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[hello-gloomy]

Petrified Circus

Chapter One

Flyers For You To See

Stanley Snyder x Fem!Reader

Summary: "Are you bored in the stone world? Missing television? Not being able to find entertainment? Well, look no further! The traveling Freak show is now in your area. Eager and willing to entertain, perform, and share excitement with you."

Warnings: Minor violence, Lots of dialog, no reader yet only small tidbits. Suspense.

"If you only look for the worst in people, you'll miss out on all the good that can be there."

"But if all I look for is good, then I'll miss the evil looking me in the face."

Evil looked him in his face, and it made him disappear because of it; you wouldn't let that happen to you.

****

"Are you bored in the stone world? Missing television? Not being able to find entertainment? Well, look no further! The traveling Freak show is now in your area. Eager and willing to entertain, perform, and share excitement with you."

Senkuu blinked owlishly at the radio equipment, listening to the announcer talk and convey his ad for whatever contraption of a circus he was talking about. He was more interested in the fact that another group of humans had a working radio system and that this is what they were deciding to do with it; 'Gen would enjoy this,' he thought to himself as the ad provider finished up telling the coordinates of where the circus would be performing when they would be arriving and all the things they were going to host to all those that wanted to come. The transmission came to an end,

"Well?" Xeno asked, and Sai turned to look at him while Xeno switched off the frequency. Senkuu sighed and rubbed his neck without thought; while he would love to check it out personally, he still had a few diplomatic problems. Xeno had to deal with building the rest of the developing American colony, and Sai was Sai. A knock at the communications room door broke up the group's silent contemplation.

"Come in." Stanley poked his head in and made his way towards Xeno; he sat on the arm of his chair and joined the conversation. Senkuu decided on their problem the second the knight sat down; he looked at Xeno. Xeno glanced up at their new solution.

"Care for a new assignment, Stan?" Stanley lit his smoke and raised an eyebrow at the doctor. Sai grabbed one of the many maps the young Chelsea had put aside for them in the area they resided in and set it down on a table as the other men gathered around while he set it up. Senkuu grabbed some colored pins and highlighted the coordinates from the broadcast they heard.

"Some self-proclaimed Freak show is traveling in our local area a few days from now. Based on how the broadcaster spoke, we know they have a working radio system and moved around quite a bit before coming here." Stanley looked at the area the young scientist highlighted and searched for the fastest and most efficient route as the boy talked.

"Why not go yourself?" He looked up as he asked.

"I have other problems to deal with. Thank you; you're on an extended leave, so you have plenty of time for a side quest." Stanley gives a dead stare as Senkuu dishes out his usual sarcasm.

"Gen is expected to return by the time the circus arrives, so you should bring him along," Xeno interjects while writing a list of things down for the trip.

"While we prepare the necessary tools for this, you can pick out the rest of the members of your group." Xeno starts moving around the room, grabbing items along the way; Sai hops up and begins to help,

"Make sure it's a small group; you don't need to scare them off," Senkuu says as he takes his mentor's previous seat. Stanley takes a drag from his smoke as he thinks of the group he'll have to prepare in the short days he has; he lets out a sigh and gets up.

"I know how to do my job, kid." Said 'child,' rolls his ruby eyes at the remark on his age. He hopes this isn't the start of something horrible. Stanley exits the room with the doctor and the prodigy, leaving Senkuu alone in his thoughts; he wonders what Gen would think of all of this.

****

You hid the platinum device in a safe place from the acting showman until you found your cousin; you could hear the ruckus from outside your caravan cart; you knew something was off about him when he initially joined, but had you known that he had such a temper over something that shouldn't be important to someone of his original position you would have fought to convince your cousin that something was wrong. You have many regrets about what you should have done, but all you can do is act to protect what's left of him. You look to your vanity and see your reflection; you seem tired. How many days had he been gone now? You were starting to lose count. Breathing deeply, you fix your costume and readjust your makeup to hide any suspicions of yourself until you can devise a proper action plan. You put your hat and coat on with a flourish and open the door to face the music. You won't lose this battle. You can't.

*****

"Didn't think I'd find you in such a noisy place." Ukyo looked away from the target and smiled at Stanley.

"It's not too crowded today." Ukyo guided his fellow sharpshooter to a more private spot to continue their conversation. The shooting range in town has become popular with some of the early revivers and some of the original Stone World occupants. Stanley pulls a crate from a spot in the storage room and sits as Ukyo fixes the arrows he has for his bow.

"What do the doctors have in store for us this time?" Stanley can't help but grin at the archer's quick uptake; he's glad he picked him for this group. Stanley gives him the rundown of what happened yesterday and the basics of what they will do until they have more information. Ukyo nods along and stops what he is engaged with to give Stanley his proper answer.

"Who else is coming with?"

"Gen and I were thinking about taking Kohaku with us. She seemed pretty bored." Ukyo let out a small chuckle at his jest to the girl.

"I better go pack a few bags, then. We might be there for a few days as we figure things out." Stanley gave him an understanding nod and got up. He gave Ukyo a pat on the back and then took his leave to find the last member of his group. Stanley walked along the town's paved roads, wondering if Stanley could see the bright-eyed girl. He was about to head back to the central lab to ask either Senkuu or Chrome about her whereabouts till he felt a swish of air above him. He looked up to one of the buildings and saw her moving among the roofs effortlessly as she pleased; she smiled brightly as she entertained herself. Stanley decided to let him have a bit more fun and followed along with her till she came to a lower height; she looked down at him from where she was and gave him a wave. She dropped in front of him and let out a breath of air when she landed; he tilted his head in a direction opposite to them, signaling for her to follow. She tilted her head in curiosity before shrugging and following along. They walked silently, listening to other pedestrians pass by them in conversation; they arrived at a restaurant, and Stanley opened the door for her, allowing her to walk in first.

"I'm putting together a small group to investigate a traveling circus that broadcasted over the radios that they were in the area and invited anyone to come and see them," Stanley explained to her as they looked over the lunch menus in unison. Kohaku nodded and placed her order before she answered him.

"How big is the group?"

"You, Me, Gen, and Ukyo." She hummed as she told him about the others. The waitress who collected their menus returned with large plates of food for them. Kohaku looked like a wolf starving as she ate her meal, and Stanley shook his head in silent amusement at her healthy appetite. They ate quietly for a short while before Kohaku asked him another question.

"How many days till we leave out."

"About two and a half now; they gave a specific time of when they would arrive at the location they had set and what time the showings would begin." They finished their meals, and Stanley covered the costs; as they were moving toward the exit, they noticed a commotion outside, with multiple groups of people stopping in the middle of the street they were on. They hurriedly finished their business inside and rushed out. When outside, they were met with multiple flyers flying and falling along the street; mass discussion broke out among those outside. Stanley picked up one of the many fallen flyers and read what was on it.

"Prepare to be amazed! Traveling Freak Show comes closer to you! Wonder Awaits." Stanley felt some adrenaline start to run through him. This was getting more serious as the countdown to the show got closer.

"Stanley! Look!" Kohaku grasped his attention as she shouted and pointed to two cloaked figures on roofs opposite each other, gathering other citizens' attention. The odd figures, hearing Kohaku's shout, started to dash along them, running opposite to the blondes in the street. Stanley pocketed the flyer for later and engaged in the chase they had started, Running along the crowded streets, shoving others out of their way. One of the cloaked figures dropped between the buildings, and Kohaku broke off from Stanley to pursue them; following the echoing footsteps, they stopped at a dead end, the figure still not facing her.

"Hah! Nowhere to run now." She spites them with triumph as she draws her sword from her back. Finally, her prey turns and faces her, giving her a slight surprise when she sees their face; it is a carnival mask, one of a jester, but instead of eyes, there are black voids of nothing looking at her. It made her heart throb a bit at how unnerving it looked. She goes to take a defensive stance, but her attacker beats her to it, rushing her head-on, making quick swipes at her before backing off and throwing something out, causing a cloud of smoke to surround them. Kohaku coughs as she tries to locate them but instead feels a harsh hit to the back of her skull, promptly knocking her out cold. When she comes to, she finds she still in the same alleyway but sitting up against a wall; she jerks to action, grabbing her weapon again and whipping her head around, only to find Stanley standing near her, not looking the slightest bit happy.

"They both got away, " he informs her as he stomps out the cigarette. Stanley offers her a hand and hoists her to her feet. She gives him thanks as she sheathes her sword on her back.

"What happened to your guy?" She asks him. Stanley rubs his temple in slight aggravation at the question and pulls out his box of smokes.

"He put a civilian in danger to distract me."

"Mines had a smoke bomb." She scoffs while sharing what happened with hers. Stanley shakes his head as he exhales smoke; he looks around the rest of the alleyway they are in and does a double take when he notices something caught in a gap in the building wall. He motions to Kohaku and points out the object to her; he adeptly climbs the wall, grabbing it and bringing it over to him. When handed to him, he finds that it's a gold piece of fabric or maybe a ribbon as he turns it over, looking closely at it.

"Did you ever get a look at your attacker's face, Stanley?"

"No, but I'm guessing you did with yours," he asks, looking up at her, and she nods.

