Commercial actor chip
Dark Netflix Original Series
2008.06.19 07:23 Dark Netflix Original Series
A subreddit for the Netflix sci-fi thriller series Dark. When two children go missing in a small German town, its sinful past is exposed along with the double lives and fractured relationships that exist among four families as they search for the kids.
2015.10.18 00:29 Dark_Saint Netflix's Stranger Things
Sub for the Netflix Original series: Stranger Things. The disappearance of a young boy sparks a chain of events leading the residents of the small town of Hawkins to uncover a government conspiracy and a supernatural mystery which will not only shatter all semblance of normality, but also threaten their very existence.
2014.03.24 04:18 Danny Elfman & Oingo Boingo
The largest online Danny Elfman & Oingo Boingo community on earth — news, analysis, speculation and more on Danny’s incredible (and ongoing) oeuvre of work.
2024.05.21 19:17 NomadCal T-minus 15
It has always been a strongly held belief of mine that there is no single person in the world that is of sound mind that I couldn't get along with. This all seems pretty reasonable to me I have never met a person that was so dislikable that I couldn't get over the subtle irritations that they may make me feel. So why is it that today was the day? Nobody could have seen it the Amber alerts didn't go off on my phone there was nothing significantly intense happening in the world that would seem to cause this. I often times find myself looking at the nations of the world thinking why is it that this group of people hate another group of people so much why do we have wars in the middle east why are some world actors so willing to threaten people with the utter obliteration of their cities. Is it important who has claim over access to commercial ports why cant we all use the oceans with out conflict. Why can't we engineer a solution to make food available in struggling countries? I could never understand the fanatical devotion to causes that would justify the death of those who didn't believe in the cause that I devoted myself to. It doesn't even seem like anyone would stand against the cause that wished to provide the basic necessities for life. It seems that those in the world are actively working against lasting peace because of currencies which do not really seem to oppose anyone. People around me going through life arguing with their parents siblings significant others about issues that they can't at this time seem to understand can't be that important. "T-minus 15" that is the message I got from my friend who worked in the white house at first I didn't understand. These are the thoughts I am having sitting here watching people walk in and out of the store why. It's Three o'clock on a Friday, there are kids that are being forced to go to school that have no choice. They say well they aren't adults they do not have a choice to be somewhere else. The fact is that we've made that choice for them they legislate that they can't be anywhere else they aren't allowed to have a job, the truancy officers will make them go to school because that is where we said they have to be. The fact is that although it is possible for a child to know that they are no good a math or english they don't have a choice to be there or not. Is it that parents feel it is the only way to get out from under the need to be with their children till they find a purpose in life, though it seems that this educational system limits their ability to find something that they are truly passionate about, maybe though I don't think it matters anymore. Now it all seems clear what I should be doing unfortunately... "T-minus 15".
submitted by NomadCal to scarystories [link] [comments]
2024.05.21 18:23 tuggernts The 5 match PLE cards are WWE's version if shrinkflation
And everyone is eating it up.
With the added commercials on these, it's really irritating that we are basically being sold half bags of chips in wrestling form now.
submitted by tuggernts to WWE [link] [comments]
With the added commercials on these, it's really irritating that we are basically being sold half bags of chips in wrestling form now.
2024.05.21 13:04 mymother0301 [Exclusive] ‘Female version of Room N’ at a cafe with 840,000 women… Posting nude photos of men and sexually harassing them
![[Exclusive] ‘Female version of Room N’ at a cafe with 840,000 women… Posting nude photos of men and sexually harassing them](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/el4r0n63_i_SpL9gScFVGAaLj1vZlPLSc1HEZmkvTxA.jpg "[Exclusive] ‘Female version of Room N’ at a cafe with 840,000 women… Posting nude photos of men and sexually harassing them") | https://preview.redd.it/24sottrpgr1d1.jpg?width=724&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bced261de4258c48c357055375bac42c6aa9034d submitted by mymother0301 to IssueKorea [link] [comments] [단독] 84만 女카페서 ‘여성판 N번방’…남성 나체사진 올리고 성희롱[Exclusive] ‘Female version of Room N’ at a cafe with 840,000 women… Posting nude photos of men and sexually harassing them 국내 최대 여성 커뮤니티 회원, 데이트앱에서 만난 외국 남성 개인정보ㆍ불법 촬영물 등 공유. 미성년자까지 성범죄 대상에. 수위 높은 성적표현 대다수. 개인정보 유출로 처벌 가능Members of Korea's largest female community share personal information and illegal footage of foreign men they met on dating apps. Even minors are subject to sexual crimes. High-level sexual expressions. Most of them can be punished for leaking personal information. “백남(백인남성) 첫 도전할 건데 후기 있나요.”“This is my first attempt on a white man. Do you have any reviews?” “눈에 익어서 리스트(회원들끼리 돌려보는 외국 남성 리스트)보니까 얘가 그 애 아빠라는 ○이구만.”“He looked familiar, so I looked at the list (a list of foreign men shared among members) and saw that this guy was the girl’s father.” “○○(성기)는 컸어?”“Is ○○ (penis) big?” “성남 파일럿 ○○○ 아는 데시(데이트 앱을 사용하는 여성)?”“Do you know Pilot ○○○ in Seongnam?” “아프리칸이고 ○(성관계) 잘 못함. 크기는 그냥 그랬어.”“He is African and he is not good at ○ (sexual relations). The penis size was just okay.” 회원수 84만4000명을 보유한 국내 최대 여성 전용 커뮤니티가 ‘여성판 N번방’ 사태 논란에 휩싸였다.Korea's largest women-only community with 844,000 members was embroiled in controversy over the 'female version of N-room'. 2019년 2월경 불거진 ‘N번방 사건’은 텔레그램에 개설된 단체 채팅방을 통해 불법 음란물을 생성하고 거래·유포한 디지털 성범죄 사건을 말한다. 당시 피해자는 여성이었고, 가해자는 남성이었다. 해당 여성 커뮤니티에서는 피해자와 가해자의 성별만 뒤바뀐채 비슷한 정보가 유통되고 있다.The 'N Room Incident', which emerged around February 2019, refers to a digital sex crime case in which illegal pornography was created, traded, and distributed through a group chat room opened on Telegram. At the time, the victim was a woman and the perpetrator was a man. In the women's community, similar information is being distributed with only the genders of the victim and perpetrator reversed. 커뮤니티 회원들은 카페 내에서 외국 남성과 매칭되는 데이트 앱에서 만났다는 남성들의 상세한 정보, 이른 바 ‘후기’글을 올리면서 공유하고 있었다.Community members were sharing detailed information, so-called 'reviews', of men they had met on a dating app that matched foreign men within the community. 그 중에는 미성년자도 있다. 여러 외국 남성들의 실물 사진을 올리며 “이런 ○ 꼭 ○○야지” “○○보이네요” “이 ○ ○○보신 분” 등 상대의 외모와 성기 등을 외설적으로 언급하며 정보를 교환하는 식이다.Among them are minors. They upload real-life photos of various foreign men and exchange information by making obscene references to the other person's appearance and genitals, such as "This ○ must be ○○," "You can see ○○," and "Who saw this ○ ○○." 이들이 카페 내에서 공유한 일명 ‘미군남 빅데이터 전차수 총망라’ 라는 리스트에는 약 3페이지 분량의 미군 신상 등이 상세하게 적혀 있었다. 리스트 작성을 주도한 것으로 보이는 한 회원은 “(해당 리스트를) 백과사전처럼 만들겠다”고 했다. 커뮤니티 회원들끼리 공유하고 있는 ‘데이트 앱 사용 외국 남성 리스트’도 있었다.The list they shared within the cafe, called ‘Comprehensive list of U.S. military men’s big data all years,’ contained about three pages of detailed information on U.S. soldiers. One member who appears to have taken the lead in creating the list said, “We will make (the list) like an encyclopedia.” There was also a ‘list of foreign men using dating apps’ shared among community members. 김승환 법률사무소GB 변호사는 “이들 행위는 명예훼손 행위를 하고 있다는 점에서 정보통신망법 위반에 해당할 수 있고, 개인정보를 무단으로 공개하는 것은 스토킹처벌법에 따라 지속적 또는 반복적으로 행해질 경우 처벌될 가능성이 있다”고 했다.Kim Seung-hwan, a lawyer at GB Law Firm , said, “These acts may constitute a violation of the Information and Communications Network Act in that they are defamatory, and unauthorized disclosure of personal information may be punishable under the Stalking Punishment Act if it is done continuously or repeatedly.” 현행법에 따르면 사람을 비방할 목적으로 정보통신망을 통해 공공연히 사실을 드러내 다른 사람의 명예를 훼손한 자는 3년 이하의 징역 또는 3000만원 이하의 벌금, 거짓 사실로 명예를 훼손한 자는 7년 이하의 징역, 10년 이하의 자격정지 또는 5000만원 이하의 벌금에 처해진다. 스토킹범죄를 저지른 사람은 3년 이하의 징역 또는 3000만원 이하의 벌금에 처한다.“He said. According to the current law, a person who defames another person by publicly revealing facts through an information and communications network for the purpose of defaming a person is subject to imprisonment for up to 3 years or a fine of up to 30 million won, and a person who defames someone with false information is subject to imprisonment for up to 7 years, subject to suspension of qualifications for not more than 10 year or a fine of not more than 50 million won. Anyone who commits a stalking crime is subject to imprisonment for up to 3 years or a fine of up to 30 million won. 최근 이 커뮤니티는 여성을 성 상품화하는 행사라며 ‘성인 페스티벌(2024 KXF The Fashion)’ 개최 반대에 앞장섰다. 이들은 KXF를 ‘성매매 엑스포’라 칭하며 KXF가 열릴 예정이었던 지방자치단체에 행사 중단 요청을 하는 청원에 동참하기도 했다. 대외적으로는 여성의 성 상품화를 비판하면서 자기들끼리는 남성을 성적 대상으로 비하하는 것이 이중잣대가 아니면 무엇이냐는 지적이 나온다.Recently, this community took the lead in opposing the holding of the 'Adult Festival (2024 KXF The Fashion )', claiming that it was an event that commercialized women as sexual products. They called KXF a 'prostitution expo' and joined a petition requesting the local government where KXF was scheduled to be held to stop the event. It is pointed out that criticizing the commercialization of women's sex externally while degrading men among themselves as sexual objects is a double standard. 커뮤니티 회원들은 KXF 개최를 반대하며 “아예 한국에서 하지 말라는 뜻이잖아. 좀 알아들어라” “꾸역꾸역 다른 지역 찾는 거 징그럽다” “지긋지긋하네” “왜 저렇게까지 못해서 안달인 걸까 수상해” “더러운 것들” 등의 반응을 보였다.Community members opposed holding the KXF and said, “This means it shouldn’t be held in Korea at all. understand!,” “It’s disgusting to keep looking for other areas,” “I’m sick of it,” “I wonder why they’re so anxious about not being able to do that,” and “Dirty things.” 일본 성인비디오(AV) 배우들이 출연하는 KXF는 지자체들과 여성단체들의 반대로 ‘줄퇴짜’를 맞은 끝에 결국 개최가 취소됐다. 이번 성인 페스티벌에서는 일본 AV 배우들의 팬 사인회, 란제리 패션쇼가 진행될 예정이었다.KXF, featuring Japanese adult video (AV) actors, was eventually canceled after receiving opposition from local governments and women's groups. This adult festival was scheduled to feature signing events for Japanese AV actors and a lingerie fashion show. 외국인을 대상으로 한 여성 커뮤니티 회원들의 성희롱적 접근은 인종차별의 위험성도 내포하고 있다. 이 커뮤니티에서 외국 남성은 인격이 말살된 성적 욕망과 소비 대상으로 주로 언급된다.Sexually harassing approaches by female community members toward foreigners also imply the risk of racial discrimination. In this community, foreign men are mainly referred to as depersonalized objects of sexual desire and consumption. 구정우 성균관대 사회학과 교수는 “소위 ‘N번방’이라고 하면 남성이 가해자가 되고 여성이 피해자가 된다는 고정관념이 있지만, 여성도 얼마든지 가해자가 될 수 있다는 것을 보여준 사례”라며 “이는 외국인에 대한 차별과 농락을 넘어 범죄 행위이기 때문에 성을 매개 삼아 개인정보유출·명예훼손 등을 한다면 비난과 처벌 대상이 되어야 한다”고 말했다. 그러면서 “남성이든 여성이든 스스로 이러한 성범죄에 가담하고 있지 않은지 돌아봐야 한다”고 덧붙였다.Koo Jeong-woo, a professor of sociology at Sungkyunkwan University, said, “There is a stereotype that men are the perpetrators and women are the victims when it comes to the so-called ‘N room,’ but this is an example that shows that women can also become perpetrators.” He added, “This is an example of discrimination against foreigners and “It is not just a joke, it is a criminal act, so if you use sex as a medium to leak personal information or defame someone, you should be subject to criticism and punishment,” he said. He added, “Whether you are a man or a woman, you need to check whether you are participating in these sexual crimes.” |
2024.05.21 11:59 GhoulGriin Best Cold Steel Zweihander
 | submitted by GhoulGriin to u/GhoulGriin [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/e8ggp1kw5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=de98652dca6551ade905df740bd7029183caae05 Are you in search of the perfect weapon for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the Cold Steel Zweihander, a versatile and durable tool designed for both aesthetics and functionality. In this roundup article, we'll dive into the world of the Cold Steel Zweihander, exploring its features, benefits, and how it can enhance your outdoor experience. So, grab your favorite beverage and get ready to embark on the journey to discover this exceptional product. The Top 7 Best Cold Steel Zweihander
Reviews🔗Classic Cold Steel Tanto Point Boot Knifehttps://preview.redd.it/m478jzbx5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b12367a7d6b86bcd3295d155af2867a3d0fb7c77 As someone who often finds themselves in need of a reliable blade for everyday use, I've had the pleasure of testing out the Cold Steel Kobun. This lightweight Tanto styled boot knife is definitely a handy addition to have on hand. I was instantly impressed by its sharp, reinforced point that contrasts with the thin blades commonly found in other boots knives. One feature that stood out to me was the Kobun's deeply checkered Kraton handle. It offers an excellent grip, making the knife more secure in the hand. The cross section of the handle is also surprisingly thin, while still providing enough thickness to resist turning or shifting. Another notable aspect of the Kobun is that it comes complete with a Secure-Ex sheath. This sturdy sheath makes it easy to attach the knife securely to your belt, ensuring that it remains easily accessible whenever you need it. However, there was one downside that I discovered while using the Kobun. The default clip that was included with the knife was quite weak and didn't hold up well to everyday wear. I had to replace it with a Blade-Tech brand Tek-Lok belt attachment in order to ensure a more secure and reliable attachment to my belt. Overall, the Cold Steel Kobun has been a reliable and versatile companion during my everyday activities. I would highly recommend it to anyone in need of a durable and efficient boot knife for both personal and practical use. 🔗VG-1 San Mai 3 Stainless Steel Cold Steel Oss Hunting Knife with Kray-Ex Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/jdowjmyx5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=78a709fa57114775a39b5f8f7ccb165c44cd661d As a reviewer who has tried the Cold Steel Master Hunter, I can confidently say that it has become my go-to knife for various outdoor activities. One of the features that stood out to me was the comfortable, deeply checkered Kraton grip, which allows for long-term use without any discomfort. The broad, thin blade with a distinct taper provides exceptional cutting ability, edge retention, and ease of resharpening. However, one of the cons I encountered was the knife's tendency to be easily lost due to its minimalistic design. I also noticed that the blade occasionally required additional sharpening, despite its excellent edge retention. Nevertheless, the overall performance and durability of the Master Hunter make it a reliable and versatile tool for all your hunting needs. 🔗Cold Steel Trench Hawk Trainer - Practical, Durable, and Safe Tomahawk Traininghttps://preview.redd.it/w0y30oyx5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=57823bfe9bf53383c5e2b4ea31c93567325da417 When I got my hands on the Cold Steel Trench Hawk Trainer, I was immediately impressed by its size and weight. The synthetic material felt surprisingly sturdy and authentic, making it perfect for learning the ropes without the danger of injury. Not to mention, it closely resembles the actual Trench Hawk, so every training session felt like a real-life scenario. However, the weight was noticeably lighter than the real deal, which might not be ideal for those looking for a more accurate experience. Overall, the Trench Hawk Trainer provided a safe and effective way to hone my skills, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking to up their training game. 🔗Commercial-Grade Butcher Knife from Cold Steelhttps://preview.redd.it/yuyyasmy5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d1a01934255fee49d6af53e79c86a5e3a84835a7 As a home chef, I've always been on the lookout for affordable yet high-quality knives. That's when I stumbled upon the Cold Steel Commercial Series Butcher Knife 8.0 in Blade. Impressed by the sharpness and durability of the blade upon first use, I knew that this knife could handle any heavy-duty task in my kitchen. One of the features that stood out to me is the ergonomic design of the handle. The Zy-Ex core adds rigidity, while the softer, food-safe Kray-Ex exterior provides a comfortable, non-slip grip. After hours of chopping vegetables and cutting meat, my hand never felt tired or overwhelmed. This is truly a game-changer when it comes to kitchen knives. However, the blade is quite heavy, which requires a certain level of force to wield effectively. For those with weaker hands or for tasks that don't require much pressure, this may be an issue. But, in my experience, the weight has been a welcome addition to the overall power of the knife. When it comes to sharpening, the cryo-quenched German 4116 Steel holds an edge remarkably well. I've used it extensively without any significant blade degradation. The knives also do not rust easily, a crucial factor when dealing with raw meat or wet conditions. Overall, the Cold Steel Commercial Series Butcher Knife 8.0 in Blade has proven to be a reliable addition to my kitchen arsenal. Its sharpness, durability, and robustness make it a worthwhile investment for both home cooks and professionals alike. 🔗Cold Steel Urban Pal: Lightweight Urban Survival Knife for Security in Today's Worldhttps://preview.redd.it/cm1mfi8z5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cfb6e0279ac220f9abb87ef79fba9f4559fe0fd4 After carrying the Urban Pal for a month now, I can confidently say it's the ultimate companion for navigating the urban jungle. The blade is just the right size to tackle any task, while remaining small enough to fit comfortably in my pocket. The SecureEx sheath ensures my safety, keeping the blade out of reach when not in use, yet easily accessible when needed. One thing that stood out to me is the unique handle design, allowing me to really put my weight into the blade when needed. It's a feature I've never seen on a knife before, and it's a game-changer! The AUS-8A blade material also adds durability, as I've noticed it's less prone to chipping compared to other knives I've used. The weight of the Urban Pal is also a positive aspect. At just 0.70 oz, it's light enough to carry without weighing me down, but substantial enough to get the job done. I particularly appreciate the attached key ring on the sheath, making it easy to hang on my keychain or attach to my purse. However, I've also encountered a few minor issues with the Urban Pal. One concern is the blade's sharpness, as it tends to dull rather quickly. It's a simple fix with a sharpening stone, but it's something I hadn't expected from a knife at this price point. Another issue is the sheath design. While it's secure and well-made, it can be a bit bulky, which can make it difficult to carry if you don't want it to be visible. Fortunately, I've found that a quick switch to a smaller, more discreet sheath solves this problem. Overall, the Urban Pal is a fantastic product that's perfect for tackling everyday tasks in a busy urban environment. Its unique features and reasonable price make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a versatile, durable, and affordable pocket knife. 🔗Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper: Versatile Bushcraft Machete with Tough Steel Construction and Comfortable Carry Sheathhttps://preview.redd.it/d9b3lmsz5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=327df24467ba802181b58e012a6680bf2669c1bf The All Terrain Chopper is more than just a bushcraft tool - it's a beast! . With its big wide slant-tipped fully sharpened blade, it's impressive how easily and quickly it cuts through almost anything, even laying waste to tall saplings with a single swipe. Despite its weight, the handle provides a strong grip, and the sheath ensures it's carried comfortably. The quality of this machete may differ depending on its production date, but the rumors of its indestructible nature were true. It's been a game-changer for many outdoorsmen and their wilderness adventures, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a durable and powerful cutting tool. 🔗Cold Steel Recon Hawk - Versatile Outdoor Survival Toolhttps://preview.redd.it/1roaansz5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f3c988d5811a954e7dffb6faf6570aa67c9dc641 I recently got my hands on the Cold Steel Recon Hawk, and let me tell you, it's a beauty! This tomahawk boasts a 5mm thick leaf made of 65 m carbon steel, giving it a robust and sturdy feel. The 24 oz weight distribution adds a perfect balance that makes throwing it a breeze. Its 17 1/2 inch length comes with a comfortable 9 1/2 inch nylon wrapping handle, making it easy to grip and wield. The single-piece design, crafted by custom knifemaker Andrew Demko, ensures durability and strength. The axe also comes with a detachable articulated sheath that offers protection from the sharp edge. While I really like the balance and durability of this Cold Steel Recon Hawk, I've noticed that the hollow ground edge can be a bit fragile. It doesn't stick as well as some other throwing tomahawks. However, the balance and heft make up for it, and the axe is great for survival, escape and evasion scenarios or just a day of outdoor fun. Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, well-balanced tomahawk. Buyer's GuideWhen considering a Cold Steel Zweihander, there are several essential factors to take into account. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most important aspects to consider, helping you make the best possible purchase for your needs.Material and Constructionhttps://preview.redd.it/7ldghizz5r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a6bceb745d90ded7d243125baa1a0a632665d3b7 A key consideration when purchasing any blade is the material and construction. Cold Steel Zweihander swords are typically made from high-quality materials that provide strength, durability, and sharpness. Check the specifications of the blade you are interested in to ensure that it meets your requirements. Weight and BalanceThe weight and balance of a Cold Steel Zweihander are critical for its handling and long-term use. Generally, Zweihander swords are quite heavy, so be prepared to practice with a weight-lifting regimen or be dedicated to learning how to wield these large swords. Balance also plays a crucial role in the effectiveness and comfort of use, so ensure that the model you choose has a good weight distribution and balance to suit your needs.Handle Design and Grip ComfortThe handle of a Cold Steel Zweihander should provide a comfortable grip, enabling you to maintain control and precision during use. Be sure to check the handle design, size, and material for optimal fit and comfort. Additionally, consider the potential for impact and strike-through during use, which could impact the durability of the handle over time. https://preview.redd.it/s3v0psf06r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b637aa43835bbc8ef03946d1cc1ebcf3c764190b Maintenance and CareProper maintenance and care are essential to ensuring the longevity of your Cold Steel Zweihander. Clean the blade after use, oil the metal parts, and store it safely when not in use. This will help preserve the blade's sharpness and appearance while also extending its lifespan.User Experience and TrainingWielding a Cold Steel Zweihander requires a certain level of skill and experience. It is crucial to understand the blade's specific features, limitations, and techniques effectively to maximize its performance and safety. We recommend seeking professional guidance and training to become proficient in using this type of weapon.Budget and Pricinghttps://preview.redd.it/wmsy15z06r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5050fbe5b18db6c60e56e234c18f8fe54facc82c Finally, don't forget to consider your budget when purchasing a Cold Steel Zweihander. While some may be more affordable, others may come at a premium price. Determine your budget constraints and look for high-quality models within your price range to make the most value for your investment. By taking these factors into account, you will be better prepared to make an informed decision when purchasing a Cold Steel Zweihander. Whether you're a collector, a reenactor, or a martial artist, understanding the unique features, considerations, and general advice of this product category will enable you to select an ideal model for your needs. FAQWhat is the Cold Steel Zweihander?The Cold Steel Zweihander is a heavy-duty, one-handed sword designed for powerful slashing and cutting actions. It is crafted with a high carbon steel blade and features a hand-forged guard and hilt with a textured black grip. https://preview.redd.it/2dslwk016r1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cd535e1a55f728c8e3043037e924d6d660a1c9a9 What is the Zweihander's intended usage?Designed for combat and self-defense, the Zweihander is primarily suited for close-quarters combat. Its massive size and weight allow for powerful slashes and cuts, making it an effective deterrent for potential attackers.What are the dimensions of the Cold Steel Zweihander?The dimensions of the Cold Steel Zweihander are as follows:
What is the construction of the Cold Steel Zweihander?The Cold Steel Zweihander is made of high carbon steel, known for its durability and edge retention. The blade is hand-forged, and the handguard and hilt are both made of steel. The grip is textured black for a firm and secure grip.Is the Cold Steel Zweihander suitable for beginners?No, the Cold Steel Zweihander is not recommended for beginners. Due to its weight, size, and potential for serious injury when used incorrectly, it is best suited for experienced sword users with proper training.How can I purchase the Cold Steel Zweihander?The Cold Steel Zweihander is available for purchase from various authorized retailers, online stores, and directly from the manufacturer. It is recommended to do proper research and compare prices to ensure you are getting the best deal.Are there any warranties or guarantees with the Cold Steel Zweihander?Yes, the Cold Steel Zweihander typically comes with a limited lifetime warranty. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product. If any issues arise, customers should contact the manufacturer or retailer for assistance.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.21 11:31 Toteldejesus How octogenarian Cecile Guidote-Alvarez rushed to the beauty salon to tackle West Philippine Sea
On a rainy Saturday afternoon not so long ago when internet connection was fluctuating in most homes, the 80-year-old Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, widow of the late Senator Heherson Alvarez, carrying a mini iPad, hurriedly alighted from a three-wheeled pedicab Toktok and stormed her way into a popular coffee shop in a mall in Manila.
