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When I Was Young

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When I was young
An anthem of a foreign land
The Star-Spangled Banner hymn I sung
In places and people I did not understand

Though I was young
I always felt, if not knew
When concerts began and stage bells rang
People stood up, and woke up anew

That while we were young
And others were not so quite
Whether you were from here, or far flung
You are in America now, things will be alright

And we are forever young
While blemished and pounced upon by time
This was the promise of a nation newly sprung
That right and might will always stay in true rhyme

Why then in two centuries and a half young
With perpetual downs and ups, backs and forwards
Should souls despair or swear with mouths and tongue
For this nation is a dream, and will carry ever onwards

Dean Marc
Written on the eve the USA’s 250th.

The Fastest AI Fried Chicken In The World

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I am cooking up XYZ.

XYZ is one of the most delicious dish in the world, if not yet the most delicious.

Everyone who has tried it is hooked.

We used all the secret recipes and ingredients the world and humanity has to offer.

But there is ferocious competition, especially those with might and money.

It is what it is. There seems no stopping it. They cannot stop. So we cannot stop.

There are many comments, truths, untruths, unknowns, and willful avoidance to scrutinise how we got here, our supply chains, our ingredients, our recipes, and cooking methods, our plating, our pricing, and especially our self-righteous promotion. It is complicated.

(Wink wink, everyone has dirty secrets, we all know how the top gigs out there got to where they are).

But it is so d*** scrumptious, it will hold the world enthralled for years to come. Money will flow all over the world to have a piece of this.

(Wink wink again, who cares if it is loaded with voodoo unfit for consumption or our chefs with no qualms dirtying their hands to rip off what is not ours to take from everyone’s cupboards and pantries… No one needs to know, and if we do, we will load all our menu items with the magic spices, you will not discern fantasy or reality, just that it gives you the meal of your life [or the fear of not having it before the end of days…]…).

So trust me. Do not trust them. We have designed shiny halos on our heads. We have seen or have come from the other joints, trust us, we are the best. And we are good and fair to everyone (especially to our fellow country folks, you first of course). Not that other joint across the street (they have no morals) or those on the other neighbourhood (how can you trust them, they look strange and speak peculiar words, they may be poisoning us with another kind of yumminess…).

And when in doubt, we will save you from hunger. Remember, your house is emptied and unstocked. Your cooking sucks after a few generations of not cooking. You do not need food there anyway. You buy it from us. Or if you cannot, someday, we will be forced to offer leftovers (in Oobee currencies, UBIs). Everyone gets to partake in the spoils. Especially if you are from this side of town founded by a merigo dude from that italian bistro.

Everyone wins.

#####

We are building the fastest and best car in the world.

But we tell you (and look dashingly handsome and goooood) ahead that this is scary.

Well, we all know there are no brakes.

Everyone who is anyone who is trying to build these cars do not do brakes

Unless, they stop trying to make the best cars with no brakes or we all agree to put on brakes to make sure we all enjoy this ride without killing ourselves…

Why should we put on brakes?

They are hypocrites. We are not. We at least warned you. We are safe (from blame).

#####

Zed Approves | How to Stay Cool in Extreme Heat

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Here are some tips and gear on how to cool yourself during this extreme heat.

The human body is an amazing and resilient system. It can withstand the heat and make some adjustments to itself automatically. The most noticeable first line of defense is sweating. It’s not actually the perspiration that cools you down, but the act of it evaporating into the air, as it takes away the heat along with it.

Fans

This is why fans or air circulators are an effective way to bring down your body heat. They speed up the evaporation process. You might think that you’re not sweating anymore, but you actually are, you just don’t notice it.

Here are some fans that can help you cool off. Starting off with this misting fan that has a 30-liter water tank. The mist it produces hits the warm air and causes it to evaporate easily. It essentially cools the air near you along with cooling your body. This one is also battery-powered and can last you about 30 hours, which is more than enough to get through the peak heat of the day and recharge it for the day after.

If absolute portability is your need, there is the portable neck fan that fits firmly around your neck and blows air toward your head. It’s great for those who need to work outdoors and need some mobility, such as when doing carpentry or outdoor maintenance.

Portable ACUs

If you need to cool not just yourself but others near you, a more powerful version of a fan is needed. These are the portable Air Conditioning Units; while they are not as powerful as fixed ACUs, they offer advantages over standard fans.

