About 360 MAGAZINE

360 MAGAZINE is an award-winning international publishing on popular culture and design. We introduce avant trademarks to efficacious architects. We are a LGBTQIA2S+ friendly publication--officially recognized by the NGLCC. Our core demographic ranges from 19 to 39-year-old college-educated trendsetters within their respective international communities. The pages in this art book satisfy their strong interests including music, art, travel, auto, health, fashion, tech, philanthropy, design, food and entrepreneurship. It's an introspective digital/print/tablet portrait series, which encapsulates artists/brands/entities who embody the true essence of our publication- empowerment, equality, sensuality and most important of all, humanity within a global society.

Imagine Dragons' Hulu documentary announced via 360 MAGAZINE.

IMAGINE DRAGONS – HULU

Imagine Dragons proudly present a brand-new HULU Original Documentary film, IMAGINE DRAGONS LIVE IN VEGAS, exclusively streaming on HULU in the United States TODAY, July 14. To celebrate the film release, the band has shared the rapturous single and standout “Believer (Live in Vegas)”, available to stream everywhere now. Listen HERE.

Heralding the film’s arrival with a bang, Imagine Dragons will host the IMAGINE DRAGONS LIVE IN VEGAS, Hulu Watch Party on Roblox an unparalleled, groundbreaking virtual experience on Roblox July 15.

This exclusive immersive digital experience marks the first-ever music documentary event on Roblox, as well as Interscope Records’ first major event on the popular gaming platform. With a rich, vibrant Las Vegas-themed environment, players will embark on a journey filled with amazing battles, a massive interactive watch party, VIP experiences, and a virtual goods line, all inspired by the unique vibe and spirit of Imagine Dragons.

LIVE IN VEGAS traces GRAMMY®-winning, multi-Platinum band’s journey from humble beginnings in their native Las Vegas to headlining the biggest venue in their hometown—Allegiant Stadium—during the triumphant Mercury Tour. The film comprises candid interviews with the band as well as live concert footage from the Allegiant show on September 10, 2022. The latter notably boasts blockbuster performances of definitive smashes “Radioactive,” “Demons,” and “Thunder” in addition to anthems from the recent two-part opus, Mercury — Acts 1 & 2 (KIDinaKORNER/Interscope), including “Bones,” “Enemy,” and “Sharks.” To accompany the documentary, they will also unveil IMAGINE DRAGONS LIVE IN VEGAS Soundtrack Album later this month. Pre-order/Pre-save HERE.

IMAGINE DRAGONS LIVE IN VEGAS is directed and produced by Matt Eastin and executive produced by Mac Reynolds, Turner Pope, John Janick, and Steve Berman and features band members Dan Reynolds, Wayne Sermon, Ben McKee, and Daniel Platzman. 

Developed through a partnership with Super League (Nasdaq: SLGG), a leading publisher of immersive experiences across the world’s largest metaverse gaming platforms, IMAGINE DRAGONS LIVE IN VEGAS, Hulu Watch Party enables players to enter a gamified Imagine Dragons mini-world set in a fantasy version of iconic fabulous Las Vegas. The creatively-inspired space is an homage to Imagine Dragons famous hometown and the city where the documentary performance was filmed. Players collect VIP badges in order to gain access to the band’s green room, which features a treasure trove of easter eggs for the discerning fan. Players also come together to jointly battle multiple boss demons based on Imagine Dragons songs, earning VIP points and climbing up the leaderboards. A countdown clock keeps the excitement building, leading to the interactive watch party on July 15th – an unprecedented social event involving three songs from the documentary performance – a first-of-its-kind musical digital experience. In this world, Imagine Dragons fans and players will be capable of thoroughly immersing themselves in a unique concert experience. Whether they choose to fight off their own demons, or shine bright and high in the watch party– there is something for everyone.

Ashley Haas plays golf at the 19th annual The Golf Classic presented by Sports Illustrated featuring LA Lakers' Austin Reaves as special guest at Angeles National course via 360 MAGAZINE.

SI – The Golf Classic

On July 10th, Sports Illustrated Presented The Golf Classic featuring LA Lakers’ Austin Reaves as special guest. This was the return of The Golf Classic for its 19th year, held at Angeles National course.

