#Risk matrix Companies

[markalison231]

Best Oil and Gas Construction Company, well construction Company

iDrilling Technologies (iDT), recognized as a reliable construction partner for the oil and gas, Well construction sector. We stand out as leading Oil and Gas Construction Company, well construction Company. Best as Engineering services, Drilling Construction Companies, well integrity, Reduce conventional footprint, Global networking, Risk matrix, ERD wells, well performance analysis, HPHT wells, Onshore wells, water wells, Deepwater wells Companies, Hydraulics and hole cleaning, Stuck pipe prevention, Casing design and material selection, Loss circulation management, Well barrier software, Hydraulics and hole cleaning software Companies. Visit https://idrillingtechnologies.com/

[idrillingoil]

iDrilling Technologies (iDT), is one of the trustworthy well construction Company, Oil and Gas Construction Company providing variety of engineering services, well integrity, Drilling Construction, Global networking, water wells, Stuck pipe prevention, Deepwater wells Companies, Risk matrix, Casing design and material selection, Onshore wells, Hydraulics and hole cleaning, well performance analysis, Well barrier software, HPHT wells, ERD wells, Loss circulation management Companies. Hit https://idrillingtechnologies.com/

[strewwwberry]

I just read this: https://archiveofourown.org/works/65016871

And now I'm taking it further and thinking of a "Shen Yuan somehow knows literally every dangerous person in at least china and at most, big named people globally due to being #rich kid that's just kinda there, but also knows everything about everyone" au

Anywho lets start with the logistics of how and why Shen Yuan (modern au) knows so goddamn much!

And coz I'm not a pussy (/j do whatever you want, you not a pussy for doing shit differently) my reasoning ain't gon be "he's nice, #mothervibes"

(But he is mothering dwdw)

and I am a pussy in that as real and well done as it is I cannot STAND his internalised homophobia, so in this au he got drunk and kissed a guy in college, and freaked out and came out within the next year thanks to a stubborn sister who's fed up with his bullshit and one SQH who’s here for the ride

(also in this au he was a shut in in middle to high school, went through a red pill phase, and was dragged out of his coffin in college which ended up being a purifing and liberating experience of finding out ✨people don’t give a fuck about you or anyone else (usually)✨ especially tired young adults who just found out what a mortgage is and trying to survive on instant noodles and expensive coffee they cannot afford at the best of times)

Anywho back to the topic, he knows #everythingabouteveryone because he is nosy A.F. Mixed with learnt how to code and did a lil hacking during his shut in years coz he watched the matrix once and he was just like “ooohgg strange computer numbers”

Like teenage boys do (I’m serious Ive heard at least 5 stories of guys who have gone through this exact childhood experience with varying success)

And because of this whenever he meets anyone EVER for 1 full conversation (incredible I know, a singular convo? Scary /srs)

And immediately digs up everything he can find which usually ends with him digging up dirt and yada yada

Now, how does he even get the chance to have these convos with powerful, rich, dangerous #wattpad male lead people?

This is mainly because of the fact he HAS to go to those rich people meet up parties, usually entailing rich people and “up comers” tryna gain connections, but can also delve into high up criminals tryna make connections with the tax evading sorta rich which is most definitely at least some of SY’s family

(The one thing about his life we actually know about apart from having a younger sister and two older bros, is that he rich rich so ima take that and run)

Before we carry on, here’s my idea for how the “business” is set up (can be skipped but I thought so hard to write this so feel bad for me and let me guilt you into reading :D)

Dads side: great great grandparents grew up modest, not rich not poor, just in a loop of sorts, and decided to run a restaurant together, over the next generation (great grandparents) would expand with more restaurants, and the next (grandparents) would go further into hospitality with a hotel company opening up, and then his father and uncle would go to upkeep all of this.

Mums side: grandmother(GM) was an anesthesiologist, grandfather(GF) worked in pharmaceutical, they got married and decided to open their own pharmaceutical company, which GM was (rightfully) worried about as she got paid really well (becoming an anesthesiologist is rough and tryna transition from that to pharmacy is a massive risk and can be a downgrade payment wise) but she did so anyway in the name of ❤️love❤️ and apparently power of love worked coz now they rich rich coz of it; mum, her 2 older sisters, and younger brother would go to carry on the pharmaceutical business

Mum and dad met at rich people gathering thought hey you kinda cool and joining would only make us richer! Marriage of convenience that worked well enough!

Sy’s oldest brother and second oldest where fighting for dad and uncles business in hospitality coz they thought it would be easier (highlight thought, easier or not it’s still not easy lmfao) and their father wanted one of the boys to inherit his stuff anyway (older bro won and hired his younger bro as second in command out of both care and pure spite), and their mother had already decided that when they get a girl she’s inheriting the pharmaceutical company (angsty time for familial pressure 🤭 and suddenly sy’s weird relationship with sexuality and gender is being unraveled verrrryyyyyy slowly)

Anywho back to sy, he’s the weird 3rd son not involved in any inheritance so his parents want his gain connections to try and figure out where he can go and still live comfortable (in normal people terms, rich rich with a literal house in his name fully paid off and literal servants despite it being (checks notes) 2017(?))

And because of this he’s going around meeting; newly wealthy people, old money people, big named people, and, you guessed it, dangerous mofos (dangerous in a sort of this business is totally not a cover for a loitering drug money scheme for triad gangs😄!)

And the reason he knows shit? Mans is stubborn he decides if he wants to find out this persons shit? He’ll find out even if it kills him (he says not realizing how literal that statement can be until he’s in too deep)

And I’ve lost my train of thought so imma make this part 1 and link next part below

1 <here

2

[socoolinmypajamas]

Rayashki and Zeno: How a harsh environment shapes actions.

Sometimes, a perception is taken as a principle. A "cruel reality" can be described as a negative perception of the material world, used to assert a situation. "Reality is cruel", however consists in using the previously descrived perception as a fundamental truth or a proposition in which to base the foundations of a system of belief, of behaviour or of a chain of reason. Both are heavily present in Farewell Rayashki, a story all about the strenght of the colective, the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity and what shapes the actions of those who persue a goal. With that in mind, I wanted to write... Not an analysis per se, but rather to build some sort of structure or perspective (whatever you want to call it) through which the story can be analyzed.

Now, imagine a matrix diagram where the X-axis goes from "Gemeinschaft" (Community) to "Gesellschaft" (Society), two terms taken from german sociologist, Ferdinand Tönnies, and the Y-axis goes from "Deontic" to "Epistemic" in a mix between a Gretchen McCulloch's linguistic sense and a Józef Maria Bocheński's philosophical sense. If everything I just said made no sense, don't worry. Here's a (very) rough explanation of what I'll mean with these two dichotomies through this post: X-axis: A classification of societal ties. "Gemeinschaft" refers to personal, direct interactions with emotional relationships (such as families or small towns like Rayashki) formed by people who strive to archive the goals of a collective. "Gesellschaft", on the other hand, is about indirect and formal interactions, with more rational relationships (like a company or an institution like Zeno) in which everyone band together to persue personal goals in common. Y-axis: A classification of actions as both modality (McCulloh) and authority (Bochenski). Roughly: "actions based on interpretations and beliefs done by someone with an authority based on their ammount of knowledge and experience" (Epistemic)" vs "actions based on rules and/or desires done by someone with a role or position that gives them the power to enforce them" (Deontic).

Upper-left: Gemeinschaft/Epistemic

Windsong's quest, mostly percieved as a fool's errand, is a classic underdog story. The lone reasercher who, disheartened by the lack of support from all the important academic institutions and societies, finds in the small town of Rayashki a more hospitable enviroment to persue her goals. She creats emotional conections with the community and soon finds more self-fulfilment in helping the townfolk than in other things like taking Zeno's offer or abandoning her studies, which are presented as more beneficial options from a rational point of view.

She confronts the notion of "cruel reality" and rejects "Reality is Cruel" as a principle. This action comes from what she knows (her study of ley lines) and beliefs (the people of Rayashki, the usefullness of her field of research).

Bottom-Left: Gesellschaft/Epistemic

You'll think he should be at the opposite side of Windsong BUT Bertolt, as the classical evil guy in your everyday underdog story, actually rejects the notion of "cruel reality", and accepts "Reality is Cruel" as a principle. His emotional detachment from the people of Rayashki, their values, and even their very same idea of community, comes from his role as a member of Zeno, an institution that exemplfies the impersonal and formal relationships of the Gesellschaft. He doesn't see himself as the evil corporate guy who's there to destroy their dream for a greedy goal, but as the savior who comes to provide the light of rationality to this uncultured rural people who are willing to risk their lives for the sake of primitive traditions and values. He defines himself as a "simple representative of Zeno, bound by their rules and orders, working tirelessly to help people in a world wreaked by The Storm", a description that allows him to minimize his negative perception of the reality of others while justifying operating under the principle of Reality is Cruel.

