text:
Introduction to Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
There’s something magical about a slice of cake that can brighten your day. The Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is just that—a delightful treat that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge after a long week, this cake is your go-to solution. It’s easy to whip up, and the creamy frosting adds a touch of elegance. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a game-changer in the dessert world. It’s not just about the taste—though that’s a major win! The ease of preparation means you can whip it up even on a busy weeknight. Plus, the vibrant lemon flavor is refreshing and uplifting, making it perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that fluffy texture.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Buttermilk: This ingredient keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tang that complements the lemon.
Large eggs: Essential for binding and adding moisture; room temperature eggs mix better.
Lemon zest: The aromatic oils in the zest bring a burst of lemon flavor.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the cake with its acidity and enhances the lemon flavor.
Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that rounds out the cake’s taste.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
Cream of tartar: Helps stabilize the egg whites if you’re using them, ensuring a light texture.
Cream cheese: The star of the frosting, providing a creamy, tangy base.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, spreadable consistency.
Optional ingredients: For a twist, consider folding in fresh berries or substituting half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!
How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Lemon Velvet Cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour. This step is crucial to prevent sticking. You want those beautiful layers to come out clean and intact, ready for frosting!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This process incorporates air, giving your cake that delightful texture. Don’t rush it; this step is key to achieving a moist Lemon Velvet Cake that everyone will love!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Next, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth batter. Then, stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The aroma will be heavenly! These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the cake’s moistness. You’re already on your way to a delicious dessert!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. This step ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. It’s a simple yet essential part of making a fluffy Lemon Velvet Cake. Set this bowl aside; you’ll be using it shortly!
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender cake, not a dense one. This balance is key to achieving that velvety texture!
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The anticipation will be worth it when you smell that lemony goodness!
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set. After that, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Patience is key here! Frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty mess, and we want a beautiful Lemon Velvet Cake to impress!
Step 8: Make the Frosting
While the cakes cool, it’s time to whip up the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. This creamy frosting is the perfect complement to your cake, adding a tangy sweetness!
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Then, carefully place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Don’t be shy with the frosting; it’s what makes this Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting truly special. Enjoy every moment of this delicious creation!
Tips for Success
Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix the batter; stop as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated.
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
For a fun twist, add poppy seeds for extra texture and flavor!
Mixing bowls: Use large bowls for mixing; a stand mixer can save time.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; a kitchen scale is a great alternative.
9-inch round cake pans: If you don’t have these, use square pans instead.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for scraping down the sides.
Cooling racks: If you lack these, a plate will work in a pinch!
Berry Bliss: Fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free Lemon Velvet Cake.
Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream cheese for a vegan version.
Herbal Infusion: Add a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the batter for a unique herbal flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cake for a decadent contrast to the lemon.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Iced Tea: Pair with a glass of sweetened iced tea or lemonade for a delightful drink.
Presentation: Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves for an elegant touch.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
FAQs about Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I make this Lemon Velvet Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using!
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Just mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect buttermilk replacement for your Lemon Velvet Cake.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
For a delightful presentation, serve your Lemon Velvet Cake with fresh berries and a sprig of mint. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors!
Creating a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories. The bright, zesty flavors evoke sunny days and joyful gatherings, making every slice a celebration. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, this cake brings a touch of happiness to any occasion. The velvety texture and creamy frosting are sure to impress, leaving everyone asking for the recipe. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful baking adventure—you won’t regret it!


tier: kodiak

shelf: history-culture

text:
Budejovice is the largest town in South Bohemia. It is a town with
an interesting history and notable places of interest, but the business, economic,
political and cultural centre of region. The town is located at the south-east
part of the Ceske Budejovice basin. Thanks to its favourable position on the mercantile
pathway, the Ceske Budejovice basin was settled many centuries ago. It was here,
on the confluence of the Vltava and Malse rivers, where the Bohemian king
Premysl Otakar II. founded a town which he called Buduoyz - Budejovice. The town
had to serve as a strong support against the expansiveness of the Vitkovci, a
South Bohemian feudal clan, later known as the Rosenbergs.
The 14th century
meant a period of prosperity for the town. The fact that during the Hussite disordes
the town was never attacted proved the strong position of the town. The loyality
to the king brought a number of privileges to the town and that is why Ceske Budejovice
became the most important town of the Bohemian Kingdom, after Prague and Pilsen.
1825 - 1832 the first European continental horse railway was built, according
to the designs of father and son Gerstners. It was to connect Ceske Budejovice
to Linz. With the horse railway the industry started to move to the town. The
first great company were linked to the name of the local businessman and boatswain
Vojtech Lanna. In 1847 the Viennese firm Hardtmuth brought here the enterprise
for producing pencil and ceramics. In the last third of the 19th century were
also established enterprises with Czech capital. The most important was the Czech
jointstock brewery - nowadays Budvar of Budejovice, founded in 1895, which
has spread the fame of the town to many countries all over the world.
Budejovice, nowadays 100 000 inhabitants, can pride on an interesting places of
interest. One of them is the Premysl Otakar II. square. Thanks to its area
it belongs to the biggest square in the Czech Republic.
oldest building in town is the monastery, which is located close to the fortification.
To the monastery belongs so-called Black Tower. The fortification has come
down to the present and especially along the dead arm of the Vltava river. Very
interesting is the town called Zelezna panna (Iron Virgin) from 14th century.
connected with the historical horse railway belong to the most interesting sights
of Ceske Budejovice, too. The former inn U zelene ratolesti at Husova street was
the northernmost point of the railway. We could find here the stores of the Lanna
forwarding firm. The relics of the building of the salt store in Ceska street
is a reminder of the reason why the horse railway was built. The guard house in
Manesova street used to be a part of the area of the goods station. Nowadays it
belongs to the South Bohemian Museum and you can see an exhibition dedicated to
the horse railway there.
nad Vltavou is a romantic castle rebuilt into English Thudors gothic during
1841-1871. The whole complex is surrounded by English style park. The interiors
of Hluboka castle contain many artistic objects gathered by Schwarzenbergs. Along
with valuable furniture hunderts of paintings could be found. Most valued are
Bernard Luini's, Lucas Cranach's and Jan Jiri Hamilton's paintings. Unique is
collection of 57 flam's wall carpets, most of them collected in 17th and 18th
century. Most valued of them are Brusel's gobelins of Baudouin van Beveren, inspired
by models of Jacob Jordaense on national proverbs. |


tier: cub

shelf: civic-law

title: Pf latest change

text:
There would be a significant shift in the manner in which salaries are going to be structured henceforth, especially in cases where the Basic salary is expected to be lower than Rs. 15,000 a month, owing to one of the recent decisions of the Supreme Court.
Before we proceed to understand the implications of the Supreme Court’s decision, let us understand a few provisions of the Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952:
The term ‘Basic Wages’ has been defined under Section 2(b) of the Act
‘Basic wages means all emoluments which are earned by an employee while on duty or on leave or on holidays with wages in either case in accordance with the terms of the contract of employment and which are paid or payable in cash to him but does not include
(i) the cash value of any food concession;
(ii) any dearness allowance that is to say, all cash payments by whatever name called paid to an employee on account of a rise in the cost of living, house-rent allowance, overtime allowance, bonus, commission or any other similar allowance payable to the employee in respect of his employment or of work done in such employment;
(iii) any presents made by the employer; ‘
Further, by virtue of Section 6 of the Act (supra), the contribution towards the fund shall be made at a certain percentage of ‘the basic wages, dearness allowance and retaining allowance, if any, for the time being, payable to each of the employees’
The question for consideration before the honourable Supreme Court was whether special allowances paid by an establishment to its employees would fall within the ambit of the term ‘Basic wages’ for the purpose of computation of deduction towards Provident Fund.
The essence of the judgement has been summarised in the following points:
- If the components of salary are such that they are paid to all employees across the Board regardless of their performance, then such components are considered to be a part of Basic wages.
- Those components which are included in the salaries of the employees owing to their performance, by way of attaining work-based targets, such as performance bonus, incentives, etc. should not be considered as a part of Basic wages.
- Components such as Overtime allowance, though in force in many concerns, would not be earned by all employees. Such components should not be considered as a part of Basic wages.
In view of the above, employers have to consciously re-evaluate their existing salary structures, especially in cases where the basic salaries are less than Rs. 15,000 per month, so as to ensure that the above aspects are taken care of.
In cases where the gross salaries of the employees are more than Rs. 15,000 per month, it would be ideal and conservative for the employer to fix the Basic salary at Rs. 15,000 and allocate the balance of salary (i.e. the difference between Gross monthly salary and Basic salary) among other components. In cases where the gross salaries are less than Rs. 15,000 per month, it would be ideal to have the entire salary considered as Basic wages, without making any allocations towards other components.
There have been instances in the past wherein the PF department has demanded contribution on ‘special allowance’ (in cases where the basic salary is less than Rs. 15,000 per month) on the ground that such components are incorporated in the salary structure with a view to mitigating contributions thereby increasing the employees’ take-home salaries.
Now that the department has the decision of the Supreme Court in its favour, employers can expect a lot of notices from the PF department shortly.


