Posts made in November 2021

RZA × Z2 Comics

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RZA Announces Forthcoming Graphic Novel Bobby Digital and The Pit Of Snakes via Z2 Comics

RZA has today proudly announced that he is bringing his exceptional storytelling skills to the comic book medium with the announcement of Bobby Digital and the Pit of Snakes, an original graphic novel to be released in 2022.

The founding member of the multimedia supergroup The Wu-Tang Clan first introduced the world to his alter-ego with the 1998 album Bobby Digital in Stereo, with lush digital orchestral sounds and inventive beats, putting the rapper’s love of comic books on full display through its concept and execution. Now, exactly 23 years since its original release, RZA announces a partnership with Z2 Comics to give the character a story in the medium which inspired his creation.

RZA says “Out of all my creative personas and alter egos Bobby Digital is probably the best fit, for comics and graphic novels. It’s a pleasure for me to collaborate with Z2 Comics and bring this lush world of creativity into the comic space. The readers are going to be hit with something they never seen coming. Bong – Bong.”

Who are you, what is real? This is the question Bobby Digital is seeking to answer. Embracing his id, ego and superego he embarks on a quest to figure out the nature of his reality and himself. He will be ambushed by enemies unknown, he will be tried in ways most men can’t endure. Will he be victorious? Most of all, will he survive the Pit of Snakes?! From the mind of the legendary RZA, Bobby Digital and The Pit of Snakes will coincide with the relaunch of the iconic character and be synced to music that will melt your mind.

Z2 Publisher and CEO Josh Frankel says “RZA has always shown himself to be a Swiss Army Knife of creativity, elevating every medium he touches, and to be able to help bring an already existing comic/music hybrid such as Bobby Digital to the page is amazing. I think everyone will be equally amazed at the result.”

Bobby Digital and the Pit of Snakes pairs RZA with White Noise Studios member Ryan O’Sullivan, whose last collaboration with Poppy was widely celebrated by fans and critics alike, with Sound & Fury artist Vasilis Lolos rounding out the team to bring the world of Bobby Digital to life. The book will be released in both softcover and hardcover formats in finer bookstores, comic shops and record stores everywhere in May 2022, with special limited deluxe and super deluxe versions available to preorder now exclusively through the Z2 website.

About Z2 Comics:

Z2 Comics is the premier destination for official music-related graphic novels, created in partnership with top-tier artists, musicians, directors and pop-culture icons. Distributed globally via Simon & Schuster, Z2 has collaborated with such diverse artists as Blondie, Cheech & Chong, Elvis Presley, Freddie Mercury, Joan Jett, Motley Crue, Ivan Moody, Gorillaz, Machine Gun Kelly, Sublime, Yungblud, Cypress Hill, Babymetal, Major Lazer, Rico Nasty and Alter Bridge as well as debut comic works by Grammy-nominated artists Sturgill Simpson and Poppy, as well as essential album tie-ins by The Doors, Anthrax, Public Enemy, Ronnie James Dio, King Diamond, and All Time Low. Additionally, the company has tapped top talent for the official graphic biographies of such pop-culture legends as The Grateful Dead, Beethoven, John Lee Hooker and Charlie “Bird” Parker.

About RZA:

Wu-Tang Clan mastermind Robert Diggs, best known as the RZA among several other pseudonyms, is one of hip-hop’s most revered, influential producers. With the group’s classic 1993 debut, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), he established their widely imitated core sound, consisting of stark, booming beats and chilling samples (heavily drawing from vintage soul records as well as kung fu movies), setting the backdrop for the crew’s gritty, violent narratives.

Following the album’s trailblazing success, Diggs participated in the pioneering horrorcore group the Gravediggaz, and produced the first wave of solo releases by his fellow Wu-Tang members. Starting with 1997’s Wu-Tang Forever, he concentrated less on producing Wu-Tang releases and devoted more time to his solo career, with the gold-selling debut by his alter ego Bobby Digital arriving in 1998.

He also successfully ventured into film and television work, beginning with his highly acclaimed score for Jim Jarmusch’s Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai (1999) and continuing with a lengthy string of soundtracks (Kill Bill Volume 1 & 2) and acting roles (American Gangster, Californication, Brick Mansions, The Dead Don’t Die). He made his directorial debut with 2012’s The Man with the Iron Fists, and has also directed Love Beats Rhymes (2017) and Cut Throat City (2020). RZA executively produced the Hulu original series Wu-Tang: An American Saga. He’s also written two books: The Wu-Tang Manual (2005) and The Tao Of Wu (2009).

Lights Announces “Baby I’m Back” Tour

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Alt-pop artist Lights has just announced the “Baby I’m Back” North American headline tour. The tour kicks off in Portland, OR on April 3, 2022, making stops in Los Angeles and NYC before closing in Toronto, Ontario on May 7. Presale tickets will be available for purchase on Wednesday, November 17 at 10 am local time. General on sale tickets are available on November 19 at 10 am local time. For tickets and more information on the tour visit www.iamlights.com.

