#Icon slate for windows

[celebrityresidence]

Bono's Elegant Residence in Killiney: A Blend of History and Modern Architecture

This captivating photo showcases the exterior of Bono's iconic residence in Killiney, Ireland. The house, reflecting a blend of Victorian architecture and modern elegance, stands as a beacon of history and celebrity influence in the region. Its ornate stonework, large bay windows, and slate roof exude grandeur, while seamlessly integrating with the lush, green landscapes of Killiney. This image captures not just a celebrity home but a symbol of Bono's journey and his deep connection to his Irish roots. Visit: https://www.omnihomeideas.com/design/celebrity-homes/bono-house-in-killiney/

[djservo]

HI CAS you managed to beat me to it and remind me that i will also be away around our typical wrap up time! travelling gals. i've seen some of your goodreads activity too and i think we've managed to keep in line with books read which does make me laugh a lil. how was your buddy read? your august reading? new vibes for autumn? i want to know everything!

omg we're so in sync I love it and I hope your traveling went/is going well!! <3 first buddy read (out of a projected total of 4) went well, as did the rest of my august reads!!

A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf

the first of the buddy-read chronicles with my buddy and it was a success! fitting for these seemingly ever-changing phases of independence/womanhood/#HoningThyCraft that we keep morphing into and within. it was a bit of a slow start and made me think of jenny slate talking about books which I sent to me friend like 5 pages in like "omg please tell me it's not all like this" but we pushed through the initial slump and were pretty engaged with the rest of it. I highlighted so many passages to chew on, some favs being -

"the beauty of the world which is so soon to perish, has two edges, one of laughter, one of anguish, cutting the heart asunder"

"What effect has poverty on fiction? What conditions are necessary for the creation of works of art?"

the iconic -

"a good dinner is of great importance to good talk. One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well."

and even some lil funny bits -

"the chief glory of a woman is not to be talked of, said Pericles, himself a much-talked-of man"

miss woolf has jokes!! but yes overall really ended up enjoying and connecting with this more than I expected at the start and it's short/low stakes enough to where I think anyone could give it a shot and end up resonating and/or taking something deep from it

High Blood/Pressure by Michelle T. Clinton

I forget who exactly posted it, but Someone whose taste I wholeheartedly trust had posted a snippet of Good Sense & the Faithless on their insta story which first put Michelle T. Clinton on my radar. devoured this one in an afternoon, I was so hooked and charmed by her prose and the way she sets up a scene!! not necessarily setting wise, but this sense of interaction/conversation that's both natural yet distinct in tone. personable yet frank, which isn't really easy for me to pick up on when I'm first getting into poets - like I feel like I need to read several poems for their voice to really click for me because I'm too focused on connecting more superficial dots of understanding, whereas this one clicked right away. fav poem was MANIFESTING THE RUSH/HOW TO HANG but I really did love each one + I've already tracked down a used copy of Good Sense & the Faithless online that's on its way to me now hehe very excited

Looking For Mr. Goodbar by Judith Rossner

similar to Secretary where the movie's been on my radar and I've been itching to watch but the purist in me wants to read the book first and then I read the book and don't watch the movie LOL 'when you give a mouse a cookie' ass situation!! I think the story's still too fresh on my mind and if I were to watch the adaptation right away, though it would make sense for the sake of comparison, it'd feel too much like homework ykwim like in college I took a class about film adaptions of literary works where we'd get this short window of time to read a book then watch the film in class and discuss/dissect + I guess it kinda spoiled that act of reading then immediately watching, or turned it into something very clinical whereas I wanna be able to watch the adaptation for what it is without being a hypervigilant critic... ANYWHO!!!! I actually had no idea this was based on a true story/crime? so I think most of my qualms, which are narrative-wise, are kinda irrelevant since that's like.. literally what happened! that's the truth! but I guess I felt there wasn't enough explanation as to how the protag's sexual appetite/curiosities developed the way it did (unless you wanna be an armchair psychologist and connect the dots to her childhood upbringing, but I personally don't think even that's enough). I read a good chunk of it at an airport bar and it felt very fitting + I think I should start scouting my reading settings according to the book I'm reading bc it does indeed add to the ambience of the story and DRAMA of it all !!!!

since the start of September I've finished 2 books, unconnected in vibes but still somewhat complementary. I'm reading Quarry by Jane White now which is our second buddy read/the start of our "dark childhood/boyhood" theme that I think will bleed nicely into October, I really struck gold at the used bookshops during my travels but they're all kinda meaty and require some supplementary reading/context (to me) and idk if that's the vibe right now. kinda wanna stay in a fiction bubble a little while longer and there's certainly no end in sight given some of my recent TBR adds on goodreads so!! we shall see!!!

[honoka-marierose]

As production on Deadpool 3 is in a holding pattern due to the Hollywood strikes, the film’s leads and its director pass the time in other ways.

Deadpool 3 is rumored to be many things, but what is concretely known about the threequel is that Shawn Levy will direct Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman as they return to their iconic roles of Wade Wilson and Wolverine.

Shawn Levy Shares Photo of ‘Three Amigos’

Deadpool 3 director Shawn Levy took to Instagram to share a photo of himself, and stars Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds sharing a meal together:

The caption on Levy’s post reads: “Three amigos waiting to shoot again...”

Indeed, production on Deadpool 3 is currently paused and will not resume until SAG-AFTRA reaches a new agreement with the AMPTP. The film was reportedly seven weeks into photography when the work stoppage commenced.

Will Deadpool 3 Get Delayed?

Will Marvel Studios push back Deadpool 3 due to the writers’ and actors’ strikes, as it has done with several other MCU projects? Put simply, the movie still has a fair chance of retaining its current release date if the strikes end soon.

Presently, the Writers Guild of America is once again in discussion with the studios. Talks have continued throughout the week with some apparent signs of progress being reported.

Only after a potential deal is agreed upon with the WGA, will the AMPTP reopen negotiations with the actors’ guild. Some in the industry are optimistic that everything could be back on track as early as October, but this is not currently set in stone.

If things go according to plan, though, Deadpool 3 won’t be subject to the same fate as Daredevil: Born Again and Captain America: Brave New World which have been pushed into release windows that are far later than originally projected

Marvel Studios’ Deadpool 3 is slated to hit theaters on May 3, 2024.

[puzzlesontherim]

Welcome!

Hello, and welcome to puzzlesontherim, a blog all about my current game of Rimworld featuring characters from Professor Layton as pawns. This blog will chronicle the day-to-day life of the residents of the colony of Little London as they build towards creating a warm, welcoming, and hospitable settlement out on the Rim.

Very important thing to start! I have not played or beaten the entire Layton series, so there’s a lot of information I’m missing and a lot of spoilers I’m not privy to. Please assume that I only know of events from Curious Village, Lost/Unwound Future, Last Specter/Spectre’s Call, and Eternal Diva, and refrain from discussing spoilers for the rest of the series or making suggestions based on said spoilers. (This list will update as I continue to work through the series. Currently, I am playing Diabolical Box.) Pawn builds and relationships are subject to change as I learn more.

And speaking of pawn relationships, I will be taking a fairly hands-off approach to romance within the colony. Canon relationships will be edited in as new characters are added, but beyond that, what romantic relationships form will be dictated by R.N.Jesus. Don’t lambast me if the Rimworld Gods decide to canonize a ship you don’t like.

Current residents of Little London:

Professor Hershel Layton (as of 1 Aprimay 5500)

Luke Triton (as of 1 Aprimay 5500)

Flora Reinhold (as of 1 Aprimay 5500)

Clive Dove (as of 1 Aprimay 5500)

Daisy Debelle* (prisoner as of 6 Aprimay 5500, recruited 10 Aprimay 5500)

*Daisy Debelle is not a Layton character, she is loosely based on my Layton OC/sona.

Additional members of the Layton cast will be added to the colony over time, through a combination of the Character Editor and Reunion mods.

Characters currently slated to join (on Reunion mod Ally list):

Claire Foley

Dimitri Allen**

Don Paolo

Emmy Altava

** - Available now through a quest

Due to a combination of my general inexperience with the game, not wanting to see the Layton gang get torn to bloody shreds before my eyes, and really wanting to play around with the Hospitality mod and its add-ons, this is going to be a fairly low-difficulty playthrough. Currently, the difficulty is Randy Random on Community Builder. Also, I don’t have any DLCs, although I do have a metric shitton of mods.

Brief tag guide followed by modlist in load order below the cut. (The modlist is long lmao and also subject to change.) Tag list updated 10 November 2023. Modlist updated 10 November 2023.

Tag Guide

#puzzles on the rim - general blog/AU tag.

#little london logs - textposts outlining events in the colony. Not every single day will be covered.

