About McKinley Franklin

MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN

As the number of the spider that bit him and the winning lottery number for Brooklyn Visions Academy, the number 42 means a lot in Miles Morales’ world, and series writer Saladin Ahmed will celebrate this landmark issue with an oversized spectacular this September! Joining him will be handful of past and present Miles Morales talent including current series artist Christopher Allen, WHAT IF…? MILES MORALES artist Paco Medina, and fomer Miles Morales artist and current CAPTAIN AMERICA: SENTINEL OF LIBERTY artist Carmen Carnero!

Miles has been through it lately — time for a little R&R now, right? Not when there’s good that needs doing, and when something dark and insidious rears its ugly head on the streets of Brooklyn, Spider-Man is the only hope to end it. But Miles will need help, from his friends, his family and the most unexpected allies, if he dares to even stand a chance this time!

Check out the cover and pick up MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN #42 when it swings into shops this September! For more information, visit HERE.

Frontline 40

The Frontline is a group of individuals dedicated to finding solutions to solve mass societal and political problems that inflict the United States.

After the tumultuous past few years we’ve all endured, a number of causes have been raised to the attention of people all around the world. From the effects of the pandemic to the ever-present racism, The Frontline makes it their goal to achieve change that lawmakers haven’t thus far.

Standing stronger together, the group urns to see a reshaping of the world we live in today. The Frontline believes in the power of unity; that together, they can achieve whatsoever they set their minds to.

Members of The Frontline volunteer their time in hopes of implementing lasting changes. From connecting with others to spread the word, or even working local polls, The Frontline members work on all different levels to accomplish advancements.

Driven by the Movement for Black Lives, United We Dream and the Working Families Party, The Frontline has awarded a select group of people who continue to ensure just and equal opportunity for all.

The awardees, also known as “Frontline 40,” caught the eyes of The Frontline as they continue to fight against the crises that conflict the US. Of the recipients, some of the main causes being fought for include securing access to clean water in Flint, Michigan, discovering what an anti-racist society would look like and finding an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Of the New York winners, the “Frontline 40” consists of Bukky Ojefio, Chanelle Elaine, Diana Berrent, Drew Dixon, Gabe Tobias, Janvieve Williams Comrie, June Moses, Qiana Mestrich and Sil Lai Abrams.

“These aren’t the talking heads you see every night on cable news,” stated Tiffany Flowers, campaign director of The Frontline. “These are the real people on the frontlines of our communities making a real change. It’s time we honor them and say, ‘thank you,’ for all the work they do and do what we can to uplift and support their critical work to end white nationalism and advance liberation for our communities.”

Stay tuned for an array of events hosted by The Frontline, including the recent panel that saw Lavender Rights Project executive director, Jaelyn Scott, director of Flint Rising, Nayyirah Shariff, Omisade Burney-Scotts from The Black Girl’s Guide to Surviving Menopause, and Dr. Sarah L. Webb from Colorism is Healing speak about their initiatives and plans to ensure just change.

June Moses apart of the "Frontline 40" via Frontline for use by 360 Magazine — *June Moses*

Chanelle Elaine apart of the "Frontline 40" via Frontline for use by 360 Magazine — *Chanelle Elaine*

Janvieve Williams Comrie apart of the "Frontline 40" via Frontline for use by 360 Magazine — *Janvieve Williams Comrie*

Qiana Mestrich apart of the "Frontline 40" via Frontline for use by 360 Magazine — *Qiana Mestrich*

Images courtesy of Frontline

Meet Jefferson Noel

Author, Orator and Professor

Listen to his chat with Vaughn on 360 MAG Podcast HERE.

Jefferson Noel, the founder of Barbershop Speaks, is dedicated to providing a comfortable daily space for people to be engaged in intelligent conversation. Starting from a simple question in the summer of 2016, “What would happen if we engage in intentional dialogues about issues that affect us directly in spaces that are common and comfortable for the community,” Barbershop Speaks has been set up as a platform to educate and empower the underserved communities around the country on web3.

He is now also a professor at Florida Memorial University, teaching public speaking, business, and professional speaking. Coming from an immigrant Haitian family, Jefferson deeply understood the importance of education by seeing her parents seeking out a better life in the U.S. as immigrants. During college, after attending student government and being an involved student, he realized that studying for comprehension and real-life application would greatly benefit people’s future life after graduating. The thirst for learning comes from the general public’s respect for knowledgeable people. Therefore, after meeting and being involved with a professor during his trip to Canada to finish his book, Jefferson landed a job as a professor at Florida Memorial University and was determined to bring more value to students.

