Stepping down position letter sample

China Job Central

2020.07.30 02:33 China_Gypsy China Job Central

This sub is a job board for expats with university degrees to work full or part time in China on a contractual basis (1 year minimum). All employers who post here have agreed to provide new hires with a work visa (Z visa) and a signed/sealed hard copy of your employment agreement BEFORE you depart for China.
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2017.07.10 12:30 mcmgmusic Music Promotion unlimted

A subreddit for music promoters, musicians, music lovers and fans to promote and showcase talented musicians and artists to the rest of the world. If you are looking for a subreddit to promote any genre of music without any restriction, this is the place for you. There's absolutely no rule here except for mutual respect of other promoters. Blog posts about music and musicians are also welcomed. Don't be biased, if it's good, give it an upvote and if it's wack give it a down vote.
[link]


2019.03.11 18:01 djronnieg The last bastion for Plasma TV aficionados

It was a bit of a surprise to see that there appeared to be no dedicated Plasma TV community on Reddit. Although I do plan to comb the archives within other Home Theater oriented subreddits, this subreddit exists to unify some key info and to share some useful tips.
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2024.05.19 14:54 siherbie Nightmarish Experience with Deceased Mother's Death Claim Settlement Process

So I am 37(M) and my mother (73) before she passed away on 24/12 /23. The thing that happened was that my mom ended up, having health scares one after another last year. So essentially it was first when she was told to get minor cataract surgeries, this time of month last year and both her and me were busy with her tests and later surgeries in June, July. Since she had Care insurance, she applied for her cataract surgies claim - earlier both got approved for 30k each for both surgies costing almost 50k each but then suddenly they backtracked & said one claim was rejected as place where we got surgies done, was blacklisted later. Now the single 30k claim should have been deposited, right. But nope, it still stuck & since my mom later got diagnosed with stage-4 kidney cancer in September which really shocked both me and my mom as my mom's tests have always been decent. Irrespectively, I got her on keytruda immunotherapy asap as surgeon couldn't operate till it was reduced and my mom was indeed reacting very positively to the treatment despite some issues with side-effects. However despite my best efforts, my mother suffered a brain stroke and I had to take the difficult decision of taking her off life support while dealing with another care insurance tantrum where they rejected her icu charges, so I ended up paying almost 1lakh out of my pocket and still had to pay additional 2.5lakh for further processes which was further complicated by my narcissistic sister who was only around to get her inheritance & making my life hell so I had almost no time to arrange the amount as I had only 40k left. Thus I unfortunately withdrew funds from my mom's accounts (I am Nominee & had her credentials though I also refunded them once I had a more stable mindset & recovered from fevemed issues throughout January). Either way, I initiated the Maharashtra govt ppo closure (I had refunded the amts taken from pension accounts prior to initiating paperwork) by Jan end & also approached local cbi home branch for also closing my deceased father's family pension to my mom. The branch manager directed me to this problematic deputy branch manager to whom I did admit that I had to withdraw funds from my mother's pension accounts but I have refunded them once I gathered resources(basically my sibling & family members are useless besides the fact that my sister has indulged in some criminal offenses like harassing me & my mom both before & after her death, etc while said family members did nothing). Since my mother also took 3 fds earlier in 2023, the deputy branch manager wanted me to break them & told me that individual account won't be closed & only her CIF would be directly deactivated. Since it was only few months to fds maturity & state govt pension closure was yet to occur - I told her that I will file for death claim settlement once state govt pension is closed & excess pension is recovered by them as deactivating the CIF will make this troublesome & a legal case. So she agreed to wait till state govt pension is closed and I gather all necessary documents in the meantime. Luckily state govt treasury did close the ppo & withdrew excess pension by 19th March while I also managed to transfer most of the mutual funds where I am Nominee. However since state govt treasury office (it's in another city from where I live & reasonably far), didn't give me letter of closure/confirmation - I was asked to wait for 1 month by local treasury officer (as financial year closing was approaching) which I informed to said deputy branch manager. During this time, I also had to deal with legal paperwork as the lawyer my mom knew, didn't inform her or me to register it & also wasted my time in March. So I had to look for other ways to inherit one immovable property (my sibling holds 16.66% share and I have 83.34% as per my mom's wish to inherit the property as per her will), one problematic mf transfer which I accidentally botched by editing Nominee details (still not sure as my mental health was seriously impaired in Jan/Feb & I also have same scheme, so not sure how it happened as there's no email confirmation except for an otp I found though I am not sure why I would update nominee details when I am already nominee there & even mentioned in will). Since UTI rejected both of my transmission claims so I am waiting for my current lawyer to complete the gift deed & apply for heirship certificate at municipality for filing my deceased mom's ITR. Also please note that despite timely updates to deputy branch manager, she let the FDs renew without my permission & has been acting dubious besides acting very rudely with me. So situation is,
  1. I have filed compliant with cbi bank (or rather couple of them as again, I wasn't informed properly nor received proper feedback from bank). Now I will be collecting the FDs physical certificates from branch & wait for resolution as said deputy branch manager is very suspicious(like asking me to file false FIR for online FDs whose online receipts I already have or saying there will be penalty for breaking autorenewed FDs that strangely got renewed on maturity dates without any prior indication & some things not adding up with new scheme plus the whole confusing me with different instructions). Though luckily I have atleast closed state govt pension bank account & it was transferred to my account (it's at same problematic home branch) on 3rd May & de-activated my mom's CIF. So as bank resolution will take additional 15days to come, should I approach branch with resolution & LHC to minimize further problems despite being Nominee.(there's an error in relationship in cbi's savings account where my name & details are there but relationship is daughter instead of son but I already made Rs.100 self-affidavit as per dubious deputy branch manager instructions & all other documents including death claim form).
 
  1. Applying for my mom's final ITR is necessary & I have already submitted most financial statements to my CA to compute including the TDS deducted on the FDs since I have been given July-end deadline. Plus as my mother & me spent more than 10lakh+ for her cancer treatment, I am hoping that I will get some deductible relief on her final itr besides tds. The issue is that I am still lacking any legal heirship document that will allow me to register as assessee for filing my mother's ITR. I did ask another bank where I am also nominee for mom's account, for issuing bank letter confirming Nominee details but they refused. However hopefully as I am going to execute a registered gift deed with help of my new lawyer that will mention my mom's unregistered will, I am hoping it allows me to register for the ITR. Otherwise I will have to approach local municipality office for issuing surviving family membeheirship certificate once gift deed allows me to initiate transfer property to my name.
 
  1. There are still some untransferred assets such as a SBG linked to my mom's account besides the UTI scheme that's linked to same account(for uti, I already have most paperwork ready except that they asked for legal document that confirms relationship between me and my mother so while I can submit my passport copy though feeling it's better if will gets registered during gift deed process as it's mentioned there). Then there's the care insurance claim associated with same account & taken by bank officials of same bank yet it came to my attention that Care apparently messed my mom's name multiple times while issuing the policy & the claim hasn't processed as policy name & bank account name don't match (it's only a difference in middlename and could have been conveyed to my mom when she approached them multiple times). I did ask my lawyer regarding this & as amount is only 30k, he has asked me not to think about claim as for now as Care doesn't seem sincere as they haven't given it in writing that they will issue claim if I submit LHC/Registered Will with other documents. So while I will get SBG once I close the account & also uti mf scheme (hopefully), I am not sure if I should file a consumer case against Care (as an employee even misbehaved with my mom & the claim situation feels really fraudulent) or just hope that Care would honor the claim once I submit the documents.(they also only mentioned sending documents over email so again felt weird)
 
Overall all these incidents have seriously affected my health and frankly I need a break for myself as I am still struggling with my grieving (I saw my mom die 3 times & the family drama still triggers my cptsd though I am not suicidal or having med issues unlike in Jan besides still unable to take some personal time off due to these commitments). I also apologize if this post ended up too long or having details all over the place as I am still trying to piece together as much information I have as I do have written journal records of the paperwork & events that occurred though I forgot to list down some details here & there due to trying to manage everything by my own.
submitted by siherbie to IndiaInvestments [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 14:53 kayakero What are support and resistance in trading?

What are support and resistance in trading?

What are supports and resistances in trading?

Supports and resistances are an extremely important factor in the world of trading, which is why they are established as an essential factor in technical analysis.
At the support and resistance levels, the price will take on another trend (the opposite of what it has been doing) , due to the competition between supply and demand.
  • A support is a price that is below the current price (declining) and usually coincides with a previous minimum on the chart. When there is support, the normal thing is that the purchase exceeds the sale due to the decrease in price and, therefore, it increases again.
  • In resistance the opposite happens; an uptrend price stops and begins to decline (usually coinciding with a previous peak on the charts). When there is resistance, the usual thing is that the selling price exceeds the buying price, in this way its trend will change and it will begin to fall.
https://preview.redd.it/gf1c3y5hod1d1.png?width=1024&format=png&auto=webp&s=3a99ad388c5c78e8c1a456184698759180185ef7
This is a psychological factor, since it is the traders who operate at these levels and help to intensify the support and resistance levels.
It is worth remembering that the difference between support and resistance is virtual : Both are the same thing, except that the supports are below the current price and the resistances are above.
Needless to say, once a resistance is overcome, it becomes support , as it becomes below the price. The same thing happens the other way around . If support is pierced, it will become resistance since it is now above the last price.

What is the purpose of identifying supports and resistances?

1.- To guess the direction the price will take
The price will tend to move without hesitation between support and resistance, slow down when approaching one of these and, sometimes, bounce when it reaches it and is not able to cross the barrier. This alone is a key consideration to take into account when considering operations.
2.- To determine where to place your safety stop
If we know that the safety stop has to be placed where we do not expect the price to reach, it makes all the sense in the world that we hide it behind a support or resistance.
For example, if we open long, we will place a safety stop somewhere below the current price. If we place our stop just below the nearest support, we will be placing it in an area where it will be reached with a very low probability. That is, only when we have made a mistake with the direction of the price in such a way that it has been able to pierce the support, will our stop loss be triggered.
3.- To know how far we have to wait before entering a position
You may want to buy Exxon Mobil stock as a long-term investment. However, it is always advisable to wait for the price to approach its local minimum. Sooner or later the price will approach significant support and there you will have your opportunity to buy cheap.
4.- To recognize channel breakouts and be prepared for any price explosion
It is common for the price to shoot out after the breakout of a channel. If you have marked your supports and resistances well, you will know exactly when the price leaves the channel and you will be able to anticipate by placing conditional entry orders just outside the channel.

How to calculate supports and resistances?

Now we will focus on how to look at the chart to locate the supports and resistances that the price has found, and is likely to find.
To detect supports and resistances on a chart we must take into account the following aspects:
In general, supports and resistances are nothing more than "hard" levels in which the price chart advances with greater difficulty and in which, due to this, the price sometimes bounces and changes its course.
Knowing this, the easiest way to locate support/resistance is to look for the levels at which the price slows down or rebounds . Supports and resistances are not always determined by a very defined price. Sometimes, they are more like price ranges.
Regarding the relevance of supports and resistances, this increases the more price rebounds they have and the longer the time frame to which they belong. That is, support is more relevant if it is seen on a weekly chart than if it is only found on a 10-minute chart. What's more, any support or resistance seen in a higher time frame also affects any of its lower ones.
Since at Novatos Trading Club we have the daily charts as a reference for trading, we first look for the supports and resistances in the weekly charts , thus we locate the most relevant ones and, later, we can look at those visible only in the daily or lower frame.
If you trade on another time frame, say, 5 minutes, then move up to the 30-minute time frame to locate the most relevant supports and resistances.

Find support and resistance step by step

In summary, to locate support and resistance, we will start by looking , on the chart with a longer time frame than usual, for those points where the price clearly slows down and/or rebounds. I recommend you mark them with a horizontal line, since the relevant supports and resistances last over time: Additionally, there are also less visible (and usually less relevant ) supports/resistances that you can also easily locate:
https://preview.redd.it/5js9u11ood1d1.png?width=630&format=png&auto=webp&s=a6e58b4c01408792ea3aff3467224a1d39cc58c7
  • See if there are round number prices in the area. For example, it is much more likely that there will be support at $40, than at $37.84. Round numbers are typical brackets.
  • Look for congestion areas . The areas in which the price moves in a range usually define support/resistance.
  • You will find support/resistance in the middle of the notably long candles and also in the middle of the gaps .
  • Fibonacci retracements also contain support or resistance levels hidden in plain sight.
One last note: Sometimes you will see or read that a certain price "rests" on its moving average. This leads to common confusion. The price always rests on a support and the moving average can easily coincide with this support at any given time. Stockings, by themselves, do not serve as support or resistance.
Locating the supports and resistances of a value is basic and should always be your first step when analyzing a chart.
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submitted by kayakero to CapitalistExploits [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 14:51 Hungry_Nihilist On 1L: Reflections of an average non-traditional First Generation Rising 3L

This post is specifically crafted to assist incoming law students who may be experiencing anxiety about their first year in law school. It aims to provide guidance and reassurance, addressing common concerns and offering practical advice.
I'm not an overachiever in law school; I'm about as average a student as possible. So, if you are one of those perfectionist students, this probably isn't for you
Feel free to add your own!
Reflection 1 - I did a lot of research on what I needed to prepare before 1L started, but the most helpful thing I learned was how to take a test, but you need to know when to do them. You can't take practice tests until much later in the semester (taking practice tests early without learning all the materials is pointless and an exercise in futility), so when you study, work on hypotheticals involving the subject matter you are learning. If you work on practice tests too early, you might burn up all the available practice tests. Some teachers only have 1 or 2 available for students to review. This means you will only have more to practice when you need it most at the end of the semester. You can still IRAC hypo's and get your practice in that way when studying.
Reflection 2 - Do all the practice tests or as many as possible. This means something other than sitting down for 4 hours and cranking out five tests. I suggest doing at least two complete tests (or however you feel comfortable with), outlining your answers for the other tests, and reviewing the answer guides if they are provided to you. In order to outline an answer, I would identify the issue and the rule I would need to use, then maybe write a few sentences on how I'd attack the analysis (Do this to avoid burnout essentially; 4 hours of tests are draining). Understanding the types of questions that can appear on old tests lets you know the testable issues you might encounter on the exam. I also write down how often I see particular issues; it helps narrow down what you would need to include in your outlines.
Reflection 3—You only really need rules and tests to answer exam questions. All the other stuff is fluff. Ensure your analysis covers your arguments' strengths and weaknesses, and you'll be fine.
Reflection 4 - (Specifically for your first year) Read! Read! Read! During your first semester, you should spend most of your time studying and reading. Learning how to read case law is a skill, but once you understand what you are looking at when reading cases, the process goes a lot faster. Be sure to get caught up on reading before the last month. YOU WON'T SURVIVE (I mean you will but your life will genuinely suck).
Reflection 5—Everyone in law school is an acquaintance. Some might be friendlier than others, but everyone is an acquaintance. If you approach your relationships in law school as a business professional, you'll be fine. If you are a guy, don't try to fuck everything that moves, it's not a good look and nothing spreads faster than news of the section fuck boy.
Reflection 6 - If you don't get straight A's, it's not the end of the world. Do what you need to do to get a job in the summer and bust your ass when you get that job. Work hard in any job you have in law school. Make yourself available to do things around the office, and always tell your supervisor what you would like to improve on when you start a position. For example, in my 1L summer job, I told my supervisors I wanted to get better at drafting motions. Over ten weeks, I left my 1L summer job with five good writing samples, including one I wrote for the big boss at the firm.
Good luck to all incoming law students! As long as you put in some effort, you will do fine.
submitted by Hungry_Nihilist to LawSchool [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 14:48 EERMA Sustainable happiness and Wellbeing

This quick read shows how the two main approaches to happiness are seamlessly integrated in Positive Psychology’s PERMA model to create a solid platform for building and maintaining our wellbeing.
Introduction
In exploring happiness and wellbeing, we quickly encounter two historical perspectives: the Hedonic and Eudemonic traditions. Originating from ancient Greek philosophers Aristippus and Aristotle respectively in the fourth century BC, their traditions offer distinct approaches to happiness and wellbeing. The Hedonic approach centres on pleasure seeking and pain avoidance, while the Eudemonic tradition emphasises achieving ones’ potential at a deeper level. It is crucial to recognise that the pursuit of pleasure does not always guarantee happiness or wellbeing. Overindulgence in substances like alcohol, drugs, and food may lead to detrimental health consequences. Also, virtuous acts, like acts of courage or dedicated work, may not always result in pleasure.
Wellbeing as a holistic concept
Wellbeing integrates both traditions and is the goal of Positive Psychology - the study of optimal human functioning. It identifies six key dimensions as summarised in the PERMA model: Positive emotions, positive Engagement, positive Relationships, positive Meaning, positive Accomplishment – and there is a silent H for physical health. The term "flourishing" encapsulates living in your optimal range of human functioning, incorporating a balance between positive emotions with high engagement in absorbing activities, meaningful relationships, achievement, and physical health.
The advantages of wellbeing, as per the PERMA model, are self-evident. The model encompasses:
· Positive emotions: Individuals with high levels of positive emotions enjoy healthier lifestyles, enhanced optimism, and more efficient immune systems, contributing to illness prevention and improved recovery. See my posts in Broaden and Build theory / Thought Action Repertoire.
· Engagement in skilled activities - often referred to as ‘Flow’ – when we apply our signature strengths to pursuits we value, we tend to produce our best outputs.
· Satisfying relationships- with our self, others, and the communities - online and IRL - we engage with.
· A sense of meaning and purpose, and satisfaction / fulfilment from accomplishments already achieved and those in progress.

There is an extensive evidence base confirming that each of these elements contribute to long-term benefits.
Integrating Solution Focused Hypnotherapy and wellbeing
In our quest for optimal wellbeing, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) is a natural ally. This approach, rooted in pragmatism and forward-focused thinking, aligns seamlessly with PERMA wellbeing.
· Positive motions: Solution Focused Hypnotherapy cultivates positive emotions by guiding individuals to envision a future where their goals are realised. This approach offers an extensive body of knowledge and tools for enhancing the positive emotions dimension of PERMA.
· Positive engagement: by integrating therapeutic trance with the Solution Focused Brief Therapy approach, SFH supports individuals in accessing their inner resources and developing new skills. Personal growth and skills development directly contribute to the positive Engagement dimension of PERMA.
· Positive relationships: wellbeing revolves around meaningful connections – with our self, with family, friends. SFH supports improving communication skills and interpersonal relationships by addressing underlying issues and promoting positive communication patterns.
· Positive meaning: SFH supports individuals to explore and articulate their sense of purpose. By exploring what gives life meaning, SFH contributes to developing a sense of purpose consistent with the meaning dimension of PERMA.
· Positive accomplishments: setting and achieving goals is a fundamental aspect of SFH. By assisting individuals in establishing strategic directions and breaking down larger objectives into manageable steps, SFH supports the positive accomplishment dimension of PERMA.
· Positive health: SFH positively impacts health at a general level - stress reduction, improved sleep, and a better functioning immune system. Typical specific issues include improved physique, reductions in drinking and smoking and enjoying a healthier lifestyle.
As we navigate our wellbeing’s ever-changing tides and winds, acknowledging the importance of positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, accomplishment, and health provides a steady map guiding our journey through a flourishing life. And Solution Focused Hypnotherapy provides us with the steady ship.
submitted by EERMA to selfimprovement [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 14:38 InitiativeOk414 Help for a Japanese Xbox 360 (2006 model) - step down transformer, power supply, etc. etc.

Help for a Japanese Xbox 360 (2006 model) - step down transformer, power supply, etc. etc.
Hello, I'm Alex (Alessandro) from Italy.
1 month ago I bought an used Japanese Xbox 360 (mint condition) from a Japanese Ebay seller (100% positive feedbacks). This console is only 100-110v (in Italy We have 220-240v) so I need a voltage transformer for a NTSC-J (Japanese) Xbox 360 with the following specifications (written on console power supply):
Input AC: 100-127v 4.7A, 47-63 Hz Output DC: 175 watts 12v=14.2 A (14.2A), 5Vsb=1A
I linked some images...
Unfortunately, I come from a bad experience with another transformer (Well - Voltage Transformer 220 V > 110 V, 1000 VA, 2 outputs): it worked fine for 3 days (daily use no more than 3 continuous hours), then no more causing an irreparable damage to the original power supply of the console, a power supply that I will have to replace.
I turned on the transformer, then the console, and within 5 seconds Xbox 360 power supply was KO: it no longer turns on and I smell something burning inside the power supply (near the connection of power line cable).
I only hope that the fuse inside Xbox 360 power supply saved the integrity of my Japanese console: unfortunately I'm not able to verify that except by changing the power supply and transformer.
In your opinion, what exactly happened: why was I able to play and complete Batman Arkham Asylum (NTSC-J version) without issues by playing just 3 hours per day? will my console still work?
This was my old step down power transformer
Well - Trasformatore di tensione 220 V > 110 V, 1000 VA, 2 uscite : Amazon.it: Fai da te
This would be my new transformer
VEVOR Convertitore di Tensione Step Up/Down Portatile 110V-220V / 220V-110V Potenza da 500VA, Trasformatore di Tensione 500VA Portatile 240 x 185 x 200 mm 2 Spine, Convertitore di Tensione 500V USB 5V : Amazon.it: Fai da te
Is it ok? will its fuse able to protect my new xbox 360 power supply from power surges or overloads?
Thank you for help and support.
https://preview.redd.it/tj8innygpd1d1.jpg?width=308&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2162c2b204a008314cf94539d2b1184cb4743a63
https://preview.redd.it/224f8nygpd1d1.jpg?width=548&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=216438c0c789eaad1eb33558768016835954aec0
https://preview.redd.it/vp3v1nygpd1d1.jpg?width=308&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0673aba1c039af521065ce930a332d8ef50c9541
https://preview.redd.it/qtw9s2llpd1d1.jpg?width=308&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=27d423e35d021c3bf056dec803c1ebc0efa19834
submitted by InitiativeOk414 to xbox360 [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 14:38 qiumo_talk 「苦难诗社:灰熊2024赛季总结」Grizzlies 2023-24 Season Summary: The Tortured Poets Department

「苦难诗社:灰熊2024赛季总结」Grizzlies 2023-24 Season Summary: The Tortured Poets Department
写在最前:这是我在2024年4月19日写的文章。那天我最爱的艺术家霉霉发表了专辑TTPD,其中文译名为”苦难诗社“,我认为非常契合灰熊本赛季的主题。
Written first: This is an article I wrote on April 19, 2024. That day, my favorite artist Taylor Swift released the album TTPD. I think it fits the Grizzlies' theme of this season very well.
考虑到原文篇幅较长,所以我只会在这里发布英文版。如果你感兴趣,可以去我的微博看中文版:
Considering the length of the original article, I will only post the English version here. If you are interested, you can go to my Weibo to see the Chinese version.
-
Remember the names of these 33 warriors.

https://preview.redd.it/05zsptapld1d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=5c9193aa7b5e49cee95cd2727c30aa4a5b4f9b79
After three hard-fought quarters against the Nuggets, the Grizzlies eventually lost.
Much like most of the season’s games, they displayed convincing moments. Whenever the opponent attempted to push the game into a decisive depth, TJ would call a timely timeout to catch a breath and then immediately launch a counterattack. If you were an unfamiliar fan tuning in during the final moments of many games, you’d be puzzled: who are these guys? How are they tying the score against Joker, JT, Bron, and AD? But most of the time, effort couldn’t beat talent.
No worries, I was just as surprised as you. But after watching the Grizzlies' final game of the season in the early morning, I took a deep breath as the fleeting memories of the past six months flashed before my eyes like a slideshow, and I understood them.
This is the Grizzlies' second-lowest win rate season in the past 15 years. They had 33 players wear the jersey, missed 578 games due to injury, and used 51 different starting lineups (all NBA records). Even one of the league’s loudest home courts, FedEx Forum, often had many empty seats for most of the season.
"For just $2, you can see Timmy Allen, Jack White, and Zavier Simpson play live!"
This isn’t a joke. On April 9, facing the Spurs at home, all three played at least 25 minutes. They limited Rookie of the Year Wemby to 18 points on 19 shots but were still dominated on the boards by Sandro Mamukelashvili and lost the game.
Despite several key players coming and going, last season the Grizzlies boasted the league's best home record (35-6), but this season they only won nine games at home. After back-to-back home losses to the Blazers (who finished last in the West with 21 wins but beat the Grizzlies three times) on March 2, GG Jackson admitted postgame:
"You see your fans leaving with like 8 minutes left in the game, that really sticks us as players. They want to come see us play. And that's kind of like them slapping us in our faces like, 'We don't want to see you play.' We've got to change that."
I understand these people. This has been a season full of hardship for players, coaches, management, the team, fans, and the city. From before the season, we were devastated by unprecedented injuries. Anyone still paying attention to this team is a true Grizzlies fan. Special credit to the players and coaching staff—by January, the season had already lost its meaning. The basketball gods didn’t favor them despite Ja’s season-ending injury but instead brought more injuries. Yet, even so, they fought on and never gave up. I don’t recall any game being "surrendered"—no matter how few players were left, they gave it their all on the floor.
https://preview.redd.it/godn2cysld1d1.png?width=1024&format=png&auto=webp&s=88a5a76c9627381d1ec46d31f5875dfa10b2957c
My favorite artist Taylor Swift released her 11th album, "The Tortured Poets Department," today, and I’m willing to call the 2024 Grizzlies "The Tortured Players Department"—injured, pained, struggling, liberated, relieved, and then filled with hope.
I don’t know how fans will remember and evaluate this most painful season in NBA history ten years from now—but while the memories are still fresh, I’ll do it now.

Two Black Swans


If we set the start of a season as the day after playoff elimination, then as early as last May, shadows had already enveloped the team. Like me, Morant wasn’t good at live streaming, and for the second time, he brandished a gun in a car. When I got the news, I was packing for a trip to Guangzhou the next day and nearly tore a basketball sock in half.
Opinions on the Smart trade were generally positive, and Raymon and I were full of praise for GG and Slaw Dawg’s Summer League performances on the Chinese Grizzlies podcast. Missing Morant for 25 games meant we couldn’t secure home-court advantage like the past two years, but securing a play-in spot seemed reasonable. In an open Western Conference, all it took was a lucky playoff matchup, and a full-strength team could still achieve something.
Then Stevo was out for the season.
Unlike Morant's short-term impact on the record, this was a heavy blow to all remaining hope. I dejectedly said:
"No matter what, they can’t play like last year or even the year before, and they can’t find another Adams through trade or signing. The Grizzlies’ new season hasn’t even started, but it might already be over."
At this point, it was just three days before the season opener. The appearance of two black swans cast a shadow over the season before it even began.