Modlist

Harmony

Hugslib

Vanilla Expanded Framework

[SYR] Set Up Camp

A Dog Said… Animal Prosthetics

Allow Dead Animals

Allow Tool

Animal Tab

Animals are fun

Bad Can Be Good (Continued)

Bionic icons

Cash Register

Character Editor

Clean Pathfinding 2

CleaningArea

CM Color Coded Mood Bar [1.1+]

Common Sense

Defensive Positions

DontBlockDoor

Door Mat

Gastronomy

Hospitality

Hunt for Me

Interaction Bubbles

Not My Fault

Pick Up And Haul

Predator Hunt Alert

Replace Stuff

Romance On The Rim

RT Fuse

Simple sidearms

Tainted Renaming

Trade Ships Drop Spot

Vanilla Books Expanded

Vanilla Brewing Expanded

Vanilla Brewing Expanded - Coffees and Teas

Vanilla Cooking Expanded

Vanilla Fishing Expanded

Vanilla Outposts Expanded

Vanilla Plants Expanded

Vanilla Plants Expanded - More Plants

Vanilla Traits Expanded

[DN] Bundle of Traits

Wall Light

LightsOut

While You Are Nearby

Windows

Friendly Hostile Factions (Continued)

Reunion

Vanilla Apparel Expanded

Vanilla Social Interactions Expanded

MendAndRecycle

Victorian Era Apparels! (Modified version of the genderless version so guys can wear dresses without a mood penalty and also so dresses can be worn with jackets)

Follow Me

Hospitality: Casino

[rogueshadeaux]

Chapter Sixteen — Precipice

Were the monkey suits pulling the wool over my eyes that well, or was I just blind? Because with the gray beanie and vest, all casual wear — it was him. Older, wiser, a bit more wrinkled. But there was no doubt in my mind.

5.6k words | 19 min read time | TRIGGER WARNINGS: arguing? they finally get a break :) for now

I woke up curled against the back cushions of the couch, sunlight streaming through the windows. It took me a few minutes to move from right there; I was still so fucking exhausted. It took way too much effort to flip over. 

Most of the boxes on the floor by the couch were gone save for one with trinkets and the one with Ruth’s blanket. The fire was dead, a pile of ash and wood that made me nauseous to look at for too long, and there was no sign of Dad. 

Which made me feel really bad, ‘cause I took his sleep spot. 

I debated just going back to sleep when I offhandedly thought looking at the clock on the oven would be a good idea, physically jolting when it read 2:16. Was it really that late in the day? I forced myself up, begrudgingly leaving the blanket on the couch as I went to freshen up in the bathroom. 

Brent wasn’t in the nursery, Dad not in the master, and neither downstairs — but Brent’s bed was moved into Reggie’s room, the boxes discarded all around the foot of it. They must’ve talked, if our photo album wide open on the bed was any hint — but where the hell were they? 

I bounded back up to the ground floor, a bit panicky until I heard a distinctive crack that barely echoed in from outside. It wasn’t in the front — the snow on the truck hadn’t even been brushed off yet — so I rushed back to look through the slated blinds of the sliding glass door, relieved to see Brent and Dad talking. Dad was holding the ax Brent had made in hand, a split log at his feet. 

‘Course. Destructive boy time, I should’ve known. 

But under the knit hat, Brent’s forehead was splotched red, eyes still bloodshot, and I knew what Dad was doing — he was trying to keep Brent from pushing himself hard again. I’m surprised he was even up now, to be honest; maybe the Conduit powers ‘hard reset’ his body over the night? I wasn’t expecting to see him before dinner. 

Either way, I left them alone, making something that was all breakfast food but shouldn’t constitute such as the clock hit 3 PM before I dug in, hearing more weird metal grinding sounds from outside. 

I disappeared downstairs, digging through the leftover boxes in Dad’s room and bringing them back upstairs to distribute them. It was still so cool being in a room full of Delsin Rowe’s art — and sort of weird. Something in my mind just wasn’t computing that this Delsin Rowe was my Dad Delsin Rowe; surely they were two separate people, right? The idea that they were one in the same was still a completely foreign concept to me. 

I shoved linens away in the giant hall closet, bounding back down the stairs and pulling at the taped edges of another box until the cardboard came free, peeling it open to sort through the next batch of things. 

And freezing when I noticed what was in it. 

Oh my god. All that doubt of my Dad-Delsin Rowe and Revolutionist-Delsin Rowe being the same guy disappeared as I pulled out that iconic jean jacket with the two-headed eagle spray painted on the back, the vest stiff from unmoving for so long. It still had the little buttons on it even! A bunch of band buttons, one of a capital G crossed out that I didn’t really get, one with the logo of that super old furry video game I knew Cat emulated all the time, Sly-something. A bigger one with the Conduit emblem on it again, as if anyone could miss the giant spray painted logo on the back. 

I was holding a piece of history! It kinda felt like this belonged in a museum, honestly. There was so much willpower going into not putting it on, even if it’d just be some sort of art smock on me more than a vest. This was the vest. Holy shit. 

There was sudden chuckling behind me, and I spun in place to see Dad leaned against the doorframe, an eyebrow cocked. “Wha’cha got there?”

My cheeks grew hot like I was a kid just caught with her hand in the cookie jar. “I was, uh, unpacking while you guys did whatever and…” I held it up. “Vest.” 

‘Vest.’ Really, Jean? 

Brent popped his head around the corner, starting off with, “Oh you’re awa—“ and ending with, “Holy sh—“ 

“Brent.”

“Ah! I didn’t curse that time, doesn’t count!” 

I snorted as Brent made his way past Dad and into the room, coming close to look at the jacket and sort of freezing when I held it out for him to look at. But eventually he took it, fanning it out to look at the Conduit emblem in all its glory. “I ever tell you what inspired that?” Dad asked.

“Don’t think you could have,” Brent pointed out, Dad nodding in a sort of resigned agreement. 

“Yeah, fair. But anyways, have you ever heard of the Thunderbird?” 

Brent blinked, turning his head to look at Dad. “Like the guy from the Tom Clancy Revivals?” 

“No, like the myth. It was this giant two headed eagle said to make thunder with its wings and shoot lightning out of his mouth — uh, mouths. The Thunderbird isn’t only an Akomish thing; the Twana believed in him, and there’s a bunch of other tribes that do too. All around America, not just locally. I thought it was really cool that so many different tribes had this same idea about this one thing that when we made the band, I suggested we use it as like, a symbol of solidarity. And being the only one who could draw—“ he motioned to the jacket. “Came up with that. Didn’t want it to be too Akomish ‘cause we were trying so hard to break into the scene and didn’t want to look…traditional.”

He said so hard mockingly, as if he was an idiot back then. 

“It looks cool,” Brent commented, turning and motioning like he was gonna chuck the vest at Dad in a warning to get ready. Dad clapped his hands once and held them open, catching the vest in his hands. 

“Thunderbird is supposed to be this guardian spirit. He’s on the pole at the Longhouse as this whole protection thing—“

“But doesn’t that bird have one head?” I interrupted. 

Dad nodded. “Yeah. But that’s also why I like the Akomish version of Thunderbird most; he can split his head in half. He’s this eagle that balances the world, and his heads are supposed to be these symbols of good and bad karma. One would bring rain to water crops if the Akomish respected their traditions and each other, were good people and whatever. Other one would cause flash floods and dangerous storms and electrocute people or something. Just seemed pretty badass to me as a kid.” 

That was a really cool way to explain thunderstorms. 

Dad looked down at the jacket in his hands for an impossibly long time, long enough for Brent to glance over at me with his eyebrows raised and mouth ‘he okay?’ and for me to shrug in answer. “Hey, why don’t you two come sit on the couch,” he finally said, looking up at Brent and I. “I want to talk to you about something.”

Dad disappeared into the hall, Brent flashing me another confused look before following, me just on his tail. By the time we got to the ground floor of the house, Dad was already standing by the fireplace, the jean vest slung over the arm of the couch. 

It felt like an interrogation. Brent and I sat on the couch under Dad’s thoughtful gaze, and he didn’t break that stare for a while. Not until Brent shifted awkwardly and cracked, saying, “What’s up, Dad?” 

Dad inhaled, thinking over his words carefully before his eyes moved to focus solely on me. “I’ve been thinking about what you said last night, Jeanie,” he began. “And…you might be right.” 

Holy shit, he thought I was right?!

“Eugene called me earlier — there’s a protest tomorrow. March from COLE’s remains to city hall. He’s going, and…and I think I’m gonna go, too.” 

Brent looked from Dad to me, his stare almost accusatory as he said, “You’re leaving?” 

“Portland’s only a three hour drive,” Dad shrugged. “I’m planning on being back by Tuesday night. I’ll definitely be here for Christmas, I promise that much. But there’s Margie’s wake on Monday, and I need to talk to COLE about what’s going on, maybe set something up—“

“Oh, what, you're gonna go in office?” Brent bit, the swat I landed on his bicep definitely hurting me more than him. 

“Brent!” 

“No, Jean,” Brent brushed me off. “They just blew up COLE and you want to go out there? It’s not safe, Dad!” 

“I can take care of myself.” Dad said, surprisingly not even upset at his outburst. “I’ve been doing this for eighteen years.” 

“So? A fucking IED isn’t gonna ask for your work experience—“

“Stop cursing—“

“No, fuck that, Dad.” Brent shot to his feet. “What if something happens?”

