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Author page: Ian Romaker

540 trick May 17, 2021
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How Tony Hawk immortalized his final trick in crypto form

Skateboarding represents the backbone of American subculture. Most importantly, the sport of skateboarding symbolizes the freedom that is associated with youth. When you think of anything to do with boarding, the most recognizable characters are either Shaun White (snowboarding) or Tony Hawk (skateboarding), but no one ever thinks of crypto.

These two gentlemen are the most daring and skilled individuals when it comes to performing tricks with high degrees of difficulty. 

Tony Hawk’s 540 will live on for the rest of eternity. Hawk ensured the possibility of this occurrence by releasing his final 540 in NFT form in collaboration with Ethernity Chain.

Tony Hawk’s foray into the NFT world

The NFT exists as a pack – with an online graffiti wall full of tags, messages, encryptions, and drawings. Tony Hawk set out to project authentic textures while giving a lucky winner the chance to hold on to his final gravity-defying trick for as long as they wish in crypto form. 

Skateboarding challenges norms, breaks down barriers, and builds toughness necessary to thrive throughout life.

Additionally, it allows those who participate to discover new roads, geographic boundaries, and enter into uncharted territories. Most importantly, it teaches kids to take risks in the fact that the only way to learn is through trial and error. 

tony hawk crypto
Tony Hawk left his stamp on skateboarding like no individual in any other sport was able to (via Ethernity Chain)

The famous 540 trick

When Tony Hawk began to perform his “540” tricks, turning a time and a half in mid-air seemed preposterous. But, through increased reps and determination, Tony Hawk learned a way to make the impossible completely tangible.

“In 1989 I started trying ollie 540’s as a joke, since it seemed there was no way to keep a skateboard on your feet throughout 1 1/2 spins in the air. But at some point I started scooping the tail with my back toe, which kept my feet in place for most of the spin. You can see the progression of my feet staying on with this [unseen] raw footage of my attempts, before finally landing one… in a full squat, with hand dragging behind.

It was the first of many that I’ve made over the last 32 years, and my technique improved as time went on. But they’ve gotten scarier in recent years, as the landing commitment can be risky if your feet aren’t in the right places. And my willingness to slam unexpectedly into the flat bottom has waned greatly over the last decade. So today I decided to do it one more time… and never again.”

Tony Hawk via his IG

Tony Hawk has lowkey been tapped into crypto since 2013

The skateboarding GOAT has been proficient in the cryptocurrency sphere as he has quietly been holding Bitcoin since 2013. When he decided to release an NFT – he wanted to tap deep into the atmosphere and give the people something that will last immortally.

A youth tries his hand at skateboarding in a Detroit park (via Unsplash)

“I’m a digital artist but not many people know I’m also a BMX rider. I remember the exact moment I first came across the first Tony Hawk pro skater game. That’s why I got really excited about the opportunity to work on a project with Tony. What really blew my mind is that Tony really understands the 3D art process. He told me he used to work in Lightwave 3D.

At first, I was like what am I going to make?! How do I do justice to Tony and the culture he helped to create. I spend a lot of time around skateparks and there’s always a lot of graffiti everywhere so I made this public “Graffiti wall” inviting friends, family and the public to add a note to Tony. I’ve created a texture from all of these messages and projected them onto the ramps so whoever participated is now part of these two NFTs.”

Ondrej Zunka (NFT artist commissioned for Hawk NFTs)

Tony Hawk will live forever in skateboarding lore

It is safe to say that Tony Hawk is one of the sickest and most headstrong athletes on this planet. We all grew up playing his Skatepark games and watched the shock and awe that he bestowed upon so many viewers at every X Games event. Now, as connoisseurs, we will be able to own a piece of history in the form of crypto.

The first 1/1 collectible sold for 14 ETH. Stay tuned, as there will be other drops and continued availability for unlockables from the likes of Tony Hawk.

film May 13, 2021
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North Hollywood showcases skateboarding culture in a modern way

*It is important to preface this article by pointing out in no way, shape or form am I hating on the film North Hollywood – in many facets it was brilliant.*

North Hollywood is the culmination of Mikey Alfred’s entire life as a skateboarding documentarian.

