So I bought my house last year (which i am in the process of painting lol), and it has this cute little magnolia tree in front.
The distance is deceiving a bit, as there is a slight hill right before the house that we are going to level out soon, tree is about 10-15 feet from the house.
I've been lurking here a bit and saw a lot of posts & comments about the critical root zone needing to be clear of rocks, so yesterday i went out with a hoe and gently pulled all of the lava rock & edging rock away from her. Under the landscaping fabric (which was likely only added by previous sellers) was this insane tree flare.
I spent probably 4 hours last night trying to find good information about magnolia tree flares & how they should be sitting, but none of them look anything like mine so I'm struggling to understand my next steps here.
Is the soil line in a good spot around the trunk sides? (Pic 3-5) It is definitely doable to pull a bit more soil away or even add more, I just truly cannot determine what I'm looking at haha.
The side where you can see into the root flare (pic 2), I can't even begin to process. Should I cover any of this? Is it okay? Is it....normal?
Any advice would be great, I love this tree and I want her to continue to be happy!!

Part 2
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It was late when I got back home but for as tired as I was, I knew that I wasn’t going to sleep a wink.
​
I went into my computer room and opened up my laptop, before plugging in the USB the bartender had given me. There were four folders on it, each one containing the feed from a different camera in the Rooster. I clicked into one of the folders at random and picked through the video files inside, looking for the stretch of footage that I needed. It didn’t take me long to find it either.
​
I clicked into one of the video files, and watched as the chaos of the Red Rooster played out before me. People drinking, flirting, laughing. Living their lives. Nothing I hadn’t seen before. I let the footage play for a bit, before getting up to grab myself a couple of beers from the fridge. When I got back, I started skipping through the video, waiting for the moment my two victims showed up.
​
When I’d taken the bartender's statement, he’d told me that he’d seen the two before, both separate and together. He didn’t know their names, but he knew their faces. Other patrons recognized them too. One of them had identified the red haired girl as ‘Kayley’ and had mentioned she lived down at River Ridge, a trailer park outside of town. Nobody had been able to name the Elegant Woman, although a lot of patrons had said they’d seen her around before.
​
Apparently, both of them usually came to hook up, leaving with a different stranger on most nights. Odds are, they’d why they were there on that night too. They’d come in at around 8:47. The Elegant looking dark haired woman seemed to be the one taking the lead, and seemed to be the one doing most of the talking. She and Kayley went to sit at the bar, talking amongst each other all the while. I couldn’t say for sure what they were talking about. Even if the file had audio, I doubt I’d have been able to single them out over the crowd. They looked at ease though.
​
They shared a couple of drinks. Nothing seemed that out of the ordinary. I took a sip of my beer, watching them. Eventually, Kayley got distracted talking to a man further down the bar, while the Elegant Woman stayed at the bar, drinking casually as if she had all the time in the world.
​
The man in the suit came in at around 9:12.
​
My attention shifted to him the moment he came in through the door.
​
He fit the description that every witness I’d spoken to had given about the shooter. A tall man with a red beard in a black suit who was wearing a pair of reflective sunglasses despite the fact that it was 9 at night. Even beneath his suit, it was easy to tell he had a good physique, and his crew cut implied a military history to me.
​
Red Beard took a seat at the bar, a few seats down from the Elegant Woman. He ordered a drink, and nursed it for a bit, discreetly looking around at the other patrons of the bar but not seeming to look directly at either the Elegant Woman or Kayley. He just drank his beer, and when he was finished, he got up and switched seats, moving to sit beside the Elegant Woman. She looked over at him, putting on a charming smile as they talked. I almost got the impression that they were flirting with each other.
​
They kept talking for a while and as they did, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. If I didn’t know what was coming next… it would have caught me completely off guard. When she turned to take a sip of her drink, the gun appeared in his hand, almost without warning. She didn’t even have time to react before he shot her at point blank range. Three bullets straight to the chest.
​
I saw Kayley spin around and freeze up. Her entire body tensed, as if she was ready to lunge at the shooter. If that was her intention though, she never got the chance. He put two bullets in her without even thinking, then without so much as a glance backward, he took off toward the door.
​
I rubbed my temples, watching as the chaos of the aftermath unfolded. Some people called 911. Some, like the bartender, ran to the aid of the bodies. I saw myself run in through the door less than six minutes after the shooting had happened.
​
That was where I stopped the video.
​
I took another sip of my beer, and sighed. I rewound it a little bit, watching as the shooter came in and watching as he left. I might recognize this man on the street if I saw him, but other than his red hair and sunglasses, there wasn’t really much to go off of.
​
The way he left… he walked away almost casually, as if he had someplace to be. He didn’t run. He didn’t panic. He was cold, calm, and professional. I guess that fit with the other murders, didn’t it?
​
I steeled myself to review the footage again, this time from another camera. Maybe there’d be something from one of the angles that I didn’t see. I checked the angles of the other three cameras. Two of them wouldn’t offer me much. One of them didn’t even catch the shooting. But the last one…
​
The last one looked promising.
​
It was situated near the back of the bar and through it, you could see out a window onto the street. It wasn’t the best view… but it was different.
​
From that angle, I could see a black sedan pull up to drop the man in the suit off. I saw him walk in the door and sit by the bar and from there, the scene played out the same as it did before. The man in the suit shot the two women and he left.
​
He strode out toward the sedan parked out front, got in the passenger seat and the sedan took off like a shot. There’d been a getaway driver. Interesting…
​
I set my unfinished beer down. I could drink the rest of it later. I needed to go on a little drive.
​
It was around 4 AM when I returned to the Red Rooster. I parked my car on the street, exactly where the black sedan had parked, and got out. The downtown area around me was dead silent. Lifeless almost. There wasn’t another soul in sight. But that was fine by me. That just meant that there were no distractions.
​
It didn’t take me long to find what I was looking for. There was a bank across the street and I walked toward it. The doors were locked, but that was fine. I could see what I needed through the windows.
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Bank machines.
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More specifically, bank machines with cameras. Cameras that were pointed right at the Red Rooster.
Perfect.
​
***
​
I was off shift the next day, but that just gave me time to get some actual work done. It was probably better I do it all from home. This case was Di Cesares now. I wasn’t sure what she’d do if she caught me working on it, and I wasn’t entirely sure I wanted to find out. Judging by those fangs in her mouth, she wasn’t human either. Hell, I wasn’t sure if she was actually even from the State Police… I got the impression that Sheriff Smith didn’t seem to think so. But if she wasn’t with them, who was she with? Why hadn’t the State Police sent someone else? Had she done something to them? Even if she had, I couldn’t just believe that the State Police wouldn’t notice something like that.
