#Coach Outlet Online | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

girlgenius1111 · 8 months

Text

when i break, it’s in a million pieces

alexia x putellas!reader

the pressure on r is intense, from her sister more than anyone. an injury pushes her to her breaking point. desperate not to let her sister down, r struggles under the weight of her injury.

-----

Something that was always said about your sister was that she pushed everyone around her to be better. This was something that you knew to be true on a whole other level. The pressure of being Alexia Putellas' sister was immense; not just from the media, and the coaches, and the team, but from your sister herself. She expected a lot from you, she always had.

Alexia knew better than anyone what it took to be a great footballer, and when you expressed to her that you wanted it too, she promised herself that she would help you get there. The raw talent was there, and with your sister by your side, it seemed to the world that you would be unstoppable.

It was your first real season with Barça, having spent the last 2 seasons on loan at Sevilla. It had been good for you, helped develop your skills and allow you to be independent. Now, at 20, you were back in Barcelona, playing with the first team, and with your sister, for the first time.

Your sister always toed the line between pushing you just hard enough, and pushing you too hard. Your mother often had to step in, and get Alexia to back off, just a bit. Not that you were on the team with her though, where she was the captain, training with her everyday, you couldn't really go to your mother for help when Alexia pushed you too hard. You just... took it.

It was a lot, several stressful months at the beginning of the season where you tried to carve out your place in the team. It felt like Alexia was breathing down your neck, always asking for more. It was an environment that you had thrived in, before. And then you'd gone on loan, and you'd learned to push yourself.

Alexia's pushing, compounded with your pushing was, if you were honest, too much for you. You could never tell your sister, though, not when she was just trying to get you to be the best version of yourself.

It didn't help that the media had wild expectations for you; they were expecting you to perform how Alexia had when she was 28, and you were only 20. Every mistake, every missed shot had media outlets questioning if you would ever be as good as your older sister. You knew Alexia didn't pay attention to the things said about her online, and you tried to do the same. You weren't as successful.

Things only got worse when Alexia hurt her knee. Your heart ached for her, knowing exactly the toll not being able to play took on your sister. Still, you were suffocating in her absence from the pitch.

You needed to be better, stronger, faster, play harder, pass more precisely, shoot right on target every time. You needed to be passionate, but not hot headed. Confident, but not cocky. You felt like you were being pulled in a thousand different directions; every move you made seemed to be the wrong choice. Your solution? Work harder. Train extra. Push yourself to the absolute brink.

Everyone seemed to realize that you were pushing yourself too hard. Everyone, that is, except your sister. She only saw the results, how well you were playing. It was like she was blind to how exhausted you looked. Your teammates tried bringing it up with you, and with Alexia, but you both insisted that there was no problem. Alexia, because she genuinely didn't think there was one. And you, because you would rather drop dead than disappoint your sister.

Somewhere deep inside, you had convinced yourself that if you weren't perfect, completely and entirely perfect, Alexia wouldn't love you the same. Your sister's praise and approval was something you'd always sought; only recently did it reach the point that you were willing to do anything to make her proud of you; fuck your body and it's limits- Alexia was counting on you, expecting things of you, and you were going to do them. No matter what it took.

-----

It made sense, then, that your body would reach it's breaking point. The load on you was immense; playing almost every minute of every game. You were overworked, but you wouldn't admit it. You'd gone back out for the second half of the game against Eintracht Frankfurt, dismissing Jona [and Irene, and Patri, and Marta]'s questions about coming off to rest. You had more to give, you assured them. And give it your all, you would.

You were on the left side of the pitch, attempting to dribble past one of the opposing midfielders. The tackle wasn't really very clean; she came sliding in towards your ankles after the ball was already sailing towards Mario. Still, if you weren't so exhausted and overworked, you would have seen her coming, and moved out of the way. Or, at least, you would have managed to move just enough that the tackle wasn't catastrophic.

Instead, she caught you just right, crashing into you so hard that your ankle rolled in a way it wasn't supposed to. You felt the crack as well as heard it, the excruciating pain that followed forcing you to the ground.

Your head was left completely untouched, and the ref let play continue, apparently feeling that the tackle didn't deserve a yellow. You felt like you could feel every nerve ending in your ankle being lit on fire, at the same time as a deep ache permeated out from the bones in your lower leg. It was unlike anything you'd ever felt before, truly. You were on your stomach, face hidden away in the crook of your elbow, as you raised your other hand in the air, gesturing wildly for help.

Your heart was racing, ankle throbbing, as you felt everything come crashing down around you. This couldn't be happening. How could this be happening?

"Y/n?" Ingrid asked quietly, resting a hand on your back. Mario had kicked the ball out, and the medics were sprinting across the pitch towards you. Ingrid was closest, and while the rest of the team stood frozen, praying to anyone they could think of that this wasn't as bad as it seemed, the Norwegian crouched down by you, able to hear the small, pained whimpers escaping your lips.

"Ingrid, help," you choked out, reaching blindly for her. She grabbed your hand, holding tight.

"The medics are almost here, just hang on."

-----

Up in the stands, Alexia sat, watching on in absolute horror, at the way your body laid on the pitch. She'd been much too far away to hear the crack, but she knew what a broken ankle looked like. Your reaction only confirmed it. She was gripping the arms of her seat like her life depended on it, barely able to tear her eyes off you when Mapi called her name for the third time.

"Go, Ale. Get down there. She'll need you." Mapi nudged, looking to Jana when Alexia made no move. Mapi was still on crutches, unable to grab Alexia and go like she needed to. Jana got the message, standing and grabbing Alexia's hand in hers.

"Alexia," she called, waiting until her captain's eyes looked up at her. "Come on. She needs you." With another tug on the blonde's hand, Jana got Alexia to stand, before she pulled her out of the row of seats, and towards the stairs.

-----

The medics had maneuvered you onto your back, before they asked you what hurt. They already knew, even as the question left their mouths.

"What hurts?"

"Ankle. It's bad, it's really bad," you cried, before yanking your jersey up to cover your face. It was bad enough that this was happening, and the entire stadium, everyone watching being able to see you cry only making it worse.

You stayed in your little hiding place, shirt covering your face, until the crowd of medics around you, combined with the medical cart that had been driven onto the field, provided enough of a shelter. When you removed your kit from your face, you were met with the sight of most of the team standing over you, pained expressions across their faces. You were handed the dreaded green whistle, which you tried to push away. The medic insisted, and Irene leaned over you, as if daring you to reject it again.

You accepted it, then, taking deep inhales of the medication. Your brain felt hazy, suddenly, and it didn't really register when they put the puffy orange cast over your leg.

The team hovered, silent support, as you were moved onto a stretcher, and then the cart. You were left with pats on the shoulder and kisses on the forehead before the cart began moving, driving off the pitch. The crowd clapped as you went, and all you could think was that you had no idea how long it would be before you could get back on the pitch.

-----

"Where is she?" Alexia questioned, grabbing the arm of the physio attempting to pass by her. She'd been waiting for you by the medical rooms for a few minutes, only growing more nervous as time passed.

"Ambulance. They're taking her right to the hospital." The physio replied, looking sympathetically at the blonde.

Alexia swore, taking off down the hall and towards the doors. Thank god she was cleared to run again. The blonde just barely caught the ambulance before the back was slamming shut, hopping up and in. She slid in right next to the stretcher, instantly leaning over you.

"I'm here, pequeña." She murmured, taking in the absolutely devastated expression on your face.

"It broke, I heard it break." You whispered. Alexia felt like her heart was being squeezed at the sound of your shaky voice.

"It's all going to be okay, I promise."

You shook your head. "I'm sorry, Ale." You barely got the words out, a loud sobbing ripping it's way out of you.

Your sister looked confused, reaching a hand down to cradle your cheek. "You don't have anything you need to be sorry for, hermanita. Nothing."

The conversation was only agitating you, and the paramedic gave your sister a look, one telling her to change the topic.

"Does it hurt?" She asked, glancing down at your heavily wrapped ankle.

You bit your lip. "No."

Just then, the vehicle hit a bump, jostling the stretcher slightly. Your ankle was jolted, and you let out a high pitched squeak, gripping on tight to the sides of the stretcher.

"Sure, it doesn't hurt." Alexia sighed. "We're almost at the hospital, okay? They'll fix you right up."

Alexia was speaking to you like she had when you were much younger; when the injury to be fixed was a scraped knee, not a broken bone. It was comforting, though, a glimpse of soft and sweet Alexia that you hadn't really seen much of recently.

"Can you call mom?" You asked quietly. Your sister swallowed back tears of her own at how young you seemed suddenly. You were only 20, and though normally you acted much more mature than that, she was reminded of your age by the look of complete fear in your eyes.

Your mother, however, was out of the country on a girls trip with her friends She had been texting Alexia pretty much nonstop since the injury, and Alexia had only managed to reply to one of the texts. She told your sister, though, that she didn't have good enough cell reception to call. Alexia was going to have to be enough for you.

"Her internet isn't good enough to call, remember? I'm right here with you, though. I'm not going anywhere." Alexia vowed, peeling your hand of the side of the stretcher, and wrapping her hand around it.

Your sister didn't miss the unsure glint in your eyes, and although your hand tightened around hers, she could tell that you were holding back from her, at least a little bit. The trouble was, she didn't understand why. You used to go to Alexia with all your problems; she was one of the only people you would let see you cry. Now, though, you chewed aggressively on your bottom lip, blinking away your tears.

Alexia wondered when you'd stopped trusting her the way you used to, and why.

-----

Thank god that Barça had connections at the hospital; you were in and out of x-ray fast, seen by the doctor, put on crutches within the hour. Your foot was encased in a moon boot, all the way up your shin, and you were... miserable. There was a permanent scowl set on your face, and you were answering your sister's questions with simple yes's and no's, refusing to make eye contact.

