text:
Looking for investors? Read advice from the experts
Three investors from three different firms offer points of advice for founders to secure their first invetsment.
While the 2024 AgLaunch Cultivate Appalachia Bootcamp may have ended, much of the thought-provoking information still lingers. No doubt, the highly anticipated financing panel left some of the participants wondering if venture capital is the right avenue for their start-up.
Ken Woody with Innova Memphis, Grady Vanderhoofven with Three Roots Capital, and Pete Nelson with AgLaunch sat on the panel, each from the perspective of being investors and running venture capital firms.
What matters most – the technology or the team?
“The value of technology continues to go down, as it becomes more accessible to people; whereas, the value of a strong founder has, and continues to go up,” Nelson said.
Woody added “The first thing we look at as investors is the technology – is it viable? Is it feasible? Is it scalable? Then, we evaluate the strength of your team, and that’s what helps us make the decision one way or another.”
They explained how often the business model, product, service, or customer base may shift after taking an investment. Investors are more likely to gravitate toward a founder that is adaptable, and willing to change. As Vanderhoofven put it, a great founder can pivot and still succeed.
The panel also explained the relationship that develops between an investor and a founder. It’s not a friendship, it’s a partnership, it’s a marriage. So, founders should be just as selective when it comes to finding the right investor, as investors are in finding the right founders.
What can first-time founders expect from a meeting with an investor?
“If you entice us with an email sharing just enough information about your idea, and we accept a meeting, be prepared to share your goals for the next six months,” Vanderhoofven said. “If we are interested, we will check back in six months later to hear if those goals were accomplished.”
The purpose of this is to test if the founder can set and accomplish reasonable goals on the timeline they lay out.
Woody shared that six months would be considered a fast timeline for securing an investment from start to finish. Sometimes it can take years.
“A tip I would give to first-time founders is to also look at the portfolio of the investor, is it a promising portfolio?” Nelson said. “If all their other portfolio companies fail, then they’re going to place a lot of pressure on you.”
That’s why Vanderhoofven said you shouldn’t just seek out investors for cash flow.
“You need to seek out an investor that can provide value to your company beyond the check,” he said.
To read more about the companies in the 2024 AgLaunch Cultivate Appalachia Cohort, click here.
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tier: cub

shelf: education

title: Day 9

text:
Gymnastic Jumps. Like usual, you can find it at the Free Store.
What is it?
The Gymnastics Jumps handoutprovides students with a one-page digital (e.g. Seesaw) or hard-copy visual of 5 jumps students can complete in gymnastics. These different jumps might be performed off of a springboard, on the floor, or off a low bench, etc. (depending on your context and students' entry point to each jump). Students then use reflection to identify the levels of challenge they faced. Students circle whether the jump was too easy, too hard, or just right.
How can I use this?
Gymnastic Jumps can be used as an introduction for jumping in gymnastics. It can also be used near the completion of a unit with students reflecting on their learning. Depending on the students you are teaching (e.g. age, experience, etc.), this document might be completed over the course of multiple lessons (e.g. pencil jump first day and progress to other jumps in later lessons). If being used as a formative assessment, with more experienced gymnasts, you might have students complete this task during an introductory lesson. This can help you plan tasks, with the appropriate level of challenge in mind for your students, in future lessons. I would recommend having different entry points for each jump. For example, the turn jump --> some students might choose to bounce off a springboard and do a turn jump. Others might not use the springboard, some might run and jump off the springboard, some might do a 360 degree jump while others might focus on 180 or 90 degrees. Optimal challenge can motivate students to participate and perform tasks (Fletcher et al., 2021). When the level of challenge is too easy or too hard, boredom can persist and students can develop a lack of enthusiasm towards PE (Dismore & Bailey, 2011). For the sake of this task, you'll notice boredom represents too easy and "frustrated" or "sadness" for too hard. In hindsight, perhaps a more angry face would have been better (boredom was already taken!). You will also see an empty "new jump" square in the bottom right corner. This provides students with choice on a jump that they would like to refine/perform/create/explore. The student then draws or writes a the new jump they tried during the lesson or unit. Student responses might span from the well-known straddle jump to a student-created unicorn jump. Ensure you give students an opportunity to reflect on this selection to discover why this choice was made. Perhaps the answer will lead to optimal challenge... or joy.
If you are interested in furthering your reading around optimal challenge (and more!) in PE, consider investigating Meaningful Physical Education (MPE) and its approach. This book is excellent (see photo below) and you can always follow @meaningfulPE on Twitter for the latest research/thoughts around MPE.
Join Our Mailing List
Do not forget to subscribe before January 15th (Pacific-Time; UTC-07:00)! You will receive a free bonus resource in your inbox. I keep suggesting (I know!), but if you know anyone who might benefit from these resources to support their teaching and student learning, please share!


shelf: home-craft

text:
Understanding Automobile Fixing: A Comprehensive Guide
Car fixing is necessary for keeping the efficiency and durability of your vehicle. Whether it’s regular maintenance or taking care of unforeseen concerns, understanding the fundamentals of automobile repair can save you time, cash, and tension. In today’s blog site, we’ll explore the significance of routine maintenance, usual fixings, and pointers for selecting a trusted mechanic.
Routine maintenance is the foundation of protecting against significant mechanical failings. This consists of regular tasks such as oil modifications, tire turnings, and liquid checks. Neglecting these tasks can lead to serious issues down the line, such as engine failure or transmission issues. It’s critical to stick to your vehicle’s maintenance timetable as described in the owner’s handbook, as this not only keeps your cars and truck running efficiently but also maintains its resale value.
Typical vehicle repair work normally include brake replacements, engine diagnostics, and suspension solutions. Brake systems, for instance, endure a lot of damage and need routine checks. Engine diagnostics can help recognize issues before they become essential, guaranteeing that your vehicle operates efficiently. Recognizing these common fixings can empower you as an auto owner, allowing you to identify very early signs of trouble and look for aid before troubles rise.
Choosing a reliable mechanic can significantly affect the quality of service you get. It’s important to look for referrals, checked out reviews, and inspect qualifications prior to choosing an auto repair shop. Developing a partnership with a trustworthy technician can likewise result in far better service, as they will be much more familiar with your automobile’s background and specific requirements. Openness and great communication are necessary, so don’t be reluctant to ask inquiries about the repairs and associated costs.
Finally, staying informed regarding automobile repair not just keeps your automobile in leading form yet additionally aids you make better decisions regarding your cars and truck’s upkeep and when to look for expert assistance. By spending the time to comprehend the fundamentals, prepare for typical concerns, and construct a connection with a trusted technician, you can ensure a safer, smoother driving experience for several years to find.


shelf: history-culture

title: Free dlc for god of war ragnarok coming this month

text:
Great news for all God of War fans! Sony Santa Monica Studio has announced that God of War Ragnarök, the highly anticipated sequel to 2018’s God of War, will be receiving free DLC this month. The news was shared on the official PlayStation Blog, much to the delight of gamers worldwide.
The God of War series has always been a fan favorite, known for its exhilarating gameplay, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling. The announcement of free DLC for the upcoming Ragnarök installment is sure to generate even more excitement and anticipation for the game’s release.
The free DLC, titled “Then, There Was Ragnarök,” promises to expand the game’s world and provide players with new adventures and challenges. The DLC will introduce new locations to explore, enemies to conquer, and gear to obtain, adding even more depth and replay value to an already expansive game.
In addition to new content, the free DLC will also include various enhancements and quality-of-life improvements based on player feedback from the game’s initial release. This demonstrates Sony Santa Monica Studio’s commitment to delivering a top-quality gaming experience and catering to the desires of the God of War community.
The announcement of free DLC for God of War Ragnarök is a testament to the studio’s dedication to its fans and ensuring that the game continues to evolve and improve over time. Furthermore, the decision to offer the DLC for free is a welcome gesture that is sure to be appreciated by players who are eagerly awaiting the game’s launch.
With its engaging combat, rich mythology, and emotionally driven narrative, God of War Ragnarök is poised to be a game of the year contender. The addition of free DLC will only serve to further elevate the game and solidify its status as a must-play title for both new and returning fans of the series.
As we eagerly await the release of God of War Ragnarök, the anticipation for the free DLC has only heightened the excitement surrounding the game. It’s clear that Sony Santa Monica Studio is dedicated to delivering a truly unforgettable experience for players, and the free DLC is just one more reason to be excited for the game’s imminent release.


shelf: civic-law

title: Greta thunberg deported from israel after gaza bound selfie yacht was seized

text:
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was deported from Israel after the country’s naval forces detained her Gaza-bound flotilla, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
The ministry said Tuesday that Thunberg was on a flight headed back to Sweden via France.
‘Greta Thunberg just departed Israel on a flight to Sweden (via France),’ the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted on X.
Thunberg and three other activists were transported to Ben Gurion Airport to be deported, while eight others — including a member of the European Parliament — refused to sign deportation paperwork, according to the Times of Israel.
The 22-year-old climate activist reportedly told her attorneys that she could do ‘more good outside of Israel’ and that refusing to leave would ‘harm’ her cause, the Times of Israel reported, citing Adalah, an Israeli organization.
Thunberg famously avoids air travel as part of her climate activism, making this flight out of Israel an anomaly for her.
The Israeli navy intercepted the flotilla, named the Madleen, early on Monday. Thunberg posted a video amid the chaos saying that she had been ‘kidnapped’ by Israel, a comment which drew heavy scrutiny, as some pointed out the plight of the hostages who have been held in Gaza since Oct. 7, 2023.
When asked about Thunberg’s claim that she had been ‘kidnapped,’ President Donald Trump said, ‘I think Israel has enough problems without kidnapping Greta Thunberg.’ The president called the climate activist a ‘strange person’ and told reporters that she needed ‘anger management’ courses.
Thunberg was one of 12 people aboard the flotilla, which Israel dubbed the ‘selfie yacht,’ claiming that the entire thing was a publicity stunt. The Madleen was carrying aid for the people of Gaza, though Israel said that the ship contained less than a single truckload.
‘The tiny amount of aid that wasn’t consumed by the ‘celebrities’ will be transferred to Gaza through real humanitarian channels,’ the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote on X after the Madleen was intercepted. ‘There are ways to deliver aid to the Gaza Strip — they do not involve provocations and selfies.’
Israel said on Monday that more than 1,200 aid trucks had entered Gaza over the past two weeks, and the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a controversial Israeli and U.S.-backed organization, had delivered almost 11 million meals to the civilians in Gaza.