Obviously, to capture the sickest flips & board tricks you must be able to skateboard, too. Alfred has pushed the skateboarding subculture to new heights through his signature fisheye lens.

Mikey Alfred has created a prominent role for himself

Clearly, Alfred has garnered some traction with his efforts and proven that he does not need validation from secondary education. Following your dreams versus going to college is a major theme that is touched upon throughout North Hollywood.

north hollywood film
North Hollywood is a skateboarding flick that represents the subculture the right way (via Thrasher Magazine)

The essence of the North Hollywood film relies upon visual style and pop culture homage. Oftentimes, skateboarding is misrepresented as a subculture and does not receive proper documentation.

Mikey and his Illegal Civilization collective have essentially cheated the system and broke the mold of traditional film.

North Hollywood is a carefully composed film and aesthetically pleasing

By doing so, North Hollywood has a crisp visual style and savviness to it. The substance of the film and plot progression is slightly lacking, but where it loses steam in development it makes up for it in cinematography.

north hollywood film
Mikey poses while others spectate and perform tricks in front of legendary shake shack, “Bob’s Big Boy” (via LA Times)

The film itself is loaded with aggression, obscenities, and general disobedience. Exactly what you might expect from a skateboarding movie. The cast features Miranda Cosgrove, Vince Vaughn, and even a cameo from Kelvin Pena (Brother Nature).

Hollywood dismissed Alfred’s script on multiple occasions

Mikey had a tough time landing the script with any motion picture company. The reason being, white characters were chosen to delineate his life experience. Major Hollywood execs could not fathom this as Mikey chose to tell a human story regardless of race. 

illegal civilization
Mikey faced a hard decision between Flower Boy Tour & Mid90s – now he is directing skateboarding films as he always dreamed of (via illegalciv.com)

North Hollywood displays glimpses of greatness

All in all, given the fact that this is the first feature film directed by Mikey – it is not bad. Some of the intricacies that really sparked interest lie within the fine details. 

Such as, the protagonist punching the air after catching a shiner could be interpreted as a slight nod to Trey from Boyz n the Hood. Also, the unique bond between Mikey and his girl grew from the likes of stones such as rose quartz and citrine. 

north hollywood film
Mikey kicks it with some Illegal Civ members as they scheme up a master plan (via Red Bull).

Traditionalism can be viewed as one character must do push-ups as punishment for foul language and another throws pebbles at a window to get his friend’s attention. 

All in all, this film was above average. It lacked cohesion, had an off-kilter soundtrack, but had some very bright moments. Look for Mikey Alfred to lock in another publishing deal and continue to advance the skateboarding genre with his future films.

10K80 May 12, 2021
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Clockwork Crosby enhances the way we value our time

Knowledge of self is quite the conundrum. Throughout life, we experience highs and lows, turmoils, and triumphs.

Above all else, what remains is our inner strength, our core – the enterprise that makes us whole. That is exactly the type of predicament that Clockwork Crosby has found himself in.

Now, that he has firmly gathered pieces of self, he continues to elevate and stretch his being into the circles by which he belongs. He does so by creating surrealist pieces of art in the form of elaborate clocks. 

Knowledge of self requires deliberation, patience, and most importantly, experimentation. Through the art he creates, Clockwork Crosby has these traits in abundance.

Clockwork Cros

Before his untimely demise, Nipsey Hussle reached out to have a clock sculpted for his household. Nipsey’s bold confidence and awareness of self-value led him to price his mixtape at $100. Clockwork Cros admired that trait and was inspired to raise his prices as well.

clockwork crosby
Clockwork Cros keeps it clean and blesses your home with his masterpieces (via Clockwork Crosby)

Now, don’t get it twisted. Crosby had to put in the hours, apply the elbow grease, and work without pay for years on end. So, when he felt the time was right and his product was truly worthwhile, then and only then did he decide to raise his rates.

