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lisalowefanclub · 4 years

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Multiplicity and what identification and representation means to Us

Madeline: I don’t remember there being many cool, attractive, and overall desirable but not fetishized (bye yellow fever) representations of Asian people in mainstream media while I was growing up in the early 2000s. The Asian media I did consume was introduced to me by my dad, so you can imagine the kind of outdated and endearingly weird characters I was exposed to as a kid. Think blind Japanese swordsman Zatoichi or humanoid child robot Astro Boy, both of which originated in Japan around the 60s. As for celebrities, I occasionally heard people talking about Lucy Liu or Jackie Chan, but only as defined by their stereotypical Asian-ness. My point is that this kind of cultural consumption fell into one of two categories: that of obscurity, which suggests that cultural objects are created by Asians for Asians (bringing to mind labels like “Weeb” for Western people who love anime), or that of hypervisibility grounded in stereotypical exoticism. You’d be hard pressed to find a film that passes the Asian Bechdel test.I didn’t discover K-pop until coming to college when I became curious about who my white friends were fawning over all the time. Since then, it’s been really neat to see how K-pop has become popularized as one of the many facets of America’s mainstream music and celebrity culture, especially when artists write and perform songs in Korean despite the majority of their audience lacking Korean language fluency. This suggests that something about the music is able to transcend language barriers and connect people despite their differences. Today it’s not uncommon to see Korean artists topping Billboard’s hot 100 hits, being interviewed on SNL, winning American music awards, gracing the cover of Teen Vogue, or being selected as the next brand ambassador for Western makeup brands like M.A.C. If you were to ask your average high school or college student if they know Blackpink, BTS, or EXO, they would probably be familiar with one of the groups whether or not they identify as Asian.What does this mean, then, for young Asian-Americans to grow up during a time when Asian celebrities are thought to be just as desirable as people like Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, or Michael B. Jordan? What does it mean to see an Asian person named “Sexiest International Man Alive”, beating out long-time favorite European celebs? What does it mean for popularity to exist outside of the realm of the racialized minority and for it to build connections across minority cultures? Of course, fame can be toxic and horrible-- it is, at times superficial, materialistic, gendered, fetishized, and absolutely hyper-sexualized-- but I for one think it’s pretty damn cool to see people who look like me featured in mainstream American culture.I’ve found that throughout the semester, my understanding of Asian presence in America (American citizen or otherwise) has been deeply shaped by our discussions of identity politics and marginalization, another class I’m taking on intergenerational trauma, and my own identity as a Laotian-American woman. Recently, I’ve been thinking a lot about the similarities between American proxy wars in Korea (The Forgotten War) and Laos (The Secret War), both of which involved US bombing of citizens in the name of halting communism. Taking this class has challenged me to reconceptualize how we make sense of mass atrocity in relation to a pan-Asian identity, especially when contending with how trauma and violence can act as a mechanism for cultural production, and I look forward to exploring this more in my thesis.

Cyndi: K-pop is always just the beginning. Enough in and of itself, any interest in the genre at all reinvigorates the consumer to become more engaged with the world in which it exists. Two years ago, I got into a big, but in hindsight pretty silly, argument with my mom when I started going to a Korean hair salon (because of my K-pop delulus / Jennie prints) instead of seeing Maggie, our Vietnamese hairdresser who I can usually only see twice a year on our bi-annual visits to California to visit extended family. My mom told me the Koreans don’t need our money, they are already richer than we will ever be. Who are ‘the Koreans’? Who is ‘we’?? Is every person of Korean descent doing better than every person of Vietnamese descent in America? And #why is my mom being A Hater? Surely, sharing our identity as ‘perpetual guests’ in America should create some sort of solidarity, or at least, allow for transitory economic collaboration??? I give my money to white people all the time: to McDonald’s (Cookie Totes), to Target, to Swarthmore College.

K-pop cannot be the end. As much as I enjoy the music, the show, and the celebrities, I also know in my heart that the current international interest in K-pop will not last. As an almost perfect and perplexing exemplification of modern global capitalism, the industry will over-expand and thus wear itself out. I always see the subtle disappointment on my language teachers’ faces when they ask me how I came to take interest in Korean, and I have to answer ‘K-pop’, because that is the truth; that is not where I am at now, but it will always be how I began. It has become clear to me that this disappointment is not just a generational difference. Maybe these old people are jealous of pop stars like how I also have to question whether I am secure in myself when I see a 14 year old accomplishing things I as a 21 year old could never accomplish in my long life. I am coming to understand that part of their reaction comes from the fact that there is a fine line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation, that pop culture is ephemeral, but they have lived their lives as entirely theirs. Casual or even consuming interest for the parts of culture that are bright, and clean, and easy cannot ever stand in for true racial empathy, though it is where many of us start. Identity in K-pop is merely another marketing technique, but to the community of fans and lovers, it is something that is real, lived, and embodied. I find that looking at K-pop always brings forth my most salient identities in terms of gender, race, and sexuality. As much as female group members express affection and jokingly portray romantic interest toward one another, would it ever be accepted if these jokes were no longer jokes, but lived realities? Even if the K-pop industry itself did not seek to produce fan communities of this magnitude, these communities that have been founded in response to it are here to stay. Lowe argues that “to the extent that Asian American culture dynamically expands to include both internal critical dialogues about difference and the interrogation of dominant interpellations” it can “be a site in which horizontal affiliations with other groups can be imagined and realized” (71). A recent striking example is Thai fans’ demand to hear from Lisa on the protests -- a primarily youth-led movement against the government monarchy--going on in Thailand. Although she is, of course, censored and silenced on this topic, the expectation is still there; fans are holding their idols to a standard of political responsibility.

Jimmy: I haven’t really paid much attention to K-pop until working on this project. Sure, my cousins would do anything to go see BTS perform in person, but I didn’t care so much. Or maybe, I was just not saturated with the cultural zeitgeist. Whereas they live in the center of a cosmopolitan city which imports and exports, my hometown hums white noise. Increasingly, though, K-pop has entered into my life and the wider American cultural space. Now, K-pop tops the charts and is featured on late-night talk shows. Whether or not you are a devout follower, you have probably encountered K-pop in some form. It was not until I went to Swarthmore that I have “become” Asian American. Back home, my friends are primarily either white or Vietnamese-American. And even though I did recognize that I had an “Asian” racial identity mapped onto me, I did not consider it to be based on any politics. After engaging with and working within Organizing to Redefine “Asian” Activism (ORAA) on campus, as well as taking this course, I have a better grasp of what it means to rally around an Asian American identity. It is a way to organize and resist. Reflecting on my political evolution, I feel comforted and alienated by the cultural weight of K-pop in America. It is amazing to see the gravity of cultural production shift away from the West. And to have global celebrities from Asia is great. Yet, K-pop is limited as a platform for Asian Americans to create identity. What are the consequences when mainstream ideas about contemporary “Asian” culture are still perpetually foreign from America? Is Asian American community just built around transnational cultural objects like K-pop and bubble tea? Does the economic and cultural capital of K-pop held by its idols obscure or erase the heterogeneity and multiplicity of Asian Americans?

Jason: The first time I heard K-Pop was when Gangnam Style came on during a middle school social event when everyone is standing in their social circles doing their best not to be awkward when teacher chaperones are constantly staring at the back of your head seeing if any wrongdoing would occur. At that time, I could never imagine the K-Pop revolution that would occur within the American music industry. Anytime I turn on the radio it is only a matter of time until a BTS song will start being blasted from the speakers. It is crazy to think that K-Pop has become so widespread within American popular culture that mainstream radio stations in Massachusetts are so willing to play K-Pop, even the billboards of 104.1 “Boston’s Best Variety” are plastered with BTS, because they know that is what their audience wants. Eight years ago, during that middle school social Gangnam Style was more about being able to do the dance that accompanied the song rather than the song itself. This has completely changed as more and more people are finding themselves becoming devout supporters of K-Pop. This class and project have continuously been pushing me out of my comfort zone by engaging in literature that I would never have read and discussions that I would never have imagined participating in. I have even listened to more K-Pop over the past couple of weeks than I had ever before in my life. I was impressed by myself when a song by BLACKPINK came on and the radio host said here’s some new music that I knew that the song was from their first album that came out around a month ago. I am grateful that I have been pushed out of my comfort zone and “forced (by having to actually do the homework)” to engage in the material of the class. Who knows how long this K-Pop fascination will last in American popular culture, but I am glad that I could be a part of it rather than letting it pass me by and staying within my comfortable music sphere of country, pop, and British rap.

#multiplicity #cyndi #jason #jimmy #madeline

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leelee10898 · 5 years

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Double Trouble

Hey guys, @leelee10898 here. Since @cocomaxley & @ao719 posted their birth story... I figured I should get off my butt and do one, considering the twins were due months before them lol. This is just a little something I threw together, it also answers a few questions some had. So here we go...

Alicia leaned back against her husbands chest as she watched their twins enjoy the puppet show with the other kids. So many things had changed in a years time. The wild fun loving group were now all parents, they traded beers for bottles, and the guys weekly poker game turned into once a month, and weekly play dates. "Penny for your thoughts love?" Leo whispered in her ear. "Just thinking how fast time flies. It feels like yesterday they were born, and now they are 1." She sighed.

"Oh I remember it well." Leo chuckled as the two thought back to the day that changed their lives forever.

1 year ago…..

"God its so hot." Alicia whined as she fanned herself. It was unseasonably hot and humid for April, and here they were sitting at a garden party to celebrate Regina's birthday. "I'm sorry love. I know you're miserable, how about a glass of Ice water?" Leo gave her a sympathetic smile, and a kiss on the cheek. "Ok fine. But a big one, with lots of Ice." She pouted, as Leo motioned to a nearby waiter. "Oh, and a cookie. chocolate chip, no oatmeal raisin. Wait, No. yes. Ok bring both." Slightly confused the waiter wandered off to retrieve the duchess's requested items. Leo walked over to join the guys leaving Alicia with the other ladies.

"God its hot. Who the hell planned this?" Anitah huffed. "Um you did." Genevieve rolled her eyes. "Jesus I swear this pregnancy brain is going to be the death of me. I almost forgot to put underwear on this morning." She popped a grape in her mouth. "It is hot, but its a very nice day. Maybe you guys can go inside to cool off?" Pam suggested. Finally the waiter came back with Alicia's water and cookies. "How are you holding up honey?" Pam turned to Alicia who looked like she was stung by a bee. "Im hot, im huge, I can't see my feet. Speaking of feet, they're swollen and the amount of pressure and cramping today may just kill me." She blurted out, pam gave her a questioning look.

"God im sorry Pam. I didn't mean to snap, I just. Oh, ooooh, ugh." She cringed as she grabbed her stomach. Anitah shot her a look. "What's going on over there?"

"These damn Braxton hicks." Alicia grunted. "You sure its not gas?" Genevieve snickered. "Trust me, if I fart you'll know it Gen."

She composed herself and focused on picking at the cookie in front of her. Not having much of an appetite anymore, she took deep breaths trying to keep the pain at bay. The ladies chattered around her, Leo still talking to the guys.

Suddenly Alicia's eyes went wide. "My. My water broke." Genevieve looked over placing her hand on Alicia's "that's ok honey, we'll get you another." Pam looked down at the liquid dripping from the chair. "Um Gen, no. Her water broke. The twins are coming."

Genevieve and Anitah froze, pure fear in their eyes. Alicia let out a long loud groan. "Oh god. It's happening." Anitah panicked standing and knocking over her chair, Genevieve following suit. The two began to freak out, while Pam tried to soothe Alicia. The commotion drew the attention of the whole party, Leo grinning widely in conversation as he turned to face his wife. The smile soon faded as his eyes landed on Alicia's pain stricken face.

Leo took off running across the lawn, tripping over the leg of a table holding a large ice sculpture in the form of a swan. He landed in a rolling heap on the lawn, the table flipping over sending the ice sculpture into the air, landing in the fountain where Madeline, Kiara and Alexis stood, soaking them from head to toe. Bastian had Brad bring a car around, as Liam and Drake helped Alicia across the lawn. "My bag. Its in our car." Alicia breathed out, Rashad volunteered to grab it while Leo limped next to his wife.

They arrived at the hospital, Leo was treated for a sprain and Alicia was rushed to a delivery room. Anitah, Liam, Drake, pam, Rashad and Genevieve sat in the private waiting area down the hall from the delivery room. Maxwell was in Texas visiting with Stephanie and Evie, Liam called him to let him know that Alicia was having the twins.

"You're 8 centimeters your grace. Not much longer until these babies are here." Another strong contraction hit her like a ton of bricks. "Arrrrggg Fuuuuck! It hurts." She sobbed. "Leo, we are never having sex again." Leo chuckled as he rubbed his wife's damp head. "I think we both know thats not true."

"The fuck it isnt! Bambam better not come anywhere near pebblesssss, ahhhhh my god fuckkkk it hurts."

Leo's face turned a deep red as the nurse snickered.

Anitah paced the floor. "Anitah, sit down you're gonna wear the tile out." Genevieve teased as rashad rubbed her feet. "I can't just sit. Its been hours, we haven't heard anything yet. What if something's wrong?" Liam came up placing his hands on her shoulders. "Everything is fine my love." Anitah glanced at the door opening it a crack and sticking her head out. She heard a blood curdling scream come from down the hall, a few doctors and nurses rushing into the room Alicia was in. Before Liam could grab her Anitah bolted out the door, down the hall and into Alicia's room where she could see a small head crowning.

A doctor approached the queen, who was looking a bit green in the face "your majesty, are you ok? You don't look so well." He questioned

"Oh, im fi-" She leaned over vomiting on his shoes. "Fine." She lifted her head just in time to see another doctor hold a tiny baby up, and hear a tiny cry. Anitah joined Leo next to Alicia. "One down, one more to go." The doctor said. "I had to make sure you were ok." Anitah sniffled as she looked down at the new baby in her bestfriends arms. "Will you stay here for the next one?" Alicia sniffled. "Of course." Shortly after Baby A was born, baby B made their way into the world. After the nurses cleaned them up and Leo and Alicia had time alone the group entered the room. "Everyone, I would like to introduce you to Leonard Joshua and Arabella Faith."