Lights just returned with her new single and official video for Prodigal Daughter, which is the first track in her upcoming album which is expected to release in 2022. Lights’ unapologetic and honest nature pushes the boundaries of alt-pop music. Her alternative culture and music have been continuously rising with streams in the hundreds of millions. Throughout her career, Lights has collected multiple awards, sold out tours and has collaborated with artists like Travis Baker and Steve Aoki. With the release of her new single Prodigal Daughter, Lights has jumpstarted a new era.

Top Chefs of France’s Loire Valley

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The Loire Valley region of France is not only famous for being home to France’s most iconic chateaux and world-renowned wine, but is also home to astounding French gastronomy, earning its nickname of “the Garden of France.” Below is a snapshot of some of the region’s top chefs of the moment.

Christophe Hay

The most famous chef in the Loire Valley, Chef Christophe Hay was named 2021 Chef of the Year by the Gault & Millau guide. He currently holds two Michelin stars for his restaurant La Maison d’à Côté and one green star for his commitment to sustainable gastronomy, striving to promote the local terroir and producers. Chef Hay created his own permaculture vegetable garden, collaborating with a local conservatory to revive old plant varieties such as purple celery from Tours. In his kitchen, plants are at the heart of the plate. In addition, the chef owns a farm of 60 Wagyu oxen near Angers, and sources caviar from Sologne, fish from the Loire, organic and natural wines from Cheverny and organic local goat cheese.

In June 2022, Chef Christophe Hay will move to a new home: Fleur de Loire in Blois, a new 5-star hotel and gourmet restaurant. The former property of the brother of King Louis XIII will house 44 rooms, including 11 suites, a bistro, pastry kiosk, swimming pool and state-of-the-art Sisley branded spa.

Catherine Delacoute from Le Lancelot

Located in the heart of the small village of Chilleurs-aux-Bois outside of Orléans, the bistro gastronome Le Lancelot takes inspiration from the Knights of the Round Table, with each room named after a character, including Lancelot, King Arthur and Guinevere. Le Lancelot is located just steps away from the historic Chateâu de Chamerolles, built in the 1500s on the site of an ancient medieval fortress under the authority of Lancelot du Lac. Even more, Chef Catherine Delacoute, owner and chef of the restaurant, is herself a knight. Chef Delacoute previously worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in Orléans, La Crémaillère and La Poutrière, before transforming an abandoned farmhouse that would later become the emblem of Le Lancelot. Her innovative approach to classic gastronomy and creation of such a unique and friendly atmosphere attract guests to experience her “gastronomic bistro.”

Julien Medard from l’Ardoise du Marché

Chef Julien Medard is at the helm of the Michelin-Starred l’Ardoise du Marché located just outside the town of Sancerre, which was voted France’s favorite village in 2021. In just a few years, Chef Medard has become known for creating innovative, consistent and sustainable cuisine, showcasing local natural ingredients in his dishes. His cuisine boasts powerful flavors, high-quality products and a strong contrast of textures and flavors. Largely inspired by his travels in Japan as well as local cuisine, L’Ardoise du Marché’s menu reflects the chef’s journeys, balancing the flavors of the East and West.

Gaëtan Evrard from L’Evidence

Gaëtan Evrard is an instinctive chef who draws his inspiration from the local, seasonal ingredients and terroir that surrounds him. L’Evidence is a one-Michelin-starred restaurant located near Tours in the town of Montbazon, offering up a creative culinary experience. Chef Evrard’s constantly evolving menus aim to offer the perfect balance between hyper-seasonal and hyper-local products. Authentic and natural, his recipes are designed to surprise and delight guests with the richness of their flavors and the exceptional harvests they celebrate. Tasting menus include a five-course “Inspiration Menu” with courses named: Land & Sea, Forest, Interlude, Sea Spray and Undergrowth.

DYU RELEASES NEWEST EBIKE

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The new DYU R1 20 Inch eBike is the perfect companion for a quick trip to the bodega or a ride around the neighborhood. Sporting an aluminum body and 20-inch tires, DYU’s newest eBike is super lightweight and easy to store. DYU’s new torque sensor is the main feature of this bike, which boosts your pedal strength while riding, facilitating your riding experience: the harder you pedal, the faster it goes. The R1 eBike is perfect for anyone looking for a highly comfortable and effortless ride, as well as anyone just starting to break into the world of electric bikes.

