Siding Replacement today! - Portland OR - North Portland OR - St Johns OR - NE Portland OR - SE Portland OR - SW Portland OR - Northwest Portland OR - Southeast Portland OR - Southwest Portland OR - Gresham OR - North Gresham OR - Fairview OR - Troutdale OR - Corbett OR - Mt Hood OR - Welches OR - Happy Valley OR - Clackamas OR - Oregon City OR - Molalla OR - Sherwood OR - Estacada OR - West Linn OR - Tigard OR - Lake Oswego OR - Milwaukie OR - Gladstone OR - Beaverton OR - South Beaverton OR - Hillsboro OR - Aloha OR - Tualatin OR - Sherwood OR - Willsonville OR - Tanasbourne OR - North Plains OR - Cornelius OR - Forest Grove OR - Banks OR Read the full article

[muhmmadiqbal]

Historical Landmarks and Heritage USA

Exploring historical landmarks and heritage sites in the United States can be a fascinating niche for YouTube content creators. Here are some ideas for content within this sub-niche

Virtual Tours of National Parks: Provide immersive virtual tours of iconic national parks in the United States, such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Acadia. Highlight the natural beauty, wildlife, and geological wonders of these protected areas.

Historic Sites and Monuments: Visit and document visits to famous historical landmarks and monuments across the country, such as the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, Independence Hall, and the Alamo. Share insights into the history, significance, and architectural features of these sites.

Colonial Era and Revolutionary War Sites: Explore the East Coast's rich colonial history by visiting sites like Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, and Boston's Freedom Trail. Discuss the events leading up to the American Revolution and the legacy of the Founding Fathers.

Civil War Battlefields and Museums: Tour Civil War battlefields, such as Gettysburg, Antietam, and Vicksburg, and discuss the strategies, key battles, and significant figures of the conflict. Visit Civil War museums and artifacts collections to delve deeper into this pivotal period in American history.

Industrial Revolution Landmarks: Visit industrial revolution landmarks and heritage sites, such as Lowell National Historical Park, Thomas Edison National Historical Park, and the Henry Ford Museum. Explore innovations in technology, transportation, and manufacturing that shaped American industry.

mmigration and Ellis Island: Document visits to Ellis Island and other immigration museums to explore the immigrant experience in America. Share stories of immigrants' journeys, cultural diversity, and contributions to the nation's growth and development.

Civil Rights Movement Sites: Visit sites associated with the Civil Rights Movement, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Selma's Edmund Pettus Bridge, and the National Civil Rights Museum. Discuss the struggle for racial equality, landmark events, and the ongoing fight for social justice.

Presidential Libraries and Museums: Tour presidential libraries and museums dedicated to the lives and legacies of past U.S. presidents, such as the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

Historic Trails and Scenic Byways: Follow historic trails and scenic byways, such as the Lewis and Clark Trail, the Oregon Trail, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Share travel tips, scenic views, and insights into the people and events that shaped American history.

[robert-sims]

Tazo Tea Assortment Box: A World of Flavors in Every Sip

Introduction: There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm cup of tea, and Tazo Tea Assortment Box offers a delightful journey through various flavors and aromas. This assortment box provides tea enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore a vast selection of premium teas created by Tazo, a renowned brand known for its commitment to quality and innovation. From soothing herbal blends to invigorating black teas, this article will delve into the wonders of the Tazo Tea Assortment Box and help you discover your new favorite brew.

Outline: I. Introduction II. Brief History of Tazo Tea III. Overview of Tazo Tea Assortment Box A. Range of Flavors and Varieties B. High-Quality Ingredients IV. The Health Benefits of Tazo Teas A. Antioxidant-Rich Blends B. Calming Herbal Infusions V. Brewing Techniques for Optimal Flavor VI. Pairing Suggestions for an Exquisite Experience VII. Where to Find Tazo Tea Assortment Box VIII. Conclusion: Embark on Your Tea Adventure

Content:

In the world of tea, few brands can rival the creativity, ingenuity, and passion that defines Tazo—a name synonymous with exceptional quality and unique flavor profiles inspired by cultures across the globe.

