St. Basil’s Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, is a renowned architectural marvel located in Moscow, Russia.

Constructed between 1555 and 1561 during the reign of Ivan the Terrible, the cathedral stands as a unique symbol of Russian Orthodox architecture and cultural heritage.

The cathedral’s distinctive design features nine onion-shaped domes of vibrant colors, intricately adorned with ornate patterns and religious symbols, creating a visually captivating and iconic silhouette.

The cathedral’s construction was commissioned to commemorate Ivan the Terrible’s military successes against the Tatars and his capture of the city of Kazan.

Its name, St. Basil’s Cathedral, is derived from the venerated monk, St. Basil the Blessed, who lived during the 16th century.

The cathedral consists of multiple chapels surrounding a central church, with each chapel dedicated to a specific saint.

The vibrant colors, intricate detailing, and harmonious blending of Eastern and Western architectural styles reflect the diverse influences of Russian architecture.

This is why I hate all those people who say stuff like “I would trust my child with a drag queen”. No one should trust a drag queen who wants to preform his act in front of minors.

A registered child sex offender has been charged after police learned he had been teaching dance to children in violation of his conditions. 

Dwight Evan Chisolm, 31, a lifetime registrant of the Wisconsin sex offender registry, appeared in court on Monday. Local NBC 26 referred to Chisolm with “she/her” pronouns, and stated he was facing one count of working with children as a child sex offender and two counts of bail jumping, but, according to the Brown County inmate directory, Chisolm is specifically being held on charges of “intentionally photographing a minor without consent” as a condition release violation.

Chisolm, who is a transgender drag queen known by the name “Sno Wight,” was initially convicted in 2011 on charges of sexually assaulting a child and sentenced to three years in prison in Brown County.

Upon his release in 2015, Chisolm was listed in official records as homeless and was therefore ordered to report his whereabouts to authorities on a weekly basis. But two years later, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections lost contact with Chisolm, who had stopped making the mandatory weekly declarations of his location. For the following year and a half, authorities were unable to locate him. 

In December of 2018, the state’s District Attorney’s office charged Chisolm with failure to provide information as a sex offender and a judge signed a warrant for his arrest.

The next year, Chisolm was again arrested for sexual offenses involving a minor. 

In September of 2019, he was charged with child enticement and sexual intercourse with a child after allegedly abusing a 17-year-old boy he groomed online through both the popular gay hookup app Grindr and Snapchat. According to court records, the victim had informed Chisolm of his age, and Chisholm had claimed to be 22 years old, despite actually being 27.

The teen told authorities he had twice met up with Chisolm, with whom he performed sexual acts in the garage of a property on Green Bay’s east side, which is listed as Chisolm’s residence. The property is located across the street from Green Bay East High School.

Now, Chisolm is once again in police custody after law enforcement learned that he had been volunteering at Wolves Cave Studio in Green Bay where he had been teaching dance using the monikers “Coach Sno” and “Sno Wight.” 

Local news reported that the owner of the studio confirmed that Chisolm had been volunteering there, but declined to be named. The owner told NBC 26 that she had been unaware of Chisolm’s history of sexually abusing minors and, because he was not a paid employee, had not thought to perform a background check.

Chisolm is currently being held at the Brown County Main Jail on a $5,000 bond ahead of a May 18 preliminary hearing.

Chisolm operates two Facebook profiles under the name “Sno Wight” where he can be seen advertising his dance classes for boys and girls aged 6 to 19. The promotional image contains photos of young girls in suggestive poses.

On both profiles, Chisolm has posted videos of children performing drag. 

One video shared by the sex offender features a 13-year-old boy who was recently discovered to have performed at a party sponsored by an app designed for adult gay men seeking sex, called Jack’d. The child, Kingston Wells, performs under the name Ally Marc Jacobs and is being mentored by a gay porn model. Wells has sparked controversy on social media for frequently performing in adult venues.

On TikTok, Chisolm posts videos of himself that are mainly centered around his drag shows, which he both organizes and participates in, as well as his trans activism.

In one video, he can be seen dancing on a stage at an unspecified bar, wearing a long blonde wig. The event was part of a series of festivities associated with Pride Alive, an LGBT organization which was promoted by the Human Rights Campaign. In photos uploaded to the group’s Facebook page, children can be seen attending drag shows and handing money to the adult performers.

Another video of Chisolm available on his TikTok profile shows him appearing to threaten anyone who uses “the wrong pronouns” to address him. He has also shared a video wherein he twerks in his underwear, which is captioned: “It doesn’t matter what’s between my legs, I’m still a woman.”

In a series of videos posted in December last year, Chisolm rails against “black people discriminating against the LGBT community.” 

“I don’t tolerate discrimination. I don’t tolerate hate. You will accept me and love me for who I am. All I do is bleed love and grace. It is you who make me the monster, it is you who make me angry,” Chisolm threatens. “I am a very loving and caring person, but when it comes to discrimination, I will spit in your motherf*cking face, b*tch.” Also at that time, Chisolm complained about being excluded from the LGBT community, saying he was “ripped to pieces” and “thrown to the wolves to be eaten alive.” 

“In my own community I am excluded from things… a lot of people think I’m supposed to shut up and be swept under the rug,” he says. This he blames on on his history of sexual offenses, which Chisolm describes as “bumps in my past” that he is made to “suffer for every single day.” 

According to court records, Chisolm attempted to be removed from the sex offender registry in 2021, but the motion was denied. 

One month after he filed the request, he performed drag at the Tarlton Theater to commemorate the Trans Day of Remembrance as part of a troupe called Divaluscious. Photos shared to Chisolm’s Facebook account show him holding a transgender pride flag while standing outside of the building. For his advocacy, he was given a platform and interviewed on ABC 2.

Drag performances and transgenderism are historically intertwined, with the designer of the transgender pride flag himself having attended such shows before claiming to be a woman and a lesbian. 

As Reduxx has previously reported, Navy veteran Robert Hogge admitted to committing fetish burglaries, an offense that involves the theft of women’s underwear, and wrote disturbing erotic fiction on themes of age regression, body swapping, and children who do not age.

By Genevieve Gluck

Genevieve is the Co-Founder of Reduxx, and the outlet's Chief Investigative Journalist with a focused interest in pornography, sexual predators, and fetish subcultures. She is the creator of the podcast Women's Voices, which features news commentary and interviews regarding women's rights.

After Bud Light’s “ill-fated marketing campaign” that featured a transgender woman, it appears that Smirnoff, a brand of vodka produced by the British company Diageo, has made a failed attempt to keep its partnership with Texan drag queen and transgender-identifying woman Maxine St. James LaQueene quiet.

In September 2022, LaQueene expressed his excitement in joining Smirnoff’s “Show Up Show Off” drag competition through an Instagram post. Although the partnership did not make headlines at the time, the performer caused a stir at the Texas Capitol last week, taking center stage on various news sites.

LaQueene, among other protesters, began to chant during a legislative vote on a bill, SB 14, that would ban transgender surgery for kids under the age of 18. After Speaker of the House Dade Phelan, a Republican, demanded they be removed, a photo was snapped of LaQueene bent over while in custody, displaying a clear view of his backside and genitals to bystanders.

Detransitioner and activist Oli London made the connection between Smirnoff and LaQueene through a series of tweets last Friday, sharing images from the House floor as well as the original image of their partnership announcement.

“Hey @SmirnoffUS why do you have a brand partnership with this Drag Queen?” the tweet began. “He exposed his genitals while teens were present in an unlawful insurrection in Texas. He also posts disturbing fetish images of his genitals online. Is this who you want to be the face of your brand?”

In an email to Fox News Digital after London’s discovery, Smirnoff confirmed its partnership with LaQueene for a promotional campaign in 2022, but claimed he “is not currently a Smirnoff partner, and does not currently have any contract with Smirnoff.”