By keeping the idea that human is a unique live beings and there are different values inside every single human being, Jefferson holds strong beliefs in the power of conversation. During his childhood, Jefferson usually went to barber shops when his father was a barber, where he always listened to those conversations happening around. This is where the idea of the Barbershop Speaks from “The barbershop, in my opinion, is the communities’ classroom where everyone is both the teacher and the student,” says Jefferson.

However, the journey of being in a conversational world has been good and bad at the same time. People see his values while not wanting to pay for the values he brings to the table. Nevertheless, growing up in a family with many role models to look up to, such as his father who is a pastor, and his older brother who always has a clear mind and knows what he is doing, Jefferson has always been humble. He has decided to move forward not focusing on people who are not helping but trying his best to catch good opportunities. According to Jefferson, “As long as I continue to be on my grind, as long as I continue to do life in the proper way, then I know I’ll reach the promise men,” the unavoidable dehumanization coming from his race has never discouraged him but positively motivated him.

Jefferson started connecting to the crypto space about one year ago and was attracted to the technology behind NFT. The ability of NFT to verify ownership of a digital asset on the blockchain made him believe that it is something worth sharing with the whole world. He will attend the NFT-VIP Event, which will happen in NYC through June 19th-22nd, as a speaker on Sunday at 1 pm, sharing how to balance life learning and leadership.

Jefferson is proud to sponsored by Lab22c.

Article by: Iris Li x Vaughn Lowery

Reebok × Looney Tunes

Reebok and Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) unveiled the second capsule in its Reebok x Looney Tunes footwear and apparel collection. Following a smaller capsule launch in China earlier this year, the line has expanded to feature a wider range of classic and sport footwear and apparel that honor the fun, frenetic nature of the Looney Tunes. The complete Reebok x Looney Tunes Collection will be available HERE beginning May 23rd exclusively for Reebok UNLOCKED members before becoming globally available on May 26th.

The first drop featured two footwear silhouettes, including the Classic Leather Legacy AZ ($95, GW4301) inspired by Bugs Bunny, and a limited selection of apparel. This collection continues the bold, energetic style that encourages wearers to unleash their inner party animal through some of Reebok’s most iconic footwear silhouettes including the Club C, Instapump Fury and Nano X1. See highlights below:

• Classic Leather Legacy AZ ($95, GW4301) – This ‘80s-inspired silhouette gets a makeover from the world’s most “wascally wabbit.” The grey and pink Classic Leather Legacy AZ pays homage to Bugs Bunny through the hairy suede materials and springy details that help the wearer bounce around like the trickster bunny. Available in unisex sizing.

• Instapump Fury 95 ($200, GZ4948) – Bottle rocket graphics and Road Runner’s legendary speed add an extra dose of rocket power to this version of the Instapump Fury 95. The shoe further pays homage to Road Runner through the upper resembling the character’s bright blue feathers, various “Beep Beep” quotes and signature cloud of dust on the heel. Available in unisex sizing.

• Instapump Fury Zone ($160, GZ4947) – Unleash your inner Martian with these extraterrestrial Instapump Fury Zone shoes. Inspired by Marvin the Martian’s explosive ray gun, the upper features bright laser beam colors and futuristic details while the sockliner depicts Marvin and the ray gun’s signature electric green bolt. Available in men’s sizing.

• Hurrikaze II Low ($120, GW4299) – These Wile E. Coyote-inspired shoes are sure to help the wearer explode onto the court! The action-packed version of this popular basketball silhouette features nods to Wile’s beloved dynamite with a “BOOM!” graphic, warning label and an extra crispy Wile E. Coyote himself. Available in men’s sizing.

• Club C ($100, GY4779) – Looney Tunes characters wouldn’t have their classic misadventures if not for the props they use along the way. This Club C pays homage to some of the loudest tools the characters take from the prop house with images on the sockliner and various explosive graphics on the heel and upper. Available in unisex, child and infant sizing.

• Nano X1 ($140, GW4303) – Reebok’s most-beloved training shoe gets a sleek makeover from the sneaky Sylvester the Cat. Lace up in these Nano X1’s for any action-packed chase but keep an eye out for the elusive Tweety or you might be seeing stars more than just what is featured on the upper and heel. Available in men’s sizing.

Complementing the footwear will be a range of unisex apparel in sizes 2XS-2XL. Joining the crewnecks and t-shirts will be hoodies, pants and a coaches jacket, all of which feature signature Looney Tunes graphics and characters.

Reebok x Looney Tunes footwear/apparel collection via Reebok for use by 360 Magazine

Now United × OP3N

Simon Fuller (American Idol, Spice Girls, So You Think You Can Dance) has partnered with OP3N and the Culture Catalyst – a recently announced $100 million commitment to fostering arts and entertainment projects on the Avalanche blockchain – to develop and produce an innovative musical film with the world’s first global pop group Now United.