Alexia's chest ached seeing you in this much pain. She felt like she used to feel when you were little, and you'd cry; like she'd do anything, anything at all, to make you smile again.

Your other sister arrived in a flurry of chaos, and Alexia watched on as you practically melted into the hug Alba offered. She didn't understand; you went to Alba when you were in trouble, or if you wanted to goof around. You went to Alexia if you were upset. That was how it had always been, but suddenly, you couldn't look her in the eye.

"Olga went to go get you some stuff from your apartment. You can stay with Ale until you're better, alright?" Alba said.

Alexia didn't know when Alba had contacted her girlfriend, or how the decision for you to stay with her had been reached, but she was glad for it. You shouldn't be on your own, physically, and if your current attitude was any indication, also mentally.

"Did the doctor say how long you'd be out?"

You grew visibly pale at the question. "At least 4 months."

Alba opened her mouth, clearly about to comment on how that was... a long time for a broken ankle. Alexia elbowed her in the side, sending her a look to not bring it up. Alba promptly shut her mouth, figuring Alexia would explain later anyway.

What she didn't know was that you'd broken both your fibula and your tibia. The bones would take time to heal, time to rehab, as well as the partially torn muscles in your ankle. You'd asked about surgery, but the process wouldn't be sped up at all if you were operated on. You had no choice, but to wait it out. 4 months away from the pitch. 4 months.

"Hey, y/n?" Alexia said, waving a hand in front of your face.

"What?" You asked.

"I said your name like 5 times." Alexia told you, taking in the bewildered expression on your face. You'd completely tuned out, lost in your thoughts.

"Oh."

"Ready to go?" Alexia asked finally, when you didn't offer an explanation.

"Yeah."

You stood, slightly shaky on the crutches from the pain medicine, and began to make your way to the doors of the hospital. Your sisters followed close behind you. They didn't know it, but anyone looking at the two of them would have instantly known they were sisters; sporting matching worried frowns as they watching you move down the hall. Neither of them was really sure what to say to you, to make you feel better, and they hated standing by and watching you be upset. Nothing seemed to be working though, and you offered them nothing as you made it to your sister's car, sliding into the backseat without a word. The car ride back to Alexia's was completely silent, both of your sister's were lost in their thoughts, as you were.

-----

Alexia lay awake in her bed, unable to shake the feeling that she needed to check on you. Staring at the ceiling, her mind was racing, through every interaction she'd had with you recently. She couldn't figure out when you'd started acting so... strange. In retrospect, it had definitely gotten worse recently, and she hadn't noticed. The blonde had been busy, dealing with her knee and her contract renewal. Now that she'd taken the time to really look at you, for the first time in weeks, she saw someone who was hurting. All she wanted was to fix it.

"Go check on her, Ale." Olga spoke up from next to her girlfriend. "I can hear you thinking from here, just go so you can see she's fine, come back, and go to sleep.

Alexia considered for a minute, before leaning over to kiss her girlfriends cheek, and sliding out of bed. She was wearing socks, and her footsteps were quiet as she padded down the hall and to the door of the guest bedroom. She was just going to peek in, but when she rested her hand on the knob, she heard quiet snuffling whimpers coming from behind the closed door.

Twisting the knob and stepping into the room, the sounds cut off with a sharp breath. Alexia didn't say anything, not yet. Instead she walked closer to the bed, towards where you were facing away from the doorway, pretending to be asleep in the middle of the bed. Your body was trembling under the covers, so much so that she could see it even in the dark. She took a careful seat on the edge of the bed, reaching out to rest a hand on your arm. As soon as she did so, you broke, curling up into yourself as a heart wrenching sob fought it's way out of you.

Before your sister could say a word, you were twisting to face her and gasping out an apology. "Sorry, Ale, I'm sorry."

Alexia didn't know why you kept apologizing to her, but she desperately wanted you to stop. "Shh, just let it out. It's all okay, nena."

"It's not okay, Alexia, it's not. I can't play. I can't play, not for months. I can't do it, I don't want to do it." Nothing you were saying was really making any sense to your sister, but she was sure she wasn't getting any more out of you while you were still so worked up.

"Just come here, nena," she murmured, opening her arms up for you. For a second, you looked so unsure, so apprehensive, and Alexia felt like crying herself. Then, something inside of you must have given up, and you were launching yourself, as best you could, across the bed and into your sister's arms. Alexia held you close, humming a soft tune as she held you tight against her, like she used to do when you were very small.

For once, you didn't worry about disappointing her, or seeming weak in front of her. You let yourself fall apart completely, your sister's arms wrapped around you feeling like the only thing stopping you from breaking into a million pieces.

"You are strong, pequeña, so strong. You can do this, I know you can. My strong hermanita. You can do anything. I bet you'll be back on the pitch before 4 months is up." Alexia's words only seemed to make you cry harder, so she stopped talking, focusing on rocking minutely back and forth.

What if you weren't strong? You knew you weren't as strong as your sister. What if you were weak? What if you couldn't do it? Alexia said you should be able to come back before 4 months, but what if you didn't? You'd be disappointing everyone, Alexia most of all. The fear of that, of letting her down, felt like it was squeezing all the air out of your lungs, until all you could do was cling to your sister, and wait for it to pass.

It wouldn't pass. The thoughts wouldn't stop ricocheting around your head, your deepest fears and anxieties. Everything you'd been pushing down for weeks was bubbling to the surface until you were a trembling mess in your sister's arms.

"You have to calm down, nena, breathe." Alexia tried to remind you. You could only shake your head frantically, and your sister sighed, her worry increasing. "Okay, let's go call Alba."

Without another word, she held tight to you and stood up off the bed, walking towards her room. You were past caring, at this point, where you had your breakdown. Calling Alba might be a good distraction, you thought. So, you wrapped your arms around your sister's neck, trying to steady yourself.

-----

Olga had just been considering getting up, and going to check on the pair of you, when she heard her girlfriend's steps returning down the hall. They were slower than normal, and her lips tugged into a smile, knowing exactly what was about to walk through the door.

Her smile fell when Alexia walked in with you in her arms, the miserable sounds you were making filling the silent room. She made eye contact with her girlfriend, feeling her heart sink at how helpless she looked.

Alexia placed you in the middle of the bed, pulling away just slightly so she grab her phone and call your other sister. She hit Alba's contact, absentmindedly rubbing your back as you cried into her. Olga scooted closer, resting her head on Alexia's shoulder, hoping to provide some comfort to her girlfriend, who looked completely distraught at the state you were in.

"Hello?" Alba answered, grumpy at being woken in the middle of the night.

"She's really upset, can you talk to her?" Alexia asked, forgoing a greeting and holding the phone to your ear. Alba sat straight up in bed, her soft voice a stark contrast to the tension and stress flooding her. She began talking, about her day, about her week, about the silly thing she'd seen at the dog park the other day.

Your sister's soothing voice, your other sister's calming patterns rubbed into your back, Olga's nails scratching lightly at your scalp, all probably combined as you began to calm down.

Alba's voice had vanished, and Alexia smiled despite herself, knowing the other girl had probably fallen asleep talking. When your sobs quieted to small whimpers, and your sharp gasps for air turned to the occasional hiccup, Alexia spoke again. You were half asleep, and you felt safe, so safe, so tired. You let Alexia's words wash over you, the final push before you shut your eyes, drifting off on top of her.

"I love you, so much. Always. I'll be with you the whole way, nena. I promise you."

Groggily, you wondered if she meant it. If she really would be with you through this, if she really would still love you when you inevitably failed. Because you were sure you weren't strong enough for this. Despite your certainty, you also knew that you would do everything you could to meet your sister's expectations. The doctors had said 4 months, you'd do it in 3. No matter what it took, no matter how hard it was. If you failed, you'd deal with that later.

-----

#woso imagine #woso x reader #barcelona femeni x reader #alexia putellas x reader #putellas!reader

859 notes · View notes

sgiandubh · 1 year

Text

Waypoints, Take 2: POV Shipper

It's been touted and mentioned at length. It has been awaited with immoderate, naïve anticipation. It has been read highlighter in hand, in the hope to discern its true meaning and purpose. It also was the last straw for some people, pushing them out of the fandom when above anticipation and expectations proved somewhat hollow.

To the dismayed and the heartbroken, I say: I hope you do realize this is a) heavily edited and b) published with the substantial contribution of a ghostwriter, handsomely paid to neatly round off the edges and fit this travelogue-cum-memoir in a pre-shaped pitch.

This bloke:

The dilligent Matt Whyman, novelist. Agony uncle for several UK press and online outlets, specialized in teenage love and relationships' counselling. British Council executive, with several stints abroad under his belt. Part and parcel of a number of public health awareness campaigns sponsored by the UK Government, with a special interest for above teenage love, sexuality and relationships. And established, top-tier ghostwriter.

Among others, on behalf of Billy Connoly, the "Big Yin" himself, proof that the Scottish mafia is discreet, but by no means inexistent (an excellent thing). Ah, Sir Billy Connoly and his New-Zealander wife, Lady Pamela Stephenson, whom he met in 1979, while filming together a sketch for BBC2's Not the Nine O'Clock News. Chemistry took care of itself, because she ditched her recently married husband and moved in with Connoly in 1981. Both (at least nominally: Connoly considers himself an atheist, nowadays) Roman-Catholic and married at the time of getting together, Stephenson divorced in 1984 and Connoly in 1985 from their respective partners and live in marital bliss since 1989. For some reason, I think these tidbits are important, go figure.

Sidenote: if you haven't already, watch (if still available on Netflix, otherwise I implore you to look for it on other platforms) an exceptional French series, Call My Agent. You will not only love the humor, you will educate yourself with the basic ropes of celeb PR.