Leonard or LJ for short was born first weighing 7lbs 2 oz and 20 inches long. Arabella was born 2nd weighing 6lbs 10 oz and 19 ½ inches long. Both babies were healthy, and did not need to spend any time in the NICU.

******

"So when are you two gonna make the announcement?" A voice pulled them from their thoughts. They looked over to find Stephanie sitting there. They both gave her a questioning look. "Oh come on. I may not live in Cordonia anymore, but Im not stupid." Stephanie had made the decision to move back home to Texas to care for her sick mother. Maxwell and her both made the amicable decision to divorce, but still loved each other very much. He would travel to Texas to visit and occasionally Stephanie could come visit Cordonia, just like for the twins birthday.

"Well I guess now is as good a time as any." Alicia squeezed Leos hand. They walked over getting everyone's attention. "We want to thank everyone for coming today. And Celebrating the twins birthday. But, we also have an announcement to make." Alicia looked to Leo who then grinned. "We're having a baby. Just one this time." He smirked.

The group congratulated the pair. Drake looked at Liam and shook his head, pulling a crisp $100 bill from his wallet "Damnit Liam, I should've known better then to take that bet. Liam smirked "what can I say. I know my brother, and I'm pretty sure those two will end up having the most kids out of all of us."

Drake rolled his eyes. "Ok, fair. But how about a new bet." Liam looked at his best friend intrigued "I bet Rashad and Gen are next." Liam chucked "I'll take that bet."

Tag List: @annekebbphotography @carabeth @moneyfordiamonds @give-me-ernest-sinclaire @3pawandme @indiacater @ooo-barff-ooo @ownworldresident @tornbetween2loves @perfectprofessorherokid @stopforamoment @editboutique @wannabemc2 @zaffrenotes @enmchoices @lauradowning29 @lodberg @smalltalk88 @laniquelove-blog @gibbles82 @heatherfilliez @drakesensworld @nikkis1983 @sweetest-marbear @classylady1234 @daniv2278 @rainbowsinthestorm @jared2612 @liamxs-world @notoriouscs @blubutterflyy @captain-kingliamsqueen @whenyourheartskipsabeat @lynne1993 @coldcollectornight08 @be-still-my-aching-heart @kennaxval @the-soot-sprite @hopefulmoonobject @emichelle @cgd03 @kate-mckenzie @mfackenthal @crookedslimecreatorpasta @jemrmax2love @sashatrr @speedyoperarascalparty @riseandshinelittleblossom

#cgw baby squad #cgw trr au #cgw squad #cgw trr #cordonians gone wild #choices fandom #choices trr #leo x Alicia #Rhys twins

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thecomedybureau · 4 years

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The 100 Best Things in Comedy We Were Witness to In No Particular Order of 2019

OK, 2019′s officially over and we’ve wrangled our 100 truly favorite things in and around comedy (and it really spans all of comedy) that are not ranked whatsoever. It’s just like the title says and, it’s, as it is every year, quite long, so we won’t waste any more time with this intro.

Oh, in case you forgot and/or curious and/or need a quick refresher, here’s our 2018 list.

1. Rory Scovel Live Without Fear-This documentary follows Rory Scovel and his journey through six nights of completely improvised hour sets. In a single word, it’s inspiring. You see the way Scovel truly connects the audience and keeps it that way through his indelible charm and endless curiosity. The near unbelievable story of the Relapse Theater in Atlanta is also beautifully threaded in the doc as well. The clips of the improvised performances capture the magic that stand-up comedy can be that’s absent from the majority of comedy specials. You should be required to see this whenever and wherever it comes if you have any level of interest in comedy at all.

2. Naomi Ekperigin-From her own stand-up, to her podcast with husband Andy Beckerman, Couples Therapy, and her writing across TV, and everything else she does, Naomi is such an thoroughly commanding, yet delightful presence that we love seeing every time anywhere (and she should already be way bigger of a star already).

3. Cait Raft’s Presentation on “Bradley Cooper’s a Star Is Born Takes Place in an Alternate Reality Where 9/11 Never Happened”-Witnessing the imagination of Cait Raft up close was a privilege for us. This amazing dissection of the zeitgeist left us in stitches and with our mouth agape for how thoroughly it proved its point.

4. Corporate Season 2-The second season of the ultra dark workplace comedy delivered once again on its hysterical nihilistic satire that’s so prescient, yet still so unbelievably funny.

5. Mom-Prov Presents Family Therapy-Improviser Izzy Roland was daring enough to have her mom and her grandmother, both of whom are also in showbiz, to join her on stage for one of the most madcap, fourth wall-breaking, entertaining improv shows we’ve seen all throughout 2019.

6. Jena Friedman-So, this year, Jena delivered yet again with her subtle delivery and calm demeanor that hides her absolutely killer jokes. The follow-up to her Adult Swim special, Soft Focus, upped the ante with an interview of a gun-toting John McAffee and her brilliant Conan set about everyone’s true crime obsession.

7. Brendon Walsh’s Afternoon Delight-This last year, Brendon Walsh let everyone know that he was and still is one of the best at pulling prank calls, which is so much harder now than it was even ten years ago. This live show actually has Brendon place live prank calls in between stand-ups and the ride you go on is absolutely thrilling.

8. Jacqueline Novak’s Get on Your Knees-Novak’s solo show has more than earned its spot as an Off-Broadway show with bringing such an exquisite, almost never before seen comedic sensibility to the topic of blow jobs.

9. #F*ckF*ckJerry-Props to Vulture Senior Editor Megh Wright for sparking the fire to take out the egregious social media accounts of F*ck Jerry that just lifted jokes from comedians all across the Internet without pay or attribution.

10. Lorelei Ramirez-We’ve known distantly about Lorelei Ramirez for so many years, but seeing them up close was a breathtaking experience that had us laughing so hard. Their artistry in comedy that gracefully borders on performance art and even horror is absolutely inspiring.

11. Aaron Urist-Denver’s Aaron Urist is such a killer joke writer and joke teller and has been for years. We just were reminded about that with his burning bush joke during his latest LA trip.

12. Booksmart-Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut was not only a reinvigorated take on movies that specifically hone in on the end of high school, but also had a sincerely hopeful vision of the future generation. We hope that Booksmart finds its way to the top of the coming-of-age comedy films pantheon.

13. Rachel Mac on Lights Out-One of the highlights of Lights Out with David Spade is how unfiltered and raunchy they let comics get during their sets on the show. Rachel Mac took that amount of comedic license and thrived in getting into the nitty gritty about her last teaching job.

14. What We Do In The Shadows-The FX TV adaptation of the seminal Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement film in 2014 exceedingly succeeds in nailing the comedy of minutia in the world of the undead that also happens to be in a (somewhat) grounded reality.

15. PEN15-Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle’s vision of 2000 and their performances as teens were so spot on that PEN15 would deserve acclaim just for that. However, the heart of this show made its humor stand out in an ever crowded field of coming-of-age comedy.

16. Tiffany Haddish’s Black Mitzvah-A lot has happened for Tiffany Haddish since her last special (she’s a legit A-list celebrity now), but it’s clear that she is still her unapologetically positively, life loving self. This special is evidence of that, especially with her bit about her New Year’s show that she got undeserved flack for.

17. Straw Men-Lindsay Adams, Danny Palumbo, and Sam Wiles (and producer Kimmie Lucas) put on what is our favorite imagining of a comedic debate that we’ve seen thus far. The encouragement to make the most ridiculous, baseless arguments and being transparent about the whole thing is a golden goose of comedy.

18. The ending of Gloria Bell-Well, we can’t very well give away the ending to this English language dramedy remake from Sebastián Lelio that has Julianne Moore shine as bright as she has ever shone before, but just know that we stood out of our seats, applauding what she did to John Turturro right at the end.

19. I Think You Should Leave-Tim Robinson’s unflinchingly absurd sketch series unequivocally has many of the best sketches of 2019. The hot dog costume and Mexican restaurant sketches will have us busting up through, very likely, the next decade.

20. Les Miz and Friends-Bonkers (and we mean that in the best way possible) doesn’t begin to describe how wild this meta and great this puppet and human hybrid take on the theater institution of Les Miserables. The sheer cleverness on every level is awe-inspiring.

21. Dave Ross’ The Only Man Who Has Ever Had Sex-Ross has been a longtime favorite of ours for the contrasting bounciness and darkness of his comedy. His debut album captures this dichotomy perfectly.

22. Nikki Glaser: Bangin’-Nikki Glaser’s first Netflix hour special started off with a bang, pun intended. Her frank, but heartfelt exploration of all facets of sex is so damn funny that Glaser gets away with being as blue as she wants.

23. Super Dating Simulator-This live, interactive version of various Japanese video game dating simulators is one of the more innovative and surprisingly charming things we saw this year. Creator Sam Weller did a bang-up job not only making a video game work as a stage show, but doing so with a very off-beat sub-genre of video games

24. Emmy Blotnick’s Party Nights-Blotnick’s latest album shows Emmy at the peak of her delightful observational powers. The concept of a “Self-Potato” is just priceless.

25. Tammercise!-Folks in comedy are getting all sorts of clever these days to redefine traditional formats and disciplines and push the art form forward. Madeline Wager does this exquisitely with a solo show of a woman unraveling that doubles as legit aerobics class.

26. The Cherry Orchard w/Chad Damiani and Jet Eveleth-Damiani and Eveleth explore a new angle on postmodern clowning by supposedly doing a Chekov play going through dress rehearsal without any of the players knowing what they’re supposed to do. The back and forth between the live direction and the tomfoolery on stage is truly hysterical.

27. Bake Stuff with Lindsay LIVE-It’s about time for a comedic cooking show that actually does teach you a wonderful recipe and also explores and resolves(?) childhood trauma. Lindsay Adams’ Bake Stuff with Lindsay, which we indeed saw live, accomplishes all of that and inspires all those watching to cook through their feelings.

28. Shalewa Sharpe’s So, You Just Out Here?-Shalewa imbues homespun wisdom with marvelously colorful descriptions all throughout this very satisfying album.

29. The Amazing Johnathan Documentary from Ben Berman-The Amazing Johnathan’s life story is pretty captivating as is. The story about Ben Berman trying to tell his story amidst several other people trying to tell his story is absolutely engrossing and is somehow all true.

30. Julio Torres’ HBO special “My Favorite Shapes”-Torres’ special is simultaneously one of the most daring and silly hour specials in recent memory and his elevation of prop comedy to a whole new level is to be commended.

31. The Underculture with James Adomian-James Adomian has been one of comedy podcasts’ most in-demand and bright shining stars. It comes as no surprise that his own podcast that revs up all his characters has some of the best, most dynamic, absurdist interviews in political and pop culture satire.

32. Daniel Van Kirk’s Thanks Diane/Together Tour-Van Kirk’s first, complete hour that he both toured with and released as an album is so impressive with how deftly Dan manages a balance of sincerity and mischief from wire-to-wire.

33. Conan in Greenland-Conan marvelously turns his travel specials series Conan Without Borders on its head by attempting to buy Greenland based off of Trump’s stupid tweets.

34. Mary Beth Barone’s Drag His Ass: A F*ckboy Treatment Program-Mary Beth Barone’s live show exploration into her dating life is illuminating and hilarious throughout, but the actual interview that she does live with a “f*ckboy” is transcendent.

35. Obvious Plant’s Carnival of Toys-Jeff Wysaski AKA Obvious Plant really outdid himself this year in his quest to permeate everyday reality with a satirical twist. He not only made a whole line of custom toy figures that satirize pop culture on so many levels, but opened up a whole pop-up museum for several days to exhibit them in all of their bizarre glory.

36. Sports Without Equipment with Coach Keith Alejo-This Dress Up Gang sketch is one of those ideas that are simple, yet so out-of-left-field. Literally, they take sports without equipment to its funniest conclusion.

37. #Squatmelt-Howard Kremer’s desire to keep the spirit of The Meltdown with Jonah and Kumail alive has evolved into its own very special thing in the form of a DIY stand-up comedy show/walking tour that periodically migrates around LA.

38. Catch-22-Trying to adapt such a monumental literary work like Catch-22 is almost a fool’s errand, but writers Luke Davies and David Michôd do a smash-up job for not only bringing Heller’s immortal words to life, but also sticking the landing for all the darkly absurdly comical moments that run rampant throughout the story.

39. Get Rich Nick-Even if they didn’t have the fantastic banter, riffs, and asides from the very funny duo of Nick Turner and Nick Vatterott, this podcast that explores how to make money real quick is one of the best new podcasts of the whole year. Fortunately, Nick and Nick’s humor runs rampant through every episode and makes Get Rich Nick engrossing and makes you actually laugh out loud.

40. MK Paulsen-The comedy of MK Paulsen can be faster than a bullet, but as satisfyingly silly as a gun that shoots a flag with the word ‘bang’ on it. Every time we see him do stand-up, it’s a fun, rollicking ride that’s equal parts offbeat whimsy, clever wordplay, and an agile sense of timing and play.

41. Father Figurine by Matt Kazman-The dour faces of the family in this dark comedy short play to the highest comedic effect perfectly. A dead patriarch and an apathetic family make for some of the best dry humor in 2019.

42. Funk Shuffle-Danny Cymbal, Dennis Curlett, and Michael Gardner comprise Funk Shuffle, an improv group that manages fly freer and more untethered than almost any other improv group that we’ve ever seen. They make their defiance and experimentation with improv forms really work due to the trio’s unflinchingly playful spirit.

43. Gary Gulman’s The Great Depresh-Gulman, as one of comedy’s premier craftsman, of course, delivers an hour of stellar comedy with this special. He also manages, this time around, to destigmatize depression and, in general, be hopeful. That particular comedy trifecta is such an impressive feat that very few can accomplish.

