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Icon Overload: Maximizing Efficiency in Presentation Design
In the fast-paced world of presentations, time is of the essence. Finding the right icons efficiently can be a challenge. Here are some strategies to optimize icon usage and enhance your presentation design.
Purposeful Selection: Choose icons that align with your message and visual storytelling goals. Thoughtful selection ensures that icons effectively convey your ideas.
Consistency: Maintain visual consistency throughout your presentation by using icons from the same style or set. This creates a cohesive and professional look.
Icon Libraries: Take advantage of the vast array of icon libraries available online. They offer a wide selection of professionally designed icons suitable for various industries and topics.
Customization: Tailor icons to match your brand identity by modifying colors, sizes, or styles. This adds a personal touch and reinforces your corporate presentation design.
Iconography Guidelines: Establish a set of guidelines for icon usage within your organization. This promotes consistency across presentations and ensures a unified visual language.
Minimalism: Don’t overwhelm your slides with too many icons. Embrace the power of simplicity by using only essential icons that add value to your content.
Infographic Integration: Combine icons with other visual elements to create informative and engaging infographics. This enhances data visualization and improves audience comprehension.
Professional Help: Consider partnering with a presentation design agency like VGDS Global. They offer professional presentation services and can assist you in selecting and incorporating icons effectively.
By implementing these strategies, you can optimize your icon usage, streamline your presentation design process, and deliver impactful messages to your audience.
Reach New Heights with VGDS Global: A Leading Presentation Design Agency
VGDS Global is a trusted presentation design agency specializing in business presentation design and management consulting presentations. Our team of experienced presentation designers and PowerPoint experts can help you create visually stunning and professional presentations that captivate your audience.
Why Choose VGDS Global?
Professional Expertise: Our presentation designers are skilled in crafting compelling presentations that align with your business objectives.
Tailored Solutions: We offer customized presentation design services to meet your specific needs and ensure that your brand identity shines through.
Attention to Detail: We pay meticulous attention to every aspect of your presentation, from PowerPoint slides and templates to pitch deck design.
Seamless Collaboration: We value your input and work closely with you to bring your vision to life. Our collaborative approach ensures that your presentations reflect your unique style and messaging.
Timely Delivery: We understand the importance of deadlines. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality presentations within your specified timeframe.
Elevate Your Presentations with VGDS Global
Don’t let the challenges of icon usage hinder your presentation’s impact. Partner with VGDS Global, a professional presentation design agency, and take your corporate presentations to new heights. Contact us today to explore our PowerPoint design services and unlock the full potential of your presentations.


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Whether it’s working with businesses or individuals, we love to create custom pieces that are special and unique. If you have an idea, we’d love to hear it. If you want us to design, we’d love to do it! We can customize any of our tables, art and furniture to size, height and color if it applies.
Please contact us under our contact tab for more information on how we can assist you with a custom project!

domain: artistic


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foamy automatic laundry soap dispenser
NO TOUCH - Place your hand under the IR sensor to dispense Foamy soap automatically.
Enjoy hands free soap while saving space within your kitchen, bathroom or counter.
EASY TO USE - Operated by 2000mA rechargeable battery, with the less mess Touchless Soap Dispenser your kids, elderly and disables can easily wash their hands.
STYLISH DESIGN - Made of high quality and durable plastic material to blend with your bathroom, house or office color and theme perfectly.

domain: design


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Philadelphia – For many people, there is a constant nagging inner monologue telling them to start a new diet or get back to the gym. However, some diets and fitness plans may do more harm than good. Whether it’s intermittent fasting, cutting out carbs, or the keto diet, new research is warning those who restrict their diet. , is associated with an increased risk of death among American adults over the age of 40.
According to the international team, skipping meals can negatively impact your health. Losing a few extra pounds can be fun, but skipping breakfast has been linked to an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Similarly, skipping lunch or dinner can generally increase the risk of death.
Meal timing also affects health. Researchers say that people who eat three meals a day should wait 4.5 hours between meals. Otherwise, you may be nearing death’s door.
“Suddenly intermittent fasting Widely touted as a solution for weight loss, metabolic health, and disease prevention, our study is significant for the majority of American adults who eat less than three meals each day. , found that people who ate only one meal a day were more likely to die than those who ate more meals each day,” said lead investigator Yangbo Sun. media release.
2 in 5 are on a diet
The researcher analyzed the responses and cause of death From over 24,000 American adults age 40 and older who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2014. diet For general health across the United States
Researchers found that people who ate less than three meals a day (about 40% of participants) were less educated, had lower incomes, food insecuritydrink more alcohol, smoke, and consume less energy overall.
“Our results were based on dietary and lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol use, physical activity levelenergy intake, diet quality) and food insecurity,” adds Wei Bao, a senior researcher on the study.
Dr. Bao explains: skip meals It means you get more energy at once, and your body can lose its ability to metabolize glucose. This can impair your metabolism.
So the next time you’re thinking of jumping on the latest diet trend, think twice. Restricting the body’s food (and fuel) intake can have serious long-term consequences, and it’s more important than fitting jeans one size down for her.
of study is published in Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

domain: food


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Ghana’s newest gospel sensation, LOR, has launched her debut single Only You. The song, released on her birthday, 3rd August 2018, is a song of praise motivated by the realization that God deserves our praise in both joyful and difficult times, as long as we have breath.
The soundtrack was recorded at the UVSL Live Studios in Accra by legendary sound engineer Hubert Kofi Anti (U-beatz).
LOR, whose real name is Loretta Adjetey, is a contemporary Christian recording artiste who believes that every day of life, every moment of breath, is an opportunity worth praising God for.
LOR also finds the Biblical instruction to praise God very inspiring; “I really love the way one of my favorite scriptures, which is Psalm 150:6, refuses to give us the luxury of choice in praise and rather commands: Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!”
It all began with being just a vibrant choir member and worship leader in her church – The Apostolic Church Ghana, Teshie North Assembly. Loretta however didn’t consider professional music recording until she was connected with BEKOFI Music Hub – a music marketing wing of the Ghanaian creative firm BEKOFI who later signed her in 2017 as a recording artiste. In the same year, she found the drive to play the acoustic guitar and began taking lessons to advance her skills.
Born on 3rd August 1995 to Mrs. Regina Adjetey and Mr. Henry Adjetey Badu, Loretta is the last born of her parents with two older siblings whom she loves dearly.
Loretta is an alumna of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) where she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. Before that, she attended the Ghanata Senior High School in Dodowa and had her basic education at Annemarie International School at Teshie in Accra.
As LOR sets out on this musical journey, her deepest desire, she says, is to touch lives with the love of God through her ministry, to reach out to the lost and strengthen those already in the Christian faith.


Honda Activa 5G Vs Yamaha Alpha comparison
Compare Honda Activa 5G and Yamaha Alpha
Trying to figure out which of these bikes or scooters to buy? Compare the Honda Activa 5G Vs Yamaha Alpha on CarandBike to make an informed buying decision as to which bike to buy in 2020. This comparison has been carried out on the basis of prices, engine specifications, mileage, and features of these two-wheelers.
The ex-showroom, New Delhi price of the Yamaha Alpha starts at ₹ 55,342 and goes up to ₹ 58,786 for the fully-loaded model. On the other hand, the price of the base version of the Honda Activa 5G starts at ₹ 56,766 and goes up to Rs. ₹ 66,485 for range topping model.
As for the claimed fuel efficiency, the Yamaha Alpha base engine returns 66 kmpl. The Honda Activa 5G base returns 45 kmpl.
In the powertrain department, the Yamaha Alpha gets bhp Petrol engine, whereas the Honda Activa 5G comes in bhp Petrol engine.
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“Stripped” is a hidden song by Rammstein from their album Sehnsucht.
The song is sung in English. It is a hidden track only on certain editions of the album.
“Stripped” is a song originally recorded by the British electronic music band Depeche Mode, released as a single in 1986. It is also featured on their fifth studio album, Black Celebration. The song showcases Depeche Mode’s signature blend of dark synthpop and introspective lyrics. The opening line, “Let me see you stripped down to the bone,” sets the tone for the song’s intimate and provocative nature.
With its catchy hooks and atmospheric soundscapes, “Stripped” became a fan favorite and a staple of Depeche Mode’s live performances. The song showcases the band’s ability to create a balance between catchy pop sensibilities and a brooding, introspective atmosphere, which has been a defining characteristic of their music throughout their career.
Sehnsucht is the highly acclaimed second studio album by the German industrial metal band Rammstein. Released in 1997, it propelled the band to international fame and solidified their status as one of the most influential and provocative acts in the genre. The album’s title translates to “longing” in English, reflecting the underlying themes of desire, yearning, and inner turmoil explored throughout the album.
With Sehnsucht, Rammstein further refined their unique blend of heavy guitar riffs, industrial electronics, and powerful vocals delivered in both German and English. The album features a dynamic range of songs, from the hard-hitting and aggressive “Du Hast” to the melodic and emotional “Engel.” Lyrically, the album explores themes of love, sexuality, societal issues, and the darker aspects of human nature.
Sehnsucht is characterized by its raw energy, intense atmosphere, and meticulous production. The album’s combination of catchy hooks, driving rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics resonated with fans and critics alike, solidifying Rammstein’s reputation as one of the most innovative and captivating acts in metal music.
How to find “Stripped”
On CD: Go directly to track #12
Listen to “Stripped”
“Stripped” was submitted to HiddenSongs.com by EAM. Can you add something? Please let us know!