Finding Joy in Suffering


The Grizzlies' first 25 games were like me trying to stand on a balance ball in the gym for the first time—standing seemed not too difficult, but whenever I tried to squat, my legs started shaking uncontrollably, and most of the time, I fell off.
After five straight losses, the Grizzlies quickly signed the overlooked Biyombo and then played some decent games, but the injury wave followed one after another. At the most extreme, the Grizzlies had to use their paper-thin fourth point guard—Jacob Gilyard, who should have shined in the G League—a player about my height and weight because Ja, Smart, and Rose were all injured.
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To be fair, the Grizzlies showed resilience at that time. Facing the "BIG4 Clippers," the Grizzlies won their second game of the season on the road. Gilyard (6+5+3+3) held his own against Harden (11+4+3); against a full-strength Celtics, Aldama put up 28+12+6 and almost pulled off an upset; Bane dropped 49 points to lead a comeback win over the Pistons, scoring in the fourth quarter as much as Cunningham, Bojan, Duren, and Ivey combined.
The Grizzlies could keep up with most paper-strong teams and even come back from 15-20 points down but usually lost in the final moments. Bane took on an overwhelming offensive load, being the only consistent scorer, three-point shooter, and transition player, but he mostly held up; JJJ was often forced to play the five, which he disliked, making both offense and defense awkward and inefficient. As for the untested young players, they rarely held the ball securely in the fourth quarter.
With a 6-19 record, second-to-last in the West, trailing the play-in zone by more than five games; Bane’s performance was the team’s lone standout, determining both the floor and ceiling; aside from JJJ, Aldama, and Roddy, almost no one was healthy. The Grizzlies’ net rating still ranked higher than their record, their defensive efficiency remained in the top ten, but they couldn’t score.

A Brief Spring


December 20—just an ordinary game day, but Grizzlies fans had been waiting almost four months. The Pelicans, with their formidable build, weren’t an ideal opponent after a long layoff, but Morant loved such games. He probed in the first two quarters and then started showcasing his signature gliding layups and near-basket floaters in the third. He almost blew past every defender, gesturing "too small" to Alvarado, laying it up over defensive player Herbert Jones. On the final play, he drove from the backcourt, bypassed the screen, and floated a shot over Jones, Murphy, and Daniels—off the backboard, into the basket, buzzer beater.
This was Morant’s first career buzzer-beater. Interestingly, after the shot, even the Grizzlies players on the court paused for a second before realizing they had won, with Bane even freezing at the three-point line.
I understand Bane. In the first 25 games, the Grizzlies didn’t have such clutch play; this was a moment where a superstar wielded his superpower.
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Morant posted the highest points for a player returning after missing more than 25 games in history, but more thrilling for fans was that the Grizzlies truly became competitive. They quickly won four in a row, beating the hot Haliburton, Trae, and Wemby, and winning twice against the Pelicans on the road. Bane and JJJ were in great form, and Smart’s fourth-quarter lockdown on Ingram was impressive.
With the return of injured players, we began to calculate and discuss the Grizzlies' playoff prospects. Morant caught the flu and missed one game, played poorly in the next two—nothing to say as I was also down with the flu—recovered, and then convincingly defeated Bron and AD’s Lakers on the road. Smart scored 29 points (including a ton of threes), Morant’s scattered scoring and assists, JJJ turned into Curry, and Bane turned the arena into a library with a series of off-the-dribble threes in the fourth quarter. After the game, Nemo and JJJ sat on the scorer’s table for an ESPN interview: "You’re making a playoff push, what’s your plan?"
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Jaren smiled lightly, and Nemo said, "Keep playing like this, 48 minutes of relentless effort every night, execute our signature defense, move the ball, and everyone being on point. Tonight, we had many guys scoring 20+, like Z. Keep this up, and we’ll be dangerous."
We didn’t see Nemo play again; a few days later, he was diagnosed with a torn labrum and was out for the season; two games later, Smart dislocated his finger and was out for the season; another two games, Bane went down, and the season was over.

The Dawn


Just two weeks after hope reignited, it was extinguished. What was left to see this season? I believe every Grizzlies fan asked themselves this question. At this point, you have to appreciate the basketball gods; when they close one door, they really do open another.
——Back on December 1, with no one available, TJ put Vince Williams into the rotation. As last year’s 47th pick, his rookie year saw no meaningful time, mainly playing in the G League. In the limited effective game sample, we considered him a wing “shooter” who couldn’t handle the ball or defend well—he hadn’t even shot well in Summer League.
In his first effective NBA game, Vince scored 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting, adding nine rebounds. He stayed on in the fourth quarter, impressively defending Irving. The Grizzlies secured their fifth win of the season.
Ten days later, facing the Mavericks again, this time he had to guard Luka, averaging 34 points. No one expected him to complete the task, nor should he, but he did great—the Grizzlies almost erased a 17-point deficit, forcing Luka to 4-of-12 shooting in the second half. They even exchanged trash talk during the game, but after the game, Luka said:
"I think he’s a great defender."
When Luka Doncic calls you a "great" defender, you must be a "very, very, very great" defender.
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Vince started the next game. Although he had some ups and downs briefly after Morant’s return, he quickly adjusted. He scored 19+9 against the Suns’ big three, limiting Durant; next time facing Luka, he won again (Luka 9-of-21); he scored 24+7 against the Warriors, winning, and in the win over the Heat, he outperformed Butler (25 points, JB 15 points).
Just as we were marveling at his offensive and defensive performances, his pre-All-Star break streak showed us even more potential.
Starting from February 8 against the Bulls, he averaged 14+7+8+2 steals over five consecutive games, including an 18+12+7 performance against Lillard/Giannis’ Bucks. He limited Lillard to 7-of-21 shooting and helped disrupt Lillard’s three-point attempt in the final moments.
What, Vince can also moonlight as a point guard?
The Grizzlies converted his contract in January to a three-year, $7.9 million deal with an option. Considering his versatility and level of play, this contract is so low it’s almost insulting. But if you think that’s exaggerated, wait, there’s more.
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——When GG Jackson was drafted, few Grizzlies fans who knew about him were optimistic. Their reasons were solid: GG wasn’t even 19 when drafted, too young; he skipped a grade to play a dismal season at South Carolina, shooting 38%, looking like a chucker; he had publicly criticized teammates, posing a locker room cancer risk.
These might be true, but I only learned about him after he was drafted—watching him tearfully talk to ZK on a call, watching his college highlight reels showcasing his versatile offensive skills and confidence, his enviable physique, these on-court aspects captivated me. I followed his performance throughout Summer League, and his smooth catch-and-shoot and diligent defensive footwork made me even more optimistic about his future.
At the time, I was probably the only one publicly praising him. I voiced my support in every platform I had—podcasts, Weibo, even the comment section of the pay raise public account: Check out GG! He has a chance to enter the rotation!
For the first half of the season, he barely played, putting up numbers in the G League. On January 13, 2024, with Nemo, Bane, and Smart all out, TJ had no choice but to put GG into the rotation, giving him 27 minutes.
In his first effective NBA game, GG scored 20 points on 9-of-14 shooting; the next game against the Warriors, 23 points. He became the second-youngest in history to score 20+ in consecutive games, only behind Bron—TNT’s crew warmly greeted him on national television:
Shaq: "I have nothing to say; I just want to congratulate you: now people know who you are."
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GG looked both excited and nervous, reminding me of my freshman year. This is the genuine reaction of a kid this age when they’ve done something remarkable and are publicly praised for it.
This wasn’t the last time. With Vince injured, GG became my sole motivation to watch the last third of the season. In 42 effective games, he averaged 16.4 points and 4.5 rebounds, hitting 36% of his shots, averaging 2.4 three-pointers per game. He scored 20+ in 12 games, 30+ in three, and posted 44+12 against a full-strength Nuggets in the final game.
If GG had entered the rotation earlier, could he have made the All-Rookie First Team? Quite possibly, as he’s a natural scorer who excels in big moments and national broadcasts (how rare is this for the youngest player in the league?). His other contributions in games were limited, but considering the Grizzlies’ environment, their league-worst offense, the pressure he faced, and the difficulty of his scoring might have been greatly underestimated.
GG dropped 31 points against a full-strength Lakers, almost the only player able to initiate scoring, making a top-five play dunk over Rui Hachimura. How many All-Rookie votes will he get?
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Two experts stood with me: ESPN’s Bobby Marks placed GG in his All-Rookie Second Team a week ago, and The Ringer’s Bill Simmons said he would vote GG for Rookie of the Year in a podcast two days ago. Regardless, GG has earned respect.
And for Grizzlies fans, even better news is that the team converted his contract to a four-year, $8.5 million deal with a fourth-year team option in February. As a Reddit Grizzlies fan put it, "This is Pippen contract level theft."
Vince and GG, two second-round picks, played convincingly in ways no one expected. The Grizzlies have locked them in on affordable long-term contracts for at least three years, and they will undoubtedly be key rotation or even starting players for the Grizzlies next season—what did the Grizzlies trade to acquire them? Zero.

Praying to the Basketball Gods


Though Grizzlies fans' moods might be 1,000 times better than three months ago, this remains a completely wasted season. For a young team that matched up against the champions two years ago, this isn’t good. The Grizzlies still have plenty of draft picks, but their salary cap is tight. Their core 3 is still young and talented, but two other young core teams—at least the Timberwolves and Thunder—are ready. The Grizzlies are nowhere near their position two years ago.
But this "wasted" season allowed them to eliminate many wrong options and secure several key players. Even if the offseason only brings an average starting center, their roster strength is very, very solid (I don’t think any current team could consistently beat a healthy 2024 Grizzlies). They maintained high defensive levels, forced turnovers, and blocks with many non-NBA players, and they possess better three-point shooting than the past two years. They can replicate the 2022 season's performance, and that’s a conservative estimate.
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But can they stay healthy? In 2022, Dillon played only 32 games and was out of sorts in the playoffs, with Morant also injured midway; in 2023, key players were in and out, losing inside reserves to the Lakers in a seven-game upset; this year, the entire team suffered the worst injury wave in NBA history. Like the Clippers in recent years, injuries are the easiest topic to discuss without being wrong because no one can control them, and they always happen.
So, I can only pray to the basketball gods: it can’t get worse than this. I desperately want to see a fully healthy Morant-Bane-Jaren Grizzlies team play a playoff series, even if they are easily beaten by a better team. I don’t want to look back years later and be left with a pile of "what ifs."
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2024.05.19 14:16 No_Serve6795 Help ASAP! Forgotten what I knew??

So I have no idea what’s gone on with me, I am at the least a seasoned fl user and I’ve made a few beats and jumped back in after a few weeks to start another one, I’ve lost all my knowledge all of a sudden, I dragged a sample in and then went to change the tempo so it’s slows down as well as the pitch but out of no where I need to fiddle with all this different stuff otherwise all it does it lengthen or shorten the sample but not actually changing the sound or speed at all, I swear I could do this with ease, once I got around it with the extra steps I now need I’m trying to make a beat like drums and what not as the sample plays, but that’s in song mode, my beats in pattern mode, I can’t play them at the same time now? I used to be able to do this and obviously I’m missing somthing that I somehow had in my head every other time I did this, idk what the hells going on with me, what I’ve all of a sudden forgotten, anyone understand what I mean and could help me???
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2024.05.19 14:08 Yurii_S_Kh Monotheism, Part 3: Islam

Monotheism, Part 3: Islam
Islam: Origins
Jibril (Gabriel) appears before Mohammed, drawing
The religion of the Law, which for 15 centuries prepared the chosen people for the coming into the world of the its Savior, the Incarnate Lord Jesus Christ, preceded New Testament religion. According to the Holy Apostle Paul, "the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ" (Gal. 3:24). It was all in all only "a shadow of good things to come" (Heb. 10:1). When the Savior came into the world, Old Testament religion had fulfilled its purpose. Our Lord Jesus Christ revealed to us the mystery of the Heavenly Kingdom and established the New Covenant, which was foretold by the prophet Jeremiah. "Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the Lord: But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people" (Jer. 31:31-33).
Man was redeemed from original sin and its consequences by the voluntary death on the Cross of Jesus Christ as Savior of the World. He entered into an entirely new period in terms of his relationship with God in comparison with the Old Testament: instead of the law, there was a free condition of sonship and grace. Man received new means for achieving the ideal set for him of moral perfection as a necessary condition for salvation.
Islam, having arisen in Arabia in the seventh century, appeared as the religion of the law six centuries after the God of the chosen people of the religion of the Law fulfilled its purpose.
The difference between the Old Testament religion of the Law and Islam is not only that the latter emerged more than two thousand years after God gave on Mount Sinai the Ten Commandments and other precepts that governed life for the chosen people. The most important difference is that the Law of Moses has a Divine source. The book of Exodus gives a narrative of the majestic Epiphany. "And Moses brought forth the people out of the camp to meet with God; and they stood at the nether part of the mount. And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly. And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice. And the Lord came down upon mount Sinai, on the top of the mount: and the Lord called Moses up to the top of the mount; and Moses went up" (Exod. 19:17-20).
The founder of Islam, however, did not have a Divine revelation.
How did Islam arise? We read about this in the Hadith “Al-Jamii al-Sahih”. A mysterious being began to visit Mohammed. He slept in a cave on the slope of Mount Hira. On the night of the 24th of the month of Ramadan in year 610 someone appeared to him in human form. This event is considered the beginning of Islam. This story about it is from the Sunnah: “[A]n angel appeared to him and bade him 'READ!' 'I am no reader!' Mohammed replied in great trepidation, whereon the angel shook him violently and again bade him read. This was repeated three times, when the angel uttered the five verses that commence the 96th chapter: 'READ! in the name of thy Lord, who did create—who did create man from congealed blood. READ! for thy Lord is the most generous.’” Mohammed puzzled over whether a demon or angel visited him. He confided his experiences in his wife Khadijah. I will introduce more of the story of Mohammed's biography, generally accepted by Muslims: “She said to the messenger of God, ‘O son of my uncle, are you able to tell me about your visitant, when he comes to you?’ He replied that he could, and she asked him to tell her when he came. So when Gabriel came to him, as he was wont the apostle said to Khadija, ‘This is Gabriel who has just come to me.’ ‘Get up, O son of my uncle,’ she said, ‘and sit by my left thigh.’ The apostle did so, and she said, ‘Can you see him?’ ‘Yes,’ he said. She said, ‘Then turn round and sit on my right thigh.’ He did so, and she said, ‘Can you see him?’ When he said that he could she asked him to move and sit in her lap. When he had done this she again asked if he could see him, and when he said yes, she disclosed her form and cast aside her veil while the apostle was sitting in her lap. Then she said, ‘Can you see him?’ And he replied, ‘No.’ She said, ‘O son of my uncle, rejoice and be of good heart, by God he is an angel and not a satan’” (Ibn Hisham, Biography of the Prophet Muhammad).
It is surprising how easily and, gently speaking, naively this question, which in the spiritual realm is a question of life or death, had been answered with the help of a woman. Before all else, an Angel is a bodiless being, and for his sight there are no actual barriers: one can see through even clothes. Clothes hide nudity only from the eyes of man. Even so, the body of man in and of itself is not something perverse or shameful. It is a creation of God. The lust of man is sinful as well as is carnal desire, but not the body. In paradise the progenitors were naked and were not ashamed (see Gen. 2:25). The nature of an Angel is inviolate. They are alien to passions of man. But if this was a demon, then he could easily resort to trickery. Knowing how they tested him, he especially would be able to take leave of himself, so that they would take him for an Angel.
The attitude of Islam towards the Bible
Islam emerged as something syncretic out of several sources: ancient Arabic cults, Judaism, Christianity, Hanifism (a pre-Islamic monotheistic movement in Arabia) and Mazdaism (an ancient Iranian religion). There is no doubt that the Old Testament holy books and the Gospel had an influence on the formation of Islam. In the Quran many people and events from biblical history are mentioned. However, these stories are presented completely arbitrarily and inaccurately.
According to the Quran, man was created from water. "It is He Who has created man from water: Then has He established relationships of lineage and marriage: for thy Lord has power (over all things)" (25:54). In another surah, it says: "Proclaim! (or read!) in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood" (96:1-2). In another part it speaks about clay, "He created man from sounding clay like unto pottery" (55:14).
In contrast to the Bible, the Quran does not say that man was created in the image and likeness of God. This discrepancy is most profound. With God's image and likeness, man is summoned to commune directly with his Creator. He can become one with the Lord. This is not so in Islam.
The book of Genesis tells the story of how the entire family of the patriarch Noah (in Arabic, Nuh) was saved in the Ark. The Quran speaks about the death of Noah's son: "So the Ark floated with them on the waves (towering) like mountains, and Noah called out to his son, who had separated himself (from the rest): ‘O my son! Embark with us, and be not with the unbelievers!’ The son replied: ‘I will betake myself to some mountain: it will save me from the water.’ Noah said: ‘This day nothing can save, from the command of Allah, any but those on whom He hath mercy!’ And the waves came between them, and the son was among those overwhelmed in the Flood" (11:42-43). Another surah tells it somewhat differently: "(Remember) Noah, when he cried (to Us) aforetime: We listened to his (prayer) and delivered him and his family from great distress" (21:76).
There is no need to provide more examples. In the Quran, things are especially distorted when discussing New Testament events. Here the differences are purely fundamental. The Incarnation, the Crucifixion on Golgotha, and the Resurrection are all denied. Even the event of the Nativity of Christ, known to the whole world, is described very strangely. It is alleged that Maryam retreated to a faraway place and gave birth to a Son under palms (19:23). In this surah, called Maryam, She is called the "sister of Harun," i.e. Aaron. He indeed had a sister named Miriam, but she lived 15 centuries before the Nativity of Christ.
Probably due to so great a number of errors and distortions, many representatives of Islam, in order to escape from this quandary, allege that the modern Holy Scripture of Christians has been distorted (a circumstance known as tahrif). Immediately, the question arises: what evidence do they provide? There is no evidence. Characteristically, the view of Muslims toward the Bible has undergone significant change over the course of several centuries. Early Islamic writers such as al-Tabari and ar-Razi believed that the distortion comes down to tahrif bi'al ma'ni, i.e. the corruption of the meaning without changing the text. However, later authors such as Ibn Hazm and Al-Biruni introduced the idea of tahrif bi’al-lafz, i.e. the corruption of the text itself. At that, both of these positions have been preserved to the present day. Thus, the level of acceptance among Muslims of the Bible depends on one's understanding of tahrif. The very existence of these fundamentally different positions indicates that there is no concrete evidence.
It is impossible to ignore one interesting feature of the attitude that representatives of Islam have toward the Biblical text. In that they do not have their own "undistorted" biblical text, they cite our canonical text as undistorted. However, when they need to support a point, for example, negative examples from the life of Banu Isra'il (the children of Israel) with a reference to parts that do not conform to Islam, they proclaim the text to be distorted.
Muslims allege that the New Testament (Injil), which the Quran refers to positively, is not in fact the current four Gospels. We have already said that they do not provide any evidence. The falsehood of the accusation that Christians distorted the Scriptures stems from the internal inconsistencies of the very Islamic authors who wrote on this theme. According to the Quran, the New Testament was originally a true, sacred text. "And in their footsteps We sent Jesus the son of Mary, confirming the Law that had come before him: We sent him the Gospel: therein was guidance and light, and confirmation of the Law that had come before him: a guidance and an admonition to those who fear Allah" (5:46). In another section: "Say: ‘O People of the Book! ye have no ground to stand upon unless ye stand fast by the Law, the Gospel, and all the revelation that has come to you from your Lord.’ It is the revelation that cometh to thee from thy Lord, that increaseth in most of them their obstinate rebellion and blasphemy" (5:68). This excerpt clearly demonstrates that the Quran itself does not speak of the distorted Scripture, but about "rebellion and blasphemy" related to misunderstanding.
There is one part of the Quran (10:94) which is very problematic for Islamic commentators: "If thou wert in doubt as to what We have revealed unto thee, then ask those who have been reading the Book from before thee: the Truth hath indeed come to thee from thy Lord: so be in no wise of those in doubt." This ayat refers the Muslim "in doubt" to the authority of the biblical Holy Scripture. Abdul-Haqq writes: “The learned doctors of Islam are sadly embarrassed by this verse, referring the prophet as it does to the people of the Book who would solve his doubts” (Abdul-Haqq, A. A. (1980). Sharing Your Faith With A Muslim. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers. As cited in Geisler, N.L. (1999). Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Publishing Group). According to the logic of this verse, the biblical Scripture was undistorted in the 7th century at the time of the Quran's creation. Then one must recognize that the current text is also correct, since we use manuscripts written over several centuries prior to the Quran.
Textual criticism of the New Testament has achieved outstanding breakthroughs in the 20th century. Currently, there are over 2,328 manuscripts and manuscript fragments in Greek, coming to us from the first three centuries of Christianity. The most ancient New Testament manuscript, a part of the Gospel of John 18:31-33, 37-38, is the Rylands Library Papyrus P52, dated 117-138 in the era of the reign of emperor Hadrian. Adolf Deissmann acknowledges the possibility of the emergence of this papyrus even under the reign of Emperor Trajan (98-117). It is preserved in Manchester. Another ancient New Testament manuscript is the Papyrus Bodmer, P75. The 102 surviving pages contain the texts of the Gospels of Luke and John. "The editors, Victor Martin and Rodolphe Kasser, date this copy to between 175 and 225 A.D. It is thus the earliest surviving known copy of the Gospel according to Luke available today and one of the earliest of the Gospel according to John" (Bruce M. Metzger. The Text of the New Testament. p. 58). This precious manuscript is located in Geneva.
Uncial script on parchment: leather codices with uncial script, (in Latin uncia means inch) letters without sharp corners and broken lines. This script is distinguished by its great refinement and precision. Each letter is disconnected. There are 362 uncial manuscripts of the New Testament. The most ancient of these codices (Codex Sinaiticus, Vaticanus, and Alexandrinus) have already been mentioned.
Scholars complemented this impressive collection of ancient New Testament manuscripts with the New Testament text, which consisted of 36,286 excerpts of the Holy Scripture of the New Testament found in the works of the holy fathers and teachers of the Church from the first through fourth centuries. This text is lacking only 11 verses.
Scholars of textual criticism in the 20th century did a tremendous job on the collation of all—several thousands of—New Testament manuscripts and identified all textual discrepancies caused by scribal error. An evaluation and typologization was performed. Precise criteria for determining a correct variant were established. For those familiar with this rigorous scientific work, it is obvious that allegations of the distortion of the current holy text of the New Testament are unfounded. In terms of the number of ancient manuscripts and the brevity of time separating the earliest surviving text from the original, no one work of antiquity can be compared with the New Testament.
Accusations that the Bible's text is distorted are puzzling. How could it actually have been done? How could Christians and Hebrews have come together to do this? Everyone knows the degree of their mutual [doctrinal—Ed.] alienation. And yet both Christians and Jews use one and the same canonical text of the Old Testament. Furthermore, the entire New Testament was preserved in the Chester Beatty Papyri, composed in approximately 250 A.D.
It is inconceivable to accept that under the conditions that existed in Christian society, hundreds of exemplars of the New Testament text were miscopied for the purpose of distortion.
On the Monotheism of Islam
Historians and religious scholars regard the three "Abrahamic" religions, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, as monotheistic religions. For the researcher, the doctrinal principles that representatives of each of these three religions formulate are sufficient. However, on a theological level, the insufficiency of such a formal approach becomes clear. Monotheism is a necessary but not sufficient condition for true religion. Only a religion that has Divine revelation as a source has the true and spiritually accurate doctrine concerning God. Christianity not only maintains that God is the living, absolute source, "the only true God" (John 17:3; 1 Thes. 1:9; cf. John 5:20), but also teaches thoroughly and in depth of the nature of God as without beginning, without end, and of a perfect Spirit. The chief characteristic of the Divine nature is love. "God is love" (1 John 4:16). These words of the apostle contain the principal idea of the New Testament as the good news of salvation. The ineffable goodness of God created the world. The Lord housed man in paradise. Even after the Fall, God continued to love mankind. The greatness of God's love was revealed when the incarnate God died a most agonizing death for us. Christians know from not only the Holy Scripture, but also through the power of spiritual experience, that God is all-knowing and all-wise. The apostle says: "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do" (Heb. 4:13).
God knows not only all that has happened, and all that is, but he has also perfect knowledge of the future. The mirror of the supreme Wisdom of God is the universe which He created, astounding man with its extraordinary complexity, beauty, and harmony. God demonstrates his ineffable Wisdom also in the dispensation of our salvation. "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out" (Rom. 11:33).
True religion is not limited by the demand of worship for the Creator. Its ultimate goal is the spiritual unity of man with God. The Savior speaks about this in a prayer to his Father before his suffering on the cross: "That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us" (John 17:21).
From the aforementioned characteristics of the Divine follows the concept of true, Christian monotheism. There can be only one all-powerful and all-just God.
The concept of God in Islam does not have a source of divine revelation. It developed on the basis of ancient Arabic religion. The word “Allah” was used in the polytheistic pantheon of Arabs to denote “God”: Allah (al - the definite article; ilah - god). Among the pagan Arabs, prior to their adoption of Islam, Allah was the supreme lunar deity, worshipped in north and central Arabia. The father of Muhammed, who was a pagan, was named Abdullah ("Servant of Allah").
In pre-Islamic times, the crescent moon was the symbol of the worship of the moon-god among the Arabs. This is confirmed by archeological evidence. The crescent moon was carried over as the main symbol of Islam.
Arabs of the Syrian desert called the wife of Allah as Al-lāt, and in the south of central Arabia, Al-‘Uzzá. In other areas of Arabia, they, along with Manat, were worshipped as the daughters of Allah. This genetic trail was preserved in the Quran. There is mention of this in the 53rd surah: "Have ye seen Lāt, and ‘Uzzā, and another, the third (goddess), Manāt? What! For you the male sex, and for Him, the female? Behold, such would be indeed a division most unfair!" (53:19-22).
In Islam, Allah is a created religious image by the human consciousness. He does not express the real almighty divine personhood. Consequently, monotheism in Islam is imagined. In a number of places in the Quran, he is endowed with intrinsically human characteristics and traits. Allah says:
  • "Those who reject Our signs, We shall soon cast into the fire: as often as their skins are roasted through, We shall change them for fresh skins, that they may taste the penalty" (4:56);
  • "...There is no help Except from God, the Exalted, the Wise: that He might cut off a fringe of the Unbelievers or expose them to infamy, and they should then be turned back, frustrated of their purpose: (3: 126–127);
  • "The Hypocrites—they think they are over-reaching God, but He will over-reach them" (4:142);
  • "And (the unbelievers) plotted and planned, and God too planned, and the best of planners is God" (3:54);
  • “Many are the Jinns and men we have made for Hell: they have hearts wherewith they understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, and ears wherewith they hear not. They are like cattle,—nay more misguided: for they are heedless (of warning)” (7:179).
What a great difference! Christianity teaches that God "will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim. 2:4), while Islam maintains that Allah created many people for Gehenna.
The idea of monotheism, (tawhid, from the verb wahhada—to reckon something as one) was formulated in the Quran in several surahs. For example, in the 16th surah, "The Bee": "For We assuredly sent amongst every people an apostle, (with the Command), "serve God, and eschew evil" (16:36). In the terminology of the sharia, anything people worship except for Allah is "taghut". Since Islam does not know of direct revelation, nor the holy Manifestation of God to the world, nor the unification of man with God on the foundation of love, its monotheism is imagined, formalistic and abstract, requiring not that man change himself or his way of life, but only worship and daily prayer.
Hieromonk Job (Gumerov)
submitted by Yurii_S_Kh to SophiaWisdomOfGod [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 13:46 InternationalBat1481 How can I tell if they are being genuine

a friend and i had a minor fall out, i was talking about with other people and they told. the friend decided they wanted a break and for me to no longer speak or contact. I was not sure of all that had been said or what happened. I eventually avoided them as requested. at school i would go down a different hall or try to walk in a different way and friend groups etc. Eventually this person would still come by me. for example if I went down a different hall they would follow. If they saw me coming they would hold the door and make small talk like good morning. They would join in with friend groups and almost intentionally stand by me. They would talk as if nothing happened.
So I took this as a sign that maybe that were ready to be friends again or even hang out. I got jealous and offended when they didn't respond about hanging out again and talking with me as I felt it would be helpful to discuss what happened and maybe have closure. I ended up calling them something which I know isn't true and was below the belt. They were I'm sure offended and possibly hurt by it.
Since then they seem back to hating me but also took it a step further by sharing a personal email about someone with several people-which basically lead to me getting into trouble. I feel this was set up and done intentionally as sort of a payback/get even especially since it was right after the comment I made. This person still will sometimes talk to me like ask if I need help or watch me and 'check on me' in a way to see if I am there. When I was sick they were one of the first to send a message and seemed to genuinely care but at the same time they can say and do mean things (like the letter) so I can't tell if it's all an act!
submitted by InternationalBat1481 to Advice [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 13:43 Count-Daring243 Best Cash Registers for Small Business

Best Cash Registers for Small Business

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Whether you run a bustling café or a cozy boutique, a reliable cash register is an essential tool for the smooth operation of your small business. With our comprehensive roundup of the best cash registers available, you can confidently choose the perfect device to manage your sales, inventory, and transactions. So, let's dive in and find the right fit for your flourishing small business.

