#High-performance ESC

[epropelledsystems]

Sparrow AMC‑6S20A 20A ESC Electronic Speed Controller

High-performance Sparrow AMC 6S20A ESC Electronic Speed Controller for 2–6 S LiPo drones. Lightweight 30 g design, 20 A continuous / 30 A peak, IP25 rated for optimal flight control.

[fabulosopulpo]

just handed in a biology project with this thumbnail. how cooked are we? 💀🔥

for context, this started as a stop-motion film about immune reactions and might or might not have escalated into an elaborate story about the mayor of a local town getting invaded by "osama bin virus". said virus using a rocket launcher to attack healthy cells.

also, the words "protein sex" are explicitly mentioned.

these were the credits.

will we pass this class? please be honest, we´re starting to have regrets.

update on friday 14th 💀💀

[weirdthoughtsandideas]

What's to note about Sweden in Eurovision is that, for a lot of people when they're picking out songs to send, they don't care what Europe actually wants - they think about the song that has the highest chance to WIN.

And thus, we've reached a dilemma.

The most TRENDING melfest song right now, is this one

It has everything Eurovision WANTS us to send.

It's in swedish! We haven't send anything in Swedish for over 2,5 decades! And when we HAVE, the artists have chosen to sing in english once they reach eurovision even if they sang it in swedish in melfest

It's catchy! Easy to dance to!

Good time!

It's the top 1 trending song in Sweden AND in Finland

It shows a culture not too often represented: Finno-swedes! Sometimes people IN SWEDEN are not aware there is indeed swedish speaking finns, just like there is for example french speaking canadians. And they have their own dialects, phrases and culture.

YKSI KAKSI KOLME SAUNA

However?

It will not win Eurovision (probably)

Some snobby elitist melfest fans (SORRY TO YOU GUYS BUT YOU ARE) thinks if we send something like this we will "embarrass ourselves". And we can't do that! We need to "show the world that Sweden is the biggest music export by getting good scores all the time!" (to which I say yes?? but we can also show some DIVERSITY in our songs???)

And there is the song that people think would most likely WIN the whole esc if we send it:

It's Måns Zelmerlöw, so we know he's good at what he's doing!

The performance is nicely done!

However:

Is the song that good??? Do you remember the song, like, at all? No, you get fooled by the STAGE PERFORMANCE. And sure, it does elevate the song, but not so much that I personally would want to vote for it.

Does my fellow Swedes honestly to god not know that esc people are tired of Måns Zelmerlöw? He kept showing up year after year in esc somehow, either as a middle act or as a sketch or something. He was always there.

If he wins melfest I'm honestly gonna be scared every time time he gets a good score in esc. I don't wanna live through that again. People say "don't care about the haters just enjoy your country winning" and I'm sorry but I CAN'T enjoy it if I know everyone else is mad - I also can't enjoy it when I know I didn't even vote for them to represent us. THAT to me is more embarrassing than sending a more "fun" entry that might not get as high of a jury score.

Personal opinion: I already think there's better songs in esc I think should win

Personal opinion: I do not agree that Måns' entry is better than anyone else this year. There are better songs in MELFEST already that I will vote for in the finale. Not only KAJ, but several others too.

Personal opinion: I'm not a fan of Måns' song and I don't get fooled by the "cool effects". It worked with Heroes, because he did something new with that little animated blob. It doesn't really work here for me. At all.

I do not want to experience 2023 again. Now 2 years later I feel like... fine. Loreen is Loreen. She's an icon nonetheless. MÅNS... is not her. He's more like Charlotte Perelli, Alexander Rybak or Carola: Appreciated as artists, but it definitely did not go as well for them when they came back to esc after already winning once. And I HOPE this is the fate Måns also would face.

Personal opinion: I think Sweden should chill with winning :) That was NOT a popular opinion when I said so on instagram, another Swede told me that I needed to understand that this was a COMPETITION and that we need to strive for the BEST all the time.

My thoughts on this is NOT so much that I've "fallen for the haters who hate Sweden and its success". It's the fact that during the last ten years, I've only liked TWO melfest winners. The rest I did not want to win, and thus I AGREE with Europe when they think we send generic pop songs, and I don't like them being rewarded because I didn't like them in the first place. And I want my country to send something different and FUN for ONCE, but we DON'T. The closest we got was Cornelia Jakobs in 2022. She was a LITTLE different, and I genuinely liked that. And I mean... Loreen IS Loreen, even though I did feel already in melfest that it was a little unfair because I did like some other songs more.

And so now, we have two teams here in Sweden: Those who think Måns absolutely is the only choice, nothing else will do, and we will win esc with him again. Best produced song, nothing else can top it. These people can sometimes come off as snobby and even sometimes a bit elitist in some extreme cases, even though a lot of them only are normal people who had been driven into this mindset.

And the other team is more like me: We should send something like KAJ! Or another little "different" that's already in our finale! Because we AGREE that we for once should see what EUROVISION wants rather than what the JURIES wants. No one likes the juries anyway. They didn't let Yohio win melfest in 2013 guys. Come on. It was their fault we didn't send a visual kei guy to eurovision and instead sent boring Robin Stjernberg.

Even NEWS SITES and podcasts has started discussing this. How the Swede is so predictable and rather wants to send the "safe card" than trying something new.

It's 2 weeks left until we have a finale. And I personally would not send Måns. But the songs I often want to win never win. And I think we keep sending generic pop songs because IT WORKS. It's not so fun for for the esc fans, but it works competition wise. And Swedes have sadly taken this competition too seriously, and forgotten to have fun. And maybe I am a part of that, since I seem to care so much about this I'm being so negative.