Bottom-Right: Gesellschaft/Deontic

Evgeni is shown through the story as a leader of Rayashki who deeply cares about his community BUT is willing to destroy it for the sake of a rational goal: protecting the lives of the townfolk.

He embraces the notion of "cruel reality", and accepts "Reality is Cruel" as a principle.

But how is HE in the opposite side of Windsong, instead of Bertolt? In Tönnies dichotomy of Gesellschaft and Gemeinschaft, the relationships that are meant to keep people in communities and societies can also push them out: is all about wether the social ties become too tight or too lose to help us find self-fulfilment in them. Windsong found in a community what she couldn't find in society (validation and encouragment for her study of ley lines), while Evgeni thought he found in a society what he couldn't find in his community (a positive prospective for the people of Rayashki).

Upper-Right: Gemeinschaft/Deontic

While Bertolt is a man of the world, trying to expand the benefits of globalization by placing the needs of bigger groups above those of the little ones, what Vila is persuing isn't just a goal to archive, but a dream to share. She didn't became a part of Rayashki only to build an utopia: everyone living there were already doing that and Vila found meaning in developing strong emotional ties with everyone as they strive together to work hard for Rayashki.

However, unlike Windsong, she accepts the notion of "cruel reality", even if she doesn't agree with "Reality is Cruel" as a principle. This one si a bit tricky to explain.

It all comes down to their experiences while chasing their dreams and how that shaped their understanding of what a dream is.

For Vila, is something that kept her going. A cherished wish that inspired her to leave the rusalki and search for a new home. A goal she could share with the people of Rayashki. A hope to cling unto while she nourishes the sprouts of Rayashki while they are passengers of the ship called "St Pavlov's Foundation" while adrift in the vast sea of the outside world, so they can carry on the spirit of Rayashki. She accepts the "cruel reality" as something that could hinder her dreams, force her to adapt them, but never crush them.

For Windsong, the dream was but a promise turned into a burden. It was not something that comforted her if held tight, but rather something it pained her to let go. Accepting the "cruel reality" meant letting something die, and for someone who was struggling in all fronts, it meant taking a toll way to big for her to handle.

As the last ley line hunter, the dream is but a gamble turned into an investment. The chance of failure is there no matter what. Only thing she can do, is to work hard to reduce it as much as possible. To her, a "cruel reality" is something that crushes dreams. Is not enough to reject the use of this perception as a principle: her own experiences taught her that the perception itself can be a cancer. She might have a tendency to put herself down, to have doubts on what she does and to even be "realistic" in any situation she encounters. But there's ALWAYS a part of her fighting her perception of reality from turning into a negative one even if she lacks the proper arguments or mental state to do it effectively. Vila noticed that from day one, and began to slowly share with her the tools Windsong lacked, helping her become a more confident and capable person, while inadvertibly gaining a trusty partner to rely on.

Their experiences shaped them into people who complement each other incredibly well. Leaning into each other, they'll plant their seeds of hope into a new generation. For the study of ley lines; for Rayashki; for those who live in a world affected by The Storm; for those who'll survive it. *** To anyone who'll read this... whatever the hell it was till the end, thank you for time! Feel free ask me anything, correct me, chew this to bits with your bare teeth, whatever you like. I just haphazardly wrote it because I love this game so much.

[jointhefediverse]

💫 Join the Fediverse! 💫

Greetings, fellow bloggers! We welcome you to join us in discovering, honoring, and promoting the potential future of social networking—commonly referred to as the "Fediverse."

The Fediverse, or Federation Universe, refers to a collective of online platforms that utilize the web protocol known as ActivityPub, which has set a standard of excellence in regards to both protecting and respecting users' online privacies.

There's a good chance in the past few years that you've caught wind of the fedi family's critically acclaimed Mastodon; however, there are many other unique platforms worth your consideration...

✨ Where To Begin?

Conveniently enough, from the minds of brilliant independent developers, there already likely exists a Fediverse equivalent to your favorite socials. Whether it's an opinion from the critics, or from the community alike—the following popular websites are commonly associated with one another:

Friendica 🐰 = Facebook Mastodon 🐘 = Twitter Pixelfed 🐼 = Instagram PeerTube 🐙 = YouTube Lemmy 🐭 = Reddit

It's worth mentioning, too, a few other sites and forks thereof that are worthy counterparts, which be: Pleroma 🦊 & Misskey 🐱, microblogs also similar to Twitter/Mastodon. Funkwhale 🐋 is a self-hosting audio streamer, which pays homage to the once-popular GrooveShark. For power users, Hubzilla 🐨 makes a great choice (alongside Friendica) when choosing macroblogging alternatives.

✨ To Be Clear...

To address the technicalities: aside from the "definitive" Fediverse clients, we will also be incorporating any platforms that utilize ActivityPub-adjacent protocols as well. These include, but are not limited to: diaspora*; AT Protocol (Bluesky 🦋); Nostr; OStatus; Matrix; Zot; etc. We will NOT be incorporating any decentralized sites that are either questionably or proven to be unethical. (AKA: Gab has been exiled.)

✨ Why Your Privacy Matters

You may ask yourself, as we once did, "Why does protecting my online privacy truly matter?" While it may seem innocent enough on the surface, would it change your mind that it's been officially shared by former corporate media employees that data is more valuable than money to these companies? Outside of the ethical concerns surrounding these concepts, there are many other reasons why protecting your data is critical, be it: security breaches which jeopardize your financial info and risk identity theft; continuing to feed algorithms which use psychological manipulation in attempts to sell you products; the risk of spyware hacking your webcams and microphones when you least expect it; amongst countless other possibilities that can and do happen to individuals on a constant basis. We wish it could all just be written off as a conspiracy... but, with a little research, you'll swiftly realize the validity of these claims are not to be ignored any longer. The solution? Taking the decentralized route.

✨ Our Mission For This Blog

Our mission for establishing this blog includes 3 core elements:

To serve as a hub which anybody can access in order to assist themselves in either: becoming a part of the Fediverse, gaining the resources/knowledge to convince others to do the very same, and providing updates on anything Fedi-related.

We are determined to do anything within our power to prevent what the future of the Internet could become if active social users continue tossing away their data, all while technologies are advancing at faster rates with each passing year. Basically we'd prefer not to live in a cyber-Dystopia at all costs.

Tumblr (Automattic) has expressed interest in switching their servers over to ActivityPub after Musk's acquisition of then-Twitter, and are officially in the transitional process of making this happen for all of us. We're hoping our collective efforts may at some point be recognized by @staff, which in turn will encourage their efforts and stand by their decision.

With that being stated, we hope you decide to follow us here, and decide to make the shift—as it is merely the beginning. We encourage you to send us any questions you may have, any personal suggestions, or corrections on any misinformation you may come across.

From the Tender Hearts of, ✨💞 @disease & @faggotfungus 💞✨

[girloftheisland]

Can We Still Buy from Mattel?

I've never liked the phrase "vote with your wallet." When consumers wanted more sustainable and green alternatives, we got greenwashing en masse.

So how do you analyze the ethics of a multi-billion dollar corporation with several legacy brands under its name? You don't! It's a sticky business if you believe there is "no ethical consumption under capitalism." Given that the U.S. is entering trade wars with several countries, I decided to do a little investigation into Mattel using publicly-available resources.

This is going to be a long post.

There are some things that I'm going to point out, and I want to begin by stating that there is no conclusive evidence that Mattel as a whole is a political-leaning organization. You may be thinking: "Duh! It's a global brand. Why lean into politics?" The issue is that any company that sources its goods from other countries, especially China, will have a vested interest in the current administration's policies on trading. But first, let's talk about DEI.

DEI POLICIES

We are living in an unprecedented time. This statement is true no matter where you fall on the political matrix. Because Donald Trump won the 2024 election at just 49.8%, barely a plurality, and because SCOTUS issued another disastrous decision that ended affirmative action at colleges, corporations are seizing the moment to drop their DEI policies. 

Anyone who's attended a Pride event and witnessed the muck of Rainbow Capitalism is not surprised that corporations would retreat on these policies. They leave just as quickly as they arrive. Conservatives suggest that DEI policies are a fad and lead to filling quotas and unfair hiring practices, all of which are illegal. The corporations that stick by their policies say it's a matter of ethics (see Costco's decision to keep theirs). 