tier: polar

shelf: science-engineering

title: Paperinformation

text:
High performance thermoplastics have been developed and commercialized to satisfy the increasing demand for polymeric materials with such properties as thermal stability, high strength and modulus, and chemical resistance. Poly(p-phenylene sulfide) (PPS) is one of the high performance polymers, having outstanding properties compared to conventional thermoplastics such as polyethylene and polypropylene . Since Philips Petroleum Company commercialized PPS in 1967, the synthesis, processing, and applications have evolved to produce various grades of products with diverse properties [2-5].
One of the interesting characteristics of PPS is curability, which means that PPS undergoes chemical reactions on exposure to an oxygen-containing atmosphere at high temperatures, leading to an increase of viscosity due to cross-linking . The extent of the viscosity increase is dependent on the temperature and time of such an exposure . The virgin PPS is a linear material of molecular weight of about 20,000 - 25,000 g/mol, which is too low to be used as a molding resin, Therefore, an increase of molecular weight was necessary, and curability has been considered the most important characteristic in that the moderate molecular weight of virgin PPS could be conveniently increased by a post curing process after polymerization . Ma et al. reported the curing mechanism of PPS using various analytical techniques, such as FT-IR, solid-state 13C-NMR, and rheometric measurements . They concluded that the two most important reactions in the melt cure of PPS were cross-linking and chain extension and that the distribution of molecular weight became broader and shifted toward higher molecular weight with increasing cure time .
The change of the internal structure of PPS that results from the curing reactions inevitably causes a change in the crystallization behavior, which is closely related to the morphology developed during processing. In this paper, the effect of the curing of PPS on its thermal properties and crystalline morphologies was studied. A commercial PPS resin was thermally cured from 1 to 16 days at 250˚C. To investigate the change of molecular weight during curing, the intrinsic viscosities of as-received and cured PPS were measured. Non-isothermal crystallization kinetics were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Furthermore, polarized optical microscopy (POM) was used to observe the morphologies of pure and cured PPS.
PPS powders (W316 grade, density and molecular weight of 1.35 g/cm3 and 35,000 g/mol, respectively) supplied by Kureha Chemical Industry Co., Ltd (Japan) were used for this study. The PPS powders were encased in a 20 mL vial and then the samples were cured at 250˚C for 1 to 16 days in an air atmosphere.
The intrinsic viscosities of pure and cured PPS were obtained using a Brookfield viscometer with a Thermosel system and a S18 spindle (DV-II + Pro, Brookfield Co., UK). Samples were dissolved in 1-chloro naphthalene for preparing 4 wt% polymer solutions at 210˚C. The intrinsic viscosities were calculated using the Solomon-Ciuta relation as follows :
where k is 0.302 for PPS as a material property, C is the concentration of polymer in 1-chloro naphthalene, [η] is the intrinsic viscosity, and ηsp is the specific viscosity. The viscosity-average molecular weight was calculated using the Mark-Houwink-Sakurada (MHS) equation as follows:
where K and a are 8.91 × 10−5 and 0.747 for PPS, respectively .
Thermal analysis was performed in a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC Q20, TA Instruments, USA). Samples were heated up to 350˚C at a rate of 10˚C/min and held at that temperature for 10 min to erase the thermal histories of the samples. Subsequently, samples were cooled down to 50˚C at a rate of 10˚C/min and then heated up to 350˚C again at a rate of 10˚C/min to study the effect of curing on the non-isothermal crystallization. The crystalline morphologies were examined in an Olympus BX-60 optical microscope (Olympus, Japan) with cross-polarizers. The samples were loaded on a hot stage (Mettler Toledo FP82HT, USA), and heated up to 350˚C at a rate of 10˚C/min. Samples were squeezed to be a thin film with holding at 350˚C for 10 min. Then, samples were cooled down to 50˚C at a rate of 10˚C/min, and the crystalline morphologies of the samples observed.
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Molecular Weight
The intrinsic viscosities of as-received and thermally cured PPS at 250˚C were obtained using the SolomonCiuta relation. Since samples cured for more than 7 days did not dissolve in 1-chloro naphthalene, intrinsic viscosities [η] of pure samples and samples cured for 1, 3, or 5 days were measured. Note that the curing took place below the melting temperature (280˚C from the manufacturer), so that a solid-state cure was applied in this study. Figure 1 displays the viscosity-average molecular weights, which were calculated using the Mark-Houwink-Sakurada (MHS) equation. As-received PPS showed a viscosity-average molecular weight of ~28,000 g/mol. The 1 day-cured sample revealed a significant increase in the viscosity-average molecular weight (~40,000 g/mol), which increased up to ~58,000 g/mol with a further increase of curing time (5 days). Thus, as expected, the thermal curing led to an increase of molecular weight. It is known that PPS has three different types of chain structure, linear, branched, and cross-linked, depending on the conditions of polymerization and thermal treatment . The cross-linking structure in cured PPS has been investigated; it involves chain extension, thermal cross-linking, and oxidative cross-linking (Scheme 1) . In our system, it is evident that a cross-linking structure was formed by thermal curing in the presence of oxygen.
3.2. Non-Isothermal Crystallization Behavior
The crystallization behavior of pure and cured PPS was investigated using non-isothermal DSC (Figure 2). In the
Figure 1. Viscosity-average molecular weights of pure PPS and samples cured for up to 5 days.
Scheme 1. Crosslinking mechanism of PPS during the curing process.
Figure 2. DSC thermograms of pure PPS and cured samples in (a) the first heating, (b) the first cooling, and (c) the second heating scan at a rate of 10˚C/min.
first heating scan curve in Figure 2(a), pure PPS showed a shoulder at ~280˚C and the main melting temperature (Tm) with a heating rate of 10˚C/min was found to be at 294.0˚C. A significant change of Tm was not observed for the 1 day cured PPS (294.7˚C). However, the shoulder shifted to ~283˚C. It is interesting that another weak shoulder, at ~260˚C, was observed only for the cured PPS samples; it could be the result of re-crystallization during solid-state curing in the oven at 250˚C. This shoulder and the main Tm did not change for PPS samples cured for up to 14 days. The sample cured for 16 days showed Tm of 300.7˚C without any shoulder.
The PPS samples were held at 350˚C for 10 min after the first heating scan to remove the prior thermal history and then slowly cooled at 10˚C/min. In the first cooling, the crystallization temperature (Tc) of pure PPS was 213.9˚C. There was a significant increase of Tc for the 1 day cured sample (224.9˚C), and then a continuous further increase for samples cured for up to 7 days (228.8˚C). It is interesting to note that the further curing resulted in a decrease of crystallization temperature with the 16 days cured sample showing a Tc of 177.3˚C. It is likely that the curing induced cross-linking structure led to a higher Tc in the system because cross-linking structure acted as a nucleating agent. However, the further increase of curing time beyond 7 days caused the cross-linking structure to become dominant, which would hinder the formation of a crystalline structure.
Inoue and Suzuki described the effects of the crosslinking of ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (EPDM) particles on the crystallization of the polypropylene (PP) matrix . The cross-linked EPDM/PP composites showed higher crystallization temperatures for the PP than occurred in the uncross-linked EPDM/PP composites, indicating that cross-linked EPDM played the role of a nucleating agent. More interestingly, a further increase in cross-linked EPDM content led to a decrease in the crystallization temperature of PP. We suggest that the cross-linking of PPS similarly acted as nucleating agents to change the crystallization behaviors of uncross-linked PPS.
The second heating scans were also obtained to investigate the melting behavior after the first controlled cooling in DSC because the first heating scans reflect the thermal history experienced during the thermal curing and initial processing. The second heating scans are presented in Figure 2(c), and the measured transition temperatures (Tm) and heats of fusion (∆Hf) are summarized in Table 1. In contrast to the first heating scans, only one melting peak was observed with all samples, which is evidence that the first melting peaks reflected the thermal history including the processing and curing. The melting peak in the second heating scan for pure PPS was found to be 282.2˚C. The 1 day cured sample showed a melting peak of 276.0˚C, 6.2˚C lower than that of pure PPS, and there was no significant difference of Tm in the second heating scans up to the 7 days curing sample. However, the values decreased with a further increase of curing time. From the second heating scans, the crystallinities of
Table 1. Transition temperatures (in the 1st heating, 1st cooling, and 2nd heating) and heat of fusion of pure PPS and cured samples in the second heating scans at a cooling rate of 10˚C/min and a heating rate of 10˚C/min.
the samples were determined by dividing ∆Hf of crystallization by the value of 80.4 J/g for PPS ; the values were found to be 40.9%, 34.0%, 28.4%, 21.3%, and 14.6% for pure PPS and samples cured for 1, 5, 10, and 16 days, respectively. It is evident that the crystallinity decreased as the curing time increased, presumably as a result of the cross-linking structure.
The non-isothermal crystallization kinetics of pure PPS and the cured samples were analyzed. The relative degree of crystallinity, X, at crystallization time t can be obtained by the following equation:
where To and Te are the onset and end crystallization temperatures, respectively, and dHc/dT is the heat flow rate. In non-isothermal crystallization, the time t is related with the temperature T as follows [13,14]:
where T is the temperature at time t, To is the temperature at which the crystallization begins (t = 0) and is the cooling rate. Using the above two equations, the X vs. t plots of pure PPS and the cured samples in Figure 2(b) are shown in Figure 3. The half-crystallization times (t1/2) calculated from the X vs. t plots such as those in Figure 3 are summarized in Table 2. It was apparent for the pure samples and those cured for up to 7 days that a higher curing time resulted in less time being needed to reach a given relative degree of crystallinity, indicating a faster crystallization process. However, a further increase of curing time decreased t1/2. From these results, it is noteworthy that even though thermally induced crosslinking led to a faster crystallization, excessive crosslink-ing hindered the crystallization, as was observed in the first cooling thermograms (Figure 2(b)).
Figure 3. Relative crystallinity with time for non-isothermal crystallization of pure PPS and cured samples at a cooling rate of 10˚C/min.
Table 2. The half-time of crystallization (t1/2) of pure PPS and cured samples at a cooling rate of 10˚C/min.
3.3. Polarized Optical Microscopy
The crystalline morphologies of pure and cured PPS were observed using polarized optical microscopy (POM). To mimic the thermal history of the non-isothermal study in DSC, the samples were loaded on a hot stage and heated up to 350˚C at a rate of 10˚C/min before being held at 350˚C for 10 min. Subsequently, the samples were cooled down to 50˚C at a rate of 10˚C/min, and the crystalline morphologies of the samples observed. The pure PPS (Figure 4(a)) showed spherulites whose size was 40 - 50 μm. However, the 1 - 5 days cured samples did not show clear spherulites. Instead, a large number of small crystals were observed (Figures 4(b)-(d)). It was reported that cross-linked EPDM particles acting as nucleating agents resulted in a decrease in the dimensions of PP spherulites . The POM results for our system confirmed that cross-linked PPS induced by thermal curing also acted as a nucleating agent to decrease the crystalline size of PPS.
Commercial PPS was thermally cured, resulting in an increase of its molecular weight due to cross-linking as compared to the original sample; the viscosity-average molecular weight of samples cured for 5 days was ~58,000 g/mol. The crystallization temperature (Tc) of pure PPS was found to be 213.9˚C by non-isothermal DSC studies. The values of Tc increased monotonously for samples cured for up to 7 days (228.8˚C), but a further increase in curing time up to 16 days led to a decrease of Tc down to 177.3˚C. In addition, the change of the half-crystallization time (t1/2) was similar to that of the crystallization temperature. Pure PPS, and samples cured for 7 days and 16 days, showed half-crystallization times of 1.46, 1.01, and 1.97 min, respectively. Thus, the cross-linking of PPS affected the crystallization behaviors significantly; a certain amount of cross-linking structure acted as a nucleation agent, but excessive cross-linked hindered the crystallization. Crystalline morphologies observed by polarized optical microscopy suggested that thermal curing for as little as 1 day contributed to the formation of smalller size crystalline structures, that the larger spherulites were not observed for pure PPS.
This work was supported by a grant from Korea Institute
of Science and Technology Institutional program and the Fundamental R&D Program for Core Technology of Materials funded by the Ministry of Knowledge Economy, Republic of Korea.