44. Greener Grass-The scope and ambition of Jocelyn DeBoer and Dawn Luebbe’s directorial debut hints at some really special things to come from them in the future. Their absolutely demented, pastel drenched absurdist vision was a shocking delight through and through.

45. Jenny Slate’s Stage Fright-Slate’s best comedic strength is her unshakeable vulnerability. This hour special lets Jenny present that trait as intimately as she has ever presented it and gives an in-depth look as to where that hilarious vulnerability comes from.

46. Heather Anne Campbell swatting a baby out of someone’s hands in an improv scene-At this point, it should come as no surprise that Heather Anne Campbell is one of our absolute all-time favorite people in comedy and thus, she kind of just ends up making it on this list annually on her own someway, somehow. This year, during a performance of her improv group, Heather and Company, we laughed as hard as we’ve ever laughed at Drew DiFonzo Marks initiating a scene by rocking a baby back and forth and then, Heather insanely swatted it out of his hands and stomped on it. It sounds ludicrous, but trust that Heather made that so unbelievably funny.

47. Adam Cayton-Holland’s Happy Place-Cayton-Holland’s live solo show based on his critically acclaimed book of the same name pulls off oscillating between cleverly wrought and self-aware comedy and some of the most heartbreaking stories you’ll ever hear about his late sister. Holland’s focus and calm make it all miraculously blend together.

48. The Authorized Unauthorized My Favorite Murder Musical-In the world of unauthorized musicals about things that you wouldn’t really think about being adapted into unauthorized musicals (it’s a bigger ever-burgeoning world every month it seems), the staged reading of this My Favorite Murder-inspired musical that we saw was phenomenal. The full stage production to come in 2020 will undoubtedly be something really great.

49. Pedro Gonzalez-Pedro’s jokes are so expertly written and crafted that you forget that he immigrated to America as a teenager from Colombia and learned English as a second language.

50. Garry Starr Performs Everything-UK comedian Garry Starr’s solo show is a genius send-up and celebration of theater as a whole. The physicality and the sheer madness of the whole show are so thoroughly hysterical.

51. Kira Soltanovich-We just want to take a moment to appreciate the agility of the comedy of Kira Soltanovich. Not only does Kira play any room or any show as far as we’ve seen, but her drive is just unstoppable (see ep. of The Honey Dew).

52. Mike Birbiglia’s The New One-Though it seems almost too routine that Birbiglia comes out with a new hour special that garners tons of acclaim for its ornate and complex and, ultimately, very satisfying tapestry of stories, Birbiglia delivers exactly once again with one such solo show/special on fatherhood.

53. Michelle Buteau-We saw Michelle headline just a few months ago at Dynasty Typewriter and were reminded of just how good Buteau is. She combines being heartfelt, having a fun bit of attitude, and an absolute command of the stage in such a beautiful way.

54. Gareth Reynolds’ Riddled with Disease-Many folks know how great Gareth is from his madcap riffing on The Dollop, but Reynolds shows he is fantastic with a sharp, hilarious, yet still fast-and-loose-feeling hour.

55. Sara Schaefer’s LIVE LAUGH LOVE-Sara, above most folks working in comedy today, goes to great lengths to be considerate, inclusive, and vulnerable in her comedy and it’s so, so wonderful because of that. This album is yet another great example of that mix.

56. Sean Patton’s Scuttlebutt-Sean Patton’s latest album is a fantastic note to any and all that Sean is, hands down, one of the best comedians ever to spin a yarn (and also share some damn fine true stories) and deserves way more accolade and attention for that now and going forward.

57. Matt Rogers’ Have You Heard of Christmas?-Rogers had quite a 2019 in putting culture on notice, but his queer and subversive holiday musical extravaganza might be one of the best pieces of holiday themed comedy of all time.

58. The Chris Gethard Show with Robby Hoffman-Not only does Robby Hoffman keep the punk rock, conventions-be-damned spirit of TCGS alive, but she makes it so much her own and lets her hilarious, domineering persona transform the show into another very special, unique round of controlled chaos.

59. The taping of Eddie Pepitone’s latest special-Eddie’s sound and fury and his irreverent stream-of-consciousness-seeming comedy were flawless in this latest hour. Everyone in attendance, including ourselves, were in stitches for the whole taping. Props to director Steven Feinartz for one of our favorite looks of a special that we saw last year (which you’ll all get to see soon in 2020).

60. Eric Dadourian’s closer on Nebraska 2-Dadourian is always all in for the sake of a real bold, imaginative bit and, as such, pulled off one of our favorite closers of the year on his very first full length album.

61. Jessica Kirson: Talking to Myself-Kirson’s hour special on Comedy Central really let Jessica cut loose and let her showcase her stand-up expertise. From the way that Kirson contorts her face to her deep well of voices/characters to razor-sharp quick wit to, of course, her signature asides to herself, Jessica really kills it in this hour.

62. Brody Stevens-Long live the “jock doing performance art” comedy (one of our favorite descriptions of Brody’s comedy by his dear friend Zach Galifianakis) and may he rest in peace. Yeeeees! Enjoy It!

63. Byron Bowers on Colbert-Byron Bowers and his clever, yet sincere, dark, vulnerable comedy put up one of our favorite late night sets this year. From the opening to his frank jokes about his dad make us think that it’s just a little crazy that this is his network TV debut.

64. Desus and Mero on Showtime-With the upgrade of being on Showtime, Desus Nice and The Kid Mero are having the most fun in late night with the freshest voices and format (and they’re able to pull that off with only being twice a week).

65. Fleabag Season 2-creator and star Phoebe Waller-Bridge assuredly has more masterpieces ahead of her, but managing to top herself from one masterpiece season of dark romantic dramedy with another one is something that deserves all the accolades and awards that it has gotten.

66. Kenny DeForest on Corden-Kenny dismantles toxic masculinity so incisively through the whole set that he most certainly earns all the applause breaks he gets the whole way through.

67. Josh Gondelman’s Dancing on a Weeknight-Gondelman is often thought of as one of the best, sweetest people in comedy. This latest album, for all of its being clever and genuine, is proof that he indeed really is that sweet and funny.

68. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 3-The perennial prestige comedy from Amy Sherman-Palladino earns its keep by having some of the best writing (it’s almost impossible to write jokes that are contextualized for the 50s/60s and make them actually funny for 2019 audiences) and also being one of the most gorgeous looking shows in all of television.

69. Nick Ciarelli and Brad Evans-Whether it be pulling pranks on Twitter, their plethora of hysterical sketches doing an impression of Jack FM on shows around town, or their monthly live sketch character showcase Atlantic City, Nick and Brad are a damn fine comedy duo and have been for quite some time.

70. Caitlin Gill’s Major-It’s quite the magic trick to make an hour of comedy that’s entirely clean and have it being clean not be a thought that you’re thinking about at all when listening or watching it. Caitlin Gill spectacularly does just that with this album as Gill can make all of her earnest rants, imagery, and observations work in any way that she needs to.

71. 97.9 The Rat Race-Ben Roy’s satirical reimagining of a morning radio “zoo crew” is so spot on, then gets real twisted to make this one of the most surprising and rewarding podcasts of 2019.

72. Mike Lane’s Picture Frames-This short film from Lane heightens the idea of remembering those you love after they’ve left this mortal coil to such a ridiculous level every step of the way (and is more and more enjoyably unpredictable the further it goes).

73. Paige Weldon on Corden-Paige’s upbeat self-deprecation is just hard to resist and it makes the best impression in this late night set on The Late Late Show with James Corden.

74. The Righteous Gemstones-Danny McBride’s latest HBO series that darkly and comically dissects the South might be his most ambitious yet, but, of course, he nails it. The constant suspense perpetuated by hysterically tragic characters in the world of televangelists is profound.

75. My Friend Chuck-Comedic erotica author Chuck Tingle (one of the absolutely most unique voices and cadences we’ve heard in awhile) and friend McKenzie Goodwin celebrate their friendship every week for a podcast that’s preposterously funny and, also, more heartwarming than almost anything we’ve heard or seen.

76. Joey Clift’s Telling People You’re Native American When You’re Not Native Is a Lot Like Telling a Bear You’re a Bear When You’re Not a Bear-Clift makes such biting, pun intended, commentary with this short film/PSA that is also so playful that the message about Native identity will undoubtedly stick with you.

77. Megan Gailey’s My Dad Paid For This-Gailey strikes a wonderful balance of charm and attitude and fervent desire to burn down the patriarchy. Such a mix accents her very delightful observations about herself and the world around her in this marvelous debut album.

78. Robin Higgins as Baby Yoda at Tournament of Nerds-Higgins might have made one of the best, first attempts at Baby Yoda cosplay. She also, for what’s supposed to be a roast-style competition between fictional/pop culture characters, perfectly imagined how Baby Yoda would roast someone while maintaining Baby Yoda’s sweetness that has captured the hearts and minds of the Internet.

79. The Man Who Killed Don Quixote-Terry Gilliam went through hell, did a few laps, and came back over several years to get this meta-quixotic tale about reimagining the legendary novel Don Quixote made. The finished film, for us, was worth the wait.

80. Jo Firestone on The Tonight Show-Jo’s sense of play is so pure and present that it’s kind of irresistible. Combined with a perfect amount of self-deprecation, Jo really delivered a terrific set we’ll probably never get tired of.

81. Paul Rudd continues his time honored tradition of playing that one clip of Mac & Me on Conan-Rudd evolves the arc of this long running bit on Conan where, instead of playing a clip of what he’s on Conan to promote, he plays the same exact clip of the universally panned alien comedy Mac & Me. We all know what’s coming and yet, without the benefit of surprise, Rudd’s annoyance of Conan still keeps on being so damn funny.

82. Billy on the Street featuring Reese and Mariah-This year, we were lucky enough to get two instantly classic episodes of Billy on the Street with Reese Witherspoon and Mariah Carey that gave us our fix for our obsession with Billy Eichner yelling at strangers on the streets of NYC.

83. The Dollop England & UK-As Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds embarked on an entire England & UK tour of The Dollop, they thought it prudent to do a mini-series specific to Great Britain and did a smashing job making fun of British history. The Cyril the Swan episode is particularly brilliant.

84. Lost Moon Radio-The live musical sketch comedy theater troupe (Lost Moon Radio truly lives up to such a description) marked their 10th anniversary and put on an absolutely fantastic “Summer Block Party” this year that both showed that they still got their ingenious musical sketch comedy chops.

85. Nate Bargatze’s The Tennessee Kid-The calm with which Bargatze pervades all of his comedy is part of what makes it beloved by nearly any and all that see or hear Bargatze’s stand-up. That’s such the case now that Nate gives updates to stories from previous specials on this latest hour.

86. Beth Stelling on Kimmel-Every detail of this set on Jimmy Kimmel Live is pretty stellar. That includes Beth, in general, for her warm demeanor, smile, and cleverness, the Chippendale’s story, Beth’s mom being there in the crowd, and, of course, the surprise guest at the end.

87. Liz Climo’s Please Don’t Eat Me-This illustrated book is just the latest in a long line of uber-adorable and genuinely-funny-for-all-ages books from Climo. Liz seems to have quite the knack for making unlikely animal friendship jokes.

88. John Hodgman’s Medallion Status-Hodgman’s journey through the various statuses of airline privilege/celebrity is a superb serving of existential humor, done up with Hodgman’s painstaking attention to the exactly right details.

89. Jane Curtin’s 2019 New Year’s Resolution “My New Year’s Resolution Is To Make Sure The Republican Party Dies”-Said during a CNN interview with the SNL alum, this was the first thing to make us heartily laugh in 2019.

90. Alex Kavutskiy’s Squirrel-Kavutskiy’s short film dives into the concept of forgiveness unlike we’ve really seen and, as is Kavutskiy’s style, is so darkly spellbinding and so pointedly funny at the same time.

91. Astronomy Club: The Sketch Show-The long running comedy troupe known as Astronomy Club really ran with their chance to do a full-fledged sketch series on Netflix. They’re so endlessly clever on in their sketches, especially when it comes to the subjects of identity and oppression, and pack in so many jokes and sight gags that you’ll definitely want to watch it more than once so you don’t miss anything.

92. Dolemite Is My Name-Eddie Murphy seems poised to make a real return to comedy (and stand-up comedy in particular) and this marvelous biopic of comedian and blaxploitation star Rudy Ray Moore AKA Dolemite is the perfect way to start.

93. Anna Drezen on Corden-Drezen has such a perfect sense of farce and misdirection and puts on a beautiful display of those two things from start to finish in this set on The Late Late Show with James Corden.

94. BUTT’s Yoda themed dating app sketch-This sketch is so prescient of the resurgence of the world’s current (baby) Yoda obsession. Also, while this is so absurd with its deep dive into various Yoda fan art and cosplay, Joe McAdam and Chris Stephens’ take on dating apps is so sharply and deeply funny.

95. Mel Brooks Unwrapped-The never ending bit of attempting a documentary between Mel Brooks and the BBC’s Alan Yentob is yet another display of the true, unquestionable genius of Mel Brooks.

96. 50 First Stephs-The amazing, hysterical Steph Tolev kicked off 2019 with a show where 50 or so of her compatriots and contemporaries did various impressions and characterizations of her. Part roast, part loving tribute, part amazing showcase of the depth of creativity in LA comedy, Tolev’s night for herself was something really special.

97. The Bongo Hour with Sandy Honig and Peter Smith-Honig and Smith brought their wild variety show that featured such wonderful bits, characters, drag, and burlesque to LA and showed, truly, how much better life is when you’re fluid about nearly everything.

98. How Did This Get Played?-Hosts Nick Wiger and Heather Anne Campbell and their take on the “worst and weirdest” video games do their namesake, the beloved How Did This Get Made?, proud. Even if you’re not a gamer, the way they dissect the most bizarre video games ever made along with Heather and Nick’s chemistry is very, very enjoyable.

99. Joe Pera Talks With You Season 2-This second season of Joe Pera’s unique talk-to-the-viewer series is so calming that the comedic twists sneak up in the most delightful way possible. There is a certain beauty to Pera’s show that makes us want to have Joe Pera Talks With You playing on a loop in a contemporary art museum.