The Musical is a live-action musical film featuring members of Now United and original songs. It will be available to the NFT pass holders on the recently launched OP3N app. The mission of the project is to inspire schools everywhere to create their own versions of performances from the musical and compete for honors within the OP3N platform through community voting.

Simon Fuller comments: “This project allows me to redefine how an audience can engage with content. Not only can it be enjoyed simply as entertainment, but you can actually participate, initially through learning and then by creating your own version of the musical with your friends or school. It is a celebration of the art of musical theater and the passion for self expression and new technology that allows people to get involved in ways never before imagined.”

Using the native video and music player on the OP3N app, NFT pass holders will also be able to stream the The Musical and access a broad range of related content including rehearsals, choreography lessons and interviews with the cast. The Op3n app will also facilitate submissions and voting on a competition based on the Musical, as well as the purchase of NFTs.

OP3N, a launchpad for IP and communities in Web3, recently partnered with the Avalanche Foundation to launch and co-finance Culture Catalyst – a $100 million initiative to redefine the entertainment business model. Culture Catalyst will fund and support the development of arts, entertainment and culture projects on the Avalanche public blockchain.

“Web3 is powering a new paradigm in music and entertainment, but many artists have been reluctant to dive in for lack of an environmentally responsible solution that can consistently deliver a good user experience. In Avalanche, we’ve found the best possible answer and we couldn’t be more excited to bring these capabilities to bear to help Simon Fuller and Now United realize their vision for interactive entertainment’, said OP3N studios co-founders, Jaeson Ma and Eric Tu.

From creator-inspired tokens to NFTs, decentralized tech is redefining the way arts and entertainment is created, financed and consumed. The OP3N – Avalanche initiative is designed to inspire a diverse range of blockchain-based creator communities’ projects and provide funding for emerging artists, entertainers, filmmakers and musicians who are looking to expand beyond traditional channels and expand paradigms for ownership.

“We believe that success in collaboration begins with choosing the right partners and we’re delighted to be supporting this ground-breaking project”, said John Nahas, VP of Business Development for Ava Labs.

“In OP3N and Simon Fuller, we have found visionaries who not only share our concern for the environment, but who also recognize the magic in direct connections between fans and creators”, added Ava Labs’ Chief Marketing Officer, Devon Ferreira.

“I’m super excited to be working with Simon and Now United to bring something truly innovative into the NFT space. We will be utilizing Avalanche to create new ways of fan engagement and build a sustainable fan base and community for years to come,” said Nelson Diaz, OP3N Chief Marketing Officer and Founder of Long Lost Friends.

Culture Catalyst recently announced projects with Grimes for an Intergalactic Children’s Metaverse Book that will be released later this year. Additionally, singer-songwriter Ava Max announced her partnership with Culture Catalyst for the launch of her next music video in collaboration with iconic director Joseph Kanh. Culture Catalyst comes after OP3N’s $10 million seed funding round that brought together heavyweights from the worlds of entertainment, tech and gaming.

About Simon Fuller’s XIX Entertainment:

Simon Fuller is a renowned entertainment industry creator, producer and entrepreneur. He has imagined, developed and executed some of the biggest entertainment properties of all time, engaging audiences across the world and generating $billion revenues in the process. For more than three decades Fuller has positively impacted popular culture worldwide, through properties and businesses that have disrupted convention, defined the times and empowered iconic artists to achieve their creative and commercial ambitions. He was the inspiration behind the Spice Girls, the creator of the Pop Idol global TV franchise, the partner of David and Victoria Beckham and the guidance behind the careers of sporting legends Andy Murray and Lewis Hamilton, extraordinary singers Annie Lennox and Amy Winehouse and award winning projects with entertainment icons Jennifer Lopez and Michael Caine. Today his company, XIX Entertainment, is an ever evolving force of creativity and innovation, in music, television, film and fashion.

About OP3N:

Founded in 2021 as a subsidiary of EST Media Holdings, OP3N imagines a world where Communities can come together to create, own, and bring their ideas to the world. OP3N’s mission is to be a Launchpad for Ideas and Communities to create meaningful experiences together. By consolidating the tools needed to mint, share and engage with NFTs and digital tokens into one vertical stack, OP3N leverages its cross-industry expertise from the entertainment, gaming and tech ecosystems, to lay the foundations for a new era of community-driven, inclusive entertainment while bringing everyone together on a journey into Web3. OP3N is co-led by media executive, artist, and serial entrepreneur Jaeson Ma, who has a successful track record launching companies including EST Studios, Stampede Ventures, East West Ventures, and 88rising, and who’s raised capital and advised on transactions totaling over $1 billion; and Eric Tu, an award-winning development executive who’s worked with major brands including Nike, Beats by Dre and Google, and as an Executive Producer with Bjork, Radiohead, Kendrick Lamar and more. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles. For more information, please visit HERE.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: SENTINEL OF LIBERTY

Kicking off in CAPTAIN AMERICA: SENTINEL OF LIBERTY #1, Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, and Carmen Carnero’s new Captain America epic will find the Star-Spangled Avenger embroiled in a conspiracy as old as his shield – And eagle-eyed readers of the series might just be able to uncover information about the mystery before Cap himself does! Some clues have already dropped, some will emerge in the coming months, and readers can see for themselves just how shocking and far-reaching this mysterious saga will be in the cover to September’s CAPTAIN AMERICA: SENTINEL OF LIBERTY #4.

