Tracy J. Chu, Author at TRAVELS TOUR

Leading brewer Lion has unveiled the latest instalment of the ‘Give a XXXX’ brand campaign with a memorable new work across TVC, OOH, Radio and Social content for the iconic Queensland beer, XXXX, via Thinkerbell.

Set to Montell Jordan’s iconic hip hop track, This Is How We Do It, the idea aims to capture XXXX’s take on the unique perspective that Queenslanders have towards living the good life.

The campaign launched on Sunday and encapsulates the innovative ways in which Queenslanders make the most of the much-loved part of the country. Whether that be cleverly rigging a hammock to their 4WD or finding original ways to keep cool while fielding in beach cricket – all laddering up to the fresh modern representation of XXXX.

Lion’s head of marketing, Core Beer, Chris Allan, said “This bright and bold new work reminds us that the aspirational QLD lifestyle at its core is social and fun. The good life, and the things that really matter to Queenslanders, are often achieved with a little resourcefulness and creativity. XXXX is quintessentially QLD and for 145 years we’ve demonstrated that with some conscious effort, everyone can reap the rewards of the good life and celebrate all of the things that matter to them the most. Life’s good when you give a XXXX.”

Thinkerbell’s national chief creative, Jim Ingram, added “We hope we’ve captured a bit of Queensland ingenuity in this work, without overcomplicating things. Not everyone has the time or a desire to have a two week glamping adventure into the Daintree. It’s amazing what you can do with an old jetty, or a car winch these days.”

The latest work is supported by XXXX’s media investment in Queensland from the coast to the outback across TV, OOH, Radio and Social.

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ADVENTURE

Lion and Thinkerbell show how good life is in latest ‘Give a XXXX’ spot

April 8, 2023April 8, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

Lion has launched the latest iteration of its ‘Give a XXXX’ campaign via the brewers creative agency of record, Thinkerbell.

The tongue-in-cheek platform was first launch last July, touching on the positive outlook that Queenslanders take towards ‘living the good life’.

The latest iteration is set to Montell Jordan’s hip hop track ‘This Is How We Do It’, featuring a group of Queenslanders engaged in a highly competitive beach cricket game, with a dock standing in for the cricket pitch.

Lion’s head of marketing – core beer, Chris Allan, said: “This bright and bold new work reminds us that the aspirational QLD lifestyle at its core is social and fun. The good life, and the things that really matter to Queenslanders, are often achieved with a little resourcefulness and creativity. XXXX is quintessentially Queensland and for 145 years we’ve demonstrated that with some conscious effort, everyone can reap the rewards of the good life and celebrate all of the things that matter to them the most. Life’s good when you give a XXXX.”

Thinkerbell’s national chief creative, Jim Ingram, added: “We hope we’ve captured a bit of Queensland ingenuity in this work, without overcomplicating things. Not everyone has the time or a desire to have a two week glamping adventure into the Daintree. It’s amazing what you can do with an old jetty, or a car winch these days.”

Thinkerbell was appointed as Lion’s creative partner in 2021, and has since worked on a number of campaigns including a masterbrand ‘brewery duty’ call out, XXXX State of Original activation and a new platform for Hahn.

The new campaign rolls out in Queensland across TV, OOH, radio and social.

Credit

Client: Lion
Creative Agency: Thinkerbell
Media Agency: UM
Film Production: Mofa
Stills Production: Pool

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ADVENTURE

Metroid Prime Remastered review: “Resonates as much as it did 20 years ago”

April 7, 2023April 7, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

Peering through the lens of the Combat Visor, it is easy to believe that it’s a window – your way of assessing the acrid ecology of Talon IV. But it’s really a mirror, reflecting the anguished determination of Samus Aran as bright beams of light illuminate dark and dusty corridors. Two decades later, Metroid Prime’s smartest visual flourish has lost none of its impact. Is that down to the quality of this remaster, which occupies uncommon ground between faithful emulation and confident reconfiguration, or because the foundations first outlined by Retro Studios have largely circumvented the slow decay of time? It’s difficult to say, although I can tell you that Metroid Prime Remastered is a triumph.

