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2023.06.08 06:05 hyrulesvalentine n a constant cycle with NBPD mom. Now, NSister has joined the party.
It took me over 30 years to fully grasp my mother and her NBPD. It’s taken even longer to realize my hero father has truly been complicit and enabling of her abuse.
My Nsister were very close. Best friends. She had it under control for the most part, and I never minced words with her, so she usually didn’t engage in that behavior with me. I became unexpectedly pregnant (real late bloomer) and decided it was best for me to be closer to her (she had just moved cross-country). My partner and I decided that it would be best raising LO there, and she would have her aunt/uncle cousins very much engrained in her life. We were to stay there, and help her transition into her new career by watching the kids. We paid rent, and bills. This was meant to be until we found our own place, but after we got there, housing started to skyrocket, and no matter how hard we worked, we knew it just probably wasn’t going to be feasible with a newborn to afford anything there. My sister later begged us to stay (she had 24/7 child care, and this now is obvious to me as the reason why).
Welp, after about four months, my sister had some sort of internal crisis, and immediately pushed her husband of seven years out of the house. I believe she realized I could take care of everything she needed when it came to the kids, and she was the primary breadwinner, so she found no use for him anymore. After he moved out, she went on heavy drinking benders. Acting like a freshly 21 year old college student, leaving her kids with me to go out and drink all night. She used to be the best mother. So attentive, caring, and present. I watched her completely deteriorate from what she once was. She started dating a terrible person- obnoxious, alcoholic, unintelligent and rude and everything went south. She never had her kids anymore, my partner and I did. I went from being pregnant to essentially having three children at once. She refused to bathe them, help with homework, grocery shop, anything needed. Once the guilt set in for her, she would pick them up, take them on a shopping spree, convince herself that was enough and restart the cycle. She became so nasty, mean, and a horrendous liar. I suffered from horrendous PPA, and immediately sought help. She was nowhere to be found. This caused so much turmoil mainly due to the neglect to her children that I knew we needed to plan our escape. Whenever I’d discuss the possibility of moving near his family, she begged and pleaded, because what was she going to do? Who was going to help her?
My NBPD mother had me fooled for a while. She for the first time agreed with me, and said I needed to get out. My e-dad guilted me for months and months, with what would become of my nieces if I left? How could I abandon them?
Eventually the situation got so toxic, that we secretly finalized plans, and within two weeks of move date- I let her know what was happening. Wrong move. She tried to dismantle, and try to get me to engage in a war so many times. I bit my tongue and reminded myself it was almost over.
The night we packed, she set up cameras around the house, and left to drink with her boyfriend. At one point my partner and I got super frustrated with each other, and we started yelling. We were exhausted, and trying to pack as fast as we could because all signs were pointing to one last explosion. The baby was teething, and I think we just lost it with each other. My sister was baby sitting the cameras, and took recordings and sent them to my NBPD mom and e-dad. All of them started blowing up my phone asking if I needed them to come save me frkm my abusive partner. They said they heard him yelling, and that they were going to make him suffer for it. I was like wtf? 1. It was completely out of frustration and juvenile. 2. It wasn’t even slightly aggressive 3.It was so minor I didn’t even know what they were referencing. (They heard him tell me to “shut the f up”.)
Both my sister and mother were so offended that I turned down their “protection” from him, and told them that nothing was going on. My mom started blowing up his phone, his brothers phone- anyone she could yell at. She got in the car and started driving 10 hours to my sisters. I knew they were trying to get a reaction out of me, but I kept cool and my eye on the prize.
We got out, stayed in a hotel that night, and decided he was going to fly with our eleven month old (i hate flying) and I’d drive the dog and huge uhaul 13 hours- I was looking forward to the silence and decompression time. The next day around five hours into my trip is when my BPD mom started the onslaught. (As soon as my stuff was out of the house- I blocked my sister on everything). She started using my partner as a scapegoat, and fighting on my sisters behalf. She laughed at me, called us losers, and then finally got the reaction she was begging for when she threatened to call CPS for my child, because she was going to take her, and we didn’t deserve her. She said she heard him be abusive and I abandoned my sister, and don’t deserve my child anymore because of it….. I was dumbfounded. I couldn’t understand how she was in full support of my sister being a monster in general for months, and then within two days- completely championing for her. My sister has always been the GC though- I was always always the sibling that called out the toxic behavior and wasn’t scared of either of them. Truth teller? I think that’s it. Five hours into my trip, my phone stopped working shortly after my conversation with my mom ended. I had always been on a family plan I shared with my sister. She paid for that, and I paid for all the streaming apps. It all evened out. I tried placing a call, and that’s when I realized service had been stopped. I was in a giant uhaul with my car towed on the back, with my dog, in a random city- no phone, no gps, and no idea what to do. I drove around for about an hour in a huge city and finally found and ATT store, ran in, told them I had no time and just needed a new plan etc. my mother sat with my sister laughing at me before they shut my phone off. They knew I was alone.
My dad has always been my favorite person. I relate with him far more than anyone in my family- but I’m starting to realize he’s been worse than the Nsister or NBPD mother.
I hadn’t talked to any of them in about a month and a half. My dad didn’t contact me. Normally when my mom did this stuff, he would find ways to sneak talking to me. He would try to convince me to apologize and beg for it. He would agree it was her fault, but he would insist I apologize “so the family could be whole”. “Start the healing” “do you just hate your mother? You know how she is, she can’t help it” “just apologize and it will be back to normal” “if she finds out I’m talking to you she will leave me” My mother had always treated me like a mistress of my father’s rather than her daughter. I was always enemy #1, and if she caught him talking to me- it was a major act of betrayal in her eyes. She had gotten so abusive over it in the past (physically/mentally) that I understood why he had to hide it.
The last month an half has been so hard. My other sister as been distant in order to not get caught in the crossfire of my Mom. my mother spent a month at my Nsisters house coddling her, and watching her kids, and cleaning up after her. I spent weeks crying wondering why my dad hadn’t secretly reached out to even just check in about my child. Yesterday I gave in and messaged my dad. He tried to push the whole viewpoint of my mother- that they heard him yelling at me, and they needed to defend me. That I should think about leaving him. My father said my mother was still very angry and so hurt over what I said after she said she was going to take my child. He said he was going to call me once he left the house and wasn’t around her. Once on the phone, he explained he agreed with me leaving, and that my sister was really spiraling, and my mom shouldn’t be involved in the fight or picking sides/daughters. He said I was going to have to apologize. I’m not apologizing. I can’t do it this time. My daughters first birthday is coming up, and for some reason today,‘I got extremely sad over it and messaged my mother- just letting her know I was open to a conversation and would like if she could come to my daughters first birthday party no matter what her feelings are towards me. Her response was insane, ans made me feel so incredibly stupid for reaching out.
“Sorry to say but we have made other plans so we will not be able to come to her party. But we would be happy to send her gifts and stuff she needs. Just to make this very clear I will not ever be around baby’s father after having to listen to his disrespectful. Sorry arse. His father was right about one thing he is lazy as hell. His words at your shower. If baby needs anything just get in touch with your dad or send me a text. As soon as we receive a heartfelt apology we will be more than happy and joyed to come pick you and Jude up so you can spend some time with us.”
We went back and forth for a while- and she just was so hateful the entire time. I kept my cool, and just tried to tiptoe as much as I could. She kept pummeling on my partner- and then when that didn’t work, it was hat I chose his family over my own. That I was not loyal, and what does it matter if she doesn’t talk to me anymore. I kept assuring her I wasn’t abandoning her for them, and she doesn’t have to feel threatened by , and the onslaught continued. She then started defending everything my sister had done, and adding her own twists on it. I told her it was between my sister and me, and to just stop choosing sides- that she could have a relationship with both of us independently, no matter our status with each other. She didn’t care. She said well, that’s your version of the truth, and you have your new family. She kept hammering the point that no one will love my child or me as much as her. My father has a bad habit of saying that as well. She’s demonizing my partner so much through the entire conversation, and he’s so hurt by it too. He offered to apologize instead of me. He said he could go beg her and plead. It made me sick. How absolutely embarrassing. I won’t allow him to do it. I’m not subjecting him to this anymore. My family has always been good at throwing money at problems. No real emotional care, love, or support- but if you have an issue, need, or want?, they will pay for it- and that’s love to them. My sister has adapted it with her children. My mother favors that sister because of money. She’s successful- has a huge house- and my sister buys her whatever she wants when she’s around. (My parents are well off, so I’m not sure why this even matters to her). It’s always a “well I did this for you! That for you! I paid for all of these things!” Most of the time when my mother gave me gifts, it was things she could hold over my head. Once I got older and had my own money, I know she was bothered by not having that control anymore- so I’m sure watching my sister shut my phone off was a long awaited scratch to her itch.
I found out their plans for my daughters first birthday was going to my sisters house.
I cried hysterically for a few hours- and here I am. I’m used to this behavior from her, so I don’t think I’ll mourn the loss of her in a NC- but I can’t get past my dad. Thinking about how old he is getting, and how this is all a giant waste of time that I could have him spending time with my daughter, makes me physically ill. I’m so scared that I won’t be able to see him again because of my mother, and he will eventually pass. I’m sorry if this isn’t too coherent, I’ve been sobbing for hours, and I’m exhausted. My mother has made it obvious that she chooses not only my sister, but her children as well, and my dad is allowing her to drag him along for the ride. I should hate him for it, but I can’t. It destroys me to think of going NC with him or my other sister. She lives far away from all of us, and is extremely busy so doesn’t really get involved with my mom other than surface level. My mother has apologized to me one time. One time in 30+ years. I have bitten the bullet and apologize and begged her to forgive me every single time since I was a preteen for the sake of my dad. I remember there would be times he would call me crying begging me to apologize to her “to make the family whole again”.
The writings on the wall for NC, but I just can’t bring myself to enforce it with my father or my other sister. She has a bad habit of giving updates and sending photos, so I’d probably have to. I don’t want her getting stuck in the middle of it. TIA for any advice.
submitted by hyrulesvalentine to raisedbynarcissists [link] [comments]
My Nsister were very close. Best friends. She had it under control for the most part, and I never minced words with her, so she usually didn’t engage in that behavior with me. I became unexpectedly pregnant (real late bloomer) and decided it was best for me to be closer to her (she had just moved cross-country). My partner and I decided that it would be best raising LO there, and she would have her aunt/uncle cousins very much engrained in her life. We were to stay there, and help her transition into her new career by watching the kids. We paid rent, and bills. This was meant to be until we found our own place, but after we got there, housing started to skyrocket, and no matter how hard we worked, we knew it just probably wasn’t going to be feasible with a newborn to afford anything there. My sister later begged us to stay (she had 24/7 child care, and this now is obvious to me as the reason why).
Welp, after about four months, my sister had some sort of internal crisis, and immediately pushed her husband of seven years out of the house. I believe she realized I could take care of everything she needed when it came to the kids, and she was the primary breadwinner, so she found no use for him anymore. After he moved out, she went on heavy drinking benders. Acting like a freshly 21 year old college student, leaving her kids with me to go out and drink all night. She used to be the best mother. So attentive, caring, and present. I watched her completely deteriorate from what she once was. She started dating a terrible person- obnoxious, alcoholic, unintelligent and rude and everything went south. She never had her kids anymore, my partner and I did. I went from being pregnant to essentially having three children at once. She refused to bathe them, help with homework, grocery shop, anything needed. Once the guilt set in for her, she would pick them up, take them on a shopping spree, convince herself that was enough and restart the cycle. She became so nasty, mean, and a horrendous liar. I suffered from horrendous PPA, and immediately sought help. She was nowhere to be found. This caused so much turmoil mainly due to the neglect to her children that I knew we needed to plan our escape. Whenever I’d discuss the possibility of moving near his family, she begged and pleaded, because what was she going to do? Who was going to help her?
My NBPD mother had me fooled for a while. She for the first time agreed with me, and said I needed to get out. My e-dad guilted me for months and months, with what would become of my nieces if I left? How could I abandon them?
Eventually the situation got so toxic, that we secretly finalized plans, and within two weeks of move date- I let her know what was happening. Wrong move. She tried to dismantle, and try to get me to engage in a war so many times. I bit my tongue and reminded myself it was almost over.
The night we packed, she set up cameras around the house, and left to drink with her boyfriend. At one point my partner and I got super frustrated with each other, and we started yelling. We were exhausted, and trying to pack as fast as we could because all signs were pointing to one last explosion. The baby was teething, and I think we just lost it with each other. My sister was baby sitting the cameras, and took recordings and sent them to my NBPD mom and e-dad. All of them started blowing up my phone asking if I needed them to come save me frkm my abusive partner. They said they heard him yelling, and that they were going to make him suffer for it. I was like wtf? 1. It was completely out of frustration and juvenile. 2. It wasn’t even slightly aggressive 3.It was so minor I didn’t even know what they were referencing. (They heard him tell me to “shut the f up”.)
Both my sister and mother were so offended that I turned down their “protection” from him, and told them that nothing was going on. My mom started blowing up his phone, his brothers phone- anyone she could yell at. She got in the car and started driving 10 hours to my sisters. I knew they were trying to get a reaction out of me, but I kept cool and my eye on the prize.
We got out, stayed in a hotel that night, and decided he was going to fly with our eleven month old (i hate flying) and I’d drive the dog and huge uhaul 13 hours- I was looking forward to the silence and decompression time. The next day around five hours into my trip is when my BPD mom started the onslaught. (As soon as my stuff was out of the house- I blocked my sister on everything). She started using my partner as a scapegoat, and fighting on my sisters behalf. She laughed at me, called us losers, and then finally got the reaction she was begging for when she threatened to call CPS for my child, because she was going to take her, and we didn’t deserve her. She said she heard him be abusive and I abandoned my sister, and don’t deserve my child anymore because of it….. I was dumbfounded. I couldn’t understand how she was in full support of my sister being a monster in general for months, and then within two days- completely championing for her. My sister has always been the GC though- I was always always the sibling that called out the toxic behavior and wasn’t scared of either of them. Truth teller? I think that’s it. Five hours into my trip, my phone stopped working shortly after my conversation with my mom ended. I had always been on a family plan I shared with my sister. She paid for that, and I paid for all the streaming apps. It all evened out. I tried placing a call, and that’s when I realized service had been stopped. I was in a giant uhaul with my car towed on the back, with my dog, in a random city- no phone, no gps, and no idea what to do. I drove around for about an hour in a huge city and finally found and ATT store, ran in, told them I had no time and just needed a new plan etc. my mother sat with my sister laughing at me before they shut my phone off. They knew I was alone.
My dad has always been my favorite person. I relate with him far more than anyone in my family- but I’m starting to realize he’s been worse than the Nsister or NBPD mother.
I hadn’t talked to any of them in about a month and a half. My dad didn’t contact me. Normally when my mom did this stuff, he would find ways to sneak talking to me. He would try to convince me to apologize and beg for it. He would agree it was her fault, but he would insist I apologize “so the family could be whole”. “Start the healing” “do you just hate your mother? You know how she is, she can’t help it” “just apologize and it will be back to normal” “if she finds out I’m talking to you she will leave me” My mother had always treated me like a mistress of my father’s rather than her daughter. I was always enemy #1, and if she caught him talking to me- it was a major act of betrayal in her eyes. She had gotten so abusive over it in the past (physically/mentally) that I understood why he had to hide it.
The last month an half has been so hard. My other sister as been distant in order to not get caught in the crossfire of my Mom. my mother spent a month at my Nsisters house coddling her, and watching her kids, and cleaning up after her. I spent weeks crying wondering why my dad hadn’t secretly reached out to even just check in about my child. Yesterday I gave in and messaged my dad. He tried to push the whole viewpoint of my mother- that they heard him yelling at me, and they needed to defend me. That I should think about leaving him. My father said my mother was still very angry and so hurt over what I said after she said she was going to take my child. He said he was going to call me once he left the house and wasn’t around her. Once on the phone, he explained he agreed with me leaving, and that my sister was really spiraling, and my mom shouldn’t be involved in the fight or picking sides/daughters. He said I was going to have to apologize. I’m not apologizing. I can’t do it this time. My daughters first birthday is coming up, and for some reason today,‘I got extremely sad over it and messaged my mother- just letting her know I was open to a conversation and would like if she could come to my daughters first birthday party no matter what her feelings are towards me. Her response was insane, ans made me feel so incredibly stupid for reaching out.
“Sorry to say but we have made other plans so we will not be able to come to her party. But we would be happy to send her gifts and stuff she needs. Just to make this very clear I will not ever be around baby’s father after having to listen to his disrespectful. Sorry arse. His father was right about one thing he is lazy as hell. His words at your shower. If baby needs anything just get in touch with your dad or send me a text. As soon as we receive a heartfelt apology we will be more than happy and joyed to come pick you and Jude up so you can spend some time with us.”
We went back and forth for a while- and she just was so hateful the entire time. I kept my cool, and just tried to tiptoe as much as I could. She kept pummeling on my partner- and then when that didn’t work, it was hat I chose his family over my own. That I was not loyal, and what does it matter if she doesn’t talk to me anymore. I kept assuring her I wasn’t abandoning her for them, and she doesn’t have to feel threatened by , and the onslaught continued. She then started defending everything my sister had done, and adding her own twists on it. I told her it was between my sister and me, and to just stop choosing sides- that she could have a relationship with both of us independently, no matter our status with each other. She didn’t care. She said well, that’s your version of the truth, and you have your new family. She kept hammering the point that no one will love my child or me as much as her. My father has a bad habit of saying that as well. She’s demonizing my partner so much through the entire conversation, and he’s so hurt by it too. He offered to apologize instead of me. He said he could go beg her and plead. It made me sick. How absolutely embarrassing. I won’t allow him to do it. I’m not subjecting him to this anymore. My family has always been good at throwing money at problems. No real emotional care, love, or support- but if you have an issue, need, or want?, they will pay for it- and that’s love to them. My sister has adapted it with her children. My mother favors that sister because of money. She’s successful- has a huge house- and my sister buys her whatever she wants when she’s around. (My parents are well off, so I’m not sure why this even matters to her). It’s always a “well I did this for you! That for you! I paid for all of these things!” Most of the time when my mother gave me gifts, it was things she could hold over my head. Once I got older and had my own money, I know she was bothered by not having that control anymore- so I’m sure watching my sister shut my phone off was a long awaited scratch to her itch.
I found out their plans for my daughters first birthday was going to my sisters house.
I cried hysterically for a few hours- and here I am. I’m used to this behavior from her, so I don’t think I’ll mourn the loss of her in a NC- but I can’t get past my dad. Thinking about how old he is getting, and how this is all a giant waste of time that I could have him spending time with my daughter, makes me physically ill. I’m so scared that I won’t be able to see him again because of my mother, and he will eventually pass. I’m sorry if this isn’t too coherent, I’ve been sobbing for hours, and I’m exhausted. My mother has made it obvious that she chooses not only my sister, but her children as well, and my dad is allowing her to drag him along for the ride. I should hate him for it, but I can’t. It destroys me to think of going NC with him or my other sister. She lives far away from all of us, and is extremely busy so doesn’t really get involved with my mom other than surface level. My mother has apologized to me one time. One time in 30+ years. I have bitten the bullet and apologize and begged her to forgive me every single time since I was a preteen for the sake of my dad. I remember there would be times he would call me crying begging me to apologize to her “to make the family whole again”.