Starting off with the DREO Inverter Dual-Hose Portable Air Conditioner, this has a cooling power of 14,000 BTU. It can cool an area of up to 400 sq. ft (or 37 square meters), which is enough for cooling a bedroom or a small living room. Just take note that it features two hoses: one is for the exhaust and the another is for the intake. This design reduces hot air backflow and makes cooling faster and more efficient. This also uses inverter technology, making it more energy-saving as the compressor adjusts its output based on demand.

Similar to the previous model in terms of portability is the EUHOMY Portable Air Conditioner, but it features a slightly lower cooling power of 12,000 BTU. It also functions as a dehumidifier, which removes excess moisture from the air to help cool the room. While cheaper upfront, it is not an inverter ACU, which in the long run can be more costly.

ACUs

We’ll get straight to the point. ACUs are simply the best way to deal with the heat. The main questions are: how long are you planning to use it, and what is the size of the room intended to be cooled?

Choose this Midea ACU if the room you are cooling is around 350 sq ft (33 square meters) and you need to run it for more than 4 hours. This is because inverter units run at lower power when they reach the desired temperature. Think of it like driving a car on cruise control.

If you need to run the ACU only for a few hours in order to fall asleep faster, you don’t need to get an inverter ACU. A non-inverter will bring down the temperature just fine. What you need to think about is the size of the room. If it’s around 350 square feet (or 33 square meters) this LG will be a perfect fit. But if the room is bigger, around 550 sq ft (or 51 square meters), then this Frigidaire is the right choice.

Keep a cool head and stay hydrated. Together, we can beat the heat with the right gear!

Featured image credits: Unsplash – Immo Wegmann


Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.

Originally published at: zedreviews.com

Expedition 73 Crew Reflects on Science, Teamwork, and Life in Orbit 

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On June 16, astronauts and cosmonauts gathered at Space Center Houston to share stories from their missions aboard the International Space Station and recognize the teamwork and people on the ground that made their missions possible. 

The Expedition 73 Welcome Home Ceremony brought together members of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10, Soyuz MS-27, and NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 missions. During the event, the crews reflected on the science, partnerships, and international collaboration that defined their time in orbit. 

Remarks were delivered by NASA’s Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, Low Earth Orbit Program’s Deputy Manager for the International Space Station Dina Contella, Richard Jones with NASA’s commercial crew office, Flight Operations Director Norm Knight, Johnson Employee Relations Lead David Kelley, and Space Center Houston Chief Operating and Strategy Officer Keesha Bullock. Together, they recognized the accomplishments of the crews and the team members who helped make the expedition a success. 

NASA’s Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche gives opening remarks at the crew debrief and awards ceremony. NASA/Luna Posadas Nava

Wyche welcomed the crews home and reflected on the accomplishments of Expedition 73. 

“Together, these crews exemplified professionalism, resilience, and the spirit of international cooperation,” Wyche said. “Their work ensured the continued success of the International Space Station Program and demonstrated the strength of our multi-vehicle crew transportation strategy.” 

During the expedition, all available docking ports were occupied simultaneously for the first time, with eight spacecraft attached to the station. The crew also supported visiting missions, including Axiom Mission 4, and multiple cargo deliveries while maintaining a full schedule of scientific investigations. 

Crew members completed three spacewalks, installing hardware that supports future solar array upgrades and maintenance activities critical to station operations.  

NASA astronaut Anne McClain is photographed near one of the International Space Station’s main solar arrays during a spacewalk to upgrade the orbital outpost’s power generation system and relocate a communications antenna on May 1, 2026. NASA

The ceremony also recognized the workforce whose dedication supported every aspect of Expedition 73, from mission planning and operations to research, training, and crew safety. 

“You learned each other’s languages, and often, when we didn’t know the right answers, you partnered with us, and you would come up with the answers and help,” said International Space Station Deputy Manager Dina Contella. “You really helped make us successful.” 

She noted that collaboration extended well beyond the crew in orbit, with teams across the program matching that dedication throughout the expedition.  

Contella shared that Expedition 73 included six cargo missions, the inaugural flight of JAXA’s (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) HTV-X1 cargo spacecraft, and more than 37,000 pounds of supplies, equipment, and scientific investigations delivered to the space station.  

She also thanked the Commercial Crew Program and Flight Operations teams for helping safely transport crews to and from the station and support mission operations. 