A senior citizen in panic mode, she told the stunned baristas she’s looking for a Wi-Fi connection because she was about to interview retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio via Zoom.The coffee shop, a known world brand, has Wi-Fi exclusive to its employees, so the old lady was told to try other establishments. She went from one coffee shop to another only to be told the same, until a kind stranger led her to a well-known beauty salon with a free internet connection.
The lady salon attendant was very accommodating to the octogenarian, even typing the password on her IPad. Of course, she needed to avail herself of their salon services. Initially, she opted for a haircut, but since she needed to talk and hear clearly who she was talking to, she settled for a foot spa with pedicure.
“They lowered the volume of the piped-in music, and since there were less customers because it’s been raining all day, I was able to do my interview,” Guidote-Alvarez said.
For the next half-an-hour, the hair dressers and manicurists working with their scissors, nail clippers and cuticle removers on their customers’ hair and fingernails, listened to Carpio and Guidote-Alvarez discussed how Filipino fishermen and the Philippine Navy ships helplessly negotiate their ways in Scarborough Shoal amid the territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
“They were all very nice to me. I was able to finish my interview, with newly pedicured nails,” she told The Diarist.
For those who’ve worked with Guidote-Alvarez, her steadfast, almost stubborn, nature to accomplish a task, is nothing out of the ordinary. She would improvise, find alternatives, call up friends and former students, wake them up from sleep, just to get things done.
But now, in her 80s, legally blind and nearly deaf, she has mellowed down.
Cecile Alvarez with her mentors, National Artist for Literature Alejandro Roces, Jr and Fr. James Reuter. SJ
In her twilight years, Guidote-Alvarez has been solely hosting the 57-year-old Radyo Balintataw on DZRH, one of the oldest radio stations in the Philippines, where she tackles a wide range of topics, from climate change, women’s health, theater, culture, dance, to current issues, apart from playing old recordings of classic radio plays she produced and directed, dating back to the late ‘80s.
She shared with TheDiarist.ph how she started and continues to host one of the longest running advocacy programs on AM Radio.
Theater on TV
After founding the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) on April 7, 1967, or exactly 57 years ago, Guidote-Alvarez thought of the need to expose PETA’s members to television, so she started conceptualizing Balintataw, which in Filipino means the pupil of the eye, but in a larger context has something to do with having wild imagination, or what you might see if you have a third eye.
“I designed Balintataw as a bridge between cinema and the stage, where the youth being trained in theater skills can have a ready-made laboratory experience linked with the film and entertainment industry that would likewise have a natural on-the-job training and orientation regarding the theatrical discipline of working with a literary script, whether dramatic or comic—not the regular improvised script done on taping or copycat scripts from foreign themes,” Guidote-Alvarez wrote in her yet-to-be published Memoir of a Freedom Fighter’s Wife.
“A primary goal when I conceived PETA was to initiate and sustain artistic expression that draws meaning and power from the lives of the people, and sharing the literary gems with a greater number of audiences through a Broadcast Theater-Film Program with Balintataw on Channel 5,” she added.
“No matter how little the pay, at least it provided our local writers with a little honorarium. I sought permission for award-winning pieces of the Palanca Playwriting contest to be fleshed out to reach the masses. The much-awarded playwright Bert Florentino served as our literary manager, assisted by Mauro Avena. Eventually, Isagani Cruz took over when Bert left for the US,” she wrote.
“Writers need exposure and encouragement through a regular TV performance that will give them a sense of achievement and inspire them to keep on writing with some kind of honorarium. I was glad Lupita Aquino (now Kashiwahara) agreed to be TV director and Robert Arevalo as TV host.
She got members of the PETA Kalinangan Ensemble to serve as stage directors. “This is to undertake preliminary preparation with a rehearsal with the actors for character development and memorization and preliminary staging,” she wrote.
Five months after PETA was founded, Balintataw TV premiered on Channel 5 on Aug. 19, 1967, coinciding with the Buwan ng Wika birthdate of President Manuel Luis Quezon.
The first play, whose title escapes her now, featured Armida Siguion-Reyna and Maria Eva “Chingbee” Kalaw. She employed photo journalist and award-winning photographedocumentarist/cinematographer, Romy Vitug, to work with her in filming outdoor scenes for Balintataw.
In the pre-Martial Law Balintataw, among those initiated into television were Lino Brocka, Elwood Perez, Nick Lizaso, Maryo delos Reyes, Mario O’Hara, Joey Gosiengfiao, Behn Cervantes, and Frank Rivera.
Among the stage actors who crossed over to television were Lily Gamboa, Angie Ferro, Lorlie Villanueva, Jonee Gamboa, Joy Soler, Sherry Lara, Gardy Labad, Noel Trinidad.
Like with PETA, Guidote-Alvarez directed and managed Balintataw for five years. Because of Martial Law, she and husband Heherson went on exile in the US to escape a military shoot-to-kill order on Heherson, who was tagged as a subversive.
Post-Martial Law
Internationally acclaimed auteur Lav Diaz mentioned in several interviews how he learned writing radio and TV scripts in Balintataw.
This happened in the late 1980s, when the Alvarez couple returned from exile.
Despite its absence on the air in the Martial Law years, Balintataw was honored by Star Awards as among the 20 unforgettable outstanding broadcast programs in the Philippines.
“This encouraged me to consider reviving Balintataw on TV. Another blessing was a FAMAS award for having an important role in the development of cinema recognizing Balintataw as a bridge for synergizing cinema with the stage, providing a pathway of entry of our PETA artists into film and for movie stars to consider enriching their experience by acting on the legitimate stage,” Guidote-Alvarez wrote.
Though she didn’t return to PETA anymore because it had been surviving well and had its own set of officers led by Brocka, she just tapped some of its members for the return of Balintataw.
For 14 years, the Alvarez couple lived in the US as political exiles, shown here during a Ninoy Aquino Movement meeting. Cecile revived Radyo Balintataw upon their return in the late 1980s.
Channel 4 stint
“I arranged to revive TV Balintataw on Channel 4 in 1989. We began with a drama about a rebel returnee, title escapes me now, but I clearly remember it was written by Lualhati Bautista and directed by Maryo de los Reyes. We also had a good story series on the hazing of Lenny Villa, an Aquila Legis Frat neophyte,” she wrote.
At the time, Heherson had been elected senator after having served as Agrarian Reform Minister and eventually Cabinet Secretary during the first year of the Cory Aquino Administration.
“We were able to unravel the deadly hazing process from a fellow neophyte who broke the code of silence as we revealed graphically, acted the cruel process used. I had Jose Mari Avellana direct it. This presentation won all the awards. Lav Diaz was training with us and he started writing teleplays. We also had Nora Aunor in an adaptation of Bert Florentino’s The World Is An Apple, adapted by Frank Rivera, and I had Nick Lizaso direct.”
Emmy Awards
Balintataw TV was selected as one of five soaps for social change recognized by Emmy Awards. The Philippines was one of five countries cited, with Mexico, India, Brazil and Kenya.
“The nomination was made possible by the wonderful support from David Poindexter. It was a supreme honor for our country to be recognized in the Emmy Awards, to be cited among the five Third World countries using soap opera for social change.”
Poindexter was a Methodist minister and TV producer who founded the Population Communications International.
Surviving on radio
“In spite of the cry about how television can be deadening the minds of the people with copied themes with an eternal favorite love triangle story, there was really no funding for Balintataw,” she wrote.
“Sponsors would go naturally to the commercial stations where big stars were paid highly for the starring role. Balintataw may have substance but we could not afford payment of bankable stars,” she added.
“Financial stress forced me to drop TV and remain on radio because I didn’t want to kill Balintataw per se just because we didn’t have funds.”
Creative classroom
“We have focused on Balintataw as a creative classroom on the air. I was able to talk to Fred J. Elizalde of DZRH and the president of the network, Mr. Jun Nicdao,” she wrote.
In the ‘80s, the HIV/AIDS became a global epidemic and in the Philippines, the general populace was still clueless on how to deal with it.
“In order to get funding, the first series I did was about the explosive news regarding AIDS in Asia. I got the DOH Secretary at the time, Dr. Juan Flavier, to act as himself, providing the data. It was easier to start off with an AIDS radio serial.
They did a minimum of 13 episodes to raise awareness about the disease.
“From then on, some of our television scripts we transformed into a radio version. DZRH provided us with our initial production staff, so we used some from the network and some of its resident artists and drama talents. Our time slots were changing but always coming after the long-running horror drama, Gabi ng Lagim.
“We worked on the themes of overseas workers, the drug problem, corruption, aside from portraying contemporary and literary classics serving as social commentaries,” she wrote.
Women playwrights
“We dramatized the works of noted women writers and playwrights like Estrella Alfon, Genoveva Edroza Matute and Marilou Jacob, who is distinguished in being a founding president of Women’s Playwright International.
“Apart from our PETA staple of writers, we involved young, upcoming and budding university and community theater groups.
“We also had a lot of foreign plays, where we could feature theater festivals beyond borders. We could do Shakespeare, we could do Euripides but also the current playwrights in the Arab region we translated in our language.
“We brought in Chinese contemporary plays, Malaysian, Indonesian and from other women writers from ASEAN member countries.”
Virtual history book
“The significance of Balintataw is portrayed as a virtual history book on audio as it unveiled events in the country. Radio is fresh, instant and up-to date,” she added.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Balintataw became Guidote-Alvarez’s outlet and therapy. Having lost her husband on the second month of the pandemic, a widow cocooned at home, she began hosting it six days a week, learning how to use an iPad and interviewing via Zoom.
The word “Balintataw” has been associated with her name.
Visual artist and editorial cartoonist Benjie Lontoc in casual meeting told us how in his younger days, when AM Radio was a national past-time, he was surprised to hear a Filipino adaptation of No Exit by Jean Paul-Sarte. This was when radio was airing soap, fantasy adventures targeting housewives and children.
Another was the airing of Larawan as a radio play in the 1990s, with Guidote-Alvarez as the voice of Candida Marasigan.
Leopoldo Salcedo (left) as Manolo in a confrontation scene with Dante Rivero as Tony Javier in PETA’s 1968 ‘Larawan’ directed by Cecile Guidote-Alvarez. (Photo from PETA archives)
In the 1960s, she directed Larawan, the first Filipino adaptation of Joaquin’s A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino for PETA’s second season. It ran from December 1968 to January 1969 at the Raha Sulayman Theater at Fort Santiago in Intramural. In the cast were Rita Gomez (Candida), Lolita Rodriguez (Paula), Leopoldo Salcedo (Don Manolo) and Dante Rivero (Tony Javier).
Guidote-Alvarez has a funny recollection of the radio play. It was Nick Joaquin himself who told her years ago how his pedicurist suddenly started a conversation about Larawan.
Joaquin was relaxing on the barber’s chair having a post-haircut pedicure and foot spa when the lady pedicurist asked him how the story would end. Joaquin was stunned because he didn’t want to be known in the barber shop as Nick Joaquin the famous National Artist for Literature, but just a regular customer.
“He told me he almost fell out from the chair. He was a very private person and the pedicurist recognized him as the playwright,” Guidote-Alvarez, laughing, told TheDiarist.ph.
When she was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, she was given only three years to live. It’s been more than two decades since then. She has also conquered COVID-19 twice.
Over and beyond her work in theater and various advocacies, Guidote-Alvarez is among the few surviving practitioners of AM Radio broadcasting.
The beauty salon incident wasn’t a first for the octogenarian radio host. She occasionally went back there to interview guests and record her shows whenever Wi-Fi connections in her home fluctuated.
Despite all setbacks, man-made or otherwise, the steadfast Cecile Guidote-Alvarez’s voice continues to be heard in this mass media platform in an era that knows mainly Spotify. As Joaquin wrote, “to remember and to sing, that is her vocation.”
(Except Saturday, Radyo Balintataw airs daily on DZRH 666 Khz AM radio after ‘Gabi ng Lagim’, and live streamed on radio.org.ph. Some episodes have been uploaded on YouTube.)
2024.05.21 07:20 zaddar1 waterslipt/ a furball/ widening ripples
beauty
which i have now
fades so quick
i can’t even grasp it
actors and actresses
statues looking at you
only the garb changes
one of the strongest emerging social trends that arise as a consequence of increased longevity is a necessity to think about slowing cognitive decline in the over 50’s which means attention to diet and supplements, exercise , general fitness and "wear and tear", alcohol and drug consumption
my feeling is we are going to see sharp divides between subcultures in this respect and a lot of individual variation
also, a lot of the public health advice and cultural opinions are wrong minded or ill-informed, you have to do your own research and experimentation
a way of looking at the covid public health debacle (which continues despite the cardiovascular and cancer risks of boosters) was to trade off a reduced death rate in the elderly for an increased vaccine injury problem for the young
a verse by touzi on #3 of master fushan’s sixteen themes translated by suru
the death within life
birds clench the falling blossoms before the emerald cliffs, every word responds to conditions, spreading throughout — they ask of coming west, pointing to the cypress in the yard, but how could the passage through the lush mountain peaks be shut ?
