#Apu Records

[cuartoretorno]

Cementerio Club - Underground 1997

[juustozzi]

here it is - a fan design for the finnish national team in i11 universe!

I tried to add as many references to birds and finland as I could, and I'll put them under a cut if someone's interested!

general team notes:

our actual national soccer team is named Huuhkajat (the horned owls) after a horned owl that one day randomly started to live in the team's home stadium building - hence the team name and bird theme

that owl got named Bubi, and this team's coach is based on him

general team hissatsu are themed after owls or famous finnish things

all the players are based on the official(?) regional birds

Tuoni:

based on a whooper swan (laulujoutsen), which is the national bird (captain status)

hissatsu is named after a famous finnish song (literal translation: a swan song)

name comes from the swan of Tuoni; a swan that swims in the river to afterlife in Kalevala, and anyone who harms it will die

Ukko

based on a wood grouse (metso)

hissatsu is a reference to a famous painting "Taistelevat metsot" which decipts two grouses battling

name means an older man or a guy, and the male bird is also called "ukkometso"

Erne

based on a white-tailed eagle (merikotka)

name is from the first finnish-built space craft part, and the symbol of the project was a white-tailed eagle

Tintti

based on a blue tit (sinitiainen)

"tintti" is a general nickname for tits (the birds), but also the finnish name for Tintin

Pukki

based on Teemu Pukki, probs the most famous finnish soccer player

and his last name literally means a goat (vuohipukki)

that's all

Kopek

based on a willow ptarmigan (riekko)

most grouses in northern finland make a coil/a nest in the snow for warmth and safety from predators, and his hissatsu is directly borrowed from that

name is literally the sound the bird makes (kopek-kopek-kopek..)

Hakkinen

based on a western jackdaw (naakka)

name is an historical name for the bird, and Häkkinen is a common family name here

Apus

based on a common swift (tervapääsky)

name comes from the latin name (apus apus)

Juha

based on a white-backed woodpecker (valkoselkätikka)

name is.... based on a teacher I had, who was called both Juha and literally a woodpecker.... (this is an inside thing for just me sorry)

Suo

based on a common crane

hissatsu comes from an old belief of cranes carrying the weight of the sky, and they're the most notable species that fly in wedges

name means literally a swamp, which has been the best place to spot cranes here

Valokainen

based on a black-throated loon (kuikka)

name is from an old finnish poem singer, Elessei Valokainen. A loon is in an important role in the earth-diver myth that tells the creation of the world, and Valokainen's story of it from 1908 has been recorded

I also forgot to wrote it in the image but want to mention, these birds have the most iconic cry on summer lakeside evenings, so Valokainen has a laugh that kinda sounds like that

[monarch-afterdark]

Titan History: Kong

Welcome once again to Monarch: After Dark, the digital gateway between you and the organisation dedicated to understanding and navigating this troubled new world we live in.

Apologies for the lack of communication in recent weeks, Monarch has been hard at work collecting data and collaborating with global governments through the most recent Titan crisis, including the disposal of deceased Titan remains and the best course of action to take with Godzilla in his new resting place.

That said, today's communication will be going over a Titan who has been surging in popularity across the globe over the past few years; the undisputed king of the Hollow Earth, Kong.

(Pictured above: Kong approaching an Apex Cybernetics research facility on Skull Island, circa. 2017)

Monarch Database File: Kong

Monarch Designation: Titanus Kong

Height: 337 feet

Weight: Unknown

Nature: Unknown

Behavioural Classification: Protector

-----

Until recently, Kong was believed to be the last of his kind. Born during a climactic final battle between his parents and a horde of Skullcrawlers (ravenous amphibian predators on Skull Island), Kong grew up in an isolated world filled with danger at every angle. Growing up to become the guardian deity of Skull Island, Kong was held in great reverence by the native Iwi tribe that lived on the island. His species, designated Apus giganticus, were also known protectors of the Iwi, fighting off the Skullcrawlers and other threats until their last breath.

During his centuries on the island, Kong fought a variety of creatures, from the Mire Squad and Sirenjaws to other Titans such as the mysterious Kraken or night-bringer Camazotz. However, in 2021, a storm generated by Monster Zero fused with the perpetual storm surrounding Skull Island and plunged it into chaos. Three years later, in 2024, Kong was removed from the island as the key to a daring plan to uncover a Hollow Earth energy source to stop Godzilla. The two alpha Titans clashed twice before setting aside their differences to take down Apex Cybernetics' rogue superweapon, Mechagodzilla.

Currently, Kong now resides in the Hollow Earth alongside a newly-freed tribe of his speices, an orange ape-like Titan which he seems to have adopted as a son, and the ancient ice Titan Shimo.

(Pictured above: Monarch officials reviewing recovered footage of Kong from the doomed 1973 expedition to Skull Island, circa. 2019)

While Kong's exact origins are unknown, research conducted within the Iwi settlement appears to place his birth somewhere in the 17th Century, making him perhaps the youngest Titan on record. However, his entangled history with Monarch began much later, in 1973.

In a time where Monarch was on its last legs and facing the possibility of being shut down, founding figure William Randa and geological advisor Houston Brooks lobbied to piggyback on a Landsat expedition to Skull Island. With a military escort courtesy of the Sky Devils squadron, the team dropped seismic charges on the island to map the bedrock beneath the surface. Unknown to them at the time, their charges awakened the Skullcrawlers living in thermal vents beneath the island and incurred Kong's wrath.

Kong swiftly destroyed the Sky Devils' helicopters, leaving the survivors split into two groups. One, including Brooks, encountered the Iwi and stranded WW2 pilot Hank Marlow, where they learned about Kong and his history with the Skullcrawlers. A second, including Randa, embarked on a mission of revenge driven by Colonel Preston Packard.