But, I will say: In 2023, the whole country was pretty much in agreement that Loreen will win melfest, the end. This year... I feel like we're more divided about this. And I think a bigger part of us will be disappointed to see Måns win melfest, both due to how we know Europe will react, but also because we genuinely don't think this song is that good. And it's a SONG contest at the end of the day, even though some argue "Well! But it's nicely produced!!!! Isn't the staging cool???" Yeah. But the song is the one you're gonna listen to, and... the song I think most people would rather LISTEN to is Bara Bada Bastu. But many people also think "they won't win anyway", and that can sadly also stop some people from even voting. "Why vote, when they won't win anyway? I don't want Måns to win but he's probably gonna win anyway, whatever :/" Not if we try to vote for others!!!

I myself in the finale will vote for Klara Hammarström, Greczula, KAJ, and if Scarlet comes to the finale this time, which I think they will, I will vote for them too. I think I'm even gonna give some few votes to Maja Ivarsson and Annika Wikihalder. There's PLENTY of other people in the finale I'd be perfectly fine and not too disappointed with if they won - especially if they NEVER HAVE WON BEFORE.

I won't vote for Måns. Both because, he's probably gonna get votes anyway, he doesn't need mine :/ And also because I just... don't like the song. Everyone can have a good scene performance with cool effects, smoke, blah blah... but that can't ONLY be it. I've seen that so many times and I'm not fooled by it.

If Måns wins melfest, it's up to Europe what to do. We can't vote for our own country in esc. So it's just up to you then to vote, or NOT vote. Remember the semifinals are all televote. You can choose to feed our ego again so that we keep sending the same thing again because it works, or you can decide not to.

[idnkycmnbsesictoau]

My thoughts on every song in the grand final, in running order:

Norway: just a good pop song, but definitely one of the better ones this year. Somehow it’s live better than in the music video

Luxembourg: this is so cool, I’m not sure about the beginning with the doll house but we leave that soon enough, and her vocals while being basically manhandled around are so good. Best song in French this year.

Estonia: this is really the only one this year that I can’t stand. Just vocally and his vibe is weird and the song is just not my thing. But boy can he dance

Israel: the voice is amazing and I like the language changes (the switch to French is so smooth I literally didn’t notice it at all the first time I heard it) but other than that it’s just a typical Esc song we have ten of every year

Lithuania: they really managed to make it better, I love the “tavo” getting louder before the band comes in hard. Also the singer is so pretty esp with his hair in the wind like that. I haven’t listened to this song too much because it just makes me feel things that I don’t want to feel all the time

Spain: kind of typical Spanish pop song. The chorus is Very Schlager-y. It also kinda reminds me of mimi cat of Portugal? I have no idea where this could end up

Ukraine: I liked the lowkey national final performance better but the hazey colours make it stand out I think, and I like the lighting bug being passed around. Pretty much flawless as expected

United Kingdom: they look like Disney princesses! And sound like it too! I’m a uk apologist anyway and if they don’t get into the top 10 ok maybe top 15 then I’ll throw something.

Austria: I cannot express in words how perfect he and his voice and the song and the staging is. The last electronic part?? And if you watch the video at 1:45 the switch from the low part to high??! I was shocked.

Iceland: this is just fun all around. The part in the boat where they flip through and the Minecraft squid flying on my screen is great. Nothing much to say except I love them

Latvia: This is perfect except I would have kept the lighting more dark the whole time to keep more of the mysterious forest fairies vibes. This is what the crickets and frogs sing on the first warm night of the year

Netherlands: I wasn’t into this song at first but it grew on me, its an earworm. ce lalalalala vie. Second best song in French this year.

Finland: I’ll be honest I like the song but the live performance doesn’t do it for me. Also I’m of the opinion that using just three random words in another language is lame. I don’t know why they’re even there. At least make a whole verse in german. The giant microphone is still wunderbar though.

Italy: I love the chill vibes and the long piano. Best song in Italian this year.

Poland: I still don’t like the long yells but the rest is good. Also her stamina to do all of that *gestures wildly* while singing is craaaazy. One of the better songs sung by women in skin tight black outfits.

Germany: I can’t really connect to this song like at all. My guess is that it comes from knowing the language which seems ironic. I’d give a lot to just hear this song without knowing a word of german. But anyway her voice is much better than in the nf and the performance is great so I can hope for a good place.

Greece: I wish they had kept the blue colour scheme instead of using red! Greece is blue! The flag is blue! As a fellow glasses wearer I like her but the song again is just one of those songs we hear every year ten times. I wouldn’t say boring but also not exciting.

Armenia: I knew it would qualify once I saw what they’ve done with it. Not my favourite but there’s not much Rock this year so I think it could go far.

Switzerland: third best French song in this final. It’s boring and slow and quiet but it’s so extremely boring and slow and quiet that it sticks out again. She’s cute also. I like the focus on her face that no other song really does that much.

Malta: really serving Cu Singing, Best entrance of anyone. Bop that we’ll talk about for years. Diva not down. Very good.

Portugal: one of my favourites and I’m so happy they qualified. Just a cozy chill but not boring song that gets a bit bigger towards the end. Love the guitars. Gives the vibes of some local band doing a concert in a backyard on a warm summer evening.

Denmark: very Schlager-y again. It’s kind of a neutral one for me, I like her energy but I feel like I’ve heard it before.