​
No… there was something else going on here. But I could figure that out later.
​
First things first - I needed to review the footage from the bank machines. The bank was more than willing to give me access to the footage when I asked. They knew who I was, they knew what had happened and they knew why I was asking.
​
Once I got back home, it didn’t take me long to find what I was looking for. Just as I’d hoped, the bank machines had recorded the car that had been waiting outside the Red Rooster. I couldn’t make out the license plate from the footage… but I could see enough to identify the make and model of the car.
​
An Audi A6 Sedan.
​
I’m not much of a car guy, but I can say that there’s not a lot of Audi’s in rural Ohio. Even without the license plate, this shouldn’t have been hard to find. I made a call to a buddy of mine in the BMV, told him what I was looking for and within the hour, he had the results for me.
​
It turns out, there were actually only eight Audi A6 Sedans registered in our county and all of them were registered to the same company.
​
Apostle Security.
​
Naturally, I did a bit of research on them. Apostle was a mid-sized private security firm based in Cincinnati, although they had a few other offices in Ohio and some of the surrounding states. It’d been started by a man named Joseph Cray about ten years ago, although beyond that I couldn’t find out much about their history and really, I didn’t care. Their website didn’t list any offices in my county… but the BMV seemed to say otherwise. My friend there had given me an address outside of town and even if I was off duty, I figured that no one could give me any guff for taking a little scenic drive. And if I just so happened to see some black Audi’s that looked like the one that had been parked outside of Red Rooster last night… well, maybe I’d pass that information along to whoever was on duty at the time. I’m pretty sure it was Biggs and Hoffman. They could decide whether or not to tell Di Cesare. It would be completely out of my hands.
​
I headed out to my car, plugged the address I’d gotten into my GPS and took a little drive.
​
As I drove through the backroads leading out of town, I felt a sense of quiet apprehension. Maybe I was being naive, putting my hopes on this lead. But I’d done the work. If Apostle really was behind this, it would make sense for them to have some sort of location in the county. If I was right, maybe I wouldn’t find all the answers to this surreal mess of a case, but I’d at least find the shooters. That was something. At least people wouldn’t be dying anymore.
​
Christ… I still didn’t know what to make of the victims. The gills on Kayley, the fangs on Patricia Russell, the fractures on Geoffery Vickers bones. Maybe these people really were monsters? If so… maybe these shooters knew that. Maybe that was why they did it.
​
But even if that was the case - I still couldn’t just leave a roving kill squad to wander around unchecked. The way things were going, it was just a matter of time until one of the victims was just some innocent bystander. I passed by a familiar sign as I neared the edge of the county. An advertisement for the local Volkswagen dealership.
​
‘You’re in Smith Country!’ It declared, along with a prominent smiling photo of Aaron Smith himself. I’d always found that sign a little creepy. The eyes and the smile were both a little too wide. It made the man look downright unhinged. I’d never actually met Aaron Smith in person, despite working for his older brother. The Sheriff would mention him from time to time and I could see the family resemblance, but it was hard to imagine the face on that sign sitting down to an odd Sunday dinner with Sheriff Smith.
​
To be fair, they probably didn’t talk much. I don’t think Aaron Smith himself even lived in town anymore. He owned a bunch of other dealerships scattered around southwest Ohio. Smith Volkswagen was just the oldest. But the sign had been there forever, and why fix what ain’t broken, even if it is creepy as hell?
​
Either way, just past that unsettling sign was my destination. Once upon a time, it’d been a small auto garage that had long since gone defunct. It’d been closed down since before I moved to town. From what I’d seen, Smith Volkswagen had used the property as an additional lot to store the cars they had no room for, from time to time but it didn’t seem like they did that anymore. Now the place just looked completely dead. There were no cars parked out front, Audi or otherwise.
​
I pulled into the parking lot, and checked the address I had to make sure it was correct. This was definitely the place. I parked my car and got out, before making my way to the front door. I found it locked.
​
Naturally.
​
Guess my luck had to run out somewhere. Maybe this was a dead end? I already knew I probably wasn’t getting inside without a warrant, and I didn’t exactly know what my chances were of getting one.
​
I tried the door again. It still didn’t open. From the corner of my eye, I noticed a security camera by the door. I stared up into it. The presence of a camera probably didn’t mean much. Whoever owned this property probably wanted to deter adventurous kids and urban explorers from going in. Maybe it was nothing, but I still couldn’t help but find it interesting.
​
I considered just going back to the car but didn’t want to feel like I’d wasted my time, so I figured I’d snoop a little bit. I took a quick walk around the perimeter, peeking in through the windows that I passed. I didn’t see much, but judging by what I could see, this place wasn’t abandoned. I didn’t see anyone inside, but the inside looked awfully clean for an abandoned building.
​
Going out around back, I noticed that there were garbage bags in the dumpsters out back. Not a lot… but enough to confirm to me that there were people here. Maybe this wasn’t a dead end…
​
I heard a sudden mechanical whirr from the other side of the building that made me pause. I rounded the corner, moving along the back of the building just in time to see a convoy of five black Audi’s rolling out of the garage door, one after the other. They turned onto the road, moving almost in perfect sync as they headed toward town. I felt a knot form in my stomach as I watched them go.
​
I’d found the cars I’d been looking for… although if they were going somewhere, odds are that we’d be getting a call about it all too soon.
​
My heart was beating faster in my chest.
I knew I couldn’t just sit there and watch. I knew I needed to do something.
So I did.
​
I ran back to my car as fast as my legs could carry me, leaping behind the wheel and keying the engine. I tore back out onto the road, speeding after the convoy. I didn’t know what my plan was. I didn’t have a plan. I just knew that if I didn’t do something, people were going to die.
​
The convoy turned away from downtown, following the river north. They passed by the River Ridge RV park, moving further down the road towards the outskirts of the county. It was hard to say exactly where they were going. There wasn’t much out that way, not for several miles. But they were moving with purpose and so was I.
​
About ten miles past River Ridge, I noticed something up ahead. Flashing lights, like what you’d see on a squad car, although there was no color to them. They were just white.
​
The convoy in front of me finally began to pull off the road. I could see them passing another Audi, this one outfitted with an LED bar. Two men on the road waved them off. Both of them were dressed in well pressed suits and wore reflective sunglasses. One of them was bald with a very thick dark stubble, and the other had a familiar red beard and military crew cut.
​