At face value, I couldn't think of a more appropriate consigliere to deal with the brief that (spare the failed Everest movie project) prompted this book. It is not that difficult to figure out:

Evoke at length the past to offer a modicum of explanation of the present. Mention traumatic relationship with father to explain fear of commitment in a solid, steady relationship.

In the process, pay lip service to the Narrative, but take substantial liberty and a daring stand when discussing the horrific Wentworth episode-that-nobody-could-watch. Express controlled discontent towards TPTB, to have the upper hand while negotiating a possible season 8 (fun fact, it worked)

Conveniently send into oblivion Flukenzie Floozy, Quarantein Hooter's Madonna and any other two letter combo born from the hyperactive imagination of the Queen of Nothing, while respecting ToS of bachelorhood - it's still good for the Sales Department.

Camouflage reality of S&C entity, under a London Blitz-worthy blanket of smoke & mirrors, but allow leaks that could easily pass for creative license or babble. Shippers will get it. Dots will connect, coins will drop. We shall overcome.

Simultaneously, offer a plausible explanation for the above UFO co-star/bro-sis/Ginger Jesus- Mother Mary relationship, primarily to comfort and control Mordor, that Troll Nursery. Say what the hell you want, including something along the lines of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic, but say it LOUDER FOR THOSE SHIPPER PEOPLE IN THE BACK OF THE COACH. They are used to this one step forward/one slap backward tango and by now, few (if any) will budge elsewhere on the fandom spectrum.

Discreetly crush homosexuality rumors, because they are borderline calumny, at this point in time. However, the Data Lounge crowd could make Mordor look like Bora Bora, so the sooner they get bored and move to the next babyface, the better.

Substantially promote MPC and Great Glen Company, consolidating the image of the giving, thoughtful individual, with a creative mind and savvy enough to branch out in lucrative business projects. Extend fan/consumer/client base to a younger demographic.

Pave the way for exit plan. This report will not discuss it, but hints may have been detected. :)

Wow. This is a mouthful. And I have to say Mr. Whyman did a more than decent job of it, even if for a trained eye the seams are showing, at times.

Like this:

Frazer. You can't make this shit up. This is SRH.

As compared to this (excuse the repetition: the blogger is not lazy - the blogger tries to make a point):

This is Whyman. This has been probably paid extra for. This is painful to read. This failed.

As for leaks, I've found a good handful. Adding all of them here higgledy-piggledy would be tedious, boring and I am not Miss Marple. But I've noticed that feelings hide in plain sight, usually disguised in a song you whistle or some verse you remember, just to keep you company on the road, a propos of nothing (my foot):

I don't know what this woman is talking about, you might say. Whatevs. How about this:

To keep myself sane, I usually rip off a Twix bar or light up a Benson. Others resort to Shakespeare, in lieu of granola bars. The world is a wonderfully diverse place. LOL, don't mind me. I am a dillusional woman, for whom all hope is lost.

Sometimes, this whole pastoral reverie has a Lewis Carroll charm to it (you might want to open this in another tab):

Who is your queen, Sir? Surely not the cheerful woman in leggings, flats and a Playboy T-shirt, huh?

Maybe the key is this childish botanical pun, tucked away at the end of the book:

Knowing that the P in Psillyosam is silent, as in *urv the Psychologist, we read and we grin:

[P]sillyosam Mushroom. Silly O'Sam. Silly, oh Sam.

Hashtag silly. An apt response to lemon and hugs.

To sum it up on a cheerful note, Waypoints is the 4 S book:

Struggles - Success - (fake) Solitude - (with a clear optic to avoid at all costs) Scandal

I thank you for your time while reading this. I hope it was worth it and yes, I confidently rest my case. Until the next memoir, which I reasonably hope would be vastly different.

150 notes · View notes

mariacallous · 2 months

Text

A Bulgarian woman boxer’s defeat at the Olympics has inflamed ongoing disputes about gender identity issues, triggering discriminatory rhetoric from politicians and media misinformation.

Controversy over an old source of discord has erupted again in Bulgaria after Lin Yu-ting of Taiwan defeated Bulgarian woman boxer Svetlana Kamenova Staneva at the Olympics featherweight quarter-final in Paris at the weekend.

Media commentators and politicians have spread ill-informed stereotypes and encouraged discriminatory rhetoric, according to media experts.

There had already been controversy internationally over the inclusion in the Paris Olympics of Lin Yu-ting and Imane Khelif of Algeria, who had previously been disqualified by another sporting body, the International Boxing Association, from 2023’s boxing World Championships for failing gender eligibility tests.

The International Olympic Committee, however, questioned the reliability of these tests.

During Sunday’s bout, Kamenova raised the gender question openly by forming the letter “X” with her hands, symbolising female XX chromosomes, while her coach, Borislav Georgiev, held up a banner with the slogan: “Save Woman Sports” (sic). He later claimed that the Bulgarian fighter “was robbed” and referred disparagingly to Lin Yu-ting as “a creature”.

After the fight, Bulgarian President President Rumen Radev joined the fray, saying that Kamenova Staneva “found bravery in fighting not only for victory in what people considered a lost game but also standing up for normalcy”.

The Bulgarian Olympic Committee criticised the decision to allow Yu-ting and Khelif to participate at the tournament.

News media and major TV channels – including some credible outlets – also piled in, referring to Yu-ting and Khelif as “transsexuals” and as “intersex” persons, even though they were born female. The controversy even briefly overshadowed Bulgaria’s long-running governance crisis and the difficulties in combatting wildfires across the country.

Many local media outlets cited a statement supportive of Kamenova issued by a Bulgarian organisation reportedly calling itself the Network for Protecting Women’s Rights.

However, no source for the statement could be traced and the organisation has no online presence.

The coverage of the dispute prompted the Association for European Journalists – Bulgaria to accuse the country’s media of “negligent” behaviour.

“Under-researched and stereotypical coverage of such topics not only fuels homophobia and misogyny; it may serve external interests to destabilise democracy but could also have a severe impact on the mental state of various groups and individuals. Unfortunately, even respectable outlets were repeatedly negligent in covering the matter,” it said in a statement.

‘Complete disregard for the facts’

The bout in Paris has only highlighted deeper problems with gender issues in Bulgaria, journalist Peter Georgiev of sports podcast Victoria told BIRN.

“For years, Bulgarian society has been extremely sensitive to sex and gender issues, but opinions are often ill-informed. In the case of Khelif and Yu-ting, a number of coaches, politicians and even professional sports commentators reacted emotionally to Kamenova’s loss, showing little understanding of terms such as transgender and intersex,” Georgiev told BIRN.

“Their complete disregard for the facts and public outrage amplified misinformation and fuelled a wave of unjustified hatred,” he added.

Georgiev sees the case as representative of a wider failure by the media and society to properly tackle gender issues: “This is especially disappointing because it shifts the attention away from the very real debate about fairness in sports,” he said.

He noted that the dispute between the International Olympic Committee and the International Boxing Association also caused problems for the boxers themselves.

“The fight between the IOC and international bodies governing boxing illustrates how much athletes suffer, physically and mentally, when there’s no consensus on the eligibility criteria,” Georgiev said.

The IBA’s president, Umar Kremlev, a Russian sports businessman and well-known ally of Vladimir Putin, has repeatedly asserted that the association’s test revealed that the boxers had XY chromosomes, giving them a testosterone advantage over other women fighters. The IOC has contested this, saying the testing was “so flawed that it’s impossible to engage with it”.

Politicians play on gender anxieties

In Bulgaria, the issue of gender has often been used and misused for political purposes.

Since 2017, the so-called Istanbul Convention, a Council of Europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, has often been interpreted, especially by conservative and anti-Western voices, as promoting LGBTQ+ rights and as focusing on a definition of gender as a social construct rather than a biologically determined factor.

This has been a main talking point for two of Bulgaria’s pro-Russian parties, the far-right Revival and the left-wing Bulgarian Socialist Party, which in 2023 called for a “referendum on gender ideology”.

Arguments that liberal reforms might undermine Bulgaria’s “traditional values” and promote the rights of sexual or gender minorities were used against the passage of amendments to the Law on Domestic Violence.

In the last few years, controversial court rulings have limited the rights of transgender people in Bulgaria.

Politicians are using the latest boxing controversy as fuel for their populist rhetoric. Centre-right GERB party member and former Sports Minister Krassen Kralev wrote on his personal social media accounts, before the match started, that it was “the most shameful page in the history of the IOC”.

After the match, Kralev criticised the “pink-liberal sect in Bulgaria” for defending the Taiwanese contestant and congratulated Kamenova Staneva for standing against “that thing from Taipei” and calling the match “fixed”.

There has been no indication that Kralev might face legal action for hate speech. Meanwhile, the Bulgarian Olympic Committee has not challenged the outcome of Sunday’s match.

25 notes · View notes

coochiequeens · 1 year

Text

This wasn’t just a case of a boy being in the same locker room as girls. He was watching them change and made comments about it afterwards. And then the school dealt with it by punishing the girls.

A Vermont school district has just reached a settlement to pay one local family $125,000 in damages after disciplining them for speaking out against a transgender student that was creeping out high school girls in a school locker room.

In addition, the school has promised to reinstate Travis Allen as a middle school soccer coach, as well as remove any records of discipline against him and his daughter in the school database.

Christian conservative legal group Alliance Defending Freedom, which handled the case on behalf of the Allen Family, has deemed the settlement a "resounding victory for freedom of speech."

As reported by The Daily Signal, the legal battle began last October with the Allen family filing a lawsuit claiming that Travis and his daughter Blake "were punished for expressing their view on a matter of profound public concern: whether a teenage male who ‘identifies’ as female should be permitted to change in a girls’ locker room, regardless of the discomfort experienced by the girls in that room."