Only time will tell

This culture recognizes those who stay down and stick to their strengths. This means doing what you know you are innately born to do – whether there is monetary backing or not. That way, you respect the process and truly learn to struggle through the intricacies of what makes you whole. 

clock art
Ayo what time is it, Ghostface? One! (via Clockwork Cros)

Many artists are so focused on the end goal, that they lose sight of the moment. You have to truly love every facet of the process and embrace it.

That way, you can move strategically and continue to boss your life up. Clockwork Cros is no different as his noteworthy and knowledgeable movement continues to produce some of the hottest timepieces to date.

See what Clockwork Crosby has been up to below and hit the subscribe button to stay up to date with new content from artists.

film May 12, 2021
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Illegal Civilization pushes the boundaries of skateboarding coverage

Illegal Civilization is a skateboarding collective that grew from the concrete. The group’s efforts are a byproduct of the underground, and they fill the void that has long been open in terms of skateboarding recognition.

Illegal Civilization carries a certain type of unbothered disposition that makes it appealing and enticing. 

Illegal Civilization represents a culture of debauchery

Skateboarding and graffiti are seen much in the same realm and dismissed due to their raucous nature and association with debauchery.

Oftentimes, the members that comprise Illegal Civilization would skip school, smoke weed, and skate for hours. They were doing what teenagers do, but they sought out to make it monumental.

illegal civilization
Illegal Civilization stylized font (via Illegal Civ)

Mikey Alfred is the man who made it all possible with his fisheye lens and propensity to capture the obscene. Obscenities fly, bodies hit the floor and smooth tricks are all captured within the Illegal Civilization.

Illegal Civilization does not sugarcoat things

Mikey’s efforts are truly commendable because they showcase every angle of footage – not just the landings.

illegal civilization
Mikey Alfred firmly fixated within his element (via Hypebeast)

Within the social media era, we often post what we want people to see – the accomplishments, achievements, and facade of success. This is where Mikey stands on firm ground: he displays every bit of footage. The rawness of his work still separates him entirely. 

Illegal Civilization was born and bred via documentation. Sure, it wouldn’t be possible without the incredible groundwork laid via networking and countless hours of skate practice as well. But, without the savviness and ability to capture footage – none of their output would be available for consumption.

Illegal Civ grinds for the subculture to create something bigger than themselves

The idea for Illegal Civilization was conceived at Verdugo Skatepark in Glendale, CA.

This group set out to push the boundaries with defiance and rebellious nature. They sought to redefine the genre through sick tricks, defiance, and classic skating videos. IC managed to tackle all three of these and also took it from just plain videos to entire compilations.

nico hiraga
Nico Hiraga grinds at the top while donning flourescence (via Nylon)

The first compilation was held in the form of a viewing party and not many people showed up. Yet still, the buzz continued to build. The second compilation viewing party was held and the footage was filmed in New York.

“We were old enough to be alone, but young enough not to give a f***”

Mikey Alfred

The third compilation did not receive the response that was expected, so the group decided to move on from viewing parties and foray into the film industry. 

The group elevates its output and film capabilities

Mikey faced the hardest decision of his young career when he had to choose between going on the Flower Boy tour with Tyler the Creator or producing the skate film, Mid90s.

California skateboarding
Cali man grits and grinds while maintaining a snarl (PC: Ant Acosta)

He chose Mid90s and started to build very closely with cast members on set. Working on an official feature film made Mikey less regretful about the fact that he turned down an offer to work with Erica Silverman on the set of Palo Alto. Therefore, Mid90s provided a small victory for skateboarding and continued to push the subculture forward.

Look for Illegal Civilization to make a major splash in the film industry now that they have gathered their footing. Their next feature film is titled, North Hollywood and will delve into the trials and tribulations of becoming a pro skater.

Kulture May 11, 2021
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How to become a skateboard photographer: The 101 starter kit

In our world today, there is plenty of saturation. It seems that everybody wants a piece of the cultural pie. The way by which you stand out is through differentiation. Find something that interests people that not many people are doing and go forth tenfold! Why not become a skateboard photographer?

The motion of a skateboard can be difficult to keep up with. Maintaining control of the camera can be even harder. But where there is a will, there is a way. The hardest step is always getting started.