The writings on the wall for NC, but I just can’t bring myself to enforce it with my father or my other sister. She has a bad habit of giving updates and sending photos, so I’d probably have to. I don’t want her getting stuck in the middle of it. TIA for any advice.
2023.06.08 05:49 Got_Curious Final Timeline Update for our AI Trading Project! Also AI Dashboards!
 | Hello Trading! u/NathMclovin and I have been working hard to improve the content of this subreddit, and make it great place for traders to build, learn, and find community. Outside of managing subreddits, Nathan and I have been working on a team that is building financial tools with the goal of bringing more power to average investors like all of us. Try Out Our AI Project! submitted by Got_Curious to StonkTraders [link] [comments] We have made a few posts regarding the official launch of our project, but we finally have a date set and stone. On Wed, June 14 we will be launching on Product Hunt! In the meantime, we have been working on some really sweet updates to Pluto! Canvas (AI Research Dashboards) - Simply insert a prompt, such as "I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index" and our AI will build you a full research dashboard related to your prompt. You can reroll any widget, add widgets and charts of your choice, customize however you want. Our goal is to make manual trading directly possible from this page. This feature is still in development, if you run into bugs let us know! \"I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index\" \"I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index\" pt.2 AI Alerts and Scheduled Prompts - You can now schedule alerts for your favorite stocks. Simply tell the AI something like, "Alert me when SNAP's stock performance is up 10% in a week**"** and the AI will send you an email when your parameters are triggered. You can also set up questions for the AI that will be sent to you on an interval of your choice. Manual Trading - We are still working with Alpaca to implement manual trading into the platform. This process should be finished soon. It is coming! We have full papertrading, automation building, and backtesting for the time being. Chat Charts - Plato (our AI) will now give you charts to represent information your are interested in. Have a quick question about anything related to the markets? He's got you. NVDA Revenue History in Light Mode! AI will provide REAL TIME DATA for:
Practice Portfolio in Dark Mode! Before I go: We really need your feedback to make this project better! If there is ANYTHING you want to see added or changed to the Pluto platform, let us know! We are in a stage of rapid development, requested features will be added if possible. If something can make your trading life easier, don't hesitate to ask. We hope you find Pluto useful! Try out Pluto now! |
2023.06.08 05:44 Got_Curious Final Timeline Update for our AI Investing Project! Also AI Dashboards!
 | Hello Trading! u/NathMclovin and I have been working hard to improve the content of this subreddit, and make it great place for traders to build, learn, and find community. Outside of managing subreddits, Nathan and I have been working on a team that is building financial tools with the goal of bringing more power to average investors like all of us. Try Out Our AI Project! submitted by Got_Curious to investingforbeginners [link] [comments] We have made a few posts regarding the official launch of our project, but we finally have a date set and stone. On Wed, June 14 we will be launching on Product Hunt! In the meantime, we have been working on some really sweet updates to Pluto! Canvas (AI Research Dashboards) - Simply insert a prompt, such as "I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index" and our AI will build you a full research dashboard related to your prompt. You can reroll any widget, add widgets and charts of your choice, customize however you want. Our goal is to make manual trading directly possible from this page. This feature is still in development, if you run into bugs let us know! \"I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index\" \"I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index\" pt.2 AI Alerts and Scheduled Prompts - You can now schedule alerts for your favorite stocks. Simply tell the AI something like, "Alert me when SNAP's stock performance is up 10% in a week**"** and the AI will send you an email when your parameters are triggered. You can also set up questions for the AI that will be sent to you on an interval of your choice. Manual Trading - We are still working with Alpaca to implement manual trading into the platform. This process should be finished soon. It is coming! We have full papertrading, automation building, and backtesting for the time being. Chat Charts - Plato (our AI) will now give you charts to represent information your are interested in. Have a quick question about anything related to the markets? He's got you. NVDA Revenue History in Light Mode! AI will provide REAL TIME DATA for:
Practice Portfolio in Dark Mode! Before I go: We really need your feedback to make this project better! If there is ANYTHING you want to see added or changed to the Pluto platform, let us know! We are in a stage of rapid development, requested features will be added if possible. If something can make your trading life easier, don't hesitate to ask. We hope you find Pluto useful! Try out Pluto now! |
2023.06.08 05:33 Got_Curious Final Timeline Update for our AI Trading Project! Also AI Dashboards!
 | Hello Trading! u/NathMclovin and I have been working hard to improve the content of this subreddit, and make it great place for traders to build, learn, and find community. Outside of managing subreddits, Nathan and I have been working on a team that is building financial tools with the goal of bringing more power to average investors like all of us. Try Out Our AI Project! submitted by Got_Curious to Trading [link] [comments] We have made a few posts regarding the official launch of our project, but we finally have a date set and stone. On Wed, June 14 we will be launching on Product Hunt! In the meantime, we have been working on some really sweet updates to Pluto! Canvas (AI Research Dashboards) - Simply insert a prompt, such as "I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index" and our AI will build you a full research dashboard related to your prompt. You can reroll any widget, add widgets and charts of your choice, customize however you want. Our goal is to make manual trading directly possible from this page. This feature is still in development, if you run into bugs let us know! \"I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index\" \"I want to research the S&P500 and market movers from the index\" pt.2 AI Alerts and Scheduled Prompts - You can now schedule alerts for your favorite stocks. Simply tell the AI something like, "Alert me when SNAP's stock performance is up 10% in a week" and the AI will send you an email when your parameters are triggered. You can also set up questions for the AI that will be sent to you on an interval of your choice. Manual Trading - We are still working with Alpaca to implement manual trading into the platform. This process should be finished soon. It is coming! We have full papertrading, automation building, and backtesting for the time being. Chat Charts - Plato (our AI) will now give you charts to represent information your are interested in. Have a quick question about anything related to the markets? He's got you. NVDA Revenue History in Light Mode! AI will provide REAL TIME DATA for:
Practice Portfolio in Dark Mode! Before I go: We really need your feedback to make this project better! If there is ANYTHING you want to see added or changed to the Pluto platform, let us know! We are in a stage of rapid development, requested features will be added if possible. If something can make your trading life easier, don't hesitate to ask. We hope you find Pluto useful! Try out Pluto now! |
2023.06.08 05:27 AnInfluxOfBees [Review] EvaRileyVIP
OnlyFans: https://onlyfans.com/evarileyvip?rec=27728136
Sub Proof: https://imgur.com/a/0OT8J3c
Typical lurker to the subreddit to see whom to avoid mostly but popped onto some request post awhile back and stumbled across Eva.
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submitted by AnInfluxOfBees to OnlyFansReviews [link] [comments]
Sub Proof: https://imgur.com/a/0OT8J3c
Typical lurker to the subreddit to see whom to avoid mostly but popped onto some request post awhile back and stumbled across Eva.
To be entirely honest, fell in love with her look immediately. First thing I noticed was her eyes. I know I’m in the minority when discussing what people look for on this particular site (OnlyFans) but figured I would at least bring it up. She’s not lacking in any of the typical departments (big natural boobs and great butt) so has something for everyone’s liking.
She does post daily pics to her wall completely open to everyone if you’re looking for consistency and has polls for a weekly vid that is also posted so there is so great complimentary variety just on her wall.
I didn’t really interact with her for the first week or so of being subbed and it was a good thing. She has a normal welcome message that is very open and has a fairly priced bundle. But the thing I noticed and that is very rare is no spam messages and it’s a breath of fresh air for my limited time on OnlyFans.
She does independently respond to each message and is more the welcomed to accommodate with a wide array of content on her tip menu. I’ve had nothing but pleasant experiences talking with her and she is actively daily. She has solo play and B/G so there is plenty to choose from in the content department.
I’m a big fan as you can tell with my full year subscription and being a top fan last month. I’ve yet to see anything I didn’t love about her when it comes to content, not spam messaging, and being responsive. If you’re looking for creator that is a sort of Swiss Army Knife, I’d highly recommend Eva to everyone in the subreddit who likes personable, beautiful, busty women.
2023.06.08 04:57 khoafraelich789 50 Most Expensive Cars In The World
 | From Aston Martin to Zenvo, these are the most expensive supercars and hypercars ever made. submitted by khoafraelich789 to CarInformationNews [link] [comments] When it comes to high-end hypercars and super-fast supercars, a few companies should come to mind first: Bugatti, Ferrari, Koenigsegg, Rimac, and Pagani, among others. These manufacturers have cemented themselves as the top dogs in the supercar and hypercar space, extending to their wealthiest clientele the fastest, rarest, prettiest – and in this case – most expensive cars on the planet. But in order to find out which of these unattainable-to-most vehicles is the priciest, we've scoured the invoice sheets and uncovered 50 cars all worth $1 million or more. The group includes hybrid Ferrari convertibles, an American speed king, a few electric Hypercars, and two a one-of-a-kind Rolls-Royce cars built for royalty. We should note, though: The prices listed here are the price of the vehicles when new. So we’re not counting auction cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO, or overpriced secondhand sales. But don’t worry, there’s still hundreds of millions worth of cars here to whet your appetite. De Tomaso P72 Price: $1.3 Million https://preview.redd.it/mjblep6rhp4b1.png?width=792&format=png&auto=webp&s=149247570ee682082950e1787e40083e24f57051 The De Tomaso P72 is basically the definition of beautiful. The shapely supercar debuted at the 2019 Goodwood Festival Of Speed with a supercharged Ford V8 boasting 700 horsepower. The P72 marked the return of the DeTomaso brand after nearly 30 years on hiatus, and if you want one, it will cost you at least $1.3 million. Ferrari LaFerrari Price: $1.4 Million https://preview.redd.it/t4kl320thp4b1.png?width=757&format=png&auto=webp&s=9d2282fd95775dc58d6118391242ed90517c6034 At $1.4 million new, the Ferrari LaFerrari is actually one of the most affordable supercars on this list. It’s a bargain compared to the most expensive vehicle here. Debuting in 2013 with 950 hybrid horses (708 kilowatts) and a top speed of around 220 miles per hour (354 kilometers per hour), this is still Ferrari’s fastest and most powerful production model to date. The company built just 499 examples of the coupe between 2013 and 2016. Pagani Huayra Price: $1.4 Million https://preview.redd.it/xf170icwhp4b1.png?width=767&format=png&auto=webp&s=28006f844a123d2cc340c1a2bb3a9386e620156d Inarguably one of the prettiest cars on this list, the Pagani Huayra cost a cool $1.4 million when new. Like the LaFerrari, Pagani built the Huayra in extremely limited numbers. The company hand-constructed just 100 units of the coupe between 2012 and 2018, with another 20 versions of the BC model (which makes our list further down) between 2017 and 2019. Powering each and every example was a Mercedes-AMG V12 capable of 720 horsepower (537 kilowatts). McLaren Elva Price: $1.7 Million https://preview.redd.it/u1pszk9zhp4b1.png?width=752&format=png&auto=webp&s=2deeae7d004708695939b260d6154cc765ac75fc The McLaren Elva is one of the latest additions to the British supercar maker’s storied legacy. Even without a proper windshield (though, no option) or roof to rely on, the Elva produces 804 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8. Originally McLaren announced just 399 units, but later the company dropped that to an even more scarce 249 examples. Either way, most of you will never get your hands on one – the Elva costs $1.7 million. Czinger 21C Price: $1.7 Million https://preview.redd.it/nfw8pcp0ip4b1.png?width=725&format=png&auto=webp&s=4153021794d8da48eb2f4f72ef891bf4abd043d9 You might not know the name Czinger yet, but this California-based boutique automaker is responsible for the $1.7 million 21C supercar. With 1,250 horsepower on tap thanks to a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8, the 21C can rocket to 60 miles per hour in 1.9 seconds and a top speed of around 281 miles per hour. Ferrari Monza Price: $1.7 Million https://preview.redd.it/94veko45ip4b1.png?width=751&format=png&auto=webp&s=ee2d70f541a084d60b4b7f5911ac7c40ba75f392 Much like the roof-less McLaren Elva, the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are all about al fresco motoring. As the name implies, the SP1 is the single-seater option while the SP2 has just enough room for you to bring along a friend. Both cars come powered by the same naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine capable of 809 horsepower and 530 pound-feet. Unfortunately for US buyers, neither of these models are street legal in the States. But f you have the funds to afford the car’s $1.75 million price tag, getting onto a track probably won’t be an issue anyway. Gordon Murray T.33 Price: $1.7 Million https://preview.redd.it/eqnwdeyaip4b1.png?width=750&format=png&auto=webp&s=6c1264bd773b87e84aaa1ab5a47bb3948cdab877 The second and slightly more affordable supercar in the new Gordon Murray lineup is the T.33. With 607 horsepower courtesy of a naturally aspirated 3.9-liter V12, the T.33 revs to a ridiculous 10,500 RPM. With a price tag of around $1.7 million at current conversion rates, Gordon Murray automotive promises to sell this car globally, in both right- and left-hand-drive configurations. Too bad it's already sold out. Koenigsegg Gemera Price: $1.7 Million https://preview.redd.it/t8kr9umcip4b1.png?width=716&format=png&auto=webp&s=b08f32b152e3ada414fdbe0bb2548a9202d710f1 One of two Koenigsegg models on this list, the Gemera is actually the Swedish supercar maker’s first four-seater. But that doesn’t mean it’s some family car. With a twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter engine under the hood and three electric motors, the Gemera has 1,700 horsepower and will hit 60 in just 1.9 seconds. The company only plans to build 300 of them, each one costing at least $1.7 million. Zenvo TSR-S Price: $1.7 Million https://preview.redd.it/zibamv9fip4b1.png?width=719&format=png&auto=webp&s=a0a61769b3592745b135a63d75e3cae2091fdb9e Hailing from Denmark, the Zenvo TSR-S debuted in 2018 at the Geneva Motor Show as the most extreme option in the supercar startup’s repertoire. Boasting a twin-charged 5.8-liter V8 engine, the TSR-S produces 1,177 horsepower and will hit 62 miles per hour in just 2.8 seconds. Expect to pay at least $1.7 million to get your hands on this powerful and limited supercar. Hennessey Venom F5 Price: $1.8 Million https://preview.redd.it/z4t9h6rgip4b1.png?width=729&format=png&auto=webp&s=045e4293fbebbce15713f030ddc7337121df771b The Hennessey Venom GT was a record-breaker, topping out at 265.7 miles per hour in a world record run. But the new F5 plans to beat its predecessor with an estimated top speed of 311 mph, and with that comes a higher price, too. The Venom F5 starts at $1.8 million, according to the company, which makes it just a bit pricier than its $1.2-million predecessor. Bentley Bacalar Price: $1.9 Million https://preview.redd.it/eg198abjip4b1.png?width=741&format=png&auto=webp&s=4e74bd713fab000673d741fe8b72b20b6b80a91f With just 12 total units produced, the Bentley Bacalar makes some of the "limited" cars on this list look plentiful by comparison. Although the car’s opulent design may be the first thing to grab your attention, the Bacalar is no slouch in terms of performance either. With Bentley’s signature turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 turbocharged engine, this car delivers 650 horsepower and 664 pound-feet. If you have a spare $1.9 million lying around and are considering buying one, you’re already too late – Bentley says that every example is now in customer hands. Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne Price: $1.9 Million https://preview.redd.it/29pz2mukip4b1.png?width=733&format=png&auto=webp&s=32d49b6722dc434b125827bf432cc8b1c4f98e9b To call the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne beautiful would be... a stretch. But this interesting-looking supercar made its US debut at this year's Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance boasting a 1,114-horsepower electric powertrain and a 0-60 time of 2.6 seconds. The Boulogne version pictured here – the lighter and more powerful of the two – costs close to $1.9 million. Bentley Mulliner Batur Price: $2.0 Million https://preview.redd.it/ejs2msmnip4b1.png?width=741&format=png&auto=webp&s=6fb981efa05ddb8d6c659b5f92e3f456491bd587 The electric onslaught is coming. Bentley says it will be a fully electric automaker by 2030. But before the luxury brand transitions to battery power fully, the Mulliner Batur helps send the iconic W12 engine off in style. With 710 horsepower from that twin-turbocharged engine, the Batur is the most powerful Bentley ever. And since it's limited to just 18 examples globally, the Batur costs a whopping $2.0 million. Deus Vayanne Price: $2.0 Million https://preview.redd.it/fyi22i5pip4b1.png?width=701&format=png&auto=webp&s=82912cd2d17db05bd95226b0c7c7ebbf9e18779a The Deus Vayanne may not be a household name (yet), but the all-electric hypercar debuted earlier this year with 2,200 horsepower, a 0-60 time of just under 2.0 seconds, and an estimated top speed of 248 miles per hour. Deus plans to build 99 examples of the Vayanne, with the first few examples scheduled to go on sale in 2025. SSC Tuatara Price: $2.0 Million* https://preview.redd.it/7zgzhptrip4b1.png?width=691&format=png&auto=webp&s=3e9120a40cdc3b632d111a9a5f2e319fe8cb80a9 Although initially cloaked in controversy, SSC did manage to hit 282.9 miles per hour with its Tuatara hypercar, breaking a world record. But not only is the Tuatara one of the fastest vehicles on the planet, it’s also one of the priciest. The cost for all that speed is estimated to be around $2.0 million for the base Tuatara, limited to just 100 units worldwide. Lotus Evija Price: $2.1 Million https://preview.redd.it/u7dfyfktip4b1.png?width=747&format=png&auto=webp&s=7776ac62b93857b837349a32d4ad53f8ee039f03 With a new Emira sports car and an Eletre electric SUV, Lotus is on the brink of a comeback. The automaker plans to roll out a number of new products within the next few years, with part of that strategy including the range-topping Evija. This supercar comes in at a cool $2.1 million and produces nearly 2,000 horsepower via four electric motors. Lotus plans to build just 130 road-going examples of the Evija. Aston Martin Vulcan Price: $2.3 Million https://preview.redd.it/72pt3tuwip4b1.png?width=722&format=png&auto=webp&s=d072fdedce7c750383bb869098d8a084c63b78a8 As with a few other cars on this list, the Aston Martin Vulcan was a track-only special. The British supercar made its world debut in 2015, powered by a naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V12 that produced 820 horsepower, and limited to just 24 examples worldwide. An even more track-focused AMR Pro model followed, but even the base Vulcan was a pricey commodity, costing about $2.4-million from the factory. Delage D12 Price: $2.3 Million https://preview.redd.it/hund9f6zip4b1.png?width=735&format=png&auto=webp&s=ea7d67259c6737bc321ca5d947870da4a46d5db4 You may have heard of Delage before. In the early 1900s, this French automaker was competing on the track with Bugatti and Ferrari. Now Delage is back and with a beautiful new hypercar dubbed the D12. Powered by a 7.6-liter V12 engine, the new D12 produces upwards of 1,010 horsepower and costs a cool $2.3 million. McLaren Speedtail Price: $2.3 Million What would you pay for the fastest production McLaren ever? Well, at least $2.3 million. With 1,035 horsepower courtesy of a gasoline-electric hybrid V8 powertrain, the Speedtail tops out at 250 miles per hour and is able to reach 186 mph in just 12.8 seconds – 2.7 seconds faster than the P1. Unfortunately, if you didn't get your hands on one new in 2020, you'll have to shell out serious cash on the used market. McLaren only built 106 examples. Rimac Nevera Price: $2.4 Million The Rimac Nevera takes the title of most expensive EV with its $2.4 million price tag – but only by a few hundred thousand dollars over the next priciest electric supercar. Packing 1,914 horsepower and 1,740 pound-feet of torque, the Nevera can hit 60 in under 2.0 seconds and will continue on to a top speed of 258 miles per hour. Those lucky enough to order one should see it in their driveway before the end of 2022. Pagani Utopia Price: $2.5 Million First came the Zonda, then the Huayra, and now the Pagani Utopia. With 852 horsepower and an available seven-speed manual gearbox, the Utopia is the most powerful road-going Pagani ever produced and it’s limited to just 99 examples worldwide. The cost for one is a cool $2.5 million. Pininfarina Battista Price: $2.5 Million Aptly named after the company’s founder, Battista Farina, the Pininfarina Battista delivers the kind of performance (and price!) to make its namesake proud. Revealed at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the Battista is completely electric, putting out 1,827 horsepower. If a normal supercar’s 0 to 60 time sounds too leisurely for you, the company says that the Battista will take you there in under 2.0 seconds. Pininfarina plans on building 150 examples of the Battista, costing $2.5 million each. Ferrari FXX K Evo Price: $2.6 Million Sure, you could buy a normal LaFerrari (which also makes the list further down), but why settle for a supercar so mundane when you can take home this track-only version instead? Granted, the Ferrari FXX K Evo came out in 2017, and it's well past the point of being sold out. But when it was new, this 1,036-horsepower Ferrari tore up the track with its naturally aspirated V12 and aggressive aerodynamics. Gordon Murray T.50 Price: $2.6 Million If the name Gordon Murray sounds familiar, it’s because he's the man behind the design of the iconic McLaren F1. These days, Mr. Murray has his own supercar venture, and the handsome T.50 is the crown jewel of the lineup. At $2.6 million, the T.50 packs a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V12 that makes 654 horsepower. The car itself weighs a mere 2,174 pounds, and at 392 pounds, the T.50 has the lightest V12 on the road today. Lamborghini Countach Price: $2.6 Million The name Countach may be iconic, but is it worth $2.6 million? That's what Lamborghini hopes you will spend on its new Aventador-based model. Debuting in August of 2021, the Countach LPI 800-4 has a 6.5-liter V12 with a light hybrid assist that gives it a whopping 803 horsepower, allowing for a 60 time of 2.8 seconds and a top speed of more than 220 miles per hour. Mercedes-AMG Project One Price: $2.7 Million Mercedes has promised a production version of the Project One hypercar for quite a while now. The first official announcement was in March of 2017 before the first concept debuted later that same year. But after nearly five years of teasing, it appears as if the Project One will finally hit public roads. And when it does, the hybrid hypercar will have over 1,200 horsepower (895 kilowatts) and a price tag of $2.7 million. Aston Martin Victor Price: $3.0 Million The folks at Aston Martin know a thing or two about exclusive vehicles, and the Victor might be the most exclusive project for the British brand to date. Based on the One-77 platform, the Victor uses parts from several donor Astons including the track project Vulcan and the upcoming Valkyrie. And talking about limited production – the Victor is one-of-one and rumored to cost nearly $3 million. Hennessey Venom F5 Roadster $3.0 Million The same Hennessey Venom F5 hypercar we all know and love, but with less roof. The F5 Roadster has the same twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V8 as the coupe, producing the same 1,817 horsepower and 1,193 pound-feet of torque. Hennessey estimates a top speed of over 300 miles per hour, but if you want one, it will cost you at least $3.0 million. Koenigsegg Jesko Price: $3.0 Million The Koenigsegg Jesko, apart from being the fastest car the company has made to date, is also the most expensive. At $3.0 million out of the box, the handsome hypercar has 1,600-horsepower courtesy of the brand's ubiquitous twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. Opt for the Absolut model, and the Jesko, in theory, will be able to hit 300 miles per hour. Aston Martin Valkyrie Price: $3.2 Million The upcoming Aston Martin hybrid hypercar hasn’t even hit the market yet, but already the $3.2 million Valkyrie has sold out. For what it’s worth, Aston Martin hasn’t officially released pricing. Estimates suggest the hypercar could go for anywhere between $2.6 and $3.9 million – but $3.2 million seems to be the magic number. Whatever the case, this machine is impressive. Its Cosworth-sourced 6.5-liter V12 produces 1,160 horsepower (865 kilowatts) and 664 pound-feet (900 Newton-meters) of torque, meaning its top speed should be well over 200 miles per hour (321 kilometers per hour). The company will build just 150 examples of the standard Valkyrie, with a limited 25-run AMR model arriving later. W Motors Lykan Hypersport Price: $3.4 Million Dubai-based W Motors shocked the world with its edgy Lykan Hypersport supercar in 2013. With titanium LED headlights housing 420 15-carat diamonds and a holographic display in the center console, it's no surprise it was the third most expensive car ever when new. It falls to number six on our list here, but it's still a wild hypercar with a powerful heart; the twin-turbocharged 3.7-liter six-cylinder engine underhood produces 780 horsepower (581 kilowatts) and 708 (960 Newton-meters) of torque. McLaren Solus $3.5 Million One seat, 829 horsepower, and a top speed of over 200 miles per hour. The new McLaren Solus is about as close as you can get to a Formula 1 car from the factory, powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine with a 0-62 mile-per-hour time of just 2.5 seconds. Estimates suggest a McLaren Solus will set you back about $3.5 million. Pagani Huayra Roadster BC Price: $3.5 Million Following Pagani’s past playbook, a roadster version of the ferocious Huayra BC was inevitable. Last year, the company made it official by showing off the Huayra Roadster BC, a topless monster with 800 horsepower (597 kilowatts) and 774 lb-ft of torque (1049 Newton-meters). Somewhat surprisingly, Pagani gave the roadster 50 more horsepower than its coupe sibling, by cranking up its AMG-sourced twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12. In addition to the joy of hearing the glorious engine note without a roof in the way, owners should take comfort in knowing that their car is ultra-rare. Pagani is limiting production to just 40 units, each with a sticker price of $3.5 million. Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Price: $3.6 Million Another showstopper from the Geneva Motor Show that never was, the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport is a special edition Chiron with a focus on aerodynamics, weight reduction, and power distribution. It’s the same 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine underneath the skin but it’s now mated to a recalibrated automatic gearbox. While the peak output remains unchanged at 1,500 horsepower (1,103 kilowatts), the rpm redline has been set 200 rpm higher, up to 6,900 rpm. The Pur Sport also features slightly revised bodywork, with a bigger rear wing and more aerodynamic front fascia. Beginning production in late 2020, the Bugatti starts at $3.6 million. Lamborghini Sian Price: $3.6 million In several ways, the Sian represents a bridge to Lamborghini’s future. Though it’s based on the Aventador SVJ, this wild-looking Lambo is the brand’s first production electrified offering. In addition to the SVJ-sourced 6.5-liter V12, the Sian uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Total system output is 819 horsepower (611 kilowatts), which also makes it the most powerful Lamborghini ever. As confirmed by the 63 stuck on either side of the Sian’s wing, Lamborghini will produce just 63 units. And each will cost far more than the Aventador SVJ, carrying a price of $3.6 million. Koenigsegg CC850 Price: $3.7 Million The Koenigsegg CC850 was a surprise to be sure, but a welcomed one. Borrowing the twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 from the Jesko, it notches that output up to 1,385 horsepower and 1,022 pound-feet of torque, with a so-called “TWMPAFMPC” transmission that shifts (pun intended) between manual and automatic functions. Of course, all that performance technology will cost you; the CC850 starts at $3.7 million. Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ Price: $3.9 Million Earlier this year, Bugatti captured the collective attention of the automotive world by announcing that it broke the 300 miles per hour barrier with a modified version of the Chiron. The Super Sport 300 + is a road-going version of that car, meant to celebrate the occasion. Limited to just 30 units, the Super Sport 300+ is a beautiful version of the Chiron, with flowing, slippery bodywork and a sweet stripe motif. Despite having hit 304.8 mph on the track with a production vehicle, Bugatti does limit its Chiron 300+ to 273 mph in top speed mode. Lamborghini Veneno Price: $4.5 Million Lamborghini built just 14 examples of the Aventador-based Veneno between 2014 and 2015. Each one cost around $4.5 million, depending on how it was spec'd, and was available in both convertible and coupe configurations. Underhood Lamborghini fitted a more-powerful iteration of the Aventador's 6.5-liter V12, now producing 740 horsepower (552 kilowatts) and 509 pound-feet (609 Newton-meters) of torque, which gave it the ability to sprint to 60 miles per hour (96 kilometers per hour) in a blistering 2.9 seconds. To date, it’s the most expensive new Lamborghini ever. Bugatti Bolide Price: $4.7 Million Produced in extremely limited numbers atop the body of a Chiron, it's no wonder Bugatti's one-of-40 Bolide track car is this pricey. At $4.7 million, the 1,824-horsepower hypercar has more power than the Chiron Super Sport 300+, and more extreme bodywork that allow it to lap tracks like the Nurburgring in record time (in theory). Bugatti says the Bolide would be able to conquer the ‘Ring in record time. Bugatti Mistral Price: $5.0 Million The Bugatti Mistral sends the iconic W16 engine off in style. With 1,577 horsepower and no roof, the Mistral takes the best bits of the Chiron and borrows elements from the Bolide and Divo to create a truly unique roadster. Of course, Bugatti plans to build just 99 examples of the Mistral at the cost of around $5.0 million in the US – and all of them are already accounted for. Pagani Huayra Imola Price: $5.4 Million Even though the new Utopia marks the next big step for Pagani, the Huayra Imola packs nearly as much power with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 827 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque. The Huayra Imola is estimated to cost around $5.4 million new, which would make it the second most expensive Pagani of all time. Bugatti Divo Price: $5.8 Million Among Bugatti’s recently debuted vehicles, the Divo is a staff favorite. Though it shares much in common with its cheaper (!) sibling the Chiron, the Divo has a lot going for it to justify the extra money. By adding lighter wheels, a carbon fiber intercooler and removing some sound deadening, Bugatti made the Divo 77 pounds lighter than the Chiron. Though power is unchanged from the Chiron’s 1,500 ponies (1,119 kilowatts), The Divo features a different aerodynamic setup, which makes it 8 seconds quicker around the Nardo test track. Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for: Bugatti is making 40 examples of the car, each costing $5.8 million. SP Automotive Chaos Price: $6.4 Million SP Automotive (short for Spyros Panopoulos) is a new name in the world of hypercars, but the brand's 2,000-horsepower, $6.4-million, aptly named Chaos has already made an impact. With a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V10, the base SP Automotive Chaos is one of the most expensive cars on this list – beating out many Lambos and Bugattis – but there's an even pricier version of this car that costs an eye-watering $14.4 million. That version reportedly packs 3,000 hp. Pagani Codalunga Price: $7.4 Million The long list of pricey (new) Paganis ends with the Codualunga. Inspired by 1960s Italian coachbuilding, the stunning exterior and steampunk-esque interior – while equally stunning – are only part of what makes this Pagani so pricey. Under the hood is a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 producing 829 horsepower and 809 pound-feet of torque, paired to a seven-speed sequential transmission for a real race-car–like feel. The cost for this one-of-five Pagani is $7.4 million. Mercedes-Maybach Exelero Price: $8.0 Million Like many others before it, the Mercedes-Benz Maybach Exelero is a one-off. Commissioned by Fulda, a German subsidiary of Goodyear, to test its new tires, the Exlero debuted in 2004. Mercedes built the Exelero on the bones of a Maybach, and gave it the same twin-turbo V12 engine producing 690 horsepower (510 kilowatts) and 752 pound-feet (1,020 Newton-meters) of torque. Top speed is listed at 218 miles per hour (350 kilometers per hour) and adjusted for inflation, the Exelero would cost more than $10 million in today's money. Bugatti Centodieci Price: $9.0 Million Bugatti debuted the Centodieci at last year’s Pebble Beach car week, showing off yet another ultra-rare, super-expensive model to the world. Limited to just 10 – dieci – units, the car is a modern throwback to the Bugatti EB110. At the same time, it’s meant to celebrate Bugatti’s momentous 110-year anniversary. Its unique styling cues won’t make everyone fall in love, but at least you won’t have to worry about seeing another one on the road. Carrying a price just shy of $9 million, the Centodiece is one of the most exclusive cars ever made. Bugatti Chiron Profilée Price: $10.8 Million While it may not look that different from a normal Chiron, the Profilée is quite literally one-of-a-kind. Bugatti built it initially as a test for a limited run of Profilée models, but this Chiron ended up being the only example. Boasting the same 1,476-horsepower quad-turbocharged W16 engine ubiquitous throughout the Chiron range, the Profilée has unique bodywork and a custom spoiler that helps separate it from the rest of the range. Rolls-Royce Sweptail Price: $12.8 Million Rolls-Royce, expectedly, takes two of the top three spots on this list, with the stunning Sweptail one-off from 2017 coming in at number three. With a monumental price tag of $13.0 million, it was, at the time of its debut, the most expensive new car ever. It's been outpriced since then, but the 453-horsepower luxury car is still a jaw-dropper. Bugatti La Voiture Noire Price: $13.4 Million With a price tag of $13.4 million, the one-off Bugatti La Voiture Noire is officially the most expensive new Bugatti ever made. And understandably so. A modern interpretation of Jean Bugatti's personal Type 57 SC Atlantic, the La Voiture Noire uses the same quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine as the Chiron, producing 1,479 horsepower. It has six – that's right, six exhaust tips, radical new wheels, an aggressive, bespoke fascia, and a gigantic light-up badge in the rear that spells out the name of the brand. Of course, this one-of-one Bugatti already has a home. Rolls-Royce Boat Tail* Price: $28.0 Million (est.) Rolls-Royce is back in the business of coachbuilding with the gorgeous new Boat Tail. A successor to the stunning Sweptail from 2017 – which itself cost a reported $12.8 million – the Boat Tail has a unique two-tone exterior, custom high-end finishes inside, and even a "hosting suite" complete with a champagne fridge and built-in sun umbrella. Although Rolls-Royce doesn’t officially announce pricing for one-off builds such as this, rumor has it that the Boat Tail cost a whopping $28.0 million new. https://preview.redd.it/fvvxgh84lp4b1.png?width=846&format=png&auto=webp&s=a34013f707e82e12d972a79ee5e0036755a510c4 Most Expensive Cars In The World Drako GTE - $1.2 Million DeTomaso P72: $1.3 Million Ferrari LaFerrari - $1.4 Million Pagani Huayra - $1.4 Million Czinger 21C - $1.7 Million Ferrari Monza - $1.7 Million Gordon Murray T.33 - $1.7 Million Koenigsegg Gemera - $1.7 Million McLaren Elva - $1.7 Million Zenvo TSR-S - $1.7 Million Hennessey Venom F5 - $1.8 Million Bentley Bacalar - $1.9 Million Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne: $1.9 Million Bentley Mulliner Batur: $2.0 Million Deus Vayanne: $2.0 Million SSC Tuatara - $2.0 Million* Lotus Evija - $2.1 Million Aston Martin Vulcan - $2.3 Million Delage D12: $2.3 Million McLaren Speedtail - $2.3 Million Rimac Nevera - $2.4 Million Pagani Utopia: $2.5 Million Pininfarina Battista - $2.5 Million Ferrari FXX K Evo - $2.6 Million Gordon Murray T.50 - $2.6 Million Lamborghini Countach - $2.6 Million Mercedes-AMG Project One - $2.7 Million Aston Martin Victor - $3.0 Million Hennessey Venom F5 Roadster: $3.0 Million Koenigsegg Jesko - $3.0 Million Aston Martin Valkyrie - $3.2 Million W Motors Lykan Hypersport - $3.4 Million McLaren Solus: $3.5 Million Pagani Huayra Roadster BC - $3.5 Million Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport - $3.6 Million Lamborghini Sian - $3.6 million Koenigsegg CC850: $3.7 Million Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ - $3.9 Million Lamborghini Veneno - $4.5 Million Bugatti Bolide - $4.7 Million Bugatti Mistral: $5.0 Million Pagani Huayra Imola: $5.4 Million Bugatti Divo - $5.8 Million SP Automotive Chaos - $6.4 Million Pagani Codalunga: $7.4 Million Mercedes-Maybach Exelero - $8.0 Million Bugatti Centodieci - $9.0 Million Rolls-Royce Sweptail - $12.8 Million Bugatti La Voiture Noire - $13.4 Million Rolls-Royce Boat Tail - $28.0 Million* Source: motor1 |
2023.06.08 04:26 Yarbles The Official Report of the May RVA Reddit (no we haven't) Bookclub
It was a fine day in May and we pulled up and talked about some books. We covered Blitz by Daniel O'Malley and, because it was recently Mother's Day, I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. And we spent way more time on them than we usually do, so we must have liked them. Quite a few people read the Blitz. Incorrigible_muffin had previously covered it, but was disappointed in the a payoff, and said the two story lines didn't really resolve. Aurora_the_Off-White said that she liked it, but agreed that it wasn't on the same level as the first two.
She said that Blitz could have a strong philosophical payoff even if the storylines didn't have an strong resolution. If someone read Blitz by itself without the first two novels, they might enjoy it more. Carbonjen thought there was a lot to like about the writer, saying he writes women well. Muffin said there were a lot of interesting possibilities in the world he created. The author covers the British and American versions of supernatural bureaus, but there were many of these throughout the world.
We talked about the story's structure. The main character's lost memory lets the author explain the supernatural elements in detail and do the worldbuilding without any distracting exposition. Munsontime had a thought, asking if it was technically the same person in the body or a completely new personality that developed after the wiped memory. If a personality is a product of the experiences and memories the person accumulates, then it's probably a different person.