DESIGN

The R1 design is all about flexibility. DYU’s new advanced Lithium-Ion battery sits silently within an adjustable seat, successfully veiling the bike to the external eye. The R1 also features a foldable handle head, making it painless to store in your car, building, or on the subway. The R1 head has two brakes and an LED screen, for which all the wires are neatly fastened together by a sleek black tube, ridding you of messy, unappealing wires in the front of your bike. The back of the bike has a designated space for any bags, groceries, and more commonly, a nice speaker for you to ride in sound and in style. All charging ports and wires are not only very manageable to use and easy to remove, but they are also elegantly placed, making the R1’s curb appeal sleek and simple. The R1 comes in 3 different streamline colors: Black, Green, and Blue. Affiliates of 360 Magazine had the opportunity to test the R1 Black, which was a silky matte, but our team imagines the green and blue colors are just as sleek. The R1 design is all about simplicity and ease.

TECHNOLOGY

The technology in the DYU R1 20 Inch eBike is evolved from previous models. Instead of a throttle, the R1 is solely based on a cutting-edge torque sensor to control your power while pedaling. With a maximum speed of 25 mph, the interior of the bike is a 250W Geared Hub Motor, from which there are 3 different gear speeds. The battery inside the seat is a 36V, 5Ah Lithium-Ion battery which takes about 3-4 hours to charge and has a maximum distance of 25+ miles every charge, making it simple to charge overnight or during the workday. The front and rear wheels also have dual disc brakes that add additional safety when braking. For an even more enjoyable drive, the front wheel has double-spring shock absorbers to allow you to go over bumpy roads without hesitation. The left handlebar is fitted with an LCD Display that shows you your battery usage, speed, and gear mode. The power button is placed on top of the LCD Display. For your midnight snack run, the R1 additionally has a light on the front for visibility. The tech in the R1 makes it useful for both leisure rides as well as those under a time constraint.

PERFORMANCE

For a full-fledged performance test on the capabilities of the newest DYU R1 20 Inch model, affiliates of 360 Magazine took the R1 out in Little Italy in the Bronx. Dating back to the 1850s, Italian immigrants began to move towards Belmont as the Bronx Zoo and the Jerome Park Reservoir were constructed. What resulted was an authentic hub of Italian cuisine and community, a cultural cornerstone of New York City to this day. The terrain around Arthur Avenue has both smooth flat grounds, as well as hills and bumpy roads. 360 Magazine took the R1 on an outing, passed by Full Moon Pizza, enjoyed lunch at Avenue Gyro, during which the R1 remained dependable. Although this eBike could be considered a subtle eBike, we made sharp turns, dodged double parked cars, and went over all the terrain in the area to test out the R1 features and aptness for all scenarios. This eBike is great for brief rides. Riding the R1, there is no problem in controlling the frame and the brakes were extremely receptive, so riding in the street with cars is no problem. However, it became clear to 360 Magazine that this bike is for leisure rides only, or maybe for your Abuela to go to the store and back. At first gear, if pedaling at a casual pace on flat ground, the R1 goes about 11 mph. At second gear, 14 mph. Finally, at third gear (considered to be the fastest) it only reaches about 16-17 mph. If you’d like to go faster and break the 20mph mark, consider going downhill or pedaling extra hard. Moreover, attempting to go faster by pedaling standing up feels like you will fall forward due to the size of the tires and the height of the handlebars. Yet, the DYU R1 20 Inch model is the perfect neighborhood-friendly eBike. DYU checked off every box for the comfortability of the R1. Enjoy a super straightforward to handle and lightweight eBike that does not go too fast but beats walking in both style and convenience.

ERGONOMICS X ADDITIONAL FEATURES

The R1 is a part of a bigger movement, along with all DYUs electric bikes. The DYU company is made up of staff from former high-tech enterprises like Huawei, Baidu, Mindray and more, so it is expected that their electric bikes will both be high quality and great for the environment! The eBikes have a high efficiency, featuring zero-emissions. By lowering their owner’s carbon footprint, having long-lasting batteries, and featuring fast charging times, their eBikes make a positive impact to our roadways and feature a green way to have fun!

In New York City, the other most common electric bike that is purely pedal assist are the electric Citi Bikes that have stations all over the city. Being a much bigger bike with big wheels and only one gear speed, those bikes are more suited for long distance and speedy travel. The R1 is perfect to take on the subway downtown for a ride through the West Village or a stroll in Washington Square Park; a mode of short-distance transport.

SAFETY

While riding the R1, it is certain you will get some swiveling heads in the neighborhood as you cruise through to your deli, but don’t be blinded by admirers. Priced at $999 and currently on sale for $849, you will want to make sure that your eBike is safe from theft. Although it does not come with any Smart App features, nor an anti-theft system, it does include a lock for the back wheel and the seat (which is important because the battery is within the seat) as prevention features. Therefore, without additional safety features, as an owner you want to make sure that you are consciously keeping the bike out of sketchy areas and out of clear sight. Don’t always leave your bike in the same place, use a good lock like a Kryptonite Folding Lock, and even use multiple locks on different parts of the bike. Anchor your bike down to objects that are more durable than the bike frame itself. Your first choice, however, should always try to bring the R1 inside.