Necessities for skateboard photography

To become a skateboard photographer, you will need a few things. First things first, you’re going to want a camera.

Make sure that you invest the proper funds and allotment of resources to secure this pivotal tool. It will define your work. 

Man attemps trick mid-air – will he land? Who knows but I bet he got back up and tried again (via Vanyaland)

Here a few basic photography tips: 

  • Always seek highest iso quality
  • Adjust presets based upon lighting
  • Ensure correct white balance
  • Pre adjust the frames per second

Once the camera is in possession, you should always keep some other items on your person to be a successful skateboard photographer.

More tools for skateboard photographers

Always bring along a skate tool and pliers for your subjects. This is a symbiotic relationship and if there is no skateboard, there is no photograph.

Also, this will allow your subject to adjust their settings and prepare for the shoot. Some tools you might need are pliers, a “skate tool,” a box cutter, and a multi-tool.

kids film
A rambunctious & rebellious group of teens traverse through NYC (via Cary Woods/ ‘Kids’ movie)

Additionally, use wax. A rail that is dry as the Sahara is not conducive to successful skateboarding photography. Rub the wax upon ledges or flat bars to smooth the surface and allow for greater yield and range of imagery.

Pack extra/keep spare parts

Stay hydrated and promote yourself, fool!

skateboard photography
Man grinds his gears away in search of that gnarly trick (via Xtreme Sports)

Also, keep spare parts and shoelaces. This includes extra wheels, gears, screws, and first-aid. Therefore, you can be on the spot no matter what happens. Everyone knows skateboarding is a game of uncertainty.

Finally, keep an external hard drive & charger

Always back up your work and make sure it is possible to continue working.

With this collection of items, you are sure to impress your subject and build strong rapport. Having these things shows that you are prepared, knowledgeable and willing to do what it takes. 

skateboard photography
Find what drives you, torments you, and bullwhips you, and then go for it!

Above all else, network your tail off! Talk to anyone and everyone within the skateboarding subculture and be genuine. I can only give you so much game until it is time for you to go ten does down and dive into it. So what are you waiting for? Get to snappin’!

10K80 May 11, 2021
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TmrO breeds new creative talent in a convenient way

Freelance is the resounding answer to low wages and dead-end jobs. Reason being, freelance opportunities allow creatives to conveniently tap into their passions and grow their skillsets. TmrO provides the platform to build one’s worth and move strategically within the industry they choose.

In the freelance industry, it can often be a free-for-all. Meaning, it can be difficult to gauge your worth based upon value, earnings, and time allotment. 

https://youtu.be/zuoeykzpWjQ

TmrO app affords a myriad of convenient opportunities for creatives

Kayla Shelton and DJ Don Cannon have launched the TmrO App which provides odd jobs, side hustles and freelance gigs. 

don cannon tmrO
Co-founder of tmrO app Don Cannon (via tmrO)

“TmrO is designed to accommodate creatives in music,video,film, and other content creation, and the new entrepreneurs, and businesses of any size, looking to connect with creatives. TmrO users have various skill levels and backgrounds to fit a wide range of projects.”

Team TmrO
tmro app
TmrO app logo (via Tmroapp.com)

Kayla Shelton is the CEO of the TmrO app and Flux Media. She has secured a contract with Warner Brothers, created her own boot – the LEGLOVE and shares a by-any-means type attitude. 

“Getting you booked today and getting you paid as soon as tomorrow is the theme. We pay our creative freelancers within 48 hours of completing a project, we make sure that the money is guaranteed to them before the project is scheduled. We are trying to help ensure that creatives grow their career as they try to build sustainably for themselves.”

Kayla Shelton

Don Cannon is a legendary Philadelphia producer and is known for producing tracks for the likes of Lil Wayne, Pharrell and Jay-Z – just to name a few.

His groundbreaking efforts within the mixtape era (early 2000’s) made it possible for artists like Chance the Rapper to win a Grammy off of a mixtape.

“Howdy doo – it’s Weezy baby if they slippin then I got to tote THE CANNON”

Lil Wayne – Dedication 2

TmrO is for creatives and by creatives

The app serves as a digital marketplace that connects the world’s most creative freelancers within the music, film, and content creation industries. 