“Something did happen: Nineteen people are dead because of speculation. You don’t have your phone right now, so you don’t know about what else is happening.” 

My heart sank. “‘What else?’”

Dad nodded. “There’s riots all over. People are using public databases to find Conduits and harass them, and Conduits aren’t holding back from retaliating. All of this started because of my connection to COLE, and they don’t even know if it’s true.” 

Brent scoffed. “So what, you want to play martyr?” 

“I want to clear the air,” Dad said through gritted teeth. “It’s — I can’t hide anymore, not unless you want to relocate out of the country and last I checked, you don’t have a passport. And you shouldn’t have to hide, Brent. Your sister shouldn’t, and neither should every Conduit in this country. Do you know how soul crushing the past eighteen years have been? Do you want to live a life where you have to hide who you are, what you are, until you die?” 

“I don’t want to lose my Dad because he cares about some fucking company more than me!” Brent raised his voice. “This isn’t about COLE—“

“It’s not!” Dad’s voice got louder too. “This is about you, and Jean, and every other Conduit getting the blame pinned on them for sins they didn’t commit—“ 

“So you’re going to go put a target on your back? Being their meat shield isn’t gonna fix anything—“ 

“It’s going to make sure more innocent people don’t die for something that isn’t their fault—“ 

“They can protect themselves!” Brent retorted, throwing up a hand in a random direction where these mythical theys were in accusation. “Why the hell should we have to sacrifice more for them? Mom’s fucking gone because of—“ 

“Abigail is gone because I wasn’t there to help her!” Dad roared, so loudly I was surprised the window shutters didn’t shake. He suddenly pointed towards me, the action making me flinch in place. “Your sister could have died because I wasn’t there to help. You got shot! Those people at COLE died because I wasn’t there to help. You know 11 of them were Conduits? How were they supposed to protect themselves then?”

Brent’s scowl didn’t disappear, but he bit his tongue, staying silent. Dad huffed a few times before running his hands over his face, exhaling with a sound not unlike a growl, but less defensive. “Please sit back down, Brent,” he requested, palms pressing into his eyeballs. 

Brent didn’t move until I reached out and tugged on his shirt, a silent plea to just listen. He rolled his eyes and plopped down rather violently, crossing his arms tight around his abdomen. 

Dad gave himself another minute, trying to calm himself down. The hands left his face but it took him quite a while to look at us again, eyes missing all that biting anger. He squatted down, placing a hand on each of our knees, chewing on his inner cheek for a minute before he even tried to speak — and even then, it took an extra try. “When I began pitching COLE, everything was restabilizing after the Second Recession and another mass lockdown from the virus — we were barely getting back to normal. There were these conspiracies about a Conduit causing it and it began all this bullshit. Politicians ran with it the next few elections and…god, it just got worse. Conduits started getting barred from places and being tracked and it…it wasn’t right. I couldn’t help them as Delsin, but I knew I could help as Damion. 

“They don’t need Damion anymore. I have a chance to help as Delsin, and shouldn’t we help when we can?” Dad turned to look at Brent, who deftly avoided his gaze. “I didn’t pick you up from eight Saturday school sessions because you don’t believe in helping people, Brent. You knew if that kid used their powers, they’d never see the outside of a juvie cell till they were an adult. You told me that. You know how important it is to help someone who can’t help themselves. 

“I’m scared to leave you two.” Dad shrugged. “I’m fucking terrified to, if I’m being honest. But I can’t hide either of you anymore. The world knows you exist, they know you’re Conduits. This isn’t just about them anymore, but you. I can do this for you, and that’s all I want. You shouldn’t have to do online school. You shouldn’t have been hit or shot, or…or have to grow up without your mom. All of that’s because of this fear mongering, all the bullshit from Empire City to now. If I can do something to change that for you two? I’m going to.

“I’m just going to the march, and maybe to speak. I’ve done it a dozen other times as Damion, just not as large-scale. From there, we’ll see what needs to happen next. But there’s a chance that if I also bring attention to this Archangel…thing or person or whatever, it’ll force them to draw back. I don’t know where to start with them, so maybe if I bring it up on a national stage, it’ll do something. But anything beyond this march, we will decide on as a family. I care about all the Conduits out there, but any sacrifices I make are for you two, and if there’s really something you don’t want me to do then I won’t do it. Eugene’s still there, he can take over whenever I need him to. But this is where it has to start.” 

I nodded, just happy my words meant something to him, enough to change his opinion. Dad seemed thankful for it, then turned to look at Brent, who sighed. “I’m sorry, Dad, I—“ 

“Don’t be.” Dad shrugged. “You have a right to be worried. Sometimes we need the people we love most to tell us when we’re being fucking idiots.” 

Brent breathed out a laugh, the hold around his torso slackening a bit. I didn’t miss the squeeze Dad gave his knee. 

“I love you both,” Dad added. “I just want to give you guys a world where you don’t have to be scared. You’ll be safe here, and I won’t be gone long.” 

Brent sighed, his arms fully letting himself go as he asked, “When are you gonna leave?” 

“I was thinking tonight. The march starts at eleven in the morning, so I should get there early. I also…I need to see the people in the hospital. Antonio. He’s probably torn up, now that Margie’s…” he trailed off. Shaking his head, he took to slapping his hand gently against our knees, standing. “I did want to do something before I Ieave, though.” 

I glanced at Brent, who looked just as clueless. “What?” 

Dad’s smile grew a bit more impish as he said, “We don’t have a tree.” 

Brent had way too much fun mowing down the first fir. In fact, it didn’t survive the razor sharp saw he chucked at it, the tree bursting into a confetti of needles and wood chips that rained down on us, making me absolutely lose it as Dad just shook his head. “Oh god, this is payback for what I did to Reggie, isn’t it?” I heard him mutter to no one, running a hand over his face. 

The next tree, Dad stressed to Brent to try and properly judge the power he’d need. “You shouldn’t have figure out trajectory or anything, but you’re letting the powers obliterate stuff. Reel it in, alright?” 

Brent nodded, closing his eyes in thought before raising his arm, steel raising from it to trap it in its sleeve. He breathed once, holding the breath as if it’d help him aim, shreddings of steel rising from the layered steel on his arm to spin furiously around it. 

He drew his arm back and pushed forward, all of that steel exploding from his arm as it launched away, pulling into itself once it detached. It became this ramp of sorts, kinda like the steel edge of a hatchet, flying towards the base of the tree without wind to propel it and slicing clean through its trunk. The tree cried out some sort of crackly groan of protest before keeling over, falling to the ground in front of Brent. The curved slab continued its dive into the ground, imbedding itself in the snow with a hearty thunk. 

“There you go!” Dad said, clapping Brent on the shoulder. “We’ll even out the base when we get home. Now c’mon, help me pick it up,” 

No need; Dad only had to complain once about the prickly needles of the tree before Brent went full steel, hauling the tree up by its middle and carrying it like it was some lapdog forcing him to chauffeur it around, not a seven foot tall pine. 

We got back home after sunset, the dash on the truck only just passing 5 PM as Brent unloaded the tree with no issue. He got irrationally excited at the next part; building his own little tree stand from scratch. The side of the fridge was suddenly covered in expo marker as he did math for the size, measuring it out with a measuring tape he scored from the same junk drawer he found the marker in. I hadn’t seen him this excited to build something since the last gigantic Lego set Dad got him. 

“If I make this,” he began, cap of the marker between his teeth, “Y’think you can add something to it Jean?” 

“What like, decorate it?” 

Brent shrugged, finishing up a calculation before going, “Yeah,” 

I shook my head. “I don’t have any of my art supplies, and water isn’t that sort of power.”

“Keep it plain,” Dad interjected. “I have a better idea anyways.” 

Brent just shrugged again, going back to his math. 

He eventually made the tree stand, all that math apparently for an accompanying collar made out of a steel he somehow made look polished. Dad made us stop, finding something to pop in the oven for dinner and having us eat before saying, “Brent, come outside with me, we need to find something for you to drain. Jean, drain some water.” 

“Wh-, drain?” I glanced to Brent, who was already looking at Dad weird. “Why?” 

“You’ll see. Oh, and do the dishes while you’re there.” 

“Oh sure, pin the water chore on the water Conduit. Y’know, it feels like stereotyping,” 

“Jean. It’s three plates.” 

I hadn’t considered how hard draining might be; here, all I had to do was turn on the tap, but Dad and Brent had to rush off to find something. Or, at least, Brent did — I wasn’t sure which power Dad had right now. What if there was a situation where I couldn’t find water? Or Brent couldn’t find a good source of steel? Once we bled the power dry, was that really it? Could we not do anything else? 

They came back eventually, laughing at some shared joke I wasn’t privy to. “You good?” Dad asked me, and I nodded. “Good, okay. Let’s decorate the tree,” 

Brent caught on first. “Wait — like, with our powers?” 

Dad nodded. “Yeah, why not?” He turned, heading towards the tree in the corner and adding, “I don’t have anything else anyways, so,” 

It was…awkward, at first. Brent apparently didn’t know how to make a snowflake, which came out with a first attempt that looked as if a ninja star was run over by a train. Dad had to pull up pictures of snowflakes on his phone before Brent could attempt again, and even then, it still took a few times. “I don’t understand,” I began, “You want to create buildings but can’t even make a snowflake?” 