Sweden: I think I liked the melodifestivalen version better just because the stage was smaller, now it feels like there’s a lot of empty space? But they still are amazing. Often we hear that musicians send something worse or completely different than their usual music to Eurovision but I’ve listened to KAJs whole discography and I can tell you this is exactly their thing, and not even their best song. Absolute banger, the only reason I don’t super want them to win is bc I didn’t like swedens hosting job last year. I hope they get even bigger than they already are and get so popular that kids in Sweden start speaking in their dialect bc that would be hilarious. Also watch their musical gämbamark its on YouTube and the bois all play in it.

France: France coming in with by far the worst completely French song in this final. Like Switzerland is boring but at least they’re trying something that no one else this year does with the camerawork. France is sending the same boring frenchiest French song but they’re not even trying to do something cool with the staging. Just making up a staging that takes four times longer than anyone else’s to build. Also People will be like “uh Lithuania is just repeating Tavo the whole time” but when France repeats maman for ages it’s good I guess. To say something positive she sings quite well.

San Marino: this will be such a vibe shift. Fun, energetic, banger, deserves to be here. Second best Italian song.

Albania: the live version finally sold it for me. Good voices good staging good song I honestly just find her dance a little goofy. But i’m sure it has some cultural meaning or whatever.

[e-von-dahl]

I’m not even surprised by how horribly the esc participants are being treated because I remember how Theodor Andrei was treated last year.

He was 18, still in high school, and was constantly being threatened by his own delegation for daring to have opinions on his own performance. They forced him to finance everything himself, they gave him no support whatsoever.

The ebu did nothing about any of this. The ebu doesn’t care about these artists, they only care about money. Delegations get away with appalling behaviour all the time.

I’d rather eurovision be over entirely than have more artists suffer being treated like commodities and the property of their countries broadcaster.

[vampires-aliens]

Okay, so I was just gonna say this on her post, but I too much to say. @rowangrayy 's TBOJD PERFORMANCE WAS SO GOOD!!! The singing, OMG. The shear RAGE in some of the lines, as well as sorrow in others?!? Mixed with the regular high notes and opera-esc parts! Phenomenal!! (Way more under cut, vid if u just wanna watch it yourself→) https://youtu.be/KcKfnYaABT4?si=LjPbkDjl7atKAkbu

The beginning part having them recreate them riding the Cyclone with Jane in the middle of the circle?! Amazing

AND THE PAUSE BETWEEN THE FIRST HALF AND THE SECOND HALF OF THE SONG??!!! With the pure darkness, silence, then police lights showing the whole choir dead (using the umbrellas as the things that killed them) and Jane just walking back and forth across the stage staring at them all in shock. HER SEEMING ANGRY ABOUT IT, THEN PULLING KARNAK'S LEVER AND REANIMATING THE CHOIR???!! When I tell you I was gagged, and had to pause for a second when seeing the lighting on the dead choir and the deafening silence.

Phenomenal job!! The choreography with the umbrellas afterwards was great too. Easily top three TBOJD, maybe even #1, that I've seen (granted I haven't watched very many, but I've seen plenty of photos of other productions)

Great job, I wish I could've seen you live!!

[sir-balderdash-the-bard]

Sir Balderdash is my main character for the Evil Science Centre, a tumblr rp community. He’s only slightly a scientist, his role in the centre is more medical+ janitorial+ odd jobs + resident bard and funnyman.

He’s ~25 years old, and was originally born in the 1600s before being whisked off on years of time-travelling shenanigans by an actual evil scientist who wanted the answer to the age-old question: “what would happen if you gave a Victorian child a dorito chip?” (And other related queries).

A quick rundown of his character:

Gay (as an umbrella term. He decided specific labels were too much work)

nominally a cisgender man, in the sense that he’s seen too many cultures to care about gender anymore

writes using þ

the equivalent of a fairly high-level bard, he is somewhat good at everything but extremely good at performance

His one science thing is portal tech. Which he mostly just stole from the aforementioned evil scientist after their death.

speaks essentially every language but most of them not very well

can play essentially every instrument in existence

has been most inspired by his birthplace, 60s USA, and 80s Britain, but he’s been everywhere and anywhen. And has picked up his fashion sense from all of them.

if he’s not wearing something pink somewhere on his body then something has gone terribly wrong.

really just a silly guy who loves his friends+ found family. And one of the more normal people at the ESC, somehow.

All other posts will by default be in character, with ooc stuff ((like this)). That’s all, have a nice day.

[moochilatv]

Josh Jacobs presents: LANDfill (feat. Kon Boogie)

Political and cultural potent song

Invoked by vengence, vulnerability, purpose, inspiration, and culture; Josh Jacobs delivers his message with creative songwriting, melody driven harmonies, and genius level lyricism to engage his audience. Hailing from the birthplace of Hip Hop, this Nuyorican artist channels his own ferocious performance style and savvy lyrics of redemption by harnessing his Puerto Rican roots, Eminem caliber wordplay, his Kendrick Lamar esc delivery & storytelling capabilities to paint a picture for his fans.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Josh Jacobs Music 🇵🇷 (@whoisjoshjacobs)

His pen, pad, and microphone are used as tools for the reconstruction of his life and the desire to impact, educate, invigorate and enlighten the lives of others. Josh Jacobs harnesses his life experiences and interpretation of the world to derive his inner most feelings and wisdom, using them as fuel and information for entertaining his audience with thought provoking pieces of art and high energy / emotional live performances .

It is for all these reasons that Josh Jacobs is considered a true student of the craft and an introspective son of hip hop.

Stream LANDfill:

[motorspexx]

The 2025 Bentley Bentayga Speed is the most powerful and high-performance version of Bentley’s luxury SUV lineup.

It is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 650 PS and 850 Newton-meters of torque.