More than 1,000 employees representing 40 teams received NASA Group Achievement Awards, while 23 individuals were honored with Superior Achievement Awards for their contributions to the mission. 

NASA astronaut Zena Cardman and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui receive the NASA Exceptional Bravery Honors at the crew debrief. From left: NASA astronaut Zena Cardman, Johnson Director Vanessa Wyche, Richard Jones with NASA’s commercial crew office, Low Earth Orbit Program’s Deputy Manager for the International Space Station Dina Contella, and JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui. NASA/Luna Posadas Nava

NASA astronaut Zena Cardman and JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui received NASA Exceptional Bravery Honors for demonstrating exceptional courage, leadership, and composure during a medical event.

Flight Operations Director Norm Knight thanked the teams that supported Expedition 73 from the ground while recognizing the crews’ contributions throughout their missions. “You represent an astronaut corps that is the best of the best, epitomizing courage and teamwork,” Knight told the crew. “Every opportunity or challenge that came your way, you met with confidence and creativity.” 

NASA astronaut Jonny Kim conducts an investigation to assess the effects of microgravity on bone marrow stem cells, including their ability to secrete proteins that form and dissolve bone. NASA

Crew members reflected on the station’s legacy as a platform for discovery, innovation, and international partnership after more than 25 years of continuous human presence in orbit. 

Research conducted during Expedition 73 included investigations in human physiology, biology, materials science, pharmaceutical development, and technologies designed to benefit life on Earth and future exploration missions. 

The crews also discussed research aboard the station that will help prepare NASA for future missions to the Moon and Mars, including advanced life-support systems and water recovery technologies. 

NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers holds space botany hardware that supports the low Earth orbit Integrated Flori-culture Experiment (LIFE) investigation as she floats inside the space station’s cupola. The study examines how radiation and microgravity affect plant growth to support future exploration and improve crop production on Earth. NASA

Beyond science and operations, the crew built strong bonds during their months in orbit. They marked birthdays, holidays, and mission milestones together, often creating elaborate cakes from the limited ingredients available aboard the station. 

NASA astronaut Anne McClain celebrates her birthday with a cake, gifts, and cards aboard the space station’s Unity module. NASA

Many crew members said their strongest memories centered on the people around them, and that trust and teamwork remained essential to mission success. 

Viewing Earth from orbit provided the crew with a powerful reminder of humanity’s shared connection. 

“When you look back at Earth, what we have in common is so much more important than what makes us different,” said McClain. “We’re all on this one planet. We’re all on the same crew.” 

Awardees pose for a group photo from the Expedition 73 crew debrief and awards ceremony. NASA/Luna Posadas Nava

The evening concluded with the crew expressing gratitude to all those who supported their missions from launch through landing. 

“It was overwhelming in the most wonderful way to step off that aircraft and see so many team members who had supported us and see family and friends for the first time,” said Cardman. “We are so grateful.” 

View the list of award recipients here. 

Watch the full Expedition 73 crew debrief and awards ceremony below.  

Originally published at: NASA

Zed Approves | It’s Prime Day 2026! Time to Upgrade Your World Cup Viewing Setup and Beat the Heat

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While the group stage of the 2026 World Cup has already begun, it’s not too late to upgrade your setup so you can watch your favorite team in comfort. So, what do you need to experience the games to the fullest if you are watching from home? It all comes down to maximizing viewing quality and staying cool.

Projectors

Projectors are the next big thing, literally and figuratively for experiencing the matches. They can deliver up to a massive 300-inch (762 cm) viewing size. While the final size depends on your viewing distance, it is on a completely different level than standard TVs.

AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Max 4K Laser Projector

The AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Max 4K Laser Projector ($3,399.00 Prime Day deal) supports a 3840×2160 display resolution and offers connectivity via Bluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi, making it the perfect display for a home theater. This projector boasts 3,500 ISO lumens, which determines the brightness of the image it creates. There are other variations available as well, like the AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Pro 4K Laser Projector ($1,699.00 Prime Day deal) at 2,500 ISO lumens, and the AWOL Valerion StreamMaster Plus2 4K Laser Projector ($1,499.00) at 2,000 ISO lumens.

Valerion Walnut Tripod Stand

If you plan to use a tripod stand, we recommend the Valerion Walnut Tripod Stand, which is specifically designed to be compatible with both the VisionMaster and StreamMaster series projectors.