The Top 13 Best Cash Registers for Small Business

  1. Royal Consumer 500DX Cash Register for Small Business - The Royal Consumer 500DX Cash Register is an all-in-one solution for small businesses with its unlimited messaging capabilities, quick transaction processing, and user-friendly design, making it ideal for grocery stores and beyond.
  2. Sharp XE-A102 Compact Electronic Cash Register with LED Display - The Sharp XE-A102 Electronic Cash Register is a compact, reliable, and versatile option for start-up retailers, offering 8 departments, 80 PLU/Items, 3 payment methods, and a bright LED display.
  3. Professional XE Series Electronic Cash Register - The Sharp XE Series Electronic Cash Register is a high-speed thermal printer, ideal for businesses, with advanced reporting capabilities, seamless QuickBooks integration, graphics customization, and an 8-line display for accurate order entry.
  4. Casio Single-Tape Thermal Cash Register for Business - The Casio PCR-T280 is a top-performing cash register for medium-sized grocery stores, offering up to 1,200 item price lookups, easy tax programing, and hygienic anti-bacterial keyboard, ensuring patrons' peace of mind and efficient operation.
  5. Heavy-Duty Cash Register with Alpha Keyboard and LCD Display - Discover the Royal Alpha 1100ml heavy-duty cash register, designed for high-traffic establishments with 200 departments for sales analysis, 40 clerk ID system, and automatic tax computation to streamline your cash management system.
  6. Fast and Accurate Cash Register System with Thermal Printing and 8-Line Display - The Sharp XEA407 Cash Register offers a wide range of advanced features for efficient and streamlined operations, making it ideal for businesses seeking improved productivity and customer satisfaction.
  7. Royal 100Cx Portable Battery/AC Powered Cash Register - The Royal 100Cx Portable Battery/AC Powered Cash Register is a compact, efficient solution ideal for small businesses, vendors, and market stands, offering automatic tax computation, quick sales entry, and flexible department configurations.
  8. Royal 435dx Cash Register with 16 Department Capability and 8 Clerks - The Royal 435dX Electronic Cash Register is an exceptional choice for grocery stores, boasting 16 departments, 8 tax rates, and memory protection with backup batteries, making it a reliable and efficient addition to your business operations.
  9. Casio SE-S700 Cash Register: High-Speed Single-Station Thermal Printer - The Casio SE-S700 Cash Register combines speed, precision, and customizable features in a single-station thermal printer designed for grocery stores, streamlining operations while ensuring accurate pricing data for both operators and customers.
  10. Clover Station POS System with Cash Register - Clover Station: A sleek, reliable, and feature-rich POS system with large touchscreen, swipe card reader, and high-speed printer - perfect for streamlining your cash register management in grocery stores.
  11. Casio PCR-T2300 Electronic Cash Register - The Casio PCR-T2300 offers versatile and reliable cash register functionality with a 10-line display, 30 department keys, and customizable receipts, perfect for grocery stores and small businesses.
  12. Square Register Touchscreen Display, Gray - Elevate your sales game with Square Register's seamless design, intuitive controls, and compact size, perfect for efficient point-of-sale transactions for grocery stores.
  13. Royal Alpha 583x Electric Cash Register for Small Business - Flexible and efficient cash management: The Royal Alpha 583xcash register provides 99 departments, 1000 PLUs, and 4 tax rates, simplifying transactions and enhancing small business operations.
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Reviews

🔗Royal Consumer 500DX Cash Register for Small Business


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As a small business owner, I can attest that the Royal 500DX Cash Register has been an absolute game-changer for me. The dual LCD displays provide clear visibility for both the clerk and the customer, making transactions seamless and efficient.
One of the standout features is its capacity to handle up to 2,000 employees, which is more than adequate for a small to medium-sized business. Additionally, the unlimited messaging capability ensures that you won't miss any important announcements or updates. However, the product does feel a bit flimsy due to its predominantly plastic design, which might concern those who prefer a sturdier build.
Another fantastic aspect of this cash register is the 999 Price Look-Ups, allowing for quick processing of transactions. Programming four different tax rates also makes the setup process incredibly straightforward. On the downside, the impact printer, although functional, occasionally feels outdated compared to more advanced models.
Overall, the Royal 500DX Cash Register has proven to be a reliable and user-friendly addition to my small business. Its features cater to my daily needs and have undoubtedly contributed to the efficiency and success of my operations.

🔗Sharp XE-A102 Compact Electronic Cash Register with LED Display


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I have been using the Sharp XE-A102 Electronic Cash Register for a start-up retail business, and it's been a reliable and efficient partner. The compact design allows it to fit easily in our small store, and the bright LED display makes it easy for us and our customers to see the transaction details. The 8 departments feature helps us organize our inventory, and the 80 PLU/Items capacity allows us to input all our products without issues.
One of the standout features of this cash register is its ability to accept different payment methods like cash, cheque, and credit card, which has made it easy for us to cater to our customers' preferred payment options. Additionally, the time and date display feature ensures that our transactions are accurate and timely.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks to the Sharp XE-A102. It can be a little noisy and slow compared to some other cash registers, which may be an issue during peak hours when we need to serve customers quickly. Moreover, the instructions provided are quite small, making them difficult to read and follow.
Overall, the Sharp XE-A102 Electronic Cash Register has been an excellent addition to our start-up retail business. Its compact design, 58 mm wide reliable printing, and ability to accept multiple payment methods make it a valuable tool for any small retailer. While it may have a few minor issues, the majority of users, including myself, are satisfied with its performance and recommend it to others.

🔗Professional XE Series Electronic Cash Register


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I recently added the Sharp XE Series Electronic Cash Register to my tiny boutique store, and I couldn't be happier. Before settling on this model, I spent a lot of time researching various cash registers, but the XE Series stood out for its advanced sales reporting capabilities and seamless tie-in with QuickBooks Pro. The moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by its sleek, professional appearance and built-in SC card slot for easy connectivity and data back-up.
Setting up the register was incredibly easy, and within just a few hours, it was ready to go. Its intuitive interface made training my employees a breeze. The thermal printer was a pleasant surprise; it's much quieter and faster than traditional receipt printers. Plus, the customizable receipts with graphics and logos definitely give my store a professional edge.
One of my favorite features is the automatic tax system, which not only saves time but also reduces the potential for errors and makes reporting so much easier. The locking drawer ensures security and comes with multiple bill and coin compartments, making deposits a lot more organized.
The only downside is the rather complicated user manual, which could definitely be improved. It's not a complete deal breaker, though, as there are plenty of helpful YouTube tutorials available online.
All in all, I'm thrilled with my purchase of the Sharp XE Series Electronic Cash Register. It's a perfect fit for my small business and a real game-changer when it comes to streamlining sales transactions and accounting. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this cash register to anyone running a small retail or service business.

🔗Casio Single-Tape Thermal Cash Register for Business


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Casio's PCR-T280 is a fantastic single-tape thermal cash register that offers more functionality for medium-sized businesses than entry-level models. With the ability to track up to 1,200 price lookups, it offers a level of specificity in item sales tracking not commonly found in its class. It also allows businesses to track sales up to eight different operators, making it an excellent tool for business tracking and growth.
One of the standout features of this product is its hygienic, antibacterial keyboard. In our current world, where cleanliness is paramount, this characteristic provides a measure of peace of mind for both business owners and customers alike. Furthermore, its multipurpose tray can hold money in four bill compartments and five coin compartments, ensuring the efficient flow of transactions.
The PCR-T280 also boasts a high-speed thermal printer, which can be used either for customer receipts or as a journal printer for recording all the store's activities. Its mode lock with key control feature provides multiple operation positions through physical keys, providing a level of security usually found in more expensive models.
Although it is not touch-screen, its simple and intuitive design makes it easy to program and use. Some users did find the manual a bit difficult to follow, but with a bit of practice, most find it quite manageable. With its ability to handle multiple sales tax needs and its capacity for PLU capabilities, the Casio PCR-T280 has proven itself as a reliable tool for various businesses, small or medium-sized.
However, one minor drawback is the depth of the money/change drawer, which could have been a little deeper for added convenience. Despite this minor issue, the vast majority of users recommend this register for its performance and price point, providing an excellent value for businesses looking for an affordable, reliable cash register solution.

🔗Heavy-Duty Cash Register with Alpha Keyboard and LCD Display


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As an avid user of cash registers in my grocery store, I recently discovered the Royal Alpha 1100ml Cash Register, and my experience has been quite satisfactory. This heavy-duty register is perfect for my high-traffic establishment, offering a reliable and swift cash management system that I can always depend on.
The first thing that caught my eye about this cash register was its single fast and quiet alphanumeric thermal printer, capable of handling over 1 million lines. It's been able to keep up with the constant rush of customers, making it a reliable addition to my store.
The large 10-line LCD user display and alpha keyboard ensure easy programming, which was a breeze, even for a beginner like me. The SD Card slot is another excellent feature, enabling efficient accounting data transfers to a PC, a necessity for any modern business.
However, I will say that the software included with the register can be a bit flaky at times. While it is supposed to read the x and z reports that the machine puts on the sd card, I sometimes find myself having to use the sd card to transfer report data manually. Additionally, getting in touch with their tech support doesn't seem to be very helpful, as they often provide no real technical assistance.
Despite these minor issues, the Royal Alpha 1100ml Cash Register has been a solid addition to my store. Its heavy-duty locking cash drawer with four slot bill and removable five slot coin tray, along with its automatic tax computation, has made managing funds and keeping track of sales much easier for me. If you're in need of a reliable cash register for your business, I'd highly recommend giving this one a try.

🔗Fast and Accurate Cash Register System with Thermal Printing and 8-Line Display


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I recently discovered the Sharp XEA407 Cash Register while searching for a reliable and feature-rich solution for my little grocery store. After trying it out, I must say it's exceeded my expectations.
The first thing that impresses anyone who lays their eyes on it is the sleek eight-line display. It's not just a pretty face though; it's got brains as well with 7000 Price Lookups (PLU's), allowing quick and accurate entry. The inclusion of 99 departments is brilliant as it makes managing diverse product types a breeze.
My favorite feature? Hands down, the microban keytops. They provide built-in antimicrobial protection, keeping those pesky germs at bay, which is particularly important given the current health situation. And let's not forget about the large 32GB SD card slot for computer connectivity and data storage.
However, there were a few hiccups too. The lack of French documentation was a letdown for me, a French-speaking Canadian. Plus, a few customers have reported missing parts upon delivery, making the product unusable.
So, while there are some minor issues, the Sharp XEA407 Cash Register has overall been a reliable and efficient addition to my store. It's fast, easy to set up, and offers more than enough features for most small businesses. If you're looking for a cash register that combines modern tech with dependability, this might just be the one for you.

🔗Royal 100Cx Portable Battery/AC Powered Cash Register


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As a small business owner, I've been on the hunt for a reliable, portable cash register to make sales easier at my farmer's market stand. The Royal 100Cx, with its compact design and battery-powered operation, has been a reliable companion for me. The automatic tax computation feature is a game-changer, allowing me to easily manage sales and taxes on-the-go. However, the initial setup can be a bit daunting, and the manual doesn't do a fantastic job of explaining everything.
The preset department pricing and sales analysis by category of merchandise are standout features that have helped me keep track of inventory and sales trends. It's crucial for businesses like mine, where inventory and sales fluctuate frequently. The ink roll printer provides a receipt printout, providing a professional touch to every transaction.
In terms of drawbacks, one thing to note is that the tax computation is limited to only four rates – VAT, Canadian, and a couple of others – which may not cater to everyone's business needs. However, for my small farm market business, it's more than sufficient.
Overall, the Royal 100Cx is a dependable piece of hardware, and it's been a significant asset in streamlining my sales process. It may have a slightly steep learning curve, but once mastered, it's a powerful tool for any small business seeking a portable, autonomous cash register solution.

🔗Royal 435dx Cash Register with 16 Department Capability and 8 Clerks


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As a small business owner, I can attest to the convenience of the Royal 435dX Electronic Cash Register in my daily operations. Its 16 departments and 800 PLU's ensure an efficient flow of transactions, while the 8 clerk capacity and 4 tax rates enable seamless management, even for those serving in various locations or catering to international clientele.
One of the highlights of this cash register is the front and rear LCD displays, allowing both the clerk and customer to see each transaction clearly. The memory protection with backup batteries provides added security to safeguard data in case of a power outage, a particularly valuable feature for businesses operating in areas with unpredictable power supply.
However, a minor con would be the single station 57mm impact printer, which could limit the pace of transactions during peak rush hours. Also, the locking cash drawer tends to be a bit cumbersome, requiring more time than necessary to retrieve and return change.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Royal 435dX Electronic Cash Register has significantly improved my business operations, allowing me to keep track of transactions efficiently, even during peak hours. I would recommend this cash register to other small business owners looking for a reliable and feature-rich option that delivers exceptional performance at an affordable price point.

🔗Casio SE-S700 Cash Register: High-Speed Single-Station Thermal Printer


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I recently upgraded my old, heavy cash register to the Casio SE-S700, and I must say, it has made running daily transactions a breeze. The built-in rear customer display ensures that prices are accurate, while the 8 department keys and 999 PLUs make it a cinch to organize my inventory.
One of my favorite features is the customizable receipt header, allowing me to print unique messages on each customer receipt. The large, easy-to-read LCD display ensures that no mistakes are made during sales transactions.
However, there are a few cons to consider. The plastic construction doesn't instill much confidence in its durability, and I wish the cash register drawer featured a more secure locking mechanism.
Overall, the Casio SE-S700 has proven to be a reliable and efficient cash register for my small business, saving me time and preventing any hassles when it comes to handling transactions.

🔗Clover Station POS System with Cash Register


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I recently picked up the Clover Station POS System for my little cafe, and it's been quite the rollercoaster ride. Imagine a sleek, brushed aluminum body with a 11.6" touchscreen display that's as responsive as a well-trained puppy. Sounds appealing, right? Well, it is. But let's dive a little deeper.
First off, the touchscreen is large and bright, perfect for both me and my customers to navigate. The high-resolution camera embedded within the system makes scanning barcodes or QR codes a breeze, which is super helpful for keeping track of inventory. Plus, the swivel arm swivels smoothly between my side and the customer's, making transactions feel seamless and personal.
However, there have been some hiccups. For one, the single power source for the display and printer can create a tangled mess of cords, especially when you're trying to juggle other peripherals. And while the connectivity options (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth) are great, I sometimes find myself struggling with Wi-Fi lags.
Moreover, the customer service has proven to be quite the challenge. You see, I bought the Clover Station from a seller who didn't provide much support. When things went awry, I was left to figure it out on my own. Needless to say, getting in touch with their customer service has been a nightmare. It feels like they're speaking a different language sometimes, and getting a call back is as rare as a winning lottery ticket.
Despite these cons, I still find the Clover Station POS System useful for my small cafe. It's a stylish, reliable system that offers a range of features and connectivity options. However, be prepared for the occasional frustration and confusion, especially when it comes to their customer service.
In conclusion, the Clover Station POS System is a mixed bag. While it boasts a sleek design, large touchscreen, and versatile connectivity options, it also has its fair share of challenges, such as the messy cords and difficult customer service. I'd recommend this product for businesses looking for a stylish and reliable POS system, but be prepared to face a few hurdles along the way.

🔗Casio PCR-T2300 Electronic Cash Register


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I recently got my hands on the Casio PCR-T2300 Electronic Cash Register and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer for my business. With its 10-line LCD display, it's incredibly easy for me to check the current transaction and eliminate errors. The raised keyboard with 30 department key locations makes inputting data a breeze. Plus, with the built-in pop-up customer display, I can ensure my customers always know exactly what they're paying for.
One of my favorite features of this cash register is the ability to customize receipts with a graphic logo or programmable top and bottom messages, adding a personal touch to each transaction. The heavy-duty metal cash drawer provides more than enough space for five bill compartments and five coin compartments, making it perfect for a busy retail environment.
However, there are a few drawbacks that I've noticed during my time using this product. The instructions provided for programming the cash register could be more clear, leaving some users (like myself) scratching their heads at certain points. Additionally, while the register performs well overall, I have found that there can be some issues with the tape feeding, which can be frustrating at times.
All in all, the Casio PCR-T2300 Electronic Cash Register has proven to be a reliable and efficient addition to my business operations. With its user-friendly design and robust feature set, it's definitely worth considering for any small retailer or grocer looking to streamline their cash-handling processes.

🔗Square Register Touchscreen Display, Gray


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I've been using Square Register - Touchscreen Display, Gray for quite a while now, and it's been a game-changer for managing my small grocery store. The system is incredibly intuitive, with a sleek touchscreen display that makes transactions a breeze. The customer display is perfect for keeping lines moving smoothly, and the compact design ensures my countertop stays clutter-free.
One standout feature of the Square Register is its seamless integration with other Square services, like inventory management and customer feedback. This has made it incredibly easy for me to keep track of my stock and stay in touch with my regular customers. Additionally, the hardware is built to last, which is always a plus when you're investing in new equipment.
However, there's one area where Square Register could improve – the lack of customization options. While the system works great out of the box, I sometimes wish I could tweak some settings to better suit my specific needs. Despite this minor flaw, the Square Register - Touchscreen Display, Gray has definitely helped streamline my operations and improve my customers' experience.

🔗Royal Alpha 583x Electric Cash Register for Small Business


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I recently purchased the Royal Alpha 583cx Cash Register for my small business, and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. This little gem has made managing sales transactions a breeze. With 99 departments, 1000 PLUs, 26 clerks, and 4 tax rates, this cash register is fully equipped to handle the needs of any small business.
One of the features that I absolutely love is the alpha numeric single station thermal printer. It not only prints fast but also allows me to customize the receipts with my company's message, making it a great marketing tool. Another great feature is the serial port for PC connection, which lets me use an optional bar code scanner, making the checkout process even smoother.
However, one minor issue I experienced was with the paper feed. It tends to jam at times, but a quick fix usually solves the problem. Additionally, the display that shows the purchase amount could be more visible, especially in bright lighting conditions.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Royal Alpha 583cx Cash Register to anyone running a small business. Its user-friendly interface, customizable receipts, and reliable performance make it a valuable asset to have in any retail or service environment.

Buyer's Guide

Important Features to Consider


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When choosing a cash register for your small business, there are several features you should consider:

Calculating Functionality

  • Ensure that the cash register can handle the volume of sales your business makes daily.
  • Look for features such as tax calculations, price look-up (PLU) functions, and discount management.
  • Customizable receipts can also be helpful for providing customers with important information about their purchases.

Security Features

Protecting your business's cash and card transactions is essential. Look for cash registers with:
  • Password protection to restrict access to sensitive information and functions.
  • Real-time tracking of cashier operations, including transaction audits.
  • Optionally, consider a cash register with built-in anti-theft technology, such as alarms or motion sensors, to further secure your valuable assets.
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Integration Capabilities

Many modern cash registers can connect to other systems within your business. Consider the following:
  • Integration with point-of-sale (POS) systems, which can streamline sales and inventory management processes.
  • Compatibility with accounting software, allowing for seamless bookkeeping and financial reporting.
  • Compatibility with payment gateways and card readers, enabling your customers to make secure and convenient electronic payments.

Scalability and Expandability

As your small business grows, you may need to expand your cash register's capabilities. Consider these points:
  • Choose a cash register with room for add-on peripherals, such as barcode scanners, credit card readers, or customer displays. ]
  • Ensure that the cash register's software is scalable and can handle increasing transaction volumes.

Consider Your Budget

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Cash registers come in a range of prices and configurations. When selecting a cash register, factor in:
  • The upfront cost of the cash register itself.
  • The cost of any necessary software or hardware upgrades.
  • The cost of installation, training, and ongoing support.

General Advice for Choosing a Cash Register

Before making your final decision, take the following steps:
  • Research different models and manufacturers to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.
  • Read customer reviews to gain insight into the real-world performance and reliability of the cash registers you are considering.
  • Consult with industry experts or other small business owners for advice and recommendations.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cash register for your small business is an important decision. By considering the features, security, integration capabilities, scalability, and cost of the options available, you can select the best cash register to help your business thrive now and into the future.

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FAQ

What is a cash register and why does a small business need one?

A cash register is an electronic device used to process sales transactions at a point of sale, or POS. It stores sales data, calculates prices, and prints receipts. A small business needs a cash register for efficient inventory tracking, accurate financial reporting, and secure storage of cash on hand.

What features should I look for in a cash register for my small business?

Features to consider include a touch screen display, built-in scanner and credit card reader, programmable tax rates and discounts, inventory management, employee time clock, and multi-user capabilities. Additionally, look for a cash register that is simple to use, yet offers robust reporting options for better business insights.

How much does a cash register typically cost?

The cost of a cash register varies depending on its features, brand, and model. Basic models can start around $100, while more advanced systems with multiple functions may cost several thousand dollars. Always compare prices and consider the specific features you need before making a purchase.

How do I integrate my cash register with my existing accounting software?

Most modern cash registers can be easily connected with popular accounting software through USB or Ethernet cables or via Wi-Fi. Ensure that your cash register and accounting software are compatible before purchasing. After installation, you may need to configure settings to synchronize the two systems seamlessly.

Are there any portable cash registers for on-the-go sales?

Yes, there are numerous portable cash register solutions available on the market. These include handheld POS systems, mobile card readers, and compact cash registers designed for use in food trucks, markets, or kiosks. These devices often include wireless connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and lightweight designs for easy transport and handling.
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2024.05.19 13:39 ConsequenceSure3063 Best Cash Registers for Restaurants

Best Cash Registers for Restaurants

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Finding the right cash register for your restaurant can make a world of difference in streamlining operations and improving your overall business. In this article, we'll explore some of the best cash registers available for restaurants, focusing on their features, user-friendliness, and how they can boost efficiency in your establishment. Whether you're a small cafe or a bustling dining venue, there's a cash register out there that's perfect for you.
From compact, intuitive systems to more advanced models with a host of value-added features, we'll lead you through the options and help you identify the ideal cash register for your restaurant. So, get ready to optimize your business operations and enhance your customers' experience with our detailed product review and recommendations.

The Top 6 Best Cash Registers for Restaurants

  1. Efficient Electronic Cash Register for Businesses - The Royal 2000ML Electronic Cash Register offers efficient transaction management and data tracking for busy establishments, equipped with a fast alphanumeric thermal printer and accommodating up to 200 departments and 7000 price look ups.
  2. Sharp XE-A102 Compact Electronic Cash Register with LED Display - The Sharp XE-A102 Electronic Cash Register is a compact, reliable, and versatile option for start-up retailers, offering 8 departments, 80 PLU/Items, 3 payment methods, and a bright LED display.
  3. Casio Single-Tape Thermal Cash Register for Business - The Casio PCR-T280 is a top-performing cash register for medium-sized grocery stores, offering up to 1,200 item price lookups, easy tax programing, and hygienic anti-bacterial keyboard, ensuring patrons' peace of mind and efficient operation.
  4. Royal 410dx Electronic Cash Register for Small Stores - Streamline your sales process with the Royal 410dx Cash Register, featuring a programmable design, robust features, and a sleek compact footprint for optimal efficiency and minimum space requirements in small stores or restaurants.
  5. Advanced Alpha Cash Register with Rear Customer Display - Upgrade your grocery store's cash register system with the reliable Royal Alpha 1000ML, featuring an alphanumeric display, multiple security trays, a printer, and compatibility with bar-code scanners and SD cards.
  6. Royal 520DX Cash Register for Restaurants - The Royal 520DX Cash Register combines functionality and convenience for smoother business transactions, offering an anti-bacterial keyboard, thermal printer, and tracking up to 24 departments.
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Reviews

🔗Efficient Electronic Cash Register for Businesses


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I recently started using the Royal 2000ml Cash Register in my bistro, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer! . The transactions are now much smoother and quicker, and the single alphanumeric thermal printer for receipt printing works like a charm. . The ability to keep track of a whopping 200 departments and up to 7000 price look ups is a godsend, making inventory management a breeze. .
Plus, accommodating up to 40 clerk IDs? . Brilliant! .
However, the lack of a key upon delivery was a bummer, but Royal was quick to address the issue and sent one over. . All in all, I'm thoroughly impressed by the ease and efficiency this cash register has brought into my daily life. .

🔗Sharp XE-A102 Compact Electronic Cash Register with LED Display

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I have been using the Sharp XE-A102 Electronic Cash Register for a start-up retail business, and it's been a reliable and efficient partner. The compact design allows it to fit easily in our small store, and the bright LED display makes it easy for us and our customers to see the transaction details. The 8 departments feature helps us organize our inventory, and the 80 PLU/Items capacity allows us to input all our products without issues.
One of the standout features of this cash register is its ability to accept different payment methods like cash, cheque, and credit card, which has made it easy for us to cater to our customers' preferred payment options. Additionally, the time and date display feature ensures that our transactions are accurate and timely.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks to the Sharp XE-A102. It can be a little noisy and slow compared to some other cash registers, which may be an issue during peak hours when we need to serve customers quickly. Moreover, the instructions provided are quite small, making them difficult to read and follow.
Overall, the Sharp XE-A102 Electronic Cash Register has been an excellent addition to our start-up retail business. Its compact design, 58 mm wide reliable printing, and ability to accept multiple payment methods make it a valuable tool for any small retailer. While it may have a few minor issues, the majority of users, including myself, are satisfied with its performance and recommend it to others.