The knot in my stomach grew tighter as I drove toward the men, waiting for them to stop me. I reached for my pistol, ready for them to make a move. They just waved me on, barely even looking at me. I still kept my hand on my gun as I drove past, watching Red Beard and Baldy like a hawk.
​
I could see two other men behind the parked Audi with the flashing lights out of the corner of my eye. They were on the ground, fidgeting with something. It took me a moment to figure out what it was.
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Spike strips.
​
I’d seen them before. We’d used them back during my army days at vehicle checkpoints and while we’d never had to use them while I’d been working as a city cop, we did have them.
​
They were setting up an ambush here. The five Audi’s that had pulled off the road parked along the shoulder further down. I could see men in suits getting out of them. I didn’t see any guns… I guess they were still partially trying to be subtle. But I still had a feeling that they were armed.
​
I kept on driving, going further down the road. Stopping and confronting these men wasn’t an option. Maybe they weren’t interested in making a mess by shooting any random schmuck who passed by their little trap, but that didn’t change the fact that they were probably dangerous. Charging in and dealing with them by myself wasn’t a smart idea. So instead, I reached for my phone, and I called Biggs.
​
He answered on the first ring.
“Hey Sawy-”
“Ethan, we have a situation,” I said. “Who’s on duty with you right now?”
“Right now it’s Hoffman, why what’s going on?”
“Call Hoffman, call the Sheriff and call Lopez. There’s going to be another attack.”
“What? Where?”
​
“I’ve spotted some suspects setting up some kind of ambush ten miles north of River Ridge. How soon can you be here?”
“Twenty, thirty minutes, maybe?” He said, “Sawyer, where are you right now?”
“I just passed the ambush point. They’re gearing up for something, now move your ass!”
“Y-yeah, of course!”
Biggs hung up immediately, and I pulled off to the side of the road. I took a deep breath, before checking the magazine of my pistol and getting out.
​
I wasn’t going to charge in needlessly… but I needed to have eyes on this situation. It’d be easier if I could get closer on foot. Leaving my car behind, I dipped into the woods along the other side of the road, letting them hide me as I walked back along the road toward the ambush.
​
The river whispered beside me as I crept through the trees, and the steep incline leading down toward the river helped keep me low and hidden from sight.
​
I could see the flashing white lights of the parked Audi, and watched as they suddenly went dark. Red Beard was speaking into a walkie talkie, and on the far side of the road, I could see several men waiting by the five parked Audi’s. This time, they had guns. Assault rifles, by the looks of it.
​
I was right. There was another attack coming and it was coming now.
“Fish market’s on the move, gentlemen. Put out the nets!” Red Beard said.
​
On his order, I watched one of the men pull the spike strip across the road, while Red Beard addressed the men on the far side of the road. He spoke like a drill instructor and the men he addressed carried themselves like soldiers.
“As of right now, we are locked in on this operation! We run things smooth, we run it clean, we get the job done. No mistakes like last time! No stragglers! Understood?”
“Sir yes sir!” Came a familiar chorus.
​
After a few minutes, headlights appeared further down the road. I watched them from my vantage point, praying they belonged to Biggs. But the oncoming vehicle was too big to be a squad car. This looked more like an RV.
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No…
​
This was a whole convoy of RV’s. Most likely coming from River Ridge.
​
I couldn’t count them all, but they were all heading towards the ambush… and that was when the pieces slowly began to click into place.
​
Kayley, the girl who’d survived… the girl the people at Red Rooster had been able to ID. She’d lived at River Ridge. If she and her friend from the other night weren’t human… then there was a damn good chance that there were others just like them there. Other women with gills. I guess River Ridge would be the perfect place for them… it was quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown and close to the water. Whatever these people were… it’d just about be the perfect place for them.
‘Fish market’s on the move.’
​
That’s what Red Beard had said.
​
The other killings hadn’t exactly been low key… if there were more girls like Kayley at River Ridge, odds are they’d heard about them. And odds are that once they realized they were being targeted too, their first instinct would be to get the hell out of dodge. That would explain why they were carrying out this attack in broad daylight too. They weren’t going off of their own schedule, they were trying to catch the monsters as they fled. And now their targets were here… drawing closer and closer to their massacre with each passing second.
​
There was no sign of Biggs or anyone else. They still had to be at least fifteen minutes out… probably more.. By the time they got here, the shooting would probably already be over.
​
I couldn’t let that happen.
​
For the record - I knew that what I was about to do was extraordinarily stupid, but I didn’t see a whole lot of other options. I couldn’t allow them to ambush those RV’s. I couldn’t. I didn’t really stop to weigh the pros and cons in my head. Sure, I knew that what I was about to do had a chance of survival that was damn near zero… but hey, everyone dies sometime, right? This was the only option I had available to me. In a lot of ways, it wasn’t really even a choice I made. I just did it. I took aim at the nearest target, and I fired.
​
I saw one of the men by the car, the bald one with the scruff grab his shoulder and stumble back a step. He wasn’t dead, but he was hurt. I shot at him again, but he was low enough to the ground and far enough away that I didn’t hit him. He hastily dragged himself off the road and behind the Audi. He still managed to stand, so clearly he wasn’t in that bad a shape.
​
The moment he heard the gunshots, Red Beard spun around, drawing his own pistol as he did. I knew that he saw me. I could see his expression creasing into a scowl the moment he did. Our eyes locked for only a split second before the air was filled with the sound of gunshots.
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POP. POP. POP.
​
I felt a white hot pain sting across my arm as one of his bullets grazed me, and even though I returned fire I doubt I hit him. Red Beard dove behind his Audi, but behind him I could see his little kill squad moving in.
​
I couldn’t count how many of them there were. More than ten. Fifteen, maybe? Twenty at most? Who could say.
​
I retreated back into the trees, skidding down the forested incline toward the river as I waited for the gunmen to come for me.
“Keep off the road!” Red Beard snarled, “Watch your fire! Wait until you have a shot!”
He must’ve been trying to salvage this operation… Although from where I sat, the RV’s looked to be slowing down. Seems they’d noticed the gunfire.
​
Red Beard glanced in the direction of the RV’s, and I could see the gears in his head spinning. This was all going wrong… but he didn’t seem the type to give up. On the road, the lead RV moved to make a U turn. I could see Red Beard watching it, and took a pot shot at him. It didn’t hit him, but it did shatter the driver's side window of his Audi.
​
Roaring in frustration, Red Beard fired three shots back at me.
“Goddamnit! Fuck it! Squads 1 and 2, kill that son of a bitch! 3 to 5, intercept the convoy, NOW!”
​
I saw some of his men back off, running back to their cars. The rest moved onto the road, coming after me. I fired at them, and I saw one of them stumble back as I shot him dead in the chest. But he didn’t die. He stumbled, but picked himself right back up.
​
Great, they were armored too.
​