shelf: software-docs

text:
Crack For Dragon Age Inquisition Pc Mods
Dragon Age Inquisition PC Mods: How to Enhance Your Game Experience
Dragon Age Inquisition PC Mods: How to Enhance Your Game Experience
Dragon Age Inquisition is a role-playing game developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts in 2014. The game is set in the fantasy world of Thedas, where the player leads a group of heroes to stop a cataclysmic event known as the Breach. The game features a rich story, diverse characters, and a vast open world to explore.
However, as with any game, Dragon Age Inquisition is not perfect. Some players may find the game too easy, too hard, too buggy, or too bland. Fortunately, there is a way to customize and improve your game experience: mods. Mods are modifications made by fans that alter or add new features to the game. Mods can range from simple tweaks to major overhauls, and can enhance the game's graphics, gameplay, audio, interface, and more.
Download Zip: https://byltly.com/2w4bR6
In this article, we will show you how to find, install, and use some of the best mods for Dragon Age Inquisition on PC. Whether you want to change the appearance of your characters, add new quests and companions, or make the game more challenging and immersive, there is a mod for you.
How to Find Mods for Dragon Age Inquisition
The first step to modding your game is to find the mods you want to use. There are many websites that host mods for Dragon Age Inquisition, but one of the most popular and reliable ones is Nexus Mods. Nexus Mods is a community-driven site that offers thousands of mods for various games, including Dragon Age Inquisition. You can browse the mods by category, popularity, date, or search by keyword. You can also read the mod descriptions, reviews, comments, and instructions from the mod authors and other users.
Some of the mod categories you can find on Nexus Mods are:
Animation: These mods change or add new animations to the game, such as combat moves, facial expressions, or gestures.
Armour: These mods change or add new armour sets or pieces to the game, such as helmets, chestplates, gloves, or boots.
Audio: These mods change or add new sounds or music to the game, such as voiceovers, sound effects, or ambient tracks.
Bug Fixes: These mods fix some of the bugs or glitches that may occur in the game, such as crashes, errors, or inconsistencies.
Character Creation: These mods change or add new options to the character creation menu, such as hairstyles, skin tones, eye colors, or tattoos.
Cheats and God Items: These mods give you access to cheat codes or items that make you invincible, give you unlimited resources, or unlock everything in the game.
Clothing: These mods change or add new clothing items to the game, such as shirts, pants, skirts, or dresses.
Companions: These mods change or add new companions to the game, such as followers, romance options, or pets.
Crafting: These mods change or add new crafting recipes or materials to the game, such as potions, weapons, runes, or upgrades.
Creatures: These mods change or add new creatures to the game, such as enemies, allies, mounts, or wildlife.
Face and Hair: These mods change or add new face and hair models or textures to the game, such as beards, moustaches, or eyebrows.
Gameplay: These mods change or add new gameplay features or mechanics to the game, such as combat, difficulty, skills, or perks.
Miscellaneous: These mods do not fit into any of the other categories, but may still be useful or interesting to some players.
Modders Resources and Tutorials: These are not mods themselves, but rather tools or guides that help modders create their own mods.
Models and Textures: These mods change or add new models or textures to the game, such as buildings, landscapes, objects, or effects.
NPCs: These mods change or add new non-player characters (NPCs) to the game, such as merchants, quest givers, or enemies.
Overhauls: These are large-scale mods that change multiple aspects of the game, such as graphics, gameplay, story, or content.
Sliders: These mods change or add new sliders to the character creation menu, such as nose shape, jaw width, or ear size.
Tattoos: These mods change or add new tattoos to the game, such as symbols, patterns, or designs.
User Interface: These mods change or add new elements to the user interface (UI) of the game, such as menus, icons, fonts, or maps.
Utilities: These are not mods themselves, but rather programs or applications that help you manage your mods or enhance your game performance.
Visuals and Graphics: These mods change or add new visuals or graphics to the game, such as lighting, shadows, colors, or resolution.
Weapons: These mods change or add new weapons to the game, such as swords, daggers, bows, or staffs.
As you can see, there are many types of mods to choose from, and you can mix and match them according to your preferences and needs. However, before you download and install any mod, make sure you read the mod description carefully and follow the instructions from the mod author. Some mods may require other mods or programs to work properly, or may conflict with other mods or the game itself. Always backup your game files before modding, and use a mod manager to organize and enable/disable your mods easily.
How to Install Mods for Dragon Age Inquisition
The next step to modding your game is to install the mods you have downloaded. There are two main ways to install mods for Dragon Age Inquisition: manually or using a mod manager. Manual installation involves copying and pasting the mod files into your game folder, while using a mod manager involves using a program that does that for you automatically. We recommend using a mod manager, as it is easier, faster, and safer than manual installation. The most popular and reliable mod manager for Dragon Age Inquisition is Vortex, which is also developed by Nexus Mods.
Vortex is a free and open-source mod manager that allows you to download, install, update, enable/disable, and uninstall mods for various games, including Dragon Age Inquisition. Vortex also has features such as load order sorting, mod profiles, conflict detection, and game extension support. To use Vortex, you need to create a free account on Nexus Mods and download and install Vortex on your PC. You can find detailed instructions on how to use Vortex on its official website or on its wiki page. Here is a brief overview of how to use Vortex to install mods for Dragon Age Inquisition:
Launch Vortex and log in with your Nexus Mods account.
Click on the Games tab and select Dragon Age Inquisition from the list of supported games. Vortex will scan your PC for the game location and set it as the base folder.
Click on the Mods tab and browse or search for the mods you want to use. You can also use the filters or categories to narrow down your search.
Click on the Download button on the mod page to download the mod file to Vortex. You can also drag and drop the mod file from your PC to Vortex.
Once the download is complete, click on the Install button on the mod tile to install the mod. You can also right-click on the mod tile and select Install from the menu.
Once the installation is complete, click on the Enable button on the mod tile to enable the mod. You can also right-click on the mod tile and select Enable from the menu.
Repeat steps 4-6 for any other mods you want to use.
Click on the Deploy button on the top-right corner of Vortex to deploy your mods to your game folder. This will copy and paste the mod files into your game folder automatically.
Launch Dragon Age Inquisition from Vortex or from your desktop shortcut and enjoy your modded game.
Note that some mods may require additional steps or programs to work properly, such as editing configuration files, running scripts, or using patchers. Always read the mod description and instructions carefully before installing any mod. If you encounter any problems or errors with your mods, you can use Vortex's features such as conflict detection, load order sorting, or troubleshooting tools to fix them. You can also contact the mod author or other users for help on Nexus Mods or other forums.
How to Use Mods for Dragon Age Inquisition
The final step to modding your game is to use the mods you have installed and enabled. Depending on the type and purpose of the mod, you may need to do different things to use it. Some mods may work automatically as soon as you launch the game, while others may require you to activate them in-game, change some settings, or use some commands. Here are some general tips on how to use mods for Dragon Age Inquisition:
Check the mod description and instructions for any specific requirements or steps to use the mod. Some mods may have optional or recommended settings or features that you can adjust or enable according to your preferences.
Use the in-game mod manager to view and manage your mods. You can access the mod manager from the main menu or the pause menu of the game. The mod manager will show you a list of your installed and enabled mods, as well as their version, author, and description. You can also enable or disable mods from the mod manager, but you will need to restart the game for the changes to take effect.
Use the in-game console to enter commands or codes related to your mods. You can open the console by pressing the til