100. John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch-John Mulaney does “it”, yet again. “It” being releasing another hour of comedic brilliance that’s so markedly different than whatever he did before, yet, somehow still stamped with an indelible mark of Mulaney’s comedy of obtuse hyper-specificity.

#top 100 #100 best #best of 2019 #2019 comedy #best sketch #best stand up #best improv #best comedy specials

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andsheloved · 3 years

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I absolutely love what you write!! Would you write a little fic where reader is upset with loki for whatever reason and wants to cool down before talking about it with him, but loki is like “pls tell me how to fix it i miss u :( ” sorry if this is so specific LOL. congratulations again on your milestone! happy sleepover 🌟

oh goodness, first of all, thank you so much!! i really do appreciate it!! and don't be sorry!! i love specifics!! specifcs are simply so good!! thank you!! thank you so so much for sending this in!! i hope i captured something along the lines of what you were thinking!! and i also hope you enjoy it!! and thank you again!! happy sleepover day/night/afternoon to you!! mwauh!! i hope you're doing so well!!

pairing ~ loki x gn!reader

word count ~ 1.1k

warnings ~ angst-ish with a happy ending!! fluff!! jealous reader? is that a warning? mention of drinks (slight allusion to drinking alcohol, but not by the reader!), reader self deprecation, jealous loki, misunderstandings

prompt ~ "please tell me how to fix it. i miss you."

"Excuse me," You muttered a polite goodbye as you placed your glass down on the counter top behind you. You didn't think to look at the confused glances sent around the group as you marched off, too busy with your own spiraling thoughts to care about anyone else's.

They were laughing with him. They were smiling at him. They had their hands on him.

And worst of all, they weren't you.

You were excited to finally have Loki with you at one of Tony's much-too-lavish-for-a-Wednesday-night parties, you hoped it wouldn't be too unbearable for him, and you found yourself frequently glancing anxiously at him from across the room when you two had been separated, Sam pulling you to the side to catch up with a few of the others.

At first, you were happily surprised to see Loki beginning to chat with a group of other agents, and as time went on, and more drinks were served, you found your face starting to grow hot as you looked upon the scene.

You were proud to see Loki doing his best in blending in, choosing to make jokes and tell embarrassing stories of Thor instead of hiding away in the shadows, but you couldn't help the dull flame of envy that bloomed in your chest as you observed the sight.

You weren't enhanced in any way, you had no serum running through your veins, yet your eyes seemed super-humanly trained on one of the woman's hands, playfully slapping his bicep and lingering for a bit too long, almost tracing her fingers along the muscle before pulling away.

You wanted to storm over there right then, and maybe if you were more confrontational you would. Maybe you would pull him away from her, maybe even kiss him senseless in front of the crowd, but now, all you could do was sit in your quiet room and breathe.

You never once doubted Loki's faithfulness or loyalty to you, sometimes though, it seemed a bit harder to accept his feelings for you when there were other people like him in the world. People that were just as perfect, both in life and battlefield. People who had perfect hair without even trying, who were consistently majestic in even the most awkward of situations, people who looked impeccable even after spending hours training in the gym or running computer programs for days on end.

A soft knock on your door finally broke you from your thoughts.

"Who is it?" You called, silently scolding yourself for how your voice shook.

"It's me."

You sighed when you heard his voice, opting to not say anything at first.

"May I come in?" He asked, and for a moment, you could have sworn his voice was almost as uneven as your own.

You suddenly discovered that all the words you had been conjuring to use in this exact moment had died on your tongue, your throat almost feeling constricted by the weight of your own thoughts. "I'm fine" You sputtered, almost instantly covering your mouth with your hand as a sob threatened to escape past your lips.

A flood of words rang and echoed in your mind like some sort of haunting siren song, calling you to the edge of a cliff. You were you. Nothing special. He could have anyone. You were just you.

"My love..."

You swallowed thickly as you attempted to collect yourself before speaking, but before you could, Loki continued.

"Please tell me how to fix it. I miss you." There was a twinge of pain laced within his tone that made your heart break just a little more. "It's insufferable without you."

You heard a quiet shuffle just beyond the door, seeing the edge of a shadow under the door frame, you could tell that Loki had now made himself comfortable on the floor, and you understood he was stubborn enough to continue to sit there for the rest of the night until you let him in.

You huffed as you finally caved, "Come in."

In a sudden flash of green, he was in your room. Loki's brows furrowed as he took you in, a sympathetic hum rumbling in his chest before he gently sat himself beside you.

He didn't make a sound at first, he only waited for you to speak, and if you had chosen not to, he would've waited all night, quietly awaiting for a response.

"I'm sorry" You finally spoke.

Loki turned quickly to you, his head tilted in confusion, but he still only waited for you to continue before he responded.

"Sometimes, I just get so wrapped up in my own thoughts about other people-" You cut yourself off with a frustrated grumble, "I saw that woman with you-" Your head was suddenly in your hands, you felt your face grow even hotter as you sputtered the words, feeling even more pathetic than before.

"Darling, you have nothing to apologize for" He lightly chuckled, "I'm sorry, I never set out to make you feel that way tonight, and I-" His pace was very nearly frantic now, and you noticed he had begun to fidget with his hands. "I am sorry, my love."

A soft wave of relief suddenly washed over you when you realized Loki had become just as flustered as you at the situation.

"I trust you. I want you to know that" He continued, "It's simply that..." He trailed off, swallowing anxiously before finishing his thought, "I suppose I get... Envious."

You quickly lifted your head to face him now, your previously melancholic expression now being replaced with utter bewilderment at his confession.

"I never intended for you to feel you couldn't speak to anyone else, and I'm sorry. I just- If I saw any other person look at you the way I do, well, I don't believe my heart could bear it."

You had to stifle the gasp that almost fell from your lips, Loki was jealous because of you? Maybe at another time, you would think of this moment and smirk at the thought, maybe you would explain yourself and your misunderstanding and laugh, but right now, you found yourself seeking out the comfort of his touch in the shadows of your dimly lit room.

"Loki..." You exhaled "I'm-

"I am sorry-" He finished, you both chuckled. He squeezed your hand gingerly as he looked at you, "I love you" He almost whispered, "I love you."

You felt a different type of warmth fill your chest as you smiled, "I love you."

And as you stared back at him, his eyes filled with nothing but affection and love, something in your heart told you he would never look at anyone else the same.

ooooohhhhh man i am in love, i am y e a r n i n g, oh goodness, my heart!! this kind of ran away from me, but i hope you enjoy this my anon friend, and i hope you're doing so well!! mwauh!! as always, likes, comments, and reblogs are always appreciated!! mwauh!!

want more loki? check out my masterlist!

#madeline's 100 follower celebration!#loki fluff #loki drabble #loki x gender neutral reader #loki x gn!reader #loki x reader fluff #loki x you #loki x y/n #no use of y/n #loki comfort #loki hurt/comfort #loki comfort fic #loki laufeyson x reader #loki fluff drabble #loki fan fiction #loki fanfic

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missyuta · 5 years

Text

Tag 10 followers you’d like to know better

I was tagged by @taemincultist aka an iconic queen who only has good and valid opinions

Name: hassrat

Birth year: 1998

Sign: aries, very much of an aries its like in half of my major placements

Height: 5'6

Put your playlist on shuffle and name the first 4 songs

1M1S - W Project 4

If Without You - Ateez

Day Off - BOL4

love foolish - twice

Grab the nearest book, turn to page 23, what’s the 17th line?

“My favorite had always been a dagger with an ivory haft carved like a lion’s face. A king gas given it to my father in hopes of gaining his favor.” Circe by Madeline Miller (aka a book i got a 100 pages into and never finished thats been on my night stand since)

Ever had a song or a poem written about you?

um i think my younger cousin wrote one for my birthday if that counts?? it was cute and i love him for it, hes my favorite cousin ever and the best eight year old out there

When was the last time you played air guitar?

um like. i have no idea, ive prob done it while i was karoke or smth who knows, im embarrassing like that

Celebrity crush(es)?

uhh as people who i actually have crushes on ig dahyun, sinb, zendaya, oh also sonam kapoor, and cant forget my ogs rani mukergi and preity zinta

What’s a sound you hate/love?

I hate like asmr whispery type noises, it drives me insane,,,i dont like scratching noises really or crunching when it’s like focused in on it, nothing else comes to mind really

hmm i love the sound of like a school ig? like when ur in the hallway and kids are learning and screaming and laughing, I like the sound of the winds and of a distant tv playing

Do you believe in ghosts?

YES!!!! ive experienced supernatural shit so yes i do believe in them

Do you believe in aliens?

yessssss

Do you drive?

yea im the driver amongst my friends only bc i like it also i like having my music playing in the car, i think im a great driver but also like i might die anytime im on the road

Last book you read?

If we’re not counting my books for school and something I finished hmmmm like probably i think it was rereading Order of the Phoenix with the girl i used to tutor

Do you like the smell of gasoline?

um neutral to positive

The last movie you saw?

oh it was a bollywood movie called 3 idiots, i watched with my parents praying theyd actually get the message this time around but they didn’t so lol

Do you have any obsessions right now?

ummmmmmmmm like loving yuta ig? i like making dumb edits that only apply to me and/or my friends? imovie recently has been my best friend, if anyone likes gongchan from b1a4 the most recent edit i made was about him being the cutest man alive

Do you tend to hold grudges?

yea i do but im trying to get over that

Are you in a relationship?

uh no? maybe?

Tagging: @taeminslut @yukheys @cowboyvixx @moonuare @deobibf @the-trth-untold @emoseonghwa and literally any of my other mutuals who wants to do it! just say i tagged you, im brain dead so like really can’t think of anyone else lol. also to the people i tagged u obv don’t have to do it, no pressure!!!

#tagged #my brain is barely working and i did this so i didn't cry over my proof hw so. god bless #tjis is so long my apologies #also. i didnt tag people i see everyday for the first time ever so bless

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unsinkablememorys · 5 years

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Movie vs. Reality: "Titanic" (1997)

I was asked about how close James Cameron's version of Titanic came to the actual event, so here goes.... (I hope I got everything and will try to get them in order as they appear in the movie.)

Titanic: Movie vs. Reality

First off, let's get that crappy love story out of the way: The love story between Jack & Rose was based on the true life First Class couple Isadore & Ida Straus.

There was a Jack Dawson and Rose Dewitt who married in 1914. However, the real Mr. Dawson would have been traveling First Class, neither were on Titanic, and they did not meet at sea.

Most of what was found in the safe at the beginning of the movie would have been long gone by the time it was found.

The sun was not shining in Southampton on April 10th, 1912. There was complete overcast.

Titanic was nicknamed "Ship of Dreams".

The big celebration at the docks: Titanic wasn't really a big deal. That was Olympic, the year before.

Tickets won in a card game: This actually happened, though the players' names and nationalities are not known.

"God, Himself can not sink this ship" : Yeah... People actually said that and they actually believed it...

There were 10 dogs on board. Only 3 survived.

Margaret Brown was never called "Molly" in her lifetime. Her friends called her "Maggie". She boarded at Queenstown, Ireland, not Cherbourg, France, as Rose claimed.

Given the strict rules of separation, it is highly unlikely Jack and Rose would have ever met. Many of the places they went, no passengers would have been allowed to go.

The "Heart of the Ocean" is based on a real necklace worn by a first class survivor called the "Sapphire of the Sea".

Every single person Rose mentioned was a first class passenger in real life. However, Mrs. Madeline Astor was not Rose's age. Rose was 17, while Mrs. Astor was 19.

Ruth referred to Jack as "steerage". This term was not used on Titanic. The poorest people on board were called "Third Class".

Everyone being annoyed by Molly Brown's presence: This is true. She wasn't born into money and didn't always follow the rules of Society, so many of the first class passengers detested her.

Sunday Service led by the captain: This happened on the morning of April 14th. However, Jack would not have been kept from the service. It was open to all classes.

The hymn they were singing was actually sang during the service on the ship.

Tours of the ship: This did happen, but unlike in the movie, Captain Smith never called Harold Bride "Sparks". He called him by his name.

"Speed up and arrive a day early" : This likely never happened. Titanic wasn't built for speed, J. Bruce Ismay was simply a passenger, and White Star Line's motto was "Slow and Easy". That being said, it's not likely the company chairman would have insisted on speeding up.

Second Officer Charles Lightoller concerned about the lookouts not having binoculars: This really was a concern he brought to the captain's attention.

There wasn't a Jack Dawson on board. There was a Jay Dawson in First Class. He travelled alone, kept to himself, and died in the sinking. He traded his Mauritania ticket for Titanic because he wanted E. J. Smith for his captain. There was also a trimmer named Joseph Dawson. He was lost in the sinking.

"Iceberg, right ahead!": This isn't what was actually said. Lookout Frederick Fleet wasn't panicking and he calmly said, "Ice, dead ahead of us, sir." He actually thought they'd missed it, at first.

The ship really did hit the iceberg on First Officer William Murdoch's watch and the orders he gave were the same in the movie. James Cameron's version probably came closest to the true reactions of those on the Bridge at that time. The boiler room scenes were pretty accurate.

The meeting between J. Bruce Ismay, Thomas Andrews, & Captain Smith did happen much as portrayed.

People were playing with the ice and a few people fell when it happened.

The wireless operators really weren't surprised when they were told of the situation and told to send out CQD. Both had premonitions about the sinking. Knowing Californian was nearby and expecting her to answer, they joked about the officers being incompetent.

All the orders given to the officers were correct.

Second Officer Lightoller asking if it was time to fill the boats: He did this. Captain Smith said it was women and children first, but Officer Lightoller heard women and children only. He really did refuse to let any male 12 or older into the boats.

There really was a dispute between J. Bruce Ismay and Second Officer Lightoller.

After Thomas Andrews realized that the boats were leaving less than half empty, he did confront Second Officer Lightoller, who then began filling them about halfway to capacity.