Overall, the DYU R1 20 Inch Electric Bike is most suited for those looking for a very casual bike; not anything to go long distance and back quickly, but something for a brisk excursion through your neighborhood – perhaps a means of getting groceries and coming back home. This eBike is also appropriate for anyone of an older age wanting something that helps them move around with ease but is not too powerful that they lose control and injure themselves. Pick up a new DYU R1 20 Inch model here.

By: Kian Mahd Soltani, Ellen Grant x Vaughn Lowery

Brianna Colette Q×A

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Soulmate Coach, Brianna Colette Launches “Relationship Rehab”

“When people come to me, their love life has become stagnant, and they don’t know why. It usually means they are living in a belief system of fears and old trauma. I work to upgrade their belief system about what is available to them and what they think they deserve. When you don’t know how to love yourself you will end up settling for someone who doesn’t know how to love you either.”

Brianna Colette is an intuitive relationship healer and soulmate medium who helps guide her clients to connect with their inner self to focus more on a higher sense of self love to grow stronger connections and relationships, ultimately leading them to finding and experiencing the most preeminent of bonds: soulmate love.

We got the opportunity to speak with Brianna last week about what she does, providing insight and a chance to learn about the background to this profession.

What led you to this calling?

In 2017, I witnessed a violent murder of a family by their adult son. I was able to save the lives of two people, but I suffered mentally and emotionally as result. At the same time, the relationship that I thought would be my anchor abruptly ended and only further triggered my abandonment issues. I struggled with PTSD, depression, panic attacks, and anxiety. I had sunk so low I started having suicidal thoughts. It was then I knew I needed more than talk therapy. This near-death experience was the catalyst for my spiritual awakening and learning about different healing modalities. I started addressing relationship patterns and healing the relationship I had with myself.

Do you think your past relationships have helped you curate how you help others?

100%. Everything that I guide my clients through, I have personally healed and integrated for myself. From trust issues, attachment dynamics to abandonment trauma. Everything I share comes from real-life experience (negative, positive, etc.).

Do you recommend people who believe they are in solid and grounded relationships to come to see you?

If your relationship has a good foundation of trust, communication, love, and respect with no major issues, congrats! But even the relationship that looks good on the outside can have its issues. If you feel like you’re not getting your needs met, aren’t feeling heard like you’re constantly having the same fight over and over, lines are being crossed and you’re not sure how to shift it, come talk to me.

Do you think relationship issues lie mostly in their past?

Absolutely. Each of us comes to the relationship with a “template” so to speak. It is compiled of all our conditioning, trauma, belief systems, and ideas about love and relationships. And whatever we’re carrying around, whatever it is that’s unhealed ends up being dumped into the relationship.

What about the present?

New variables might come into the mix that is out of our control (loss of a job, family stressors, children, etc.), but how we deal with them is usually based on the tools that we have in our ‘emotional toolbox.’

How in-depth are your sessions?

They can go pretty deep, actually. But it all depends on how in-depth a client is willing to go. I always respect a person’s boundaries but will be as transparent as possible in a kind way if I see something. A lot of our issues are hiding in our subconscious mind- behaviors, patterns etc. And sometimes all that’s needed is the awareness around it to heal it and change the behavior.

Did your journey in helping other people find self-love begins first with finding your own?

For the longest time, I wanted so badly to love and accept myself. I was so critical of myself and had a lot of negative self-talk. I used to feel so unlovable. It’s sad but true. People were always talking about self-love, but I didn’t know how to ‘get’ there. Through my own process of healing my self-worth, I learned what self-love and acceptance really mean. I was able to really lock in a logical and tangible way to heal and create a ‘formula’ so to speak.

Do you think you found self-love by helping others?

No, the self-love came from digging deep and addressing why I had such a low opinion of myself. Why I was willing to accept less. I had to heal myself first before I could help others. In the healing world, we always say you must heal from the scar, not the wound. Meaning you must heal first before you go helping others.

Did you always believe this would be something you saw yourself doing in the future, or did it just kind of come to you?

Absolutely not! If you would’ve told me 5 years ago that I would be teaching and healing others something I had been painfully and quietly suffering with for years, I never would’ve believed you. This kind of work is a force you can’t ignore. It’s a purpose that keeps nagging in your ear until you do something about it.

Did this career always correspond with what you thought you were going to be growing up?

Looking back, yes it makes sense. I was a hairstylist for 15 years and always had a gift for helping people see how beautiful they really are. So many of my clients said sitting in my chair was like a therapy session that you left feeling good about yourself afterward. I’ve always been able to see someone’s inner beauty and potential and bring that to the surface. Help them discover the unique beauty and highlight that for the world to see. And to be honest I think there’s nothing more powerful than a woman who feels beautiful in her own skin.