I was punished for poking my head out by a burst of machine gun fire. The trees by my head splintered as I dove down into cover. I lost my footing, sliding further down the incline toward the river. The only reason I didn’t fall all the way down was because I caught myself on a tree. Looking up, I could see about eight figures at the top of the incline, coming down off the road. One of them spotted me and opened fire. All I could do was scramble out of the way and roll further down the hill toward the water.
​
Gunfire followed me, but I couldn’t see who was shooting. I couldn’t see where they were. I couldn’t stop to try and get a shot. There were too many of them. I dove down to safety behind a fallen old tree. Bullets rained down on it, tearing off chunks of bark and sending splinters raining down on me.
​
I gripped my gun tight. My blood rushing in my ears. Somehow… I always wondered if I’d die like this. Dug into the dirt, with bullets whizzing past my head. Maybe there wasn’t any other way for me to die? Who’s to say? But I’d be damned if I didn’t take at least one of those bastards down with me.
​
I took a deep breath. Steeled myself for what I was sure was going to be my last stand.
​
Then, gun in hand I rose to return fire.
​
Only when the rifles went off, they weren’t aimed at me.
​
I could see the eight figures standing in between the trees, but they’d turned away from me. They were shooting at something else now, although I couldn’t immediately see what. I just saw a shape, moving between the trees. I heard the ground shift and saw a cloud of dirt fly up. One of the armed men was sent screaming down the incline, into the river. I wasn’t sure if he’d survived the fall or not.
​
One of the other men opened fire, only for the shape to grab his rifle, I saw them force it down, before lunging at his throat. He screamed as they sank their teeth into him, but didn’t seem to be able to put up much of a fight otherwise. Two of his friends opened fire on him, hoping to kill the shape that had him in its grasp. The ground seemed to shift beneath them, sending both of them down the incline and into the river. Within seconds, whoever or whatever the hell this was had just taken out half of the men who were supposed to be killing me.
​
They tossed the man they’d just bitten to the ground and for the first time, I got a good look at my savior. Clementine Di Cesare’s mouth was smeared red with blood. Her sunglasses were absent and in her blue eyes I could see an unsettling calm. As if this wasn’t so much different to her than any other mundane chore.
​
The remaining gunmen seemed to freeze at the sight of her, not seeming to know how to react until Di Cesare moved. She was fast. It was hard to tell if she was running, or if the ground simply shifted beneath her. She lunged for the nearest gunman, kneeing him in the stomach and tossing him aside like he weighed nothing, although while she dealt with him, the man beside him got off a lucky shot.
​
Before Di Cesare could deal with him, he emptied half his magazine into her chest… but she didn’t fall. Hell, there wasn’t a scratch on her. The guy who’d shot her on the other hand?
​
Blood dribbled from his mouth. His body jerked violently as he collapsed to the ground. It was as if he’d been the one who’d gotten shot, not her. Di Cesare barely paid him any mind, regarding the final two men with that eerie calmness.
​
I could see one of them stumbling away, trying to get back up the incline. The other one just gritted his teeth and decided to fight on until the end. He was smart enough to know that shooting her wasn’t going to work, so instead he pulled a combat knife from his jacket and charged at her, as if it would do him any good.
​
Di Cesare barely even reacted. She sidestepped him and casually sent him down the incline into the river below. I saw him tumble down into the river before crashing into the water below with a final scream.
​
Di Cesare watched him fall with a quiet disinterest, before her attention shifted to me. I took a step back, half expecting her to come for me just like she did with the others. Instead, she simply wiped the blood from her mouth before she turned away from me, and headed back up the incline, moving with purpose.
​
I hesitated for a moment before following her. Di Cesare stepped out onto the road and surveyed the scene before her with an intense gaze. Whatever Red Beards plan had been… clearly everything had gone catastrophically wrong. I could see some of the black Audi’s on the road, trying to follow the RV’s, although the one that got the closest to one of the RV’s near the back of the convoy got rammed by it and sent careening off the road.
​
The tires of Red Beard’s Audi screeched as it tore back out onto the road. I saw him behind the wheel, sparing Di Cesare and I a single glance as he took off at top speed. I raised my gun to shoot at him but Di Cesare seized me by the wrist, stopping me from doing so. I looked over at her, confused.
“Let them run,” She said calmly. “We know where they are now.”
​
She looked down the road, back toward the fleeing RVs, and seemed momentarily content. One of the five parked Audi’s, driven by the survivor of the group who’d gone after me sped onto the road and Di Cesare regarded it with quiet disinterest before walking over to the road spikes and beginning to move them.
“Help me with this,” She said coolly.
​
I hesitated for a moment before doing exactly what she asked.
“You called for backup?” She asked, as we dragged the spikes off the road.
“I did,” I said. “Wait, you’re not with them?”
“No,” She replied plainly. We packed away the spikes but left them at the side of the road. Someone else could collect them as evidence. “I was with the RV convoy.”
​
I raised an eyebrow at her.
“You were with them?” I asked. “So you knew about the attack?”
“I knew it was likely,” She said. “Although I didn’t expect you here, Deputy Sawyer,”
She tilted her head at me.
“Working behind my back, I see.”
​
“I was following up on a lead,” I said. “I tracked the vehicle that last night's shooter used to a garage just on the edge of town. I saw some cars leaving and figured it was probably bad news, so I followed them here.”
“I see… you’re quite sedulous, aren’t you?”
“Well I couldn’t exactly sit around given the past few days, could I?” I asked. “What the hell just happened back there, on the incline? How did you… what the hell did you do? I watched someone shoot you, then die of their own gunshot wounds! How the hell did you do that? What the hell are you?”
​
The questions spilled out of me without much thought, although Di Cesare didn’t seem to care much.
“That’s a question with a complicated answer,” Di Cesare replied.
“Uncomplicate it, then!”
“I’m an old soldier, same as you,” She said. “Maybe I know a little bit of magic… maybe I’m not entirely human anymore, but that’s what I am at my core.”
“Vampire…” I said quietly.
She didn’t answer, but there was a look in her eyes that told me I was right. At this point, after seeing what I’d just seen, I wasn’t in much of a state of mind to doubt it.
​
“So that trick with the bullet wounds… was that a vampire thing or a magic thing” I asked.
“Attribution spell,” She said. “Makes me harder to kill. Not a lot gets through it. I’ll tell you what. Give me your car keys, and I’ll answer any questions you have later.”
She extended a hand to me.
​
“I’m sorry, my car keys?” I asked, “Why?!”
“I need to follow the RV’s to make sure they make it out of the county safely. You said you’ve called in backup. You still need to be here for when they arrive. So… I’ll be borrowing your vehicle.”
I hesitated for a moment, before swearing under my breath and handing my keys off to her.
“Do what you’ve got to do…” I said under my breath.
​
She nodded.
“It’ll be returned to you when I’m done, no worse for wear.”
With that, she pushed past me and walked toward my car and all I could really do was just watch. She took my car, and sped off after the RV’s, leaving me in the road to clean up the mess.