Television

A reliable television is always a great option if you aren’t planning to watch on a massive projector screen. Aside from watching the World Cup, you can use a TV for streaming your favorite shows or playing console video games. It also comes with built-in speakers, so you won’t need to buy a separate device for audio. The standout feature of the Samsung 75-Inch Class Crystal, aside from its large screen size, is its 4K resolution and its seamless integration with smart home setups and other Samsung devices.

Audio Setup

Whether you are using a projector or a TV, you will need a quality audio setup to make the experience feel as legitimate as being live in the stadium. Things to look out for include power output, which is a major factor in determining volume potential, as well as speaker placement and room acoustics.

Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad

We have a few recommendations for the perfect sound gear. If you want an immersive home theater experience, the Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad ($1,998.00 discounted price) is a great choice that offers cinema-style surround sound all around you.

The KEF LS50 Wireless II ($2,999.99) features two speakers powered by a 280-watt amplifier for the mid-range and a 100-watt amplifier for the tweeter. For reference, its maximum SPL measured at 1 meter is 108 dB, which is about as loud as a chainsaw at 1 meter! It’s safe to say it gets plenty loud for home use.

Lastly, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A9 (5th Gen) ($4,550.00) offers a maximum speaker output power of 1,500 watts spread across seven separate built-in speaker components. With each driver handling specific frequencies, they all work together to create a rich, layered sound with incredible clarity.

Cooling Beverages

Whether it’s an ice-cold beer, a soda, fruit juice, or even ice cream, having a way to keep them cold is essential. Who wants to drink a lukewarm beverage during a tense game? Considering the current scorching temperatures, you will want to cool off with the most satisfying drink possible.

Coleman Chiller

The Coleman Chiller ($59.99) has a 60-quart capacity and weighs 11.4 pounds. While it is naturally made for outdoor use, like a watch party with friends and neighbors you could easily keep it inside the house to avoid making trips to the kitchen refrigerator. The Coleman Chiller Series 60qt Wheeled Portable Cooler features excellent ice retention, heavy-duty wheels, and a durable handle, making it great for everything from match days to camping and tailgating.

There are other ways to chill your drinks too. The PremiumLevella Refrigerator ($849.00) and the Honeywell Beverage Refrigerator and Cooler ($168.29 Prime Day deal) are essentially specialized just for drinks. However, if you plan to get a commercial-grade refrigerator that can be used for other purposes like storing meat and vegetables, a standard Commercial Refrigerator ($849.00) is available as well.

Cooling the Air

Beyond cooling our drinks, we also need to cool our environment. This is where air conditioning comes into play, an invention often considered man’s greatest triumph over nature. You can cool your viewing area using either air conditioning units (ACUs) or fans. While fans are generally cheaper to run, ACUs are far more efficient, especially those utilizing inverter technology.

Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner

We recommend two specific ACUs, each offering a different level of cooling power. The Midea inverter ACU ($849.00 Prime Day deal) features 8,000 BTUs of cooling capacity, while the Frigidaire ($309.99 Prime Day deal) features 12,000 BTUs, but is a non-inverter model. As a rule of thumb, you need more BTUs the larger your room is; the Midea unit is rated for roughly 350 square feet (32.5 square meters), while the Frigidaire is built for up to 550 square feet (51 square meters).

A fan is a great choice if the indoor temperature is already manageable or if you can draw a cool breeze from the outside. The Uthfy 41″ Swamp Cooler ($262.27 Prime Day deal) sits right between an ACU and a normal fan, providing extra cooling by circulating water. You can even drop the temperature further by using ice packs. But if you are just looking for a simple, personal breeze, a small handheld portable fan ($262.27 Prime Day deal) might be all you need.


Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.

Featured image credit: Unsplash – Johannes Hübner

Zed Approves | The Best Prime Day PC Deals: Top Gaming Rigs, Workstations, and Everyday Laptops

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What are the best things to get during Amazon Prime Day or any other shopping event? What else than electronics and fashion? In this post, we are going to list some of the best desktops and laptops you can get.