FAST FACTS: Metroid Prime Remastered

Metroid Prime Remastered Switch screenshot — (Image credit: Nintendo)

Release date: February 8, 2023
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Developer: Retro Studios
Publisher: Nintendo

I was 13 years-old when I first steered the bounty hunter down to the inhospitable surface of Talon IV, following the aftermath of an explosion aboard the Orpheon – a Space Pirate frigate ripped apart by biological experiments. In hindsight, I now understand that I was too young to completely appreciate this video game‘s achievements. I’m 33 now, and Remastered is like seeing Metroid Prime for the very first time. A quiet, contemplative adventure where the balance of power shifts gradually. Not as you repair the damaged Varia Suit, slowly expanding its capabilities with hidden Chozo technology, but as you gain a better understanding of the alien flora and altered fauna that surrounds you. That hurts you. That hunts you.

Surveying the unknown

Metroid Prime is underpinned by vibrant imagination and powered by a vivid attention to detail. That was true of the original, though the atmosphere is undoubtedly accentuated after a careful remastering process. The hiss of a

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ADVENTURE

How to not ‘rely so heavily on govt support’ while still living your best life

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

So we’re all getting some cash payouts from the government but somehow after Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s speech about it, you’re feeling bad about it.

During his big budget announcements yesterday, he mentioned that the government was committed to helping the people and that they “provided comprehensive support last year” and are doing so again this year. But he also made us all feel like leaches by adding that he hopes “all Singaporeans understand that it is not fiscally sustainable to rely so heavily on Government support year after year to cope with inflation.”

He then urged everyone to “press on” with restructuring, transformation, productivity and upgrading skills at every opportunity. Oof, so many big words.

You have pride, you have feelings and you long to be a better person someday. Somebody who doesn’t have to depend on the government, despite crazy increases in inflation and cost of living.

Well, that day is today. But don’t worry, we’ve got some advice on how to downsize your expenses, but not at the cost of making you look like a cheapskate.

Fo example, you probably work in the city center where you’re eating more-than-S$10 lunch set at nice restaurants every day. Why does it have to be so extreme? If you still want to look high SES (that’s “socio-economic status”) and like someone who has their shit together – without spending much, we have all the tips.

Starter pack

Consider becoming self-reliant an adventure. And, as with any adventure, you need some basic essentials. We recommend getting a lunchbox and a reusable coffee cup or tumbler. Make sure that these are airtight, spill-proof, heat-retaining and all that jazz because it will save you from future disappointment. You might have to lay out some cash for this but there are plenty

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ADVENTURE

True Love Stories That Will Give You All the Feels

April 5, 2023April 5, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

It’s the chance encounter that ends up changing your life, meeting a person who somehow makes the whole world seem like a brighter, warmer place. It’s having someone who holds your hand when life gets scary, sees the wonder in you when you stop seeing it yourself. True love. It’s unpredictable and sometimes far from perfect, but take it from these five Canadian couples: When you find the real thing, it can be more epic than any romance ever written.

Roz and Katherine, together 17 years

“She’s been the best part of every day I’ve had since the night we met.”

true love stories katherine holland and roz weston — Canadian broadcaster Roz Weston and photographer Katherine Holland. Photo: Roxy Weston

How did you meet?

Katherine: “At the time I was working as a movie reviewer and would always see Roz on his way into press screenings. I didn’t know who he was but was definitely interested. In August 2005, we were both at the same industry party and finally met. We connected immediately and spent the night talking while ignoring everything and everyone around us. He has been the only one for me since.”

When did you know this thing you had was special?

Katherine: “Roz has always been wonderful, but I think the way he rose to the occasion when I was pregnant—it was a really beautiful bonding time together. He would always stick me on the inside of the sidewalk (for safety) when we were walking, hold hands and talk about how excited he was for what was to come. He never wavered even for a second. He knew it was what he wanted and that conviction made the entire pregnancy much more grounding for me.”

