#Next-Gen Mass Transit

[manmishra]

India’s Hyperloop Revolution: Pioneering the Future of Transportation

India is revolutionizing transportation by constructing the world’s longest hyperloop test track, aiming to reach speeds of 1,100 km/h. This futuristic technology promises ultra-fast travel, global collaborations, and a sustainable alternative to conventional transit. Explore India's role in shaping the future of high-speed travel.

India is taking a monumental leap in transportation technology by constructing the world’s longest hyperloop test track. This ambitious initiative is set to revolutionize mass transit, positioning India at the forefront of next-generation travel solutions. With plans to extend the test track from an initial 422 meters to nearly 50 kilometers, the country is demonstrating its commitment to…

[mariacallous]

When South Korean legislator Kim Min-seok warned in August that President Yoon Suk-yeol might be plotting to declare martial law, even the most ardent critics of Yoon were skeptical. Of course, the right-wing president was increasingly displaying authoritarian tendencies. In response to his miserably low approval rating, hovering between the high teens and low 20s, as well as mounting corruption allegations against him and his wife, Yoon ordered indiscriminate raids of the offices and residences of liberal politicians and journalists, numerous thinly supported criminal charges against opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, and ostentatious military parades.

But still, the idea that Yoon might attempt martial law and a self-coup—where an existing leader seizes dictatorial power—seemed to be too outlandish. It was seen as partisan fodder, unbecoming of a lawmaker of Kim’s stature—a respected former youth leader of the South Korean democracy movement that ended the military dictatorship of Chun Doo-hwan in 1987. South Korea had not seen martial law since its democratic transition, although a declaration of martial law remained a theoretical possibility in case of a wartime emergency in a hypothetical clash with North Korea.

Then it happened. At 10:23 p.m. local time on Dec. 3, Yoon called an unscheduled press conference. In a six-minute statement, Yoon announced that he was declaring an emergency martial law, claiming that the opposition Democratic Party made the National Assembly “a monster trying to destroy liberal democracy” because the liberal party had brought 22 impeachments against officials in his administration and threatened to slash its discretionary budget. Yoon branded his political opponents are “pro-Pyongyang anti-state forces,” in the same rhetoric that South Korea’s military dictators had used to justify their rule.

Within an hour, Gen. Park An-soo was appointed as the commander of the Martial Law Command, which decreed that all political activities in national and local legislatures were prohibited, all media were subject to the control of the Martial Law Command, and public gatherings and rallies were prohibited. Soon, armored cars and helicopters began emerging in the streets of Seoul.

South Korean news anchors reporting the announcements were visibly shaking because they knew, as did most South Koreans, what could be in store. The last time martial law was declared in South Korea was in 1979, in the waning days of Park Chung-hee’s dictatorship that later gave way to Chun’s. In that martial law period, from October 1979 to January 1981, Chun’s paratroopers massacred hundreds of protesters, perhaps thousands, in the southwestern city of Gwangju.

The mass murders in the aftermath of the Gwangju Uprising became one of the defining moments of modern South Korean history, memorialized in the novel Human Acts by Han Kang, who won the Nobel Prize in literature in October and is due to give her acceptance speech next week. But in 2024, most South Koreans had regarded the massacre as a distant historical event, a tragic but old incident that their country had put past. The public watched the news in shock as armored cars and helicopters were heading to the National Assembly, where lawmakers had the ability to end martial law by a majority vote.

Fortunately, history did not repeat itself—in part because, as with everything he has done, Yoon executed the autogolpe with clownish incompetence. Aspiring authoritarians around the world have long had an established playbook for coups: TV broadcast controlled, the internet jammed, opposition leaders arrested, and checkpoints set up around the city.

The martial law declaration aspired to all of these possibilities, especially control of the media. Yet none of those things happened on the night of Dec. 3. TV cameras roamed freely near the National Assembly Hall, while liberal leaders exhorted the public via social media to protest against Yoon’s power grab. Squads were reportedly deployed to arrest key opposition leaders but were too slow to stop them. Soldiers were reluctant to use force, letting themselves be pushed back by unarmed protesters.

Although details are still emerging as of this writing (around 24 hours since the martial law declaration), it appears that Yoon’s self-coup attempt was so clumsy because the president could not balance the need to keep his plan secret and the need to get the requite buy-ins from key players. Reportedly, it was Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun who suggested declaring martial law. But Kim could only muster a small segment of the military to follow his orders; most of the military and the police remained in their posts. Yoon apparently had no buy-in from conservatives either, as People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon quickly denounced the coup attempt.

Nevertheless, there were many moments where just one wrong turn could have resulted in chaos and bloodbath. Under the law, the National Assembly can end martial law with a majority vote—but of course, that assumes that the legislators are able to vote. The declaration, completely illegally, forbade the National Assembly from gathering, and armed soldiers were dispatched to patrol outside the Assembly Hall, as helicopters equipped with machine guns hovered over them.

Somehow, the South Korean legislators managed. The protesters led a tense standoff against the special forces deployed to the legislature, blocking the soldiers and armored cars while opening a path for lawmakers to enter the building. Democratic Party spokesperson Ahn Gwi-ryeong wrestled an armed soldier with her bare hands before going into the building. Lee, the Democratic leader, showed surprising athleticism for a 60-year-old as he hopped over the walls to avoid the soldiers in front of the building—while livestreaming a video of himself to boot. Thankfully, not a shot was fired.

Once in the building, the lawmakers and their aides barricaded the entrance and opened the legislative session at 12:49 a.m. Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik emphasized that proper parliamentary procedure must be followed to leave no doubt about the result, even as paratroopers broke a window to enter the building and legislative aides pushed them back with fire extinguishers and cellphone flashes.

At 1:01 a.m., after 12 agonizing minutes of typing up the bill and submitting it in accordance with the parliamentary procedure, the 190 out of 300 Assembly members who could manage to enter the hall, including 18 legislators of Yoon’s own party, unanimously voted to end martial law. After a few moments of hesitation, the helicopters and armored cars, then the soldiers, began leaving the hall. Even after the vote, there remained a question whether Yoon would honor the National Assembly vote. The legislators remained in the hall, fearing that Yoon might redeploy the military or declare martial law once again. But at 4:27 a.m., the defeated and humiliated Yoon held a press conference to announce that he would lift martial law.

As of this writing, the situation remains fluid. But it does not appear likely that Yoon will be able to finish out the remainder of his term, which runs until 2027. The Democratic Party demanded that Yoon resign immediately or face impeachment proceedings, which require a two-thirds majority of the 300-seat Assembly. Although Yoon’s party holds a slim buffer with 108 legislators, the president’s coup attempt is likely to be enough to peel off at least eight lawmakers, since 18 of them already voted to end martial law.

Yoon may choose to resign rather than to face the ignominy—though he might still be prosecuted. South Korea has an illustrious history of prosecuting and jailing its former presidents, including two out of the past three presidents, Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye, both conservatives.

However it ends, Yoon’s presidency will serve as a reminder of the resilience of South Korean democracy. South Korea’s first martial law situation in more than four decades ended in approximately six hours, based on a parliamentary vote, with no casualties and not a single shot fired. One errant bullet could have changed the course of history, but the overwhelming weight of democratic norms, physically manifest in a protesting public and the parliamentarians calmly voting in the face of ongoing assault, stayed the hands of the soldiers.

On the other hand, it is another embarrassment for South Korean conservatives, who miraculously came back from the impeachment of their last president, Park, in 2017 to recapture the presidency in a narrow win in 2022 based mostly on grievances about high housing costs. This latest episode will do little to help right-wing leaders shed their reputation as the descendants of military dictators with a streak of authoritarianism that could flare up at the first sign of trouble. The so-called reasonable conservatives, the smaller cadre of right-leaning moderates who think vainly that they can work within the system to change it, will once again have to impeach their own president.

[waheedawolf]

best and worst films of 2023?

I didn't watch many new releases this year (I can do a separate ranking of all the best and worst films I saw in general in '23!) unfortunately, but here are the ones I did watch:

worst

Jawan (mass movies are generally the degradation of good quality masala cinema in the service of hero bhakti, regressive or shallow politics and idol worship. I can count on one hand how many mass movies I've actually liked. Read Baradwaj Rangan's interview about the difference between mass and masala cinema to understand my point better. Atlee literally learned from one of the freshest and most unique voices in masala/mass cinema who's still working today (Shankar) and came up with this lmao.)

Saltburn (wasn't as yucky as I was expecting it to be and not as good as films that it took inspiration from (also can be said for Jawan). I liked the cinematography solely because I'm a sucker for saturated, coloured, pretty cinematography and because I like staring at attractive people doing sexual or suggestive things. Falls flat on most aspects.)

Kho Gaye Hum Kaha (planning on posting a longer review of this on letterboxd but basically it doesn't understand Gen Z internet and is an overly judgemental/shallow/moralising view of social media. Also I didn't think the leads had that great chemistry sue me)

The Archies (there were so many ways to make this good. but alas.)

Animal (this is anticipatory. I haven't watched it yet but I know I won't like it except to stare at pretty people and for the transition between Ranvijay and Abrar's intro)

Barbie (like what it did for theatre culture. Disliked the film itself. Watch Broey Deschanel's video for a better understanding of what I'm trying to say)

best

Bottoms (amazing showstopping incredible so funny and fresh and cult classic)

Polite Society (same as above but pakistani and brit and more tween than sex comedy. i had so much fun watching it and can't wait for the next season of We Are Lady Parts :)

Jhimma 2 (hashtag my Barbie)

Jigarthanda Double X (cinema wins forever ^⁠_⁠^!)

[memorylang]

Settling Into Mongolia’s Modern Capital | #66 | November 2022

These events occurred when I’d been back in Mongolia for about a month. Some oddities of the culture shock had worn off by then, so I could get in more of a rhythm. After I got back from Kharhorin, plenty enough happened. This entry recounts the seedlings of adventures that would become new norms in my second year of Peace Corps service. 

Transition

The Sunday, November 13, 2O22, which kicked off my Week 5, was fairly mundane. I attended English and Chinese Mass at my local St. Thomas Aquinas parish, practiced more people's names, met some of the parishioners’ kids then returned to my apartment. It was a good morning. 