Sports Illustrated presented ‘The Golf Classic,’ a highly-anticipated VIP golf outing, held on Monday, July 10th at the esteemed Angeles National Golf Club. The Golf Classic, an annual event with a 19-year history as one of the longest-running lifestyle golf events in the country, announced an inaugural partnership with Sports Illustrated to expand the reach of the tournament through the storied media enterprise. The annual event combines networking, comradery and competitive golf through a scrimmage-style tournament that raises funds for UCLA Children’s Hospital. 

Talent attendees included special guest host Austin Reeves (LA LAKERS), who was joined by NBA star Metta World Peace, Joe Haden, Charles Oakley, Evan Ross, Brody Jenner, Brandon Thomas Lee, Gabriel Aubry, Tom Ellis, Skeet Ulrich, Jesse Lee Soffer, Paris Brosnan, Austin Mills, Blake Webber, Ryan Hansen, Jake Adams, Jesus of Golf, Chord Overstreet, Don Benjamin, Adam Senn, Kyle Schmidt, Erik Paladino, Nate Hill, DJ Politik, Beau Casper Smart, and Sports Broadcaster Ashley Haas who emceed the day, among many other players to comprise the 120 participants.

The Golf Classic was created in 2004 to provide an outlet for executives and entertainment industry VIPs, paired with celebrity guests to engage in networking and friendly competition for a good cause. Conceived by one of the nations’ premiere experiential marketing agencies, ENTER, founding creative Zev Norotsky has curated a tournament widely recognized as the originator of a new era of lifestyle driven golf event’ attracting key influencers, athletes, nightlife notables, celebrities, young creatives and entertainment industry elite. 

Participants played on a championship-level course that offered unique challenges to golfing enthusiasts of every skill level, personal peer-to-peer networking, and all the while supporting deserving philanthropic initiatives. Angeles National Golf Club, located in Sunland, California is a Par 72 championship, 18 hole golf course, with four sets of tees to accommodate players of all skill levels, comprising two lakes, one creek and 54 bunkers.

“The Golf Classic has long been the originator in lifestyle golf events here in the US, we have ostensibly created the blueprint for what a celebrity and professional athlete driven golf experience can look like and as we look ahead to our 20th year it only made sense to partner with the leading authority in sports media to bring this event to a wider audience and continue to raise the bar for what a brand driven and culturally relevant golf event can look like.” – Founder, Zev Norotsky

For the 2023 Los Angeles outing, The Golf Classic welcomed exciting beverage partners including pouring stations throughout the course presented by Casamigos, plus Saint James Tea, Celsius Energy, Flying Embers Hard Kombucha and Hello Soju. Mezcla and Liquid Death were also offered to guests, along with Drip Hydration Protein shots and a  Hyperice massage area on-site wellness relief. OOKA showcased their revolutionary new doseable pod device.

Shock’d Golf balls and Golf Tournament Solutions’ Golf Cannon activated immersive challenges on the course. Geometry provided commemorative branded towels for players, Crep Protect kept golfers’ shoes looking crispy clean out on the course and Palm Golf Co made sure each of the players had a fresh new pair of golfing gloves. Goodr outfitted their signature golf sport designed sunglasses on the bright, sunny day. 

Beyond Meat once again kept tastes satisfied with an on-site food truck as well as the in-demand Yeastie Boys food truck, while Uncle Paulie’s served up their signature specialty cuisine favorites. Official hotel partner for the tournament this year was the L’ermitage Beverly Hills and The Golf Classic introduced an auto partnership with BMW.

Following Los Angeles, ENTER and Sports Illustrated will hit the road for a marquee golf event ahead of Big Game Weekend at TPC Summerlin. The second annual SI INVITATIONAL will be held on February 8th in Las Vegas, with more details to follow. 

About Sports Illustrated

Sports Illustrated (SI) is an unparalleled and influential leader recognized for shaping modern culture and uniting athletes, teams, and fans worldwide. At the intersection of sports, lifestyle, and entertainment, Sports Illustrated is a 360-degree enterprise that delivers immersive content, innovative digital experiences, unforgettable events, and original products. Its award-winning media arm brings powerful storytelling to life through probing profiles and up-to-date news on SI.com, across social media platforms, and through the monthly print magazine. The most trusted name in sports transcends media through SI Tickets, a fan-first ticketing platform, SI Sportsbook, a digital sports betting platform, SI Studios, the brand’s home for film, TV, and long form audio adaptations of SI’s thought-provoking storytelling, and more. SI brings its unique and authentic perspective to marquee events and captivating brand activations, including The Sportsperson of the Year Awards, “The Party”, SI Swimsuit Launch Weekend, and the SI Circuit Series. For more information, visit SI.com.