活中死。鳥銜華落碧嵓前。對境皆言到處傳。人問西來指庭柏。豈關蒼翠嶺頭穿。
my reply:
what cannot be shut
is always open
but to avoid the common herd
it is disguised
why write things people understand ?
they just make your life a misery with their missionizing of a contrary view
to confuse them is better
they can’t target you
no "master"
except the claim
fantasies about reality
seek a center
its doesn’t exist
non-existence or otherwise
ed. zen is full of fake claims to authority by the appellation of "zen master", same with any religion and its "pooh-bahs"
that’s the trouble with writing
its lasts forever
so
necessarily
you are writing forever
i am appreciating the philosopher gilles deleuze more
the untranslated portion at the end goes
so you understand, when you have such an idea, the important is not to know whether it is true or false
the question is to know if it is important, if it is interesting, and if it is beautiful
and it is the same in science, it is the same in philosophy, you know
waterslipt
a furball
widening ripples on
the smooth surface
of a reflective river
a platypus
ed. i was having lunch at a clearing on the bank of the mersey rivestream near the eastern end of bridle track road, the day was amazingly clear and windless and the river smooth and i noticed a platypus working its way feeding on the bottom to surface occasionally for breath then go back down again
this morning i serendipitously put on a shirt and trousers that "matched", i have always been sceptical of the concept, but since there are clothes that don’t match, there must be those that do match, though what constitutes the female sense of this, i still cannot fathom
the abdication of the duke of windsor was in fact a surface effect of a deeper political struggle, would britain become a client state of germany or would it resist ?
the outcome was not as obvious as you might think
taking actors as real
and a set as reality
is it any wonder
the dissembling mess
collapses ?
the circle of the contemporary
rubbish generating more rubbish
stay there at your own risk
sharing the same road for a while
but later
looking at the forks and branches
i realise
we are apart
inscribed on the tower at veneration monastery
in cold spring, a hundred-foot tower
i climb up alone, and then back down alone
who can manage such distances of the heart ?
david hinton
classical chinese poetry
the poet is tu mu (803 to 853 a.d.) with a bio on page 378 of the "classical chinese poetry" pdf link
definitely medieval with the mention of a functional tower
an interesting thing about frieda hughes is she did not have her mother’s talent, of course neither did ted
there is just a remarkable depth to sylvia plath’s work and this was despite all the obstacles, what genetic quirk created her or would , if her parents had more children, they have a similar talent ?
this prosaic world
because its written in prose of course
its not a poetic world
because its not written in poetry
if you take away the "zen master" or saint or prophet as an authority figure, what do you then have ?
Regulus replies:
People acceptant of the existent reality
my reply:
the monk asked zen master regulus "what is required to be enlightened" ?
zen master regulus replied "be accepting of existing reality"
the monk was left speechless
lee smolin doesn’t like jonathon oppemheim’s stochastic gravity approach
its interesting to watch lee talk with the constant gesticulatory body movements, almost tourette's, but he is using them to think, they are part of his cognition process
how simple is the world ?
its not that simple
and certainly not as simple as the way we view it to be
insight
takes you back
and obviates
some future lives
the brain
is
a
quantum
machine
words in a story
believable or unbelievable ?
don’t
be
fooled
.
words in a story
believable or unbelievable ?
don’t be fooled
so much knowledge
everywhere
each branch opens up exponentially
drowning in detail
its pursuer
i guess i have got so interested in hearts because of hunting and looking at them, in one animal, it beat for minutes cut out from the body; never seen any that had human like aging diseases
i think as a society we have lost touch with our own raw "viscerality", i hunt for my own meat; the killing, butchering and eating does bring one back in touch with that, the commonality with our homonin history
heart and lungs animation
the number of people who have no understanding of what even moderate levels of drinking does to their lives and long term health
you have won the existential lottery where the odds are so small of winning, no number covers it and to chip away at brain function with drugs and alcohol like that . . .
you want to experiment with doing some translation yourself with google and you will realise how its possible to construct almost any sense out of the chinese, its actually not meaningful to do any commentary without going back to the chinese, the variance is so large, translators follow their own biases to create a narrative that suits them
“ continuous as the stars that shine and twinkle on the milky way ”
wordsworth’s famous poem which he wrote based on notes by his sister dorothy was in effect co-authored by her
strangers to me
thirty years of no contact
exile speaks
of unwanted distance
.
strangers to me
thirty years of no contact
exile speaks
unwanted distance
ed. looking at a photo of my sister, niece and brother in law who are all very much changed since i last saw them notions of exile are not common in western literature, but are certainly there in the chinese
lost roads
can’t be recovered
what we have travelled
always
takes us
to
a different place
i love a sotherby’s auction , vast sums spent for my entertainment, all free, it don’t get slicker, a living made from networking skills and being personable
i was about to go negative on the painting by lucy bull, but on looking further i quite like her work
you have to be careful, auctioneers like these can talk the money out of your wallet
xu qiyao’s advice to his son on being successful in CCP politics
“ the path of understanding requires objectivity and experience ”
ed. the above is my reworking of the first lines of the xinxin ming which, amongst its more "normal" translations is
“ the great way is not difficult, just avoid picking and choosing ”
the xinxin ming is an abridged version of the mind inscription
心性不生何須知見
“ reality is either itself or not. is there any point to understanding this ? ”
ed. my translation of the first line of the "mind inscription"
"don’t interrupt your enemy when he’s making a mistake" — napoleon
i think in the context of divorce , what people find difficult is the necessity of switching to the extreme mindset of being at war and all that entails because that is what is immediately required
billie and finneas o’connell discuss how they created the "what am i made for" song for the film "barbie"
billie in her own words describes the process
“ Dr. Raszek provides insights from his participation in a comprehensive review concerning the utilization of synthetic uridines in mRNA vaccines (ed. covid) and their potential implications for cancer development
The discussion delves into the intricate mechanisms that could be at play, exploring how these synthetic components might inadvertently suppress the body's innate immune system, induce frameshifting phenomena, and contribute to the production of IgG4 antibodies, all of which could potentially influence cancer growth ”
my comment
i think we can expect an upsurge in cancers, especially amongst the elderly as a result of the misguidedly intensive "booster" campaign, though it may take a while to show
the forward momentum
of habituation
leading
to
habits
that
become
unbreakable
the fallacy of "negation"
its not this, its not that
but its what its not
negation is a stylised buddhist rhetorical technique, nāgārjuna of course and you get it in dogen, they’ll say something then walk it back through its negation
but having walked it forwards, there is a sense in which it can’t be walked back or it could not be walked forwards another way of putting it is there is no ontological unity, everything is constantly splitting apart
zen masters and the authority they carry are literary constructs
buddha is a literary construct
jesus, muhammad and moses are literary constructs
the egyptian book of the dead is a literary construct
does it bother you that your advice is so bad ?
no
the blindness of narcissism
submitted by zaddar1 to zen_mystical [link] [comments]
which i have now
fades so quick
i can’t even grasp it
statues looking at you
only the garb changes
my feeling is we are going to see sharp divides between subcultures in this respect and a lot of individual variation
also, a lot of the public health advice and cultural opinions are wrong minded or ill-informed, you have to do your own research and experimentation
the death within life
birds clench the falling blossoms before the emerald cliffs, every word responds to conditions, spreading throughout — they ask of coming west, pointing to the cypress in the yard, but how could the passage through the lush mountain peaks be shut ?
活中死。鳥銜華落碧嵓前。對境皆言到處傳。人問西來指庭柏。豈關蒼翠嶺頭穿。
my reply:
what cannot be shut
is always open
but to avoid the common herd
it is disguised
they just make your life a misery with their missionizing of a contrary view
to confuse them is better
they can’t target you
except the claim
fantasies about reality
seek a center
its doesn’t exist
non-existence or otherwise
ed. zen is full of fake claims to authority by the appellation of "zen master", same with any religion and its "pooh-bahs"
its lasts forever
so
necessarily
you are writing forever
the untranslated portion at the end goes
so you understand, when you have such an idea, the important is not to know whether it is true or false
the question is to know if it is important, if it is interesting, and if it is beautiful
and it is the same in science, it is the same in philosophy, you know
a furball
widening ripples on
the smooth surface
of a reflective river
a platypus
ed. i was having lunch at a clearing on the bank of the mersey rivestream near the eastern end of bridle track road, the day was amazingly clear and windless and the river smooth and i noticed a platypus working its way feeding on the bottom to surface occasionally for breath then go back down again
the outcome was not as obvious as you might think
and a set as reality
is it any wonder
the dissembling mess
collapses ?
rubbish generating more rubbish
stay there at your own risk
but later
looking at the forks and branches
i realise
we are apart
in cold spring, a hundred-foot tower
i climb up alone, and then back down alone
who can manage such distances of the heart ?
david hinton
classical chinese poetry
the poet is tu mu (803 to 853 a.d.) with a bio on page 378 of the "classical chinese poetry" pdf link
definitely medieval with the mention of a functional tower
there is just a remarkable depth to sylvia plath’s work and this was despite all the obstacles, what genetic quirk created her or would , if her parents had more children, they have a similar talent ?
because its written in prose of course
its not a poetic world
because its not written in poetry
Regulus replies:
People acceptant of the existent reality
my reply:
the monk asked zen master regulus "what is required to be enlightened" ?
zen master regulus replied "be accepting of existing reality"
the monk was left speechless
its interesting to watch lee talk with the constant gesticulatory body movements, almost tourette's, but he is using them to think, they are part of his cognition process
its not that simple
and certainly not as simple as the way we view it to be
takes you back
and obviates
some future lives
the brain
is
a
quantum
machine
believable or unbelievable ?
don’t
be
fooled
.
words in a story
believable or unbelievable ?
don’t be fooled
everywhere
each branch opens up exponentially
drowning in detail
its pursuer
i think as a society we have lost touch with our own raw "viscerality", i hunt for my own meat; the killing, butchering and eating does bring one back in touch with that, the commonality with our homonin history
heart and lungs animation
you have won the existential lottery where the odds are so small of winning, no number covers it and to chip away at brain function with drugs and alcohol like that . . .
wordsworth’s famous poem which he wrote based on notes by his sister dorothy was in effect co-authored by her
thirty years of no contact
exile speaks
of unwanted distance
.
strangers to me
thirty years of no contact
exile speaks
unwanted distance
ed. looking at a photo of my sister, niece and brother in law who are all very much changed since i last saw them notions of exile are not common in western literature, but are certainly there in the chinese
can’t be recovered
what we have travelled
always
takes us
to
a different place
i was about to go negative on the painting by lucy bull, but on looking further i quite like her work
you have to be careful, auctioneers like these can talk the money out of your wallet
ed. the above is my reworking of the first lines of the xinxin ming which, amongst its more "normal" translations is
“ the great way is not difficult, just avoid picking and choosing ”
the xinxin ming is an abridged version of the mind inscription
心性不生何須知見
“ reality is either itself or not. is there any point to understanding this ? ”
ed. my translation of the first line of the "mind inscription"
i think in the context of divorce , what people find difficult is the necessity of switching to the extreme mindset of being at war and all that entails because that is what is immediately required
billie in her own words describes the process
The discussion delves into the intricate mechanisms that could be at play, exploring how these synthetic components might inadvertently suppress the body's innate immune system, induce frameshifting phenomena, and contribute to the production of IgG4 antibodies, all of which could potentially influence cancer growth ”
my comment
i think we can expect an upsurge in cancers, especially amongst the elderly as a result of the misguidedly intensive "booster" campaign, though it may take a while to show
of habituation
leading
to
habits
that
become
unbreakable
its not this, its not that
but its what its not
negation is a stylised buddhist rhetorical technique, nāgārjuna of course and you get it in dogen, they’ll say something then walk it back through its negation
but having walked it forwards, there is a sense in which it can’t be walked back or it could not be walked forwards another way of putting it is there is no ontological unity, everything is constantly splitting apart
buddha is a literary construct
jesus, muhammad and moses are literary constructs
the egyptian book of the dead is a literary construct
no
the blindness of narcissism
2024.05.21 07:13 tab_rick Why is Countertop Thickness Important?
 | You know, when it comes to countertops, thickness is kind of a big deal. A beefier countertop can handle all the kitchen chaos – from your knife skills to those steaming pots. It’s less likely to give in and crack when things get tough. And if you’re dreaming of those fancy edges you’ve seen in home mags, a thicker top is your ticket. submitted by tab_rick to KKRsolidsurface [link] [comments] But it’s not just about thickness. The thickness can totally change the vibe of your space. Want to make a statement? Go thick and let that countertop shine. If you’re chasing a sleek, minimalist look, then slim it down. And if you ever decide to move, a solid countertop can be a sweet selling point. So, picking the right thickness? It’s not just about looks—it’s a smart move for your home’s worth too. 8 Tips for Choosing the Ideal Solid Surface Countertop ThicknessPicking the right countertop thickness? Sounds like a puzzle, right? I mean, what’s the usual thickness? And how does a solid surface stack up against natural stone? If these questions are buzzing in your head, you’re not alone. But don’t stress! I’ve got eight handy tips coming up to help you nail that decision and find the just-right thickness for your digs.1: Available Thickness Options and How to ChooseWhen considering a solid surface countertop, one of the pivotal decisions is selecting the right thickness. Let’s break down the options to help you make an informed choice for your space:Standard Thickness (1/2 inch or 12mm): Think of this as the classic choice. It’s adaptable, lightweight, and ideal for areas like bathroom vanities. If your countertop won’t face intense daily use, this option is both practical and often more budget-friendly. Medium Thickness (3/4 inch or 20mm): This is the balanced choice, suitable for the majority of kitchens. It offers resilience for daily kitchen activities without overwhelming the space visually. Thick Countertops (1 inch or 25mm and above): The robust option. Tailored for high-traffic areas requiring durability, it also brings an elevated, sophisticated aesthetic to your space. Remember, the right thickness is a blend of functionality and aesthetics tailored to your specific needs. 2: Choose Thickness Based on Functional Intenthttps://preview.redd.it/g31zkaebqp1d1.png?width=612&format=png&auto=webp&s=26532ece1ee014dafbcb7f8493397db34a002557Alright, so you’re getting a new countertop, and you’re stuck on how thick it should be. The key is to think about what you’re actually going to use it for. Let’s break it down: Light-Duty Areas (1/4 inch or 6mm): Functional Intent: These are spaces that don’t see heavy use but still require a touch of elegance. Ideal for: Backsplashes, wall panels, and decorative vertical applications. This thickness is more about aesthetics than heavy-duty function. Moderate Use Areas (1/2 inch or 12mm): Functional Intent: Suitable for areas that see regular but not heavy-duty use. Ideal for: Bathroom vanities, home desks, or laundry room surfaces. They can handle occasional spills and weight but aren’t meant for heavy kitchenware or constant pounding. Everyday Use Areas (3/4 inch or 20mm): Functional Intent: Designed for spaces that see daily activities and need to be both durable and stylish. Ideal for: Standard kitchen countertops, breakfast nooks, or home bars. They’re robust enough to handle the daily grind of cooking, chopping, and regular kitchen tasks. High-Traffic and Heavy-Duty Areas (1 inch or 25mm): Functional Intent: Meant for areas that see a lot of action, heavy items, or commercial use. Ideal for: Busy family kitchens, commercial kitchens, or workspaces in restaurants. They’re built to withstand the challenges of a bustling environment. Statement or Luxury Areas (11/2 inches or 38mm): Functional Intent: Beyond functionality, these are also about making a bold design statement. Ideal for: Luxury kitchen islands, high-end bars, or commercial spaces aiming for a luxe feel. The added thickness not only provides durability but also exudes opulence. So, when you’re picking out your solid surface countertop, think about what you’ll use it for and how much abuse it’s going to take. Whether you’re going for style, function, or a bit of both, there’s a thickness that’s just right for you. 3: Correlation Between Thickness and Design
Perfect For: Modern homes with a simple design. It’s subtle, doesn’t dominate the space, and complements clean lines and neutral palettes.
Perfect For: Traditional homes or spaces that blend the old with the new.
Perfect For: Those in-between spaces that aren’t super old-school but aren’t ultra-modern either.
Perfect For: Spaces that aim for a touch of opulence. Think high-end homes, luxury condos, or any space that wants to exude richness.
Perfect For: Perfect for those plush villas or sky-high penthouses. When picking a countertop, think about how you want your place to feel. Do you want it to feel cozy, fancy, or something in between? There is always a thickness that can meet your needs. 4: Durability of Different ThicknessesIt’s a general rule of thumb: the thicker the countertop, the more durable it is. Thicker countertops, especially those made of robust materials like quartzite, resist chipping, cracking, and other wear forms better than thinner ones. However, the material’s quality, such as solid surface countertops, is equally crucial. A high-quality 2 cm countertop might outlast a low-quality 3 cm one. It’s essential to balance thickness with material quality.5: Budget is Also Part of the ConsiderationBudget plays a significant role in any renovation or design project. Thicker countertops, especially those with custom edge designs like bullnose or half-bullnose, can be pricier. However, they might offer better longevity, translating to cost savings in the long run. It’s crucial to weigh the initial investment against the countertop’s lifespan and the value it adds to your space.6: Edge Styles Should Fit With the Countertop
7: Easy Installation and Light WeightIf you want a countertop that’s easy to install, go for a thinner solid surface option, around 1/4 inch thick. They’re lightweight and hassle-free during the installation process. Thinner countertops may not be as durable as thicker ones, but you can still achieve a thicker appearance by adding edge details. Just consult a professional to find the best fit for you.8: Easy to MaintainNow, let’s talk about maintenance. Solid surface countertops are a breeze to maintain. Here’s why:They’re stain-resistant, so spills won’t create stubborn marks. With no cracks or gaps, cleaning is simple, and crumbs and dirt won’t hide anywhere. All you need is a damp cloth and mild soap for easy cleaning; no need for fancy or harsh chemicals. If scratches or burns happen, many can be buffed out, and professional refinishing is available for more serious damage. You don’t have to worry about using regular household cleaners; these countertops can handle them without harm. In short, solid surface countertops are a dream to maintain. They resist stains, are easy to clean, fixable, and can withstand regular cleaning routines without worry. So, enjoy your beautiful countertops with peace of mind and less hassle. ConclusionSearching for the perfect countertop is like putting together a puzzle, where style, practicality, and budget all need to fit together. But fear not, with a little guidance, anyone can find a countertop that not only looks amazing but also stands the test of time. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where beauty meets functionality.Request a KKR Countertop Quote TodayKKR stands as a foremost manufacturer in the solid surface countertop industry, leveraging more than two decades of expertise in molding and thermoforming technologies. With an expansive portfolio featuring over 3000 color options and 127 distinct patterns, KKR is committed to offering versatile solutions that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences. Recognized for the superior flexibility, maintenance convenience, and unparalleled quality of their acrylic solid surface sheets, KKR prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering tailor-made solutions and outstanding post-sale support to address individual client requirements. |
2024.05.21 07:04 tab_rick Comprehensive Guide To Choosing Outdoor Kitchen Countertops
 | Improving your outdoor living space starts with picking the right outdoor kitchen countertop option for your kitchen. Countertops are key because you use them for food prep and placing items, such as condiments. They’re the heart of the space. When choosing one, durability should be your the top consideration, and then is its strength, ease of care, look, and cost. Also, consider the weather. The countertop should handle sun, rain, and humidity well. submitted by tab_rick to KKRsolidsurface [link] [comments] This guide focuses on good options for outdoor countertops, especially solid surfaces. Whether you want to upgrade your outdoor space, or you’re a professional looking for quality materials, this guide can help you make a smart choice. Types of Kitchen Countertops That Are Suitable for OutdoorWhen it comes to selecting countertops for your kitchen, whether you’re sprucing up your outdoor or indoor kitchen countertop a fabulous facelift, the material choice becomes an imperative puzzle piece. And trust me, it’s vital to unravel the enigmatic pros and cons of various outdoor countertop options.Why so many people like solid surface countertops? Well, I’ll let you in on a little secret… They’re made from this super tough, non-porous material. What’s that mean for you? Say goodbye to those stains and water marks! Especially if you’re thinking of active your outdoor kitchen, these countertops are a dream come true. These solid surface countertops aren’t just durable; they’re also easy to care for. They have so many colors. Whether you’re aiming for that sleek, modern vibe or you’re more of a rustic aficionado, there’s a hue that’s just right for you. Their non-porous nature? It’s like a shield against spills and splatters. Concerned about the sun dimming those lively colors? Fear not. The quality of the material ensures those shades remain vibrant for the long run. https://preview.redd.it/35um0u1qdp1d1.png?width=612&format=png&auto=webp&s=9e2d48992addc5d2c0853107e2b2ad7fffd6e9c0 Solid Surface CountertopsSolid surface countertops are popular for many people. They’re made from a strong, non-porous material. So they can fight stains and water well. This makes them great for outdoor kitchens. A lot of homeowners and designers like them.They last a long time and are easy to maintain. They have many colors to choose from, so you can make your outdoor space look special. Because they’re non-porous, they stay clean and handle wetness and food messes well. Granite CountertopsMany people pick granite countertops for inside and outside designs. Every granite piece looks different, like nature’s art. This natural stone option can handle heat and has a variety of colors to match different styles. But, granite can get stains because it is porous surface. So, it needs regular care and the right sealant to keep it looking good and protect it from moisture seeping into the countertop, shortening its life.Quartz CountertopsQuartz countertops mix natural quartz and strong resin. This makes them last long and resist stains and water. They also handle sun well and come in many colors. But, they don’t do well in very cold climate. If your place gets very cold and snowy, think twice before choosing quartz.Tile CountertopsTile countertops, from ceramic or porcelain, give many design choices. They stay cool, which is good for hot places. They come in many colors and designs. Porcelain is strong and lasts long. But the gaps between tiles can get dirty, so clean them often.Stainless Steel CountertopsMany commercial kitchens like stainless steel countertops. They look modern and are easy to clean. They don’t rust and are good for food work. But they can get hot in the sun. Over time, they might get scratches and need fixes.Soapstone and Limestone CountertopsSoapstone and limestone give kitchens a natural look. They have earthy colors and textures. This makes kitchens feel cozy. But, both are porous countertops. Being porous means they can soak up liquids. This can cause stains or bacteria to grow. They need sealing and care to stay clean.Bluestone CountertopsBluestone is nonporous. This means it doesn’t soak up liquids easily. It’s good at resisting stains and bacteria. This is great for keeping things clean. Spills and bacteria aren’t big worries. It’s a good choice for busy kitchens or if love hygiene.Why Solid Surface Countertops are the First Choice for Outdoor Kitchens?Alright, let’s dive into the durable material – solid surface countertops, and why they’re like the MVP of outdoor kitchens.