This engine delivers a 0 to 100 kilometers per hour acceleration in just 3.4 seconds,with a top speed reaching 310 kilometers per hour, making it the fastest version of the Bentayga to date.

The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system that ensures optimal traction in all driving conditions. This drivetrain configuration allows for smooth power delivery and high-performance capability on both highway and winding roads.

The chassis has been tuned specifically for the Speed variant, featuring a recalibrated SPORT mode with a 15 percent increase in stiffness compared to the standard Bentayga V8.

Full Launch Control is also integrated, providing maximum acceleration from a standstill.

The braking system is upgraded with optional carbon ceramic brakes, delivering a maximum braking torque of 6000 Newton-meters. These are paired with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels.

The exterior design includes several performance-focused elements. 23-inch wheels come standard, and the Speed model features dark-tint brightware, dark-tint headlamp internals, grey tail lamps with dark-tint bezels, elliptical sports exhaust outlets, and Speed badging on the lower front doors.

Inside the cabin, the Bentayga Speed features a Precision Diamond quilt pattern, combined with dark-tint air vents and an exclusive color split unique to the Speed variant. Materials include high-quality leather and Alcantara trim for both luxury and sporting intent.

Passenger comfort is preserved with seating for up to five, along with advanced climate control, optional rear seat entertainment, and configurable ambient lighting.

The 2025 Bentayga Speed has a kerb weight of 2,508 kilograms, with overall dimensions of 5,144 millimeters in length, 2,010 millimeters in width, and 1,728 millimeters in height.

Cargo capacity is rated at 484 liters.

With increased power, refined handling, and high-end equipment, the 2025 Bentayga Speed stands at the top of Bentley’s SUV range.

Bentley Bentayga Speed 2025 - Technical Specifications

Engine 4.0 liter twin turbocharged V8 petrol Power output 650 PS Torque 850 Newton meters

Transmission 8 speed automatic Drivetrain All wheel drive

0 to 100 km h acceleration 3.4 seconds Top speed 310 kilometers per hour

Fuel tank capacity 85 liters

Kerb weight 2508 kilograms Braking system Optional carbon ceramic brakes with ventilated discs front and rear

Maximum braking torque 6000 Newton meters

Wheels 22 inch or optional 23 inch alloy Tires 295 40 R22

Suspension Adaptive air suspension Chassis tuning 15 percent stiffer in SPORT mode compared to standard V8

Driving modes Sport Comfort Custom and Dynamic ESC with Launch Control

Exhaust system Standard sports exhaust with elliptical outlets optional Titanium Akrapovic exhaust

Exterior features Dark tint brightware dark tint headlamps grey tail lamps Speed badging

Interior features Precision Diamond quilting exclusive Speed color split dark tint air vents leather and Alcantara trim Infotainment High resolution touchscreen Apple CarPlay Android Auto rear seat entertainment available

Driver assistance Adaptive cruise control lane change assist 360 degree parking camera traffic assist

Passenger capacity Five Cargo capacity 484 liters

Dimensions Length 5144 millimeters Width 2010 millimeters Height 1728 millimeters Emissions standard Euro 6 compliant

[forsuperbang]

Alright, so, the ESC Grand Final and what I thought of it. But first story time.

So, back in January, I bought two tickets : Arena Plus Public show Viewing. It was a mistake. For those who don't know what that is becauqe they were not the most attentive, it's the football stadium they showed the live in. I might have been dumber than most because buying them was not the goal. I wanted to be inside. But hey, I heard Rim Tim Tagi Dim live. Anyway, story time over, and fuck whoever had that idea without making it that clear on the tickets.

I even had to endure a German (?) commentator during parts I wouls have miked to enjoy peacefully.

Onto the show. First the hostesses. I don't like Hazel. She was cringe. Then the interval acts. I saw neither Nemo nor Baby Lasagna × Kaärijä because I had left the stadium before, I was too cold.

The results were okayish, I guess, I can't believe Israel ranked that high (the song is good but it does not justify it). Thank God Austria won. I was still rooting for Sweden but I am happy for JJ and for the fact a song like that could win.

The performances were fine, I even enjoyed some songs I previously didn't like/care for (it helped that the energy in the stadium was great). I will rewatch the show at home, to fully enjoy it without the bitterness and disappointment (and rate all them songs !!).

[abboudlawfirm-tucson]

What Is the Safest Vehicle for Accidents?

When protecting yourself and your loved ones, the vehicle you drive matters. While no one expects to be in an accident, it’s always best to be prepared—and that starts with choosing a car built for safety. You're not alone if you’ve been wondering what the safest vehicle is in a crash.

As a Truck Accident Lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how vehicle design and safety features can make a major difference in the outcome of a collision. In this article, we’ll break down what makes a vehicle safer, which models stand out, and what you should look for when shopping with safety in mind.

Why Vehicle Safety Matters

Accidents happen—even to the most cautious drivers. That’s why vehicle safety isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. A car or truck engineered with safety in mind can reduce injuries, save lives, and give you peace of mind whenever you hit the road.

From advanced airbags to automatic emergency braking, today’s safety technology is a game-changer. Knowing what to look for can help you make an informed and confident choice.

How Are Safety Ratings Determined?

Before we dive into the safest vehicles, it helps to understand how safety is measured.

Two major organizations set the standard:

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Their 5-star safety ratings evaluate a vehicle’s performance in front, side, and rollover crashes.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): Known for their strict testing, they rate vehicles based on crashworthiness, crash avoidance, and mitigation.

These independent assessments give a clear picture of how well a vehicle protects passengers during different types of collisions.