"They were wearing some kind of pied mask." She shares that she is trying to find the best way to describe it to him without knowing the word for the mask's design. Stanley pauses momentarily before pulling out the folded flyer from earlier and pointing to the masks on it.

"Like this?" She let out a gasp and nodded her head vigorously at the image of the mask on the paper.

"Although the one he was wearing had a neutral face."

"It's called a jester," Stanley informed her as he folded the paper back up and added the fabric they found. Stanley and Kohaku looked over the alleyway, hoping to see more clues. They found nothing and exited the tight space back to the major streets.

"Let's head to the lab and see if Senkuu and Xeno can make anything of this." They picked up their pace to return to the fortress before nightfall.

*****

"Well, it's definitely fabric."

"You don't say." Kohaku's hands were on her hips as she tried not to smack Senkuu into his microscope. He grinned at her before looking back at the fabric again.

"There are no fingerprints on it and no really different particles, which are different than what we have here. So I can't tell you much more than what it was composed of, and maybe what area of California it came from by the left of dirt on it, but that's it," Senkuu picked his ear, and Stanley sighed. He wished Xeno was here instead of the brat; not like he'd give a different answer than the one the boy had given.

"Anyway, we have the vehicle your group will be taking courtesy of Brody; check it out before you leave, and make sure to go over your checklists again. You only have a few days until you all leave." Senkuu pitched some more notes at them on what they should pack.

"Are you sure Gen's gonna make it back in time, genius?" Kohaku pestered lightly while squinting at the list in exasperation. The leek-haired boy shrugged and shooed them out. They closed behind them, and they moved to head to the vehicle shed to check out the car they were taking. When arriving, they meet with a proud Brody and a tired Kaseki, both giving a rundown on a pseudo-military jeep to Stanley and a wide car to Kohaku. The interior was pleasant, and the seats went down far enough for them to both stake out or sleep in comfortably. They gave their thanks to both of them men and went about their ways.

"I'm gonna drop off the other part of the checklist to Ukyo. You gonna be okay walking home by yourself?"

"I grew up in a literal forest." Kohaku deadpanned, slightly offended by his offer. He smiled at her bitterness and walked away in compliance with her claim. Watching the setting sun as he walks to the residential district, Stanley is reminded of the incident from earlier and wonders if Ukyo has caught wind of it yet. He shakes the thought from his mind when he reaches Ukyo's place and decides to deal with it once inside. He hears fast footsteps, and the door opens before he can even knock.

"Did you see the flyers?"

"I'm good, thanks." Ukyo laughs good-naturedly and apologizes while letting Stanley inside the building. Stanley takes a seat on his host's couch as he opens a window for Stan to smoke as he pleases. Ukyo momentarily walks to another room before returning with the flyer. Stanley takes the offered paper out of his hands; looking at it, he notices something different. He pulls out the crumpled flyer he had and sets it on the coffee table in front of them.

"There were different flyers handed out?" Ukyo offers while they look at both of them, one having twin masquerade masks while the other had a two-headed lion jumping through a flaming hoop in the other. Stanley sighs and leans back on the couch.

"Tea?" Ukyo offers, standing back up. Stanley nods, and the latter walks to the kitchen. Stanley sits back and looks over the flyer; he analyzes them for moments, spacing out as he does so, only snapping out when Ukyou comes back with two mugs. Stanley thanks him, picking up the steaming mug in one hand and the paper in the other; he flips it over and notices some barely noticeable symbol on the back of the one he had. When looking closer at it, he felt a chill run through his blood; Ukyo looked over his shoulder to see what he was looking at, and his eyes widened at the sight of the drawing on the paper.

"Is that the Medusa?" Ukyo took the paper out of Stanley's hands and lifted it to the light in the living room. When held close to the light, the image disappeared as quickly as they had seen it. Ukyo furrows his brow in confusion and sets down the paper. He grabs the one he found and flips it over to see the slightly visible shape on his paper two. He traces it lightly before he perks up with an idea.

"Do you have your light or matches on you?" Stanley looks at the archer oddly before handing him a silver lighter with an 'x' on the casing. Ukyo Takes the paper and fires up the lighter, gently holding it above the open flame of the side with the printing on it and the bare side upwards. As he slowly moves, the image becomes lighter.

"What does the medusa have to do with the circus." Ukyo tosses the paper down and hands Stan his light and then holds his hand to his face.

"We'll figure this out tomorrow; it's getting late." Stanley gets up, grabs the paper Ukyo used the lighter on, and takes it with him to show Xeno and Senkuu in the morning. He runs a hand through his hair and puts the mug in the kitchen as Ukyo follows.

"Senkuu updated our checklists, so rego over yours and pack accordingly. We might have to move up the traveling date to stake them out." After putting his shoes back on, he hands Ukyo the papers, waves goodbye, and closes the door behind him. Stanley lights another cigarette, looking at the starry sky in thought. The word floated around in his mind at the moment.

'Why?'

[nayziiz]

Team Dynamics | LN4

Summary: To celebrate the launch of their 2024 car for the upcoming F1 season, McLaren hosts a masquerade gala event that sees two souls connect and lead to a whirlwind romance. Unfortunately, the pair realise soon after that they are to work together quite closely after they agreed it would only be a one-night thing.

Warnings: Smut, alcohol, one night stand, unprotected sex

Pairing: Gemma (I don't like writing with Y/N or reader) x Lando Norris

Series Masterlist

In the aftermath of Gemma's brief hospitalisation due to food poisoning, Lando's devotion and care for her took centre stage. Their connection, already profound, deepened as he steadfastly remained by her side throughout the recovery process. Lando's presence was a constant source of comfort, offering both emotional and practical support. From the moment Gemma opened her eyes to the sterile hospital room surroundings, Lando was there, a reassuring figure ensuring that she was not alone in facing the aftermath of the illness.

As they navigated the challenges of her recuperation together, their conversations became more intimate, revealing layers of themselves that had remained hidden before. Gemma's feelings for Lando, already present, intensified unexpectedly. The shared vulnerability of the hospital room created a unique space where emotions simmered to the surface. The way he seamlessly balanced taking care of her practical needs with offering emotional support made her realise the depth of her affection for him. The constant companionship and his willingness to put her well-being above all else brought a heightened sense of closeness.

In those moments when Lando briefly stepped away to attend to necessary errands, Gemma found herself eagerly awaiting his return, aching for the comfort his presence provided. The simple act of him bringing food or fresh clothes became symbolic of a burgeoning connection that surpassed friendship. Gemma, surprised by the intensity of her emotions, began to acknowledge the profound impact Lando had on her heart. The hospital stay, though challenging, served as a catalyst for an unexpected but welcomed evolution in their relationship, leaving Gemma with a realisation that her feelings for Lando had deepened into something more significant than she could have anticipated.

The tension in the McLaren pit is palpable as the team eagerly anticipates the qualifying results at Silverstone, their home race. The pressure is especially intense for Lando, with fans and the team hopeful for his first-ever win.

Gemma, seated at the pit wall, monitors the proceedings with a focused gaze. As the McLaren drivers head out for qualifying, she watches them navigate down the pitlane before turning her attention to the data screens in front of her. Oscar's car showcases promise after recent upgrades, securing a provisional second fastest lap time within the first ten minutes of the session.

However, Gemma's attention shifts to Lando's data, and a sense of concern creeps in as she notices his car is not performing as expected.

“I have zero pace.” Lando's mumbled voice breaks the radio silence, expressing his frustration.

“Copy, we’re investigating.” Andrea confirms.

The team mobilises to analyse the data and identify the issues affecting Lando's performance. The high stakes of the home race amplify the pressure on the team, leaving Gemma and her colleagues on the edge of their seats as they work to address the challenges and support their drivers. Harry, perplexed by the discrepancies, calls over one of his fellow analysts for a fresh perspective.

“I don’t understand.” Harry tells Andrea over their radio. “Everything looks good on this side.”

“Lando, continue with your slow lap. We’re still looking into it.” Andrea tells Lando who simply grunts in response. “Gemma, would you mind having a look too.”

As Gemma delves into the analysis alongside Harry and the team, the urgency in the pit grows. The collaborative effort intensifies, with each member working diligently to uncover the root cause of Lando's unexpected performance issues, aiming to rectify the situation before the crucial qualifying session concludes.

“Can I speak to Lando?” Gemma inquires.

“Go ahead.” Andrea confirms. “Channel is clear for comms.”

“Lando, it’s Gemma.” She informs him.

“Gem. What’s happening with the car?” Lando asks her.

“What’s the highest gear you can get?” She implores.

“Can’t get higher than fifth on the straights.” Lando informs her.

“Copy. Hang tight, Lando, we’re taking a closer look.” She assures him.

“Gemma? What do you think the issue is?” Andrea asks.

“It seems to be a hydraulic issue. Very minor, but enough to affect his acceleration.” Gemma explains.

“Should we retire the car?” Andrea asks.

“Preferably. We’re at risk of causing more damage if he keeps pushing.” Gemma agrees.

“Lando, please retire the car. Box, box.” Andrea radios Lando.

“Copy.” Lando responds.