Which brings me back to Mattel. Will they or won't they drop their DEI policies? DEI policies work to ensure several things: hiring practices are fair and do not discriminate, work forces are diverse and represent the populations they serve, and historically marginalized groups are brought on board. These policies are defined as radical by the far-right because these policies can only exist if we conclude that we live in a society built upon patriarchal, imperialist, and white supremacist social constructs. And that this capitalist country was built using black people as capital. 

DEI policies exist to reduce the fallout of segregation from the 20th century. People are afraid that if corporations drop their DEI policies, it allows segregation to reemerge in the workplace. While some companies dropped their policies citing cost-cuts, others retain theirs because the data proves a diverse workforce leads to higher revenues. This is why I do not think of corporations as people. Their bottom line, not the overall health of civic society, drives every decision they make.

Is Mattel keeping their DEI policies? For now, the answer is yes. Their website still links to Thriving and Inclusive Communities and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion pages, and of course their news page is filled with "happy" and "fun" announcements. They have also established a commitment to human rights to combat modern slavery and child labor, and other swampy issues a global company may face when sourcing material and labor. 

And finally, the 1792 Exchange, a right-leaning nonprofit with a mission to undermine woke culture, defines the Mattel corporation as High Risk because of their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Alternatively, the Human Rights Campaign issued Mattel a score of 100% for their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity. 

The far-right have stolen and utilized the "woke" term to weaponize everything they disagree with. DEI policies are now politicized. Just last week Trump blamed the worst U.S. plane crash in 15 years on DEI. If Mattel chooses to keep its DEI policies, its commitment to LGBTQA+ inclusivity, its commitment to human rights, then these acts by default become political. Radical. 

The question is: will Mattel bend the knee to the Trump administration and shed these policies? 

CORPORATE POLITICS

Did you like the Barbie movie? You can thank the Mattel CEO for that.

The CEO of Mattel is Ynon Kreiz, an Israeli-American businessman. The war in Palestine and Israel became a convoluted issue leading up to the November 2024 election, highlighting the very stark divide between left and right in the U.S., with one side labeling Palestine as an apartheid state undergoing genocide, and the other side saying that anti-Zionist terrorists want to highjack the rightful homeland of the Jews (a side that also ironically consists of white supremacists and antisemites). 

Ynon Kreiz has strong ties to Israel. It's where he was born, raised, and where he studied. Kreiz joined several other entertainment leaders in denouncing the Hamas attacks in 2023, stating, "We unequivocally stand in solidarity with Israel in the global fight against terrorism." On a Bloomberg podcast, he explained that Mattel stands against all forms of hate, and that includes the atrocities committed against Israelis and Palenstinians. However, he avoided giving any opinions on Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of a far-right government in Israel who opposes Palestinian statehood. Kreiz wants a swift resolution and peace for all, and isn't that a good and tidy thing to want? 

Where you land on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict likely demonstrates where you land in politics overall. If we think that statement is true, is it enough to determine the politics of Ynon Kreiz? Probably not. 

There are two other things to note. One I'm folding into several things: supply chain issues, tariffs, and China. We know that Kreiz spoke with Biden in 2021 with hopes that the U.S. government will work towards mitigating the effect of supply chain issues, issues made worse by Trump-era tariffs, which could worsen again under the second Trump administration. Trump campaigned on the promise of tariffs, which could hurt Mattel, who currently gets 50% of its goods from China. Mattel will reduce that to 40%, but we can still expect to see raised prices to offset it. 

We do not know if Kreiz, or Mattel, if we assume corporations are people, favor one political party over the other. The dominant two parties have wildly different trading and tariff policies. Trump's tax cuts will look very tempting to high earners, but his tariff proposals could (and will) cause anxiety. If Mattel feels like they have skin in the game, they will want to be proactive with mitigating their losses due to tariffs and their EBITDA.

Which brings me to the second thing to note: can we follow a money trail? Since the 2011 Citizens United decision, which basically concluded that corporations are people and can spend money in our elections, there has been an explosion of money in politics. Opensecrets.org is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit that tracks political spending in U.S. elections. While Mattel as a corporation cannot itself contribute to a political candidate or campaign, their PACs and individuals can. Their page lists a total of $81,973 given during the 2024 election cycle, with contributions made to both Democratic and Republican candidates, including Donald Trump. The top recipient was Kamala Harris, receiving $41,031, which was donated by an "individual" (in this context, an individual may indicate a member, employee, owner, or immediate family member). The top recipient in 2020 was Joe Biden. We cannot ascertain too much from this information, but the political spending associated with the Mattel name is far from just $0. 

I know what you're thinking. A company like Mattel should want a squeaky clean reputation, and politics muddy the waters. Why would anyone at that company be outspoken about their political beliefs and opinions?

Controversy tends to follow Mattel. They'll release "gender-neutral" dolls that progressives critique and pull an entire book launch because conservatives got mad over the gender and body inclusivity. If we look at the Barbie line from its conception, it's awash with misogyny, racism, fat-phobia, and sexism. She's also a feminist icon. Some of Mattel's top brands have long been dualistic in nature. 

We are living in an era of intense political polarization in a country that just elected a guy who thinks and acts like a fascist. Will that trickle down to toys, too?

A NOTE ON ADDY

I collect American Girl dolls. One of them is Addy Walker, a character released in 1993 under Pleasant Company, which would later be purchased by Mattel in the late 90s. Addy is a character who escapes slavery. (See this link for more context on Addy's history and development.) As a member of this fandom, I've noticed that we are quick to draw conclusions, and a new big concern is whether or not Addy will be retired. 

The concern is not totally unfounded. 

In addition to the DEI scares, State legislatures are pushing through bills that would allow schools to dilute lessons on slavery, or rewrite history on slavery altogether, and Trump has gone so far as to suggest we should defund schools that teach slavery is central to American history. It's become part of their several-pronged strategy to name anything "woke" (ie. black, brown, indigenous, marginalized, LGBTQA+) as a scapegoat. 

If Mattel drops its DEI policies, does that mean it will drop Addy, and other characters like her? 

For now, much like Mattel's website, the American Girl site still includes a statement on diversity and inclusion. Their commitment to empower girls and racial equity led them to release their library on all black characters for free. Additionally, the American Girl site still hosts their learning guides for parents and teachers on a number of books featuring the historical characters. 

Another black historical character is Claudie Wells, a girl living during the Harlem Renaissance, who was released in 2022. Fans immediately loved Claudie but were disappointed that she didn't receive the same promotional treatment as other characters, like the 90s twins (who are white) that launched in 2023.

Given these circumstances, fans have noticed a trend where American Girl will prioritize air space for their white characters, but not their black ones. The "World by Us" line featuring three non-white characters was released in 2021 to diversify the line, but the collection consistently goes on sale to nix the remaining stock. The first characters to sell out were Evette and Maritza, both dolls which could be deemed racially ambiguous if you knew nothing about their backstories. The only doll who hasn't sold out is Makena, who is unequivocally black. Despite the dwindling World by Us collection, Makena is still available to purchase on the American Girl website.

There are other examples like this. It brings into question the intentions of American Girl and Mattel. Why don't they prioritize black dolls? Why do they make 7,000 of the white holiday doll but only 3,000 of the black holiday doll? Do most children, regardless of race, prefer white dolls? (See this history of black dolls.) Are black dolls harder to sell, especially at a high price point? Is Mattel just reflecting our society at large, which if we glean anything from the previous election, is becoming increasingly conservative and tired of inclusive culture?

A new fear is spreading that American Girl will retire Addy Walker due to corporations stripping away their DEI policies. I don't think this will happen. American Girl is riding the Gen X and Millennial nostalgia wave all the way to the bank, and the includes revamping and relaunching the original characters. That includes Addy Walker. 

Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz likely doesn't have much control over the creative direction at American Girl, and I doubt he cares much. He's spent his tenure turning the company around so that it can start making a profit again – and now it's a big name in Hollywood (thanks to that Barbie movie, and eventually an American Girl movie). Kreiz has been busy trimming down the company, cutting workforces, factories, and products. If he's already trimmed all the fat, then what's left? I doubt it's Addy Walker.

WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO SAY

You can choose to vote with your wallet if you want, but this will never save your favorite doll line. While finding the conclusion for all this, I wanted to ask myself: "Why can't I just buy something as innocuous as an American Girl doll? Why does it have to be political!?" 