“Shut up,” he muttered, trying again. 

But he got it! And now that he did, he was confident enough to make a bunch of different shaped ones. Then came him and Dad geeking out, beginning their fandom ornaments of Death Stars and Pokémon and other show trinkets. 

Dorks. 

Dad had a giant pack of rubber bands he found in the master bedroom he used to begin hanging them up, Brent and I joining him. But where he had Brent stop with making ornaments wasn’t nearly enough to fill out the tree; it still looked absolutely sparse, like a Charlie Brown tree only somehow more disappointing. 

Then Dad turned to me, and said, “Your turn, Jeanie.” 

Apparently, I’d be creating the ball ornaments — only they’d be perfect little spheres of water, levitating against the tree. “Dad, I don’t know if I can make them stay,” I warned. 

“Usually they do, but if they don’t, we can just scrub the carpet dry,” he said, shrugging like it wasn’t a big deal. 

And I mean, I guess it wasn’t. 

So I let my arms slip into their water gauntlets, pushing the sleeves down into my hands and cutting it off from the rest, leaving a little pool levitating in my hands. “Like a snowball,” Brent offhandedly said somewhere on my right, and I wasn’t sure if I wanted to roll my eyes or snort. 

He kinda had a point too, though; so I pushed the puddle in my hands together, not needing to touch it to force the water to follow my will and round out. “Now just place it somewhere on the tree, and let go,” Dad coached gently. 

I sort of pushed the orb of water towards the tree, knowing it’d at least stay levitating while I had control over it. It’s when I’d let go that I was worried about. But like Dad said, it isn’t a big deal, right? If it dropped, we’d just scrub it up out of the floor. Easy fix. 

I pushed the orb till it was flush against the tree but not being stabbed into by the needles, hanging in one of the open gaps the rows made. One hand came down, the gauntlet disappearing, and the orb jiggled like jello. “Easy…” Dad drew out. 

I stared at the water, finding a confidence deep within me. You will stay, I thought hard, hand tensing slightly like I was force choking the ball. It bubbled in response, some sort of garbled promise it’d listen, and I let go. 

The orb jiggled again with the sudden release of my control, but it didn’t fall. Stayed slowly spinning in on itself, bubbles rising up and giving it a foamy top. “I knew you could do it, Jean,” Dad said, eyes full of pride when I glanced at him. “Stick some more up there,” 

It became a game at some point, Brent moving to stand in front of the tree and dodging the little orbs I slung his way before pinning them in place around the tree. One hit him in the crotch and Dad and I laughed till we couldn’t breathe as Brent breathed through the pain. “Okay—“ he wheezed, standing from his doubled-over stance. “Okay, how about you two get changed into pajamas? I’ve gotta grab something.” 

Dad vanished into the master, Brent glaring at me with his wet lap. “You look like you pissed yourself,” I chuckled, walking away. He didn’t have much of a retort — just repeated my words mockingly. 

We changed, Brent taking a moment to move his stuff downstairs and leaving me the nursery — not that I was upset about that. I kinda didn’t want to leave it at all. We appeared in the hall at the same time just as a loud thunk sounded from Dad’s room, followed by a hearty crash. “Dad?” Brent called out.

There was no debating it — we were already headed to the door, Brent throwing it open with a little too much force. The room was still pitch black save for the light from the open door, illuminating a mountain of boxes that had tumbled on Dad, who was trying to balance a few in his arms. “I uh,” he began, corner of a box in his mouth, “I shouldn’t have done this without a flashlight,” 

“I’ll get your phone,” I said, rolling my eyes. 

We tried to reorganize the pile by the phone’s spotlight, Brent eventually muttering something about how this was stupid and going to try and find a lightbulb. Dad and I were in the middle of cardboard Jenga when Brent returned, saying, “I took it from that hall closet,” he jabbed his thumb over his shoulder. “The hall has a light already, there’s no need for it.” 

After another hilarious fifteen minutes of more box Tetris and Dad trying to balance me on his shoulders (“You can’t use your powers, electricity and water don’t mix,” Dad said), the bulb was in, Brent flipping the switch as Dad put me down. 

Now that the room was properly lit up, I could see beyond the boxes; there were dozens of little neon signs propped up against the wall or still bolted to it, hidden by the darkness the blackout curtains encouraged even during the day. “Were these for Mom?” Brent asked, looking at one of angel wings against a long dresser. 

Dad nodded. “Yeah, figured we needed to keep them around to drain. I let her decorate this room however she wanted and let me tell you,” he plugged in what looked like a custom one, ‘Fetch’ in pink cursive, “It looked like a nightclub in here.” 

He gave the light this meaningful look, somehow making me feel like I was intruding on a personal moment. Like he was saying goodbye to someone for the last time, or a hello to someone he hadn’t seen in eons. Y’know, if melancholy had a sibling that was constantly riddled with grief — that’d be what his face was right now. 

He looked down at his feet a moment, steadying his breathing. When he lifted his head again, his right hand came up too. 

And he reached out and drained the neon. 

The sound it made as the neon bled from the sign was weird, almost like the dying chirp of an electronic bird. The pink stretched out in bright ribbons to meet Dad, twisting around his arm in a glaring fury as if it missed him. It kissed his skin, seeping away, leaving Brent and I to stare at his arm as it fell to his side. Dad turned, a sad smile on his face. “Every tree needs lights, right?” 

We were much more placated when we followed Dad back into the living room, watching him as he pulled the tree away from the wall a bit more before he summoned the neon back, wisps of blue and pink just like in the nursery gathering into a tight ball in his hand and pulsating with power. It was so beautiful, so powerful. He pushed his hands in as if to tighten it a bit more before throwing the neon ball up in the air like he was tossing a tennis ball, the ball arching a bit before exploding. 

The little candle flames of pink and blue fell, gluing themselves to needle ends or dissolving in my water orbs. We didn’t move as they fell and stayed in place long after they settled, dead quiet in some sort of moment of silence. The tree had a soft glow to it, the pink and blue bouncing off of the water and steel ornaments and casting colorful reflections on the paneled walls. 

“I think that’s good,” Dad finally said, giving us a gentle smile. “It looks good.” 

Soon came the hardest part; Dad preparing to leave. We emptied out one of the duffle bags with its price tag still attached, and followed him into the room as he rooted through old clothes still hanging up in the closet, stiff and a little weird smelling. “You both can take anything from in here, too. I know you don’t have many clothes right now,” Dad said, shoving a shirt in the bag without giving it the respect of being folded. “They’re my old clothes or Reggie’s, so Jean, it’ll be huge on you.” 

“It’s okay,” I shrugged, already zeroing in on a nice blue flannel to steal. “I like oversized sweaters,”

We meandered back to the living room and watched him gather things, pull on his skin-saving layers and trade out the leather coat for a way comfier looking light gray hoodie. He hesitated after that, looking at the jean vest laid on the arm of the couch before reaching out to grab it, lifting it up and contemplating it a moment longer before pulling it on. 

Dad shuffled the layerings around, pulling the hood out from under the vest and facing us again. “How do I look?” He asked, a bit offhandedly, a bit like he was genuinely worried about his appearance. 

I felt like an idiot; how did I never see it before? Were the monkey suits pulling the wool over my eyes that well, or was I just blind? Because with the gray beanie and vest, all casual wear — it was him. Older, wiser, a bit more wrinkled. But there was no doubt in my mind. “Like Delsin Rowe,” I breathed, the actual reality of it all smacking me in the face. 

The streetlights barely illuminated the driveway, all the light that made our faces disconcernable from the dark being the blue lights from the dash. “Okay, you have to be up early tomorrow, you still have those make-up exams,” Dad reminded us, shoving the duffle bag in the back. “Betty’s gonna be here at eight to pick you up. I talked to her about this already, and after she picks you up from the school, she’s gonna take you two to get phones. Jean?” 

“Yeah?”

“Please don’t drown them this time.”

“Sure,” I jabbed my thumb towards Brent. “So long as He-Man doesn’t send his to the moon the next time his football team loses.” 

“Who the hell is He-Man?” Brent asked.

“I’m gonna call as soon as I can. I just ask that you two be careful with who you talk to — there’s no use in hiding but you need to be cautious. Stick to people you already know. Brent, do not contact Tommy. I know you; it’s not worth cursing him out right now.” 

Brent rolled his eyes. “Fine.” 

Dad opened the driver’s door, turning to face us fully. “And stay safe. I’ll be back late Tuesday, okay?” 

I was on Dad first, practically jumping into him to pull him into a tight hug, Dad chuckling a moment before squeezing me right back. “Be careful Dad,” I said, voice muddled by the jean jacket pressing into my mouth. 

“I will be,” he promised. “I’ve done more dangerous stuff than this,” 

I let him go, Brent taking my place almost instantly. They did that weird thing guys do when they hug where they instinctively clap a hand on the other’s back in some sort of show of affection. They parted, Brent coming to stand at my side, and Dad just…looked at us. “I’m proud of you two,” he said, giving us a half smile. “I’ll call you later, okay? I love you.” 