He returns to the pitlane on his next outlap, parks the car outside the McLaren garage, and climbs out. With visible disappointment, he walks over to the pitwall, where Gemma and the team await, collectively processing the challenges faced during the home race qualifying session at Silverstone.

“Can they fix it before the race tomorrow?” He asks Andrea.

“We should be ready to go for the race.” Andrea confirms. “Starting P15 tomorrow, though, sorry about that.”

“Good thing Gemma caught the issue early enough.” Lando states, appreciating the efforts of the team and Gemma in particular, finding a silver lining in the situation.

He smiles, acknowledging Gemma's keen observation that prevented potential complications during the upcoming race. Lando, seeking a moment of respite, retreats into the garage as the crew wraps up the remaining tasks associated with the qualifying session. The familiar hum of activity surrounds him as mechanics work diligently to prepare the cars for the upcoming race.

Inside the garage, Lando takes the opportunity to refuel both physically and mentally. He grabs something to eat and drink, allowing himself a brief pause to recharge before diving back into the intense atmosphere of race weekend preparations. As the sounds of the pitlane echo outside, Lando takes a moment of solitude, gathering his thoughts and preparing for the challenges that await him on the race day at Silverstone.

“Great job today, Osc.” Gemma congratulates Oscar when she passes him in the garage.

“I heard you saved Lando’s race tomorrow.” Oscar comments as he glances at the mechanics working on Lando’s car. “He better celebrate that win with you tomorrow.”

“I’ll be sure to tell him that.” Gemma chuckles as she retreats to the hospitality suite to get herself some water and a snack.

Gemma spots Lando chatting to some fans as she walks up behind him. The one girl is particularly handsy with the driver who attempts to step back, but she’s persistent. A sudden rage fills Gemma as she approaches the small group. Without hesitation, Gemma intervenes, stepping between Lando and the overzealous fan. Her expression is firm, and her tone carries a no-nonsense authority as she addresses the situation.

“Lando, the boys want to take a photo in the garage before the photographers leave for the day.” Gemma asserts as she shields Lando and glances at the fans. “Sorry, girls.”

Lando, still wearing a grateful smile for the fans, complies with Gemma's lead as she guides him into the garage. Recognizing the need for privacy, Gemma redirects him towards his driver's room, and as they step inside, she firmly shuts the door behind them.

The quiet confines of the driver's room offer a sanctuary away from the bustling activities in the garage. Gemma, concerned for Lando's well-being, addresses the incident with a protective edge in her voice.

"You okay?" She asks, ensuring that the intrusion from the fan didn't leave any lasting impact on him. Lando, appreciating Gemma's concern, nods with a genuine smile.

“They just did not want to let me go, thanks.”  Lando breathes, his hand resting on his chest.

“Poor girl wouldn’t stop touching you.” Gemma sighs as she watches Lando strip off his fireproof top leaving him bare chested.

“You just keep saving my ass today, huh?” Lando counters.

“I mean, who else?” Gemma teases.

“You’re kinda hot when you get all jealous.” Lando retorts.

“Me? Jealous? I think you’re mistaking me for someone else.” Gemma smirks, shaking her head.

“Yeah, you. Can’t share?” Lando teases her.

“Oh, no. Would you share your car with anyone?” Gemma asks as she rolls her eyes at him while he takes a step closer to her.

“Mmh, you make a good point.” Lando agrees. “We both don’t like sharing things we can ride.”

“Ew, stop.” Gemma laughs as she pushes her hand against his bare chest.

“You’re so sexy when you’re flustered.” He tells her as his hands land on her hips. “And, so turned on out of jealousy and all for me.”

“You’re the only one that makes me feel this way.” Gemma finally admits.

“Good.” Lando mumbles before he places a sweet kiss against her lips.

They kiss for a few minutes before Lando shuffles her over to the massage bed and lifts her up so she’s sitting on the bed.

“I have waited so long to kiss you again.” He whispers into her neck. “It’s been torture.”

Her fingers crawl into his hair and grip onto his curls as he continues to kiss down her neck. His hands travel up her thighs and under skirt.

“Consider yourself set free.” Gemma informs him and he pulls away from her, eyes wide. “Whatever you’ve been wanting, whatever you hoped for, I’m happy to give it a chance.”

“You serious?” Lando asks, his eyes glistening with hope.

“You’re all I ever think about, Lando.” She tells him as she cups his face in her hands. “I’ve just been too scared to admit it to myself, because I don’t want to get hurt again.”

“What changed your mind?” Lando wonders.

“No matter what, you’re always choosing me. You chose to stick around. You carried me to safety in the middle of the freaking woods. You could have let that girl flirt with you, yet you chose to come back inside with me. No one has ever chosen me or prioritised me the way you have and done it so patiently and confidently.” Gemma explains to him.

“God, I am so very much in love with you, Gem.” Lando admits, immediately sparking the blush in her cheeks once again. “From the second you told me that stupid refrigerator joke, I was done for.”

“Thank you for not giving up on me.” Gemma continues and sweetly kisses him again.

The following day during the race, Lando is able to move up from P15 to P3 and charges after Leclerc in P2 with only five laps left. Gemma’s eyes shift between the data streaming in on Oscar’s car and the race footage above it as she watches Lando driving. The mechanics found the issue with his hydraulic system and fixed it before the race started. He was driving brilliantly, but like a man possessed, determined to win his home race.

Gemma bites her nails as the anticipation becomes palpable around her as Lando takes second place from Leclerc with Max not far ahead. Four laps left.

“Head down and keep pushing.” Andrea radios Lando.

Three laps left and Lando is almost within DRS range. Two laps left and Lando has DRS. Lando and Max go wheel-to-wheel with Lando taking the lead coming into the Wellington straight and pulling away from Max. The McLaren crew starts cheering in the garage and the pitwall starts buzzing with chatter. One lap left. Lando still has a lead over Max. This is his race to win. Lando comes around Stowe and the crew rush to the pitwall as the chequered flag comes out. Lando sees the chequered flag first and roars over the finish line, winning his first ever F1 race at his home circuit.

The pit wall crew embrace each other as they cheer and celebrate Lando’s win. Tears well up in Gemma's eyes as she watches his onboard cool down lap before he pulls up against the P1 board. He gets out of the car and throws his hands up in victory. The crew envelope him and sing his praises and jump around. They eventually let him go as he looks up and spots Gemma proudly smiling, her hands clasped in front of her mouth. He jogs over to her and picks her up and spins her around.

“This is for you, baby!” He exclaims. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

“I’m so proud of you.” She tells him as she grips his helmet in her hands.

[fxdltc88]

Happy Anniversary Little Caesars!

Little Caesars was established at 32594 Cherry Hill Rd.

May 8th 1959, in Garden City, Mi.

Mike Ilitch played second base for the Tigers and a couple of other teams beginning in 1952.....thanks to a knee injury, he had to retire in 1955.

Little Caesars' history says it all began as a love story in 1954, when Ilitch and Marian Bayoff were thrown together on a blind date by Mike's dad. Fortunately, they hit it off, and it was just a few months later when they married. The two of them pooled their life savings in order to open their own business: a pizza restaurant.

1962 Little Caesars first franchise opened in Warren, called “Little Caesars Pizza Treat”. This featured the “Little Caesar guy eating a slice of pizza” logo. From there, Little Caesars really began to branch out and became the fastest-growing pizza chain in America.

That single mom-and-pop pizza shop grew into the third largest pizza chain in the world with stores in more than 27 countries and territories worldwide, including in each of the 50 U.S. states.

The growth of Little Caesars helped Mike and Marian create other leading brands in the food, sports and entertainment industries.

The couple purchased the Detroit Red Wings in 1982. While the team was known as the Dead Wings at the time, Mike and Marian believed they were a sleeping giant and immediately took charge to turn the team around. By 1997, the Red Wings won their first Stanley Cup in 42 years, and they went on to win three more.

Mike encouraged the Ford family to bring the Detroit Lions back to Detroit from the suburbs and build a new stadium right next door to the ballpark by relinquishing a portion of land to make way for the new stadium. The new football venue allowed Detroit to host the Super Bowl in 2006.

Today - true to Mike and Marian's vision for a bustling downtown area - the Ilitch organization is developing The District Detroit, a dynamic urban destination that provides a dense neighborhood experience featuring a variety of developments alongside Detroit's premier sports and entertainment venues. This includes the new highly innovative and state-of-the-art Little Caesars Arena, home of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons, and the recipient of the 2018 Sports Facility of the Year award, presented by Sports Business Journal.

Throughout Mike’s life, he remained true to his hometown and was a zealous supporter of Detroit, working tirelessly to help it prosper and to bring pride to the city. In 1988, Mike and Marian purchased the neglected Fox Theatre and carefully restored it to its original 1928 splendor.

One year later, they moved the Little Caesars world headquarters from the suburbs into the newly renovated Fox Office Center adjacent to the restored theatre. This was during a time when many businesses were fleeing the city.

Mike displayed further commitment to the city he loved when he purchased the Detroit Tigers in 1992 and built a new state-of-the-art ballpark for the team. Remembering his early years as a minor league baseball player with the Tigers, he did everything in his power to make the fan experience at Comerica Park a memorable one.