The problem is that the far-right are infiltrating our politics, and they are politicizing our bodies. Immigrants and trans people are "othered" and dehumanized, with the intent of forcing them into a mostly white, evangelical society, and if they don't fit, then they can go away — or perish. "Woke" culture is named as something heinous and evil, and enough people believe this, then it becomes true. Whatever is the end goal of the Trump administration, assimilation and sameness is one key component. Everyone better fall in line, and that includes corporations, which are people by the way!

If Mattel keeps their DEI and inclusive policies, that will say one thing, but the truth will be revealed in their products. 

***

Tumblr isn't the best for conversations but share your thoughts in the replies!

[ninjastar107]

(Ive had this in my drafts for too long. Have a snippet of lore writing that I may write a part 2 for later. This is technically a prelude to the events of Red Shift)

The dead of winter made the warm interior of the labs all the more cozy. While the snow pelted the outside world, Thomas found himself awake at his desk with a cup of tea and a pen in hand. He was tasked with a difficult problem to solve: how to transfer a matrix from old hardware to new hardware without path degradation. The quick fix he had applied, which was installing more memory, was finicky at best: Blues had stopped halting for long swaths of time, but he was unable to move freely without running the risk of loosening the connection.

He considered a more direct method of transfer, which would be to allow his memory to populate an open space, however the languages would have to be compatible and at this point in time he couldn't remember what Blues' language was. Thomas was adamant about not digging around too much in his sons' head, and he intended on sticking to it. Who knows what kind of measures Albert put in place to halt tampering?

His tired gaze caught a small bit of movement out of its corner. As he pondered, he watched the vent shoots on Blues back slowly open and close. The droid had parked himself by the window so that he could wake up and see the fresh snow first thing in the morning, however it seemed that he had awoken too early.

Again.

Perhaps cutting out all of those 'naps' messed with his internal clock.

"You're still awake?" Blues asked in a whisper as he turned.

Thomas nodded, "you can guess why."

He took in the amount of messy papers and ink smudges. "What is the snare?"

"I don't know what language you're attuned to. If I assume it's my old one I run the risk of rewriting it, or being completely wrong. I don't know how much of Al's coding is in you and how deeply it affects you." He set the pen down, rubbing his eyes.

Blues stood for a moment, a few quiet clicks emitting from his chest. "What would be the miracle you need?"

Thomas leaned back with a long sigh. A miracle, something extremely unlikely, but would be perfect for this scenario. "Id need a copy of you I can open up, or maybe a robot I coded similarly to you but has been rewritten by Wily. Something deeper than just a small change of heart."

The droid walked over and began scooping up the papers. "I do not feel that I have been tampered with by doctor Wily."

"Most people don't know they are sick until they have symptoms," he capped his pen and set it on the table before getting up, "I'll sleep on it. Maybe the answer is more obvious than I can see right now."

Blues watched as Tom pulled off his tie and tossed it aside. Though the robot grinned his usual grin, his thoughts accessed much deeper solutions than silence. He knew one robot that would be a miracle to have, the struggle came with locating him. "Goodnight Tom," he walked to the far side and pulled open a metal drawer, "do you want these papers in the filling cabinet?"

"Please, maybe a quick sweep around too. It'll be less for Roll to do in the morning." His voice trailed as he left.

--

Blues took a stroll down town to the light rail and headed to the next city over. How much the two places had grown together over the years, bridged by roads and offices. He remembered when it used to be sparse forests, nowadays the plant life grew on rooftops.

He figured a great place to start would be somewhere abandoned. Not many of Wilys castles were left sitting- he was a mad scientist but that didn't make him wasteful. The ones that didn't blow up were dismantled and recycled, sometimes by him and sometimes by private companies. Though the structures themselves were often absent, the foliage around left a footprint of what once was. Even with the snow cover, a faint gesture of size dipped the snow ever so slightly.

He found nothing in the few spots he knew, probably for the best; he would hate to have found who he's looking for unsheltered and in the cold.

The windows on the train ride home let the morning sun gleam through on beams of hot yellow and orange. He stood, hand gripped onto the hook above, amongst the many people and service bots who were on their way to their work. A few glances to their watches told him it was nearing 5:30am, just in time to help Rock and Roll with breakfast.

"You're back!" Roll smiled as he stepped through the entryway and shook off his scarf. Her normal greeting, it never lessened in enthusiasm. "Did you get anything?"

"Not today," Blues leaned on the counter, evaluating the few ingredients she had begun collecting. Eggs, bread, milk, strawberries, everything for some french toast except for the cinnamon, to which he retrieved from the tall spice cabinet.

Behind him, Rock began to set the table, wiping down the surfaces with a rag before setting plates and silverware. He swept, Beat perched upon his shoulder. "Where did you go?" He asked, mopping up the water and slush Blues tracked in.

"For a walk through the countryside and the city over." He leaned over the sink and brushed more snow off, "I was hoping I would find him there, I'm glad I didn't."

"Hm?" Roll glanced over from her whisking, "Find who?"

"Quint."

Rock made a face. He wasn't entirely sure what to think of him, perhaps in some ways he felt the story Quint told about being captured and altered was false. Rock figured he would never let that happen, he was Megaman after all, he couldn't let it happen.

Roll hummed and pondered, placing raw toast onto a tray and sliding it into the toaster oven, "didn't he say he was working at the Time-Space Research Labs with Dr. Sydra?" she asked Rock.

He nodded, "yeah, as an assistant."

Blues looked between them. "What's the easiest way to get there?"

--

The lab itself was somewhere out in the mountains half a day away with no real clear instructions. He clung onto the back of Tempo as they rode upon the snowmobile up the white hillside. They would have had Blues warp through at LaLinde's lab, but the falling snow and cloud cover made any sort of beaming to be shaky at best. And, knowing the risk that could put on his power supply, Tempo offered to drive him over.

"Why do you want to see Quint?" She asked over the motor.

He smiled, the glint of his dark visor flickering, "Someone has to check in on him sometimes."

"I thought Rock didn't like him?" the lab, half burried in snow, lifted into view.

"He doesn't," Blues reassured, "but I miss him like I miss Bass. Sometimes."

She hummed.

Pulling up to the side of the building, Blues stepped off and swiveled around to wave. "Thanks for the ride, I'll pay you back another time."

"You don't want me to stay?" Tempo asked, a little surprised. it would be an incredibly long walk to get back, especially for him.

He smirked, "You have work tomorrow remember? Wouldn't want to be the reason why you're late."

She seemed unconvinced but resigned, revving the snowmobiles' electric engine and taking off back down the mountain.

[jaehyunsprincesspeach]

Bullet to the Heart

Chapter 4

warnings: arguing (parental-y/n), arranged marriage,

wc: 1.77k

She's leaving behind her past, escaping the trap of perfection that she's been stuck in. Moving from Busan to Seoul, the possibilities are endless... though the universe has different plans for her... plans that she never in her wildest dreams would have imagined...

chapter 3 ~~~ chapter 5

She sits in her apartment… Two days have passed since she finally met Johnny. Since then she's been staring at the number he gave her. Her curiosity is telling her to text or call the number… but her rational side says what if it's a false number or what if he's some sort of criminal? She sits, staring at the phone number… her mind in a deep matrix of thoughts… until the phone rings, startling her out of her thoughts… she lets out a yelp of surprise and a groan of frustration escapes her when she sees her fathers number… with a roll of her eyes, Y/N picks up the phone

“Hi dad…”

“Y/N, we need to talk about something…”

“Yeah? What is it?”

“Well Honey, I set up an arrangement for you…”

She pauses, her mind already reeling with thoughts, and her fathers words now adding another layer to her thoughts…

“What kind of arrangement dad?”

“Well… umm… Honey… I set up… an arranged marriage…”

“YOU WHAT?!”

“Now, Dear, hear me out-”

“HEAR YOU OUT?! WHAT THE HELL DAD! DID YOU EVEN THINK TO TALK TO ME ABOUT THIS?!”

“Y/N, listen, please…”

“WHAT NOW YOU WANT TO TALK?! WHY THE HELL-”

“Y/N! We're in debt! We needed the money!”

“SO SELLING YOUR DAUGHTER WAS YOUR SOLUTION?!”

The phone falls silent… she can feel the shame from her father through the phone, but her anger clouds her mind… she feels betrayed… thrown away by her own parents…

“Seriously dad. What the hell were you thinking? Did you even try other options? Or did you just go with the first thing thrown at you like you always do?” 

“Y/N listen… I know your mother and I haven't been the best parents to you… I know we’ve held you to unreasonable standards, and we’ve said things that are not fair to you… and I know you think that this is something that I would do just to get you married off… but I promise dear, this is one thing in your life that I wouldn’t meddle in… I looked into every other option we had, even going as far as selling the family company… this was the only option that would even come close to covering the debt we owe.”