“TmrO was built to revolutionize freelancing, an industry often unreliable, unpredictable and prone to leaving hardworking professionals unpaid for the work they’re doing.”

(PRNewswire)
tmro app
Kayla Shelton and Don Cannon provide a valuable service for creative go-getters (via TmrO)

The mobile native solution focuses on ease of access, speed and location-based booking. The idea for this app sprouted from the fact that a close colleague of the company began to DoorDash for some extra scratch on the side.

Creative convenience is king

While she was serving grub, a lightbulb went off for these entrepreneurs. Why couldn’t there be an immediate and convenient order service for creative content? Thus, the TmrO app was born. 

“The pandemic has changed the model of a traditional work force, so people are finding employment in creative and resourceful ways. TmrO is filling that need with its discovery process and faster payments. It’s free to join and you get paid in 48hrs. Also, The upcoming ‘Instant Book’ feature will soon allow job seekers to find work at the last minute.”

TmrO Team

Not only can you download TmrO on the Apple App Store but you can own a share of the company via StartEngine. 

“We are allowing the creative group of people that we made this app for be apart of the group of people able to invest. We feel it adds another layer, so not only can you use the app to find opportunities, get paid quicker, sustain your career as a creative but you can also benefit on the other side as the app continues to grow”

Kayla Shelton

A wide range of possibilities exist on the TmrO platform

The TmrO app represents people who are willing to share their insights, generate fresh ideas and solve problems with solution-minded approaches. Thus far, the most frequent submissions on the app have been within the style realm.

creative convenience
Kayla Shelton (via TmrO)

“Right now there is a large demand for styling, whether it be hair, wardrobe or creative direction and/or graphic design for merchandise. I’ve even seen a DJ in there – I put myself in there as a commercial voiceover – I’ve done commercial cartoon voices. It’s a nice balance of creatives in there that we’re seeing.”

Don Cannon

These entrepreneurs have a strong foothold in Atlanta, GA. They have observed the way that Tyler Perry has sought to affect change in the community and move with the same vigor. (Tyler Perry acquired Fort McPherson army base, 330 acres, and transformed it into an entertainment multiplex.)

“What Tyler Perry is doing with his studios is allowing so many creatives and innovators to come together in a collaborative way. TmrO supports this effort in regards to the freelance movement we’re experiencing.  It’s giving a resource to so many freelancers and connecting them with paid projects, new clients and other creatives that can benefit from these sought-after skills and talents.”

TmrO Team

Above all else, they are creating an extremely convenient service for young creatives. As a true beacon of light, the TmrO app and its founders will certainly guide you toward your dream. 

“College students and fresh grads may not know exactly where their passions lie, but TmrO allows them to showcase their skills and book the types of projects that most appeal to them, which would allow them to build up their experience, as well as discover where their talents lies.”

TmrO Team

There are certain intangibles that define success. Just from a brief interview, it became evident that the TmrO team shares these characteristics such as vivaciousness, intellectual value and experience that allows them to adapt and overcome.

Expect these multimedia moguls to continue to make serious splashes within the freelance game.

Bruh May 6, 2021
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Using lessons from quarantine once the world opens back up

My stay-at-home game is strong. This might be what many of you are also thinking. While the pandemic was Earth-shattering, it also provided many lessons for us during quarantine. Now how can we utilize these lessons once the world opens back up?

While the introverts maintain introspection, some of you are rowdy and ready to emerge upon the scene. I heard a lot of chants recently of: “We Outside!”

No matter how you navigate it is imperative to always evaluate your past, assess your present and stay six steps ahead toward the future.

Quarantine lessons will shape our near-future

Therefore, the way that life evolves can build upon foundation brick by brick instead of starting from square one during each bout. COVID-19 is a doozie – unfortunately, we are still in COVID SZN as it appears it might be slow for flushing out the virus altogether.

quarantine lessons
A Quarantine Notice from the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District

Our chances at reaching herd immunity might be shot… but enough about all that – what have we learned?