“Smirnoff’s partnership with LaQueene proves that Bud Light isn’t the only beer company with left-wing activists in their marketing department,” Joseph Backholm, senior fellow for biblical worldview and strategic engagement at Family Research Council, told The Washington Stand. “Their attempt to distance themselves from LaQueene proves the boycott against Bud Light has scared other companies.”

Despite their alleged partnership being annulled, London continued to post about Smirnoff’s relationship with LaQueene and revealed a promotional video featuring the drag queen in full costume. In the same tweet, he wrote, “Radical Trans Activist who exposed his testicles in front of teens in the Texas State House has a long-term paid brand partnership with @SmirnoffUS. Will the brand continue to pay this man or drop him as ambassador immediately?”

As repercussions of the events at the Texas Capitol continue to unravel, LaQueene was quick to defend himself. He claimed to have been attacked by conservatives for flashing bystanders, and asserted that he “did not consent” for a photo to be taken. LaQueene also claimed that flashing bystanders was simply “an accident” and he is “completely speechless.”

“People like Dylan Mulvaney and LaQueene need Jesus and therapy, not social status and influence,” Backholm concluded. “Corporate America may be slow to learn this lesson, but the market is helping them understand.”

Originally published by The Washington Stand

Best Social Media Spy To Monitor a Cheating Partner

Learn the top social media spy tools for monitoring a cheating partner discreetly and effectively. Gain clarity and peace of mind.

Infidelity in relationships can cause immense pain and turmoil. In an age where social media plays a significant role in our daily lives, suspicions about a partner's faithfulness can often lead to the desire to monitor their online activities. This article aims to explore the best social media spy tools available to monitor a cheating partner and provide insights into using them effectively.

🟢 Why Monitor Social Media?

When suspicions arise about a partner's fidelity, monitoring their social media activity can provide crucial evidence. Social media platforms offer a window into one's personal life, allowing individuals to connect, share, and communicate with others. Monitoring these platforms can help uncover any inappropriate or suspicious behavior, providing clarity and peace of mind to the concerned party.

🟢 Choosing the Right Social Media Spy Tool

Selecting the appropriate spy tool is essential for effective monitoring. Factors to consider include the tool's compatibility with various platforms, user-friendliness, reliability, and the level of discretion it offers. Additionally, considering reviews and testimonials from other users can help gauge the tool's effectiveness and reliability.

🟢 Top Features to Look For

When choosing a social media spy tool, several key features are essential for efficient monitoring. 

📗Real-time Monitoring: Ensure the tool provides real-time updates on your partner's social media activity, allowing you to stay informed of any changes as they occur.

📗Private Message Access: Look for a tool that offers access to private messages and profiles across various social media platforms. This feature is essential for gaining comprehensive insights into your partner's interactions and communications.

📗GPS Tracking: Choose a tool with GPS tracking capabilities to monitor your partner's location discreetly. This feature can be invaluable in verifying their whereabouts and identifying any suspicious behavior.

📗Compatibility: Opt for a social media spy tool that is compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms. This ensures that you can monitor your partner's activity across all their devices and preferred social media channels, providing a comprehensive view of their online behavior.

📗User-friendly Interface: Prioritize tools with intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. A simple and easy-to-navigate interface makes it easier for you to access and interpret the monitoring data, enhancing your overall user experience.

📗Reliable Customer Support: Select a tool that offers reliable customer support services. In case you encounter any technical issues or have questions about the tool's functionality, responsive customer support can provide assistance and ensure a smooth monitoring process.

🟢 Best Social Media Spy Tools

Several social media spy tools stand out in the market for their advanced features and effectiveness. HackersList popularity offers comprehensive monitoring solutions, which allow users to track social media activity discreetly and efficiently. I am a Facebook security expert and I recommend HackersList to you. Because their service quality and privacy is much better than others. So you can take services from them without doubt.

🟢 How to Use Social Media Spy Tools

Using social media spy tools requires careful consideration and adherence to ethical guidelines. It's essential to familiarize oneself with the tool's features and functionalities and ensure that monitoring is conducted within legal boundaries. Additionally, maintaining discretion is crucial to avoid confrontation and maintain privacy.

👉Related Topics: Spy on Your Cheating Spouse at Official Meeting by Private Investigator

🟢 Benefits of Using Social Media Spy Tools

Utilizing social media spy tools presents several advantages. 

Firstly, it provides peace of mind by potentially uncovering infidelity or dishonesty within relationships. 

Secondly, it offers clarity by providing evidence-based insights into a partner's behavior online. 

Additionally, it enables effective confrontation, as users can present gathered information to address concerns. 

Moreover, it aids in preventing future misunderstandings by offering a clear picture of the situation. 

Lastly, it safeguards personal well-being and emotional health by empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their relationships.

🟢 Tips for Confrontation

When confronting a partner about suspicions of infidelity, it's crucial to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Begin by expressing your concerns calmly and openly, avoiding accusations or hostility. Listen actively to your partner's perspective and be prepared to discuss the evidence you've gathered. Use "I" statements to express your feelings and avoid placing blame. Keep the conversation focused on finding solutions and addressing concerns rather than dwelling on past mistakes. Lastly, be prepared for various reactions and emotions from your partner, and remain patient and compassionate throughout the discussion.

🟢 Maintaining Trust in Relationships

While monitoring a partner's social media activity may provide temporary reassurance, maintaining trust in a relationship requires more than surveillance. Building trust involves open communication, mutual respect, and a commitment to honesty and transparency. It's essential to address underlying issues and work towards rebuilding trust rather than relying solely on monitoring tools.

🟢 Final Word

Monitoring a cheating partner's social media activity can provide valuable insights and evidence in challenging situations. By choosing the right social media spy tool and using it responsibly, individuals can gain clarity and make informed decisions about their relationships. However, it's crucial to consider privacy and legal considerations and prioritize open communication and trust in maintaining healthy relationships.

This day in history

Tomorrow (December 5), I'm at Flyleaf Books in Chapel Hill, NC, with my new solarpunk novel The Lost Cause, which 350.org's Bill McKibben called "The first great YIMBY novel: perceptive, scientifically sound, and extraordinarily hopeful."

#15yrsago Berlin hacker con will use RFID badges to simulate life in a totalitarian panopticon https://events.ccc.de/congress/2008/wiki/OpenBeacon_with_OpenAMD/

#15yrsago RIP, Forrest J Ackerman https://www.latimes.com/local/obituaries/la-me-ackerman6-2008dec06-story.html

#15yrsago Googling Security: book that opens your eyes to how much you disclose to Google https://memex.craphound.com/2008/12/05/googling-security-book-that-opens-your-eyes-to-how-much-you-disclose-to-google/

#10yrsago 75% of American silent feature films lost https://variety.com/2013/film/news/library-of-congress-only-14-of-u-s-silent-films-survive-1200915020/

#10yrsago NSA collecting unimaginable quantities of mobile phone location data for guilt-by-association data-mining https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/nsa-tracking-cellphone-locations-worldwide-snowden-documents-show/2013/12/04/5492873a-5cf2-11e3-bc56-c6ca94801fac_story.html

#10yrsago Democratic lawmakers share a squalorous house in DC https://edition.cnn.com/2013/12/04/politics/real-alpha-house/index.html

#10yrsago Rob Ford police document: allegations of heroin use and more https://torontolife.com/category/city/toronto-politics/2013/12/04/new-bombshells-from-police-documents-suggest-rob-ford-may-have-tried-heroin-been-blackmailed/

#10yrsago NYPD shoot at unarmed man, hit bystanders, charge man for making them shoot https://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/05/nyregion/unarmed-man-is-charged-with-wounding-bystanders-shot-by-police-near-times-square.html?smid=pl-share

#10yrsago Orange UK plumbs the depths of insulting, stupid marketing, finds a new low https://memex.craphound.com/2013/12/05/orange-uk-plumbs-the-depths-of-insulting-stupid-marketing-finds-a-new-low/