About Authentic Brands Group

Authentic Brands Group (Authentic) is a global brand development, marketing and entertainment platform, which owns a portfolio of more than 40 iconic and world-renowned Lifestyle, Entertainment and Media brands. Headquartered in New York City, with offices around the world, Authentic connects strong brands with best-in-class partners and a global network of operators, distributors and retailers to build long-term value in the marketplace. Its brands generate more than $25 billion in global annual retail sales and have an expansive retail footprint in 150 countries, including 10,800-plus freestanding stores and shop-in-shops and 380,000 points of sale.

Authentic is committed to transforming brands by delivering powerful storytelling, compelling content, innovative business models, and immersive experiences. It creates and activates original marketing strategies to drive the success of its brands across all consumer touchpoints, platforms, and emerging media. Authentic’s brand portfolio includes Marilyn Monroe®, Elvis Presley®, Muhammad Ali®, Shaquille O’Neal®, David Beckham®, Dr. J®, Greg Norman®, Neil Lane®, Thalia®, Sports Illustrated®, Reebok®, Brooks Brothers®, Barneys New York®, Judith Leiber®, Ted Baker®, Hunter®, Vince®, Hervé Léger®, Hickey Freeman®, Frye®, Nautica®, Juicy Couture®, Vince Camuto®, Lucky Brand®, Aéropostale®, Forever 21®, Nine West®, Eddie Bauer®, Spyder®, Volcom®, Shark®, Tretorn®, Prince®, Airwalk®, Izod®, Jones New York®, Van Heusen®, Hart Schaffner Marx®, Arrow® and Thomasville®. For more information, visit authentic.com. Follow Authentic on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter.

About Casamigos:  

Brought to you by those who drink it. Casamigos was founded by longtime friends George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Discovery Land Company CEO & founder Michael Meldman. Tequila-filled nights with friends is how Casamigos was born. Launched in 2013, these small batch, ultra-premium tequilas are made from the finest hand-selected 100% Blue Weber agaves grown in the rich red clay soil and cool climate of Mexico’s Jalisco Highlands for a minimum of seven years. 

Casamigos has garnered the highest accolades from the spirit industry’s most well-respected authority figures. The Casamigos family is available throughout the United States, UK, Canada, Australia, and expanding worldwide. CasamigosTequila 40% Alc./Vol. Casamigos Mezcal, 40% Alc./Vol. For more information, please visit www.casamigos.com. Follow us on social media @casamigos. ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. Imported by Casamigos Spirits Company, White Plains, NY.

Brigade by 360 MAGAZINE, is an online concierge agency, specializing in creative direction and small business development. Photo by Vaughn Lowery.

COTI’s Token Economics

A Deep Dive into COTI’s Utility and Value Proposition

COTI is a blockchain-based payment platform that aims to revolutionize the way transactions are made. Its unique token economics, which is centered around its utility and value proposition, has caught the attention of many investors and blockchain enthusiasts. If you are starting on crypto trading,try bitcoin 360 ai! It is an amazing online trading platform for a seamless trading experience. In this article, we will take a deep dive into COTI’s token economics and explore its unique features that set it apart from other blockchain-based payment platforms. 

COTI Token Utility

COTI token is a utility token that is designed to be used within the COTI payment network. It is used to facilitate transactions, pay fees, and reward network participants. The token is also used to provide liquidity within the network, which helps to ensure that the payment system is always operational and efficient.

One of the unique features of the COTI token is its staking mechanism. Users who stake their tokens are able to earn rewards in the form of transaction fees. The more tokens a user stakes, the more rewards they are eligible to receive. This incentivizes users to hold and use COTI tokens, which helps to increase the overall demand and value of the token.

Another use case for the COTI token is as a means of payment for goods and services. Merchants who accept COTI as a payment method are able to benefit from lower transaction fees compared to traditional payment methods such as credit cards. This incentivizes merchants to accept COTI as a payment method, which helps to increase the overall adoption and use of the token.