Hi! One wheel of my luggage fell off while walking through a steep hill. Since I can’t find a luggage store nearby. Can anyone please suggest an online store where I can buy possibly an affordable (but quality) luggage that can be delivered within 5 days to Ortisei? 🥹 Thank you!

This is my ninth year living in north Waltham and this year I saw more dragonflies in my backyard and walking around the neighborhood than the previous eight years combined! Any environmentalists or groups doing a breeding program that I can’t find on google? I don’t mind them since I grew up with a lot more dragonflies in my childhood area.
There are no increases of water bodies near me, I checked. I live on a steep hill with excellent drainage and hardy pond is half a mile away. There are no 17yr cicadas this year either. Anyone can offer a science backed explanation?

https://reddit.com/link/1dafr6h/video/w3es9pv8k65d1/player
Today, I'm excited to introduce my new game, SugarWalkin. After a tough month of development, I'm thrilled to share this with you all. Let's embark on an epic journey with your glucose levels and enjoy the visible rewards of your efforts! Some of you might remember me as the creator of Glucopet. It was fantastic to see hundreds of people enjoying the game!
Why SugarWalkin? Managing glucose levels can be challenging, and while the health benefits may not always be immediately visible, seeing your progress in SugarWalkin can be incredibly motivating. Feel rewarded as you control your levels and watch your journey unfold in the game.
Goal: You and your duck start an epic journey to explore places all around the world! The fun part? The rewards and the duck's speed depend on your blood sugar data (CGM or BGM). Good data means faster travel and more rewards.
LibreLinkUp Support: Connect your CGM devices using your LibreLinkUp ID and password (available in the US/Europe/Asia/Canada).
Hatching Eggs Feature: When you first log in, you'll be greeted by a duck hatching from an egg! It's a fun and engaging way to start your journey.
How It Works: Your glucose monitor affects the speed of your duck! For example, if you experience a glucose spike or abnormal glucose levels, a steep hill will stop you in your tracks.
New Maps Available: The San Francisco and Hawaii maps are now open for exploration. We will make maps of the beautiful places worldwide.
Fast Forward Feature: If you update your glucose level and reconnect, your duck will move quickly based on data from the past 8 hours. Make sure to log in multiple times daily to see your real-time progress!
Enjoy the game! I appreciate any feedback you have. Let's make SugarWalkin a great experience for everyone!
Discord link: https://discord.gg/nNxUhsMF for the feedback!

The world of Genshin Impact is a beautifully crafted landscape, filled with iconic landmarks. Imagine a version of the game where instead of an in-game map, players had to rely solely on narrative guidance to navigate.
In this scenario, players would need to pay close attention to their surroundings, take notes, and perhaps even draw their own maps. This approach would add a layer of immersion and challenge, as players follow directions provided by NPCs and in-game descriptions. There will be usable signpost scattered around the map and you can always ask the NPC for directions.
For instance, suppose the Traveler wants to journey to Liyue after defeating Dvalin. They might seek directions from Diluc in Dawn Winery, who could say:
"Head north from here. Instead of going straight to Stormterror's Lair, turn left and follow the road by the lake.
If you see a guard tower with an exotic design, that's the Liyue tower, and you're on the right track.
Next, the path will turn into a series of wooden platforms winding through large rocky hills known as 'Stone Gate.' From there, just follow the main road south."
This narrative-driven approach would encourage players to engage more deeply with the game world, enhancing their sense of adventure and discovery. Do you interested in experiencing the game in this way? I do, the upcoming region, Natlan, I'll keep the map in dark and navigating through trial & error and hand-drawn map. Who's with me? 😁

I recently picked up a 1901 Oldsmobile curved dash replica that I am planning to put a Briggs 8 hp or a Harbor Freight 212 in. It weighs roughly 600 LBS with the engine in. I live on an island with extremely steep hills and my question is: What clutch/torque converter will be able to handle such weight and would it be possible to get to 30-35 MPH on the flats and at least 25 MPH up fairly steep inclines with a 212. Thank you for the insight!
https://preview.redd.it/exxu6tk9e65d1.png?width=480&format=png&auto=webp&s=29a87b8dd7bc722eed29b8d9f60b1bf841151f76

In the picturesque village of Ghurjung nestled in the serene hills of Kaski, Nepal, lies a beacon of hope for the local children – the Charity Home Away Home. This humble abode serves as a sanctuary for young minds, providing them with the tools they need to build a brighter future. But behind this haven stands not just a building, but a community of caring individuals dedicated to making a difference.
At the forefront of this movement are the Highland Eco Trek Team and Clint, whose unwavering support has transformed the lives of these children. With a shared passion for philanthropy and a deep connection to the land, they have become the driving force behind the success of the Charity Home Away Home.
Their journey began with a simple desire to give back to the community that had welcomed them with open arms. Recognizing the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty, they set out to support the schooling of the village children. Through fundraisers, donations, and countless hours of hard work, they have been able to provide these children with access to quality education, giving them the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
But their impact extends far beyond the classroom walls. With boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm, the Highland Eco Trek Team and Clint have become mentors and role models for the children of Ghurjung. They organize extracurricular activities, from sports tournaments to arts and crafts sessions, enriching the lives of these youngsters and fostering a sense of community spirit.
One of the most beautiful moments shared between the volunteers and the children is when they gather on the countryside, surrounded by the majestic beauty of nature. Here, amidst the rolling hills and sweeping vistas, bonds are formed and memories are made that will last a lifetime. It’s a testament to the power of human connection and the difference that can be made when people come together with a common goal.
As the sun sets over Ghurjung village, casting a warm glow over the landscape, there is a sense of hope and optimism in the air. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Highland Eco Trek Team and Clint, the children of this community are not just dreaming of a better tomorrow – they are actively creating it, one step at a time. And in doing so, they are proving that with compassion and determination, anything is possible.

Friday

• First Friday, Downtown, Raleigh
• Jazz at the North Carolina Museum of Art Presents An Evening with Babyface, North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh
• The Soccer Tournament, WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary
• Good Mythical Tour with Rhett & Link, Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh
• First Friday, Raleigh Times Bar, Raleigh
• CAM Raleigh First Fridays, CAM Raleigh, Raleigh
• First Friday: Adult Drag Story Hour, City of Raleigh Museum (COR Museum), Raleigh
• Durham Bulls vs. Gwinnett, Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham
• Summerfest: Light Classics, Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary
• PLAYlist Concert Series: The Magic of African Rhythm, Durham Central Park, Durham
• Opening Reception: Jordan Parah, Edward Wenzel and more, The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex
• Morrisville Music in the Park Celebrates Pride!, Town Hall Dr., Morrisville
• Kane Brown: In the Air Tour, PNC Arena, Raleigh
• Niall Horan: "The Show" Live on Tour 2024, Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, Raleigh
• Knocked Loose, The Ritz, Raleigh
• Forever Clean 160, Wake County Speedway, Raleigh
• Emerson Bruno, Slim's Downtown, Raleigh
• Know Your Artist, Whiskey Kitchen, Raleigh
• George Porter Jr. & Runnin' Pardners, Lincoln Theatre, Raleigh
• NCAA Division II Baseball Championship, USA Baseball National Training Complex, Cary
• The Uproar: Murder, Monsters, and Media, Moonlight Stage Company, Raleigh
• Room 861 at Goodnights: Umar Khan, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• JJ Williamson, Raleigh Improv, Cary
• Adhesive (Stone Temple Pilots), The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop, Raleigh
• Milton “Lil Rel” Howery, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• Bands, Bites and Boats at Bond Park Boathouse: 2DIGH4, Bond Park Boathouse, Cary
• Drop In Puzzling and Swap Meet, Academy Pavilion, Cary
• Robert Earl Keen, The Carolina Theatre, Durham
• Redwood, Mettlesome Theater, Durham
• Lovell Bradford Quartet, Sharp Nine Gallery, Durham
• Natty Wine Night, Guglhupf Restaurant, Durham
• The Lion King, DPAC, Durham
• 2024 Southern Documentary Convening, The Fruit, Durham
• Freight Train Blues Concert Series, Carrboro Town Commons, Carrboro
• The Woggles, Local 506, Chapel Hill
• Kassi Valazza, Cat's Cradle, Carrboro