(Pictured above: Kong battling the remnants of the Sky Devil squadron after being lured into a napalm trap, circa. 1973)

After being lured into a napalm trap by Packard, Kong was initially helpless to battle the recently awakened Skull Devil, the last of the adult Skullcrawlers that had a hand in wiping out his family centuries prior. Recovering quickly, the two beasts engaged in a brutal encounter. Following some assistance from the expedition survivors, Kong triumphed by tearing out the Skull Devil's innards, avenging his parents in the process.

His next major sighting occured in 1993, but without a Monarch presence on Skull Island at the time, this is pending investigation. According to witnesses, Kong did battle with a large underwater Titan (designated 'Kraken'), after being coaxed to the island's coast by Annie, a young girl stranded on the island for years with a strange dog-like beast as a companion. After exchanging many blows, Kong ultimately killed the Titan by tearing its body in half.

In 1995, Aaron Brooks (Houston's son) led an unauthorized expedition to Skull Island, as he felt unsatisfied with leaving protection against the Skullcrawlers to Kong alone. During their stay, mythographer Walter Riccio experienced vivid visions of Kong's origins, under the influence of an Iwi medicinal drink. When Riccio destroyed the wall to the Iwi village, Kong stepped in to vanquish the Mother Longlegs swarm that seized their chance and killed Riccio before communing with Aaron and the Iwi.

(Pictured above: Artistic rendition of Kong tearing the "Kraken" Titan in two, based off eyewitness testimony, circa. 1993)

In the following decades, Kong was largely left to his own devices as the island's guardian. Though Monarch teams briefly assisted him in 2015 with a crisis involving the unknown organisation Janos Biotech and the island's Snarehunter population, and Kong himself kept a horde of Skullcrawlers that attempted to leave the island in response to Monster Zero's 'alpha call' in 2019, no major events really transpired between 1995 and 2021.

In 2021, as mentioned previously, Skull Island was plunged into chaos when one of Monster Zero's residual storms merged with the storm system surrounding Skull Island. When darkness fell, the bat Titan Camazotz emerged and battled Kong for dominion over the island. Thanks to a daring pilot triggering a sonic boom to disorient Camazotz, Kong was able to prevail, though he was ultimately unable to save his home.

Three years later, and the artificial habitat Monarch built for Kong was unable to hold him much longer. He was reluctantly taken to the sea and transported to Antarctica's Outpost 32 (now rebuilt as a Hollow Earth station), though not without attracting Godzilla, who destroyed the naval fleet transporting him and almost drowned the ape. Following the acquisition of an axe left in the Hollow Earth by his ancestors, Kong and Godzilla clashed again in Hong Kong. While Godzilla prevailed through sheer power, Kong refused to submit to his rule.

(Pictured above: Kong leaping onto Godzilla's back from a building after staging an ambush, circa. 2024)

After being revived by an exploding H.E.A.V, Kong jumped in to stop Mechagodzilla from executing his organic counterpart. Setting aside their differences, the two Titans teamed up to take down the mecha. A blast from Godzilla's atomic breath charged up Kong's axe, and he was able to deal the finishing blow by hacking Mechagodzilla to pieces and holding its severed head in triumph. The two Titans regarded each other one more time before parting ways.

Which brings us to the present. While much of what transpired is still being compiled to our databanks, it is known that Kong returned to the surface on three different occassions. The first was to have an infected tooth removed at a Monarch facility, the second was in Egypt to coerce Godzilla into assisting him, and the third was a two-on-two battle in Brazil between Kong and Godzilla, and Shimo and the "Skar King", evil ruler of the Kong tribe in Hollow Earth.

-----

And there you go! An up-to-date account of Kong's history in the modern world, intertwined with Monarch from the 1970's. Currently, Kong is enjoying life down in the Hollow Earth, and as the world should do, this is where we leave Kong's story be, until the world needs him again.

Until next time,

Monarch: After Dark

[frostgears]

preflight checklist

control link green.

organic component support green.

APU chemical turbines green.

APU microreactor green.

reactors #2 and #3 at 10%, full military power pending exit from carrier immediate volume.

reactors #1 and #4 primed for automatic start on exit from carrier immediate volume.

multimodal magnetic shielding in cooperative echo mode for catapult launch, transition to active eddy deflection mode recommended immediately once clear of catapult.

reflex targeting system safe, authorization to be transmitted on exit from carrier immediate volume.

arc swords equipped.

intermediate-range cannon equipped.

detachable semi-autonomous spreadfire missile packs equipped.

extended-range missile pods equipped.

redirector weapons available once the Ceres Beam clears the horizon.

luck? don't need it. never had it. lucky girls don't become what you are.

somewhere in the bulk of the huge machine enclosing you, the carrier that dwarfs even your battle-self, your handler will be chewing her lip.

not because she cares if you get hurt, but because she gets some leeway from command handling an asset with your exemplary service record. punishment conditioning. reward conditioning. the chemical leashes she holds you with, the grip of her voice over the link.

if you don't come back, you don't get to fly like this again.

if you don't come back, it'll be a long time before they'll let her do to anyone else what she can do every day to you.

catapult cycling. green. launch. □

[howlingday]

You know something that bothers me about arranged marriage fics in Rwby? No ever gives enough push back. Like your telling me that if Blake amd Jaune were forced to be we'd that Rwy and Npr would do nothing? Bullcrap. Also I don't like how pushy writers make most of the moms about grandkids. Like it's funny when their single because it can be taken as a joke but when someone else is there it feels like your pushing people into doing something they can't handle yet.

I'm not going to lie, I've played into the trope myself. I've written an arranged marriage snippet or two, a comedic one comes to mind right now. When I think about doing the arranged marriage thing, I usually have it as an AU in which there is no RWBY, there is no JNPR. It's just, in your example, just Jaune and Blake and maybe a couple side characters also, but the focus is on Jaune and Blake.

And to be honest, again, I feel like you are correct. In an arranged marriage, there should be some pushback, especially from the bride and groom. One of my favorite episodes of The Simpsons was about Apu being forced to complete his dowry with his arranged bride, Manjula. The first half of the episode was setting the plot and him trying to get out of the arrangement. The second half is the wedding itself, and I love how it ended with the two actually being compatible AND Manjula's solution if things do end badly.