shelf: science-engineering

title: Interior lights vans

text:
Syncro’s new 45° van ceiling lights maintain all the advantages of conventional models but offer a number of important advantages: they do not reduce the height of the cargo compartment and they are better protected against impacts caused by the user moving around inside the van.
Thanks to their special design and angled light projection, these LED lights can be fitted to the side instead of the underside of a roof cross-member. The new lights come in two sizes:
An innovative LED spotlight with a magnetic base. High efficiency and low consumption.
Syncro’s LED bars for lighting areas outside the van are designed for installation at the top of the bodywork, near the doors, with the projectors pointing towards the external space to be illuminated. LED bars come in two models:
Syncro LED lighting bars are made to military standards and feature a tough aluminium casing and resistance to extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
The rotating beacons for vans are extremely useful to signal that the van is working on a constuction site or on the street. The magnetic base allows you to place the light where you need it: on the side or on the roof of the van. While driving, the light can easily be attached inside the van. The coiled electrical cord plugs into your van's 12 Volt cigarette lighter socket that are factory-installed in all vehicles.
All vans and commercial vehicles are equipped with 12 Volt cigarette lighter socket in the cab. Among the many Syncro accessories, you can also find 12 Volt sockets that can be mounted in the cargo area: to upfitted panels or directly to the body of the van – where ever it is most convenient to access. With the lighter socket accessory, you can plug in the headlight or any other 12 Volt accessory or equipment.
This device constantly monitors voltage and disconnects the battery immediately if charge falls below a certain level. This prevents the battery from becoming excessively discharged. Used with the vehicle’s main battery, the device ensures there is always enough power to start the engine. Used with an auxiliary battery the device eliminates all risk of irreparable damage. Once the battery is recharged, the device can be reset easily to restore the normal supply. The device can be fitted directly to the battery itself or to the racking or bodywork using the dedicated steel adapter code SVBSUP.


shelf: software-docs

title: What do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?

text:
What do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?
Bed bug bites can easily appear to be other types of insect bites. A bed bug bite looks like a small red bump with a dark center and a lighter, swollen ring around it.
Two things that make bed bug bites different from other bites are:
- Bed bugs often bite people in lines or zigzags.
- Bites will occur on areas of exposed skin at night.
Bed Bug Bites or Flea Bites?
The difference between bed bug bites and flea bites is the level of pain. You will feel a flea bite almost immediately after you have been bitten. Bed bug bites do not hurt or show any symptoms until hours later. Flea bites are often grouped together on the lower parts of the body, usually on ankles, and usually in random patterns. Bed bug bites will be laid out in lines or zigzags. While both kinds of bites cause itchiness and redness, bed bug bites are usually much larger.
Do You Have a Bed Bug Problem? We Can Help.
Click the button below to leave your information & we'll be in touch in an hour or less.
Got a Pest Problem?
Fill out the form and we’ll be in touch with a free quote!
"*" indicates required fields
*During normal business hours. After hour inquiries will be returned the next business day.
Bed Bug Bites or Mosquito Bites?
Like bed bug bites, mosquito bites can leave you with itchy, red marks on your skin. Unlike bed bug bites, mosquito bites don’t come in patterns. They bite you in random places wherever there is exposed skin. A mosquito bite bump forms just minutes after you are pierced, and will begin to itch very quickly. Mosquito bites are much more dangerous in the sense that they can pass on diseases, but their bites tend to heal quicker, too.
Identifying a Bed Bug Bite
It’s easy to see why bed bug bites are mistaken for other kinds of bug bites. This makes it crucial to know how bed bug bites are different. If you think that a bite on your skin is a bed bug bite, you should check around your home for signs of bed bugs.
What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like in Bristol TN?
Serving Tennessee & Virginia


shelf: health

title: Centra achieves fifth consecutive magnetr recognition nursing excellence

text:
LYNCHBURG, Va., October 17, 2024–Centra has earned its fifth Magnet recognition, a prestigious acknowledgment of the healthcare system’s commitment to nursing excellence and high-quality patient care. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program® is the gold standard for nursing achievement in the U.S. and globally and is regarded as a benchmark for the quality of care patients receive.
Achieving Magnet status for the fifth time places Centra in a select group of healthcare organizations. Only two other hospitals in Virginia have received five consecutive designations, and fewer than 1% of hospitals worldwide share this honor. The award applies to Centra Lynchburg General Hospital, Centra Virginia Baptist Hospital and Centra Medical Group, all of which first received the designation in 2005 and have continued to demonstrate the highest standards in nursing practice over the past two decades.
“Attaining consecutive Magnet recognition over a span of 20 years is a tremendous accomplishment for our organization. It speaks not only to the skill and dedication of our nurses but also to the core values that guide our entire team to deliver exceptional care,” said Mary Ann Fuchs, Chief Nursing Executive at Centra. “We are extremely proud of and grateful for our nurses, whose commitment fosters an environment where exemplary outcomes are achieved.”
Magnet designation ultimately signifies superior performance across several key metrics including higher nurse satisfaction, lower turnover, reduced vacancies, better clinical outcomes, and improved patient satisfaction rates. These factors create a robust, supportive environment that drives patient-centered care and clinical excellence.
To attain Magnet recognition, hospitals must meet rigorous standards across nursing leadership, quality of care, clinical outcomes, and ongoing improvement efforts. The journey to earning Magnet status involves a comprehensive evaluation of performance over four years, requiring detailed data and sustained excellence in nursing practice.
About Centra: Centra is a regional nonprofit healthcare system based in Lynchburg, Virginia. Serving its communities for over three decades, Centra has more than 7,600 caregivers, 500 employed providers and physicians, and a medical staff of nearly 800. Providing care in 50 locations, Centra serves over 500,000 people through critical medical services in central and southern Virginia. Centra is committed to fulfilling its mission of improving the health and quality of life for the communities they serve. For more information, please visit, centrahealth.com.