COTI Token Value Proposition

The value proposition of the COTI token lies in its ability to provide a fast, efficient, and cost-effective payment system. Unlike traditional payment systems that rely on intermediaries and banks, COTI’s payment system is completely decentralized and operates on a trust-based consensus algorithm. This means that transactions can be processed instantly and at a much lower cost than traditional payment methods.

In addition to its fast and efficient payment system, COTI also offers a number of other benefits to its users. For example, users who hold COTI tokens are eligible to receive discounts on transaction fees. This incentivizes users to hold and use COTI tokens, which helps to increase the overall demand and value of the token.

COTI’s token economics also includes a number of features that help to maintain the stability and security of the network. For example, the network is designed to automatically adjust the difficulty of mining new blocks based on the amount of computing power available on the network. This helps to prevent the network from being taken over by malicious actors and ensures that the network remains secure and stable.

Conclusion

COTI’s token economics is a unique and innovative system that is designed to provide a fast, efficient, and cost-effective payment system. Its utility and value proposition make it a valuable asset for investors and users alike. With its fast and efficient payment system, low transaction fees, and innovative staking mechanism, COTI is poised to become a major player in the blockchain-based payment industry.

Motivational Speaker Arthur J. Rutledge photographed at Civilian Hotel by Vaughn Lowery for 360 MAGAZINE.

COTI’s Instant Settlement System

Reducing Transaction Times and Fees

As a leading financial technology company, COTI has developed an instant settlement system that revolutionizes the way transactions are processed. In today’s fast-paced digital economy, businesses need a payment processing solution that is not only reliable and secure, but also efficient and cost-effective. COTI’s instant settlement system offers all of these benefits and more, making it the perfect choice for businesses of all sizes. If you are starting on crypto trading,try BITCODE METHOD! It is an amazing online trading platform for a seamless trading experience.

The Problem with Traditional Payment Processing Systems

Traditional payment processing systems are slow and inefficient, often taking several days to complete a transaction. This is because these systems rely on a complex network of intermediaries, each of which takes a cut of the transaction fee. As a result, businesses end up paying high fees and facing long transaction times, which can be a major impediment to growth and profitability.

The Solution: COTI’s Instant Settlement System

COTI’s instant settlement system is designed to overcome the limitations of traditional payment processing systems by using a blockchain-based architecture that eliminates the need for intermediaries. This means that transactions can be processed instantly, with no delays or additional fees.

COTI’s instant settlement system is also highly scalable, meaning that it can handle large volumes of transactions without slowing down. This makes it ideal for businesses that need to process a large number of transactions quickly and efficiently.

Another key feature of COTI’s instant settlement system is its low transaction fees. By eliminating intermediaries and using a streamlined blockchain architecture, COTI is able to offer transaction fees that are significantly lower than those of traditional payment processing systems.

Benefits of COTI’s Instant Settlement System

COTI’s instant settlement system offers a number of key benefits for businesses, including:

  • Instant Transactions: With COTI’s instant settlement system, transactions are processed instantly, with no delays or waiting periods.
  • Low Transaction Fees: COTI’s instant settlement system offers transaction fees that are significantly lower than those of traditional payment processing systems.
  • High Scalability: COTI’s instant settlement system is highly scalable, meaning that it can handle large volumes of transactions without slowing down.
  • Enhanced Security: COTI’s instant settlement system uses advanced blockchain technology to ensure that transactions are secure and tamper-proof.
  • Simplified Process: With COTI’s instant settlement system, businesses can enjoy a simplified payment processing process that eliminates the need for intermediaries and reduces complexity.

How COTI’s Instant Settlement System Works

COTI’s instant settlement system is built on a blockchain-based architecture that uses a unique consensus algorithm to ensure that transactions are processed quickly and securely. The system is able to handle large volumes of transactions simultaneously, making it ideal for businesses that need to process a high volume of transactions quickly and efficiently.

When a transaction is initiated, it is verified by a network of nodes that work together to ensure that the transaction is legitimate. Once the transaction is verified, it is added to the blockchain, where it is recorded permanently and cannot be altered.

Because the blockchain is distributed across a network of nodes, it is extremely secure and virtually impossible to hack or manipulate. This ensures that transactions are processed quickly and securely, with no risk of fraud or data tampering.