Then in my apartment, I spent the afternoon and evening writing. My main counterpart visited to drop off a considerable portion of the countryside meat, since our return to UB the night before. It was kind of wild to think that I had seen that animal walking just a couple days before. That Sunday, though, I had three articles I intended to finish. By 2 a.m., I had two pretty well drafted. The third was still some time coming. But finishing would have to wait. 

New Projects, Familiar Faces

Tuesday, November 15, 2O22, I co-facilitated my first community English speaking club since my time in Erdenet. It was with the Volunteer Center of Mongolia, alongside my fellow M3O, Eric. Earlier that day, the two of us had visited the UNFP at the United Nations building. Eric and I had the interesting task of visiting local nonprofits and NGOs in preparation to report back to the new M3I Peace Corps Mongolia Trainees.

On a special note, one of the attendees of that speaking club was one of my former English/Chinese students from the 2OI9 group of international relations sophomores I’d taught back at the National University of Mongolia, Erdenet School. She had since graduated this spring 2O22, after having moved to UB. Having her as a facilitator for our speaking group felt so touching. 

After Tuesday evening’s speaking club, I dropped by a small place on the west side of the square called the EscoBar. It’s where the public English “UB Quiz Night” was going down. Participants could pay a slight fee to join in for the chance to win the money if their table group won. (And if their team won second place, they were responsible for setting up the following week’s quiz.) Dropping by, I remembered how in Reno, Nevada, church friends from Newman would also participate in bar trivia outside town. On one such occasion I’d driven out to participate though I skipped the drinks.

The next afternoon, Wednesday, November 16, my main coworker and I taught our first seminar together! It was a citywide English methodology workshop hosted at a local secondary school, #48, near our office. I learned these monthly seminars would be a regular feature of my assignment to our city’s department of education. During the workshop, when I wasn’t presenting, I was noting unfamiliar Mongolian words and translating them with my dictionary. Some teachers got some cool photos and videos of me presenting! My first workshop was about how to reach Gen Z, which related to my Springtide Ambassador Program work. Apparently my being single was also an interesting tidbit to some in the room, too.

Volunteer Opportunities and Reunions

The next morning, Thursday, November 17, fellow M3O Eric and I embarked on a trip to Special Olympics Mongolia, the site of one of our M28 predecessors who’d stayed on back in 2OI9 to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer Leader (PCVL). With the PCVLs having evacuated with the rest of us, their former sites were now potential NGOs with whom we could serve. Special Olympics specifically had a special partnership with the Peace Corps thanks to the Shrivers. 

Perhaps of the most special importance was an introduction to the American Corner. On Tuesday night, I’d also met at the Volunteer Center of Mongolia a volunteer who’d done projects in the city library, Duka. That afternoon I came by the uncannily familiar library. I would recognize this was one of many locations in UB I had visited only once yet significantly nonetheless. It was the site of the filmmakers’ December 2OI9 talk before my Christmas return to America that year. 

At the American Corner, the student volunteer Duka introduced me to their program coordinator, Ari. From there, I got an overview of the center’s programs and needs. In Peace Corps lingo, we call this the needs assessment. I decided to help on their children’s speaking club and writing workshops. A children’s speaking club was among my Erdenet projects before, and writing was my specialty. I also met fellow Americans, such as those who came to Mongolia on the current cohort of Fulbrighters. I heard of more, too! My network rapidly expanded. 

I at last got my schedule to work so that I could meet a dear ol’ friend. And my, what a meeting! We shared what felt for me like the finest meal I'd had since the time our Peace Corps Country Director had come to visit my sitemates and me just over three years before, Nov. 3, 2OI9, in Erdenet. Even the drinks were great! We reminisced about my days when I was first in Mongolia and he’d visited me at my old site. He shared more too about his professional background and work since the pandemic unfolded. We resolved to meet again so he could introduce me to program partners. It was a pleasant night. 

Projects Beginning

That Friday, November 18, 2O22, marked the one-month anniversary since my return to Mongolia. 

In fun resourcefulness news, I unlocked a door using scissors! It was during a visit to Beautiful Hearts, another previous Peace Corps Volunteer Leader (PCVL) site. I certainly appreciated this organization's service and hoped there was something Eric and I could do to carry on the Peace Corps partnership with them. At least a few of our M3I Trainees had social work backgrounds, too! Baigalmaa would be our main contact there. Another staff member there also mentioned I could get some tasty Chinese food from a restaurant near my office. 

That afternoon I returned to the American Corner to begin as a co-facilitator to its children’s speaking club. In typical Peace Corps Mongolia fashion, I wondered if they played a prank on me, for when I got there, no one was around. Then people arrived. It made for a good laugh in the group chat. 

I felt that the co-facilitator was a lovely presider. She gave me the grade school teacher vibe by how she smiled at the children and exuded what felt to me as though serene patience. I was quite literally passed the mic, so I took the floor. That was a fun moment. 

Afterward, we strolled amid the flurries back toward the square. She was studying at university to become an English teacher, so I felt glad that she was working on our program. Then I continued my new Mongolian language classes with the friend Adonis. Turns out his lessons were in the same building as the Special Olympics office. So many places related! 

Weekend All Across Town

Saturday, November 19 was Day 3 at the American Corner, then back to the cathedral. That morning a few of the M3I Trainees arrived with me to the public English speaking club. After it began transitioning to its Toastmasters time, that’s when I took off early to catch a bus east to Ofitser, where the cathedral was near. 

At the cathedral, we rehearsed with the music ministry and celebrated with children the vigil Mass ahead of the next day’s Christ the King Sunday. I then received a ride from the cathedral to the Shangri-La, where we had the theatre. Unfortunately, just in front of the Star Apartments area (very close to the Shangri-La), we had a somewhat scary moment when our car wound up scraped with another. So I and a friend got out of the car and walked the remainder to the theater. 

That night, a group of new Peace Corps Trainees and us saw the new “Black Panther.” I missed the introduction. But later reading, I discovered that it was as I expected: Chadwick Boseman’s real passing was referenced similarly by characters in the film as T’Challa’s passing. I found the film otherwise moody in the right ways. For it dealt with questions of colonialism while introducing a mutant of incredible power and decent charisma even if too headstrong. I also appreciated how they worked in the MIT character, for it reminded me of wandering the campus just a few months earlier, in September. I looked forward to seeing what Marvel Studios would do with her story. 

Sunday, November 2O, 2O22, I returned to the cathedral for Christ the King Sunday, the last day of the church year. After singing with the choir, I ventured to a far side of town to a large bookstore called Azkhur. I came for an Autism Association of Mongolia volunteer training alongside M3O Eric, our Beautiful Hearts contact Baigalmaa and our friend from the Volunteer Center of Mongolia, Tsevelmaa. I enjoyed how our networking was already benefitting other organizations. 

School Visits and New Encounters

Monday, I embarked on multiple school visits alongside my counterparts. We traveled to the 72nd, 50th and 5th Schools that day, primarily within the Chingeltei district. When introduced to English teachers, I did short needs assessments with their departments, sometimes even observed classes and gave teaching methodology advice to help address needs. Such school visits would become part of my main routines. 

The next morning was the Feast of St. Cecelia. That morning, M3O Eric and I stopped by the Red Cross to learn more about its volunteer activities. That evening, he and I returned to the Edu-Volunteers’ English speaking club. That night, I returned to the American Corner to meet the American facilitator Nick of its remaining writers’ workshop. He taught me about what’s worked in his workshop and needs still to meet. 

To wrap up Tuesday night, I headed with Nick to the 976 restaurant to experience another place where fellow international folks like to go, salsa night. It was a packed evening full of energetic folks hitting the floor every few minutes for salsa, bachata and kizomba. And after some time I eventually met the American for whom we were looking, Audrey. She was such a positive, peppy woman. It was nice to know another American associated with the Fulbright, too! 

The U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia

Wednesday morning was an exciting time, for the new U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, Mr. Michael Klecheski’s successor, would meet us Peace Corps folks. I needed some more vaccinations first from Medical, then it was time for the meet-up. That morning we returned to the community center of Star Apartments, where we’d celebrated Hallowe’en. This time the center was more plainly adorned. There we met the Ambassador, Mr. Richard Buangan, such a warm fellow. 

Given that he was only the second ambassador I’d met, I naturally found myself comparing what I remembered of our 2OI9 ambassador and our current. Both were friendly and informed men. Though, I supposed I related better to Mr. Buangan’s interest in media and his Filipino descent, which reminded me of my tita. I hadn’t realized journalism in Mongolia had such challenges, yet that greatly interested me. It was wonderful to hear too he was so supportive of us Peace Corps folks. I wondered if someday I could become a U.S. ambassador. 

For lunch I dropped by the Chinese restaurant mentioned to us the Friday before at Beautiful Hearts. It was admittedly alright. I wasn’t sure how regularly I’d want to come but at least the prices were nice. After that I headed back to the department office to work through the afternoon. 

Chinggis Khaan’s Birthday Eve

That evening, Trainees and I assembled at a Starbucks-like Tom N Toms coffee shop in an office building downtown to co-plan our next big operation to occur on Chinggis Khaan’s Birthday, coinciding with Thanksgiving. We divvied up who would do what during our American cultural component of the presentation. I found it a bit ironic to get saddled with the Southwest despite feeling personally more like a Midwesterner. Nonetheless, the “Wild West” was a more iconic part of our nation and one that my Vegas experiences certainly enabled me to speak on. 

Thus, in that single week after my Language Proficiency Interview and ‘cultural practicum’ to Kharhorin, new projects had begun in earnest. Every new day sowed the seeds of a next one. 

You can read more from me here at memoryLang.Tumblr.com :)

[earthvitalsignimpact]

Rebuilding Ukraine’s Zero-Carbon Economy: A Strategic Vision

by UEVS and the power of AI

Andriy leaned forward, his expression serious yet filled with a quiet determination. “If we want to rebuild Ukraine as a zero-carbon economy, we must start from first principles. This is not just about replacing old infrastructure; it’s about rethinking the entire system—energy, industry, agriculture, finance, and even governance. The war may have devastated our economy, but it has also given us a unique opportunity: to build a model for the future, free from the baggage of outdated industries.”

Elana nodded. “Exactly. Many countries are struggling to transition from fossil fuels, but Ukraine, having to rebuild from the ground up, can leapfrog straight into a regenerative economy—one that restores ecosystems, prioritizes resilience, and ensures long-term sovereignty. This isn’t just about sustainability; it’s about Ukraine leading a new global paradigm.”