No matter what form of love complications her clients may have, Brianna first establishes where their inability to achieve happiness stems from so that they may begin with most importantly repairing self-worth. Whether that be past traumas, personal frustrations, or unsuccessful work/life experiences, Brianna highlights the way her clients show up in non-romantic relationships because they can often reflect their limitations within their relationships in general. Examining her clients’ old belief systems allows Brianna to focus on any client’s possible wounds from childhood, inherited family dynamics, or fear surrounding vulnerability.

Once Brianna examines their past, she helps her clients make peace with old wounds and break free from any self-sabotaging toxic patterns, guiding them on how to release fear and create the right conditions for a higher frequency of love. Brianna’s passion stems from her own personal experiences and growth, continuously evolving her ability to intuitively heal and help clients enter a fulfilling relationship and their most aligned love life ever. By fusing modern therapies and energetic healing modalities, her clients can discover their authentic self and rewrite their futures to achieve and experience the kind of relationships & love that we all desire.

Top Cat Breeds

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Cats are an ideal low maintenance pet. On top of other benefits, their most alluring quality may be that they are lower maintenance and cost less than dogs, who need walking, training, grooming, and more toys and attention. Cats are also perfect for apartments and city living as they don’t make too much noise. If you’re ready to add a new furry feline to your family, then check out the 10 most popular cats to own now.

Ragdoll

With deep, penetrating eyes that are captivating and cause many people to fall in love, it is no surprise that Ragdoll cats are the most popular breed of feline in America. While most cats are known for being prissy, Ragdolls are very gentle pets that aren’t excitable, preferring to remain calm and affectionate, and are commonly compared to dogs for their loving devotion to their owners. They’ll even follow you around the house. One cool thing about these cats is that they start life pure white but will develop unique patterns and colors after a week or two.

Maine Coon

The largest of all house cats, the Maine Coon can grow to be 40 inches. They are often called “gentle giants” because they’re friendly and affectionate. For this reason, they are highly sought after and are more expensive compared to other breeds. An interesting fact about this breed is the first cloned cat was a Maine Coon named Little Nicky.

Bengal

Bengals have unique markings that make them look very similar to a tiny leopard which causes them to be one of the most famous and expensive cat breeds. Because of this, they look like fierce jungle felines, but are incredibly sweet family pets. Bengal cats are trainable, smart, athletic, fun to watch and play with, loyal, and love the water—all great traits for a family pet. They’re also vocal, communicative, and social with people. If they’re introduced early on to dogs or other cats in the home, they can bond well and socialize.

Siamese

Siamese cats make excellent pets, particularly if they fit in with your lifestyle preferences. They are active, playful, friendly, highly inquisitive, and intelligent. Siamese cats can even be taught to play fetch, give high fives, and even walk on a leash. If you have plenty of time to spend at home, then Siamese cats are an ideal choice.

British Shorthair

A playful, affectionate cat, the British Shorthair is fiercely loyal and a good companion for single people. Besides being treasured for their easygoing attitude, British shorthairs are beloved for their thick, dense coats that come in almost any color or pattern. Daily brushing of the British Shorthair is important, especially during seasonal changes when their coat is thickening or thinning.

Balinese

Slender and elegant, the Balinese cat is long and lean; they are muscular, yet not stocky. Balinese are known for their intelligence, their friendly and playful nature, and their striking beauty. They’re very amusing animals that are always outgoing. Balinese cats are known for being very talkative and demanding; expect yours to communicate with you about everything. These cats rarely stop being vocal and they’re very sensitive to your speaking as well. A harsh tone can instantly hurt their feelings. An interesting fact is the breed arose because of a spontaneous genetic mutation in pure bred Siamese cats that caused the cats to develop a longer coat type.

American Shorthair

A medium-sized cat with heavy bones, the American Shorthair is a breed that’s completely devoted to its owner. They are known to be gentle, sweet, and very tolerant. Additionally, they are incredibly adaptable animals that do great with other pets, making them one of the best felines for households that already have other pets. These cats have been around since settlers first femigrated to America from Europe.

Persian

With their trademark flat noses and woolly coats, Persian cats are undeniably distinctive. The Persian is a perfect companion pet as they are not super active but are very smart and even-tempered. Great with families and children, they love to lounge around the house and love to be fussed over, making for ideal lap cats. They also adapt well to new surroundings and are OK with busy or even boisterous households. They are perfect for a full house with active kids.

Tabby

Tabby cats make excellent pets for young owners because of their well-known friendly, cuddly, and social personalities. All domestic pet cats can make good family pets. However, the tabby cat is renowned as an especially great ‘first cat’ pet for kids. If you’re looking for a cat that’ll constantly be on your lap and wants to follow your every move, this could be the breed for you.