Munson blitzed through the first two and is currently on the third. He was surprised at the spelling of the main character's name, Myfanwy Thomas, having listened to the audiobook. I was surprised and a little disappointed that the pronunciation is just "Miffany". Princess_MoNaanKay stopped by to return the first book int the The Checquy Files, The Rook that I had lent out. I thought she was returning it specifically because we were reading The Blitz, but she said she's decided to see other bookclubs. So we just need to move on and live our best bookclub life and hope she finds happiness.
Jennette McCurdy was apparently in a show called iCarly. I had never seen it or heard of it, so I think I missed a lot of context from the book. Everyone else in our group really liked the book - finding it insightful and funny. Most people agreed that the things the author's mom did stood out, and so did the actions of Dan Schneider, who was the creator of iCarly. But she didn't go into that in depth. Muffin said the system that pipelines kids into the entertainment business is fundamentally responsible for many of these abusive situations, and the actions of the mom are a product of that. Aurora thought that the author used humor to cope with loss and grief.
We talked about long wait times for getting books from the library. Carbonjen actually bought Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica because she was not optimistic about it becoming available through the library. She didn't have as many spicy romance recommendations as last time, but did have a couple. She thought Pestilence by Laura Thalassa was good and a fun concept. It's the first of The Four Horsemen series; a romance involving the four horseman of the apocalypse.
She liked The Siren a lot less. I think this was the one by Kiera Cass. Apparently the characters said the word "fishcunt" too many times and it became grating. She also didn't like how a lot of the characters in A Court of Thorns and Roses were developed in the story. She mentioned Brutal Prince only to say it was brutally bad, and is reading Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo and liking. And that makes Muffin happy.
Sassypapaya recently read Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr, which is very popular around these parts. I think she said she read The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, and may have had good things to say about Lightlark by Alex Aster, or that may have been someone else. She was too far away from me for me to follow the conversation from that side of the circle very well. She asked about Verity by Colleen Hoover and Muffin said that Colleen Hoover was a step up from Stephanie Meyer.
Munson and his friends have a rule for their bookclub: you can't use the term "Beautiful Prose". But if he was forced to provide an example of beautiful prose, then he might use it when talking about Another Country by James Baldwin. He described it as "Kerouacky" - intimate and sexual especially for 1961. It's about the Jazz scene in NY in the 60s, with themes of race, gender, and sexual orientation in its cultural context. A slice of life story in the gay, black, jazz scene in New York. The Trial of Henry Kissinger by Christopher Hitchens is next for his other bookclub, Apparently Hank is bumping up against age 100. It was estimated that his cold-blooded policy directives are responsible for 4 or 5 million deaths. We talked briefly about Red Rising by Pierce Brown, which was the biggest book in the world for a minute. Munson said that, as a sci fi guy, he had already read many similar stories before and it just wasn't a big deal for him.
Assaulty recently read American War by Omar Al Akkad, and talked about how people end up on different sides of a conflict. Many times people don't have a choice about which side they end up on, and American War addresses some of these themes. She asked for more like this book. Asterion7 suggested Paolo Bacigulupi works such as The Water Knife and Shipbreaker, which are near future works with major themes of climate catastrophe. For this kind of thing I always recommend Afterwar by Lilith Saintcrow. Saintcrow a romance writer and I was really surprised by this book. It's gritty and hard, and a little spicy but not romantic.
Assaulty also read Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin and likes reading about creative partnerships like this. She told us about Nevada by Imogen Binnie, which is one of the inspirations for Detransition Baby by Torrey Peters; This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone; and The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks, the first book of the Night Angel trilogy.
Muffin told us about The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson, the next book after the The Yellow Wife, which features Lumpkin's Jail. The House of Eve takes place in DC and Philly and ties in with the events of the first boo., The author will be giving a talk on June 8th at the Library of Virginia, and Muffin wanted to read this before seeing the author.
assaulty is looking for a gateway to Sci Fi, and asked about the distinction between Sci Fi and Fantasy. However many people there are in the room, that's the number of different opinions you're likely to hear at any given time. Some say it's magic versus technology. If Sci Fi doesn't have magic, what about Star Wars and force lightning from those Sith guys? So maybe Star Wars is actually Fantasy and Star Trek is Sci Fi. But what about wormholes and different dimensions and the super annoying character Q? It's a subject worth exploring, but there might not be an answer. To me those are just two different themes with strong aesthetic styling.
Assaulty may have read Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler or it might have just been recommended to her because she is interested in Sci Fi and liked The American War. Skyvrbyvr loved Octavia Butler's Kindred giving it 5 stars. She says it's not just beautiful prose: she respects that Butler is not afraid to create gruff and real people - characters that are somewhat unlikable but somehow still relatable.
Aurora had a huge list of completions and I have no idea if these are all hers or not. But this month she read a bunch of first books across several series. I think heard Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo; Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn by Tad Williams the first of the The Dragonbone Chair series (I think she deemed it meh); Elantris by Brandon Sanderson also caught a meh; and Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch, the first of the Gentleman Bastards series.
The last one generated a lot of interest as a lot of us have read it and really liked it. Like The Checquy Files, the first book is fantastic and there are diminishing returns after that, though I haven't read the last two: The Republic of Thieves and The Thorn of Emberlain. Munson says that if you read Sanderson, then The Stormlight Archive series is the way to go. Aurora also has Circe by Madeline Miller on hold at the library.
We talked about a few books about music, I think all of these are from Munson, including Meet Me in the Bathroom by Lizzy Goodman: Rebirth and Rock and Roll in New York City 2001-2011; Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk by Legs McNeil and Gillian McCain; and Sing Backwards and Weep, a memoir by the singer Mark Lanegan. We also talked a little about Nardwuar, a music interviewer who is amazingly in-depth but often described as offputting.
Munson says he can sometimes be invasive and not enjoyable but agrees that he is talented. Nardwuar is likely autistic and we were informed that "neurospicy" is no longer acceptable. Obviously, I'm cool with someone else deciding what they find offensive and following their recommendations, but I wish we had something to pivot to. We talked about how the line between normies and nerurodivergents can be pretty thin and while gatekeeping mental health can be frustrating, it's also infuriating that people resist any accommodation for neurodivergent people.
I knocked off a few books, including On a Night of A Thousand Stars by Andrea Yaryura Clark; Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata, and Gold Fame Citrus by Claire Vaye Watkins. The last was comparable to Station Eleven in terms of quality and themes. The story wasn't as good, but the prose was pretty exceptional. The author was able to do some things I hadn't seen before. I'm reading The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty, The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin, and listening to a couple courses about Human Pre History, First Civilizations, and pre-Alexandrian Empires.
Apparently George RR Martin joined the writer's strike and is not writing anything, not that you could really tell. We talked about the 8th season of Game of Thrones, and how those two producers just ruined at least hundreds of millions of dollars in sales of DVDs, downloads, books, and comics. One of the most disastrous effects of incompetence on a brand I've ever seen.
We talked about Patrick Rothfus's Name of the Wind and how the main character was a bit of a Mary Sue, but the narrator might have intentionally been portrayed as unreliable. Someone brought up Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits by Laila Lalami, and we added The Moor's Account as August's non-dorky read. Some of the guys don't want to me call it a Muggle book anymore, and would rather call it a regular book. Maybe we need to keep looking for the right term.
We talked about books with actual paper pages versus reading on a device or listening to audiobooks. Carbonjen says she prefers the Kindle Paperweight because her dogs chews up actual books. I read paper, epub, and listen in about equal proportions. I was listening to Dodge, or Fall in Hell and was not liking it, but started liking it better when I flipped to the epub version. Munson says he uses safari reader on his laptop and will set it to autoscroll. We also compared strategies for downsizing our libraries. Very few people keep every book they buy anymore, especially if you have moved your collection a couple times.
We talked about the St. James Muse, trails on the James, the resurgence in skating, and art classes at the VMFA and Visual Arts Studio. We also talked about all the pedestrians being hit by cars and how squaring street corners can slow cars down. Right now corners are rounded, encouraging cars to take them at speed. And how dash cams are an essential equipment for cars now. Chop Suey is now Shelf Life and Wonton is now "Wonny". But has retired and been replaced by two new cats, presumably who are earning much lower, entry-level wages.
Someone brought up BookTalk.org, saying they mostly got ass recommendations out of it. I've used https://www.whatshouldireadnext.com and it isn't so bad, but really isn't any better than Goodreads. I've used Shepherd a couple of times, which can be really good if you're looking for exactly the type of book that has been covered in one of their lists, but it seems to only accept general categories.
Coming Up on June 18
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She said that Blitz could have a strong philosophical payoff even if the storylines didn't have an strong resolution. If someone read Blitz by itself without the first two novels, they might enjoy it more. Carbonjen thought there was a lot to like about the writer, saying he writes women well. Muffin said there were a lot of interesting possibilities in the world he created. The author covers the British and American versions of supernatural bureaus, but there were many of these throughout the world.
We talked about the story's structure. The main character's lost memory lets the author explain the supernatural elements in detail and do the worldbuilding without any distracting exposition. Munsontime had a thought, asking if it was technically the same person in the body or a completely new personality that developed after the wiped memory. If a personality is a product of the experiences and memories the person accumulates, then it's probably a different person.
Munson blitzed through the first two and is currently on the third. He was surprised at the spelling of the main character's name, Myfanwy Thomas, having listened to the audiobook. I was surprised and a little disappointed that the pronunciation is just "Miffany". Princess_MoNaanKay stopped by to return the first book int the The Checquy Files, The Rook that I had lent out. I thought she was returning it specifically because we were reading The Blitz, but she said she's decided to see other bookclubs. So we just need to move on and live our best bookclub life and hope she finds happiness.
Jennette McCurdy was apparently in a show called iCarly. I had never seen it or heard of it, so I think I missed a lot of context from the book. Everyone else in our group really liked the book - finding it insightful and funny. Most people agreed that the things the author's mom did stood out, and so did the actions of Dan Schneider, who was the creator of iCarly. But she didn't go into that in depth. Muffin said the system that pipelines kids into the entertainment business is fundamentally responsible for many of these abusive situations, and the actions of the mom are a product of that. Aurora thought that the author used humor to cope with loss and grief.
We talked about long wait times for getting books from the library. Carbonjen actually bought Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica because she was not optimistic about it becoming available through the library. She didn't have as many spicy romance recommendations as last time, but did have a couple. She thought Pestilence by Laura Thalassa was good and a fun concept. It's the first of The Four Horsemen series; a romance involving the four horseman of the apocalypse.
She liked The Siren a lot less. I think this was the one by Kiera Cass. Apparently the characters said the word "fishcunt" too many times and it became grating. She also didn't like how a lot of the characters in A Court of Thorns and Roses were developed in the story. She mentioned Brutal Prince only to say it was brutally bad, and is reading Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo and liking. And that makes Muffin happy.
Sassypapaya recently read Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr, which is very popular around these parts. I think she said she read The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, and may have had good things to say about Lightlark by Alex Aster, or that may have been someone else. She was too far away from me for me to follow the conversation from that side of the circle very well. She asked about Verity by Colleen Hoover and Muffin said that Colleen Hoover was a step up from Stephanie Meyer.
Munson and his friends have a rule for their bookclub: you can't use the term "Beautiful Prose". But if he was forced to provide an example of beautiful prose, then he might use it when talking about Another Country by James Baldwin. He described it as "Kerouacky" - intimate and sexual especially for 1961. It's about the Jazz scene in NY in the 60s, with themes of race, gender, and sexual orientation in its cultural context. A slice of life story in the gay, black, jazz scene in New York. The Trial of Henry Kissinger by Christopher Hitchens is next for his other bookclub, Apparently Hank is bumping up against age 100. It was estimated that his cold-blooded policy directives are responsible for 4 or 5 million deaths. We talked briefly about Red Rising by Pierce Brown, which was the biggest book in the world for a minute. Munson said that, as a sci fi guy, he had already read many similar stories before and it just wasn't a big deal for him.
Assaulty recently read American War by Omar Al Akkad, and talked about how people end up on different sides of a conflict. Many times people don't have a choice about which side they end up on, and American War addresses some of these themes. She asked for more like this book. Asterion7 suggested Paolo Bacigulupi works such as The Water Knife and Shipbreaker, which are near future works with major themes of climate catastrophe. For this kind of thing I always recommend Afterwar by Lilith Saintcrow. Saintcrow a romance writer and I was really surprised by this book. It's gritty and hard, and a little spicy but not romantic.
Assaulty also read Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin and likes reading about creative partnerships like this. She told us about Nevada by Imogen Binnie, which is one of the inspirations for Detransition Baby by Torrey Peters; This Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone; and The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks, the first book of the Night Angel trilogy.
Muffin told us about The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson, the next book after the The Yellow Wife, which features Lumpkin's Jail. The House of Eve takes place in DC and Philly and ties in with the events of the first boo., The author will be giving a talk on June 8th at the Library of Virginia, and Muffin wanted to read this before seeing the author.
Please join us for a talk by award-winning author Sadeqa Johnson on her new novel, The House of Eve, the follow-up to her book Yellow Wife, which won the Library’s 2022 People’s Choice Award for Fiction. In this moving work of historical fiction set in 1950s Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., the stories of two women collide in unexpected ways as they both make decisions that shape the trajectory of their lives. The House of Eve was an instant New York Times best seller and was selected by Reese’s Book Club as the February 2023 pick. A book signing will follow the talk.Coconut read the second book in the Great Cities series by N.K. Jemisin called the The World We Make. Asterion7 picked up Trust by Herman Diaz, a Pulitzer prize winner. He also read We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin and liked it enough to finish it, but not much more than that.
The Carole Weinstein Author Series supports the literary arts by bringing both new and well-known authors to the Library of Virginia through online or in-person events. Free and open to the public, the series focuses on Virginia.
assaulty is looking for a gateway to Sci Fi, and asked about the distinction between Sci Fi and Fantasy. However many people there are in the room, that's the number of different opinions you're likely to hear at any given time. Some say it's magic versus technology. If Sci Fi doesn't have magic, what about Star Wars and force lightning from those Sith guys? So maybe Star Wars is actually Fantasy and Star Trek is Sci Fi. But what about wormholes and different dimensions and the super annoying character Q? It's a subject worth exploring, but there might not be an answer. To me those are just two different themes with strong aesthetic styling.
Assaulty may have read Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler or it might have just been recommended to her because she is interested in Sci Fi and liked The American War. Skyvrbyvr loved Octavia Butler's Kindred giving it 5 stars. She says it's not just beautiful prose: she respects that Butler is not afraid to create gruff and real people - characters that are somewhat unlikable but somehow still relatable.
Aurora had a huge list of completions and I have no idea if these are all hers or not. But this month she read a bunch of first books across several series. I think heard Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo; Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn by Tad Williams the first of the The Dragonbone Chair series (I think she deemed it meh); Elantris by Brandon Sanderson also caught a meh; and Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch, the first of the Gentleman Bastards series.
The last one generated a lot of interest as a lot of us have read it and really liked it. Like The Checquy Files, the first book is fantastic and there are diminishing returns after that, though I haven't read the last two: The Republic of Thieves and The Thorn of Emberlain. Munson says that if you read Sanderson, then The Stormlight Archive series is the way to go. Aurora also has Circe by Madeline Miller on hold at the library.
We talked about a few books about music, I think all of these are from Munson, including Meet Me in the Bathroom by Lizzy Goodman: Rebirth and Rock and Roll in New York City 2001-2011; Please Kill Me: The Uncensored Oral History of Punk by Legs McNeil and Gillian McCain; and Sing Backwards and Weep, a memoir by the singer Mark Lanegan. We also talked a little about Nardwuar, a music interviewer who is amazingly in-depth but often described as offputting.
Munson says he can sometimes be invasive and not enjoyable but agrees that he is talented. Nardwuar is likely autistic and we were informed that "neurospicy" is no longer acceptable. Obviously, I'm cool with someone else deciding what they find offensive and following their recommendations, but I wish we had something to pivot to. We talked about how the line between normies and nerurodivergents can be pretty thin and while gatekeeping mental health can be frustrating, it's also infuriating that people resist any accommodation for neurodivergent people.
I knocked off a few books, including On a Night of A Thousand Stars by Andrea Yaryura Clark; Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata, and Gold Fame Citrus by Claire Vaye Watkins. The last was comparable to Station Eleven in terms of quality and themes. The story wasn't as good, but the prose was pretty exceptional. The author was able to do some things I hadn't seen before. I'm reading The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty, The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin, and listening to a couple courses about Human Pre History, First Civilizations, and pre-Alexandrian Empires.
Apparently George RR Martin joined the writer's strike and is not writing anything, not that you could really tell. We talked about the 8th season of Game of Thrones, and how those two producers just ruined at least hundreds of millions of dollars in sales of DVDs, downloads, books, and comics. One of the most disastrous effects of incompetence on a brand I've ever seen.
We talked about Patrick Rothfus's Name of the Wind and how the main character was a bit of a Mary Sue, but the narrator might have intentionally been portrayed as unreliable. Someone brought up Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits by Laila Lalami, and we added The Moor's Account as August's non-dorky read. Some of the guys don't want to me call it a Muggle book anymore, and would rather call it a regular book. Maybe we need to keep looking for the right term.
We talked about books with actual paper pages versus reading on a device or listening to audiobooks. Carbonjen says she prefers the Kindle Paperweight because her dogs chews up actual books. I read paper, epub, and listen in about equal proportions. I was listening to Dodge, or Fall in Hell and was not liking it, but started liking it better when I flipped to the epub version. Munson says he uses safari reader on his laptop and will set it to autoscroll. We also compared strategies for downsizing our libraries. Very few people keep every book they buy anymore, especially if you have moved your collection a couple times.
We talked about the St. James Muse, trails on the James, the resurgence in skating, and art classes at the VMFA and Visual Arts Studio. We also talked about all the pedestrians being hit by cars and how squaring street corners can slow cars down. Right now corners are rounded, encouraging cars to take them at speed. And how dash cams are an essential equipment for cars now. Chop Suey is now Shelf Life and Wonton is now "Wonny". But has retired and been replaced by two new cats, presumably who are earning much lower, entry-level wages.
Someone brought up BookTalk.org, saying they mostly got ass recommendations out of it. I've used https://www.whatshouldireadnext.com and it isn't so bad, but really isn't any better than Goodreads. I've used Shepherd a couple of times, which can be really good if you're looking for exactly the type of book that has been covered in one of their lists, but it seems to only accept general categories.
Coming Up on June 18
- Fall; Or, Dodge in Hell
- or some other Neal Stephenson book
- Just pick a book in your To Be Read pile and tell us about it. We were lamenting the large backlog that each of each is carrying around and decided to just knock some of them out.
2023.06.08 04:22 autotldr The Messi effect: Inter Miami ticket prices jump 1,000% as star turns down $300 million Saudi offer
This is the best tl;dr I could make, original reduced by 50%. (I'm a bot)
Summary Source FAQ Feedback Top keywords: Messi#1 Miami#2 match#3 Ticket#4 club#5
Post found in /football, /worldnews and /sports.