Roz: “We were an instant family. Katherine told me she was pregnant and moved in the very next day. Having

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ADVENTURE

Hogwarts Legacy Could Learn a Few Things From Bully Regarding School Life

April 4, 2023April 4, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

For years, dedicated Harry Potter aficionados, like me, have been asking for an intricately detailed video game that truly makes you feel like an all-powerful witch or wizard. And now, every fan can live out this dream with the meticulous world of Hogwarts Legacy, showcasing a wide range of entertaining endeavors and arduous expeditions. However, while it triumphs in many aspects, there are a few instances where it falls short, primarily with the lack of interpersonal gameplay.

When approaching students, you’ll notice that there aren’t any options to talk to them apart from those who are a part of main quests and side missions.

Hogwarts Legacy Gameplay — Please stop staring into my soul. Image Source: Screenshot via Avalanche Software

Although I can understand why this feature was neglected, given how many objectives there are, it does make the experience feel isolating rather than inviting. Considering this aspect, I can’t help but make some comparisons to that of Rockstar’s Bully with the mischievous educational journey of Jimmy Hopkins.

Even if it is a game that launched in 2006, on the PlayStation 2 nonetheless, Bully’s unique gameplay style is a bit more realistic than Hogwarts Legacy. Not only can you talk to every single person in the town of Bullworth, but everyone will also treat you differently based on your popularity level, which is something I wanted to see in Hogwarts.

Talking to girls in Bullworth Academy — Image Source: Screenshot via Rockstar Games

I’m not saying it has to be an elaborate dialogue scene, yet it could include mundane actions like small favors or hilarious greetings, as Bully has done in the past. Maybe there could be friendly rivalry talking points with the different houses or a subtle “Hey, fifth year!” as mentioned by Reddit user SplatDragon00. Of course, there are a few occasions like this, including when a shop

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ADVENTURE

A Soldier Against All Odds, LT. Col. Jason Pike’s Inspiring …

April 3, 2023April 3, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

(MENAFN- EIN Presswire)

A Soldier Against All Odds: A Memoir by LT. COL. Jason G Pike

LT. Col. Jason Pike

A brutally honest tale of a soldier’s unorthodox life, a rogue career, and an often-maverick character not easily aligned with the military credo.

Pike pushes onward with a stunning refusal to quit. His grit, resilience, and remarkable vulnerability shine through every sentence, providing light and hope to readers in any season of life.” – Col. JACK WEDAM, USA, RetiredSPARTANBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, February 15, 2023 /einpresswire.com / — The Army investigated him, arrested him, and tried to break him. LT. Col. jason pike is undoubtedly a soldier against all odds . A decorated combat veteran with multiple deployments, the author shares in this inspiring memoir how he survived 31 years in the service on sacred secrets. A genuine and frank account-the good, the very bad, and the very ugly-of his years in uniform. Starting from the bottom, as a private, and working his way through the ranks, Pike tells his story with wicked whit and shows the readers the price he paid for his service – as well as a glimpse into the adventure of life in the Army, including 9 years of living overseas.

Diagnosed at age seven with an acute learning disability and failing first grade that year, Jason Pike was sent back to repeat it. At age nine, he was diagnosed with osteomyelitis, a crippling bone disease dissolving the bone of his knee that added to his academic challenges and a significant physical disadvantage.

With more than three decades of national guard and active service, after starting his military career at seventeen and retiring at the rank of lieutenant colonel, he was told that none of it would be possible. For that advice,

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ADVENTURE

From Burned-Out Parents to Living the Dream of a Flexible and Adventure-Filled Life

April 2, 2023April 2, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

Brisbane, QLD –News Direct– Intrepid Lifestyle Project

Brent and Crystal Stanton are the co-founders of Intrepid Lifestyle Project, a personal brand with a powerful mission to inspire a new generation of parents to say no to sacrificing precious time with their children. They are achieving this by introducing families to the online space, helping them establish a leveraged income, and creating the time flexibility needed to focus on the things that matter most to them.

Work-life balance has become a growing concern for many families as they struggle to balance the demands of work and family responsibilities. This can have a detrimental impact on family life, leading to increased tension, conflict, and reduced quality time with children. A lack of work-life balance can also lead to burnout, fatigue, and mental health issues for parents. When parents can effectively manage their time and balance their work and family responsibilities, it can lead to a more stable and positive home environment for children. As society continues to evolve, finding ways to support families in maintaining a healthy work-life balance will become increasingly important.