What to Consider When Budgeting Solid Surface CountertopsPlanning a budget for home projects isn’t always easy. You aim for the best but have to keep an eye on costs. When considering solid surface countertops, keep these points in mind:
How to Pick the Right Outdoor Kitchen Countertop?
Steps on Solid Surface Countertop InstallationPutting on a new countertop may seem hard, but it’s doable with the right steps. Here’s how to do it:
Useful Tips for Solid Surface Countertop MaintenanceGot a shiny new countertop, huh? Looks fab! Now, let’s keep it that way. Here are the maintenance requirements:
Successful Case Study of Solid Surface CountertopsSolid surface countertops are durable and easy to clean. This kitchen case shows their beauty. The kitchen is modern with white, gray, and wood tones. The countertop is white and smooth. It joins the cabinet nicely. The cabinets are dark gray. They have sliding doors and no handles. This makes them look clean.There’s a stainless steel cooktop in the countertop. The sink looks like the countertop, so they are matched better. The fridge and dishwasher are also stainless steel. This match is more suitable. The walls have light gray tiles. These tiles look good with dark cabinets. The floor is made of light wood. This matches the kitchen’s colors. The furniture is simple. There are chairs and a table in dark gray and wood. This kitchen proves that solid surface countertops are stylish. They also work well with other modern designs. ConclusionPicking the right outdoor kitchen countertop is important. It affects how it works and looks. For homeowners or contractors, solid surface countertops are a top choice. They mix beauty with function.KKR: Customize Your CountertopKKR’s custom solid surface countertops solutions present an excellent opportunity for resellers and companies looking to elevate the quality of their products and cater to discerning customers. Get an instant quote from KKR as soon as possible! |
2024.05.21 06:58 Trash_Tia My roommate has been recording nosleep stories for a while now. He wouldn't let me inside his bathroom.
The Sleepaway Show was popular on my college radio.
JJ Savrin, Nicholas Mayflower, and Elena Fisher.
I was a big fan of their horror narrations.
Sorry, I mistakened the title. Nosleep posts are true, though a lot of narrators read them out as if they are stories.
“Yoooo, and welcome to another episode of The Sleepaway Show! I'm your host, JJ Savrin! I'm here with Nick and Elena, and we’ve got a crazy story for you! It's by Reddit user Broken-but-not-bent, and it's called Metal Baby. Now, this story is horror, but it's got a liiiitle bit of M. Night mixed in. It's one of my faves–”
“Hey!”
I flinched. It was too early for jump scares.
My ‘YouTuber’ roommate was in front of me, waving his arms. I pulled out an earphone, already anticipating the kind of conversation we were going to have.
The second he opened his mouth, I was ready for the complaining.
“I got a bad comment.” Connor grumbled, slumping down in front of me. “This one is threatening to strike my channel. They're relentless.”
He waved his phone with a scoff. “Shouldn't authors be happy they're being recognised?”
I forced a smile, resting my chin on my fist. “Do you think… maybe it's because you're using their stories without asking?” I said. “I mean, you did get a whole channel taken down–”
Connor rolled his eyes. “Nah. They're public domain, so I can use them if I want.” He pulled out a pack of chips, stuffing a handful in his mouth. “Also, the AI voice sounds human.” He prodded his phone. “See? Listen.”
When he started the video, a human-ish voice began the story, immediately pronouncing a typo.
Connor was right. It did sound human, but it wasn't human enough. It was too perfect, with the exact same drone-ey tone. Admittedly, AI had gotten better from text to speech to an almost human voice. But it wasn't the real thing.
Connor studied me with slightly manic eyes.
“Well? What do you think?”.
“It's good,” I said. “But why don't you read them? You have a good enough voice.”
My roommate shrugged. “I dunno. It's easier to just run it through an AI. I just copy and paste the story, and it's done.”
I regarded him with the look.
“Uh-huh.”
I corked one headphone back in, bleeding back into my favourite show.
JJ was in the middle of a monologue, his raspy voice immediately embodying the character. I could hear every piece of his voice, every breath, every time he messed up and choked on a laugh, or quietly correcting himself. But he was human. His mistakes, his awkward breathing and the cheap microphone letting in outside ambience. Even his stuttering, the way he mispronounced words and fucked up accents. All of it was painfully and beautifully human.
Metal Baby was a great story, and it ended with some of the best voice acting I had heard from The Sleepaway Show. Elena and Nick sounded insane, and JJ made the perfect unreliable narrator.
Especially for the Shutter Island type twist.
When it was over, Elena thanking their college patrons, I tugged out an earphone and settled my roommate with a smile.
Connor was glaring at his phone. When he caught my eye, he scowled. “What? Why are you looking at me like that?”
Instead of answering him, I held up my phone, displaying the show. “Why not try finding a real human voice?” I said.
“You have cash from your job, right? Dump the robot-sounding AI, and pay a voice actor.”
I watched my roommate's expression crumple.
“Fuck.” he tapped his phone, a smile curving on his lips.
“You really think it'll work?”
“Well, yeah. The Dark Somnium. Mr Creeps. Lighthouse Horror. What do they all have in common?”
Connor’s lip twitched. “Millions of subscribers? Listeners who are obsessed with rule -based stories?”
“Human voices.” I said. “AI channels do exist with stupid amounts of followers, but they don't get nearly enough traction.”
Connor hummed. “So, what I need is a human voice?”
“Bingo.”
When I got home that night, I got a text from Connor.
Don't come into my bathroom! Narration in progress.
Bathroom ambience, I thought.
Sure.
The next day, though, to my surprise, The Sleepaway Show wasn't broadcast. On the college website, the page was offline.
Elena published a post a few hours later explaining that the three of them were still hungover from the night before, so there would be no show. I was bummed.
I was looking forward to JJ’s narration of a new cosmic horror story they were teasing.
Days went by, and still no show.
Elena had stopped posting updates.
Her last one simply said: PLEASE stop asking! We’re sick lol. No show this week.
That was weird. Especially when the three had managed to do a show suffering with food poisoning from bad shellfish.
I was checking for updates when I got home around 5pm.
No sign of Connor.
His laptop was open in his room.
He was editing.
I couldn't help it, risking a peek at his latest narration. I always get curious about the stories he chooses. Connor is a big fan of psychological horror.
Getting comfy in his chair, and taking an awkward sip from his lukewarm coffee, I pressed play on the edit. I'm not sure what it was that twisted my gut.
The coffee tasted kind of weird, and it was too hot in his room.
But, as I fast forwarded the edit, I realized I was listening to a familiar voice. I wasn't expecting JJ’s Savrin’s tone to bleed from the speakers.
So soon, too. It's not like I was doubting that he'd say yes to narrating, but he'd been sick, right? I twisted around, studying my roommate's room for recording equipment. Nothing.
Just a broken microphone on his floor, the one I accidentally stood on.
JJ’s narration sounded normal, at first.
But further into it, I began to notice something was wrong with it. The charm was gone, his smooth, velvet murmur had been airbrushed, perfected into a horrifying, AI-like robotic drone. There were zero mistakes, or breaths, or laughter.
"It was late when I left the restaurant.”
JJ’s voice was too perfect, skipping over the voice of the character, the atmosphere he put into his tone. “I was locking the door when I noticed something was behind me.”
The period at the end of the sentence was too noticeable.
Not natural.
“Oh no.” JJ continued in that same robotic drawl. “Did a customer want to kill me?”
The AI voice faltered, and this time, I did hear a gasp.
It sounded like pain.
Running through the edit, there were still chunks of recording, untouched.
“I… ice… cream…I…”
The sudden sharp inhalation of breath exploding from the speakers sent ice sliding down my spine. It was too human. I could see it in the levels, the way they hit red.
“It's so… dark. I can't see... anything."
The voice splintered into a cry, and this time, in the footage my roommate was trying to remove, to cut away, JJ did sound human. His shaky breaths shuddered through the speakers.
“Please, can someone help me? I don't know where I–” The edit skipped, bleeding back into the story. I was already backing away from Connor’s laptop, my heart in my throat.
I remembered stabbing the off switch on the laptop, but the voice continued, spluttering and crackling.
This time it was coming from behind me.
The bathroom.
“Is… someone there? I'm locked in the bathroom, man. I want to go home.”
JJ Savrin.
Was in our house.
Worse, my psycho roommate has kidnapped him, attempting to steal his voice.
When I stepped back, his cry was louder.
“Fuck! Is someone there? Answer me!"
“JJ?” I found myself in a daze, walking towards my roommate's bathroom.
“What... did he do to you?”
The guy let out a strangled cry. “Your psycho friend locked me in the bathroom! I think I'm blindfolded. I…I can't see anything, “ he paused, “Can you get me the fuck out of here?”
I swallowed down something slimy. “Did Connor do this to you?”
He broke out into a sob. “He knocked me out. I think he wants me to narrate for him. Which isn't happening, by the way. The lunatic is trying to steal my fucking voice!”
With shaky hands, I grabbed the icy handle, which turned, to my surprise.
“The door isn't locked,” I said. “Did he tie you up?”
The boy groaned. “Obviously! I can't fucking move!"
Opening the doors, I stopped, paralysed, and JJ’s voice faltered, breaking into a sob.
The contrast of red and white made my head spin.
”Can you… take off my blindfold? I'm… fuck, I'm terrified of the dark, man.”
I found my voice, stepping directly into warm red. It pooled between my toes.
“Sure.” I said.
I’ve been talking to a therapist about my reaction to what I found in my roommate's bathroom.
She says it was my mind trying to both deny and deal with trauma, but I'm pretty sure I had lost my fucking mind.
“I love your show.” I hummed, pulling out my phone and dialling 911. "You're a talented narrator."
9123.
9223.
912.
9013.
It took me five tries, and I think I threw up all over myself.
The toilet bowl was splattered with blood.
“I… thanks?” The boy let out a spluttered laugh.
I was aware of the ice cold steel of my phone pressed to my ear.
“You're welcome.”
”You've found me.” JJ whispered, when my gaze found the trash can overflowing with deep red, fleshy mounds of pink and white.
I wasn't staring at JJ Savrin.
“I... have.”
I was looking at his remnants.
Stuffed into the toilet bowl, a single lump of pink, wires protruding from it.
The thing pulsed, JJ Savrin’s cry collapsing into a robotic drone.
JJ’s voice didn't make sense.
It was alive. While he wasn't.
“So, why… why can't I see you?” His voice stuttered. "I can't see anything."
When I couldn't physically reply, he started to cry.
I heard every wet, human sounding sob.
“Are you… still… there?” He asked me, over and over again.
I didn't reply.
But he kept going, and I could hear them getting progressively more hysterical.
When the police surrounded me, JJ spoke again. “What's your... name?”
The sheriff shook his head, but I couldn't stop myself.
“I'm Sadie.”
A pause, before, “Can you stay with me, Sadie?”
I nodded, on my knees, struggling to breathe.
“Yeah.” I said. “I'm here, JJ.”
The rest is a blur.
It still is a blur, and this was almost a year ago.
Whatever was left of the narrator was disposed of. I wasn't even fully conscious, sitting in the back of an ambulance, my roommate's laptop squeezed to my chest.
The cops said it was evidence, but I didn't want to give it to them.
Due to the horrific nature of JJ Savrin’s murder, the full details were never released, and his full name was covered up. Nick and Elena have dumped the show, and the show itself has been wiped from existence. I heard Nick tried to kill himself a month ago.
Elena published a blog exposing what really happened to JJ, warning Youtube narrators.
It was deleted, of course, but she wasn't wrong.
I don't think people will go to extremes like my roommate, but human voices are precious.
Connor was taken away in cuffs, and he genuinely doesn't understand what he's done wrong. I think my roommate was so obsessed with views and comments, he would do anything to get them. And I was the one who pointed him to his victim.
The last thing he said to me was, “What? You told me to use a human voice!”
Crazy bastard.
In a way, though, this was my fault. And I'll live with this shit for the rest of my life.
I still have Connor’s laptop, and JJ is still with me.
At least, I like to think he is.
submitted by Trash_Tia to nosleep [link] [comments]
JJ Savrin, Nicholas Mayflower, and Elena Fisher.
I was a big fan of their horror narrations.
Sorry, I mistakened the title. Nosleep posts are true, though a lot of narrators read them out as if they are stories.
“Yoooo, and welcome to another episode of The Sleepaway Show! I'm your host, JJ Savrin! I'm here with Nick and Elena, and we’ve got a crazy story for you! It's by Reddit user Broken-but-not-bent, and it's called Metal Baby. Now, this story is horror, but it's got a liiiitle bit of M. Night mixed in. It's one of my faves–”
“Hey!”
I flinched. It was too early for jump scares.
My ‘YouTuber’ roommate was in front of me, waving his arms. I pulled out an earphone, already anticipating the kind of conversation we were going to have.
The second he opened his mouth, I was ready for the complaining.
“I got a bad comment.” Connor grumbled, slumping down in front of me. “This one is threatening to strike my channel. They're relentless.”
He waved his phone with a scoff. “Shouldn't authors be happy they're being recognised?”
I forced a smile, resting my chin on my fist. “Do you think… maybe it's because you're using their stories without asking?” I said. “I mean, you did get a whole channel taken down–”
Connor rolled his eyes. “Nah. They're public domain, so I can use them if I want.” He pulled out a pack of chips, stuffing a handful in his mouth. “Also, the AI voice sounds human.” He prodded his phone. “See? Listen.”
When he started the video, a human-ish voice began the story, immediately pronouncing a typo.
Connor was right. It did sound human, but it wasn't human enough. It was too perfect, with the exact same drone-ey tone. Admittedly, AI had gotten better from text to speech to an almost human voice. But it wasn't the real thing.
Connor studied me with slightly manic eyes.
“Well? What do you think?”.
“It's good,” I said. “But why don't you read them? You have a good enough voice.”
My roommate shrugged. “I dunno. It's easier to just run it through an AI. I just copy and paste the story, and it's done.”
I regarded him with the look.
“Uh-huh.”
I corked one headphone back in, bleeding back into my favourite show.
JJ was in the middle of a monologue, his raspy voice immediately embodying the character. I could hear every piece of his voice, every breath, every time he messed up and choked on a laugh, or quietly correcting himself. But he was human. His mistakes, his awkward breathing and the cheap microphone letting in outside ambience. Even his stuttering, the way he mispronounced words and fucked up accents. All of it was painfully and beautifully human.
Metal Baby was a great story, and it ended with some of the best voice acting I had heard from The Sleepaway Show. Elena and Nick sounded insane, and JJ made the perfect unreliable narrator.
Especially for the Shutter Island type twist.
When it was over, Elena thanking their college patrons, I tugged out an earphone and settled my roommate with a smile.
Connor was glaring at his phone. When he caught my eye, he scowled. “What? Why are you looking at me like that?”
Instead of answering him, I held up my phone, displaying the show. “Why not try finding a real human voice?” I said.
“You have cash from your job, right? Dump the robot-sounding AI, and pay a voice actor.”
I watched my roommate's expression crumple.
“Fuck.” he tapped his phone, a smile curving on his lips.
“You really think it'll work?”
“Well, yeah. The Dark Somnium. Mr Creeps. Lighthouse Horror. What do they all have in common?”
Connor’s lip twitched. “Millions of subscribers? Listeners who are obsessed with rule -based stories?”
“Human voices.” I said. “AI channels do exist with stupid amounts of followers, but they don't get nearly enough traction.”
Connor hummed. “So, what I need is a human voice?”
“Bingo.”
When I got home that night, I got a text from Connor.
Don't come into my bathroom! Narration in progress.
Bathroom ambience, I thought.
Sure.
The next day, though, to my surprise, The Sleepaway Show wasn't broadcast. On the college website, the page was offline.
Elena published a post a few hours later explaining that the three of them were still hungover from the night before, so there would be no show. I was bummed.
I was looking forward to JJ’s narration of a new cosmic horror story they were teasing.
Days went by, and still no show.
Elena had stopped posting updates.
Her last one simply said: PLEASE stop asking! We’re sick lol. No show this week.
That was weird. Especially when the three had managed to do a show suffering with food poisoning from bad shellfish.
I was checking for updates when I got home around 5pm.
No sign of Connor.
His laptop was open in his room.
He was editing.
I couldn't help it, risking a peek at his latest narration. I always get curious about the stories he chooses. Connor is a big fan of psychological horror.
Getting comfy in his chair, and taking an awkward sip from his lukewarm coffee, I pressed play on the edit. I'm not sure what it was that twisted my gut.
The coffee tasted kind of weird, and it was too hot in his room.
But, as I fast forwarded the edit, I realized I was listening to a familiar voice. I wasn't expecting JJ’s Savrin’s tone to bleed from the speakers.
So soon, too. It's not like I was doubting that he'd say yes to narrating, but he'd been sick, right? I twisted around, studying my roommate's room for recording equipment. Nothing.
Just a broken microphone on his floor, the one I accidentally stood on.
JJ’s narration sounded normal, at first.
But further into it, I began to notice something was wrong with it. The charm was gone, his smooth, velvet murmur had been airbrushed, perfected into a horrifying, AI-like robotic drone. There were zero mistakes, or breaths, or laughter.
"It was late when I left the restaurant.”
JJ’s voice was too perfect, skipping over the voice of the character, the atmosphere he put into his tone. “I was locking the door when I noticed something was behind me.”
The period at the end of the sentence was too noticeable.
Not natural.
“Oh no.” JJ continued in that same robotic drawl. “Did a customer want to kill me?”
The AI voice faltered, and this time, I did hear a gasp.
It sounded like pain.
Running through the edit, there were still chunks of recording, untouched.
“I… ice… cream…I…”
The sudden sharp inhalation of breath exploding from the speakers sent ice sliding down my spine. It was too human. I could see it in the levels, the way they hit red.
“It's so… dark. I can't see... anything."
The voice splintered into a cry, and this time, in the footage my roommate was trying to remove, to cut away, JJ did sound human. His shaky breaths shuddered through the speakers.