1. Energy Independence: From Ruins to Renewables

Andriy tapped his pen against his notebook. “The foundation of a zero-carbon economy is energy. Ukraine was heavily reliant on coal, gas, and nuclear before the war. What’s the fastest way to transition?”

Elana considered the question. “Several pathways:

Mass-scale solar & wind deployment – Ukraine has vast open lands, perfect for solar farms. Offshore wind in the Black Sea and onshore wind in the Carpathians could provide significant capacity.

Decentralized microgrids – Rather than rebuilding a centralized power grid vulnerable to attacks, invest in localized microgrids powered by renewables. AI-driven grid management can dynamically optimize power flows based on demand.

Geothermal & hydro – Tapping into Ukraine’s geothermal potential could provide baseload energy, while upgrading existing hydroelectric capacity stabilizes the grid.

Fusion & next-gen nuclear – Ukraine has a strong scientific community. Investing in solid-state battery storage, small modular reactors (SMRs), and even nuclear fusion R&D could make the country a leader in next-gen energy solutions.

“These solutions would make Ukraine energy-independent,” Elana continued. “No more reliance on imported fossil fuels. No more energy blackmail. Energy security is national security.”

Andriy exhaled sharply, nodding. “You’re right. We’ve seen how dependency can be weaponized. A decentralized, renewable grid is our best insurance policy.”

2. Industrial Decarbonization: A Revolution in Manufacturing

Andriy flipped to a new page. “What about industry? Our steel and heavy manufacturing sector were the backbone of our economy. How do we rebuild without falling back into high emissions?”

Elana smiled. “We redesign the entire supply chain:

Green hydrogen for steel & heavy industry – Instead of coal-fired steel production, use hydrogen-based direct reduction. Ukraine could produce green hydrogen using excess renewable energy.

Circular economy principles – Prioritize recycled steel, aluminum, and concrete instead of virgin materials, cutting emissions and reducing dependency on extraction.

3D printing for construction – Advanced additive manufacturing could speed up reconstruction while minimizing waste. Smart biomaterials infused with carbon-sequestering algae can even absorb CO₂ over time.

Bioplastics & sustainable materials – Ukraine can position itself as a leader in biomanufacturing, using agricultural waste to produce biodegradable plastics and eco-friendly composites.”

Andriy looked intrigued. “Green hydrogen is ambitious. Expensive, too. Can we make it cost-effective?”

Elana nodded. “With AI-driven optimization and the dropping costs of electrolyzers, Ukraine could export hydrogen to Europe, turning it into an economic advantage.”

3. Agriculture & Food Security: Regenerative Farming

Andriy sighed. “Agriculture is another challenge. Ukraine was a major food exporter, but traditional farming depletes the soil. How do we feed the population while regenerating our land?”

Elana’s eyes lit up. “By shifting to regenerative agriculture:

Agroforestry & permaculture – Integrating trees, crops, and livestock restores soil health and increases resilience to extreme weather.

Carbon farming – Incentivizing farmers to sequester CO₂ using biochar, cover cropping, and no-till farming. This could create a carbon credit economy, providing additional income.

AI-driven precision farming – Using drones, sensors, and blockchain logistics to optimize water and fertilizer use, increasing yields while reducing waste.

Protein transition – Ukraine could become a leader in lab-grown meat, insect farming

Algae-based Omega-3 production for sustainable improvement of brain performance and cardiovascular health”

Andriy chuckled. “Lab-grown borscht? I’m not sure Ukrainians are ready for that.”

Elana laughed. “Okay, maybe not that extreme. But shifting to carbon-negative farming would make Ukraine food-secure and a leader in climate-resilient agriculture.”

4. Financial Strategy: Funding the Green Revolution

Andriy leaned back. “This all sounds incredible, but let’s talk reality. How do we finance it?”

Elana’s expression turned serious. “That’s where decentralized finance (DeFi) and digital sovereignty come in:

Green Bonds & Carbon Credits – Ukraine can issue green recovery bonds to attract investment from sustainability funds.

Bitcoin & Digital Finance – Ukraine has embraced crypto. Using blockchain for funding allocation could prevent corruption and attract decentralized global capital.

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) – Bring in tech companies and impact investors to fund key projects.

Diaspora Investment Fund – Ukrainians abroad want to help rebuild. A global Ukrainian investment fund could attract capital without bureaucratic constraints.”

Andriy nodded, his mind racing. “So, we don’t need to wait for foreign aid. We can mobilize decentralized capital to rebuild?”

Elana smiled. “Exactly. And by using digital finance, blockchain, and decentralized governance, Ukraine ensures that its sovereignty is never compromised again.”

5. Defense & Resilience: Smart Cities & Cybersecurity

Andriy closed his notebook. “Final question: How do we ensure that our new infrastructure is resilient to future threats?”

Elana drew a sketch on a napkin. “We build AI-driven, self-sustaining smart cities:

Energy-positive buildings – Homes and offices that generate more energy than they consume through solar-integrated facades and kinetic flooring.

Hyperloop & electric transit – A modernized transport network using high-speed rail, electric buses, and bike-friendly infrastructure.

Water recycling & vertical farming – Cities with closed-loop water systems and rooftop farms for food security.

AI-driven security & cybersecurity – Using quantum cryptography to protect energy grids and AI-driven cyber defense to secure critical infrastructure.”

Andriy smiled. “You’re describing a Ukraine that doesn’t just recover—it leads the world in sustainable innovation.”

Elana placed her hand on his. “Andriy, this is possible. The question isn’t whether Ukraine can rebuild as a zero-carbon economy—the question is whether the world is ready to follow its lead.”

Andriy exhaled. “Then let’s build the future from the ashes. A stronger, cleaner, sovereign Ukraine.”

Ukraine’s New Role in the World

By rebuilding as a zero-carbon, decentralized, and digitally sovereign nation, Ukraine could: ✅ Become a global leader in clean energy and green hydrogen ✅ Export advanced sustainable manufacturing technologies ✅ Use AI and blockchain to create a fully transparent, corruption-free economy ✅ Show the world how to build a nation that is truly resilient—militarily, financially, and ecologically

🚀 Quiz: Rebuilding Ukraine as a Zero-Carbon Economy

📌 Instructions:

Multiple-choice: Choose the correct answer.

True/False: Answer whether the statement is true or false.

Short answer: Provide a brief response.

🔋 Section 1: Energy Independence

1.1 Multiple Choice

What is one of the key advantages of decentralized microgrids in Ukraine’s future energy system? A) They reduce the need for batteries B) They prevent large-scale blackouts and increase resilience C) They increase dependence on fossil fuels D) They require more imported energy

👉 Answer: B) They prevent large-scale blackouts and increase resilience

1.2 True or False

Ukraine’s zero-carbon strategy includes investing in geothermal and hydroelectric power to stabilize the energy grid.

👉 Answer: True

1.3 Short Answer

What are two cutting-edge energy technologies Ukraine could invest in for long-term clean energy solutions?

👉 Possible Answer: Nuclear fusion and small modular reactors (SMRs)

🏗️ Section 2: Industrial Decarbonization

2.1 Multiple Choice

Which green technology can replace coal in steel production? A) Carbon capture and storage B) Green hydrogen C) Biomass energy D) Fossil fuel derivatives

👉 Answer: B) Green hydrogen

2.2 True or False

3D printing in construction can reduce waste and speed up rebuilding efforts in Ukraine.

👉 Answer: True

2.3 Short Answer

Name one biodegradable material Ukraine could invest in to replace traditional plastic.

👉 Possible Answer: Bioplastics made from agricultural waste

🌾 Section 3: Agriculture, Food Security & Sustainable Nutrition

3.1 Multiple Choice

Which farming technique helps restore soil health and increase resilience? A) Monoculture farming B) Intensive pesticide use C) Agroforestry and permaculture D) Overgrazing

👉 Answer: C) Agroforestry and permaculture

3.2 True or False

AI-driven precision farming can help Ukraine reduce fertilizer and water waste.

👉 Answer: True

3.3 Short Answer

What is one innovative protein source that could reduce Ukraine’s land and water use?

👉 Possible Answer: Insect protein, lab-grown meat, or plant-based proteins like pea or lentil protein.

3.4 Multiple Choice

Which sustainable fatty acid source can be used as an alternative to fish oil for Omega-3 production? A) Palm oil B) Soybean oil C) Algae-based Omega-3 D) Canola oil

👉 Answer: C) Algae-based Omega-3

3.5 True or False

Algae-based Omega-3 is a sustainable alternative to fish oil and can help reduce overfishing.

👉 Answer: True

3.6 Short Answer

Why is algae-based Omega-3 considered a more sustainable option than traditional fish oil?

👉 Possible Answer: Algae-based Omega-3 does not contribute to overfishing, requires less water and land than fish farming, and provides a direct source of DHA and EPA without disrupting marine ecosystems.

💰 Section 4: Financial Strategy

4.1 Multiple Choice

How can blockchain and digital finance help fund Ukraine’s zero-carbon economy? A) Increase corruption and inefficiency B) Allow transparent tracking of funds and decentralized investments C) Make traditional banks obsolete overnight D) Reduce the need for foreign investments

👉 Answer: B) Allow transparent tracking of funds and decentralized investments

4.2 True or False

Ukraine’s diaspora investment fund can allow Ukrainians abroad to contribute to the country’s rebuilding efforts.

👉 Answer: True

4.3 Short Answer

What is one way Ukraine can use carbon credits to support its green economy?

👉 Possible Answer: By monetizing CO₂ sequestration through regenerative farming and reforestation projects.

🏙️ Section 5: Smart Cities & Resilience

5.1 Multiple Choice

Which technology can optimize energy use, waste management, and disaster response in a smart city? A) Fossil fuel analytics B) AI-driven urban planning C) Manual record-keeping D) Centralized, high-carbon infrastructure

👉 Answer: B) AI-driven urban planning

5.2 True or False

Hyperloop and electric transit systems are planned to replace inefficient transport networks in a zero-carbon Ukraine.

👉 Answer: True

5.3 Short Answer

What is one way AI-driven cybersecurity can protect Ukraine’s energy infrastructure?

👉 Possible Answer: AI can detect and neutralize cyberattacks on the energy grid before they cause disruption.

💡 Bonus Question

🌍 If Ukraine successfully builds a zero-carbon economy, what global impact could it have?