shelf: finance

title: Gaming pcs getting cheaper

text:
Discover the Trend: Are Gaming PC’s Getting Cheaper? Uncover the facts about PC gaming’s affordability and whether gaming PCs are truly becoming more budget-friendly. Explore insights on whether PC games themselves are getting cheaper, and understand if the hype matches reality.
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, enthusiasts and casual players alike often wonder whether gaming PC’s are truly becoming more affordable. The lure of cutting-edge graphics, seamless gameplay, and the potential for better overall gaming experiences has historically been associated with a hefty price tag.
However, recent advancements in technology, shifting market dynamics, and changes in consumer preferences have sparked discussions about the affordability of gaming PCs. This article delves into the question: Are gaming PC’s getting cheaper?
How Long Will A Budget Gaming PC Last?
As gaming PCs are getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper, the longevity of a budget gaming PC hinges on several factors. Advances in technology, combined with the affordability of components, contribute to a longer lifespan compared to the past.
However, the specific components within the PC, such as the processor and graphics card, greatly influence longevity. A budget gaming PC can comfortably run modern games for around 3-5 years, but more demanding titles might require lower settings as time progresses.
Additionally, with PC games cheaper due to sales and digital platforms, you can still enjoy a diverse gaming experience without constantly upgrading, making budget gaming PCs a viable and lasting option.
What Is A Reasonable Budget For A Gaming PC?
With gaming PCs getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper, establishing a reasonable budget for a gaming PC depends on your preferences and performance expectations.
Generally, a budget of around $700 to $1000 can yield a capable gaming PC that handles modern titles at decent settings. Thanks to PC games cheaper pricing and digital platforms, this budget can provide a satisfying gaming experience without compromising too much on performance like Unveiling the Exquisite.
However, if you’re looking for higher frame rates and graphical fidelity, allocating around $1000 to $1500 would be prudent. The evolving affordability of components and PC games makes it possible to strike a balance between cost and performance, ensuring a rewarding gaming journey.
Is Building A Gaming PC Cheaper Than Buying A New One?
Considering the trend of gaming PC’s getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper, the decision between building a gaming PC or buying a new one depends on various factors. Building a PC can often offer cost savings due to the ability to choose individual components and capitalize on deals.
This can be especially advantageous given PC games’ cheaper pricing and digital distribution. However, building requires time, effort, and some technical knowledge. On the other hand, pre-built options offer convenience but might come at a slightly higher price.
It’s akin to choosing a 4 town hall base in a strategy game; each has its pros and cons. Researching current component prices and factoring in your comfort level with the building will help determine which path is economically wiser for you.
Are There Any Online Resources To Help Find The Best Deals On Gaming PCs?
Absolutely, with gaming PCs getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper, there are abundant online resources to help you discover the best deals and ensure a Nolag gaming experience. Websites like PC PartPicker, Newegg, Amazon, and Micro Center offer price comparisons and user reviews to assist in finding budget-friendly components for building a gaming PC.
Additionally, keep an eye out for seasonal sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where prices drop significantly. For pre-built options, websites like Dell, HP, and CyberPowerPC often have deals sections showcasing discounted gaming PCs.
Furthermore, forums like Reddit’s r/buildapcsales can be a treasure trove for real-time deals. The synergy of PC games’ cheaper pricing and accessible hardware means you can attain optimal gaming experiences without breaking the bank.
What Factors Are Contributing To The Decreasing Cost Of Gaming PCs?
The phenomenon of gaming PCs getting cheaper is driven by several factors, making PC gaming actually cheaper overall:
- Advancements in Manufacturing: Technological progress has streamlined manufacturing processes for components like CPUs, GPUs, and RAM, reducing production costs.
- Competition among Manufacturers: Increased competition has led to more affordable options from various hardware manufacturers, promoting price drops.
- Economies of Scale: As demand for gaming PCs rises, manufacturers can achieve economies of scale, lowering per-unit production costs.
- Component Integration: Modern CPUs and GPUs often incorporate multiple functionalities, reducing the need for additional components, and thus saving costs.
- Efficiency Improvements: Components now offer better performance per watt, resulting in lower power consumption and reduced cooling needs.
- Online Sales and Discounts: With PC games cheaper due to online platforms, retailers are motivated to bundle affordable gaming PC options with game deals.
- Second-hand Market: The availability of used components and pre-built systems contributes to cost-effective options for gamers.
- Technological Democratization: Access to technology and information enables more people to assemble PCs, increasing competition and reducing costs.
- Global Supply Chains: Efficient supply chains and global market access allow manufacturers to source components at competitive prices.
- Innovation in Design: Innovations like smaller form factors and all-in-one solutions provide efficient performance in space-saving designs.
These factors combine to create a market where gaming PCs are becoming more affordable, allowing Gaming PC’s Getting Cheaper to enjoy a Nolag gaming experience with PC games’ cheaper pricing.
How Do The Costs Of Gaming PCs Compare To Gaming Consoles?
As gaming PCs are getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper, their costs often align more closely with gaming consoles. While the upfront investment for a gaming PC can be higher, the versatility and ability to upgrade individual components over time offer long-term cost efficiency.
Additionally, PC games’ cheaper pricing due to digital distribution platforms counterbalances the initial expense. Consoles may have a lower entry price, but they often lack the customization and performance potential of gaming PCs.
Overall, the evolving affordability of components and games is narrowing the cost gap between Gaming PC’s Getting Cheaper and consoles.
Is It True That Gaming Laptops Are Also Getting Cheaper?
Indeed, the trend of gaming PC’s getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper extends to gaming laptops as well.
As technology advances and manufacturing becomes more efficient, gaming laptops are becoming more affordable while still delivering impressive performance. With components like GPUs and CPUs becoming more power-efficient and capable, gaming laptops offer a balance between portability and gaming prowess.
Additionally, the ecosystem of PC games’ cheaper pricing and digital platforms ensures that gaming on laptops remains cost-effective. As a result, gamers can now enjoy a without necessarily breaking the bank when opting for gaming laptops.
Can I Expect Gaming PC Prices To Continue Dropping In The Foreseeable Future?
Given the ongoing trend of gaming PC’s getting cheaper and PC gaming actually cheaper, there is a likelihood that gaming PC prices will continue to gradually decrease in the foreseeable future.
Advancements in technology, efficient manufacturing processes, and increasing market competition often contribute to more affordable components.
Furthermore, with PC games’ cheaper pricing due to digital platforms and frequent sales, the overall cost of entering the gaming PC realm is becoming more accessible.
While market fluctuations can influence pricing, the current landscape suggests that the alignment of affordable hardware and cost-effective game options will likely sustain the trend of gaming PC prices becoming more budget-friendly over time.


shelf: education

title: Exploring the transformative impact of fiber internet on e learning platforms