shelf: health

title: Nike and doernbecher celebrate years of miracles happen with 20 pairs of the air jordan 20

text:
In the world of sneakers, few collaborations resonate as deeply as the partnership between Nike and the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, culminating in the Doernbecher Freestyle program. 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of this heartfelt initiative, celebrating with the release of a special edition Air Jordan 20, a sneaker that not only encapsulates two decades of design innovation but also the spirit of 122 young patient-designers.
The Air Jordan 20, originally launched in 2005, was significant for its laser-etched graphics, a technique pioneered by Mark Smith, celebrating Michael Jordan’s legacy. For its Doernbecher edition, Smith, once again at the helm, has transformed this model into a canvas that tells a collective story of resilience and creativity. This iteration features a new mosaic on its midfoot strap, a tapestry that honors each participant of the Freestyle program with symbols representing their personal journeys, hopes, and the playful elements of childhood amidst their battles with illness.
The design influence for this special Air Jordan 20 goes beyond mere aesthetics. It serves as a narrative medium, where each laser-engraved icon, from therapy dogs to the iconic red couch at Nike's WHQ, embodies moments of joy, struggle, and triumph. This sneaker doesn't just carry the legacy of Air Jordan but also the dreams and aspirations of the Doernbecher kids, making it a profound artifact of human spirit and design innovation.
The significance of this sneaker extends into philanthropy. With only 20 numbered pairs created, these shoes are being auctioned at Sotheby’s, starting October 21, 2024, with bids closing on October 30. This auction isn't just about owning a piece of sneaker history; it's about contributing to a cause. All proceeds from this auction go directly to the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, supporting medical care, specialized treatments, and research to benefit children globally. This initiative underscores Nike's commitment to social responsibility, transforming sneakers into symbols of hope.
Images via Nike


shelf: finance

title: Medicare Brokers In Virginia

text:
Medicare Brokers In Virginia
Virginia’s Health Insurance Agent, Inc. - The Best Medicare Brokers in Virginia
When it comes to finding the best Medicare brokers in Virginia, Virginia's Health Insurance Agent is the clear choice. We are Medicare experts who have helped countless people navigate the complex world of Medicare plans. Whether you're looking for Medigap plans or advantage plans, we can help you find the right coverage for your needs.We are Medicare experts who have helped countless people navigate the complex world of Medicare plans.
Medigap is a type of supplemental insurance that can help cover some of the costs that Original Medicare doesn't pay. This includes things like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. While Medigap isn't required, it can be a helpful way to get more comprehensive coverage.
There are 10 different types of Medigap plans available, each with its own set of benefits. Some plans may cover more than others, so it's important to compare your options before selecting a plan.
If you're thinking about signing up for Medigap, Virginia's Health Insurance Agent can help. We're Medicare experts who can help you find the right plan for your needs.
An insurance agent can be a valuable resource when it comes to choosing a Medigap plan. Agents are familiar with the various types of plans available and can help you compare different options to find the best fit for your needs. They can also answer any questions you may have about how Medicare works and what your rights and responsibilities are as a beneficiary.
Choosing between Medigap plans is an important decision, but it doesn't have to be a daunting one. With the help of a knowledgeable insurance agent, you can find the perfect plan for your needs and budget.
We understand that Medicare can be confusing and overwhelming, but we're here to help. As highly experienced Medicare brokers in Virginia, we will take the time to understand your unique needs and recommend the best plan for you. We're always available to answer your questions and help you make the best choices for your Medicare coverage.
Contact us today if you are looking for Medicare brokers in Virginia and see how we can help you find the best Medicare plan for your needs.


title: Grutter v bollinger fc5awd5wdab

text:
“She wanted her son to go there as well, but because of affirmative action or minority something...her son wasn’t accepted” (Rankine 13). This quote is interesting to me because it reminds of the case Grutter v. Bollinger, where a white female applicant to the University of Michigan Law School sued the school for violating her Fourteenth Amendment because they denied her admission. She lost in the end, but the ideology that minorities are more easily accepted into schools than whites is still thought and said by some white Americans today. The importance this quote serves to the poem is that the quote is another example of a microaggression that the author wants the reader to understand happens.
“She says she grabbed the stranger’s arm and
…show more content…
I swear to God” (Rankine 29)! Even though this may not be the most important of the first 80 pages, this quote is most definitely my favorite because I can relate to it! Most of the poem so far has just been acts of microaggressions experienced by black people so unfortunately, I have not been able to relate to most of the poem until now. Honestly, if I was in Serena’s position I would’ve screamed this at the first ref would have given me a bad call. I have the utmost respect for Serena along with many others for the way she deals with racism and disadvantages. I think this quote is important to the concept of black people anger and how if a black person, like Serena Williams, cracks once then they are seen as “crazy.”
“And when the woman with multiple degrees says, “I didn’t know black women could get cancer…” (Rankine 45). This quote caught my attention because it completely flabbergasted me to think that an educated person could actually think or say this. There is no doubt whatsoever that any person, no matter what the race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, etc. can, unfortunately, be diagnosed with cancer. To me, this quote serves to provoke some kind of emotion in the reader with the thought black women couldn’t get


title: Designing kitchen cabinets with glass doors

text:
Custom kitchen cabinetry with glass doors are a stylish and functional upgrade for any home. Whether you want to display beautiful dishware or lighten the feel of your space, glass-front cabinets bring elegance and personality to your kitchen design. At Quality Custom Cabinetry, we help homeowners turn their kitchen ideas into reality with custom-built cabinetry crafted for both beauty and performance.
Why Choose Glass Cabinet Doors?
Glass cabinet doors open up your kitchen visually. They reflect light, making the space feel bigger and brighter. Plus, they give you the chance to show off your favorite items—whether it’s vintage china, glassware, or everyday dishes you love.
A more open, airy feel
Space to display decorative or meaningful items
A custom look that fits any kitchen style
Better organization with visual access to stored items
They work well in both modern and traditional kitchens, depending on the design you choose.
Types of Glass for Cabinet Doors
Choosing the right type of glass helps set the mood in your kitchen. Here are a few popular options:
Clear Glass – Full visibility; ideal for display pieces.
Frosted Glass – Blurred view; great for storing everyday items while keeping things private.
Textured Glass – Patterns like ribbed or seeded glass add visual interest and partial concealment.
Mullion Doors – Feature wood or metal dividers over the glass, adding a classic or decorative style.
Custom Glass – Tailored options that match your design vision.
How to Use Glass Doors in Your Design
You don’t have to go all in with glass. Try using them on just a few upper cabinets to create contrast and focus. They work especially well near sinks, around cooking areas, or above coffee stations.
Adding interior cabinet lighting is another great touch. Lights can highlight your display items and make your kitchen glow in the evening.
If your kitchen is small or lacks windows, glass doors are a smart way to reflect light and make the room feel less closed-in.
Keeping Glass Cabinets Practical
Glass cabinets are easy to maintain with regular cleaning. Use a gentle cleaner to keep fingerprints and smudges off the glass. Choose tempered or laminated glass for added safety and strength.
Be mindful of what you store—since the contents are visible, neatness matters. Stack dishes by size, use matching containers, and avoid cluttered shelves.
Custom Glass Cabinetry from QCCI
At Quality Custom Cabinetry, we offer fully custom options to fit your kitchen’s style and your storage needs. Whether you want mullion doors with frosted glass or sleek modern cabinets with clear inserts, we’ll bring your vision to life with handcrafted precision.


title: 795827

text:
Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump repeated his unfounded criticism of South Korea on Wednesday that the wealthy Asian nation relies on the U.S. for national defense without giving anything in return.
"I order thousands of televisions, they're all from South Korea. So we have 28,000 people on the border separating South Korea from this maniac in North Korea. We get nothing ... We get nothing. They're making a fortune. It's an economic behemoth," Trump said during a campaign speech in South Carolina.
Trump has repeatedly made such unfounded criticism, even though South Korea has shouldered part of the burden needed for the upkeep of 28,500 American troops stationed in South Korea to deter aggression from the communist North.
He made similar accusations against Japan.
"If somebody attacks Japan, we have to immediately go and start World War III, OK? If we get attacked, Japan doesn't have to help us. Somehow, that doesn't sound so fair. Does that sound good?" Trump said.
The billionaire real estate mogul also picked North Korea as one of the biggest problems facing the U.S.
"ISIS is a big problem, Russia's a problem, China's a problem.
We've got a lot of problems. By the way, the maniac in North Korea is a problem. He actually has nuclear weapons, right? That's a problem," he said, referring to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
Trump criticized Obama for focusing on global warming while facing such security threats.
"We've got a lot of problems. We've got a lot of problems.
That's right, we don't win anymore. He said we want to win. We don't win anymore. We're going to win a lot -- if I get elected, we're going to win a lot," he said.
The presence of U.S. troops in South Korea is a legacy of the 1950-53 Korean War, which ended in a truce, not a peace treaty, leaving the divided peninsula still technically at war.
Seoul has long shared the cost of stationing U.S. forces.
Last year, the two countries renewed their cost-sharing agreement, known as the Special Measures Agreement, with Seoul agreeing to pay 920 billion won ($886 million) for the upkeep of the U.S. troops in 2014, a 5.8 percent increase from a year earlier.
Moreover, the American military presence on the peninsula is seen as in line with U.S. national interests in a region marked by a rising China. (Yonhap)