🔗Casio Single-Tape Thermal Cash Register for Business


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Casio's PCR-T280 is a fantastic single-tape thermal cash register that offers more functionality for medium-sized businesses than entry-level models. With the ability to track up to 1,200 price lookups, it offers a level of specificity in item sales tracking not commonly found in its class. It also allows businesses to track sales up to eight different operators, making it an excellent tool for business tracking and growth.
One of the standout features of this product is its hygienic, antibacterial keyboard. In our current world, where cleanliness is paramount, this characteristic provides a measure of peace of mind for both business owners and customers alike. Furthermore, its multipurpose tray can hold money in four bill compartments and five coin compartments, ensuring the efficient flow of transactions.
The PCR-T280 also boasts a high-speed thermal printer, which can be used either for customer receipts or as a journal printer for recording all the store's activities. Its mode lock with key control feature provides multiple operation positions through physical keys, providing a level of security usually found in more expensive models.
Although it is not touch-screen, its simple and intuitive design makes it easy to program and use. Some users did find the manual a bit difficult to follow, but with a bit of practice, most find it quite manageable. With its ability to handle multiple sales tax needs and its capacity for PLU capabilities, the Casio PCR-T280 has proven itself as a reliable tool for various businesses, small or medium-sized.
However, one minor drawback is the depth of the money/change drawer, which could have been a little deeper for added convenience. Despite this minor issue, the vast majority of users recommend this register for its performance and price point, providing an excellent value for businesses looking for an affordable, reliable cash register solution.

🔗Royal 410dx Electronic Cash Register for Small Stores


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I recently got my hands on a Royal 410dx Cash Register and I am absolutely thrilled with this little gadget. As a small business owner, keeping track of sales and transactions has never been easier. The programmable design allows me to set up tax rates, discounts, and prices on every product, helping me stay organized and efficient.
One of the features that amazed me was the automatic tax computation. It saves me a lot of time and reduces the margin for error during transactions. Another highlight was the 10-clerk tracking system, making it suitable even for businesses with multiple staff. Plus, the alphanumeric thermal printer is impressive with its quiet performance and excellent print quality.
However, there are a few hiccups. Some users have reported that there are no replacement parts available if anything breaks, which could be troublesome. Additionally, the lack of a slot to accommodate large bills, checks, or slips in the coin drawer made me a bit disappointed.
In conclusion, the Royal 410dx Cash Register is a great addition to any small store or business. Its simplicity, programmability, and exceptional features like tax computation and thermal printing make transactions smoother and more efficient. Despite a few cons, the benefits make it a worthy investment.

🔗Advanced Alpha Cash Register with Rear Customer Display


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The Royal Alpha 1000ml Cash Register is an excellent addition to any retail store, especially those that require a reliable and user-friendly cash register. Having used this product for several months now, I can confidently say that it has not only met my expectations but also exceeded them in some aspects.
One of the most noticeable features of this cash register is its 5-line alpha, LCD display with a backlight that provides visibility even in low-light conditions, easing the process for both employees and customers. Additionally, the 200 departments and 5,000 PLUs (Price Look-Ups) along with an electronic journal make inventory management a breeze.
The thermal printer is also worth mentioning as it ensures quick, smudge-free receipts. Furthermore, the optional hand-held bar code scanner adds an extra layer of convenience for those who prefer digital tracking of their items.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The sensitivity to electrical shocks can be problematic during storms, which we experienced firsthand with our unit. Additionally, some users reported issues with programming and customer support, although I personally haven't encountered these problems.
In conclusion, the Royal Alpha 1000ml Cash Register offers a promising combination of functionality, convenience, and ease of use, making it a worthy investment for retail store owners looking for a dependable cash register solution.

🔗Royal 520DX Cash Register for Restaurants


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I've been using the Royal 520DX Cash Register in my small cafe, and it's been a game-changer. The rear LCD customer display and 9 digit operator display make transactions super easy, and the built-in thermal printer is a lifesaver for receipts. Plus, the locking drawer with compartments for bills and coins is excellent for keeping everything organized.
But, there are a few downsides. The paper rolls can be a bit wasteful, especially when customers don't want receipts, and it took some time to figure out how to program the register. It's also worth mentioning that my power supply is starting to fray, which is a concern for future use.
Overall, the Royal 520DX Cash Register is a solid choice for running a small business, with its user-friendly design and helpful features. However, the paper waste and potential power supply issues might be something to consider before making a purchase.

Buyer's Guide

Important Features to Consider


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When choosing a cash register for your restaurant, there are several features to keep in mind:
  • Touchscreen Display: A responsive, easy-to-use touchscreen makes transactions quicker and reduces the potential for errors from manual entry.
  • Integrated Scanner: An integrated scanner will allow you to scan barcodes on merchandise, reducing manual data entry, and increasing speed and accuracy.
  • Credit Card Processing: Many modern cash registers offer integrated credit card processing, providing secure and smooth transactions for customers paying with plastic.
  • Inventory Management: Advanced cash registers can provide real-time inventory management tools, helping you keep track of supplies and reorder items when necessary.
  • Scalability: As your restaurant grows, you'll want a cash register system that can grow with it. Consider a system that supports multiple registers, staff accounts, and other advanced features.

Considerations for Restaurant Use

Some additional factors to consider when choosing a cash register for your restaurant:
  • Ease of Use: Make sure the cash register is user-friendly, especially for employees who may not be tech-savvy. A quick learning curve will save you time and money on training.
  • Reliability: Cash registers need to be reliable in high-pressure, busy environments. Look for a system with a good reputation for durability and longevity.
  • Customer Support: Issues will occur at some point. Choose a cash register system with accessible customer support, preferably U. S. based and responsive.
  • Software Updates: Ensure the software for your cash register is regularly updated, with new features and improvements that enhance its performance and security over time.

General Advice

Before purchasing a cash register, consider these additional pieces of advice:
  • Set a Budget: Make sure you understand the costs involved, from initial hardware costs to any recurring subscription fees for software or services.
  • Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, get hands-on with the cash register. This will give you a better understanding of how user-friendly the system is and whether it meets your specific needs.
  • Read Reviews: Take into account the experiences of other customers who have already used the product. Their feedback can provide valuable insights into the system's performance, reliability, and customer support.
  • Train Your Staff: Regardless of which cash register system you choose, make sure your staff are sufficiently trained in its operation. This will maximize its effectiveness and efficiency in your restaurant environment.

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FAQ

What is a cash register for a restaurant?

A cash register for a restaurant is a device that aids in the management of transactions, tracking sales, and keeping track of inventory. It typically consists of a hardware unit with a display, keypad, and a cash drawer. Some modern cash registers also come with software and integrated features that boost efficiency, such as inventory management, employee monitoring, and sales tracking.

What are some important features to look for in a cash register for a restaurant?


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  • Ease of use: A cash register should be easy to operate for both staff and customers.
  • Integrated software: Software that helps manage inventory, sales, and employees can be a useful addition to any cash register.
  • Reliability: The cash register should function reliably, especially during peak hours when the volume of transactions is high.
  • Scalability: The cash register should be scalable, meaning it should be able to adapt to the growing demands of your restaurant business.
  • Customer support: The manufacturer or reseller should provide robust customer support, especially for troubleshooting and software updates.

How much do cash registers for restaurants typically cost?

The cost of a cash register for a restaurant can vary greatly depending on the features and complexity you need. Simple entry-level models can start at around $100, while more advanced systems with integrated software and hardware can cost thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.

Do I need any special training to use a cash register at a restaurant?

Most cash registers are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, so extensive training is usually not required. However, it's always a good idea to provide some training for your staff to ensure that they're familiar with the specific features and layout of your cash register system.

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What is the difference between a cash register and a POS system?

A cash register is primarily used for processing transactions, managing inventory, and tracking sales. A POS (point of sale) system is a more advanced and integrated solution that combines these functions with customer relationship management and other features. POS systems typically require more complex hardware setups and software, and are usually more expensive than standalone cash registers.

Can I customize the settings on my cash register for restaurant use?

Most cash registers offer at least some degree of customization, allowing you to set up your system to fit the specific needs of your restaurant business. This might include custom keys for different menu items, custom sales reports, and other features. Check with the manufacturer or reseller of your cash register to find out exactly what kind of customization options are available.

How do I connect my cash register to my restaurant's computer network?

The process of connecting your cash register to your restaurant's computer network can vary depending on the specific hardware and software you're using. In general, you'll need to install any necessary software drivers, and then connect the cash register to your network using either a direct Ethernet connection or a Wi-Fi connection. Consult the manufacturer's documentation for detailed instructions on how to do this.

How can I prevent theft or fraud with my cash register?

There are several steps you can take to help prevent theft or fraud with your cash register, including:
  • Installing surveillance cameras,
  • Implementing regular inventory checks,
  • Educating your employees on proper cash handling procedures,
  • Requiring two or more employees to authenticate each transaction,
  • Performing regular audits of your cash register activity,
  • Installing anti-theft devices on your cash register,
  • Restricting access to the cash register and its related software.

How do I update the software on my cash register?

Updating the software on your cash register will depend on the specific hardware and software you're using. In most cases, you'll be able to download and install updates directly from the manufacturer's website. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the update process goes smoothly.

What happens if my cash register breaks down or stops working?

If your cash register stops working or breaks down, you'll need to troubleshoot the problem and, if necessary, order replacement parts or a new cash register. Check with the manufacturer or reseller of your cash register to find out what kind of support and warranty coverage you have in case of a breakdown or malfunction.
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2024.05.19 13:36 chaoszeroomega Can I get tips for improving my 'voiceline asset creation' workflow?

Hey, so I've been using FL Studio in order to create more dynamic mumble-speak esque voicelines for my games (for those not familiar with the specific term, it's the Banjo Kazooie 'every letter is a different toned SFX' approach). I originally did it this way so I could manually create a few specific 'audio phrases' using the SFX of choice, pitched up and down to communicate mood and intonation.
However, I want to go a little further, and I'd like advice on how I should go about this, as an amateur audio engineer.
Right now, I've mostly just been importing the 'voices' of specific characters into FL studio, fiddling around with the settings until I like it. However, I don't really like how my 'voicelines' are just one note/tone, and I wanted to add more into the mix. I want to do this by effectively, getting more samples from whatever I was using as the character's 'voice' and thus creating different syllables for them.
Problem is, I'm not sure how I should go about this more efficiently in FL Studio's workflow. I've previously just used one track per voiceline, but I'm not sure how I can coordinate multiple different instruments on the same track as I'm very inexperienced with music/sound software.
I'm not even sure if it's possible to have multiple instruments on the same track - but the process of switching back and forth on the instruments to try and coordinate it sounds like a really tiring affair, as if I want to make even the most minute change, I'd have to flip between two tracks over and over to make adjustments. Am I missing something? Either way, I hope someone can point me toward a better approach.
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2024.05.19 13:31 cbll0120 "Shota Imanaga's Pitching Bible" Preface and Table-of-Contents translated.

Preface:
I started my life as a pitcher first by playing softball during my elementary school years, then "Japanese-style" (rubber-ball) baseball in middle school. I continued on in high school, college, and entered the pros (via the draft in 2015). From all this experience, what I feel most strongly is that baseball is definitely not a "competition amongst pitchers to throw the best pitch". In the game, the ultimate goal is for your team to win, and the pitcher's role in this is to "hold down the batters to prevent runs", this is paramount. Well then, "what is needed for this?", you may ask, and to start, I believe what's needed is "ease of throwing".
Theories for the mechanisms of pitching motion indeed exist, however, no matter how in-line with theory you may think you are, you must pitch in a way that works for you, or else you will struggle with control and become desperate to throw a strike. Basically, instead of the matchup "you versus the hitter" it will instead become a matchup "you vs yourself", which needs to be addressed before ever entering in a game.And so, no matter what your pitching form may become, you must first build a form from which you feel no stress. Only on top of this can you start on further developing a pitching form that is "difficult for batters to hit off" or "throwing one's ideal pitch", this is what I feel is important.
After entering the pros, this is what I have pursued, but to be honest up until around 2020, I kept thinking I had to pitch a certain way. I kept on thinking intensely about the various specific parts of my pitching form. I kept battling with an ever lingering anxiety and restlessness that "something isn't quite right". Finally around 2021, I was able to realize that pursuing a certain ideal form wasn't the most important thing. Towards the end of this season, I started to be able to pitch in a more deftly relaxed way. I then think that moving into 2022 I was able to achieve a feel and mind for my pitching.
This book is a summation of my thoughts. These are my thoughts in the current year 2023, and of course they're probably still not fully realized yet, however that leaves room for me to continue growing in the future. It would make me grateful and very happy if by reading this book you become interested in baseball and even use it as a guide.
Shota Imanaga

Table of Contents:

Preface

Table of Contents

Chapter 1:

Concept of pitching motion

  • Don't adhere to your pitching form and focus on the state of your body when your right foot lands.
  • Understand the "passive" and "active" range of motion of a joint: Preparing for the release, first relax before exerting output.
  • Feel the connection from the body movement and release your body to the side, imagining a cube as you impart vertical rotation on the ball.
  • As long as you don't expose your left shoulder, there is no problem even if your right shoulder opens, Apply force from left to right in a rotational motion.
  • How to produce the most vertical twist at the moment of landing, the key is to imagine tightening a screw with your right leg.

Chatper 2:

The Mechanics Of Each Phase

  • Standing on the first base side of the plate and posture in a cross.
  • Find and set the positions of your ankles, knees, and hip joints that tend to generate force.
  • As if stomping, going from two axes towards one axis
  • Feeling gravity and buoyancy in lockstep around the solar plexus.
  • Feel there is a wall on your left side as you have the right leg lead, accelerating the body.
  • Prioritize movement of the shoulder blades and feeling the power in your torso.
  • The key is where to "drop" the ball to, in order to firmly swing the arm.
  • Bending the right knee slightly and firmly engaging the stop action.
  • Power becomes consistent when the chest tilt and arm angle line up.
  • Ideally, the output and braking should be balanced 50:50

Chapter 3:

Control and Off-speed Pitches

  • Aim the throw not at the catcher's mitt, but in front of the mitt. When pitching from the stretch, the position of the arm at landing becomes more important.
  • The key to control when throwing to the inside corner is how much you rotate your torso using your right leg.
  • The key to controlling pitch height is visualizing your center of gravity and pitch trajectory.
  • The repetoire of pitches including the fastball is 4 types. For off-speed pitches, pursue an off-speed throwing form.
  • 1. Pitch grip for each pitch - Fastball (4 seam)
  • 2. Pitch grip for each pitch - Slider
  • 3. Pitch grip for each pitch - Changeup
  • 4. Pitch grip for each pitch - Curve
  • The "feel" in the left hand

Chapter 4:

How to prepare and what to be aware of for a game

  • Do not over think the first pitch, observe the opponent and feel out their tendencies
  • When something isn't working 100%, do not try to achieve perfection, instead think of ways to win at 60%.
  • Before the game, try going full effort once. When the mound doesn't feel right, focus on relaxed/controlled effort.
  • Follow the planned flow but at the same time, fine-tune with your judgment.
  • Focus on relaxed/controlled effort as much as possible. Firmly obtain the sensation of the fingers engaging the ball.
  • Within 22~23 pitches, check the tendencies of the pitches for the day. Even if they are not working, don't try to forcibly adjust.
  • For every body part, think about the counter movement, and be ever aware of using your body effectively.
  • Shape the glove to be a bit deep and use it so that it doesn't get flattened/squashed. File/Wear Down the shoe spikes just a bit.

Shota Imanaga's NPB Career

Cumulative Stats and Titles, Author Profile

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2024.05.19 13:26 Orange_Menace1 Randyll Tarly - Blackfyre Supporter (my first theory)

Randyll Tarly - Blackfyre Supporter (my first theory)
Note: I started writing this and it got away from me. Rather than fill in the unfinished points, I've just left them there for everyone to consider

Preface

Randyll Tarly on a first read through is a jerk. He tortures Sam, insults Brienne, implements draconian justice and downplays the golden company threat. Prima-Facie, he is a violent commander with little political cunning.
Except for his results. By the end of ADWD
· He receives accolades for every battle fought (I hold fire on the term won)
· He holds the queen in his custody.
· He has a voice at council
· He secured his chosen heir in defiance of westrosi customs
If we assume these things didn’t happen by chance, we can re-examine some of his older achievements, actions, and then try to sort out his motives.

Randyll Tarly as a Commander

Roberts Rebellion

Battle of Ashford

Context: The battle of Ashford was Roberts one defeat in his rebellion. Tarly’s van sailed forward and defeated Roberts host, but the battle was inconclusive. Robert retreated to the stony sept, recovered, regrouped, and when his allies arrived and consolidated forces, used this new army to win the war.

Relevant Sections – directly on point paragraphs:

A Storm of Swords - Tyrion III

Tyrion had to bite his tongue at that. Robb Stark had won more battles in a year than the Lord of Highgarden had in twenty. ~Tyrell's reputation rested on one indecisive victory over Robert Baratheon at Ashford, in a battle largely won by Lord Tarly's van before the main host had even arrived.~

A Storm of Swords - Davos V

"Edric, you ought not boast," Maester Pylos said. "King Robert suffered defeats like any other man. Lord Tyrell bested him at Ashford, and he lost many a tourney tilt as well."

A Storm of Swords - Samwell V

"Your father is an able soldier," King Stannis said. "He defeated my brother once, at Ashford. Mace Tyrell has been pleased to claim the honors for that victory, but Lord Randyll had decided matters before Tyrell ever found the battlefield. He slew Lord Cafferen with that great Valyrian sword of his and sent his head to Aerys." The king rubbed his jaw with a finger. "You are not the sort of son I would expect such a man to have."

A Dance with Dragons - The Griffin Reborn

~He had lost it all at Stoney Sept, in his arrogance.~
~Robert Baratheon had been hiding somewhere in the town, wounded and alone. Jon Connington had known that, and he had also known that Robert's head upon a spear would have put an end to the rebellion, then and there~. He was young and full of pride. How not? King Aerys had named him Hand and given him an army, and he meant to prove himself worthy of that trust, of Rhaegar's love. He would slay the rebel lord himself and carve a place out for himself in all the histories of the Seven Kingdoms.

Other information gleaned from context

· Tarly did not inflict substantial casualties
· Robert won the battle of the trident within a year – Ashford is 282AC and the trident is 283
· Robert fled to and was sheltered in the stony sept, where Jon Connington failed to flush him out. The battle of the bells occurred in 283AC, as did the battle of the trident shortly after

Analysis

Randyll leads the van some distance ahead of the main force, gets into a battle with the rebels, and inflicts minor to moderate casualties before they escape. Tyrell takes the credit.
From a military point of view, if the battle had not been decided before the main force arrived, the war would have likely ended. A much larger force (with assumedly many more horsemen) would have won the battle both more conclusively, and been able to pursue. By all rights, the strategy enforced by Mace Tyrell should have won the war (this theme will come in later in this theory), but for the fact only a fraction of his army engaged far ahead of the main host.
As an aside and jumping ahead a little – Tarly avoids doing this after the blackwater, closing off escape routes and slaughtering everyone. This hints at the fact that Ashford was a tactical mistake.
The first three viewpoints we receive on the battle are of note.
· Tyrion points out the battle was indecisive, and ~decided before the main host arrived~. He focuses on the victory in ‘battle’ as opposed to war.
· Stannis points out how able Randyll is by defeating his brother once at Ashford. Although unable to ascribe any special military strategy to Randyll, he calls him ‘able’ and decided matters before Tyrell arrived. He also flags that Mace Tyrell claimed the honours for the victory and he thinks this undeserved. It’s interesting as it’s Maces host at Ashford, a host that by all rights should have crushed Roberts army in a single battle – given the van alone defeated him. He also ascribes the only kill of note as lord Cafferen
· Maester Pylos points out that Robert lost battles at Ashford and flags it was Tyrell who bested him.
The battle by all appearances, was a farce. Ashford could have ended the war. Arguably, even with the van alone deciding the fight, it very nearly did. Instead, the battle is determined indecisive, there is no ‘impressive kill and capture list’ indicating the host was not captured or killed (as opposed to routed), and Mace has this massive potentially war-ending host not doing much because Robert is in retreat before it arrives.
Furthermore despite all this, Tarly very nearly won the day at Ashford. Robert suffered a serious – but nonfatal wound that seemingly took months (and at least weeks) to recover. The fact that a seriously wounded Robert was able to escape despite distinctive armour and weaponry raises questions of its own.
Finally, when Robert was wounded and hidden in the aftermath whilst he recovered, narratively it allowed JonCon to lay siege to the stony sept. As a parallel, one of the themes I will later touch on is how Tarly changes after this battle, and we know JonCon swears to kill more and become Tywin 2.0. as a direct result of the events at the sept. We see a similar change in Tarly.
It’s also of note that Tarly and Tyrell at this point were on the Targaryen side. This crops up later when we look into other motivations and goals.
Aftermath
So we know that Robert suffers wounds and is somewhat detached from his host (be it they left him in the stoney sept or he scattered off from the main host). We know this as he ends up wounded in the Stoney Sept. After this, the battle of the bells and all the great victories that ended the war occur.
Notably, Tarly has no major military achievements after this battle. Since Mace Tyrell was invested in the siege of Storms end, it can be presumed Tarly was positioned with the main force. The next time we see him is in the battle of 5 kings –

Discussion with Renly – The Siege of Stannis

  • Renly outright ignores Tarly when he says they'll be charging into the sun. In renlys conversation with stannis he points out how overwhelmingly strong his force is and how it will be heavy horse charging into boiled leather. He's not wrong, if the armies clash, stannis will be crushed and waiting is potentially disastrous, as stannis may not engage or slow the whole process down.

Battle of the Blackwater

A Clash of Kings - Sansa VII

They came up the roseroad and along the riverbank, through all the fields Stannis had burned, the ashes puffing up around their boots and turning all their armor grey, but oh! the banners must have been bright, the golden rose and golden lion and all the others, the Marbrand tree and the Rowan~, Tarly's huntsman~ and Redwyne's grapes and Lady Oakheart's leaf. All the westermen, all the power of Highgarden and Casterly Rock! ~Lord Tywin himself had their right wing~ on the north side of the river, with Randyll Tarly commanding the center and ~Mace Tyrell the left,~ but the vanguard won the fight. They plunged through Stannis like a lance through a pumpkin, every man of them howling like some demon in steel. And do you know who led the vanguard? Do you? Do you? Do you?"

A Storm of Swords - Catelyn II

"I told you to hold Riverrun," said Robb. "What part of that command did you fail to comprehend?"
"When you stopped Lord Tywin on the Red Fork," said the Blackfish, "you delayed him just long enough for riders out of Bitterbridge to reach him with word of what was happening to the east. ~Lord Tywin turned his host at once, joined up with Matthis Rowan and Randyll Tarly~ near the headwaters of the Blackwater, and made a forced march to Tumbler's Falls, ~where he found Mace Tyrell and two of his sons waiting with a huge host and a fleet of barges~. They floated down the river, disembarked half a day's ride from the city, and took Stannis in the rear."

We know tywin likes to put his strength on his flanks and in the reserve

Interestingly, Mace is there too, and it’s a tyrell van this time, not tarly
Lord Tywin himself had their right wing on the north side of the river, with Randyll Tarly commanding the center and Mace Tyrell the left, but the vanguard won the fight. They plunged through Stannis like a lance through a pumpkin, every man of them howling like some demon in steel.
ACOK 62: SANSA VII

Analysis

First the parallels. Mace Tyrell is paralleled to Tywin on the two flanks. It is a tyrell in the van who decides the day. Randyll commands the center.
Logistically, the battle is won by Mace Tyrell (whom I love as a character) with a fleet of barges and a huge host already in position (allowing the army to cross quickly enough to intercept the battle of the blackwater). Also the messenger that draws in Tywin’s host comes from Bitterbridge – Tyrell Lands. Given the van wins the battle, there’s a fair argument that Mace could have won the battle alone, albeit with all the support he wins a crushing victory instead.
So Randyll is relegated to an important, but ultimately ancillary position. Whether the battle is won by Tywin or Mace (and by all logistical accounts, it’s Mace), is another question, but the ‘finest soldier in the seven kingdoms’ is once again, somewhat ineffectual. He still commands the center in such a battle, but he displays no logistical or battle prowess in this fight either, just being a renowned commander in the right place at the right time.

Battle of Duskendale

· Lord Randyll defeats a northern army. The army is mostly foot and misplaced
· This time, few excape – XXXX cuts off the retreat.
· Some theories say he was tipped off by Roose Bolton.
· This time he gets the commander
· Figth occurs in FIELDS AND FARMS. Bad terrain for a retreat. Glover TRAPPED against blackwater bay
· Note that Glover had to be captured lest bolton treachery be revealed. Cannot be allowed to send raven.
· Strong implication of a trap and tipoff

A Storm of Swords - Catelyn IV

When they brought him word of the battle at Duskendale, where Lord Randyll Tarly had shattered Robett Glover and Ser Helman Tallhart, he might have been expected to rage.

A Storm of Swords - Tyrion VIII

But who would be mad enough to contest Joffrey's rule now, after what had befallen Stannis Baratheon and Robb Stark? There was still fighting in the riverlands, but everywhere the coils were tightening. Ser Gregor Clegane had crossed the Trident and seized the ruby ford, then captured Harrenhal almost effortlessly. Seagard had yielded to Black Walder Frey, ~Lord Randyll Tarly held Maidenpool, Duskendale, and the kingsroad.~

A Storm of Swords - Tyrion III

"No," their father said. "With the war. Varys."
The eunuch smiled a silken smile. "I have such delicious tidings for you all, my lords. Yesterday at dawn our ~brave Lord Randyll caught Robett Glover outside Duskendale and trapped him against the sea. Losses were heavy on both sides, but in the end our loyal men prevailed. Ser Helman Tallhart is reported dead, with a thousand others. Robett Glover leads the survivors back toward Harrenhal in bloody disarray, little dreaming he will find valiant Ser Gregor and his stalwarts athwart his path."~

A Storm of Swords - Tyrion I

"Until Lord Redwyne brings his fleet up, we lack the ships to assail Dragonstone. It makes no matter. Stannis Baratheon's sun set on the Blackwater. ~As for Stark, the boy is still in the west, but a large force of northmen under Helman Tallhart and Robett Glover are descending toward Duskendale. I've sent Lord Tarly to meet them, while Ser Gregor drives up the kingsroad to cut off their retreat.~ Tallhart and Glover will be caught between them, with a third of Stark's strength."

A Storm of Swords - Catelyn IV

When they brought him word of the battle at Duskendale, where ~Lord Randyll Tarly had shattered Robett Glover and Ser Helman Tallhart,~ he might have been expected to rage. Instead he'd stared in dumb disbelief and said, "Duskendale, on the narrow sea? Why would they go to Duskendale?" He'd shook his head, bewildered. "A third of my foot, lost for Duskendale?"
"The ironmen have my castle and now the Lannisters hold my brother," Galbart Glover said, in a voice thick with despair. Robett Glover had survived the battle, but had been captured near the kingsroad not long after.