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Scott Brown's Victory Becomes All Things To All People
The most amazing thing about Scott Brown's Senate campaign is that his victory last week has seemingly become all things to all people and giving right-wing pundits an opportunity to portray their own narrow agenda as central to his win.
For some, Brown's win was a sign that voters don't like President Obama or Nancy Pelosi, for others it was proof that people oppose health care reform, or abortion, or immigration.
But Phyllis Schlafly offers a different take, claiming that what voters were really doing in this election was rejecting Martha Coakley because of her feminism:
Democratic Party leadership has shown that it cannot or will not stand up to the incoherent, man-hating attitude of feminists like Coakley. For example, after they had a tantrum and demanded that the majority of jobs created by Obama's stimulus be given to women (instead of to shovel-ready jobs), even though most of those who lost jobs in this recession are men, President Obama dutifully acquiesced.
It's no wonder that non-college-educated men voted overwhelmingly for Brown against Coakley by a massive 27-point margin. The Democrats are lucky enough to elect some feminists, but feminists are just too unappealing when running against a masculine man such as Brown.
Brown's driving a 2005 GMC pickup truck (which Obama sneered at) symbolized the elitism of Coakley, who drives a foreign car. While Coakley was sipping wine with drug and insurance company PAC representatives, Brown was shaking hands with the voters.
Commentary about Brown's appeal to women is diversionary -- it was male voters who overwhelmingly pulled the lever for him. Men are fed up with the feminist mindset and delivered a clear message in the Massachusetts election: give us a candidate who stands up to the feminists, and we will cross over from Democrat and independent to elect a Republican.
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domain: politics


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FOLU is a global initiative that connects entrepreneurs, investors, government entities, the scientific community, the academy, organized local communities, civil society organizations, trade unions, and multilateral organizations, within public-private coalitions. This is done in order to transform the world's food and land use systems by identifying solutions that can rearrange these systems and turn them into powerful engines of sustainable growth.
The initiative originally works in four countries: Colombia, Indonesia, Australia, and Ethiopia. It is also developing a collective outlook from the Nordic countries point of view (Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden). In Colombia E3 and the "Alta Consejería para el Posconflicto" (Higher Council for Post-conflict) have led the cooperative construction of a roadmap that unites different parties in innovative proposals to move towards a path of economic development in Colombia, which will increase the productivity of the agricultural sector, open up markets and at the same time promote rural development. All the while following the sustainability agenda and the desire to maintain lasting peace.
This Roadmap focuses on four strategic thrusts, which envision a series of primary actions to fulfill a vision of change until 2030.
The first thrust deals with the construction of sustainable and productive territories, on which it will be possible to increase agricultural production, avoid deforestation and restore damaged lands. The second thrust aims to fulfill the desire to feed every Colombian, without generating losses or waste. It also aspires to make the national food system more efficient and generate awareness, ultimately improving people’s lifestyle according to their social and cultural characteristics. The third thrust intents to promote fair and efficient markets that help bring the countryside closer to the city and international markets. The fourth thrust focuses on developing a form of innovation, science, and technology which includes a framework for communication and gaining information. This aims to inspire all partners in agricultural value chains, from farmers to successful entrepreneurs, combining traditional knowledge with the advances of modern agriculture. In order to achieve the goals of these four strategic thrusts, it is necessary to simultaneously move forward in three cross-cutting thrusts: governance, financing and monitoring.
By means of bilateral meetings, workshops with multiple participants and thematic working groups, the main elements presented in this roadmap of the FOLU Colombia Initiative have been constructed with a vision for 2030. The FOLU initiative for Colombia has an initial time prospect of 3 years. This first stage is intended to promote public and private dynamics that will implement further actions in a coordinated and complementary manner, finally resulting in great economic, social, environmental and political benefits for Colombia.

domain: agronomy


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Mega nephew Sai Dharam Tej is about to throw a political punch. ‘Republic’ is coming forward to the audience with a strong story.
Mega nephew Sai Dharam Tej, who is back on track with ‘Chitralahari‘ after a series of flops in between, is continuing his super form by receiving consecutive hits with films like ‘Everyday Festival, Solo Brathuke So Better. Youth audiences can pick and choose different storylines that connect. Sai Tej is preparing to come forward to the audience with another different story called ‘Republic’ in this sequence. Mega power star Ram Charan has recently released the first look of this movie.
Recently, Sai Dharam Tej released the first look from this movie & the makers gave wings to that curiosity. This ‘Republic‘ first look poster with the strong message ‘We all live in the illusion that there is a government .. but we still don’t even know what that government will be like’. Shows how interesting the story of the film can be.


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How Does Neurofeedback Work?
Think of your brain as a race car, capable of incredible performance. Now imagine a driver behind the wheel who does not know how to properly shift gears. It is for this reason that people find their brain encumbered by problems. Brainwave training teaches the brain to work at its fullest capacity, to switch gears as needed for the tasks at hand. Neurofeedback, aka Neurotherapy, provides a unique drugless approach to treating Neurological Dysregulation Syndrome (NDS) that may be associated with the symptoms of many neurological based conditions including ADD/ADHD, Headaches, Migraines, Learning Disorders, Memory Loss Associated with Aging, Overeating or Binge Eating, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Panic/Anxiety Disorders, and Insomnia, just to name a few. NDS is a condition that results from tension on the nervous system caused by subluxation, poor nutrition, stress, drugs or trauma. Neurofeedback is a painless brain retraining process that uses sophisticated technology to achieve significant, measurable results and provide relief of conditions associated with NSD. Neurofeedback permanently alters the active landscape of the brain, enabling children with developmental disorders to think, feel and respond differently because they are using their brain in a more effective manner.
Neurofeedback utilizes a non-invasive technique for monitoring brain activity. Small electrodes are attached to specific areas of the head using paste. Our Neurointegration software records the brain waves and displays the data in real time. During this time the patient is watching a movie or listening to music. The software compares the incoming brainwaves to that of an optimal brainwave in the target range. If the brainwaves deviate from normal ranges, it triggers the audio or video to fade. The brain automatically detects this and refocuses itself back into the proper range. This process is repeated hundreds of times per session. Sessions usually last 30 minutes.
Based on the results of a safe, non-invasive EEG brain scan we develop a specific computer based rehabilitation to normalize abnormal levels of brain wave activity. The EEG neurofeedback software gives visual and audio feedback to provide an experience to the brain of enhances function, specifically to improve its regulation of thoughts, feelings and focus. As with everything we learn, a beneficial lesson makes a lasting impression. For more information go to www.neurofeedbackdefined.com
The Brain Can Learn
Through operant conditioning, the brain is rewarded when the audio or video returns to normal. Eventually the brain learns to stay in the healthy ranges without the reward stimulus, and is able to sustain normal activity independent of the computer. This is achieved by reconnecting functional pathways in the brain.
Neurofeedback does not target any particular disorder. Its purpose is to change timing and activation patterns in the brain. This improves brain regulation, which can impact a variety of symptoms. Different symptoms will require triggering different areas of the brain. The software is designed to target specific areas of the brain according to a patient’s symptoms.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
There is no magic number. Just as every person is unique, the number of sessions will vary according to each person. Noticeable results typically occur between the first and tenth session. In general 20 – 40 sessions are needed for the results to become permanent. Symptoms in some patients will resolve in a shorter time. Some require more training, some less. The goal is to complete enough sessions to ensure consistent and lasting benefits. A brain map can be generated at any time between sessions, so that you can visually see the progress your brain is making.

domain: medical


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This article will provide complete information on where to get an THC detox kit. Many people are unhappy with their health due to of drinking, smoking and other similar actions. A Detox Kit is a great way to start a new life that will make you feel more content and healthy. Unfortunately, there are many different products available claiming to be the best detoxification method available. Each product has pros and cons, just like every other product.
The over-the-counter medications like Advil, Tylenol and Motrin are the first choice for detox. There are a variety of methods these systems operate. In vivo adulteration is when a toxin is introduced into the body. This triggers an alteration in body chemical balance. This can be used to treat stomach ulcers. This type of kit is recommended for use in conjunction with an in-house nurse or doctor.
Other detox kits rely on the use of a prescription drug that is taken whilst at home. It is recommended to seek advice from a medical professional prior to attempting any detox program as some of them contain ingredients that are prohibited, such as those relating to depressants. Side effects of the treatments can include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and headaches. This type of treatment may take around a week to heal from, and could result in relapses within the space of a few days. Medical detox kits are recommended for a short period of time.
The third and last main type of detox kits for drug use are homeopathic detox kits. They are not to be confused with the medical detoxification systems mentioned above. A homeopathic detox kit is made up of a number of natural ingredients such as hyssop, nutmeg and peppermint along with vitamin C and aloes. They are usually prepared by a homeopath who is certified. Homeopathic practitioners often employ flower essences that are mixed with honey to aid in the process of achieving sobriety. While they’re not as effective as other types of medication, they are an effective and safe method to get the best outcome.
Each of these three types of kits has proven to be effective at giving the addict an effective and permanent solution to their addiction. There are a few points to consider when evaluating each of these options. For instance, in the event of a medical detox kit, the addict will likely have to go through withdrawal symptoms in order to fully recover. The time for recovery can be long, based on how long a person has been addicted to substances. It is important to consult your physician to determine the best treatment option for you.
Homeopathic drug detox kits offer an alternative to traditional methods. These kits are made of natural ingredients such as peppermint hyssop, and nutmeg and are designed to aid the person overcome their addiction to drugs. You can purchase these kinds of detox kits for drugs online as well as in numerous health food stores. The homeopathic doctors trained in this area are proficient in identifying various substances that could contribute to the abuse of drugs. You can talk to them about the components in the detox kits and other crucial information. Before you purchase, you need to consider all aspects.
If you are looking for ways to reduce your use of drugs during detox, then you may be interested in an exercise regimen. A effective detox program will teach you how to manage withdrawal symptoms to reduce the cravings that could occur. Many detoxification programs offer yoga and meditation as part of their treatment. These are all extremely beneficial techniques for people looking to manage withdrawal symptoms.
You can purchase one of these kits and take it along with you when you visit at the clinic. If you know where you can purchase cleanse products it is possible to carry it along when you apply for a job, or before you begin an new prescription medication. Home testing kits have many benefits. They work, they’re easy to use, and they don’t require the consumption of any harmful substances.