NOTICE: This thread is for discussing the submission topic. Please do not discuss the concept of the autotldr bot here.
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Ticket prices for Inter Miami matches skyrocketed in the span of just a few hours Wednesday following reports that soccer legend Lionel Messi will leave Paris Saint-Germain for MLS-which he later confirmed-with the cheapest available tickets on the secondary market jumping more than 1,000% for Messi's first matches with the club.
Key Takeaways The cheapest ticket for Inter Miami's Leagues Cup match against Mexico City's Cruz Azul on July 21-reported to be Messi's first match with the club-jumped from $29 to $459, according to TickPick, following reports Wednesday morning that the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner will join David Beckham's Inter Miami.
That's how many people searched for Inter Miami tickets on StubHub in the hour early Wednesday afternoon after it was reported Messi will join the MLS club.
Messi confirmed Wednesday afternoon that he would join Inter Miami, saying he chose Miami "Not because of money," though he clarified the exact terms of the deal have not yet been completed.
Messi told Mundo Deportivo if he had made his decision in the interest of money he would have taken an offer to play in Saudi Arabia "Or elsewhere," adding he wanted to return to Barcelona, but did not want to leave his future "In the hands of someone else," according to a translation from independent journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Last month, Paris Saint-Germain issued Messi a two-week suspension after he took a promotional trip to Saudi Arabia without notifying the club-Messi later apologized for the suspension, saying he thought he had an off-day and couldn't cancel his planned trip to Saudi Arabia, where he serves as an official "Tourism Ambassador." Messi had also been rumored to rejoin Barcelona, where he played his first 17 seasons before joining PSG in 2021, and his father Jorge Messi-acting as his manager-met with team officials this week.
Post found in /football, /worldnews and /sports.
NOTICE: This thread is for discussing the submission topic. Please do not discuss the concept of the autotldr bot here.
2023.06.08 03:40 GabuFGC Does Capcoms current monetization model concern anyone else about the Future of the Monster Hunter Series?
So, I've been playing a bunch of Street Fighter 6 since it launched and Its MTX has been concerning me. In pervious Street Fighter games you could unlock alternate colors just by playing the game, but in SF6, you need "Drive Tickets" which is a currency that you can only get by doing "Weekly Challenges". It costs 1,000 for a single alternate color and I've only got 500 in my first week. I've already put 20 hours into the game and haven't been able to unlock a single alternate color yet. Its very upsetting. Apparently there is going to be a "battlepass" as well which will likely award some Tickets. Battlepasses in a fully priced games are nothing New, but needed to spend extra money just to get content that used to be unlockable simply by playing is disheartening to say the least.
I wonder how this'll effect the future of Monster Hunter. Do you think the next Major MH game will feature a Battlepass? How would you feel about FOMO Cosmetics possibly being added to the game via a Battlepass? How do you feel about an alternate Currency added to the game used that you can only get a limited amount of that's used to buy cosmetics and Layered Armors?I can't stop thinking about how they are going abuse MTX in the new MH game and it worries me about the future of the series.
EDIT: I don't know why this is getting downvoted. I thought it was an interesting discussion topic, but I suppose its already been talked about before. I just saw how SF6 is in regards to cosmetics and MTX and wondered how MH will hand this new modern design based around cosmetic MTX.
submitted by GabuFGC to MonsterHunter [link] [comments]
I wonder how this'll effect the future of Monster Hunter. Do you think the next Major MH game will feature a Battlepass? How would you feel about FOMO Cosmetics possibly being added to the game via a Battlepass? How do you feel about an alternate Currency added to the game used that you can only get a limited amount of that's used to buy cosmetics and Layered Armors?I can't stop thinking about how they are going abuse MTX in the new MH game and it worries me about the future of the series.
EDIT: I don't know why this is getting downvoted. I thought it was an interesting discussion topic, but I suppose its already been talked about before. I just saw how SF6 is in regards to cosmetics and MTX and wondered how MH will hand this new modern design based around cosmetic MTX.
2023.06.08 02:38 cdeane293 Is this a good buy?
Hey Guys,
A friend of mine is selling his 2018 Model 3 Performance Long Range. He's done a lot of modifications but its over priced in my opinion. He had it listed in 2022 for 58k then relisted it on Craiglist for $38k with 40k miles. FSD included and a list of modifications looks like Storm Trooper.
Here's some of the work he's done.
FSD fully paid and currently active in car which has been garage kept most of its life. Hand washed all throughout except 2 visits to the car wash during long road trips; all interior trims cleaned and protected with UV blocking solution on a monthly basis to prevent fading. White seats have been cleaned with special cleaning solution and protected with ceramic coating solution for seats on a quarterly basis.
Several cosmetic and some fucnrional modifications done along with several convenient accessories added totaling over $12K. Some of them are listed below.
– Full body PPF – Ceramic coating – Ceramic tinting – all windows and roof – Custom paint job for roof panels, full chrome delete, body matching door handles, burnt copper brake calipers, side camera camouflage – Front trunk struts upgraded with higher pressure ones which enable the frunk lid to open fully with the press of a button instead of having to manually open the lid all the way up. – Front license plate holder to prevent having to glue it to the body worth $200 – Wireless charging pads – Screen protector and extra storage bins and sunglasses holder – White carbon fiber looking vinyl wraps on consoles and steering wheel – Premium 3D Max Spider floor mats in cabin, trunk and trunk – All stock interior, trunk and door LEDs replaced with 4X brighter LEDs – blue for front foot lamps and Model 3 logo for the front doors. – Comes with original Tesla car cover worth over $400 – 3rd OEM air filters being replaced with HEPA charcoal activated filters last week
– Evaporator cleaned once a year.
Do you all think its a good idea? The pictures are listed here.
https://www.findmyelectric.com/listings/2018-tesla-model-3-long-range-awd-112839/
View Poll
submitted by cdeane293 to TeslaLounge [link] [comments]
A friend of mine is selling his 2018 Model 3 Performance Long Range. He's done a lot of modifications but its over priced in my opinion. He had it listed in 2022 for 58k then relisted it on Craiglist for $38k with 40k miles. FSD included and a list of modifications looks like Storm Trooper.
Here's some of the work he's done.
FSD fully paid and currently active in car which has been garage kept most of its life. Hand washed all throughout except 2 visits to the car wash during long road trips; all interior trims cleaned and protected with UV blocking solution on a monthly basis to prevent fading. White seats have been cleaned with special cleaning solution and protected with ceramic coating solution for seats on a quarterly basis.
Several cosmetic and some fucnrional modifications done along with several convenient accessories added totaling over $12K. Some of them are listed below.
– Full body PPF – Ceramic coating – Ceramic tinting – all windows and roof – Custom paint job for roof panels, full chrome delete, body matching door handles, burnt copper brake calipers, side camera camouflage – Front trunk struts upgraded with higher pressure ones which enable the frunk lid to open fully with the press of a button instead of having to manually open the lid all the way up. – Front license plate holder to prevent having to glue it to the body worth $200 – Wireless charging pads – Screen protector and extra storage bins and sunglasses holder – White carbon fiber looking vinyl wraps on consoles and steering wheel – Premium 3D Max Spider floor mats in cabin, trunk and trunk – All stock interior, trunk and door LEDs replaced with 4X brighter LEDs – blue for front foot lamps and Model 3 logo for the front doors. – Comes with original Tesla car cover worth over $400 – 3rd OEM air filters being replaced with HEPA charcoal activated filters last week
– Evaporator cleaned once a year.
Do you all think its a good idea? The pictures are listed here.
https://www.findmyelectric.com/listings/2018-tesla-model-3-long-range-awd-112839/
View Poll
2023.06.08 02:14 ThatDeadpenGuy [FOR HIRE] Story Crafting, Script Writing, Review, and Illustration services available!
Got a writing project that you just can't figure out on your own? I'm here to help.
I can work with as little as a general concept and will help you with all the many particulars that go into turning it into a story. Characters, world-building, setups and payoffs. We will work out exactly what you want and how you’ll get there.
I specialize in fantasy, horror and more recently sci-fi. But I can work with any combination of genre and setting you have in mind. I will do the necessary research for ideas that stem from real-world counterparts (ie: cultures, histories, sciences)
Conversely, if all you need is someone to help you with a specific problem, I can be there to spitball and stress test any idea that has you stumped. Sometimes all it takes is another brain to bounce off of and pick the nits out of your story’s golden locks.
MY STORY CRAFTING FUNDAMENTALS
I treat characters as the adhesive that holds the whole plot together, so expect a particular focus on your cast unless you request otherwise. No matter what stage you’re at in your project, I can assist in conceptualizing, pressing, and developing each character fully.
Personality building, positive and negative attributes, history, relationships, dialogue. I cover it all.
The world, likewise, will also be thoroughly developed to whatever scope you wish to take your story to. Whether it be one person’s life in a familiar place, or an entirely new planet with its own distinct peoples and history. I will help iron out all those details to give that plucky cast a good home to live in.
Finally we have the structure. From the broad strokes to the nitty gritty of each individual scene, my job will be to set a clear path from the start of the story to the end.
Additionally I can also provide you illustrations of your characters, world, and even storyboarding.
SCRIPTING Past story crafting we have the script itself, which I can also help with. I specialize in scripting for comic books, it's an incredibly adaptable medium. But say you prefer I write a screenplay, book, article anything else, I can work with your specifications.
Regardless of style, my scripts come with detailed descriptions and easy to parse dialogue (an area that many writers struggle with). Whether it be the whole story, single chapters, or a couple of scenes, no project is not worth my time.
Everything will be consolidated into a document that you can reference anytime, whether I’m still working on your project or not. I do not require a credit if you prefer I be a ghost writer. Credit is appreciated, but as long I’m paid for my work you may do with it as you please.
PRICING
For writing I charge a flat rate of $0.06 per word. Be warned that this adds up faster than you may expect, but I’ll keep all documents as concise as possible. Furthermore I don’t charge for my time spent discussing the story with you or doing research.
If all you need is someone to review your work I charge $10 per hour spent reading your script only. I take detailed notes along with constructive criticism that will be available to you after the reading.
And for art, my rates vary depending on the request. I am by no means a professional artist but I am relatively adaptable. So check my latest works to see if my style is to your liking (all my art can be found here).
I may be able to refer you to a more suitable artist if not.
Here's what you can generally expect to pay per illustration-
Character ($10-30 depending on color and complexity)
Storyboard ($25 per page)
Comic Page ($50 b/w, $80 full color)
10 or more Comic Pages ($30 b/w, $50 full color per page)
I would prefer art requests pertain to your project, but if you like my style and want some other request fulfilled, I am fine with that.
Charges come weekly, and will be worth the week's total contribution (I keep a separate log detailing what was added at what time to avoid any confusion). I am willing to negotiate budgetary options if for whatever reason the total amount cannot be paid on the charge date.
I give every client a three week grace period for payment, after which if the client hasn’t paid the full or negotiated amount I will remove myself from the project.
I guarantee the absolute best in communication, analysis, and most importantly, quality of writing. That in this author’s humble opinion, you’ll be hard pressed to find at such comparatively low rates.
Interested? Let me know. I'm looking forward to being able to jump into your world and help bring it to life.
submitted by ThatDeadpenGuy to forhire [link] [comments]
I can work with as little as a general concept and will help you with all the many particulars that go into turning it into a story. Characters, world-building, setups and payoffs. We will work out exactly what you want and how you’ll get there.
I specialize in fantasy, horror and more recently sci-fi. But I can work with any combination of genre and setting you have in mind. I will do the necessary research for ideas that stem from real-world counterparts (ie: cultures, histories, sciences)
Conversely, if all you need is someone to help you with a specific problem, I can be there to spitball and stress test any idea that has you stumped. Sometimes all it takes is another brain to bounce off of and pick the nits out of your story’s golden locks.
MY STORY CRAFTING FUNDAMENTALS
I treat characters as the adhesive that holds the whole plot together, so expect a particular focus on your cast unless you request otherwise. No matter what stage you’re at in your project, I can assist in conceptualizing, pressing, and developing each character fully.
Personality building, positive and negative attributes, history, relationships, dialogue. I cover it all.
The world, likewise, will also be thoroughly developed to whatever scope you wish to take your story to. Whether it be one person’s life in a familiar place, or an entirely new planet with its own distinct peoples and history. I will help iron out all those details to give that plucky cast a good home to live in.
Finally we have the structure. From the broad strokes to the nitty gritty of each individual scene, my job will be to set a clear path from the start of the story to the end.
Additionally I can also provide you illustrations of your characters, world, and even storyboarding.
SCRIPTING Past story crafting we have the script itself, which I can also help with. I specialize in scripting for comic books, it's an incredibly adaptable medium. But say you prefer I write a screenplay, book, article anything else, I can work with your specifications.
Regardless of style, my scripts come with detailed descriptions and easy to parse dialogue (an area that many writers struggle with). Whether it be the whole story, single chapters, or a couple of scenes, no project is not worth my time.
Everything will be consolidated into a document that you can reference anytime, whether I’m still working on your project or not. I do not require a credit if you prefer I be a ghost writer. Credit is appreciated, but as long I’m paid for my work you may do with it as you please.
PRICING
For writing I charge a flat rate of $0.06 per word. Be warned that this adds up faster than you may expect, but I’ll keep all documents as concise as possible. Furthermore I don’t charge for my time spent discussing the story with you or doing research.
If all you need is someone to review your work I charge $10 per hour spent reading your script only. I take detailed notes along with constructive criticism that will be available to you after the reading.
And for art, my rates vary depending on the request. I am by no means a professional artist but I am relatively adaptable. So check my latest works to see if my style is to your liking (all my art can be found here).
I may be able to refer you to a more suitable artist if not.
Here's what you can generally expect to pay per illustration-
Character ($10-30 depending on color and complexity)
Storyboard ($25 per page)
Comic Page ($50 b/w, $80 full color)
10 or more Comic Pages ($30 b/w, $50 full color per page)
I would prefer art requests pertain to your project, but if you like my style and want some other request fulfilled, I am fine with that.
Charges come weekly, and will be worth the week's total contribution (I keep a separate log detailing what was added at what time to avoid any confusion). I am willing to negotiate budgetary options if for whatever reason the total amount cannot be paid on the charge date.
I give every client a three week grace period for payment, after which if the client hasn’t paid the full or negotiated amount I will remove myself from the project.
I guarantee the absolute best in communication, analysis, and most importantly, quality of writing. That in this author’s humble opinion, you’ll be hard pressed to find at such comparatively low rates.
Interested? Let me know. I'm looking forward to being able to jump into your world and help bring it to life.
2023.06.08 02:04 osmanvsls QID delayed, everything is too slow, lazy company maybe?
Hi all, I recently got hired (as an expat) by a holding group in Qatar, I joined about end of Feb and got work visa valid for 3 mo, however, visa is expired and company applied for my QID (as per HR), it’s been more than 3 weeks and I still don’t have my QID, my passport has expired visa and I’m afraid of violation…
On the other hand, I and the company agreed on having X salary, however, basic salary is set to 2,000QAR and the rest is added as transportation, accommodation, expenses… etc to match the X we agreed on, is that fair? Would this affect my promotions/retirement?
Moreover , it is mentioned in the contract, I’m eligible for health insurance (I’m diabetic) however, HR saying I’m only getting Hamad Medical Card and that might take around four to six months to printout… Does this make sense? I spend around 1,300 QAR each time I check up my diabetes.
Lastly, this is quite alarming, my co workers haven’t received their QID or that health card until this day (They’re been employed here for longer than six months), I asked “Isn’t that violating the country’s law?” The answer was “The company pay the fines”. I feel that something is wrong with this holding group.
On a side note, whenever I ask to purchase something (a USB stick for example) it takes up to one month or two to get approvals… is it like this in most of companies here? I’m getting blamed for not performing well due to lack of proper equipment that I ordered but never received…
Ps: I’m not going to mention any details regard the company in order to respect it’s privacy.
submitted by osmanvsls to qatar [link] [comments]
On the other hand, I and the company agreed on having X salary, however, basic salary is set to 2,000QAR and the rest is added as transportation, accommodation, expenses… etc to match the X we agreed on, is that fair? Would this affect my promotions/retirement?
Moreover , it is mentioned in the contract, I’m eligible for health insurance (I’m diabetic) however, HR saying I’m only getting Hamad Medical Card and that might take around four to six months to printout… Does this make sense? I spend around 1,300 QAR each time I check up my diabetes.
Lastly, this is quite alarming, my co workers haven’t received their QID or that health card until this day (They’re been employed here for longer than six months), I asked “Isn’t that violating the country’s law?” The answer was “The company pay the fines”. I feel that something is wrong with this holding group.
On a side note, whenever I ask to purchase something (a USB stick for example) it takes up to one month or two to get approvals… is it like this in most of companies here? I’m getting blamed for not performing well due to lack of proper equipment that I ordered but never received…
Ps: I’m not going to mention any details regard the company in order to respect it’s privacy.
2023.06.08 01:51 Donny-Doo For the past six months, paid surveys have been my only source of income...
So, to cut a long tale short, I'm 28 years old, didn't technically graduate from high school approximately 4 years ago, and have been avoiding employment ever since.
After high school, my family would constantly remind me that I needed to get employment. I would ignore them and claim that I would eventually do so, although making no attempt to do so. I'm NEET due to social anxiety and some past trauma, so finding a job is a pretty daunting prospect for me.
I ultimately heard that I had to have a job or else I would be homeless, so I reluctantly applied for government assistance. I really didn't want to do this because it would have required me to report to a job agency and actively seek employment in order to maintain my benefits. I would have nothing to show for myself week after week, and my agent would make an effort to humiliate me for not having any work leads. I detested observing them.
Covid-19 eventually arrived and saved my life. I was now receiving three times as many benefits without having to look for a job. Everything was going well. I got takeaway every night and bought a load of Valorant skins. I was content:)
Nevertheless, this did not endure, and despite receiving over $20,000 in compensation, I had nothing left. I had to meet my employment agent every other week once more when my benefits eventually returned to what they had been, or did I? You see, I had a brilliant idea that I termed "operation sink or swim" in which I had to choose between going without a place to live and finding a job.
I was reasonably optimistic that I had time to get my stuff together because I had enough money for my living expenses to last around six weeks. However, I didn't. At this point, my anxiety about being around people and my trauma-related problems were less severe than they had been when I first became a NEET, but I had developed some pretty bad habits, like waking up, eating, and drinking coffee before spending the rest of the day watching YouTube, porn, and playing video games. I was unable to end the loop.
After a while, my mother observed that I wasn't buying groceries as frequently, that I would wait until I was out of food before buying more, and that I was constantly late with my rent payments. The game was over since I could no longer even hold my own weight and everyone in my family realized how much of a failure I was. My mother's expression of dismay devastated me, and my emotions of shame deepened. It was agreed that my only value was as a helper for errands and housework, which is understandable given that I wasn't paying for it myself, but it was really embarrassing to essentially be everyone's slave.