Steve Rogers returns to New York with more questions than answers about the origin of the shield, only to discover that Bucky knows more about the sinister Outer Circle than Steve realized. And now something is stalking Captain America through the streets of Manhattan, putting everyone who crosses paths with Steve in danger…

Check out the cover to issue #4, and stay tuned to the official Captain America Twitter account for clues to help Steve unravel the mystery! For more information, visit Marvel.com.

2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale

Alfa Romeo is proud to announce today the all-new 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale, the metamorphosis – “La Metamorfosi” – of the legendary brand highlighted by a new era of luxury, electrification and connectivity while remaining true to its race-inspired DNA. As the first C-SUV from Alfa Romeo, North American consumers will experience more than 110 years of heritage with the evolution of best-in-class performance from two all-new efficient powertrain offerings, which includes a plug-in hybrid with over 30 miles (48 kilometers) of pure electric range and 272 horsepower. Tonale also features a variety of driver assistance systems, Uconnect 5, an all-new connectivity platform with Alfa Connect, sporty and modern Italian styling that remains faithful to the 2019 concept and exhilarating driving dynamics from a rapid-response Frequency Damping Suspension (FDS) system.

Design

The definitive design of the Tonale is extraordinarily faithful to the concept car from which it draws its origins, courtesy of the remarkable work done at the Design Studio at Centro Stile Alfa Romeo.

Intended for a young, metropolitan and dynamic customer, the Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a distinctive, sensual and forward-looking design. Its compact dimensions – a length of 178.3 inches (4.53 meters), width of 72.4 inches (1.84 meters) and height of 63.0 inches (1.6 meters) – encompass the uniqueness of Italian design, and the original, contemporary style typical of Alfa Romeo, in a synthesis between a prestigious heritage and looking forward to the future.

The recurrence of stylistic features that have entered the history of world motoring, such as the “GT Line” that runs from the rear to the headlights, recalling the forms of the 1960s Giulia GT Junior, and alternating with the full and elegant volumes reminiscent of iconic models, such as the 8C Competizione. The front features the inimitable “Trilobo” and the distinctive Alfa Romeo “Scudetto” shield, which acts as a central focus.

The Tribolo-inspired “3+3” headlight design with new, full LED evoke the proud look of the SZ Zagato or the Proteo concept car. Developed in conjunction with Marelli, the three modules make up a unique frontline for the car and simultaneously provide daylight, dynamic turn signals and a “welcome and goodbye” feature (activated every time the driver turns the car on or off) to ensure the best lighting conditions. These technologies offer greater efficiency, in terms of durability and energy saving with twice the light intensity of conventional halogen lamps, lower emissions and improved safety, with less eye strain and better driving comfort.

The taillights take on the same design cues as the headlights and form a sine curve that fully wraps around the rear of the car, making it a truly unique and distinctive light signature.

The car’s sensuality and dynamism are also clear in the all-encompassing rear window, a tribute to the 8C Competizione, and in the design of the alloy wheels that reproduce the Alfa Romeo style canon of a telephone dial.

Inspired by Alfa Romeo’s racing history, the interior is strongly focused on the driver, with easy access to all controls for a safe, unparalleled driving experience. The same care is reserved for the passengers, who are given the ideal space to travel in comfort. This results in an environment designed for and around the occupants, characterized by meticulous attention to detail paired with a constant quest for the highest quality.

The Tonale’s interior arouses real emotions, not to mention the latest technology, ensuring a connected and comfortable experience, while maintaining the pleasure of a sporty drive that always remains in the lead. Everything is focused on the driver, but also considers the comfort of passengers. Unique patterns, logos and colors point to Alfa Romeo. The sporty and high-tech environment with the cool solidity of aluminum and the warmth and softness of leather and Alcantara suede reflect the personality of a young, metropolitan and dynamic customer.