"We can always get a divorce."

And yeah, the pushy mom thing is kind of a trope that goes a bit too far. Like, I know my mom pesters me now and again for grandkids and thank you to my sister for biting the bullet on that and giving her FOUR grandkids, but it doesn't get to the point that my mom says some of the things these moms do.

And while we're on the subject, I'm also not too crazy about "beating Mama Arc's record" trope. If you wanna give Jaune a big family of his own, go for it. If you wanna keep it simple to one or two, go ahead. Either case is fine.

But have some fun with it! Add your own flavor! Again, like in The Simpsons episode when Apu and Manjula accidentally took too many fertility pills and ended up with octuplets! The rest of the episode is spent with the couple suffering from no sleep and resorting to sell their babies to the most evil entity in all of humanity... SHOW BUSINESS!

But yeah, I do agree with you.

[govindhtech]

Dimensity 7300 : Unbelievable Speed and Power Unleashed

MediaTek launched the 4nm Dimensity 7300 and Dimensity 7300X high-end mobile device processors today. Best-in-class power economy and performance make Dimensity 7300 chipsets ideal for AI-enhanced computing, faster gaming, better photography, and effortless multitasking. Dimensity 7300X supports twin displays for flip-style foldable devices.

Both MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipsets have 2.5GHz octa-core CPUs with 4X Arm Cortex-A78 and A55 cores. 4nm reduces A78 core power consumption by 25% over Dimensity 7050. To speed up gaming, the CPU combines the most recent Arm Mali-G615 GPU with a number of MediaTek HyperEngine optimisations. The Dimensity 7300 series provides 20% quicker FPS and 20% more energy efficiency than competing options. The new chips optimise 5G and Wi-Fi game connections, use clever resource optimisation, support Dual-Link True Wireless Stereo Audio and Bluetooth LE Audio technology to significantly improve gaming experiences.

According to MediaTek’s Wireless Communications Business Deputy General Manager Dr. According to Yenchi Lee, “The MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chips will help integrate the newest AI and connectivity technologies consumers can stream and game seamlessly. “Furthermore, the dual display capability of the Dimensity 7300X allows OEMs to create creative new form factors.”

With compatibility for a 200MP primary camera and a premium-grade 12-bit HDR-ISP, the MediaTek Imagiq 950 is another enhanced photographic feature available with the Dimensity 7300 chipsets. New hardware engines provide accurate noise reduction (MCNR), face detection (HWFD), and video HDR in the Dimensity 7300. This allows users to take beautiful pictures and videos in any kind of lighting. Compared to the Dimensity 7050, live focus and photo remastering are 1.3X and 1.5X faster, respectively. In addition, 4K HDR video may be recorded with a dynamic range that is more than 50% broader than competing solutions, allowing users to capture more detail in their recordings.

The MediaTek APU 655 doubles the performance of the Dimensity 7050 while also greatly increasing the efficiency of AI tasks. Also, in order to reduce memory requirements for larger AI models and more effectively use memory bandwidth, the Dimensity 7300 chips support new mixed precision data types.

The Dimensity 7300 SoCs enable global HDR standards and remarkably detailed WFHD+ displays with 10-bit true colour thanks to MediaTek’s built-in MiraVision 955. This improves media streaming and playing. Additionally, OEMs find it simpler to satisfy the expanding market demand for cutting-edge form factors thanks to the Dimensity 7300X’s specialised support for dual display flip phones.

Dimensity 7300 and Dimensity 7300X important features

With MediaTek’s own optimisations and a full suite of R16 power-saving advancements, MediaTek 5G UltraSave 3.0+ technology offers 13–30% more power efficiency than competing options in typical 5G sub-6GHz connectivity settings.

Supporting 3CC carrier aggregation up to 3.27Gb/s 5G downstream speed, which enables better downlink rates in suburban and urban settings.

Support for multi-band Wi-Fi 6E allows for dependable and quick multi-gigabit wireless access.

Users will have more options with dual 5G SIM capability and dual VoNR.

This was addressed by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7300 series in May 2024. The Dimensity 7300 and 7300X chipset series boosts high-end to smartphone and foldable device performance, energy efficiency, and AI.

Constructed for Rapidity and Effectiveness

A powerful octa-core CPU powers the Dimensity 7300. This combo is ideal for gaming and multitasking with four 2.5 GHz Arm Cortex-A78 cores. Four Arm Cortex-A55 cores, which are energy-efficient, complement these and guarantee dependable performance for daily use. In comparison to the Dimensity 7050, this combination represents a major advancement.

The advanced 4nm manufacturing process is a feature of the 7300 series. This corresponds to a 25% decrease in power usage over the 6nm technique utilised in earlier generations. Users will benefit from longer battery life as a result, while manufacturers can create sleeker devices without compromising functionality.

Superpower in Graphics

Immersive mobile experiences require strong visuals. The Dimensity 7300 has an Arm Mali-G615 GPU to fix this. This graphics processor runs even the most demanding games smoothly, and MediaTek’s HyperEngine technology stabilises the network and efficiently manages resources. MediaTek says the 7300 series is appealing to mobile gamers due to its 20% higher frame rates (FPS) and energy economy.

AI Gains Strength

AI is increasingly changing the smartphone experience, enabling intelligent assistants, better photography, and facial recognition. The Dimensity 7300 uses the MediaTek APU 655, following this trend. This AI processing unit doubles the efficiency of the Dimensity 7050, resulting in a notable performance boost. New mixed precision data types, which enable more effective memory bandwidth utilisation and lower memory requirements for larger AI models, are also supported by the 7300 series. Future smartphones will be able to incorporate even more advanced AI features thanks to this.