She listens to his words… She's never been close to her parents, but… they’re her parents, of course she loves them… But just like always, they’re interfering with her happiness… yet again…

“Dad, I moved away so that I could find my own happiness… and yet again, there you are, interfering with my happiness… Why wouldn't you at least talk to me about it?!”

“Honey, I couldn't risk you saying no! We need this!”

“No, YOU need this! I don't need this! How could you sell away your own daughter!”

“It's not like that! Don't you want to help your parents?”

“Honestly no I don't. If you had asked for help I would have helped, but this? I can't believe you would even consider doing something like this to me.”

“Dear, come on-”

“Don't ‘dear’ me. I'm not going through with it.”

Before her father can say anything else, she hangs up the phone, throwing it across the room in a fit of rage. She paces her living room thinking of what to do next… she cant go through with this… its not that she doesn't want to help her parents, but she refuses to be stuck in an arranged marriage with a man she doesn't even know. As she paces and paces and thinks and thinks, she finally thinks of something… not a permanent solution, but at least it's something… She grabs her phone again, making another call… She continues pacing as she listens to the dial tone till finally there's an answer, her voice cutting through first…

“Johnny, can you come over?”

“Hey princess, inviting me over already?”

“Please, this is serious… just… Come over, I'll explain when you get here.” She hangs up the phone, leaving no room for discussion or disagreement… Her pacing continues relentlessly, waiting, hoping he'll show up. Twenty minutes later there's a knock on her door… She quickly makes her way over and throws it open. She sees him with a bouquet of flowers, causing her to stop in confusion…

“What are those for?”

“Umm… They’re for you…”

Johnny holds out the flowers for her, which she accepts with a small smile, until she remembers why she called him in the first place…

“Come inside…”

She moves aside, letting him into her apartment. As he settles and gets comfortable, she grabs a vase for the flowers, and some tea for the two of them to share… When she finally makes her way to the living room, she sits down, but there's no doubt that the inner turmoil is eating away at her… Johnny gives her a look of concern before he breaks the silence…

“Y/N, what's wrong? What is it?”

She fiddles for a moment with her bracelet on her wrist before finally telling him

“I umm… I just got off the phone with my dad… My parents are in debt… a-and he told me that he set me up in an arranged marriage to get the money they need…”

Johnny's eyes are wide as he listens to her explanation… an arranged marriage? What is this, the 19th century? His own thoughts spiral as he listens to her

“So… your parents set you up in a marriage that you don't even want, just so they can pay off their debt?”

“Y-yeah… I don't know what to do… I don't want this, I don't want to marry someone I don't even know…”

“Did they tell you who it is?”

“No…”

Johnny lets out a contemplative sigh, trying to think of what to do… as he sits and thinks, the room falls silent, until finally, he comes up with an idea… a crazy idea that might get him slapped, but an idea, nonetheless…

“Y/N, hear me out…”

“Whatever it is, I'm sure it's better than that stupid plan my parents made…”

Johnny takes a minute to gather his thoughts, hoping that she doesn't immediately shut down the idea…

“Alright, hear me out… completely before interrupting…”

She waits patiently, an expectant look in her eyes. Finally he takes another deep breath and shares his idea

“Marry me…”

Her eyes bug out of their sockets

“I'm sorry, what?”

“Marry me… if you're already married, they can't force you into another marriage… it doesn't have to be official, I know people who can forge some documents to make it look real… you can move in with me for a few months so your parents believe it… I know it sounds crazy, but the other idea I have is running away, and even that isn't full proof if your parents or the other family manages to find you…”

She thinks to herself… a fake marriage… it's not a terrible idea in her mind, and honestly she's not against it… but she's nervous… this man has already been on her mind for weeks… and he's obviously into her… 

“Why? Why a fake marriage? What are your intentions with it?”

Johnny lets out a small sigh… he figured she would ask this… and he knows it's a little suspicious given how he's been pining over her…

“You asked for help, Y/N… i just want to help you… if it ends up growing into something real, I can't say I would be upset with that, but if we do this for a few months, and you tell me you want nothing to do with me after, then i'll let you go… and I won't bother you again… but I want to help you… thats why…”

She thinks further… she thinks about what could happen if she agrees to this… She thinks about potentially starting a real relationship with this man she still knows nothing about… She thinks about the potential to grow deeper feelings than she already has… and as nervous as that thought makes her, it's nothing compared to the thoughts and feelings she has about being married to someone she's never met before scares her even more. 

“And what if it doesn't work. What if your plan doesn't work Johnny?”

Johnny takes a deep breath, thinking through his thoughts… thinking through this crazy plan of his…

“It will work… I won't let it not work… you deserve someone you want to be with… someone who will make you happy, whether that's me or not, that's up to you… but i can see how much even just the thought of an arranged marriage is taking a toll on you… it's not fair to you… so i'll make it work… I'll do whatever it takes to make this work for you… I just need you to trust me…”

Trust… a strong word from someone who is still a stranger to her… she doesn't know if she trusts him… she knows who he is, finally after weeks of wondering who he was… but that doesn't mean she knows anything about him… But, how is she supposed to know anything about him if she never gives him a chance? If she never tries to get to know him… she thinks to herself, thinking about his words, and his spoken intention to help her… She thinks and thinks, the room filling with silence… Johnny fiddles with his rings on his hand before breaking the silence again

“Tell you what… if you agree to this, I'll take care of everything… I'll handle the paperwork, and talk to your parents, everything… I'll even buy you everything brand new and move you into one of the guest rooms in my house if that's necessary, and I'll pay the rent for this apartment if you have to stay with me… Everything will be taken care of… all you have to do is say yes and play the part… that doesn't sound too bad right?”

Her mind continues its barrage of thoughts to herself… deep down, she knows this is one of the best options… If she moves away, her parents will simply track her down… if she stays, her parents will come pick her up, and take her away… if she tells them that she doesn't agree with this, they'll simply tell her it's not her choice, that she needs to ‘help her family’ who has only ever tried to control her her entire life… maybe… maybe this really is her best option… She sits quietly thinking to herself about her options…

[a-d-nox]

web of wyrd observation: why barbie's wyrd web just makes sense

after going to see Barbie in theaters, i came home and was wondering what makes barbie - barbie? so i looked up the day she greeted the public. and i was super intrigued by her wyrd web.

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

enjoy my work? help me continue creating by tipping on ko-fi or paypal. your support keeps the magic alive!

9-9-18 REPEATING

9 is representative of the hermit - the hermit is someone who can be alone comfortably, which is exactly the point of a doll. you can give barbie to a child/person and they can entertain themselves. 9-9 - one hermit is the doll and the other is the person playing with the doll! the hermit is meant to be a reflective card that asks you to do some soul searching as to what you want and need - playing with barbie is meant to showcase that you too can be whatever you want to be just like barbie. add in 18 - the moon, which is about "self-deception," or make-believe as we called when we were children. the moon is also meant to help you see the hidden aspects of yourself and what you want most. which again... is the point of barbie.

3 AS THE CROWN NUMBER

the truest barbie girl of the major arcana - the empress. barbie's highest self being the essence of "divine femininity" just makes so much sense to me. let's not forget barbie was designed for creativity inspiration while also showing the power of feminine energy. and she did that, just like the empress.

6 AS THE FLOW NUMBER

the Barbie movie definitely illustrated for me that the balance of femininity and masculinity is necessary for the success of barbie. if one entity has too much of the power (the whole board room being male, barbieworld never having a ken on council, etc.) then there will be issues in the "business realm" (which is the message of the lovers). in terms of love, while barbie doesn't need ken, it is important that they still respected each other and communicated in a healthy manner (which is definitely depicted in the movie). same can be said on the business end of things - barbie has "skinny, blonde bimbo" energy, so the company has to keep their products inclusive (keep evolving) or risk being cancelled.

21 AS THE MONETARY NUMBER

the Barbie movie is a perfect reminder of the world card that is represented in her matrix - recognition for success, cyclic change, new chapters, etc. if barbie hadn't been a success, we would have never had one barbie movie let alone many (i could never forget the animation versions lol)! nor would we have collectable barbies! the collectable barbie is the energy found in this number - the world is literally a woman surrounded by a laurel (it looks a bit like barbie in her box, if you ask me)!