Gaming laptop with a huge memory

The ASUS ROG Flow Z13 is a gaming laptop released last year, in 2025. It features 16 processing cores, 1 TB of storage, Radeon graphics, and boasts an impressive 128 GB of memory. With that kind of memory, you’d be able to run maybe 12 Chrome browser tabs! Kidding aside, it’s a gaming laptop that can also be purposely used for training or running large AI models. Another one of its benefits is future-proofing, ensuring that you won’t need to change or upgrade your rig for a few years, making it a great investment.

Desktop with a powerful graphics 

While the Alienware Aurora Gaming Desktop only has 32 GB of memory compared to our previous entry, it does have a powerful graphics card: the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070. Thanks to its dedicated cooling system and larger power budget, it can easily support a 4K display resolution of $3840 \times 2160$ (which scales perfectly to standard 16:9 widescreen or 16:10 gaming monitors).

Laptop with a powerful graphics

Another gaming desktop PC is the Skytech Gaming Chronos 3, boasting a highly powerful graphics card, the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT. The raw 16 GB of VRAM is a major selling point for this machine, especially since modern AAA games require significant video memory at 1440p and 4K resolutions. This setup can certainly be used to play highly anticipated upcoming games like Grand Theft Auto VI.

Everyday laptop for Apple enthusiasts

If you like Apple products, then the Apple 2026 MacBook Air 13-inch with the M5 chip is a good option for you. It comes with 16 GB of memory, 512 GB of storage, and integrated graphics. Its sleek design is not only for style but also for functionality, as it is very thin, highly portable, and offers seamless compatibility with other Apple products.

Everyday laptop for non-apple enthusiasts

If the previous computers are overkill for the computing power you actually need, there is the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3. Its intended users are students and professionals alike. It features 16 GB of memory, an integrated graphics card, 512 GB of storage, and an Intel Core i5 processor. It’s decent and gets the job done when all you need is a browser and a word processor. Don’t sell it short, though; it can still easily handle non-graphics-intensive games like Stardew Valley.

Specialized for AI

The GMKtec EVO-X2 AI Mini PC is a powerful compact machine that boasts 128 GB of memory and a 2 TB storage capacity. It is designed primarily as an AI workstation. While you might think using this for gaming would be great, we would recommend dedicated gaming PCs instead, as they are optimized for gaming performance and will cost you less.

Quick Reference

ProductPrice
GMKtec EVO-X2 AI Mini PC3,299.99
ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (2025) Gaming Laptop3,262.37
Alienware Aurora Gaming Desktop ACT12501,999.99
Skytech Gaming Chronos 3 Desktop PC1899.99
Apple 2026 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop1,099.00
Lenovo Business Laptop with Copilot AI1,129.00

A computer is not just for work, not just for games, or solely for AI. This little war machine is an essential tool for everyday life in these technology-enriched days. So choose wisely!


Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.

Zed Approves: How to Gear Up for GTA 6 This Amazon Prime Day (2026 Quick Guide)

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GTA 6 is scheduled to be released on November 19, 2026, on the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. If you are interested in playing it on launch day, you had better have one of these consoles ready. Considering that it is currently the season for Amazon Prime Day, some excellent deals might be available to help you gear up.

Gaming Consoles

PlayStation 5

Why consider a PS5? Some of the highly anticipated exclusives coming to the platform are Marvel’s Wolverine and God of War: Laufey—both of which are action-adventure, hack-and-slash titles. Another massive game coming to the PS5 (as well as Xbox Series X|S) is Onimusha, which honestly looks amazing enough to be a standalone reason to pick up a PS5.

Xbox Series X|S

The Xbox Series X|S has a stellar lineup of upcoming exclusive games as well. These include Gears of War: E-Day, Clockwork Revolution, and Fable. With a future lined up with a massive bunch of games alongside GTA 6, investing in an Xbox Series X|S is a fantastic choice during the Prime Day sales.

Alternatives to a Gaming Console

While GTA 6 will not be available on PC during the initial console release, you might still consider building or buying a PC instead of a gaming console. That can be a great idea, especially if you plan to use the system for things beyond just gaming. Whether you need a machine for creative work like art and digital drawing, or professional tasks involving highly intensive workloads, you should look out for Prime Day deals on one of these computers.

Note that both of these are more powerful than the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.