Gorgeous Images

For a fascinating mobile experience, a stunning display is essential; a strong processor is only half the story. This demand is met by the Dimensity 7300 series, which supports powerful screens. With the ability to support WFHD+ resolutions at frame rates of up to 120 Hz, these chipsets guarantee fluid and visually spectacular images. For an even smoother user experience, the 7300 series also supports Full HD+ screens at an even higher refresh rate of 144Hz.

Concentrate on Take Pictures

Users now place a greater value on mobile photography, and the Dimensity 7300 series delivers. The chip has MediaTek’s Imagiq 950 image signal processor (ISP), which provides sophisticated photographic features. With the 12-bit HDR pipeline supported by this ISP, detailed information and brilliant colours may be captured. Furthermore, the Imagiq 950 enables features like video HDR, face detection, and precise noise reduction, guaranteeing beautiful images and movies in a range of lighting scenarios. The 7300 series stands out for its ability to enable dual simultaneous video capture, which allows for the development of more imaginative content.

A Set of Chips for Foldables

A 7300 variation called the Dimensity 7300X goes one step farther by being designed with foldable cellphones in mind. One essential component of these cutting-edge gadgets is dual display compatibility, which this chipset provides. Manufacturers may design foldable phones with seamless experiences on both the cover and main displays thanks to the 7300X.

Mobile’s Future

Mobile processing power has advanced significantly with the release of the Dimensity 7300 series. This chipset family, with its emphasis on efficiency, performance, AI capabilities, and support for cutting-edge technologies like foldable devices and high refresh rate screens, is positioned to have a significant impact on the direction of mobile technology. The Dimensity 7300 series offers makers a strong and adaptable foundation to develop next-generation smartphones that offer outstanding user experiences as smartphones continue to advance.

Read more on govindhtech.com

[forestanomaly]

hi. I translated another one of my stories in english. It might be a downer, it's about the end of the world. Ok bye

Dance of the mayflies

Today they started the countdown.

A girl of five smiled an incomplete toothy smile as Ursa placed the ordered dish in front of her. Ursa did her best not to stare – children are rarity these days. Few people want to give life to a generation that may never grow up.

Ursa Maritimus Hopkins was a part of so-called last generation of the Earth. Time Sector Eight was coming to an end, and it was becoming obvious that The End is near. It was January of 9980-8 – and today the countdown until the inevitable death of the life on Earth started.

She went back behind the counter and looked over the cafeteria. The roof of the building mimicked a glass dome, with the illusion of daylight shining through its vaults. Looking up, one could see the ancient blue skies, crisscrossed by clouds and long-extinct birds - now a flock of small light black paper planes - apus apus - was flying over the heads of visitors. Ages ago, they used to call them swifts. Nowadays, you can see one in person only in capital’s poultry houses. This old recording was dated during the day, although the sky was now adopting that color in the late afternoon. Surface outing groups are not advised to go outside before 6:00 p.m. - the blinding light reflecting off the desert sand eventually destroys the eyes, even with UV protection.

Ursa was drawing mayflies dancing between spiky stars on a napkin.

- How can you think about stars at this time? – voice of Jubata Marsh caught her off guard. - I don’t know. How can you think about anything other than stars? - Touché, - Juba sighed, stretching out on the counter. - How’s your mother? - Praying.

Ursa signed. Stellism initially sounded like a good idea, but many practiced the new religion too far beyond the boundaries of light oblivion. Patricia Marsh's notions of "pleading" were reduced to embracing bottle of something strong for a day. Or a week.

- Can I stay at yours? Logan is studying today. - What else could you do? Just bring something to eat. - Yes, ma’am.

The clock struck 8:00 p.m. when Ursa heard the doorbell ring.

- You took your time. - I decided to give you a couple extra hours of peace. I have news, though, - Juba followed Ursa into the kitchen, waving hello to her parents on the way. At this point he was welcomed here like family, so Ursa hadn't even bothered to warn them of her friend's visit. Last thing he saw in the living room – Mrs. Hopkins got up to move the chair from the spot where he usually lays out his sleeping bag. - What news? – Ursa clinked with glasses of cold water. - Father wrote. They have confirmed the order and will publicize it at the end of the month when they withdraw the troops. The war will be over. - They decided on it so fast? – Ursa turned around in one spin, still holding a can of tea leaves. - The commander-in-chief had a nervous breakdown. He kept crying about what an idiot he was and how he wanted to go home to his kids. They had to give him a sedative right in his office. - What a time for remorse. Had he waited a little longer – and the funniest event in the history of Sector Eight would have been the fight over who would be considered the winner of the last war after the sun exploded.

Juba surprisingly enthusiastically snorted with laughter – usually Ursa is able to make him laugh only when he’s losing his last drops of sanity. She sighed and put a glass of cold tea in front of him. There’s nothing you could say here. How can you console a person who realises that they see the last days of their species existing?

Juba brought a whole box of pizza with real cheese and pineapples.

- You are a maniac. It’s way too expensive, we haven't had one of these even for Christmas in two years, - Ursa catched her breath, looking over a box of overpriced ingredients. - What else would I spend the money on? It’s perfect for today. - Touché, - Hopkins sighed and went to grab a knife.

The garlands still hanged from the ceiling, so the Hopkins family – and Acinonyx Jubata Marsh – sat in the glow of yellow sparklers and, for the first time in a long time, remembered what real cheese and pineapple tasted like, drank iced tea and talked quietly, re-telling old stories.

- Do you think we could’ve handled it better? – Ursa asked, nursing her glass. - How? - Idunno. We could’ve been happier. Simpler. Could’ve done something good before the end. - You know, if you're bored, we can still organise a doomsday and run around the bunker robbing and killing everyone we see, - Juba smirked. - Pass. - Then think about it this way. We could be bawling over the lost days in an office full of murder weapons because the soldiers wouldn't let us shoot ourselves. But we're sitting here drinking tea and eating luxury pizza with real cheese from real cows. I think we're doing pretty good.

Ursa took out a napkin out her pocket. On it, mayflies danced between the sparkling comets.