domain: health


Earlier today, Core Contents Media said, “”Little T-ara” will be performing with T-ara on September 6th on Mnet M!Countdown. The song they would be singing will be “Sexy Love”.”
The announcement of course gained attention, criticism and concern since the song itself would be a provocative track with extremely sexy outfits, but Core fixed it by stating “Little T-ara” will only appear in the first 35 seconds of the stage portraying the robot dance, before T-ara’s performance for “Sexy Love.”
This makes that the joint performance was actually just a misunderstanding.
Are you looking forward to T-ara’s comeback stage?
Article by: Jenny & Glenn
MORE RELATED ARTICLES


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Government pledges £93m for vital road upgrades
‘Vital’ road upgrades to the tune of £93m have been given the go-ahead to fuel the economic recovery from the pandemic.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has pledged the funding, which will be used for projects in North Yorkshire, Hampshire and the Midlands.
The North of England will get more than half of the funding, with up to £56m to overhaul of the Kex Gill section of the A59 in North Yorkshire. This will significantly improve connectivity between the historic northern towns of Harrogate and Skipton.
The West Midlands will gain from a £24m investment to reduce congestion at Birchley Island, situated at the intersection of the M5, A4123 and A4034 – which is expected to boost employment, improve air quality and increase the region’s manufacturing output.
Hampshire will get £13m worth of crucial upgrades to the Redbridge Causeway bridges over the River Test, which provide important access for local businesses and hauliers to the port of Southampton, and link the New Forest to Southampton.
The three schemes will cost a total of some £107m, with local councils providing the remainder of the funding, pending the completion of all legal processes.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “The projects will help people access work and education, as well as ensuring vital connectivity for local businesses.”
The AA said the funding was “desperately needed” but called for further work.
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, commented: “Just last week, AA members said that the nation’s roads were in a state of disrepair so this is welcome news. We desperately need more investment filtering down to local levels as the more local you get, the worse the picture is.
“A third (32%) of drivers ranked trunk road surfaces as ‘good’, whereas only one in five (19%) felt they could say the same for main roads and fewer still for residential streets (15%).
“It’s not just the moon-like craters on our roads that need fixing, but worn-away markings too. Just one fifth (20%) said markings on local roads were ‘good’, as opposed to nearly two fifths that said markings were ‘good’ on trunk roads (37%).
“Politicians may underestimate how the public views the state of the roads, but the reality is that our members see it as a top priority. More than eight out of 10 (83%) say maintaining good roads is important to them.
“If we are going to ‘build back better’ then improvements need to reach every street and avenue.”

domain: news


Amid rising concerns about the availability of LCD panels from Korean firms, television brands are revising their sourcing strategies to make greater use of Chinese suppliers, according to IHS Markit | Technology, now part of Informa Tech.
Korean LCD TV panel makers are undergoing fab restructuring and shutdowns in 2020. This event is likely to result in changes to the supply chain that will spur TV makers to seek alternative supply bases that are both reliable and competitive enough to ensure they meet their increased shipment targets in 2020, as reported by the TV Display & OEM Intelligence Service.
“With only a limited number of choices available for panel supply, TV makers are turning to Chinese companies to meet their display needs,” said Deborah Yang, director of display supply chain at IHS Markit | Technology. “Intense competition among major Chinese suppliers and the arrival of new players is resulting in a sharp increase in the availability of panels from China.”
The global top-three TV brands are set to increase their purchasing from Chinese suppliers to 62.6 million displays in 2020, an increase of 35 percent from 2019.
Chinese firms emerging as world-class LCD-TV panel suppliers
The competition between major Chinese suppliers BOE Technology and China Star Optoelectronics Technology is intensifying, particularly in the realm of LCD panel supplies from Gen 10.5 fabs. Meanwhile supply availability is improving at emerging Chinese panel makers such as HKC, Nanjing CEC-Panda LCD Technology and Xianyang Caihong Optoelectronics Technology (CHOT).
These developments will help promote sales to global TV brands like Samsung, LG Electronics and several Chinese firms.
Although panel supply still exceeds demand, top-tier TV brands are signing long-term supply agreements with both captive and selective external panel suppliers to ensure they get the highest priority business in 2020. Current supply dynamics and competitive changes have led the brands to rethink their purchasing plans for this year as well as the future.
In-house support, both on the supply and demand sides, is becoming critical. As such, it is important for LCD panel suppliers and TV makers together to build a strong fully integrated TV (FIT) business model.
The strong supply push from panel makers and strong demand pull from TV brands together can streamline supply chain efficiency and drive cost efficiency.
However, if the supply chain node is weakened, it could burden the participants. Most leading TV makers have diversified panel sources, and they aim to gain stronger sourcing power to enhance their own competitiveness. However, they do not necessarily carry the responsibility of consuming excess panel supplies from captive suppliers.
“When the market becomes dominated by a few powerful players, TV makers and panel makers may face various dilemmas and risks as they attempt to hold on to bargaining power,” Yang observed.
In 2020, Samsung’s panel sourcing from its captive supplier, Samsung Display, will be further reduced. Samsung Display has plans to convert its LCD TV panel capacity to quantum dot displays. Additionally, the availability of Samsung Display’s LCD-TV panels will be limited from this year onwards, significantly cutting down its panel supply to external customers, particularly Chinese TV makers.
LG Electronics’ sourcing volumes from LG Display will also be slashed in 2020. Nevertheless, LG is likely to purchase from external vendors such as BOE Technology, HKC and Nanjing CEC-Panda LCD Technology to make up for the possible loss of LCD TV panel supply availability from LG Display in 2020.
?TV Display & OEM Intelligence Service
The TV Display & OEM Intelligence Service from IHS Markit | Technology provides access to industry-leading research on panel supplier-TV OEM relationships worldwide. This service features monthly and quarterly TV display market trackers covering nine TV display makers, 30 TV brands and more than 25 TV OEMs, along with pricing for the top-five TV display models.


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Schmidlkoferpaul got their new logo design by running a design contest:
Help Smooth Intentions Salon with a new logo
Check out Schmidlkoferpaul's Logo design contest…
Cosmetics & Beauty
Logo types to explore
US$499 Silver package
Every design category has flexible pricing for all budgets. Logo design starts at €269.
Full copyright with production-ready files for digital and/or print.
It all began with a design brief.
A quick, interactive guide helped them understand their design style and captured exactly what they needed in their logo design.
Designers across the globe delivered design magic.
Schmidlkoferpaul collaborated with designers to refine their ideas
When design entries come in, you can rate them so designers know what you’re looking for in your logo design.
99designs has great collaboration tools so you can pinpoint and capture your ideas
And then… they selected a winner!
Along the way, they met lots of talented designers…
We think contests are a super fun way to get design.
Recently completed contests:
Siamo specializzati in epilazione permanente mediante laser diodo e luce pulsata intensa, con macchinari di ultima gener
The saloon will be opened in the next couple of month and will be located in a small town in the north of France. Both m
We are a skin care brand selling clay masks and herbal tea to mostly females 18-38 years old.
Lather up, Buttercup! Through floods and pandemics, Ellicott City, MD soap shop needs a fresh start.
We are a soap shop looking to re brand after our town flooded and now a pandemic. Time for change! We are located in a h
We make luxury fragrances for men. House of Wanderers is a niche perfumery, delivering unique fragrances that are create
i do facials and permenant make up and body work i want want a classic logo like vogue meets tom ford and channel. Cle
These products are natural cream deodorant in jars. This product is used by women and men. The logo will be on the jar


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Paraparaumu Beach, North Island CONTACT NAME: Christine Bull
Services available by appointment at my clinic include;
Bowtech -Bowen Therapy
Ear Candling Phone: 04 297 1884
Wellington, North Island
We offer a wide range of therapies that attend to the mind, body and soul. Our experienced therapists treat conditions from sports injuries ... Phone: 04 385 4342Mobile: 021852993
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A fully qualified registered Naturopath is a natural healthcare provider of high calibre, a health consultant / health coach able to provide... Phone: 06 7524 912Mobile: 027 7219 728