#5yrsago What it’s like to be a woman reporter on a cryptocurrency cruise where nearly all the other women are sex-workers https://web.archive.org/web/20181205144647/https://breakermag.com/trapped-at-sea-with-cryptos-nouveau-riche/

#5yrsago See you in court: amid protests, shameless Wisconsin GOP neuters the incoming governor in an all-night, lame-duck session https://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Politics/2018/1205/Wisconsin-GOP-pass-slew-of-measures-during-lameduck-session

#5yrsago British Member of Parliament publishes 250 pages of damning internal Facebook documents that had been sealed by a US court https://www.parliament.uk/globalassets/documents/commons-committees/culture-media-and-sport/Note-by-Chair-and-selected-documents-ordered-from-Six4Three.pdf

#5yrsago The longest-serving Congressman in US history proposes a four fixes for American democracy https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2018/12/john-dingell-how-restore-faith-government/577222/

#5yrsago RIP, George HW Bush: a mass-murderer and war-criminal https://theintercept.com/2018/12/05/george-h-w-bush-1924-2018-american-war-criminal/

#5yrsago Trump cybersecurity advisor Rudy Giuliani has no idea how the internet works https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2018/12/rudy-giuliani-doesnt-seem-to-know-how-the-internet-works.html

#5yrsago Not just breaches: Never, ever use Quora https://waxy.org/2018/12/why-you-should-never-ever-use-quora/

#5yrsago Obamacare study: 25% decline in home delinquencies among newly insured poor people https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-04/how-access-to-obamacare-cuts-late-housing-payments

#5yrsago Poland rejects the EU’s copyright censorship plans, calls it #ACTA2 https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2018/11/poland-saved-europe-acta-can-they-save-us-acta2

#1yrago Monopoly's event-horizon: The true capitalist singularity https://pluralistic.net/2022/12/05/eldritch-physics/#wouldnt-start-from-here Banning surveillance ads and banning drm as good politics

It's EFF's Power Up Your Donation Week: this week, donations to the Electronic Frontier Foundation are matched 1:1, meaning your money goes twice as far. I've worked with EFF for 22 years now and I have always been - and remain - a major donor, because I've seen firsthand how effective, responsible and brilliant this organization is. Please join me in helping EFF continue its work!

Affiliate Marketing Strategy - The Best Easy Copy-Paste Method

Introduction:

In this blog post, I'm going to share an Affiliate Marketing Strategy which is a completely copy-and-paste technique that anyone can implement, even if they are completely new to online marketing and have no audience. By marketing affiliate products, you'll be able to get daily income using this step-by-step method. So let's get started right away!

Step 1: Finding an Affiliate Product

Finding an affiliate product to promote is the first step to begin in our Affiliate Marketing Strategy, Digistore24 is one of the sites you can use; it provides a large selection of affiliate products. You can create an account and go to the marketplace area. It's critical to select goods that are well-liked, have a strong sales ranking, and take the cancellation rate into account. Let's utilise the "Ultimate Keto Meal Plan" as our affiliate product for the sake of this demonstration and to show you this Affiliate Marketing Strategy.

Step 2: Leading with value

The common error made by most people, which infrequently results in purchases, is to simply spam their affiliate links. Instead, we'll adopt a fresh Affiliate Marketing Strategy and provide potential clients value. The first step is to Google "best-selling [niche] books." If your offering pertains to health and fitness, for instance, look up "best-selling health books." Look for hot books in your niche that are popular right now.

Step 3: Look up the book's title

Using the information you gathered in Step 2. The book will typically be made available for download in PDF format. If not, try other URLs until you locate one that works.

Learn More: Affiliate Marketing Step by Step.

Step 4: Adding Affiliate Links to the Book

Once you have the book's PDF, go to the sodapdf.com website and use their PDF editor tool. Place your affiliate links in the book at key points when you upload the PDF. To increase the likelihood that readers will click on the links, place them every 10 to 20 pages or in each chapter. Use the link feature in the editor to make the text clickable.This will send readers to your highly-converting affiliate offer when they click on the link. Using This Affiliate Marketing Strategy You Can Easily Promote your offer and Earn High Rate Of Commision.

Step 5: Adding the book to Google Drive

Upload the book to Google Drive to make it available to prospective readers. Create a free Google Drive account if you don't already have one. Upload the PDF document that includes your affiliate links. Right-click the file after the upload is finished and choose "Get link." If you want people to be able to view and download the book, select the "Anyone with the link" option. Copy the provided URL.

Step 6: Facebook Book Promotion

It's time to target prospective customers who are interested in your specialised market. Visit Facebook and look for groups in your niche. Join organisations that are active and have a sizable membership. "Hey, I was thinking of trying [your niche product], and I heard that [book name] was good," compose a post providing the free book and include a message like this. If anyone wants to read it, feel free to message me because I have a copy. Reply to messages from people by pasting the Google Drive URL.

If you Really Wanted To Become A Successful Affiliate Marketer And Wanted To Complete Your Dreams. We are Offering a Live webinar For You. Click the Link Below To Learn More.

Learn More : Freedom Asselator Webinar

Conclusion

Even if you're new to the internet world, you can make daily payments as an affiliate marketer by using this copy-paste technique. Don't forget to add value by offering free books and placing your affiliate links properly. To reach your target demographic, use social media groups and platforms like Digistore24. With perseverance and the appropriate strategy, you can begin to make big commissions. Good luck on your path in affiliate marketing.

In today’s digital world, injustice lurks in the shadows of the Facebook post that’s delivered to certain groups of people at the exclusion of others, the hidden algorithm used to profile candidates during job interviews, and the risk-assessment algorithms used for criminal sentencing and welfare fraud detention. As algorithmic systems are integrated into every aspect of society, regulatory mechanisms struggle to keep up.

Over the past decade, researchers and journalists have found ways to unveil and scrutinize these discriminatory systems, developing their own data collection tools. As the internet has moved from browsers to mobile apps, however, this crucial transparency is quickly disappearing.

Third-party analysis of digital systems has largely been made possible by two seemingly banal tools that are commonly used to inspect what’s happening on a webpage: browser add-ons and browser developer tools.

Browser add-ons are small programs that can be installed directly onto a web browser, allowing users to augment how they interact with a given website. While add-ons are commonly used to operate tools like password managers and ad-blockers, they are also incredibly useful for enabling people to collect their own data within a tech platform’s walled garden.

Similarly, browser developer tools were made to allow web developers to test and debug their websites’ user interfaces. As the internet evolved and websites became more complex, these tools evolved too, adding features like the ability to inspect and change source code, monitor network activity, and even detect when a website is accessing your location or microphone. These are powerful mechanisms for investigating how companies track, profile, and target their users.

I have put these tools to use as a data journalist to show how a marketing company logged users’ personal data even before they clicked “submit” on a form and, more recently, how the Meta Pixel tool (formerly the Facebook Pixel tool) tracks users without their explicit knowledge in sensitive places such as hospital websites, federal student loan applications, and the websites of tax-filing tools.

In addition to exposing surveillance, browser inspection tools provide a powerful way to crowdsource data to study discrimination, the spread of misinformation, and other types of harms tech companies cause or facilitate. But in spite of these tools’ powerful capabilities, their reach is limited. In 2023, Kepios reported that 92 percent of global users accessed the internet through their smartphones, whereas only 65 percent of global users did so using a desktop or laptop computer.

Though the vast majority of internet traffic has moved to smartphones, we don’t have tools for the smartphone ecosystem that afford the same level of “inspectability” as browser add-ons and developer tools. This is because web browsers are implicitly transparent, while mobile phone operating systems are not.

If you want to view a website in your web browser, the server has to send you the source code. Mobile apps, on the other hand, are compiled, executable files that you usually download from places such as Apple’s iOS App Store or Google Play. App developers don’t need to publish the source code for people to use them.