- Yeah, seems like it.

[transgenderer]

We equipped common swifts with a micro data logger with an accelerometer to record flight activity (years 1–2) and with a light-level sensor for geolocation (year 2). Our data show that swifts are airborne for >99% of the time during their 10-month non-breeding period; some individuals never settled, but occasional events of flight inactivity occurred in most individuals.

[fahye]

HELLO i love you and thank you for the service you have provided in creating the Last Binding series. i first listened to the audiobook of AML and ART and now i’m reading the physical book and let’s just say…i have some THEORIES for APU. I literally cannot stop thinking about Alan and Jack they’ve infiltrated my brain space like no other pairing i’ve read about in YEARS.

here are my theories, feel free to nudge it on for shits and gigs if you’d like:

- hawthorn and ross MAY have met/seen each other before (maybe in NY?)

- based on some tidbits i’ve gathered about APU, i theorize that those two may have had some kind of spicy encounter on the boat

- we’re gonna get hawthorn’s side to his situationship with edwin?? maybe some more edwin/hawthorn interactions??

- for someone that acts like he hates being around magic, hawthorn sure does have a track record for fucking blonde magicians (not a theory, just an observation)

- ross, religious trauma, maybe?

- hawthorn, mommy/daddy issues, maybe?

if there are any silly little tidbits you’d like to add i shall dwell on your every word for the next 226 days. thank u so much for being the creative genius that you are.

anon I sympathise with your condition, in that alan and jack have also infiltrated MY brainspace for the past 18 months and I'm having trouble booting them out again in order to work on new books.

& I am more than happy to air your theories, safe in the smug little knowledge that I am going to refuse to confirm or deny a single one of them.

no that's not true: I'll confirm that there is definitely at least one scene whose sole purpose is for jack and edwin to have an awkward conversation about the fact that they are one another's Terrible Ex. enjoy.

[lonesomedreamereccentriclover]

On January 2nd 2024, the @criterioncollection will release a 4K uhd blu-ray upgrade of the Apu Trilogy with following extras:

SPECIAL FEATURES

4K digital restorations of all three films, undertaken in collaboration with the Academy Film Archive at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and L’Immagine Ritrovata, with uncompressed monaural soundtracks on the 4K UHD and Blu-ray editions

In the 4K UHD edition: Three 4K UHD discs of the films and three Blu-rays with the films and special features

Audio recordings from 1958 of director Satyajit Ray reading his essay “A Long Time on the Little Road” and in conversation with film historian Gideon Bachmann

Interviews with actors Soumitra Chatterjee, Shampa Srivastava, and Sharmila Tagore; camera assistant Soumendu Roy; and film writer Ujjal Chakraborty

Making “The Apu Trilogy”: Satyajit Ray’s Epic Debut, a video essay by Ray biographer Andrew Robinson

“The Apu Trilogy”: A Closer Look, a program featuring filmmaker, producer, and teacher Mamoun Hassan

Excerpts from the 2003 documentary The Song of the Little Road, featuring composer Ravi Shankar

The Creative Person: “Satyajit Ray,” a 1967 documentary short by James Beveridge, featuring interviews with Ray, several of his actors, members of his creative team, and film critic Chidananda Das Gupta

Footage of Ray receiving an honorary Oscar in 1992

Programs on the restorations by filmmaker Kogonada

PLUS: Essays by critics Terrence Rafferty and Girish Shambu, as well as a selection of Ray’s storyboards for Pather Panchali

Cover by F. Ron Miller

[arapuroy23-blog]

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[drgmissioncontrol]

Oof. I’m in the fungi bogs right now, just found that crashed supply shipment from last wee- IS THAT A GUITAR??

THERES ALL KINDS OF COOL STUFF, ALSO hold on I’m changing voice channels….

There we go, private line, you want anything from down here? There’s a vest labeled “hard liquor which is definitely coming back up to the rig and, and none of this is on record, so… yeah. Tell me if you want anything, I see an APU-II unit and a crate with of matrix cores.

I think that’s all corporate property. I wouldn’t take any of it if I were you.

[desicinema2]

Exploring the Evolution of Desi Cinema: A Global Phenomenon

Desi cinema, a vibrant and multifaceted domain, refers to the film industries of South Asia, primarily those from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. But when most people mention "Desi cinema," they often mean Bollywood—India's Hindi-language film industry. However, to focus solely on Bollywood is to miss the rich diversity of cinematic traditions that have emerged from this culturally and geographically varied region.

This blog post aims to explore the evolution of desicinema, its global influence, and how it has transitioned from regional storytelling to a powerful force on the global entertainment stage.

The Roots: Traditional Storytelling and Early Cinema

Before the advent of cinema, storytelling in South Asia was primarily oral, passed down through generations in the form of folktales, mythological epics, and performances like dance-dramas and theatrical productions. The cultural legacy of these traditional forms heavily influenced the development of cinema in the subcontinent.

The first recorded instance of filmmaking in India can be traced back to the late 19th century. In 1913, Raja Harishchandra, the first full-length feature film by Dadasaheb Phalke, marked the beginning of Indian cinema. It was a silent film that adapted Indian myths and folklore into a visual narrative.

However, the true flowering of Desi cinema began in the 1940s and 1950s, as the rise of regional film industries—like the Tamil film industry (Kollywood), Telugu cinema (Tollywood), and Bengali cinema—gave birth to new filmmaking styles, genres, and storytelling techniques. Directors like Satyajit Ray in Bengal revolutionized Indian cinema with his Apu Trilogy in the 1950s, which focused on humanist themes and portrayed India's socio-cultural realities with sensitivity and depth.

The Golden Age: Bollywood Dominance

By the 1950s and 60s, Bollywood, which had already existed in its early stages since the 1930s, began to establish itself as the dominant force in Indian cinema. Films from this era were marked by larger-than-life stories, elaborate song-and-dance sequences, and strong emotional appeal, which resonated with both rural and urban audiences. Bollywood's penchant for grand romance, family dramas, and escapist fantasies created a unique cinematic language that could transcend linguistic and regional barriers.