Propulsion

The Tonale is the most efficient plug-in hybrid C-SUV in the segment, with an electric range of more than 30 miles (48 kilometers) and 272-horsepower. The advanced hybrid system uses the 1.3-liter MultiAir turbocharged four-cylinder engine (180-horsepower) to provide torque to the front wheels. A high-voltage Belt Starter Generator, mounted to the engine, delivers torque to the crankshaft to smooth transitions during changing driving conditions, in addition to providing seamless stop-start capability.

The Tonale’s efficiency and sporty performance is bolstered by a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. The exclusive pack design is a good example of component specifically developed to enhance the Alfa Romeo spirit.

The rear axle of the Tonale is powered by a 90-kW electric motor capable of producing 1,844 lb.-ft. (2,500 Nm) of torque from 0 rpm.

The Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV offers three options in delivering electrified power to the wheels, controlled by the DNA switch. Each mode also includes changes to the driving dynamics (steering, braking and suspension). Regardless of the mode selected, the Tonale operates as an efficient hybrid once the battery nears its minimum state of charge:

Dual power (PHEV)/Dynamic – Performance with maximum output from both the engine and electric motor
Natural – Power management is automatic for everyday use. A balance of engine and electric motor without compromising performance or driving comfort
Advanced efficiency – Designed for pure electric operation, the vehicle will run off the large battery with more than 30 miles (49 kilometers) of pure electric range

The all-new Alfa Romeo Tonale also offers a technologically advanced 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder, a member of Stellantis’ Global Medium Engine family, rated at a best-in-class standard horsepower of 256 and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. Equipped with a twin-scroll, low inertia turbocharger, direct fuel injection and engine stop-start technology, this engine gives Tonale the brand’s iconic dynamic performance and drivability.

The available plug-in hybrid engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the standard 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder is paired with a nine-speed automatic. Both propulsion systems feature standard Q4 AWD traction to ensure an unparalleled level of safety and driving pleasure.

Software and connectivity

In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology, a true innovation in the automotive sector. Alfa Romeo is the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. The technology is based on the “blockchain card” concept, a confidential and non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of an individual vehicle. This distinctive off-board feature – immediately usable and sustainable – epitomizes the innovative nature of Alfa Romeo. With the customer’s consent, the NFT will record vehicle data, generating a certificate that can be used to assure the car has been properly maintained, with a positive impact on its residual value. On the pre-owned car market, NFT certification represents an additional source of credibility for owners or dealers to count on. In the meantime, buyers will be reassured in their choice of car.

Alfa Romeo uses software and connectivity to enhance the driver’s experience, which is and remains the focus. Tonale therefore comes with Uconnect 5, the company’s most advanced in-car technology, delivering faster operating speeds, new content and improved customization. Uconnect 5 also offers new convenience and connected services, keeping customers engaged and informed while drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Uconnect 5 allows users to create an exclusive home screen with a familiar feel. Customers can personalize the Uconnect home screen with frequently used features for quick and easy access via one-touch operation, much like a smartphone. Or if the vehicle is equipped with the new plug-in hybrid system, customers can monitor efficiency through a unique Hybrid Pages app on the center screen, all with one touch.

The new infotainment system also features several fully customizable interfaces, storing up to five different user profiles and featuring preferences for music and vehicle operation. The system also connects features to a driver’s profile, such as temperature, seating position and mirror placement. Switching between user profiles can be handled by a single touch.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto make it easy to stay connected to the vehicle, and wireless charging further simplifies the experience.

New over-the-air capabilities with Alfa Connect

Servicing and updating your Alfa Romeo has never been easier. The new Telematics Box Module (TBM) preps for growth and assists in quickly moving large amounts of data, engineered for the fastest speeds available. The trusted and secure ecosystem provides an optimal environment for continuous improvement through a built-in cellular network.

Alexa

Uconnect 5 brings Amazon Alexa directly into the Alfa Romeo Tonale, giving occupants the freedom to interact with Alexa from home to car and car to home. Using natural speak, occupants can ask Alexa to play music, podcasts and audiobooks; add items to their to-do list and check real-time information. Alexa’s responses use the vehicle’s audio system, allowing all passengers to interact.