"And the band played on..." : Yes, they did - for two hours and ten minutes. They played ragtime until most of the boats were gone, and they began to play hymns.

"Maybe you should try sending SOS. It's the new distress call, and it could be your last chance to send it." : The actual words said by Harold Bride to Jack Phillips. Everyone laughed. He later said those words, "It could be your last chance to send it" haunted him for the rest of his life.

SOS was not new. It had always been the standard call for distress. The Marconi Company came up with CQD ("ATTENTION ALL STATIONS: WE ARE IN DISTRESS"). After the sinking, CQD was dropped completely.

Some third class passengers waited around while, others just took the corridors.

There was a Syrian family traveling in Third Class, represented by a Muslim family in the movie. None of them survived and only one member, a small child was found.

A few passengers broke down a locked door to free a fellow passenger. They were told they would have to pay for it.

"Mr. Lowe, man this boat." : Second Officer Lightoller said this to Fifth Officer Harold Godfrey Lowe after threatening men with an unloaded gun. After being told to do so himself, Second Officer Lightoller replied, "Not damn likely!", and told Fifth Officer Lowe to take his place.

Fifth Officer Lowe did fire three shots in the air to warn the men attempting to board boat #14 to steer clear.

No passengers were shot and First Officer Murdoch didn't shoot himself. He was last seen throwing deck chairs into the water and was most likely washed overboard.

Thomas Andrews was asked by a passenger what was really going on. His last known whereabouts aren't really known, but it's widely believed he was washed overboard from the Bridge area.

"We are dressed in our best and prepared to go down like gentleman." : Part of Benjamin Guggenheim's last speech. I think the rest should have been included: "But if anything should happen to me, please let my wife know that I behaved decently, and that no woman or child was left on this ship because Benjamin Guggenheim was a coward."

The woman asking what happened was Second Class Passenger Mrs. Nellie Becker. She and her three children survived.

"Everyone up, life belts on!" : That's basically how those in Third Class were told to get up.

First and Second Class were told to dress warmly and go to the Boat Deck.

"Daddy, get into the boat!" "It's goodbye for a little while. Only for a little while. There'll be another boat for the daddies. This boat is only for the mommies and the children. Now, you hold Mommy's hand and be a good little girl." : The last conversation between seven year old Second Class Passenger Ava Hart and her father.

The abandoned child: There were a few. At least two of them survived, at least three did not.

The last song played was "Autumn". Only those who got away on the first few boats heard "Nearer, My God, to Thee".

Second Officer Lightoller was washed overboard and took cammand of Collapsible B, saving 36 of the 41 men who made it to the boat.

J. Bruce Ismay didn't "sneak" into a lifeboat. He was ordered into Collapsible C.

Collapsible A was swamped.

Collapsible B fell upside down onto the deck with Harold Bride trapped under it. He survived by climbing on to it. Some of the crew helping to release Collapsible B simply jumped on to it.

The elderly couple were the Isador and Ida Straus. They chose to die together over getting separated. They were last seen at the stern.

"Is there any room in the boat for a gentleman, gentlemen?" : The last words Madeline Astor heard her husband say. He was later offered a place in a boat, but sent a woman and her young daughter in his place.

Many people were caught by the funnel.

"Music to drown by! Now I know I'm in First Class!" : They changed it a little. When the band began to play, Harold Bride said, "Will you listen to that? They're playing music for us to drown by. We're finally getting the first class treatment we deserve." Jack Phillips responded, "They're now offering dance lessons on the main deck and swimming lessons in the grand ballroom."

There were children mesmerized by the distress rockets.

The distress rockets were seen by the officers on Californian, but basically ignored.

Harold Bride did tell Captain Smith that Carpathia was the closest ship that was answering and would take four hours to reach them.

People were running towards the stern.

Californian can be seen in the background. This is historically accurate and shouldn't be considered a mistake. Californian was believed to be around ten miles away and the officers saw each other's ships.

Captain Smith was last seen in the area of the Bridge. He was asked by two women where to go, but unlike the movie, he helped them. He didn't seem to be in shock.

First Officer Murdoch was letting men into the boats when no women or children were around.

There was a man injured by the propellers. He was lost.

Myths and Misconceptions:

There was no bunker fire.

Olympic and Titanic were not switched. Olympic was 500 miles away when she got Titanic's distress call and began racing to the scene. She was 100 miles away, when she got Carpathia's message, warning her to "steer clear and continue on original course".

The wireless operators weren't crew members, they were contracted to the lines. They had only one thing in common with the crew : A mutual distain for each other.

Third Class passengers were not "locked in."

There were claims of a dead child being handed to Second Officer Lightoller. This is a myth. No one swam out to Collapsible B with a child of any age, neither dead nor alive.

Molly Brown did not try to take over her boat, but she did give the men a hard time. The woman next to her with the baby is believed to be the Allison nanny, Alice Cleaver. The baby is Trevor Allison. This is wrong. Alice and Trevor were in boat #14. Mrs. Nancy "Bess" Allison and her two year old daughter Lorraine were thrown into boat #6, but allowed to get out when Mrs. Allison said her son was missing and she wasn't going to leave without him. Only Trevor survived. Lorraine Allison was the only child lost who was not in Third Class.

There was a guy who got drunk, the chief baker. He was the only one to stay on the whole time and survive, saying he "rode it down like an elevator". He survived by climbing on to Collapsible B.

Californian could not have "saved everyone". She only carried four lifeboats and could have only taken on 250 people. She was also surrounded by ice and had barely missed hitting an iceberg a few hours earlier.

Even if Titanic had hit the iceberg head on, the ship still would have sank.

Two survived by climbing on to doors that were floating in the water.

Jack and Rose could not have both fit on the door and kept it floating. In real life, neither of them would have survived to see the end.

There were at least 16 ships in the area. All answered except Californian.

Carpathia was the second ship to respond, not the only one, as was implied in the movie.

The officers fired guns in the air.

There weren't nearly enough lifeboats.

The so-called "mystery ship" wasn't a mystery for long. It was Californian.

One of the men in boat #13 had to use his knife to cut the ropes in order to keep boat #15 from landing on top of them.

There was a priest who was offered a place in a lifeboat, but chose to stay and pray with those who couldn't escape, offering them absolution.

Fifth Officer Lowe was the only one to go back for survivors, pulling eight from the water, six of whom survived. He also picked up the four survivors of Collapsible A and the surviving men and one dead from the upturned Collapsible B. However, his was not the only one to return to the scene. He commandeered boats #4, #6, #8, and #12.

All of the collapsibles and three of the standard boats were incapable of returning for survivors or taking on more. Boats #5 and #7 were the first to leave the ship. They both flipped over. If Cal had been on a boat that flipped, he would have had to be on one of the first two to leave.

No one knows if the chief officer blew his whistle and said, "Bring back the boats", but someone did.

The horrible screams of the dying was the one thing no survivor could forget.

The "never an absolution" statement came from Harold Bride : "After the screams had subsided and the sea was quiet again, all the rest of us had to do was wait. Some of us waited to live, while others waited to die. All of us waited for an absolution that would never come. For some of us, it will never come."

It was raining hard when Carpathia reached New York.

"The Dream" was described by many survivors.

Senior Wireless Operator Jack Phillips received an ice warning from the Masaba about half an hour before the collision that he didn't take to the Bridge. Second Officer Lightoller tried to use this as a way blaming the wireless operators for the whole thing, but it failed. Jack Phillips died and his surviving colleague, Harold Bride denied knowing anything about it until it was brought up during the Inquiries.

1,523 lives were lost, 705 were saved. (The numbers have changed many times, but this is the most widely accepted and is the numbers used by the Inquiries.)

All liners at the time had a 24/7 radio watch and two operators. After the sinking, it became mandatory on all vessels.

I see Edward Smith as a hero. I believe he did his best, given the situation. I do not think anyone can honestly say we know we could have done better or would have done anything differently than he did. He was the best sea captain of his day, even being praised by rivals. He wasn't called "Billionaire's Captain" for nothing. Those who could afford to choose their captain, almost always chose him.

"Their Deaths Were Not In Vain"

Many things changed as a result of the sinking:

Lifeboats were required for all on board, not based on tonnage and routine drills became a requirement.

24/7 radio vigilance became a requirement on all vessels.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was founded and established by survivor Harold Bride.

The International Ice Patrol was created.

Shipping lanes were moved further south.

Strict rules concerning class distinction and separation requirements on ships ended.

Many survivors faded into the background. Others wished to.

J. Bruce Ismay resigned as White Star Chairman, and was wrongfully demonized. He died in 1936.

Molly Brown took up a collection for Third Class survivors. She refused to leave Carpathia until she made sure that every single survivor had been reunited with their loved ones and every single one had received proper medical attention. She later ran for the US Senate, before women were even able to vote. She died in 1929.

Charles Lightoller continued to work for White Star and hated being called a hero. He said he was only doing his duty and what he did on Collapsible B was "only what any good officer would have done." He did the exact same thing at Dunkirk, saving 19 and losing no one, saying of it, "I was only doing my duty". He was the only survivor who publicly insisted Cyril Evans of the Californian was completely innocent. He died in 1952.

Captain Stanley Lord of the Californian was blamed and fired from Leland Lines for his failure to respond. He later took command of a another ship through a subsidiary of Leland. He died in 1969.

Cyril Evans, Californian's lone wireless operator, claimed he was asleep the whole time and found innocent at both Inquiries. He went back to life as usual, but was never given an assignment at sea again. He served in communications during both world wars and eventually became regional manager of the Marconi Company's successor. Privately, he had to defend himself for the rest of his life, as many survivors and victims' families blamed him. He died in 1957.

Harold Bride was seriously injured and had to be helped every step of the way. He collapsed upon reaching the deck of Carpathia. After two days, he had recovered enough to return to work, spending the rest of the trip helping their wireless operator. He had a hand in writing three books about the sinking, even though he hated talking about it and hated the celebrity status that came with being a survivor. In 1914, he founded the precursor to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and served as telegraphist about Mona's Isle during WWI. He eventually moved to Scotland and became a successful travelling salesman. He died in 1956, the last of the Collapsible B survivors. He never publicly blamed Cyril Evans for not responding to their distress call, but their relationship was forever strained.

Carpathia's captain and crew were celebrated. Californian's crew was demonized.

Carpathia and Californian were both torpedoed and sank during WWI.

At least 43 people on board had premonitions about the sinking. Only 21 survived.

Jack Phillips told family and friends that he dreaded the ice field he knew they would have to travel through and wished he was assigned another ship. He told them what to do if he didn't return home from this trip. He died on Collapsible B at dawn and was buried at sea from Carpathia.

Charles Lightoller said he had an unshakable uneasy feeling about the trip.

No other liner has ever been taken down by an iceberg.

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hufflepuff-ravenclaw-reviews · 5 years

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Proven Innocent Season 1 Episode 12

As you might imagine, following the end of the previous episode, Bellows goes in front of the press to crow about this arrest.

Meanwhile, Madeline is being harassed in prison by the guards who are denying her any basic rights beyond clothes, food, and a bed. And there's little that she can do about it.

Violet goes on her podcast to thank everybody for their support of Madeline. As you might have noticed, but she's got a lot of people who support her, and not just because she helped them or their loved ones get out of jail. (Like the trans/drag queen community.)

However, this then segues into their actual case du jour... because yeah. We're not just going to wrap up the Madeline Scott case in a single episode. Le sigh.

Their client: he was brought into the country from south America when he was three years old by his mother after local gangs brutally murdered his father. He was arrested for having killed his teacher.

The main evidence against him was the teacher's laptop that was found in his possession. However, a witness says that the laptop had been a gift as a reward for all of his hard work. The police “accidentally” erased the hard drive, but the witness insists that the laptop had been set up to send and receive text messages, which corresponds to the family's cell phone bill.

As this witness is testifying, the victim's husband stands up and screams about how they're making a mockery of his dead wife. The judge gets angry and almost kicks him out.

Easy later goes to see Madeline in jail. As you might imagine, everybody feels bad. Easy feels guilty for not having seen this coming, even though Madeline assures him that how could they have known what Bellows was plotting? Madeline just feels defeated, because she's back in prison, even after all these years. She clearly wants to think about Easy's current case (which is the only one that they couldn't postpone) in order to take her mind off from her own awful situation, but Easy tells her to focus on her own situation.

She asks if Levi was arrested, too, but Easy checked and there's no record of this. This leads Bodie to break into Levi's apartment. Literally all of his things are there... including a wallet with a driver's license. (Although it's not exactly that much of an indication, as he could have another wallet and license... Slim but it's possible.)

Bodie then goes to see Sarah, the chick that Levi had spoken to about the cult, since she was the last person who actually saw him. She doesn't want to talk while at her work, but promises to meet them at Sparrow Ridge tomorrow, her day off.

Meanwhile, Easy gets a witness to the crime to testify. He was a neighbor, who had seen the client going into the teacher's house that morning. However, the timeline doesn't match up. See, the teacher was murdered around 4 AM, and who gets up to do yard work at 4 AM? Like a normal person, the witness was asleep, and saw the client going into the house around 7 AM. The judge agrees to release the client on bail, but as they're leaving the courtroom, ICE agents come and arrest him.

Easy goes to the immigration courts, where he's appalled to see a four year old being questioned by the judge. As you might imagine, this four year old literally has no clue what's going on, only that his parents aren't there. (It's never stated if the little boy even speaks English, but you have to admit that it is a possibility.) Easy is disgusted by this, and steps in to offer “council” on the little boy's behalf. The judge is quick to jump onto the “WTF am I even doing?” train as soon as Easy questions him about this, and asks that the prosecutor look to find the boy's parents.

Meanwhile, Bellows is continuing to celebrate his win. Even though an arrest does not make him attorney general. But he's having celebratory drinks in his office anyway. Isabel then comes up to him and says that she can't be second chair without letting Levi know that he'd been set up. (It had been what Bellows had promised her if she did this for him.) However, it's then that Bellows shows his hand: he never intended for Isabel to be second chair on the case. In fact, he literally fires her on the spot. She's furious, and asks what's stopping her from telling Easy about all of this. He says that he'd have her law license for doing something like this, and implies that it might have been all her idea in the first place. He then tries to soothe her by asking her to wait until all of this is over, and then she'll have a fancy job working for the attorney general. (And damn, I really hope that this comes back to bite him in the ass.)