Key figures like Raj Kapoor, Guru Dutt, Madhubala, and Meena Kumari became household names, and their films gained a cult following not just in India, but across the globe. In the 1970s and 80s, Bollywood evolved further with stars like Amitabh Bachchan, who became iconic for his roles in action-packed blockbusters like Sholay (1975) and Zanjeer (1973). During this period, the genre of the masala film emerged, blending action, drama, comedy, romance, and music into a single package that catered to a wide audience.

Post-1990s: Globalization and the Rise of NRI Cinema

The 1990s ushered in a new era for desi cinemas with the global expansion of Bollywood films. Economic liberalization in India, combined with the growing influence of the Indian diaspora, transformed the way Desi films were made and consumed. The advent of satellite TV and the internet brought Bollywood films to millions of homes worldwide, from the Middle East to the United States, the United Kingdom, and beyond.

Filmmakers like Yash Chopra, Aditya Chopra, and Karan Johar capitalized on this trend by making films that explored themes of identity, love, and cultural assimilation for the NRI (Non-Resident Indian) audience. Movies like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006) became cultural touchstones, resonating with both Indians living abroad and international audiences who were drawn to the romance and spectacle of Bollywood.

Simultaneously, other regional film industries like Tollywood (Telugu), Kollywood (Tamil), and Mollywood (Malayalam) gained prominence both within India and internationally, producing films with distinct storytelling traditions. For instance, Telugu cinema's Baahubali series (2015-2017) became a global sensation, demonstrating the massive appeal of regional films on the international stage.

Contemporary Desi Cinema: Diversity and Innovation

The 21st century has witnessed an explosion of diversity within Desi cinema. Bollywood continues to dominate, but now it faces competition from other regional industries. Filmmakers are increasingly experimenting with content, blending genres, and telling stories that push boundaries and explore pressing social issues. Films like Gully Boy (2019), Article 15 (2019), Andhadhun (2018), and Dangal (2016) have been successful not only in India but internationally, gaining recognition at film festivals and even securing global distribution.

Bollywood's content has evolved significantly, with greater emphasis on social issues such as gender equality, caste discrimination, and mental health. The emergence of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar has also had a significant impact, providing a space for films with niche or unconventional themes to find an audience. These platforms have made Desi cinema accessible to a global audience, breaking down geographical boundaries and allowing for more diverse narratives.

Moreover, the success of films from Pakistan like Khuda Kay Liye (2007) and Cake (2018), as well as Sri Lankan cinema's growing presence on the international stage, underscores how Desi cinema is not limited to India but is a broader, regional phenomenon with a distinct voice.

The Global Influence of Desi Cinema

Desi cinema's influence has also gone beyond the screen. The vibrant world of Bollywood music, with its catchy tunes and intricate choreography, has influenced global pop culture. The Bollywood dance style has found its way into international music videos and performances, and major Western artists like Beyoncé and Madonna have incorporated elements of Indian dance and fashion into their works.

Actors like Priyanka Chopra, Irrfan Khan, and Dev Patel have become global stars, representing the growing international appeal of Desi cinema. Bollywood itself has also increasingly embraced Hollywood collaborations, with films like Slumdog Millionaire (2008) and The Lunchbox (2013) gaining worldwide acclaim.

At the same time, Desi cinema has influenced other global film industries. For example, the fast-paced, action-packed style of Bollywood has inspired filmmakers in the Middle East, Africa, and even Latin America. Indian cinema’s emotional depth and dramatic flair have been admired and adopted in various forms across the world.

Conclusion: The Future of Desi Cinema

As Desi cinema continues to evolve, it is embracing an exciting future marked by bold storytelling, technological innovation, and cultural exchange. The proliferation of digital platforms, the success of regional films on the global stage, and the increasing representation of South Asian narratives in mainstream Western media suggest that the world is ready for more of the unique flavor that Desi cinema has to offer.

For audiences, whether they are tuning in from India, Pakistan, the UK, or anywhere else, Desi cinema offers not only entertainment but also an opportunity to engage with a dynamic, diverse, and ever-evolving cultural landscape. It’s no longer just about Bollywood. It's about a global phenomenon with stories that resonate universally while celebrating the distinct cultural identities that make Desi cinema so unique.

So whether you're a fan of the glitz and glamour of Bollywood or a lover of the raw, powerful narratives emerging from regional cinemas, one thing is clear: Desi cinema is here to stay, and its influence will only grow stronger in the years to come.

[monarch-afterdark]

Superspecies History: Skullcrawlers

Welcome once again to Monarch: After Dark, the digital gateway between you and the organisation dedicated to understanding and navigating this troubled new world we live in.

For today's communication, we begin to move away from the Titans (for now, at least) and cover the wider range of superspecies that also inhabit our world. We begin by peeling back the expansive curtains of Skull Island's many dangers with the devils that lurk beneath the surface; the Skullcrawlers.

(Pictured above: Small clip of footage recovered from the 1973 Skull Island expedition, showing the awakened Skull Devil)

Monarch Database File: Skullcrawlers

Monarch Designation: Cranium reptant (scientific name), Halakrah (Iwi name)

Height: 12-95 feet

Length: 35-194 feet

Weight: 40-100 tons

Species Designation: Necroserpere amphibian, Salamandra (sub-division)

Behaioural Classification: Hypervore, Destroyer

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A distant member of the Salamandra family of amphibians, the Skullcrawlers are ravenous and eternally hungry predators that dominate the Valley of the Fallen Gods, a boneyard holding the remains of Kong's parents. Widely considered as demonic by the native Iwi tribe, the Skullcrawlers were responsible for nearly driving the Apus giganticus species to extinction, leaving Kong the only survivor (until recently).