“Please, can someone help me? I don't know where I–” The edit skipped, bleeding back into the story. I was already backing away from Connor’s laptop, my heart in my throat.
I remembered stabbing the off switch on the laptop, but the voice continued, spluttering and crackling.
This time it was coming from behind me.
The bathroom.
“Is… someone there? I'm locked in the bathroom, man. I want to go home.”
JJ Savrin.
Was in our house.
Worse, my psycho roommate has kidnapped him, attempting to steal his voice.
When I stepped back, his cry was louder.
“Fuck! Is someone there? Answer me!"
“JJ?” I found myself in a daze, walking towards my roommate's bathroom.
“What... did he do to you?”
The guy let out a strangled cry. “Your psycho friend locked me in the bathroom! I think I'm blindfolded. I…I can't see anything, “ he paused, “Can you get me the fuck out of here?”
I swallowed down something slimy. “Did Connor do this to you?”
He broke out into a sob. “He knocked me out. I think he wants me to narrate for him. Which isn't happening, by the way. The lunatic is trying to steal my fucking voice!”
With shaky hands, I grabbed the icy handle, which turned, to my surprise.
“The door isn't locked,” I said. “Did he tie you up?”
The boy groaned. “Obviously! I can't fucking move!"
Opening the doors, I stopped, paralysed, and JJ’s voice faltered, breaking into a sob.
The contrast of red and white made my head spin.
”Can you… take off my blindfold? I'm… fuck, I'm terrified of the dark, man.”
I found my voice, stepping directly into warm red. It pooled between my toes.
“Sure.” I said.
I’ve been talking to a therapist about my reaction to what I found in my roommate's bathroom.
She says it was my mind trying to both deny and deal with trauma, but I'm pretty sure I had lost my fucking mind.
“I love your show.” I hummed, pulling out my phone and dialling 911. "You're a talented narrator."
9123.
9223.
912.
9013.
It took me five tries, and I think I threw up all over myself.
The toilet bowl was splattered with blood.
“I… thanks?” The boy let out a spluttered laugh.
I was aware of the ice cold steel of my phone pressed to my ear.
“You're welcome.”
”You've found me.” JJ whispered, when my gaze found the trash can overflowing with deep red, fleshy mounds of pink and white.
I wasn't staring at JJ Savrin.
“I... have.”
I was looking at his remnants.
Stuffed into the toilet bowl, a single lump of pink, wires protruding from it.
The thing pulsed, JJ Savrin’s cry collapsing into a robotic drone.
JJ’s voice didn't make sense.
It was alive. While he wasn't.
“So, why… why can't I see you?” His voice stuttered. "I can't see anything."
When I couldn't physically reply, he started to cry.
I heard every wet, human sounding sob.
“Are you… still… there?” He asked me, over and over again.
I didn't reply.
But he kept going, and I could hear them getting progressively more hysterical.
When the police surrounded me, JJ spoke again. “What's your... name?”
The sheriff shook his head, but I couldn't stop myself.
“I'm Sadie.”
A pause, before, “Can you stay with me, Sadie?”
I nodded, on my knees, struggling to breathe.
“Yeah.” I said. “I'm here, JJ.”
The rest is a blur.
It still is a blur, and this was almost a year ago.
Whatever was left of the narrator was disposed of. I wasn't even fully conscious, sitting in the back of an ambulance, my roommate's laptop squeezed to my chest.
The cops said it was evidence, but I didn't want to give it to them.
Due to the horrific nature of JJ Savrin’s murder, the full details were never released, and his full name was covered up. Nick and Elena have dumped the show, and the show itself has been wiped from existence. I heard Nick tried to kill himself a month ago.
Elena published a blog exposing what really happened to JJ, warning Youtube narrators.
It was deleted, of course, but she wasn't wrong.
I don't think people will go to extremes like my roommate, but human voices are precious.
Connor was taken away in cuffs, and he genuinely doesn't understand what he's done wrong. I think my roommate was so obsessed with views and comments, he would do anything to get them. And I was the one who pointed him to his victim.
The last thing he said to me was, “What? You told me to use a human voice!”
Crazy bastard.
In a way, though, this was my fault. And I'll live with this shit for the rest of my life.
I still have Connor’s laptop, and JJ is still with me.
At least, I like to think he is.
2024.05.21 06:47 Xtianus21 I'm Sorry But Saying Your Voice Sounds Like Mine Is Not A Case For Cause
I love scarlett johansen. She's by far one of my favorite actors. Nevertheless, I don't see her ;p having a case against open AI.
What I think this is about is more the notion that artists want to protect themselves against AI period. That's probably more justifiable. However, in my opinion she may do more harm than good.
How do you prosecute in her favor with something so unclear to the line.
Probably 100 people could come out and say their voice sound like a voice similar to ScarJo.
Are they less entitled because they're not famous?
It barely sounds like ScarJo at that. Yes it's similar but it's not a pure clone.
Also, as a side note how many times can Microsoft keep screwing up the best voice of all which is cortana.
Please openai just use cortana and the whole world would love you for it. If there's a superhuman ai that will lead from a sure AI death we need it to be Cortana /s
No seriously, I just want cortana.
But again, any AI voice is going to sound like someone. I don't feel fake makes your voice better than anyone else's.
Now, for music or movies use of another persons voice would be very wrong and I wouldn't agree with that. But if we have Humonoids one of the obvious features is going to be my favorite celebrates voice.
Like Madden, they're going to get a licensing deal and just do it.
If openai charged me extra money to use a more authentic ScarJo voice and I wanted it id pay for it regarding consumer use only. Not commercial or any other usage rights. Yea, I'd pay for that.
I feel like she's complaining about nothing and should've taken the deal.
Like black widow and marvel she's probably going to lose one too.
submitted by Xtianus21 to OpenAI [link] [comments]
What I think this is about is more the notion that artists want to protect themselves against AI period. That's probably more justifiable. However, in my opinion she may do more harm than good.
How do you prosecute in her favor with something so unclear to the line.
Probably 100 people could come out and say their voice sound like a voice similar to ScarJo.
Are they less entitled because they're not famous?
It barely sounds like ScarJo at that. Yes it's similar but it's not a pure clone.
Also, as a side note how many times can Microsoft keep screwing up the best voice of all which is cortana.
Please openai just use cortana and the whole world would love you for it. If there's a superhuman ai that will lead from a sure AI death we need it to be Cortana /s
No seriously, I just want cortana.
But again, any AI voice is going to sound like someone. I don't feel fake makes your voice better than anyone else's.
Now, for music or movies use of another persons voice would be very wrong and I wouldn't agree with that. But if we have Humonoids one of the obvious features is going to be my favorite celebrates voice.
Like Madden, they're going to get a licensing deal and just do it.
If openai charged me extra money to use a more authentic ScarJo voice and I wanted it id pay for it regarding consumer use only. Not commercial or any other usage rights. Yea, I'd pay for that.
I feel like she's complaining about nothing and should've taken the deal.
Like black widow and marvel she's probably going to lose one too.
2024.05.21 05:16 FerdinandBowie Is there an evolution to help you see what your skill set is?
I've been training as an actor forever bc imposter syndrome. Ive done some print and commercial and some student films.
Ive had people say "you're good at comedy and drama" but i never get booked for either consistently.
Is that normal? Is my market not good for me? I rarely find anything i like doing tbw.
Am i denying myself or ...?
What can i do?
submitted by FerdinandBowie to acting [link] [comments]
Ive had people say "you're good at comedy and drama" but i never get booked for either consistently.
Is that normal? Is my market not good for me? I rarely find anything i like doing tbw.
Am i denying myself or ...?
What can i do?
2024.05.21 02:42 PuzzleheadedPea6980 DIY potting aoil?
My dad has a commercial building. He puts dyed wood chips in the flower beds as a mulch. Every few years he replaces it with new stuff. Last time he replaced it, he kept the old stuff in a big pile. It's been there several years and he's ready to replace again, but doesn't have anywhere to put the current stuff. I said I'd take the old stuff. It's pretty broken down now and I suspect it would make great potting soil. There is a lot, like 15 compressed yards or more. What do I add to it to make it into potting soil, or do I leave it as is? I'll be down there next weekend with my skid loader and dump trailer, so I need to know if it's worth hauling 90 miles to my place or not.
submitted by PuzzleheadedPea6980 to gardening [link] [comments]
2024.05.20 22:20 healthmedicinet Health Daily News May 19 2024
DAY: May 19 2024
submitted by healthmedicinet to u/healthmedicinet [link] [comments]
- 5-19-2024 ILLNESS TOOK AWAY HER VOICE. AI CREATED A REPLICA SHE CARRIES IN HER PHONE Alexis Bogan, whose speech was impaired by a brain tumor, uses an AI powered smartphone app to create a audible drink order at a Starbucks drive-thru on Monday, April 29, 2024, in Lincoln, R.I. The app converts her typed entries into a verbal message created using her original voice. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne The voice Alexis “Lexi” Bogan had before last summer was exuberant. She loved to belt out Taylor Swift and Zach Bryan ballads in the car. She laughed all the time—even while corralling misbehaving preschoolers or debating politics
- 5-19-2024 SMART CONTACT LENSES LEAD THE WAY FOR HUMAN-MACHINE INTERACTION Scientists have developed eye-tracking smart content lenses based on radio frequency tags that can be used for various applications, including health care and augmented reality (AR). The lenses are biocompatible and imperceptible, requiring no battery or conventional silicon chips. Smart contact lenses that can keep track of various health factors and can be used for human-machine interaction (HMI) are a relatively new technology.
- 5-19-2024 INTEL EXEC ON BRINGING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE INTO THE WORKPLACE Artificial intelligence is just about everywhere you look these days—including the workplace. That means training staff about the technology and using it responsibly is critical. It’s a tall order, especially as the commercialization of generative AI continues its rapid growth. Now some tech players have kickstarted initiatives in hopes of meeting that need. Christy Pambianchi, chief people officer at Intel, recently spoke with The Associated Press about how the semiconductor chip maker is expanding AI education programming beyond the company’s walls—as well as best practices around
- 5-19-2024 JUST BELIEVING THAT AN AI IS HELPING BOOSTS YOUR PERFORMANCE, STUDY FINDS Sometimes it seems like an AI is helping, but the benefit is actually a placebo effect—people performing better simply because they expect to be doing so—according to new research from Aalto University. The study also shows how difficult it is to shake people’s trust in the capabilities of
- 5-19-2024 FEMALE HEALTH APPS MISUSE HIGHLY SENSITIVE DATA, STUDY FINDS Apps designed for female health monitoring are exposing users to unnecessary privacy and safety risks through their poor data handling practices, according to new research from King’s College London and University College London (UCL). In the most extensive evaluation of the privacy practices of female health apps to date, researchers found apps that handle medical and fertility data are coercing users into entering sensitive information that could put them at risk.
- 5-19-2024 OPENAI GIVES CHATGPT NEW POWERS TO SEE, HEAR OpenAI and Microsoft are in a heated rivalry with Google to be generative AI’s major player, but Facebook-owner Meta and upstart Anthropic are also making big moves to compete. OpenAI on Monday released a higher performing and even more human-like version of the artificial intelligence technology that underpins its popular generative tool ChatGPT, making it free to all users. The update to OpenAI’s flagship product landed a day before Google is expected to make its own announcements about Gemini, the search engine giant’s own AI tool that competes with ChatGPT
- 5-19-2024 CHATBOTS TELL PEOPLE WHAT THEY WANT TO HEAR, RESEARCHERS FIND Chatbots share limited information, reinforce ideologies, and, as a result, can lead to more polarized thinking when it comes to controversial issues, according to new Johns Hopkins University–led research. The study challenges perceptions that chatbots are impartial and provides insight into how using conversational search systems could widen the public divide on hot-button issues and leave people vulnerable to manipulation. “Because people are reading a summary paragraph generated by AI, they think they’re getting unbiased, fact-based answers,”
- 5-19-2024 STUDENTS, ACTIVISTS, ENTERTAINERS: MINECRAFT’S GLOBAL APPEAL Since the first version of Minecraft was released to the public 15 years ago, the block-based world-building game has become a global phenomenon. Since the first version of Minecraft was released to the public 15 years ago, the block-based world-building game has become a global phenomenon. Players of all ages and backgrounds have used the game for everything from educational projects and architecture to building communities and creating artwork. With more than 300 million copies sold, it is the best-selling video game of all time.
- 5-19-2024 SWISS NURSERY LETS ROBOT DO THE TALKING Swiss children in a Lausanne creche have some fun with their new robot friend, Nao. Sat in a circle on the nursery floor, a group of Swiss three-year-olds ask a robot called Nao questions about giraffes and broccoli. By the time these children become adults, interacting with robots may well be as commonplace as using a smartphone, experts believe. So one Lausanne creche has decided to give them a head start.
- 5-19-2024 EU TO ENCOURAGE INFLUENCERS TO HAVE ‘POSITIVE’ IMPACT Younger audiences increasingly get their information from influencers as they turn away from traditional media. The EU announced steps Tuesday to encourage influencers to post content that has a “positive” impact on society, as concerns rise over disinformation in a fragmented information landscape. With online creators increasingly the preferred source of news and opinions for younger audiences in the European Union, Brussels said they needed to be helped to use their role wisely. Ministers from EU countries responsible for culture, audiovisual and media issues approved a series of steps
- 5-19-2024 THE METAVERSE COULD CHANGE OUR RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCES, AND CREATE NEW ONES New technologies have always informed and changed our religious experiences. Listening to early radio broadcasts in the 1880s was experienced by many as religious because radio voices seemed to come from some other dimension. Séances became wildly popular at the time because it was thought by some that radio had opened a door to the spirit world. Today, religion is experiencing new transformations. The information-rich, image-laden character of the internet can provide new ways to understand and explain religious activity.
- 5-19-2024RESEARCH SHEDS LIGHT ON THE WEB OF TRUST, PRIVACY AND SAFETY FACTORS SHAPING USERS’ EXPERIENCES ON FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE Love it or hate it, Facebook Marketplace is the largest online resale site today with more than one billion monthly users.
- 5-19-2024RESEARCH SHEDS LIGHT ON THE WEB OF TRUST, PRIVACY AND SAFETY FACTORS SHAPING USERS’ EXPERIENCES ON FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE Google on Tuesday rolled out a retooled search engine that will frequently favor responses crafted by artificial intelligence over website links, a shift promising to quicken the quest for information while also potentially disrupting the flow of money-making internet traffic. The makeover announced at Google’s annual developers conference will begin this week in the U.S. when hundreds of millions of people will start to periodically see conversational summaries
- 5-19-2024 NEW STRATEGIC DESIGN APPROACH FOCUSES ON TURNING AI MISTAKES INTO USER BENEFITS More and more often, automated lending systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI) reject qualified loan applicants without explanation. Even worse, they leave rejected applicants with no recourse. People can have similar experiences when applying for jobs or petitioning their health insurance providers. While AI tools determine the fate of people in difficult situations daily, Upol Ehsan says more thought should be given to challenging these decisions or working around them. Ehsan, a Georgia Tech explainable AI (XAI) researcher, says many rejection cases are not the applicant’s fault.
- 5-19-2024 MANAGING SCREEN TIME BY MAKING PHONES SLIGHTLY MORE ANNOYING TO USE Existing apps for managing screen time can abruptly lock users out of their phone. If users were in the middle of an important task, they could scramble to skip the time limit, opening themselves up to spend more time on their phone than originally intended. InteractOut’s interventions are more gradual and allow users to decide when to put down their phones while also encouraging them to think harder about their smartphone use.
- 5-19-2024 DIGITAL TWIN HELPS OPTIMIZE MANUFACTURING SPEED WHILE SATISFYING QUALITY CONSTRAINTS Feedrate optimization using an uncertainty-aware digital twin demonstrates significant cycle time reductions of up to 38% in a CNC machine tool while staying close to the error tolerances compared to the existing methods. A new method uses a digital twin to optimize manufacturing machine speed—known as feed rate—while adhering to quality constraints,
- 5-19-2024 THE INCREASING DIFFICULTY OF DETECTING AI- VERSUS HUMAN-GENERATED TEXT Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools are used to create text, images and videos, impacting the way society consumes and produces online content. As that technology continues to evolve, it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between AI-generated and human-generated content. Determining the integrity of online information—particularly text—is the current research focus in the Penn State Information Knowledge and wEb (PIKE) Lab, led by Dongwon Lee, professor in the College of Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State. In a discussion with Penn State News, Lee spoke about the
- 5-19-2024 RESEARCH TEAM WORKS TO IMPROVE AI-BASED DECISION-MAKING TOOLS FOR PUBLIC SERVICES More and more public services—such as affordable housing, public school matching and child welfare—are relying on algorithms to make decisions and allocate resources. So far, much of the work that has gone into designing these systems has focused on workers’ experiences using them or communities’ perceptions of them. But what about the actual impact of these programs have on people, especially when the decisions the systems make lead to denial of services? Can you design algorithms to help people make sense of and contest decisions that significantly impact them?
- 5-19-2024 CINEMATIC TOOLS CAN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE USER EXPERIENCE IN VIRTUAL REALITY ENVIRONMENTS Without teleportation, many users would be unable to use virtual reality due to motion sickness. Unfortunately, teleportation can cause users to miss important aspects of their surroundings. Credit: Alan Medlar Cinematography techniques can significantly increase user engagement with virtual environments and, in particular, the aesthetic appeal of what users see in virtual reality.
- 5-19-2024 HUMAN DIFFERENCES IN JUDGMENT LEAD TO PROBLEMS FOR AIThe noise level observed in ComVE annotations when controlling the minimum (a) and maximum (b) allowable labels for each turker (we omit the residual in these two figures as, similar to what was observed earlier for TG-CSR, it was nearly coincidental with the level noise curve). We also report the statistics of statements categorized by the number of annotation labels under different cutoff methods used for screening participating annotators
- 5-19-2024 HUMAN DIFFERENCES IN JUDGMENT LEAD TO PROBLEMS FOR AI Innovation is rarely accidental. Behind every new invention and product, including the device you are using to read this story, is years of research, investment, and planning. Organizations that want to reach these milestones in the fastest and most efficient way possible use technology roadmaps.
- 5-19-2024 HUMAN DIFFERENCES IN JUDGMENT LEAD TO PROBLEMS FOR AI A team of researchers at Delft University of Technology has developed a drone that flies autonomously using neuromorphic image processing and control based on the workings of animal brains. Animal brains use less data and energy compared to current deep neural networks running on graphics processing units (GPUs).
- 5-19-2024 US SENATORS UNVEIL ‘ROADMAP’ TO AI LAWS Top US lawmakers on Wednesday said efforts to pass laws governing AI were entering a higher gear and hoped to pump $32 billion into the sector to help assure US dominance. US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said bipartisan legislators had agreed on a policy roadmap and had tasked key senate committees to draft specific proposals on regulating AI. The US is home to the biggest AI companies in the world and has trailed the EU and other regions on coming up with rules to rein in the sector.
- 5-19-2024 US SENATORS UNVEIL ‘ROADMAP’ TO AI LAWS Google chief executive Sundar Pichai says the AI revamp of its online search engine will soon spread to countries other than the United States. Google’s use of artificial intelligence to sum up answers to search queries has publishers wondering if traffic to their websites will wither. The internet titan announced Tuesday it is introducing AI-generated answers to online queries in the United States, in one of the biggest changes to its world-leading search engine in 25 years.