And then he got in the truck…and was gone. 

Every time Dad left…we knew it came with a bit of danger, his job. Bomb threats were the worst of it, but he’s definitely been assaulted a few times by rowdy protesters, or received death threats online. But this felt so different. Different enough that Brent and I didn’t move well after Dad’s truck lights were eaten up by snow, stuck in place by the reality of what was happening. What was going to come. Tomorrow, Delsin Rowe would be back, and who knew what type of bullshit it would bring. 

“C’mon, let’s go inside,” Brent muttered beside me, the first to move. 

I stayed a few seconds longer, looking back towards where Dad disappeared. Yeah, Pandora's box would be opened tomorrow, and I knew things would never be the same. But y’know what? I was also so happy for Dad. He wouldn’t have to keep hiding behind a false name and made-up memories. He wouldn’t have to pull away from getting too involved in fear of risking Brent and I, especially now that if push came to shove, we could protect ourselves. He didn’t have to go back, but he wanted to — and that was heroic. 

“I'm proud of you too, Dad,” I whispered towards Portland, ready for everything to change. No matter what, he’d be there, and we could take on whatever life would throw. 

[onlinegamingbymanoj]

Cricket News Roundup: Stay Updated with the Latest from the Cricketing World

In the ever-evolving landscape of cricket, staying informed about the latest news and developments is essential for fans and enthusiasts alike. Here's a roundup of the most recent happenings in the cricketing world:

Player Transfers: The transfer window has been abuzz with activity as players make moves across domestic and international leagues. Notable transfers include the acquisition of seasoned all-rounder Ben Stokes by a new franchise ahead of the upcoming T20 league season, and the signing of promising young talent by various teams vying for supremacy in their respective leagues.

Tournament Updates: With T20 world-cup tournaments on the horizon, excitement is building among cricket fans worldwide. Updates include the announcement of the schedule for the upcoming Test championship final, slated to take place at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. Additionally, preparations are in full swing for the eagerly anticipated T20 World Cup, with participating teams finalizing their squads and fine-tuning their strategies for the global showdown.

Administrative Changes: In the realm of cricket administration, significant changes are underway with the appointment of new officials and governing bodies. Recent developments include the election of a new chairman for a prominent cricket board, tasked with steering the organization through a period of transition and reform.

As the cricketing calendar continues to unfold, stay tuned for more updates, insights, and analysis on all the latest news shaping the world of cricket. Whether it's player transfers, tournament updates, or administrative changes, we've got you covered with all the latest developments in the sport we love.

[projecthipster]

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Stephen Chbosky)

The book, not the movie, so I will not put Logan Lerman in the header image.

“I’m going to write it down because maybe if I do I won’t have to think about it. And I won’t get upset.”

Dear Friend,

I’d like to think back to July 2022. I’d lazily started writing Project Hipster reviews here and there, and reading books based on what the lists threw at me, though I wouldn’t realize that a Tumblr sideblog was the right venue for them (is it? I still don’t know) until next year when I posted the praise of Franny and Zooey that kicked off this blog. Sort of. It’s never really been fully kicked. 

Anyway, I was reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower as part of my aimless attempt at reading agreed-upon “hipster books,” and I was enjoying it. It’s a thin little book, so it fit like mustache wax on a barista into the laptop pocket of my backpack. I’d just started doing the city bike tours that I’m still doing now, and I’d taken a pretty young Parisian English teacher around town on a sunny Canada Day. We’d had a good time and so we agreed to meet up again for lunch the next day - Perks still tucked into that laptop pocket for train reading. 

I met her at a classic barbeque joint on McIntyre, in that block with the old bank that’s now the Irish pub, and the baptist church, and the street art of the flowers in the alley, and that row of condemned buildings that used to have a bubble machine in one of the windows until it was discovered that the bubbles were coming out of a fentanyl distribution centre. You know the block. The barbeque joint hosts punk and metal shows in the evening, but we were there for lunch. Waiting for food, we got to talking about books. I wanted to know what books were good for studying French. She said, read Camus. I did. That’ll be a post here soon. I wanted to know, what books do you use to teach English to French teenagers? There’s one we read last semester because it has lots of meaning but simple language, she said. It’s called The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Have you heard of it?

Zip-open went the laptop pocket!

All this is to say, there’s something simple but universal in Perks, something that transcends its semi-autobiographical adolescent rooting in early 90s suburban Pittsburgh. Stephen Chbosky is no believer in universalism in storytelling, that supposed root of relatability, the creation of a blank slate. To try to make anyone’s story feel like everyone’s story is the surest way, after all, to make it feel like no one’s story. So, Perks is inseparable from its pre-hipster, car-centric, football-obsessed, conservatively entrenched baseline. I say baseline because one of the ways protagonist Charlie evolves is in breaking out of this mainstream dullness. There’s little anger in that breaking away, though. Charlie doesn’t feel like so many Hipster Novel protagonists, listless in suburbia and longing for some great perhaps. Instead his finite existence is so sheltering that he doesn’t seem to ever ponder alternative ways until other characters bring them before him. That’s not to say there’s no sense of breaking free. As Charlie rides into the city in a old pickup truck with his older friends playing a mixtape after his first party, in the early first iteration of the most iconic scene, the one you know from the movie, even the sentences of his guarded epistles break out of sentence-verb-object and grow to infinity, as he himself declare, “I feel infinite.” From then on the doorways looking to infinity reveal themselves slowly. There’s a lot of contrast for most of this slim school year chronicle between Charlie’s family life, trauma-wracked and sullen but rarely so dramatic as to feel like it has to be in focus, and his life with his friends, who reveal the worlds of indie music, gay camp, and sometimes unhappy experiments with drugs. Like I said, the cultural references aren’t subtle. There are mentions aplenty of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Fleetwood Mac, Nirvana, Nick Drake, and again and again The Smiths. Then there’s Bill the English teacher, who plays that English Teacher in a YA Novel role of the literary mentor, a bit of the older author guiding his own memory-avatar of his younger self towards the bookish present future. This is a way of dropping books that Chbosky likes, or that might have influenced the book in some way. Lots of these are also landmark Hipster Books that I’m due to review sooner or later on this blog: On the Road, The Great Gatsby, To Kill a Mockingbird, A Separate Peace. I’d be scared of the cultural monolith that those books represent, but I’ve already passed the first great monolith, one of my favourite books of all time, as it is Bill’s, and Charlie’s, and very obviously Chbosky’s. I’m talking about The Catcher in the Rye of course. It’s a little funny to read Charlie talking about reading Catcher over and over, when he’s telling a novel in exactly Holden Caulfield’s narrative voice. I mean that. I really do. It’s those sort of insistent short sentences at the ends of paragraphs, and all the “kind of”s.

Of course Charlie is absolutely no Holden, which is what keeps Perks from being a Catcher retread. Chbosky’s experiment seems to be telling Holden’s story if instead of lashing out at the world in bitter irony, the trauma-battered youth retreated inwards to isolation while maintaining his unshakable empathy and kindness. That’s the meaning of the title. What are the perks of being a wallflower? Well, they’re that from the sidelines, you can see what goes on between people and understand them, without getting hurt. There’s no need to develop Holden’s prickly shell of ankylosaurus armour over the heart if you blend into the wallpaper enough to never be noticed. 

Of course, being a wallflower forever doesn’t make for a very good story. The story here, while like Catcher it also digs back into the source of Charlie’s childhood trauma, buried under all its layers of denial and justification, also follows his journey to try to “participate.” The text hits on something special when it reminisces on the soulful importance of meandering conversations in late-night fast food restaurants.

Which is why we need urban planning that re-emphasizes the affordable third space. But that’s another essay.

Love always,

Your Hipster Archivist

I give this Hipster book four bonus English class essays out of five.

Project Hipster is a futile and disorganized attempt to dive into the world of things that the internet has at some point claimed "are hipster," mostly through ListChallenges search results.

This review comes from the fourteenth list, The BBC and Goodreads Declare: "If You Score 20+ on This Quiz You Qualify as a Hipster."

Yeah, the name of the list is longwinded this time around. I like that it lists the sources for this declaration though. I’m glad to know that this is a book that Goodreads, the website where Fifty Shades of Grey is rated higher than Moby Dick, doesn’t just say but DECLARES is For Hipsters. I trust the BBC though, if only because I still like Doctor Who.

Up next: some movie or another from a list clearly made by someone English. Most likely more Tarantino.

Stay deck.

[dkaufmandevelopment]

Hollywood Office Tower ‘The Star’ On Sunset Unveils $1B Makeover Plan.

Plans have been submitted for a 22-story office tower that will now be punctuated by a spiraling design offering 360-degree views of downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign and the Pacific Ocean with luscious garden terraces on each floor that rise from the street-level entrance to a rooftop restaurant.