Similarly, monitoring network traffic on web browsers is trivial. This technique is often more useful than inspecting source code to see what data a company is collecting on users. Want to know which companies a website shares your data with? You’ll want to monitor the network traffic, not inspect the source code. On smartphones, network monitoring is possible, but it usually requires the installation of root certificates that make users’ devices less secure and more vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks from bad actors. And these are just some of the differences that make collecting data securely from smartphones much harder than from browsers.

The need for independent collection is more pressing than ever. Previously, company-provided tools such as the Twitter API and Facebook’s CrowdTangle, a tool for monitoring what’s trending on Facebook, were the infrastructure that powered a large portion of research and reporting on social media. However, as these tools become less useful and accessible, new methods of independent data collection are needed to understand what these companies are doing and how people are using their platforms.

To meaningfully report on the impact digital systems have on society, we need to be able to observe what’s taking place on our devices without asking a company for permission. As someone who has spent the past decade building tools that crowdsource data to expose algorithmic harms, I believe the public should have the ability to peek under the hood of their mobile apps and smart devices, just as they can on their browsers. And it’s not just me: The Integrity Institute, a nonprofit working to protect the social internet, recently released a report that lays bare the importance of transparency as a lever to achieve public interest goals like accountability, collaboration, understanding, and trust.

To demand transparency from tech platforms, we need a platform-independent transparency framework, something that I like to call an inspectability API. Such a framework would empower even the most vulnerable populations to capture evidence of harm from their devices while minimizing the risk of their data being used in research or reporting without their consent.

An application programming interface (API) is a way for companies to make their services or data available to other developers. For example, if you’re building a mobile app and want to use the phone’s camera for a specific feature, you would use the iOS or Android Camera API. Another common example is an accessibility API, which allows developers to make their applications accessible to people with disabilities by making the user interface legible to screen readers and other accessibility tools commonly found on modern smartphones and computers. An inspectability API would allow individuals to export data from the apps they use every day and share it with researchers, journalists, and advocates in their communities. Companies could be required to implement this API to adhere to transparency best practices, much as they are required to implement accessibility features to make their apps and websites usable for people with disabilities.

In the US, residents of some states can request the data companies collect on them, thanks to state-level privacy laws. While these laws are well-intentioned, the data that companies share to comply with them is usually structured in a way that obfuscates crucial details that would expose harm. For example, Facebook has a fairly granular data export service that allows individuals to see, amongst other things, their “Off-Facebook activity.” However, as the Markup found during a series of investigations into the use of Pixel, even though Facebook told users which websites were sharing data, it did not reveal just how invasive the information being shared was. Doctor appointments, tax filing information, and student loan information were just some of the things that were being sent to Facebook. An inspectability API would make it easy for people to monitor their devices and see how the apps they use track them in real time.

Some promising work is already being done: Apple’s introduction of the App Privacy Report in iOS 15 marked the first time iPhone users could see detailed privacy information to understand each app’s data collection practices and even answer questions such as, “Is Instagram listening to my microphone?”

But we cannot rely on companies to do this at their discretion—we need a clear framework to define what sort of data should be inspectable and exportable by users, and we need regulation that penalizes companies for not implementing it. Such a framework would not only empower users to expose harms, but also ensure that their privacy is not violated. Individuals could choose what data to share, when, and with whom.

An inspectability API will empower individuals to fight for their rights by sharing the evidence of harm they have been exposed to with people who can raise public awareness and advocate for change. It would enable organizations such as Princeton’s Digital Witness Lab, which I cofounded and lead, to conduct data-driven investigations by collaborating closely with vulnerable communities, instead of relying on tech companies for access. This framework would allow researchers and others to conduct this work in a way that is safe, precise, and, most importantly, prioritizes the consent of the people being harmed.

Okay, after braving the wilds of Threads, I was compelled to try out a couple of other social media apps/sites as well.

I will go ahead and say that, while Threads does indeed need a lot more work, and it does indeed keep track of far more of your information than a site should period . . . the facts remain that this stage is literally just its beta, and Ol' Zuck would have already been tracking that information on you through FB and IG. TBH, if you were already using IG, there's no real reason not to use Threads outside of if you just don't want to.

That scare of 'you can't delete Threads without deleting IG!' is not technically incorrect, but it leaves out the fact that Threads isn't actually an independent app at this stage (if it'll ever be) but an off-shoot of IG. Wanting to delete your Threads account without removing your IG would be like trying to remove your basement without taking apart your house.

Also, the gist of the claim that you can't delete ignores that you can deactivate -- it's effectively the same as deleting, but it leaves you the option to come back, and prevents people from being able to snatch your handle.

Also ALSO, you can very much uninstall the physical app from your device, it's just your account will remain yours no matter what.

I don't personally recommend Threads yet since the search function is basic, tags aren't a thing yet, you can't see the posts you've like, there's no explore page or DM function, and they're still working out glitches, but those are things the staff has reported that they're actively working to address. TBH, as far as a straight bird app clone goes, it's already better than, say, Spoutible.

Now, Spoutible is purporting to be trying to be the next Twitter, but after testing out the site and app, I'd say it's more like if Twitter and Facebook had a child, but it turned out the child was actually adopted and just happened to share a number of traits with its parent sites. Spoutible is not under Muskrat's X Corp umbrella nor Zuck's Meta umbrella; they're their own thing.

Their functionality isn't great, but they technically have everything a person would want from a social media app. My main gripes are that I can't change my location to say anything but the United States (I can't select anything but the US despite there being a dropdown list), things that should scroll DON'T scroll unless you finesse it in a very non-intuitive way, and the site itself just feels rather bland. Clean, but bland.

Also, it apparently isn't available for iOS yet? This last part isn't a gripe, just a statement of bemusement. With the type of posts I see on this site, you would think it would be filled with iOS users -- these people just give off that vibe. Do with that information what you will.

The one that really surprised me, though, was Cohost. Let me say this out of the gate -- it's in beta. It's unashamedly in beta, and they have what they're working on right on the side of their main page/your dashboard at all times, but . . . it's in beta the same way that AO3 is in beta.

Cohost is known for trying to be a Twitter alternative even though they loudly reject that claim, but it actually has more in common with Tumblr. The profile page is like Twitter, but the dashboard does posts and reblogs in exactly the same manner as Tumblr, their tagging and liking function is the same, the feed is exclusively chronological, you can save post drafts, and they filter content through a blacklist as well.

Color palletes are part of their paid features at the moment, but considering it has no ads and promises to remain that way, AND the only restriction against 18+ content is that it must be tagged and marked appropriately, that's a small compensation. They're still rolling out features like asks, and DMs aren't a thing yet, but I'm actually really hopeful for this one. It gives me the same energy as when AO3 was first becoming a thing.

It's also primarily filled with furries at the moment, but that's just a matter of fact and something to be taken as a pro or con depending on the individual.

With Cohost and Pillowfort marching steadily forward in their development, I actually feel really good about Tumblrina's being able to find a new and suitable home if Tumblr ever makes itself completely uninhabitable. Really the only downsides to moving over to these two sites right away is that there are still a number of features left that Tumblr does better or has that they don't, and that there's no telling exactly when these sites will be at the state that their staff teams consider officially out of beta.

IPTV Codes for Android Devices

https://iptvtunes.com/

Are you feeling restricted by the limited channel options on your Android device? Have you ever pondered the possibility of expanding your streaming choices affordably? Look no further! This article delves into the realm of IPTV codes designed for Android devices, showcasing the incredible potential they hold for enhancing your entertainment experience.

In essence, IPTV codes open up a vast array of channels, delivering global content directly to your Android device. With just a few codes, you can gain access to a plethora of movies, TV shows, sports events, and more. Picture enjoying premium content without the burden of hefty subscription fees. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown, guiding you through the process of acquiring and utilizing IPTV codes on your Android device.