Keep your distance, be hygienic, and for now, keep wearing a mask

Maintain space in public settings – for many of us this has been an unwritten rule. Give people their personal space and respect the boundary of the “bubble.” For others, the common courtesy that gives me a little room to breathe seems to be rather difficult. 

There is no excuse! Don’t be dirty/filthy/nasty – scrub away and touch objects less. Washing your hands is preferential to sanitizer as the chemical components in hand sanitizer will do damage to your skin.

This one is rather simple – a mask covers your mouth and nose except in most outdoor settings. 

Clearly, those three rules have been spoonfed and indoctrinated into our lives. But what have we learned about ourselves?

Looking inward for some COVID takeaways

Prioritize all health – if you worked a data entry position and sprained your wrist you would probably seek ergonomic treatment for that injury, correct?

Then why neglect the emotional well-being and potential lack of durability within your mental? 

We must always treat our bodies as temples so that we are able to uplift our loved ones and surrounding casts on a daily basis. 

To each their own – but loosen up a bit! Don’t become honorary Lieutenant in the mask enforcement agency or shoot dirty looks when you hear a mean cough. We are all on this planet to coexist and we all have to overcome this nasty virus together. Therefore, kindness makes the world go ’round.

We outlasted a year that felt like a decade – Keep pushing

For many, this pandemic has driven them absolutely bonkers with cabin fever running rampant. For a few, quarantine has given them the exact transformation they were looking for – whether it be self, occupation or home amenities.

For others, the virus has not affected their lives much at all and they continue their operations as usual. 

quarantine lessons
Stay familiar with your wiring

The key component throughout any situation – whether it brings adverse or jubilant results – always revolves back to the cranium. How are you going to attack the situation with your quarantine lessons? Refuse the urge to displace yourself based upon preconceived notions or poor mental habits. 

A well-balanced and harmonious mind

Build your mind like a gymnastics meet – if one thing doesn’t work try a different event.

The most pivotal part is to build the strength so that you can complete each course. Once you start doing backflips on your own inner demons – there is no turning back. Your circuits become plentiful and you are ready to fire on all cylinders. 

dancer doing backflips
A woman acrobatically pushes herself to the limits upon a rooftop

Regardless, always take the time to exercise, meditate, eat plant-based and communicate properly. If you follow these four core principles you will be able to achieve peace of mind in any scenario. Namaste.

cinco de mayo celebrations May 5, 2021
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The history of Cinco de Mayo and its celebrations through the years

Much like anything in our modern world, celebrations must be taken with a grain of salt. In today’s case – that salt will likely go between your thumb and index finger prior to a tequila shot! Cinco de Mayo is here, so we thought there would be no better time to learn about the history of its celebrations.

The fact of the matter is, we must look into its origins. And we must go beyond the surface level to truly understand what Cinco de Mayo represents. 

Cinco de Mayo history: It is not the day Mexican citizens declared their independence

The reason why Cinco de Mayo is synonymous with Mexican independence is due to their improbable defeat of the French in the Battle of Puebla. In 1860, France nearly tripled the size of Ignacio Zaragoza’s army but did not emerge victorious. 

cinco de mayo history
A cartoon depiction of the 1860 Battle of Puebla (Credit: Phas)

Little known fact: This underdog victory diminished the French aid to the Confederacy, which essentially boosted the Union’s chances during the Civil War.

Cinco de Mayo is a day of Mexican pride and heritage

The Battle of Puebla was extremely uplifting for a fractured nation. They put the clamps on France’s second invasion attempt in less than 50 years.

This victory, and thus Cinco de Mayo, is associated with widespread celebration as it provided morale, pride, and unity for a country opposed to monarchic rule in favor of liberty.

Mexico trudged and traversed through Puebla where they marked their territory in the Northern Fort of Guadalupe (Credit: Francisco Guasco)

Surprisingly enough, Cinco de Mayo is much larger in the United States. The reason being, the holiday has been commercialized out of the wazoo in order to reach into American pockets. In reality, it is just a day off for Mexicans. 

The only region that heavily celebrates Cinco de Mayo in Mexico is Puebla. There is a battle reenactment, fireworks and a parade that marches to the Fort of Guadalupe where victory was declared.