- 5-19-2024 CONSUMER GROUPS ACCUSE TEMU OF MANIPULATING ONLINE SHOPPERS Chinese shopping app Temu has on average around 75 million monthly active users in the EU. European consumer groups on Thursday accused Chinese shopping app Temu of using “manipulative techniques” to make users spend more and other violations of a landmark EU tech law. One of the fastest-growing apps, Temu only entered the EU market in April 2023 and says it has on average around 75 million monthly active users in the 27-country bloc. Europe’s BEUC umbrella consumer rights group filed a complaint with the European Commission while 17 member
- 5-19-2024 PARENTS UNDERESTIMATE THE PRIVACY RISKS KIDS FACE IN VIRTUAL REALITY Nearly two thirds of parents of children aged 5–10 don’t understand the metaverse, according to the Institution of Engineering and Technology. Credit: Kampus Production/Pexels/public domain Virtual reality lets kids play 3D games with their friends as avatars, go back in time, even journey to outer space, all without leaving their living rooms. But while children are immersed in the metaverse, they also face privacy risks that their parents might not recognize
- 5-19-2024 MODEL DISGORGEMENT—THE KEY TO FIXING AI BIAS AND COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT? By now, the challenges posed by generative AI are no secret. Models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude and Meta’s Llama have been known to “hallucinate,” inventing potentially misleading responses, as well as divulge sensitive information, like copyrighted materials.
- 5-19-2024 CAN WE RID ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE OF BIAS? AI giants face a challenge of making artficial intelligence models reflect the world’s diversity without being overly politically correct. Artificial intelligence built on mountains of potentially biased information has created a real risk of automating discrimination, but is there any way to re-educate the machines? The question for some is extremely urgent. In this ChatGPT era, AI will generate more and more decisions for health care providers, bank lenders or lawyers, using whatever was scoured from the internet as source material.
- 5-19-2024 CHATGPT IS NOW BETTER THAN EVER AT FAKING HUMAN EMOTION AND BEHAVIOR OpenAI executive Mira Murati launching GPT-4o. Credit: OpenAI Earlier this week OpenAI launched GPT-4o (“o” for “omni”), a new version of the artificial intelligence (AI) system powering the popular ChatGPT chatbot. GPT-4o is promoted as a step towards more natural engagement with AI. According to the demonstration video, it can have voice conversations with users in near real-time, exhibiting human-like personality and behavior. This emphasis on personality is likely to be a point of contention. In OpenAI’s demos, GPT-4o sounds friendly, empathetic and engaging. It tells “spontaneous” jokes, giggles, flirts
- 5-19-2024 MOST PEOPLE STILL THINK BARRISTERS NEED TO SOUND POSH, RESEARCH SHOWS—BUT ACCENT DISCRIMINATION SERVES NO ONE In the UK legal system, a barrister’s job is to present formalized legal arguments in court and at tribunals. Training to become one, therefore, involves considerable focus on oral skills. It is considered important that barristers have the ability to speak “eloquently.” This risks people thinking there is a “correct” way of speaking in order to be successful in this career. Accents, of course, play an important role here. Accent-based bias discriminates against speakers with non-standard accents—people whose speech differs from Received Pronunciation (RP).
- 5-19-2024 A MINUTE’S SILENCE IS FINE BUT WHEN IT COMES TO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, BEING QUIET ISN’T ENOUGH Sport has a role to play in creating a culture of respect, yet women in sport are often seen as “less than” on almost every measure: salaries, sponsorship, broadcasting, leadership, access, media, coaching, officiating, uniforms and support. Research shows 3 out of 4 Australian men are gender equality supporters, but very few (17%) prioritize taking any action. As Australia grapples with a “national crisis” of violence against women, what can men in sport do to help?
- 5-19-2024 ARE CANADIANS TOO POOR TO BREAK UP? Why did Al and Peg Bundy from the sitcom Married… with Children never get divorced? After all, they were rarely happy and constantly arguing. Maybe they felt they were the best they could do for each other—a middle-aged homely shoe salesman and a stay-at-home mom with two kids. They cared for each other, but they also hated each other deeply. And neither ever cheated, despite having the opportunity. However, what if the Bundys lived in Canada today?
- 5-19-2024 REPORT LOOKS AT ‘POVERTY STIGMA’ THROUGH A NEW LENS TO STAMP IT OUT OF SOCIETY Stigma is a glue that holds poverty, inequality and economic insecurity in place enabling and exacerbating inequalities of wealth, health and opportunity, says a new report. Poverty stigma is a “wicked social problem,” highly complex, difficult to define and challenging to solve
- 5-19-2024 HOW CRAFT-BASED FIRMS PROJECT AUTHENTICITY THROUGH CREDIBLY AND VISIBLY COMMUNICATING THEIR IDENTITY Consumers are drawn to authenticity when it comes to craft-based firms, and a study looked at how managers in identity-driven markets are challenged to maintain their authenticity as their company’s scale of operations expands. In such craft industries, the authors note, overt claims of authenticity by producers are ineffective.
- 5-19-2024 PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH OFFERS STRATEGIES FOR HEALTHY POLITICAL DISCUSSIONS AMONG PEOPLE WITH OPPOSING VIEWS Civilized political debates may seem increasingly out of reach as democracies across the world face rising polarization, but people still want to discuss issues with people they disagree with—especially those who present themselves as balanced and willing to seek solutions that work for everyone or open to learning new information, according to two studies published by the American Psychological Association.
- 5-19-2024 MORE THAN HALF OF AMERICANS GIVE TO CHARITY AT CHECKOUT, SURVEY SHOWS 53% of Americans give to charity at checkout, and young and diverse people tend to do it more often, according to new research from Binghamton University, State University of New York. Credit: Binghamton University, State University of New York Fifty-three percent of Americans give impulsively to charities at the checkout, and certain demographics tend to give more, according to a new survey conducted by faculty at Binghamton University,
2024.05.20 20:36 Alarming_Heart_2398 Am I Crazy On Thinking Of Catering My Own Wedding?
So I'm having a wedding on 32 people in total. We're doing a appetizer, dessert and drink table, and a family-style dinner. If I hire a bartender and servers, is it possible to make the dinner and do bakery/grocery store catering for the appetizers/desserts.
Appetizers:
Fruit Salad, Cubed Cheese, Naan Chips w/ Hummus, Assorted Olives & Pickles
Main:
Minestrone & Split Pea Soup (ppl rsvp their choice ahead of time), Mini Quiche & Tourtiere Tarts, Purple & Carot Coleslaw, German Potato Salad, Dinner Rolls & Individual Margarine Packets
Desserts:
Donut Cake, Assorted Mini Dessert Squares/Cheese Cakes, Chocolate & Yogurt Covered Pretzels, Rice Pudding
The venue I'm looking to book with allows us to bring our own food, and has a commercial grade kitchen onsite for heating/refrigeration. It would just be the 2 of us (although i'm sure a few friends and family members will be willing to help, just don't want to fully bank on it in case people flake), but the tarts could be made well in advanced and frozen (kept in my future MIL's deep freezer in her basement), same with the soup and be canned. Would purchase the naans, pickles, and cube up the cheese and vacuum seal a week in advance. Probably prepare the coleslaw, potato salad and rice pudding 2 or 3 days in advance. Would be picking up the rest the night before/morning of from the grocery store/bakery (2 places so not too much running around) and immediately storing in our venue's walk-in refrigerator. We're hiring the venue's staff, who would reheat the soup and quiches/tourtieres, plate everything and serve. Does this make sense, or am I just crazy?
submitted by Alarming_Heart_2398 to Weddingsunder10k [link] [comments]
Appetizers:
Fruit Salad, Cubed Cheese, Naan Chips w/ Hummus, Assorted Olives & Pickles
Main:
Minestrone & Split Pea Soup (ppl rsvp their choice ahead of time), Mini Quiche & Tourtiere Tarts, Purple & Carot Coleslaw, German Potato Salad, Dinner Rolls & Individual Margarine Packets
Desserts:
Donut Cake, Assorted Mini Dessert Squares/Cheese Cakes, Chocolate & Yogurt Covered Pretzels, Rice Pudding
The venue I'm looking to book with allows us to bring our own food, and has a commercial grade kitchen onsite for heating/refrigeration. It would just be the 2 of us (although i'm sure a few friends and family members will be willing to help, just don't want to fully bank on it in case people flake), but the tarts could be made well in advanced and frozen (kept in my future MIL's deep freezer in her basement), same with the soup and be canned. Would purchase the naans, pickles, and cube up the cheese and vacuum seal a week in advance. Probably prepare the coleslaw, potato salad and rice pudding 2 or 3 days in advance. Would be picking up the rest the night before/morning of from the grocery store/bakery (2 places so not too much running around) and immediately storing in our venue's walk-in refrigerator. We're hiring the venue's staff, who would reheat the soup and quiches/tourtieres, plate everything and serve. Does this make sense, or am I just crazy?
2024.05.20 20:28 jayplayzonline Reusable bags went up?
 | Because of the long weekend, I had to run out quickly to the nofrills across my street right before it closed for last minute things I had forgotten. Silly me, also forgot a shopping bag. Didn’t the reusable bags cost $0.25? Now it’s $0.33? submitted by jayplayzonline to loblawsisoutofcontrol [link] [comments] I could be wrong, haven’t shopped there in so long. |
2024.05.20 20:08 seekaterun Cabana Bay Stay, 5 day park to park recap
My family and I just got back from our trip and I always see recaps so here's mine!
We booked a Cabana Bay pool view family suite package via Costco Travel and the price was a pretty great deal. I enjoyed working with Costco Travel immensely!
SUNDAY
We arrived to the resort via the SuperStar Shuttle around 2pm. The SuperStar Shuttle wasn't anything exciting. The tvs didn't turn on and the driver didn't speak to the passengers. I thought it'd be like Disney's shuttles but alas. No biggie, though.
We checked in, zero wait there. We were assigned a room immediately in the Continental building, first section closest to the lobby on the 6th floor. We went to our room and it was fine. It felt dated, but the beds were soft and it was clean. There was an outside speaker directly below by the doors to Bayliner that was blaring music and it was loud in our room. Since it was only on during pool hours we sucked it up. We were barely going to be in the room anyway.We tried to take a quick nap since we had been up since 6am, but the music couldn't be drowned out via white noise. Thankfully in the couch area once we pulled the divider shut, it was barely noticeable and our 4 year old napped fine. Once she was awake, we headed to the pool. The pool was fun. Not super crowded, and we loved the lazy river. For dinner we ate at Hard Rock in CityWalk. Then we went to bed around 9:30. I learned the pullout couch my daughter was on was AWFUL. It was like sitting on 2x4s. However my 4 year old just slept on the extra pillows from the 2nd queen bed and she was perfectly fine.
MONDAY
We headed to the parks! We are not rope droppers at Disney nor here. We had breakfast at Bayliner Diner (mediocre) and left. We started in Seuss Landing where we rode everything. The longest wait was for the sneetches high in the sky ride and it was only 15 mins. We watched the live book show which was super cute.
Next was Jurassic Park. My 4 year old is only 40" so no rides here, but she thoroughly enjoyed Camp Jurassic. We stopped by the Discovery Center where my kiddo was chosen to name a baby trex. This put her on cloud 9. The discovery center was a lot of fun in itself!
We ate at Thunder Falls Terrance. The chicken was dry as chickenly possible. The corn on the cob and milkshakes were good though.
Next was Hogsmeade...something I was excited about. We first did the wand experience and then afterwards my daughter became hot mess express. She was not interested in WWoHP (how dare she.) So we took a break and relaxed a bit in some AC. After about an hour, we walked over to Universal Studios. We did the Minions ride then Villain Con. Loved both of them! When we left the minions ride, gru and 2 of his daughters were at the exit for meet and greets. When we left villain con and turned the corner, Kevin and Stuart were out for meet and greets. Universal doesn't disappoint with seeing characters! Next was Jimmy Fallon. It was alright.
We walked some circles, then our last ride was Kang and Kodos. On our way out, we saw the Animal Actors show started in 5 minutes so we grabbed a seat. The show was a lot of fun! Back at Cabana Bay we grabbed dinner at the Bayliner. The food was nothing to wrote home about as usual.
TUESDAY
Volcano Bay Day! Breakfast again at Bayliner. Still not great food, but whatever. We walked the short path over to the water park. My daughter is essentially a fish so she had a blast here. We've been to a lot of water parks and this is definitely one of the best, if not thee best. I like the condensed layout. We couldn't ride anything due to our shortie, but we had a blast. There was a severe t-storm that hit about 2 hours after we arrived. We were going to try and make it back to Cabana Bay, but the torrential downpour hit as soon as we exited. We sheltered under the entrance and after the storm passed (45min) we re-entered to a fairly empty park. Ate lunch there, swam, had a good time. We stayed until close and loved every minute. My in laws arrived this evening and checked into their (very quiet) room I. 1 section down from us. I was shocked they couldn't hear the music we could. We ate dinner at NBC bar at CityWalk which was delicious. That night we got some loud neighbors next to us, banging around and talking loudly. Sounded like a group of 20-somethings. They finally quieted down around 11.
WEDNESDAY
Back to the parks, but my kiddo spent the morning with her grandparents. My husband and I got to enjoy the rides. I LOVED the Jurassic River Adventure ride. However the long neck dino at the beginning might want to see a chiropractor for his messed up neck. We popped on over to Hogsmeade and took the train to Diagon Alley. There we grabbed lunch at The Leaky Cauldron - fish and chips. Delicious! We walked around Diagon Alley taking in the sights. It was not busy at all. We watched Celestina Warbeck sing and then I spent too much money on merch. We rode Escape from Gringotts and it was my favorite ride of the trip. We met back up with my in laws and headed back to the resort around 4. I cannot remember what we ate for dinner this evening. We had some pretty intense noise issues from our neighbors. Woke us up twice and my kid once. I have no idea what they were doing but I utilized the text service to which they responded they'd send a security officer to the room. They finally quieted down around 12:30am.
THURSDAY
I was done with the neighbors by this point so walked up to the front desk to see if we could switch rooms. She said yep, just need to pack up. Back to the room i walked. We left our kid at the pool with her grandparents and we packed up. Finally at 11:30 we were in a new room. It was completely quiet. No pool music noise at all. It was the furtherst building in the continental next to the tower, poolside. After getting settled again, back to Volcano Bay. I think our kid was absolutely whooped at this point. We should have done a no parks, rest at the resort day. It ended up being a bust since she cried and fussed most of the time. We came back to Cabana Bay around 3pm. We cleaned up and headed to CityWalk. We had dinner reservations at Toothsome and it was fabulous. Everything we ate was delicious. We spent the evening walking around CityWalk and shopping. That night we had no noise issues in our room, but the pool was packed since Gradventure had started. Middle schoolers everywhere!
FRIDAY
Last parks day. Mid-breakfast at Bayliner. We began the morning in Universal Studios where we met everyone. Betty Boop, Scooby-Doo Gang, Marilyn Monroe, Marge and Bart, Beetelgeuse. We did ET which I ADORED. I didn't expect to enjoy it so much. Then we went to the Bourne Stuntacular and it was mind blowing. My mouth was open the whole time. It ended up being our favorite show. Again, didn't expect to love it since I haven't seen a Bourne movie in ages but it was extremely well done. Next up we rode Transformers... no one was a fan of that one. We ate lunch at the Irish pub (can't remember the name). Service was bad. I think she forgot we existed, but food was food. Upon leaving we saw the Blues Bros show and took some pictures with the stilt walkers in front of the mummy ride. We met up with my in laws upon their exit from the horror makeup show and they took our kiddo back to Cabana Bay to swim around 330. My husband and I went to Kings Cross, waited about an hour with hordes of middle schoolers, then in Hogsmeade we grabbed some butterbeer. We rode flight of the hippogriff and trekked over to Jurassic Park again. We rode Kong after a 25 minute technical delay. We both didn't think it was worth the wait. By then the park was closing so we headed out. We picked up our daughter and went to Aventura across the street. Dinner there was delicious! Back at Cabana Bay we swam then fell asleep.
SATURDAY
check out day. Check out was easy. We had a late afternoon flight delayed by 4 hours due to storms but made it home around 10pm. SuperStar Shuttle was great. Our driver told us jokes and they played Rise of Gru on the tv. I'm now in post vacation blues mode :(
SUMMARY
I felt it hard to not compare to Disney since we've done Disney a lot minus COVID years. Disney's resorts were all cleaner, food was all better quality, and the overall atmosphere is more magical. We've stayed at 4 Disney resorts from economy to luxury and all were stellar. I found Cabana Bay to be lower quality than Pop Century at Disney.
Cons about Cabana Bay: The grounds were not well kept...cigarette butts everywhere. The pool area was trashed. I hate to say it but it was like the caliber of people in the resort just didnt care about litter or cleanliness. I watched families toss their trash in the sand and leave wet, used towels on the ground (towel returns were readily available.) When the pool closed, there were families that were literally arguing with the lifeguards because their watch said they still had 3 minutes. 2 families just berating the lifeguards!? Awkward. The Bayliner constantly had drink machines down and the food was blegh except for a few things. The pool was great but for some reason had no small youth life vests? Super weird. That would seem like the size you most need. The noise problems with room #1 put a damper on our nights, but the new room was great so that was just poor luck initially. More than once we entered an elevator that reeked of weed. I smoke weed, but it was a turn off to be in a hot elevator with it. Sofa beds are bad. I saw other people talk about this, too. Buy a topper!
Pros about Cabana Bay: transportation. Literally never waited longer than 5-10 min. Bus drivers were all so nice. The gift shop employees were delightful and the arcade and bowling alley were clean and an added bonus. The milkshakes from the malt shop were AMAZING!! The main pool was large and the slide and splash pad was great. Check in and ticket pick up was a breeze. The middle schoolers packed the resort beginning on Thursday, but the chaperones kept them in check so we were never bothered.
Final note... Going from CB to Aventura and Sapphire Falls across the street was like daylight and dark. Those 2 resorts were quiet and felt way more like Disney's moderate or luxury resorts: clean, peaceful, modern. I'd definitely stay in one of those next time.
submitted by seekaterun to UniversalOrlando [link] [comments]
We booked a Cabana Bay pool view family suite package via Costco Travel and the price was a pretty great deal. I enjoyed working with Costco Travel immensely!
SUNDAY
We arrived to the resort via the SuperStar Shuttle around 2pm. The SuperStar Shuttle wasn't anything exciting. The tvs didn't turn on and the driver didn't speak to the passengers. I thought it'd be like Disney's shuttles but alas. No biggie, though.
We checked in, zero wait there. We were assigned a room immediately in the Continental building, first section closest to the lobby on the 6th floor. We went to our room and it was fine. It felt dated, but the beds were soft and it was clean. There was an outside speaker directly below by the doors to Bayliner that was blaring music and it was loud in our room. Since it was only on during pool hours we sucked it up. We were barely going to be in the room anyway.We tried to take a quick nap since we had been up since 6am, but the music couldn't be drowned out via white noise. Thankfully in the couch area once we pulled the divider shut, it was barely noticeable and our 4 year old napped fine. Once she was awake, we headed to the pool. The pool was fun. Not super crowded, and we loved the lazy river. For dinner we ate at Hard Rock in CityWalk. Then we went to bed around 9:30. I learned the pullout couch my daughter was on was AWFUL. It was like sitting on 2x4s. However my 4 year old just slept on the extra pillows from the 2nd queen bed and she was perfectly fine.
MONDAY
We headed to the parks! We are not rope droppers at Disney nor here. We had breakfast at Bayliner Diner (mediocre) and left. We started in Seuss Landing where we rode everything. The longest wait was for the sneetches high in the sky ride and it was only 15 mins. We watched the live book show which was super cute.
Next was Jurassic Park. My 4 year old is only 40" so no rides here, but she thoroughly enjoyed Camp Jurassic. We stopped by the Discovery Center where my kiddo was chosen to name a baby trex. This put her on cloud 9. The discovery center was a lot of fun in itself!
We ate at Thunder Falls Terrance. The chicken was dry as chickenly possible. The corn on the cob and milkshakes were good though.