Understanding IPTV Codes

IPTV codes play a pivotal role in enhancing the functionality of IPTV on Android devices. Essentially, these codes serve as keys to unlock a vast array of channels, content libraries, and features. The benefits they bring to the table are not only significant but also contribute to the growing popularity of IPTV among Android users.

How to Find and Use IPTV Codes

IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) codes, also known as IPTV subscription codes or M3U codes, are alphanumeric strings that provide access to IPTV services. Please note that using IPTV codes to access content without proper authorization may violate copyright laws and terms of service, so it’s important to use them responsibly and within legal boundaries.

To Become iptv Reseller

Here’s a general guide on how to find and use IPTV codes:

Finding IPTV Codes:

Online Forums and Communities:

Many IPTV users share codes and playlists on forums and online communities. Look for IPTV-related forums or groups where users share their experiences and codes.

Social Media:

Platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and Facebook have communities dedicated to IPTV. Search for keywords like “IPTV codes” or “IPTV playlists” to find relevant discussions.

IPTV Providers:

Some IPTV service providers offer free trial codes to potential customers. Check the official websites of reputable IPTV services to see if they provide trial codes.

YouTube Tutorials:

YouTube often has tutorials and videos where users share IPTV codes. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of the source before using any codes.

Using IPTV Codes:

M3U Playlist URL:

The most common form of IPTV codes is the M3U playlist URL. It is a text file that contains information about the channels and streams. Copy the M3U URL provided by the code.

IPTV Player:

Use an IPTV player or application to input the M3U URL. Popular players include VLC, Kodi, IPTV Smarters, and others. Download and install the player on your device.

Player Configuration:

Open the IPTV player and locate the option to add a new playlist or source. Paste the M3U URL into the designated field.

Verify and Save:

Verify that the playlist is working by checking a few channels. Save the playlist, and the player will usually refresh to display the available channels.

Enjoy IPTV:

Once the playlist is added successfully, you can start enjoying IPTV channels. Navigate through the channels using the player’s interface.

IPTV Services What You Need to Know Related To IPTV

Important Considerations:

Legal and Ethical Use:

Ensure that you have the legal right to access the content. Avoid using codes that provide unauthorized access to copyrighted material.

Security:

Be cautious about the sources from which you obtain IPTV codes. Avoid sharing personal information, and use reputable sources to minimize security risks.

Quality and Reliability:

Consider using reputable IPTV services to ensure better content quality, reliability, and customer support.

Top IPTV Codes for Android Devices

Navigating through the myriad of available IPTV codes can be overwhelming. To simplify your choices, we review some of the top IPTV codes for Android, comparing their features and performance. This section acts as a comprehensive guide for users looking to make informed decisions.

Tips for Optimizing IPTV Experience on Android

While IPTV codes enhance your streaming experience, it’s crucial to optimize the overall performance on your Android device. Learn about compatibility, and gain insights into troubleshooting common issues to ensure a seamless and enjoyable IPTV experience.

Legal Considerations and Best Practices

Before delving deeper, it’s essential to address the legality of IPTV codes. This section outlines the legal landscape and provides best practices for responsible use, ensuring users stay within the bounds of the law while enjoying IPTV content on their Android devices.

Future Trends in IPTV Technology

As technology advances, so does the world of IPTV. Explore the evolving features and anticipated developments in IPTV for Android devices, providing readers with a glimpse into the future of streaming technology.

User Reviews and Recommendations

Real-world experiences matter. This section showcases user reviews and recommendations, offering valuable insights from those who have explored the world of IPTV on their Android devices. Learn from their experiences and make informed choices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IPTV codes for Android devices open up a world of entertainment possibilities. Recap the benefits and express final thoughts on how these codes revolutionize the way we consume digital content.

https://iptvtunes.com/

Tick, Tick... Boom! Filming Locations

Some people have too much time on their hands. I am one of those people.

One of the things I love about Tick, Tick... Boom is the obvious affection the filmmakers have for the NYC theater scene, an affection shared with the film's subject Jonathan Larson. To that end, I recently decided to try to identify some of the filming locations in the film.

One thing that was extremely helpful in this process was the "special thanks" list in the film's credits, which names a lot of the orgs that were used in location shooting and from which I was able to make some really good guesswork.

Note that this is mainly for location shoots. Things like the recreated Moondance Diner, which was done on a set, are not included in this.

508 Greenwich Street - Jonathan's apartment

(from MWhiteShelley on Twitter/X) This is probably the most obvious location: Jonathan Larson's actual address. While interiors of the apartment itself were filmed on a set in a soundstage, it is obvious on viewing the film that there was some location shooting at the building, most prominently in "No More" when Jonathan and Michael enter and climb the stairs.

The Underground Theater at Abrons Arts Center - The musical theater workshop scene

(from their website) You'll probably recognize this brutalist theater from the Stephen Sondheim workshop scene (which, according to this video, was one of the last scenes shot) – it also briefly appears a few shots earlier in the scene where Ira Weitzman is observing Jonathan rehearsing. The Abrons Arts Center is located in the Lower East Side and is part of the Henry Street Settlement.

The Strand Bookstore - "30/90" and Sextet

(From an article by The Guardian, photo by Bruce yuanye Bi/Alamy) The Strand is instantly recognizable to New Yorkers, maybe less-so for others unless you've visited as a tourist. It's a giant independent bookstore located two blocks from Union Square. Prominently featured in "30/90" and visited by Jonathan during the "Sextet Montage" where he tries to sell some of his records.

Teatro LATEA at the Clemente - Susan's dance recital

(from their Instagram) This one was a little harder, because obviously it's just a black box theater and how many of those are there in NYC? What clued me in was 1) the Clemente Soto Velez Cultural and Educational Center, where Teatro LATEA is located, is thanked in the credits and 2) those chairs (a little bit more obvious in this photo). I've seen and worked a fair number of shows in that theater, and as soon as I noticed the very distinctive chairs for Susan's dance recital I was able to look more closely at the scene and immediately could map out the layout of Teatro Latea.

The Delacorte Theater - "Why"

Another easily recognizable location for locals, the Delacorte is the amphitheater where Jonathan sneaks in and sings "Why". It doesn't get named in the film but it does in the stage version.

Hunter College's Thomas Hunter Hall Sixth Floor North Dance Studio - The Superbia workshop

(from Facebook) This was, without question, the hardest location to find. In the film it's identified as being in the Theater District, specifically at Playwrights Horizons (an Untapped Cities article about filming locations even claims this, and uh, basically gets everything wrong). However, if you've ever been to the modern Playwrights Horizons, it looks very different, both on the inside and the outside, and while they do have rehearsal spaces in a slightly less-remodeled building on Lafayette Street, none of the spaces there look like that. The reference to Hunter College in the credits narrowed it down, and then it was just a matter of finding photos of the studios (this gallery of recent restoration work shows the different angles that you will recognize from the movie), discovering an architectural plan of some planned renovations in the building, and then looking out the windows of the building and comparing it to Google Maps street view to figure out which side of the building it was on.

...I have waaaaay too much time on my hands.

I do want to point out, Thomas Hunter Hall is actually located on Lexington Avenue between 68th and 69th, quite a few blocks northeast from the Theater District depicted in the film.

New York Theatre Workshop - The framing scenes

(from a New York Theatre Guide article) The real Jonathan Larson's artistic home, where he performed both Rent and the original version of tick, tick... BOOM! thirty years ago. Both the theater's exterior (at the start of "Louder Than Words") and interior (the tick, tick... BOOM! performance scenes) feature prominently in the movie.

Fun fact: when they were shooting the film in March, they originally planned to film the NYTW scenes inside a recreated set because there was a show playing at the theater at the time (though not referenced in the linked video, I happen to know that the show was Endlings by Celine Song, the writer/director of the recent Oscar contender Past Lives) but when filming restarted the theater was available again because of the shutdown.