Mike and Marian believed passionately in giving back to the community. As the parents of children who played hockey, the couple wanted to provide other children the opportunity to play the sport as well. So, they established the Little Caesars Amateur Hockey Program in 1968, and it has provided opportunities for tens of thousands of youngsters to play the great game of hockey over the years. Hundreds have gone on to play at colleges, universities and in the National Hockey League.

Inspired by the story of a veteran returning to civilian life, Mike founded the Little Caesars Veterans Program in 2006. The program provides honorably discharged veterans with financial incentives and other support to help them open a Little Caesars franchise.

Since 2000, grants and giving from Marian and Mike, the Ilitch companies and its charitable affiliates have totaled $220 million. This includes Marian and Mike's personal gifts of nearly $50 million to Detroit's Wayne State University - $8 million to the Department of Surgery and $40 million to build a new home for the Mike Ilitch School of Business, prominently located on Woodward Avenue.

[pukanavis]

"Sink Into Corrupted Love～Usezakicho Never Sleeps" Track 2

Location: Club NETHER

???: Are you ready, RYU-sama?

RYU: ……

???: RYU-sama.

RYU: Oh…my bad. I didn’t think you were talking to me.

???: It’s alright, I understand that you’re still unaccustomed to your stage name. Once the princesses start addressing you with it, I’m sure you’ll adapt in no time.

🐰 Stage name: The alias a host uses at work. Impactful names tend to be the most popular. 🐰 Princess: The customers that give hosts their chance to shine.

RYU: You’re…the mentor that Lu was telling me about…right?

KiKi: Correct. My name is KiKi. I’ll be here to guide and support you, RYU-sama.

RYU: Have you been working here a while? 

KiKi: It has been 3 months since my employment here began—or 87 days, to be exact.

RYU: Well damn, you’re basically fresh meat yourself.

Supervisor: You should watch that mouth of yours, RYU. KiKi was an instant hit with his theory-based customer service, and it managed to shoot him all the way up to #14. He holds the record for the fastest time anyone’s ever made it onto the leaderboard.

RYU: This guy’s got the record…!?

KiKi: I do, but please don’t feel obligated to treat me with excessive formality because of it. I am often considered a host to idolise, but I’m only approaching this job the way I feel is best for me.

RYU: Y-Yeah, alright then…

(I never would’ve guessed this guy was on the leaderboard. He’s so well-mannered that he doesn’t stand out the way you’d expect a top host to.)

(Hosts really come in all shapes and sizes…)

KiKi: Generally, new hosts that haven’t been requested by a customer are allocated one of two jobs: washing dishes, or backup duty.

RYU: I know what dish washing is, but uh…what’s backup duty?

KiKi: Providing support to hosts with beckoning customers. 

Alongside serving drinks and keeping the conversation flowing, this also includes the critical task of keeping a princess company when her host leaves the table to attend to another customer requesting his attention.

RYU: Uh-huh.

(It sounds like backup duty is gonna be better for me than washing dishes…it might give me a shot at getting someone to switch their main to me.)

KiKi: Stealing princesses from other hosts is considered treachery—It is highly looked down upon.

🐰 Treachery: An act that is forbidden in the hosting business.

RYU: HH!?

KiKi: Getting yourself assigned to backup duty is not easy either.

Club NETHER operates on a team system that ensures backup is rotated within a group of hosts. This means that an individual host cannot assign themselves to a table at will.

🐰Team system: A business model in which popular hosts have multiple trainees at their disposal.

Take our #2, Director Nyúl for example. His team has 20 hosts at his disposal, making it the most popular group with half of our staff training beneath him.

On the other hand, #1 Utaro-sama’s eccentric personality means that he does not maintain team members for very long.

RYU: And which group are you in, KiKi?

KiKi: I am an independent newcomer, but I would recommend joining a team for new hosts that are looking for steady business.

On occasions when a duchess accompanies a princess visiting her main, you’ll have the opportunity to become the newcomer’s favoured host.

🐰Duchess: A new princess brought along by a friend.

RYU: So Nyúl and Utaro are my two options, huh…? Weren’t they ones acting like freaks for money last night?

KiKi: Nyúl-sama's unmatched sex-appeal and enthralling sadistic techniques make him appeal largely to maturer princesses. 

He has multiple wealthy VIPrincesses that seek out his company, so his methods have proven to be solid. 

🐰 VIPrincess: An invaluable princess that wants to be pampered with a lot of love.

RYU: Yeah right. I bet that scumbag is doing a whole lotta favours to get his sales that high.

🐰 Favours: Inappropriate relations with the customer.

KiKi: I cannot dispel your suspicions, but I’d like to note that Mr. Lu frequently reminds us of how favours reduce the value of a host. Personally, I believe the gossip about him to be untrue.

Of all the rumours surrounding Nyúl-sama, I find the talk of our competitor, RIDE ON, offering him a role at their establishment to be far more interesting.

RYU: (...That’s the place run by that ‘celebrity host talent’ RENGA guy ...whatever that means. So hosts can be snatched up by other clubs then?)

(There’s one more thing I’ve gotta ask…)

Utaro is the guy that eats carrots like a sicko, right? What’s someone like him doing at #1?

KiKi: Along with his unreplicable and unique charm, Utaro-sama stands out from the crowd with his exceptional use of social media.

That isn't to say that he spares any effort in his customer service, of course. In fact, his ability to utterly transfix new customers has earned him the nickname “Debutante Devourer”.

RYU: Even his nickname is disgusting.

KiKi: The princesses he ‘devours’ during their debutante visit act as fuel for him to grow even larger, allowing him to narrowly surpass Nyúl-sama and claim his spot as #1.

🐰 Debutante visit: A more relaxed experience offered to princesses on their first time at a club.

Next month he is going to be promoted to an ambassador, and will be placed in charge of our new location opening this coming summer.

🐰 Ambassador: The host that acts as the face of the club.

RYU: Ha, never in a million years would I’ve guessed those guys had so much power…

So, what about yourself? Why’re you working here?

KiKi: Mr. Lu took me under his protection after I was separated from my master and became adrift.

I am contributing to the club's income as a means of repaying his charity.

RYU: Uh-huh…

KiKi: And your story, RYU-sama…?

Nyúl: Oh, here’s where you’ve been hiding.

KiKi: Nyúl-sama. How may we help you?

Nyúl: I thought I’d give the new bunny a chance to go and play. This way, RYU, come join the backup at my table.

RYU: …Uh?

Nyúl: Madam, might you be wearing a new shade of red tonight? This hue, it reminds me of the type of carrots that I adore the most.

Classy Madam: Oh you! You’re such a charmer tonight, Nyúl!

Nyúl: How can I help myself when you try so hard to seduce me with those tricks of yours? Would you like me to illustrate your hidden desires on your behalf?

Classy Madam: My!! You’re too much!!!!

Smooth-Talking Host: If you were a carrot, you’d definitely be a baby one, ma’am! Right, RYU?

RYU: Ah, hahaha…you said it.

Classy Madam: …I don’t believe I’ve seen this boy before?

Nyúl: This is RYU, one of our new novices. Today marks his first day at work, and his very first time performing backup for another host ♪

Say, madam…won’t you lend me your ears?

Classy Madam: Ohohoho! Gladly!

Nyúl: 〰〰〰....Fetch us a case of canned carrot juice. Be quick with it, won’t you?

Supervisor: Yes, sir!

RYU: A case…?

Supervisor: Here you are, ma’am.

RYU: J-Jesus, how many is that…!?

Nyúl: A case—24 cans of carrot juice. My princess has kindly gifted it to you to celebrate such a special day.

Classy Madam: RYU, wasn’t it? Don’t be shy, I want to see you drink all 24.

RYU: I…

Classy Madam: Once you’ve finished them all, I’ll reward you with an SC that I’ll have your little mouth eat the direct-C way!

🥕 SC: Signature carrot. An individual host’s favourite carrot.

Nyúl: Here's to RYU’s very first night.

RYU: (...I’ve gotta do it. Finishing this means making money!!)

Thank you, ma’am…!!

RYU: *BLUUURRGHHHHー*

KiKi: Are you alright, RYU-sama?

RYU: Huff, huff…I think I just threw up my entire stomach…

KiKi: This is Uhta’s Isan, a stomach medicine. It’s a necessity in an industry like this, so I recommend you begin keeping some in your locker tomorrow.

RYU: Thanks…that’s good to know. You really are the only sane one around here, KiKi… 

Fuck, that pisses me off though…! I barely drank anything and it still felt like I walked through hell. At least the 2k I earned makes up for it a little…

Nyúl: —Fufu, naive, aren’t you?

RYU: !! Nyúl, you bastard! You’ve got some guts showing your face…!

Nyúl: You’ve made such an innocent mistake, but I’ll set the record straight for you.

The sales made by a table’s backup team goes straight to the main host—to me.

RYU: ……..it…what?

Y-You’re fucking with me…right? There’s no way I drank all that for free!?

Nyúl: Ahh, I knew that expression of yours wouldn’t disappoint.