The plans were devised by Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, a London-based architecture firm known for iconic buildings and structures around the world such as the Gherkin skyscraper in London, the JP Morgan Chase Headquarters Tower in New York, Apple Park, Hong Kong International Airport and the Millau Viaduct in France. It’s expected to attract suitors across entertainment and tech, possibly as a potential headquarters.

Foster said the office campus, which is situated on a on a two-acre lot at 6061 W. Sunset Boulevard, is a “true reflection of the workplace of the future, nurturing community, well-being and collaboration” meant to “encourage and enliven the city’s incredible creative industries.” The location for the building sits across the street from the Old Warner Brothers Studios, now known as the Sunset Bronson Studios, and its 14-story office tower, which currently hosts Netflix. The former Television Center, which is undergoing a $600 million redevelopment and will be rebranded as Echelon Television Center, is also roughly a mile away.

Developers are betting on an urban design encouraging natural light and ventilation that incorporates vast outdoor areas with generous landscaping, floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the region and an enhanced pedestrian experience along the entrance, which is walking distance from a Metro station and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In a post-COVID world, access to fresh air and an outdoor space has been an essential consideration, especially for those in the entertainment and tech industries, said a company spokesperson, who declined to comment on financing for the development.

The campus, which sits next to less ritzy building hosting an events company and the Hollywood Palms Inn & Suites motel, will also feature a theater, gallery, rooftop restaurant and an outdoor event space intended to become a new destination. The development will break ground in 2026, with initial occupancy slated for 2029.

The Star will become a Hollywood “landmark” representative of a “new age of office space,” envisions Patrick Campbell, an architect at Foster + Partners. Learn more by reading the full-article at: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/hollywood-office-tower-star-sunset-142557018.html

#realestateinvestor #realestate #realestatedevelopment #construction #architecture #losangelesrealestate #losangeles #investinginrealestate #design #danielkaufmanrealestate #commercialrealestate

[stevensaus]

Measuring Time At The Turning Of Another Year

This is one of my favorite essays from my time in the military. It’s from 2001 – I know, because I mention snow. New Year’s Day 2000 for me was temperate and mild -- which seems like that's going to be the norm from here on out. It predates ever-present cell phones with built-in NTP clients. But this lesson still stays. “It’s okay. My watch is set to atomic time.” I knew better, yet I briefly expected to see a small nuclear generator strapped to his wrist, ticking the seconds away with radioactive precision. But no, it was just a regular plastic wristwatch (though with calculator pad and memory function) set just that morning to the most accurate time in the world. Apparently even more accurate than even the ticker clock on the Weather Channel, which disagreed with the watch by four seconds. Normally, such a small difference would be insignificant, but this was different. This was important. Someone – nobody was quite sure who – had noticed that we were running out of year. That there were only minutes left until midnight – few seconds remained of the first (or last, depending on how you want to count) year of the millenium. The previously subdued party erupted in a frenzy of channel-flipping, trying to locate the ageless Dick Clark or, failing that, a ball dropping somewhere in the world: an effort to find an “official” countdown to chant with. There are times when it becomes painfully obvious that I no longer live on the East Coast; New Year’s is the most obvious of them. As the channels flipped by, news, after-midnight televised parties resplendent with second-rate pop icons and drunken hordes, and even the occasional rerun of a sitcom confronted us. It seemed that our only timekeeping salvation would be in the precision of a small quartz diode, only hours ago calibrated to the National Institute of Standards and Technology atomic clock, a feat made possible by technology and an Internet connection. “We’ve still got three minutes,” the watch-holder announced. The relief was tangible – for a moment there, we were afraid we’d missed it entirely. Paces slowed, and our final preparations continued at a more sedate pace. That is, until the bathroom door swung open, and another guest who had missed the ruckus raised their watch aloft. “I set my watch to atomic time this morning! We’ve only got sixty seconds left!” I caught sight of my reflection in the window; outside the night was dark and freezing, moonlight shone upon the snow. Behind me the ghostly reflections of people scurried, bearing hats, noisemakers, poppers, champagne. Someone was making sure the kids – collectively and safely sequestered downstairs – were on-cue and taken care of. And we had no idea if the New Year had come yet. Did our resolutions count yet? Did we have time for a last cigarette, a last sugary snack, a final drink? Was it time to kiss someone, or wish for someone to kiss? Should we be toasting, singing, reminding our loved ones that they were our loved ones after all? Was it time yet to start fresh, to wipe the slate clean and try to do things a little better than we had before? Nobody knew for certain – the watches disagreed with the television channels, and all of them disagreed among themselves. No ball (or Dick Clark) was visible yet, and suggestions flew back and forth. “Try CBS.” “ABC! Dick Clark’s on ABC!” “Headline News always has a clock!” The mood was nearly frantic – several of the timekeepers already claimed we were in the New Year. Then: “Why don’t we just say we have twenty seconds left and start counting?” In a rollercoaster of emotion, the thought ran through our brains. Suddenly, we would decide when our New Year began. We, nobody else, would decide when to start anew, to hold ourselves to our resolutions, to love our families and remember our friends. From there, from that simple idea, realization spun outward: If it was possible to just say that the New Year began whatever time we wanted today, then we could do the same each day. Every day, every midnight, every minute could be a New Year, a new chance, a new opportunity. The New York ball suddenly glistened upon the television in gaudy glory; someone had found it. It was a replay; Mayor Guiliani smiling as the seconds counted downward an hour ago (despite the “LIVE” blazoned in the upper-left hand corner). Dutifully, we joined in, chanting away seconds with the televised throng; distanced by thousands of miles and nearly an hour of time. It was several minutes into the New Year, poppers popped and champagne drunk, that we noticed that the ball hadn’t agreed with either of the disagreeing watches, both meticulously set to atomic time. Featured Image by Nick from Pixabay Read the full article

[turtletalk5]

OBSのアップデート 30.0

OBS Studio 30.0

Note: As previously announced, this release removes support for Ubuntu 20.04, Qt 5, and FFmpeg versions prior to 4.4.

30.0 New Features

Added WHIP/WebRTC output [Sean-Der / kc5nra / DDRBoxman / tt2468]

With the introduction of WHIP, FTL is slated for removal in a release after May 2024

Redesigned the status bar [cg2121 / GeorgesStavracas / Warchamp7]

The redesigned status bar now provides the same information in a more organized and well structured way, with more representative and recognizable icons.

Added option for Full-Height docks to the “Docks” menu [ujifgc]

When enabled, a dock such as chat can take up the entire height of the OBS window

Added support for Intel QSV H264, HEVC, AV1 on Linux [kkartaltepe]

Added a shader cache to improve OBS startup time on Windows [notr1ch]

Added application audio capture on macOS [jcm93]

Added a “Safe Mode” that runs OBS without third-party plugins, scripting, and websockets [derrod]

When OBS detects that it was not shut down properly it will offer the user the option to launch in Safe Mode for troubleshooting purposes. It can also be manually activated via the “Help” menu.

Reworked the virtual camera on macOS to work with all applications (on macOS 13 and newer) [gxalpha/PatTheMav]

Added a YouTube Live Control Room Panel when streaming to YouTube [yuriy-chunak]

Added 10-bit capture support for Decklink devices [jpark37]

Added HDR playback support for Decklink output [jpark37]

Added an option to hide OBS windows from macOS Screen Capture’s “Display Capture” [PatTheMav]

30.0 Changes

Changed audio/video encoder dropdowns to be sorted by name [gxalpha]

Changed the list of applications in the macOS Screen Capture source to be sorted by name [Colerar]

Updated NVIDIA Audio/Video Effects SDK versions [pkviet]

Added more accurate logging for Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling status and support [derrod]

Added the ability to arrange filters via drag & drop [cg2121]

Clarified surround sound warning for YouTube 5.1 audio support [pkv]

Added warning if Lenovo Vantage is installed [notr1ch]

Added logging for scene changes in Studio Mode [Penwy]

Changed Video Capture Device sources on Windows to not show an audio device in the Audio Mixer if none is available/selected [Exeldro]

Added support for grayscale MJPEG in V4L / DirectShow sources [Staacks]

Improved settings interface of the “Text (FreeType 2)” source [gxalpha]

Added button to reactivate stopped capture in macOS Screen Capture [gxalpha]

Changed scene collection removal to retain a backup file (.bak) that can be easily reimported if needed [derrod]

Added IPv6 support for RTMP streaming output with IPv4 fallback (“happy eyeballs”) for dual-stack streaming services. The preferred protocol can still be selected in advanced settings. [jgh-twitch]

Fixed virtual camera output when used with additional output channels (e.g., Downstream Keyer plugin) [tytan652]

Added ability to set FFmpeg Options for VAAPI [nowrep]

Added a Help menu item to view the Release Notes [WizardCM]

Added logging for “Ignore streaming service setting recommendations” [derrod]

Added logging for Video Capture Devices on macOS for portrait and studio light effects [gxalpha]

Added more logging for Video Capture Device names on Windows [norihiro]

Added more logging for QSV [RytoEX]

Added logging for WASAPI source names on Windows [prgmitchell]

Increased minimum output resolution to 32x32 to prevent certain encoder failure scenarios [RytoEX]