Russian Blue

If you are a first-time pet owner, or must work a lot, or have children who would like to have a pet, a Russian Blue kitten or cat might be a great choice. They are playful, entertaining, and beautiful. Russian Blue cats are curious but calm, affectionate but not clingy, and very smart. They can be shy at first, but they are playful and loving once they feel comfortable. While they are happy living with families and even other pets, Russian Blue cats tend to form a deep connection with only one person.

There are so many cat breeds out there and so many wonderful cats looking for homes. Consider adopting a feline friend to complete your family, whether you’re single or in a multi-children household. A furry companion can become a central heart to any home!

Rittenhouse Murder Trial Reaches The End

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By: McKinley Franklin

After 24 hours of deliberations, Kyle Rittenhouse has been found not guilty on all charges. Read more about the case and Rittenhouse’s shooting on the night of August 25, 2020 at a Black Lives Matter protest HERE.

Let’s analyze the trial and how the jury came to their decision.

The Rittenhouse trial resumed once again on November 11, as the closing arguments of the case have commenced. At the top of the day, the case progressed, and Judge Bruce Schroeder dropped the sixth count that Rittenhouse faced. This sixth count accused Rittenhouse of possession of a dangerous weapon by a person under 18. Although the prosecution objected this, Schroeder ultimately ended up dropping the charge.

Rittenhouse’s attorneys also filed for a mistrial shortly after the charge was dropped. Schroeder conveyed this news, announcing that Rittenhouse’s team had filed an official motion for mistrial, which read “The state has repeatedly violated instructions from the Court, acted in bad faith and intentionally provided technological evidence which was different from theirs. For those reasons, the defendant respectfully requests the Court find ‘prosecutorial overreaching’ existed, that overreaching was intentional and in bad faith and thereby grant the defendant’s motion for a mistrial with prejudice.”

The prosecution started their closing arguments first, having head prosecutor on the case Thomas Binger speak about Rittenhouse’s intentions of being in Kenosha. Binger urged the jury to question the intention that Rittenhouse had in Kenosha on the night of the shooting. Binger continued his argument for the prosecution by debunking the rumor that Joseph Rosenbaum, one of Rittenhouse’s two victims, threatened to kill him earlier on the night of the shooting. The prosecution highlights this to communicate to the jury that they believe Rosenbaum posed no real threat to Rittenhouse when the shooting occurred.

As the closing argument resumed, businesses in Kenosha started boarding up their storefronts amidst the final verdict of the case. 500 Wisconsin National Guard troops are reportedly on standby in Kenosha as well.

The prosecution wrapped up their final closing arguments with Binger arguing that Rittenhouse was not acting in self-defense. Binger points out that Rittenhouse killed two unarmed men and wounded another with a firearm that did not belong to him. While Binger has used several videos from the shooting as evidence to the jury, he urged the jury that Rittenhouse is guilty of all the counts against him.

Binger closes, “He committed first-degree reckless homicide against Joseph Rosenbaum. He put Richie McGinniss’s life in jeopardy. He put jump-kick-man’s life in jeopardy. He intended to kill Anthony Huber and he attempted to kill Gaige Grosskreutz. The question is whether or not you believe that his actions were legally justified, and I submit to you that no reasonable person would have done what the defendant did. And that makes your decision easy.”

The defense began their closing argument critiquing the arguments of the prosecution. Rittenhouse’s defense attorney Mark Richards argues that Rosenbaum was intentionally trying to attack the defendant and that he even had his hand on the gun. Richards asked the jury to “use your common sense and judgment” when contemplating if Rosenbaum was a real danger to Rittenhouse when the shooting occurred.

As the closing argument continued, defense attorney Richards argued that there has been a “rush to judgment” in the case. Richards pointed out that after the shooting on August 25, 2020, there were rumors circulating about the shooting and Rittenhouse’s intentions. There was talk about the fact that Rittenhouse crossed state lines to attend the protests and brought his AR-15 with him.

Richards then stated that Gaige Grosskreutz should have not provoked Kyle Rittenhouse. The defense attorney says that Grosskreutz should have “let him be and go give aid and comfort” to Rosenbaum who was just previously shot by Rittenhouse. Richards also argues that Grosskreutz was proceeding on Rittenhouse when he was shot, and this was part of the reason for him shooting.

Richards goes on with his point that Rittenhouse was not searching for trouble when he went to Kenosha despite what the prosecution argued. The defense states that Rittenhouse “feels for this community,” and that he was not trying to start conflict.” The defense soon after wrapped up their closing arguments, and the court went on break.

After returning from the break, the prosecution began their rebuttal. Attorney James Kraus argued that it was unnecessary for Rittenhouse to react to threats by using deadly force. The prosecution says that Rittenhouse should have used all other methods of self-defense before turning to shooting.

Deliberations for the Rittenhouse trial began on November 16, 2021. The panel of 18 potential jurors was narrowed down to 12, with those who were not chosen to serve as alternates. The jury consists of five men and seven women. During the first day of deliberations, the jurors made two requests for more copies of the jury instructions. The jury was dismissed on November 15 after a little over eight hours.