Next was Hogsmeade...something I was excited about. We first did the wand experience and then afterwards my daughter became hot mess express. She was not interested in WWoHP (how dare she.) So we took a break and relaxed a bit in some AC. After about an hour, we walked over to Universal Studios. We did the Minions ride then Villain Con. Loved both of them! When we left the minions ride, gru and 2 of his daughters were at the exit for meet and greets. When we left villain con and turned the corner, Kevin and Stuart were out for meet and greets. Universal doesn't disappoint with seeing characters! Next was Jimmy Fallon. It was alright.
We walked some circles, then our last ride was Kang and Kodos. On our way out, we saw the Animal Actors show started in 5 minutes so we grabbed a seat. The show was a lot of fun! Back at Cabana Bay we grabbed dinner at the Bayliner. The food was nothing to wrote home about as usual.
TUESDAY
Volcano Bay Day! Breakfast again at Bayliner. Still not great food, but whatever. We walked the short path over to the water park. My daughter is essentially a fish so she had a blast here. We've been to a lot of water parks and this is definitely one of the best, if not thee best. I like the condensed layout. We couldn't ride anything due to our shortie, but we had a blast. There was a severe t-storm that hit about 2 hours after we arrived. We were going to try and make it back to Cabana Bay, but the torrential downpour hit as soon as we exited. We sheltered under the entrance and after the storm passed (45min) we re-entered to a fairly empty park. Ate lunch there, swam, had a good time. We stayed until close and loved every minute. My in laws arrived this evening and checked into their (very quiet) room I. 1 section down from us. I was shocked they couldn't hear the music we could. We ate dinner at NBC bar at CityWalk which was delicious. That night we got some loud neighbors next to us, banging around and talking loudly. Sounded like a group of 20-somethings. They finally quieted down around 11.
WEDNESDAY
Back to the parks, but my kiddo spent the morning with her grandparents. My husband and I got to enjoy the rides. I LOVED the Jurassic River Adventure ride. However the long neck dino at the beginning might want to see a chiropractor for his messed up neck. We popped on over to Hogsmeade and took the train to Diagon Alley. There we grabbed lunch at The Leaky Cauldron - fish and chips. Delicious! We walked around Diagon Alley taking in the sights. It was not busy at all. We watched Celestina Warbeck sing and then I spent too much money on merch. We rode Escape from Gringotts and it was my favorite ride of the trip. We met back up with my in laws and headed back to the resort around 4. I cannot remember what we ate for dinner this evening. We had some pretty intense noise issues from our neighbors. Woke us up twice and my kid once. I have no idea what they were doing but I utilized the text service to which they responded they'd send a security officer to the room. They finally quieted down around 12:30am.
THURSDAY
I was done with the neighbors by this point so walked up to the front desk to see if we could switch rooms. She said yep, just need to pack up. Back to the room i walked. We left our kid at the pool with her grandparents and we packed up. Finally at 11:30 we were in a new room. It was completely quiet. No pool music noise at all. It was the furtherst building in the continental next to the tower, poolside. After getting settled again, back to Volcano Bay. I think our kid was absolutely whooped at this point. We should have done a no parks, rest at the resort day. It ended up being a bust since she cried and fussed most of the time. We came back to Cabana Bay around 3pm. We cleaned up and headed to CityWalk. We had dinner reservations at Toothsome and it was fabulous. Everything we ate was delicious. We spent the evening walking around CityWalk and shopping. That night we had no noise issues in our room, but the pool was packed since Gradventure had started. Middle schoolers everywhere!
FRIDAY
Last parks day. Mid-breakfast at Bayliner. We began the morning in Universal Studios where we met everyone. Betty Boop, Scooby-Doo Gang, Marilyn Monroe, Marge and Bart, Beetelgeuse. We did ET which I ADORED. I didn't expect to enjoy it so much. Then we went to the Bourne Stuntacular and it was mind blowing. My mouth was open the whole time. It ended up being our favorite show. Again, didn't expect to love it since I haven't seen a Bourne movie in ages but it was extremely well done. Next up we rode Transformers... no one was a fan of that one. We ate lunch at the Irish pub (can't remember the name). Service was bad. I think she forgot we existed, but food was food. Upon leaving we saw the Blues Bros show and took some pictures with the stilt walkers in front of the mummy ride. We met up with my in laws upon their exit from the horror makeup show and they took our kiddo back to Cabana Bay to swim around 330. My husband and I went to Kings Cross, waited about an hour with hordes of middle schoolers, then in Hogsmeade we grabbed some butterbeer. We rode flight of the hippogriff and trekked over to Jurassic Park again. We rode Kong after a 25 minute technical delay. We both didn't think it was worth the wait. By then the park was closing so we headed out. We picked up our daughter and went to Aventura across the street. Dinner there was delicious! Back at Cabana Bay we swam then fell asleep.
SATURDAY
check out day. Check out was easy. We had a late afternoon flight delayed by 4 hours due to storms but made it home around 10pm. SuperStar Shuttle was great. Our driver told us jokes and they played Rise of Gru on the tv. I'm now in post vacation blues mode :(
SUMMARY
I felt it hard to not compare to Disney since we've done Disney a lot minus COVID years. Disney's resorts were all cleaner, food was all better quality, and the overall atmosphere is more magical. We've stayed at 4 Disney resorts from economy to luxury and all were stellar. I found Cabana Bay to be lower quality than Pop Century at Disney.
Cons about Cabana Bay: The grounds were not well kept...cigarette butts everywhere. The pool area was trashed. I hate to say it but it was like the caliber of people in the resort just didnt care about litter or cleanliness. I watched families toss their trash in the sand and leave wet, used towels on the ground (towel returns were readily available.) When the pool closed, there were families that were literally arguing with the lifeguards because their watch said they still had 3 minutes. 2 families just berating the lifeguards!? Awkward. The Bayliner constantly had drink machines down and the food was blegh except for a few things. The pool was great but for some reason had no small youth life vests? Super weird. That would seem like the size you most need. The noise problems with room #1 put a damper on our nights, but the new room was great so that was just poor luck initially. More than once we entered an elevator that reeked of weed. I smoke weed, but it was a turn off to be in a hot elevator with it. Sofa beds are bad. I saw other people talk about this, too. Buy a topper!
Pros about Cabana Bay: transportation. Literally never waited longer than 5-10 min. Bus drivers were all so nice. The gift shop employees were delightful and the arcade and bowling alley were clean and an added bonus. The milkshakes from the malt shop were AMAZING!! The main pool was large and the slide and splash pad was great. Check in and ticket pick up was a breeze. The middle schoolers packed the resort beginning on Thursday, but the chaperones kept them in check so we were never bothered.
Final note... Going from CB to Aventura and Sapphire Falls across the street was like daylight and dark. Those 2 resorts were quiet and felt way more like Disney's moderate or luxury resorts: clean, peaceful, modern. I'd definitely stay in one of those next time.
2024.05.20 19:49 SCUBAwithSharks Question about residuals from a commercial.
So I just did my first SAG principal actor job for a commercial. It was for a big well known company (think: MJ, swoosh, air). It will supposedly play on TV, cable, internet, streaming. Anyone have any idea of how much money I might make?
submitted by SCUBAwithSharks to acting [link] [comments]
2024.05.20 17:23 IllIllllIIIIlIlIlIlI Commercials presenting beautiful millionaire celebrities as “common people”
This trend is so fucking lame.
Has anyone seen the new T-Mobile commercial with those dorks from Scrubs teaching actor and fucking supermodel Jason Momoa how affordable T-Mobile home internet is?
That’s Khal Drogo. That’s fucking Aquaman. Some house servant probably set up his internet for him.
And Momoa breaks into a song where he sings “I have wifi now!”
Like he was some broke ass nobody living in a studio apartment who couldn’t afford a $40 a month wifi bill.
He’s so rich and beautiful and famous why not play on that instead of presenting him as a regular joe (who’s like 6’8” and ripped)
And there’s another one, with Rashida Leah Jones from Parks and Rec. She lives in LA. She’s been cast in countless TV shows and movies and has producer credits. She’s wealthy.
Citi put her in a commercial where she plays a modern peasant woman. She says with Citi cash back you get cash back automatically, so now everything is happening automatically for her!
She walks up to an automatic door at a grocery store and it opens and she looks at the camera all shocked.
Like I get it’s supposed to be a joke but it’s not funny when you know it’s a wealthy celebrity pretending to be poor and dumb. Why not get a slightly overweight woman with dry hair to do that? It’d be so much better.
submitted by IllIllllIIIIlIlIlIlI to rant [link] [comments]
Has anyone seen the new T-Mobile commercial with those dorks from Scrubs teaching actor and fucking supermodel Jason Momoa how affordable T-Mobile home internet is?
That’s Khal Drogo. That’s fucking Aquaman. Some house servant probably set up his internet for him.
And Momoa breaks into a song where he sings “I have wifi now!”
Like he was some broke ass nobody living in a studio apartment who couldn’t afford a $40 a month wifi bill.
He’s so rich and beautiful and famous why not play on that instead of presenting him as a regular joe (who’s like 6’8” and ripped)
And there’s another one, with Rashida Leah Jones from Parks and Rec. She lives in LA. She’s been cast in countless TV shows and movies and has producer credits. She’s wealthy.
Citi put her in a commercial where she plays a modern peasant woman. She says with Citi cash back you get cash back automatically, so now everything is happening automatically for her!
She walks up to an automatic door at a grocery store and it opens and she looks at the camera all shocked.
Like I get it’s supposed to be a joke but it’s not funny when you know it’s a wealthy celebrity pretending to be poor and dumb. Why not get a slightly overweight woman with dry hair to do that? It’d be so much better.
2024.05.20 14:15 neurotic95 Reflections on leaving the industry
Like many of you, I had wanted to be a performer since I was a toddler. While my parents were struggling to support us, TV raised my brother and me. Stories got me through bullying, s*xual abuse, and witnessing my dad’s cancer journey. I went to school for journalism to appease my parents but wanted to major in either film or acting like some of my friends did. I always told myself I’d become an actor later.
It wasn’t until I received an award for one of my short screenplays in college that I thought I was ready. A big producer who was an alumni from my college called me and said he couldn’t put my script down as he was on his way to set. That year I also performed in a stage play. Everything felt like it was falling into place.
I worked corporate but paid for evening acting classes wherever I could. I devoured everything: voice, movement, scene study, techniques, on-camera, improv, etc. from reputable studios and conservatories in NYC. I moved to NYC! I was meeting industry people! I was invigorated! My friends back home were all rooting for me on social media.
Pounding the pavement was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Suddenly I understood why my parents told me not to pursue this dream, why people said “if you can see yourself do anything else, do that.”
My focus shifted from acting after I lost one of my corporate jobs. An actor friend told me I should be a server, as he didn’t understand how I could work a 9-5 and call myself an actor.
I worked grueling hours in restaurants and in catering, living for the moments I got to serve celebrities. Unfortunately, I was never a great server and found that line of work wholly unsustainable for me. I eventually worked for a celebrity chef and performed decently enough to get consistent shifts. But I was too exhausted to audition and to be on top of my craft. The auditions I did turn in were rushed and uninspired. I got called in for a reading thanks to a friend who was connected with one of the directors and botched it because I didn’t memorize my lines.
A more insidious thing transpired the longer I pursued this path, though. I became consumed with the idea of “catching up” to my peers. I had to be prettier, skinnier, funnier, more talented. My instagram needed more engagement so casting directors could find me. I compared myself to an old friend who was ten years ahead of me and fell down the rabbit hole of crash dieting and trying to be an influencer just like she did because she found some commercial success. I tried modeling, partaking in risqué photoshoots and semi-pornographic music videos just to get seen. I stopped going to the improv group I was a part of, a place that gave me opportunities to perform live, instead spending my time with scumbags who would promise me opportunities that never came.
As a mixed race Asian actress, I didn’t believe there would be enough opportunities for me. So I became transfixed on “networking” and improving my appearance. That same actor friend who told me to become a server would get invited to exclusive parties with industry folks; I wanted to be one of them. He asked if I’d sleep with him, and I did — also hoping he would connect me with his friends. He didn’t.
I slept with a directoactor who courted me, again promising me screenwriting, directing, and acting opportunities. He wanted to produce one of my scripts! I thought I loved him, but really I just loved what he was offering me. And of course, nothing came of this relationship.
I was living paycheck to paycheck, barely affording rent. The more industry people I met, the more obsessed I became with maintaining a place in this world. If only I made the right partnerships, then I could make up for all the lost time I spent not being an actor. I was spinning my wheels, embroiled in drama, and my relationship with my loved ones was fracturing as I became someone they didn’t even recognize. I lived for my petty little Instagram presence, where I amassed a following and nurtured parasocial relationships. Directors and photographers I wanted to work with would follow me back. As long as they did, I believed this “method” was working. Meanwhile, I barely participated in acting school and was constantly missing class. One of my teachers became so worried about me and my mental health that she’d text me everyday.
I worked a part-time admin job that was actually a great opportunity for me to pickup some skills, yet I was completely ungrateful. I lied to my boss constantly, slacked off, and dropped the ball many times. The work ethic I was once so proud of was nonexistent. I became a glorified party girl parading as an actress. I told myself I lived for a higher purpose, for art, but in truth I lost all scruples and was looking for shortcuts to success.
Things got worse and I’ve already rambled enough. But eventually I moved back home with my parents because my dad’s cancer returned. He underwent a major surgery that resulted in him developing a rare condition, requiring around the clock care from my brother, mom and me. I don’t regret going home to care for him, but leaving the whirlwind of a life I had behind was hard to accept.
Months into caregiving, a friend I had worked with asked me if I’d like to audition as the lead for a short film she was producing. Some actors I recognized would be in it. How exciting! Well, the part was given to someone who had way more experience (and followers) than me. I felt the same intrusive thoughts creep in, “is it because she’s prettier, white, skinnier?” But I put those aside. They asked me to be a part of the ensemble instead and I was happy for that.
I flew to NYC for a week and shooting was magnificent. Getting into hair & makeup and costume was thrilling. I loved working with the other actors. And meeting an actor I had watched since I was a child left me in shock. I couldn’t help but be starstruck.
The director gave great feedback on my performance and I felt proud of myself. But then people started asking me why I left NYC, when I’d come back, what my next moves were. I found myself spiraling in my grandfather’s apartment, because I just could not keep up. I was flying back to California, but it wasn’t LA. At home I would not be near any film industries. And at home my life would not be content worthy. The paper-thin brand I cultivated on social media could not be maintained. My trip was cut short because my dad relapsed and it was back to reality.
In the months that followed, I did some real soul searching and it was one of the most painful chapters I’ve endured. As I began to pick up the pieces of my life, I realized that my relationship with acting was untenable and extremely damaging to me. I was using it as a means to escape feelings of inferiority. What started out as a genuine love and appreciation for the art warped into a vain attempt at fame and recognition, at feeling loved.
Most of my industry connections have since atrophied and I deactivated my Instagram over six months ago as it became too painful to see everyone move on to accomplish things I never could. One friend from NYC, a model and writer, encourages me to keep trying but I don’t believe professional acting is for this lifetime. I’m almost 30 and quite frankly I’m prioritizing my family and my stability. I never expected my wants to change, but they did. But who knows, maybe someday…
I say all this, at the expense of incurring internet scrutiny and judgment, as a cautionary tale. I believe most of you are serious about acting and understand the sacrifices required. But for those of you who suffer from any sort of dysmorphia or unhealed trauma, be sure you have strong support networks in place while you pursue this endeavor. It’s a highly volatile career path and you truly have to be addicted to the process in order to succeed. Upon further reflection, I realized I was not one of those people.
If any of you have left the industry, I’d love to hear from you. It’s been hard reconciling the last 6+ years and a broken dream. But I will always love acting and movies. I read the posts in this thread and am rooting for all of you.
submitted by neurotic95 to acting [link] [comments]
It wasn’t until I received an award for one of my short screenplays in college that I thought I was ready. A big producer who was an alumni from my college called me and said he couldn’t put my script down as he was on his way to set. That year I also performed in a stage play. Everything felt like it was falling into place.
I worked corporate but paid for evening acting classes wherever I could. I devoured everything: voice, movement, scene study, techniques, on-camera, improv, etc. from reputable studios and conservatories in NYC. I moved to NYC! I was meeting industry people! I was invigorated! My friends back home were all rooting for me on social media.
Pounding the pavement was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Suddenly I understood why my parents told me not to pursue this dream, why people said “if you can see yourself do anything else, do that.”
My focus shifted from acting after I lost one of my corporate jobs. An actor friend told me I should be a server, as he didn’t understand how I could work a 9-5 and call myself an actor.
I worked grueling hours in restaurants and in catering, living for the moments I got to serve celebrities. Unfortunately, I was never a great server and found that line of work wholly unsustainable for me. I eventually worked for a celebrity chef and performed decently enough to get consistent shifts. But I was too exhausted to audition and to be on top of my craft. The auditions I did turn in were rushed and uninspired. I got called in for a reading thanks to a friend who was connected with one of the directors and botched it because I didn’t memorize my lines.
A more insidious thing transpired the longer I pursued this path, though. I became consumed with the idea of “catching up” to my peers. I had to be prettier, skinnier, funnier, more talented. My instagram needed more engagement so casting directors could find me. I compared myself to an old friend who was ten years ahead of me and fell down the rabbit hole of crash dieting and trying to be an influencer just like she did because she found some commercial success. I tried modeling, partaking in risqué photoshoots and semi-pornographic music videos just to get seen. I stopped going to the improv group I was a part of, a place that gave me opportunities to perform live, instead spending my time with scumbags who would promise me opportunities that never came.
As a mixed race Asian actress, I didn’t believe there would be enough opportunities for me. So I became transfixed on “networking” and improving my appearance. That same actor friend who told me to become a server would get invited to exclusive parties with industry folks; I wanted to be one of them. He asked if I’d sleep with him, and I did — also hoping he would connect me with his friends. He didn’t.
I slept with a directoactor who courted me, again promising me screenwriting, directing, and acting opportunities. He wanted to produce one of my scripts! I thought I loved him, but really I just loved what he was offering me. And of course, nothing came of this relationship.
I was living paycheck to paycheck, barely affording rent. The more industry people I met, the more obsessed I became with maintaining a place in this world. If only I made the right partnerships, then I could make up for all the lost time I spent not being an actor. I was spinning my wheels, embroiled in drama, and my relationship with my loved ones was fracturing as I became someone they didn’t even recognize. I lived for my petty little Instagram presence, where I amassed a following and nurtured parasocial relationships. Directors and photographers I wanted to work with would follow me back. As long as they did, I believed this “method” was working. Meanwhile, I barely participated in acting school and was constantly missing class. One of my teachers became so worried about me and my mental health that she’d text me everyday.
I worked a part-time admin job that was actually a great opportunity for me to pickup some skills, yet I was completely ungrateful. I lied to my boss constantly, slacked off, and dropped the ball many times. The work ethic I was once so proud of was nonexistent. I became a glorified party girl parading as an actress. I told myself I lived for a higher purpose, for art, but in truth I lost all scruples and was looking for shortcuts to success.
Things got worse and I’ve already rambled enough. But eventually I moved back home with my parents because my dad’s cancer returned. He underwent a major surgery that resulted in him developing a rare condition, requiring around the clock care from my brother, mom and me. I don’t regret going home to care for him, but leaving the whirlwind of a life I had behind was hard to accept.
Months into caregiving, a friend I had worked with asked me if I’d like to audition as the lead for a short film she was producing. Some actors I recognized would be in it. How exciting! Well, the part was given to someone who had way more experience (and followers) than me. I felt the same intrusive thoughts creep in, “is it because she’s prettier, white, skinnier?” But I put those aside. They asked me to be a part of the ensemble instead and I was happy for that.
I flew to NYC for a week and shooting was magnificent. Getting into hair & makeup and costume was thrilling. I loved working with the other actors. And meeting an actor I had watched since I was a child left me in shock. I couldn’t help but be starstruck.