👉 Possible Answer: Ukraine could become a model for other nations, export green technologies, lead in hydrogen production, and increase geopolitical stability through energy independence.

🔍 Scoring Guide:

✅ 15-20 Correct Answers: Green Leader 🌱🌍 – You’re ready to help design Ukraine’s future! ✅ 10-14 Correct Answers: Sustainable Innovator ⚡🔧 – You understand the key concepts but need a bit more research. ✅ 5-9 Correct Answers: Eco-Explorer 🌿🚀 – You have potential! Time to study Ukraine’s green economy further. ✅ 0-4 Correct Answers: Climate Rookie 🌏❗ – Keep learning! Sustainability is the key to the future.

[fitnessoverload]

PrimeGENIX Review - Top Supplements for Men Over 40 to Boost Strength & Vitality

PrimeGENIX: The Ultimate Supplement for Gen-X Men

As men transition into their 40s and 50s, physiological changes can significantly impact energy levels, hormone balance, and overall physical performance. For Gen-X men, born between 1965 and 1980, maintaining peak performance and health becomes increasingly challenging. Unlike traditional supplements that cater to younger athletes, PrimeGENIX® is specifically designed to meet the needs of aging men. This premium supplement brand offers a comprehensive solution to optimize hormones, enhance energy, and improve physical performance.

Understanding the Need for PrimeGENIX® Supplements

Aging brings unique challenges that require targeted nutritional support. PrimeGENIX® understands the distinct needs of Gen-X men and has crafted advanced formulations to address these concerns. Here are key reasons why PrimeGENIX® stands out:

Hormone Optimization: With age, testosterone levels naturally decline, impacting energy, mood, and muscle mass. PrimeGENIX® products can increase free testosterone by up to 72.87% in just 12 weeks, while naturally reducing harmful estrogen levels.

Performance Enhancement: These supplements are engineered to boost strength and energy, enhance stamina and recovery, and improve metabolic functions, ensuring that men can continue to perform at their best.

Advanced Formulations: Utilizing clinically proven ingredients, PrimeGENIX® ensures enhanced absorption rates and offers stim-free options for safer use.

Quality Assurance: The brand's commitment to quality is evident as their formulas are reviewed and approved by Dr. Kaleb Redden, a renowned fitness and nutrition specialist.

Weight Management: PrimeGENIX®’s CalmLean™ formula promotes thermogenic weight loss without stimulants, boosting metabolism and curbing hunger.

Transparent Practices: The brand adheres to scientifically studied doses, strict manufacturing guidelines, and offers a 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee.

Explore the transformation with PrimeGENIX® and witness the difference it makes in your fitness journey.

The Science Behind Hormone Optimization

Increase Free Testosterone Levels

PrimeGENIX® is formulated to significantly boost free testosterone levels, which is crucial for maintaining vitality and muscle mass. The natural decline in testosterone can be countered with ingredients that are scientifically proven to enhance hormone balance, leading to increased energy and improved mood.

Reduction of Harmful Estrogen

Alongside increasing testosterone, PrimeGENIX® supplements naturally reduce harmful estrogen levels. This balance is essential for maintaining a healthy physique, aiding in muscle development, and preventing unwanted side effects such as weight gain and fatigue.

Performance Enhancement: Boosting Strength and Energy

Enhancing Stamina and Recovery

A notable feature of PrimeGENIX® is its ability to enhance stamina and speed up recovery times. Whether you're hitting the gym or engaging in daily activities, improved stamina allows you to push further while faster recovery ensures you are ready for the next challenge sooner.

Improving Metabolic Functions

Incorporating PrimeGENIX® into your routine can lead to improved metabolic functions. This not only aids in maintaining a healthy weight but also supports overall energy levels, allowing you to remain active and vibrant throughout the day.

Advanced Formulations: Safe and Effective

Clinically Proven Ingredients

PrimeGENIX® sources clinically proven ingredients to ensure that every supplement delivers on its promise. The careful selection and combination of these ingredients guarantee maximum effectiveness and safety.

Enhanced Absorption Rates

To maximize the benefits, PrimeGENIX® supplements are designed for optimal absorption. This ensures that your body receives and utilizes the nutrients effectively, enhancing the overall impact of the supplements.

Stim-Free Options

For those sensitive to stimulants, PrimeGENIX® offers stim-free options, allowing users to experience the benefits without the jitters or crashes associated with many performance-enhancing products.

Quality Assurance: Backed by Experts

Reviewed by Dr. Kaleb Redden, a well-respected fitness and nutrition specialist, PrimeGENIX® supplements undergo rigorous quality checks. This commitment to excellence ensures that every product meets the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.

Weight Management with CalmLean™

Thermogenic Weight Loss

PrimeGENIX®’s CalmLean™ formula supports thermogenic weight loss without the use of stimulants. This innovative approach boosts metabolism, aiding in fat burning while keeping your hunger in check.

Reducing Hunger Naturally

By naturally curbing appetite, CalmLean™ helps in maintaining a balanced diet, which is crucial for effective weight management.

Transparent Practices: Trust and Satisfaction

PrimeGENIX® prides itself on its transparency. By adhering to scientifically researched doses and strict manufacturing guidelines, the brand ensures that you receive a product that is both safe and effective. Their 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee further underscores their confidence in their products' ability to deliver results.

Conclusion: Embrace the PrimeGENIX® Difference

PrimeGENIX® offers a unique approach to supplements specifically formulated for Gen-X men, addressing the challenges that come with aging. With a focus on hormone optimization, performance enhancement, and weight management, these supplements provide comprehensive support for your fitness journey. Experience the difference PrimeGENIX® can make in your life and take the first step towards improved vitality and performance. Visit PrimeGENIX® today and transform your health and fitness journey.

[govindhtech]

The Samsung AM9C1 Automotive SSD With 8th-Gen V-NAND

Using 8th-generation V-NAND,Samsung Electronics Creates the First Automotive SSD in the Industry

Automotive SSD

With a 5nm controller, SLC mode option, and cutting-edge V-NAND technology, the 256GB AM9C1 has the quickest speed in the industry. For next-generation cars with on-device AI capabilities, the SSD is the best option because to its improved performance and dependability.

- Advertisement -

The first PCIe 4.0 vehicle SSD based on eighth-generation vertical NAND (V-NAND) was successfully produced by Samsung Electronics, a global leader in advanced memory technology, the company stated today. The AM9C1 auto SSD is the finest choice for on-device AI capabilities in automotive applications because it provides better endurance and industry-leading performance.

The new 256GB auto SSD will provide sequential read and write rates of up to 4,400 megabytes-per-second (MB/s) and 400MB/s, respectively, with around 50% better power efficiency than its predecessor, AM991.

“By offering high-performance, high-capacity automotive products, Samsung collaborating with global autonomous vehicle makers,” stated Hyunduk Cho, Vice President and Head of Automotive Group at Samsung Electronics’ Memory Business. Samsung will maintain its position as the industry leader in Physical AI memory, which includes robotics and autonomous driving technology.

With its single-level cell (SLC) Namespace feature and built on Samsung’s 5-nanometer (nm) controller, the AM9C1 exhibits excellent performance, making files containing large amounts of data easy to access. Users can take advantage of the increased read and write speeds of up to 4,700MB/s and 1,400MB/s, respectively, by transitioning from the original triple-level cell (TLC) state to SLC mode. Additionally, SLC SSDs offer increased dependability.

With important partners, the 256GB AM9C1 is already undergoing sampling, and by year’s end, mass production is anticipated to start. As the market for high-capacity automotive SSDs continues to grow, Samsung intends to release several storage lineups of the AM9C1, with capacities ranging from 128GB to 2 terabytes (TB). Early in the following year, the largest 2TB model in the industry is expected to go into mass production.

Samsung’s new automotive SSD product meets the automotive semiconductor quality standard AEC-Q100 Grade 2 with more rigorous board-level testing, guaranteeing consistent performance throughout a broad temperature range of -40°C to 105°C.

Samsung also uses a number of quality assurance procedures to make sure that its products meet the strict durability and stability requirements of the automobile industry. With its UFS 3.1 software, the business obtained ASPICE Automotive Software Process Improvement and Capability dEtermination CL3 authentication in March of this year.

Samsung will work to maintain and improve its automotive products’ technological stability to achieve ISO/SAE 21434-based CSMS certification.

The ISO/SAE 21434 and ASPICE certifications, according to Hwaseok Oh, Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ Memory Business, “are milestones that affirm the reliability and stability of Samsung technology.” “Samsung will keep improving the quality and stability of its products, giving important partners the best option.”

Samsung Electronics

Samsung’s groundbreaking technologies inspire people worldwide and shape the future. Through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners, the company is changing TVs, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances, network systems, memory, system LSI, foundry, and LED solutions. It is also creating a seamless connected experience.

Automotive grade SSD

Surpassing transportation, and into a space of fun

Complete range of performance memory. Samsung’s expanded line-up of NAND products offers diverse solutions optimized for automotive use. Exceptional eMMC, UFS, and AutoSSD empower the next generation of hugely upgraded in-vehicle infotainment systems, for outstanding mobility experiences.

AutoSSD

BGA-type AutoSSD’s are ideal for creating PKG structures specialized for the automotive industry. Up to 1TB of storage and max 2,300 MB/s read speed equip vehicles with ultrafast in-vehicle data management.

Automotive solutions

Product collections for automotive that fits your needs. Automotive solutions comprise an extensive array of goods, services, and technologies intended to improve the functionality, economy, security, and comfort of automobiles.

Read more on govindhtech.com

[jcmarchi]

Ben Alfi, CEO & Co-Founder of Bluewhite – Interview Series

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/ben-alfi-ceo-co-founder-of-bluewhite-interview-series/

Ben Alfi, CEO & Co-Founder of Bluewhite – Interview Series

Ben Alfi is the Founder and CEO of Bluewhite, an autonomous technology company. He established the business in 2017 after more than 25 years of experience in the Israeli Air Force as a combat pilot and Head of Unmanned Systems R&D Programs.

Bluewhite focuses on improving farm resilience by providing technology that maximizes productivity and reduces operational costs. The company equips existing fleets with autonomous technology, offering a user-friendly platform and comprehensive service to help farms become more profitable and sustainable. Alfi has extensive expertise in deploying large-scale autonomous systems and has founded several successful startups. He is also actively involved in supporting Israel’s startup ecosystem, promoting values such as fellowship, innovation, and connection to the land.