A Feast for Crows - Brienne II

Lord Randyll Tarly had commanded Joffrey's army, made up of westermen and stormlanders and knights from the Reach. Those men of his who had died here had been carried back inside the walls, to rest in heroes' tombs beneath the septs of Duskendale. The northern dead, far more numerous, were buried in a common grave beside the sea. Above the cairn that marked their resting place, the victors had raised a rough-hewn wooden marker. HERE LIE THE WOLVES was all it said. Brienne stopped beside it and said a silent prayer for them, and for Catelyn Stark and her son Robb and all the men who'd died with them as well.



Analysis

Firstly we start with the obvious comparison. Tarly lets Robert escape when Mace otherwise very nearly won the war. Given another chance, Randyll pins his enemy against the sea and plans to not let a man escape. Having somewhat surrounded the opponent on known land, with reinforcements (Clegane) behind him, he still manages to suffer heavy casualties, and the target (XXXX) escapes.
What a colossal mistake. The only good news is he intercepted enough of the force that it seems no ravens got sent off showing exactly what happened, as if one message got back, the whole red wedding could have been undone.
Now prior posts have analyzed duskendale about allowing paths of retreat, and number of losses, but I think there are three key takeaways
1) The stark contrast between this and his tactics at Ashford
2) The fact that he failed to capture the host and Gregor Clegane had to clean up the mess
3) The fact he suffered heavy losses when by all rights he had every advantage (and still failed to capture the army)
Interestingly, the message that gets to Robb is that Tarly shattered glover. The actual message from Varys is only 1000 were killed, with Tallhart. Now its difficult to say how many foot there were, but it’s not unreasonable to assume that 1000 is less than to around half the force. Clegane captures Glover in the aftermath (thankfully), and Robb gets the report that Tarly shattered the force, when in actuality a good chunk of it was Clegane.
As a sidenote- this is indicative that Clegane actually isn’t a bad commander, and in turn this makes the fact that Edmure Tully threw him back more impressive.
We also don’t hear of any captives other than the ones taken by Clegane. It appears Tarly is putting men to the sword (SEE EARLIER).
Now before we get into conspiracy theories, we see Glover in ADWD conspiring with Madderly to help the starks and Stannis, so it seems this was not some cunning scheme where he secretly got himself captured.
Interestingly, the graves Brienne sees seem to indicate a crushing victory for Tarly, like the one described by Robb. This however is at odds with the report of Varys, and the fact Clegane had to mop up the leftover army. Now there are a few possibilities for this. Varys could be wrong/lying, heavy losses is being thrown around as a relative term (but that seems suspect), or the total of Tarly dead and Clegane’s role is being hidden. The last seems the most likely, Robb hears of a crushing defeat led by Tarly not Clegane (which we know is at least partially false), the dead he kills don’t add up, and there’s no mention of Clegane whom definitely did some of the work.
Also even assuming the whole situation is true and Tarly killed men at a 2/1 ratio, this assumes there are 500 heroes tombs under the septs at Duskendale. Simply put, there may not be that many. The whole aftermath stinks of a coverup. Tarly is getting Cleganes credit (and interestingly, it’s around now that Tywin decides not to give Clegane to oberyn).
Finally we get to the tinfoily bit. Helman garrisoned with Walder Frey to make sure he kept peace. Of the two lords, Helman is arguably more problematic, he knows more of Frey habits (when Tywin is scheming a betrayal) and his nephew is a possible hornwood claimant (cough Roose cough). If there was a conspiracy to kill one and ransom the other – I can see a world where Talhart is the one to be killed. In all reality though, this is a bit too ambitious, and in reality one just died and one escaped – without some super scheme that Tarly was involved in.
So in summary – once again Tarly fails his mission. At best, he bloodies an out of position army whilst taking heavy casualties, with his reinforcements on the way, and half the army breaks free (admittedly into Clegane). This is not a great display of prowess. We also know its possible to capture these men as hostages, as Clegane successfully does so – and Tarly fails to once again. Now it’s not catastrophic as the Northerners are bleeding men and trading troops tit for tat is beneficial, but the battle itself (the thing Randyll is in charge of) is highly unimpressive. The strategic victory goes to Tywin, whom in truth entrusts it as much to Gregor Clegane as to Tarly. As it so happens, Clegane delivers and Tarly doesn’t.


A summary as a commander

Talk about failing upwards
· Charging ahead, he is able to turn a crushing win into an indecisive one which ultimately leads to Roberts Rebellion succeeding
· He gives counsel to Renly about the sun when renly knows that the sheer strength of his cavalry makes the issue moot. Renly all but ignores him.
· He doesn’t appear to do much during the battle of the blackwater
· He manages to mess up essentially an ambush at Duskendale despite reinforcements being on the way
· As a result of the 4 above points, he is given, lands, titles, honors and a position on the small council.
Upon actually reviewing his achievements and each individual battle, I’ve 180’d on Tarly. George RR Martin does a great job building him up, and having everyone describe him as a great commander, but actually unpacking his battles, he looks pretty underwhelming. The most important battle he won was Ashford, but that was a strategic catastrophe which otherwise could have potentially let Mace Tyrell win the war. Afterwards he’s carefully managed, with Renly outright dismissing him, Mace keeping the key positions of command in other people’s hands and Tywin going so far as to dispatch a trusted force behind him in the event he fails again – WHICH HE DOES.


Politicks, Loyalties and Conspiracies

There’s a lot to get through so I’m not going to source everything here. Rather, I’ll list dot points, and we will be collecting everything under theories. In time it may be worth sourcing this all, but for now, I want to get something out – so it’ll be shortform
· Historically house is blackfyre
· Renly Sworn NOT STANNIS
· Joined at bitterbridge to Renly
· Shadowbaby and killing others
· VIEWS ON MAESTERS
· Killing Stannis supporters at bitterbridge
· Saving Brienne
· Helping Brienne / Bewilderment
· Views on Women and Strongmen
· Sam, Maesters, the Marches and Strength
· Maidenpool Rulership
· Renown amonst common men
· Downplaying the Golden Company
· Bravosi Debts
· Taking the QUEEN ahead of Mace Tyrell

Theoreis Stemming off Data

The Blackfyre Theory

Let’s assume that Randyll supported the Blackfyres because his house traditionally were Blackfyre Loyalists. This is a little thin on evidence, but quite a few of his actions also support this, lending some credence to the theory
1) He swore to Renly not Stannis.
a. Stannis was 17 or 18 when he held storms end. He is approximately 13 years older than Renly, making Renly 5 at the time. This means that during Roberts Rebellion, for all relevant purposes, Renly was a non-participant, whilst Stannis actively fought against the dragons. If Randyll is a dragon supporter, his repulsion at joining Stannis is apparent.
b. In fact, he goes as far as to kill stannis supporters at bitterbridge to consolidate the reach forces. This is interesting as it contrasts stannis whom takes pains to not kill the karstarks to a man once he realizes their treason.
2) He downplays the golden company
a. At the end of AFWC, Randyll is downplaying the golden company as much as he can. If we assume he is pro-dragon, this gives time for the blackfyre cause to swell, as he delays Kevan Lannister to the best of his ability
3) He hates the Maesters
a. Between the Grand Maester Conspiracy [LINK], lady Dustin’s general hatred of Maesters and Marwyn’s comments about Maesters and Dragons, it seems credible that dragon supporters may have cause to mistrust Maesters. Indeed, we get hints of this from Doran, and a general mistrust of Maesters by some of the lesser lords.
i. "I would need a bucket, with this pain. Thank you, but no. I want my wits about me. I'll have no more need of you tonight."
b. This explains also why he is so determined Sam will not become a Maester and why he drives him to the nights watch. If he is a loyalist, he’s never going to let a member of his family into an enemy order. If Sam is given any sort of free reign in a role other than lord, he’s going to end up a Maester (indeed even at the nights watch he ends up there, despite his protests and fears of his fathers wroth).
4) Do we actually see any trouble in the marches. I don’t think we do and it’s only STANNIS who fears dorne through the marches, not Tarly or Tyrell. In fact, this area is left undefended when they march on the blackwater.
a. I have a sub-theory that despite complaining a lot, we don’t see any real antagonism between Dorne and the reach throughout the series, just some loud complaining that makes us think of antagonism. Oberyn hints at this to Tyrion.
5) Killing Florents
a. Florents have ties to Stannis
b. Florents are Tyrell rivals
c. Florents instantly defect to stannis. Note they were set aside by dragons over highgarden
d. Their protests were denied by King Aegon I, perhaps because the Florents had fought House Targaryen when the Tyrells did not.
e. https://www.reddit.com/asoiaf/comments/3tr6gx/spoilers_all_house_of_the_week_house_florent/
i. Theories florents Green
6) This is of course also consistent with him racing Ahead of Mace Tyrell’s army and having the Tyrell queen taken into his personal custody. Unfortunately, this bodes badly for our lovely doe-eyed Margery. Oh well.
7) ~If it were up to me, I would send them all to the Night's Watch, and Connington with them. The Wall is where such scum belong."~ He’s setting it up so the only legitimate claimant of JonCon’s lands is in fact, JonCon. Obviously a new lord can be appointed, but this suggested move adds legitimacy to the blackfyre cause, removing the heir apparent and putting JonCon back in his ancestral lands without a real challenger.

1) The ‘show of strength / toxic masculinity theory’
a. This theory has to do with Tarly appearing competent millirarily rather than being competent. He doles harsh justice and havy discipline, which in some ways hides his lackluster results as a commander. I should note this is the weakest of the three theories, but it sort of feeds into the other two.
b. This would be indicative of his hatred for Sam. The moment the ‘veil’ of masculinity and strength is lifted, his actual achievements are lackluster
c. After ashford he appears much more brutal than before. We have no indication he was brutal pre Ashford, and post ashford he’s executing enemies, cornering and murdering northmen to a man (as best he can at least) and doling out harsher justice than his peers
d. Every character who speaks of Tarly speaks of his millirary accolades. I think his ‘larger than life’ persona has played at least a part in this, and Tarly looks the part as the veteran commander.
e. I ought to note this theory doesn’t stop Tarly from playing the game of thrones, it just suggests he isn’t an exceptional tactical commander. Logistically, he has always been with the winning side as a vassal, he’s been able to spin every battle to gain honors and accolades, and he has a knack for being in the right place at the right time (declaring for renly early, being in the van at ashford etc.)
f. All that aside, this theory also doesn’t stop Tarly from being a jerk. Given how he acts to Sam and both towards and around Brienne, we are naturally inclined to mislike him as a harsh leader.
2) Not as dumb as he looks theory
a. He’s taken the queen into his personal Custody. We literally heard from Renly back in book 1 – he who holds the XXXX holds the crown. With all the chaos in the recent books, it’s easy to miss, but this is a huge move in the game of thrones. The Tyrells do not have the queen. Tarly does.
b. As far as I can tell, he’s never been at real risk in a battle since Ashford. He had backup and numbers at duskendale, a massive host at the blackwater, The Siege of Storms End was just a great big preservation of army by Mace whilst Roberts rebellion raged, and the Siege on Stannis was totally lopsided but for magic shadow-baby.
c. Dorne does not seem to have acted against him once nor demanded concessions. [CHECK]. For a lord in the Dornish Marches which have been tumultuous for years, this is somewhat of a big deal. He also seems to be unafraid of moving his forced forward – we have no indication he left levies to protect himself from Dorne, hinting that he wasn’t afraid of Dorne misbehaving (even if only to harry border towns, a bit like Bolton grabbing up the hornwood lands).
d. He sucks up to the bravosi Banker when all the debts are being called in. We have this picture of this strong, just, military man, but the banker scene shows he’s not just a sword arm, and he knows when to suck up. This is important as it shows he is at least considering the wider world and the future outside of the battles, as opposed to a certain dwarf whom never actually meets the bankers.
e. He has turned a bunch of mediocre achievements into being renowned as the greatest soldier in the realm. By all rights, Stannis and Robb are much better commanders (with the caveat that Robb was only good tactically). If we want to get nasty, Mace Tyrell has only won crushing victories – with the exception of ashford (messed up by Tarly) and storms end (where he lost no troops in a rebellion that depleted most of the realm).
i. The most competent appearing thing he said was to not charge into the sun, which was largely irrelevant when plated heavy cavalry is charging into boiled leather. As Renly said to Stannis, his force wouldn’t survive first impact, so this whole sun business is a bit silly.
ii. Arguably the most competent thing was executing all the soldiers considering going over to Stannis, but I’m not sure if this is truly competent or just brutality – Stannis did not do the same with the Karstarks in a similar position.
f. He’s bypassed succession laws. By getting rid of Sam he has set himself up with his chosen heir. Look at the thorny knot Tywin tied himself with Tyrion, whom still arguably is the rightful heir to Castelry Rock (which he made full use of with the Second Suns). We know Maesters can be kicked out of the order (see our favourite necromancer), and can be used to play with succession (Aemon is a good example, albeit he said no) and I don’t really see Sam as a priest.
i. There’s actually a good question as to whether he would have killed Sam. The gods hate kinslayers, and the threat sufficed. If we assume tarly isn’t an idiot, he would have realized the threat likely sufficient.
g. Given how he sets himself up at Maidenpool, its hinted that the Maidenpool land is part of his reward for the blackwater. We never hear of exactly ‘what’ Tarly’s reward is, except in the aftermath he’s patrolling Duskendale (still seemingly with house Rykker),, Maidenpool and the kings road, and seems to be setting himself up in Maidenpool for the long haul. In AFFC, Tarly’s heir is married off to Eleanor Mooton (the seeming heiress to maidenpool) and Tommen pardons Moonton. Maidenpool is a major port in the world of Ice and Fire, which would make it a fine reward[[1]](#_ftn1).
1.

Other key takeaways

BRIENNE THING

A Feast for Crows - Brienne III

Randyll Tarly solved the mystery the day he sent two of his men-at-arms to summon her to his pavilion. His young son Dickon had overheard four knights laughing as they saddled up their horses, and had told his lord father what they said.

… "The gods made men to fight, and women to bear children," said Randyll Tarly. "A woman's war is in the birthing bed."
Someone was coming down the cellar steps. Brienne pushed her wine aside as a ragged, scrawny, sharp-faced man with dirty brown hair stepped into the Goose. He gave the Tyroshi sailors a quick look and Brienne a longer one, then went up to the plank. "Wine," he said, "and none o' your horse piss in it, thank'e."

JUSTICE THING


Battle of the Blackwater – a step Sideways



In short
Randyll Tarly is a shrewd Blackfyre loyalist who now has custody of the queen, a position on the small council and whom is not considered a political threat. He’s not half the commander he’s made out to be, probably has anti-maester sentiment and is possibly friendly with Doran Martell. And he has an army.
This has been quite a ride and I’m sure I got many details wrong so let’s end on a high note. Given all this, I expect Randyll to sacrifice Margery and prove ser pounce’s lineage to the age of conquest. Tommen will blindly stamp a document marrying himself to the cat, the white walkers will be appeased (their problem is only humans), and everyone lives happily ever after except for Danerys who dies.
Maidenpool
https://preview.redd.it/4gfx1jxsbd1d1.png?width=217&format=png&auto=webp&s=a6c648fe2853a80f249aeae5546a21b38b4123e9

submitted by Orange_Menace1 to asoiaf [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 13:19 SoSolidKerry Journey so far of herniated disc (including what's worked for me)

Hello, one and all. Been lurking for a while. Thought I'd share my experience thus far. I'm a 45-year-old female who herniated L4/L5 in early January. I'm, therefore, four months, two weeks post-injury.
It's a mild-ish protrusion pressing on nerves and causing sciatica. I have never had back pain. I'm a Brit. I plan to get over this conservatively and do not intend to have any injections or surgery. Note that I have some trouble lifting my left foot and walking as normal on that side, but everything is functional. I am able to lift my toes and heels, and I have full sensation everywhere.
From my scan, disc height is compromised only a tiny bit (I have juicy discs). I have a very wide and spacious nerve canal. No other issues aside from a transitional disc below (born with more bone than disc at L5/S1, very common, and I'm luckily in the "won't cause pain" camp) and a slight bulging disc above, which isn't pressing on anything. The transitional disc is likely to have led to this injury. But moving house finally pushed me over the edge, lifting things the wrong way.

The first month

The first month was obviously painful. Terrible sleep; sciatica was awful (burning in my left calf and left foot with some right foot tingling), and I was very stiff and leaning forward most mornings. Doing McKenzie cobras in those early days helped massively. And amazingly, I kept up with walking and averaged 15,000 steps daily. It wasn't painful. But I was taking Ibuprofen and paracetamol. I believe a lot of my sciatica has been caused by inflammation.
Back then, I was seeing a physio and doing some basic pelvic tilts, bridges, calf stretches, cat/camels, and – like I mentioned – cobra poses. Otherwise, I would mostly lie on the floor, on my front, resting. Or walking outdoors. It would take me three hours just to pluck up the courage to shower. And I could only stand under the hot water for less than a minute before lying on the floor again. Sitting was impossible. I couldn't use the car. I couldn't sleep on my left side. I would crawl down the stairs each morning after barely any sleep and go straight to the drugs. I couldn't make breakfast or do anything. But as each day wore on, I'd become less stiff and more upright and be able to walk for miles.

In search of a silver bullet

I tried everything in February and March. Acupuncture, physio, McKenzie stuff... They put me on Amitriptyline initially, but I hated it. And so they gave me Gabapentin. This helped with sleep and dialled down the pain significantly (I was on 300mg three times a day). I vaguely remember a crazy day when I walked into my local town, sat, and had cake and tea with an old friend. Still to this day, I can't figure out how! Boy, those drugs worked!
By the end of March, I discovered Egoscue and began posture therapy. I did it religiously for six weeks and even began working with a therapist. But it wasn't helping. And I didn't see any improvements. I also decided to come off the Gabapentin during this time (I would later go back on it, as I was in a lot of pain), as I felt totally off my face and hated it.
Around February, I also discovered Dr Stuart McGill. And read his excellent book, Back Mechanic. I learnt about spine hygiene and loads of other helpful stuff. Gradually, little by little, turning in bed got easier (brace that core) and getting up out of bed and off the toilet became pain-free, too. But I just wasn't seeing massive improvement.

Finding the right approach

That's when I decided to see a Master Clinician under McGill. Wow. It was the best money I had ever spent, and I'd spent more on acupuncture!
He went through my scan, was the only one to tell me about the transitional disc, and asked what I'd been doing thus far. He recommended that I give the posture therapy and the walking a break, just for a few weeks, to see if we could calm the inflammation down. And so I did. I rested. I mostly lay on the floor on my front or back and only moved around the house. No outdoor walking. No McKenzie cobra poses (which I've since discovered do more harm than good long-term and adopt a gentler version McGill recommends and says is just as effective). That was back in early April. And following his advice alone? I saw immediate improvements. In fact, the very next day, I was pain-free for seven hours. I couldn't believe it – just by resting.
I only rested for three weeks, and then I decided to try walking outdoors again. My gosh. The difference after the break! I could barely do ten minutes around the block without pain. It was too much. (I could never walk first thing before either – only later on in the day. But it would usually be fine.) But my back specialist wanted me to try walking three times a day, starting small. So, I persisted. He told me to stop if walking made things worse, though. Thankfully, it's been three weeks since I began walking outdoors again, and I'm making great progress. I can now get up from bed and walk immediately (I had to give it an hour before I ventured out of the house). And I can walk for half an hour, too. Three times a day. I find that a morning walk is crucial. I am stiff and a little sore at first, but it eases. And sets me up for the day. I also enjoy two or three hours of no pain when returning home.

Finally seeing progress

Since early April, the improvements have been gradual but almost daily. They're so small sometimes that you hardly notice them! It's only when you look back that you realise how far you've come!
In the six weeks since I worked with my back specialist, I have seen the constant burning sciatica in my foot and calf mostly disappear. Initially, I had a lot of fuzzing. That has now subsided, and since then, it's gone from fuzzing to cold water feelings and tingling... with occasional burning again (mostly only in the top of my calf), but that goes quickly. Now and again, I'll get a random ten minutes of a burning foot again, but it soon disappears.
A few weeks ago, I started getting new sharp and painful jolts in my left hip. That's apparently blood returning to the nerves. For the last week, I have barely had any foot or calf issues—I mostly have sharp pulling nerve pain on my left kneecap and similar symptoms in my hip. Only in the last month have I occasionally started to get a bruised feeling in my lumbar spine.
The morning stiffness and leaning forward? Gone. I am bolt-upright every morning and feel pretty good, posture-wise. Funny enough, since I quit doing the posture therapy. Go figure!
My glutes are very tight and constantly holding themselves. I'm trying to teach them to relax, but it's tough, as I know they're protecting themselves. I've been using heat to relax them—just a microwaved wheat sack some mornings.
Under a week ago, I came off Gabapentin. And I also quit Ibuprofen about five weeks ago. The only meds I take now are paracetamol – just one dose in the middle of the night to calm my (good) right hip that gets sore from only sleeping on that side.

How far I've come

Here I am, four months and two weeks post-injury. I still can't sit on a soft surface (I use a special sciatica cushion on a dining chair), I can't sit in a vehicle for the same reason, I can't sleep on my left side, and I still have some mild foot drop but am walking better.
On a positive note, the pain symptoms are changing daily, which is apparently a good sign. I am starting to feel some back pain for the first time, too. Centralisation is perhaps occurring. Instead of lying on the floor for several hours before breakfast, I now find better relief in standing and moving around. I can also sit for short spurts on my dining chair first thing in the morning, whereas before, I'd only be able to do that from midday.
I'm sleeping better. Six or seven hours a night. It's a tad broken, but I feel rested. And when I get up in the morning? Whereas before, my left leg and foot would go crazy with fuzzing and burning, now? Nothing. A mild tingling some mornings, but otherwise, fine.
I spend more of my days moving around, standing, walking, and occasionally sitting than "resetting" on the floor. And when I do feel sciatica getting worse, a brief rest on the floor makes the pain go away. It's never 100 per cent pain-free, you understand. It's mildly uncomfortable and feels like it could get worse at any moment, but I'm good.
And I'm finding that if I overdo it, any flare-up I might have is brief and easily overcome. Whereas before, it might've been five days to recover, now it's an hour resting on the floor.
If I stand at my standing desk for too long, my lumbar ache begins. It's not painful. It just feels weird—bruised, almost unstable, like I can feel it stacked. I lie down, reset, and then I'm good to go.

What has really helped

I now know what to do to avoid triggering pain. I can tie my shoes with my foot on a bench and lunge in. I have a shoe horn – a game-changer! I also use a strapped-on ice pack when I need to calm my nerves. Less so these days. And heat on my ass when the glutes feel too tight. I only take paracetamol in the middle of the night to help me sleep. Oh, and I find going to bed with an ice pack on sometimes really helps!
The meds definitely helped in those painful early days; but I need feedback. Once I felt I could, I stopped taking everything.
During this time, I also hired a cleaner (fortnightly) and a gardener. I've not stopped working (I have no choice; I am a freelancer). And I have no kids. So I don't have to commute anywhere. I stay at home and rest, and the only time I leave the house is to walk. I also invested in a new mattress, a game changer (John Ryan Artisan Luxury, if anyone wants to know). I am very lucky in all of these respects, I know.
The walking really helps – but it was only when I stopped, rested, and allowed by body to heal that I noticed a difference in my symptoms.

Not out the woods yet...

Pain is still an issue. Evenings are the worst. I go to bed around 9pm and lying there brings relief and I have no issue going to sleep. I only wake after about three or four hours due to sleeping on the same side every night. And then easily fall back to sleep, with only a few brief waking moments. I roughly get around six or seven hours a night. And thankfully, sciatica isn't really present at night (maybe a little harmless fuzzing). Just the evenings before bed – that's when it can get intense and the burning in my calf and foot can come back tenfold. Sigh.
Mornings are my best friend now. Pain doesn't usually become an issue until much later in the day. I'll have little episodes. But I can swiftly reset myself and move on. It can get harder to reset the later in the day it becomes, too. Some days are worse than others. The good days are starting to outweigh the bad. When I have an awful day, I do feel disheartened. But then I remember how far I've come, and try and stay strong.
I don't always do my three walks, either. If that evening walk doesn't feel right, I won't do it. I'll rest. I'll ice my back and lie down. I absolutely am trying to avoid drugs. But I have ibuprofen in my cupboard, just in case!

What's next?

I'm nowhere near ready to begin strength training. And I've avoided all physio and stretching of late. I am just doing what my back specialist recommends. Some mild cat/camels to get the blood flowing, walking, resting. I take magnesium, turmeric, vitamins D and B12, omega-3. I try to avoid sugar and alcohol (I don't always succeed on that one). I'm not ready for longer walks yet. And there's no way I could take a bath, sit up in bed, or sit on the sofa.
But I am healing. This has been quite the journey, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm excited for the next phase of recovery: rehab! And boy, will I be taking it seriously—for the rest of my life! It's down to us, after all. No one can do it for us.
There are some big life events coming up that I know I'm not ready for. When they get closer, if I'm still not better, I will call my GP and ask for advice. Ibuprofen might be brought out again. Perhaps even something stronger. But if I'm one of the lucky ones, I should be seeing further progress in the coming weeks and months.
I rate my ability to function normally when I can sleep on my left side again, drive my car and when I can sit on the sofa, too! I won't mind if there is some residual pain and weakness. As long as I can function without having the crux of a floor and yoga mat nearby.

Key takeaways

I am more than happy to answer any questions. I hope this has helped someone. It's certainly helped me to get it all on screen. And I wanted to thank this community for all I've learned this year. I hope you're not in too much pain.
submitted by SoSolidKerry to Sciatica [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 13:18 pillowcase-of-eels [Music] Emilie Autumn's Asylum, pt. 6 – High-concept musician responds to online criticism by waging successful attrition war against her own fanbase

🪞
Welcome back to the Asylum write-up, where we explore the decade-long slow-motion car crash that is the Emilie Autumn fandom.
Sorry this installment took so long to upload! Just a heads-up, I may take some time to deliver the last one too – these posts take forever to format on Reddit's finicky-ass editor, and my dumb real life is currently keeping me from precious Internet time. Thank you for your patience! You have my word that everyone who pre-ordered the final installment will receive a PERSONAL, HANDWRITTEN letter autographed and illustrated by me, a list of the snacks I consumed while composing this write-up, some exclusive behind-the-scenes secrets, and a pony.
Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4.1Part 4.2 Part 5
Places, everyone This is a test Throw your stones Do your damage Your worst, and your best (...) And if I had a dollar For every time I repented the sin And commit the same crime I'd be sitting on top of the world today (“God Help Me”, 2006🎵)
Quick recap of where we left off. First, there were five to ten halcyon years of pleasant and meaningful interactions between EA and her blossoming fanbase, prominently by way of her official forum. Then, circa 2009-2010, EA's online presence shifted towards sudden anger outbursts, ban-hammering, and an increasingly top-down communication style.
This created a sort of primordial rift within the fanbase, between those who supported EA's right to speak her mind and regulate her own fan spaces however she pleased – and those who thought that her reactions were rude and inappropriate (at best), and that even fan spaces should allow for reasonable, non-abusive criticism of the artist.
Between a poorly-handled book release (see Part 3), the controversial (Part 2) or dubiously true (Part 4) contents of said book, and serious shade from various former collaborators (Part 5), more and more fans had pressing thoughts about EA's work ethic and choices. EA attempted damage control through drastic forum rules that made it virtually impossible to voice any “serious” critical opinion. It didn't work, of course: instead of squashing the mutiny, she created a schism.
Critical fans and active haters started congregating on unofficial platforms.