At this time, I realized I had to take action. I had felt I could handle getting a job until I had to confront the fact that I had to do it. But the reality of it was just too overwhelming; worrying about what my coworkers would think of me and that they would hold me accountable if I made a mistake was embarrassing. I also worried that this would be seen as my first step into complete independence and that I would no longer have the luxury of living off my family and instead would be a wage slave for the rest of my life.
Other options had to exist, and they did. I've always been passionate about YouTube, and even though I hadn't posted much previously, I was sure I could build a popular channel. I identified a market gap and added podcast episodes from a YouTuber's podcast. Unexpectedly, after constantly doing this for a month, it ended up working, and I ended up with 15,000 subscribers and over 350k views. I joined the YouTube partner program, and my first month's earnings were $600. Unfortunately, nothing wonderful lasts forever, and when YouTube learned about this, they removed me from the YPP and shut down my channel. At this time, I genuinely felt hopeless.
After some time had gone, I was scrolling through Tik Tok when I came across someone boasting about how they had made $300 in a week by only spending two hours a day taking surveys. I wasn't exactly convinced and thought I wasn't the kind of person who would be foolish enough to download some dubious survey app, but it lingered with me. I searched for it in the app store and downloaded the first app I came across out of desperation and curiosity.
I chose to dedicate an hour to see how much money I could make from the surveys, which ranged in price from 80 cents to $3 for surveys lasting 5 to 20 minutes. After an hour, I had earned a meager $11.23. It wasn't much money, and I'm pretty sure it's less than half the minimum wage where I live, but it still felt odd to me. When I deposited it to PayPal and subsequently my bank account, I saw real money for the first time in months.
After performing some quick arithmetic, I estimated that if I could make $10 per hour and spend 5 hours per day taking surveys, I could easily make $300 to $400 per week. Again, not a lot of money, but if I did this, I'd be making the same amount of money I was receiving in government assistance when COVID hit. However, this time I didn't have to worry about seeking work or even having a job; instead, I could just sit at home and complete surveys while watching Twitch streams.
This marked the beginning of my six-month journey towards a survey-only existence. There have been some additional benefits to doing this, notwithstanding the increased money. While earning money via surveys is a pretty dismal endeavor, it has given me structure and a measure of self-respect. Now that I don't have to perform all the housework, my days seem longer and happier.
I get out of bed and cycle to the nearest coffee shop, where I spend $3.85 on a medium double espresso shot latte. I then ride back to my house and settle down, feeling all cozy, filling out surveys while watching YouTube videos and Twitch broadcasts. I feel more productive and can sleep better at night knowing that I'm not letting each day pass me by totally.
I think I've made good progress toward regaining my ability to function as a normal human. Oddly enough, I can picture a time in the future when I am contently working a 9–5 job or, even better, founding a business to free myself from wage labor. Now that they are aware of my condition and my willingness to make an effort to carry my own weight, my family appears to be much more understanding of it. Speaking with individuals at my neighborhood coffee shop and getting to know them by name has developed into a pretty simple approach to engaging in social interaction each day, which has greatly reduced my social anxiety. Life feels happy once more:)
I figured that some people here might be interested in also doing surveys so i'll leave a link to the two survey apps that I use.
https://www.probrandreviews.com/
submitted by Donny-Doo to AvPD [link] [comments]
After high school, my family would constantly remind me that I needed to get employment. I would ignore them and claim that I would eventually do so, although making no attempt to do so. I'm NEET due to social anxiety and some past trauma, so finding a job is a pretty daunting prospect for me.
I ultimately heard that I had to have a job or else I would be homeless, so I reluctantly applied for government assistance. I really didn't want to do this because it would have required me to report to a job agency and actively seek employment in order to maintain my benefits. I would have nothing to show for myself week after week, and my agent would make an effort to humiliate me for not having any work leads. I detested observing them.
Covid-19 eventually arrived and saved my life. I was now receiving three times as many benefits without having to look for a job. Everything was going well. I got takeaway every night and bought a load of Valorant skins. I was content:)
Nevertheless, this did not endure, and despite receiving over $20,000 in compensation, I had nothing left. I had to meet my employment agent every other week once more when my benefits eventually returned to what they had been, or did I? You see, I had a brilliant idea that I termed "operation sink or swim" in which I had to choose between going without a place to live and finding a job.
I was reasonably optimistic that I had time to get my stuff together because I had enough money for my living expenses to last around six weeks. However, I didn't. At this point, my anxiety about being around people and my trauma-related problems were less severe than they had been when I first became a NEET, but I had developed some pretty bad habits, like waking up, eating, and drinking coffee before spending the rest of the day watching YouTube, porn, and playing video games. I was unable to end the loop.
After a while, my mother observed that I wasn't buying groceries as frequently, that I would wait until I was out of food before buying more, and that I was constantly late with my rent payments. The game was over since I could no longer even hold my own weight and everyone in my family realized how much of a failure I was. My mother's expression of dismay devastated me, and my emotions of shame deepened. It was agreed that my only value was as a helper for errands and housework, which is understandable given that I wasn't paying for it myself, but it was really embarrassing to essentially be everyone's slave.
At this time, I realized I had to take action. I had felt I could handle getting a job until I had to confront the fact that I had to do it. But the reality of it was just too overwhelming; worrying about what my coworkers would think of me and that they would hold me accountable if I made a mistake was embarrassing. I also worried that this would be seen as my first step into complete independence and that I would no longer have the luxury of living off my family and instead would be a wage slave for the rest of my life.
Other options had to exist, and they did. I've always been passionate about YouTube, and even though I hadn't posted much previously, I was sure I could build a popular channel. I identified a market gap and added podcast episodes from a YouTuber's podcast. Unexpectedly, after constantly doing this for a month, it ended up working, and I ended up with 15,000 subscribers and over 350k views. I joined the YouTube partner program, and my first month's earnings were $600. Unfortunately, nothing wonderful lasts forever, and when YouTube learned about this, they removed me from the YPP and shut down my channel. At this time, I genuinely felt hopeless.
After some time had gone, I was scrolling through Tik Tok when I came across someone boasting about how they had made $300 in a week by only spending two hours a day taking surveys. I wasn't exactly convinced and thought I wasn't the kind of person who would be foolish enough to download some dubious survey app, but it lingered with me. I searched for it in the app store and downloaded the first app I came across out of desperation and curiosity.
I chose to dedicate an hour to see how much money I could make from the surveys, which ranged in price from 80 cents to $3 for surveys lasting 5 to 20 minutes. After an hour, I had earned a meager $11.23. It wasn't much money, and I'm pretty sure it's less than half the minimum wage where I live, but it still felt odd to me. When I deposited it to PayPal and subsequently my bank account, I saw real money for the first time in months.
After performing some quick arithmetic, I estimated that if I could make $10 per hour and spend 5 hours per day taking surveys, I could easily make $300 to $400 per week. Again, not a lot of money, but if I did this, I'd be making the same amount of money I was receiving in government assistance when COVID hit. However, this time I didn't have to worry about seeking work or even having a job; instead, I could just sit at home and complete surveys while watching Twitch streams.
This marked the beginning of my six-month journey towards a survey-only existence. There have been some additional benefits to doing this, notwithstanding the increased money. While earning money via surveys is a pretty dismal endeavor, it has given me structure and a measure of self-respect. Now that I don't have to perform all the housework, my days seem longer and happier.
I get out of bed and cycle to the nearest coffee shop, where I spend $3.85 on a medium double espresso shot latte. I then ride back to my house and settle down, feeling all cozy, filling out surveys while watching YouTube videos and Twitch broadcasts. I feel more productive and can sleep better at night knowing that I'm not letting each day pass me by totally.
I think I've made good progress toward regaining my ability to function as a normal human. Oddly enough, I can picture a time in the future when I am contently working a 9–5 job or, even better, founding a business to free myself from wage labor. Now that they are aware of my condition and my willingness to make an effort to carry my own weight, my family appears to be much more understanding of it. Speaking with individuals at my neighborhood coffee shop and getting to know them by name has developed into a pretty simple approach to engaging in social interaction each day, which has greatly reduced my social anxiety. Life feels happy once more:)
I figured that some people here might be interested in also doing surveys so i'll leave a link to the two survey apps that I use.
https://www.probrandreviews.com/
2023.06.08 01:38 Thump4 💲 G M E 💵 Earnings Debrief, now-CEO Ryan Cohen, and Related Developments
 | submitted by Thump4 to DeepFuckingValue [link] [comments] Earnings Debrief - Developments - Acquisition Target Q1 Earnings Debrief
The Teddy trademark has been assigned, its review prior to publication completed, and will be published on July 4th, 2023, (the United States of America's Independence Day). If Matt Furlong wasn't let go due to capital-consolidation prior to a major acquisition, then perhaps Ryan Cohen needed a trustworthy leader to run either this ship, the Gmerica ship, or both Now 76.6 Million shares have been Directly Registered (DRS'd) The amount of shares directly registered with computershare is now higher than the publicly-reported shares on loan. Based on GameStop's $26.11 closing price, this equates to about $2 Billion of 💲 G M E shares lent out for short-borrowing. This is a giant liability for the associated borrowers, and is only what has been publicly reported with Ortex, and by institutions who 'self-police' themselves. Regarding the idiosyncratic risk of this stock to short-selling firms, the SEC just voted 'yes' (meeting and agenda) to stop fraud and manipulation on swaps, which have long been used by funds as a technique to hide underwater-short positions (i.e. Archegos' position that then blew up Credit Suisse). Thus, the higher, more-accurate short liability could soon be revealed. Related DevelopmentsThere is the big GameStop annual shareholder meeting Thursday of next week (June 15th), which is after both Bed Bath and Beyond's Stalking Horse Bidder deadline and subsequent court hearing on June 14th. Mysteriously, GameStop decided not to host an earnings call today, which under Merger and Acquisition policy would make sense if an acquisition target is pending a court hearing on the matter prior to public disclosure.Investors are generally pleased with the company's direction: Big investors appear to be very happy that Cohen is running acquisitions GameStop has been selling droves of Diablo IV for both PS4, PS5, Xbox X/One GameStop's Diablo IV sales continue to pour in for PS4. PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X. GameStop's Zelda tears of the kingdom sales continue to pour in for Nintendo switch. In web 3.0 developments, GameStop is building its web 3.0 GameStop video-game launcher with Telos. Further, GameStop's affiliate Loopring is working with Taiko, now deploying the alpha TestNet of the Layer 3. GameStop's new 'Illuvium' is set for Monday, June 12th release On the digital asset side of the house, GameStop's NFT marketplace transaction fees/revenues continue to pour in. And Monday, June 12th is the Release for the collectable Illuvitars (illuminated digital works of art with a capped-supply of 20,000), and the competitive game to follow. Ryan Cohen - Running Merger(s) and Acquisition(s)Executive Chairman Ryan Cohen will now be evaluating acquisitions $BBBYQ's Buy Buy Baby arm has long been the only publicly-disclosed buyout target for Ryan Cohen, via his close networking with Bed Bath and Beyond leadership. Could Ryan Cohen be targeting this company's assets during the active court proceedings? TLDR:Earnings: GameStop saw a Very Positive +$107.4 Million Delta (in operations) versus 2022's Q1. (GameStop performed $107.4 Million better as a company than it did in the same quarter of last year). $106.5 Million expense reduction vs previous Q1, now $1.31 Billion cash on hand, and still essentially debt-free.Leadership: Ryan Cohen is now executive-chairman of GameStop and will be in charge of acquisition targets, likely due to Matt Furlong's 2 year contract being satisfied, [if not his profit-generating services being needed elsewhere for either TEDDY or GMERICA (July 4th publication)] Misc: Diablo IV and Zelda Tears of the Kingdom sales continue to pour in. In Web 3.0, GameStop is building its Web 3.0 video game launcher with Telos, and affiliate LoopRing is running an alpha testnet for Eth Layer 3. And Monday, June 12th is the release for the digital 'Illuvitars' collectibles. Annual Shareholder Meeting: Thursday, June 15th (next week) |
2023.06.08 01:23 CongressmanCoolRick Admins claim Apollo threatened them. What's the other side?
This was posted in partneredcommunities just under an hour ago. Figured best place to ask for the other side was here. Full text of the post below:
🟢 Public: Share it with anyone.
Hello!
We’re sharing notes from a discussion we had this morning between Steve (aka u/spez) and moderators and developers from our Moderator Council, Partner Communities, and Developer community. The key action items we took away from the meeting:
submitted by CongressmanCoolRick to apolloapp [link] [comments]
🟢 Public: Share it with anyone.
Hello!
We’re sharing notes from a discussion we had this morning between Steve (aka u/spez) and moderators and developers from our Moderator Council, Partner Communities, and Developer community. The key action items we took away from the meeting:
- We are open to postponing the API timeline to launch mod tooling, if mods agree to keep their subreddits open. We will discuss this in the Council and Partner call tomorrow.
- Non-commercial apps built for accessibility will continue to have free API access.
- Mod bots will continue to have free API access.
- Pushshift will come back online for mod tools within two weeks; we are creating an approvals process to avoid impersonation.
- u/spez will post in reddit this week.
- Accessibility
- We will exempt any non-commercial accessibility-minded app, bot, or tool – and are in contact with those folks.
- We will close the accessibility feature gap in our apps. We can do better, and we will.
- Reddit needs an accessibility checklist. Our designers and devs all care about accessibility, but the accessibility support in apps is inconsistent. We should treat it like any other part of our UI.
- Free API Access
- Non-commercial users have API access. For rate limit concerns, exemptions are available. See next section.
- Mod Tools
- We will exempt any mod tool or bot affected by the API change.
- Pushshift will come back online for mods, but will stop doing the things we had an issue with, like reselling user data to other folks. The agreement will take another week or two, and we’re in the process of finalizing.
- Mod bots should all have access – if not today, then soon.
- We want all accessibility and mod tools to maintain access.
- We understand that y’all prefer to use mod tools on 3rd party apps. We’re closing the gap as fast as we can, especially in critical areas like Mod Queue, which we should have in-app on iOS and Android by the end of the month.
- Why charge?
- It’s very expensive to run – it takes millions of dollars to effectively subsidize other people’s businesses / apps.
- It’s an extraordinary amount of data, and these are for-profit businesses built on our data for free.
- We have to cover our costs and so do they – that’s the core of it.
- Apollo
- Apollo threatened us, said they’ll “make it easy” if Reddit gave them $10 million.
- Prices we released work out to one dollar a month per user; if Apollo doesn’t put effort forth, it hits three dollars per month.
- (As mentioned in Mod Tool section above) Pushshift will come back online for mod tools within a week or two.
- Blackout
- We respect your right to protest – that’s part of democracy.
- This situation is a bit different, with some mods leading the charge, some users pressuring mods. We’re trying to work through all of the unique situations.
- Big picture: We are tolerant, but also a duty to keep Reddit online.
- If people want to do this out of anger, we want to make sure they’re mad for accurate reasons, not over things that are untrue. That’s a loss for everyone.
- Third Party Ads
- We didn’t know how prevalent 3rd party ads were on 3rd party apps – they’re trouble for us.
- When people see their ads next to the wrong content, they don’t get mad at the 3rd party app, they get mad at us. We can’t ensure brand safety due to the ad networks many 3rd party apps use, which aren’t strong on privacy and tracking.
- Adopt-An-Admin
- Steve invited to AAA on AITA – agreed to do it last week of July or first week of August, will give honest look to do it sooner.
- NSFW
- Regulatory environment around NSFW is changing rapidly and aggressively.
- The challenge is regulators and lawmakers (those who fine and sue), who don’t care about 3rd party apps and don’t understand them. They’ll come after us, not the 3rd party apps. Lawmakers don’t look at NSFW with nuance.
- We have work to do on our platform around age-gating and related stuff to be able to keep that content – we will fight for it. Sex is universal.
- Devvit (Developer Platform)
- There are no plans to cut off the legacy API, but Dev Platform (Devvit) will be a better fit for most users of our API.
- When dust settles, it would be useful to talk with devs about what to put in Devvit for their bots to work there.
- The point of this is to give folks a more powerful way of extending Reddit – better than working on an old API, paying out of your own pocket, etc.
- If you’re building things to make Reddit better for redditors, we want to find a way to support you.
- Reddit’s Priorities
- Mod tools
- Improvements to Reddit core
- Accessibility
- New dev platform
- Have Reddit be vibrant, healthy, sustainable
- Reddit is an open platform but it’s not free to run or operate and we need to be a self-sustaining business
- Communication
- The timing of communication has left moderators feeling blindsided, regardless of the conversations that have been taking place behind closed doors.
- The manner of communication has felt overly corporate and insincere, lacking consideration for the moderators affected by such changes.
- Confusion and misinformation has taken off, resulting in more anger and public outcry.
- Timing
- The time given between the initial announcement, price announcement, and the July 1st cut off-date has put moderators and developers in a pinch, trying to assess what tools and bots they may lose.
- There was not sufficient time given for Reddit to close the tooling and accessibility gaps necessary for moderators to live without their 3rd-party resources.
- We are open to postponing the API timeline to launch mod tooling, if mods agree to keep their subreddits open. We will discuss this in the Council and Partner call tomorrow.
- Mobile App
- While mod tooling needs addressing across all platforms, it lacks significantly in the mobile sector.
2023.06.08 01:20 BrightEmber Trans woman living with family in Alabama. Need advice for an uncertain future.
So, context... I'm an autistic trans woman, who will be 21 in 18 days. I live in a rural town in central Alabama. I'm very much a legal adult, and despite this, I am only just now beginning to have some sense of agency and independence- no one's fault, but simply life to blame. To elaborate, and answer the question of "why not simply leave", there's much information to divulge. I thought about telling the whole story of discovering my gender identity, but that would make this already massive post even longer, and I'm so used to justifying it due to my own internal doubts hammered in by the people in my life, that perhaps I shouldn't constantly feel the need to explain why my feelings are valid to everyone. But anyway. Here's the gist of my situation.
I became homeschooled starting in 7th grade- because Alabama schools are absolutely bottom of the barrel, and I simply refused to go, due to the disparity in how different it was from what I was used to, the people in particular being difficult to handle, having moved from Georgia. I pretty much coasted along since then- not wise, but options were ever limited. I essentially had no social interaction outside of family for those 6 years or so, besides online interactions.
Back in 2021, is when things started getting bad. I was finally about to start learning to drive, studied up and preparing for that- at the time still very much in the closet as much internally as externally. But at the start of the year, my health took a turn for the worse. I was perpetually bedridden for weeks, and living with extreme pain, out of nowhere. I finally went to the hospital, and was diagnosed with a rather extreme case and nasty flare up of Ulcerative colitis. Those were the most painful days of my life. If that was not going to get better, I would rather have not continued. Thankfully, the suffering subsided, as I slowly got on medication that gradually improved my condition. It's still hell to live with, and has permanently impacted how I live my life, but thankfully I can for the most part live like a normal person, barring the unpredictability of my chronic illness loving to flare up and suddenly deciding I should suffer from time to time.