Conclusion

COTI’s instant settlement system is a game-changer for businesses looking for a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective payment processing solution. By using a blockchain-based architecture that eliminates intermediaries, COTI is able to offer instant transactions, low transaction fees, and high scalability. This makes it the perfect choice for businesses of all sizes that need to process a large number of transactions quickly and efficiently.

Reebok and Sneeze Magazine sneaker collaboration via 360 MAGAZINE.

Reebok + Sneeze

Reebok and SNEEZE Unveil Classic Leather Collaboration

Reebok, the iconic and irreverent sports culture brand and SNEEZE Magazine, a street culture publication, today announced its next installment of Reebok x SNEEZE. The brands have again teamed up to launch the SNEEZE x Reebok Classic Leather. An evolution of understated design language that kicked off the partnership three years ago, the Reebok x SNEEZE Classic Leather ($130, IE9215/100069719, unisex) is available July 14 exclusively on SNEEZE before its wider global release on July 21 on Reebok.com and select retailers.

Within its picture-heavy pages, SNEEZE Magazine offers an authentic guide to modern street and skate culture. The brand’s continued pursuit of inclusive storytelling, ‘good vibes,’ and irreverence makes SNEEZE an ideal partner for Reebok. This time around, with Reebok’s iconic Classic Leather running shoe as the centerpiece, SNEEZE carries forward a minimalistic yet elevated color and design story that’s been the signature of the collaboration since its inception in SS20.

“Everything about this shoe’s inspiration and execution is a direct reference to SNEEZE’s first shoe with Reebok, the Club C, released during the summer of 2020,” commented SNEEZE. “The materials and color story first utilized on the Club C have become a signature combination for SNEEZE — one that we want to revisit and evolve over time, across different models, and even across different brands.”

Notable design elements for the forthcoming SNEEZE x Classic Leather include a white nubuck leather upper, a black technical nylon tongue and collar lining, and a patent leather heel notch, while an embossed two-dimensional SNEEZE sidewall logo replaces the shoe’s classic window box.

“This treatment reflects the SNEEZE mentality in a shoe: it’s not try-hard, it’s got ease, chill factor, yet it has elements of surprise and is elevated in a humble way,” continued SNEEZE. “This ties back to our mentality with the magazine itself, and our philosophy towards product and collaborations in general. Whatever we’re working on, we try to elevate within the parameters we’re given.”

SNEEZE and Reebok first came together in spring of 2020 for a subtle rendition of Reebok’s iconic Club C from which all sales benefitted #BlackLivesMatter. 

Brigade by 360 MAGAZINE, is an online concierge agency, specializing in creative direction and small business development. Photo by Vaughn Lowery.

Merchants + Chargebacks

Merchants, Chargebacks, and the IRS: Navigating the Complexities of False Profits

Article: Monica Eaton, Founder of Chargebacks911

Chargebacks take a toll on retailers year-round, and when tax season approaches, the IRS is ready to collect. The proliferation of friendly fraud has put merchants on defense and their profits in limbo. The best defense is a good offense; merchants need to create their own chargeback playbook.       

Chargebacks and Friendly Fraud

In a quest for the quickest route from point A to point B, dissatisfied retail customers are bypassing merchants and airing their grievances with their banks to secure a refund, known as a chargeback. First-party misuse occurs when the consumer makes a legitimate charge but may not recognize it and mistakenly assumes it to be a merchant error or fraud. 

And the simplicity of it all has led to the abuse of the chargeback system, with customers viewing the process as the same as requesting a refund from a merchant, along with a growing trend of consumers knowingly gaming the system, also referred to as “friendly fraud.” Merchant Fraud Journal predicts chargebacks will cost retailers over $100 billion in 2023

While banks deposit chargebacks into their customer’s accounts almost instantly, the chargeback process to validate or invalidate the dispute can take months. Win or lose, merchants still contend with the quandary of how to report unpredictable chargebacks and their associated fees to the IRS.

Proactive Planning    

Firstly, chargebacks should be treated differently than refunds. Chargebacks cannot be reported as “cost of goods sold” (COGS); however, they can be listed as “accounts receivable.” They should be logged in a separate account designated for chargebacks as funds owed to the business. If the retailer wins their dispute, the amount will be applied against that account. If they lose or elect not to challenge a chargeback, the accounts receivable balance should be written off as a “bad debt expense.” 