Saturday

• 2024 Annual Apex Pride Festival, Town Hall Campus, Apex
• The Soccer Tournament, WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary
• 4th Annual Bubbles & Brisket, Smoky Hollow, Raleigh
• Durham Bulls vs. Gwinnett, Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham
• 2024 North Carolina's Funniest - Preliminary Round, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• Steep Canyon Rangers, Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary
• Rhythm & Reels Concert — Party Vibez Band, Forest Hills Park, Durham
• An Evening with Brubeck Brothers, The Rialto Theatre, Raleigh
• NCAA Division II Baseball Championship, USA Baseball National Training Complex, Cary
• The Uproar: Murder, Monsters, and Media, Moonlight Stage Company, Raleigh
• Room 861 at Goodnights: Umar Khan, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• The Lion King, DPAC, Durham
• 2024 Southern Documentary Convening, The Fruit, Durham
• Library Summer Reading Kickoff - Interactive Juggling and Storytelling!, Durham County East Regional Library, Durham
• The Great Lakewood Make-Off, The Scrap Exchange, Durham
• Shipp X Dssolvr Dating Mixer, Dssolvr Durham, Durham
• Why Local History Matters: Honoring Jean Bradley Anderson and Her History of Durham County, Durham County Main Library Auditorium, Durham
• Pride Night Market, The Glass Jug Beer Lab, Durham
• Carolina Flyers Ultimate Disc vs. Austin Sol, Durham County Memorial Stadium, Durham
• Tea Cup Gin — Vintage Jazz, Bouncin' Blues, Succotash Southern & Creole Kitchen, Durham
• Ilya Lushtak Trio, Sharp Nine Gallery, Durham
• Redwood, Mettlesome Theater, Durham
• Gabriel & Dresden, The Fruit, Durham
• The Setup - An Improvised Play, Mettlesome Theater, Durham
• Queef Jerky, Cat's Cradle, Carrboro
• The Shoaldiggers, Local 506, Chapel Hill
• Oak City Gliders vs Wake Forest Fungo, Optimist Park, Raleigh
• 3rd Annual NC Summertime Beer Fest, Clouds Brewing Taproom, Raleigh
• 3rd Annual Pride Market and Drag Show, Hartwell Raleigh, Raleigh
• An Evening Picking Flowers – Garden Tour & Floral Arrangement Workshop, Wrenn's Farm, Zebulon
• Brothers Osborne - Might As Well Be Us Tour, Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh
• Cocktails & Cuisine Class: For the Love of Amaro, The Willard Rooftop Lounge, Raleigh
• Duck with Edgewood Heavy and Hot Wendy, The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop, Raleigh
• Farmhouse Jams with Miss Mini & The Sandman Band, Lakeside Pavilion, Wendell
• Geek and Grub Market: Love & Rainbow Edition, Fred Fletcher Park, Raleigh
• Morrisville Juneteenth Celebration, Shiloh Park, Morrisville
• Port City Blitz Fest, Slim's Downtown, Raleigh
• Rumours Atl - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, The Ritz, Raleigh
• Run For Love 5k + Dance for Love Day Party, Dorothea Dix Park, Raleigh
• Saosin, Lincoln Theatre, Raleigh
• Southeastern Plant Symposium and Rare Plant Auction, Hilton Raleigh North Hills, Raleigh
• The Arena Round 3: Lip Sync Drag Battle Competition, KINGS, Raleigh
• World Refugee Day - A Unique Cultural Event, Moore Square, Raleigh
• Throne Room 3 Pride Edition A Celebration of Disabled Drag Kings!, Ruby Deluxe, Raleigh
• Milton “Lil Rel” Howery, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• JJ Williamson, Raleigh Improv, Cary

Sunday

• Durham Central Park Food Truck Rodeo, Durham Central Park, Durham
• The Soccer Tournament, WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary
• Durham Bulls vs. Gwinnett, Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham
• Blues & Roots — Black American Music Series, Hayti Heritage Center, Durham
• The Bryson Tiller Tour, Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh
• Staged Reading of YOUR HOST by Nori Rivera, North Carolina Theatre Conservatory, Raleigh
• Room 861 at Goodnights: Dave Williamson, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• Milton “Lil Rel” Howery, Goodnights Comedy Club, Raleigh
• Jaimee Harrus, The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop, Raleigh
• FUNDRAISER - BUY 1 GET 1 FREE CLOTHING SALE, The Lighthouse Project - 2nd floor, Cary
• Author Event: Ward Clayton, Page 158 Books, Wake Forest
• Maggiano's Durham Bourbon Dinner, Maggiano's Little Italy, Durham
• 2024 Southern Documentary Convening, The Fruit, Durham
• The Lion King, DPAC, Durham
• Family Fun Paddle, Falls Lake Durham, Durham
• Film Screening: Red Whiteville And Blue, The Carolina Theatre, Durham
• The Setup - An Improvised Play, Mettlesome Theater, Durham
• JJ Williamson, Raleigh Improv, Cary
• Wet Hot Bimbo Summer Les Bimbo Queerlesque Practicum Showcase Brunch, Ruby Deluxe, Raleigh

Join the Thingstodo919 email list here for a weekly events newsletter. Doing anything interesting this weekend? Let us know your plans in the comments