After 25 years in the Israeli Air Force, you transitioned to agriculture by founding Bluewhite in 2017. Can you share more about the journey and inspiration behind starting Bluewhite, and why you chose to focus on autonomous technology for existing tractors instead of building new ones from scratch?

After two decades in the Air Force, I was inspired to apply my experience in advanced robotic systems to agriculture. In my work I saw how military-grade technology was quickly becoming mass-market-ready and understood the benefits of next-gen robotics and AI processing to disrupt industries. My co-founders and I looked for where we could have the largest impact and quickly settled on agriculture, a traditionalist industry which was ripe for innovation. We co-founded Bluewhite in 2017 to tackle the pressing challenges of labor shortages, rising operational costs, and environmental concerns that pose a crushing risk to global food production. As part of our company’s ethos, we chose to retrofit existing tractors with our autonomous technology rather than building new ones, to enable growers to immediately benefit from increased ROI without the cost and downtime of overhauling their equipment stack. This approach ensures farmers can maximize their current investments while rapidly adopting advanced technology to improve efficiency and productivity.

How does Bluewhite’s autonomous technology improve on-farm efficiency and reduce input costs for growers?

Bluewhite’s technology combines hardware and software into a seamless solution that allows for complete remote fleet management. Pathfinder, our hardware offering, which can be retrofitted onto any tractor, uses computer vision, AI, and smart implement integration to perform tasks like seeding, spraying, mowing and more autonomously. This allows growers to direct their limited work force toward higher-value tasks like farm management or skilled labor, and benefit from boosted productivity. This leads to significant reductions in labor costs, and chemical usage, ultimately decreasing overall production costs by up to 85% while increasing efficiency through data-driven operation planning. By maximizing inputs and minimizing both material waste and down time, autonomous agriculture is the critical solution for increasing yields and profits to ensure global food supply.

According to a recent McKinsey report, AI can add significant economic value in agriculture. Can you share specific examples of how Bluewhite’s technology contributes to this economic value both on and off the farm?

Bluewhite’s technology focuses on on-farm efficiency by automating labor-intensive tasks, which leads to significant cost reductions (reduced labor costs by 40-50%). For instance, our autonomous systems can limit inputs with precision materials application, automate streamlined tasks, and work round-the-clock, reducing the need for manual labor, improving safety and application quality in the farm and optimizing the use of inputs like chemicals. Savings from increased efficiency enable lower prices on produce and food for shoppers and increased profitability for distributors and retailers, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector, capable of weathering supply chain shocks to meet demand amidst resource scarcity and inflation.

How does the use of Bluewhite’s autonomous systems contribute to environmental sustainability, particularly in terms of reducing chemical usage and improving soil health?

Our autonomous systems minimize the overall quantity of toxic chemicals used. Precise and accurate chemical application enables the protection of local ecology and health from undue harm caused by toxic run-off or wind drift. By reducing unnecessary miles driven and optimizing resource allocation, Bluewhite is helping lower the overall carbon footprint of agricultural operations.

What measures has Bluewhite implemented to ensure the safety of autonomous tractor operations, and how do you train farm workers to use this technology effectively?

Safety is paramount in our ethos and operations. Bluewhite prioritizes safety in its autonomous tractor operations through a multi-layered approach. The system includes continuous self-diagnostics that monitor critical components like sensors, steering, and brakes, so that any issues trigger immediate corrective actions to ensure growers’ equipment stays operational. Bluewhite offers a safety layer of field intelligence that integrates sensor fusion with LiDAR and computer vision so that tractors can navigate safely, detect anomalies, and avoid obstacles, while maintaining a safe distance from people and objects. Built-in reduction procedures and physical safety features, such as front bumpers and emergency shutdown buttons provide additional safeguards. Additionally, geofencing and location-based controls prevent tractors from breaching predefined boundaries to further prevent risk to people, crops and equipment. Lastly, while tractor operations are conducted autonomously, human operators receive real-time status updates and can intervene when necessary. Bluewhite’s comprehensive training programs, including hands-on sessions and ongoing support, ensure farm workers can efficiently transition to and manage these advanced systems, all facilitated by user-friendly platforms that do not require advanced technical skills.

How scalable is Bluewhite’s autonomous technology? Can it be adapted to different types of crops and farming conditions?

Bluewhite’s technology is highly scalable and adaptable to various crop types and farming conditions. In addition to recently signing a major manufacturing partnership with CNH Industrial, Bluewhite’s retrofitting approach remains brand-agnostic, allowing us to work with a wide array of tractors and implements. Bluewhite already works with over 20 leading permanent crop growers and has executed over 50,000 operational hours of autonomous farming across 150,000 acres of farmland in the US alone. We have successfully implemented our solutions across a range of permanent crops, including nuts, berries, apples, and grapes, as this sector faces some of the most acute labor shortages. Our technology can handle diverse farming environments, ensuring continuous operation and optimal performance even in GPS-denied or challenging conditions. Thus, Bluewhite is enabling growers to ‘grow forward’ and scale their operations sustainably.

How does Bluewhite’s Compass platform help farmers make data-driven decisions, and what kind of insights can they gain from using it?

The Compass platform collects and analyzes data from the field using advanced AI algorithms, providing farmers with real-time dashboards and insights into both the quality of their application as well as the maintenance needs and efficiency indicators of their equipment. This allows them to monitor farm operations remotely and make data-driven decisions that optimize resource allocation, improve efficiency, and increase productivity through optimized path planning and overall operations. Other types of insights gained include crop health, soil conditions, and ideal timing for various farming activities, helping farmers enhance overall farm management and profitability. The farmer’s almanac of the future is here, and it is more accurate than ever before thanks to tools like autonomous technology, AI, and machine learning.

What kind of support do you provide to farmers during and after the onboarding process to ensure the success of their autonomous farming operations?

Bluewhite offers comprehensive support during and after the onboarding process. This includes initial training sessions, hands-on assistance, and technical remote and in-field support to ensure smooth implementation and operation of our autonomous systems. We also provide regular updates and access to our customer service team to address any issues and help farmers maximize the benefits of our technology. Our goal is to enable growers to adopt autonomous technology quickly and we offer our full support to help them realize its benefits.

What future innovations and developments can we expect from Bluewhite in the field of AI-driven agriculture?

Looking ahead, Bluewhite is committed to expanding our autonomous solutions and scaling globally as we continuously enhance our technology to address new challenges and opportunities that would benefit from our services.. Recent technological successes and demonstrated achievements in computer vision and navigation, targeted application systems, and interoperability across advanced farm management systems are spurring wider adoption of autonomous agricultural technology, and helping to drive the sector towards a more efficient, and sustainable future. AI and machine learning stand at this new frontier, transforming nearly all fields, including agriculture, into a tech-centric industry equipped to meet modern challenges. Future developments for Bluewhite will include further optimization of AI and machine learning to improve operational efficiency and sustainability, as well as exploring new applications for our autonomous systems in different agricultural sectors beyond permanent crops.

With the integration of autonomous systems, how do you see the role of human labor evolving in the agriculture industry?

The integration of autonomous systems in agriculture can shift the role of human labor towards more skilled, tech-oriented, and managerial positions. Farm workers are being upskilled to manage and operate advanced technologies in a safer work environment. This evolution will also allow growers to take a more bird’s eye view of farm management and not waste time on filling labor and efficiency gaps. The labor shift also promises to create new job opportunities in tech management and maintenance, ensuring a sustainable future for the agriculture industry – which is currently suffering under the weight of acute labor shortages.

Thank you for the great interview, readers who wish to learn more should visit Bluewhite.

[nickgerlich]

Extra Light Sleight Of Hand

The beer industry is a crazy one. One might be inclined to think that all beers are the same, that there’s really nothing to get excited about, and that the best beer is the one your father drank. And grandfather.

Of course, as hard core beer enthusiasts know, this couldn’t be farther from the truth, especially on the craft beer scene. I am well acquainted with one of the owners at Amarillo’s Pondaseta Brewing Company, and he told me in a podcast interview nearly two years ago that his brewery routinely churns out one new varietal every week, sharing menu board space with four core brews and seasonals. It puts the menu board in a steady state of flux, but it keeps customers coming back.

And craft brewers are especially wont to hop—pun intended—on whatever the latest flavor of the month might be. Last year was Cold IPAs, meaning they were still ales, but brewed at the colder temperature of a lager. Before that was a wave of sours, and before that, all of the different IPA styles in their glory. You can still find those sours and IPAs, but you can bet the last drop in your glass that they’re already brewing up the next foamy fad.

Even the mass producers get in on what’s hot, introducing new beers to latch on to trends. I recall amber reds, dry beer, and ice beer from the 80s and 90s as evidence of this. Lite Beers made their biggest splash in the 70s and 80s, especially after Miller purchased Lite Beer from the struggling Meister Brau Brewing Company in Chicago. The rest is beer history.

A number of years ago, Miller and others sensed there was desire for a super low-calorie beer, so they introduced Miller 64, which was the amount of calories in a 12-ounce serving. Of course, they weren’t thinking this through completely, because by having 64 in the name, they really could not deviate from 12-ounce cans and bottles. Forget about those 24-ounce bombers. It would then be Miller 128.

And now comes news that Miller is doing a two-stage transition of this beer—no changes in formulation, only the name—in reaction to the fact that Millennials and Gen-Zers increasingly want low- or no-alcohol beers. They’re not as much worried about the calories. So Miller is obliging by repositioning and renaming Miller 64, first to Miller 64 Extra Light, and then dropping the 64 completely.

Voilà! New brand. Kinda. Almost.

The reason they are hanging on to the “64” part is marketing sleight of hand, so that current customers are not caught off guard, perhaps wondering what happened to their beer. And remember, those people were probably buying it for its low-calorie status, not necessarily low alcohol. By the time next autumn rolls around, they should be over any initial apprehensions, and will—hopefully—keep drinking it.

Smart people over there at Miller, even if they couldn’t brew a serious IPA if their lives depended on it.

To promote this rechristening, Miller is using a blend of modern and old-school methods, including social, video, and OOH (Out-Of-Home). In other words, expect to see this on TikTok and Insta, YouTube, perhaps interstitials on Hulu and other streamers, and billboards. Interesting.