Alfa Connect mobile app

With the available mobile app, a smartphone can start the engine, lock or unlock doors, and receive notifications. Inside the vehicle, SOS Call provides external assistance at the touch of a button. An automatic feature calls for outside assistance if the vehicle senses a crash has taken place. With Assist Call, owners can contact the Uconnect customer care team for help with their vehicle or instructions on using a Uconnect system. Stolen Vehicle Assistance helps police track a vehicle’s location and Family Drive Alerts deliver notifications to concerned parents when boundary, curfew or speed limits are exceeded. Owners can also receive a notification when someone else drives the vehicle while in Valet Alert mode.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Technology is also at the forefront of safety and comfort: Level 2 autonomous driving, with new advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), act in line with the Alfa Romeo philosophy. Here again, the software is at the center of the brand’s DNA, with the focus remaining on the driver. All the systems therefore work without ever interfering with the driver’s experience, where control and the emotions of driving remain intact. These include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC), Lane Centering (LC) and Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), which automatically adjust speed and trajectory, keeping the car in the middle of the lane and at a distance from the vehicle in front, thus ensuring safety and comfort. The Tonale is also equipped with other innovative devices and technologies that perfect the interaction between driver, vehicle and road, including Automatic Emergency Braking, which alerts the driver of danger and engages the brakes to avoid or mitigate any collision with a pedestrian or cyclist; Driver Attention Assist, which warns the driver if they become drowsy; Blind Spot Detection, which detects rear blind spots and signals any approaching vehicles to avoid collision; Rear Cross Path detection, which warns of vehicles approaching on the sides when reversing; and high-resolution 360° camera with dynamic grid.

Best-in-class driving dynamics

Tonale stands as a benchmark in the segment in terms of driving dynamics. It ensures sports car-like impeccable dynamic behavior, proven by the best weight distribution and the most direct steering in its segment (13.6:1 ratio), and the fact it is the only model in its class to be equipped with the Integrated Brake System (IBS) and available fixed aluminum shift paddles. The adoption of fixed calipers by Brembo, with four pistons and self-ventilated discs at the front and full discs at the rear, contributes to the improved braking performance. The Tonale opts for the fully independent MacPherson suspension system with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers.

The available Dual Stage Valve active suspension features electronically controlled damping. In short, sitting behind the wheel of the new Tonale equates to an engaging driving experience that becomes an invitation to travel.

The advancement of electric drive modes in Tonale is managed by the exclusive Alfa DNA system that delivers optimized maneuvering and performance.

Through the DNA selector, the driver is also able to select one of the two available pre-set damping curves. “Comfort” allows for a more compliant ride and is a softer suspension calibration for rough roads and is the default suspension setting in the Advanced Efficiency and Normal drive modes. “Sport” stiffens the ride for ultimate cornering ability and better body control under spirited driving conditions and is the default suspension setting in the Dynamic and ESC Off drive modes.

Models

Three trim levels are available – Sprint, Ti and Veloce, all with clearly defined specifications that meet the needs of the most discerning customers. The Sprint trim, the gateway to the unique Alfa Romeo experience, can be customized with numerous options for a strong sporty connotation. The Ti trim enhances the Tonale’s qualities of elegance and distinctive character. The Veloce trim reaches the peak in terms of sporty character and luxury.

Production

The Alfa Romeo Tonale is built at the Giambattista Vico Stellantis plant in Pomigliano d’Arco, Naples, Italy – one of the company’s most advanced production sites – on a revamped production line dedicated to the new Alfa Romeo model, and a specially created, ultra modern assembly unit. Designed in 1968 by Alfa Romeo and operational since 1972, the industrial complex has produced 5 million cars to date and has won numerous international awards, including in 2012, World Class Manufacturing (WCM) Silver certification and the Automotive Lean Production award for best plant in Europe, followed in 2013 by the WCM Gold Medal and the level of the same name. Last year, the plant underwent a major refurbishment to meet the challenges of the future with the adoption of the most innovative technologies to build hybrid cars.

The 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale will begin arriving in showrooms throughout North America in the first quarter of 2023.

Alfa Romeo

Born in 1910 in Milan, Italy, Alfa Romeo has designed and crafted some of the most stylish and sporty cars in automotive history. That tradition lives on today as Alfa Romeo continues to take a unique and innovative approach to automobiles. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio sets a benchmark in performance, style and technology in an SUV. The award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulia delivers race-inspired performance, advanced technologies and an exhilarating driving experience to the premium midsize sedan segment. In early 2023, Alfa Romeo will offer its first compact SUV with the all-new Tonale. The globally available Tonale is part of a radical evolution taking place at Alfa Romeo, which looks ahead to a new era of electrification and connectivity. Alfa Romeo is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit HERE.

Follow Alfa Romeo brand news and video on:

Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Alfa Romeo newsroom: https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsroom.do?id=292&mid=446

Consumer website: www.alfaromeousa.com and www.alfaromeo.com

Facebook: Alfa Romeo USA

Instagram: @alfaromeousa

Twitter: @alfaromeousa and @StellantisNA

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA

Stranger Things Meets FREAKS

The final two episodes of “Stranger Things 4” premiere on July 1st, with Vecna revealed, Eleven on the verge of getting her powers back, and new gates opening between Hawkins and the Upside Down, Stranger Things is nearing not only the conclusion of its fourth season, but its series end.