Alienware Aurora Gaming Desktop

  • CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7
  • Memory: 32 GB
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070
  • Storage: 1TB

Skytech Chronos Gaming PC Desktop

  • CPU: Ryzen 7
  • Memory: 32 GB
  • Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT
  • Storage: 2TB

Conclusion

GTA 6 is easily the most highly anticipated title for gamers everywhere, and it will likely be a monumental success considering Rockstar’s incredible track record. Capitalizing on Prime Day right now is the smartest way to make sure your setup is completely ready for the next generation of gaming.

Featured image credits: Unsplash – Shutter Speed


Student life is busy enough without hassles like paying for shipping. That’s why Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for you. For just $14.99 $7.49/month, Prime Student gets you free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals, and more. Better still, it comes with a six-month free trial so you can make sure Prime Student fits your lifestyle. Join today to take advantage of membership benefits and perks tailored specifically for students! Click here to sign up now.

Father’s Day Outdoors – Build Dad the Ultimate Backyard Watch Party

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This summer comes loaded with reasons to be outside after dark — World Cup matches, late-inning baseball, drive-in-style movie nights, and backyard get-togethers that run past sunset. This Father’s Day, skip the small-screen scramble and give Dad a setup big enough for all of it: a serious outdoor projector system that turns the patio, deck, or backyard into the best seat in the house.

For the Dad Hosting World Cup Watch Parties

When the score matters and the crowd is loud, picture quality and response time aren’t optional. These laser projectors are built to keep up.

AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Max 4K Laser Projector — $2,799.30 The flagship of the lineup, and the pick for the dad who wants the best seat at every match. It throws a 300″ IMAX Enhanced picture at 3500 ISO lumens with Anti-RBE and speckle-reduction tech for a clean, true-to-life image even in tricky outdoor light. Add HDR10+, 3D support, and a Gigabit-ready 4ms/240Hz response, and fast-moving action — corner kicks included — stays sharp and smooth.

AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Pro 4K Laser Projector — $1,599.00 A near-flagship experience at a friendlier price. It delivers the same 300″ IMAX Enhanced theater scale and 240Hz/4ms gaming-grade response, plus 3D and Dolby Vision support, 2500 ISO lumens, and an AI-powered smart OS that multitasks twice as fast — handy for checking other scores between plays.

AWOL Valerion StreamMaster Plus2 4K Laser Projector — $1,199.00 The entry point into the same big-screen, low-latency experience. Still a 300″ IMAX Enhanced display with 4ms/240Hz response, 3D and Dolby Vision, HDR10, built-in Google TV, and a smart AI assistant — everything Dad needs to go from streaming the pre-match show to watching the final whistle without missing a beat.

For the Dad Who Wants It Set Up in Minutes, Not Hours

A great outdoor system only gets used if it’s easy to set up — these screens and stands make that the easy part.

Valerion 200″ Outdoor Projector Screen with Stand — $1,199.00 Go big for the big games. This freestanding 200″ screen supports 4K/8K UHD, sets up in about three minutes, and folds down into a wheeled carry bag — built for backyard tournaments, camping trips, and anywhere else Dad wants a true theater-sized picture outdoors.

Valerion 180″ Outdoor Projector Screen with Stand — $699.30 The same fast, freestanding, wheeled-bag convenience in a slightly more compact 180″ size — an easy yes for the dad who wants an impressive screen without dominating the whole yard.

Valerion Walnut Tripod Stand — $341.70 For projector placement that’s quick to adjust and sturdy enough to trust. This 10kg aluminum alloy tripod offers full 360° rotation, so Dad can angle the picture perfectly whether he’s set up on the patio or moved the party to the lawn.

For the Dad Building a Permanent Outdoor Theater

If the goal is a setup that stays up all summer — not just for the big matches — these fixed-frame, daylight-readable screens are the foundation.

Valerion 120-inch Fresnel ALR Projector Screen — $999.00 A fixed-frame 16:9 screen engineered for daylight viewing, with 1.8 gain and 85% ambient light rejection from both the ceiling and the sides. That means Dad can watch a Sunday afternoon game on the patio without waiting for the sun to go down.

Valerion 100-inch Fresnel ALR Projector Screen — $771.75 The same daylight-viewing, ambient-light-rejecting technology in a slightly smaller frame — ideal for covered patios or decks where a 100″ picture is the sweet spot.