15 AS THE PARTNERSHIP NUMBER

i think it is a little funny that the partnership number is 15 - the devil. barbie is supposed to be a feminine icon - she doesn't need a man to make her dreams come true (which is showcased in the movie). BUT YET WE HAVE KEN. ken is a destructive concept when thinking of barbie as strong and independent - it's contradictory to have barbie be an independent woman who doesn't need any one, but then make ken - her boyfriend ("patriarchy" lol - cause a woman needs a man to be accomplished in life *clown emoji*). it's the toxic contradictory energy of having a ken for a barbie that makes the devil an un-ironically perfect number for this doll.

have ideas for new content? please use my “suggest a post topic” button!

return to nox's guide to metaphysics

return to the masterlist of the web of wyrd

© a-d-nox 2023 all rights reserved

[chiangmailawyer]

Thailand Visa

Thailand's visa framework operates under a three-tier authorization system established by the Immigration Act (1979) and subsequent amendments:

A. Entry Permission (Visa Proper)

Issued by Thai embassies/consulates abroad

Determines initial duration and purpose of stay

Classified as:

Transit (TS)

Tourist (TR)

Non-Immigrant (12 subcategories)

Diplomatic/Official

B. Extension of Stay

Granted by Immigration Bureau within Thailand

Converts temporary entry into long-term residence

Requires specific qualifying conditions (e.g., marriage, retirement)

C. Re-Entry Permits

Maintains status during international travel

Single (THB 1,000) vs. Multiple (THB 3,800) options

2. Non-Immigrant Visa Subtypes: Operational Nuances

A. Business Visa (Non-B)

Approval Mechanics

Standard Path: Thai employer sponsorship + work permit

BOI Fast Track: 15-day processing for promoted companies

Treaty Routes: US Amity or ASEAN agreements

B. Retirement Visa (Non-O-A)

Financial Verification Protocols

Bank Deposit Method:

THB 800K seasoning: 2 months pre-application

Post-approval minimum: THB 400K maintained

Audit Trail: Must show foreign origin of funds

Income Method:

Embassy letters no longer sufficient alone

Requires 12-month Thai bank statements showing transfers

Exchange Rate Risk: Fluctuations may disqualify applicants

C. Education Visa (Non-ED)

Compliance Enforcement

Attendance Tracking:

Biometric check-ins at accredited institutions

Minimum 80% attendance rate enforced

Program Limitations:

Language schools: Max 5 years continuous stay

University programs: Duration of degree + 1 year

3. Special Economic Visas: Technical Specifications

Smart Visa Program

Sector-Specific Requirements

CategoryMinimum SalaryQualification ProofTalent (T)THB 200K/monthPatent filings or PhDStartup (S)N/ASeries A funding or BOI backingInvestor (I)N/ATHB 20M liquid investment

Privileges Matrix

Work permit exemption (Categories T/S)

90-day reporting waiver

Dependent work rights

4. Immigration Enforcement Technologies

Biometric Systems

Facial Recognition: Deployed at major entry points

Fingerprint Database: Linked to Interpol records

Blockchain Verification: Pilot for document authentication

Risk Assessment Algorithms

Visa Run Detection:

Pattern analysis of border crossings

Flagging of "out-in" same-day movements

Financial Scrutiny:

Bank statement anomaly detection

Seasoning period algorithmic validation

5. Judicial Recourse Pathways

Administrative Appeals Process

First Appeal: To originating immigration office (30 days)

Second Appeal: Immigration Commission (60 days)

Judicial Review: Administrative Court (6-18 months)

Precedent-Setting Cases

2018 Supreme Court Ruling: Overturned arbitrary visa denials

2021 Case #4562: Established due process for Elite Visa revocations

6. Emerging Policy Shifts

Digital Nomad Visa (2025 Pilot)

Technical Requirements:

Minimum $80K annual income

Health insurance with $50K coverage

Remote employment verification

ASEAN Harmonization

Single Visa Proposal: Pending implementation

Labor Mobility Framework: Skilled worker exchange

7. Strategic Compliance Planning

Documentation Lifecycle Management

Retention Periods:

Bank statements: 3 years

Tax records: 5 years

Entry/exit stamps: 10 years

Risk Mitigation Framework

Parallel Status Maintenance (e.g., Elite + work permit)

Buffer Capitalization (20% above minimums)

Pre-emptive Legal Opinions for complex cases

8. Expert Advisory

For Corporate Applicants

BOI pre-approval reduces processing by 60%

Treaty structures optimize ownership flexibility

For Individual Investors

Elite + Property Purchase creates residency backup

Multi-entry Non-O provides interim flexibility

For Families

Education visa + Dependent extensions ensure continuity

Interlocking applications prevent status gaps

9. Conclusion: Mastering the System

Thailand's visa regime requires technical precision rather than generic approaches. Successful navigation demands:

Sector-specific strategy alignment

Documentation forensics preparation

Contingency layering for policy shifts

[sonicasura]

The Malto home grew more chaotic with the addition of six new beings, but Dart was out of it for the initial adjustment period. Most of time actually lucid was taken up by an odd string of questions from both Nightshade and Ocellus. The nonbinary Terrans were certainly up to something especially when they found out the shapeshifter had experience constructing spaces that could withstand cybertronians.

Spitfire kept getting into impromptu contests with Twitch which ended with both nearly gliding straight into the barn. (Curiously, the top paneling of her protoform wings could separate into individual feathers. The Omnitrix made a small note to check for that in Jettison’s alt mode.) Jawbreaker and Aftermath were of similar broadframes yet near complete opposites in personality. The suggestion to take Aftermath to a scrapyard proved successful considering he came back with an alt mode.

Apparently a tow truck.

———————————

Days earlier, Megatron and Optimus had been scolded in a way that reminded him of his more risky decisions as a newspark. The shapeshifter’s words had sort of fallen through when they passed out moments later back in their human form. Still—it was abundantly clear Dart didn’t a damn about rank when it came to calling beings out on their own stupidity. One Optimus had shared as much back at the meetup about their strong words after he nearly sacrificed himself to reignite the Well.

The former Decepticon leader still felt phantom sensations from where the shapeshifter had patched up his arm. Part of his fusion canon which had been bothering for the longest time, had been fixed too. He kept finding himself distracted as he batted away Optimus axe.

Both larger mechs paused at a sudden communication.

[Incoming Message: Omnitrix, DART.]

[DART: Managed to contact the AllSpark. It’s functional despite falling into quite the vast underwater system. It and the Emberstone are still in tact.]

Megatron saw the relief in Optimus frame and imagine his own reflected as much.

[Megs: How soon can you retrieve it?]

[DART: A month, give or take.]

[OP: You have my sincerest gratitude for risking your own health when Mandroid all those days ago. I am sorry it came at the cost of your own health.]

It was to be expected given how tired they had been afterward. Though, Megatron found himself amused that the young human could jump back so quickly. Dorothy had required a lot of to recover from ailments after the Battle of the Bay.

[DART: You misunderstand.]

[Megs: ?]

[OP: Pardon?]

[DART: We will not take a month to recover. We will be too busy for a month at minimum to check up on the AllSpark and Emberstone. The new Terrans require most of our attention.]

The odd shift in self-addressing confused both cybertronians.

[Omnitrix: Dart is my user, I am the Omnitrix in case you both are confused. I’m the personality matrix of the device on their wrist.]

[OP: Apologies. We were not aware you were sapient.]

[Megs: You won’t retrieve the AllSpark?]

[Omnitrix: It is apparently comfortable in the water and has ample company in Quintus Prime. The submerged caves are also difficult for most Cybertronians to navigate. It will be safer there than within present company.]

Megatron’s expression turned into grimace as he couldn’t argue the logic even if leaving the AllSpark in a cave chaffed his Spark.

[Omnitrix: There is another matter that will take up most of our attention. You two. We have observed not one, not two—but three battles involving you two. We find your fighting capabilities… less than satisfactory.]

Okay, now Megatron felt the faintest churns of anger within him at being insulted—

[DART: When I’m well enough, you and Optimus vs me. A spar should prove my point. I am aware you two are thousand if millions of years old war veterans. But frankly, skill issue.]

—ROB’d Anon.

Sassy blunt Omnitrix, our beloved. I give both leaders the benefit of the doubt as they were originally miners. TFP Megs was a gladiator so that respective Optimus had to catch up real quick. Plus it's the first TF universe Dart has been too thus a very high standard.

[beautifulpersonpeach]

Bpp, what's your take over this Scooter Braun // all his artists leaving // HYBE situation? I just read that HYBE paid $1 trillion USD for Scooter's company to get Ariana Grande and if she leaves that deal is worthless. What do you think?