Using their signature four-pillar method, Brent and Crystal teach families how to reconnect and reignite their spark through connection, growth, creativity, and contribution. Their mission is to empower families to take control of their time and create a life of freedom and fulfilment through the Intrepid Lifestyle Project and techniques such as affiliate marketing, high ticket sales, and building a brand online.

Brent and Crystal have always loved adventure, but it wasn’t until their honeymoon that they realised their dream of living an alternative lifestyle and travelling full-time. After the birth of their two daughters, they realised that working the hours they did and earning the salary they did would never allow them to achieve this dream,

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ADVENTURE

Gunner the Runner settling into home life after three-week adventure

April 1, 2023April 1, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

The newly adopted St. Bernard pup returned to his family on Dec. 30 after escaping from his Creekside home

Many dog owners can relate to the struggle of trying to wrangle their pet through the door when that pup just doesn’t want their walk outside to end.

That hasn’t been the case for Jared Riseborough and his 11-month-old St. Bernard, Gunner. Though the former farm dog is still getting used to life indoors, said Riseborough, “he definitely prefers inside over outside right now.”

Gunner seemingly had his fill of the great outdoors last month, when he spent a full three weeks on a cross-town adventure that took him from Creekside to Emerald and even, reportedly, all the way to Harmony bowl on Whistler Mountain.

Gunner bolted away from his Sarajevo Drive home on Dec. 9, just two days after Riseborough and his family adopted the timid St. Bernard from Chilliwack.

“At first, I was like, ‘Well, he probably won’t go that far. He’s pretty scared of most things right now, so it’ll be fine,’” said Riseborough. “Initially I left work to go find him and I did actually see him and almost got him within, like, the first two hours. But trying to dive for a dog when you’re already in waist-deep snow is not easy.”

Over the following three weeks, sightings of Gunner would pour in through social media. The Sea to Sky Neighbourhood Animals Needing Assistance (NANA) Facebook group as well as Canine Valley, a Squamish-based training-centre, helped spread the word, field sighting reports and build a strategy.

“We would try and go out at least for a couple hours every day after work, usually to see if we could follow him around, which was originally just around Creekside,” said Riseborough. “And then, at some point …

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TRAVELLING

Hogwarts Legacy – How to fix stuttering and frame drops (NVIDIA DLSS Fix)

April 1, 2023April 1, 2023

by Tracy J. Chu

The PC version of Hogwarts Legacy has seen many reports of constant stuttering and FPS drops. If our initial fix didn’t work for you, you might want to update your game, as Avalanche Software recently released its first performance patch for PC and Xbox since the global release.

Hogwarts Legacy - How To Fix Stuttering And Frame Drops (nvidia Dlss Fix)

However, if none of that works and you’re still suffering from issues, there’s one more thing you can do to ensure your game runs as smoothly as possible. Hogwarts Legacy uses an old NVIDIA DLSS file by default, and you must replace it with the updated version of the DLSS file.

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You can either do it automatically using the DLSS swapper or manually do it yourself. The manual method is not too difficult either, as it is a simple file replacement in a particular folder. Here’s how you can update your Hogwarts Legacy DLSS file. Note that this solution will not work for AMD GPUs.

Go to C:Program FilesSteamsteamappscommonHogwarts LegacyEnginePluginsRuntimeNvidiaDLSSBinariesThirdPartyWin64

You will find a single nvngx_dlss.dll file inside the folder.
Make a backup of the existing nvngx_dlss.dll file inside this folder if you run into any issues. However, after multiple tests, it is highly unlikely you will face any issues.

You can quickly make a backup by renaming the file and adding .bak after the dll at the end.
Go to this website and download the latest version of the DLSS.

There is a possibility that a newer version of the DLSS file is available by the time you’re reading this. If it does, download it.
Copy the download nvngx_dlss.dll file into the folder and replace the old nvngx_dlss.dll file (which should now be renamed to nvngx_dlss.dll.bak).

You can keep the backed up file inside the folder as long as it is

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