The United States’ “Manifest Destiny” endeavors had caused it to garner quite the reputation. Many neighboring countries viewed America as the bad boy of the Western world – ready and able to absorb the territory of weaker nations.

FDR hoped to transform America’s representation. His policy sought to enact cooperation, trade, and relationship building as opposed to military presence and further division.

Mexican woman
Mexicans fought hard for their liberation.

Some of the ways in which the United States improved its relations with Latin American nations is by deeming them independent.

Once properly recognized, the United States would promptly declare Latin American nations independence which served as a crucial assist from a major foreign power.

cinco de mayo celebrations
Mexican apparel is often vibrant, classy and traditional.

Some Latin Americans still shared harsh sentiments and resentment toward the U.S.A. after the battle of 1846 and the United States providing lip service but not much change in disposition.

A complicated relationship between the two neighboring nations

Many Latin Americans saw right through what the United States was hoping to achieve. One Latin American writer described Americans as:

“Rude and obtuse Calibans swollen with brutal appetites, the enemies of all idealisms, furiously enamored of the dollar, insatiable gulpers of whiskey and sausages—swift, overwhelming, fierce, clownish.”

(Historians.org)

I thought that was a pretty intense viewpoint, but did not share any qualms with the statement. The way of the world became existent through colonialism. Therefore, territory acquisition and survival did not always occur on the most amicable terms.

Modern adaptations

More times than not, the U.S.A.’s intervention with other nations led to more irritation and enemy-building rather than unity and allyship. Today, it is vital to navigate the modern world with technical finesse, value, and kindness.

cinco de mayo celebrations
Eloquence, mystique and allure surround these talented Mexican women

It is always important to look at national holidays in terms of their contextual purpose. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is for wholesome and authentic gatherings. In America, Cinco de Mayo is for gluttonous consumption and getting loaded from Coronas. 

Oftentimes, a country’s overarching intentions can be highlighted on holidays such as these. So today, celebrate responsibly and pay homage to apostles like Manuel Agarte whose sentiments against the “Yankee Colossus of the North” helped to plant the seed that sprouted the independent movement and mentality throughout Mexico.

babson college April 29, 2021
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How creatives graduating college can best navigate the gig economy

Creatives graduating college are already entering a volatile job market. This is still only exacerbated by fears over student debt and more. But while the most lucrative long-term options might not be available, the gig economy is.

As we grow and continue to navigate the globe, we learn that it is paramount to move in multiple different directions. When we go through childhood and adolescence, the direction in which we move is normally chosen for us. 

gig economy
Pursuing your passion will never go out of style

Sequential movements in the gig economy allow for growth

The system continues to push its education agenda as one becomes an adult, thus making it seem as if that route is the only reputable choice for living.

The portion of our country that corporations fail to mention is the gig economy. Many students graduating college today are avoiding the 9-5 scheme in favor of pursuing passion projects and side hustles.

It is undeniable that the gig economy has represented emerging trends and occupational shifts since the turn of the century. The independent route has become prevalent and alternative work has continually increased with sharpness. 

“95 percent of the net employment growth in the U.S. economy from 2005 to 2015 appears to have occurred in alternative work arrangements.”

(Katz, Harvard)

The gig economy allows workers to make enough to pay their bills, all the while being apart of something that they truly care about. Not only that, but it provides workers with a sense of autonomy, flexibility and wherewithal to build independence.

Schools giving students the tools

Often times, coming fresh off a graduation can leave one feeling anxious and uncertain as to where they will collect a source of income.

Universities and colleges are doing their students a disservice if they never discuss the presence of our gig economy. Thankfully, there are some schools that ensure the “sunken feeling” of joblessness will never creep up.

gig economy
To best learn the ropes, start the climb.

At Baldwin Wallace, all musical theater majors will leave the university with an agent. At Babson College, there is an entire curriculum dedicated to the gig economy.

Also, at DePaul College, students can create connections and start gaining experience through a channel called, “The Gig Connection.” Some schools have created entire program wings titled, “Art Business Incubators.”