Quick-Reference Price Guide

ProductPrice
Valerion Walnut Tripod Stand$341.70
Valerion 180″ Outdoor Projector Screen with Stand$699.30
Valerion 100-inch Fresnel ALR Screen$771.75
Valerion 120-inch Fresnel ALR Screen$999.00
Valerion 200″ Outdoor Projector Screen with Stand$1,199.00
AWOL Valerion StreamMaster Plus2 4K Laser Projector$1,199.00
AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Pro 4K Laser Projector$1,599.00
AWOL Valerion VisionMaster Max 4K Laser Projector$2,799.30

From World Cup screamers to backyard movie nights under the stars, the right outdoor setup turns Dad’s yard into the place everyone wants to be this summer. Happy Father’s Day.

Father’s Day Outdoors, Round Two – Gear for the Action, the Tailgate, and Beating the Heat

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The best summer memories don’t happen on a couch — they happen at the beach, on the sideline, or in the backyard with friends and a cooler full of drinks. This round of Father’s Day picks is for the dad who’s living the season, not just watching it: gear to capture the moments, keep the snacks cold, stay strong for whatever game he’s playing, and stay comfortable while he’s at it.

For the Dad Who Captures Every Moment

Whether it’s a World Cup trip, a kid’s tournament, or just a perfect day outside, these pocket-sized cameras are built to keep up.

Insta360 Luna Ultra Creator Bundle — $969.99
The full-featured pick for the dad who wants to shoot like a pro. It’s an 8K vlogging camera with dual Leica lenses and 12x zoom, a large 1″ sensor, a detachable 2″ touchscreen, and a triple AI chip — essentially a pocket gimbal camera built for fast-moving action and crisp detail, in Cosmic Black.

Insta360 Luna Ultra Endurance Bundle — $879.99
Same dual-Leica-lens, 12x zoom, 8K core experience, built out with an endurance-focused bundle for the dad who’s filming all day — long hikes, full tournaments, or a whole weekend at the lake.

Insta360 Luna Ultra — $769.99
The standalone way in. All the core hardware — dual Leica lenses, 1″ sensor, detachable touchscreen, triple AI chip — for the dad who wants premium vlogging power without the extra bundle accessories, in Cosmic Black.

For the Dad Hosting the Tailgate or Beach Day

Ninja FrostVault 65QT Insulated Cooler — $279.99 (20% off)
Built for exactly this season. This 65-quart insulated cooler keeps ice cold for days and includes a temperature-controlled dry storage drawer, so drinks stay frozen and snacks stay dry — whether Dad’s set up at the beach, the campsite, or tailgating before kickoff. Comes in a sharp Lakeshore Blue.

For the Dad Staying Game-Ready

Speediance Gym Monster Smart Home Gym — $3,099.00
For the dad training for his own game — golf, pickup basketball, a 5K, or just staying strong through the summer. This all-in-one smart strength system combines a Smith machine, power cage, squat rack, and cable machine into one multifunctional setup, so a full workout fits in whatever space he’s got, no gym commute required.

For Keeping the Watch Party Cool

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU — $629.99
World Cup matches and summer doubleheaders run long, and so does the heat. This smart portable AC covers rooms up to 550 sq. ft., comes with a Follow Me remote and window kit, and turns the man cave, garage, or sunroom into a comfortable spot to watch every minute — even during a heat wave.


Quick-Reference Price Guide

ProductBrandPrice
Insta360 Luna UltraInsta360$769.99
Ninja FrostVault 65QTNinja$279.99
Insta360 Luna Ultra Endurance BundleInsta360$879.99
Insta360 Luna Ultra Creator BundleInsta360$969.99
BLACK+DECKER Portable AC, 12,000 BTUBLACK+DECKER$629.99
Speediance Gym Monster Smart Home GymSpeediance$3,099.00

Whether he’s capturing the highlight reel, hosting the crowd, or training for his own next game, this is the gear that keeps Dad out in the sun this summer. Happy Father’s Day.

The Ultimate Father’s Day Gift Guide – Home Entertainment Upgrades Dad Actually Wants

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Forget the tie. This Father’s Day, give the dad in your life something he’ll use every single day: a serious upgrade to his home entertainment setup. From big-screen projectors that turn the living room into a private cinema to speakers that make every playlist sound like a live show, here’s our curated lineup of the best gear on the market right now.

For the Dad Who Wants His Own Home Theater

If Dad’s been talking about “finally setting up a movie room,” these projectors deliver true cinema quality without the cinema price tag.