Halfway through that year, when I was finally becoming more stable and healthy again, my mother, who had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's for a while at that point, suddenly changed. It was like a switch was flipped that day, and the illness went from something we barely noticed, to her never being the same again. It was really bad for a while. Dementia is not at all how it's portrayed in media... She had constant delusions, absolutely no emotional control, essentially dementia-induced psychosis, and for a while we thought we would have to send her to a home for her and our safety. Thankfully, her condition improved over time as well. She was never the same. Her frequent delusions are now rare, but she has the mental maturity of a child. I'm beyond grateful, that she knows who all of us are, and the most important parts remain- how she feels about us all. But since then, my father had to retire from work early to help take care of things, and being the oldest, with two younger siblings, and my mother who is more of a child than them, there's a lot of responsibility placed on me, and frankly, I should be doing even more than I am already. Especially due to this next point.
After a long time of getting things stable again, this past month, my father discovered a lump on his tongue. It turned out to be stage 2 cancer. All removed now, but he's currently receiving radiation treatment- we were very lucky to catch it this early on, and the doctors claim he likely won't need any further treatment afterwards. But of course, this means more turmoil in an already turbulent living situation. We already barely had the money to scrape by, now with potential medical bills and other expenses added on, me being here is more important than ever. I get my medical needs met by living here, my disability money is one of our sources of income, and even without that, I would never leave during all this. Not when there's no way of knowing how much time I have left with either of them.
Of course, all that said, I'm trans. And remaining with my family, of whom the only supportive ones, are my younger sister, and my two older half-sisters who live with their own families, means that I'm stuck in a place where I can not be the person I want to be, and am essentially living a double life. My sleeping schedule is quite awful, but staying up late into the night and early morning is the only time I can be who I want to be, and no longer put on a mask. My social life pretty much consists of VRchat exclusively. Before discovering that platform last October, I just... didn't talk to people. And now that I know, what it's like, to truly live as myself, to be perceived, both by myself and others, as who I am- taking steps towards that is not something I am willing to wait a completely unknown amount of time for, most likely several years at the very least... especially when I've heard the earlier you start treatment, the better.
I finally received my learner's permit after life repeatedly getting in the way. Rushed to obtain it before my father started his radiation treatments, given my ability to take people places is more important than ever now. He may start teaching me before his treatments complete, maybe after. I'm unsure. Either way, I am finally about to have some semblance of freedom, for the first time.
What I'm curious about, is what I can do with that. If I can begin gender-affirming treatment, that would be incredible, and terrifying. I wouldn't be able to say no. Of course, I'd keep it secret, and only talk about it when it becomes the ever obvious elephant in the room. Until then, there's already so much to deal with that I absolutely do not want to be at odds with my family during this already difficult time. There's absolutely no benefit to them knowing. Only more potential problems.
And of course, that's assuming that's even possible for me, in Alabama. I'm well aware this is certainly not the best state for me to be in. Regardless...
I just want to know. What steps CAN I take, in order to proceed with possible gender-affirming medical treatment- or just anything, resources, advice, etc that would help in this situation, for that matter.
Any additional questions, I'm more than willing to answer. Thank you for reading this gargantuan post.
submitted by BrightEmber to trans [link] [comments]
I became homeschooled starting in 7th grade- because Alabama schools are absolutely bottom of the barrel, and I simply refused to go, due to the disparity in how different it was from what I was used to, the people in particular being difficult to handle, having moved from Georgia. I pretty much coasted along since then- not wise, but options were ever limited. I essentially had no social interaction outside of family for those 6 years or so, besides online interactions.
Back in 2021, is when things started getting bad. I was finally about to start learning to drive, studied up and preparing for that- at the time still very much in the closet as much internally as externally. But at the start of the year, my health took a turn for the worse. I was perpetually bedridden for weeks, and living with extreme pain, out of nowhere. I finally went to the hospital, and was diagnosed with a rather extreme case and nasty flare up of Ulcerative colitis. Those were the most painful days of my life. If that was not going to get better, I would rather have not continued. Thankfully, the suffering subsided, as I slowly got on medication that gradually improved my condition. It's still hell to live with, and has permanently impacted how I live my life, but thankfully I can for the most part live like a normal person, barring the unpredictability of my chronic illness loving to flare up and suddenly deciding I should suffer from time to time.
Halfway through that year, when I was finally becoming more stable and healthy again, my mother, who had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's for a while at that point, suddenly changed. It was like a switch was flipped that day, and the illness went from something we barely noticed, to her never being the same again. It was really bad for a while. Dementia is not at all how it's portrayed in media... She had constant delusions, absolutely no emotional control, essentially dementia-induced psychosis, and for a while we thought we would have to send her to a home for her and our safety. Thankfully, her condition improved over time as well. She was never the same. Her frequent delusions are now rare, but she has the mental maturity of a child. I'm beyond grateful, that she knows who all of us are, and the most important parts remain- how she feels about us all. But since then, my father had to retire from work early to help take care of things, and being the oldest, with two younger siblings, and my mother who is more of a child than them, there's a lot of responsibility placed on me, and frankly, I should be doing even more than I am already. Especially due to this next point.
After a long time of getting things stable again, this past month, my father discovered a lump on his tongue. It turned out to be stage 2 cancer. All removed now, but he's currently receiving radiation treatment- we were very lucky to catch it this early on, and the doctors claim he likely won't need any further treatment afterwards. But of course, this means more turmoil in an already turbulent living situation. We already barely had the money to scrape by, now with potential medical bills and other expenses added on, me being here is more important than ever. I get my medical needs met by living here, my disability money is one of our sources of income, and even without that, I would never leave during all this. Not when there's no way of knowing how much time I have left with either of them.
Of course, all that said, I'm trans. And remaining with my family, of whom the only supportive ones, are my younger sister, and my two older half-sisters who live with their own families, means that I'm stuck in a place where I can not be the person I want to be, and am essentially living a double life. My sleeping schedule is quite awful, but staying up late into the night and early morning is the only time I can be who I want to be, and no longer put on a mask. My social life pretty much consists of VRchat exclusively. Before discovering that platform last October, I just... didn't talk to people. And now that I know, what it's like, to truly live as myself, to be perceived, both by myself and others, as who I am- taking steps towards that is not something I am willing to wait a completely unknown amount of time for, most likely several years at the very least... especially when I've heard the earlier you start treatment, the better.
I finally received my learner's permit after life repeatedly getting in the way. Rushed to obtain it before my father started his radiation treatments, given my ability to take people places is more important than ever now. He may start teaching me before his treatments complete, maybe after. I'm unsure. Either way, I am finally about to have some semblance of freedom, for the first time.
What I'm curious about, is what I can do with that. If I can begin gender-affirming treatment, that would be incredible, and terrifying. I wouldn't be able to say no. Of course, I'd keep it secret, and only talk about it when it becomes the ever obvious elephant in the room. Until then, there's already so much to deal with that I absolutely do not want to be at odds with my family during this already difficult time. There's absolutely no benefit to them knowing. Only more potential problems.
And of course, that's assuming that's even possible for me, in Alabama. I'm well aware this is certainly not the best state for me to be in. Regardless...
I just want to know. What steps CAN I take, in order to proceed with possible gender-affirming medical treatment- or just anything, resources, advice, etc that would help in this situation, for that matter.
Any additional questions, I'm more than willing to answer. Thank you for reading this gargantuan post.
2023.06.08 01:16 joonv2 🔥[FREE TRIAL VOD REVIEW] RANK PROOF IN POST! Professional PG/CLOL Challenger Coach - 3,000+ Students 5 Roles GM+ All Roles/Ranks/Solo Q and Competitive Coaching Low Prices Bundle a Free Session 🔥
![🔥[FREE TRIAL VOD REVIEW] RANK PROOF IN POST! Professional PG/CLOL Challenger Coach - 3,000+ Students 5 Roles GM+ All Roles/Ranks/Solo Q and Competitive Coaching Low Prices Bundle a Free Session 🔥](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/Zz8f1aM7fMZ-O7wgyGGlKHVphuIFiNoc1rVNWyRdADE.jpg "🔥[FREE TRIAL VOD REVIEW] RANK PROOF IN POST! Professional PG/CLOL Challenger Coach - 3,000+ Students 5 Roles GM+ All Roles/Ranks/Solo Q and Competitive Coaching Low Prices Bundle a Free Session 🔥") | - Hey everyone, my name is Joon and I am a GrandmasteChallenger player on the NA server. I also achieved the Master rank in 100 games on the Korean server. I currently have 5 accounts in 5 roles in MasteGM Elo and I constantly play Solo Q to keep up with meta changes (No Season 3-High Elo-washed up player coaching here 😉). I am also a CLOL collegiate coach for Ryerson University-TMU and verified both on Pro Guides (https://www.proguides.com/coach/joon) and the League Coaching subreddit. submitted by joonv2 to LeagueCoaching [link] [comments] Why Choose Me? - More than anything I am very proud of the work and progress that I have achieved with all of my students over the course of years of coaching. I would encourage you, my potential new students, to have a look at the student progress page on my server, where many of my students post frequently showing the tremendous progress that they have made since they started coaching with me (https://discord.gg/SUrJuazdBz). My approach to each student is individual and I can quickly identify your strengths and weaknesses. Unlike many other coaches, my goal is not to push you to play my playstyle or my champions but to highlight YOUR strengths in your gameplay and minimize any weaknesses you might have. Pricing - Each coaching session takes 1 hour and costs $30 per session. Do you offer bundles and plans? - Absolutely, I include a FREE 1-HOUR session for a bundle of 5 sessions. (5 Hours + 1 Free) Is there a trial session? - Yes, a trial session lasts around 15 minutes, in which I will review and analyze your OP.GG and watch one of your recent VODs of choice. During the trial session, I will focus on the common fundamental mistakes that you often make as well as point out some windows of opportunities that you tend to miss. Rank Proof Unlike many other "High Elo" coaches out there with no proof or accounts dating back to Season 6 or other prehistoric times when the game was completely different, I grind Solo Q on multiple high elo accounts and servers constantly while reaching top GM+ ranks on every lane from top to bot on different servers (NA, EUW, KR) every season. In the last 2 seasons, I have climbed to Grandmaster + in every role. Accounts are posted on my discord for proof with screenshots and have my students added on my accounts as they tend to refer to my games for their own improvement. Grandmaster Challenger Pro Guides Reviews https://preview.redd.it/lifk1yivho4b1.png?width=1094&format=png&auto=webp&s=26e9bb8fecf989e2d8c9c5dc10cb65ed8559b1c2 Grandmaster Rank 4 Rumble 64% winrate on champion and 60% winrate overall Grandmaster https://discord.gg/kB25pSwMEM - My accounts posted on my server What can I expect from the sessions? - A Session's format will depend on what you and I both believe would be a better fit for you based on your learning style (practical, theoretical, observing, etc.) and will consist of:
❗This is an example of a Full Coaching Session with me: https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1257158400 Recent Achievements: My recent students climbed from
Master for Top and ADC students (NA and EUW) All of these achievements and more you can see posted by my students in my Discord Group (https://discord.gg/SUrJuazdBz) - Imgur links to students' progress (Names Blurred for Privacy): https://imgur.com/gallery/Supm2J1- Availability - I am available practically 16-17 hours a day as I am a full-time League of Legends Coach - Session lasts for 1 hour and the price is $30 per session - COACHING ON ALL SERVERS AND TIME ZONES - BUNDLE TAKE 5 SESSIONS + 1 HOUR Session Free - FIRST SESSION IS FREE (15 mins) Contact Details My Discord is Joon#7556 DISCORD SERVER: https://discord.gg/uhvrcH5yYS Proguides Review Page: https://www.proguides.com/coach/joon VOUCH POST: https://www.reddit.com/LeagueCoaching/comments/nkx9td/vouch_post_for_joons_coaching |
2023.06.08 00:30 AutoModerator General Questions Thread, June 07, 2023
A thread for new collectors to ask basic questions of the community.
Frequently Asked Questions below!
A longer version of the subreddit rules is here.
For questions specifically concerning bootlegs or vendor legitimacy, please ask in the Bootleg Megathread.
NSFW & Spoiler Guidelines
Any collection posts containing bootlegs, comments advocating buying bootlegs, or links to sites selling bootlegs, recasts, or unlicensed merchandise will be removed.
People often ask about the legitimacy and/or safety of a number of websites which sell large resin statues. The more commonly-asked of those deal primarily in resins from studios which do not have a license from the Japanese IP holders to produce merchandise. Therefore links to those sites are not permitted here. Another sign is if MyFigureCollection doesn't list the either the statue, its manufacturer, or the shop it's being sold on.
MyFigureCollection
My Figure Collection is like MyAnimeList... but for figures! Their database includes thousands of items which been produced during the last couple of decades, along with reviews of shops and other helpful articles. One can also list their own collection and post gallery photos.
Shops
That’s going to depend a lot on what works for you, but most people around here buy them from Amiami, Big in Japan, Hobby Search, HobbyLink Japan, or Tokyo Otaku Mode. If none of those work for you for whatever reason, there’s a list of reputable retailers in the sidebar that you can check out at any time. Be extra careful when ordering figures from websites like Amazon or ebay, as there are a lot of bootlegs on those sites. Don’t be afraid to ask in our Bootleg Megathread if you’re unsure.
2. What differences are there between the shipping options I get from most Japanese shops?
Below is a rundown of the main shipping choices you’ll get at most retailers. Keep in mind that if an order is large enough you will be forced to use one of the more expensive options, as SAL shipments have lower size and weight restrictions.
Most shops will ask you to pay shipping on a per-order basis, but here are some that will allow combined shipping:
4. When will I get charged for my preorder?
Most Japanese shops charge you once the item is in stock and ready for shipment. When that happens, they will send you an email asking for payment. Some shops (mostly overseas ones), will allow you to pay for the item up front though, if you’d like. A few with that option are:
5. Should I expect to pay customs fees when importing figures?
That depends on where you live. Here’s a quick rundown:
You have three options for this:
A. Big in Japan is known to stock exclusive figures and ship to other countries. Usually the price is higher because they build in their proxy fees, but it’s easier than worrying about using a forwarder or proxy service. If you live in the US, Crunchyroll, Right Stuf, and Tokyo Otaku Mode also get exclusives sometimes, but out of the states the shipping can get expensive.
B. Forwarding Services: A forwarder is someone who you ship an exclusive item to so that they can forward the package on to you, usually for a flat fee + shipping. When using a forwarder you still make the purchase yourself, and enter their address into the shipping field. When the box arrives at the forwarder they will then stick your address onto the package and send it on its way.
Some popular forwarders are:
Be sure to read each sites instructions on forwarding carefully!
C. Proxy Services: With a proxy, you tell them what the item you’re looking for is and they will purchase it in your stead. This is handy for when a company doesn’t accept foreign credit cards, or you’re having trouble navigating a Japanese website.
Some popular proxies are:
7. I see a bunch of really cheap figures that ship from China on ebay. Are those okay to buy?
Generally, no. They’re most likely bootlegs. If you want a second opinion on that, feel free to ask in the Bootleg Megathread that’s always stickied at the top of the sub.
8. What’s a bootleg, and how can I avoid buying them?
A bootleg is a counterfeit figure often made using rejected molds of the official product. They are usually priced significantly lower than the genuine article, and in order to make their profit, bootleggers use lower quality materials and have less attention to detail- resulting in a substandard figure.
The Bootleg Megathread that I mentioned in question 7 is a great tool to avoid buying any bootlegs. It has a few tips and tricks to avoiding them to begin with, and a few more on how to spot them if you’re worried you might already own one.
9. Does anyone know when figure X is going to be released? How do I know if it was delayed?
My Figure Collection (sometimes referred to as MFC) does an excellent job of staying on top of information like release dates and delays. If you’re curious about an upcoming figures release date, check there first. This information can be found directly under the “Releases” section on a figure’s entry. If you only see a month and a year in that section, it means the release date has not yet been announced by the manufacturer, and there is still a chance the figure could be delayed.
If you make an account on MFC you can also subscribe to comments, changes, and pictures via a checkbox on the right hand side of a figure’s listing. Subscribing to any of these things will allow MFC to send you an email anytime the subscription in question updates. Subscribing to “changes” is a great way to keep up with release dates and delays, among other things.
10. The figure I want is long sold out at normal retailers! What’s the best place to pick it up in the aftermarket?
A list of reputable retailers can be found under the “Shops” section of the /AnimeFigures sidebar. They all sell legitimate products, and many of them also sell figures second hand. However, the most frequently suggested second hand sites are Mandarake and Amiami- who has a preowned section that they update every night save Sundays and Japanese holidays around 1PM JST and again around 6PM JST.
AmiAmi grades their pre-owned items on a letter scale. The general consensus from buyers is that their ratings are conservative, so unless the item and/or packaging is specifically indicated as having significant flaws, pre-owned items from them are usually in at least as good a condition as their rating suggests.
Note: When you search Mandarake, you’ll get the best results by using the Japanese characters for whatever you are searching. If you don’t know them, you can find them on MFC by clicking on any of the “details” in that figure’s listing.
11. Amiami has a figure I’m interested in labeled as “For sale in Japan only”. Does this mean I can’t order it without a proxy or forwarder?
No, you can still order it. Amiami’s English site has that warning on many items, and it’s mostly meant to inform you that this product was made for a Japanese market, and as such, will have Japanese speaking/writing in it- so don’t expect any instructions to be in English. If Amiami doesn’t want foreigners buying a certain product, they won’t even list it on their English site.
If you live near an Ikea try out one of these:
If you don’t live near an Ikea, Amazon has a few display options, though they are more expensive. Also keep an eye on your local Craigslist (or your country’s equivalent) and stores near you that are closing up.
13. What lighting do you guys recommend?
Ikea’s Dioder LED strips were discontinued after a long run. A current version is the Vattensten, if you're inclined to buy your case and lights at the same time.
LED strips have become very commonly available in recent years; most hardware and home furnishing stores carry a selection now. Just make sure that the lights don’t get too hot!
14. What are those clear plastic boxes that I see under everyone’s figures in their collection posts, and where can I get them?
Those are called risers. Most of us use standard acrylic risers like these. Some other, easy to find things that have been suggested are:
Another common suggestion is to visit The Container Store if you have one near you. They have a lot of things to choose from that can suit a variety of needs. Be sure to check out their standard acrylic risers, their Amac boxes, and the various display cases they sell (baseball cases, mini car cases. hockey puck cases, etc).
15. Should I keep my figures sealed?
That is, of course, up to you really, but here are a few things to keep in mind when debating this question:
Those are classifications for figures based on a few factors.
17. There are so many figure companies! Who makes good figures?!
Obviously this is a very subjective question, but as a general starting point, here are a few well renowned figure companies:
My Figure Collection can be your best friend here. Simply do a search on the name of the series or character using the search bar located at the top right of the screen, and all associated figures pop up!