The second day of deliberations continued for the Rittenhouse trial again on November 17, 2021. Judge Schroeder did receive a question from the jury during the morning of November 17, asking about the reviewal process of video evidence in the case. The question was essentially if the jurors would be able to view videos in private or in the courtroom.

Schroeder also addressed the fact that he had not had a chance to read the defense’s motion for mistrial with prejudice. He explains that only one day prior to November 17 he received the motion. Schroeder continues, stating “And I really think before I rule on a motion, I should let the state respond. So why anyone would think, it is odd for the judge to sit on a motion to dismiss, I have no idea.”

Following the request of video evidence earlier during the day of November 17, this permission was granted to the jury. The jury requested a livestream video shot by Gaige Grosskreutz. The livestream was shot moments after Rittenhouse shot Joseph Rosenbaum.

Deliberations continued through November 19, and after 24 hours of deliberations, the jury found Kyle Rittenhouse not guilty on all charges he faced.

Judge Bruce Schroeder spoke to the jury and thanked them for their efforts, stating “”All of you – I couldn’t have asked for a better jury to work with, and it has truly been my pleasure. I think without commenting on your verdict… the verdict themselves, just in terms of your attentiveness and the cooperation that you gave to us justifies the confidence that the founders of our country placed in you.”

EHT Says Don’t Buy Children Phones

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“Choose safe toys for your children, not wi-fi connected toys or smartphones,” is the message the Environmental Health Trust is sharing after recently winning a victory in the U.S. Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia Circuit. The court ordered the Federal Communications Commission to explain why it ignored scientific evidence showing harm from wireless radiation. Included in the evidence that the FCC ignored are studies on the impact of wireless exposure to children.

Because children’s skulls are thinner and their brains and bodies contain more fluid, they potentially absorb more cell phone microwave radiation. The American Academy of Pediatrics has made recommendations that parents should limit cell phone use by children, keep the phone away from the head and instead of streaming wirelessly, pre-download games and videos so children can use the technology more safely in airplane mode.

Studies at the National Institutes of Health National Toxicology Program found cell phone radiation led to cancers in the hearts and brains of male rats. DNA damage was also found. In 2021, a study by the Environmental Working Group published in Environmental Health, analyzed the NIH NTP study and concluded that U.S. safety limits needed to be 200 to 400 times stronger to protect children. A Yale Medicine study found that mice prenatally exposed to cell phone radiation had increased hyperactivity and impaired memory.

“Cell phones were never pre-market tested for long-term safety,” said Devra Davis, Ph.D., president of the Environmental Health Trust, a scientific think tank that promotes a healthier environment through research, education and policy. “Safety limits for radiation were set 25 years ago, based on 35-year-old science and using a model of a large, adult male. Over a dozen countries inform parents to limit their children’s exposure because they are more vulnerable and will have a lifetime of exposure,” Davis explained. “Parents assume they’re buying devices and toys that have been deemed safe but no U.S. health agency has ever completed a systematic evaluation of the health risks of wireless radiation.”

While all cell phones have fine print warnings about keeping a distance between the phone and the body, the instructions are easy to miss. For instance, the Apple iPhone 13 should not be closer than 5 mm. The Amazon Echo has a distance of 20 cm, or about 8 inches. Laptops and many wi-fi toys advise keeping an “8-inch distance” from the body. When cellphones and wi-fi devices are held close to the body, the wireless radiation absorption can exceed U.S. safety limits that were set for adults more than two decades ago.

Because smartphones, smart toys and other smart home devices have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, we rarely think about how this technology works. But it’s not holiday magic—it’s wireless microwave radiation. All wireless devices from smartphones to wi-fi and connected dolls and stuffed animals are two-way microwave radios that send and receive a type of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation called radio frequency (RF radiation or microwaves).

Many physicians are cautioning about how this daily exposure will affect children’s health in the long term. Before buying your child a cell phone this holiday, be sure to learn the facts. EHT has resources for parents on how to reduce exposure at home.

In Villas Veritas Appoints WEILL for PR

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WEILL has been appointed public relations counsel to In Villas Veritas (IVV), arguably the most exclusive villa rental agency in America – so exclusive, in fact, that its existence has been known only to a select few.

Marking its 25th anniversary in 2022, In Villas Veritas was founded by Laura Blair at the urging of her high-net-worth friends, who had long been relying on her expertise in finding the perfect villa or hideaway in America, Europe, the Caribbean, or Asia. 360 Magazine is excited to see how two huge companies work together.

An American born in Paris and raised internationally, Blair specializes in securing private access to villas, houses, castles, schlosses, and hideaways not listed on the plethora of standard vacation-rental websites. “My goal is to find the ideal location and property for my clients, as opposed to shoehorning them into a villa that just might happen to be available,” says Blair. “This is why we vet all of our properties personally because knowing the property and region is the only way to ensure guests’ total delight.”