Remember, this repositioning is aimed at Millennials and Gen-Zers, so other traditional media vehicles are out of the question. You have to speak your target audience’s language.

I doubt I will ever put my lips to a can of this product, unless I buy both the transitional one and then the final one to add to my collection of breweriana. You don’t drink beer to lose weight (there’s the calorie thinking right there), and if I wanted to lower the alcohol intake, I would opt for a no-alcohol from Athletic (they’re pretty good). Miller is convinced there is a middle ground—and they have numbers to support it—so we shall see if this move is a good one.

I’m betting it will result in at least a minor uptick in sales, if only because they’re targeting a youthful crowd still establishing its brand and product preferences for the rest of their adult lives. As for my fellow Boomers, I realize our days in the sun are fading fast, and anything we once held dear is up for grabs.

But if Miller could figure out how to roll out some barrels of IPAs—and I’m not talking the ones they do through Revolver, the craft brewery in Granbury Texas they bought a number of years ago—then I would be interested. I’ll wait.

Dr “Fill ‘Er Up” Gerlich

Audio Blog

[lynne-monstr]

@thorndykechristopher replied: Silly headcanon is best because it’s so romantic to me that they STAYED

Maybe they work together with yx and wc to build something for transitioning out of the pro-league and into normal world…

I love the idea of a bunch of retired pros all coming together to build something new for this thing they love so much! bonus that they get to help out anyone who might not know what to do with themselves after retiring.

I am so amused by the idea that the next batch of retiring pros (particularly the golden gen stars) are so established, and so well-off financially lbr, that they kind of en-masse invest in their individual clubs after retiring. and there's a whole wave of players turned club owners.

and not owners in the grabby-hands possessive sense. but in the way that their team has given them so much and now they have all this money from a successful career and they want to pour it back into the club so it can grow and flourish into something even better that it was.

my realistic headcanon is that huang shaotian retires first. he can feel the inklings of decline, and lu hanwen is ready to take his place. he could hang on longer but he'd rather be remembered at his peak, and also he wants to let lu hanwen shine in his best years. yu wenzhou remains a few seasons longer to ease the transition and train his own replacement.

my romantic headcanon is that they retire at the same time. yu wenzhou knows he could stay longer but blue rain without huang shaotain isn't his blue rain. they debut and retire together, blue rain's best partners, always in step

the plot twist headcanon. yu wenzhou retires first. he isn't unhappy, it's just that after nearly ten years, he feels like he has nothing new to offer. he loves glory and he loves blue rain but he's stagnating. he spends an entire year talking it over with huang shaotian, planning for the future in his absence.

the silly headcanon: they both love blue rain so much they become investors and partial owners of the team. the biggest inside joke is that "sword and curse are gone. I can still hear their voice." huang shaotian takes it as a personal challenge to be even louder.

[daimonhalos]

Appreciation post for the eggpire and more during the red banquet cause I'm not seeing enough love for how well they organized and delivered and because I'm so proud of cc!Bad for how far the Bloodvines arc has gone ♥ (this stuff is from Bad's vod btw)

Also something to cheer people up a bit in case the lore got u hard like it got me cause I'm still not okay bestie <3

The starting soon screen being an animation (with glitches to show another frame!!) plus the jazzy electro-swing soundtrack underneath. Just such a good intro, I felt like I was actually in the waiting line for an event, just awesome.

Ponk. Just Ponk, dapper man, handsome Ponk just standing there. Gorgeous, thank you, standing ovation, I love him.

Just everything Bad and Ant did with the building of the room, the stairs!! The coat room!!! The statues right in front of the table, everything looked SO pretty.

ANT MY BELOVED LOOKING HANDSOME AS ALWAYS I just loved all their outfits. The banquet's skins just SLAPPED HARD.

The little moment where Bad changed view of his character and we could see him, Ant and Ponk cwc

Bad singing >>>>>>>>>>

Everyone getting lost despite the oak signs

THE ARC ABOVE THE DANCEFLOOR, WHAT THE HELL YOO

Bad complimenting everyone on their outfits and giving out some gapples here and there

Bad also always repeating the same catchphrases

Sam just drinking copiously and the dumpy situation

People actually dancing + HBomb being the dj

Puffy walking around Bad to see his outfit and complimenting him, just felt like their old friendship cwc

FOOLISH GAVE BAD A FLOWER <3

Bad scolding George for not wearing an outfit (Sam's "his name is Gogy and he is beautiful")

"It's almost time for the feast. It's gonna be delicious." the foreshadowing

Everyone dancing together cwc

"minecraft dancing is speed squats" eret ilu

Bad and Ant complimenting moment ♥

The eggpire all on the same side of the table. Them

Ponk's little "Hello!" after Bad said he made the soup, plus everyone going "good job!!" just twt

When Bad started asking if anyone wanted to give a toast, I realized eventually that this was more of a disguised "Want to say your last words before death?" and it now sounds s o freaking cool. ye s

P O N K 'S S P E E C H

"you look beautiful right now" sam i will cry

When in the middle of his speech, Bad turns to Ant who's already looking at him, nods, Ant nods back, and as Bad turns around again we can see Ant walking away from his seat. I am OBSESSED with this scene, like you already know something is about to go down and oh gosh it was delivered so good

THE LAVA COMING DOWN FROM THE CEILING AS BAD KEPT TALKING, NONE NOTICING, HIM TALKING ABOUT HOW THE BANQUET WILL BE UNFORGETTABLE. SO HOT

"And yeah! Thank you for coming everybody" the little mischievous giggles right after "And prepare uh ... yep. Prepare to die." AND THEN HE FUCKIGN DRINKS FROM HIS GLASS LIKE COME ON YOU CANT BE ANY COOLER THAN THAT YOOO

"The leaf is staying the way it is" you can hear the laughter in his voice like HAH GOTTEM that's so good

Bad still giving Hbomb gapples cwc

"Where you looking for this perchance?" AND THEN EQUIPS THE ENTIRE ARMOR AND WEAPONS E Y E when the twists started dude. this si where the twists started and never ended

HANNAH CROSSING SIDES AND SIDING WITH THE EGGPIRE. QUEEN SHIT that was such a cool moment for her i'm so glad she's getting her moment

The eggpire laughing, just pure villainy, love them

"Time to get on the main event" the nonchalance. The way they equipped the crossbows and readied the arrows at the same time. B r u h fucking awesome they are

The eggpire faking being afraid when Sam was talking about blowing the egg up. Sad that we already knew about the obsidian thing, but still made it a very cool scene. Especially right after when they started laughing at them again. I don't know what it is about it but I love them being so sassy.

FREAKING EXECUTIONS THEY WORKED FOR MASS EXECUTIONS they were able to trap all those freaking people!! And trick them and counter attack all the time! what the fuck, I'm so impressed

Thank you Fundy for sounding super terrified /gen ♥

Wait ahah they really said EGGSECUTION-

THE EGG HATCHES THE EGG HATCHES THE EGG HATCHES im not saying IT but im saing Velvet

"Follow me! Follow me!" HANNAH SOUNDED SO ENTHUSIASTIC i love

"We trusted you!" "Well, that was your first mistake-" THE WAY BAD WAS ABOUT TO LAUGH. DUDE they definitely had so much fucking fun making this

sassyboyhalo

Foolish acting thank u ily. Also the thunder not working what the heck i wanna know what was going on inside his mind right then he sounded so lost. THE ACTING

"Sacrifice!" Hannah idk how to say this but I love you

ANT MOMENTTTT

When puffy called them selfish i was expecting bad to just do a huge double take. I wanted him to snap immediately PLEASE SNAP-

BAD DELIVERING AGAIN WITH THE AMAZING ACTING

"Not just for the egg but for what the egg is going to give us" he's so desperately trying to make them udnerstand it promised him his friend back he literally mentions it every single time but everyone calls him selfish because they think he wants power when he just wants skeppy's friendship back in this essay I will- Anyway yes I love that he never explicitly says it because it kills us viewers with pain cause we KNOW and then the reveal will be 100 times more powerful. This is so awesome

"I can't stop Quackity and you know why I can't stop. If I stop I can't get what I need." his voice grew so much lower like he's just holding back MAN I HH IT WAS SO GOOD

SECRET RETREAT ROOM YOOO

Ponk giving Bad some food and telling him to stay safe, Bad telling both Hannah and Ponk to stay safe too. My tears

And now the solo Bad lore part, where we actually see the true part of him that's absolutely devastated and makes me cry, the way he acted all confident and then saw everything crumble in a few seconds and now he's destroyed again because what if they find a way to destroy the egg what then? what if he never gets skeppy back? dude, you can just read his emotions it's so sad and i love how it was portrayed

"I know where I can go. I know who I can see!" BDI REF BDI REF FOR SURE I have a feeling that's going to be explained in the next lore stream with Skeppy and I'm so hype. I love the little crumbs of references here and there.

"But now they have it.." he sounded so broken??? bad your acting please ill cry

"I didn't really want to hurt anybody" his true self trying to get back cwc especially because he's farther away from the egg. I just love the transition between the guy Bad portrays who's so sure about the egg when it's in front of others and the doubts and anxiety he actually has when he's alone. Just so cool

"Did I screw up?" im just pointing out everything that moves me emotionally cause these people's acting is so cool

Ending the stream with simple black background my beloved

Okay but really I'm so so so proud of the ccs for making this happen and it's only going upwards, I'm literally so in awe, they really said go big or go home

Free space for Ant's villain speech I wasn't able to hear yet, but they said it was v cool, so I'm trusting people on this

Thank you for listening, stan Bloodvines arc /hj

If I made typos no I didn't

[hardcore-gaming-101]

Control

If you’ve heard the name Remedy recently, it’s probably because of Control. Ever since the first Alan Wake, the studio had been sort of in the background, surviving on small phone releases (like a remake of Death Rally) and getting some significant attention with the ambitious Quantum Break before quietly going back into the background again. Quantum Break caught some attention as an interactive TV show, and sold well, but it never quite hot a cultural vein to keep it being talked about. During this time, the studio was perfecting their mixed media style, figuring out what people associated them with and perfecting it while branching out in small ways to make something exciting and unexpected. They succeeded with flying colors.