The Skullcrawlers have a distinct and eerie skull-like face, prehensile tongues that can drag prey to a gruesome mouth full of teeth, and a disturbing ability to mimic human voices. Their hyper-adrenalised metabolism renders them constantly needing to eat, never satisfied, to such an extent that mating pairs will attempt to devour one another after mating, and will never back down from a potential meal, even at the risk of ignoring threats to themselves such as Kong or Mechagodzilla.

The level of fear that the Skullcrawlers brought to the hearts of the Iwi was so much that they refused to speak its name. Hank Marlow, a WW2 pilot stranded on Skull Island, coined the name "Skullcrawlers" for the species. While he tried to withdraw this, personally believing that the name sounded stupid when he said it aloud, the name stuck and later became their official designation.

It should be noted that there is a misconception regarding whether or not Skullcrawlers are classified as Titans, due to an erroneous data report labelling them as 'Titanus Cranium Reptant' emerging in 2021. Just for the record, so the air is cleared, say it with us now...Skullcrawlers are NOT Titans.

(Pictured above: Close-up shot of a Skullcrawler's mouth. Unfortunately, the brave soul who took this footage did not survive the encounter)

Evolved from a line of basal non-amniote reptilomorphs from the Hollow Earth, the volatile history of the Skullcrawlers began thousands of years ago, when they seemed to wage war with the Apus giganticus species that had migrated to the island following their war with the Titanus Gojira species. As the centuries went on, the Skullcrawlers gradually wiped out the great apes until only a single pair were left; Kong's parents.

In the 17th Century, Kong's parents fought their final battle against a swarm of adult Skullcrawlers. While Kong's father held the hypervores back until one drove its tail through his head, Kong's mother gave birth to him and hid him away in a nearby cave. The newborn Kong was helpless to watch as the Skullcrawlers murdered his parents, fuelling his anger toward them and desire to defend the Iwi for centuries to come.

In 1973, at the end of the Vietnam War, a joint Monarch-Landsat expedition to Skull Island had been derailed by an enraged Kong destroying their fleet of helicopters, in response to the choppers dropping seismic charges to map the island's surface. Unbeknownst to the expedition team at the time, their charges had awakened a group of juvenile Skullcrawlers resting within thermal vents beneath the island.

One group of the expedition team found themselves taken in by the Iwi people, where they met stranded veteran Hank Marlow. Marlow revealed the existence of the Skullcrawlers to the group whilst explaining Kong's role on the island. He revealed that the seismic charges had disturbed the Skullcrawlers, and that one of the beasts had killed his enemy-turned-friend Gunpei Ikari some years prior. Marlow stressed the importance of Kong's continued survival and growth, warning that if Kong were to go down, the "Big One" would rise up and the Iwi would be wiped out.

(Pictured above: A juvenile Skullcrawler within the boneyard, circa. 1973)

When the split expedition team reunited, they moved through the boneyard on an ill-advised rescue mission for a soldier, Jack Chapman. As they moved through the boneyard, they hide from a juvenile Skullcrawler that regurgitated Chapman's skeletal remains, having killed him some time prior. The Skullcrawler attacked again, killing senior Monarch operative William Randa and shredding through Colonel Preston Packard's forces before being killed by a gas explosion triggered by anti-war photographer Mason Weaver throwing a lighter into a gas vent.

Packard pressed on with his original plan to kill Kong, despite protests from Marlow. When the ape passed out from Packard's napalm trap, the "Big One" (a Skull Devil, the last fully-grown Skullcrawler) emerged from the nearby waters and approached the party. A weakened Kong attempted to fight back but was defeated, as the Skull Devil pursued the remaining survivors.

The Skull Devil swatted away soldier Earl Cole, not falling for his attempt to coerce it into eating him whilst holding a pair of grenades. As the Skull Devil closed in on the survivors, Kong rejoined the fight and engaged it in a vicious encounter. With some assistance from the humans, Kong killed the Skull Devil by ripping its internal organs out through its mouth. Satsified that he had avenged his parents, Kong left the humans alone to be rescued from the island.

(Pictured above: Artistic interpretation of the battle between Kong's ancestors and the Skullcrawlers)

In 1995-1996, during Aaron Brooks' unauthorised expedition to Skull Island, mythographer Walter Riccio experienced visions of the island's past, including the war between the Skullcrawler's and Kong's ancestors. An English-speaking member of the Iwi, Ato, explained to Aaron that the Skullcrawler population had receded following the Skull Devil's demise, their numbers controlled by Kong and none reaching the size of the Skull Devil. The team still had to evade two juveniles in the boneyard, however.

In 2019, a horde of Skullcrawlers attempted to respond to Monster Zero's call and leave Skull Island, but were prevented from doing so by Kong.

By 2024, Apex Cybernetics had managed to obtain a number of Skullcrawler eggs, and may have been breeding the animals for experimentation. A small team composed of conspiracy theorist Bernie Hayes, Monarch director Mark Russell's daughter Madison, and her friend Josh Valentine, infiltrated an Apex facility in Pensacola following Godzilla's attack, and stumbled upon a transport bound for Hong Kong carrying a clutch of Skullcrawler eggs.

(Pictured above: A giant Skullcrawler being executed by Apex Cybernetics' superweapon, Mechagodzilla, circa. 2024)

The trio found their way into a "sacrifice pit" containing various assorted viscera from previous creatures, including Skullcrawlers. They had arrived just in time to witness a demonstration of Apex's trump card, a Titan-sized mech built in Godzilla's image, christened as Mechagodzilla. CEO Walter Simmons, witnessing the demonstration, ordered the release of "Number 10" into the pit.

Number 10, a Skullcrawler exceeding the Skull Devil in size, charged at the humans and attempted to eat Madison before being grabbed by Mechagodzilla. The mecha dislocated the Skullcrawler's limbs, leaving it helpless to defend itself as it fired it's A-74 Proton Scream Cannon into the beast's mouth, slicing the Skullcrawler in half before deactivating due to power limitations.