title: Trinamool vow in suvendu adhikaris nandigram

text:
The Trinamool Congress held a huge rally today in Bengal’s Nandigram, venturing into the territory it lost to BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari in the state elections. The coming panchayat polls in the state will be seen as litmus test before next year’s general election and the Trinamool is determined to put up a good show in the area where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had lost a straight fight with her aide-turned-rival two years ago.
Party MP and Mamata Banerjee’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee, who led the 20-km rally in Nandigram as part of the party’s Nabo Jowar (New Wave) campaign, alleged that Suvendu Adhikari had won through “load-shedding” — hinting at electoral malpractice.
“The results of 2021 Bengal elections in Nandigram were falsified. The people of this land know exactly what happened,” he said. In the next election, the Trinamool candidate will win by over 50,000 votes, added the leader, who is on a statewide public outreach march called the “Jono Sanjog Yatra”.
Mr Adhikari is yet to respond.
While Mr Banerjee was touring Nandigram, Mr Adhikari had visited Garh Salboni in Jhargram district, where the Trinamool leader’s convoy was attacked last week, and met families of the people arrested in the case.
“The CPM government did it here, and now the TMC government is doing it — detaining people without trial. I stopped it that time, and will do it now as well,” the BJP leader was quoted as saying by news agency Press Trust of India.
“Poor people are being tortured here. This cannot go on. People of all political parties are there within the Kurmi community. Divisions are being created between tribals and Kurmis,” Mr Adhikari said, promising the families of those arrested all kinds of assistance, reported PTI.
The Nandigram and Singur agitations against land acquisition had catapulted Mamata Banerjee to power in 2011, after CPM’s 35-year regime in the state. Suvendu Adhikari, an aide of Mamata Banerjee during the Nandigram agitation, quit the party in 2021 and joined the BJP.
In the elections that followed, Ms Banerjee had contested from Nandigram – a move that had drawn eyeballs and recharged the party.
A case challenging Mr Adhikari’s victory in the election is pending in the Calcutta High Court.
But Nandigram is back in focus again ahead of next year’s general election, which will be crucial for Trinamool.
In the 2019 election, the BJP had managed to win 18 of Bengal’s 42 Lok Sabha seats – pushing CPM to the third spot in the state and posing serious challenge to Trinamool.


title: Comment page 1

text:
I’m obsessing again. This time on the Bodybugg. (It’s a device that you wear on your arm that tracks how many calories you are burning.) I came across it online a few weeks ago and I’ve been thinking about it ever since. The reviews on blogs and message boards have been mixed but overall people seem to love it. I keep thinking “maybe”. Maybe this is the “missing key” to maintaining which to me is much harder than losing. Maybe this will give me the motivation I need to eat peanut butter without having to ask for permission. Maybe I’ll discover I can eat more. (Wishful thinking) Maybe I’ll be able to enjoy pizza without guilt. Maybe parking in the farthest parking space in Target will be fun. Maybe I’ll start vacuuming as if there is a reward for world’s fastest vacuumer.
I’m using a 7 year old cell phone because I don’t want to pay for a new one. Both of my cars are nearing 10 years old. I bought Joe’s Jeans (that ripped the first time I tried to wear them) from a recycled clothing shop. I workout in my garage with rusty dumbbells and spiders. I’m not complaining. In fact, I actually enjoy being thrifty and I’m extremely grateful to even own a cell phone but spending $300 on a device is just hard for me. I’ve been trying to talk myself out of it but this morning I read this review by Chalene Johnson. Now, I am starting to convince myself I need instead of want a Bodybugg. We’ll see….


text:
Please suggest if there is any solution or workaround for below scenario:
We have 15 pre-assigned Oracle Libraries created in Management Console which are used to connect to 15 different schema. These 15 schema are on single Oracle database. Now what I saw is when any user try to access any one of 15 Oracle libraries from SAS Enterprise Guide, there are like 15 connections gets created on that Oracle Database and goes to inactive state after 1 or 2 mins. Libraries are working as excepted, concern here is the no. of connections(15) created even if we do access one or some libraries.
Even I tried to replicate this and when I opened EG session and tried to open a library(any one out of 15), then there were 15 sessions were created on that Database. If this will be the case then if multiple users does access any one library then multiple connections will get created and it will cross the session limit there by having an outage on that particular database.
1. Is there any way to have only one connection create for one Library instead of having 15 connections created?
2. Is there any way to identify from SAS end to see which all users are using which Oracle Libraries and their active/inactive state? As of now I am getting these session details from DBA team but I need to know if we can get details from SAS end?
3. Any setup need to done on SAS Management Console to add options to pre-assigned libraries to disconnect if they are in idle state for more than 1 day or any time frame?
Note: All of the oracle libraries are pre-assigned, and also during library creation, i have set them to defer=yes, type of connection=Sharedread. These schema's are on a single database
Any suggestions will be helpful.
I don't know about question 2 or 3, but why do you need to have 15 separate libraries setup to access the same DB? Can't you just have one connection to the DB and then access tables in other schemas using schema qualified tablenames? I have two separate connections to the same DB for some of my code, but that's only because I'm logging in as a different user with different permissions for one of my projects.
What is the actual problem here? Are the DBA's complaining about the number of database connections? If this is not putting an extra load on the database what is the problem?
We have a very similar setup with EG using a similar number of preassigned libraries to SQL Server databases, using DEFER = YES and each user authenticating using Windows Authentication. Our DBA's aren't concerned about the number of connections, only about the number and performance of the database queries.
Yes, since these are pre-assigned libraries, upon connecting to SASApp(in EG), there are 15 connections gets created on that Oracle database for each EG session even if no one access these libraries and then it goes to inactive state. Actually DBA team have set session limit on Database level and also monitors them, even some monitoring setup is also available which send alerts if sessions crosses some threshold value.
I don't think there is any performance issue but concern is 15 connections are being created for each EG session even if these pre-assigned libraries are not in use. Is there any way to setup from SAS end to have these inactive session deleted and connections should be active only if they are in use.
DB User Logon Time Status SESS Program OS User Machine Name
dbaccnt** 3/25/2019 9:27 Inactive 34,811,740 SAS@SAS*** XXXXXX XXXX
My understanding is that with the DEFER = YES option SAS does not establish the connection straightaway but only when the library is used. What differences do you see with this option? Are connections still established immediately using DEFER?
I suggest you also open a track with SAS Tech Support as will be able to provide a much more detailed understanding of how SAS and Oracle interact.
One way to reduce database connections would be to share them: https://documentation.sas.com/?docsetId=acreldb&docsetTarget=n0j8aq13jyowkon1a3difgmq5yow.htm&docset...
Another way I can see that will greatly reduce database connections would be to not assign libraries at all in metadata but to code them all in your programs then clear them afterwards. This would be a very backward way of working in my opinion. There is a huge advantage in having these libraries available automatically for all users so they don't need to be coded. Personally I really don't see this as a major problem as there is no performance impact.
With using DEFER = YES option for the pre-assigned libraries, still there are connections made to the Oracle database but what i noticed is when we open a EG session and expand SASApp, 15 connections are created on the oracle database and immediately goes to inactive state. 15 connections are created upon opening EG session even if you don't access any library.
I opened a track and following up with them but no luck. even they asked to use defer=yes and some more option but still it didn't worked out.. They said like if they are pre-assigned libraries then they will make connections even if you are not accessing any library.
My concern is here about the no. of connections that are made from SAS since DBA team put a limit on no. of connections to 800 or 1600 and from SAS end for each session creates a 15 connections to that Database so what if 40 or 50 users connect to SAS or opens more than 1 EG session? I don't see any performance impact because they are in inactive state.
During creating the pre-assign libraries, I use Sharedread as connection type and defer=yes option.
It still creates connections to database upon opening EG session even if you don't access any of those pre-assign library.
Were you referring that option for performance improvement?
The SAS Users Group for Administrators (SUGA) is open to all SAS administrators and architects who install, update, manage or maintain a SAS deployment.
SAS technical trainer Erin Winters shows you how to explore assets, create new data discovery agents, schedule data discovery agents, and much more.
Find more tutorials on the SAS Users YouTube channel.