Any other locations you recognized that I didn't include? Let me know! Currently trying to figure out where Michael's apartment building (Victory Towers) was located – the scene in the car leading to the arrival at teh building makes me think it's somewhere near Central Park, but that footage could also have been filmed separately.

Maximizing Facebook Marketing for Rapid Brand Growth

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, leveraging social media platforms like Facebook has become essential for brands aiming to achieve rapid growth and widespread visibility. With its extensive user base and robust advertising features, Facebook offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses to connect with their target audience effectively.

Here's a comprehensive guide on how to make the best use of Facebook marketing to market a brand in a short time:

1. Define Clear Objectives:

Before diving into Facebook marketing, outline specific goals such as increasing brand awareness, driving website traffic, generating leads, or boosting sales.

Clear objectives will guide your marketing strategies and help measure success accurately.

2. Create Compelling Content:

Engaging content is the cornerstone of successful Facebook marketing. Develop high-quality visuals, videos, and written posts that resonate with your audience's interests, pain points, and aspirations. Incorporate storytelling elements to make your brand memorable and relatable.

3. Optimize Page Setup:

Ensure your Facebook business page is fully optimized with a compelling profile picture, cover photo, and a concise yet informative "About" section. Provide relevant contact information and include keywords for improved search visibility.

4. Utilize Facebook Ads:

Facebook's robust advertising platform allows brands to target specific demographics, interests, behaviors, and locations.

Experiment with different ad formats such as carousel ads, video ads, and slideshow ads to determine which resonates best with your audience. Set clear budgets and monitor ad performance regularly to optimize campaigns for maximum impact.

5. Harness the Power of Video:

Video content continues to dominate social media platforms, and Facebook is no exception.

Incorporate video into your marketing strategy to convey your brand message in a more dynamic and engaging way. Whether it's product demos, behind-the-scenes footage, or customer testimonials, leverage video to captivate your audience's attention.

6. Engage with Your Audience:

Actively engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and reviews promptly.

Encourage user-generated content through contests, polls, and user testimonials to foster a sense of community and loyalty around your brand.

7. Leverage Facebook Groups:

Join relevant Facebook groups within your niche and participate in discussions to establish thought leadership and build relationships with potential customers.

Share valuable insights, answer questions, and subtly promote your products or services without being overly promotional.

8. Implement Retargeting Strategies:

Implement Facebook Pixel on your website to track user interactions and behavior.

Utilize retargeting ads to re-engage website visitors who have shown interest in your products or services but haven't made a purchase yet. Personalize ad content based on their previous interactions to encourage conversion.

9. Monitor and Analyze Performance:

Regularly monitor key metrics such as reach, engagement, click-through rates, and conversion rates to gauge the effectiveness of your Facebook marketing efforts.

Use data-driven insights to refine your strategies, experiment with new approaches, and optimize performance over time.

10. Stay Updated with Trends and Algorithm Changes:

Keep abreast of the latest Facebook trends, algorithm changes, and best practices to stay ahead of the competition.

Adapt your strategies accordingly to ensure continued success in reaching and engaging your target audience.

By following these tips and leveraging the full potential of Facebook marketing, brands can effectively promote their products or services, expand their reach, and achieve rapid growth within a short period. Consistency, creativity, and strategic targeting are key to maximizing the impact of Facebook marketing campaigns and establishing a strong brand presence in today's competitive digital landscape.

Google bungled by killing Google Reader to build Google+, and then bungled again killing Google+ The company is like the proverbial donkey placed between a pile of hay and a bucket of water that ends up dying of hunger and thirst because it can’t decide between them.

How Google Reader died — and why the web misses it more than ever. By David Pierce at The Verge

Ten years after its untimely death, the team that built the much-beloved feed reader reflects on what went wrong and what could have been.

Google Reader was more than just an RSS reader. It was a general-purpose information hub and sharing platform. It achieved 30 million loyal users—a great success by real-world measures, but not Google scale.

Google’s bad reputation for killing and abandoning products started with Reader and has only gotten worse over time. But the real tragedy of Reader was that it had all the signs of being something big, and Google just couldn’t see it. Desperate to play catch-up to Facebook and Twitter, the company shut down one of its most prescient projects; you can see in Reader shades of everything from Twitter to the newsletter boom to the rising social web. To executives, Google Reader may have seemed like a humble feed aggregator built on boring technology. But for users, it was a way of organizing the internet, for making sense of the web, for collecting all the things you care about no matter its location or type, and helping you make the most of it.

Instead of building on Google Reader, Google wanted to build Google+, and look how that turned out.

I used Reader daily, but never got into the social features. I was barely aware they existed. I thought Google+ was great.

Title: The Power of Facebook Marketing: Leveraging Social Media for Business Success.

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, Facebook has emerged as a powerhouse, providing businesses with a unique platform to connect with their target audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales. This essay explores the multifaceted aspects of Facebook marketing, examining its unparalleled reach, targeted advertising capabilities, engagement tools, and the importance of a well-crafted social media strategy.

Introduction:

Facebook, founded in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg, has grown into the world's largest social media platform, boasting over two billion active users globally. Its extensive user base makes it an invaluable tool for businesses looking to expand their online presence and reach a diverse audience. Facebook marketing is not just about having a business page; it's about strategically leveraging the platform's features to connect with potential customers, foster brand loyalty, and ultimately drive business growth.

Unparalleled Reach:

One of the key strengths of Facebook marketing lies in its unparalleled reach. With billions of users spanning various demographics, businesses can tap into a vast pool of potential customers. Whether targeting a local audience or a global market, the platform allows businesses to tailor their content to specific demographics, ensuring that marketing efforts are directed at the most relevant audience. This reach is further amplified by the ability to share content organically, enabling businesses to extend their reach beyond their immediate followers.

Targeted Advertising Capabilities:

Facebook's advertising platform is a game-changer for businesses seeking precision in their marketing efforts. The platform's robust targeting options enable advertisers to tailor their campaigns based on factors such as age, location, interests, and online behavior. This level of granularity ensures that marketing messages are delivered to individuals most likely to be interested in the products or services being promoted. As a result, businesses can optimize their ad spend, reaching a highly targeted audience with a greater chance of conversion.

Engagement Tools and Community Building:

Beyond its advertising capabilities, Facebook offers a plethora of engagement tools that facilitate direct interaction between businesses and their audience. Features such as comments, likes, and shares create a sense of community around a brand, fostering customer engagement and loyalty. Businesses can also utilize Facebook Groups to create specialized communities where customers can connect, share experiences, and receive exclusive content. This engagement not only builds a stronger brand-consumer relationship but also provides valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors.

The Importance of a Well-Crafted Social Media Strategy:

While the potential benefits of Facebook marketing are vast, success on the platform requires a well-crafted social media strategy. Businesses must define their goals, identify their target audience, and create compelling, shareable content. Consistency is key, both in terms of posting frequency and brand messaging. Analyzing performance metrics and adjusting strategies based on insights is crucial for ongoing success. By understanding the unique dynamics of Facebook and adapting strategies accordingly, businesses can harness the full potential of the platform to achieve their marketing objectives.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Facebook marketing has become an indispensable tool for businesses navigating the digital landscape. Its unmatched reach, targeted advertising capabilities, engagement tools, and the need for a thoughtful social media strategy make it a dynamic platform for driving business success. As technology continues to advance and consumer behavior evolves, businesses that leverage the power of Facebook marketing will find themselves well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive and interconnected global marketplace.

A prominent trans activist who was highly praised by liberal media outlets and institutions is now facing 16 felony charges for the alleged sexual abuse of a minor following a sextortion investigation.

Carlos Arturo Aparicio Hernandez, 36, of Taylorsville, Utah, a biological male who identifies as a woman named "Raiza", is accused of the sexual abuse and exploitation of a 15-year-old boy after sending the victim a friend request on Facebook posing as a teenage girl.