So clearly, the infrastructure is in place and there are programs available to help students navigate the gig economy. It all comes down to receiving exposure to valuable and realistic work situations.

The gig economy ingrains a sense of adaptability

Many gig economy workers are not considered entry-level candidates due to the transferable skills they have gained from these “secondary positions.”

Learning how to navigate the gig economy can provide intangible characteristics relating to independent contracting work, freelance or consultation. 

graduating college
If you work 9-5, take some time before and after every day to build your transition

The pivotal part about the gig economy is the available lessons and humble beginnings it provides.

The earlier you hop on the freelance wave, the better. Intrinsic inspiration often strikes the younger we are, so the sooner you are able to tap into your abilities the more likely you will succeed. 

The best form of protest is ownership

The gig economy allows those seeking a career to think for themselves as productive members of society. Rather than committing all their labor to the prospect of fulfilling someone else’s dream, freelancers chase their own bag.

They realize that this industry allows for greater vertical integration, accounts for market shifts, and makes it easier to change strategies. Working in the gig economy also helps individuals understand and interpret the needs of other workers, too. 

gig economy
The gig economy is swirling and it is rather easy to find your niche

Many people graduating college are turning to contingent work to fund their dreams and work toward becoming the sole proprietor of their efforts. To navigate the gig economy, start early.

Tap into your core and hone in on your craft from the infant stages and truly adore the process. Assess your strengths, values, and passions in order to steer through uncertainty.

Understand this – a transcript exemplifies dedication but a portfolio exemplifies self-application. Do More!

Bruh April 27, 2021
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Fernando Tatis Jr. and Ethernity Chain launch world’s most exciting NFT

The NFT ship continues to flow downstream as athletes like Fernando Tatis Jr. are pairing up with Ethernity Chain, paving the way to sell their own collectible items.

Everyone and their mother are hopping on the NFT wave! With such an astounding pool of investors, an openly sourced global market, and the opportunity to cash grab, many celebrities have also started to jump aboard.

fernando tatis jr. collectible item
Due to technical difficulties, the auction was pushed back one day to today, Tuesday, April 27. (Ethernity)

Tatis Jr. has declared his most recent set of NFT’s as the collectibles of the future. He has signed 123 bats which he plans to mint and release online. The companies that worked with Tatis Jr. are Ethernity Chain, Victus Sports, and Impossible Brief. 

Ethernity utilizes a decentralized financial model that hosts notable artists and people on their platform. Impossible Brief specializes in NFT art and Victus Sports is the actual sponsor for Tatis Jr. baseball bats. Together, all parties worked together to develop a supercharged unlockable baseball bat.

ethernity chain and fernando tatis jr.
The El Niño (Coinspeaker)

Taking the world by storm with collectible items

The “El Niño” is a hand-crafted gold-embossed baseball bat that is quickly becoming a real-world collectible.

The dark wood grain, ash wood, 24K gold leaf embossment and dark stormy aesthetic exemplify all of the incredible design elements infused by everyone involved. This item truly feels like it deserves highly coveted inquiries.

fernando tatis jr.
Fernando Tatis Jr. celebrates with jubilance (Friars on Sports)

Tatis Jr. is a groundbreaking ballplayer. He is clearly the most recognizable baseball talent in all of California. As a member of the San Diego Padres, Tatis proudly reigns from the Dominican Republic.

He represents his country to the fullest and does so in honor of his father Fernando Sr. David Ortiz and many other legendary figures that have come from his homeland.

A resounding resurgence for Tatis Jr.

After coming back from a debilitating injury, Tatis Jr. has created quite the resurgent buzz surrounding his efforts this year. He is a monster behind the plate and also represents symbolic change through his off-the-field efforts.

As a club centerpiece, there is no better individual to run a major online auction through than Tatis Jr.

ethernity chain collectible items
The El Niño NFT Bat (Coinspeaker)

Fernando continues to break boundaries on the diamond and in the online crypto space. His goal is to drive a revolution toward global giving and collectible items.

To do so, he knows that we must protect our planet with a traceable and responsible impact. Look for Tatis Jr. to continue to utilize his influence and do so in ways that care for our planet.

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