Key Safety Features to Look For

Not all safety features are created equal. Some go a long way in preventing accidents or minimizing injury if a crash does occur. Here are a few worth prioritizing:

Crumple Zones: Areas designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy during a crash.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of control, especially in poor driving conditions.

Advanced Airbag Systems: Multi-directional airbags that adjust deployment based on the severity of a crash.

Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts you when another vehicle is in your blind spot—especially helpful on highways.

Lane Departure Warning: This notifies you if you’re drifting out of your lane without signaling.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Can apply the brakes automatically to avoid or reduce the severity of a collision.

As someone who handles truck accident cases regularly, I can tell you—these features often mean the difference between a minor injury and something far more serious.

Safest Vehicles in a Crash: Top Picks

Whether you're buying new or upgrading, these vehicles are known for their strong safety performance and crash protection:

1. Toyota Tundra: Redesigned in 2022, the Toyota Tundra stands out as one of the safest full-size trucks. It comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes features like lane tracing assist and adaptive cruise control.

2. Honda CR-V: This compact SUV continues to earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating year after year. With great visibility, solid crash scores, and active safety tech, it’s a top choice for families.

3. Subaru Outback: The Outback performs well in crash tests and real-world conditions with standard all-wheel drive and Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. It's also a great pick for drivers in snow-prone areas.

4. Toyota Camry: Don’t overlook sedans—the Camry blends style, performance, and safety. It consistently earns high safety ratings and comes with standard active safety features.

5. Mazda6: Praised for its sharp handling and upscale interior, the Mazda6 also shines in safety. It offers advanced driver assistance systems and high marks in crash prevention.

6. Ford F-150: As one of the best-selling trucks in the country, the F-150 is more than just muscle. It includes a range of safety tech, like pedestrian detection and rear cross-traffic alerts.

7. Chevrolet Silverado: This sturdy pickup performs well in crash tests and offers features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. It's a solid option for anyone who needs both utility and protection.

Why You Might Need a Truck Accident Lawyer

While having a safe vehicle helps, it doesn’t make you invincible—especially in collisions involving large trucks. These cases can be legally complex due to the size of commercial vehicles, the severity of injuries, and liability concerns.

A Truck Accident Lawyer can help by:

Investigating the cause of the accident

Reviewing vehicle safety records and crash data

Dealing with insurance companies on your behalf

Pursuing full compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and more

If you've been in a crash—especially involving a truck—having experienced legal guidance can be essential.

What to Consider When Choosing a Safe Vehicle

Before you buy, keep these safety-minded tips in mind:

Always Check Safety Ratings: Visit NHTSA and IIHS websites to see how a vehicle scores in crash tests.

Test Drive With Safety in Mind: Make sure you feel comfortable with how the vehicle handles, especially with features like lane assist or braking systems.

Think About Your Lifestyle: Need more space for kids? Drive in winter weather? Consider what matters most to you and how safety features can support your routine.

Drive Safer, Live Better

Choosing a safe vehicle is one of the most practical steps to protect yourself and your passengers. While no car is accident-proof, some are better equipped to keep you safe when it matters most.

And if the unexpected happens? You deserve the support of someone who knows how to handle it.

Contact Abboud Law Firm today to speak with a dedicated Truck Accident Lawyer who can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Because safety doesn’t end when the crash is over—it continues with how you protect yourself afterward.

[qnewsau]

Eurovision 2025 bans Pride flags for performers, fans granted leeway

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/eurovision-2025-bans-pride-flags-for-performers-fans-granted-leeway/

Eurovision 2025 bans Pride flags for performers, fans granted leeway

Artists competing at Eurovision 2025 are formally banned from displaying Pride flags and other non-national symbols at official events, under new rules released ahead of the contest in Basel, Switzerland.

According to updated flag guidelines obtained by Danish broadcaster DR, participants and their delegations can only bring the official flag of the country they represent to Eurovision venues and performances.

Formal ban on Pride flags for contestants

While Eurovision’s 2025 flag policy makes the Pride flag ban for contestants official, last year’s contest already saw restrictions in action.

Swiss winner Nemo, who uses they/them pronouns, revealed they had to smuggle a non-binary flag past security during the flag parade at Eurovision 2024.

The new rules appear to formalise what was previously enforced on a more ad hoc basis.

A Eurovision Song Contest spokesperson told PinkNews:

“The official flag policies of the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2025 have been developed by the Swiss host broadcaster SRG SSR with input from the EBU, particularly on official ESC spaces, to provide clarity for audiences and delegations.”

The spokesperson said the aim was to “strike a balance” between allowing artists and audiences to express their identities while maintaining clear rules in official areas.

“In line with other international competitive events, the policy for participating broadcasters is that only one national flag can be used in official spaces,” they said.

“Outside of these official spaces, the flag policy for delegations is the same as for audiences.”

Contestants this year may only use the official flag of their nation, and only one flag (supplied by Swiss broadcaster SRG SSR) will be permitted during the flag parade.

Participants who break the flag rules may face “consequences”, including removal from events, flag confiscation, and further sanctions under European Broadcasting Union (EBU) regulations.

When asked by DR what specific consequences could be imposed, the EBU declined to elaborate.

  View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Eurovision Song Contest (@eurovision)

Want more Eurovision news? Check out these other stories:

Courtney Act and Tony Armstrong to host Eurovision 2025 coverage

Australia’s cheeky Eurovision 2025 entry has been revealed

Eurovision fans allowed more freedoms

While the rules have tightened for performers, fans will have broader freedoms.

Audiences can bring any flag or banner into official Eurovision events – including Pride flags – as long as they comply with Swiss law and do not pose a safety or production risk.