Have no fear – Stranger Things fans can read the new series FREAKS by Brett Riley. Critically acclaimed science fiction and horror writer Brett Riley is also back with TRAVELERS [Imbrifex Books, ISBN: 9781945501470], the second installment in his young adult superhero series, due out August 2, 2022. Riley, an American literature professor and award-winning screenwriter, is known for exceptional storytelling, which The Wall Street Journal sums up as “knowing how to keep the action rolling.”

In TRAVELERS, the self-dubbed “Freaks” are now high school sophomores and back in class in quiet Quapaw City, Arkansas. They grapple with the ordinary challenges of everyday teen life: cliques, cars, and crushes. While everything appears normal on the surface, looks have rarely been more deceiving. A secret government taskforce—fully aware of the unusual powers the Freaks have acquired—is determined to capture them. Even as the mysterious Baltar Sterne shares ancient wisdom and offers hope, a new menace silently emerges in the woods outside of town. Clever, inexorable, and far more lethal than the Freaks’ first superhuman foe, this traveler from another world possesses powers that can only be described as godlike. The Freaks and their town will be tested in horrific ways they are powerless to predict or even imagine.

Fans of Stranger Things and X-Men will enjoy both FREAKS and TRAVELERS, fast-paced action novels thick with suspense and teenage drama. TRAVELERS is also a tale of gaining self-awareness, learning the true meaning of friendship, and avoiding the unexpected pitfalls of possessing superpowers.

Bubblegoose Ballers NFT

Carl Jones (@iamcarljones) – an outspoken voice in animation, the creator behind ground-breaking Black Dynamite + executive producer of The Boondocks – sends his geese into flight with the launch of Bubblegoose Ballers.

You may be asking yourself, what in the tarnation is a Bubblegoose, and why are they ballers?

Well, firstly you got it backward, the geese were born ballers, their bold bubble goose down jacket is a symbol of their status as one. A reference to the early days of the animator and executive producer growing up in Fayetteville, North Carolina – known as “Fayettenam.”

At the height of the crack epidemic, the town felt like a warzone, sending Jones to Los Angeles in search of a better potential. An idea that stuck with him for his entire career, and was pitched to network executives often, the symbolic geese never found air and became a disappointing causality of censorship seen by black creators.

With the help of the dynamic team at WAGMI BEACH (@WAGMIbeach), a Web3 studio with original IP living on the Solana blockchain led by entertainment industry powerhouses, Jones (The Boondocks, Black Dynamite), under his animation studio Martian Blueberry (@wearemartianb) co-founded with Love Barnett (@lovebarnett), with graphic artist and illustrator Moko Ko, are launching Bubblegoose Ballers as an NFT collection dropping on MAGIC EDEN – the leading NFT marketplace on Solana. The flagship launch of what Jones and Love envision as “a new type of media company” – the next Pixar but on their terms, built on community engagement.

The mint also serves as the first beta test of ETH (Ethereum) purchasability of an NFT on the SOL (Solana) blockchain through the innovation of MAGIC EDEN.

Even before one jacket-clad bird heads into a wallet, Jones and Love are humbled by the Web3 community. An incredible access point for broader audiences to come into the NFT space, we look forward to a robust roadmap with an exciting animated series already in development, high wattage collaborations, and exciting events set to fill the skies.

UTA × Curtis Brown Group

United Talent Agency (UTA), a global leader in talent, entertainment and sports, announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Curtis Brown Group, one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious literary and talent groups.

This alliance makes Curtis Brown Group the first prominent UK literary and talent representation group to join with a major global talent agency. For UTA, the deal significantly expands its global footprint in one of the world’s most important and thriving creative markets. Under the terms of the deal London-based Curtis Brown Group, founded in 1899, will continue to operate under its current name and highly regarded management, including CEO Jonny Geller. This structure will allow both Curtis Brown Group and UTA to continue their fruitful and longstanding relationships with other agency partners in the UK and US.

The union is driven by a shared desire to ensure greater opportunities for clients across an increasingly global entertainment and culture landscape, in which traditional buyers and distributors such as studios and streaming services are expanding far beyond their home markets. The alliance provides Curtis Brown Group with resources to continue to build out its business, and the benefit of UTA’s expertise across a wide range of capabilities in such areas as brands, podcasts, digital talent, endorsements, media rights, data analytics and more.

While the great majority of Curtis Brown Group’s business is serving UK clients in their home market, UTA and companies in the Curtis Brown Group have collaborated successfully together for many years, in some cases working with talent such as Damian Lewis, Lily James, Alicia Vikander, Bel Powley, as well as rising star Ncuti Gatwa, who the BBC just named the next Dr. Who. The two ventures also share representation of screenwriters such as David Farr (The Night Manager, Hanna), Georgia Pritchett (Succession, Veep and The Shrink Next Door), and Tony Roche (Succession, The Thick of It).