A meeting with the Selectboard and representatives of the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG) recently addressed residents’ concerns and welcomed ideas to effectively redesign a curvy, hazardous section of Route 8A known as the Dugway.
The anticipated multi-million-dollar project would improve a dangerous stretch of road through the west side of Hawley that has a steep slope bordering the Chickley River.
According to town officials, retaining walls that support the hill on the opposite side of the river are on the verge of collapse, resulting in soil sliding down onto the roadway. It also has narrow lanes, limited visibility and no shoulders — factors that contribute to it being a high crash area for cars and particularly trucks.
“There are a lot more trucks going through there,” noted FRCOG’s Senior Transportation Planning Engineer Laurie Scarborough. “It is narrow, so if two trucks were to try to pass, it could definitely feel hazardous.”
“When you’re coming into the Dugway from the northern side, there are points where you are actually looking in the opposite direction from where traffic is actually coming at you,” explained Selectboard member Hussain Hamdan.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and FRCOG volunteered to help develop a plan to address the problems in 1978 and 1997, but could not reach an agreement with the town on a proper reconstruction plan both times. Route 8A has been pummeled by harsh weather since then, including heavy rainstorms and Hurricane Irene in 2011. According to Hamdan, the Dugway has narrowly survived.
The increase in truck traffic on Route 8A is a particular area of concern.
“There was a previous detour that led truck traffic to Route 8A and there are supposedly still signs that may direct truck traffic to Route 8A that citizens referenced that is causing more traffic,” Hamdan said. “There would be a lot of serious obstacles, both legal and practical, to try and prevent truck traffic on the road.”
Some of the main ideas to fix the Dugway include straightening the road to improve driver visibility, incorporate more signs that could include a police radar to reduce driving speeds, and restoration of the retaining walls supporting the hill next to the road. Another potential idea is to widen the road lanes, although some residents worry that would lead drivers to increase their speeds.
Resident Tedd White offered a written proposal that redesigns the road, without excessive spending to restore the retaining walls. Several residents favor the proposal, according to Hamdan. Hawley town officials, FRCOG and MassDOT will engage in further discussions to form a plan that can be agreed upon.
“Even the funding for the design would be costly. Typically we think that design costs are between 10% and 15% of what the future construction costs would be,” Scarborough explained. “Because of the complications and the geology of the land behind that wall, it’s hard to estimate without having settled on a realignment plan. We can’t quite pinpoint the cost but it’s gonna be in the multiple millions of dollars.”
Residents who are interested in weighing in on the Dugway’s design and current deficiencies are invited to fill out a physical form they can request at the Town Office or an online form that is available at:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/hawleydugway
“At this point, I think we need to digest the input that we have received both at the forum and in the form of the online and paper survey,” Hamdan said. “I think that there needs to be a conversation inside the town government between the Selectboard, Conservation Commission [and] emergency services, and contemplate some of the options that we have available to us.”

Pune, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling urban life, is perfectly positioned for a variety of weekend getaways. Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat in the hills, a historical exploration, or an adventurous outing, the areas around Pune offer something for everyone. This guide will help you discover the best spots for your next weekend escape.

Lonavala and Khandala

Scenic Beauty and Adventure
Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations known for their stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and numerous waterfalls. They offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Key attractions include:

• Bhushi Dam: Ideal for a refreshing dip during the monsoon.
• Tiger’s Leap: A popular viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the valley.
• Karla and Bhaja Caves: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves that are a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Activities

• Trekking: Explore trails like Rajmachi and Duke’s Nose for an adrenaline rush.
• Camping: Enjoy stargazing and bonfires at various campsites around Lonavala.

Mahabaleshwar

Natural Splendor

Mahabaleshwar, famous for its strawberries and pleasant climate, is another excellent destination. The hill station is dotted with viewpoints and dense forests. Major attractions include:

• Pratapgad Fort: A historical site offering panoramic views.
• Venna Lake: Perfect for boating and enjoying the scenic beauty.
• Mapro Garden: A haven for strawberry lovers, offering delicious strawberry-based treats.

Activities

• Horse Riding: Available around Venna Lake.
• Shopping: Visit the local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.

Alibaug

Coastal Charm

For those who prefer beaches, Alibaug is an ideal choice. This coastal town offers pristine beaches, historical forts, and a laid-back vibe. Highlights include:

• Alibaug Beach: Known for its black sand and the iconic Kolaba Fort.
• Kashid Beach: A quieter alternative with white sand and clear waters.

Activities

• Water Sports: Engage in activities like jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.
• Fort Exploration: Visit Murud-Janjira, a fort situated on an island.

Panchgani

Hill Station Bliss

Panchgani, with its scenic plateaus and strawberry farms, offers a tranquil escape. It’s less crowded than some other hill stations, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat. Key spots include:

• Table Land: One of the highest points in Panchgani, offering breathtaking views.
• Parsi Point: A popular viewpoint named after the Parsi community that frequents the spot.

Activities

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of flying with a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful landscapes.
• Berry Picking: Visit strawberry farms and enjoy fresh berries.

Lavasa

Modern Hill City

Lavasa is a planned hill city modeled on the Italian town of Portofino. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. Key attractions include:

• Waterfront: Ideal for a leisurely stroll with scenic views.
• Adventure Sports: Engage in activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining.

Activities

• Boating: Enjoy paddle boating on the serene lakes.
• Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore the city’s well-planned pathways.

Conclusion

When planning your next weekend escape from Pune, consider staying at a boutique homestay near Pune for a unique and personalized experience. These homestays often provide a blend of local culture, modern comforts, and personalized services that make your getaway truly special.
For an exceptional experience, consider staying at Retrofusion, luxury villas in Lonavala. These villas offer a unique blend of retro charm and modern elegance, ensuring a memorable stay amidst the serene beauty of Lonavala. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, the areas around Pune have something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the myriad of experiences that await you just a short drive away.

Pune, the city of Peshwas and a hub of education and innovation, is now also a booming center for digital marketing. If you’re looking for the best digital marketing company in Pune, you’re in the right place. Here's a list of the top 10 digital marketing companies in Pune that will make your business shine brighter than the Diwali lights on Fergusson College Road. Let's dive in!

1. WebCWS Technologies

First up is WebCWS Technologies. These guys are the Sachin Tendulkar of digital marketing in Pune – reliable, skilled, and a class apart. They offer a full suite of services from SEO to social media marketing, ensuring your brand gets the limelight it deserves. If you want your business to go from zero to hero, WebCWS Technologies is your go-to.

2. BrainMine Web Solutions

Next on the list is BrainMine Web Solutions. Think of them as the magicians of digital marketing. They can take your business and transform it with the wave of a wand – or rather, a click of a mouse. Their strategies are as innovative as Pune’s startups, making sure your digital presence is anything but ordinary.

3. Merk Advertising

Merk Advertising is like that popular hangout spot in Pune that everyone loves. They’ve got a creative team that can whip up campaigns as delightful as a Sunday brunch at Koregaon Park. Their approach to digital marketing is fresh, innovative, and guaranteed to get you noticed.

4. IKF (I Knowledge Factory)

IKF is the seasoned player in the game. With years of experience, they know the digital landscape of Pune like the back of their hand. Their strategies are as effective as Pune's traffic police during Ganpati Visarjan – nothing gets through without making an impact.

5. Dreamworth Solutions

Dreamworth Solutions is the digital marketing company in Pune that turns your dreams into reality. Their team is like the group of friends who always have your back, making sure your brand stands out in the crowded digital space.

6. BLeap Digital

BLeap Digital is known for its out-of-the-box thinking. They approach digital marketing with the same enthusiasm Punekars have for a new cafe opening in Viman Nagar. Their creative strategies ensure your brand makes a lasting impression.