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John Waters has received numerous awards for filmmaking. Next month, he’ll be honored for his philanthropy.
AIDS Action Baltimore will pay tribute to Waters, his friend and film industry colleague Pat Moran, and four others during its 35th Anniversary Commemoration next month at The Belvedere.
Waters, 76, learned in June that he is getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He has two museum exhibits coming up, “Coming Attractions: The John Waters Collection,” an exhibit of art from his personal collection that he’s donating to the Baltimore Museum of Art, at the museum from Nov. 20, 2022 to April 16, 2023; and “Pope of Trash,” a career retrospective at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles next summer.
READ FULL ARTICLE HERE


1. Introduction on Optical Calibration Laboratory
Optical Calibration Laboratory building was completely built in 10 March 2006. It was the pioneer lab in Malaysia that has capability to calibrate optical system of a satellite. This lab was fully operational in 6 April 2006 after the cleanroom located inside is commissioned. It is a double storey building with control room for the clean room, dust control area, loading area in ground floor while the first floor is research office.
2. Optical Calibration Laboratory Main Function
The main purpose for this facility is dedicated to the characterization and calibration of electro-optical system. The clean room was designed to meet Class 10,000 of Federal Standard 209B or equivalent to class 7 in ISO classification to regulate the environment for calibration activities involving satellite that requires a controlled environment in terms of temperature, humidity and particle. Besides, the flooring is finished with epoxy layer on top as a control for electrostatic discharge (ESD) and there is grounding connection at each corner of the clean room. The Clean room is operating with environmental condition temperature 18 ± 2 °C, humidity 50 ± 5%, dust particles smaller than or same size as 0.5μm is less than 10 000 units/ft3, grounding connection resistance less than 10 Ω, lighting condition 500 Lux, and safety control with CCTV and restricted access pass.
Keadaan Persekitaran Makmal
18 ± 2 °C
50 ± 5%
Zarah lebih kecil atau sama saiz dengan 0.5μm adalah kurang daripada 10,000 unit / ft3
Kurang daripada 10 Ω
3. Optical Calibration Laboratory offered at this facility
4. Optical Calibration Laboratory Equipments
In order to maintain a good functionality of the laboratory, equipments and instruments are important to ensure the calibration activities will be carried out smoothly. The main equipment’s function for each testing equipments are listed as below. All of these equipments play their role respectively in any calibration activities.
A. Integrating Sphere
~ 1000 W/m2/sr/µm at ~0.7 µm
0 – 50000 cd/m2
~100% Earth Albedo
Variable Correlated Colour Temperature
3200K to 5900K
C. Turn Table
In addition, the laboratory is also equipped with 1000W SI (International System of Units), traceable spectral irradiance lamps, extremely stable optical table which can support up to 3 ton load and associated opto-mechanical accessories.


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Jamie Meyer: The official Bio:
Los Angeles Music Award Winner, Hollywood Music in Media Awards nominee.
Songwriter, Taco Lover, "Music Tells Your Story."
Jamie is now in the studio in Stockholm, Sweden & Nashville, TN putting together
his fourth coming album. The follow up single to the 2013 "Young Again" is called
"Can't Stop Now". Set to be released March 4 this year.
2014 Jamie is busier than ever gearing up for the new single & tour in Sweden & Norway.
2013 Meyer shared stage /w Rascal Flatts @ Vinstra Country Festival, Norway
& LeAnn Rimes @ High Chaparal Country Festival, Sweden.
From the shore of Hising Island, Sweden Meyer calls his journey a long & hard working
going on for ten years and counting. 2012 Jamie toured Scandinavia /w Grammy
group Lady Antebellum, also making an auspicious entrance @ World
Blue Bird Cafe Nashville, were Jamie & Jimmy Mattingly (known for his work /w
Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton) performed a successful show greeted with
from the audience.
Jamie has now become a house hold name in Nashville's writing and industry circle.
// © Dan Kimpel, Los Angeles Music Bussines Guru
. . .
"Hard rocking musicality and a tough but tender authenticity:
Jamie Meyer is the real deal -- a riveting live performer whose songs are
perfect anthems for a new decade. Highly recommended."
-Dan Kimpel, Music Connection Magazine
"Jamie is a natural. A passionate pop-radio voice and a super positive attitude.
So much talent waiting to explode."
-Phil Thornalley, Award winning songwriter/producer
"Jamie Meyer has an inviting and intriguing way about him. It may be the relaxed
groove of acoustic rock and country blending with his personality, but the venue is
alive and swaying along to his music. With distinguished notches on his belt,
Jamie’s music career is steadily improving. A lively presence on stage and inspiring
music makes the future that much easier for Jamie Meyer."
–Hotel Café review by: Adam Pompili, All Acces Magazine
"Jamie Meyer's latest release, "Good Night to Be Young", is a great example of melding rock,
Americana and pop. When first listening to the tracks, there was a comfortable familiarity
that enveloped me. I couldn't put my finger on it, so I just let it flow and enjoyed the lyrical
narratives and great musical execution. Sort of like enjoying a rich, barrel-aged whisky.
Then it dawned on me... the Bon Jovi of the new millennium!"
–Brent Harvey, Executive Producer / Hollywood Music In Media Awards
"If it's true that good things happen to good people, then Jamie can expect so really
great things in his future! His latest CD titled "Good Night To Be Young" is every bit as
impressive as his others. Born in Hising Island, Gothenburg, Sweden on August 31, Jamie
first gain national attention when he appeared on the Swedish television show Popstars.
His rendition of Bill Withers "Ain't No Sunshine" was the audiences favorite and It was that
performance that set the music world on notice that Jamie Meyer was the real deal!"
–Verne Gavitt, PRLog Free Press Release, Tampa FL
"Meyer’s vocal range is superb and spot on. The songs he played off his 2008 CD,
("Great Big Chance") & 2010 CD (“Good Night To Be Young”) were testament to his
strong vocal ability and propensity for great hooks. The commercial appeal of Meyer
is not superficial – the music gets down into your bones"
–Terry Miller, Pasadena Tribune

domain: entertainment


Nigerian rap artiste, Oladips comes through with a new song he labelled, “Birthday Finesse.”
In preparation to his expected studio project “Ghetto Gospel” album set to drop in May 2022, OIadips drops another single for the year he titled “Birthday Finesse“.
The singer is expected to drop more songs this year as he has already delivered some amazing tracks like; ‘ Anaye Toh N Kpo Zobo and ‘Oke (Remix)‘.
However, the newly released single ‘Birthday Finesse’ sounds like a happy birthday song in which the rapper dropped from himself, talking about life and making self-well wishes.
Download “Birthday Finesse” mp3 below and check out our Music page for other similar tracks, also share your thoughts because we really love to hear your take on this.
|Release Date:||March 30, 2022|
Lastly, help us share this post with other people via social media using the share tool at the top or bottom of this post. Thanks for checking out, we look forward to more visit from you to our website.
Listen, Download, enjoy and Share “Birthday Finesse” Mp3 song below:-
Don’t forget to rate this post and share your thoughts on this by dropping a comment below, it is very important to us. THANK YOU.


Archstone Distribution announces the VOD, Digital Download and DVD release of A Resurrection from Writer/Director Matt Orlando (Barbershop).
The film stars Mischa Barton (Fox’s “The OC”), Devon Sawa (CW’s “Nikita”) Jonathan Michael Trautmann (96 Minutes) and the late Michael Clarke Duncan (The Green Mile). A Resurrection will be available on VOD on July 23, 2013 and on DVD on August 6, 2013. It was released this week for Digital Download on all internet platforms, including iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Xbox Video and VUDU.
“A Resurrection follows down to earth school psychologist, Jessie (Barton), who tries to help a mentally ill student, Eli (Trautmann). As they begin to connect, she unravels the truth behind the death of Eli’s brother. Are Eli’s stories true? Will his brother resurrect and avenge his death against those responsible for his murder? Or are these stories just in Eli’s imagination?“
this week in horror
This Week in Horror - May 1, 2017 - The Mist, Hellboy, Michael...
The Mist has an extra gory new trailer, Hellboy is getting an R-rated reboot, and legendary actor Michael Parks passed away.Posted by Bloody-Disgusting on Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Here’s Why We’ll Never See the Gruesome ‘Event Horizon’ Director’s Cut
Here’s Exactly When You’ll Be Able to Play ‘Friday the 13th: The Game’
New ‘Halloween’ Film Gets Early Piece of Promo Art
As Suspected, They’re Going to Remake ‘Resident Evil’
These Are the NETFLIX Horror Films Streaming in June 2017