Epson LifeStudio Flex Plus 4K PRO-UHD — $999.99 A genuinely all-in-one streaming projector. It pairs Epson’s 3-Chip 3LCD Triple Core engine with 1000 lumens of color and white brightness, built-in Google TV, and sound tuned by Bose — so Dad gets crisp 4K picture and concert-quality audio without hooking up a separate sound system.

Epson Home Cinema 2350 4K PRO-UHD — $1,399.99 Built for the dad who games as much as he streams. It brings 2,800 lumens of brightness, HDR10 and HLG support, low-latency gaming mode, Android TV, Bluetooth, and a 10W speaker — a true do-it-all setup for movie nights and weekend gaming sessions alike.

LG CineBeam Q HU710PB 4K Smart Portable Projector — $999.99 The pick for the dad who likes to move things around — backyard movie nights, camping trips, or just a different room each week. It features LG’s RGB laser engine, automatic screen adjustment and autofocus, up to 154% DCI-P3 color coverage, and a striking 450,000:1 contrast ratio in a genuinely portable form factor.

For the Audiophile Dad

These are the speaker setups for the dad who notices when the bass is a little off, or who’s been eyeing a serious sound upgrade for years.

Sony BRAVIA Theater Quad — $2,698.00 A 16-speaker home theater system built around four wireless speaker units, Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, and full Dolby Atmos/DTS:X support. Add in automatic room calibration, and Dad gets immersive, theater-grade sound without running wires through the walls.

KEF LS50 Wireless II (Pair) — $2,999.99 For the dad who wants reference-quality sound in a sleek, no-receiver-needed package. These wireless bookshelf speakers are a favorite among serious listeners for their detail and soundstage — striking in carbon black.

Bang & Olufsen Beosound Balance — $3,650.00 A statement piece as much as a speaker. The Beosound Balance brings B&O’s signature natural oak finish together with rich, room-filling wireless multiroom sound — the kind of gift that looks as good as it sounds in a living room.

For the Dad Who Wants Sound in Every Room

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A9 (5th Gen) — Black Anthracite or Natural Aluminum — $4,550.00 B&O’s iconic, circular A9 is back in its 5th generation with active room compensation, so it automatically adjusts to sound its best wherever it’s placed. It’s a multiroom WiFi and Bluetooth speaker that doubles as a design centerpiece.

Bang & Olufsen Beosound Level — $2,250.00 A portable Wi-Fi multiroom speaker in a refined gold tone/light oak finish — ideal for the dad who wants premium sound that can move from the kitchen to the patio without missing a beat.

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5 — $1,850.00 The grab-and-go option for outdoor entertaining. Wi-Fi connectivity, a built-in carry strap, and a warm dark oak finish make this the speaker for the dad who hosts backyard gatherings all summer.

For the Vinyl and Retro-Sound Dad

Audioengine A5+ Wireless Bookshelf Speakers (Bamboo) — $569.00 Built for the dad with a turntable he loves. These Bluetooth-powered bookshelf speakers are designed specifically with vinyl and home theater setups in mind, wrapped in a warm bamboo finish that looks great on any shelf.

Teenage Engineering OB-4 — $579.00–$629.00 (Black, Red, White) Part speaker, part design object. The OB-4 packs an FM radio and a massive 72-hour rechargeable battery into a portable Bluetooth speaker that’s instantly recognizable — perfect for the dad who appreciates clever industrial design as much as good sound.


Quick-Reference Price Guide

ProductBrandPrice
LifeStudio Flex Plus 4K PRO-UHDEpson$999.99
LG CineBeam Q HU710PBLG$999.99
Home Cinema 2350 4K PRO-UHDEpson$1,399.99
Audioengine A5+ (Bamboo)Audioengine$569.00
Teenage Engineering OB-4 (Black)Teenage Engineering$579.00
Teenage Engineering OB-4 (Red/White)Teenage Engineering$629.00
Beosound A5Bang & Olufsen$1,850.00
Beosound LevelBang & Olufsen$2,250.00
BRAVIA Theater QuadSony$2,698.00
LS50 Wireless II (Pair)KEF$2,999.99
Beosound BalanceBang & Olufsen$3,650.00
Beosound A9 (5th Gen)Bang & Olufsen$4,550.00

Whatever the budget, the goal is the same: give Dad an excuse to put the phone down, dim the lights, and enjoy something on his own terms. Happy Father’s Day.