RYU: Give me a fucking break, would you!! What the hell is your problem!?

Nyúl: You’re from the underground fighting ring, no?

RYU: …!

…Where’d you hear that.

Nyúl: Stray Bunny, they call you. The sight of your broken face after being battered in the ring is famous for screaming to the hearts of the sadists in the audience. You have quite the fan club, you know—myself included.

RYU: I’m never giving anyone the chance to see me like that again.

In fact, how ‘bout I make tears run down your face instead…

Ghg–!!

KiKi: …Come with me, RYU-sama.

Nyúl: Kuku…!

RYU: ~~~~~~~~~!!!!

Nyúl: That boy is just as riveting as I hoped he’d be. RYU…I can barely wait for the day when I can break you with my own hands.

Back | 🐰 | Next

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

Bibles, bullets and beef: Amazon cowboy culture at odds with Brazil’s climate goals

As the first climate summit in the Amazon approaches, a gulf is opening between what the area’s farming lobby wants, and what the world needs

Yellowstone in Montana may have the most romanticised cowboy culture in the world thanks to the TV drama series of the same name starring Kevin Costner. But the true home of the 21st-century cowboy is about 7,500 miles south, in what used to be the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, where the reality of raising cattle and producing beef is better characterised by depression, market pressure and vexed efforts to prevent the destruction of the land and its people.

The toll was apparent along the rutted PA 279 road in Pará state. Signs of human and environmental stress were not hard to find during the last dry season. Record drought had dried up irrigation ponds and burned pasture grass down to the roots, leaving emaciated cattle behind the fences. Exposed red soil was whipped up into dust devils as SUVs and cattle trucks sped past on their way between Xinguara and São Félix do Xingu, which is home to both the biggest herd on the planet and the fastest erasure of forest in the Amazon.

Later this year, Pará will host the Cop30 climate conference, which would be an ideal moment for Brazil to demonstrate progress on a new system to track livestock and reduce emissions from deforestation. That system should be completed by the end of 2026. But few ranchers believe this will happen because of the huge gulf between what locals want and what the world needs.

The first ranchers here were once told they were heroes for opening new economic frontiers. But the climate crisis has dealt a triple blow to their reputation and their livelihoods: not only has it become harder to feed and water their livestock, they now face criticism for wrecking a biodiverse pillar of the global environment while also bearing the brunt of conflicting demands from multinational food corporations to provide food that is both economically cheap and ecologically ethical.

Continue reading.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

New SpaceTime out Monday

SpaceTime 20250106 Series 28 Episode 3

More on the fastest man made object in history

Mission operations teams have confirmed NASA's mission to "touch" the sun survived its record-breaking closest approach to the solar surface on December 24.

Ultraluminous X-ray sources retain their mystery

Astronomers studying a mysterious object known as an ultraluminous X-ray source. have detected unusual flaring activity.

A possible link between the Sun’s solar cycle and La Nina weather patterns

A new study shows a correlation between the end of the Sun’s 11 year solar cycle and a switch from El Nino to La Nina conditions in the Pacific Ocean.

The Science Report

Ambient air pollution linked to a higher risk of hospitalisation for schizophrenia.

Eating more fruit and vegetables could help reduce depression.

A 166 million year old dinosaur trackway uncovered in a Oxfordshire limestone quarry.

Skeptics guide to UFO exposure day turns into another flop.

SpaceTime covers the latest news in astronomy & space sciences.

The show is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Apple Podcasts (itunes), Stitcher, Google Podcast, Pocketcasts, SoundCloud, Bitez.com, YouTube, your favourite podcast download provider, and from www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

SpaceTime is also broadcast through the National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio and on both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

SpaceTime daily news blog: http://spacetimewithstuartgary.tumblr.com/

SpaceTime facebook: www.facebook.com/spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime Instagram @spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime twitter feed @stuartgary

SpaceTime YouTube: @SpaceTimewithStuartGary

SpaceTime -- A brief history

SpaceTime is Australia’s most popular and respected astronomy and space science news program – averaging over two million downloads every year. We’re also number five in the United States.  The show reports on the latest stories and discoveries making news in astronomy, space flight, and science.  SpaceTime features weekly interviews with leading Australian scientists about their research.  The show began life in 1995 as ‘StarStuff’ on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) NewsRadio network.  Award winning investigative reporter Stuart Gary created the program during more than fifteen years as NewsRadio’s evening anchor and Science Editor.  Gary’s always loved science. He studied astronomy at university and was invited to undertake a PHD in astrophysics, but instead focused on his career in journalism and radio broadcasting. Gary’s radio career stretches back some 34 years including 26 at the ABC. He worked as an announcer and music DJ in commercial radio, before becoming a journalist and eventually joining ABC News and Current Affairs. He was part of the team that set up ABC NewsRadio and became one of its first on air presenters. When asked to put his science background to use, Gary developed StarStuff which he wrote, produced and hosted, consistently achieving 9 per cent of the national Australian radio audience based on the ABC’s Nielsen ratings survey figures for the five major Australian metro markets: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.  The StarStuff podcast was published on line by ABC Science -- achieving over 1.3 million downloads annually.  However, after some 20 years, the show finally wrapped up in December 2015 following ABC funding cuts, and a redirection of available finances to increase sports and horse racing coverage.  Rather than continue with the ABC, Gary resigned so that he could keep the show going independently.  StarStuff was rebranded as “SpaceTime”, with the first episode being broadcast in February 2016.  Over the years, SpaceTime has grown, more than doubling its former ABC audience numbers and expanding to include new segments such as the Science Report -- which provides a wrap of general science news, weekly skeptical science features, special reports looking at the latest computer and technology news, and Skywatch – which provides a monthly guide to the night skies. The show is published three times weekly (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday) and available from the United States National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio, and through both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

[compareandreview]

​

​​Planning to sell physical or digital products online and want to create a website for it in the FASTEST way?

​​If you're starting your e-commerce journey and feeling overwhelmed by all the platform options—don't worry, you're not alone. Two names dominate the conversation: Shopify and WordPress (with WooCommerce).

​​

​​But which one is truly better for newbies, beginners, and dropshippers looking to launch fast and sell efficiently?

​​Let’s break it down and get straight to the point—especially if you're here to build a business, not fiddle with tech headaches.

​​

​​Shopify: Built for E-Commerce from the Ground Up

​​Shopify is a dedicated e-commerce platform. That means everything from product setup to payments, themes, and shipping is purpose-built for one thing: selling online.

​​ Why Shopify is Great for Beginners

​​Zero Coding Required: Just drag, drop, and start selling. Perfect for people who want results, not tutorials.

​​

​​3-Day Free Trial: You can start today and be up and running in hours. ​​

Sign up for Shopify’s FREE trial with this link -

https://shopify.pxf.io/QjzmOa

​​

​​Fast Setup: No plugins, no server setup, no manual installation. Just sign up and start building.

​​

​​Designed for Dropshipping: Integrates easily with apps like DSers, Zendrop, CJdropshipping, and more.

​​

​​Mobile-Optimized: Your store will look great on any device—without touching a line of code.

​​

​​24/7 Support: Real-time help from actual people when you get stuck.

​​Sign up for a Shopify FREE TRIAL Here at ​​https://shopify.pxf.io/QjzmOa

​​

​​WordPress (WooCommerce): Powerful, But Not Beginner-Friendly

​​WordPress is an amazing platform... if you're building a blog or you’re already experienced with web development. But for e-commerce newbies, it can feel like you're building a house from scratch.

​

​​ Why WordPress Might Be a Struggle for Beginners

​​Complex Setup: You'll need to buy hosting, install WordPress, then install WooCommerce, then configure it all manually.

​​Plugin Overload: Want a feature? You’ll likely need to install a plugin. And another. And another. Then update them constantly.

​​Security Risks: If you don’t stay on top of updates and patches, your site could be vulnerable.

​​Slow Support: There’s no dedicated support team—just forums or your hosting provider.

​​Not Built for E-commerce First: WordPress is a blogging tool at heart.

​​WooCommerce makes it work for selling, but it’s not seamless.

​​

​​

​​So Which One Should You Choose?

​​If you're:

​​A beginner with no coding experience,

​​A dropshipper who wants fast supplier integration,

​​Or just someone who wants to get your first product online this week, not next month...

​​Go with Shopify.

​​It’s clean, easy to use, beginner-friendly, and built to sell. You won’t waste time on tech issues—you’ll spend time building a brand.

​​Pro Tip: You can start with a 3-day free trial and see how easy it is. No risk, no commitment.

​​

​​Sign up for a Shopify FREE TRIAL Here - ​​https://shopify.pxf.io/QjzmOa

​​ Manual Setup

​​Shopify was made for people just like you—dreamers and doers ready to launch something real.

​​Don’t get stuck in tech setup and plugin chaos.

​​

[rock-swag-tournament]

Rock Swag Tournament Round 1: Igneous Rocks Part 9

This is a matchup I've been looking forward to because both of these rocks do not currently form on earth, which is so cool.