As their lawsuit detailed, both Allens took a stand against a trans-identifying male student using the girls’ locker room at Randolph Union Middle/High School. According to Blake – one of the school volleyball players using the locker room at the time – the trans student was making the females in the vicinity uncomfortable.

While objecting to the biological male using the facilities, Travis and Blake allegedly "misgendered" the student, which resulted in the school district disciplining them both.

The lawsuit added, "In objecting to a male being in the room while the girls are changing, Travis and Blake each made comments underscoring that the trans-identifying student is in fact a male, including by using male pronouns."

It continued, noting, "Yet, their remarks were too much for Defendants’ transgender orthodoxy—Travis was deemed to have ‘misgendered’ the student, while Blake was found guilty of ‘harassment’ and ‘bullying’—so Defendants disciplined both of them."

The Orange Southwest School District Board and various school staff – the defendants in the case – suspended the father "without pay from his job as the Randolph Union Middle School girls soccer coach," the outlet noted.

Allen's daughter and several of her teammates were banned from using the locker room as a result of having criticized the trans student.

The suit charged that "Superintendent Layne Millington, Co-Principals Lisa Floyd and Caty Sutton, and the Orange Southwest School District Board are state actors and ‘violate the First Amendment’ by attempting to dictate ‘what may be said on matters of public concern.’"

The school district agreed to a settlement with the Allens, which requires the Vermont School Boards Insurance Trust to pay the family $125,000 in damages and lawyer fees, reinstate the father to his coaching position, and scrub the disciplinary mark off of Blake’s school records.

Further, the outlet noted that the settlement "requires the Orange Southwest School District Board and school officials named in the Allens’ lawsuit to remove any content posted online by the school related to the locker room business as well as from the bulletin board or boards at Randolph Union Middle/High School displaying ‘love and support’ messages to the trans-identifying student."

Alliance Defending Freedom senior counsel Phil Sechler commented on the result Thursday, saying, "The settlement of Blake and Travis Allen’s case is a resounding victory for freedom of speech. Calling a male a male shouldn’t have cost Travis his job and gotten Blake kicked out of school," he added. "We are very glad that the school agreed to do the right thing by giving Travis his coaching job back and dropping the discipline against Blake."

Sechler added, "Everyone has the right to speak freely, and we are grateful that this settlement further protects that right."

Fox News Digital reached out to the Orange Southwest School District for comment on the settlement and is waiting on a response.

Here’s an older story for more background information

“The school previously came under fire for banning the girls’ volleyball team from its own locker room after several players, among them Blake Allen, complained about the trans student, reported the Daily Signal.

Blake told station WCAX-TV earlier this month that the transgender girl made an inappropriate comment as the volleyball team was changing, which made students feel uncomfortable.”

“In his Facebook post addressed to the legal guardian of the trans female after the locker room incident, Coach Allen wrote in part: “The truth is your son watched my daughter and multiple other girls change in the locker room. While he got a free show, they got violated. You think this is fine and dandy. I wonder how you would feel if I watched you undress?”

Orange Southwest Unified School District Superintendent Layne Millington wrote in a letter sent out last week that Allen told school officials he called the trans student a “he” on purpose.

“Such conduct is unprofessional and unbecoming, and flies in the face of the Vermont Principal Association’s athletic regulations, Vermont State regulations, and the RUHS Middle-High School expectations,” Millington wrote.

The superintendent confirmed that Allen has been suspended without pay for “misgendering” the student. He added that school officials have “significant concerns” about the coach’s ability to “support all of our students as the law requires.”

Allen reportedly offered to stay away from using gender pronouns altogether when communicating with transgender students, but district officials demanded a public apology, which he refused to issue.”

#USA #Vermont #Free speech #Would the guardian of the boy be ok with being the one to share a public bathroom with males?#The mothers of todays transgirls didn’t have to deal with boys in their sports teams locker rooms and bathrooms #But it’s ok for girls today to put with that because their son is actually misunderstood #Keep males out of women’s spaces #When girls speak up for themselves they are bullying

55 notes · View notes

femmefatalevibe · 2 years

Note

Hello I am interested in consultations with you. Your answers have always been so helpful and detailed and I admire the way you express yourself. I would just like to know more about you and your story. No need to share anything private, just generically speaking. What goals were you able to achieve? How do the people around you perceive you? Do you get pretty privilege? Do you date wealthier man?

Hi love! So appreciate the kind feedback and am glad that my advice has been helpful to you. It means a lot! Gladly, I like the type of person who has a healthy level of skepticism and asks the right questions to see if there's an alignment between the value offered and your goals before spending time or money on an experience. Love individuals who know what they want. The scheduling links for consultations should be ready by the end of the weekend!

Anyways, here are a few "credentials" I guess (or personal fun facts – either way!):

Started freelance writing for a major online outlet at age 19-20

Got a full academic scholarship for writing at a top-ranked U.S. university (not an Ivy or anything lol)

Built my own full-time job/business by 22

Attended fashion week/events every season for 4 years working for myself

Kept off a 30-40 pound weight loss for over a decade

Found important mentors and people whom I consider like second family/always stood out to a couple of teachers & professors during my school years

Learned to value me and cultivate an unbreakable sense of self-worth/confidence

Crafted my personal brand/image: People remember a lot of my personal signatures/"brand pillars" quite often

Learned to trust my gut instincts

Navigated some fairly difficult family situations and learned how to find the right path for my own happiness and fulfillment

As far as how people perceive me, these are some phrases & perceptions I hear regularly from different people who don't know each other or whom I usually see individually (this feels like bragging but I'm relaying information – I'm taking my own advice to always pitch yourself with confidence):

That I can "hold my own with anyone"

Personality traits/perception: Insightful, perceptive, smart, creative, sophisticated, classy, elegant, wise

Have an incredible fortitude and spirit

That I should write a book/be a life coach or therapist

Have a keen sense of marketing and personal branding/fashion, product recommendations, and styling (yes, I'm the advice friend)

I get told I look like a model, but I'm fairly short (5'4), so I don't know about this one lol

In terms of dating "wealthy men," I think this term is a bit subjective, but I would say most people would say yes.

Glad to chat personally about certain details. Hope this helps and that we will be able to speak soon xx

32 notes · View notes

dubaivisasolutions · 10 months

Text

Know about Dubai International Airport Duty-Free Shopping

The colossal Dubai International Airport (DXB) has truly earned the moniker of one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. Spanning over 7,200 acres, this sprawling airport is also an integral transit hub for numerous international flights and you can only imagine the number of footfalls each day. With millions of people passing by every day in DXB, it is only fair that it offers an equally phenomenal shopping experience to everyone. While shopping in the city of gold is one of the most exciting experiences, shopping in the Dubai Duty Free is truly an incredible experience. Come, let’s check out what all you can buy at the Dubai Duty Free.

There are two major Dubai international airports – DXB and Al Maktoum and both of them have a plethora of shopping outlets for you to peruse both at the arrival and departure. However, the Terminal 3 of DXB is where all the action is. It has the maximum number of outlets and sells everything from jewellery, cosmetics, bags, electronics, perfumes, chocolates, shoes, souvenirs, alcohol, fashion accessories, clothing, and more.

About Dubai Duty Free

Dubai Duty Free is the largest retail airport retailer globally having won this title more than 10 times until now. Spread over a staggering area of 40,000 sqm combined, the DDF is open 365 days of the year 24/7 and offers one of the most extraordinary Dubai shopping experience. The cherry on the cake is you don’t even have to pay import duties or service taxes on the goods purchased so you can splurge as much as you want. Another advantage is that there is an online site for people who are short of time and can shop and get the products delivered directly at home. Isn’t that fantastic?

Here is a break-down of the various categories and outlets that are available.

Lifestyle, beauty, and fashion

No surprises that some of the top notch luxurious global brands in fashion, makeup, skincare, and lifestyle have their outlets at the DDF. Gucci, Armani, YSL, Burberry, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Prada, Dolce and Gabbana, Estée Lauder, Coach, NARS, Lancôme, Givenchy are just a few to make to the list. Gift yourself a gorgeous Gucci handbag, a stunning pair of Dior sunglasses, or a YSL perfume, as you are indeed spoilt for choice here.

Electronics/Tech

DDF is a haven for tech gadgets and you can find an assortment of electronics under one roof including laptops, mobile phones, cameras,tablets, drones, and everything that your heart fancies. From Apple, Samsung, and Sony, to GoPro, Bose, JBL, and Dyson, you can find many stores here.

Jewellery

Dubai is famous for its gold souk and people generally love to buy at least some gold jewellery during their trip. You can even buy gold bars ranging from 18 carats to 24 carats at the DDF. Some of the well-known stores here are Bvlgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Rolex, Swarovski, Pandora, Frey Wille, Damiani, and Liali.

Luggage

You are dragging a heavy suitcase and the wheel comes off, or the zip of the bag breaks. Well, worry not as DDF comes to your rescue. Get them fixed from Samsonite, Go Travel or Tumi, or better yet just buy a new piece of luggage. Also check out the travel pillows, luggage tags, sleeping masks, backpacks, and earplugs here.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and electronic cigarettes are much in demand among shoppers. Fun fact is that alcohol is the bestselling product in the DDF. Marlboro, Heets, Jack Daniels, Glenfiddich, Johnny Walkers, Benson & Hedges, Davidoff, Dunhill, and Iqos are the popular brand available here.

Chocolates and Confectionary

Food is an important part of shopping and also make for great souvenirs to carry for your loved ones. Cookies, candies, dry fruits, and chocolates from brands like Godiva, Toblerone, Hershey’s, Reese’s, Lindt, M&Ms, Butlers are just perfect to indulge in.

Toys

With so many exceptional shopping options for the adults, how can the little ones be left behind? Whether it is action figurines, cars, soft toys, or dolls, shops like LEGO, Disney, Marvel, Hasbro, and Crayola are there to fulfil your needs.