title: How to manage life while living with sjogrens syndrome

text:
I was sitting at our local cafe this week, which is situated on a point overlooking the bay and beautiful islands beyond. It really couldn’t be more idyllic, and I am blessed to live so close to such a gorgeous place on Australia’s east coast.
As my husband and I were sipping our cool drinks and soaking up the gentle sea breeze, on what was a mild summer’s day, I was fascinated at how quickly the afternoon tide was beginning to roll in.
Only moments before, the water was still and there was no sign of change. All of a sudden, ripples could be seen and the mud flats began to disappear before my eyes.
I rarely get out due to my health, but this is one special place that I can manage on a good day and it’s perfect to sit back, relax and contemplate life. My thoughts turned to how quickly the tide changes in our lives when living with chronic illness.
One minute, everything can be calm and stable, and the next, we are inundated with symptoms flaring, numerous medical appointments, X-rays and scans, blood tests, poking and prodding, emergency trips to hospital, and feelings of bewilderment and concern. The tidal waves keep loudly crashing around us until the crisis is over and the seas are calmed.
I have one goal this year: stay on calm water.
There’s been too many years of tidal waves crashing over me with my health. I know most of that wasn’t within my control, but I have learned some lessons that I’m hoping will keep me out of the firing line of sudden tidal changes.
As I looked to the right of where we were sitting at the cafe, there was a green tree standing tall and safe as the tide began to creep around it.
My aim is to be like that tree this year — standing above the creeping symptoms of my disease and not allowing them to overwhelm me and drag me under.
So while I know some health events will definitely be out of my control, my plan to simplify my life and avoid anything unnecessary includes:
Reduce medical appointments. I have six specialists on my medical team, plus a GP. I have been seeing five of them every three months. With the agreement of my doctors, less appointments means less running around and more time to enjoy “non-medical” activities. This year we are reducing to six monthly appointments for each specialist. We have spread these throughout the year so I am not overloaded at any one time. If I do need to speak to them in between, they are happy for me to e-mail, phone or make an extra appointment.
Reduce regular tests. I need regular blood tests to monitor a number of my autoimmune diseases, as well as regular X-rays, bone scans and bone density tests to monitor my rare bone disease. In consultation with my specialists, we have reduced my blood tests to bi-monthly and my X-rays/scans to every six months.
I’m feeling a sense of relief just writing this.
Avoid surgery unless it’s an emergency. I’ve had seven surgeries on my legs over three years. I’m exhausted. In the last two, I aspirated while under general anesthesia. My surgeon and I have agreed “no more surgery” unless a life-threatening emergency occurs.
Know your disease. This is probably the biggest key to simplifying my life with chronic illness. I’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome for eight years now, and it is pretty much under control. It flares, but I know we can’t change my medication because of the risk it poses to my bone disease. We have reviewed every possibility in terms of appropriate medication and we’ve brought in other rheumatologists for consultation. We have exhausted our options. I just have to manage my autoimmune disease flares conservatively with rest, heat packs and pain meds. It is what it is.
My bone disease is my biggest concern. It is completely unmanageable and has a life of its own. I have however, discovered what is an emergency (pathological major fracture or pole breaking in my leg) and what is something I just need to live with (constant foot stress fractures, muscle atrophy, muscle bleeds).
I’ve also learned with my bone disease that any significant increase in pain or symptoms will usually reduce to manageable levels within four days. If not, I need to call my team.
Get out more
With less appointments, I won’t have to conserve my energy to be able to get to them. To prepare for an appointment, I can’t go out for the week prior and I need at least another week to recover. With the amount of appointments and surgeries I’ve had over the past four years, we have only been able to get to a cafe a handful of times, and we have only taken my mobility scooter out twice since I got it seven months ago.
That has to change, and now it can.
I will be able to go out on better days and know that I have time, days or weeks if necessary, to recover from the “non-medical” outing — such a lovely thought.
When I feel “the tides of chronic illness life” washing over me, as they no doubt will from time to time, I’m going to think about that green, tall tree standing upright as the tide creeps in around it.
I’m going to remember there are things I can control and have changed.
I might get my feet wet, but I won’t get swamped.
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Getty Images photo via Foxys_forest_manufacture


title: Fortuner legender and hilux are now cheaper by upto rs 5 lakhs

text:
Toyota has a strong presence in the Indian market, known for its popular and reliable vehicles. In anticipation of the upcoming festive season, Toyota has announced significant discounts and benefits on several of its models, including the Fortuner, Hilux, Glanza, Hyryder, and Taisor. Among these, the Hilux sees the largest price cut. Here’s a detailed look at the discounts available:
Glanza Premium Hatchback
The Toyota Glanza, a rebadged version of the Maruti Baleno, is a popular choice among hatchback buyers and has also gained traction in the fleet market, especially with its CNG variant. For the festive season, the Glanza is being offered with discounts and benefits of up to ₹68,000, though the CNG variants are not included in this offer.
Taisor Compact Crossover
The Taisor, a crossover derived from the Glanza (essentially a rebadged Maruti Fronx), is Toyota’s latest launch in India. It is available with both naturally aspirated (NA) and turbocharged petrol engines. While the Taisor Turbo is offered with discounts of up to ₹65,000, the NA petrol variants have smaller reductions. The Taisor sees the smallest discounts among Toyota’s festive offers.
Urban Cruiser Hyryder
The Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Toyota’s competitor in the compact SUV segment against models like the Hyundai Creta, offers multiple powertrain options, including petrol, petrol hybrid, and petrol-CNG. The Hyryder, which generally has shorter waiting periods compared to its sibling, the Maruti Grand Vitara, is available with discounts of up to ₹75,000, with some dealers offering even better deals on higher variants.
In a surprising move, Toyota is offering substantial discounts on the Fortuner, which is typically in high demand. Discounts range from ₹1 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh on standard variants, while the Legender variant has benefits of up to ₹2 lakh. However, the top-of-the-line GR Sport variant remains exempt from these offers.
The Toyota Hilux, a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, is available with discounts of up to ₹5 lakh in many cities. Although it’s a capable pickup, its higher price has limited its appeal in the Indian market. The current price reduction makes the Hilux a more attractive option for potential buyers.
Innova Crysta and Hycross
Both the Innova Crysta and Hycross remain top sellers in their segments and are not part of Toyota’s festive discounts. These models continue to be sold at regular prices due to their consistent demand.
Festive Sales Strategy
These discounts are aimed at boosting Toyota’s sales during the festive season, particularly for its premium models, enhancing their value proposition. However, the offers may vary depending on location and stock availability, so it’s advisable for buyers to check with their local Toyota dealerships for the most accurate information.
Unsold Inventory and Discounts
The increase in unsold inventory across India has prompted many automakers to offer attractive discounts. According to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), inventory levels have been steadily rising, creating pressure on dealerships. The festive season presents a critical opportunity for manufacturers to clear excess stock and recover sales momentum.


title: New dealer manager at kubota

text:
George Nowell has been appointed as Kubota (UK)’s agricultural and groundcare dealer manager for the midlands, north-west and Wales.
Now in his fifth year in full-time employment with the company, George first came to Kubota in 2015 after getting in touch as he searched for a three-month summer job following completion of his first year at Harper Adams University.
After leaving school, he took a three-year apprenticeship at Bicton College which saw him working with a tractor dealership in Devon. Eager to immerse himself at manufacturer-level, George set about finding a route into Harper Adams University.
“I always knew what I wanted to do, and earning myself a summer job at Kubota was a move that has helped to create fantastic opportunities for me,” explains George.
During his degree course, he returned to Kubota for his work placement year as a student. “My coursework and dissertation led to a project on M7 tractor optimisation, which was focussed on developing dealer and customer knowledge.”
George returned to Kubota after completing his university studies in 2018, taking up his first full-time role. As a service technician providing product support, his early career included a three-month posting to KFM at Dunkerque, France, working in tractor production. One year later, George took on the role of regional service representative before stepping up to the role of aftersales dealer manager in 2021.
“I always wanted to work for a tractor manufacturer,” adds George. “It’s great to work for a company that hasn’t yet become a full-liner in agriculture, so I have an opportunity to appreciate how the business is moving forward. And I can be part of this exciting journey.”


title: Fine sea salt plus extra for the topping

text:
Upside down cakes are so much fun and slightly exciting when you flip the pan over and cross your fingers. This blueberry version tastes like a soft, moist blueberry muffin in cake form. It’s heavenly served warm from the oven with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top.
Blueberry Muffin Upside Down Cake
Preheat the oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Spray an 8-inch round cake pan* with nonstick spray.
In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons (85g) of the butter with the brown sugar and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 1 minute, then transfer the mixture to the cake pan. Arrange the blueberries on top.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
In a medium bowl, beat the remaining 10 tablespoons (142g) of butter and the granulated sugar, with an electric mixer at medium speed, until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and the egg yolk in 3 separate additions, making sure each one is incorporated before adding the next. Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined. On low speed, beat in the flour mixture in 2 separate additions, followed by half of the milk after each addition. Beat unit combined.
Gently spoon the batter into the cake pan over the top of the blueberries. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center of the cake comes out nearly clean, about 45-50 minutes. You don't want to see raw batter on the knife, but a little moisture is okay. Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the perimeter and invert the cake onto a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.


title: Main source fuck what you think

text:
Incredibly the title “Fuck What You Think” isn’t even the most offensive thing about this album.
Calling this a Main Source album is a joke. Technically speaking K-Cut and Sir Scratch can get away with it since they are two thirds of the group, but their famous frontman Large Professor left well before their sophomore album was released. There’s only one song from between these albums that I consider an authentic Main Source track and that’s “Fakin’ the Funk” from the White Men Can’t Rap soundtrack. Even though Large Pro splits the lyrical duties with Neek the Exotic, fuck man, at least he’s on it.
It turned out to be one of the most unintentionally apt song titles of all time. Everything about “Fuck What You Think” feels like Main Source is faking the funk big time. It’s a shame because Extra P’s replacement emcee Mikey D isn’t even a bad rapper, but because he doesn’t have the laconic smooth lyricism of the Professor, it feels wrong. Apparently even the notoriously unreliable Wild Pitch Records felt the same way, because the only single from this album was “What You Need.” In retrospect the only thing that makes this album notable is a pre-L.O.X. appearance of Jadakiss and Sheek Louch on the posse song “Set It Off,” which accidentally commits two more insults along the way. Item number one — it opens with the same sample as “Live at the Barbeque,” and if you’re not bringing that lineup back then don’t go there. The second is that if you’re not coming as correct as Black Moon or the Pharcyde did with their “Summer in the City” samples, then you’re just the third best at best to loop Quincy Jones on a song.
It’s hella hard to divorce myself from how personally insulting I found a Main Source album without Large Professor is in 1994, but once I’m finally able to settle my emotions I can admit there are some moments that are “aight.” The opener “Only the Real Survive” is no less flagrant with overly familiar samples, but I’m able to dig Mikey D’s delivery and wordplay here. “I paid dues to rap/they paid the toll and crossed over.” Yeah, cool. The “keep it real” trope is certainly in full effect, but a lesser emcee wouldn’t have pulled it off with the credibility that D does here.
In fact if K-Cut and Sir Scratch hadn’t called “Fuck What You Think” a Main Source album, I think I’d be okay with it. Perhaps “Mikey D & The Crew” would have been a better name? Then drop some subtle hints in the liner notes that they’re “the producers formerly known as Main Source” and people would have been like “Oh! Aight. It’s a new project.” The fact that D proclaims this is “the underground sound from the group called the Main Source” on the hook of the only single is just too IN YOUR FACE with the fact the Professor had been shamelessly replaced. It takes away the credibility that D establishes with songs like “Hellavision,” where he rails against the negative influences that TV has on the youth. I’m not even saying I agree with his premise, but he’s passionate about it and he’s at least got arguments to back up his beliefs in the bars he wrote.
A rose by any other name would smell sweeter than “Fuck What You Think.” The title seems deliberately chosen as an answer to critics who would dislike Large Professor’s absence, and the response they got back as a result was entirely expected. I wish they hadn’t gone about things the way that they did, but the fact that Main Source’s legacy ended with this album is their own fault and not anybody else’s.