“WITH MUFFINS LIKE THIS, WHO NEEDS ENEMIES?”: TROLL LIKE A GIRL

So here we were, the early 2010s. The official forum (which had about 700 members in 2006, if you recall) was now thousands-strong, reaching just over 12,000 registered users in 2012 – not all of them active, but still. In terms of sheer numbers and content creation, the party was POPPIN'... but increasingly in parts of the Asylum that escaped EA's jurisdiction, such as Tumblr, where they could speak their mind freely.
You play the victim very well You've built your self-indulgent hell You wanted someone to understand you Well, be careful what you wish for, because I do (“I Know Where You Sleep”, 2006🎵)
In one wing of Asylum Tumblr, a smattering of call-out blogs emerged, which laid out EA's various lies, faux pas, shitty takes, and general deep-seated terribleness in detailed timelines and screenshots (or, short of that, long-winded bullet points). While many such blogs framed it as “serious” whistleblowing and did their best to remain as fact-based and neutral as they could, there was some genuine disgust, animosity and creepiness towards EA on that side of Tumblr; for some ex-fans, “exposing the truth” was mostly justify obsessive hatred, prying and verbal abuse. Some, for instance, felt the bizarre need to side with EA's mother in their estrangement. (One user, with the URL “emilyautumnfischkopf”, argued in a serious and down-to-earth tone - but with zero sources - that EA's upbringing had been nothing but peaceful and supportive until she ungratefully kicked her loving family to the curb for no reason at all. They were later revealed 🔍 to have an alternate handle as “eaisalyingcunt”.)
Either way, through these blogs, a number of potential drama bombs that had mostly flown under the radar were dredged up from over the years – some of which were hard to ignore, even for supportive fans. Where to begin?
There was that nonsense in-joke song, captured twice on camera during the 2009 tour (to very little outrage, at the time), crassly called “Manatee Retard”📺. Or EA's scathing response, in print, to a wheelchair user who found it insensitive that she used a bedazzled wheelchair as a prop to do sexy acrobatics on stage. (“Your offence taken at my hard-won self-acceptance proves that I indeed have something to fight against”, she wrote). Spoken word tracks where she made trivializing knock-knock jokes about serious mental illnesses she didn't have, like schizophrenia and OCD. Multiple instances of calling Britney Spears a “bimbo” and a “Hollywood fucked-up”, resentfully claiming that she only shaved her head because she was “hopped up on drugs” and certainly not because she was “bipolar”, a word the press liked to wield as an insult anyway. (“That's almost like calling someone a retard!” Yeah, heaven forbid.) The meanest, most distasteful paragraphs in the book. Basically everything problematic EA had ever said or written.📝 In retrospect, it had been a long time coming, but it was a lot to take in – and certainly more off-putting, even to less emotionally invested fans, than silly lies about her age and last name.
In another wing of Asylum Tumblr, some fans had had it up to here and just wanted to have fun. 🎵 If Plague Rats had learned one valuable lesson from EA, it was how to crack a joke in the face of absurd tragedy – and the general state of the EA fandom certainly warranted a few.
In 2012, Fight Like a Girl was released. After six long years, three of which had been peaceful, the Opheliac era was officially over. The new album and ensuing tour confirmed that the Asylum had entered a process of glamorous Broadway-style militarization. 🎵📺
The mood board was “Roman general meets Vegas showgirl meets Victorian street urchin”.🪞 The color palette was, to naysayers, “musty pink and rotten, stale piss yellow”. 🐀 The keyword was “REVENGE” (through the power of... self-expression! sorority! brutal assault with rusty medical implements!). The chorus of the title song had an intriguing run-on line about getting “revenge on the world, or at least 49% of the people in it” 🎵 – which seemed like an awful lot, and was widely interpreted (to cheers, boos, or uncomfortable sighs) as a misandrist jab at literally all men on Earth.
The show was essentially a demo version of the musical, in that the setlist vaguely reflected the order of events in the story – but prior reading was essential in order to get what the hell was going on on stage. This one Broadway reviewer had not perused the literature before seeing the show 🔍, and hated: the set, the choreography, the skits, the plot, the lyrics, the music, the concept. (Seriously, you should read the review. It's not even my show and I feel like quitting show business.)
Pre-show VIP encounters, now violin-free, were lorded over by EA's new manager🐀, whose official title was “Asylum Headmistress”. (Interesting choice – she sounds fun!) The swag bags were less substantial than before, and the “greet” part of the meet-and-greet was rarely more than a quick hug and photo op.
On Twitter, EA continued to embrace her “I am very badass” fronting attitude...
Often wonder if cyberbullies r aware they’re fucking w/ a girl who’s BFs w/ maker of the SAW films & is marrying a knife-throwing scorpion. (🐀📝)
...and her taste for needlessly inflammatory statements. About an aisle sign in a supermarket:
If this does not infuriate you, then you're a fucking potato.
(Again with the confounding crypto-ableism, EA! 🔍) She also went through a phase of raging against Lady Gaga 📝, who had stolen her idea of using a wheelchair on stage as an able-bodied woman. 🔍 That failed to convince anyone that she wasn't the histrionic diva that haters made her out to be.
Spurred on by EA's rallying cries and “us vs them” mentality, loyalists turned the white-knighting up to 11. On Twitter, some Plague Rats got into cat fights with Lady Gaga's Little Monsters (what a time to be alive). Others tried to balance out the Tumblr negativity with initiatives like “Spreading a Plague of Love” – a “positive-only” confession blog, whose extreme fangirling, comically drastic rules and hyper-defensive tone📝 did not debunk the increasingly popular notion that “true Plague Rats” were a bunch of authoritarian and hopelessly brainwashed fanatics.
EA truthers and other anti-fans started lashing out at anyone who dared express any positive opinion of EA, solidifying claims that the backlash against EA was just a conspiracy of bitter, hysterical bullies.
All this to say: every passing day brought new reasons for fans to get mad at EA and each other, and everyone in the Asylum was in need of a laugh. It's not easy having a good time.🦠
Leading up to Fight Like a Girl and in the years that followed, user-submission-based meme blogs took off, most notably “Spreading a Plague of Lulz / Troll Like a Girl”. A lot of the early submissions were absurdist humor and toothless, cheezburger-Impact memes (a style that was, oddly, already dated at the time). Those often originated in good fun, and from loyal fans, on the official forum. But there was also true snark, satirizing EA's questionable ethics, outrageous claims, and easily spoofed artistic gimmicks. A new slang of Asylumspeak emerged: Glittertits (slight NSFW), GAGA!!, EA Gusta and all its memeface variants, Get outta mah house!, Are You Suffering?, Fight Like A Goat, [Random celebrity] copied EA (a subgenre in its own right), ...
Most of the “trolling” was directed at unrepentant bootlickers and, to a lesser extent, red-in-the-face haters and creeps. Meme blogs would post joke comments under “serious” or gushing submissions on Wayward Victorian Confessions, and taunt loyalist accounts by tagging them in their posts. When a few people complained on WVC that almost all of the Bloody Crumpets to date had been thin white able-bodied women, and a few fans responded by sharing their dream-casts for a more diverse line-up, the blog was flooded for days with confessions that “X should be a Crumpet” (candidates included RuPaul, Mitt Romney, Nicki Minaj, EA's therapist, and the WVC admins). Farcical shenanigans like that.
Ah, but some people will always cross the line, won't they. EA threads popped up on merciless, bully-friendly snark platforms like Lolcow, Pretty Ugly Little Liar, and Encyclopedia Dramatica. Snarkers with a mean streak and obsessive haters mingled in some of the more aggressive, 4-chan-spirited retaliation against EA – which would be called “brigading” in modern parlance. This included flooding EA's Goodreads page with one-star reviews (see part 4), repeatedly editing her Wikipedia page to include her legal name and birth year, and ensuring that Googling said name would bring up current pictures of her.
All of this compounded agitation fragmented the once-united fandom beyond recognition.🦠 Through substantial disagreements among fans, personal bickerings, layers upon layers of inscrutable in-jokes, and cross-platform telephone games, the Asylum morphed into a booby-trapped Escher room.
Satire blogs were taken in earnest. Earnest fan blogs scanned as satire. Memes would get called out as abuse. Appreciation without attached criticism would get mocked as bootlicking. Obvious jokes made by EA would be taken at face value. One divisive confession could trigger days and days of debate, to the point that WVC eventually banned confessions in response to other confessions. New waves of infighting created a confusing web of rival sub-factions🐀, each accusing the others of being toxic, cliquish, and delusional.
The shared fantasy was broken, the collective vision had crumbled, no onez was speaking the same language anymore. Fans would jump down the throat of other fans who held almost identical views about EA, except for that one thing she said or did that one time. Everyone had differing thoughts on what should or shouldn't acceptable to discuss, question, excuse, make fun of.
War is hell.

SCORCHED EARTH SHENANIGANS: HONEY, I SHRUNK THE ASYLUM

Would you tear my castle down Stone by stone And let the wind run through my windows Till there was nothing left But a battered rose? (“Castle Down”, 2003🎵)
Haters vs sycophants is not really the kind of conflict where one side can come out on top (if you're participating, you've already lost). But in the long tug-of-war between “grassroots” and “EA-sponsored” fan spaces, the ultimate winner is obvious – in that the former is gasping in agony, a shriveled husk of its former glory, while the latter... is non-existent. This is due in no small part to EA's tendency, like the Czars of old, to settle conflicts by setting Moscow on fire.🔍)
That's not entirely fair: unlike EA, the czar only did it that once.
By early 2013, as EA was gearing up for her third Fight Like a Girl tour at the end of the year, the official forum was... not as lively as it once had been. Not just because of the stifling rules and disgruntlement towards EA, or because EA herself hadn't really posted anything on there in years; the Internet was also changing, and forums in general were fast becoming passé.
This made it difficult for EA to create a safe space where she could talk to fans, and fans could talk to and about her, in a way she deemed suitable (ie, a space she could gate-keep and regulate enough to keep it completely free from negative criticism). Social media was a minefield; she still posted regularly, but didn't interact very much. So EA and the Headmistress came up with a way to filter out the unbelievers: an official fan club📝, aptly called the “Asylum Army”, with a $100 entry price.
Joining the AA came with a dog tag, a sew-on patch, and a lifetime membership certificate signed by EA and – for some reason – the Headmistress. (Unlike EA's best friend and sound engineer back in the forum's heyday, I don't think fans ever really embraced the FLAG-era manager as part of the Asylum in-group. She came across more as a coordinator / businessperson / adult chaperone, at best.🐀) So, slightly better goodies than you'd get by joining the other AA 🔍 ... but not by much. The main appeal was that members would have access to exclusive content, special merch, giveaways, early bird tickets for future shows, and regular video chats with EA.
The concept itself drew a fair amount of criticism, as you can imagine. Between the name🐀, the price, and the inherent gatekeeping of a pay-to-join fanclub, many balked at the monetizing of a concept that had once (like, three years back) been significantly more DIY, grassroots, and inclusive. 📝🐀
Then again, many also longed for a positive, drama-free space where fans could just be fans. And while the creation of the AA was generally recognized as a quick cashgrab, a lot of people were surprisingly cool with it. EA was trying to finance her dream musical, after all – although a number of fans wished she had gone about raising funds in a less sketchy way.
So around 400 fans shelled out (which, according to the Headmistress📝, “basically cover[ed] the cost of running the fanclub itself – keeping the database up, website, etc.”). Enough for a close-knit, but sizable community. But already, there was a conflict of interest: a high fanclub entry fee essentially demands that you pledge loyalty to the artist over loyalty to your fellow fans, who wish to join but can't afford to. Sharing, caring, and ensuring no one felt left out were some of the more positive values cultivated in the fandom... but leaking exclusive content would surely piss off other paying members🐀, and make EA feel betrayed all over again. (And she had barely just started to mellow out on social media!)
...But then again, this is the internet. After the first month of secret AA drops (lyric sheets, some photoshoot outtakes – nothing too juicy, really), there were, yes, some leaks. EA was predictably miffed, and retaliated by... ghosting the fanclub for weeks at a time in its first few months of existence (great look!). She eventually found the “solution” to her problem, by providing something you couldn't right-click-save (and which had been part of the promised perks to begin with): live interaction.
Over webcam, she was her usual in-person bubbly, charming, funny self. Everyone seemingly had a good time during the fanclub video chat, and this gave people faith and hope.
There were a few more events, giveaways, etc. As promised, ahead of the fall 2013 tour (the last one to date, it would turn out), AA members got priority access to show tickets and VIP bundles. The latter were much pricier than before, and only included soundcheck, a photo-op, and three goodies: a tin of loose-leaf tea, a signed printer-paper setlist, and a small flag that said “F.L.A.G.”.🔍 Some stuff continued to leak – but, as some of the outlaws pointed out (scroll down to the Disqus comments), they were mostly relaying information that was relevant to the entire fanbase, such as updates about ongoing projects (the dragged-out recording of the audiobook, for one).
In early 2014, lifetime memberships were closed, and replaced with monthly, quarterly and yearly subscription tiers. Bizarrely, you ended up paying $3 more per month if you bought a $99 yearly subscription📝 – but it did include the patch, dog tag, and piece of paper!
Sometimes I kind of want to be part of the cool kids and register to the Asylum Army. Then I remember how it came about, what you could get for the same price a couple years ago, how the whole thing was and is handled, and that I won’t support any of this bullshit. (And then I roll around naked in all the money I’m saving.) (🐀)
Still, a number of fans rejoiced at the affordable monthly option, and joined – if not for the exclusive content and merch (which were... okay, but not much to write home about), then for the friendly, drama-free exchanges with an artist they actually did love, in spite of all the frustration.
For the still-too-poor or still-undecided, there was always the forum! It wasn't as active as it used to be, but a few die-hards still managed to keep the lights on... until, inevitably, Someone Did Something and Ruined Everything. (Once again: EA's wrath is spectacular, but rarely completely unprovoked.) The incident features one notable figure in the Asylum community. Let's call him the Collector.
OK, so maybe you remember the meme I linked to in Part 4, with Christian Grey and the ginormous EA hoard. Well, that's the Collector's collection. The “Violin” promo that I called the "Holy Grail of the fandom" in the same paragraph? Also his. The handwritten lyrics that went for $940? Guess who won that auction. Over the years, the Collector had probably spent five figures on EA merch and shows, and although that fact was a little unsettling, he was a very active, easy-going, and generally well-liked fixture of the fandom.
One day in 2012, shortly after the Headmistress had replaced EA's old Chicago BFF as main forum admin, the Collector's account got banned or restricted over something dumb. When the ban wasn't lifted as quickly as he hoped, he took it... the way one takes things when one is unhealthily invested: he started spamming Headmistress and the mod team with increasingly rambling and abusive emails (lost to time, probably for the best). When that didn't work quickly enough, he tried a different route.
One of the many auctions that the Collector had won, some years prior, was EA's old iPod Touch📝 – which contained all of her favorite tunes and, buried somewhere in the data cache... a phone number. Which the Collector tried calling. And wouldn't you know it: EA picked up. She congratulated him on his sleuthing skills, listened patiently as he made his case, apologized for any distress caused by the unfair account restriction, and then they got married.
Kidding! She freaked the fuck out, hung up, and banned him for life from the forum and all EA shows and events.
After his ban, the Collector allegedly still tried to attend at least one VIP pre-show (one source in the comments says he was allowed to buy some merch, refunded for his ticket, and escorted out). He joined the Reform forum to bitch about EA and try to rally people to his cause, possibly made revenge posts about her on darker snark forums, and continued to hound the Asylum mod team. So in June 2014, EA came up with a radical and unexpected fix to the Collector problem.
The official Asylum Fan Forum has been shut down permanently. I have personally paid thousands of dollars each year to keep the forum safe and secure for you ... Unfortunately, the forum has not been kept safe and secure for me, a truth which disappoints me greatly, instead becoming a place where people who have physically threatened myself and my staff prey upon forum members, pressuring them to contact me and my staff on their behalf. If the gullible wish to humor my stalkers (who live in their parent’s basement at age 30 something) and thus put me in danger, they may do it on their own dime. They may also fuck off, because stupidity can kill, and I won’t be your victim. To those who enjoyed the forum, you know who to thank for its closure. (“On the closing of the Asylum Forum”)
Voilà! This is how a decade-long archive of shared history ends: not with a bang, but with a dirty delete and a sod-off communiqué.
The obliteration of the forum took everyone by surprise...
I was actually on the forum when it was taken down. I was navigating between posts and when I went to click on a different board, an error message came up. I honestly cried a little, I'm not ashamed to say. (WVC admin on Reddit, 2024)
...and I do mean everyone:
Chicago BFF / ex-admin, the next morning: Whoa, EA forum shut down? Ex-mod: It turns out that if someone spends enough years actively “waging war” to destroy what they can’t have, eventually they’ll be successful. * eye roll * Not even mods got prior warning. Just all the sudden, poof, gone. BFF: Really? She did not let the moderators know?! This is sounding worse and worse. Uggh. I’m so sorry. Such a loss. (...) Ok, threats are serious, but why not just put it in archive mode so no one can post? (...) Sad. I shall light a candle in the forum's honor. (Facebook posts; scroll down for screenshots)
It was a gut punch, especially for people who had poured countless hours into the community, or could have used some prior warning to save years of their own writing from the role-playing threads. One last chance to take a look around the place that had meant so much to so many.
From the wording of the announcement of closing the forum and a number of other things, it sometimes seems like EA doesn't like her fans much. :/ (🐀)
Three months after the forum was nuked, Battered Rose (a venerable EA fansite, which had been around since the Enchant era and had one of the most complete EA galleries online) announced that it was shutting down too.📝 The admin, who had also been a long-time forum mod, cited a lack of “time, energy, passion, or money” to keep the website going... and being upset at the sudden disappearance of the forum. It was, truly, the end of an era for the Asylum.
...Well, no point in living in the past. For those who could afford it, and still wanted to talk to/about EA after that (not everyone did 🐀), there was always the Asylum Army fanclub!
Over the summer of 2014, EA held regular live chats and Q&A's, and... many attendees really enjoyed them, and thought the AA was well worth the money after all. She also quietly parted ways with the much poo-pooed Headmistress around that time.
Just spent over 4 hours giggling, drinking tea and playing guessing games in chat with EA and other Asylum Army members ... No griping, no downers, just lots of fun. I think I like the way the ‘new fandom’ is going and now I’m really glad I finally decided to join the Army. (September 4, 2014🐀; Battered Rose had closed the day before)
The forum was lost forever, but perhaps that was a chance for a fresh start. Could this fanclub thing really be the Asylum Renaissance that fans had been longing for?
...I have come today to a very difficult but necessary decision, and that is to discontinue the Emilie Autumn Official Fanclub. The site itself, and the community chatroom, will remain open to you indefinitely, but I will no longer be making updates to the site. (Newsletter, September 8, 2014📝)
...Never mind, then.
Turns out the fanclub had been the Headmistress' idea all along. EA had been reluctant from the start, and although she really enjoyed the live chats with a safe community of people “who are there for the right reasons”, she couldn't overcome her fundamental discomfort with the concept. Lifetime and regular members would receive a bunch of digital downloads and a -35% coupon on the Asylum Emporium for their troubles. EA said she would definitely pop back once in a while for live chats, for free, just for fun, but to my knowledge, she never did.
And so the most devoted fans were left standing in the rain...
She is happy, she made it. She is fulfilling her dreams, found love and happiness after all the pain. I understand that she now doesn’t need “us” anymore ... That doesn’t change the fact she broke my heart with taking the Asylum Army and the forum from me. Yet, I am happy for her. (🐀)
...while naysayers pointed and laughed, Nelson-style.🦠
I don’t feel sorry at all for the people that paid for the Asylum Army fan club. Most of them knew that EA is an atrocious business woman and has broken many promises before. In fact, I laugh at them. They seriously thought that EA would actually stay consistent with this? (🐀)

EVERYTHING MUST GO: THE ASYLUM WHOLESALE

EA fans were left without an “official” home for about three years. This gave them plenty of time to be annoyed at EA for: not releasing the audiobook on time, not materializing any new project for a while... and the new sin of peddling random, ridiculously marked-up AliBaba jewelry as “merch” on her official store. Think faux-antique cameo pendants and $30 Big Ben rings (...because the Asylum story is set in London, get it?).
The whole accessories section looks like a tacky overpriced English souvenir shop. (🐀)
The fanbase lost a lost of steam in those in-between years, because there wasn't much to stick around for. As evidenced by the positive reception of the AA live chats, even in the midst of unresolved drama, out-loud interactions in a friendly environment have always been EA's saving grace. Considering the amount of online hate, there are shockingly few accounts of bad IRL encounters with EA: most people say that in live conversation, she comes across as a fun, warm, and genuinely sweet person. Some report that their negative opinion shifted after meeting her.
But there were no chats or live shows anymore. There was only social media, where she ignored questions and vague-posted about overdue projects – and the newsletter📝, which was all saccharine love-bombing to promote bland dropshipped trinkets. For fans who remembered the handcrafted merch (and two-way communication) of the early years, it was a bitter pill to swallow.

CONTINUED IN COMMENTS


submitted by pillowcase-of-eels to HobbyDrama [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 13:12 Charlie_London747 Disputing Insurance

I found out I was pregnant in October 2022, and in July 2023 I’ve delivered my little girl the whole time I had my insurance from my employer that I had had for years. My husband had picked up insurance on me as a secondary insurance. I had no problems with billing the entire time I was pregnant. I had to see specialist have extra scans, bloodwork, etc. anytime I had anything to pay out of pocket. I did so in office and then after my daughter was born, I went for my check up. I was told I had an outstanding balance, which didn’t make sense because I always paid so I followed up and come to find out my primary insurance that had paid all my bills had unpaid everything. I had never heard of this so I I tried to get a hold of the insurance company, but I had already terminated the insurance as I did not go back to work after I gave birth. They did not want to speak with me because I no longer remember and give them my information. Finally I found my member number. I was able to talk to someone explain the situation to them. They argued with me. I told them that this was my primary it always has been. Why would they pay my bills? I never got any answer they told me they would put it down as a dispute And a request for repayment, but I was never sent a letter or informed them paying any bills. They’ve never told me if they are going to cover any of the bill. I’ve tried to call back and talk to someone but I just had to keep telling the same story over and I never get anywhere. I’m getting bills and collection notices for other doctors offices. Come to find out they have unpaid every bill. They have paid from the date that I took a pregnancy test at the doctor, but I was never informed of anything. Just bills and collection notices. How should I resolve this? Should I reach out to a lawyer or should I write them a letter? If so, would anyone have any sample letters? I could try to follow my credit score is in the 805 have worked very hard to get it there and I don’t want the years worth of medical bills piling up. Also, my daughter is 10 months old now I’m worried that my insurance is going to tell me. I’ve waited too long to dispute this, but I’ve tried to contact them over the phone several times and I get nowhere with them.
submitted by Charlie_London747 to everything [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 12:46 Sin-God A New Chain: Routine