Souvenirs

Collecting souvenirs from any new place to remember the vacation fondly is one of the best things to do. From fridge magnets, stuffed camels, key chains, to themed chocolates, Bateel dates, and miniature models of iconic monuments like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, etc. are some of the impressive ones that you find here. There is also an exclusive Emirates store where you can buy merchandise such as caps, t shirts, luggage scale, and also the Boeing 777 model aircraft.

Watches/Clocks

Watches from world-class brands like Rolex, Casio, Omega, Tag Heuer, Tissot, Rado, Fossil, Skagen, and Michael Kors, are available in the DDF.

Apart from these myriad products, DDF also has many raffles, car draws, bike draws, and other programs where travellers get a chance to win money, vehicles, and many other goodies. Do try and participate as you may be the next lucky winner of a Mercedes Benz or a BMW.

You can visit their official website to find out more about these programs or the various stores and how to navigate them.

Conclusion

The Dubai Duty Free promises a wholesome shopping experience to all its customers with freebies, loyalty points, and other unique promotions to sweeten the deal a little more. We suggest you go through their official website before hand and make a list of the things that you want to make this process more memorable.

#dubai shopping #dubai #dubai duty free shopping

2 notes · View notes

fangedup · 8 months

Text

please forgive me i've got demons in my head

With this profession comes a certain emotion. Inexplicable to the rest, some mixture of anger and lust and the need to conquer. You haven't met a fighter yet who hasn't experienced it -- because that's why people immerse themselves in this world, right? They have this rage inside in desperate need of an outlet. To simply shut their minds off and let muscle do all the work instead, to pummel someone until they're unrecognizable beneath the fresh bruises and blood without worrying over the consequences of half-mauling someone on live television.

Or maybe it was just you. Little fifteen year-old Alec, coming home with busted knuckles and bruising along your jaw, having to face the despair of your weeping mother.

And while you no longer see that despair on her, the disappointment of your coach serves just as bitter. He has been... particular lately.

On edge ever since the new recruit -- Alex-- joined. The one with the ego and attitude of some self-proclaimed MMA god. The one picking fights with the other men and blasting world-renown fighters online to coax them into fights.

As if the boy could ever take on Chimaev and make it out of there in one piece.

Today serves to be no different. Currently, you're seated on one of the benches off to the side, wrapping your knuckles, muttering silently the lyrics to the song currently blaring in your ears.

Act a fool on stage, prolly leave my fucking show in a cop car--

Out of your peripherals, you watch him approach with his clipboard in hand. He sinks down to sit beside you, hunches over with arms on his knees and with the way his body seems to heave, you imagine he's unloading a pretty heavy sigh. Something you really try not to mimic, because now he's here and you have to pull an earbud out and, "You good, Yosep?"

The expression he wears tells you he is, in fact, not good.

"Our new recruit seems to have quite the bravado about him, you haven't noticed?" he mumbles, rubbing along his jaw while he stares into the direction of said recruit. "He's been picking too many fights with the boys lately. I'm worried they're gonna start leaving if I don't do something but I've already talked to the fucking kid and warned him."

"So fire him and tell him to find another coach," you suggest, nonchalant as you continue wrapping.

Yosep, once again, sighs.

"Look, kid, I know you've been under some stress lately, I can see that." Oh no. "But would you try talking to him? You're the only one he hasn't gotten into it with yet. Little shit's probably scared of you." Probably.

He pauses, lets the distaste flare in his eyes when he grumbles, "Kid just turned the legal age for this and he's already acting like he owns the fucking organization."

Normally, you wouldn't mind it. But these past few days have been... taxing. You felt more sullen, withdrawn, more prone to butting heads with anyone that pissed you off.

The look Josep gives you tells you he is a man wallowing in desperation for some form of outside intervention, and you finally cave. Tucking your earbuds and tape away, you rise from the bench and trudge along to where the newbie is lifting weights. A brow arches down at the multiples of twenty-pound weights stacked on either side of the bar. (Weak shit, but you're not about to say that.)

"Yo. You're gonna fuck your muscles up if you stack them too much like that - should probably go a little lighter for now," is what you offer to start, peacefully.

Peace is clearly not an option for him, because he scoffs and lifts the bar to set it back in place before sitting up.

"I look like a pussy to you? Who even are you-" and then it hits him, and the grin forming tells you that you're in for it with this one. "Oh shit, you're Alec, yeah? Kind of a faggot name if you ask me but you still landed that hot piece of ass, didn't you?"

Ah. You've taken to chewing on the sides of your tongue, inhaling deeply through the nostrils and just. Exhaling slow. It will do you no good to get into any unnecessary fights.

"You still together or you get dumped for a bigger dick? That why you been so quiet lately?" he inquires through a far-too-wide grin, infuriatingly pleased with himself as he watches the anger creep into your features.

There's a strange period of silence that follows. You, taking the necessary steps to calm yourself. Him, taking advantage of it to continue prattling on.

"What's the matter? You too scared to speak up or was I right on the money?" Another beat of silence. "Man, for being such a hotshot you're kind of a pussy. No worries though. I'll keep your spot warm after you're all washed up."

Yep.

It might do you some good to get into a fight. Put the bastard in his place and remind him of the metaphorical hierarchy instilled here. One hand lifts to clamp onto the back of his neck, grasping around the spinal column hard and kindly escorting him over to the ring.

"You wanna talk shit then you're gonna eat it too," announced loudly enough for the immediate vicinity to hear and drop what they're doing. Your little crew gathers around, cheering for you to kick his ass and, oh, you so badly want to. You fling him carelessly into the center of the mat, watching in amusement as he stumbles to catch his balance; and promptly launch a fist directly into his shit-spewing mouth. Several things ensue at once.

Alex going straight down to the mat.

The cheers and jeers of your friends.

Josep somewhere in the back, borderline screaming "Alec what the fuck" as he hurries over. Thankfully not quick enough to catch you before you follow Alex's fall, already pinning him down with a knee at his stomach, pressing hard into it while you dish out blow after blow. And with each, his features become less distinguishable through the swelling and spatters of blood.

Yet, it isn't enough. You long to sink your fingers into his chest and pry his ribs open, check and see if the bastard even has a heart. Coach, however, is fast approaching. So you grab Alex by the face, lift his head inches from the mat and bend to meet him halfway -- if only to let him see the vivid mania in the void black of your eyes, his own widened in fear and what you can only imagine to be pain.

"You don't talk about my fucking baby like that, you understand me? You don't even deserve to breathe the same air as him," spat out through bared teeth. "You keep my fucking name out your mouth while you're at it, because I'm gonna tell you once that there's a reason they call me o diabo. I'll show you what all those people in church are fucking afraid of, bitch. "

Two, maybe three sets of hands latch onto you to pull you off the kid, and you go with little complaint. Your gaze goes from the crumpled, demoralized mess of a man before you to your hands; a slight tremble to the fingers just before you curl them into your palm. You're not proud of yourself, no, but you're satisfied enough to leave the situation.

"Better check under your bed before you fall asleep, kid. I might be there one night," much to the dismay of coach, who's eyeballing you like he wants to throttle you. You're already well aware of the scolding you'll be getting later.

For now, though, you need to wash the blood off your hands.

#ooc.#slurs /#this has to be my longest drabble yet #goddamn #of course alec would get into it with an alex though #the fact that his name was made fun of too is so funny to me #like buddy theyre one letter away from being the same name #also had to give him that stereotypical 'im better than you' god complex #:)#this probably took place likeee last week #i only just now thought of it though lmao #drabbles

1 note · View note

taibridin89 · 2 years

Video

youtube

Find best coach outlet deals on coachoutletonlines.com | When it comes to choosing the right coach tote bag for you, there are several key factors to consider. First, consider the size and weight of the tote bag and how much space you need for your belongings. If you're looking to use the bag for travel, then you'll want to go for something lightweight with plenty of storage space. Additionally, consider the design features of the bag and how they fit into your lifestyle. If you prefer a more neutral style, then look for a bag with classic details like leather accents and minimalist hardware. You should also consider the bag's functionality and make sure it has the pockets and compartments you need to store all of your items. Finally, think about the quality of the bag and make sure it is well-constructed with quality materials that can withstand wear and tear. With these factors in mind, you'll be able to find the perfect coach tote bag for your needs.

#youtube #coach #coach bags #coach outlet #coach onlie #coach online #coach store #coach outlet online #coach tote

0 notes

newstfionline · 1 year

Text

Monday, May 8, 2023

At least 8 people killed by gunman at Texas mall (AP/Reuters) A gunman stepped out of a silver sedan and started shooting people at a Dallas-area outlet mall Saturday, killing eight and wounding seven others—three critically—before being killed by a police officer who happened to be nearby, authorities said. The shooting, the latest eruption of what has been an unprecedented pace of mass killings in the U.S., sent hundreds fleeing in panic. Barely a week before, authorities say, a man fatally shot five people in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked him to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept. Mass shootings have become commonplace in the United States, with at least 198 so far in 2023, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The nonprofit group defines a mass shooting as any in which four or more people are wounded or killed, not including the shooter.

At king’s coronation, royal grandchildren charm audiences (Washington Post) King Charles III was crowned in front of thousands in Westminster Abbey—but it was his young heirs who charmed social media. The first sight of the king in his ermine robe as he emerged from the Diamond Jubilee State coach, included a glimpse of his 9-year-old grandson, Prince George, who stood dutifully behind him, clad in royal red. Looking nervous but stoic, George—eldest son of Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is now second in line to the throne—along with three other boys helped to lift his grandfather’s train as they entered the church, at times biting his lip. His brother, Prince Louis, 5, who spawned memes for covering his ears during a flyover during the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee last year, let out an epic yawn during the coronation ceremony. Later, on the Buckingham Palace balcony with senior royals, Louis could be seen drumming his hands on the wall before breaking into a two-handed wave, to his family’s amusement. His sister, 8-year-old Princess Charlotte, entered the church Saturday clasping Louis’s hand like a sensible older sister—which many online dubbed “adorable.”