Remember Bowen's Reaction Series? (Find it here, along with other igneous rock information). It tells us that certain minerals (particularly those with a lot of silica) require less heat to become molten. Meanwhile, our ultramafic minerals take a lot of heat to do the same.

Well, right now, the earth is plenty hot enough to melt mafic and felsic magmas. However, the earth has been cooling down over its 4.5 billion years of being a planet. Of course, the atmosphere is undoubtedly heating up due to human activity as we sit here and read this, but both the atmosphere AND the inside of the earth used to be much hotter. And it's a good thing, because if earth didn't cool off, we would all be super dead.

And so, a consequence of the earth cooling down is that ultramafic magmas really don't erupt anymore, which means ultramafic igneous rocks don't form anymore!

Komatiite specifically contains a lot of mangesium, and often shows spinifex texture, which is when olivine forms needle-like (acicular) grains.

And here's a word on kimberlite from out submitter (who also provided the picture at the top of the poll):

Type of peridotite that erupts from deep mantle sources in the form of diatremes (basically inverted volcano cones that are holes in the ground, sometimes called pipes). Commonly hosts diamonds bc it hits the diamond stability zone inside the mantle on the way up, but also brings up other xenoliths. Composition is mainly forsterite olivine [magnesium-rich olivine] and carbonates. When kimberlite magmas erupt they are extremely explosive due to the insane amounts of volatiles in it (one research calculated an ascent rate of 30 m/sec in comparison to Hawaiian type volcanoes having an ascent rate of 1.7 m/sec as its fastest...so that is CRAZY FAST). It's named after the Kimberly mines where it was first discovered BTW

And here's a kimberlite with a big ol' diamond.

And that's all from me unless anyone has questions :)

[lodhawakad]

Lodha Wakad Pune: Premium Residential Project in a Prime Location

Lodha Wakad Pune is an upcoming premium residential project in one of the city's most sought-after locations. Known for its world-class amenities, strategic location, and luxurious living spaces, this project redefines the concept of modern urban living. With a focus on comfort, convenience, and connectivity, Lodha Wakad Pune is designed to cater to the needs of families, professionals, and investors looking for high returns in Pune's thriving real estate market.

Location Advantage of Lodha Wakad Pune

Wakad is one of Pune’s fastest-growing suburbs, offering excellent infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and a vibrant social environment. Lodha Wakad enjoys proximity to key locations such as:

Hinjewadi IT Park – A major employment hub for IT and software professionals.

Mumbai-Pune Expressway – Ensuring quick access to Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

Educational institutions – Reputed schools and colleges like Indira College, Akshara International School, and Orchid School are within easy reach.

Healthcare facilities – Top hospitals such as Aditya Birla Hospital and Ruby Hall Clinic are nearby.

Shopping and entertainment – Malls, multiplexes, and shopping centers like Phoenix Marketcity and Xion Mall enhance the lifestyle experience.

Lodha Wakad Pune Project Overview

Lodha Wakad Pune offers 2 BHK and 3 BHK premium residences, crafted with contemporary designs and world-class specifications. Each home is designed to provide ample ventilation, natural light, and optimal space utilization, ensuring an elegant and functional living experience.

Key Features of Lodha Wakad Project

Spacious and well-designed apartments with premium fittings.

Gated community with 24/7 security and advanced surveillance.

Eco-friendly infrastructure with rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient designs.

High-speed elevators, power backup, and ample parking space.

Smart home features for a seamless and modern lifestyle.

World-Class Amenities at Lodha Wakad Pune

Lodha Wakad offers a host of amenities that elevate the living experience for residents:

Swimming pool with a deck area for relaxation.

State-of-the-art gymnasium for fitness enthusiasts.

Clubhouse and community hall for social gatherings and events.

Landscaped gardens and walking tracks for a serene living environment.

Dedicated kids’ play area for children's entertainment.

Sports facilities including tennis, basketball, and cricket practice nets.

Meditation and yoga zone to promote a healthy and peaceful lifestyle.

Lodha Wakad Pune: Floor Plans and Pricing

Lodha Wakad offers well-planned 2 BHK and 3 BHK apartments to suit different family sizes and budget preferences. The pricing is competitive, ensuring high value for money and great investment potential.

2 BHK Apartments – Spacious and efficiently designed, ideal for small families and professionals.

3 BHK Apartments – Larger units for families looking for extra space and luxury.

Premium Penthouses – Exclusive units offering breathtaking views and opulent living spaces.

Investment Potential of Lodha Wakad Project

Wakad is a high-demand residential and commercial area, making Lodha Wakad Project an excellent investment choice. The locality has seen consistent appreciation in property values, and with upcoming infrastructure developments, the returns are expected to grow even further. Some key reasons to invest include:

Proximity to IT hubs – Attracting a growing population of professionals.

Rising rental demand – Ensuring lucrative rental income for investors.

Strong infrastructure growth – With metro connectivity and road expansions in progress.

Connectivity and Transport Facilities

Lodha Wakad Pune enjoys seamless connectivity to key locations in Pune and beyond:

Metro Connectivity – The Pune Metro expansion will further boost accessibility.

Well-developed road network – Smooth connectivity to Baner, Balewadi, and Pimple Saudagar.

Pune Railway Station – Located just a short drive away.

Pune International Airport – Ensuring easy domestic and international travel.

Why Choose Lodha Wakad Pune?

Reputed Developer – Lodha Group is known for delivering world-class projects with top-notch construction quality.

Prime Location – Wakad is one of the most rapidly developing areas in Pune, offering a well-balanced lifestyle.

Luxurious Living Spaces – Thoughtfully designed residences with modern amenities.

High Return on Investment – A promising real estate opportunity with rising property values.

Sustainable and Smart Living – Green features, smart home technology, and top-tier security measures.

Conclusion

Lodha Wakad Pune is a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and investment potential. Whether you are looking for a dream home or a profitable real estate investment, this project is an ideal choice. With its strategic location, premium features, and excellent connectivity, Lodha Wakad Pune sets a new benchmark for upscale urban living.

If you're planning to invest in a premium residential project in Pune, Lodha Wakad should be at the top of your list. Secure your future in a vibrant, well-connected, and luxurious community today!

[mannmaterials]

The Rise of Pickleball: Why Entrepreneurs Should Add Courts to Their Offerings

Pickleball has transformed from a modest backyard activity to one of the fastest-growing sports in North America. With its blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, it’s easy to see why pickleball is attracting players of all ages and backgrounds. In fact, the sport saw a staggering 21.3% growth in 2022 alone, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), bringing the total number of participants to over 36 million. As this trend continues, entrepreneurs in various industries—from resorts and malls to parks and schools—are beginning to recognize the power of incorporating pickleball courts into their offerings.

But here’s the key to success: adding pickleball to your business model is only possible through the use of portable pickleball courts.

Why Is Pickleball Booming?

The appeal of pickleball lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Unlike other racquet sports, it’s easy for beginners to pick up, yet competitive enough to keep seasoned athletes engaged. With games typically played on smaller courts and with less demanding rules, it’s a sport that both the young and old can enjoy. It’s no wonder that pickleball has become a hit among multi-generational families, senior communities, and people looking for a fun, low-impact exercise option.

The growth of pickleball is not just anecdotal; it’s backed by impressive statistics. In addition to the 21.3% participation growth in 2022, the sport’s growth rate is four times higher than that of tennis. Industry reports show that more than 4,000 new pickleball courts were constructed across the U.S. in 2022 alone, with the total number of courts now exceeding 12,000 nationwide. These numbers highlight a significant shift in recreational trends, where people are gravitating towards activities that are both fun and accessible.

Why Entrepreneurs Should Capitalize on the Pickleball Trend

For entrepreneurs looking to attract new customers or engage existing ones, adding pickleball courts to their offerings can be a game-changer. Here’s why:

1. A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Many businesses, especially in hospitality, entertainment, and retail, are looking for ways to stand out. A pickleball court can serve as a unique attraction, especially in areas where the sport is still gaining popularity. Whether you’re operating a resort, a shopping mall, or a local park, offering pickleball courts is an innovative way to distinguish yourself from competitors.

2. Appealing to a Broad Demographic

One of the biggest advantages of pickleball is its wide appeal. From children to retirees, people of all ages enjoy playing. In fact, according to a recent AARP report, 70% of pickleball players are over the age of 50. This multi-generational interest makes pickleball a valuable amenity for resorts, community centers, and senior living facilities looking to cater to a wide range of guests.

3. Increased Engagement and Revenue Potential

Pickleball offers an engaging activity that encourages longer stays, whether it's at a resort or a public park. By providing a fun and competitive environment, businesses can attract guests who might stay longer, dine at local restaurants, or shop for longer periods. Many venues also charge fees for court reservations or host tournaments with entry fees, opening up new revenue streams. Furthermore, local businesses can partner to sponsor pickleball events, creating additional marketing and sales opportunities.

4. A Social and Community-Focused Activity

Pickleball is not just a sport—it’s a social experience. Whether you’re playing with family, friends, or strangers, it fosters community interaction. For entrepreneurs, this means that pickleball courts can help create a vibrant, social atmosphere at your location. Organizing events, tournaments, or social play times can increase foot traffic and encourage repeat visits, all while strengthening your relationship with your customer base.