IVV lists villas and exclusive homes throughout the Caribbean, the United States, Central America and Europe, and also specializes in making private islands in Europe, the Caribbean and the Maldives available to its clients.

“Finding the ideal destination for our travelers is an art,” says Blair, “because one must take into account the client’s home environment, expectations, taste levels, security requirements, activity levels, and staffing needs. The breathtaking beachfront villa with mediocre staff is just not something I am prepared to countenance.” IVV’s niche is one that seeks to service only the most discriminating and demanding clients.

“We are thrilled to have been asked to represent In Villas Veritas,” says Geoffrey Weill, WEILL founder, and president, “because, especially since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, more and more families are seeking divine vacation locations, where they can bask in both luxury, safety and utter privacy.”

For more information, visit www.invillas.com.

OTD Season Debut

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OTD (On This Day), founded by John Varvatos, announced the debut of its first season with an omni-channel introduction featuring the launch of their website and the opening of its flagship SoHo store. For the fall, the gender-inclusive brand presents a synergetic assortment of women, men, and unisex clothing as well as footwear, jewelry, and accessories.

Originating a narrative led by curiosity, creativity, and passion, OTD explores the modern experience of style and its inextricable connections to pop culture: traversing fashion, music, art, sports, film, television, architecture, etc. Through interesting stories that occurred “on this day” in the past, new stories are sparked in the here and now.

Storytelling is fundamental to the brand message, “As individuals, we instinctively create stories that define our past, allow us to make sense of the present and propel us into the future,” commented James Schuck, senior director of social media and special projects.

“In real-life everyday communications, storytelling not only reinforces and enhances our own personal narratives, it provokes opinions, interpretations and ideas. The crux of the message is: Write your own story, on this day and every day.”

OTD creates effortless-luxe pieces in elevated, unexpected ways. Their designs recall functionality, control, and tradition, but promote constant change, expression, and ideation. The brand flexes individuality with an ease, being intentional, yet welcome to interpretation. Pieces are ready to be mixed and matched with abandon.

To bring the vision to life, OTD tapped American photographer Mark Seliger. In a studio scene, imagery for autumn’s 2021 season drew on a simple visual concept to strike an impressive sense of energy. Dynamic movements and expressive poses are captured in assertive, yet playful moments to feel focused and eclectic. Unrestrictive compositions occupy the blank space, underscoring themes of possibility and experimentation. Created to reflect the lives of those lived in them, OTD reimagines essential silhouettes to feel fresh and modern.

For women, blazers, oversized knits and plaid overalls explore the qualities of androgyny. On men and women, tracksuits hit fall wardrobes with a denser, more structured take on sporty, available in interchanging jackets and pants. There are side-striped, racer striped, and multi-striped items, as well as color-blocked and paneled jackets in animal jacquard. In unisex, knits are easy wearing, yet surprisingly elevated. From reversible coats and shirt jackets to an ultra-cozy mohair sweater in 100% linen, the concept, “between-season dressing,” gets a multi-season update.

Function plays with form in sport-inspired pieces like french terry sweats, basketball tanks, and hockey jerseys in sweater constructions. As for jackets and coats, sleek leather informs both biker styles and traditional coat silhouettes. The micro-quilted jackets, a garment-dyed trench and plush velvet puffer style, upholds tactile characteristics. There comes a leisure twist in unrestrictive materials and modern proportions, interchangeably styled with OTD premium-crafted leather sneakers and combat boots. Its refined fabrications and thoughtful details keep the focus on wearability.

With this season’s lineup, OTD cements an existence at the convergence of tailored, sport, and casual cool. The company redefines expectations for style and culture, taking on a perspective as the agents of next. Their collaborations in art and design are available online and in stores.

The launch of the OTD × King Baby jewelry unveils an androgynous range of rings, bracelets, and necklaces. This collection unites the standards of OTD with the artisanship qualities of King Baby. Each piece is made from pure sterling silver, designed and handcrafted in the U.S. In stores, shoppers can purchase an exclusive selection of iconic photography, co-curated by Timothy White × OTD. The project will evolve with each season, like a rotating gallery, reflecting the brand’s innate connection to pop culture.

The brand opened its 4,000 square foot shop in the heart of SoHo, on the corner of Spring and West Broadway. Elements include wide widows open to a bright and airy space, revealing a structural framework of continuous, clean lines, natural light, and minimal concrete floors. The raw and natural elements of the space contain curvaceous design elements such as wavy light fixtures, unexpected pops of color, and a large infinity mirror. Distinct custom-made furniture pieces, two black-and-brass ribbon fixtures, an amorphic organic round table, and a white atomic-era jewelry case, speak to the brand’s penchant for intentional, yet unexpected designs. Coming soon, the brand will open its second location on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, Los Angeles.