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And there you go! Despite the many discoveries Monarch have made since 1973, few seem to compare to the Skullcrawlers in terms of how terrifying they are. While none are known to remain on Skull Island, populations surely still exist within Hollow Earth, endlessly searching for food to reach an impossible satisfaction...

Until next time,

Monarch: After Dark

[joshhamilton11]

Navigating Tax Changes And Updates Affecting Truckers

Navigating tax changes and updates affecting truckers is crucial for maintaining compliance and optimizing tax strategies. Here's a breakdown of some recent tax changes and updates that truckers should be aware of:

Standard Mileage Rate: The IRS often adjusts the standard mileage rate for business miles driven for each tax year. Truckers who use their vehicles for business purposes can deduct a standard rate per mile driven for business. It's essential to stay updated on any changes to this rate, as it can impact your deductions significantly.

Per Diem Rates: Per diem rates for meals and incidental expenses (M&IE) are updated periodically by the IRS. These rates vary depending on the location and are intended to reimburse truckers for expenses incurred while away from home. Keeping track of the latest per diem rates can help truckers maximize their deductions for travel expenses.

Section 179 Deduction: Section 179 allows businesses, including trucking businesses, to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and software purchased or financed during the tax year. In recent years, there have been changes to the maximum deduction limit and eligible property, so staying informed about these updates is crucial for maximizing tax savings.

Fuel Tax Credits: Truckers who use fuel for off-highway business purposes, such as in refrigeration units or auxiliary power units (APUs), may be eligible for fuel tax credits. The eligibility criteria and calculation methods for these credits can change, so it's essential to stay updated on any updates to ensure accurate tax reporting.

State Tax Changes: State tax laws and regulations affecting truckers can vary widely from state to state. Changes to state income tax rates, sales tax rates, and other tax-related policies can impact truckers' overall tax liability. Keeping abreast of state tax changes and updates can help truckers effectively plan their tax strategies.

COVID-19 Relief Measures: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, various relief measures were implemented, including tax provisions aimed at providing assistance to businesses, including trucking businesses. These provisions may include tax credits, deferral of tax payments, and other relief measures. Staying informed about COVID-19-related tax changes can help truckers take advantage of available benefits.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate: The ELD mandate requires commercial motor vehicle drivers, including truckers, to use electronic logging devices to record their hours of service. While not directly related to taxes, compliance with the ELD mandate can impact truckers' operations and may have implications for tax reporting, such as documenting hours worked and mileage driven.

Tax Reform Legislation: Tax reform legislation, such as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), can have far-reaching implications for truckers. Changes to tax rates, deductions, credits, and other tax provisions can affect truckers' overall tax liability and tax planning strategies. Staying informed about tax reform developments and understanding how they impact your tax situation is essential for effective tax planning.

Retirement Planning Options: Retirement planning is an essential aspect of tax planning for truckers. Understanding the tax implications of different retirement savings options, such as traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and solo 401(k) plans, can help truckers make informed decisions about saving for retirement while minimizing their tax liability.

IRS Enforcement Priorities: The IRS may prioritize certain enforcement areas, such as worker classification issues, underreporting of income, or abusive tax shelters. Being aware of the IRS's enforcement priorities can help truckers identify areas of potential risk and ensure compliance with tax laws.

Staying informed about tax changes and updates affecting truckers is essential for maintaining compliance, minimizing tax liability, and optimizing tax planning strategies. Consulting with a qualified trucker tax accountant can provide valuable guidance and assistance in navigating these tax changes effectively.

[peru-perusals]

Day 10 - Part 1 - Machu Picchu

Photo by Austyn

Friday was the big day! Machu Picchu! We had breakfast on the 7th floor of the hotel with beautiful panoramic views, where I recorded the first of many vlogs for the George Fox Study Abroad Instagram page.

We headed down to the lobby where we met Mario and he gave us our bus tickets and our entrance tickets for circuit 4 and Waynapicchu. Due to overcrowding, Machu Picchu has moved to a circuit model, with different groups having access to different parts of the ruins. We got on a bus which took us down past the butterfly sanctuary and up the mountain to Machu Picchu. We got off and waited in the queue for our entrance time at 9:00.

We entered the site along the agricultural terraces and sat as Mario gave us a brief introduction to the importance of the site.

He also noted key things about the architecture like the aqueduct system and how the bricks were individually carved with bumps and holes on the tops and bottoms so they slotted into each other like Incan LEGO pieces.

Photo by Holly

Photo by Alyssa

We walked around the site to the entrance to Waynapicchu, the imposing mountain often seen behind Machu Picchu in photos. We checked in and begun our ascent!

It was essentially one long staircase!

We ran into a group of hikers from North Carolina that were familiar with Fox and knew someone that had graduated from their philosophy program. As we left that group, one of the men begun singing the American folk song “Simple Gifts” as a nod to our Quaker college. Near the top, we reached terraces that we had to climb on all fours like monkeys.

We paused at a landing here and took lots of photos, before climbing farther to the actual peak.

Photo by Alyssa

We took picture with the sign and group selfie over the edge. Bernadette recreated the 1818 painting “Wanderer over a sea of fog.”

Photo by Alyssa

Photo by Holly

We caught our breath and continued over the rocks at the very top, where we took more photos, of course.

Photo by Holly

Being the Chomp ambassador that I am, I took a photo with the Chomp that I shared with others at the peak!

Photo by Holly

We had to take a different route down for the first bit, which took us through a narrow tunnel before rejoining the initial path at the base of the terraces.

The way down was faster and we completed the whole trek in just over two hours. Henry led us through the rest of the site quickly as we rushed to our 1:00 lunch reservation.

As the reservation was not under Henry, Holly, Apus Peru, or George Fox, Henry had to make some phone calls before figuring out that our reservation was under G.F.U.

We were seated and enjoyed our pick of foods from a large buffet. My favorites were the Arabic rice and the ham pizza, along with the bread and salsa, of course.

Continued in Part 2!