Secondly, Chargeback fees should be considered operating expenses or bank fees; a subaccount is recommended for high-volume chargebacks.

Thirdly, retailers who receive payments through payment card processors, such as PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo, must fill out IRS Form 1099-K, which will be sent directly to the retailers from the payment networks. It is essential for merchants to note which chargebacks come from third-party networks. Payment transaction services do not account for refunds, chargebacks, or associated fees when reporting their gross monthly and annual payments. If not properly accounted for, this can lead to a higher income being reported to the IRS than was actually received. 

In the 2024 tax season, the threshold to report payments and transactions from third-party payment platforms and apps will drop from $20,000 for more than 200 transactions to $600 for any number of transactions on a given platform.

Prevention Strategies

To prevent chargebacks before they happen, retailers can implement two key strategies throughout the year — collaboration and confrontation.

Collaborate with financial institutions and take advantage of the products they offer that alert retailers to a potential chargeback before it is filed. This allows merchants more time to review the transaction and take the appropriate action to avoid a chargeback. 

Confront and challenge illegitimate or fraudulent chargebacks, not only to recover lost revenue, but to open up communication with issuing banks to help both sides recognize current patterns and the latest trends in friendly fraud and its abuse.

About Chargebacks911

Chargebacks911 is the global leader in chargeback management and remediation technology. As a provider or supplier to financial technology companies and financial institutions, Chargebacks911 safeguards more than 2.4 billion transactions per year on behalf of clients in 87 countries around the world. For details on Chargebacks911’s comprehensive dispute management solutions, visit https://chargebacks911.com.

HRC CONDEMNS NC HOUSE

Human Rights Campaign Condemns North Carolina House for Passing Anti-Trans Sports Ban; Urges Governor Cooper to Veto 

Bill is one of the first explicitly anti-LGBTQ+ legislation to advance through the North Carolina General Assembly since 2016’s HB2 and 2017’s HB142  

Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) — the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization — condemned the North Carolina House for passing House Bill 574, which would prohibit transgender students from participating in school sports consistent with their gender identity. The bill now heads to Governor Roy Cooper for consideration.

In yet another sign of the historic level of anti-LGBTQ+ attacks sweeping state legislatures this year, this is one of the first anti-LGBTQ+ bills currently advancing through the North Carolina General Assembly since their deeply discriminatory anti-transgender bathroom legislation in 2016 and 2017.

Human Rights Campaign Senior Director for Legal Policy Cathryn Oakley released the following statement:

“Yet again, extremists in North Carolina are choosing to attack their own constituents, rather than legislate on the real issues facing their state. As these politicians know, HB 574 does nothing to address the real challenges in women’s sports, which include chronic underfunding, unequal pay, lack of access and harassment and abuse of athletes. This bill only perpetuates discrimination and stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, particularly against transgender and nonbinary people. We call on Governor Cooper to veto this discriminatory legislation.”

Earlier this year the Biden Administration issued proposed rules affirming that Title IX protects transgender students from discrimination in athletics and that state laws banning participation of transgender athletes are violations of federal law.

THE FACTS: Anti-Transgender Sports Bans

A majority of Americans oppose discriminatory bills seeking to ban transgender and non-binary youth from participation in sports. A PBS/NPR/Marist poll states that 67% of Americans, including 66% of Republicans, oppose the anti-transgender sports ban legislation proliferating across 30 states. And a poll conducted by the Human Rights Campaign & Hart Research Group revealed that, with respect to transgender youth participation in sports, the public’s strong inclination is on the side of fairness and equality for transgender student athletes. 73% of voters agree that “sports are important in young people’s lives. Young transgender people should be allowed opportunities to participate in a way that is safe and comfortable for them.”

Advocates for women and girls in sports support trans-inclusive policies and oppose efforts to exclude transgender students from participating in sports. This includes the National Women’s Law Center, the Women’s Sports FoundationWomen Leaders in College Sports, and others — including prominent female athletes like Billie Jean KingMegan Rapinoe, and Cheryl Reeve. That’s because while there are real issues facing women’s sports, including a lack of resources devoted to supporting them, transgender participation in athletics is not one of them. And nearly 550 college athletes have stood up to anti-transgender legislation by demanding the NCAA pull championships from states that have enacted anti-trans sports laws.