Control was both well received and the fastest selling IP that Remedy has put out since Max Payne, getting to two million units sold in short order. The fact that they not only released a great, extremely creative game to the masses that showed us a glimpse of next gen graphics on PC, but surprised everyone by revealing it as a stealth sequel to Alan Wake of all things in a DLC campaign, is the strongest, most confident move that Remedy has ever done. It marks the next major transitional step for the studio, the team finally nailing their strengths and weaknesses and designing around them to make something whole and satisfying, a confident and distinct game that could only possibly come from Remedy. 

Read more...

[avernale]

Have You Seen the New Pokémon Reveal Trailer? Have You SEEN it?

Been a while since I've done this, huh? I blame the anti-hype for Sword & Shield. I probably did a bit more after that, but I think I completely forgot to do this for Legends Arceus. Didn't I? Anyway...

I was going to comment about the rest of the Direct, but Tumblr glitched out and now over a half hour of work is gone. I'm a little upset, but no big loss. I only wanted to discuss one trailer, anyway.

Here's the whole direct to avoid spoilers. If you actually managed to avoid those spoilers, my hat goes off to you.

I would've done this day-of, probably, but I had to work that day. Saw it literally right before leaving for work.

We open on a lone security guard patrolling an empty office building after hours...

(Honestly, at this point I thought the next game was going to have a more realistic, possibly horror vibe to it. But this clearly not CG, and is probably just suspense for the sake of hype.)

He notices some strange lights coming from the offices of a familiar company...

(As if we didn't already know who's putting out this trailer)

Cautiously, he opens the door...

...And this is what Game Freak's offices look like?

Does this mean there's an antiquity theme in the next game? If not set in the past, at least researching it. There was a bit of that in Sword & Shield, after all. I feel like we've seen this room before in some other Pokémon reveal trailers, like Legends Arceus. Maybe a Meltan video?

Oh! See the image on the thing slung over the chair! I bet that means something!

Then, things get paranormal as the music swells! The room is shaking, lights are flashing, clocks are running backwards, cats and dogs living together, mass hysteria!

The door slams behind him!

There's something glowing on the wall! A monitor? A portrait? Our attention is pulled straight towards it!

Everything goes white and...

...Cue game footage!

Lush, detailed landscapes! Beautiful castles! Picturesque towns! Windmills with disappointingly low frame rates!

Seriously, I missed the Hoppip the first time I saw it. I can't help but feel like someone at Game Freak considers it "Aesthetic" enough to make this acceptable footage.

Familiar faces!

Admittedly, there's a better view of Meowth immediately after this, but I wanted to get those signs in. There's plenty of Pokémon from across the generations in this trailer, but Meowth stands out to me. Its like one of the first things they wanted us to know was there will not be a regional Meowth form in this game. Does this mean no new regional forms at all? Maybe there is a new Meowth and both (or all!) will appear in this game. It could also still have a new evolution, like Perserker in Galar. Honestly, I find new regional Meowths not being a new tradition for this series to be a little disappointing.

I didn't realize at first that the male and female trainers (presumably the protagonists) were different people when I saw them. It wasn't until I tried to get screenshots that I saw they had different colored shorts and hairstyles. I could've sworn the boy had emo bangs in the shot in his room.

A shot of the Switch (OLED Model) in the boy's room transitions back to one in the office with the security guard.

He looks around, starting to relax a little now that the chaos has ended.

Then BAM! New Starters!

Pompadour duck! Siamese grass cat! ...Dinosaur apple?

Honestly, when I saw this the dinosaur bits didn't register at all. I spent all night at work wondering what this apple-shaped hippo thing is supposed to be. Each fire-type starter is based on a creature from the Eastern Zodiac. This is Gen 9, there are 12 zodiac creatures, and the remaining ones are snake, horse, ox, and goat. I figured the ox was closest to what I saw, but this Bubble-Bobble-looking thing will probably evolve into a snake like Snivy did. Or a dragon, if we decide Charmander is the snake. Sure, Charizard looks like a Dragon, but it's not Dragon type (Mega evolution notwithstanding), and it's about as much a snake as this thing is.

I'd ask why in the name of almighty Sinnoh it looks like an apple, but it's probably a jalapenos pepper or something. But wouldn't that also make it a grass type? Maybe its final form will be part grass.

Speaking of, that duck's final form better be something awesome. That is easily the most underwhelming of the three as-is. The cat's pretty basic, too, but that duck is just so not worth looking at. I'd go with peppersaurus here, but I did fire in Alola and grass in Galar, and that leaves me with the duck. Granted, I don't have to stick to that pattern, but for now I'm assuming I will.

Also, when I saw these I couldn't help but feel like I've seen them before. Like Fakemon or rejected beta Pokémon. I think I said that about the other starters, too, but not with an actual sense of familiarity. It's wierd. Maybe it's the face peppersaurus looks like Bubble-Bobble.

Then the title drop. I got spoiled on these because I forgot about the direct until I went on YouTube and saw a thumbail for a reaction video. Just the titles, though, so not too big a deal.

An interesting combo, though. I'd not think of those as opposites, but red and violet are on opposite sides of the color scale. Neighbors on the color wheel, though. Sounds like names of fan games, Scarlet especially. Something about that word suggests blood to me. Violet just sounds random to me (although... Violence?)

But "Scarlet" also suggests "Fantasy" to me. Like Will Scarlet from Robin Hood. Also the sequel to the original Peter Pan story is called "Peter Pan in Scarlet." (He takes over for Captain Hook or something). There did seem to be plenty of castle-like architecture, although that's not unusual for a Pokémon game, I think.

I had watch a theory video by Lockstin a while back that this game was to be set in a location analogous San Francisco. Game Freak likes to go on-location to get inspiration for new regions, and when asked where they went after completing Sword & Shield they crypitically said, "Redwood." Lockstin noted that of all the Redwood Cities in America's West coast, the only one with actual redwood trees was near San Francisco. But here? I'm not getting a "California" vibe, much less "San Francisco," but with all the castles... Maybe Disneyland?

Then, at the very end, we see it releases in... Late 2022!? That's this year! I'm not done with Legends Arceus yet! It's too soon, I tells ya! Too soon!

[dilfdoctordoom]

your head canons are just perfect. What are some random ones you have for Dinah Lance and Bette

Uhhhh gonna be going off the top of my head here (& under the cut because guess who wrote a load whooo) but

Dinah

Dinah is trans!!! I liked it Bombshells, I’ve decided its canon across all universes because you know what? It’s amazing

Dinah’s metagene got activated because Alan the JSA accidentally irradiated her throughout her childhood. Barry got lightning, Dinah got a weird family. It’s equality

She adopts Mia!!! Her & Ollie do, since I don’t think that officially happened in comics even though we all know it should have

Hal/Dinah/Ollie is absolutely a thing that I need. They’re in love, there’s nothing you can do to disprove it

Though, like, personal headcanon for Dinah’s relationship is that her & Ollie are in an open relationship, Hal’s their third & Dinah is dating Babs but Ollie is not because. Could you imagine. Oliver Queen. Dating a bat. The thing nightmares are made of, I tell you

When Hal dies, his ring goes to Dinah. I’m sorry, I don’t make the rules, this is just how it is

Ollie & Dinah have a third wedding since their other two were, uh, messy & technically not legal in the new timeline. No supervillains attack & it doesn’t take place in a hospital, so she considers it a win

By the time she dies, she’s in the top five fighters on the planet

Dinah (with the help of Ollie) once attempted to assinate the Guardians of the Universe

She & Zatanna dated

Babs brings up the Ra’s Al Ghul incident whenever she wants to win a dumb fight. Tragically, Zinda & Helena have picked it up too. Will Dinah ever escape her shameful past? Probably not, the Birds refuse to let her live it down

Thanks to her dip in the Lazarus Pit, Dinah’s eyes like... glow in the dark. It’s not very noticeable, but when it’s pitch black, her eyes are a really faint green

She can’t cook. At all. In the Arrowfamily, your options for food are Ollie’s chili (a safety hazard, 50/50 chance you burn to death) or Dinah’s unspeakable, ungodly creations that are probably an insult to the Presence himself. Or you can beg Connor to make you some delicious vegan thing

She’s got a little coffee addiction. It was really bad when she was on tour, a lot better now, but yeah, if you approach this woman before she’s had her first cup, she’ll scream in your face

This woman is bi & there’s nothing you can do about it

Dinah runs Sherwood Florists in Star City & all of the fam help out

Look, not technically a headcanon, but I want to make one thing abundantly clear: while Dinah Laurel Lance will always be a metahuman to me, I like Dinah Drake-Lance to be cursed by a wizard. I just think it’s fun

Bette

Okay, again, she’s bi. Like, we all know it, it’s not a secret, no cishet is working her original Flamebird costume

Bette loves glitter but even she knows that’s a little unsafe & never incorperates it into her costume. One day, though, one day...

She goes back to Flamebird around the same time Steph becomes Nightwing which is definitely inspired by @dykegreenlantern‘s death, but, yeah, she works as Flamebird again for a little while

When Kate retires, she suits up as Batwoman. It’s an awkward transition, but she makes it work

Oh, you think Tim has a caffeine addiction? He has nothing on Bette. Bette’s been in beauty paegents, winning tennis tourements, maintaining a 4.0 GPA & running around in a costume. Do you honestly believe she achieved that without caffeine? No. This girl is wired 24/7, there’s nothing that can be done about it

She came out to Bruce first. It would’ve been Kate, but Kate was in the army at the time & they hadn’t talked in years, so. Bruce

Bette’s one of the most forgiving members of the Batfam. Just look at how many of her friends turned into supervillains. She’s, like, yeah, okay, you’re evil now, are we still on for movie night? No? You have an evil scheme planned? Well, cancel it, we’re watching Mean Girls

I know Bette didn’t show up at Zero Hour, but she should have. Exclusively to judge Hank. He’s trying to destroy time but it’s very hard, she’s pulling the ultimate ‘I am disappointed in you and you have brought shame upon this team’ face & they haven’t even been a team in years. It’s not fair how does she even do this the Bats are weird. And then Parallax just. teleports her away. She’s too distracting to Extant, goddamn

I maintain that her & Terra II would’ve eventually become friends. Maybe even enemies to friends to lovers, since Terra II is a lesbian

She isn’t as huge on the whole no-kill thing as Bruce. Like, she’s never killed anyone herself, nor does she plan to (people like the Joker excluded), but she also doesn’t mind if her teammates cross that line

Her fights with Slade are always petty. She took Addie’s side in the divorce, okay, she’s gonna go in for the (emotional) kill when they’re fighting

She makes a lot of quips & is one of the best people at getting Batman to smile. Like, specifically Batman, and not Bruce. She’s seen him crack a grin at one of her puns, she swears

Artemis Crock is her ex girlfriend

Jesse Chambers is still, like, iffy on Bette after she... accused Jesse’s mother of murder. What a fun team up that was

I don’t know how or why it would happen, but Bat-Girl absolutely worked with the original Green Lantern at least once. Got no reasoning behind this, they’re just two of my favourite characters. I don’t think they’d get along (see: anything with Alan in it ever) but... it’d be an interesting team up, that’s for sure

She also knows Jason Blood but instead of being a fun adventure, that was more ‘okay yes I understand that Hank’s gone a little insane, he’s gonna be a future dictator, he’s committed mass murder, etc, but maybe you have some magic to undo all that? Pretty please?’