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Seeing as I recently began working full time at my job, I happened to be unprepared to write a full article, and for that I apologize. So occasionally I will just blitz you with amazing videos and products I come across, and in honor of Thor: The Dark World releasing, have all of these amazing videos, enjoy.
First, lets do some swooning for Chris Hemsworth and some falling in love with Natalie Portman.
Speaking of swooning.
And since I totally expect Tom to steal the show.
While this one is a little old, I imagine the problems remain.
Bromance – Describes the complicated love and affection shared by two straight males. (Urbandictionary)
Or if you prefer:
Now that we’ve defined bromance, know that when I’m talking about bromances, I’ll be trying to avoid relationships that are more hero-sidekick than bromances. For example, relationships like the Captain America/Falcon relationship are more hero-sidekick than two heroes bromancing. So we’re going to be more on the track of heroes who have solo books that have brought others into their book, or really prominent friendships within a larger team. The bromances will be judged on a number of factors, effectiveness as a team, fan reception, longevity, how many times you got the feels, and impact on the Marvel Universe. Let’s get into these Marvel bromances.
What isn’t there to like about this group? Wolverine who is for all intents and purposes basically the face of the X-men. Nightcrawler, who let’s be honest, has one of the most creative and badass powers. And Colossus, the lovable Russian metal beast of a man. While they X-Men in general have found a family in each other throughout the years, these three especially had a backgrounds of being a loner, outsider or keeping a very small circle. And that created an interesting bond between the three of them, to me in regards to X-Men they were the most like family. We saw plenty of moments between the three of them separately that pushed the boundaries and reinforced their friendship. Nightcrawler finds an intellectual soul who is just trying to do the right thing in Wolverine. Wolverine wins a bet with Nightcrawler and makes him go out without his image inducer for the first time, and finds that the reaction isn’t as scared and hateful as he expected. Wolverine and Colossus? Two words, fastball special.
On top of all of that, they’ve even been in prank wars with each other, and have gone on road trips together. As for having an impact on the Marvel Universe? How about having fought heavy hitters such as Magneto and Omega Red. Just look at this badass cover they shared together.
Now you’re saying they’ve done all that? Why aren’t they rated higher? Well, it has to do with where this bromance is at currently. Following the events of Second Coming, and Schism. This relationship has been put through some strain and may or may not work out. During Second Coming Nightcrawler sacrificed himself to save Hope Summers, the possible mutant messiah, and he is currently dead. During Schism the X-Men parted ways and some took the side of Cyclops and some went with Wolverine. Colossus had become the Juggernaut before this event and had felt something sinister change inside him, because of this he said he didn’t feel like he should be around children. Which is what Wolverine intended to do, to teach a new generation. So Colossus stayed with Cyclops. All that being said, due to a dedicated fan base, Nightcrawler will be back in some way, shape, or form. From there I guess we’ll have to see where this bromance goes.
Separate book chronicling the adventure? Check. Complete opposites that became allies in an odd manner? Check. Fan reception? They have a dedicated Tumblr. And while some of that stuff is more on the fanfic relationship side of things, there is plenty of panels showing them being buddies. With all that said the reason they aren’t higher on this list is because their effect on the Marvel Universe is not as big as some of the other heavy hitters on this list. Yes, Deadpool and Cable eventually got their own solo books because of this series, but as an impact on the most important events was minor. All that being said, they are still a fantastic bromance. They were on opposite sides during Civil War, but eventually made up.
What makes them so great is their unlikely friendship dynamic. Cable is as serious as a character as it gets when you’re talking Marvel. Whether it’s internal problems or completing his mission at hand, the mutant time traveler has always been stone faced and really as serious as can be. And Deadpool… Well, he’s Deadpool.
And yet, these two characters found a real friendship in each other that had it’s fair share of heart warming moments.
3. Spider-Man/Human Torch
Everyone’s favorite quippy web slinger and the hilarious playboy of the Fantastic Four? That’s a recipe for bromanticism. Or was it? When you look closely at the comparison, these two couldn’t be more different. Peter Parker is a reserved, introverted, and a loner who is more at home with his books and research. Johnny Storm is a good-looking, chick magnet with a hot head(no pun intended, ok maybe it was intended) that loves fast cars and fast women. However, their commitment to the safety of the public and those closest to them, is what eventually made them grow to respect each other in a way that very few others of the Marvel Universe understand. Despite starting as bitter rivals, they became the closest of friends, entrusting their deepest secrets to each other. And when I say bitter rivals, I mean bitter rivals.
And when they became the closest of friends?
In a lot of ways, these two were the friends that had parents that thought “Oh they’re the same age, they have to be friends! Let’s not check if they have anything in common.” And then the horrible awkwardness ensues, but some event happens and they find that at the core they do share something important traits. However, it wasn’t without a bumpy road, and this unlikely pairing coming together made them that much more dynamic. Throughout the years they’ve had plenty of stories, when the Human Torch was presumed dead the FF brought in Spider-Man to be their staple fourth. They had their own book together, and while this pairing doesn’t have as big an effect on the Marvel Universe and it’s events, it’s filled with plenty of moments that give the feels.
2. Captain America/Iron Man/Thor
Throughout this article I’ve been saying, that “they would be higher on this list if they had more of an impact on the Marvel Universe.” This group easily has the biggest effect on the Marvel U. When they fight, a universe wide event occurs. (See: Civil War)
“Well, where does Thor fit in?” In Civil War he claims to be neutral on the matter, but helps free imprisoned heroes, so on the side of Cap. They all have relationships separately, having had numerous annuals, but they are best known of course for being 3 of the founding members of The Avengers, Marvel’s resident super team. Listing foes they’ve taken on seems pointless, but let’s do a short list, the Phoenix force, Galactus, Doctor Doom, Thanos, Ultron, and pretty much every villain worth his salt. But, but, Brian, they don’t have enough d’awwww moments. Oh? During the Stark: Disassembled arc, Tony Stark has essentially had to erase his mind to prevent Norman Osborn from stealing the identities of all the Superheroes, and in doing so he turns himself into a vegetable. However, since he’s Tony Stark, he has a plan to reboot his memory due to the way his mind works because of Extremis. He specifically says, to only bring him back if it is better for the world, and that there are two people necessary to bring him back. Take a guess.
When does that story take place? After Civil War. And after this:
You could argue that they just have a working relationship. But I would show you this.
While there are plenty of bromantic moments throughout their time together, I wanted to show you how much pain and heartbreak this bromance went through, and after all of that Tony still kept his life in the hands of Thor and Steve Rogers. They’ve been through all of this and have decided to forgive Tony and help restore his mind. After which he relearned about the events of Civil War, and was disgusted with himself. Don’t think they could forgive him after something like this? How about throwing him a surprise party after he returned from his stint with the Guardians of the Galaxy.
I know most of this example was through the eyes of Iron Man, but to me it was the best and most recent example of this group overcoming the adversity. When they are clicking on all cylinders there isn’t a villain in the Marvel Universe that want’s to stare these three down.
1. Luke Cage/Iron Fist
Here was a street smart guy that was weary of the world. The other was a martial arts master that was laid-back and philosophical by nature. If you thought of this:
You weren’t far off. The two characters Luke Cage and Danny Rand(Iron Fist) struggled to keep an interesting ongoing solo series. However, together they had a very memorable run as the Heroes for Hire. They even transitioned to a new team together helping to lead and fight alongside the New Avengers. These two have been a team forever seemingly. You can’t go through the history of either of them with out hearing about the other at some point. The longevity of their relationship can’t be ignored, while Marvel is now bringing these heroes to the forefront, they have always been together, in a lot of ways brothers from a different mother. Having had plenty of moments like this:
To me that is really the key to this relationship, they were friends outside of their team-ups and their time as a team. They formed such a bond that even when their team broke up they were still friends. Luke Cage recently became the headliner of a new book for Marvel called the Mighty Avengers, one of the first things that happens in that book? A reference to Danny Rand. As the New Avengers they faced an impressive list of baddies. Fan reception? Heroes for Hire is one of the Marvel intellectual properties constantly being brought up as a TV show or movie. Effectiveness as a team?
I think one picture will really sum up why they’re the best bromance in all of Marvel.
As always, feel free to disagree with me on here, facebook, twitter, or any other platform. Also, share this or any of my other articles, and I will owe you a hug or high five. I’ll even let you choose.
“But Brian, NerdSwole already did a Retrospective dedicated to the Bat, do you really have to write another article about him?” I don’t know, did we really need a rebooted Batman to be featured along side the boy scout in blue so early? If we’ve learned nothing else, it seems as though the world cannot get enough of Batman. And him being in the running to be my favorite hero, it’s hard to resist talking about a new game he has coming out. This will mainly be a glowing praise of Arkham Asylum and City, but mainly it will be my thoughts about the upcoming Origins. People will argue whether or not Batman or Superman would win in a fight, it goes back and forth either way. One place where Batman absolutely dominates Superman though? Video Games. I will also say that when the Arkham Asylum first came out, I had many doubts about the game. It just didn’t seem possible to make a good superhero game, let alone a great one. With previous games like this, I think you’d understand my caution:
Superman 64 is arguably one of the worst games of all time. For those that haven’t played the game, you’re probably thinking “Well Superman is overpowered as shit, why would a game with him in it be any fun?” The same reason Saints Row IV is fun. It’s fun to fuck shit up after leveling up. The real problem with Superman 64 is the lack of effort. The story doesn’t buy into itself. The controls are awful, the graphics are inconsistent, and enemy AI that was beyond stupid and pretty ridiculous. Possibly even this ridiculous:
Superhero games struggled heavily after Superman 64, usually being reviewed as average, some games came along that were fun for a bit, but none of these games crossed into the upper echelon of games. Some honorable mentions: The Spider-Man games independent or movie based were still pretty fun playing through. Marvel Ultimate Alliance is fun for what it is, a couch co-op to play with friends. Rocksteady Games changed the game though. Arkham Asylum is not only a great superhero game, it’s a great game. The story is amazing, you buy in right away, the scenery, the opening, the voice, holy sweet jesus the voice (as far as I’m concerned, Kevin Conroy is Batman, and Mark Hamill is Joker). It helps immerse you into Arkham quickly. The game play is incredible, the enemies aren’t idiots, and there are plenty of unexpected curve balls along the way. I loved this game, and when Arkham City came out, I wasn’t sure it could top Asylum, I was dead wrong, and that is why I have come to trust Rocksteady as a studio. Which brings me to the game set to come out in three days. Arkham Origins.
New studio. New voice actors. New comic book consultant. Prequel. Hmmm. Originally when I heard of these startling pieces of news, I was concerned. Like, really concerned. Concerned to the point where I wasn’t sure I should buy this game. However, after watching quite a bit of gameplay, and attending a panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2013, I have to say I’m excited for this game. At the panel I attended, Eric Holmes, the lead designer of the game quickly addressed the concerns of many. He told us he wasn’t going to change what made the Arkham games great, and he recognized that Rocksteady did a fantastic job, and they could not be replaced. He did however, feel like there was a gap in time for Arkham’s Batman to grow, his origins. The studio, WB Montreal also created the armored edition of Arkham City for the Wii U, so they showed experience. This reassured me that they were familiar with the elements of game play that were necessary to carry on the Arkham torch. Holmes also showed how much of a Batman fan he was, citing things such as Year One and Legends of the Dark Knight. The latter being much less known by ordinary fans. Which brought me to my next concern.
The new comic book consultant. For those that don’t know, the consultant and writer for Arkham City and Asylum was Paul Dini. Paul Dini’s other notable works include Batman: The Animated Series,The New Batman Adventures, and Batman Beyond. Now anyone who knows me knows that when we talk about Batman: TAS this is essentially my reaction:
So when I discovered Dini helped with City and Asylum, I was not surprised one bit. I had to know who helped write these stories that were so clever and refreshing, yet so familiar. So now, imagine my response when I discover that Dini is no longer going to be the consultant for the Arkhamverse.
So this new unknown consultant was taking over for Arkham Origins. Great. I didn’t even want to know who the new consultant was going to be, but I decided to attend the Arkham Origins panel at SDCC because I didn’t have anything else to see at that time slot. Then came onto the panel Geoff Johns. Faith restored. Geoff Johns is a bamf. While I won’t claim to have read everything he has written, here are some notables Brightest Day, Blackest Night, critically acclaimed runs on The Flash, Justice League: Origin, and many many other awesome things. While he wasn’t Dini, I had to say that I was excited to see what Geoff was bringing to the table, because when he writes Batman, Batman gives 0 fucks in the best kind of way.
So the studio looked up to the task. The new consultant writer had reason to be believed in. A prequel though? After the ending of Arkham City, me like many others wondered where the Arkhamverse would be going. Where could they go if they were making a sequel? Me, personally, I thought they were going bigger. I read many theories that agreed with me also, that the thought process was that it was finally going to be time to leave Gotham. At the very least have some new people enter Gotham. I wanted Arkham Batman to meet the Justice League, or at least some members of the League. This seemed to be completely within the realm of possibility as throughout the games there are many easter eggs referencing the other DC heroes.
There are more than the ones in the video, but it gives you a pretty good idea. However, the powers that be decided to go in a different direction. While I’m happy to play another Batman Arkham game, I really wish the DC Universe was getting bigger. However, when I saw the trailer for the game, I noticed that it wasn’t an origin story, so much as it is a Year Two story about Batman learning his city and how to be the World’s Greatest Detective. So I’m more or less meh about this being a prequel, I wished it was a sequel and they were getting bigger and expansive, but I’m not opposed to seeing the start and rise to greatness.
Finally, the voices. This is what really concerned me the most when I first heard about the changes that were happening in Arkham Origins. More than anything else, having Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill do the voices of Batman and Joker respectively, would sell me. Neither is on the game. But when I went to the panel at SDCC Roger Craig Smith(the voice of Batman in this game, and Ezio from Assassin’s Creed) reassured me how familiar he was with how iconic Kevin Conroy’s voice was and how he was doing his best to make his own voice but pay a great deal of respect to Kevin. The first trailers of Arkham Origins seemed to purposely not have Batman speak, and it made me think that the voice was going to be so different that it’d be really jarring. However, when I did first hear him speak, he made me do a double take, because he said two words really quickly, I did for a second think it was Kevin Conroy. After further review, I noticed the big differences, but I think it works for a younger Batman. Here is the comparison.
I like it enough to find it acceptable for this game, but if there are future Arkham games placed after City, I’d love for Conroy to return. The Joker though seemed even more difficult to recreate or go in a different direction with. You have to know though, Troy Baker is one incredibly talented guy. I heard his Joker voice once, and I was sold. Starts at about 2:12.
Do you also need a new pair of pants? As one of my friends said, “Troy Baker, the voice of everyone.” So, in the end here are my thoughts about this stuff: Arkham Origins will be a great game that respects where it came from, but wants to become its own entity, and be a great addition to the Arkhamverse. At the very least, it has earned its chance.
As always. Feel free to disagree with me on here, facebook, twitter, or any other platform. Also, share this or any of my other articles, and I will owe you a hug or high five. I’ll even let you choose.
Whether it was the main character or a side character, steady character growth or one dynamic moment, maybe even a plot changing move or a small gesture irrelevant to story. These are 5 characters that I and probably you grew to really care about by the end of their stories.
THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE THERE WILL BE SPOILERS AND LOTS OF YOUTUBE VIDEOS.
5. Knuckles the Echinda : Sonic series
If people are unfamiliar, the protagonist of the Sonic games, is Sonic the Hedgehog. He’s a blue hedgehog that runs really fast. The premise of his early games was to collect rings, and you go through the story to get something called the chaos emeralds. So this is Sonic:
After you collect the chaos emeralds, you become this badass, Super Sonic:
And Super Sonic can fly, is essentially invincible crashing into everything doing whatever he wants. And so you ask me what does this have to do with Knuckles? The first thing that happens when Knuckles first appears in a game is he takes your freaking chaos emeralds away from you and makes you regular Sonic again. Seriously. Watch the first 34 seconds of this video:
What a fucking dickbag man. As the story progresses he just does more things like this. He seems to be the jerk of the game, he pushes boulders to trap you in a volcano, cuts bridges, and other things a 90’s cartoon villain would do. We learn though, that Knuckles is the guardian of the Master Emerald and was told by Dr. Robotnik(the real evil villain) that you were here to steal that. After discovering he was tricked Knuckles goes after Robotnik and gets schooled, and decides that he should help you. From there on, he shows you what to do, but is too exhausted help you himself. Later on, Knuckles gets in a fight with Mecha Sonic, and wins, but is about to die because the ground crumbles under him, but Sonic saves him. A bromance is born. Knuckles essentially becomes the badass that shows up when you need him the most, the mystery character that has a lot of unknowns, but you’re glad he’s on your side.
4. Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad : Assassin’s Creed
I first started playing the Assassin’s Creed franchise a few years after the first one was released, so after having heard a lot of good things, I was really excited to start this game. Little did I know people loved the series so much, mainly because of the main character in Assassin’s Creed II, Ezio Auditore. So, much to my surprise when I first started playing as Altair, I find he’s a huge jerk. He’s a rebel in the worst kind of way, and not really a hero you can get behind from the start. He kills for convenience and not out of necessity, he is extremely arrogant, and he even get’s another assassin maimed and has no remorse for it. The only really redeeming quality he had was that he respected his master that taught him. He annoyed me to the point where even this wasn’t as fun:
As the story progresses though, he gets taken down several pegs, and really is nerfed into the ground. This is where the story truly begins, Altair’s journey from cocky asshat murderer to humble master of the assassins is impressive because he doesn’t change much in what he does, but rather the reason for why does things. After being betrayed by the master he respected so much, and going through the relearning process of what the Creed really means, Altair becomes much wiser and a true Assassin. He separates himself from what the Templars(the order opposite the Assassins) by learning what his purpose is. He learns to kill only the necessary and not the innocents, to preserve the interest and image of himself and the order, and finally that an Assassin’s purpose is to create peace in the world and within himself. By the end of his story your respect for him goes through the roof, just take a look at him, how can you not think he’s a boss:
3. Gremio : Suikoden
Suikoden is an old RPG originally released in 1995 on Playstation. It is not as well known as some franchises like Final Fantasy, but those that do know this franchise know that the RPG genre owes a lot to it, and that its cult following is absolutely deserved. As you can tell, Suikoden is one of my favorite games of all time, and if you haven’t played it I highly recommend skipping this reading and playing it. Suikoden has 108 characters that can join you, even though only 6 at a time are playable in a regular party, they can join you in the Toran Liberation Army. The main character is Tir McDohl, he is the son of a legendary general Teo McDohl of the empire. Teo saved the life of a man named Gremio. And Gremio decides to repay that debt by taking care of his son. Tir begins his story as an Imperial soldier, but after learning of the corruption of the top of the empire, he decides to leave. Gremio throughout the game disagrees with Tir’s decision, essentially being a huge nag the whole time. It gets to the point that you’re surprised that Tir isn’t doing this:
But similar to all mothers and guardians, he does it out of love. At points you wonder if he really loves Tir or he does it out of loyalty to Teo. That question is answered numerous times throughout the game, but most poignantly at this moment about a little more than half way through the game:
Note: Where it says Ryan is just the main character renamed.
I can barely watch it. And I know it is possible to bring him back to life by recruiting all 108 characters of the cast, but it is highly(and I mean HIGHLY) unlikely you’ll do that on your first run through. And even if you know you’re going to get him back by recruiting all 108, the scene is still incredibly touching.
2. Tidus : Final Fantasy X
I debated putting every single FFX character on this list as one entry, simply because by the end of the game, all of the characters are so different from when they began. The game goes through so many plot twists, emotional moments, and losses that each character is constantly changing their life view. Tidus though is the only character I can say that I wasn’t a fan of at the start. Wakka was a fun loving guy, Yuna was a girl making a huge sacrifice, Auron is a complete badass, Kimahri is a freaking wolf man, Rikku is a funny and bubbly character, and Lulu is Lulu(fun fact: I absolutely love Lulu). Tidus begins as a self-centered Blitz Ball athlete, and throughout the story he is really childish and immature. While its hard to blame him, after all he is a 17-year old kid who got his home destroyed. It just gets really taxing and annoying hearing him complain about the world though, and how unfair it is. I mean just look at him:
And early on he continues to complain with problems going on much bigger than his which prompts reactions like this:
However, this changes as he meets the other characters and learns something from all of them. Most importantly Yuna and Auron. Under the tutelage of Auron, he learned how to be a guardian of a summoner on a pilgrimage, but with Yuna he found love. And that is really what makes you grow to love Tidus. He learns so much from his relationships with the other characters, and see how much of a better person he becomes through his interaction with others. I would argue that Tidus and Yuna is one of the greatest romances in all of video games, because touching moments like this stay with you:
But also because of how much Tidus improves as a person simply by knowing Yuna.
1. Raiden : Metal Gear Solid
Some of these characters were on this list because of how much I grew to love them. Some of these characters are on this list because of how much I hated them at the start and came to find them acceptable. Raiden is both. Honestly I would be completely ok with any of the top 3 being switched around, now that I’m actually writing and watching these clips again it reminds me how much I do love these characters. Back to the point though. Raiden first appears in Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. He appears to be the main character after you play the first mission as the main character of the of previous MGS, Solid Snake. So, essentially we start the game with a character we already absolutely fell in love with, and we presumably watched die. And now we’re supposed to be attached to this new kid who has an annoying voice(this is a big deal because Snake’s voice is iconic), thinks he is awesome, and does a whole hell of a lot of complaining throughout the game. And who could ever forget this part:
Eventually, we find out Snake is alive, and that Raiden has a really messed up past. He was a child soldier, and his name is Jack, and he was nicknamed Jack the Ripper for the horrible things he had to do. He finds love in a woman named Rose throughout MGS2. By the end of MGS2, I respect Raiden, but I’m not necessarily a fan of him, and I was happy to see Snake at the helm of the next MGS game. This isn’t the end of Raiden’s story though. His arrival in MGS4 is quite the event. It starts at about 1:35
HES A MOTHERFUCKING CYBORG NINJA. Raiden does badass thing after badass thing in MGS4, but you don’t play as him at all, you wish you could though. Eventually, he sacrifices himself losing his arms stopping a tanker from crushing you. He then offers to go through a microwave corridor for you so you don’t die, and after you refuse, he defends the corridor WITH NO FUCKING ARMS. I would post the MGS4 cutscenes where he was a boss, but that’d take up the whole page, so if you want set aside like 5 hours and watch through the cutscenes and watch Raiden become one of your favorite characters. Also, this:
Feel free to disagree with me on here, facebook, twitter, or any other platform. Also, share this or any of my other articles, and I will owe you a hug or high five. I’ll even let you choose.
Alex claims that he’s too tired and too burnt out from working on his previous article to set up the Slice of Life. So now it falls upon me, and whatever questions I decide I guess. I don’t really know what you guys enjoy to be honest, but it seems like the slices with romantic stories seem to do better. If you haven’t already, check them out here.
Brian: I think the first dates subject was pretty fun, so let’s roll with that. And I won’t do this the Alex way where I answer the questions after asking them, this way I can ask the funniest questions without having to answer. But we’ll start easy. Best date you ever went on?
Alex: I think it was having a beach day. From morning to evening, we spent the whole day together. Morning breezes with the sun shining on us as we casually talked. Early relationship giddiness, of course, but it’s almost intoxicating. We later caught a movie together, cooling off from the warm beach, and shared a lovely dinner afterwards. It’s pretty basic, but after all the heartbreak I’ve endured, I really crave some simple things with a lovely lady.
Erin: I would say it was awhile ago when my last girlfriend and I simply hung out one night in the winter and then went out to look at a neighborhood that used to deck itself out with holiday lights. We used to just stand and walk around staring at the lights for hours and it was the absolute perfect moment for a time like the holidays, which as people know, I am a huge sucker for.
Brian: That was pretty easy. How about the worst date or most awkward experience with a girl ever?
Alex: The awkward moments with girls will never be able to fit in this week’s slice of life. One standout was consoling a girl in high school. I happened to be crushing on this girl for a year or two, and I knew I was in the friend-zone when I consoled her as she cried about her boyfriend who cheated on her. “Why can’t guys be faithful and care about the girl they’re with?” she cried, as my shoulder caught her tears. I hadn’t found the courage to tell her how I felt, but I think she’s found happiness in a new relationship and my awkward position hopefully helped that.
Erin: I wouldn’t say this was the “worst date” in the sense that it was bad, but just because it was kind of awkward and didn’t end well. Conversely to Alex’s story, it was with a girl couple years ago whom I had to put in the friend zone and bear bad news with. We were at a really awesome and nice fancy party, and I had a lot of fun, but just the heartbreak and emotion that followed made it hard for both of us to walk away feeling good or happy.
Brian: I suppose this next question could go either way, how many girls have you taken on a date? I’m going to be thoroughly disappointed if one of your numbers isn’t astronomically high like I expect it to be.
Alex: 5 at most. Not all of these ended well and some of them I haven’t talked to in years. And it depends what should be considered a date. Luckily, I found this handy-dandy chart.
Erin: Oh Alex, 5 girls? How cute… I think my number is like 10.
Brian: If you had to be a part of a devil’s threesome, who would the other man be? And you have to know this person in real life.
Alex: I wouldn’t be able to do it. It couldn’t be worth it and I’d rather be forever alone with no sword clanking.
Erin: Eyes stay looking upwards, no talking, if we just focus on the girl, probably go with any one of the Nerd Swole dudes.
While I’ve enjoyed writing my lists about gaming, occasionally I want to talk about things that I want to recommend or give a review for. We do a little bit of that in Retrospective and Slice of Life, but I’d like to go a little bit more in depth with my personal opinion on some things. I recognize that the name of this article is incredibly vague, but that’s because I might review or talk about anything in here. It may even become a title that the other writers will use, remember, we’re still a pretty fledgling blog here. So be prepared for anything, be it comics, games, movies, and anything else nerdy. I know, I know, you’re probably thinking “But Brian, I love your lists and your hilarious pictures and gifs!” And to that I say:
Now that should answer any questions about whether or not this is going to be as awesome as my other things. Moving on. Questionable Contentcommonly referred to as QC is a webcomic written by Jeph Jacques. It started in 2003, and has been ongoing ever since, it has regular updates daily, and features a huge cast of characters. The closest thing to a main character is Marten, who you begin the story with, a guy who is trying to find his way in life, who happens to like a lot of Indie rock music. I’ll be honest with you, most of the Indie rock jokes when completely over my head. Even if you’re not an Indie rock fan, you’ll probably enjoy this comic for the same reasons I did. The characters. You will undoubtedly find a character to relate to or cheer for. Maybe it’s super laid-back Marten trying to find his way. Maybe extra angry but lovable Faye. Possibly even ultra horny Pintsize the AnthroPC. Jacques writes a tale of inclusion, and allowing people to be comfortable being themselves, it wouldn’t surprise me if a character that looked this was soon introduced:
If you start late, much like I did(I just began reading earlier this year) you will probably see there are over 2500 strips to read, but don’t worry, you’ll be burning through strips pretty soon. I was also thrown off by the artwork of the early strips, I won’t lie, it’s not pretty. However, Jacques grows quickly and strongly in that department, by the time you catch up to current comics, you’ll see that the art is exponentially better. I enjoyed this though, it created a unique feeling while reading, as the characters grew, the story arcs grew. As the story arcs grew, the art grew. As the art grew, you as a reader felt like you were seeing true growth in these characters, but also growth in the artist and writer. For anyone who has truly loved any book or game, it’s not hard to say you become invested in the future of those characters. I bring this up because QC has gotten me invested in each and every single character, I truly care about all of them. I often found myself in positions like this because of the choices these characters make:
Finally, while I would classify it as a romance/drama/comedy webcomic it has its sci-fi quirks. The webcomic goes on crazy tangential stories that might bother some readers. I personally love these crazy fun arcs. Don’t fret though, the comic always returns to the core that makes it great, the characters and their development. I’m sure it’s no secret that I spend a fair share of time on the internet, and I’m guessing you do too. Too often things that are not all that funny get a “lol” or “haha” when really you’re making the straightest face in the world. And a lot of times I wish there was something like this right alongside the like button:
But in all seriousness though, when it comes to Questionable Content by Jeph Jacques there is no question. You should read it.
Let me start by saying the rest of this read will not be nearly as PC as the title was, and that lagging will not be one of them, although that totally makes me rage. This is more about things others do or say. There will likely be a lot of cursing, because you know, why the fuck not. The examples will be for gamers and about games but will really apply to everyone I think.
5. When people tell you to pause an online game
You’re in the middle of a huge team fight in whatever game you play, league, CS:GO, whatever, and you get a phone call that ruins your concentration. It’s your friend who doesn’t game and says they want to get food at this exact moment and it can’t wait another 30 minutes. You say you’re in a game, and they have two responses, the other we’ll get to later, the one we talk about now is “Can’t you just pause it?” This is really just a misunderstanding and that’s ok. However, it gets annoying when you try and teach people that online games do not have a pause function, and if they do, they are likely based on a vote and they still don’t understand. And if you totally just wrecked the shit out of the other team, player, or something else, I can’t imagine them wanting to pause. Admittedly, neither would I, especially if something like this happened:
For those that haven’t played DoTA or MOBA games in general, what just happened was the equivalent receiving a full tank of gas you didn’t pay for. Times five. Point being, you just need to explain to people calmly that online games basically for all intents and purposes cannot be paused. For example, you wouldn’t ask a Basketball player to pause the game or take a timeout for your sake would you? And if they don’t get that, well, point them to this article. If that doesn’t work, feel absolutely free to flip a shit. (Note: I’m not responsible for the consequences of you flipping a shit).
4. When people come into your room when the door was closed, and leave the door open.
No, I don’t mean when they’re in your room and they leave the door open. I mean when they leave your room and they leave the door open. Admittedly, this is not gamer exclusive. However, I don’t know a gamer that this does not bother. Why is it such a big deal? Unless your room is like 1 mile long you just have to walk a few feet and close your door again. I can’t say I know for sure why it is such a pet peeve of myself and many others. Other than that it aint fucking rocket science to close a door. If you knocked to come into the room or you opened the door to come in, why not leave it the way it was when you leave. It’s not like it is a difficult thing to do, all it takes is a swing of the hand on your way out.
At the end of the day, it’s about respect isn’t it? If you borrow someone’s sweater, when you return it to them, you probably washed it and try to keep it in good condition, at the very least, the same it was given in. Why not do the same for a room when you enter and leave?
3. DLC that should be a part of the game.
I understand that micro-transactions are the future. I even believe when executed correctly, they can be a pretty great thing (I.E. Steam, League of Legends, other FTP games). However, what I don’t agree with is when a new game comes out, costs 60 dollars (upwards to 100 if it’s the collector’s edtion), and DLC that costs money, especially if it is DLC that is essential to fully experiencing the game. You’re probably saying, “BRIAN! STOP BEING A CHEAP-ASS” and you’re right, I’m a total cheap-ass. However, I simply do not believe in paying full price for a game and then having to tack on DLC to experience the full game. The micro-transaction model employed by many PC games allows you to install a game for free, play it, but you don’t have full access. It allows you the choice to do what you want, to buy which characters you want to buy, to progress how you want to progress, generally speaking though they do not allow unfair advantages for other players and allow you the choice for the experience you want with your money. Would you pay full price for a Blu-Ray movie, and then be OK with having to pay 5 dollars for the ending after the ending? I imagine your response would be something like this:
My point is simply this, it feels as though we are hoodwinked(I never thought I’d get to use this word on here) into buying an incomplete product. No one likes to feel like they are getting the short end of the stick. DLC is fine, if it’s extra things that compliment the game. If it’s necessary to gain the full experience of the game then gamers have paid full price for an incomplete product that will only take more money for this. And that can only really illicit one response from me:
2. Using your controller without cleaning their hands.
Holy shit. I mean do I really have to explain this one? It’s so fucking grimey. OK, you’re hanging out with a friend who you just met, you’re getting along you were gaming hard, it was hella fun. You decided to take a food break, and I don’t know let’s say you had some Doritos. Now that your hands look like you’ve been playing in an Arizona desert and you’re full of awesome and ready to play again, what should be the first thing you do? WASH YOUR FUCKING HANDS. If you come anywhere near my gear with your hands looking like this:
The next moment is going to look a whole lot like this:
This is the part where I sum it up with an analogy or simile right? Nope. This is just really fucking grimey, just don’t do it.
1. Saying “it’s just a game.”
Do you remember when we talked earlier about two possible responses? You say you’re playing a game, one response is “just pause it!” the other answer I alluded to earlier is “It’s just a game.” Honestly, it infuriates me just to write the phrase. If it is important to you and it does not harm anyone else, why would anyone belittle your hobby and make it seem insignificant? If they don’t know that games are really important to you, then yes, by all means feel free to explain to them what’s up. If you have explained it, and they are still using this phrase with you, then I recommend any of the following:
Honestly. At the risk of sounding like an after school special, people should respect other’s hobbies and what they choose to do with their time (again, assuming it’s not harmful to anyone else). At the end of the day, it’s about respect.
Feel free to disagree with me on here, facebook, twitter, or any other platform. Also, share this or any of my other articles, and I will owe you a hug or high five. I’ll even let you choose.
Let me start by saying this has nothing to do with cats. If you’re a part of any group, team, or club, chances are you have your own lingo and jargon. For me, it’s happened a couple of different times, but gamer terms seem to be the most confusing to others, whether it was my parents, friends, or girl I was dating. You shout “gang bang him” into your mic one time, and no one lets you forget it. While they weren’t all my personal experiences with these words, I have some pretty great stories, as well as have been told some pretty great ones. Without further ado, 6 words that are very different for gamers and non-gamers:
I once played an MMORPG(Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games, or the destroyer of lives.) called Final Fantasy XI. That game consumed hours upon hours of my life and was hard as a boy going through puberty at a porn star convention. When asked by my girlfriend at the time what I was doing, I’d probably be doing something with my toon. For those unfamiliar, your toon, is your character in a game, usually referring to MMORPG. So a phrase like “prepping my toon for tonight” might sound like this to gamers:
However, since I played viola at the time, she thought i was prepping my “tune”:
She thought I was playing in a concert that night that was at our school that she went to for me. I’m not there, I’m actually hunting a notorious monster after having prepped my toon. Shenanigans ensue, but we were kids so we clear it up like we’re in an old sitcom and end up laughing about the whole thing.
For a gamer, the term sandbox is not really in style anymore, they are more more commonly now referred to as open-world. However, this was not the case back when I was in high school. We still used the term sandbox. So when I talked about how fun Grand Theft Auto was for a sandbox game, and was overheard by a teacher, my friend heard this:
And my teacher heard this:
Needless to say, it created a bit of an awkward situation, when I was talking about beating up whores in the game.
As with Toon, this one will take a small bit of back story. I build things occasionally, like movie props and things like that when I have time and feel motivated to do so. This all started in my shop class in middle school, where I was told I was a pretty talented kid by the teacher. So of course when you’re in middle school, this automatically makes you the guru of shop, and people assume you do nothing but build things at home. When my teacher asked the class what we do every day, I thought it would be funny to say “leveling” because who doesn’t appreciate good gaming humor? (No one that’s who.) I was trying to make a joke that I get experience each day and I get older. (Trust me, i’m much funnier now I swear.) So while I would have understood if people thought I was doing this:
But really for some reason, they all thought I was doing this:
This definitely has multiple meanings, whether it’s older or younger generations, or gamers and non-gamers. However, for my particular example, it wasn’t me, just a story I was told by a friend. He was at a cafe and he overheard a girl talking about how much she hated hackers, naturally he thought she meant people who can see through walls in Counter-Strike and get auto headshots. Or any FPS where someone’s score is 5,000 kills and 0 deaths really. Or pokemon where someone does outrageous shit like have a team of 6 mewtwos in pokemon red or this:
Back to the story, the girl meant things of this nature:
Of course my friend built up the courage to talk to the girl he thought was a gamer. I wish I could say hilarity ensued and he failed horribly, but hilarity did ensue, but it worked out for him. D’awwww that’s right, we have heartwarming stories too.
Ah, farming. Traditionally we’d be talking about growing plants that bear fruit or vegetables and things of that nature. Well, that sounds right to me too, however to a gamer this usually means getting money or items to get for money. Basically you’re doing some act, generally killing monsters, and getting items that drop to sell or money directly. Welp, in Final Fantasy XI there was an item that was particularly profitable at the time I was playing, and I was discussing this with a friend of mine, I was farming something called “Boyahda Moss” and “Tree Cuttings”. So while I was farming things like this:
A classmate of mine thought I was talking about something more uh, tangible:
If you didn’t get my euphemisms, he thought I was a weed farmer. I knew something was funny when he asked if I ever hot boxed the moss.
I actually don’t have a story for this one. But honestly when one thing can mean a whole bunch of this:
And the other can mean this:
I rest my case.
Feel free to disagree with me on here, facebook, twitter, or any other platform. Also, share this or any of my other articles, and I will owe you a hug or high five. I’ll even let you choose.