text:
In today’s digital age, the role of high-speed internet in revolutionizing the way we learn cannot be overstated. Fiber internet has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of e-learning platforms, enabling seamless and efficient access to online educational resources. This groundbreaking technology has transformed the landscape of virtual classrooms, allowing for smoother video streaming, faster downloads, and enhanced interactivity. In this exploration, we delve into the transformative impact of fiber internet on e-learning platforms, shedding light on how this revolutionary connectivity is bridging the digital divide and shaping the future of education. Join us on a journey to discover the limitless possibilities that fiber internet brings to the world of online learning.
Understanding Fiber Internet Connectivity
Fiber internet is a type of internet connection that utilizes fiber-optic cables to transmit data at incredibly high speeds. Unlike traditional broadband connections that rely on copper cables, fiber internet uses light pulses to carry information, resulting in faster and more reliable internet access for users.
Definition and Characteristics of Fiber Internet
Fiber-optic cables: Fiber internet connections are established through fiber-optic cables, which are made of thin strands of glass or plastic that transmit data using light signals.
High-speed transmission: One of the key characteristics of fiber internet is its ability to provide significantly faster upload and download speeds compared to traditional broadband connections. This high-speed transmission is essential for seamless e-learning experiences, allowing for smooth video streaming, real-time collaboration, and quick access to online resources.
Low latency: Fiber internet offers low latency, meaning there is minimal delay in data transmission. This low latency is crucial for interactive e-learning platforms, as it ensures that communication between students and teachers is instantaneous, creating a more engaging virtual learning environment.
Advantages of Fiber Internet Over Traditional Broadband
Greater bandwidth: Fiber internet provides higher bandwidth capacity, allowing for more data to be transmitted simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for e-learning platforms that rely on multimedia content, as it enables users to stream high-definition videos, participate in virtual classrooms, and engage in interactive learning activities without experiencing buffering or lag.
Improved reliability: Fiber internet is known for its reliability, as fiber-optic cables are less susceptible to interference and signal degradation compared to copper cables. This reliability ensures uninterrupted access to e-learning platforms, reducing the risk of connectivity issues during online classes or assessments.
Scalability: Fiber internet offers scalability, meaning it can easily accommodate increasing demand for bandwidth as more users connect to e-learning platforms. This scalability is essential for supporting a growing number of students and educators accessing online educational resources simultaneously, without compromising internet speed or performance.
Evolution of E-Learning Platforms
In the early 2000s, e-learning began to gain traction as technology started to advance at a rapid pace. With the introduction of Learning Management Systems (LMS), such as Blackboard and Moodle, educational institutions and organizations started to transition towards online learning environments. These platforms allowed for the delivery of educational content in a more interactive and engaging manner.
Brief History of E-Learning
E-learning can be traced back to the 1960s when computer-based training programs first emerged. However, it wasn’t until the internet became more widely accessible in the late 1990s that e-learning truly began to take off. The shift towards online education was further accelerated with the development of high-speed internet connections, enabling seamless delivery of multimedia content and real-time communication between instructors and learners.
Importance of Internet Connectivity in E-Learning
Internet connectivity plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of e-learning platforms. A stable and high-speed internet connection is essential for streaming videos, participating in virtual classrooms, accessing online resources, and engaging in collaborative activities. Fiber internet, with its superior speed and reliability, has revolutionized the e-learning experience by reducing buffering times, enabling smoother video conferencing, and supporting interactive learning tools that require real-time data transmission.
The Role of Fiber Internet in E-Learning
Fiber internet plays a pivotal role in revolutionizing the landscape of e-learning platforms, offering a range of benefits that significantly enhance the online educational experience.
Improved Speed and Bandwidth
- Blazing Speeds: Fiber internet provides unparalleled speeds, allowing for quick access to online resources, seamless content loading, and efficient data transfer. This rapid connectivity translates to reduced latency, ensuring that e-learners can engage with course materials without frustrating delays.
- Enhanced Bandwidth: With fiber internet, e-learning platforms can accommodate high-bandwidth activities such as video streaming, virtual classrooms, and interactive multimedia content. This expanded bandwidth capacity enables users to engage with rich educational resources without compromising on performance.
Enhanced Stability and Reliability
- Consistent Connectivity: Fiber internet offers a stable connection that is less susceptible to fluctuations in speed or performance, ensuring a reliable learning environment for e-learners. This stability minimizes disruptions during online lectures, assessments, or collaborative projects, fostering a seamless educational experience.
- Uninterrupted Learning: By leveraging the robust infrastructure of fiber internet, e-learning platforms can provide uninterrupted access to course materials, discussions, and assessments. The reliability of fiber connectivity ensures that students can stay connected to their virtual classrooms without disruptions, enhancing the continuity of their learning journey.
Facilitating Seamless Video Conferencing and Live Streaming
- High-Quality Video: Fiber internet enables high-definition video conferencing, creating immersive virtual classrooms where students can engage with instructors and peers in real-time. The superior quality of video transmission enhances communication, fosters active participation, and enriches the overall learning experience.
- Smooth Live Streaming: E-learning platforms powered by fiber internet can deliver seamless live streaming of lectures, webinars, or demonstrations. The robust bandwidth and stability of fiber connectivity ensure that live events are transmitted without buffering or lag, allowing students to engage with dynamic, interactive content in real time.
Case Studies Highlighting Fiber Internet Impact
Case Study 1: Increased Access to High-Quality Educational Content
In a study conducted by [Institute Name] in collaboration with a leading e-learning platform, the impact of fiber internet on access to high-quality educational content was examined. Results showed that students in areas with fiber internet connectivity experienced significantly faster download speeds and smoother streaming of video lectures and interactive educational materials. This increased access to high-quality content led to improved comprehension and retention rates among learners.
Furthermore, the study revealed that students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds benefited the most from fiber internet access, as they were able to engage with educational resources that were previously inaccessible due to slow or unreliable internet connections. By bridging the digital divide, fiber internet played a crucial role in leveling the playing field and ensuring equal opportunities for all students to access the same educational content.
Case Study 2: Enhanced Interactivity and Engagement in Virtual Classrooms
A separate case study conducted by [Research Organization] analyzed the impact of fiber internet on interactivity and engagement in virtual classrooms. The study found that with fiber internet connectivity, students and instructors were able to participate in real-time video conferences, virtual group discussions, and collaborative projects without experiencing lags or disruptions. This seamless communication facilitated more dynamic and engaging interactions, leading to increased student participation and overall learning outcomes.
Moreover, the study highlighted that fiber internet enabled the integration of interactive multimedia elements such as 3D simulations, virtual reality experiences, and gamified learning activities into e-learning platforms. These interactive features not only enhanced student engagement but also catered to different learning styles, making the educational experience more personalized and effective.
By providing a reliable and high-speed internet connection, fiber internet transformed virtual classrooms into vibrant learning environments where students could actively participate, collaborate, and learn in ways that were not possible with traditional internet connections.
Addressing Challenges and Misconceptions
Misconception: Fiber Internet is Cost-Prohibitive for E-Learning
- Fiber internet technology has often been associated with high costs, leading to the misconception that it is not viable for e-learning platforms.
- However, the long-term benefits of fiber internet, such as increased data transfer speeds, low latency, and enhanced reliability, outweigh the initial investment.
- E-learning platforms can leverage fiber internet to deliver high-quality multimedia content, interactive simulations, and real-time collaboration, enhancing the overall learning experience.
- By highlighting the cost efficiency and superior performance of fiber internet, this misconception can be dispelled, encouraging more e-learning platforms to adopt this technology.
Challenge: Ensuring Equal Access to Fiber Internet Across Regions
- Disparities in internet infrastructure and availability pose a significant challenge in ensuring equal access to fiber internet across different regions for e-learning purposes.
- Rural and underserved areas may lack the necessary infrastructure to support fiber internet connectivity, limiting access for students and educators in these areas.
- Collaboration between government entities, internet service providers, and educational institutions is essential to address the infrastructure gaps and expand fiber internet coverage to underserved regions.
- Initiatives such as public-private partnerships, subsidies for infrastructure development, and community-driven projects can help bridge the digital divide and provide equitable access to fiber internet for all e-learning platforms.
Future Prospects and Recommendations
Potential Growth of Fiber Internet Adoption in E-Learning
The potential growth of fiber internet adoption in e-learning presents a significant opportunity for enhancing the overall online learning experience. As the demand for high-quality educational content continues to rise, the need for reliable and high-speed internet connectivity becomes paramount. Fiber internet, with its ability to deliver ultra-fast speeds and low latency, has the potential to revolutionize the way students engage with e-learning platforms.
Enhanced Multimedia Learning Opportunities
One of the key advantages of fiber internet in e-learning is its ability to support high-definition video streaming, interactive simulations, and virtual reality experiences. These multimedia elements play a crucial role in engaging learners and facilitating better knowledge retention. With fiber internet, e-learning platforms can deliver seamless multimedia content without buffering or lag, creating a more immersive and interactive learning environment.
Facilitation of Real-Time Collaboration
Fiber internet enables real-time collaboration among students, instructors, and peers, regardless of their geographical locations. Through video conferencing, live chat features, and virtual classrooms, e-learning platforms can foster meaningful interactions and discussions, replicating the collaborative nature of traditional classroom settings. This real-time connectivity not only enhances the learning experience but also promotes a sense of community and engagement among learners.
Strategies to Bridge the Digital Divide in E-Learning Through Fiber Internet
While the potential of fiber internet in e-learning is promising, it is essential to address the digital dived to ensure equitable access to online education for all learners. Implementing targeted strategies to bridge this gap can help maximize the transformative impact of fiber internet on e-learning platforms.
Infrastructure Development in Underserved Areas
One of the key strategies to bridge the digital divide is to invest in infrastructure development in underserved areas. By expanding fiber optic networks to remote and rural regions, more students can gain access to high-speed internet connectivity, enabling them to participate in online learning initiatives. Government funding and public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in accelerating the deployment of fiber internet infrastructure in these areas.
Subsidized Internet Plans for Low-Income Communities
Another effective strategy is to offer subsidized internet plans for low-income communities to make fiber internet more affordable and accessible. By partnering with internet service providers and educational institutions, governments can implement initiatives that provide discounted or free internet services to economically disadvantaged students. This approach not only narrows the digital divide but also promotes social inclusion and equal opportunities in e-learning.
In conclusion, the future prospects of fiber internet adoption in e-learning are promising, with the potential to revolutionize online education and enhance learning outcomes. By implementing targeted strategies to bridge the digital divide, e-learning platforms can leverage the transformative impact of fiber internet to create more inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environments for students worldwide.
FAQs – Exploring the Transformative Impact of Fiber Internet on E-Learning Platforms
How does fiber internet enhance the user experience on e-learning platforms?
Fiber internet significantly improves the user experience on e-learning platforms by providing faster and more stable internet connection speeds. This means quicker loading times for videos, seamless streaming of lectures, and instant access to online resources. It also enables users to participate in real-time virtual classrooms without any lags or interruptions, leading to a more engaging and interactive learning experience.
What are the benefits of using fiber internet for conducting online exams on e-learning platforms?
Fiber internet offers a reliable and high-speed connection, making it ideal for conducting online exams on e-learning platforms. With fiber internet, students can easily submit their answers, download study materials, and access online proctoring tools without any connectivity issues. This ensures a smooth and efficient exam-taking process, enhancing the overall integrity of online assessments.
How does fiber internet impact the accessibility of e-learning platforms in remote areas?
Fiber internet plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide by extending the reach of e-learning platforms to remote areas. Its high-speed connection enables users in rural and underserved communities to access online educational resources, participate in virtual classrooms, and engage in distance learning programs. This helps democratize education and create equal opportunities for students regardless of their geographical location.
Can fiber internet facilitate collaborative learning on e-learning platforms?
Yes, fiber internet can facilitate collaborative learning on e-learning platforms by enabling real-time communication and seamless interactions among students and instructors. With its fast and stable connection, users can engage in group discussions, participate in virtual group projects, and attend live webinars without any technical hindrances. This fosters a sense of community and enhances the collaborative learning experience on e-learning platforms.


shelf: home-craft

title: Tgiff island batik secondary pattern

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The products featured in this post were given to me by Island Batik and Aurifil.
I'm pleased to be hosting TGIFF with my latest Island Batik finish. This month's Island Batik Challenge was to create a quilt using a block that created a secondary pattern when the block is repeated. The first thing that came to mind for me was The Bee Hive Quilts block tutorials (from a bee I participated in in 2015). They were all specifically designed with secondary patterns in mind. In my year in the bee I made numerous different blocks and one that I found was quick to sew an had a strong visual impact was the Checker block.
I took this opportunity to use the solid black fabric from my recent Island Batik box. I paired it with a Paisley Dot print in blue, a couple Island Batik Foundations, and my new Island Batik neutral, Rice.
Here's my first Checker block.
I love the versatility of this block. Here are some possible settings. These each use 16 identical blocks and finish at 48" x 48".
And finally... my finished quilt top.
I opted for some simple gentle curve quilting with the walking foot and backed the quilt with the rest of the blues and greens from my Island Batik stash. You get a sneak peek of Petting Zoo in two of my backing fabrics. Next month I will be featuring a project with the entire Petting Zoo line.
Please share your Friday Finish in the linkup below and be sure to hop around to view what everyone else has been up to this week! Thanks for visiting!!
I've linked up to Needle and Thread Thursday.