The director gave great feedback on my performance and I felt proud of myself. But then people started asking me why I left NYC, when I’d come back, what my next moves were. I found myself spiraling in my grandfather’s apartment, because I just could not keep up. I was flying back to California, but it wasn’t LA. At home I would not be near any film industries. And at home my life would not be content worthy. The paper-thin brand I cultivated on social media could not be maintained. My trip was cut short because my dad relapsed and it was back to reality.
In the months that followed, I did some real soul searching and it was one of the most painful chapters I’ve endured. As I began to pick up the pieces of my life, I realized that my relationship with acting was untenable and extremely damaging to me. I was using it as a means to escape feelings of inferiority. What started out as a genuine love and appreciation for the art warped into a vain attempt at fame and recognition, at feeling loved.
Most of my industry connections have since atrophied and I deactivated my Instagram over six months ago as it became too painful to see everyone move on to accomplish things I never could. One friend from NYC, a model and writer, encourages me to keep trying but I don’t believe professional acting is for this lifetime. I’m almost 30 and quite frankly I’m prioritizing my family and my stability. I never expected my wants to change, but they did. But who knows, maybe someday…
I say all this, at the expense of incurring internet scrutiny and judgment, as a cautionary tale. I believe most of you are serious about acting and understand the sacrifices required. But for those of you who suffer from any sort of dysmorphia or unhealed trauma, be sure you have strong support networks in place while you pursue this endeavor. It’s a highly volatile career path and you truly have to be addicted to the process in order to succeed. Upon further reflection, I realized I was not one of those people.
If any of you have left the industry, I’d love to hear from you. It’s been hard reconciling the last 6+ years and a broken dream. But I will always love acting and movies. I read the posts in this thread and am rooting for all of you.
2024.05.20 10:05 theygotapepperbar "Do you want to be on TV?" Commercial on Nickelodeon from around 2007 that had a purple cartoon girl
Around 2007 (or possibly 2006 but I'm certain was closer to 2007) I remember seeing a commercial on Nickelodeon during almost every break that had a cartoon girl asking the viewer watching if they wanted to be on TV, and that they had a chance to be on their favorite shows such as Drake and Josh and Zoey 101. Hannah Montana may have been mentioned as well, but I could be remembering that wrong due to the ad being on Nickelodeon. I definitely remember the former two shows being brought up though. I can remember the cartoon girl either having purple hair, purple clothes, or both, and I remember thinking that she almost resembled a pixel chix. She had a high pitched voice, not unlike what you would hear in a doll commercial, and at one point in the ad several animated tvs and movie theater screens would pop up as she's explaining all of the different places your face could end up on, such as the movie theater. She is seen talking on all of the screens as she's listing all of the different places which makes her voice start to have an echoing effect.
This ad feels really odd when I think about it now, especially with how it's become mainstream knowledge that child actors on Nickelodeon were being exploited during this time. I remember this commercial specifically because I had two of my neighbors at my house one day when it came on and they told me to change the channel because their parents didn't want them watching that commercial, which I remember finding strange. Those neighbors would move to another city that summer of 2007 so I know it likely wouldn't have been from after that timeline. I remember there being a radio commercial for this as well, except it was voiced by a regular person instead of a cartoon character's voice and was aimed at parents instead of kids. It was pretty much identical when it came to wording: "Your child could have the chance to be on their favorite shows, such as Drake and Josh, Hannah Montana, and Zoey 101". I don't know if this is lost media or what but I haven't been able to find it anywhere. Does anyone remember this or know what I'm talking about?
submitted by theygotapepperbar to HelpMeFind [link] [comments]
This ad feels really odd when I think about it now, especially with how it's become mainstream knowledge that child actors on Nickelodeon were being exploited during this time. I remember this commercial specifically because I had two of my neighbors at my house one day when it came on and they told me to change the channel because their parents didn't want them watching that commercial, which I remember finding strange. Those neighbors would move to another city that summer of 2007 so I know it likely wouldn't have been from after that timeline. I remember there being a radio commercial for this as well, except it was voiced by a regular person instead of a cartoon character's voice and was aimed at parents instead of kids. It was pretty much identical when it came to wording: "Your child could have the chance to be on their favorite shows, such as Drake and Josh, Hannah Montana, and Zoey 101". I don't know if this is lost media or what but I haven't been able to find it anywhere. Does anyone remember this or know what I'm talking about?
2024.05.20 07:07 tab_rick Top 10 Best Bathroom Sinks in 2023
 | Navigating the myriad options for bathroom sinks and finding the best bathroom vanities with ample storage space can be an intricate endeavor. We are committed to simplifying this process for you. Join us as we explore the top 10 bathroom sinks of 2023, shedding light on their distinguishing features, exceptional advantages, and market-leading attributes. Together, let’s identify the sink that flawlessly marries elegance and utility for your living environment. submitted by tab_rick to KKRsolidsurface [link] [comments] What is the Best Bathroom Sink?The ideal bathroom sink is a complex interplay of personal taste, spatial limitations, and design objectives. However, there are universally recognized qualities that contribute to a superior bathroom sink.Ease of MaintenanceEffective household management necessitates reducing the time allocated for bathroom sink maintenance. Premium sinks are designed for low maintenance, featuring stain-resistant properties and ease of cleaning. Materials like solid surfaces are advantageous due to their smooth surfaces that effectively repel common bathroom stains.Diversity in Sizes and StylesA one-size-fits-all approach is impractical when it comes to bathroom sinks. Your choice will be influenced by spatial considerations and aesthetic preferences. Below are some standard sink dimensions:
Drop-in SinksCommonly known as top-mounted sinks, drop-in sinks are favored for their straightforward installation process. These sinks are inserted into a pre-cut hole in the countertop, with the rim sitting above it. This configuration offers a contemporary look and serves as a practical solution for settings that prioritize both aesthetics and utility.Undermount SinksUndermount sinks are affixed beneath the countertop, delivering a streamlined and modern appearance. Preferred for minimalist settings, the lack of a rim simplifies cleaning and eliminates the possibility of debris accumulation.Above-counter SinksAlso referred to as vessel sinks, above-counter sinks are positioned entirely atop the countertop, serving as a striking design element. Available in a variety of materials like solid surface, ceramic, or copper, these sinks offer businesses an opportunity to make a visual impact.Cabinet SinksCombining storage and sink into a unified structure, cabinet sinks are perfect for those requiring additional storage for toiletries and other essentials. These sinks often come with soft-close drawers and are crafted from diverse materials such as hardwood, engineered wood, teak, and plywood, delivering both functionality and style.Freestanding SinksFreestanding sinks, including freestanding vanities, stand independently, not requiring a countertop or vanity for support. These sinks are particularly well-suited for spacious environments aiming for a refined aesthetic. Made from high-quality materials like solid surface or porcelain, are both durable and low-maintenance. Their design flexibility allows them to serve as eye-catching focal points when complemented with stylish faucets.Wall-hung SinksWall-hung sinks, sometimes referred to as wall-mounted sinks, are designed to maximize floor space in compact bathrooms or powder rooms. They are directly mounted to the wall, often featuring built-in faucet holes and a small ledge for storing toiletries. Crafted from robust materials like solid surface or stainless steel, wall-mount sinks ensure lasting performance.Multifunction DesignThe quintessential bathroom sink should surpass mere washing capabilities. It should epitomize a fusion of convenience and advanced utility, taking into consideration the available space in the bathroom. Features such as integrated storage solutions and adaptable faucet hole configurations are essential to cater to a broad spectrum of plumbing prerequisites. The strategic inclusion of overflow drains is indispensable to counteract potential water spillage. During the selection phase, it’s paramount to juxtapose these functional nuances with sophisticated aesthetics. Facets like soft-close drawers and innovative shelving solutions augment the sink’s multifaceted utility. It’s also vital to appraise the spatial dynamics of the bathroom to ensure an impeccable integration.Superior MaterialsThe material pedigree of a bathroom sink is instrumental in ascertaining its enduring appeal and resilience. Options span from the perennial sophistication of porcelain to the stalwart resilience of stainless steel and copper. It becomes imperative to select a sink that is impervious to stains, adept at handling thermal variances from hot water, and exhibits unwavering durability over extended periods. Whether one’s inclination is towards a cutting-edge solid surface sink or a vintage wooden basin, the chosen piece should resonate with both utilitarian needs and refined aesthetic inclinations. Such a choice guarantees a harmonious amalgamation with the overarching bathroom decor while ensuring a lot of storage for quintessential items at an affordable price point.Solid Surface Bathroom SinksDive into the realm of solid surface bathroom sinks, a pinnacle of modern bathroom design. These sinks are meticulously crafted from a unique blend of high-grade resins and aluminum hydroxide powder. This combination results in a pristine, pore-free surface that marries aesthetic charm with functional utility. Notably, the use of premium isophthalic resin ensures the sink remains resistant to yellowing over its lifespan. https://preview.redd.it/bktr3n3k8i1d1.png?width=612&format=png&auto=webp&s=f00b0b1947f3c693f0337c64f69cb79e8d405370 Key Features of Solid Surface Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Solid Surface Bathroom SinksMaintaining these sinks is straightforward. Their non-porous nature wards off stains, and a quick wipe with a damp cloth paired with a mild detergent is all it takes to maintain their pristine look. Simple and hassle-free.Stone Bathroom SinksStone bathroom sinks, meticulously crafted from natural materials such as granite, quartz, and marble, are synonymous with luxury and elegance. Their inherent beauty, derived from nature, ensures that each sink stands as a unique masterpiece, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any bathroom.Key Features of Stone Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Stone Bathroom SinksFor stone bathroom sinks to retain their pristine condition, consistent and appropriate care is paramount. Periodic sealing is vital to ward off stains and maintain the sink’s sheen. For daily upkeep, opt for a mild, pH-balanced cleanser and steer clear of abrasive agents that might mar the surface.Acrylic Bathroom SinksAcrylic sinks are the unsung heroes in the world of bathroom fixtures. Lightweight, affordable, and available in a myriad of designs, they’re a popular choice for many businesses.Key Features of Acrylic Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Acrylic Bathroom SinksAcrylic sinks are a breeze to maintain. A simple wipe with a soft cloth and mild detergent will keep them shining. Avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the surface.Porcelain Bathroom SinksAh, porcelain, the classic choice. Known for its smooth and glossy surface, porcelain sinks have graced bathrooms for decades. Crafted from vitreous china, they’re a symbol of elegance and sophistication.Key Features of Porcelain Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Porcelain Bathroom SinksMaintaining porcelain sinks is straightforward. A gentle cleaner and a soft cloth are all you need to keep them in pristine condition. Regularly rinse and wipe to prevent mineral deposits from forming.Fiberglass Bathroom SinksFiberglass sinks might not be the first choice that pops into your mind, but they’ve been making waves in the industry. Known for their impact resistance and lightweight nature, they’re a practical choice for businesses that prioritize functionality without compromising on aesthetics.Key Features of Fiberglass Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Fiberglass Bathroom SinksTaking care of a fiberglass sink is pretty straightforward. Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner will keep it looking spick and span. It’s also a good idea to avoid exposing the sink to high temperatures for prolonged periods.Stainless Steel Bathroom SinksStainless steel isn’t just for your kitchen. Over the years, stainless steel bathroom sinks have gained popularity, especially in commercial settings. They’re durable, resistant to corrosion, and offer a sleek, modern look that many businesses crave.Key Features of Stainless Steel Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Stainless Steel Bathroom SinksMaintaining a stainless steel sink is simple. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent will do the trick. To prevent water spots, it’s a good idea to wipe the sink dry after use. And if you want to keep it shiny, an occasional polish with a stainless steel cleaner will have it gleaming like new.Composite Bathroom SinksComposite sinks are the unsung heroes in the world of bathroom fixtures. Made from a blend of materials, often including granite or quartz combined with resins, these sinks offer durability and a unique aesthetic appeal.Key Features of Composite Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Composite Bathroom SinksComposite sinks are relatively low maintenance. It usually only needs regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner to keep it looking its best. For tougher stains, a gentle scrub with a soft brush can work wonders.Cast Iron Bathroom SinksCast iron sinks are like the grand old dames of the bathroom world. They’ve been around for ages, and there’s a good reason for that. With their excellent stain resistance and easy-to-clean nature, they’ve earned their place in many a bathroom, be it in a chic boutique hotel or a bustling business center.Key Features of Cast Iron Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Cast Iron Bathroom SinksMaintaining a cast iron sink is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent will keep it shining. It’s also a good idea to avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can damage the enamel coating.Copper Bathroom SinksCopper bathroom sinks are a unique and intriguing choice for businesses looking to blend aesthetic charm with functional benefits. Known for their natural antibacterial properties, these sinks offer a distinct advantage in terms of hygiene. Crafted usually from a single sheet of copper and often hand-hammered, each sink is a unique piece of functional art. Over time, copper develops a patina, a natural layer that not only protects the material but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. This evolving characteristic makes copper sinks a living, changing element in your bathroom design.Key Features of Copper Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Copper Bathroom SinksTo keep your copper sink looking its best, you need to take good care of it. Avoid using harsh or rough cleaners because they can remove the natural patina that forms on the copper surface. Stick to gentle cleaners to preserve its beauty and functionality.Concrete Bathroom SinksConcrete bathroom sinks have gained prominence as a fashionable selection for contemporary bathroom designs. Known for their robustness, versatility, and industrial aesthetic, these sinks are highly favored by businesses aiming to elevate their interior décor.Key Features of Concrete Bathroom Sinks
Maintenance of Concrete Bathroom SinksWhile concrete sinks offer numerous advantages, they do necessitate more frequent maintenance compared to other materials like porcelain or stainless steel. Regular sealing is essential to guard against water damage and staining. For daily cleaning, the use of a mild, non-acidic cleaner is advised.Why Choose Solid Surface Bathroom Sinks?Solid surface bathroom sinks have emerged as a top choice for homeowners and designers alike due to their seamless integration, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Here is a list of solid surface bathroom sinks you can find out:
KKR: Supplier of High Quality Solid Surface Bathroom SinksKKR stands as a paramount figure in the realm of solid surface bathroom sinks, with a distinct focus on OEM and ODM services. Their unwavering dedication to precision, innovation, and superior quality is evident in every sink they produce, striking a harmonious blend of refined aesthetics, exceptional functionality, and enduring resilience.Every creation from KKR is a testament to their dedication to masterful craftsmanship. Crafted using premium-grade resins and elite aluminum powder, their sinks boast a lustrous finish that not only captivates the eye but promises sustained performance over the years. For enterprises aiming to curate a cohesive and opulent bathroom ambiance, KKR’s offerings are unparalleled. Their sinks are ingeniously designed to integrate flawlessly with diverse countertop materials, from quartz and granite to hardwood. This versatility empowers businesses to tailor the bathroom ambiance, aligning with the sophisticated tastes of their clientele. Expertise in OEM and ODM ServicesKKR’s prowess transcends mere product fabrication. Their OEM and ODM services are a reflection of their profound industry insights and adaptability. Whether you’re a brand with a vision to craft sinks tailored to your specifications or in search of a collaborator to conceptualize and produce a distinctive product range, KKR’s expertise ensures your aspirations are brought to life with precision and utmost professionalism.Excellent Capabilities for Solid Surface ProductsRenowned as a vanguard in solid surface bathroom sink manufacturing, KKR’s expertise in producing superior solid surface countertops is unparalleled. They are adept at delivering products endowed with attributes like warp resistance, color retention, innate sheen, and a flawless finish. As an industry trailblazer, KKR presents an extensive array of customization avenues, encompassing dimensions, designs, hues, sink and faucet configurations, and choices in rim, backsplash, contour, and surface finishes. With an unwavering commitment to quality and client contentment, KKR further enhances the customer journey with an exhaustive after-sales support system.ConclusionNavigating the diverse array of bathroom sink choices, encompassing solid surfaces, gleaming stainless steel, and avant-garde composite designs, can be intricate. Yet, with judicious selection and the backing of esteemed brands like KKR, enterprises can assuredly procure products that not only elevate their aesthetic appeal but are also engineered for longevity.Allocating resources to pivotal elements of business infrastructure, such as bathroom amenities, necessitates collaboration with industry frontrunners. KKR, leveraging its OEM and ODM expertise, guarantees that your capital is channeled into a seamless fusion of aesthetic finesse and unwavering functionality for the long haul. |
2024.05.20 05:15 SmileFirstMedia Creating Video Content for a Dentist Client
Hey all!
PLEASE FORGIVE ME IF THIS ISN'T THE CORRECT PLACE TO PUT THIS!
I WILL GET RID OF IT IMMEDIATELY, IF SO!
Would love to get some advice on content I'm currently creating for a local dentist client of mine.
The story is that he asked me to put together video content for him using footage that was taken from his previous videographer. I accepted.
I've worked with this client in the past on and off over the past 4 years. Although he and I have gone on and worked with different people, we seem to always come back to each other. I do think we work really good together when we're both on the ball.
What I would like to do, however, is get your opinion on my latest efforts.
I put together 2 videos. His feedback for the first one was essentially that he wasn't happy with it. Which really sucks because I liked it. I mean, I do actually think it's professional content.
My client didn't hire paid actors, and he himself is in one of the videos. Needless to say, many cuts were made in order for the video to flow properly.
Okay, so now that you're caught up, I would like to show you 2 of the videos that I created and would love to get your professional opinion on them.
Point being that I would love to then go back to him with feedback from people in the actual community to say whether or not we're going in the right direction.
If you can (and no problem if you don't want to), I would really appreciate feedback on the following:
And finally, here are the links to each video:
Video 1:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gRupc2eLJO9gj06qk8ZMqs-_vO5K4UiN/view?usp=drive_link
Video 2:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nxZwZDZyprjCpneL1U9PjIjZZvIYj5Ya/view?usp=drive_link
submitted by SmileFirstMedia to askdentists [link] [comments]
PLEASE FORGIVE ME IF THIS ISN'T THE CORRECT PLACE TO PUT THIS!
I WILL GET RID OF IT IMMEDIATELY, IF SO!
Would love to get some advice on content I'm currently creating for a local dentist client of mine.
The story is that he asked me to put together video content for him using footage that was taken from his previous videographer. I accepted.
I've worked with this client in the past on and off over the past 4 years. Although he and I have gone on and worked with different people, we seem to always come back to each other. I do think we work really good together when we're both on the ball.
What I would like to do, however, is get your opinion on my latest efforts.
I put together 2 videos. His feedback for the first one was essentially that he wasn't happy with it. Which really sucks because I liked it. I mean, I do actually think it's professional content.
My client didn't hire paid actors, and he himself is in one of the videos. Needless to say, many cuts were made in order for the video to flow properly.
Okay, so now that you're caught up, I would like to show you 2 of the videos that I created and would love to get your professional opinion on them.
Point being that I would love to then go back to him with feedback from people in the actual community to say whether or not we're going in the right direction.
If you can (and no problem if you don't want to), I would really appreciate feedback on the following:
- Professionalism 1: Feels very amateurish, with significant flaws in video quality, audio, and presentation. 10: Extremely professional, indistinguishable from high-end commercial productions, with excellent video quality, audio, and presentation.
- Production Quality 1: Poor production quality. 10: High production quality, seamless editing, and clear, balanced audio.
- Engagement 1: Very dull and unengaging, difficult to maintain interest throughout the video. 10: Highly engaging, captivating from start to finish, and keeps the viewer's attention throughout.
- Any other notes or feedback you could give me would be greatly appreciated!
And finally, here are the links to each video:
Video 1:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gRupc2eLJO9gj06qk8ZMqs-_vO5K4UiN/view?usp=drive_link
Video 2:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nxZwZDZyprjCpneL1U9PjIjZZvIYj5Ya/view?usp=drive_link