For more than a century, Curtis Brown Group has been well known for its internationally recognized authors (including Margaret Atwood, Jojo Moyes, Lucy Foley, Lisa Jewell, Matt Haig, Nigella Lawson, and Ben Macintyre) and literary estates (including Ian Fleming, John le Carré, Daphne du Maurier, A.A. Milne, and John Steinbeck). Curtis Brown Group has grown and diversified over the last ten years, emerging as the UK’s top talent agency with a string of acquisitions of other leading UK talent companies, including Markham Froggatt & Irwin in 2020, Tavistock Wood in 2018, Ed Victor in 2017 and C&W in 2013. Curtis Brown is also home to the world’s first creative writing course run by an agency.

In addition to its eminence in publishing, Curtis Brown Group’s many other industry-leading divisions include its global talent practice (representing actors, presenters, comedians, and other performers), and a prestigious theatre, film and television department (representing leading screenwriters, directors, producers, playwrights, and production arts talent).

For UTA, founded in 1991, the move further accelerates the company’s momentum as it brings together ideas, opportunities and talent. This includes significant growth in its talent representation business as well as recent investments across entertainment, sports and marketing in leading ventures that continue to operate under their own names with ready access and close alignment to UTA’s global platform and capabilities. This ongoing strategic expansion has included taking a significant stake in 2019 in Klutch Sports Group, which represents top U.S. athletes, and the 2021 acquisition of MediaLink, a leading strategic advisory and marketing firm that serves the world’s leading brands.

David Kramer, Co-President of UTA, said: “This move is about the vanishing borders of the global entertainment business and our united determination to ensure artists and creators remain at the heart of the opportunities ahead. UTA and Curtis Brown Group have known each other and worked together for years, and we couldn’t be more excited to be taking this step together at a time when the UK’s creative industries are thriving. For UTA, this was driven by the profound respect we have for the Curtis Brown leadership, their deep roots in the UK, the team they’ve assembled, and their company culture. We’re coming together in a way that is designed to ensure Curtis Brown’s business and team – and their way of doing business in the markets they know best – continues to flourish and grow.”

Said Jonny Geller, CEO of Curtis Brown Group: “We have long admired UTA under the leadership of David Kramer and its CEO, Jeremy Zimmer. Curtis Brown’s deep understanding of the European market combined with their culture of collaboration and innovation offers our company and our clients many great opportunities. This partnership will allow Curtis Brown to grow and to respond to the demands of an increasingly globalised world. We have always prided ourselves on our ability to nurture new talent across all our departments and provide an open and inclusive culture, and we are excited to begin a new chapter in this wonderful company’s 123-year-old history.”

Jeremy Zimmer, Co-Founder and CEO of UTA, said: “The brand of Curtis Brown has been synonymous with great storytelling and rigorous artist representation for more than a century. We are thrilled to align with such a great team. As the world of media grows and contorts, UTA is looking for great partnerships to drive our growth. In Curtis Brown, we believe we have found just such a partnership.”

Curtis Brown has more than 240 employees and is expected to continue to grow as a result of this deal. No staffing reductions are anticipated due to this transaction. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

About UTA

UTA unites ideas, opportunities and talent. The company represents some of the world’s most iconic, barrier-breaking artists, creators and changemakers—from actors, athletes and musicians to writers, gamers and digital influencers. One of the most influential companies in global entertainment, UTA’s business spans talent representation, content production, as well as strategic advisory and marketing work with some of the world’s biggest brands. Affiliated companies include Digital Brand Architects, Klutch Sports Group and MediaLink. UTA is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, New York and London. More information can be found HERE.

About Curtis Brown

Founded in 1899 by Albert Curtis Brown, the company has a long and distinguished history as a world-renowned literary agency representing many famous writers, including Margaret Atwood, John le Carré, Anthony Horowitz, Bonnie Garmus, Winston Churchill Estate, Adam Kay, Bono, Elif Shafak, David Mitchell and David Nicholls.

Today, Curtis Brown also houses many other industry-leading divisions including a global Talent agency (representing actors, presenters, comedians, performers and below the line talent), and a prestigious Theatre, Film and Television department (representing leading screen writers, directors, producers, playwrights, and writer-performers).

The Curtis Brown Group is now home to over 240 members of staff and a vibrant ecosystem of companies that span the arts and culture sector. The Curtis Brown Group includes boutique literary agencies C&W (formerly Conville & Walsh) and Ed Victor Ltd, our in-house writing school Curtis Brown Creative, talent agencies Tavistock Wood and Markham Froggatt & Irwin and production companies Cuba Pictures and Open Book Productions.

Jonny Geller is CEO of The Curtis Brown Group.

SOURCE: United Talent Agency