As Putin Bides His Time, Ukraine Faces a Ticking Clock (NYT) Both armies have tanks, artillery and tens of thousands of soldiers ready to face off on the battlefields of Ukraine in a long-anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russia. But one thing clearly sets the two sides apart: time. Ukraine is feeling immense short-term pressures from its Western backers, as the United States and its allies treat the counteroffensive as a critical test of whether the weapons, training and ammunition they have rushed to the country in recent months can translate into significant gains. If the Ukrainians fall short of expectations, they risk an erosion of Western support. It is a source of anxiety for top officials in Kyiv, who know that beyond battlefield muscle and ingenuity, victory may ultimately come down to a test of wills between the Kremlin and the West—and which side can muster more political, economic and industrial staying power, possibly for years. As a result, there is a sense in Ukraine that its war effort faces a ticking clock. In Russia, President Vladimir V. Putin faces his own challenges but is showing signs of operating on a much longer timeline, encumbered by economic and military limitations but free from the domestic political pressures that make continuing Western support for Ukraine so uncertain.

Ukraine farmers risk losing their lives or livelihoods (AP) A grassy lane rutted with tire tracks leads to Volodymyr Zaiets’ farm in southern Ukraine. He is careful, driving only within those shallow grooves—veering away might cost him his life in the field dotted with explosive mines. Weeds grow tall where rows of sunflowers once bloomed. Zaiets’ land hasn’t been touched since the fall of 2021, when it was last seeded with wheat. Now, it’s a minefield left by retreating Russian forces. Zaiets eschewed official warnings and demined this patch of land himself, determined not to lose the year’s harvest. He expects that 15% of his 1,600 hectares (4,000 acres) of farmland was salvaged. Workers like Victor Kostiuk still spot mines, but he’s ready to start the tractor. “We have to do it,” he says, “Why be afraid?” Across Ukraine, the war has forced grain growers into a vicious dilemma. Farmers in areas now free from Russian occupation are risking their lives to strip their land of explosives before the critical spring planting season. Even then, they must cope with soaring production and transportation costs caused by Russia’s blockade of many Black Sea ports and recent restrictions that neighboring countries imposed on Ukrainian grain.

Turkey’s Erdogan in fight for political life (Reuters) With his two-decade rule in the balance, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has pulled out all the stops on the campaign trail as he battles to survive his toughest political test yet and shield his legacy from an emboldened opposition. Erdogan has faced stiff political headwinds ahead of a May 14 election: he was already facing blame over an economic crisis when a devastating earthquake in February left saw his government accused of a slow response and lax enforcement of building rules that may have saved lives. His opponents have vowed to unpick many of the changes Erdogan has made to Turkey, which he has sought to shape to his vision of a pious, conservative society and assertive regional player. Accusing the opposition of seeking advantage from a catastrophe, Erdogan has made several visits to the quake zone where more than 50,000 died, vowing rapid reconstruction and to punish builders who skirted building regulations.

Syrians still fear building collapses three months on from quakes (Aljazeera) “Since the earthquake, the spectre of death under the rubble still haunts us,” said Ahmed Mazloum, a 43-year-old father of five, who lives in the city of Idlib. Three months on from the devastating February 6 earthquakes that hit northwestern Syria and southeastern Turkey, which killed more than 50,000 people and left thousands more homeless, Mazloum is still worried about the home he lives in with his parents and his brother’s family. The house has been classified as unsuitable for habitation by a committee of engineers in opposition-controlled northwestern Syria, due to damage to the infrastructure of the building, as well as cracked walls. “We have had no choice but to stay in the house but I couldn’t afford the cost of the repair, which amounts to more than $2,000. Additionally, there are no tents available in the shelters, and I can’t afford to buy one,” says Mazloum. Mazloum’s family is one of hundreds in the area living in houses deemed by experts to be unsafe for habitation. During the earthquakes, almost 2,000 buildings collapsed, and shortly after, more than 4,000 were marked as unsafe and uninhabitable structures, resulting in an estimated economic loss of $1.95bn.

Manipur violence: Dozens dead as ethnic clashes grip Indian state (BBC) At least 30 people have been killed in ethnic clashes in the north-eastern Indian state of Manipur, officials say. The violence began earlier this week after a rally by indigenous communities against moves to grant tribal status to the main ethnic group in the state. Mobs attacked homes, vehicles, churches, and temples. Some reports put the death toll as high as 54. Around 10,000 people have reportedly been displaced. Thousands of troops have been sent in to maintain order. A curfew is in place in several districts and internet access has been suspended. Neighbouring states have begun evacuating their students from Manipur, which is in India's northeast and close to the border with Myanmar. The army says it is bringing the situation under control but the Hindu-nationalist BJP-led government in the state has been accused of not doing enough to prevent the violence.

Japanese prime minister visits Seoul, resuming ‘shuttle diplomacy’ (Washington Post) For the first time in 12 years, the leaders of America’s two biggest allies in Asia have extended a mutual olive branch by visiting each others’ countries for bilateral talks—breaking a diplomatic stalemate as Japan and South Korea try to continue thawing their tattered relationship. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul, reciprocating Yoon’s visit to Tokyo in March. In doing so, the two leaders marked the revival of their “shuttle diplomacy” to hold negotiations in each other’s countries and work through a series of thorny issues that have complicated their ties. After years of friction, Seoul and Tokyo are trying to collaborate more closely with each other and Washington to counter the looming geopolitical threats of China’s economic and military rise and North Korea’s nuclear ambitions. The Biden administration has welcomed their efforts.

In Philippines, joint military drills leave locals torn on US presence (CSM) For years, fishing in the South China Sea has been both dangerous and difficult for Filipinos due to the increasing number of Chinese vessels encroaching on the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Recent military drills off the country’s western coast are giving some fisherfolk hope, while others are wary. Subic, a former United States naval base, hosts the annual Balikatan (“shoulder-to-shoulder” in Tagalog) military exercises between the U.S. military and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This year’s Balikatan, which began on April 11, is the largest ever, involving more than 17,600 members of the two militaries. As the 18-day drills draw to a close, public opinion on U.S. military cooperation is somewhat divided. Although most Filipinos are in favor of working with the U.S. to balance China’s influence in the region, some say Uncle Sam’s presence is equally disruptive, and could even escalate conflict with China. Manuel Mamba, governor of Cagayan province on the northern coast, worries that the increasing presence of U.S. forces may “put the country in a dangerous position. We cannot harbor the enemy of our neighbor,” says Mr. Mamba, referring to China.

Thousands march in Tel Aviv against judicial reforms for 18th straight week (AFP) Thousands of Israelis protested for an 18th straight week against the hard-right government's controversial judicial reforms, despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shelving the overhaul more than a month ago. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in the central city of Rehovot, waving Israeli flags and blocking a major road junction. Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's Habima Square as they prepared to march across the city to Kaplan Street waving Israeli flags and chanting anti-Netanyahu slogans. In a statement released earlier, protest organisers said the Netanyahu government was waiting to turn Israel into a "messianic and dangerous dictatorship". They underlined what they said was the economic cost of the government's refusal to ditch the reforms altogether.

Over 200 dead, many more missing after Congo floods (AP) The death toll from flash floods and landslides in eastern Congo has risen beyond 200, with many more people still missing, according to local authorities in the province of South Kivu. Thomas Bakenge, administrator of Kalehe, the worst-hit territory, told reporters on the scene Saturday that 203 bodies had been recovered so far, but that efforts to find others were continuing. Authorities have reported scores of people injured. One survivor told AP the flash floods came so fast that they took everyone by surprise.

#headlines #news

2 notes · View notes

opiatemasses · 2 years

Text

England’s Lionesses: A year of success, hope and online sexism

Back in the summer the Lionesses won the 2022 UEFA Women's European Championship, beating Germany in the final in front of a record breaking crowd attendance.

Image credit: Jacob Lund – Adobe Stock Image

Off the back of that tournament, the women’s game continues to inspire past, present, and future generations. The FA reported that the Lionesses sporting success improved 84% of spectator’s perceptions of women’s football, created 416,000 new opportunities in schools and clubs for women/girls to engage in grassroots football, and 2 in 5 spectators having been inspired to do more sport and physical activity.

Recently, Lioness Beth Mead took home the 2022 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, along with the public voting the Lionesses as Team of the Year, and head coach Sarina Wiegman voted as Coach of the Year.

The England Women’s national team have earnt their due respect and proven that women’s football should be taken seriously, in a place where they shouldn’t even have to.

Mainstream media and social media are outlets strategically being misused by media producers and online users/consumers to put all sportspeople (men and women) under scrutiny and online abuse. Despite the glory, inspiration and sheer display of talent, female footballers still experience hate speech and abuse through social media, often fuelled by sexism.

Image credit: JP Photography – Adobe Stock Image

A bit about social media

Social media was intended to enhance our communication and ability to share with each other, but it now comes with a large variety of negative effects, one of these being cyberbullying, also categorised as hate speech or online abuse.

While some of us are mindful about what we comment online, and how it can negatively impact others who may read it, there is also a proportion of society who are not mindful. These individuals may purposefully choose to send discriminatory messages in order to spread hatred, usually directed towards a specific demographic. Social media has become a minefield of hate speech and it’s becoming hard to avoid.

Image credit: Beton Studio – Adobe Stock Image

Women’s football in England and sexism

Historically, sexism towards women in football has always been an issue. In 1921 the FA banned women from playing football, claiming “the game of football is quite unsuitable for females and ought not to be encouraged." It wasn’t until 1971 that the ban was lifted.

