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USWNT Celebrating in NYC
(NBC News)
A ticker-tape parade was held today in NYC for the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) for winning its fourth World Cup trophy in France.
For the team’s most recent World Cup trophy, the USWNT defeated the Netherlands — a women’s national team on the rise — 2-nil in the World Cup Final played on July 7. The red, white and blue won thanks to goals from Megan Rapinoe (61st-minute PK) and Rose Lavelle (69th-minute laser from outside the 18-yard-box).
The 2019 Women’s World Cup, including the years leading up to this summer’s tournament — was an incredible journey for the USWNT. Whether people want to continue to refuse to acknowledge the reality that soccer is a popular sport in the United States, Alex Morgan, and her teammates will continue to play their part in the sport’s clear popularity and growth domestically and abroad.
As reported in the LA Times article titled “Viewership of Women’s World Cup final exceeds 14 million on Fox.”
Fox’s audience of 14.271 million made the U.S. victory the most-watched soccer match on English-language TV in the country since the record-setting 2015 Women’s World Cup final audience that recorded 25 million viewers in prime time. The 2019 audience peaked at nearly 20 million.
In addition to the team’s triumphant victory, the big issue being pushed by the USWNT and its fans — including today during the post-parade ceremony — is the call for equal pay, which seems to be building momentum. Between now and the 2023 Women’s World Cup, it will be interesting if changes will be made with this issue. FIFA will ultimately play a definitive role in this ongoing debate.
Once again, congratulations to the USWNT for winning its fourth World Cup trophy and earning its fourth star!
Starry Sight
Vincent van Gogh was a genius.
That esteemed term, typically reserved for the few, is far too often granted to the many. However, in the case of the Dutch painter born March 30, 1853, it’s appropriate. Despite only reaching 37 years of age and painted portraits with an expression that balances between indifference and scowling, his legacy is surprisingly inspiring and long-lasting. The way that van Gogh conceptualized the world in colorfully wavy, yet defined spaces screams (sorry, wrong artist) a visionary that captivates people and admirers alike 125 years after he passed away.
Remarkable.
His masterpiece is “Starry Night.” As a matter of fact, it’s my personal favorite. On April 12, 2013 at 6:03 p.m. (iPhone picture info.), I was a mere three-feet from this chef-d’oeuvre!
(“Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh, MoMA)
There are many tributes to Vincent van Gogh and to “Starry Night” in particular. The following use of dominoes is truly something else.
“FlippyCat—easily the most patient YouTube celebrity—spent around 11 hours recreating Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night using 7,067 carefully stacked dominoes that were then sent tumbling in a glorious chain reaction.”
–Andrew Liszewski, Gizmodo
Creativity has a tendency to reveal new, unseen dimensions.
It’s like discovering a new constellation.
We Believe You Won More Than a Game
On July 5, 2015, the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) made a declaration of independence of their own from the rest of the competing teams as the clear champions in women’s soccer after dominating Japan 5-2 in the 2015 World Cup Final. Carli Lloyd sprinted out of the gates for a spectacular hat trick in the opening 15 minutes. Earning their third title and first since the unforgettable penalty kick shootout victory in 1999, the USWNT made a statement to the world and inspired young girls everywhere.
Fittingly, the women were treated to a ticker tape parade earlier today in New York City, a first for a women’s sports team.
(Robert, Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports)
(Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports)
It was a beautiful moment for the beautiful game.
Happy 4th of July!
237 years ago, our nation’s founders dared to declare independence from the British. We can never forget their courage, bravery and incomparable vision for the country that became The United States of America. As we all celebrate with our communities on this day filled with joyous patriotism and elation of freedom through spectacular parades and illustrious fireworks, let’s remember how and when this country was founded.
Happy 4th of July/Independence Day!!
And enjoy the fireworks tonight!
Jimmy's Daily Planet 