This marks a shift from last year, when fans had Pride flags confiscated at Eurovision in Sweden, prompting backlash from EU politicians and a review of the flag policy.

This year’s updated policy reaffirms that political messages should be avoided. Though it also acknowledges Switzerland’s “high value on freedom of expression” for fans.

The new restrictions follow a history of flag-related controversies at Eurovision.

The Eurovision 2025 semi-finals will take place in Basel, Switzerland, on 13 and 15 May. The final will take place on 17 May.

For the latest LGBTIQA+, Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

[thefredricus]

What-a-semifinal!🤩 This time live from Malmö! I am happy with the results but also a bit surprised when they started announcing Serbia, Portugal, Slovenia and (lol) Finland. And heck, welcome back Luxembourg! :D I'm beyond happy that Croatia made it, what an absolute audience bop!! The overall quality of the songs was high (and surprisingly VERY weird lol) and speaking of quality - the stage, the lights, the effects and Pyro was among the best I have EVER seen in a live show. Not to mention the lovely lady hosts who did an amazing job!💖

And if you've read this far, let me give you some closing words. No, I'm not boycotting Eurovision Song Contest, I would never. If you haven't seen the show live, if you haven't seen all the hard work and above all the LOVE that goes into this show and its performers, you should go and see it for yourself. This is the ONE time every year when people from all of Europe and the EBU countries come together and just have a really good time, with its own politics, its own rules, love for everyone, no matter your background, sexuality, politics or religious beliefs. I've been to tons of concerts and shows, but I have never met people nicer than the ESC-fans. Why people suddenly put all their focus on a conflict that has been going on for longer than anyone can remember, is beyond me. I've read so many blatant lies and fabrications about Eurovision, how they are discriminating certain people in a certain way, which is quite honestly scaring me, because people do believe it. Get your facts right, stand with Eurovision, stand with love and acceptance, not against it. Let us be united by music, not war.

And with that, goodnight & I'll see you in semi 2 on Thursday!🎶

[borisbubbles]

Eurovision 2024: #29

29. ICELAND Hera Björk - "Scared of heights" 37th place

Decade Ranking: 110/153 [Above ReDDI, below Tix]

That awkward moment you're halfway through the next update and realize you skipped over someone. 😬

Sadly, I did NOT feel it coming. 😔 Iceland is another one of those cases of "I probably could have liked them, if not for a few detrimental flaws." I mean it's Hera Björk with wine mom disco. There are worse things in life.

Unfortunately Hera suffered from not only her dated song being completely outclassed by everyone in the first semi (bad enough by itself), but also by *other* mom disco anthems from previous years and nfs, including Heaven's not that far tonight, High Heels in the Neighbourhood (lmfao) and Hera's own 2010 song. "Scared of Heights" is not an unpleasant song to listen to, but that's about as baseline as the genre gets, rly.

Combine that song with a lifeless act forever stuck with no movement and a bunch of wideshots at key moments (how did they make it look WORSE compared to SVK's already lowbudget affair?), like yeah, we know where this is headed. It's the "Unstoppable Object Collides Into An Unmovable Wall" of hopeless last placers. There's nothing that Hera could have done to avoid a red lantern, not with that song and that act working so hard to undermine her efforts.

I do have a bit of sympathy for her though. Even a suboptimal Hera Björk is still Hera fucking Björk (vocally excellent and decently charming) , and the bullshit she had to endure simply to be allowed to sing at the Tuesday show was uncalled for.

After SVK's... darksided results - which Hera won because the Anti-Pro-Palestine Icelanders thought SHE had the best chance of beating Bashar although (1) have you seen Bashar perform? Man cannot serve for his life (2) um, Sigga was right there (3) Hera's song was co-written by a Palestinian? (leave it to the Israel sympathisers to be misinformed, incoherent and smugly incorrect - defo, abso looking at YOU, J*n B*rs.) (4) GO TIFFANY!!!! INTO THE ATMOSPHERE!!! - she then had to negotiate with RÚV in order to go to Malmö (although she WON the SELECTION!!) . This as per the rules Iceland had established for SVK2024. RUV's weird decision to play for the moral high ground, but only partially. Like dudes, if you're going to be antsy about Israel being there, then don't hold SVK? and if you do hold, don't be like "WELL WE MIGHT JUST WD ANYWAY [if the wrong person [anyone but Bashar] wins]" like fuck off? Either you make a statement by INTERNALLY picking Bashar, or you don't make one at all by not including him in SVK. Pick a fucking lane.

Once she arrived in Sweden, well... Remove Iceland from this year and everything that went down still goes down in the precisely the same fashion, with the exact same placements for everyone else. The only true difference is that KAN have one fewer delegation to target with passive aggression. Whether Hera went to Eurovision or not made no difference to the contest itself which is some exponential level of irrelevance that she does not deserve to have attached to her legacy.

So all-in-all, a sour return for Hera, but the one Iceland deserved after they trashed their EXCELLENT national final for the sake of questionable priorities, and then picked the INCORRECT winner to boot ("Wild West" wasn't fantastic and (thankfully) wouldn't have won ESC, but it is a much better song than "Scared of Heights" was. ) The Icelandic shitshow was a prélude to what was to follow in Malmö. Events which, just like Hera's participation in this year, probably should have been avoided by competent leadership.

THE RANKING

[hiwataris-bitch]

My ESC 2024 ranking

Although I'm not as into ESC this year as I was the year before, I still wanted to do the ranking. It's kinda rushed since I have only listened to some of the songs for the first time yesterday, but my top 10 was established long before that so who cares. Anyways, here goes:

1-10 Best songs ever:

1. Finland - I LOVE THEM I LOVE THIS SONG THIS IS THE BEST SONG EVERYONE ELSE GO HOME. Finland sending banger again this year. My absolute favourite.