7. Adsyndicate

Adsyndicate is a name synonymous with excellence in the digital marketing world. They bring the same dedication to your brand as Punekars bring to their love for Misal Pav. With a comprehensive range of services, they’ve got all your digital marketing needs covered.

8. Olive e-Business

Olive e-Business is the tech-savvy cousin you always call for help with gadgets. They blend technology with creativity to provide solutions that are not only effective but also cutting-edge. Their expertise makes sure your brand is always ahead of the curve.

9. Techmagnate

Techmagnate is like the reliable old scooter that never lets you down, even on the steepest hills of Pune. They offer robust digital marketing services that ensure your brand’s message reaches far and wide, with precision and reliability.

10. SocialChamps

Rounding out our list is SocialChamps, the cool kids on the block. They’re known for their energetic and vibrant approach to social media marketing. If you want your brand to be the talk of the town (or at least the talk of Pune’s tech parks), SocialChamps is your team.
So, there you have it! The best digital marketing companies in Pune that can take your brand to new heights. Whether you need creativity, strategy, or just a bit of digital magic, these companies have got you covered. Time to get digital, Pune style!

I know that, in general, getting too hot is the main thing that will cause zero-turn transaxels to fail prematurely. What I dont know is specific temperature I should really try to keep them under.
After I mowed yesterday, I checked the temps on my bad boy zt avenger's zt-2800s with an infrared imager. Both were, on average, about 170 F, but both had hot spots at ~185 F in a few places.
The thing is it was really nice outside (for this time of the year) when i was mowing....later on in the summer Im sure ill be mowing when the ambient outside temp is 15 -20 degrees hotter. Which suggests that after mowing on a hot summer day I should expect average temps of 185-190 F and hotspots at >200 F. Which seems...hot.
So questions:

1. Is this too hot, or am I worrying about nothing?
2. If it is too hot, can anyone recommend some mods (either diy or kits you can buy online) to help reduce the temperature? Id imagine this would largely be "increasing air flow to the transaxels", either by modifying the belt-driven fan somehow or by adding a couple 12V powered fans that run off the battery (on the circuit that is only live when the key is turned to "on").
3. Ive been considering adding an "anti-friction" additive (e.g. liquid moly cera tec) to the transaxel oil. I figure if it does its jub and redices friction itll also reduce heat. Good idea? or no?

Thanks in advance!
I mow 3 acres of extremely hilly grass (maximum slope of 26 degrees or so, total vertical relief of about 100 ft) with a bad boy zt avenger. Between the mower's weight, my weight, 6.5 gallons of gas and a custom 5th wheel mod i added, the mower is basically at its weight limit. This plus going up hills more than twice as steep as its listed 10 degree maximum has me a bit concerned.
Thankfully it has servicable zt2800's and Im staying on top of changing the filters/oil. I also changed to use amsoil zero turn hydrostatic transmission fluid on its first transaxel oil change, which from my research is about the best stuff you can use (with the possible exception of some zero turn hydrostatic transmission oil made by grasshopper).

Do you ever think the wind gets tired? I think it gets bored. Bored of the head down mission in hand perpetual slog, bored of the pedestrian pace, bored of being bored. So much that it tries to speed up the earth, extra gusts and jazzy whistles get us side-rolling down a grassy bank. That was me, throwing myself off steep hills, into the scrum like a tail wag, the reckless jump off brick-made ramps counting out the bruises. Now I’m recalling what someone once said to me, “It’s your journey and things will get better”, how I smiled like a lukewarm bath wondering how the “healthy” become so effing wise - and how I’m not feeling so smart today and maybe bruises are just bookmarks and a steady roll is still rolling.

What Can do more on Hugewin HugeWin opens the door to a world of sports betting and casino gaming. Let’s see more details on HugeWin’s portfolio of games and betting options.
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They provide a broad assortment of games, including live casino experiences. Support is available 24/7 for users, and they offer a range of promotional bonuses. It’s worth noting that HugeWin aims to become a leading player in the digital casino industry.
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Users can browse the games by the provider, enhancing the browsing experience. Transparency remains a key aspect of the platform, evident in viewing each activity’s latest winners, high rates, and high earnings.
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What Can You Do on HugeWin? HugeWin opens the door to a world of sports betting and casino gaming. Let’s see more details on HugeWin’s portfolio of games and betting options.
"Betting on Sports" Betting on sports is a practice steeped in tradition and modernity alike. Users may choose from many sports, including mainstream favorites and lesser-known options. Virtual or ‘eSport’ variants of popular games like football and basketball also exist. These choices cater to a diverse set of preferences and interests among users.
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Hey all - so as the title suggests, I get paid (poorly) to write about music. And things I’m good at:
-not wearing socks to bed. Ever. Under any circumstances.
-completing a Rubik’s cube cube in under 5 minutes
-rolling portly kids down steep hills
What I’m not good at:
-not crying at the end of My Girl
-not launching into unsolicited pro E-reader scripts when I see someone reading some big ol’ hardcover
What I hope you’re good at:
Good at having a dating history that doesn’t include anybody who boasted a Boondock Saints or Scarface poster on their wall at any point.
Msg for username

Yey, our first photography exhibition.
We are proud to present a captivating virtual photo exhibition brimming with the essence of Britain's wildlife. These are the best photos we have taken in the UK over the last 4 years walking amongst our amazing nature, and it's for a bigger cause: The Bristol Parks Project
So far, almost everything on the project has been done by just two people. We juggled the tasks of the entire production team - photography, photo and text editing, web design and development, social media management and even running workshops. So far we've been funding the project out of our pockets, in our spare time. We have come this far, and you can help us achieve our full British Success.
Bristol Parks Project is a gateway to the city's stunning parks, tranquil nature reserves, and vibrant community gardens, making Bristol a fantastic destination for international visitors seeking urban green spaces, where you will:

• Explore dedicated web pages for each park: Find essential info, interesting facts, and wildlife descriptions, and connect with park-related organizations and charities.
  
• View High-Quality Photographs: Browse through stunning photo galleries showcasing each park's unique landscapes, gardens, and wildlife.
  
• Discover hidden gems: The first pages for St. George Park, Troopers Hill, and Brandon Hill are already live, as well as photo galleries for six parks. Many more are coming soon!
  

Your assistance is crucial for achieving complete success. This is where your contribution matters. By grabbing a ticket for our virtual exhibition, you'll be:

• Backing a community-driven project that celebrates Bristol's unique charm and promotes the UK's rich heritage to a global audience.
  
• Immersing yourself in a stunning visual celebration of Britain
  
• Contributing to our British Success Story: Every ticket helps us achieve our goals and make a real difference.
  

Let's make this happen together.
To view the gallery, click here - Bristol Parks Project Wildlife Virtual Exhibition
Show your love and help our project bloom. Have a great day!