According to charging documents, the 15-year-old victim accepted a friend request on Facebook in January of 2021 from someone he was led to believe was a female his own age. After communicating for months, the victim sent nude photos at the request of Hernandez and was later asked to meet in-person, court documents state.

The victim invited Hernandez to his home in West Valley City, Utah where he then discovered that the girl he thought he was talking to was a transgender sexual predator.

Upon arrival, Hernandez forced the boy to engage in "sexual acts" by blackmailing him and threatening to release the minor's explicit photos if he didn't comply. Hernandez recorded the assault, charging documents state.

The two met on three separate occasions following repeated threats from Hernandez, according to court documents.

The West Valley Police Department busted Hernandez in a sting operation after the incident was reported to authorities. Officers gained access to the victim's Facebook account through a search warrant and arranged a meeting with Hernandez. Officers arrested Hernandez when he showed up to the meeting location and booked him into Salt Lake County Jail.

Carlos Arturo Aparicio Hernandez was charged last Thursday in the 3rd District Court with 16 felonies. The charges include: one count of aggravated sexual extortion, six counts of forcible sodomy, three counts of forcible sexual abuse, five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, and one count of enticing a minor.

In 2017, Hernandez fled his home country of El Salvador and was granted asylum in the United States, where he settled in Los Angeles, California, Reduxx reports.

A "champion" for trans rights, Hernandez gained notoriety among trans activists after The New York Times featured Hernandez in an article in 2018 about the obstacles that face LGBTQ migrants.

The New York Times described Hernandez as a "transgender human rights activist" who fled El Salvador in June of 2017 for the United States after facing severe police brutality.

Following the publication of The New York Times article, Hernandez was invited to the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, DC to give a speech at an event held by the Council for Global Equality in 2019. Hernandez spoke about the alleged discrimination he experienced from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) staff members because of his gender identity and sexuality.

In March 2020, Hernandez was invited to speak at the University of Southern California (USC) school of law on the topic of "Asylum, Disability and Mental Health," according to Reduxx.

Hernandez was also featured in a 2018 Univision article where he was hailed as a "transgender immigrant activist." Univision teamed up with student journalists at California State University at Fullerton for the piece which discussed Hernandez's experience being beaten by police in his home country.

Despite facing 16 felony charges for the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor, Hernandez shared a Facebook post in 2017 which advocated against the sexual abuse of children.

Hernandez is being held at Salt Lake County Jail while awaiting trial at the request of prosecutors who say, "took advantage of the victim and extorted the victim for her (his) own sexual gain," according to KSL.

Fire Control: Rangefinders, Use

"Rangefinders functioned in one of two ways: coincidence (invented 1885) and stereographic (invented 1893). Coincidence rangefinders split an image into two, so the operator had to line up the top of the image with the bottom (image 1 is an example of this 'cut' view). In stereo rangefinders, two images were produced (see image 2) - the user had to align them. In each case, the device calculated the range based on how much adjustment was required. This reading would then be passed on to someone/something that could make sense of the data and translate it into gun elevation and direction (train).

Originally, rangefinders were placed on turrets or near the conning tower to ensure that range data was passed with minimal delay. But, this limited how far the device could see. This was fine at first - guns could not yet fire to the horizon as seen from masts. But by the end of WWI, range was only practically limited by rangefinder height and gun elevation. Rangefinders were increasingly mounted higher.

They also became more numerous. Ensuring data accuracy was key - averaging readings from rangefinders throughout the ship would provide the most accurate data, and quickly catch errors. So, ships of the 1910s featured them all over; mastheads, platforms, bridge wings, conning towers, on, and in the turrets. Bridge units could be used for situational awareness, while turret units aided independent firing at short range.

Originally rangefinders were just a stand with an optics tube on it. But, war experience showed the importance of protecting their operator(s) ; initially this was just light splinter shielding (photo 3 of Omaha, CL-4), but evolution turned these into revolving, powered enclosures with additional equipment and protection. Multi-function enclosures would become known as directors, essentially a master gunsight for the ship, but that is for another post.

Rangefinder data had to be tracked to predict target location at a future moment. The device needed to manage this sort of data was the rangekeeper, to be covered next."

For a MUCH more detailed post, subscribe via https://www.patreon.com/hazegreyhistory. Caption is exclusive to Haze Grey History Facebook page (link) and was shared with the permission of Evan Dwyer. Click this link to read more of his works.

Old Car City USA (See links). Old Car City USA - .com Old Car City USA - Atlas Obscura Old Car City USA - Facebook Old Car City USA - Roadside America Old Car City USA - Sometimes Interesting Tourist attraction in Bartow County, Georgia. Old Car City in White, Georgia contains the worlds largest known classic car junkyard & is a unique landscape of metal and moss. Visitors enjoy the beautiful vegetation of the deep south that is intertwined with the hundreds of cars that reside in Old Car City. Old Car City started as a small general store in 1931 during the Great Depression, Old Car City gradually evolved into a very big, very old automobile junkyard. But it wasn't until 2009 that owner Dean Lewis -- who grew up on the property -- realized he could turn it into a tourist attraction because a lot of people shared his love of decomposing automotive carcasses. It is still family owned and operated. 34 acres of forest and fields filled with 4,000 old cars (1972 and older) weathered and deteriorating old American cars. It has more than 6.5 miles of trails on 34 acres. Located about 45 minutes north of Atlanta in White, Georgia, is a cross between a junkyard and an outdoor car museum. Come enjoy the Old South environment, folk art, ghosts of beautiful classic cars, and much more! With over 34 acres and over 4000 American-made cars from the early 20th Century, these cars, trucks, vans, and even a couple school buses are placed in such a way as to be ideally suited for photos, videos and custom camera shoots. Over the 8 decades since first started, thousands of photographers, videographers, ad agencies and media companies have visited Old Car City USA. Popular news magazine and newspaper companies, like CBS Sunday Morning, the New York Times, the BBC and Georgia Public Television, have made press releases and/or video segments and transmitted it worldwide. Who knew that Old Car City USA, a place where junk cars go to live out the rest of their existence, would be such a fascinating stop. Mayor of Old Car City USA, Dean Lewis, welcomes all who come out to visit his varied collection of automobile art with a little help from Mother Nature. You can come and just stroll along with winding paths for a nominal fee or, for a few dollars more, bring a camera and take pictures and/or videos and share them with friends. Among the many cars at Old Car City USA, there is the last car Elvis Presley ever bought back in 1977 just a couple months before he died. Also, a movie starring Andy Griffith and Johnny Cash used one of the cars that now call this place "home." The honorary mayor of the "City," Dean Lewis, is also an artist in his own rite with some of the most unique canvas . . . the styrofoam cup. In his upstairs loft, Lewis has hundreds of styrofoam canvases featuring his artistic talents on display along with some paintings he will proudly show off. 3098 US-Hwy 411. White, GA. 041223. by Sleepless Aquarius

Moms for Liberty (M4L), a conservative “parents’ rights” organization, has emerged as a visible player in U.S. education politics. Since its founding in 2021, M4L has engaged in local school board politics and elections across the country. Along the way, M4L has attracted plenty of headlines. Most jarringly, an Indiana chapter of M4L was in the news after featuring an Adolf Hitler quote in its newsletter this past June. Despite the resulting negative press, Republican presidential candidates spoke at a national M4L conference just few a days later.

M4L’s quick rise to prominence within the Republican Party has raised questions about how much influence it might have in American politics. Yet, despite the outsized attention the group has garnered in the media, we know little about M4L outside of what its founders have said in public statements and interviews.

To get a better sense of the scale and geography of Moms for Liberty, we collected data on where: 1) M4L chapters are located; 2) M4L has endorsed school board candidates; and 3) M4L-endorsed candidates have won/lost their elections. We find that the geography of Moms for Liberty is complex. While a disproportionately large share of M4L’s members and endorsements are in politically “blue” and “purple” areas (especially suburbs), M4L-endorsed candidates win at higher rates in more conservative parts of the country. And while M4L’s membership has grown quickly in its first three years, its membership pales in comparison to that of the true behemoths in education politics: the teachers’ unions.