Back in immigration court, both Easy and the prosecutor for the case fight for the client du jour to remain in this country. The judge finds it odd that the prosecutor would be willing to fight for somebody that he believes is a murderer, but the prosecutor says that he's not going to just give up. He goes on to say that the gang who killed the client's father only formed because USA keeps shipping violent criminals back to south America, and doesn't want to feed into any more violence. (Although, if this is the case, then why didn't they ship the client back? He'd been convicted of a crime. I'm confused as to how that works.) The immigration prosecutor says that the client is convicted and violent, but since he's currently sitting in prison... He's not exactly much of a danger to society at large now, is he?

Wren goes to visit Madeline in prison. Madeline feels insanely defeated, and she lets her emotions get the better of her with Wren, since she knows exactly what it feels like to be in prison with little to no hope. Wren is quick to tell her not to go down that thought rabbit hole.

In court, Easy says that he has new evidence of other suspects. However, Bellows continues to show his bias towards Madeline to the point where I have no idea why anybody is letting him anywhere near this case in the first place. Like damn, this guy has a clear and obvious vendetta against Madeline. Easy calls Bellows out on his bullshit, stating that this is nothing more than a publicity stunt so that he can get elected... which it 100% is. Let's not lie about this. The judge eventually says that she'll hear Easy's evidence in closed court, and determine if it's enough to move forward with his defense. She gives him three days.

Later, Bellows calls Heather in both to ream her up for hiding about this cult... but also to prep her. She defends her actions as a teenager, and says all of this nonsense about spiritual enlightenment. Which sounds literally like somebody in a cult would say. However, Heather also insists that all they did was “hang out” and “take drugs”. Maybe they had sex with the guy, but he apparently vanished the day before Rosemary was killed. At least, according to Heather. Bellows is still insistent that Madeline is guilty as fuck-all, though, and refuses to even remotely consider literally any other possibility. Which makes him scary as a lawyer, because he refuses to be objective about anything. (And if he's this emotional about the Scott case, what else did he push forward with his gross agendas?)

Meanwhile, Sarah meets with the legal team at Sparrow Ridge. She tells them that when it was in use as their cult hang out, it was obviously filled with stuff and not just... gross mattresses and cobwebs. She repeats what she'd already told Levi, but with more detail: Robbie would give them all drugs, and then they'd have sex with him. Sometimes individually, but sometimes as a group/with other girls. Heather was the favorite until Rosemary came along. Sarah only joined late in the game. The legal team presses her for any information that she can give them about Robbie, like what his full or actual name might be. However, she doesn't know much. It's one of those things “looking back, there were so many red flags. But as a teenager, it was literally the best thing ever!” She does offer up one bit of important information: Heather is the one who “found” him, and she found him through such-and-such church.

Later, Easy goes back in court... with more trouble with ICE. The witness who said that the kid was seen entering the victim's house at 7 has been deported. Because of course he has. He'd testified earlier, but the judge won't allow that testimony to come into play. The prosecutor denies having turned the witness into ICE.

Easy later bitches about this to Bodie, when Bodie gets a call from his girlfriend; he forgot to pick the kid up from school. He rushes down there, and finds the kid talking with a woman who introduces herself as the druggie mother. She says that she's not supposed to see her son, and whines that she's been clean for 10 months. Bodie tells her that there's nothing that he can do and that she should take it up with the courts.

This leads to Bodie fighting with his girlfriend about this. She says that he's clearly taken with his sister's charms, but she's actually just a horrible person. She's insanely worried that if her sister gets anywhere near the kid... poof. He'll be kidnapped, and then that'll be the last anybody sees of him. Bodie is quick to assure her that he's going to help her fight to retain her custody of the kid, which calms her down immensely.

Back with Bellows, his political sugar daddy complains that reopening the Rosemary case and retrying Madeline makes everybody look not only bad, but also unhinged. And despite the fact that he's the one who pushed Bellows to do this... he's starting to have more than a few regrets about the entire thing.

Madeline and Easy track down the lady who once ran a ministry with this Robbie fellow. That “church” is gone now, which she blames on Robbie himself. She doesn't seem surprised at anything that they tell her, including that he might have murdered a teenage girl. However, she said she signed an NDA. Easy says that those are void if a member of the party dies. But she smiles and says “the devil never dies”. She goes on to say that Robbie almost ruined her life once, and she's not going to let him do it again. The only thing that she has to offer is the name “Robert Carter”. Which isn't exactly a unique name, but it's something.

They go back to the office, where they're quick to notice a few things about their case du jour. First off, the crime scene was ransacked, which led police to believe that it was a robbery. There were broken things everywhere. However, what happens when you knock a lot of things over? It's loud. And what do people not like at 4 AM? Hearing their neighbors being loud. No noise complains from any of them. They look at the crime scene photos, which... now it's painfully obvious that they're all staged to look awful, but to not make a lot of noise.

Bodie then offers up an alternate: the husband was away some 200 miles on a business trip at the time. However, it's probable that he drove back into town in about three hours, took two hours to murder his wife and stage the scene, and then drive back in another three hours in time to show up for the conference breakfast. He's about to go see if it's possible, when he suddenly remembers Madeline and her case. She insists that he go. This leads her into saying that she doesn't want for them to focus on her WHEN she's convicted, and to focus on getting other innocent people out from jail. The others are quick to point out that it's not going to happen!!

So Bodie sets off on his “road trip”, and tries to hit up the gas stations along the way and ask if the people working there have seen the victim's husband. He finally strikes payday at one gas station.

Meanwhile, Madeline goes to talk to Linda, the gothic chick. She's scared about everything, as previously mentioned by Levi. She confirms the story that Heather had previously told Bellows (but that they don't know about) that Robbie had vanished before Rosemary was murdered, and then that was the last they saw of him. She agrees to testify, if only because she feels like she needs to right some wrongs.

So Easy gets this gas station attendant on the stand, who easily is like “I know that guy”. The prosecution asks how he remembers that man, when the attendant admitted himself that he probably gets 100 customers a day. However, the attendant has a weird story to tell: the man got gas, and then drove off with the pump still in his car. It wrecked the pumping stations. Which... yeah. I think that I'd remember a fucknugget like that.

The husband tries to leave, but the judge is like “I don't think so.” She then releases the client. The prosecutor tells Easy that he'll work on the client's dreamer status being returned to him.

And finally, the part that we were all waiting for... Well, sort of. Easy's evidence hearing. Bellows objects to Easy's use of the word “cult”, however, Madeline is quick to point out that the former church Robbie ran (with that lady from earlier) is defined as a church. Easy also enters the sworn affidavits of Linda and Sarah into evidence. The judge doesn't quite buy it, especially because everybody is pretty damned sure that Robbie is currently no longer among the living. However, she's a little more willing to listen to what Easy has to say when he mentions that Robbie not only gave the girls drugs, but they were some intense drugs, and then he had sex with them. Which not only goes back into the cult thing, but also about the affidavits. The judge is satisfied with this, and allows Easy to present this theory at a new trial. Easy also brings up the fact that Linda admits that she lied on the stand at the original trial. Bellows starts to look more than a little panicked as he realizes that his entire case is quickly crumbling. The judge herself encourages Bellows to “quit while he's behind”, but Bellows is clearly going to go kicking and screaming until all charges against Madeline are completely and utterly put to bed once and for all.

Bellows later calls Madeline to his office to offer her a deal. But since she's innocent, she refuses. He then plays his trump card: he has Levi in protective custody, because he's a key witness.

#PROVEN INNOCENT #The Ravenclaw mod

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heartharrington · 6 years

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★(this is stanford-sam! fyi) congratulations on 1k I'm so proud!!! book rec: the song of achilles (-madeline miller) // movie rec: blades of glory (bc why not??) // song rec: at least I'm not as sad (as i used to be) (-fun.) and of course give me a compliment!! this is so exciting!! congrats again!!

@stanford-sam, grace! thankkk you omg :’) tsoa is beautiful yes and blades of glory lmao xD that song is a very different from what i’ve heard, your taste is really unique!

icon: oooof // beautz // wow i’ve been staring at this for 5 hours (no i’m not biased) // i almost dropped my croissant

url: ???? don’t get it // dude that is legitness // okay okay i get the aesthetic // godtier

posts: what are thOSE? // it’s a ball pit of the everything and anything ilov // organised mix of QUALITY ™ content // *deletes my own tumblr cause nothing can top that*

original content:** sign me tf up // that is some fre sha vaca do // you invented writing/art/whatever it is that you do

theme: iss cool // +100 respec // squidward hit that daB cause damn // sam winchester approves

following: no :( // where were you all my life? // of course, always and forever // i ain’t never gonna stop loving you bb (cause we’re a family friendly blog)

compliment: grace! you’re one of the few samgirls i relate to, you’ve got AMAZING sam content and your little headcanons/stories are beautiful! you’re such a sweet person, i love having you as a mutual. wish we’d talk more

celebrate with me!

#stanford-sam #ash1k

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southeastasianists · 7 years

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The Philippines is the only Southeast Asian country with a ‘free’ internet grade, report finds

In the annual Freedom on the Net report, more countries around the world were seen to be using fake news and online manipulation than ever before

Freedom House published their annual Freedom on the Net 2017 report where they assess the internet access and online censorship of 65 countries from around the world. Overall, the trend leaned towards more countries using fake news to manipulate online content and within Southeast Asia there was only one country that came out with a ‘free’ grade (Freedom on the Net gives countries a grade based on zero to 100, with zero being the best and 100 being the worst; a free grade is any mark below 30).

For Madeline Earp, the editor of the Asia portfolio of the Freedom on the Net report, which oversaw the study of 15 countries from across the continent and eight from within Southeast Asia, these overall findings – though disappointing as a whole – were not surprising.

“It [did] however surprise me that few countries improved based on access, which is expanding really rapidly in Southeast Asia,” Earp said in an interview.

One of the largest concerns that Freedom House, the US-based independent watchdog that conducts this annual report, pointed out in their findings was that though it may initially seem worth celebrating that countries in Southeast Asia are witnessing this huge surge in accessing information online and using the internet to share that knowledge, we should also bear in mind that this will likely lead to more opportunities – as this report shows – for people to be arrested and imprisoned for their online activities.

“That’s a really worrying development, and shows how laws that undermine free speech can be abused to offset the benefits we associate with accessing the internet,” Earp added.

Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines are all the Southeast countries profiled in this report. Beginning with the countries that fared the best, we asked Earp to take us through each Southeast Asian country assessed and discuss some of the more interesting findings from each region.

The Philippines: Score: 28 (Free)

The Philippines received a grade in the Freedom on the Net report that granted them the distinction of being the only Southeast Asian country with ‘free’ internet (marks that were between zero to 29 were considered to be free and the Philippines barely scraped by with a grade of 28).

But despite this singling out, the research analysts at Freedom House found that the Philippines – among 30 other countries in the report – were one of the worst offenders when it came to manipulating online content through paid sponsors of the government. These people act as organic voices online, but are in fact paid ‘opinion shapers’ of the government who are working to spread agendas, particular points of view or even completely shut down the opposition.

Earp used the success of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s presidential campaign in 2016 as a shining example of just how influential these social media ‘opinion shapers’ can be.

Though Duterte had a smaller budget to work with than his opponents, he directed most of these funds towards social media campaigns, people who came to be known as a ‘keyboard army’. The report described how members of this online army could earn anywhere from $10 to $60 a day for operating one of these fake social media accounts.

“Clearly, online information in Southeast Asia can have a massive reach, which is positive,” she said. “But,” she added, “there is a real need for digital literacy and security training to protect people online and help us all identify and overcome invisible influence operations.”

Singapore: Grade: 41 (partly free)

Though Singapore’s status is temptingly close to being considered free, falling short by only 11 points, Earp believes that things are expected to only get worse for online expression in a city-state already known to have very little press freedom.

“While activists from grassroots campaigns were early adopters when it came to digital communications, it’s clear that governments are catching up,” she said. “Authorities in countries with extensive press controls like Malaysia and Singapore, for example, are exploring ways to regulate digital news platforms, too.”

Examples of this increased regulation can be seen playing out in cases like the one of teenage blogger Amos Yee, who was sentenced to six weeks in prison for his online criticism of religious groups. And then again with the founder of the site the Real Singapore, who received a ten-month sentence for arousing what the court characterised as racial sentiments on his site.

As it stands, Singapore has no right to privacy and it is commonly accepted that even your private conversations on the internet can be monitored by the government, the report found. One analyst from the UK was quoted in the report as describing the current state of affairs as such:

“Few doubt that the state can get private data whenever it wants.”

Malaysia: Grade: 44 (partly free)

Malaysia had an overall score of 44 out of 100 and though that makes them to be considered to be partly free when it comes to internet freedom, their scoring for internet freedom has been generally on the decline since 2011 when they had an overall score of 41.

What spared the country this year from falling even lower in the ranks was their ability to improve overall internet accessibility, with both internet penetration and internet speed increasing significantly in comparison to previous years.

“The only Southeast Asian country that registered an improvement this year was Malaysia, and that was specifically because of expanding access,” said Earp.

However, despite this ‘improvement’, Earp believes this is hardly an occasion to begin celebrating Malaysia’s net freedom.

“Dozens of people still face criminal charges for online speech, and the government censored news reports about corruption for the second year running, though it had pledged never to censor the web—so it’s hardly a resounding success story.”

The government didn’t offer any new blocks on websites or blogs, but they do continue to have a ban on popular sites from posting content related to Prime Minister Najib Razak’s corrutption scandals. For instance, popular international sites like Medium,Sarawak Report and the Asia Sentinel remain blocked for Malaysians as of 2017.