The church's earliest visitors on Sunday are a group of kind-hearted do-gooders. And Lucas is there too.
The group, including Lucas, is diligently doing last-minute preparations, carefully and skillfully tending to the food they expertly prepared yesterday. Every single person involved in the work does their part with impressive ease and earned confidence. Lucas's careful contributions, both his direct, visible work, and the boons conferred by his presence allow them to do their work with newfound ease, confidence, and remarkable luck. Lucas occasionally makes minor missteps, but those are due more to the drawbacks he is enduring than anything he actually does. And every time he makes a mistake it's so minor a few deft movements are enough for him to overcome them. All the while he is texting Hannah and is visibly excited to volunteer, even though his motives are still quite selfish.
Lucas wisely does not take a leadership role here. The diligent figure follows the lead of his more experienced peers, and his endless, untiring contributions are enough to allow the group to be ready in an hour, completing work that normally takes them two or three thanks to the various perks Lucas grants them, as well as his actual, material contributions. When the group is ready, Lucas suggests they all swap stories about what led them to volunteer here.
The five volunteers and the pastor encourage the newcomer to go first, and he deftly weaves a tale that incorporates bits and pieces of the backstory he constructed for himself at his job. He explains that he grew up as the only child of a family in a small town and that he has been volunteering in minor capacities his whole life. He tells his new friends the same fanciful lies he told his coworkers and is a bit shocked when he gets the "Storytelling" skill. After that, his companions share their own stories with him. The pastor goes first, explaining that when he took over the church not one charitable act was occurring here and in only a few short years the pastor has massively changed that. The others all share various stories about how they've needed food before, or known people who needed a meal, and so they wanted to make sure that if someone needed a meal they could get it. The stories stir Lucas's heart, and he feels a pang of sincere admiration for his new friends. That said the pragmatic figure is not someone who is so kind-hearted that he'd lose sight of his larger objectives here.
While his companions share their stories he activates "Rogue", but focuses the skill on his hands. This decision almost completely cloaks his hands, rendering them invisible just long enough for Lucas to pour healing magic into the soup. He pours all of his magical energy into the stuff, exhausting himself but that is a minor inconvenience given one of his handy toys and especially when he receives a notification alerting him that he has gained an "Overcharge" skill; the ability to empower something by putting more into it.
As soon as everyone finishes their stories there is just enough time for the group of volunteers to go and get ready for the first of the arrivals at the kitchen. When Lucas is out of view of everyone he reaches into his inventory and pulls out his nifty arcane potion and downs it. The instant that the golden liquid touches his lips his power begins to flow back into him, suffusing his very soul. Minutes later the lad is welcoming guests and visitors to the church. People excitedly greet him, stunned in two different ways by his appearance.
Firstly there is the fact that Lucas is stunning, aesthetically. No matter one's preferences, no one can honestly deny his wholesome movie star looks, and no one tries to. But here, in the soup kitchen, that's the less important part of his appeal. The more important aspect of his appearance is his newness. Many of the people who appear early are people who come to the church regularly, and they recognize everyone there but him. This gives the young volunteer a chance to make several new admirers, and he navigates these social interactions with aplomb. The figure, at this point, doesn't even rely on his perks, having grown accustomed to his new life and reality.
As the figure encourages the visitors to come and grab food he is extremely pleased when he feels time freeze the first time someone tastes the food he made. This is due to the fact that he is making progress towards his quest to become a "White Mage" the formal name given to the "Healer" class he received a quest to become earlier this week, The quest asks him to heal 100 people, and this marks one of the first times he has made progress towards it. The figure smiles internally as he deactivates the notification that froze time and continues the important work he's been assigned; welcoming guests and working to log in the information they're willing to give about themselves. To achieve this task the eager go-getter has a clipboard and is stationed near the entrance to the part of the church that houses the kitchen where the chefs made the food. Every time someone new eats the food he spelled to be restorative the figure has to deal with paused time, but only the first time someone lifts some of the ensorcelled food to their lips, and each time his excitement at the prospect of obtaining a new class grows more intense.
For the first hour only long-term, regular members of the church's congregation, and their hungry friends, come to the kitchen. The pastor is one of the figures serving them food, while Lucas continues the important work he was asked to do. During this time 22 people make their way through the kitchen, greeting Lucas with excited smiles and happily volunteering the same information they've volunteered before to other individuals tasked with doing Lucas's current work. The young jumper listens to distant conversations even as he writes down the information of various individuals. He smiles internally whenever he overhears someone saying that the food tastes different somehow, better than it has before. Such individuals also sometimes notice how immediately the pain they're in lessens, their old aches and pains fading and in some cases disappearing altogether. They don't know about the magic that is repairing their bodies, the sacred energies that course into them with every faint bite or spoonful of food they eat. Also during this time the chef gains more experience
Lucas doesn't consciously know this but his decision to pour all of his magic into the food has supercharged it. If not for his decision to infuse the food with healing magic again time, coupled with the diffuse nature of the soup would have weakened the healing properties of the magic, but Lucas's choice to suffuse the food with as much magic as he could in short order before the hungry congregants and community members began to arrive has sanctified the food and empowered it's naturally restorative and fortifying properties almost making it something like a potion of sorts.
More people begin to arrive during the second hour of the meal serving period. Some of these people are brand new, and of them a handful gawk at Lucas. These individuals, include homeless youth. teen parents, and college students can't resist the urge to take in the cool glass of water on a hot day that is the charming volunteer. His ability to feign kindness and his almost but not quite eerie sense of their emotional states is enough to allow them to develop crushes, platonic or otherwise, on the figure. And in the space of the hour 40 such individuals come through and eat more of Lucas's cooking, enough to allow him to level up his chef class one more time. He eagerly takes a new class ability, one that allows him to grant food he cooks very minor buffs, though he finds that it's not retroactive.
During this time the pastor gives a very brief address to the crowd of gathered individuals, and introduces Lucas to everyone though Lucas has already been social enough and diligent enough to do that himself. Lucas eagerly thanks everyone for joining them today, and during this time he experiences a very subtle glitch where he says a word but no one notices it. The young adventurer simply ignores the glitch, but not before noting that it's the first one he's experienced in a public situation.
During the last forty five minutes of the meal more people come through, and this group is the oddest and the largest. These folks are the irregulars; people who occasionally need the meals the kitchen provides but who don't love prospect of coming to the kitchen. This group numbers a total 45 of individuals, and by the time they eat the effects of the food are less miraculous, but still solidly strong. At the same time when the next to last person to eat grabs a spoonful of soup and lifts it to her lips she is unknowingly responsible for time freezing and Lucas gaining a new class, The excited hero immediately changes classes and gains a boost to his intelligence and charisma as a result of it as well as just enough experience to boost the power of "Support", making this the first time that a perk of his has been directly strengthened to a quantifiable extent.
"Support" is the most subtle of Lucas's perks other than "The Devil's Own Luck". This perk makes him a more effective leader and teammate, and boosts the efforts of his c;lose-by allies by the equivalent of a "+2", until just now, modifier in TTRPG terms and weakens the efforts of his c;lose-by enemies by "-2", or now "-3". In layman's terms all of the efforts of his allies by a tiny but noticeable margin and weakens the efforts of his enemies by an equal amount. The perk also allows for buffs or debuffs to affect all allies or enemies in close proximity to each other, but Lucas has not had many chances to buff allies or fight enemies. One effect this perk has had is that it allows his friends to cook food that is more delicious, more filling, and healthier than their past efforts. Another effect of it is that it has helped those who eat said food to ingest it more easily and thus allows them to eat it without fears of stomach pains. New spells also appear in the hero's mental grimoire, ones that offer minor buffs or debuffs to friends and enemies, targeting their attributes, but none that consider Lucas a viable target.
The hero delights in his new class and is excited to have the chance to grow as a healer and support provider but the day isn't done. When the last of the crowd leaves Lucas and the rest of his friends stay behind to clean up. Lucas is eager to put his newly enhanced perk to the test, and during these efforts Lucas gains the "Cleaner" class, a class whose initial benefits to him include a boost to his senses and to his skill with anything intended to be used to clean something. During the cleaning, Lucas does not quite gain enough experience to level up, but he knows that he will in time.
Eventually Lucas bids his new friends farewell and makes his way to the gym. He works out somewhat intensely during this time, gaining a series of new skills in the form of swimming and boxing, thanks to his time engaging in a decently stimulating jaunt around the lap pool, followed by his participation in a class that revolves around self-defense. Thanks to "Master of All" and his decision to swap classes to "Fighter" he manages to level up both his "Mage" and his "Fighter" class, opting to give himself a boost to his endurance as a class skill for "Fighter", and a boost to the rate at which he regenerates arcane energy as his class skill for "Mage". It is during this time that Lucas figures out that for his classes to level up he needs to gain class-based experience, but this is the first time that he has seen that he can level a class up without having the class equipped, there just seems to be some relative debuff to the experience gained by the classes he doesn't have equipped. This insight boosts his intelligence, the realization itself serving as a sort of training of the attribute.
By the time Lucas returns to his apartment he is immensely satisfied with the day he has had. The moon is visible in the night's sky when he steps into his apartment he is ready to spend the rest of the day honing his skills and gaining valuable experience. He immediately starts this off by using some of his magic to mess with some of his possessions, positioning and repositioning them as he pleases with telekinesis. For the first time the figure shuts his eyes and practices his telekinesis by feeling alone, an exercise which results in the acquisition of a strange new skill: Extrasensory Perception, or ESP. The figure excitedly practices this skill, even as he levels up his "Spatial Magic" skill and gains an expensive new spell: "Minor Teleport". This particular spell lets him teleport objects he can see and hit with a small magical ray, causing light, small objects he hits to appear in his hand. The mage's skills with this are enough to allow him to hit a kitchen knife with it and teleport it to him without any issues. Lucas's mind fills with possibilities as he takes in the wicked potential of this spell. Still, the spell costs enough that he can only cast it once or twice without waiting for his pool of arcane energy to recover which limits it's usefulness somewhat but that's only a short term problem.
Monday rolls around and when it does Lucas is delighted to find that he is familiar enough with his surroundings that he settles into a routine. The jumper almost immediately throws himself into his work the minute he arrives at the office and he quickly grinds the day away. The only notable event is his realization that Amy is developing a crush on him, something he notices during lunch when he is eating with her and their small cadre of colleagues, when she eagerly asks him about volunteering. On Monday afternoon the lad goes to the gym and works out, taking another dancing class and leveling up the class partway through the workout. He gains a class skill which allows him to more easily persuade anyone who sees him perform a few dances, which he realizes probably won't be very useful in this jump but might mean something later on in his "Chain" as his employer called it several days ago.
The figure spends part of the night leveling his rogue class and gaining skills associated with it thanks in part to his "Rogue" perk and his new spells. He sticks to public places, and stays out just long enough for some shopping outlets and malls to close. He limits his targets to small objects like keys and wallets with his magic, and occasionally targets people with debuffs. He also levels "Observe" enough that he can learn the moods of living things just by using the skill, When his rogue class levels up he snags a new skill which boosts the effectiveness of his actions when he is unseen by the people he is targeting. He also snags a title: "Arcane Sneak", which boosts his magical regeneration when he is unnoticed by people or in the immediate aftermath of him using magic to take something that belongs to someone else.
The next month and a half passes in a blur, and Lucas develops a decently strict schedule he sticks to. On Mondays he trains a specific class, not necessarily rogue but definitely something. On Tuesdays he works out, including taking Zumba, a boxing class, and swimming. On Wednesdays he does meal prep and stays at home honing minor stuff. On Thursday he does some sort of volunteering, and on Fridays he actually relaxes and does something like writing or website design. The weekends are filled with volunteering and city exploration.
During this time his classes, other than chef, dancer, and mage, are slow to level up. He actively practices magic, he is a regular chef, and he turns a passive admiration he once had for dancers into something he is surprisingly passionate about. He also begins to volunteer at the hospital he visited, spending a few hours every Saturday in a small room in the back of the hospital looking through paperwork and doing stuff he didn't anticipate a hospital volunteer doing. Still, he quickly racks up trust and admiration from the few hospital staff members who know of him, thanks to his ability to just not complain, coupled with his stunning effectiveness at what he does.
As he begins to approach the two month mark he is a level 10 chef, level 12 dancer, and a level 6 mage, and a level 3 fighter, rogue, and white mage, as well as a level 4 cleaner. It turns out that each class levels a bit differently, which has inadvertently skewed his leveling but he's become an advanced enough chef that his food can be actively beneficial or detrimental and that there is now a 5% reduction in how long it takes him to cook something. He can also now gain modifiers to his interactions with people who've eaten several dishes he's made, provided they enjoyed them. His dancing is similarly useful, and he is a much better mage now than he once was. The figure can also cast spells and use an ability that prevents something from getting dirty, or magically cleanse objects. Despite all of this he remains a level 1 human, having not gained any experience that would level him as a member of his species; it seems that for him to gain such experience he needs to engage in combat and even when he's sparred with people he doesn't fight them to unconsciousness.
He leaves his apartment on the last Monday in October with a smile on his face, ready to begin a new work week.
submitted by Sin-God to JumpChain [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 12:33 Significant-Tower146 Best Carolina Rig Hook

Best Carolina Rig Hook

https://preview.redd.it/mman9a7z1d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=579ffd01ffe0b4e52f4e93312b371a33bf2744e8
Welcome, fishing enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of Carolina Rig Hooks. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting your fishing journey, our roundup of top-rated Carolina Rig Hooks is sure to pique your interest. From their durability to their versatility, these hooks are a must-have in any fisherman's tackle box. So, buckle up as we explore the best Carolina Rig Hooks on the market, and get ready to reel in some fantastic catches!

The Top 20 Best Carolina Rig Hook

  1. Mustad Carolina Rig Fishing Hook Kit - Experience versatile fishing with the Mustad Carolina Rig Assorted Fishing Hook Kit, featuring a comprehensive range of hooks, weights, beads, and stops for endless possibilities.
  2. Ready-to-Fish Carolina Rig Fishing Kit - The Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig 3/4 oz Brass is a versatile, easy-to-use rig perfect for both novice and pro anglers, providing noise and flash to attract fish while maintaining sensitivity for an unbeatable fishing experience.
  3. Complete Carolina Rigging Kit by Eagle Claw - Eagle Claw's 52 Piece Carolina Rigging Kit provides the ultimate solution for your Carolina rigs, offering quality, noise, and versatility.
  4. 6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz - Efficient Bass Fishing Solution - Save time and protect your line with the 6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz, featuring a durable and flexible wire designed to tackle various structure with minimal hang-ups.
  5. Carolina Ready Rig Hook for Sensitive Baits - Experience explosive fishing with Top Brass's Black 3pk Carolina Ready Rig, featuring brass weights, glass beads, and the legendary Pro-Ticker, guaranteed to catch the attention of even the most elusive fish.
  6. Quality Carolina Live Bait King Rig for Tournament Fishermen - Boost your fishing game with the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig, perfect for tournament fishermen with slow troll techniques, snelled with 60 lb. camo coated wire and featuring Eagle Claw size 4 treble hooks.
  7. Complete Carolina Rig Kit for Ultimate Fishing Experience - Creme Carolina Rig Kit 26 Pieces: The ultimate fishing kit, featuring 26 high-quality pieces including various worms, lizards, creature lures, and more, all designed for optimal bass fishing and perfect for both beginners and experts.
  8. Owner Rig N Hook - High-Quality Fishing Equipment for Your Adventures - Experience top-quality, corrosion-resistant Owner RIG N HOOK fishing equipment, engineered for optimal performance with the exclusive Cutting Point technology, perfect for a wide range of plastics and baits.
  9. Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig - Loudest 5/16 oz Black Hook Set - Experience unmatched fishing success with the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig 5/16 oz/Black 3pk, featuring brass weights, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers for an unrivaled impact and effectiveness.
  10. Efficient Carolina Rig Weight for Fishing Success - Elevate your fishing game with Strike King EZ-Rig Carolina Rig Sinker - saving time, enhancing hook-ups, and featuring robust glass beads and stainless steel wire components.
  11. Proven Carolina Rig Kit for Fishing Success - Karl's Stash Carolina Rig Kit - Powerful and fast, the perfect setup for catching fish with ease!
  12. Easy-to-use Carolina Rig for Fishing - Revamp your fishing experience with the noisy, fish-attracting Top Brass Carolina Ready Rigs, featuring brass weights, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers for an effective, easy-to-use setup.
  13. Easy-Adjust Carolina Rig Hook - 8 Pack - Streamline your saltwater fishing with the Carolina Keeper 8-pack, featuring a single knot, no swivel, and easy adjustments for trout, striper, hybrid, and more.
  14. Sea Striker King Rig - Live Bait Carolina Carolina Live Bait King Rig - The Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig, featuring live bait size 2/0 nose hooks and 4X Eagle Claw size 4 treble hooks, is the ultimate rig for tournament fishermen looking to secure a slow troll victory.
  15. Tournament-Grade Carolina Live Bait King Rig - The Sea Striker K1S-2T Carolina Live Bait King Rig #5 offers solid wire, professional snelling, and a size 2/0 nose hook, making it the go-to choice for tournament fishermen seeking slow troll rigs.
  16. Carolina Shortcut Rig - Convenient Fishing Hook Set - The Bass Pro Shops Carolina Shortcut Rig is a convenient and ready-to-use 1/2 oz. rig featuring a brass color, designed to make Carolina rigging effortless with its included weight, bead, and ticker.
  17. Eagle Claw Carolina Rig with 1/2oz Brass Weight - Upgrade your fishing experience with the Lazer Sharp Carolina Rig, featuring a 1/2 oz brass weight, red glass bead, and durable monofilament line.
  18. High-Quality Carolina Rig Tungsten Weights for Enhanced Fishing Experience - Improve your Carolina rigging experience with Strike King's Tour Grade Tungsten Carolina Rig Weights, featuring internal polishing for line protection and a sleeker shape to reduce snags.
  19. Vintage Mackerel Ready Rig Fishing Hooks for Carolina Rigs - Vintage design, durable construction, and versatile functionality - these Mackerel Ready Rig Stock No. 100-mL Fishing Hooks are perfect for your next fishing adventure!
  20. Patented Ultimate Ballyhoo Rig for Bluewater Fishing - Catch everything in bluewater with the Carolina Lures Ultimate Ballyhoo Rig - Blue Silver, filled with patented lures and jumping fish that entice vicious strikes.
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Reviews

🔗Mustad Carolina Rig Fishing Hook Kit


https://preview.redd.it/mqhh1wsz1d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0ed00f3de9abc1bfaf7117f96cbb0564e8275190
Using the Mustad Carolina Rig Assorted Fishing Hook Kit in my local river was a game-changer. The variety in sizes and materials of the hooks in the kit allowed me to test out different techniques with ease. They were well-made and sturdy, allowing me to catch several fish with just a few modifications to my lure.
However, I encountered a slight challenge when trying to attach the weight to the hook. The connection wasn't as smooth as I'd hoped, and it took a bit more time to get it right. The kit also lacked instructions, which might have made this process easier for a beginner.
Despite these small setbacks, the Carolina Rig Assorted Fishing Hook Kit made my fishing experience more enjoyable and versatile. Its array of hooks and additional accessories made it a valuable tool for both new and experienced anglers looking to spice up their fishing techniques.

🔗Ready-to-Fish Carolina Rig Fishing Kit


https://preview.redd.it/9hvovj402d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=38be0babf9ba482364b1a7b403372325ee3b8c98
I've been fishing with the Carolina Ready Rig for a few weeks now and it's been a game changer. As a seasoned angler, I appreciate how effortlessly this rig eliminates the need for hunting around my tackle box for small components. Top Brass Tackle has really thought this through, from the precise brass weight to the no-fuss 10 mm glass bead.
One aspect I particularly enjoy is how the design makes my fishing sessions much easier. No more struggling with bead placement or dealing with broken beads after a few casts. This rig is an excellent option for both novice and experienced anglers alike. Plus, the durability of the brass sinker and stainless steel wire leader makes it perfect for salt and freshwater fishing.
The only small con was that initially, the shiny brass finish on the sinker changed color after a few weeks in saltwater. But overall, I've been really happy with this Carolina Ready Rig. It's made my fishing sessions more efficient and enjoyable, and I look forward to catching more fish with it.

🔗Complete Carolina Rigging Kit by Eagle Claw


https://preview.redd.it/kee5hhg02d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f03c0a6d13e4aee65fb00560b61a0181b8eeb1c1
As an avid fisherman, I've tried a variety of rigging kits to snag the biggest catches. Eagle Claw's 52 Piece Carolina Rigging Kit is a game-changer. Its attention to detail and quality is clear from the moment you unpack the kit.
From sliding sinkers that slip through even the thickest weeds to ball-bearing swivels, this Carolina rig kit delivers on its promises. My personal favorite - the fish-catching noise it produces - is truly remarkable. It's helped me snag more fish than I've ever caught before.
That being said, the one area where it could be improved is the labeling of the sinkers by weight. Even though the variety of weights is great, it would be more helpful if they were marked clearly. Also, if you're in an area where lead sinkers are not allowed, this might not be the kit for you.
Overall, Eagle Claw's Carolina Rigging Kit is a fantastic addition to any fishing gear collection. It's a go-to for catfish and bass enthusiasts alike.

🔗6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz - Efficient Bass Fishing Solution


https://preview.redd.it/mco5ezq02d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cc84a547060350752e78dc3c5f69f9aa0cd2b5aa
As someone who has spent countless hours on the water, the 6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz has been a game-changer for me. After dealing with the frustrations of rigging my Carolina Rig and dealing with the constant break-offs, I decided to give this pre-rig a try.
One of the biggest highlights for me has been the time-saving aspect. With the pre-rigged hook, I can spend more time casting and reeling in fish instead of tying knots and fiddling with excess weight. Not only does it save time, but it has significantly reduced the number of break-offs I've experienced, keeping my line intact and increasing my chances of landing a big one.
The durability of this pre-rig is also top-notch. The flexible wire has allowed me to drag it through every type of structure without getting hung up, giving me the freedom to focus on the fish rather than worrying about losing my rig. Plus, the fact that it comes in three different sizes and two different metals (lead and tungsten) means there's an option for any fishing situation.
Of course, nothing is perfect, and I did encounter a minor drawback when switching between lead and tungsten options. The switch required me to remove the weight and reattach it, which took a bit of extra time. However, this small inconvenience is easily outweighed by the benefits this pre-rig provides. Overall, I'd highly recommend the 6th Sense Carolina Pre Rig 3/8oz to anyone looking to save time, reduce break-offs, and increase their chances of catching bass.

🔗Carolina Ready Rig Hook for Sensitive Baits


https://preview.redd.it/7x0j44612d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8fbb58fb470d0d4a59320dbaa55999d22c6ec674
In my experience, the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig has been a game-changer. I remember the first time I used it, it was a chilly morning and I was struggling to put together a Carolina rig, but these pre-assembled ones made my life so much easier. Each rig is made with brass, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers, which together create a loud and attention-grabbing presence in the water.
The best part for me? No more fumbling with beads and weights in cold weather. Each rig comes already assembled and ready to use, saving me a considerable amount of time. Plus, they're built strong and sturdy, holding up well even in challenging fishing conditions.
However, there was one downside I noticed. On a couple of occasions, the wires seemed to bend easily, causing some issues in the line. But overall, the pros outweighed the cons, and I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for an efficient and reliable Carolina rig solution.

🔗Quality Carolina Live Bait King Rig for Tournament Fishermen


https://preview.redd.it/tbvz3ym12d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98019d2d98805ebd77a3d041090271937c8222e6
Using the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig has been a game-changer in my fishing adventure. The slow troll rig is perfect for tournament fishermen like myself, with its bronze hooks that are professionally snelled with 60 lb. camo coated wire. The live bait size 2/0 nose hook and the 4X Eagle Claw size 4 treble hooks have proved reliable and sturdy during my fishing trips.
Model LBR has one treble hook and model DLBR has two treble hooks, both variations offering different options depending on your fishing needs. The leader is neatly finished off with a size 7 barrel swivel, ensuring smooth and stable action. This rig also comes with an optional ultra mylar duster, which adds an extra layer of attractiveness for the fish.
While using the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig, I found some pros and cons in my experience. The pros were the reliable hooks, the versatility of having two different treble hook models, and the option to add the ultra mylar duster for additional attraction. However, the cons were the lack of information on the product specs and minimal user reviews. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sea Striker Carolina Live Bait King Rig remains a trusty tool in my fishing arsenal.

🔗Complete Carolina Rig Kit for Ultimate Fishing Experience


https://preview.redd.it/ojctc8722d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=570dd0f400443a97d4d3378512ec7f2774ac31db
When I first received the Crme Lure Carolina Rig Kit, I was impressed by its compact, organizer-like nature, designed to keep all the lures and rigging in one place. The variety of colors available in the lures made me excited to see how they'd perform in the water. On my first fishing trip with this kit, I encountered a rather small bass. Although it wasn't a monster catch, I managed to hook it using a Carolina rig from this kit.
One downside I encountered was the difficulty in finding the appropriate rigging components. The instructions provided were quite detailed, but they seemed to be written for an audience with more experience in fishing. Nevertheless, I managed to work it out with a bit of trial and error.
The lures themselves performed quite well, with different types of lures attracting diverse species of fish. However, they did have a tendency to get snagged on underwater debris, which was a bit of a setback.
Despite the initial challenges, I found the Crme Lure Carolina Rig Kit to be a versatile and durable tool for improving my fishing skills. As a beginner, it was great to have a handy reference in the form of a comprehensive guide. Additionally, the rigging components were high-quality and seemed to withstand the test of time.
In summary, the Carolina Rig Lure Kit is an excellent selection for novice or experienced fishermen who want to enhance their skills with a variety of rigging options. The kit offers great value with a plethora of lures and rigging components, and I'd definitely recommend it. Just remember to keep an eye out for potential rigging fumbles and stay patient when it comes to using instructions.

🔗Owner Rig N Hook - High-Quality Fishing Equipment for Your Adventures


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I had the opportunity to try out Owner Rig N Hook while fishing for my daily catch. As an avid fisherman, I've used various hooks in the past, but this one stood out for its unique features and incredible performance.
One of the most noticeable aspects of Owner Rig N Hook is its sharp and sturdy cutting point. It's designed to provide a strong and reliable hookset, ensuring that my catch does not escape. The black chrome finish not only adds a touch of elegance but also offers enhanced corrosion resistance, which is perfect for my trips to the lake.
The short shank on these hooks is particularly useful when working with plastics that have a short but thick profile, such as spider grubs or creature baits. The wide gap and heavy wire make it an ideal choice for Texas RigN and Carolina RigN, as well as Split ShotN techniques.
However, I did notice that these hooks tend to straighten more often than other hooks. While it's not a major issue, it's something to keep in mind when using them, especially for larger fish.
Overall, Owner Rig N Hook has become a staple in my tackle box. It provides a reliable and efficient hookset, making my fishing experiences all the more enjoyable. The high-quality materials and design make it a worthwhile investment for any avid fisherman.

🔗Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig - Loudest 5/16 oz Black Hook Set


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The Carolina Ready Rig is a game-changer in the world of fishing. This sturdy and easy-to-use rig is made with Top Brass's brass weights, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers, creating the loudest rig any fisherman has ever heard. The combination of these materials results in a perfect Carolina rig that can withstand even the toughest fishing conditions.
One of the biggest highlights of this product is the time it saves. Gone are the days of digging out beads and weights, as the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig is already pre-rigged and ready to go. The rigs are simple to use and make attaching lures a breeze, saving valuable time on the water. However, the wire on these rigs can be delicate and may bend easily, causing some problems.
Despite this minor issue, the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rig is a top-quality product that is designed to last. The materials are of high quality and the pricing is reasonable, making these rigs accessible to all. Overall, the Carolina Ready Rig is an excellent choice for anyone looking to catch more fish with less hassle.

🔗Efficient Carolina Rig Weight for Fishing Success


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In my experience, the Strike King EZ-Rig Carolina Rig Sinker has been a game-changer in my fishing trips. The convenience of having everything pre-rigged has saved me a lot of valuable fishing time. The glass beads not only produce a rattling sound that attracts fish, but they also add a flashy appearance that helps to make a big impact.
The stainless steel wire ensures that the rig will hold up even after multiple uses. The environmentally friendly brass weights are also a huge plus, as they add the right amount of weight without causing any harm to the environment.
The rig is compact and easy to carry, making it a top choice for anyone looking for a quick and simple set-up. Overall, the Strike King Lures Carolina Rig Weight has been a lifesaver for me during my fishing adventures.

🔗Proven Carolina Rig Kit for Fishing Success


https://preview.redd.it/vkl29eu32d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e603d8b1477d11c45fcb073e66a113288352a3ce
I recently tried out Karl's Stash Carolina Rig Kit, and I must say, it was quite the experience. As someone who's always on the lookout for a good fishing setup, this kit caught my eye with its promise of a tried and true fish catching system.
The first thing that struck me was the design of the rig itself. Its heavy power, coupled with a moderate fast action, provided me with an unexpected amount of precision and control. The line, which was perfect for a weight range of 14-20lb Fluorocarbon or Monofilament, held up incredibly well under the strain of my fishing escapades.
However, there were a couple of aspects that I didn't quite gel with. For one, the brass weights seemed a bit outdated compared to the tungsten ones I've gotten used to. Another minor inconvenience was the large weights that sometimes bogged down in the sand, making retrieval a smidgen more difficult.
Despite these minor setbacks, I found myself consistently landing good catches with the help of this rig. Its simple, yet effective design makes it a great choice for both beginners and experienced fishers alike. I highly recommend giving it a try if you're looking to spice up your fishing experience. After all, the proof of the pudding is in the catching, and this rig sure does catch!

🔗Easy-to-use Carolina Rig for Fishing


https://preview.redd.it/1ucsza642d1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=62fbf77823b2aa08c0d49e717f4630c7ae259a5b
I've been using the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rigs for my fishing trips, and I must say, they've made my life so much easier. The brass weights, glass beads, and Pro-Tickers create a loud, fish-enticing rig that is ready to use right out of the box.
One thing that stood out to me was the sturdiness of the rig. It's a well-made product that can handle the rough and tumble of a day on the water. I also appreciated the ease of use - it's a simple, straightforward rig that's perfect for those times when I don't want to spend a lot of time on prep work.
That being said, there were a couple of downsides as well. Occasionally, the wire would bend easily, causing issues with the rig. And while the one bead not three thing was a minor inconvenience, it was nothing that couldn't be fixed with a quick trip to the hardware store or a little bit of DIY ingenuity.
All in all, the Top Brass Carolina Ready Rigs are a solid choice for any angler looking to make their fishing trips a little easier. They're well-made, easy to use, and a great time-saver.