Reenabled dynamic bitrate for AMF encoders [derrod]

Enabled “Paste Filters” after copying from scenes or mixer [gxalpha]

Removed D3D9 code from QSV encoder plugin [RytoEX]

Changed QSV plugin settings new to Beta 1 to use translatable strings [RytoEX]

Exposed shader creation errors [exeldro]

Changed v4l2 sources to always use linear alpha blending [SludgePhD]

30.0 Bug Fixes

Fixed a crash when using Touch Portal to control OBS [notr1ch]

Fixed a crash when selecting a window in PipeWire capture if one is already selected [GeorgesStavracas]

Fixed a crash on OBS shutdown on macOS [norihiro]

Fixed a crash with the auto-config wizard [norihiro]

Fixed a crash when trying to capture screen via PipeWire [columbarius]

Fixed a crash when rapidly changing scenes [PatTheMav]

Fixed a crash when quickly switching between NVIDIA Audio Filters [pkviet]

Fixed a crash when starting and stopping multiple DeckLink outputs [jpark37]

Fixed a crash caused by plugins deleting properties [ujifgc]

Fixed an issue that could cause hardware encoders not showing up as options on capable GPUs [notr1ch]

Fixed possible security certificate verification failure when trying to stream with RTMPS on macOS [PatTheMav]

Fixed checking for updates not working on Windows if the username contains special characters [derrod]

Affected users will have to manually update to OBS 30.0

Removed legacy AMD encoder plugin [derrod]

Users upgrading from an older OBS version will continue to be able to use the old plugin

Fixed max bitrate not working in NVENC VBR mode [flaeri]

Fixed async sources (e.g. video capture devices) sometimes unnecessarily dropping frames while buffering is enabled [derrod]

Fixed order of IP binding/family setting [tytan652]

Fixed some issues with hotkeys with groups and duplicate sceneitems [derrod]

Fixed warnings being cut off in the UI in Simple Output Mode [gxalpha]

Fixed the installed version number visible in Windows Settings not being updated when using the auto-updater [derrod]

Fixed window capture showing the last frame of a closed window on Windows [Walker-WSH]

Fixed alignment helpers rendering below safe area indicators [cg2121]

Fixed some edge cases where certain undo/redo actions could behave in unexpected ways [derrod]

Fixed media source restarting playback when not necessary [CodeYan01]

Fixed frontend_save_callback in Python scripts [Penwy]

Fixed “flip” not working with “stretch to bounds” [Penwy]

Fixed OBS stealing focus when launching minimized [BenJuan26]

Fixed lossless recording not working if fragmented MP4/MOV was selected [gxalpha]

Fixed rendezvous mode with SRT [pkv]

Fixed browser source events not being sent to all frames [Exeldro]

Improved FFmpeg VAAPI AMD encoder video quality [nowrep]

Fixed virtual camera not deactivating correctly in some cases [Lain-B]

Fixed lag with VLC media source, particularly on macOS [usakhelo]

Fixed “Show more” in service settings selecting the first service in the list [gxalpha]

Fixed incorrectly positioned labels in a scenes-only multiview projector [norihiro]

Fixed detected framerate of videos encoded with Custom Output (FFmpeg) [jack-karamanian]

Fixed a bug where the “Show fullscreen and hidden windows/applications” option in macOS Screen Capture did not apply immediately [niw]

Fixed a bug where the Auto-Configuration Wizard didn’t save YouTube stream key [Lain-B]

Fixed a bug where the OK button was enabled in the Add Source dialog if “Add Existing” was selected but no existing source was selected [gxalpha]

Fixed a bug where using VoiceOver to toggle the “Use Different Colors” GroupBox in the Accessibility settings, the Apply button would not activate [gxalpha]

Fixed a bug where the Auto-Configuration Wizard would show current frame rate in scientific notation if FPS was 100 or greater [gxalpha]

Fixed an issue where importing a Streamlabs Desktop scene collection would result in OBS performing seemingly random scene changes and scene item visibility changes [prgmitchell]

Fixed not being able to select a stream audio encoder if previous selection was invalidated [derrod]

Fixed source transform shortcuts in context (flip, rotate, etc.) when multiple scene items are selected [gxalpha]

Fixed source type version when dropping files onto the OBS UI [norihiro]

Fixed alignment of vertical audio mixer controls [cg2121]

Fixed a bug where HDR video could incorrectly produce black pixels when tonemapping [jpark37]

Fixed v4l2 source not working correctly with certain non-standard input frame rates [kkartaltepe]

Fixed hotkeys of different scene items for the same source not being saved correctly [derrod]

Fixed hotkeys being lost when moving a source in or out of a group [derrod]

Fixed a possible issue with logging high frame rate video capture devices on Linux [kkartaltepe]

Fixed a bug causing AMF AV1 to have low quality in Simple Output Mode [Penwy]

Fixed a race condition in the Vulkan graphics hook [sawillms]

Fixed an issue with Sparkle delta updates [PatTheMav]

Fixed some unexpected behavior when transforming sources in groups [Zulleyy3]

Fixed Stream Key label not displaying in UI [TianQiBuTian]

Fixed “Use Stream Key” button not hiding from UI when appropriate [TianQiBuTian]

[gemtvusa]

Garfield 2024 Trailer, Release Date, Cast

This article discusses the forthcoming animated feature. For information on the 2004 live-action adaptation, please refer to "Garfield: The Movie." The Garfield Movie - Director: Mark Dindal - Screenplay: David Reynolds - Based on: "Garfield" by Jim Davis - Producers: John Cohen, Steven P. Wegner, Andrew Kosove, Broderick Johnson, Tom Jacomb, Namit Malhotra - Voice Cast: Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Bowen Yang, Ving Rhames - Production Companies: Columbia Pictures, Alcon Entertainment, DNEG Animation, Amuse Entertainment, Paws, Inc. - Distributor: Sony Pictures Releasing - Release Date: May 24, 2024 - Country: United States - Language: English The Garfield Movie is the anticipated American computer-animated comedy set to premiere on May 24, 2024. This film springs from the iconic "Garfield" comics by Jim Davis and marks the first animated venture by Alcon Entertainment, with animation provided by DNEG Animation, and is distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing. Under the direction of Mark Dindal and a script penned by David Reynolds, the film boasts the vocal talents of Chris Pratt as the eponymous Garfield, with Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Bowen Yang, and Ving Rhames in supporting roles. The idea of reviving Garfield in animated form began taking shape in May 2016 with a team of producers and writers. Dindal was named as director in November 2018, with production kicking off the following month. Despite Viacom acquiring Garfield rights in August 2019, Dindal confirmed the project was still underway as of December 2020. Sony Pictures secured distribution rights outside China in November 2021, with Pratt being cast as Garfield and animation by DNEG. The full cast came on board throughout 2022, with the official title being announced in September 2023. Voice Cast Overview: - Chris Pratt as Garfield, the iconic lasagna-loving, Monday-hating orange tabby. - Samuel L. Jackson as Vic, Garfield's father. Production Notes: - Initial Announcement: Alcon Entertainment declared their plans for a CG animated Garfield film on May 24, 2016, with a creative team including John Cohen and Steven P. Wegner producing and script development by Mark Torgove and Paul A. Kaplan. - Director's Confirmation: Mark Dindal was confirmed as the director on November 12, 2018, with pre-production starting shortly thereafter. - Viacom's Acquisition: Viacom's rights acquisition in August 2019 caused some uncertainty, but production continued unabated. - Casting Updates: Chris Pratt's casting was announced on November 1, 2021, and by May 2022, Samuel L. Jackson was confirmed to join. Additional cast members, including Ving Rhames and Nicholas Hoult, were revealed by August 2022, with Brett Goldstein and Bowen Yang confirmed in November 2022. Release Plans: - Theatrical Premiere: Scheduled for May 24, 2024, after an initial February 16, 2024 date was revised. - Streaming Deals: Sony's agreements with Netflix and Disney include streaming rights for their 2022-2026 film slate, with "The Garfield Movie" set for Netflix's "pay 1 window" and Disney's "pay 2 window," ensuring post-theatrical and home media availability on these platforms.