The Role of Portable Pickleball Courts

While the benefits of adding pickleball courts to a business are clear, one major challenge remains: space. Many entrepreneurs are hesitant to add permanent pickleball courts due to high construction costs and the need for dedicated space. Fortunately, portable pickleball courts offer a flexible and cost-effective solution.

Portable courts can be set up and taken down in a matter of hours, making them ideal for locations that want to maximize their space without a long-term commitment. These courts can be placed in parking lots, unused event spaces, or even large shopping malls. Whether your business has a large outdoor area or limited space indoors, portable courts provide the flexibility to add pickleball to your offerings without extensive renovations or investments.

For example, a shopping mall could temporarily install portable courts during a busy season or at special events to attract new customers. A park could host weekend tournaments, drawing in families and sports enthusiasts. The possibilities are endless, and with portable pickleball courts, businesses can tap into this trend without the need for major infrastructure changes.

Final Thoughts

As the popularity of pickleball continues to soar, there’s never been a better time for entrepreneurs to consider adding pickleball courts to their offerings. Whether you’re looking to attract a broader demographic, create new revenue streams, or provide a unique social experience, portable pickleball courts offer the flexibility and cost-efficiency needed to tap into this rapidly growing trend. By embracing pickleball, you’re not just offering an activity—you’re creating an experience that will draw people in and keep them coming back.

If you’re an entrepreneur looking to stay ahead of the curve and add something special to your business, it’s time to consider the rise of pickleball and the opportunity it presents.

[opendrive134]

https://www.opendrive.com/file-hosting-with-opendriveopen drive is the popular choice to provide affordable free unlimited web hosting. Our hosting was independently tested and found to be the fastest free hosting in the world.

[xpertsclick26]

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Stockholm Wrap-Up: Tips and Tricks

My time in Stockholm has come to an end. I am now waiting for my co-op to begin! The past semester has been a wonderful 4 months that I will never forget. 

I gathered a few tips and tricks for people planning to study abroad! I couldn’t find lots of information specific to Stockholm when I was searching for info, so I thought this could help future students. 

Hope you enjoyed my TMI posts, and thank you again for reading/glancing/trying to read them until Tumblr told you to create an account! 

The following notes are solely subjective to me so take them as suggestions, not facts!

Basics of Sweden

People: 

Very reserved but nice when you ask something 

Almost everyone speaks English 

Places: 

Everyone is entitled to their freedom to roam around - basically, you can go anywhere except for private property 

Culture: 

Fika = a break with coffee and pastry

Sweden seriously recycles! Make sure you follow all the rules and throw away the right stuff at the right place 

Through the pant system, you can get money back from empty cans/bottles. ICA usually has the pant machines so make use of them and get your money back! 

Transportation: 

Information on Google Maps is accurate

People are generally silent in public places, including the streets 

Public transportation (run by SL) is well-distributed and punctual in Stockholm

Metro comes every 5 minutes or so. It runs until late at night around 12 am or 2 am 

High-speed trains are mostly free but if you go past a certain point you need to pay an extra fee, so ask the representative in the stations OR check the map OR check the SL app 

Buses

Night buses run every day and are free with the SL card that DIS gives you 

Trams 

Ferries 

To and from Arlanda airport: 

Arlanda Express - high-speed train

18 mins + alpha to/from your house

Fastest to T-Centralen but a little expensive 

Does not run throughout the night 

~$16 one way 

~$32 roundtrip 

Flygbussarna - bus 

40-50 mins total 

Bus stations are distributed throughout Stockholm so you can get on and off at desired stops 

Runs all throughout the night 

~$15 one way (to/from Hornstull)

~$27 roundtrip (to/from Hornstull)

Money: 

10 SEK is a little less than $1

Swedish crowns = Kroner = SEK

Almost all the stores are cashless - wireless tap or cards are the norms 

ICA, The System (national alcohol stores), and flea markets are some of the only places that take cash 

DIS program

Gives unlimited public transportation card, three 200 SEK worth of ICA gift cards for groceries 

Attend the DIS-hosted events if you can! They offer diverse programs for free. The following are some examples: 

Sip & Paint - fika while you paint! 

Bowling night 

Ice skating

Billiards/arcade night 

Ticket to dance performances 

Picnic

Yoga session 

Visits to museums 

Guided tour to castles like Gripsholm 

DIS Festival is the last event of the semester that lasts about 2 hours where you can present your learnings, enjoy stations like a photo booth, eat catered food, and hope to win the raffle  

Suggestions 

Start learning the basics of Swedish through apps in advance! Duolingo was mainly how I learned Swedish 

Hi = hej (hey)

Bye = hey då (hey do)

Thank you = tack (tac)

Thank you so much = tack så mycket (tac-so-micket)

Sorry = förlåt (fur-lat)

Excuse me = ursäkta (ooh-shak-ta)

Go out and explore the city whenever you can! Get that vitamin D

Traveling: 

Main airlines: 

Ryanair: cheapest flights that are good for weekend trips with a backpack. It can be strict with the backpack size so ensure that your bag fits the size requirements. You need to buy every little thing you can think of, even water  

I heard Easyjet is similar to Ryanair

SAS youth: high-quality service with a cheaper price if you are between 12-25 years old. The seats run out very quickly so book in advance!

If flights get delayed for 3+ hours, SAS provides monetary compensation (a lot more than you think) so check it out if your flight gets delayed or canceled 

Norwegian: I personally didn’t fly Norwegian but I heard good things about it 

KLM: usually expensive 

If traveling with friends, an app called Tricount is very useful to sort out all the money stuff. You can enter who paid how much for every single occasion and at the end of the trip, it gives you a suggestion on who should pay how much to whom 

What To Bring: 

Bring a wide range of clothing - you will experience all four seasons during your one semester in Stockholm!

Winter suits: thick jackets, gloves, scarfs, hats

Swimsuits: Don’t forget to bring swimsuits for sauna/polar plunging in Stockholm and beaches during your academic/personal travels!

Fanny pack: it was very useful when I was traveling to places known for pickpocketing (London, Barcelona, Italy, etc.)  

Travel-size bottles! 

Many Airbnbs and hostels did not have shampoo/conditioner, so I always carried around shampoo and conditioner in mini-containers (under 100 mL). They are useful for skin care products too!

International Travel Adapter 

Plug types are all different in Sweden, United Kingdom, Malta, Italy, France

Check before you travel! 

Hygiene product information for girls 

The tampons that they sell here are very small 

I didn’t see any stores selling big pads, so I’d bring enough for an entire semester

What Not To Bring: 

Toiletries were surprisingly very cheap in Stockholm: cotton pads, toothbrushes, floss, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, etc. No need to bring them if you don’t have enough room! 

Normal was my go-to store for these products 

Where To Study: 

Espresso House - the most popular chain in Stockholm imo

Wifi, charging stations

Good smoothies (mango chia is my fav) and pastries (cheesecakes, croissants, Kanelbulle) 

Wayne's - similar chain

Wifi, more charging stations

A lot of people chatting or studying 

Illy - chain with chill studying vibes 

Wifi can be a little goofy sometimes 

Good studying atmosphere - everyone is working on a laptop 

Avocado sandwich is good 

Where To Go: 

For grocery shopping/basic goods: 

ICA: $600 gift card that DIS gave me lasted me the whole semester! I cooked and bought groceries with my roommate, so we technically had $1200 together for one semester

BUT I ate out a couple of times each month and traveled a lot so if this is not the case you might run out quickly! 

Normal: they sell a lot of basic goods ranging from toiletries to stationery to snacks. It is not too expensive either so if you want something small but don’t know where to go, I’d check out Normal after ICA! 

IKEA: We went just for fun and sometimes for food. Cheap Swedish meatballs and 70-cent vanilla ice cream make the visit worth it! 

Go thrifting - there are lots of options! Many thrift stores are located side-by-side in Slussen, T-Centralen, and Mariatorget. Keep in mind that there are some vintage stores, but they are generally expensive (average $40). Read the descriptions of each store below if you are interested. This list of thrift stores is in ascending order by price: 

Myrona & Humana: both are chains that sell clothes on the cheaper side. I loved to look around the wide selection even if I had nothing to buy in mind 

Artikel2: the one I went to was huge - there were lots of jean products 

Stockholm Stadsmission: a chain with reasonable price and quality. You can find lots of gems when you spend time digging! 

Arkivet: a higher-end second-hand store with abundant high-quality clothes such as Tommy Hilfiger, COACH, BOSS, COS, etc. The one in T-Centralen is my personal favorite! I suggest this store if you’re looking for durable clothes like trench coats, jackets, etc. The expensive clothes are much cheaper than the original price, but the clothes that are usually cheap (ZARA/H&M) are a bit overpriced 

Check out museums - the following list is in descending order of preference: 

Paradox Museum: plenty of photo spots! I’d suggest going with someone else so that you can take photos of each other 

Tekniska Museet: a lot of science and technology stuff, but it’s not boring - it is a multistory building with innumerable interactive activities. Don’t forget to check out the video game rooms on the top floor!