***

I’m watching this with interest, but I really have no idea what’s actually going on or how it’s going to play out (it’s been 24 hours and reports are still unconfirmed from all parties). Right now the implications here are all negative, obviously, but if it’s in fact true that Ariana Grande is no longer affiliated with Scooter Braun and by extension HYBE America, and Bang PD’s investment is rendered useless as a result, a big part of me would be a bit happy. To be honest with you.

I mean, I’ve felt for a long time that Bang PD’s business moves in recent years have shown an arrogance that’s disproportionate with the results. I’m very curious to know what kind of risk matrix he uses to filter deals and arrive at valuations. Because just like the SM acquisition he was attempting this year, and just like I said back then, Bang PD seems to discount intangible and social costs significantly more than I think is prudent.

Getting into business with disgusting unscrupulous characters, and acquiring businesses with horrible company cultures, doesn’t seem to be a headwind for him going by the fact that he partnered with Scooter and was going to absorb SM Entertainment despite both entities’ long and notorious track record of being bottom barrel filth. To be fair, it’s normal in business to discount reputational risk when evaluating a deal, but Bang PD seems to either have an information disadvantage, or a massive inflated ego to go ahead with certain things he’s done.

It’s why I was so cautious about the SM deal when he was pursuing it. Though acquiring SM made pure business sense looking at the numbers, (the company was basically dirt cheap, many of the synergies were obvious and Bang PD did wisely backstop his fiscal exposure), he seemed to have no idea that acquiring a company like SM would be bad news in every possible way and would likely leave him with more liabilities than assets in the most realistic scenario. Or that he’d end up at par in the best scenario. I mean, imagine if he completed that acquisition and then the CBX - EXO - slave contract news broke, the FSS announced the multiple raids and inquiries on SM that followed, and he still had to comply with American SEC rules.

It would be the clusterfuck of the year. Like, it was bad news every which way you looked at it. The only thing that made me not worry is that at the very least, for SM he’d be paying chicken change relatively.

That’s not the case for his deal with Scooter, and like I’ve been saying, Scooter has always had very limited utility. The only time he proved worth the money was in 2020 and 2021 when he helped facilitate the promotions and distribution for Dynamite and Butter with many of the tools he brought out again for Seven. But in terms of A&R, Nicole did a much better job than anything Scooter has done, and she did it without a $1 trillion *Won acquisition.

When HYBE lost her to Columbia Records in May this year, that gave me pause more than anything else that’s happened so far.

Anyway, Bang PD could use the reality check. If this in fact turns out to be a gaffe, it would be one of the most expensive and embarrassing ones he’s made recently. And a part of me hopes it happens because he’s gotten very comfortable in recent years. Whatever good eye he had to find people like Nicole in the first place, he needs to find it again. The tannies will be fine though. HYBE is so cashed up that even if they lost 50% of their value, they’d still be in better shape than at least two Big 3 companies. Plus soon the boys will be doing the military service and will hopefully be shielded from the worst of the fall-out.

But we’ll see. :)

[plurancetechnologies]

Launch Your Crypto MLM Business in Just 5 Days!

In today’s fast-evolving digital world, cryptocurrency-based multi-level marketing (MLM) models are gaining immense popularity. Entrepreneurs are increasingly embracing these models to create sustainable revenue streams. However, the key to staying ahead in this competitive space lies in executing a well-structured, technology-driven plan. With Crypto MLM Software, business owners can set up their MLM operations smoothly and efficiently within a few days. In fact, Plurance, a top-rated cryptocurrency MLM software development company, offers tailored solutions to launch your business in just five days.

The Advantage of Crypto MLM Platforms

Crypto MLM platforms combine the power of network marketing with blockchain technology, offering transparency, security, and quick transactions. Entrepreneurs leveraging ready-made cryptocurrency MLM software avoid the risks and complications associated with building platforms from scratch. Instead, they can focus on market penetration and team-building strategies, ensuring rapid scaling.

In a fast-paced sector like cryptocurrency, time is money. The ability to deploy a robust MLM platform in a matter of days gives businesses a significant edge, especially as early market entry can attract users looking for trustworthy opportunities.

Why Choose Plurance for Cryptocurrency MLM Software Development?

Building a sustainable MLM business requires more than just an idea—it demands a technology partner capable of understanding the intricacies of the crypto world. This is where Plurance excels. As an industry-leading cryptocurrency MLM software development company, Plurance combines expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver feature-rich, scalable, and customizable solutions.

Here’s why Plurance stands out:

Customizable Plans and Smart Contracts

Plurance integrates flexible compensation structures such as binary, matrix, or unilevel plans with blockchain-based smart contracts. This ensures automated payouts and reduces human intervention, increasing trust and efficiency within the MLM ecosystem.

Quick Deployment with Ready-Made Cryptocurrency MLM Software

For entrepreneurs on a tight timeline, Plurance offers ready-made cryptocurrency MLM software. These plug-and-play solutions are pre-tested, secure, and come with all essential features, enabling you to launch your platform within five days.

User-Friendly Dashboards

A smooth user experience is crucial to retaining members in MLM businesses. Plurance provides interactive dashboards for both administrators and users, simplifying everything from membership tracking to commission distribution.

Advanced Security Features

Plurance places a premium on security. Its MLM software includes multi-factor authentication (MFA), anti-fraud mechanisms, and encrypted wallets, ensuring your business and users are protected from malicious activities.

Scalability and Future-Readiness

Plurance’s development approach ensures that your MLM platform can grow along with your business. Whether you need to add new features or integrate additional cryptocurrencies, the software is built to handle future upgrades seamlessly.

The 5-Day Launch Blueprint

Day 1: Initial Consultation and Requirement Gathering

Day 2: Platform Customization and Integration of Smart Contracts

Day 3: Quality Testing and Security Assessment

Day 4: User Onboarding and Training

Day 5: Final Launch and Go-Live Support

By the fifth day, you are ready to manage and grow your network with a platform that offers unparalleled reliability and performance.

Conclusion

The world of MLM is transforming with the rise of cryptocurrencies, and fast execution is the key to staying competitive. With Plurance’s cryptocurrency MLM software development solutions, businesses can achieve a hassle-free launch within five days. The combination of blockchain technology, customizable plans, and ready-made cryptocurrency MLM software ensures your platform is ready to attract, engage, and reward users from day one.

[eaglesnick]

“Water is life's matter and matrix, mother and medium. There is no life without water.”

Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

Remember headlines similar to this?

“England’s rivers, lakes and streams ‘among worst in Europe’ amid concern over sewage and farm pollution.”  (Independent: 15/09/21)

And more recently:

“Sewage entered rivers and seas on average 825 times a day last year Water companies released raw sewage into rivers and seas in England for more than 1.75 million hours last year. (BBC News: 31/03/23)

Does our Tory government care? No, not one jot. This is what we read in the media today.

“Michael Gove is set to announce a weakening of water pollution rules placed on housing developers in England, in a move that has angered groups across the UK’s green economy.”  (edie.net: 29/08/23)

Gove is doing this to encourage more house building which up until now has been supposedly held back by anti-pollution laws and the cost this has for housing developers. From now on the building industry will not be held accountable for increases in nitrates and phosphates into out waterways.

In October 2021 the Tory government published a paper entitled: Nitrates: challenges for the water environment.  In it they listed the dangers of too much nitrate in our waterways:

Risk to human health

Eutrophication of lowland surface waters (Eutrophic waters are often murky and may support fewer large animals, such as fish and birds, than non-eutrophic waters.)

Acidification and eutrophication of upland waters

Adverse impact on Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems.

In short, nitrates poison the water both above and below ground and can be a risk to human health as well as to birds, animals and aquatic life in general.

In December 2022, the government published another report:.

It found that phosphates cause eutrophication in the same way nitrates do:

“Eutrophication increases the cost of drinking water abstraction and treatment, adversely affects angling, water sports and other recreational activities, and causes the loss of sensitive plants and animals in rivers and lakes.” (Environment Agency: Phosphorus and freshwater eutrophication: challenges for the water environment./ December 2022)

So, we have a government who knows the dangers of increasing the levels of nitrates and phosphates in our waterways yet they  decide to relax laws controlling these chemicals  regardless of the environmental consequences.

 Why!

The answer is, as is so often the case, “follow the money”.

Craig Bennett, Chief Executive of the Wildlife Trust had this to say on the Today programme this morning.

“I've been at the last few Conservative Party conferences over the last few years, and when you walk into the exhibition space, the biggest, fanciest exhibitions are by the big house building organisations. The most lavish parties and receptions put on at the Conservative Party conference over the last few years have been from the house building industry. They seem to have plenty of money when it comes to them lobbying, and guess what? - we discover this morning that money talks.”