2. Austria - another huge banger, brings me back to early 2000s and I really love the lyrics

3. Poland - okay, look, I KNOW she doesn't sing all that well live. But I really like the song itself so let me have this one. It's gonna be a miracle if we qualify, but still I just like the song.

4. Switzerland - opera and rap in one song? I didn't expect myself to like it as much as I do, but it's just so catchy!

5. United Kingdom - another catchy song for me I can listen to on repeat (maybe slightly less than I can listen to Poland, but still good)

6. San Marino - great rock tune, another song that brings me back to the 2000s, although in a different way than Austria does.

7. Croatia - although they're only 7th on my list, I won't be mad if this wins, because just like San Marino, it is another solid, good rock entry.

8. Netherlands - you can clearly see my taste for crazy performances in this top 10, so it would be an offence if I didn't put the Netherlands here as well. It isn't my favourite, but still a song I like and enjoy very much.

9. Spain - okay, maybe the performance I saw on youtube made me put it higher than I would, I'm not really sure. But I have listened to this song quite a lot since it released.

10. Estonia - to complete my ultimate crazy tunes group for this year, they also closes my top 10. They make a perfect team with Finland, Croatia and the Netherlands. My top 10 would be just top 4 if it wasn't for some other songs that also turned out to be good..

11-20 Songs I like very much:

11. Albania - she was SO CLOSE to making it to my top 10, but I liked the other songs slightly more. Still, 11th place is the lowest I will ever put this song, because for whatever reason it really speaks to me.

12. Iceland - originally it was lower on my list, but after some time I decided it was way too catchy so it had to be moved up. It's really pleasant to listen to.

13. Czechia - I've read comments complaining she can't sing live. Maybe. But just like with Poland, I just like the song and you're not going to change my mind. Nobody listens to live versions after the contest ends anyway, unless they're rewatching the performances.

14. Luxembourg - tbh my places 12-14 kept being rearranged since I like all three of these songs almost equally as much. I am really happy to see Luxembourg return to Eurovision and I think they chose a great song for their return. It's one of the earworms for me.

15. Italy - just like above, places 15-17 kept switching for me. And although I listen to this song a lot, to the point I often skip it now when it comes on my spotify, I cannot in good conscience put it any lower. Even though I listened to it too much I still have to appreciate how good of a song this is.

16. Sweden - I've only listened to it today, but Sweden brings a high production quality this year as well (honestly, what'd you expect from them?). It is a good song, although it doesn't really do anything special for me. Still, It's just pleasant to listen to.

17. Moldova - similar to Sweden, but production value is slightly lower. But I just like fast songs.

18. Lithuania - honestly, I am slightly surprised I put it above Cyprus, because unlike Cyprus, I can barely recall this song. But I like it when I listen to it. Also, good for Lithuania for not singing in English, that is always refreshing to hear.

19. Cyprus - could be switched with Lithuania, but when I actually listen to both these songs one after another, I actually like Cyprus slightly less. They used to be higher on my list, but sadly, their song is a bit too average for me.

20-29 Song I don't care about all that much:

20. Latvia - okay, I lied, I care about this song. I don't usually listen to slower tunes, they have to actually make me feel something, and this one does. I wish I could put it higher, but I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with it.

21. Australia - I mean, it is fine, but too generic. Still, a faster tune will always be slightly higher on my list.

22. Georgia - similar to Australia, except I care about this one even less.

23. Slovenia - another love-hate for me. I appreciate this song and how different it is, I really do. But I can only listen to it once in a while, otherwise I get overwhelmed. Anyway, I like them a bit more because my name's also Veronika (except spelled with W and not V)

24. Denmark - they're... just fine I guess.

25. Germany - an okay song I can listen to and forget immediately. Just like with Denmark, except I forget this one even faster.

26. Belgium - I remember this one, it's just really not my cup of tea. Like, it is a good song, just not really something I listen to.

27. Malta - okay, now this is a bit annoying of a song. I will listen to it if it's on the radio or something, but I wouldn't choose to listen to it on my own free will.

28. Ukraine - look, it isn't a bad song, definitely better than Malta. But it sounds just like many other songs we've heard from Ukraine and honestly, I'm just bored of them.

29. Norway - another not a bad song, but has some parts that annoy me. Would be much higher without them. It's simply too heavy for me at some parts.

30-37 I literally couldn't care less:

30. Azerbaijan - what ever this is, sorry, I barely remember this song, I don't even know why I put it as high as I did, I guess it was less annoying than the others.

31. Portugal - I kinda like the instrumental, but it is a slow song and not a type of a slow song I would ever listen to.

32. Serbia - I don't like ballads.

33. Greece - I'm sorry, it's just too annoying to listen to...

34. Armenia - okay, it's better than Greece in that it's not annoying, but I just don't listen to this kind of music.

35. Ireland - girl, I appreciate your style, but your song is too much for me.

36. France - no. Sorry, just no.

37. Israel - why are you here, y'all know what you did. You know what you're doing.

[amee-racle-ofmyown]

(for some reason tumblr wouldn't let me edit the post draft? so I've had to screenshot this ask)

how can I say no to someone asking me so nicely for heist mark content? and thank you!! I'm so happy you enjoy it🥺💖

I decided to go with 11. picking a leaf/flower petal out of their hair, or brushing dirt off of their face

mud on my face and heart on my sleeve, when I'm with you

Heist!Mark x reader | Words: 1,264 | Read on AO3

A masters degree in digging, huh?