The nation’s leading child health and welfare groups oppose sports bans. Groups representing more than 7 million youth-serving professionals and more than 1,000 child welfare organizations released an open letter calling for lawmakers in states across the country to oppose dozens of bills that target LGBTQ+ people, and transgender children in particular.

In 2022, lawmakers introduced 80 bills aimed to prevent transgender youth from playing school sports consistent with their gender identity. By the end of the 2022 legislative session, a record 17 bills attacking transgender and non-binary children passed into law. 19 states exclude transgender athletes in school sports.

For more information, please access the following resources on HRC’s website:

THE FACTS: 2023 Is the Worst Year On Record for Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation

So far in 2023, HRC is opposing more than 525 anti-LGBTQ+ bills that have been introduced in statehouses across the country. A total of 78 pieces of legislation have been enacted into law this year. More than 220 of those bills would specifically restrict the rights of transgender people, the highest number of bills targeting transgender people in a single year to date. This year, HRC is tracking:

  • More than 125 gender-affirming care bans — bills that would prevent transgender youth from being able to access age-appropriate, medically-necessary, best-practice health care; this year, 16 have already become law in Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, South Dakota, Utah, Iowa, Idaho, Indiana, Georgia, Kentucky, West Virginia, North Dakota, Montana, Oklahoma, Florida, and Nebraska
  • More than 30 anti-transgender bathroom bills filed;
  • More than 100 anti-LGBTQ+ curriculum censorship bills, and;
  • 45 anti-LGBTQ+ drag performance ban bills.

Americans believe the amount of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is excessive, agreeing it is “political theater.” Likely voters across all political parties look at GOP efforts to flood state legislatures with anti-LGBTQ+ legislation as political theater. Recent polling indicates that 64% of all likely voters, including 72% of Democrats, 65% of Independents, and 55% of Republicans think that there is “too much legislation” aimed at “limiting the rights of transgender and gay people in America” (Data For Progress survey of 1,220 likely voters, 3/24-26, 2023).

By comparison, last year in 2022 politicians in statehouses across the country introduced 315 anti-LGBTQ+ bills, 29 of which were enacted into law. These efforts — the result of a coordinated push led by national anti-LGBTQ+ groups, which deployed vintage discriminatory tropes seeking to slander, malign, and stigmatize LGBTQ+ people — only yielded a less than 10% success rate, as more than 90% of anti-LGBTQ+ bills were defeated. The majority of the discriminatory bills – 149 bills – targeted the transgender and non-binary community, with the majority targeting children. By the end of the 2022 state legislative season, a record 17 bills attacking transgender and non-binary children were enacted into law.

More than 300 major U.S. corporations have stood up and spoken out to oppose anti-LGBTQ+ legislation being proposed in states across the country. Major employers in tech, manufacturing, hospitality, health care, retail, and other sectors are joining with a unified voice to say discrimination is bad for business and to call on lawmakers to abandon these efforts. Four of the largest U.S. food companies also condemned “dangerous, discriminatory legislation that serves as an attack on LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender and nonbinary people,” and the Walton Family Foundation issued a statement expressing “alarm” at the trend of anti-transgender legislation that recently became law in Arkansas.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ+ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.

Team USA x Oakley via 360 MAGAZINE

Team USA x Oakley

Nearly one year away from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, Oakley® announces the brand as the Official Eyewear of Team USA and Official Eyewear of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Dedicated to contributing the world’s best sport-performance and optical innovation expertise, Oakley will support and inspire athletes representing the US on the largest international stage in sport. Inspired by the Games ahead, both Oakley and Team USA are set to deliver the unexpected through new eyewear – Team USA Encoder Strike Vented, with Prizm™ Road Lenses and Team USA Heliostat with Prizm Black Lenses.

Oakley and Team USA, around two newly released styles of eyewear. Dedicated to contributing the world’s best sport-performance and optical innovation expertise, Oakley will support and inspire athletes representing the US on the largest international stage in sport.