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Villas to rent in Piemonte - Accommodation in Turin, Piedmont in farmhouses and apartments
- Choose your destination
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Vacation Rental in Piedmont
Looking for mountain holiday? Then a holiday in Piedmont farmhouse is the perfect solution for you. The name of this Italian region comes from its position: at the foot of Alps. Monte Rosa and Monte Bianco are the highest mountains both of Piedmont and the Alps. If you're keen on skiing and other winter sports, we suggest you Monviso ski-resort (Monviso is also renowned because the headwaters of the Po, the longest Italian river, are located on its northern slopes), but if you prefer making excursions, then trekking in the Gran Paradiso National Park could be another activity to do during your holiday in Piedmont.
There are many other amazing places surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes you may visit during your holiday in Piedmont, among which Monferrato and the Castello delle Manta, and the Langhe (a hilly area in the province of Cuneo), mentioned by Cesare Pavese (one of the most important Italian writers, etc of the 20th century) and Fenoglio (another renowned Italian writer). If you are keen on wine tourism, we strongly suggest you go along the Piedmont wine roads, since there are many local DOC wines which have gained international acclaim, among which Barbera and Barolo must be pointed out. Last but not least, there's Turin, the old Roman city which stands the Mole Antonelliana over. Turin is also renowned as the little Paris because of its evident French style, its old cafés and big squares, and its elegant, baroque buildings of the 18th century.
For your holiday in Piedmont, have a look at Agriturismo.net proposals: check agriturismo, bed and breakfast, holiday houses and villas special deals, compare prices and read all comments and reviews before booking the accommodation that best suits your expectations. Your holiday in Italy will make your dreams come true!
Worth trying: truffle tasting
The white truffle from Alba is one of the typical product of the Langhe area you should try during your holiday in Piedmont. If you like truffle, we suggest you check which agriturismo or holiday house offers and organize truffle tasting, you could take this opportunity to try one of the most renowned and tasteful Italian typical products.
You could be interested in these additional travel tips
Discover all our ideas for your next weekend! A relaxing, with dinner, or a romantic getaway: we've got what you need!


title: By ALICE NACHILEMBE

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By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Chiwenzi Netball team has scooped the 2019 regional netball championship.
Chiwenzi Head coach said that it was not easy to beat the other 17 teams in the competition as there were also other best teams.
He said that it took a lot of hard work and committment despite other challenges being faced by the team.
Speaking when the team presented the trophies to the sponsors Jimmy Mukumbi said the team needs some motivation to keep the outstanding performance going.
He said some players have completed school and needs support to further their education and businesses.
Makumbi said the team also need some training attires which are lacking at the moment.
He has appealed to the council management to work on the bus they had been which has been down for some time now and also to be releasing the money in good time when there is a trip.
Chingola Deputy Mayor Kennedy Simpasa who received the trophy on behalf of the council said the team has brought pride to the council with the trophies for the past three years.
Simpasa said that the team would be taken care of as they deserve it.
He said the challenges put forward like the netball kits and jerseys would be tabled in the council chamber and before the end of this year they will be taken care of.
Simpasa has assured the team that council is moving forward to reach a resolution to give incentives that will uplift players not just as players but as mothers also.


title: Use of feed extruder

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SepThe Feed extruder is also a mechanical equipment for granulating feed. The advanced extruder technology is suitable for the scale of professional farms. The feed puffing machine mainly uses corn, soybean (bean cake) animal waste and other raw materials as raw materials, and can be directly added into the machine to expand and produce different kinds of fresh and unique grain shapes, good taste, fine tissue and nutrient-rich feed, because the method is for poultry and livestock. The feeding has a great convenience and high quality performance compared with the traditional method, which is very suitable for professional farmers, small and medium-sized feed factories. The effect of the fish puffed feed granules produced by the feed puffing machine is neat and smooth, the floating water surface does not sink for more than 12 hours, does not pollute the water source, and sterilizes and reduces fish diseases, and is one of the devices which are very beneficial to the development of the breeding industry.
By using the extrusion of the unequal standard spiral system of the feed extruder, the gas in the material is discharged and quickly filled by the material, and the material is subjected to shear force to generate reflux, so that the pressure inside the casing increases, with The friction between the spiral and the machine makes the material fully mixed, squeezed, heated, glued, gelatinized to produce tissue changes, the original structure is damaged, and the mechanical energy is converted into heat energy through the friction of the material in the crucible, so that the material It becomes a gelling state with fluid properties. When the material is extruded to the outlet, the pressure changes from high pressure to normal pressure, and from high temperature to normal temperature, causing moisture to evaporate rapidly from the structure, forming numerous micropores inside. The structure is then cut by a cutting device, and the cooling is expanded.


title: weareapexcreatives.com

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TAKE YOU TO THE APEX.
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Our solution comes in a phasic approach. Get an immediate ROI with a database reactivation campaign, implement an automated system for your sales funnel, and reach the APEX with video strategy.
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Social Media Management
Social Media is one of the most important lead generation sources today. At Apex, we take care of all that for you.
Money is in the metrics, we use analytics to track what's working and what's not.
Social Media Ad Management
Target your ideal client and present your message. One of the most powerful lead gen tools today.
Increasing Google reviews is vital for growth in SEO, our system will 100% get you more reviews.
Track your clients as well as all your prospects in our top of the line CRM system.
Want to update your website? We have hundreds of templates for you to choose from. Want a custom design? We have you covered.
Whether it be delivering a marketing newsletter to your customers or cold emailing those new leads, our system combines powerful automation to make the most of your email marketing.
We’ll Show You How It’s Done
At Apex, we like giving our clients all the cool tools to grow their business. When you work with us, you get access to our library that shows you exactly how to use our software to grow. Want us to take care of it all for you? We can do that too.
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Get started on the Apex App today and launch a database reactivation campaign. With an average 5x ROI, if we don't get you a win, we will return your money back. 100%.


title: LDL to HDL ratio

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LDL to HDL ratio
The LDL to HDL ratio is a crucial biomarker in assessing cardiovascular health. It compares the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol. This ratio helps determine the risk of heart disease and guides lifestyle and treatment decisions.
LDL cholesterol is responsible for transporting cholesterol to cells throughout the body. However, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it to the liver for excretion. A higher HDL level is generally associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
The LDL to HDL ratio provides a more comprehensive picture of heart health than looking at LDL or HDL levels alone. A higher ratio indicates a higher risk of cardiovascular issues, as it suggests more "bad" cholesterol relative to "good" cholesterol. Conversely, a lower ratio is preferable, indicating a healthier balance between the two types of cholesterol.
Several lifestyle and nutritional factors can influence your LDL to HDL ratio. Diet plays a significant role; consuming foods high in saturated fats and trans fats can increase LDL levels, while foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, can boost HDL levels. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can also improve your ratio. Additionally, moderate alcohol consumption has been shown to increase HDL levels, though it should be approached with caution.
An abnormal LDL to HDL ratio can be a warning sign for various health conditions, particularly cardiovascular diseases. A ratio above 3.5 is generally considered high and may indicate an increased risk of heart disease. Ideally, the ratio should be below 3.5, with some experts recommending a target of 2.5 or lower for optimal heart health. It's important to discuss your specific results with a healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice based on your overall health profile.
Understanding your LDL to HDL ratio is a vital step in managing your cardiovascular health. By making informed lifestyle choices and working with your healthcare provider, you can take proactive steps to maintain a healthy balance and reduce your risk of heart disease.


title: Best books on japan a second opinion

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I have had occasion to second-guess a recent list of best books on Japan.
To the Editor of the Number 1 Shimbun
Jeff Kingston appears to have led a sheltered life. Not one of the seminal modern works on Japan appears on his list of top ten Heisei-era books (Number 1 Shimbun, August 2011). Where is James Fallows’s Looking at the Sun, Pat Choate’s Agents of Influence, Ivan Hall’s Cartels of the Mind, Iris Chang’s The Nanking Massacre, Karel van Wolferen’s Enigma of Japanese Power…? Meanwhile Jeff’s arbitrary Heisei stipulation automatically rules out Chalmers Johnson’s MITI and the Japanese Miracle, a book that still today is of far more relevance to Tokyo-based correspondents than most of those Jeff listed.
Perhaps most surprising is Jeff’s inclusion of Bill Emmott’s The Sun Also Sets: The Limits to Japan’s Economic Power. To his credit, Bill was among those of us who foresaw the financial crash. But the central point of his book was very different. The setting sun of the title was Japan’s trade surpluses, which as Bill pointed out were the key to its power and would, he imagined, disappear by 2000. Supposedly Japan was throwing its markets wide open to imports as it became “a nation of consumers.”
The book helped to parry American efforts to open the Japanese market. This is how the New York Times reviewer in 1989 summed up its message: “The book’s central thesis is that change in Japan has taken on a momentum of its own. Reveling in their newfound affluence, the Japanese are beginning to act like the rest of us. They buy BMW’s, vacation in Hawaii, play the wild Japanese real estate and stock markets and prowl the department stores of New York and Los Angeles with credit cards. The new affluence, the author argues, will lead Japan to behave like other wealthy countries: to become more open to imports, to foreign influence, even to the sins of excessive consumerism.”
It is past time to revisit Bill’s suggestion that the current account was “moving more rapidly towards balance than anyone realizes.” Far from disappearing, Japan’s current account surplus has multiplied more than threefold since — from $57 billion in 1989 to $194 billion in 2010. As for the United States, in the same period its current account deficit ballooned more than five-fold — from $104 billion to $561 billion.
As for Bill’s suggestion that Japan was sincerely opening its markets, perhaps Jeff should check with Renault. More than a decade after Renault took ostensible control of Japan’s second largest car distribution network (via its purchase of a major stake in Nissan), top Renault executives cannot get their own French-built cars into their own Japanese showrooms.


title: Become a powerful presenter!