Fifty-two years later women’s football continues to be the victim of overt sexism.

The inspirational 2022 Lionesses vs online sexism.

Throughout the European Championships the England team encountered persistent sexism. Prior to the tournament Head Coach Sarina Wiegman expressed she had plans in place for the team as individuals to avoid social media abuse.

During the group stages UEFA revealed 290 flagged cases of online abuse. The Lionesses received the most amount of online abuse out of any nation, with sexism the key theme for 20% of these posts. Encouragingly, 55% of these were removed by social media companies, however the other 45% still sit online.

A HateLab report revealed that by the end of the competition:

23 out of England’s 25-woman squad were targeted with hateful online posts.

Of these posts 96% were sexist/misogynist in nature.

Twitter was the result of 97% of these, and 94% of these posts are still live now.

54% were from Twitter accounts based in the UK and 91% of the abusive posts were sent by users identifying as men.

These statistics alone speak volumes for the amount of online sexist abuse experienced by female football players in England. It almost appears that no matter how these women perform on the pitch, this online sexist abuse will continue to be prevalent.

England left-back Demi Stokes expressed how sexist abuse on social media has “really affected” some Lionesses’ ability both on and off the pitch, expressing the impact of online sexism and hate. She is resigned to the fact that the Lionesses have “always” suffered online hate and probably “always will”.

Hope not hate!

Despite the tireless online sexism and hate speech, the HateLab report identified some positives. The Lionesses gained more than 50,000 positive posts on Twitter and Reddit combined, with there being roughly 125 “hope” posts for every “hate” post.

However, greater legislation action is needed. With the UK set to introduce the Online Safety Bill and the Lionesses leading the forefront in speaking out about the matter, change is imminent. You can do your bit by reporting any unacceptable, abusive posts whenever you see them.

"Together we can beat online hate." – EE’s Hope United

Image credit: mominus – Adobe Stock Image

How you can make a difference

Report any abusive comments you see via social media report features: For guidance on how to do this on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram click here.

Alternatively report any extreme or persistent online football abuse you see here: Online Reporting Form | Kick it Out

To read more about sexism and all forms of discrimination in football click here.

Follow a more modern Instagram football page that acknowledges contemporary issues: @versus

N0947062

References

Akram, W., & Kumar, R. (2017). A study on positive and negative effects of social media on society. International Journal of Computer Sciences and Engineering, 5(10), 351-354.

Farrington, N., Hall, L., Kilvington, D., Price, J., & Saeed, A. (2017). Sport, racism, and social media. Routledge.

#sport #football #sociology #lionesses #england #Social media #discrimination #hate crimes #prejudice #equality #gender

4 notes · View notes

inspiration30000 · 1 year

Text

Side Hustles: Earning Extra Income

Typical 9-to-5 employment is no longer the only route to financial stability in today's changing economy. More and more people are relying on side companies or employment as a complement to their primary source of income. This essay will go into the realm of side jobs and offer a thorough primer for anybody considering this source of additional money. We'll go over everything you need to know to begin your side hustle adventure, from comprehending the premise of a side hustle to examining numerous concepts and tactics for success.

Side Hustle

Side Hustle: A Quick Overview

Recognizing the Idea of a Side Business Any form besides one's regular job is considered a side hustle. It gives additional cash and, frequently, a creative outlet that a day job would not. Side occupations include traditional part-time work and more entrepreneurial pursuits like starting a small business. They might be associated with your present position, enabling you to use your abilities and information, or they could be entirely unrelated, allowing you to discover new interests and passions.

The Growth of the Gig Economy and How It Affects Side Hustle

The gig economy, characterized by freelancing and adaptable labor, has considerably fueled the growth of side businesses. People can now make additional money based on their schedules and talents. Finding freelance employment that matches your lifestyle is now simpler than ever, thanks to sites like Uber, Airbnb, and Upwork. Additionally, these platforms have made it feasible for individuals to monetize their interests and passions through successful side businesses, such as creating and selling handmade things on Etsy or providing coaching or personal training services.

Why Having a Side Business is More Important Than Ever

In a time of unstable economic conditions and increased living expenses, side jobs provide a means to boost financial stability. They enable people to spread their revenue sources and lessen their reliance on one company. Additionally, side jobs might provide a safety net in the event of a job loss or other monetary setbacks. They may also be a means to fund a dream vacation, pay off debt, or save for a significant purchase. Additionally, side jobs provide chances for both professional and personal development. With their assistance, you may grow your network, create your portfolio, and acquire new skills.

Investigating Different Side Business Ideas

Online Employment: A Path to Flexible Employment The internet has completely changed how we work by providing a variety of remote online employment—the potential range from content development to digital marketing. You could establish a blog or provide freelance writing services if you enjoy writing. If you have visual design talent, you might make and sell digital items or provide graphic design services to companies. You can provide online tutoring or translation services if you speak another language well. The secret is to identify a need in the market for something that fits your talents and interests. Freelance Work's Influence in the Digital Age One benefit of freelancing is the ability to select assignments that fit your talents and interests. In practically every profession, there is a need for freelancing employment, whether it be in writing, graphic design, or coding. Additionally, freelancing allows for remote work, allowing you to work from any location and according to your schedule. You must build a portfolio to display your work and attract clients if you want to start working as a freelancer. It might entail contacting companies directly, establishing connections with individuals in your sector, or using online marketplaces for freelance work like Upwork or Fiverr. Earning Money While You Sleep Through Passive Income The term "passive income" describes profits that require little active effort, such as rent or commissions from affiliate marketing. It's a terrific method for increasing your revenue without spending much time on it. For instance, you may regularly earn money by renting out a spare room or piece of property on Airbnb. If you have a blog or website, you can use affiliate marketing to generate passive income by advertising goods and services relevant to your writing and receiving a commission on any purchases made through your referral links. You may also establish a dropshipping business, invest in stocks or bonds, produce and sell digital goods like ebooks or online courses, or invest in stocks or bonds. What Part Does Entrepreneurship Plays in Side Hustle? A side job might be the first step towards entrepreneurship for people with a company concept. It lets you learn about running a business with minimal risk, test your idea, and grow your client base. Starting small and focusing on your business in your spare time could make it your full-time career as it expands. Additionally, beginning a side business has several advantages, including the chance for financial gain and the delight of making your creations.

How Can I Earn $2000 Monthly as a Side Income?

2000$ Methods for Earning $2,000 a Month from Side Hustle You must pick the right side of the business, establish specific goals, and maintain consistency to make a sizable income. When selecting your side business, consider your hobbies, abilities, and market need. For instance, if you have writing skills, you may create a blog or offer freelance writing services. You may establish a drop shipping company or work as an affiliate marketer if you have a strong sales background. Set clear, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to direct your efforts once you decide on a side hustle. For instance, you could earn $2000 monthly from your side business during the next six months; once you have a plan to accomplish your objective, stick to it. Successful side hustlers making $2,000 a Month: Case Studies Many people have been successful in transforming their side ventures into successful businesses. For instance, a graphic designer may begin providing freelance services on the side before expanding their company to include a group of designers and working full-time. An instructor could start giving lessons to pupils in their spare time and then create a tutoring facility. A person who enjoys working out may begin providing personal training sessions and eventually operate a gym. These instances demonstrate that generating a sizable income from a side hustle is feasible with the correct strategy, diligence, and dedication.

What Are Some Good Side Hustles

Today?

Current Market Trends for Side Hustle Your ideal side business will rely on your talents, hobbies, and available time. However, contemporary developments include e-commerce, virtual support, and online education. Due to the pandemic, for example, there has been an increase in demand for online instruction as more parents look for online tutors for their kids. E-commerce is also increasing, with more customers than ever purchasing online. Many organizations outsource administrative chores to virtual assistants, another expanding industry. Finding Sustainable and Profitable

Side Hustle in the Modern Economy

A successful side business is sustainable as well as profitable. You should be able to sustain it over the long run and should enjoy doing it. Consider your talents and hobbies, the market need, and the possibility for development when choosing a side business to pursue. For instance, if you have expertise in digital marketing, you may offer small firms your services. Digital marketing services are in great demand due to the growth of e-commerce, and this trend is set to last for the foreseeable future. Additionally, as you acquire more clients and experience, you could broaden your service offerings or even launch a digital marketing firm.

Digital Marketing's Place in Side Businesses

Making Use of Social Media for Your Side Business Social networking sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram may be practical marketing tools for your side business. They let you establish your brand, interact with potential consumers, and reach a large audience. You might use Instagram, for instance, if you're beginning a handmade jewelry business, to promote your goods, offer behind-the-scenes images, and interact with your fans. You might connect with potential clients on LinkedIn if you provide freelance writing services, promote your portfolio, and publish articles pertinent to your industry. The Effect of LSI Keywords and SEO on Your Online Side Business Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) keywords and search engine optimization (SEO) may significantly improve the exposure of your online side business. Optimizing your website or online profiles with pertinent keywords may draw more organic traffic and prospective clients. For instance, you may use SEO and LSI keywords like "personal finance tips," "budgeting advice," and "financial independence" if you're launching a blog about personal finance to raise your search engine ranks and draw visitors who are interested in these subjects.

How to Start a Side Business Making $500 a Day?

High-Paying Side Hustle: How to Earn $500 Every Day Some side businesses might bring in $500 or more daily. These comprise high-end freelance employment, specialist consultancy, and certain kinds of web enterprises. For instance, if you are an authority in a specific sector, you might provide consulting services to organizations or private citizens. You could accept lucrative freelancing tasks if you're a talented programmer, designer, or writer. You might establish an online store or a drop shipping business if you are knowledgeable about e-commerce. Tips and Tricks for Increasing the Profits from Your Side Business Improve your abilities, deliver superior customer service, and advertise your side business skillfully to maximize your revenue. You may enroll in online courses or attend seminars to hone your talents. Going above and above for your clients might result in rave reviews and recommendations. You might also put time and effort into marketing your side business using SEO, email marketing, and social media marketing techniques.