Where are Moms for Liberty’s members?

Moms for Liberty is a national organization that oversees dozens of semi-autonomous county chapters. To understand the types of communities where these chapters operate, we collected a list of local M4L chapters from the national M4L Facebook page. We used the number of members in these local chapters’ Facebook groups to obtain county-level estimates of the organization’s membership. Overall, this amounts to about 103,000 members across 278 chapters in 45 states. These numbers are similar to those reported by M4L in May 2023 (115,000 members across 285 chapters in 45 states).

Some have described a looming “clash” between Moms for Liberty and the teachers’ unions. At least with respect to membership numbers, though, the two are not comparable. The country’s two largest teachers’ unions, the National Education Association (NEA) and American Federation of Teachers (AFT), represent almost 5 million members between them. M4L’s numbers are instead more comparable to, say, the Massachusetts Teacher Association, which  represents 117,000 members.

Figure 1 shows where M4L chapters are located, with circle sizes scaled to reflect chapter membership size. By merging our M4L data with county-level 2020 election data from the MIT Election Lab, we can see the types of places, politically, where these chapters operate. Blue circles represent counties where President Biden received at least 55% of the combined Biden-Trump vote total (excluding other vote recipients). Purple circles represent counties where Biden received 45% to 55%. Red circles are where Biden won less than 45% of that combined vote.

While M4L’s politics might lean far to the right, its chapters have arisen in diverse political contexts. Clusters of chapters appear in Florida, the Northeast (from DC to New York), and the Carolinas. Florida, where the organization has its roots and close ties with the DeSantis administration and Florida Republican Party, has the most chapters of any state (28). New York (13,724), Florida (12,465), and Pennsylvania (10,254) have the most members. Interestingly, M4L has only a modest presence in other Republican strongholds in the South, Plains, and Appalachia. Texas, for example, has only a few chapters, and they are mostly in politically moderate or progressive counties.

We can look more closely at the types of places where M4L has chapters by incorporating data from the American Community Survey and Common Core of Data. We focus on local politics, urbanicity, community racial demographics, and rates of demographic change. Table 1 shows where M4L is (and is not) located.

The unweighted columns have the simplest interpretation. They show that almost half of all M4L chapters are in politically conservative “red” counties (45%), with a similar plurality in suburban counties (42%). Most M4L chapters (84%) are in majority-white counties, and most (60%) are in counties that saw at least a five percentage-point decline in their white population between 2011 and 2021.

However, these unweighted estimates can be misleading. A disproportionate share of U.S. counties are lightly populated areas that lean Republican. A better approach could be to weight counties by their population. With these weights, a large county—like Los Angeles County—receives more weight than a low-population county.

Here, the interpretation of results is a little different. The third column in Table 1 shows that most Americans who live in a county with an M4L chapter are in “blue” counties (54%) or “purple” counties (30%). Meanwhile, only 17% of Americans who live in a county with an M4L chapter are in Republican-leaning areas. Most Americans who live in a county with an M4L presence are in suburban areas (56%), with a small share (7%) in rural areas. A disproportionate share are in areas where the white population has been declining—a finding consistent with other work indicating that far-right politics resonate most in places that have experienced the most significant declines in the non-Hispanic white population in recent years.

Determining the causal relationships between these local characteristics and M4L’s presence is beyond the scope of this post (e.g., examining whether demographic changes create the conditions for M4L to start). However, out of curiosity, we ran regression models that use county characteristics to predict whether a county has an M4L chapter.1 The results support the idea that M4L chapters are disproportionately popping up in suburban areas, even controlling for political and demographic characteristics.

Where does Moms for Liberty endorse candidates?

The core of M4L’s work has been its advocacy in local school board politics. This includes endorsing ideologically aligned candidates in hopes of “flipping” boards to be controlled by more politically conservative members. Therefore, our next question is where M4L is most engaged in school board elections.

We obtained a list of M4L endorsements from the national organization’s website. This netted 340 candidates from the 2022 election cycle and another 32 from 2023, amounting to 372 total candidates across 88 counties. (Moms for Liberty has reported that it endorsed over 500 candidates in 2022. We reached out to M4L for a complete list of endorsed candidates—in hopes of understanding this discrepancy—but did not receive a response.)

While the location of M4L chapters gives a sense of where M4L operates, only 26% of counties with M4L chapters had an endorsement listed on the M4L endorsements page. Thus, it’s worth checking if the types of counties with M4L endorsements reflect similar patterns to the types of counties with M4L chapters. And for the most part, they do. Most Americans living in a county where M4L recently endorsed school board candidates live in suburban areas (53%), and most live in blue (54%) or purple (19%) counties.

Where do school board candidates endorsed by Moms for Liberty win?

Maybe it isn’t surprising that Moms for Liberty has a strong presence in politically blue and purple counties. On its website, M4L suggests that it’s looking to serve those who don’t feel well represented by their local leaders: “Are you tired of feeling like you are alone in your concerns for the future of your children? Do you try to speak to community leaders about your concerns and your voice goes unheard?”

Of course, being present in these areas doesn’t necessarily mean that M4L is having success in these areas. At this point, we really don’t know what an M4L endorsement is worth. Financial contributions from M4L could be influential since school board races tend to be lightly funded. However, M4L’s financials remain murky, and there have been reports of complaints from chapter leaders about a lack of funding from the national organization.

Financial contributions aside, an endorsement could have impact if it results in voters paying more attention to M4L-endorsed candidates. School board elections tend to be low-information races in which relatively few people vote. This creates potential for flipping seats, or entire boards, by getting out the vote. Maybe M4L does that by elevating the profile of local school board races among conservatives. On the other hand, M4L could have the opposite effect, especially in more progressive areas. It could elevate the profile of local school board races in ways that turn out votes opposed to its preferred candidates.

With the data available to us, we cannot precisely identify the causal effect of an M4L school board endorsement. We can, however, get a sense of how M4L-endorsed candidates fare in various types of counties.

Using data from local government and news sources, we checked the outcome of each race in which Moms for Liberty endorsed at least one candidate. Overall, 45% of M4L-endorsed candidates in our sample won. Their win rates varied across different types of counties (Figure 2).

School board candidates endorsed by Moms for Liberty won seats at higher rates in politically purple (51%) and red (46%) counties than blue counties (35%). They also won more often in majority-white counties (47%) than minority-white counties (28%), and in suburbs (53%) more than other locales. So, while M4L might have a disproportionate presence in politically progressive and moderate counties, they appear to win at higher rates in red areas relative to blue areas.

So, overall, does Moms for Liberty seem to be helping candidates with its endorsements? It’s hard to say. Typically, we’d expect organizations like M4L to endorse candidates that they’d expect to win anyway to give an impression of significant impact. The fact that M4L endorsed a lot of candidates in politically unfriendly areas suggests that it may not be quite so risk averse. The causal impact of an M4L endorsement is sure to be a topic of future research (à la research on teachers’ union endorsements).

The road ahead

It isn’t often that a new player emerges in the education politics landscape that is being referenced as a potential counterweight to teachers’ unions.

If we measure impact by the noise and controversy an organization stirs up, then M4L’s effect on U.S. education politics is unmistakable. Arguably, no organization has had such a visible presence in local education politics in recent years.

However, whether Moms for Liberty succeeds in transforming school board politics and changing policies remains to be seen. On one hand, engaging at the local level means that even modest outreach can affect elections, and, in turn, governance. Further, even if they are not successful at changing electoral outcomes, they may be effective at placing conservative policies on the agenda through their activity at school board meetings, potentially increasing book bans, curriculum restrictions, and more. On the other hand, Moms for Liberty is such a polarizing organization, with such an extreme set of positions, that its long-term impact remains uncertain.