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RV, trailer storage ordinance could spawn committee to deal with issue
December 08, 2006
Santa Paula City Council
The issues related to recreational vehicle and trailer storage will be considered by the new City Council, after numerous citizens attended the meeting to show their opposition to the city’s crackdown on those storing their vehicles illegally.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe issues related to recreational vehicle and trailer storage will be considered by the new City Council, after numerous citizens attended the meeting to show their opposition to the city’s crackdown on those storing their vehicles illegally.Mayor Rick Cook noted that Vice Mayor Ray Luna had requested that the item - recently refined by the Council - be brought back for discussion.“As the Council is aware, the Building and Safety Department has been enforcing this law,” noted City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz. “I think there has been an inconsistency over the years” that has led to confusion of the ordinance and what it applies to.Public speakers asked the Council to allow time for a citizens’ committee to develop criteria to correct what several said was an unfair and outdated law.One speaker, Richard Barnett, said he regularly uses his RV, including driving it to work. “I understand about parking on the street, but when it comes to parking on my own property I think I have certain rights,” he noted. “I’m not talking about junk,” but those RVs that are major investments that many owners want close by.Santa Paula city streets lack parking overall; Barnett said he also has a trailer he uses for motorcycles behind a fence, and questioned if whether or not it can be seen from the street is too restrictive.
“Our most valued citizens” who have amassed such items that use them to spend time traveling or vacationing with the families are those being punished, said Steve Van. “These are fine folks who have stress relief.... If we’re talking about having quality of life” unique to small town, “why put in big city laws?” RV storage facilities often have “outlandish business hours and vandalism,” and other issues - such as graffiti or people keeping farm animals on their property - should be the subject of crackdowns, he added.“I have a boat and a motor home” that Luna said required him to reconfigure his property to allow their storage. There is a fine line between property maintenance and such storage issues: “I spoke to Wally about it this morning... he didn’t agree with me. I felt that if a responsible developer comes in” and provides such an RV storage facility, it would quickly be filled to capacity. “How we’re going to fix this I don’t know,” Luna added.Others also complain about quality of life issues, including about the storage of RVs and utility trailers in their neighborhoods, noted Cook, although he did agree that some issues, such as screening, could be changed. The enforcement of storage was prompted as “an attempt to beautify Santa Paula... neighbors who don’t have a motorhome don’t like it.” Ventura has a similar law that it is enforced based on the volume of calls, Cook noted.Councilman John Procter said that although for each person who is objecting to the city’s storage enforcement there are “ten complaints about the RVs,” the issue should be reexamined.The city receives numerous complaints about such parking issues, noted Councilwoman Mary Ann Krause. “The ones that are the most vehement are those” who pay to store their RVs. A lack of enforcement can lead to people living in RVs, and if the next Council “goes through a process and decides they want to reduce the standard” the housing shortage will mean an increase of RV dwellers, she noted.Bobkiewicz said he would return to the Council with a suggested structure for such a committee to consider the issue.“A new broom sweeps clean, so we’ll see,” joked Cook. “Whether it comes back next month of January,” the new Council will “get a taste of your evil eyes.”


title: All in One Solar Battery System

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All in One Solar Battery System
A solar power battery enables greater energy self-sufficiency and helps reduce your utility bills. Our simple solar and battery sizing calculator can help you find the best system for your needs.
Unlike the grid, a solar power battery is 100% quiet backup electricity. It comes in a range of sizes to suit your home, with AC or DC coupling.
Solar panels are a group of silicon semiconductors that absorb the sun’s energy to create electricity. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can either be fixed or track the sun’s movement. Most solar systems use monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon to create electricity.
Solar battery storage allows you to make the most of solar power, reducing your reliance on the grid and increasing your home’s or business’s energy efficiency. The system works like a large rechargeable battery for your solar panel system, storing excess energy for later use and providing backup energy in the event of an outage.
Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice for storing all in one solar battery system solar energy. They operate through a chemical reaction that stores electricity and then releases it as DC current for your appliances. They can be AC-coupled or DC-coupled depending on your needs and the type of energy you want to use from them.
A charge controller is necessary to manage the flow of electricity from your solar panels to the battery. They come in two styles, MPPT and PWM. MPPT charge controllers are more efficient than PWM because they can accept a higher voltage / lower current input from your solar panels than a PWM controller can. If you’re installing a lot of panels in parallel, it’s best to use a combiner box (such as the LV6548) to keep the overall voltage down.
The battery is the heart of an all in one solar energy storage system. It’s a critical component that can back up essential circuits in the event of a grid outage or be used to supplement solar power during peak demand. The most common solar batteries are lead acid, but there are also lithium ion varieties.
A battery’s lifespan can be predicted by its depth of discharge (DoD). The lower the DoD, the longer a battery lasts. Typically, lead batteries have a DoD of 50% while nickel-cadmium batteries have a DoD of 15%. Lithium ion batteries, on the other hand, have a much higher DoD of 80%.
The battery’s charge rate is also an important consideration. It determines how quickly a battery can be refilled when connected to a charger. Lead batteries can take up to twice as long to recharge as lithium batteries, especially during the bulk phase.
The PWRcell solar battery system by Generac is a UL-certified all-in-one energy storage solution that includes an inverter, battery cabinet and three battery modules. It’s available from a number of top-rated solar providers, including ADT Solar, Green Home Systems and Semper Solaris. A standard system starts at $10,000 and can be expanded to support up to 18 kWh of storage by adding more cabinets. Learn more by speaking with a solar expert today!
A solar battery system needs an inverter to convert DC power into AC electricity that can be used in your home. It also prevents the battery from overcharging when the sun is not shining. There are different types of inverters available based on their switching waveform shape. Square wave inverters are simple and cheaper, but they have lower power quality (THD45%). Modified square wave inverters offer higher power quality and are suitable for most electronic equipment.
Inverters are designed to work with solar panels, batteries, and loads. They convert DC current into AC power and regulate the voltage to ensure that appliances can use the energy efficiently. They can also communicate with other systems in the home to manage the power flow and provide backup when needed.
Many solar battery systems have an integrated inverter and charger, but others are standalone units that must be purchased separately. Some systems have a special hybrid inverter that can switch all in one solar battery system to solar and battery power when the grid goes down, while others are self-managed lithium batteries with built-in inverters that can be retrofitted to existing solar systems.
Regardless of which type of solar battery system you choose, the most important consideration is the number of cycles the battery can go through before it loses capacity. This number is defined by the battery’s charge and discharge efficiencies and is typically measured in C/4. Lead-acid batteries can only go through a few cycles before they start to lose capacity, while lithium-ion batteries can go through hundreds of cycles before losing any capacity.
The charger in an all in one solar battery system is a powerful component that regulates the performance of the entire unit. It ensures that the batteries get properly charged to provide maximum energy output throughout the day and night. This is crucial because a battery that gets overcharged can significantly shorten its lifespan and reduce its efficiency.
The smart chargers used in home solar power storage systems have been specifically developed to optimize battery performance and keep them at full charge. They use a sophisticated software that monitors battery conditions and detects potential problems. In addition, the advanced chargers help to prevent overcharging by limiting the maximum charging current.
While there are several different types of batteries available, lithium-ion batteries remain the most popular option for solar power storage. They offer higher levels of energy density and have a longer lifespan than lead or nickel cadmium batteries. Lithium-ion batteries also have a high depth of discharge (DoD), meaning they can be used a greater number of times before needing to be recharged.
One of the most popular all in one solar battery systems is the Tesla Powerwall 2. It can be combined with any type of solar panel to reduce your reliance on the grid. To find out more, speak to a Generac energy advisor today about installing a Tesla Powerwall in your home.


title: 27B1H2 27" IPS Monitor

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27B1H2 27" IPS Monitor
27B1H2 is a 27 inch monitor, IPS Wide Viewing Angle, 3-sided Frameless Design, Ultra Slim Stylish and Design Flicker Free Eye Protection. When used as part of a multi-monitor setup it offers a near-seamless and elegant transition between screens. Beauty, form, and function. Isn't it time you broke free from your bezels?
- 1920 × 1080 (FHD)
- Ultra Slim
- Low Blue Mode
Designed with wide viewing angles
IPS displays deliver 178/178-degree viewing angles while maintaining consistent image quality and colors from all viewing positions. You can also view your spreadsheets or weekend movies from virtually any angle without compromising color uniformity.
A universally respected anti-tearing solution
Gaming shouldn't be a choice between choppy gameplay or broken frames. Get fluid, artifact-free performance at virtually any framerate with Adaptive-Sync technology, smooth quick refresh and ultra-fast response time.
See more and see it clearer
Break away from the shackles of bezels with AOC's 3-Sided Frameless Design monitors. This virtually frameless monitor has extremely narrow bezel around a stunning screen. When used as part of a multi-monitor setup it offers a near-seamless and elegant transition between screens. Beauty, form, and function. Isn't it time you broke free from your bezels?
Function and form in one
Sometimes, less is more: With its minimalistic, slim profile, this monitor seamlessly blends into your working environment instead of obstructing your vision with a bulky casing. Enjoy more space on your desk, easy transportation and an appealing design with this slick, lightweight display.
Protect your eyes from screen flicker
Flicker-free technology reduces flicker to give you a more comfortable gaming experience. Normal LED-backlit monitors adjust brightness using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) which causes flickering and results in eye discomfort over long periods of time. AOC flicker-free technology uses a DC (Direct Current) backlight system to provide a more comfortable and healthier viewing experience, minimizing the effects of eye fatigue during work hours.
Reducing shortwave blue light output for healthier eyes
AOC Low Blue Mode setting ensures a more healthy viewing experience for prolonged computer use without compromising the naturally vivid colors of the display.
Adaptable and convenient setup
Whether you prefer a wall mount or multi-monitor desk setup, VESA Mount offers the ultimate in flexibility. And when combined with 3rd party accessories, VESA Mount lets you put your monitor wherever you want it.
Easy adjustments just one click away
AOC's i-Menu allows direct access to the monitor's on-screen display settings utilizing a mouse.