Tucked within the charming packaging lies the key to unlocking your taste buds’ full potential—an exquisite assortment box encompassing a wide range of teas that will transport you to distant lands with every sip.

Tazo has always been at the forefront when it comes to crafting extraordinary tea experiences since its inception over 20 years ago in Portland, Oregon. Founded by Steve Smith—the mastermind behind Stash Tea—Tazo quickly gained acclaim for its unconventional blends that dared to push traditional boundaries.

Now, let’s embark on a tantalizing journey through the Tazo Tea Assortment Box and explore the diverse selection of flavors available to tea enthusiasts worldwide.

I. Brief History of Tazo Tea

Before we plunge into the rich world of Tazo teas, it’s worth delving briefly into their intriguing history. From its humble origins as a teahouse in Portland to becoming an iconic brand under Starbucks’ ownership, Tazo has consistently pushed boundaries and delighted tea connoisseurs with its bold flavor combinations.

II. Overview of Tazo Tea Assortment Box

A. Range of Flavors and Varieties The Tazo Tea Assortment Box is more than just a collection of teas; it is an invitation to explore different cultures and traditions through every cup. With an extensive blend selection that spans black, green, herbal, and flavored teas, this assortment box ensures there’s something to suit every palate.

B. High-Quality Ingredients Tazo sources only the finest ingredients from around the world to create their exceptional tea blends. Whether it be handpicked green tea leaves from China or aromatic spices from India, each ingredient undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure a consistently excellent taste.

III. The Health Benefits of Tazo Teas

A. Antioxidant-Rich Blends Many Tazo teas are brimming with antioxidants that can help boost your immune system and protect against free radicals. For example, their Zen Green Tea Blend combines green tea leaves with lemongrass and spearmint—a refreshing blend that invigorates both body and mind while providing a healthy dose of antioxidants.

B. Calming Herbal Infusions Tired after a long day? Indulge in one of Tazo’s soothing herbal infusions like Passion or Chamomile for a peaceful night’s sleep or moments of relaxation during a hectic day. These caffeine-free options are meticulously crafted using carefully selected herbs renowned for their calming properties.

IV. Brewing Techniques for Optimal Flavor

To fully enjoy the flavors and aromas of Tazo teas, it’s essential to understand the art of brewing. Here are a few key tips to elevate your tea experience:

Water temperature: Different teas require different water temperatures. For delicate green and white teas, use water just below boiling point (160-180°F) to avoid bitterness. Black teas, on the other hand, benefit from hotter water (200-212°F).

Steeping time: The ideal steeping time also varies depending on the type of tea. Follow Tazo’s instructions provided on each blend’s packaging to achieve optimal flavor extraction.

V. Pairing Suggestions for an Exquisite Experience

To make your tea moments even more enjoyable, consider pairing your favorite Tazo blends with complementary foods. Here are a few suggestions:

Earl Grey with Dark Chocolate: The bold bergamot aroma in Earl Grey harmonizes beautifully with the rich and slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate.

Lemon Ginger with Honey Toast: The zesty kick from lemon and ginger combined with the sweetness of honey creates a delightful contrast when paired with lightly toasted bread.

Chai Latte with Spiced Pastries: Indulge in an Indian-inspired treat by savoring a chai latte alongside spiced cookies or pastries infused with cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.

VI. Where to Find Tazo Tea Assortment Box

The Tazo Tea Assortment Box is available at select grocery stores, specialty tea shops, and online retailers worldwide. Check your local supermarket or browse trusted e-commerce platforms to get your hands on this treasure trove of flavors.

