We’ve just launched our new product to the world. Get Shades on the App Store to be part of the future of staying informed.

this is Shades of the Day — bringing you different shades of opinion in news and culture so that you can see the big picture quickly.

Here at Shades we believe that seeing multiple points of view is the best way to keep up with what’s happening. Get the Shades app to be part of the future of staying informed.

It’s Sunday, August 11 — here’s what you’ll find in today’s newsletter:

• The idea of Tim Walz as an “REI hire”

• The Japanese government’s megaquake warning

• 4 quick hits of news from the last 24 hours

Tim Walz, REI hire?

Tim Walz is Kamala Harris's VP pick. BBC says his “midwestern nice” appeal and progressive record make him a good choice.

@Thelevenbach quipped that Walz was an “REI hire” -- alongside a picture of Walz decked out in fishing gear.

The NYT agreed: Walz's “aggressively normal” persona could make him a winning VP pick. His midwestern charm is rooted in his relatability -- and his love of ice-fishing.

But National Review says Walz doesn't have true rural appeal: REI -- the upscale camping store masquerading as a stop for outdoorsy rural folk -- is the perfect metaphor for Walz.

Megaquake warning in Japan

Earthquakes with a magnitude higher than 8 are considered megaquakes -- and soon after a magnitude 7 earthquake, Japan issued its first-ever alert on “higher-than-usual risks” of a megaquake.

Wonder what the 7.1 earthquake looked like? Bloomberg shared surveillance video here.

CBS says Japan's PM had to cancel a trip to Central Asia in response -- he needs to be available to lead the government through the aftermath of a potential megaquake.

Newsweek adds that a megaquake would bring tsunamis, too: A 8+ magnitude quake could trigger waves up to 65 feet tall

Still, TimeOut says the alert doesn't confirm a megaquake is coming. At the current levels of risk, there's no need for people to evacuate.

1) The Paris Olympics closing ceremony to feature traditional elements, star-studded performances, and handover to LA.

2) Buttigieg defends Tim Walz after JD Vance questions his military service, igniting a political controversy.

3) A house explosion in suburban Baltimore left one dead and two injured. The cause is under investigation.

4) Team USA triumphs over France in a potential prelude to an epic showdown at the LA28 Olympics.