Details on each style can be found below:

  • Team USA Encoder Strike Vented: 
    • Rebooted with new colorways, the eyewear comes in Prizm Road lenses and features PhysioMorphic Geometry, an industry-disrupting design methodology that was first seen with Oakley Kato at the 2020 Olympic Games, elevating performance to new heights.  This eyewear incorporates iconic heritage elements such as the ventilated design for optimal airflow and a fingerprint detail on the arms, symbolizing individuality.
  • Team USA Heliostat:
    • Featuring a high wrap frame design and a sleek silhouette made of O Matter frame material, this eyewear is complete with unobtainium earsocks and molded-in nose pads to ensure a secure fit whether training for the podium or cheering on the sidelines. 

Each new style proudly showcases Oakley’s groundbreaking Prizm Lens Technology, which enhances color and contrast in athletes’ surrounding environments. Additionally, each pair of eyewear will be accompanied by an exclusive red and blue Oakley x Team USA collectible microbag to celebrate this iconic collaboration.

The Team USA x Oakley eyewear is now available at Oakley.com and at Oakley retail stores.

MLS x Marvel x adidas Unveil New Co-Branded Collection via 360 Magazine.

MLS x Marvel x adidas Collab

Major League Soccer (MLS), adidas, and Marvel announced that legendary Marvel Super Heroes will be featured on MLS merchandise as part of a three-part collaboration dropping throughout the summer on MLSstore.com.

Through this collection, the three organizations will celebrate a period of tremendous momentum behind soccer in North America and provide new ways for both MLS and Marvel fans alike to engage with the sport and characters they love. The unique product offerings, mixed with creative design elements, position MLS and Marvel at the intersection of sports and fashion as they celebrate the cultural moment surrounding heroes on and off the field.

“Major League Soccer and adidas’ Marvel collaboration captures the unique spirit, confident attitude, and diverse environment that embodies the sport of soccer,” said Rachel Hoagland, MLS SVP of Consumer Products. “The League continues to reimagine our product offerings so fans can celebrate the teams and players they love in new ways. This special collection is the latest evolution of the League’s commitment to spotlighting the creativity in our sport and connecting soccer with progressive fashion offerings.”

The Super Hero-inspired apparel officially launches today with an Avengers-inspired bespoke warm-up jacket, pants, and official match ball that will be used during the MLS All-Star Game on July 19 at Audi Field in D.C. Continuing throughout the summer, Captain America-themed unisex warm-up tops will drop later in June, followed by Avengers-inspired tops in August as part of the League and Continental Tire’s efforts to raise awareness and funds during Kick Childhood Cancer Awareness month in September.

Unlocking a new era of sports fandom, MLS and Marvel’s legendary Super Heroes unite people of all backgrounds, and the collection showcases the League’s unique expression of the global game through fashion. These Marvel-inspired collections will be available at MLSstore.com, select MLS retail locations and onsite at League retail locations in the D.C. metro-area.

Fans in the Washington D.C. area can also find All-Star branded products including headwear, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more on MLSstore.com, at various local retailers and D.C. United’s team store at Audi Field leading up to the MLS All-Star Game. MLS’ pop-up retail featuring All-Star branded product, including Marvel apparel, will be featured at major All-Star events including MLS All-Star Soccer Celebration presented by Coca-Cola Zero Sugar at The Wharf (760 Maine Ave. SW, Washington D.C. 20024) on Saturday, July 15 from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. ET, and Sunday, July 16 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET.


ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER  
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer — celebrating its 28th season in 2023 — features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, including a new expansion team in San Diego that will debut in 2025. All MLS, Leagues Cup,   and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT matches can be watched through MLS Season Pass, available on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com. MLS Season Pass will feature the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple tv-app.

 
ABOUT ADIDAS IN SOCCER
adidas has been the official partner of Major League Soccer since its inception. As such, adidas designs and distributes every season’s jersey, brings to life limited edition sportswear collaborations, and sponsors talented athletes like Thiago Almada, Jesús Ferreira, Brandon Vazquez, and many more.


ABOUT MARVEL IN FITNESS, WELLNESS AND ACTIVITY

Celebrating the Avengers focus on teamwork and the 60-year legacy of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, the collection continues to support Marvel’s focus on fitness, wellness, and activity.  Adidas and MLS are a perfect compliment to remind Marvel fans of all ages that we are stronger together and that everyone has the power to do something heroic on and off the field.