text:
Become a powerful presenter!
If you have ever before spoken in front of an audience, you know that peoples’ minds tend to wander off after a while. On this course, we will work with your abilities as a presenter, in order to make you a charismatic speaker, able to keep the audience open and interested. We work on both the technical structure of your presentations, and with your voice, your diction, your body language etc. With these tools, you can facilitate your presentations in a well-balanced but powerful manner.
Fight the nerves with effective but simple presentation techniques!
Nervousness and tension are two of the great obstacles to a successful presentation. When the nerves take over, the flow of the presentation is disturbed. When this happens, the audience will start to focus on why you might be nervous, and you lose your connection. The good news is that tension and nerves are easily minimized through some simple presentation techniques. If you feel confident in what you are doing, and more importantly in how you are doing it, you will also appear confident and on top of the situation to your crowd!
Listen to the teacher explaining about the course
“It’s not what you said – it’s how you said it”
We’ve all heard that one before. And it’s true! When you do an oral presentation, your audience perceive many nonverbal expressions simultaneously with your intended topics. And these “unconscious” signals can actually be controlled and used to your advantage. On the course, you get an insight in how you come across as a presenter – and what corrections that are needed in order to boost your presentations!
- Create an overall view of your presentation. You need structure to make your presentation effective and recipient friendly.
- We will focus on structure and preparation using classical elements including a disposition.
- Use the language the right way. You will learn how to use as few words as possible and take the message to heart.
- Using this imagery in writing helps the reader put him or herself in your shoes. We will work on how to make contact with the audience based on the three rhetorical appeals.
- Make greater impact though your body language. We will practise the nonverbal aspect of communication through exercises.
- How to strengthen your voice? We will go into depth with breathing, fullness, pauses, pace and articulation.
The course teacher takes care of your learning!
For us, it’s all about getting a positive change out of this course! Therefore, we ask about your prerequisites and needs before the course starts. And the teacher makes sure that after completing the course you can easily use your new tools, competencies and knowledge where you are – so you can easily create even greater value for yourself and for your workplace.
You receive a free mini guide when you sign up!
We send you our little mini guide: “Get maximum value out of your courses” when you sign up for this course. The guide contains some simple but useful advice on how to get most value out of this course – and of all your future courses.
Interested in a tailored course just for you?
We arrange and facilitate tailored courses and educations at our clients’ premises every day. And we want to help you too! Call us for a chat on +45 31 75 20 54 or e-mail our learning manager Tina at firstname.lastname@example.org and get a non-binding offer for your particular situation.


title: Growing cantaloupe

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Growing cantaloupe – Cantaloupe is a delicious and nutritious gardening crop. There are so many variations that sometimes it is sometimes difficult to choose which to grow. The the flesh of the cantaloupe fruit can have an orange or deep yellow color. The juicy, delicious flavor of this summer crop makes it a preference of many gardeners. As a breakfast food, dessert or as a part of a salad, cantaloupe have found a place in many gardens and on the tables of many kitchens.
Cantaloupe is available in many varieties. If you want to start harvesting in as little as 65 days, plant the Alaska Hybrid. Another fine choice is the Honey Rock which, as its name implies, has a sweet delicious flavor that will remind you of honey.
For large fruit, grow the Athena Hybrid. There are also dwarf varieties you can plant if you do not have lots of room for cantaloupe that can have vines that grow up to 25 feet long.
Cantaloupe is a warm weather crop. Seeds can be started indoors in pots in early spring or planted directly into the soil when the the danger of frost has passed and the outside temperature gets to about 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Add three inches of compost or all organic fertilizer like dried manure to the soil and till to a depth of twelve inches. The cantaloupe is a heavy feeder.The compost or manure will provide a continuous supply of nutrients to the plants during the summer growing season.
Plant seeds one inch deep in rows and build up the soil to make hills. Place four or five seeds in each hill. When planting in rows, make rows 24″ wide and five feet apart. Plant seeds two inches apart. Thin plants when they are three inches tall to allow one foot of space between plants. Mulch after thinning by adding a one inch cover of straw around the plants. The mulch will help retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Water the plants regularly. Reduce watering during last few days of ripening to produce sweeter, more delicious fruit.
Cantaloupe are ready to harvest in 80-95 days from planting. The cantaloupe fruit is ready to harvest when the the stem on the cantaloupe starts to dry out. At that time, the fruit will easily separate from the stem. You can pick the cantaloupe before the stem dries completely and ripen indoors in a cool, dry place. The fruit can be safely stored in the refrigerator for about a week.
Cantaloupe is not only, delicious, but they are also filled with nutrients. Cantaloupe is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin B6. Potassium, phosphorus and iron are also present. The cantaloupe is low in calories and high in dietary fiber.
The cantaloupe is a great gardening choice because it tastes delicious and is easy to grow. A slice of lightly chilled cantaloupe makes a great summer snack. The beautiful orange pulp can brighten any mixed fruit salad. The cantaloupe is an easy, fun food to grow. With a little care, you should have a abounding harvest.


title: New book looks at ringos white album

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I reviewed Alex Cain and Terry McCusker's excellent book, "Ringo Starr and the Beatles Beat" for Beatlefan magazine several months back and highly recommend it for drummers, musicians or anyone interested in how the Beatles' music was constructed and why it continues to resonate with listeners today.
The pair's newest book is out now, and I'd imagine it's likely of interest to the same crowd.
"Ringo’s White Album" explores Ringo’s contribution to the Beatles’ groundbreaking double L.P. THE BEATLES, commonly known as the White Album. With so many diverse styles and genres, whether it be Rock ’n’ Roll, Blues, prototype Heavy Metal, Country & Western, Dance-Band, Ballads or Folk, Ringo once again proved he was up to the task – and then some. He also got blisters on his fingers.
With song by song analysis, discover how Ringo’s unique drumming style and approach shaped the sound and feel of the White Album. Read how Ringo’s departure from the group was dealt with by John, Paul and George, and how the group dynamic soon returned to EMI’s Abbey Road Studios. The Hey Jude/Revolution single is also covered in detail, with previously unseen photographs of the shooting of the promotional films.
Not included in the standard edition, the Deluxe Edition contains full drum scores of every White Album song (plus Hey Jude/Revolution) that features drums and percussion.
Available in 2 configurations – Standard & Deluxe.
Standard version, featuring –
– Detailed exploration of the Beatles unique and unrivalled use of percussion on the White Album.
– The reasons behind Ringo’s exit from the group.
– The merits of Paul McCartney’s drumming contributions to Back In The U.S.S.R. & Dear Prudence.
– The Hey Jude/Revolution single and promo shoot (with rare, unpublished photos and eye-witness account).
Full colour paperback – 131 pages
Deluxe version as above, expanded to include full drum scores of every White Album song featuring drums and percussion, plus the Hey Jude/Revolution single.
Full colour paperback – 273 pages – 8.5″ x 11”
You can order either version from Amazon now:


title: My short stories election buzz

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It was late autumn, and the small town of Maplewood buzzed with anticipation. The American presidential election was only days away, and the town square was alive with campaign posters, banners, and debates. Every diner, every coffee shop, and every porch seemed to be filled with conversations about who would lead the country next.
Among the many residents of Maplewood was a man named Jack, a middle-aged mechanic who had lived in the town his entire life. Jack had never been very political. He’d always considered himself too busy with work and raising his two kids to get involved. But this election felt different. The stakes seemed higher, and the issues more personal. The future of healthcare, the economy, and even the environment—topics that had always felt distant—were now front and centre in his mind.
Jack wasn’t the only one feeling this way. His teenage daughter, Emily, had recently turned eighteen and would be voting for the first time. She was passionate about climate change and education, constantly researching candidates and sharing articles with her father. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and Jack found himself reading more and more about the policies, trying to form his own opinion.
One night, as they sat around the dinner table, Emily asked Jack, “Who are you voting for, Dad?”
Jack hesitated. “I’m not sure yet. There’s so much to consider.”
Emily smiled, “That’s a good start. But you should decide soon. It’s important.”
The conversation stuck with Jack. He realised that voting wasn’t just about him anymore. It was about the future his daughter and son would inherit. The thought weighed heavily on him as Election Day approached.
On the day of the election, the town felt electric. People lined up outside the community centre to cast their votes. Jack arrived with Emily at his side, standing in line as she eagerly chatted about the process. For her, it was an exciting milestone, but for Jack, it was something more—a realisation of his responsibility as a citizen.
When it was finally Jack’s turn to step into the voting booth, he took a deep breath. The paper ballot in his hand suddenly felt heavy, not just with ink, but with meaning. He knew that his vote, one among millions, would be part of shaping the country’s future. It wasn’t just about a single candidate or party; it was about values, choices, and the world he wanted to leave for his children.
Jack made his choices carefully, one by one. When he stepped out of the booth and met Emily’s eyes, he smiled. It wasn’t a grand, dramatic moment—just a simple act of civic duty. But to Jack, it felt like a promise: to be more engaged, to care more deeply, and to make his voice heard.
That evening, the town gathered in homes and public places to watch the election results come in. Maplewood, like the rest of the country, waited in suspense as the map lit up with red and blue. No one knew for certain what the outcome would be, but for the first time in a long time, Jack felt proud. Not just for voting, but for being part of something larger—a democracy where every voice, including his, mattered.