A bad luck magnet and reckless idiot at times though he may be, your partner in crime never failed to surprise you.

You were left reeling, barely enough time to process the deep hole that had appeared on the floor of your shared cell in what was surely an impossible amount of time. Or had it been longer, and you had simply zoned out while he was digging? No, that didn't seem right.

Years of carefully planned heists — down to the precise minute for certain jobs — had allowed you to develop a near impeccable sense of time. But today you felt strange, as if something was throwing off that instinct, making you doubt your judgement.

Self-doubt, however, was something you could not afford to pay any mind on a high-stakes job such as this, especially when Mark always seemed to rely so heavily on your choices in the heat of the moment. So instead, you allowed yourself to indulge in his confidence, using it as a springboard to bring you back to certitude.

You followed him down into the tunnel as the two of you made your way under the penitentiary to the Warden's office.

When you emerged, the pair of you were covered head to toe in soil and dust. It wasn’t the first time you had both ended up dirty on a heist, having to throw your clothes in the laundry when you returned to base, but the smug satisfaction and relief that came with bringing home your loot was always well worth it.

Once you had secured The Box, it was only a matter of fooling the nearest prison guard into aiding your escape. You watched as Mark absolutely milked his performance, feeding the guard some sob story he’d made up on the fly about him and his grandmother both being on death’s door, while you gestured dramatically to emphasise parts of his tale when it felt appropriate.

You struggled to stay composed seeing Mark’s expressions — he’d always been one for theatrics. In your opinion, he was overdoing it too much for the act to be convincing, but all that really mattered was the guard was completely buying into it, far too distracted by Mark to notice you fighting to contain your laughter (or the gaping hole in the ground, apparently).

‘I know this sacrifice, and what it means to you. But it means so much more to me,’ Mark declared with as much gratitude as he could muster, clutching the guard’s phone tightly.

The guard responded with various distressed noises, and you honestly couldn’t believe how well this was going.

‘But if also, you know, I could hear my gran-gran’s voice in peace,’ Mark continued somberly. ‘I don’t want you to hear her. She’s real sick.’

‘Ok, yeah, she’s probably got some kind of weird co- I get it,’ the poor guard stuttered.

‘They’re okay, they can hear it,’ Mark said, nodding and gesturing to you.

‘Yeah you guys — y’all shower together n’ whatnot,’ the guard replied, getting up to leave.

Mark nodded dismissively while you frowned and raised an eyebrow at the guard’s words. As he trudged sadly down the hall, though, you felt a little bad for lying to him. Either he was going through something himself or was just a particularly emotional guy.

Mark perked up, dropping the act as soon as the guard was out of earshot. ‘Well, that was easier than I thought it’d be. But we got a phone, which is the only thing we need to get outta here.’

You stood up, stepping towards the edge of the room and poking a finger against the gate, which the guard had conveniently left ajar, pushing it wide open with a creak.

You turned to look at Mark, then back, gesturing to the open cell door and the obvious escape before you.

‘Nooo, that’s too easy. We’ll leave that as a backup plan for our backup plan. I’ve got a call to make.’

You simply rolled your eyes. At times like this, it was better to just let your heist partner do his thing.

You hear Bubba’s voice over the phone, letting you know he’ll arrive in five.

‘Now, I don’t know if that was five hours or five minutes—’

The squeal of tires is all the warning you get before a pickup truck bursts through the back wall of the cell rear-end first and you hear Bubba yell for you to get in.

What immediately transpires is a blur of motion as you feel adrenaline in your veins and your heart thrumming in your ribcage. Mark ushers you to the back of the vehicle, yanking the door open and letting you go first as you clamber into the safety of the cargo bed, pushing aside fallen bricks from the collapsed wall. Mark follows suit, pulling the door closed behind him, and the car speeds away into the night.

You barely register the chill of the October air as you cling to the back of the truck with your left hand.

The autumn wind whips at Mark's hair as he crouches beside you. You can't help but think he looks gorgeous despite his roughed up appearance, all the dirt from the tunnel and the rubble from the broken wall.

He shoots you a grin, looking positively ecstatic, and you can practically feel the triumph and thrill that radiates off him. It's the same feeling coursing through your nerves as well.

You have had close encounters with the authorities before, but breaking out of prison is a new high for you both.

You give him a wide smile in return, and when he looks directly into your eyes everything around you seems to slow and obscure out of focus. All that matters in this moment is that you're both safe and free, and all his attention is solely on you. The space between you feels static and you think to yourself that any risk, any close call, is worth it for him to be smiling at you like this.

You reach out towards his face with your free hand, cupping his cheek in your palm. His eyes widen a fraction but he doesn't say a word or make a move to pull away.

You almost miss how he leans ever so slightly into your touch as you swipe at the dirt with your thumb.

‘Your face is all dirty, dummy.’

‘So’s yours.’

Your other hand comes up to hold the other side of his face and you shift slightly, steadying yourself (not that you really need to, you seem to have slowed down enough that you won't fall out suddenly and besides, you trust Mark enough to grab you in time should that be a real danger).

His left hand comes up to your right to tenderly hold your wrist in place.

His skin feels warm against yours, stubble tickling your palms. You wipe at the dirt and dust with both thumbs this time.

Your faces are inches apart now. You can't ignore the way his eyes flicker very briefly down to your lips, and you have half a mind to kiss his stupid, smug face right then and there.

The moment is broken as Bubba calls out to you both from the driver seat, letting you know that you'll be far enough to stop soon.

As you and Mark exit the vehicle though, the rush remains present, and it isn't just from the thrill of escaping. His gaze and touch send you on a roller coaster of their own.