To back up this claim, we find that in 2021, "property developers gave Tories £892,00 in the first three months of that year. And in May this year we read that:

“Millions in Tory donations at risk as property developers hit back. Housebuilders and developers - who in the past have accounted for around a fifth of all donations - have turned off the taps.”(Independent: 30/05/23)

There is a sneaking suspicion that the relaxation of water pollution laws has more to do with Tory Party funding than the housing shortage. Given the housing industry is one of the Conservative Party’s biggest donors, is it any wonder that under the new law, developers will no longer have to dip into their profits to offset nutrient pollution from new homes.

And just to prove the Tory Party has a sense of humour, not only will our waterways be more polluted than ever before but:

“Scrapping housebuilder water pollution rules in England to cost taxpayer £140m”  (Guardian: 29/08/23)

[nainad123]

Squalene Oil Market - Opportunities, Share, Growth and Competitive Analysis and Forecast 2033

The Squalene Oil Market in Europe had a market size of US$ 64.7 million in 2022, and is anticipated to achieve a market value of US$ 147.8 million by the year 2033. Norway's substantial fishing industry and access to shark populations have positioned it as a major exporter of shark liver oil, which includes squalene. The country's extensive coastline and abundant marine resources play a crucial role in supporting its thriving fishing sector, encompassing the extraction and refinement of fish oil.

A recently published Squalene Oil Market analysis report from Fact.MR unveils that the global sales of Squalene Oil reached US$ 209 million in 2023. The market is anticipated to experience a substantial 9.3% growth from 2023 to 2033, ultimately reaching an estimated value of US$ 510.7 million by the conclusion of the forecast period.

Download a Sample Copy of This Report: https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=7509 

Squalene oil, once a relatively obscure ingredient, has experienced a remarkable surge in demand in recent years. This natural compound, primarily derived from olive oil, shark liver oil, and other botanical sources, is now making waves across various industries, ranging from skincare to pharmaceuticals.

The Beauty and Skincare Revolution

One of the primary drivers of the rising demand for Squalene Oil is its growing prominence in the beauty and skincare industry. Known for its exceptional moisturizing and skin-protective properties, Squalene has become a go-to ingredient for both established and emerging cosmetic brands. It is valued for its ability to hydrate and nourish the skin without clogging pores, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types. Furthermore, its natural origin aligns perfectly with the increasing consumer preference for clean, green, and sustainable beauty products.

Squalene is celebrated for its remarkable skin benefits. It acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from environmental stressors, UV radiation, and pollution. This makes it an ideal candidate for anti-aging products and sunscreens. As a result, Squalene Oil is a common feature in products designed to combat wrinkles, fine lines, and UV damage.

Pharmaceutical and Health Applications

Apart from the cosmetics industry, the pharmaceutical sector has also embraced the potential of Squalene Oil. Squalene has immune-boosting properties and is used in vaccines as an adjuvant to enhance the body's response to immunization. Its role in vaccines, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has brought increased attention to its potential in the healthcare industry.

Squalene is also valued for its potential cardiovascular benefits. It can help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart diseases, which has prompted its use in dietary supplements and health products. The versatility of Squalene Oil across different sectors has made it an attractive ingredient for businesses and consumers alike.

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

A significant factor contributing to the growth of the Squalene Oil market is the emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Traditionally, Squalene was obtained from shark liver oil, which posed environmental concerns due to overfishing and threats to shark populations. However, many companies have shifted towards sustainable and cruelty-free sources, such as olive oil, amaranth seeds, and sugarcane.

Competitive Landscape: Key players in the Squalene Oil market include Sophim, Henry Lamotte Oils GmbH, Aprinnova, Coastal Exports Corporation, Arista Industries Inc., Croda International Plc, Amyris, Inc., Kishimoto Special Liver Oil Co., Ltd., Matrix Life Science, Arbee Biomarine Extracts Pvt. Ltd., and Jedwards International Inc. These companies are actively strategizing to ensure their sustained growth within the Squalene Oil sector, contributing to the overall market expansion.

Recent Market Developments:

In May 2023, synthetic biotechnology firm Amyris entered into a strategic agreement with Croda International Plc. The primary goal of this collaboration is to provide Croda International with a sustainable supply of squalene. Amyris utilizes its innovative Lab-to-Market technology platform to develop squalene through a biofermentation-based approach.

In February 2023, Croda International Plc completed the acquisition of Solus Biotech, a biotechnology company specializing in the production of beauty actives. This acquisition enables Croda to access Solus' developed technologies, including ceramides and phospholipids, as well as emerging technologies related to natural retinol. The acquisition of Solus also supports Croda's expansion of its Asian manufacturing capabilities and the establishment of a new research and development hub in the region.

Segmentation of the Global Squalene Oil Market :

By Source Type :

Natural Squalene

Less than 98% purity

98% and above purity

Synthetic Squalene

Less than 98% purity

98% and above purity

By End Use :

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Neutraceuticals

Pharmaceuticals

Get Customization on this Report:  https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RC&rep_id=7509 

The rising demand for Squalene Oil is not just a trend but a reflection of the changing landscape in the beauty, healthcare, and environmental sectors. Its versatile properties, coupled with ethical and sustainable sourcing practices, make it a key player in the global market. As consumers seek products that align with their values and offer tangible benefits, Squalene Oil is poised to remain in the spotlight for the foreseeable future.

Check Out More Related Reports:

Refinish Paints Market Metalworking Fluids Market Liquid Polybutadiene Market

Contact:  US Sales Office 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Tel: +1 (628) 251-1583, +353-1-4434-232 Email: sales@factmr.com

[mysmorgasbordoffantabulosa]

Radio play isn't really the members choice.

My guess is HYBE's International distributor, Universal Music Group (UMG) have done a marketability feasibility study of all the members and most likely believe JK has the best chance based on various matrixes. So have informed HYBE of such and both have made the decision that for JK there will be a radio push//

Completely agree with it’s not member’s choice. We all know this needs money and company should be willing to do that, it’s completely business choice

second part sorry totally disagree. As a market researcher for a company l would say even UMG did a research they know ML popularity will make it work with radio play regardless the genre. Ex CT a OST surviving in x’mas week and still chart in hot 100. Also bunch of other US artists did well regardless the favourable genre or popularity level purely due to radio play and playlists

It’s not UMG’s call, it’s Hybe and what they want and amount they willing to spend on artists they manage. Best example is how Hybe new groups rocking in int charts due to playlists payola and radio play. And they reach higher chart positions in beginning of their career which bts got long time to do. Which proves Hybe pay regardless the popularity level if they want to and accordingly planned business Any bts member with good tactical promo, playlists and radio play would do better especially members who has army streaming support. It’s just whom Hybe trust more, who they willing to spend money on, who has been helping company narratives, who has been obedient to company.

As a long term jk bias l don’t hesitate to say this. Jk isn’t the person he used to be before 2017. He grew in to a person who understands the idol business, kpop companies, management and it’s politics also find a way to corporate and negotiate in his favour. He knows without giving he can’t expect anything in return from company plus no pain no gain. Which helped him to get constant projects, collabs and promo from 2018 including screen time and positive narratives which helped his journey to success. Rest is all his pure talent that make it work

sorry this gotten so long. I hate to see when ppl go like he has been getting promo and now solo era he gets even more promo and push. SO WHAT? Man has suffered enough, gone through so much pain, compromised his relationship with tae, even now let scooter handle his career!!!! So many risks. It’s his moment to shine and he paid the high price for all the promo he gets for years

I didn’t write this to shade tae but l have to tell it’s kpop, heavy politics and bias choices. How tae has been, Tae’s personality, ethics, strong stand and non negotiable nature not helping him and his career top of that his unstoppable stand on tk. Even with his high popularity and social standing (which Hybe didn’t spend anything to boost or uplift rather tried hard to dim) their not willing to take that risk nor forgive him for being non negotiable throughout the years especially involving himself with company asset jk.

last but not least, even we like it or not it’s on Hybe and bang’s hands and they decide and finalise who gets what, it’s simple as that

Look I understand all of that and I agree with a lot of what you say, other parts not so much, but I have to quibble over the HYBE / UMG relationship and the notion that UMG has no say...

Technically in the USA and most of the rest of the world, BTS and the individual members songs/albums are currently done through UMG's Interscope label, and therefore that label is responsible for the marketing and promo for markets outside of the Korea where HYBE is responsible. Those labels will set marketing budgets based on expected returns as the international distributor for BTS, not HYBE directly. So they have to have some say in how that money is spent in partnership with HYBE. So to say UMG makes not decision is probably false.