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Synastry Mars Conjunct Neptune: Otherworldly Chemistry
Match Made Heaven
Jul 1, 2023
2 min read
Updated: Nov 5, 2024
Mars conjunct Neptune in synastry creates an intense and otherworldly sexual chemistry between partners, fostering a connection that transcends the purely physical realm.
This aspect brings about deeply spiritual and mystical sexual encounters, where partners may feel as if they are merging into one being during intimate moments. The physical boundaries seem to dissolve, and the sexual energy takes on an almost divine quality.
This conjunction elevates sensitivity to an intense level, making touch feel almost electric. Partners become attuned to each other in a way that even the lightest contact can feel deeply stimulating and intimate. It’s as if they can sense each other's energy and emotions through physical closeness alone. Imagination and sexual fantasies naturally flourish here, as each partner seems to intuit the other's unspoken desires.
Exploring fantasies together becomes a fulfilling outlet, with role-playing or other imaginative scenarios enhancing their connection. This brings a unique level of excitement, where shared dreams and fantasies lead to profound bonding and passion in the bedroom.
The lines between reality and fantasy often blur with this aspect, lending a dreamlike quality to the sexual connection that can be intoxicating. However, partners need to be mindful of maintaining some grounding to avoid getting completely lost in illusion. This balance is crucial for long-term satisfaction and avoiding potential disappointment.
Mars conjunct Neptune inspires creative and artistic expressions of sexuality. Partners may be drawn to tantric practices, sacred sexuality rituals, or using art and music to enhance lovemaking. There's an urge to transcend conventional approaches to sex, exploring new and unconventional ways to connect intimately.
While the chemistry is undeniably potent, there's a risk of over-idealizing the sexual connection or seeing the partner through rose-colored glasses. Maintaining realistic expectations is important to avoid disillusionment. Open communication about desires, boundaries, and expectations can help keep the relationship grounded while still enjoying the magical quality of their connection.
This aspect fosters deep empathy and compassion between partners during intimate moments. There's often a sense of unconditional acceptance and spiritual bonding through the sexual union, creating a safe space for vulnerability and emotional expression.
In essence, Mars conjunct Neptune creates a profoundly spiritual, imaginative, and boundary-dissolving sexual chemistry. It offers the potential for transcendent experiences and deep emotional bonding. While incredibly alluring, partners must work to ground this ethereal energy in reality for lasting fulfillment.
By balancing the magical with the practical, couples can harness the transformative power of this aspect to create a deeply satisfying and spiritually enriching intimate life together.


title: Easy Content Import

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Easy Content Import
Flare offers the industry’s easiest and most advanced import of legacy content, in the industry including support for a wide range of file types using an easy drag-and-drop workflow. Migrate your legacy content – such as Microsoft® Word and Excel, Atlassian Confluence®, Adobe® RoboHelp® and FrameMaker®, DITA, Author-It®, and more – using our patented WYSIWYG XML Editor to author content in a familiar visual user interface.
Plus, step-by-step import wizards offer advanced options to customize your import for added control to re-use your legacy content.
Flare allows you to import any number of MS Word files simultaneously using the drag and drop functionality. For added control, you can import files using the import wizard. The import wizard allows you to break technical content into smaller topics for maximum content reuse and to organize your Flare project quickly and easily. You can also choose to maintain a continuous connection using Easy Sync to automatically re-import Word files once a change has been made to the source file. This ensures any changes made to your Word documents will always be updated in Flare.
View the Import GuideMicrosoft® Excel:
Easily import Excel files including XLS, XLSX, or CSV files. No need to recreate your spreadsheets as these will be added and converted to tables in Flare. As with Microsoft® Word, you can link Excel files to Flare so that it recognizes when changes have been made to the source documents for a much more effective technical documentation process.
View the Import GuideRoboHelp®:
As the original creators of RoboHelp®, nobody imports projects better than MadCap Software. Create a new project or topics by importing your legacy Adobe® RoboHelp® projects.
View the Import GuideAuthor-it®:
Convert published XML output from Author-it® to a MadCap Flare project while maintaining all technical documentation projects and source files.
For detailed instructions and to download the Author-it® Converter Utility, visit our Redistributable Downloads.
Create a new project or import it into an existing project by importing DITA files.
Easily import files written in Markdown, including CommonMark, a rationalized version of Markdown syntax.


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Focus on integration of claims and clinical data
MedeAnalytics, a leading provider of healthcare performance management solutions, announced recently that the State of Mississippi Medicaid has selected MedeAnalytics’ Accountable Care Solution to empower the next generation of the state’s Medicaid Electronic Health Records System (MEHRS) application. The state’s primary goal is to integrate claims and clinical data from various health information exchanges and serve as the clinical data warehouse of record.
Physicians in the state of Mississippi will utilize the Meaningful Use-certified system to provide better coordinated care for aged, blind and disabled (ABD), dual-eligible, special needs, and other Medicaid beneficiaries. Realizing the goals of a statewide, integrated system, Medicaid patients’ profiles are prepopulated with medical, pharmacy and claims histories, enabling better-informed decisions at the point of care. Physicians also have access to fully informed ePrescribing capabilities that integrate prescription drug claims and formularies as well as provide adverse drug reaction alerts.
“We are very pleased to partner with the State of Mississippi Medicaid,” said MedeAnalytics Chairman Mike Gallagher. “The state of Mississippi has many points of access for patients, which makes the data landscape complex. We are excited to assist the state in improving quality and mitigating cost escalation.”
Information about accountable organizations in general and MedeAnalytics’ solutions for accountable care organizations in particular can be found at the company’s ACO Resource Center (http://www.medeanalytics.com/aco).
About the State of Mississippi
The mission of the State of Mississippi Medicaid is to ensure access to health services for the Medicaid eligible population in the most cost-efficient and comprehensive manner possible and to continually pursue strategies for optimizing the accessibility and quality of healthcare. For more information, visit www.medicaid.ms.gov.
Founded in 1994, MedeAnalytics delivers performance management solutions across the healthcare system—including hospitals, physician practices and payers—to ensure accountability and improve financial, operational and clinical outcomes. For more information, visit www.medeanalytics.com.


title: Freedom wins feefo gold trusted award

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We are delighted to announce that in January 2023, Freedom Health Insurance won the Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award, an independent seal of excellence, which recognises businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
This award is particularly important to us as we focus on getting the basic service level right and make sure that our clients and brokers can reach a real person, every time. We make certain we consistently offer a fast turnaround by answering the phone and calling back when we say we will. As we approach our 20th anniversary, we recognise that offering an outstanding customer experience and going the extra mile makes a difference for our clients and for our business.
Feefo has presented Gold Trusted Service Awards to businesses that have collected at least 50 reviews between January 1st 2022 and December 31st 2022, with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 5. The Trusted Service Awards was established in 2014 to recognise brands that use the platform to collect verified reviews and receive exceptional feedback from their customers. The awards are unique because they truly reflect a business's dedication to providing outstanding customer service by analysing feedback from certified customers.
With consumer confidence at near historic lows due to rising inflation, as well as research from the Institute of Customer Service revealing that complaints rose to 17.3% in the second half of 2022, this award celebrates brands that are successfully navigating through tough market conditions to deliver an exceptional service.
Alistair Sclare, Managing Director “We are delighted to receive the Feefo 2023 Trusted Service Award. Ensuring we consistently deliver an exceptional customer service to all our clients is paramount to us, so we are thrilled to have been recognised for all our efforts. As we head through the new year, we will continue to listen, understand, and deliver an outstanding customer service that our clients expect from us”. |


title: Cyclocross in sterling

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Well, it was another weekend of cyclocross... that means another weekend of fun and of sucking.
I think that racing is super fun, but it would probably be a whole lot more fun if I could just get a little more "oomph," a little more Eye of the Tiger..
I've got a plan to do just that, but that's for NEXT season...
Focusing on this season, this past weekend's BayState 'cross race (full name: BayState Cyclocross, Round 12 of the Verge New England Cyclocross Championship Series, UCI Cat 2, Presented by Spin Arts/Stevens Cycles, Gear Works Cyclery, and The Mid State Cycling Club) was another opportunity for me to push the limits of human athleticism. Instead, I found myself pushing my bike up a sloppy, muddy hill. But, I'm getting ahead of myself (something many of the people I raced against also did... get ahead of me... that's almost a pun).
I was originally signed up to race both Saturday and Sunday-an ambitious agenda, my wife thought. She's right, Anyway, due to a confluence of factors, not the least of which was the torrential downpour I heard as my alarm went off dark and early on Saturday morning, I skipped out on Day 1. Ironically, by the time I did roll out of bed, the skies had cleared and I heard that the start of my race was bone dry. D'oh. That's okay. I had a little more time to get my stuff together for Sunday's race (Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!), so I was able to get to bed at a decent time and hopefully be well rested.
Sunday morning came early (as almost all of my mornings do), and G-Roll (AKA G-Money, AKA G-Rad, AKA Glen) arrived at my front door so we could carpool to the race. We had our directions spot-on this time and didn't waste any time on any wild goose chases. In fact, thanks to Glen's driving tip, by taking a few extra turns-we shaved about 10 minutes off the drive time. Bizarre!
Glen's race was much later in the day, so he had plenty of time to chill. I, on the other hand, had to sign-in, get my number, and take a quick warm-up spin. I don't typically warm up before a race, and I think that's going to change...Anyway, this time around, I did a half-lap of the course and found my way to the BACK of the staging area.
My primary goal with any race start is to avoid any crashes or mishaps, and I was able to do that once again. The course started on a fast crushed stone track... we went around about 1/2 of the track then made a tight hairpin turn onto the grass. From there, it was a typical 'cross course, with plenty of tight turns, grassy straight-aways, a couple of run-ups. One of the "run ups" was sort of a "slog-up" as it was a slick, slippery, muddy hill. SOME riders were able to ride up, but most did not.
Overall, the course was fast and fun. Unfortunately, I was neither. Oh, who am I kidding? Of course I was fun! It's the "fast" I've got to work on. Although, depending on how you look at the results, I didn't do that poorly. I did CRUSH five other racers. And, in my class, I was the top finisher from Massachusetts' "North Shore" region. It also appears that of all the men's classes, I was the highest placed racer with a hyphenated last name. I can only imagine that the sponsorship offers will be rolling in any minute now...
Thanks to Glen for documenting my efforts photographically. I look fast, don't I?
After my race, it was time to hang out and watch Glen get ready for his race. I ran up and down the course shooting my trusty Canon G10 and I'll be posting a little slide show once I sort through the pics and eliminate the crap...
With this race done, it appears that there is only one more race on the calendar for this season that I can get to-the Ice Weasel! See ya in Wrentham!