VII. Conclusion: Embark on Your Tea Adventure

Treat yourself or surprise a tea-loving friend with the Tazo Tea Assortment Box—an exploration of exquisite flavors that will transport you to distant lands and enchant your senses. With its diverse range of teas, high-quality ingredients, and a commitment to crafting remarkable blends, Tazo continues to redefine the tea experience. Unleash your inner tea connoisseur and embark on a journey that will delight in every sip.

Remember, there’s no better time than now to immerse yourself in the world of Tazo Tea Assortment Box. Elevate your tea-drinking rituals, discover new favorites, and find solace in the comforting embrace of these exceptional brews.

[professionalaerialvideo]

Elevate Your Listings with Real Estate Videography Near Portland

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. With the rise of online platforms and the increasing demand for virtual property viewings, real estate professionals in Portland, Oregon, are turning to innovative solutions to showcase their listings. One of the most effective tools in their arsenal is real estate videography, a trend that is sweeping through the industry.

The Power of Real Estate Videography

Real estate videography is not just a passing trend; it’s a game-changer. It allows you to provide potential buyers with an immersive and dynamic experience, helping them visualize themselves in their future home. With the backdrop of Portland’s unique charm and vibrant neighborhoods, real estate videography can take your property listings to the next level.

1. Visual Storytelling:

In the competitive real estate market in Portland, visual storytelling is essential. Real estate videography allows you to create a compelling narrative for your listings. You can highlight the unique features of a property, showcase its surroundings, and give viewers a sense of the lifestyle they could enjoy

2. Engaging Virtual Tours:

Virtual property tours are a powerful tool, especially in today’s digital age. With a real estate videography near Portland, you can offer potential buyers engaging virtual tours of your listings. This not only saves time for both you and your clients but also ensures that only genuinely interested parties schedule in-person viewings.

3. Aerial Perspectives:

Portland’s diverse neighborhoods and scenic landscapes are a selling point in themselves. Real estate videography can incorporate aerial shots, providing breathtaking views of properties, neighborhoods, and the city’s iconic landmarks. It’s a surefire way to stand out in the market.

4. Showcasing Local Amenities:

Real estate is not just about the property; it’s also about the lifestyle it offers. With real estate videography, you can highlight the local amenities, parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions in Portland that make a property even more appealing.

5. Building Trust:

In an industry where trust is paramount, real estate videography offers transparency and authenticity. It shows potential buyers that you have nothing to hide and that you’re providing them with a complete view of the property.

Real Estate Marketing Companies in Portland

To make the most of real estate videography, you need the right expertise. This is where real estate marketing companies in Portland come into play. These companies specialize in creating captivating video content that not only showcases properties but also tells a story.

1. Professional Expertise:

Real estate marketing companies have professionals who are well-versed in the nuances of videography. They know how to capture a property’s essence and present it in the most appealing way.

2. Tailored Strategies:

No two properties are the same, and real estate marketing companies understand that. They work closely with you to develop a tailored video strategy that aligns with the unique selling points of each property.

3. State-of-the-Art Equipment:

From high-resolution cameras to advanced drone technology, real estate marketing companies in Portland have access to the latest equipment. This ensures that your videos are of the highest quality.

4. Post-Production Excellence:

Creating a video is just the beginning. Real estate marketing companies have the skills to edit and enhance the footage, adding music, voiceovers, and other elements to create a polished and professional final product.

5. Broad Reach:

Once your real estate videography is complete, marketing companies can help you distribute it to the widest possible audience. They can optimize your videos for online platforms, social media, and even create virtual reality experiences for prospective buyers.

The Future of Real Estate Marketing

As the real estate market in Portland continues to evolve, staying competitive requires embracing innovative techniques. Real estate videography and the expertise of real estate marketing companies are a winning combination that can set you apart in this dynamic market. It’s not just a trend; it’s the future of real estate marketing.

So, if you’re a real estate professional in Portland looking to enhance your listings, consider the power of real estate videography and the expertise of marketing companies. It’s a decision that will not only benefit your business but also provide an engaging and immersive experience for your clients.