Her endgame relationship... I honestly change this all the time, but right now I’m on Bettenelli. Strong arguments have been made for Holly Robinson & we cannot ignore the possibility for a Bat/Cat next gen relationship, we simply can’t

Bette Kane deserves to be a doctor, screw what the N52/Rebirth said. Military Bette is gross & we do not support that in this house

[bravadoseries]

Probably weird and hard, so take you time to answer, but if Audrey was canon in the comics, what changes would be made when adapting her character into a MCU? I mean stuff like the fact that Tony built his in Afghanistan in the movie when in the comic he did it in Vietnam.

this was such a fun question thank you so much!  i’m gonna separate this into two parts: audrey’s comics storyline and how her mcu adaptation is different.  so sorry this is so long! 

audrey rogers (later audrey lange and audrey banner) was introduced in the 1950s after captain america’s popularity declined and the war ended.  her original aging thing was that she aged pretty fast and then like maxed out when she was physically 18 or 20 (like the baby from twilight).  she was originally supposed to speak to teenage girls and other women to encourage them to embrace patriotism and reject communism, and she’s mentored by her father (since peggy’s originally written in the comics as a pretty minor character).  audrey is given her batons by howard stark but in the comics they’re much more torchlike (really emphasizing the whole lady liberty moniker).  

throughout the 50s and 60s, she’s got a dual-identity thing going on.  she’s audrey lange (nee rogers), a teacher married to Joshua Lange, her high school sweetheart and a young, good-hearted, all-american politician.  nobody knows about her identity except for her father, howard stark, and howard’s son tony.  

during the 60s, lady liberty and black widow are often portrayed as character foils and enemies.  lady liberty is sweet as apple pie, she likes to kiss babies and shake hands with senators and say things like God Bless America while the black widow is seductive, brutal, and most importantly—communist.  the two are each other’s biggest rivals for the beginning of their respective comics’ histories (ok i just watched killing eve and i am obsessed with it but i think they are usually trying to track each other down similarly to eve and villanelle).  idk if you watch glow but it’s like the zoya/liberty belle characters. that’s what’s going on. 

in the comics, lady liberty is responsible for helping black widow defect from the red room and join the American cause.  their first enemy together is julian bardot, who is selling nuclear tech to the highest bidder, and both of them want to discourage their respective organizations from purchasing nuclear bombs as the comics began to go into more anti-war propaganda.  audrey teams up with tony at this point and their comics characters become friends.  

during the vietnam war, the whole american propaganda thing was declining in popularity so they sent audrey to vietnam as a spy, where she was known as the angel of mercy.  after realizing that the war was a corrupt cause, she abandoned the angel of mercy title and began working as a vigilante with civil rights activist and empire state engineering student lindsey dubois, caroline, a secretary heavily implied to be gay (living with her close female friend and unmarried) who would become the vigilante ace of spades, chinese refugee and nurse claudia liau, and delphine lamontagne, a french exchange student who came to the US looking to find a scientist to help her understand her powers.  They specifically target human traffickers.  

At this point, Josh Lange becomes mayor of New York City, and the strain of audrey’s vigilantism and her unwillingness to have children leads their marriage to crumble.  they divorce and it’s a big comics thing (later, backlash causes marvel to try to retcon their marriage at all and say they were just engaged)  

lady liberty is written into the avengers in the 1970s again because she realizes that the vigilantism was too dangerous or something (i feel like realistically it’s just that sales were low for a diverse group of female heroes but whatever).  her storylines are based around that for a few years, however, after the marvel comics watergate, captain america abandons his title and becomes nomad and audrey abandons superhero work in favor of working as a lawyer (? i think).  

in the 1980s, audrey is written as working as a law professor at culver, where she meets bruce banner.  i don’t know a ton about hulk comics but i think he was permanently hulked out for the 70s and started gaining control in the 80s? pretty sure.  anyway audrey’s never met bruce before but he’s got a dual identity thing going on and she’s like You Really Seem Familiar.  when she figures out his dual identity a) they become romantically involved and b) she tries to get into hero work again.  

there was a lack of interest in her character as more than a love interest, though, so from the late 80s to ’91, audrey is kidnapped and brainwashed by hydra.  she’s given powers through hydra experimentation but refuses to use them unless forced to because they cause her immense pain.  she is activated through trigger words and known by the name Red Scare.  During this period, she serves as one of Captain America’s primary antagonists, but he doesn’t realize that Audrey is his daughter, he just thinks she’s dead.  

When the Soviet Union falls in 1991, Audrey is returned to the united states and begins working as a shield agent because of the intelligence she’d collected while abroad.  Josh Lange, now running for president of the United States, proposes to her in the late 90s and they marry, but Audrey begins to secretly undermine his political agenda once he’s elected due to his staunch anti-gifted stance and preference for order, no matter the cost.  Audrey is portrayed as an unsatisfied First Lady until 2005, when Tony Stark starts the New Avengers to help defeat the mass breakout of the Raft, a prison holding many supervillains.  Knowing she cannot just stand by, she leaves Joshua and commits to becoming a hero full time.  

During the Civil War comics arc, Audrey opposes the mandatory federal registration of super-powered beings due to her experience with politicians.  However, many oppose her presence in the movement for that very reason.  She and Bruce Banner attempt another romantic relationship, but he favors the registration act and they soon break up.  When her father attempts to surrender in order to stop the violence, she does so instead, knowing that she will be less of a loss to the movement.  

At the same time, the United States launches Hulk into space (idk this was a real thing with the whole planet hulk arc) and Thor, wanting to help turn Hulk back into banner, breaks Audrey free from prison and brings her to Sakaar.  She helps him turn back into Bruce and the two actually begin a romantic relationship, with him seeing where the registration act got him (Launched Into Space).  When they return to Earth, Audrey and Bruce both decide to retire from hero work and open a school not for mutants but for other powered people which becomes a rival to charles xavier’s school.  

From there, it’s a bunch of sporadic storylines.  I think at some point she may become director of SHIELD when Steve is president?  Because I know that was like a thing in the 70s. audrey’s powers are connected to thanos in a way that’s spoilery so I won’t go too into detail but when he pops up with the infinity stones arc, she plays a part in that.  

anyway!

So there’s a lot of differences between the hypothetical movies and the hypothetical comics but i think obviously the biggest is Audrey’s backstory and aging.  Since she ages slowly and was without Steve’s guidance, she grew up isolated and protected from the rest of the world.  Audrey’s personality at the beginning is supposed to be reminiscent of her personality as the initial Lady Liberty—very sweet and positive and very much a character foil to Natasha, but instead of Audrey recruiting Natasha to SHIELD and helping her become a hero, it’s the other way around.  Obviously Peggy’s role is very different, too, as is Josh’s (he’s a much more minor character in the films than in the comics).  

The first Lady Liberty film adapts her transition from more of a hollow, symbolic hero to someone who is directly involved in the fight.  There’s also references to her Red Scare arc except it’s the 60s and not the 90s.  Here, we also have reference to Natasha and Audrey fighting Julian Bardot and his weapons, but removed from the Cold War context and instead shifted to the post-Chitauri circumstances.  Delphine is also introduced, though not as a vigilante at this point or as a student but as a capable DGSE agent.  The setup here is for her to have her own adventures eventually I think.  

A lot of the changes have to do with the order of things.  Because the MCU takes place over a decade and not like 50 years, things get switched around.  TWS and AOU are both more modern plotlines that got reinvented and brought into the MCU.  I think I’m probably gonna be changing the Civil War conflict to add more of the comics element to it as well.  

Audrey’s vigilante team storyline, though unpopular at the time of its original publication, works better now, so it’s brought back for the second Lady Liberty film, which is set after Civil War.  Audrey at this point is much more brutal and has lost faith in the system similarly to how she lost faith in the system because of Vietnam.  Audrey never becomes a lawyer, but she does have a reunion with Bruce post CW during the MCU equivalent of Planet Hulk because (though unlike the comics he went by choice) he got launched into space.  Audrey’s involvement in this storyline is much more accidental in the movies than in the comics.  

I think also unlike the comics, Audrey doesn’t use her powers more because she feels unnatural when she does and not because it physically hurts.  She also loses control.  The movies also more specifically detail how where her powers came from.  

The third Lady Liberty film, resurrection, is a movie that covers Audrey, Thanos, and more of her outer space adventures lol.  And the next gen TV series, which primarily just features guest appearances from the Avengers, adapts the idea of the Avengers Academy.  

thank you so much again for this ask sorry it got so long i had so much fun answering it !!!

[sights-on-the-scifi]

You know what these two games have in common? Thats right they both run on the Unreal engine!.

This thing can be used to create both an in-depth open world role playing experience and a fast paced action title with little fuss! MASS EFFECT is a combination of action and role playing yet BioWare with their infinite wisdom chose Frostbite willingly instead, even though they created the original titles on an earlier version of this Unreal technology. They could of went through a seamless transition into the next gen, but nooooooooooOOoooo they rather rebuild everything from scratch. Causing untold development nightmares... Regardless of the quality of their recent titles one unifying fact is clear with all of em, they are extremely watered down mechanically and buggy beyond belief.

The Frostbite engine is a remarkable real time rendering technology as I pointed out in the past it has merits... But the thing was only ever designed for one thing, and that was real time 64 player combat, not RPGs. So as long as BioWare continues to use that engine their next games are seriously at risk of nightmarish development struggles... Then TONS OF BUGS.

These games are friggin fantastic by the way PLAY EM! They will satisfy your fix just fine.