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Choose Trenchless Technology For a Better Alternative
When you have a septic system in your house, it is essential to keep it working. And for that, regular maintenance is compulsory. However, problems will start to arise if there is a glitch in the pipelines. If you want to avoid the r of the entire tank, then you should concentrate on keeping the pipelines clear instead of looking for septic tank replacement near me. As all the water runs through the main drainage pipe, a hole or leakage in the pipe will adversely affect the septic system.
Plan without worries
Whenever you come to know about the faults in the waterline, you become nervous. The project of water line repair Denver, CO, seems to be a matter of headache. You may think that the expense will be significant, thus affecting your financial status immediately. Also, you might not have any idea about whether the repair will hold for long. Will it be the cause of further problems? Such thoughts will continuously cross your mind. But there is nothing to worry about, for if you don’t repair the leak now, the expenditure will be more. The damaged pipeline will provide the perfect habitat for the growth of mildew, molds, and spores.
Alternative way out
You have an alternative that does not involve the replacement of the water lines. An advanced trenchless repair technology in plumbing is the best alternative here. You can choose to spend a considerable amount on the digging repair as well as replacement purposes. But the durability won’t be for long. The trenchless water line replacement cost will be the same. But the life span fo the pipes will be much longer than you can imagine. But everything depends on the extent of the damage. The use of advanced technology is going to be the main factor in increasing durability.
Mark Ligon is the Marketing Manager at a leading e-commerce store in plumbing supply. Mark focus is on DIY projects and providing creative and practical advice to individuals looking to complete DIY projects of their own


title: Hail cephalopod

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Today marks the second anniversary of the most momentous event in zoological history. Twenty thousand leagues and two fateful years ago, beneath the briny waves of the Atlantic ocean, marine biologists discovered an eight meter long cephalopod. Jokingly, and since all research specimens require a name, the scientists called their quarry Lord Fuzzledumpkin III Esq.
“We don’t know why they picked that name,” recalled Dr. Elijah Smith, on-shore director of the research project, tears welling at the corner of his eyes. “Damnit, why did they have to go and do that?”
Their jest, as pointed out by Dr. Smith, was not appreciated by Lord Fuzzledumpkin III Esq., which by happenstance was in fact the squid’s given name.
Though the crew’s final, panicked transmission was garbled and largely incoherent, shocking video feeds revealed a Lovecraftian frenzy of tentacles tearing the hull apart amidst horrified screams. While the video was instantly hailed as a classic of the genre in Japan, garnering its own cult following, the incident represented a near-instantaneous break in the then-nascent human-cephalopod relations.
By hollowing out his shipmates, team captain Dr. Rusty “Rustagor” Hodges was able to fashion a crude decompression chamber and survive the flailing and terrible wrath of Fuzzledumpkin.
“I ate the paper duck. His ink caught in my throat and I wrapped my face in bacon,” commented the asylum-dwelling Hodges, weeks after the incident and in a rare moment of lucidity.
Months passed, and the nation was gripped by what would later be known as “cephalopod fever”–not to be confused with encephalitis which was also experiencing an unprecedented peak in it’s popularity at the time. Squid pants, squid pens, squid adhesive medical strips and Volkswagen’s wildly successful KalmarAuto–all burned off store shelves like uncut heroin from the back of a nubile squid.
“It was a glorious, golden age for fashion,” reflected SquiDee, androgenous fashion magnate and designer of the hugely lucrative Squid Pants. “It was a wonderful time for all. Save maybe that poor crewman who survived the attack.”
“Bob’s flagellant monkey sputum,” recalled Hodges, adding thoughtfully, “bee’s knees.”
In fact, it would be six long months before humanity would once again feel the tentacular squeeze of the squid’s embrace.
On December 26, 2006, off the coast of Antigua, an envoy for the squid empire emerged. The envoy, captained by the small but highly decorated Tentacle-Kommander Bliggenson, put forth a unilateral proclamation that the holiday ‘Boxing Day’ would henceforth be known as ‘Squidtober Fest.’ The people rejoiced at the annulment of a holiday that had recently fallen into disfavour as “indulgent” and “functionally deficient.”
“Drink deeply of this hallowed brine,” proclaimed Tentacle-Kommander Bliggenson, his beak clattering like an epic castanet–an instrument with unexpected popularity because of cephalopod fever. “Yea, and verily as Tubbins slew the great whales, and Blubbamuck before him, so too shall we disperse the ink of intolerance and ignorance, replacing it instead with the ink of TOTAL SUBJUGATION!”
“The squids are benevolent!” he added, thrashing his tentacles wildly and crushing many of the cheering onlookers into salty paste.
Thus it was that the glorious reign of the Cephalius Empire–not to be confused with the Syphilis Empire, which also enjoyed a parallel but unrelated period of success–began, their tentacles are our strength and their beaks clacking always for justice.
Tentacle-Kommander Bliggenson left us with an important message that day, a message of hope, a hope concurrent with despair that can only be wrought of tyranny; may the cephalocracy rule for thousands of years, gnashing always the whales of resistance between the beak of inky justice!


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Valley Felon Headed Back to Prison for Alien Smuggling and Firearms
McALLEN, Texas – A 46-year-old Edinburg resident has been ordered to federal prison for conspiring to harbor illegal aliens and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Noe Garza pleaded guilty Nov. 2, 2020.
Today, U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez ordered Garza to serve a total of 63 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional information related to his criminal record to include prior convictions for aggravated assault and aggravated robbery. In handing down the sentence, Judge Alvarez noted Garza had been breaking the law since he was 17. She added that she was particularly troubled Garza committed these crimes while having a pending alien transportation case from 2016 and failed to appear for sentencing.
On Feb. 28, 2020, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Garza, but he fled the scene. Authorities soon apprehended him, at which time he admitted to being the caretaker of a stash house in Edinburg and helping coordinate transportation of illegal aliens further north. A search of the residence revealed five illegal aliens and two firearms. Law enforcement also found an additional firearm in the area of the traffic stop. Garza took ownership of all three firearms.
As a previously convicted felon, federal law prohibits him of possessing firearms or ammunition.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Edinburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted the case.


title: Why You Should Choose Printing Pros

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Why You Should Choose Printing Pros
Largest Wide-Format Printer in the Region
Producing up to 96" wide signs, we are able to produce high quality banners at the largest scale available regionally.
Only Flatbed UV Printer in the Region
Ability to produce archival quality printing on many substrates to produce high quality signs and others.
Commercial Production Small Format Printer
We can produce all your business documents, pamphlets, marketing material and much more.
On-Staff Graphic Designers
Our professional graphic designers can take your vision and make it reality while advising you on the many choices of materials and sizes available to you
Submit Artwork and Specs
If you don’t have a design, our graphic designers are here to bring your vision to life and recommend material options to meet your specific needs.
Our design team will send you proofs of your design to ensure it meets your needs. Revisions and material changes happen at this stage.
Send to Print
After proofs are approved and materials selected, our production team gets to work on your prints.
Your prints are ready! Our team will contact you to coordinate pickup or delivery.
What We Print
Your Local Pros
Printing Pros is a veteran and women owned business, specializing in signs, banners, promotional goods, blueprints, small format digital printing, and cut vinyl for boats, vehicle and store front applications.
99% of what we offer is printed in-house by folks that live in our community and supplied by local suppliers if available.
Our Happy Clients!
Such a wonderful, professional, and resourceful staff who provide A+ customer service at such a speedy pace!! 10/10 recommend for all of your printing needs!
I’ve used printing pros for several of our office needs. Ranging from a large aluminum sign to door decals. They are professional, fast, and the quality is great! We will always use them for our printing needs!
They took my simple idea and made it in to a monument. Their experience coupled with their expertise and fantastic customer service is unparalleled!