Internet users, more specifically ones who post criticisms of the government on their Facebook page, are commonly arrested and prosecuted for online speech. During the time that the report was filed, at least one person in Malaysia had been sentenced to one year in prison. Muhammad Amirul Azwan Mohd Shakri, 19, is serving out a one-year sentence for 14 counts of posting to Facebook with comments that were critical of the Sultan of Johor.

There is concern, the report warned, that for the upcoming 2018 election there could be an increase in the cracking down on internet freedom, specifically for online voices who may decide to take a critical stance of the government.

Indonesia: Grade: 47 (partly free)

Internet freedom is important everywhere, but within Southeast Asia, Indonesia could prove to be one of the world’s most important users of the world wide web, as they are set to be the fourth largest online user by 2020.

There are currently 43,000 online media outlets in Indonesia, which has lead to a decline in the standards of online news reporting and a tailwind rise of fake news. Most of the focus of this fake news reporting has been targeted at ethnic and religious minorities, with the overarching goal being to legitimise their existence.

‘The Ahok effect’ was an unfortunate trend from Indonesia that stemmed from the arrest of a Christian governor who had been allegedly misrepresented in a viral video that showed him slamming Islam. Following his arrest, many right-wing groups began to congregate online to harass and, in some instances, take their harassment offline against people who they perceived were insulting Islam on social media.

“In Myanmar and Indonesia, for example, fake news reports targeted religious and ethnic minority groups in spite of official efforts to curtail hate speech.” (pull quote)

As a reaction to this ‘Ahok effect’, the government took measures to decrease internet freedom by amending the Law on Information and Electronic Transaction (ITE), which ultimately empowered officials to block online information and punish people for online defamation. This law failed to curb online manipulation and defamation, but did lead to a number of long detentions and prison sentences that have been widely criticized.

Cambodia: Grade: 52

Cambodians are growing to rely on the internet as one of their main resources for receiving news, with some people saying they were more likely to consult the internet before other traditional news outlets, the report found.

Considering the large number of traditional media outlets who are influenced or entirely controlled by the government, the country’s pivot to the internet does point to a positive shift. But Earp warns that countries, specifically like Cambodia, have also witnessed the internet being used to enhance smear campaigns and the spread fake news.

“[In Cambodia], supporters of both the ruling and the main opposition parties have been accused of sponsoring online support and smearing their opponents — although the long-ruling incumbents obviously have significantly more resources to suppress their opponents.”

Some major developments from the 2017 report found that the personal information of politicians were leaked, of both the ruling and opposition party, in these smear campaigns and two opposition politicians – including former opposition CNRP leader Sam Rainsy – were sentenced to prison for content that was shared on Facebook. Rainsy, who currently lives in self-imposed exile in France, was found guilty for a Facebook post that questioned the validity of the number of genuine ‘likes’ Prime Minister Hun Sen’s Facebook page had receieved. And opposition Senator Hong Sok Hour was sentenced to seven years for posting a ‘fake’ border treaty between Cambodia and Vietnam on Rainsy’s Facebook wall.

Various forms of intimidation and violence against journalists and activists online was seen to be in keeping with the country’s clampdown on independent media, the report found. Hacking was a widespread problem throughout the time period assessed, and the death of activist Kem Lay underscored this trend after he was murdered following the comments he made that criticised the government of corruption.

Myanmar: Grade: 63

The third country from Southeast Asia to be given the ‘not free’ grade was Myanmar; a ranking that Earp said was one of the greatest letdowns from the entire report.

“Internet freedom in Myanmar declined in the first year after the election of the NLD [National League for Democracy] – that was a big disappointment,” she said.

“The number of people arrested for online speech shot up, and the government urgently needs to reform the Telecommunication Law to stop it from being used as a tool to jail journalists and ordinary people who express their opinions on the internet.”

Contributing to their not free grade was an upshot in prosecuting people for online speech – at least 61 people have been prosecuted under the new administration – and five even ended with prison sentences of up to six months.

In addition to all of the traditional affronts that a country with a low-ranking internet freedom would posses, that is censorship, manipulation of the media and violation of rights, Myanmar also faces an uphill battle when it comes to confronting obstacles of accessing the internet.

Though they have seen extraordinary growth in recent years for internet penetration, they still rank among the world’s lowest. Part of the reason behind this is inadequate infrastructure, which is further compounded by a high rate of poverty.

But Earp warns that, just because a country is witnessing an increase in internet penetration, it does not mean they will be considered ‘freer’.

“Even countries like Cambodia and Myanmar, where internet penetration is seeing extraordinary growth, did not improve overall, essentially because as more people access information and communication technologies, more people are arrested and sentenced to prison for comments on social media.”

Thailand: Score: 67

Thailand, it was shown in the report, continues with its downward spiral, a trend that began in 2014 after the junta takeover. In 2013, they had actually achieved a grade of being ‘partly free’ (60), but have consistently been violating rights and increasing censorship since the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in October 2016.

“When we see restrictions play out in an actively repressive environment as part of an agenda to maintain power, the consequences are severe,” Earp said when commenting on the “tremendously troubling” developments in Thailand.

In one of these developments, politicians and government officials were encouraging citizens to report ‘unpatriotic content’. For instance, there was a senior police official who was publicly recruiting people to act as the ‘eyes and ears’ of the state and was awarding them with $15 for reporting their findings.

Freedom of access continued to be undermined, and at least three people have received prison sentences of more than a decade for their online activity.

But what Earp found to be one of the more paradoxical findings from the report on Thailand was a new legal amendment, which governments in the UK and Hungary have also proposed, that could see end-to-end encryption being undermined.

“It’s striking that some European governments who should be pushing back against the Thai authorities actually appear to be using the same playbook,” she commented.

Vietnam: Score: 76

Vietnam received the worst score out of all the Southeast Asian nations assessed, and possibly more concerning was that they came close to par with the much larger nations of China and Russia when it came to online censorship, both of whom have far more resources to dedicate to online content control.

In the time period that the report assessed Vietnam, there was an intensified crackdown on bloggers and critics of the government, seen most severely in the ten-year prison sentence that was handed down to ‘Mother Mushroom’, a blogger and activist, in June of this year.

Part of the reason why Vietnam is tightening up on measures against bloggers and social media activists is due to the strict rules that online editors, journalists and producers must adhere to when distributing their content online.

These rules for publishers, the report found, had not improved. All content must pass an in-house censorship test and then be submitted to a party committee who provides detailed instructions of what can and cannot be reported on.

But despite its bleak outlook, Earp believes that the current climate for online journalists and bloggers in Vietnam is still better than those of traditional media outlets.

“Someone using the internet will still generally have an advantage over a professional journalist in terms of their ability to share information freely,” she said.

This favouring towards the internet, she remarked, was a trend seen across Southeast Asian countries who had alternatively scored rather poorly on the Freedom of the Press report.

A downward trend

In all, both the report and Earp did not reverberate a positive outlook for the path ahead, particularly where it concerns Southeast Asian countries that will be seeking to conduct elections in the next few months.

“Democracies and authoritarian regimes alike are introducing broad restrictions on internet freedom, ostensibly to protect citizens. And the message from Southeast Asia is that the scope for abuse is huge,” she said.

For things to improve, she says, the responsibility is initially going to fall on the individual. Where governments may fail to enforce standards, specifically as it relates to the spread of fake news and online manipulation, the person reading the news may have to exercise an extra level of caution on accepting what’s true and what’s false.

“The global community needs to be extremely vigilant about protecting internet freedom right now,” Earp warned. “Particularly in the face of content manipulation, terrorism, hate speech, and other trends that are leading governments to try and undermine encryption or limit free speech.”

You can read the full Freedom House Freedom of the Net report here. Madeline Earp is a senior research analyst with Freedom House and the editor of the Asia portfolio.

#Southeast Asia #Freedom Press #Freedom of Expression #Censorship #Internet Freedom #Infographic

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aion-rsa · 4 years

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Xbox Game Pass: New Games for November 2020 Revealed

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Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft’s subscription service for Xbox One owners. It’s designed to be like a “Netflix for games,” where you pay a simple monthly rate and get access to loads of games for download. It’s not to be confused with the Xbox Live Gold membership, which gives users a selection of free games each month.

There was a huge surge in popularity and profile for Xbox Game Pass in 2018, mainly due to Microsoft unveiling a strategy that puts brand new games on the service. Sea of Thieves was the first example of this, followed by State of Decay 2. Crackdown 3 launched on Feb. 15. Since then, the service has seen the Day 1 launch of several Xbox exclusives, including Gears 5, The Outer Worlds, and Halo: Reach on the Halo: The Master Chief Collection.

Membership to Xbox Game Pass will set you back $9.99 per month. You can now also get an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription for $1 for the first month and $14.99 a month after that. The subscription includes an Xbox Live Gold membership as well as all of the games offered on Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass for PC. Plus, with cloud support, you can play a selection of Xbox Game Pass titles on your Android phone!

New games are added each month to Xbox Game Pass. Here are the games coming in November (with descriptions courtesy of the Xbox team):

Xbox Game Pass: Games for November 2020

Celeste (Android, Console & PC) – November 5

Help Madeline survive her inner demons on her journey to the top of Celeste Mountain, in this super-tight platformer from the creators of TowerFall. Brave hundreds of hand-crafted challenges, uncover devious secrets, and piece together the mystery of the mountain.

Comanche (PC) – November 5

Comanche is a modern helicopter shooter set in the near future. You have the choice to delve into the evolving single-player campaign and make a difference in a conflict of global proportions or compete with other Comanche players from all around the world in the explosive, team-based multiplayer modes.

Deep Rock Galactic (Android, Console & PC) – November 5

A 1 to 4 player co-op FPS featuring badass space Dwarves, 100% destructible environments, procedurally-generated caves, and endless hordes of alien monsters. It’s a one-of-a-kind co-op experience with four specialized classes, a plethora of heavy weaponry and high-tech gadgets, and next-level space mining to collect gold, gems, and other precious minerals for your corporate overlords.

Eastshade (Android, Console & PC) – November 5

You are a travelling painter, exploring the island of Eastshade. Capture the world on canvas using your artist’s easel. Talk to the inhabitants to learn about their lives. Make friends and help those in need. Discover mysteries and uncover secrets about the land. Surmount natural impasses to reach forgotten places. Experience how your actions impact the world around you.

Knights and Bikes (Console & PC) – November 5

Knights and Bikes is a hand-painted action-adventure for 1 or 2 players, set on a British Island in the 1980s. It’s a coming-of-age story starring Nessa & Demelza, exploring the coasts of Penfurzy on their trusty bikes, looking for a legendary lost treasure in a Goonies-inspired tale of excitement, danger, fun and friendship.

Ark: Survival Evolved: Explorer’s Edition (Android, Console & PC) – November 17

Combining the base game (already available with Xbox Game Pass) with 3 massive Expansion Packs, Ark: Survival Evolved Explorer’s Edition is an ultimate way to get even more dinosaur action! The Explorer’s Edition gives you access to the mega hit Ark: Survival Evolved as well as the Scorched Earth, Aberration, and Extinction expansion packs, adding nearly 900 hours of gameplay! Each DLC is available for individual download as well.

Xbox Game Pass: Games for October 2020

Doom Eternal (Android & Console) – October 1

One of the best shooters of 2020 is coming to Xbox Game Pass. Hell’s armies have invaded Earth and now you must become the Slayer in an epic single-player campaign to conquer demons across dimensions and stop the final destruction of humanity. Experience the ultimate combination of speed and power in Doom Eternal – the next leap in push-forward, first-person combat. The only thing they fear… is you.

Drake Hollow (PC) – October 1

Drake Hollow is a cooperative action village-building game set in The Hollow – a blighted mirror of our world – in which players build and defend villages of Drakes, the lovable, local vegetable folk. Whether solo or with friends, players follow the guidance of a mysterious crow to explore a dynamically generated world of islands trapped in poisonous aether and help the Drakes restore their camp.

Brütal Legend (Console) – October 8

Double Fine Productions cult classic action-comedy Brütal Legend is coming to Xbox Game Pass. Follow the unlikely adventure of Eddie Riggs, a humble roadie (voiced by Jack Black!) drawn into an alternate world of gnarly demons, fire-breathing beasts, and heavy metal music. Brütal Legend mixes hack and slash mayhem with huge strategy battles as Eddie and a band of stalwart heroes fight to free the world from a demonic overlord. Featuring a vibrant voice cast and cameo appearances from some of the world’s biggest rock musicians, Brütal Legend is a celebration of all things heavy and metal.

Forza Motorsport 7 (Android, Console, & PC) – October 8

Experience the thrill of motorsport at the limit with the most comprehensive, beautiful, and authentic racing game ever made. Forza Motorsport 7 is where racers, drifters, drag racers, tuners, and creators come together in a community devoted to everything automotive. Drive the cars of your dreams, with more than 700 amazing vehicles to choose from including the largest collection of Ferraris, Porsches, and Lamborghinis ever. Challenge yourself across 30 famous destinations and 200 ribbons, where race conditions change every time you return to the track. Experience it all in gorgeous 60fps and native 4K resolution in HDR!

Ikenfell (Console & PC) – October 8

A turn-based-tactical RPG about a group of troublesome magic students. Use time-based combat mechanics to power your spells and block attacks, explore the twisted halls of a vast magic school, fight challenging monsters and bosses, find tons of hidden treasure, and uncover dark secrets never meant to be found.

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition (PC) – October 15

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition completes the celebration of one of the most beloved real-time strategy franchises in definitive form. Command mighty civilizations from across Europe and the Americas or jump to the battlefields of Asia in stunning 4K Ultra HD graphics and with a fully remastered soundtrack. Experience two new game modes: including all previously released expansions and 14 civilizations, plus two brand new civilizations – the Swedes and Inca. Return to adventure with this final chapter in the Age of Empires: Definitive Edition journey.