Banksy (pop-up): Banksy’s artwork illustrates the political and historical issues through Banksy’s perspective 

Fotografiska: exhibitions switch every few months: I loved Rinko Kawauchi’s photo collection! 

Skansen: open-air museum with reindeer and historical housings! It is hugeeee so spare some time if planning on going here

Vasa Museum: museum with a well-preserved 17th-century ship that got salvaged 

ABBA Museum: The museum is smaller than I expected, especially when it is on the more expensive side. However, there were a few interactive activities (dancing stage, karaoke stations, silent headphone dancing spot, etc.) and numerous photo spots!

For people who love nightlife - check out the following list: 

Cafe Opera: nightclub 

Secret Garden: gay bar in Gamla Stan

Liffey: Irish pub in Gamla Stan that has live music and karaoke 

RoQ: bar with arcade games 

Beer and play: casual drinking bar - a lot of DIS students went on Tuesdays to drink beer and socialize 

Avoid Time bar: the $15 cocktails are good but there are too many old men who approach young girls :((  

Wander around in… 

Gamla Stan: I can’t emphasize my love for Gamla Stan enough; as the old town, they have a lot of historical buildings and museums in addition to rows of souvenir stores and cafes. There are a myriad of small paths (+ the narrowest street in Sweden) you could take - I loved getting lost in Gamla Stan! 

Fika and Wine - good authentic Swedish food: meatballs are very good 

PANEM - my absolute favorite dessert cafe! The mango mousse cake is one of the best desserts I’ve ever tasted 

Monteliusvägen: This is a perfect spot in Mariatorget to enjoy a view of the city while you take a leisurely walk. I went there multiple times with friends and on my own. It's the perfect place to have your sunlight intake!

Rosendals Trädgård (Garden): Although it’s a bit far away from the center of Stockholm (on an island that also has Skansen and Grona Lund amusement park), it is a place you need to visit in the spring. Little stores sell postcards (I was about to buy 5 but I realized I’m broke and only bought 1; however, I am regretting my choice right now. If I could go back I would buy all of the ones I picked out), keyrings (I bought four acorn keyrings for my family), vases, etc. There are greenhouse-looking cafes where you can eat food and desserts. And don’t forget to smell and take pictures at the flower gardens!

Kungsträdgården: ice skating in winter and cherry blossom festival in spring!

More places to visit in Sweden: 

City hall 

Stockholm Public Library 

Gröna Lund = amusement park

Westfield Scandinavia = mall 

Stockholm Observatory 

Archipelago 

Östermalms Saluhall = food hall 

Day trip to Uppsala 

What To Eat: 

Burger

MAX - Swedish burger chain 

More popular than McDonalds! 

There are a ton of vegan/vegetarian options - and I heard they are good 

Sweet potato fries are gas 

Brödernas - Hamburger restaurant 

Right next to the DIS Stockholm building

Outdoor sitting is a must in spring! 

Top sweet potato fries 

Pasta

Florentine - Italian pasta/pizza place

The pasta here is sooooo good 

Cocktails are fabulous too: Florentine on the Beach is my favorite 

Carls Deli - Italian restaurant 

After eating their pasta I agreed with the 4.8-star rating on Google Maps

In a food hall in T-Centralen 

Very busy all the time! 

Japanese: 

Noburu - best sushi for reasonable prices 

Near DIS Building (about 10 minute walk)

DELICIOUS food and AESTHETIC plating

Dry ice for decor 0_0

IPIN - cheap and good Japanese food

Near Hornstull 

Everything was around $10 

Ramen, sushi, and donburi were all good!

Sushi Yama - a chain where you can select nigiri types

Nigiris are small but delicious 

You can choose quantity and type of nigiri - I recommend grilled salmon; it literally melts in your mouth 

Matchaya - ramen and bubble tea

Close to DIS (about 15 minute walk)

Good ramen (I suggest the miso base)

Love their fruit bubble tea

TooGoodToGo - you can get leftover food that would’ve gone to waste at the end of the day for cheap prices! 

Happy Sweet Potato - bubble tea

I got 3 different bubble teas on top of a cup full of coconut jellies + pudding for less than $8

It sells out rapidly so I’d set a timer and snatch the deal when it opens 

ICA - groceries OR fruits and veggies OR bread

I only ordered bread here but I’ve noticed that the other options run out fast 

Got a bag for less than $5 if I remember correctly

Good for students who need sandwich bread + want pastries like croissants and vanilla/chocolate bread

Bakery Hornstull - bread OR cake

I love the owner couple… They’re so sweet and kind

I got 4 paper bags filled with all sorts of bread - there were a lot of big bread/sandwich bread though  

When I bought a cake for approximately $7, she let me choose between two cakes (we usually don’t get to pick)  

Eataly - pizza

My friends did it here and got three pieces of pizza for $3 

I missed my chance but you could do it! 

Desserts 

PANEM - pastries (!!! Mango mousse cake !!!)

PLEASE try the mango mousse cake if you like not TOO sweet fruity desserts

Alcohol 

You can only purchase alcohol from The System, which is owned by the government - US ID like driver’s license works sometimes 

Briska pear cider is extremely popular for a reason 

All the ciders I tasted in Sweden were good but I especially liked Somersby ciders 

This is all I can think of! 

The four months in Stockholm reminded me what life really is, what I enjoy, what I am comfortable with, what I need to work on, and how I want to live my life. 

I am so grateful for all the opportunities and support I have received. Now, it is time for me to move on and enter a new stage in life. I’ll be looking back on these precious memories whenever I need a refresher :) 

I genuinely loved studying abroad, especially in Stockholm. I hope you had fun reading these weekly posts as well! 

Thank you and goodbye, 

Jiwoo Kim

Chemical Engineering

DIS Study Abroad in Stockholm, Sweden

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Extreme supersonic winds measured on a planet outside our solar system

Astronomers have discovered extremely powerful winds pummeling the equator of WASP-127b, a giant exoplanet. Reaching speeds up to 33,000 km/h, the winds make up the fastest jet stream of its kind ever measured on a planet. The discovery was made using the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (ESO's VLT) in Chile and provides unique insights into the weather patterns of a distant world.

Tornados, cyclones and hurricanes wreak havoc on Earth, but scientists have now detected planetary winds on an entirely different scale, far outside the solar system. Ever since its discovery in 2016, astronomers have been investigating the weather on WASP-127b, a giant gas planet located more than 500 light-years from Earth.

The planet is slightly larger than Jupiter, but has only a fraction of its mass, making it "puffy." An international team of astronomers have now made an unexpected discovery: supersonic winds are raging on the planet.

"Part of the atmosphere of this planet is moving towards us at a high velocity while another part is moving away from us at the same speed," says Lisa Nortmann, a scientist at the University of Göttingen, Germany, and lead author of the study. "This signal shows us that there is a very fast, supersonic, jet wind around the planet's equator."

At 9 km per second (which is close to a whopping 33,000 km/h), the jet winds move at nearly six times the speed at which the planet rotates. "This is something we haven't seen before," says Nortmann. It is the fastest wind ever measured in a jet stream that goes around a planet. In comparison, the fastest wind ever measured in the solar system was found on Neptune, moving at "only" 0.5 km per second (1,800 km/h).

The team, whose research was published today in Astronomy & Astrophysics, mapped the weather and make-up of WASP-127b using the CRIRES+ instrument on ESO's VLT. By measuring how the light of the host star travels through the planet's upper atmosphere, they managed to trace its composition. Their results confirm the presence of water vapor and carbon monoxide molecules in the planet's atmosphere.

But when the team tracked the speed of this material in the atmosphere, they observed—much to their surprise—a double peak, indicating that one side of the atmosphere is moving towards us and the other away from us at high speed. The researchers conclude that powerful jet stream winds around the equator would explain this unexpected result.

Further building up their weather map, the team also found that the poles are cooler than the rest of the planet. There is also a slight temperature difference between the morning and evening sides of WASP-127b. "This shows that the planet has complex weather patterns just like Earth and other planets of our own system," adds Fei Yan, a co-author of the study and a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China.

The field of exoplanet research is rapidly advancing. Up until a few years ago, astronomers could measure only the mass and the radius of planets outside the solar system. Today, telescopes like ESO's VLT already allow scientists to map the weather on these distant worlds and analyze their atmospheres.

"Understanding the dynamics of these exoplanets helps us explore mechanisms such as heat redistribution and chemical processes, improving our understanding of planet formation and potentially shedding light on the origins of our own solar system," says David Cont from the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany, and a co-author of the paper.

Interestingly, at present, studies like this can only be done by ground-based observatories, as the instruments currently on space telescopes do not have the necessary velocity precision. ESO's Extremely Large Telescope—which is under construction close to the VLT in Chile—and its ANDES instrument will allow researchers to delve even deeper into the weather patterns on far-away planets.

"This means that we can likely resolve even finer details of the wind patterns and expand this research to smaller, rocky planets," Nortmann concludes.

IMAGE: This artist's visualization of WASP-127b, a giant gas planet located about 520 light-years from Earth, shows its newly discovered supersonic jet winds that move around the planet's equator. Credit: ESO/L. Calçada