Garfield Official Trailer (2024)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXWvmPGjVXI

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[tamiyagantetsusai]

So hubs surprised me with a new entry-level gaming laptop because my old one's screen is fucked and I can't do much with it. I have been having a meltdown this entire afternoon because it simply isn't my old laptop. I'm trying so hard to calm down but I'm struggling. I hate that is has windows 11 on it. I spent an hour trying to firefox to look like my old one but the theme is so blurry and I can't see pixel kitty Miku properly. I hate that all my icons aren't on the screen and that the ones that are are different, and the fact that it's going to take forever to reinstall everything I want is going to infuriate me to no end. I don't even use the apps but I need to have TES II through to V and my Yakuza and my Osu and my FFX and Sims on my home screen. All my files are on my old pc and it just sits there but now I have to move everything. I know I can just do a clean slate or keep my old laptop plugged into the second screen and continue using it but it feels wrong using a different laptop that isn't mine. He set up the laptop for me before he presented it to me and I hate it because it's supposed to be my laptop right? But there's a free month of xbox pass he wants us to use and it's on his name so I can't change it. I'm so grateful that he bought me a new one and I know we're both going to have fun being able to play games together eventually but I feel horrible for complaining about all of these things that I know shouldn't mean anything. I don't know how to cope with this, I can't even settle on a wallpaper without becoming incredibly upset 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[linuxgamenews]

Push aside Stereotypes and Uncover Mysteries with Zipp's Cafe

Zipp’s Cafe noir-like management sim game is on its way for Linux, Mac, and Windows PC. The talented team at The Wild Gentlemen has crafted something truly unique for us. Due to make its way onto Steam soon. For those who've been tracking the dynamic gaming world, the latest entry titled "Zipp’s Cafe" offers a refreshing twist. This isn't just about arcade action or high-octane battles; it's a charming jaunt into cafe management blended with a rich story. While there's an intriguing connection to Chicken Police - Into the HIVE!, it’s much more than just a prequel. This journey promises both mysteries to uncover and adventures to embark on Linux. Meet Zipp H. Murphy, the raccoon. Push aside any stereotypes of raccoons you might have because he is in a league of his own. Instead of scavenging trash bins, he's a gourmet fan and the proud mind behind "Zipp’s Cafe". Taking place in the heart of Clawville, this cafe is renowned not just for its aromatic coffees and sumptuous dishes, but also as a haven in a city busy with excitement. In Clawville, lines blur. Law enforcers and outlaws often find common ground, and "Zipp’s Cafe" plays the neutral host. Whether you’re on either side of the law, Zipp welcomes you. However, be ready to pay for the culinary delights! Through Zipp’s charismatic conversations, players get a view into the pulsating world of Clawville, a city that never sleeps.

"Zipp’s Cafe" - Official Launch Trailer

The creators, The Wild Gentlemen, have carefully craft this cafe management sim game for Linux. From brewing the iconic espresso to dishing out omelettes that would make any chef proud. "Zipp’s Cafe" players get to immerse themselves in the world of culinary delights. But remember, kitchens can be chaotic! Juggling tasks is what this management sim game is all about. Yet, it's not just about food and drinks. Zipp’s interactions with the clientele offer juicy tidbits about the larger universe. Also revealing layers that pull you deeper into the story. Among the "Zipp’s Cafe" patrons, you'll meet Mick, the new crime lord in town. AndFrank, a sleuth who shares ties with characters from Chicken Police - Into the HIVE!. Their tales not only connect the dots to other titles but also hint at yet to be revealed projects. While players delve into these stories, there's also Zipp’s own past that beckons. And if you're a romantic at heart, there might be a chance for love amidst the espresso shots and pastries. "Zipp’s Cafe" isn’t just about following a linear story. It offers three engaging mini-activities that add depth and diversity to the experience. You aren’t just a passive observer; you're actively involved in the daily grind (pun intended) of the cafe. Whether you’re ensuring the coffee has the right froth or you’re scrubbing away at dishes. Since every action you take adds a layer to the story. With Zipp and five other pivotal characters, there’s always someone with a tale to tell, someone with a secret to share. All it takes in "Zipp’s Cafe" is a bit of attention and a well made coffee.

The release:

As players dive into this management sim game, it’s clear that the World of Wilderness is expansive. Also, holding more secrets and adventures than meets the eye. Mark the date: November 15, 2023. That's when this immersive journey is slated to go live on Linux, Mac, and windows PC. So, whether you're a seasoned player or someone looking for a fresh experience, "Zipp’s Cafe" seems poised to offer a tempting blend of story, strategy, and simulation. Be sure to Wishlist on Steam.

[myspcae]

Comprehensive Guide to Prepare Your iPhone for iOS 13

Apple is on the brink of unveiling its official iOS 13 in just a little over an hour, introducing a wealth of exciting new features for iPhone users. These improvements encompass a system-wide Dark Mode, a revamped Find My app, enhancements to the Photo app, updated privacy features, and more detailed street-level Maps. But the excitement doesn't stop there; numerous smaller changes and tweaks are designed to elevate your overall iPhone experience.

Preparing Your Device for iOS 13

With the impending arrival of iOS 13, Apple has made substantial advancements in how it packages apps from the App Store. They assert that app downloads can now be up to 50 percent smaller, resulting in reduced storage space requirements. However, before you can benefit from these enhancements, it's crucial to ensure that your device has ample space to accommodate the new operating system. If you're unsure, it's advisable to seek guidance from the leading iPhone service center in Kolkata.

To free up space for iOS 13, it's wise to review the apps currently residing on your device and assess whether you genuinely need all of them. Navigate through your home screen and explore your folders to identify any long-forgotten apps that are consuming valuable storage space.

You can easily remove unnecessary apps by pressing and holding your finger on their icons and then tapping the 'X' that appears in the corner. Rest assured, if you accidentally delete an app, it can be conveniently reinstalled later.

For even more efficient storage management, scrutinize the size of social media or messaging apps like Facebook and WhatsApp. These apps tend to accumulate significant data over time, including chat history and media files. Consider uninstalling and then reinstalling them to start with a clean slate.

Additionally, take heed of any recommendations provided on the iPhone Storage screen, such as storing high-resolution photos in iCloud and smaller versions on your device or granting iOS permission to automatically offload infrequently used apps.

Creating an Archived iTunes Backup

It's prudent to create an iTunes backup of your device on your computer before embarking on the iOS 13 update journey. This backup serves as a safety net in case anything goes awry during the installation or if you need to revert to a previous iOS version.

An archived iTunes backup preserves the current state of your iOS device, safeguarding it from accidental overwriting by subsequent backups. To create an archived backup on a Mac, follow these steps (please note that the process may vary slightly for Windows users, who may need to rename their iTunes backup folder or relocate it to a different location to prevent overwriting):

Launch iTunes and access 'Preferences' from the menu.

Navigate to the 'Devices' tab.

Right-click on the new backup and select 'Archive.'

Once the backup is duly archived, it will be distinctly labeled with the date and time of its creation. This archived backup serves as a safety net in case of unforeseen issues, and you can readily seek assistance from the leading iPhone service center in Kolkata if needed.

Installing iOS 13

When iOS 13 becomes available (typically around 10 AM PST/1 PM EST on the official release day), it will be seamlessly delivered to your device. You can update either through iTunes when connecting your device to your computer or via an over-the-air update. Ensure you're connected to Wi-Fi, and your device is fully charged before commencing the update process, as it may require some time to complete. If you encounter any iPhone-related issues, don't hesitate to reach out to Ctech IT Solutions for assistance.

[usagirotten]

One-Punch Man: World Free-to-play multiplayer action game is coming

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping gaming experience as One-Punch Man: World brings its free-to-play multiplayer action game to fans worldwide. Join Saitama and an epic roster of heroes and villains in intense battles for supremacy. Read on to discover more about this exciting upcoming release! Crunchyroll Games announced on Monday that it is releasing a new online multiplayer action game based on ONE and Yūsuke Murata's One-Punch Man manga titled One-Punch Man: World by developer Perfect World. The game will launch in 2023 for Windows PC, iOS, and Android with cross-platform play and progression. The game will be free-to-play with optional in-app purchases. Pre-registration is open in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Latin America, and Nordic countries.

The company streamed an announcement trailer:    The game features heroes from the series, such as Saitama, Genos, Speed-o-Sound Sonic, Mumen Rider, and Puri-Puri Prisoner. Players can take on missions at the Hero Association and team up with others for raids. The battle system features timed dodges, skill combos, and ultimate abilities. There are also side activities and minigames in Z-City. The world-renowned One-Punch Man series, created by artist ONE, has gained immense popularity for its unique blend of action, humor, and character development. And now, thanks to the collaboration between Shueisha Inc. and game developer XYZ Interactive, fans can step into the shoes of their favorite hero, Saitama, to deliver his legendary, knockout punch. Players will have the opportunity to explore an expansive virtual universe, teaming up with other players to form alliances or competing head-to-head in exhilarating battles. With the Ultimate Hero Association at their side, gamers will train, strategize, and face off against a myriad of villains, each posing their own unique challenges. "One-Punch Man: World" is slated for release on multiple platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of players worldwide. Keep an eye out for the official release date announcement, as you won't want to miss the chance to immerse yourself in this action-packed gaming phenomenon. As anticipation reaches its peak, the countdown begins for fans to embrace the power of Saitama and other iconic characters in "One-Punch Man: World." Prepare to unleash your inner hero, hone your skills, and join the fight for justice in a world where anything is possible. Stay tuned for more updates and be the first to experience the exhilarating world of "One-Punch Man: World"!

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[lutoogyan]

Metal Gear Solid 3 remake is real and multi-platform, say reports – TechToday

Newsletter Sed ut perspiciatis unde. Subscribe The rumored Metal Gear Solid 3 remake is real and slated for a multi-platform release, according to several reports.  In the absence of any concrete Metal Gear Solid 6 news, it looks like we’ll be getting the next best thing. Windows Central has reported that the iconic stealth action title will be receiving a “modern makeover as part of Konami’s…