Heave Ho (PC) – October 15

Grab one another’s hands, climb across dangling bodies, and swing your pals to safety in a wobbly, dangly mass of limbs. Heave Ho tasks up to four players with a simple goal: don’t fall to your death! Players will use their own two hands and the outstretched grip of their friends to grapple across each level on their way to victory. Customize your character with stylish accessories in a vain attempt to remember which of your hands is the only thing between you and the plummet of doom.

Katana Zero (Android, Console & PC) – October 15

A stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display. Each level is uniquely designed for countless methods of completion. Defeat foes creatively, using spontaneous approaches to eliminate your enemy as you see fit.

Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition (Console & PC) – October 15

The fate of two friends will collide in an epic journey that threatens the existence of the world in Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition! A power struggle begins with a civilization dependent on an ancient technology, the Blastia, and the Empire that controls it. Relive the most beloved “Tales of” title beautifully remastered in HD with new playable characters, new stories, and more special attacks!

The Swords of Ditto: Mormo’s Curse (PC) – October 15

A compact action RPG that creates a unique adventure for each new hero of legend in the relentless fight against the evil Mormo. Explore a delightful but dangerous overworld, brave menacing dungeons, and improve your hero in a charming village, during your quest to overcome the evil that plagues the island. Grab a co-op friend for an unforgettable adventure filled with delightful characters, extraordinary loot, and heroic battles!

ScourgeBringer (Console) – October 21

From the developers of NeuroVoider, ScourgeBringer is a fast-paced free-moving roguelite platformer, much like a crossbreed between Dead Cells and Celeste. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where a mysterious entity wreaked havoc on all humanity, ScourgeBringer puts you in the shoes of the deadliest warrior of her clan: Kyhra. Help her explore the unknown and slash her way through ancient machines guarding the seal of her past, and maybe the redemption of humanity.

Cricket 19 (Console) – October 22

The official game of the 2019 Ashes Championship is the complete cricket simulation. Featuring a suite of exciting all-new features that add even greater depth and rich new content to Big Ant Studios’ acclaimed cricket engine. Tackle historical scenarios for classic matches through the ages, develop the career of a junior right through to national captaincy. Participate in the fully-licensed Ashes Cricket mode, or lead your nation to the greatest world championship in the classic 50-over one-day mode.

Supraland (Console) – October 22

Save the red-stick figure village in this hit first-person, open-world, action-puzzle platformer. Roam and explore a grand interconnected world, unlock new versatile abilities, and combine them to overcome imaginative puzzles or uncover shrouded secrets. Defeat charging hordes in fast, frenetic first-person combat as you battle your way for an audience with the Blue King. Supraland is the ultimate “sandbox” adventure game and offers players of all ages a unique take on puzzles, exploration, and adventure!

Rainbow Six Siege (Console & Android) – October 22

With a thriving professional esports scene and a community of over 60 million registered players, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege puts players in the middle of a fast-paced, ever-evolving multiplayer experience grounded in the selection of unique operators.

Using the right mix of tactics and destruction, Rainbow Six teams engage their enemies in sieges, where both sides have exclusive skills and gadgets at their disposal. Defenders prepare by transforming the environments around them into modern strongholds, while attackers use recon drones to gain intel for carefully planning their assault. Creativity and competition are at the heart of this game.

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Carto (Console & PC) – October 27

Separated from her Granny during a storm, young Carto must use her innate cartography powers to map and manipulate the world around her on her quest to be reunited. As she discovers new “pieces” of the game map, players can rearrange them to shape the levels themselves – unlocking new paths, puzzles, and story moments.

Day of the Tentacle Remastered (Console & PC) – October 29

Released by LucasArts in 1993 as a sequel to Ron Gilbert’s groundbreaking Maniac Mansion, Day of the Tentacle is a mind-bending, time travel, cartoon puzzle adventure game in which three unlikely friends work together to prevent an evil mutated purple tentacle from taking over the world! Double Fine’s remastered version is a perfectly preserved piece of puzzle and adventure, and it’s now available with Game Pass! Travel through time and enjoy revamped artwork (or swap back and forth between classic and remastered modes) as you solve puzzles across multiple eras. Day of the Tentacle is an all-time comedy classic and this special edition has been lovingly restored and remade with the care and attention that can only come from involving the game’s original creators.

Five Nights at Freddy’s (Android, Console & PC) – October 29

The Freddy Fazbear animatronics beloved by thousands of children have always been quirky, especially after hours… Many previous night guards have reported they act almost “possessed”, but that can’t be, they are just machines, right? There is nothing for you to worry about. Play through the original four titles and discover for yourself. Just show up for your night shift and do the job well and everything will be alright. Or will it…

Full Throttle Remastered (Console & PC) – October 29

Originally released by LucasArts in 1995, Full Throttle is a classic graphic adventure game from industry legend Tim Schafer, telling the story of Ben Throttle, a butt-kicking biker caught up in a tale of motorcycles and mayhem. Remastered by the mischievous folks at Double Fine Productions, Full Throttle Remastered features all new hand-drawn artwork and fresh audio. There’s never been a better way to experience this classic piece of adventure game history!

Grim Fandango Remastered (Console & PC) – October 29

One of the most acclaimed adventure games of all time arrives on Xbox Game Pass! Manny Calavera is a travel agent at the Department of Death, selling luxury packages to recently departed souls on their four-year journey to eternal rest. But there’s trouble in paradise: a conspiracy that threatens Manny’s very salvation and the afterlife itself. Originally released by LucasArts in 1998, Grim Fandango’s remastered edition comes care of Double Fine Productions and brings revamped visuals and sounds (including fully orchestrated music) to a beloved classic.

PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (Android) – October 29

Land, loot and outwit your opponents to become the last player left standing in a thrilling game experience full of unexpected, adrenaline-pumping moments. PUBG’s new Season 9 is dropping on October 29 with a new map called Paramo. Cradled hidden among the clouds in the highlands of South America lies Paramo, an ancient land with ancient secrets. Paramo is a 3×3 map with a dynamic world new to PUBG. This dynamic world system alters locations between matches, making every trip to Paramo a unique experience. Take on the Battlegrounds like never before with cloud gaming (Beta) with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

ScourgeBringer (Android) – October 29

Unruly Heroes (Android, Console & PC) – October 29

Grab your controller and set out on an epic adventure of intrigue and discovery inspired by the timeless 16th century Chinese novel “Journey to the West.” With its simple to pick up, hard to master combat system across 4 playable characters, evolving gameplay and surprises galore, Unruly Heroes is not your run-of-the-mill action-platformer. Take on the roles of Wukong the Monkey King, Sanzang the Sleepy Monk, Kihong the Greedy Pig and Sandmonk the Sensitive Brute as they travel westward in search of the scattered remnants of the Sacred Scroll. Along the way, whether it be solo or in local co-op, master the combined strength of the heroes and kung-fu fight a diverse lineup of creatures and demons within a colorful hand-drawn fantasy world.

The post Xbox Game Pass: New Games for November 2020 Revealed appeared first on Den of Geek.

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velmaemyers88 · 5 years

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Eat Oysters in New York City to Help Clean Up the City’s Waterways

Each week, Pete Malinowski’s team picks up thousands of pounds of discarded oyster shells from more than 70 New York City restaurants, including seafood favorites like Oceana and celebrity chef Jonathan Waxman’s JAMS in the 1 Hotel Central Park. The shells don’t exactly smell nice, and plenty of them still need to be properly cleaned. It’s a dirty job, but it’s all worth it.

Malinowski is determined to rebuild New York Harbor and clean up the city’s rivers, even if it takes one billion oysters.

“We are making progress toward restoring a lost habitat and motivating a generation of New Yorkers to care about and care for the ecosystem around them,” says Malinowski, who founded the aptly named Billion Oyster Project in 2014 to repopulate the city’s oyster reefs. “Just one shell can be the home for up to 20 oysters in our hatchery.”

Pete Malinowski

When Henry Hudson landed in the 1600s in what is modern-day New York City, the waterways around the area were covered in oyster reefs. Fish populations flourished, and the water was so clean that a massive fishing industry exploded. Fast-forward about 10 generations: The reefs have been virtually extinct for more than a century, and the murky waters garner many a comedic jabs from locals. Nitrogen buildup from agricultural pollution and rainwater runoff has caused a lack of oxygen in the waters surrounding the city, thereby killing any animal life, and overharvesting devastated the remaining population. While the harbor remains one of the busiest ports, you’re more likely to see a booze cruise circling Manhattan Island rather than a flotilla of fishing boats. Pose the idea of swimming in the Hudson River, and you’ll be looked at as if you have two heads.

Malinowski recognized this long before launching a nonprofit. Oysters, as well as other shellfish like clams, are superefficient filter feeders. They pump water through their bodies for food, and in the process they remove excess nitrogen from waters by incorporating it into their shells and tissue as they grow. It slowly cleans up the water, allowing for other live organisms to survive on the increased oxygen levels and, over time, hopefully rebuild an ecosystem.

More than 10 years ago, while teaching aquaculture at the New York Harbor School, Malinowski began having his students plant oysters as part of the curriculum. He and then program director Murray Fisher, who is now chairman of the board of the Billion Oyster Project, shared a passion for education through restoration. Not only did they notice how students changed their perspectives toward the environment of their own backyard, but the pair also saw how it made a measurable difference in the waterways. That’s when they decided it was time to launch something bigger, and the Billion Oyster Project was officially born.

The process of rebuilding the oyster population and increasing oxygen levels in polluted waters is not straightforward. Oysters cannot just be dumped into the waters with hopes for the best. Baby oysters spend their first few weeks as free-swimming larvae, but then they look for a hard substrate to which they can attach. That’s where the reefs come in. In order for their idea to succeed, Malinowski would have to add not only live oysters to the harbor but also reefs for them to live on. As it turns out, a discarded oyster shell makes the perfect substrate, rich in calcium carbonate, for baby oysters to make home.

“It’s incredibly difficult to find a bulk source of oyster shell in the Northeast,” explains Madeline Wachtel, deputy director of the Billion Oyster Project. She oversees the shell collection program, which reallocates approximately 385,000 pounds of would-be-discarded restaurant oyster shells from the landfill to the harbor. In fact, the program started after a suggestion from chef Ben Pollinger at Oceana. He offered to save his extra shells for the team if they picked them up; there is no way to utilize them after the plate returns to the kitchen. “Shells are highly valuable to restoration work but are currently treated as waste and shipped to distant landfills,” says Wachtel. “Our restaurant partnerships are now critical to our success.” Participating restaurants run the gamut from neighborhood spots like The East Pole and P.J. Clarke’s to the Michelin-ranked Gramercy Tavern and world-class hospitality brands like the Mandarin Oriental New York.

JAMS Restaurant at 1 Hotel Central Park, New York, N.Y.

At JAMS, executive chef Ginger Pierce explained that they blow through about 200 oyster shells a day, which weekly amounts to 1,400 shells. The restaurant focuses on ways to drive down waste, from composting food waste to hosting an annual zero-waste dinner called A Supper That Sustains Us, which donates 100% of its proceeds. Part of that is an organic waste digester that sits in the corner of the kitchen, but oyster shells cannot be processed. It was heartbreaking to see them sent off in the dumpster. By partnering with the Billion Oyster Project, Pierce says, they can keep them out of landfills. It takes work on her end and, possibly more important, space for buckets of oyster shells to sit each week. But the tradeoffs are worth it to her team. “It’s pretty incredible,” she says of the nonprofit. “They are offsetting waste by giving something that would otherwise be discarded a second life. They are helping to make our bays and oceans cleaner through natural filtration. And they are educating young people.”

In its first five years, the nonprofit has restored 28 million oysters across 12 reef sites in New York Harbor. That includes reclaiming 1.3 million pounds of oyster shell to build the reefs, managing a team of nearly 9,000 volunteers, collaborating with local schools, and overseeing a processing facility on Governors Island.

JAMS executive chef Ginger Pierce.

It’s all reducing nitrogen in the local waters in a measurable way—72,500 pounds in total, to be exact. The team regularly tests the waters and has consistently seen that oysters reduce local nitrogen levels around the reefs by 21% in the course of 60 minutes. Water continuously flows in and out, so there is always more nitrogen to be removed. Additionally, they monitor the biodiversity of the reefs and have seen an increase in the number and types of animals—everything from worms and anemones to large fish—present after a reef is installed.

Malinowski is quick to point out that oysters won’t entirely resolve the issues in the harbor but do make steps toward success. “Harbor-wide nitrogen is a much larger issue that will be solved by upstream solutions, like removing the inputs,” says Malinowski. Untreated wastewater from New York City, pollution from rainfall, and, of course, legal restrictions have all posed challenges for the project as well. “Building reefs requires permission from several local, state, and federal agencies,” he adds. “These permits are not only challenging to obtain but require us to reduce the scale of our installations.”

The nonprofit does take its mission beyond its hands-on work on the water. It is currently advocating for a bill in the Ways and Means Committee of the Assembly that would give a tax credit of $0.10 a pound to restaurants and organizations that donate oyster shells. Currently there is no tax incentive for the businesses involved in the shell collection program—it’s all done out of the kindness of their heart and desire to be part of a closed-loop system that benefits the health of their own backyard.

Further, Malinowski continues to educate. He partners with other organizations working in the harbor, including the NYC Parks Department, Bronx River Alliance, and the New York/New Jersey Baykeeper as well as the city’s public schools. “We want learning about the harbor and oyster restoration to be a reality for the 1.1 million public school students in NYC,” he says. “We hope to be working with 200 schools by 2024.”

As for those billion oysters? That’s likely a few decades in the future, but Malinoski remains committed. If, annually, his group can restore 25 million oysters on five acres of reef, plus make improvements to breeding with a state-of-the-art hatchery and restoration facility, he believes they will be capable of reaching that scale. The organization’s goal, after all, states that “by 2035, one billion live oysters will be distributed around 100 acres of reefs, making the harbor once again the most productive waterbody in the North Atlantic.”

Consumers can help too. Simply eat oysters at partner restaurants, and you’ll know those discarded shells are gaining a second life. In the future, Malinowski notes, New York City just may be the oyster capital of the world.