🔗Easy-Adjust Carolina Rig Hook - 8 Pack


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I recently started using the Carolina Keeper 8 pack and I must say it has greatly improved my fishing experience. What stands out in my experience is how easy and convenient it is to tie that one knot instead of the three that I used to need. It eliminates the swivel and simplifies the process of adjusting the leader length. The keeper even works well for different types of fish like striper, hybrid, trout, and all saltwater species.
One of the pros of using this product is the ease of setting up the Carolina rig. It saves a lot of time and effort compared to using a swivel and tying knots. However, a minor con that I've encountered is that the keeper may slide down the line if you're using heavy weights, especially in heavier currents.
Overall, the Carolina Keeper is an excellent product that has made the Carolina rig setup convenient and efficient. Despite the minor drawback, the pros definitely outweigh the cons, and I highly recommend it to any angler looking to improve their fishing game.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to the buyer's guide section for Carolina Rig Hooks. In this guide, we will discuss the important features to consider when purchasing a Carolina Rig Hook, as well as general advice to help you make the best choice for your needs. Let's dive in and explore this exciting category of fishing tackle.

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Features to Consider

  1. Material: Look for hooks made from high-quality materials like premium stainless steel or titanium. These materials provide long-lasting durability and excellent performance in different fishing conditions. Steel hooks are stronger and more resistant to corrosion, while titanium hooks are lighter and more durable.
  2. Size and Weight: Choose a hook size that matches the lure and the intended target fish. The weight of the hook also plays a role in its functionality, as heavier hooks will be more effective in deeper waters or when targeting larger fish. Make sure to select a size that provides a proper balance of hook size, weight, and grip.
  3. Shape: The hook shape can affect its performance and catch rate. Most Carolina Rig Hooks are designed with a J-hook or a Sickle hook. J-hooks provide better hookup ratios, while Sickle hooks are more effective in maintaining their position in the mouth of the fish during the fight.
  4. Strength: Look for hooks with strong shanks and welding points to ensure they can hold up to the demands of fishing. Quality hooks are designed to withstand the wear and tear of being submerged in water and dealing with aggressive fish.
  5. Finish: The hook's finish plays a role in its durability, appearance, and attractiveness to fish. Chrome, silver, and black finishing options are available, with each providing its own unique benefits.

Additional Considerations

  1. Price: There is a wide range of prices for Carolina Rig Hooks, from affordable options to premium picks. Determine your budget and consider how much you want to spend on this essential fishing accessory.
  2. Brand Reputation: Research different brands to determine their reputation for quality, performance, and customer support. Positive reviews and experiences from fellow anglers can help you make an informed decision.
  3. Warranty and Return Policy: Look for brands that offer warranties and return policies that provide peace of mind in case you need to replace or return your hook.

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General Advice

  1. Always inspect your hooks before using them, checking for any signs of damage, rust, or weak points that could impair their performance.
  2. Store your hooks properly to prevent damage and ensure their longevity. Protective cases or storage boxes with UV-resistant materials are ideal for storing your hooks.
  3. Experiment with different hook sizes, shapes, and finishes to find the perfect combination for your fishing style and target species.
By considering the features discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a Carolina Rig Hook. Remember to prioritize the material, size, weight, shape, strength, and finish that best suit your needs and budget. With these factors in mind, you can enjoy successful fishing adventures and reap the rewards of your well-prepared tackle box.

FAQ


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What is a Carolina rig hook?

A Carolina rig hook is a specific type of fishing hook designed for use with the Carolina rig, a widely popular fishing technique in the Southeastern United States. These hooks are typically made of strong, durable materials and are suitable for catching a variety of freshwater fish, such as bass, catfish, and sunfish.

What makes a Carolina rig hook different from other fishing hooks?

There are a few key differences between a Carolina rig hook and other fishing hooks: 1. They have a slightly different shape, typically featuring a straight body with two wide gaps between the shank and the eye. 2. Carolina rig hooks are designed to be fished with a heavy sinker attached to a leader, which allows the hook to sink quickly through the water column. 3. They can be used with live bait or artificial lures, making them versatile for various fishing scenarios.

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What materials are Carolina rig hooks made of?

Carolina rig hooks are usually made from high-quality metal alloys, such as steel or tungsten, as these materials offer superior strength and durability. Some hooks may also incorporate nickel, titanium, or other coatings to improve their anti-corrosion properties.

What are the benefits of using a Carolina rig hook?

  • Increased durability and strength, allowing for more successful catches.
  • Ability to be used with a wide range of baits and lures, making it a versatile tool.
  • The heavy sinker attached to the leader allows the hook to reach deeper water levels and target larger fish species.
  • The hook's shape enables it to penetrate the fish's mouth more effectively, increasing the chances of successful hookups.

How do I rig a Carolina rig hook?

To rig a Carolina rig, follow these steps: 1. Thread the leader onto the rod or line, with the heavier end at the bottom. 2. Slide on a sinker, adjusting the weight according to the depth and current conditions. 3. Attach the Carolina rig hook to the leader, with the loop end facing upwards. 4. Add a swivel between the leader and the line to prevent line twist. 5. Tie on your bait or lure, ensuring it is secure and free to move naturally. 6. Cast your line and wait for a bite.

Are Carolina rig hooks compatible with other fishing techniques?

While Carolina rig hooks are specifically designed for use with the Carolina rig, they can also be used with other fishing techniques, such as the bottom bait rig, as long as the correct size and weight are chosen.

What size and weight should I choose for my Carolina rig hook?

The choice of hook size and weight will depend on the type of bait or lure you are using and the target fish species. As a general rule, smaller hooks are suitable for smaller baits and fish, while larger hooks are appropriate for larger baits and fish. When determining the weight, consider the depth and current conditions to ensure the hook sinks properly and is not too heavy or too light for the chosen bait or lure.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
submitted by Significant-Tower146 to u/Significant-Tower146 [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 11:50 bluebrrypii PI threatened with writing bad rec letters

I’m 6-7 years into my PhD and expecting to publish and graduate hopefully next year. For many reasons, my PI and I (and basically everyone else in the lab) have a bad relationship. At this point, we are all just trying to keep our heads down, ignore the PI, and publish ASAP so we can graduate and escape.
But recently, the PI threatened everyone with writing bad rec letters/refusing rec letters “if we don’t behave” (ie, do experiments for his company).
In grad school, it seems like your PI is the only professional relation from whom you can ask rec letters from. Is it even possible to get industry jobs or post doc positions if your PI refuses to give you a rec letter?
submitted by bluebrrypii to PhD [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 11:23 Accurate-Screen8774 A Decentralized Microfrontend Architecture

A Decentralized Microfrontend Architecture
Disclaimer: the following is a recent medium article. it is being posted in full on Reddit to compare feedback and engagement of Reddit users with long-form articles.
Decentralization can mean a lot of things because it can be open to interpretation. In this article, we would like to talk about what decentralization means to us and how we are approaching our definition of decentralized. We are working on a typical chat app, but our approach is unique and may push the boundaries of what it means for something to be self-hosted.
Our decentralized chat application is built as a Progressive Web Apps (PWA) and leverages modern web technologies to deliver a user experience comparable to native apps. Unlike traditional centralized chat apps, our chat app is designed to operate independently of central servers, ensuring that user data remains private and secure. This article will delve into the various components and architectural decisions that make our app truly decentralized.

The Decentralized Chat App

An overview of how our chat application leverages Progressive Web App (PWA) technology to provide a seamless user experience across different devices and platforms.
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Data Storage and Networking

A typical app relies heavily on data storage and networking capabilities. In our decentralized chat application, we’ve implemented advanced solutions to handle these aspects efficiently and securely.

Data Storage

In our app, we use IndexedDB to store data directly in the browser’s storage. While browsers provide multiple options for storing information, ranging from cookies to local storage, IndexedDB offers a more advanced and robust solution.
Capacity: IndexedDB can store significantly larger amounts of data compared to cookies or local storage. Structure: It allows for complex data structures, including collections of files and blobs. Performance: IndexedDB operates asynchronously, meaning it won’t block the main thread of your application, leading to better performance for data-heavy applications.
Using IndexedDB, we ensure that user data is stored locally on their devices, providing both privacy and independence from central servers.

Networking

For networking, our app uses PeerJS-server as a connection broker to establish WebRTC connections between peers.
Direct Peer-to-Peer: WebRTC, provided by the browser, enables real-time communication between peers. This allows two users to connect directly and exchange data with minimal latency. Efficient Routing: Once a connection is established, data is sent via the shortest possible network route, enhancing speed and efficiency. Multiple Connections: Browsers can handle multiple WebRTC connections simultaneously, though the number of connections can vary depending on the device and network capabilities.
PeerJS-server helps in the initial connection setup by acting as a signaling server. It facilitates the exchange of connection information between peers, enabling them to establish a direct WebRTC connection.
By leveraging IndexedDB for data storage and WebRTC with PeerJS-server for networking, our chat application achieves a high level of decentralization, ensuring user data remains private and connections are efficient and reliable. These components form the backbone of our approach, pushing the boundaries of what it means for an app to be truly self-hosted and decentralized
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Static Distribution and Deployment

Our app is essentially a bundle of static files, which makes it highly portable and easy to distribute. We leverage AWS services such as S3 and CloudFormation to deploy our app, ensuring it is distributed efficiently over a Content Delivery Network (CDN) across AWS servers.

AWS S3 and CloudFormation

AWS S3: We host our app on AWS S3, a scalable storage service that allows us to serve static files reliably. S3 ensures that our app is always available and can handle large numbers of requests without performance degradation. CloudFormation: By using AWS CloudFormation, we automate the deployment process, managing our infrastructure as code. This makes it easy to replicate and manage our app’s deployment environment.
Hosting on S3 and using CloudFormation means our app benefits from AWS’s global CDN. This ensures that our static files are cached and served from servers closest to our users, reducing latency and improving load times.

Offline Availability and Self-Hosting

We go a step further by providing users with the option to download a zip file of the app directly from within the app. This ensures that users can run the app locally without relying on our servers.
Direct from Index.html: Unlike some other apps, our app is a pure JavaScript implementation, designed to run directly from the index.html file. Users can simply open this file in their browser and start using the app without needing a server. Docker Option: For users who prefer or require a server setup, we offer a Docker configuration. This allows the app to be run in a containerized environment, providing flexibility and ease of deployment for different use cases.

Unminified Code for Transparency

We believe in transparency and accessibility. Therefore, we run the app as unminified code. This has several advantages:
Ease of Download: Users can download the entire app using simple browser commands like Ctrl/Cmd+S. Transparency: By providing unminified code, we ensure that users can inspect and understand the code they are running. This fosters trust and allows for easier customization and debugging.
By distributing our app as static files and offering multiple ways to run it, we ensure that users have maximum flexibility and control. Whether using AWS’s robust infrastructure or running the app locally, our approach embodies the principles of decentralization and user empowerment.

Webpack 5 Module Federation

Our app leverages Webpack 5’s Module Federation feature to implement a microfrontend architecture. This approach allows us to modularize our application, making it easier to maintain, develop, and scale. You can explore our open-source implementation here: https://github.com/positive-intentions/frontend-base.

Current Implementation

We have used Webpack 5 Module Federation to build the chat application, which you can find here: https://github.com/positive-intentions/chat. Additionally, we have created a federated module for cryptography that can be imported at runtime, available here: https://github.com/positive-intentions/cryptography. Our current setup is straightforward, allowing us to dynamically load different parts of the application as needed. This modular approach provides flexibility and efficiency in how we develop and deploy our app.

Future Enhancements

We plan to further decompose the application into separate microfrontends, each responsible for a specific aspect of the app. This will not only simplify maintenance but also enhance documentation and development processes for individual components.
Planned Modules:
1. UI Components: A collection of reusable UI components that can be shared across different parts of the application, promoting consistency and reducing duplication. 2. P2P Framework: The core framework for peer-to-peer networking, facilitating real-time communication between users. 3. State Management: This module will manage the application’s state, ensuring efficient data handling and synchronization across different components and peers. 4. Permission Manager: A dedicated module for managing user permissions and access control, enhancing security and user management.
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Individual Storybooks and Module Exports

Each module will have its own Storybook and module export, providing a dedicated space for documentation, testing, and showcasing individual components. This approach will:
Enhance Documentation: Each module will be well-documented, making it easier for developers to understand and use them. Simplify Maintenance: By isolating modules, we can update and maintain them independently, reducing the risk of breaking changes affecting the entire app. Promote Reusability: Well-defined modules can be reused across different projects, promoting a modular and efficient development approach.
By embracing Webpack 5 Module Federation and breaking down our app into distinct microfrontends, we aim to create a more robust, scalable, and maintainable architecture. This approach not only benefits our development process but also enhances the overall user experience by ensuring that each component is well-crafted and easily accessible.

Redundancy and Reliability

In the past, we have encountered difficulties when deploying our app to AWS due to various technical issues. Given that our app functions as a self-hosted static application, we have started exploring alternative hosting options, such as GitHub Pages. You can view our deployment on GitHub Pages here: https://positive-intentions.github.io/chat.

GitHub Pages Deployment

Our microfrontend architecture allows us to deploy each module independently. This capability has enabled us to host copies of the app on GitHub Pages for each repository. While this approach is unconventional and can lead to redundant copies of the app, we believe it is a valuable exercise in exploring module federation redundancy.
Accessibility: Hosting on GitHub Pages makes the app easily accessible to users and developers. Simplicity: GitHub Pages offers a straightforward deployment process, reducing the complexity often associated with other hosting solutions. Cost-Effective: GitHub Pages is free, making it an economical choice for hosting static sites.

Redundancy and Interoperability

We aim to make our app interoperable across different hosting sources. By leveraging Webpack 5 Module Federation, we can ensure that the app works seamlessly whether it is served from AWS or GitHub Pages. This redundancy enhances the app’s reliability and availability.
Module Federation Redundancy: We are investigating ways to make modules interoperable between different sources, ensuring that the app remains functional even if one source becomes unavailable. Interoperable Deployment: Our goal is to allow the app to fetch and integrate modules from both AWS and GitHub Pages dynamically.
https://preview.redd.it/m1nbx4nloc1d1.png?width=1100&format=png&auto=webp&s=b7e708e530bece6bcbd492b2699755065b783eb0

Future Plans

To further enhance our deployment strategy, we plan to use a infrastructure as code tool, to deploy the app across multiple cloud service providers. This approach will increase the resilience of our deployment, ensuring the app remains online and functional even if one provider experiences downtime.
Multi-Cloud Deployment: We can deploy the app to various cloud service providers, including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This will distribute the app’s load and reduce the risk of a single point of failure. Scalability: This will enable us to scale the app easily across different providers, ensuring it can handle increased traffic without performance issues. Cost Management: Static file hosting is relatively a cheap option for hosting a webapp, we can optimize costs and ensure that the app remains affordable to maintain.
By exploring these new hosting options and implementing a robust deployment strategy, we aim to make our decentralized chat app more resilient, scalable, and cost-effective. Our efforts in redundancy and interoperability will ensure that the app continues to function seamlessly, providing a reliable user experience regardless of the hosting source.

Multi-Device Architecture

As our app continues to develop, we are excited to introduce the concept of a decentralized profile that can be shared across multiple devices. This feature is designed for individuals who want to use the same profile on all their devices, providing a seamless and integrated multi-platform chat experience, much like any modern chat application.

Decentralized Profile

A decentralized profile allows users to maintain a consistent identity and settings across different devices. This means that whether you are using a smartphone, tablet, or desktop, your profile can remain synchronized and up-to-date.
Profile Synchronization: Users can access their chat history, contacts, and settings on any device by synchronizing their decentralized profile. Data Consistency: Changes made on one device are automatically reflected on others, ensuring a consistent experience.

Multi-Platform Chat Experience

Implementing a decentralized profile enables us to offer a robust multi-platform chat experience. Users can switch between devices without losing their chat continuity or settings, enhancing the overall user experience.
Convenience: Users can start a conversation on one device and continue it on another without any interruptions. Flexibility: The app adapts to various devices, providing a user-friendly interface and experience on each platform.
https://preview.redd.it/8e2i3rrooc1d1.png?width=1100&format=png&auto=webp&s=a034fe514dbd6aa889de2da16caea828f7833e38

Decentralized File Storage

In addition to profile synchronization, we are exploring the potential of decentralized file storage. This feature would allow users to move large files between devices quickly, easily and securely.
Cross-Device Sharing: Users can share files between their devices effortlessly, whether they are transferring a document from their laptop to their phone or vice versa. Collaborative Work: Teams can collaborate more effectively by sharing encrypted files directly through the app, regardless of the devices they are using.
By introducing a decentralized profile and exploring decentralized file storage, we aim to enhance our app’s functionality and user experience. These features will provide users with the convenience and flexibility expected from a modern chat application while maintaining the principles of decentralization and security.

Decentralized Peer Discovery

Decentralized peer discovery is a critical component of our app’s architecture. By leveraging innovative technologies such as QR codes, NFC, and BLE, we facilitate seamless connections between peers without relying on a central authority.

QR Codes

QR codes provide a straightforward method for establishing peer connections. Users can generate a QR code that contains their connection details, which other users can scan to initiate a peer-to-peer connection.
https://preview.redd.it/20jk09qqoc1d1.png?width=793&format=png&auto=webp&s=11d72cbae68ac953f955d4cb87ce4e41cf877341
Ease of Use: Users can quickly and easily share connection details. Security: QR codes can be generated dynamically, reducing the risk of interception.

NFC (Near Field Communication)

NFC allows devices to establish connections simply by being in close proximity. This technology is particularly useful for quick and secure peer discovery.
Speed: Connections are established almost instantly. Convenience: Users can connect devices by simply bringing them close together, making it ideal for spontaneous interactions.

BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)

BLE enables devices to discover and communicate with each other over short distances with minimal power consumption. This makes it a suitable option for maintaining constant peer-to-peer connections.
Energy Efficiency: BLE conserves battery life, making it ideal for mobile devices. Range: BLE provides a reliable connection over a short range, perfect for personal or localized networking.

Combining Technologies for Enhanced Discovery

By integrating QR codes, NFC, and BLE, we create a robust and versatile peer discovery mechanism. Users can choose the most convenient method for their situation, ensuring that connections are both seamless and secure.
Hybrid Approach: Users can combine different methods for an optimal connection experience. For instance, initial discovery via QR code followed by connection via BLE for sustained communication. Adaptability: The app adapts to the available technologies on the user’s device, providing the best possible peer discovery experience.
These innovative approaches to peer discovery, coupled with our decentralized microfrontend architecture, form the backbone of our commitment to enhancing decentralization, scalability, and user experience. By continually exploring and implementing cutting-edge technologies, we ensure our app remains at the forefront of decentralized communication solutions
These sections outline the key aspects of our decentralized microfrontend architecture and provide a roadmap for our ongoing and future efforts to enhance decentralization, scalability, and user experience.

Conclusion

Our journey towards building a decentralized chat application has been driven by a desire to push the boundaries of what it means for an app to be truly self-hosted and independent of central servers. By leveraging modern web technologies such as Progressive Web Apps, IndexedDB, WebRTC, and Webpack 5 Module Federation, we have created a robust and scalable architecture that emphasizes privacy, security, and user empowerment.
We have explored innovative hosting solutions like GitHub Pages and plan to implement multi-cloud deployments to enhance resilience and scalability. Our vision for a multi-device architecture, incorporating decentralized profiles and encrypted file storage, aims to provide a seamless, cross-platform user experience. Additionally, our commitment to decentralized peer discovery using QR codes, NFC, and BLE ensures that users can connect easily and securely without relying on centralized authorities.
As we continue to develop and refine our app, we remain dedicated to the principles of decentralization, transparency, and user control. We invite you to join us on this journey, explore our open-source repositories, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of our decentralized chat application. Together, we can redefine what it means to communicate in a decentralized world.
Thank you for taking the time to read about our project. We look forward to your feedback and collaboration as we continue to innovate and improve our decentralized chat application.
submitted by Accurate-Screen8774 to darknetplan [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 11:04 Zanxiyo "The Whispering Shadows"

The old family home stood at the edge of town, its once grand facade now weathered and worn by time. The town's whispers about the house had reached my ears many times throughout my childhood, but I had never given them much thought. Now, standing before the creaking gate that led to the overgrown path, I felt an inexplicable urge to discover the truth.
I had inherited the house after my great-uncle Nathaniel passed away, a man I barely knew but whose presence seemed to linger in every corner. The dusty heirlooms and musty bookshelves hinted at a long and storied history. It was a history I intended to uncover.
The first few days were uneventful. I spent my time clearing out cobwebs and sorting through old papers, most of which were mundane—bills, letters, old photographs. But then, tucked away in a hidden compartment of Nathaniel's desk, I found a bundle of letters tied with a faded red ribbon. The letters were old, the paper yellowed and brittle. They were addressed to my great-grandmother, Beatrice, from someone named Arthur.
The letters spoke of forbidden love, betrayal, and a pact made in desperation. Arthur's words grew increasingly frantic as he described a dark secret shared by the family—a secret that, if revealed, would bring ruin upon them all. My curiosity piqued, I read on, unable to tear myself away.
One letter in particular stood out. Dated December 3, 1923, it detailed a horrific event: a fire that had claimed the lives of several townspeople. Arthur confessed to starting the fire, claiming it was necessary to protect the family from something far worse. He mentioned a cult, dark rituals, and a promise made to an entity he referred to only as "the Shadow."
The more I read, the more I felt an unsettling presence in the house. Shadows seemed to move on their own, and whispers echoed through the halls at night. Determined to understand, I ventured into the basement, where Nathaniel's journals hinted at more hidden secrets.
The basement was damp and cold, the air thick with mildew. Shelves lined with jars of strange substances and dusty books filled the room. At the far end, behind an old trunk, I found a small door. It creaked open to reveal a narrow staircase leading further down into darkness.
With a flashlight in hand, I descended, my heart pounding in my chest. The air grew colder with each step, and a sense of dread settled over me. At the bottom, I found a chamber filled with symbols carved into the stone walls. In the center was an altar, stained with what I could only hope was old wax.
As I examined the room, I found more letters, these from Nathaniel to someone named Margaret. They described rituals performed to keep the Shadow at bay, sacrifices made to ensure the family's prosperity. Nathaniel's last entry was a chilling plea for forgiveness, confessing that he had failed to uphold the pact and that the Shadow was coming for him.
Suddenly, the flashlight flickered and went out. Panic set in as I fumbled to turn it back on. When the light returned, I saw them—figures standing in the shadows, their eyes glowing with an unnatural light. They whispered in unison, a low chant that sent shivers down my spine.
"Blood of the betrayer," they intoned. "Blood of the guilty."
I tried to run, but my legs felt like lead. The figures closed in, their hands cold as ice as they grabbed me. I struggled, but it was no use. They dragged me to the altar, their chanting growing louder.
As they forced me down, I realized the truth: my family had been protecting a dark secret for generations, a secret that had now claimed me. The last thing I saw was a figure stepping out of the shadows, its eyes filled with malevolent glee.
The pain was sudden and all-consuming. My scream echoed through the chamber, blending with the chants. And then, there was nothing but darkness.
The house stood silent once more, its secrets buried deep within its walls. The townspeople still whispered about the old family home, but no one dared to venture inside. They said the shadows moved on their own, and at night, if you listened closely, you could still hear the whispers of the past.
Years passed, and the house remained untouched, a dark mark on the edge of town. Then, one evening, a young couple, unaware of the house’s history, moved in. They had bought the property cheaply, charmed by its antique allure.
Their first night in the house was uneventful. They laughed, unpacked, and made plans to renovate. But as the clock struck midnight, the atmosphere changed. The house seemed to come alive with a malevolent energy. The husband, Peter, heard a faint whispering. At first, he dismissed it as the wind, but the whispers grew louder, forming words.
"Blood of the betrayer... Blood of the guilty..."
He followed the sound to the basement, where the narrow door stood ajar. Against his better judgment, he descended the stairs. The flashlight flickered, casting eerie shadows on the walls. The chamber at the bottom was as I had left it, but now there was something new—a fresh inscription on the altar: "He who seeks shall find."
Peter turned to leave, but the shadows moved. Figures emerged, their eyes glowing with the same unnatural light. He screamed for help, but the basement door slammed shut, trapping him inside.
Upstairs, his wife, Emily, heard his screams and rushed to the basement door, but it wouldn't budge. She pounded on it, calling his name, but the house seemed to swallow her cries. Desperation set in, and she ran to the phone, dialing the police.
The police arrived quickly, but as they approached the house, they felt an unnatural chill. Inside, they found Emily, frantic and pale. She led them to the basement, but when they opened the door, the chamber was empty. There was no sign of Peter.
Days turned into weeks, and Peter was never found. Emily moved out, leaving the house abandoned once more. The townspeople spoke of the curse, of the family’s dark past, and warned newcomers to stay away.
But the house never stayed empty for long. Curiosity drew people in, and one by one, they disappeared, claimed by the shadows. The whispers continued, a never-ending chant of betrayal and guilt.
One stormy night, a group of ghost hunters arrived, eager to uncover the house's secrets. They set up their equipment, cameras rolling, as they ventured into the basement. The air was thick with tension, the shadows seemed to watch, waiting.
As they explored the chamber, the leader of the group, Sam, found the old letters. He read them aloud, his voice trembling. The whispers grew louder, the shadows closing in.
"Blood of the betrayer... Blood of the guilty..."
The cameras captured everything—the figures emerging from the darkness, the screams, the terror. But when the footage was reviewed, all that was visible was the empty basement, silent and still. The hunters were never seen again.
Years passed, and the house remained a dark legend. No one dared to enter, the whispers and shadows a constant warning. And yet, on moonless nights, the townspeople could see faint lights flickering in the windows, hear the faint whispers carried on the wind.
It was said that the house was a gateway, a place where the past and present intertwined, where the sins of the ancestors demanded atonement. Those who entered were lost, their souls trapped in a never-ending cycle of horror.
Then, one day, a young historian named James arrived in town. He was fascinated by the stories and determined to uncover the truth. Despite the warnings, he entered the house, armed with his knowledge and a sense of purpose.
He found the letters, the journals, the hidden chamber. But as he delved deeper, he uncovered something no one had seen before—a final letter from Nathaniel, hidden behind a loose brick. It spoke of a ritual to break the curse, to free the trapped souls.
With renewed hope, James prepared for the ritual, following the instructions meticulously. As he began, the house seemed to tremble, the shadows stirring violently. The whispers grew to a deafening roar, but he pressed on.
The final step required a sacrifice, a willing soul to take the place of the cursed. As James completed the ritual, he felt a searing pain. The shadows enveloped him, but he continued to chant the final words.
Suddenly, the whispers stopped. The shadows receded, and the house fell silent. The townspeople, watching from a distance, saw the lights go out and heard a final, blood-curdling scream.
The next morning, they found the house empty. The letters and journals were gone, the chamber sealed. James was never seen again, but the curse seemed to have lifted. The house stood silent, no longer a source of fear.
Years later, the house was sold and renovated. Families moved in and out, but the dark history remained a distant memory. The whispers and shadows were gone, but on stormy nights, the faint echoes of the past could still be heard, a reminder of the darkness that once lurked within.
And so, the legend of the old family home became a story told to children, a cautionary tale of curiosity and the consequences of uncovering secrets best left buried. But some say that on the darkest nights, if you listen closely, you can still hear the faint whisper: "Blood of the betrayer... Blood of the guilty..."
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