Managing Your Side Business While Working Full-Time

Techniques for Managing Your Time for

Side Hustle

It might be challenging to juggle a full-time job with a side business. Setting a clear timetable for your side business and employing productivity tools are two effective time management techniques. For instance, you may schedule specific times each day or week for your side business, ensuring it doesn't conflict with your day job. You might also utilize tools like project management applications, timers, and calendars to keep you organized and productive. How to Balance Work and Life in the Gig Economy Even while side jobs might earn you extra money, it's crucial to strike a healthy work-life balance. Set limits and schedule time for relaxation. Remember that a side business's purpose is not merely to generate more revenue but also to enjoy the experience and discover your hobbies.

How to Start a Side Business Making $100 a Day?

Side Hustle for Novices: How to Make Your First $100 Start if you're new to side jobs. Several side jobs can help you earn your first $100, such as pet sitting or selling homemade crafts. After first recognizing them, find a side business opportunity that fits your talents and interests. Remember that the objective at this point is not simply to make money but also to gain experience and become knowledgeable about the side hustle industry. From $100 to $500 a Day: Scaling Your Side Business Look for expansion methods once your side business has begun to pay off. It can entail growing your customer base, raising prices, or adding new services. If you provide pet sitting services, consider giving extra services like dog walking or pet grooming. If you offer handcrafted things, consider listing them on a more popular website like Etsy or opening your online shop.

The Financial Dimensions of Side Jobs

Financial Planning and Budgeting for Side Hustlers Effective money management for your side hustle is essential. Budgeting, financial planning, and a grasp of the tax ramifications of your additional income are required. Set a budget for your side business initially, accounting for costs like supplies or advertising. Plan how you will spend your revenue after that. You may preserve them, put them back into your side business, or utilize them to settle a debt. Finally, remember to record your income and outgoings for tax purposes. Recognizing the Effects of Side Hustles on Taxes Comprehending your tax requirements is critical because side hustle income is taxed. You could have to pay income tax, self-employment tax, or sales tax, depending on your area and the type of your side business. You could also write off some costs associated with your side business. Consider speaking with a tax expert to guarantee you comply with all rules.

The Prospects for Side Hustle

Forecasting Side Business Market Trends The possibilities for side businesses will grow as the gig economy develops. Keep up with market changes to adjust your side business plan as necessary. For instance, there could be more potential for internet-side businesses if remote employment becomes more prevalent. Demand for eco-friendly goods and services can increase as people grow more concerned about sustainability. Future-Proofing Your Side Business: Changing with the Times Flexible and adaptive individuals are the most practical side hustlers. Be prepared to adapt your side business when the market needs to do. For instance, you might need to switch from providing in-person services to delivering them online. If you sell, you should modify your items to reflect shifting consumer tastes.

Conclusion: Adopting a Lifestyle of

Side Hustle

A unique option to supplement your income, pursue your hobbies, and start a full-time business exists with side jobs. You may maximize the benefits of the side hustle lifestyle by picking the right side business, coming up with practical ideas, and being flexible. The opportunities are unlimited, whether you want to earn an additional $100 or $2000 monthly. Why then wait? Begin now with a side business! Read the full article

1 note · View note

healthandfinesstopone · 1 year

Text

Heather robinson fitness

Heather Robinson is a renowned fitness coach who has made a significant impact in the health and wellness industry. Her passion for fitness, combined with her expertise and experience, has helped many women transform their lives through a healthy and active lifestyle.

Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Heather Robinson has always been interested in health and fitness. Her love for sports and physical activity led her to study sports science at the University of Birmingham, where she obtained a degree in Exercise and Sport Sciences. After completing her studies, Heather worked in the corporate sector for several years, but she never lost her passion for fitness and wellness.

Learn more &click hear

In 2010, Heather decided to pursue her dream of becoming a fitness coach and started her own fitness business. She quickly gained a reputation as a highly effective and motivational coach, and her business grew rapidly. Heather's coaching style is unique, as she focuses not only on physical fitness but also on mental and emotional wellness. She believes that true health and wellness come from a balance of mind, body, and spirit.

Heather's coaching approach is tailored to each individual's needs and goals. She understands that every woman is unique and requires a personalized approach to achieve her health and fitness goals. Heather's programs include one-on-one coaching, group coaching, online coaching, and fitness retreats.

Heather's clients have achieved remarkable results, from weight loss and improved fitness to increased confidence and self-esteem. Many of her clients have also reported improved mental health, reduced stress, and increased happiness and fulfillment in their lives.

Click hear Learn more

Heather's success as a fitness coach has earned her recognition and awards in the industry. She has been featured in several media outlets, including Women's Health, Fitness Magazine, and The Times. Heather is also a sought-after speaker and has spoken at several conferences and events on health and wellness.

Apart from her work as a fitness coach, Heather is also an author and a philanthropist. She has written several books on health and fitness, including "The Balanced Life," "The Mind-Body Connection," and "Healthy Habits for Life." Heather is also actively involved in charitable organizations that support women's health and empowerment.

In conclusion, Heather Robinson is a fitness coach who inspires and empowers women to achieve their health goals. Her unique coaching style, tailored approach, and focus on holistic wellness have helped many women transform their lives. Heather's passion for health and fitness is contagious, and her impact on the industry is significant.

#health #health fitness #Wheght loss #lose stomach weight

1 note · View note

mariacallous · 3 months

Text

The Republican online ecosystem has gone into overdrive ahead of the first US presidential debate. Lawmakers and influencers are pushing wild conspiracy theories about President Joe Biden, and instead of coming up with anything new, they are recycling tired old allegations that have already been debunked—including claims that Biden will be “jacked up” on performance-enhancing drugs.

“He’s sleeping now, because they want to get him good and strong,” former president Donald Trump said of Biden at a campaign rally over the weekend, without providing any evidence. “So a little before debate time, he gets a shot in the ass. They want to strengthen him up. I’d say he’ll come out all jacked up.”

This is an almost exact repeat of a claim Trump made at a rally in 2020, when he claimed Biden would get “a big fat shot in the ass” in order to debate “better than ever before.” Trump also made a similar claim against Hillary Clinton in 2016. Trump has also called for Biden to take a drug test before the event, which he also did in 2020.

Trump’s comments appear to be part of a wider push by the Trump campaign to control the online narrative around the debate.

Trump’s former White House physician, Ronny Jackson, posted on X: “DRUG TEST BIDEN BEFORE THE DEBATE! Will we see Sleepy Joe, who lives in the White House Basement, or will we see Jacked-Up Joe who made an appearance at the State Of The Union???”

Jackson also spoke to Fox Business’ Maria Bartiromo, who helped boost the baseless conspiracy. During the interview, Jackson went even further, speculating on why Biden and his team were hunkered down in Camp David ahead of the debate:

“Biden will have been at Camp David for a full week before the debate, and … they’re probably experimenting with getting doses right, getting him medicine before the debate,” said Jackson, who is currently running for Congress in Texas with Trump’s endorsement.

Other politicians also weighed in.

“I think Trump’s team should not underestimate Joe Biden and his team’s ability to jack him up on Mountain Dew or whatever it is,” Missouri representative Eric Burlison said in an interview on Fox Business, adding: “Look, the State of the Union this year, he had a lot of energy for about an hour or an hour and a half.”

The network of pro-Trump, right-wing influencers on X and Telegram have picked up the conspiracy en masse, sharing clips of Trump’s comments and the interviews with Jackson and Burlison.

In conspiracy channels on Telegram, influential figures are boosting even wilder allegations about the debate, including multiple different claims that Biden is about to pull out of the debate for medical reasons, and that either a new Democratic nominee will be picked or the 25th Amendment will be invoked and Vice President Kamala Harris will become president. There is no evidence to back up any of these claims.

Brenden Dilley, organizer of the Dilley Meme Team, outlined this week how his group would “hijack hashtags … and push pro-Trump content” during the debate. Dilley, who describes himself as a life coach, was recently criticized for producing a video that called for the creation of a “unified Reich.” The video was posted on Trump’s Truth Social account.

Right-wing media figures and Trump supporters are also spreading conspiracies about CNN and its alleged pro-Biden bias.

Many conspiracists on X are dredging up a conspiracy from 2020, when they claimed Biden had been given the debate questions ahead of time by CNN. The claim was repeated on Tuesday by Fox News host Jesse Watters, referring to an article written by Hillary Clinton about the debate. “Hillary is giving Biden the answers and CNN is probably giving Biden the questions.”

This particular conspiracy is inspired by a nugget of truth: In 2016, former CNN commentator Donna Brazile tipped off the Clinton campaign to an upcoming question in a primary debate. There is no evidence, however, that CNN has leaked questions to Biden’s campaign in 2020 or ahead of Thursday’s debate.

Meanwhile, perennial troll and former Trump adviser Roger Stone dredged up yet another old debate conspiracy, this time around the wearing of an earpiece. Back in 2020, Trump supporters and the Trump campaign pushed the lie that Biden had worn an earpiece and a wire during a debate, providing no evidence beyond blurry screenshots of a crease on the president’s shirt.

“No ear pieces!” Stone posted on X on Wednesday. “Trump should demand that Biden be carefully inspected to ensure that he is not wearing some deeply embedded high-tech earpiece before the beginning of the CNN debate.”

QAnon channels shared even more extreme conspiracies that, once again, are recycled.

In one channel run by a member of the JFK–QAnon offshoot—which believes Biden has been arrested and is being played by an actor—a member claims that “Biden should not only take a Drug test … he should take a DNA Test before the debate with Trump … Because in all likelihood, it may not be Joe Biden.”

6 notes · View notes