title: 58df126a 4a11 43ff 99d6 618cb3be6f48

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Not all ticks carry pathogens, so a tick bite does not automatically mean you will get sick. Ticks spread a variety of diseases, the most serious of which for humans, if left untreated, are Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. Lyme disease is much more common and is treated with antibiotics. There is no drug treatment for tick-borne encephalitis, but a vaccine is an effective way to prevent its transmission.
A tick stuck to the skin usually stands out as a dark spot, which may initially look like a mole. Small, adolescent nymphs can be very difficult to spot due to their small size of 1–2mm. A bite which the tick has already left is more challenging to detect, as the skin may not show anything abnormal. It is therefore a good idea to check for ticks immediately after going outdoors, so that they do not have time to attach to the skin for a long time and can be detected before they fall off. Take particular care to examine at least the armpits, groin, earlobes, scalp, back, abdomen and backs of the knees.
A tick can be removed by pulling it out of the skin in a smooth upward motion. The easiest way to do this is to use tick tweezers or normal tweezers, available from the pharmacy, to get as close to the surface of the skin as possible. Grease or insecticide should not be used to try to remove a tick. If the tick can be removed from the skin within 24 hours, the risk of Lyme disease infection is low.
The bite should be monitored for a few weeks. Almost everyone will get a patch of redness 2–3cm in diameter at the bite site as a reaction to irritation, but this does not yet indicate a Lyme disease infection and does not need to be treated. If the bite develops into an enlarged patch of redness of more than 5cm in diameter after a week or two, an infection caused by the Lyme bacterium is likely and should be treated with antibiotics. Even at this stage, there is no need to visit the emergency department. It is sufficient if you go and see a doctor within a few days. Another, much less common skin symptom of Lyme disease is a bluish, unscarred, smooth, soft nodule, most commonly found on the earlobe, scrotum or nipple.
Tick-borne encephalitis is an infectious disease caused by a virus. If a tick carries this virus, the disease can be transmitted within minutes of its initial bite. The first symptoms are fever, headache and joint pain about a week after the bite. This usually lasts 4–7 days. Most people are completely cured at this stage and gain lifelong immunity to the disease. In some people, the disease progresses to a second stage, preceded by a period of 3–21 days without symptoms or with just mild symptoms. The symptoms of the second stage are severe and require immediate treatment. These include high fever combined with headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and nausea. The sufferer may also experience loss of consciousness, seizures and paralysis. Tick-borne encephalitis is diagnosed by symptoms and antibody tests, and is treated symptomatically. Antibodies cannot be detected until 1–2 weeks after infection at the earliest, so testing for antibodies immediately after a tick bite just to be on the safe side is unnecessary.
When outdoors, you should try to guard against ticks by wearing protective clothing. A tick repellent that can be applied to the skin is also available from the pharmacy. Check your clothes and skin after being outdoors. You should also check the fur of your pets, as they can carry ticks indoors. Tick-borne encephalitis can be prevented with the TBE vaccine, which is particularly recommended for people living in high-risk areas and those who spend a lot of time outdoors. There is currently no vaccine available to prevent Lyme disease.


title: Yoast premium

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The Yoast SEO Premium plugin is a powerful tool for optimizing your WordPress website for search engines. It offers a comprehensive set of features to help you improve your on-page content, create XML sitemaps, and much more. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the plugin is, how it works, and why you should consider installing it on your website.
What is Yoast SEO Premium?
Yoast SEO Premium is a premium version of the popular Yoast SEO plugin for WordPress. It is designed to help website owners and content creators optimize their websites for search engines, improve their on-page content, and ultimately drive more organic traffic to their site. The plugin offers a wide range of features and tools to help you improve your website’s SEO performance.
How does Yoast SEO Premium work?
Yoast SEO Premium works by providing you with a set of tools and features that make it easier to optimize your website for search engines. One of the key features of the plugin is its on-page content analysis tool, which helps you optimize your content for specific keywords and phrases. The plugin also offers XML sitemap functionality, which makes it easier for search engines to crawl and index your website. In addition to these features, Yoast SEO Premium also provides advanced options for controlling how your content appears in search engine results. This includes the ability to set custom titles and meta descriptions for your pages and posts, as well as the ability to control how your content is displayed on social media platforms.


title: Conejo valley unified school district 13444

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The Conejo Valley Unified School District is ideally situated among Southern California's rolling hills just 35 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The District serves students in the Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park and Westlake Village areas. With a population of 132,000 people, Conejo Valley boasts an active theater and arts community as well as a vigorous parks program. The Conejo Valley is an active community with a wide range of youth and adult activities. Thousand Oaks is also proud of its consistent ranking as one of the nation's safest cities in U.S.A.Today.
While teachers are the heart of education, physical surroundings provide support. Our schools are equipped with safe and comfortable classrooms. Over the past few years, CVUSD has modernized schools districtwide, renovating bathrooms, installing new roofs, repaving parking lots, updating playground equipment, and modernizing tracks, fields and bleachers at all high schools. Our District provides state-of-the-art performing arts centers at all three comprehensive high schools and new gymnasiums at all four middle schools.
CVUSD would like all students to reach their full potential. To that end, we provide Honors, AP classes, an International Baccalaureate Program and School-to-Career opportunities. Additional support and intervention programs are available for English Language Learners, at-risk students, and students with alternative learning styles. The CVUSD truly believes that while we are proud of the overall achievement of all our students, we hold strong to our committment that every child matters.
District Office located just east of the 23 Freeway on Janss Road in Thousand Oaks, California.


title: Barnstorming

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It grew out of my tag set from release day, but this time I wanted to use the stamps to frame something a bit more substantial. As usual, the new stamps mix and match beautifully with other AO sets, and the lovely image of the barn from the Home plate seemed like the perfect complement to the autumnal gatherings from Hayride.
The central panel is a piece of cream mountboard, inked up with Distress Inks to create a warm fall feeling.
I added some repeat stampings of the fabulous vine image to create a frame.
Then, with the masks still in place, I stamped the barn in Sepia.
I added the little song lyric, also from the Home set, trying to place it just along the top of the frame.
There are various paint layers in there: Pumpkin Soup (an obvious choice, with a name like that), Spiced Paprika and French Roast Fresco paints, as well as some DecoArt Quinacridone Red and Gold.
And finally I selected some more of my rusted bits and pieces to give a bit of a dimensional lift to the piece.
It's strung up on good old rustic twine, and the eyelets got smeared with leftover paint colours from the brushes I'd been using.
So that's my autumnal harvest hanging for you today; hope it's tickled your creative tastebuds.
Thank you so much for stopping by. I can't promise a return visit immediately, but I will be catching up soon.
Autumn is the bite of the harvest apple.
Thy bounty shines in autumn unconfined, and spreads a common feast for all that live.
Good apple pies are a considerable part of our domestic happiness.
I'd like to enter this in the following:
At Frilly and Funkie they're inviting us to Eat, Drink and Be Merry... well, with apples, pumpkins and grape vines, not to mention those delicious-sounding paint colours - Pumpkin Soup, Spiced Paprika and French Roast - I hope this is enough of a feast
At the Vintage Stamping Challenge they would like to see Anything From Your Garden - that would be the apples. We have an absolutely laden apple tree, but will sadly be leaving the fruit for the buyers to benefit from - no time for apple-picking round here at the moment
And at the Fashionable Stamping Challenge, they're looking for Autumn Colours


title: Drum wave

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The Horror short has been a hotbed for exciting new talent over recent years. As champions of short film, we’ve watched gleefully as directors such as David F. Sandberg, Lars Klevberg, Jacob Chase and Rob Savage have made the leap to feature film. Today’s pick, Drum Wave, comes from another director who has transitioned from short to feature in Natalie Erika James, who – with the release of Horror-with-heart Relic – has announced herself as one of the most exciting new talents in the genre.
A Horror short that doesn’t rely on jump scares (the masked figures lurk in dark doorways instead of jumping out of them), Drum Wave prefers to introduce a consistently building sense of dread throughout its 10-minute runtime. The story of a young pianist forced to confront her fear of motherhood when she marries into a remote island community with bizarre fertility rituals, James’ fourth short (she made four between 2011 & 2018) fits nicely into the Folk Horror subgenre made famous by The Wickerman (and more recently Midsommar).
With cinematographer Charlie Sarroff’s (who worked on James’ last 3 shorts and her debut feature) camera sticking close to the short’s protagonist Yun (Jenny Wu), we’re introduced to this new place, much as she is, as a stranger. As the film’s narrative unravels and the pacing intensifies, our experience is framed through Yun’s perspective and we become overwhelmed by the amount of the people who want to meet her and disoriented by the climatic ritual – the camerawork and editing amplifying this feeling.
Much like James’ feature Relic (and the short that proceeded it Creswick), Drum Wave hints at supernatural elements, but its core is centred around personal, real-life issues. Where her debut feature gracefully tackled dementia, through a mix of fear and surprising warmth, this short takes a similar approach to motherhood, with the director revealing (in conversation on Collider’s The Witching Hour) that she believes filmmaking “is a great way to just ask those big philosophical questions in your life”.
Fans of the filmmaker’s approach to Horror should definitely check out the director’s debut feature, I was lucky to see it as part of London Film Festival this year and it left such a strong mark on me. If you liked Drum Wave and wanted more, you’ll be happy to hear that it looks as if a feature version could be next on the cards for James