Alternatively, if you’re looking at a figure’s MFC entry, most of the text under the “Details” section can be clicked on and used to run a search.
19. How can I commission a custom figure?
None of the major figure companies (Alter, Kotobukiya, Good Smile Company, etc.) will take a commission for a single figure. This thread has a few websites in it that you can check out, or you can look into garage kits. Some kit painters would be willing to resculpt, frankenstein together, or otherwise modify kits for the right price.
If you're looking for help completing a garage kit, /brushforhire may be useful.
Most people use a MFC combined with any or all of the following news sites:
To use MFC for this I’ll quote question #9.
21. Everyone’s excited about something called Wonfes….. what the heck is that?!
WonFes (short for Wonder Festival) is a biannual figure expo where many figure producers (both large and small) show off new sculpts and updates to figures already under way. Most companies save their most exciting announcements for WonFes, so we all look forward to the expo whenever it rolls around! Winter Wonder Festival is usually held in February, while Summer Wonder Festival is usually in July. The event has also spread to Shanghai, in the late spring.
22. One or two (or 15) figures were announced at WonFes that I’m really excited about! How can I keep track of their progress once the event is over?
MFC is always really quick about getting new WonFes announcements (or any others throughout the year, for that matter) listed in their database, so we suggest using that. To find a figure from the event you can search any number of things, including the name of the character or the name of the show. You can also use the tag search to search “WonderFestival 20xx_[season]” to see all items announced at that event.
submitted by AutoModerator to AnimeFigures [link] [comments]
Frequently Asked Questions below!
A longer version of the subreddit rules is here.
For questions specifically concerning bootlegs or vendor legitimacy, please ask in the Bootleg Megathread.
- For Self Posts: include a bolded NSFW note next to links in that post.
- For Links to sites/images: If the figure is NSFW, or the website has any NSFW content (including ads) be sure to tag your post NSFW and use the appropriate link flair.
Any collection posts containing bootlegs, comments advocating buying bootlegs, or links to sites selling bootlegs, recasts, or unlicensed merchandise will be removed.
People often ask about the legitimacy and/or safety of a number of websites which sell large resin statues. The more commonly-asked of those deal primarily in resins from studios which do not have a license from the Japanese IP holders to produce merchandise. Therefore links to those sites are not permitted here. Another sign is if MyFigureCollection doesn't list the either the statue, its manufacturer, or the shop it's being sold on.
MyFigureCollection
My Figure Collection is like MyAnimeList... but for figures! Their database includes thousands of items which been produced during the last couple of decades, along with reviews of shops and other helpful articles. One can also list their own collection and post gallery photos.
Shops
Retailers:Blogs/News:
AmiAmi HobbySearch Mandarake (sells rare figures) Good Smile Company Online Shop (often has exclusives) Good Smile Company US shop Crunchyroll Shop Hobby Link Japan (aka HLJ) Solaris Japan (MFC partner) BigBadToyStore (MFC partner, US retailer) Big in Japan (also has proxy service) Tokyo Otaku Mode Right Stuf FigureHaven Archonia (EU) Yorokonde (EU) Figuya (EU) Dekai Anime (UK) Gamersheek (UK) Jungle
List of retailers on MFC
/AnimeFigures' List of Retailers
Community Guide to Shopping in Japan
Nekomagic (News/Previews) NyaaFigurines (Reviews/Releases) Kahotan's Blog (News/Reviews) Figma Blog (JP)
Buying & Shipping
1. What’s the best place to buy my anime figures from?That’s going to depend a lot on what works for you, but most people around here buy them from Amiami, Big in Japan, Hobby Search, HobbyLink Japan, or Tokyo Otaku Mode. If none of those work for you for whatever reason, there’s a list of reputable retailers in the sidebar that you can check out at any time. Be extra careful when ordering figures from websites like Amazon or ebay, as there are a lot of bootlegs on those sites. Don’t be afraid to ask in our Bootleg Megathread if you’re unsure.
2. What differences are there between the shipping options I get from most Japanese shops?
Below is a rundown of the main shipping choices you’ll get at most retailers. Keep in mind that if an order is large enough you will be forced to use one of the more expensive options, as SAL shipments have lower size and weight restrictions.
- Unregistered SAL: Sometimes referred to as uSAL, is usually the cheapest method. It does not come with any tracking or insurance. Usually takes up 2-4 weeks for delivery.
- Registered SAL: Sometimes referred to as rSAL, is insured for the declared value up to 6,000 yen. It comes with a tracking number and usually takes 2-4 weeks for delivery.
- EMS: This method of shipping is much faster than either SAL options, usually arriving within a week of shipment. EMS shipments are insured for the declared value up to 2,000,000 yen.
- Airmail
- E-packet
- Surface: Shops don't offer this very often. It's an actual cargo ship and slow as a result.
- DHL: Becoming more available as an alternative to EMS on AmiAmi and other sites. Can be less expensive than EMS and of comparable speed, but may be more reliant on the specific geographical area being shipped to. The price is also determined by the size of the box. Offers their own tracking.
Most shops will ask you to pay shipping on a per-order basis, but here are some that will allow combined shipping:
- Amiami: You can combine orders here, as long as the orders ship in the same month. It doesn’t matter if the item is new or preowned. Any preorders that are set for that month can also be combined with other orders for that month. However, be aware that if the preorder gets delayed, Amiami will remove that item from that month’s shipment and place it on a new order. To combine orders on Amiami, use the “Combine Orders” feature under “My Account”.
- Hobby Search: Hobby Search will let you combine orders that release in the same month, but you cannot combine in stock items with preorders. If you want to combine multiple preorders, or multiple in stock items, you can do so using the “Order Recombination” feature on your account page.
- HobbyLink Japan: At HLJ, you have the option to send paid orders to their “Private Warehouse”, where you can store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to ship the items, you simply select which items to ship and HLJ will combine them into one shipment for you. To use this, just select the “Private Warehouse” option as shipping when you order.
4. When will I get charged for my preorder?
Most Japanese shops charge you once the item is in stock and ready for shipment. When that happens, they will send you an email asking for payment. Some shops (mostly overseas ones), will allow you to pay for the item up front though, if you’d like. A few with that option are:
- Big in Japan (Japanese store)
- Tokyo Otaku Mode
- Anime Island
- Crunchyroll
5. Should I expect to pay customs fees when importing figures?
That depends on where you live. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Australia: 10% GST is now assessed up front.
- Canada: Minimum declared value for charges is around CAD$20 for regular shipments, and CAD$60 for gifts (gifting something only seems to lower the declared value by about CAD$40, not deplete it completely). When using Amiami, try their Small Air Packet option. It comes with tracking, gets there in about the same time as EMS, and is better at avoiding customs.
- European Union: As of 1st July 2021, VAT has to be paid on all goods imported from outside of the EU. Retailers are supposed charge VAT for purchases under €150, however many Japanese retailers currently do not, so VAT will be charged when your order arrives in the EU. Orders that are >€150, VAT and duty will be charged by your local customs.
- UK: As of 1st January 2021, VAT is to be charged by retailers for orders <£135. However, customs isn't currently charging VAT on parcels valued at <£135, even if the VAT hasn't been paid. Goods >£135 will have their VAT and duty calculated and charged by customs.
- Mexico: Minimum declared value for customs fees is USD$300 for shipments by post, and USD$50 for shipments by courier.
- United States: A shipment has to have a declared value of USD$2,000 before customs starts hitting you with fees, so you most likely won’t have to worry about them at all.
You have three options for this:
A. Big in Japan is known to stock exclusive figures and ship to other countries. Usually the price is higher because they build in their proxy fees, but it’s easier than worrying about using a forwarder or proxy service. If you live in the US, Crunchyroll, Right Stuf, and Tokyo Otaku Mode also get exclusives sometimes, but out of the states the shipping can get expensive.
B. Forwarding Services: A forwarder is someone who you ship an exclusive item to so that they can forward the package on to you, usually for a flat fee + shipping. When using a forwarder you still make the purchase yourself, and enter their address into the shipping field. When the box arrives at the forwarder they will then stick your address onto the package and send it on its way.
Some popular forwarders are:
Be sure to read each sites instructions on forwarding carefully!
C. Proxy Services: With a proxy, you tell them what the item you’re looking for is and they will purchase it in your stead. This is handy for when a company doesn’t accept foreign credit cards, or you’re having trouble navigating a Japanese website.
Some popular proxies are:
- Big in Japan (Won’t proxy for Yahoo Auctions)
- From Japan
7. I see a bunch of really cheap figures that ship from China on ebay. Are those okay to buy?
Generally, no. They’re most likely bootlegs. If you want a second opinion on that, feel free to ask in the Bootleg Megathread that’s always stickied at the top of the sub.
8. What’s a bootleg, and how can I avoid buying them?
A bootleg is a counterfeit figure often made using rejected molds of the official product. They are usually priced significantly lower than the genuine article, and in order to make their profit, bootleggers use lower quality materials and have less attention to detail- resulting in a substandard figure.
The Bootleg Megathread that I mentioned in question 7 is a great tool to avoid buying any bootlegs. It has a few tips and tricks to avoiding them to begin with, and a few more on how to spot them if you’re worried you might already own one.
9. Does anyone know when figure X is going to be released? How do I know if it was delayed?
My Figure Collection (sometimes referred to as MFC) does an excellent job of staying on top of information like release dates and delays. If you’re curious about an upcoming figures release date, check there first. This information can be found directly under the “Releases” section on a figure’s entry. If you only see a month and a year in that section, it means the release date has not yet been announced by the manufacturer, and there is still a chance the figure could be delayed.
If you make an account on MFC you can also subscribe to comments, changes, and pictures via a checkbox on the right hand side of a figure’s listing. Subscribing to any of these things will allow MFC to send you an email anytime the subscription in question updates. Subscribing to “changes” is a great way to keep up with release dates and delays, among other things.
10. The figure I want is long sold out at normal retailers! What’s the best place to pick it up in the aftermarket?
A list of reputable retailers can be found under the “Shops” section of the /AnimeFigures sidebar. They all sell legitimate products, and many of them also sell figures second hand. However, the most frequently suggested second hand sites are Mandarake and Amiami- who has a preowned section that they update every night save Sundays and Japanese holidays around 1PM JST and again around 6PM JST.
AmiAmi grades their pre-owned items on a letter scale. The general consensus from buyers is that their ratings are conservative, so unless the item and/or packaging is specifically indicated as having significant flaws, pre-owned items from them are usually in at least as good a condition as their rating suggests.
Note: When you search Mandarake, you’ll get the best results by using the Japanese characters for whatever you are searching. If you don’t know them, you can find them on MFC by clicking on any of the “details” in that figure’s listing.
11. Amiami has a figure I’m interested in labeled as “For sale in Japan only”. Does this mean I can’t order it without a proxy or forwarder?
No, you can still order it. Amiami’s English site has that warning on many items, and it’s mostly meant to inform you that this product was made for a Japanese market, and as such, will have Japanese speaking/writing in it- so don’t expect any instructions to be in English. If Amiami doesn’t want foreigners buying a certain product, they won’t even list it on their English site.
Displaying Your Figures
12. What display cases do you recommend?If you live near an Ikea try out one of these:
- Detolf *
- Klingsbo
- Billy (Often used with Morliden doors and glass shelves.)
If you don’t live near an Ikea, Amazon has a few display options, though they are more expensive. Also keep an eye on your local Craigslist (or your country’s equivalent) and stores near you that are closing up.
13. What lighting do you guys recommend?
Ikea’s Dioder LED strips were discontinued after a long run. A current version is the Vattensten, if you're inclined to buy your case and lights at the same time.
LED strips have become very commonly available in recent years; most hardware and home furnishing stores carry a selection now. Just make sure that the lights don’t get too hot!
14. What are those clear plastic boxes that I see under everyone’s figures in their collection posts, and where can I get them?
Those are called risers. Most of us use standard acrylic risers like these. Some other, easy to find things that have been suggested are:
- Plastic picture cubes
- Card Deck Boxes
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own!
Another common suggestion is to visit The Container Store if you have one near you. They have a lot of things to choose from that can suit a variety of needs. Be sure to check out their standard acrylic risers, their Amac boxes, and the various display cases they sell (baseball cases, mini car cases. hockey puck cases, etc).
15. Should I keep my figures sealed?
That is, of course, up to you really, but here are a few things to keep in mind when debating this question:
- Keeping it sealed can actually damage your figure. PVC figures usually have something called plasticizer in them, and that plasticizer needs to be able to breath. If a PVC figure isn’t exposed to oxygen, after a period of time the plasticizer starts to break down and form a sticky substance on the surface of the figure. Simply opening your figures and taking them out of the box prevents this from happening. If you happen to find plasticizer goo on one of your figures, Kahotan has a handy guide for dealing with it.
- Unlike some other figure markets, keeping an anime figure sealed won’t raise its value by a whole lot. In fact, because of the plasticizer problem mentioned above, your figure could actually be in better condition if you open it versus keeping it sealed.
Finding the Right Figure(s) for You
16. What are "scales" and "prizes"? What is the difference between them?Those are classifications for figures based on a few factors.
- "Prizes" are generally more simply produced figures which are intended to be given as prizes for playing arcade games. They are inexpensive and lack the detail of scale figures, though some prize figure lines have standouts which may approach lower-end scales in quality. That is uncommon and often depends on the individual figure.
- "Scales" are called such because they are nominally designed to be proportional to the dimensions of the character which they are based on. They are generally of much better manufacture and materials than prize figures, allowing for more detail in painting, accessories, or complex poses.
- "Trading" figures appear in gashapon machines or as blind boxes on shop counters, often as sets which include multiple characters. As suggested by the class name, the randomness encourages trading. They are usually very inexpensively-produced, though as with prizes, some series are better than others.
- "Non-scale" encompasses a variety of other categories. It is often used to describe poseable figure lines such as figma and Nendoroids.
17. There are so many figure companies! Who makes good figures?!
Obviously this is a very subjective question, but as a general starting point, here are a few well renowned figure companies:
- Alter
- Max Factory
- Good Smile Company
- Kotobukiya (usually hit or miss for people. Use your best judgement based off of the prototype)
- Flare
- Stronger
My Figure Collection can be your best friend here. Simply do a search on the name of the series or character using the search bar located at the top right of the screen, and all associated figures pop up!
Alternatively, if you’re looking at a figure’s MFC entry, most of the text under the “Details” section can be clicked on and used to run a search.
19. How can I commission a custom figure?
None of the major figure companies (Alter, Kotobukiya, Good Smile Company, etc.) will take a commission for a single figure. This thread has a few websites in it that you can check out, or you can look into garage kits. Some kit painters would be willing to resculpt, frankenstein together, or otherwise modify kits for the right price.
If you're looking for help completing a garage kit, /brushforhire may be useful.
Keeping Up with New Announcements
20. How can I keep up with figure news (announcements, updates, etc.)?Most people use a MFC combined with any or all of the following news sites:
- Neko Magic
- Alter’s Blog (In Japanese)
- Kahotan’s Blog (Only GSC and their sister companies)
To use MFC for this I’ll quote question #9.
If you make an account on MFC you can also subscribe to comments, changes, and pictures via a checkbox on the right hand side of a figure’s listing. Subscribing to any of these things will allow MFC to send you an email anytime the subscription in question updates. Subscribing to “changes” is a great way to keep up with release dates and delays, among other things.Most companies have one or more Twitter accounts. Some examples: Good Smile Company sales, Good Smile's USA branch, Max Factory, AmiAmi Hobby News.
21. Everyone’s excited about something called Wonfes….. what the heck is that?!
WonFes (short for Wonder Festival) is a biannual figure expo where many figure producers (both large and small) show off new sculpts and updates to figures already under way. Most companies save their most exciting announcements for WonFes, so we all look forward to the expo whenever it rolls around! Winter Wonder Festival is usually held in February, while Summer Wonder Festival is usually in July. The event has also spread to Shanghai, in the late spring.
22. One or two (or 15) figures were announced at WonFes that I’m really excited about! How can I keep track of their progress once the event is over?
MFC is always really quick about getting new WonFes announcements (or any others throughout the year, for that matter) listed in their database, so we suggest using that. To find a figure from the event you can search any number of things, including the name of the character or the name of the show. You can also use the tag search to search “WonderFestival 20xx_[season]” to see all items announced at that event.
2023.06.08 00:11 HalfDeafYeller [WTS] 🥇 10g Gold Bar🥇 for less than 6 dollars... wait what?!? Also a new collector deal, a APMEX TEP lot, and some 🦅 Graded ASE's 🦅.
Howdy Reddit!
Today I have some new items and a few left overs from previous posts. Here is what I am bringing to the table today! Reasonable offers are always considered especially if supported by comps.
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Collector Deal(s)
These are deals geared towards others who are building a collection. Anyone can buy them, but each will have a special discount for anyone who has already started building a set.
New Items
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MintDirect Collection
This "MintDirect" set from APMEX are coins that went direct from the new/unsearched roll directly to a Tamper Evident Package (TEP). Some of these coins come with special PCGS First Strike Designation, meaning that the coin was purchased from the mint within the first 30 days and is now eligible for a "First Strike" label should they be submitted to PCGS for grading.
🥇Gold🥇
Leftovers / Items for Trade listed below
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Upgraded Morgans Trade / Sale!
As some of you know I have started down the road of picking MS Morgans and recently upgraded a MS64 to a MS65. The 64 sold once, and then again via BIN, but fast forward and now it is still with me. I would be more than happy to trade for a Morgan of similar value or selling for my cost (let me know if I overpaid).
🦅 Silver Eagles for Trade / Sale! 🦅
All ASE's are available for trade for ASE's of similar value, especially the standard Brown label NGC or Blue First Strike PCGS Labels.
I tried my best to point out any issues on these and dropped prices accordingly. All of these looked good in hand and most issues went unnoticed by these old eyes until I took the detailed photos. For instance the 2018-W with the spot is really only visible at a certain angle, but it is there so I pointed it out. Please ask for videos/pictures if condition is a concern.
🦅 American Silver Eagles 🦅
Coming Soon... Graded 2011 Sets and a few more ASE slabs to make a 10+ coin 🐳 lot
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Payment and Shipping information:
Zelle, Venmo, or PPFF (in order of preference). Let's be friends, and use smiley emojis (no notes).
Shipping via USPS to U.S. Residents only. If not included shipping is $5 First Class in a bubble mailer, or $10 Priority in Small Flat Rate Box. Insurance, Signature Confirmation, or upgraded shipping available at buyers request/expense.
Notable recent feedback about my shipping includes:
I try to be the type of seller that I would like to buy from! Check my feedback, get a reference from those I have sold to in the past, and if you want we can use a middleman.
****************************************************
Disclaimers:
submitted by HalfDeafYeller to Pmsforsale [link] [comments]
Today I have some new items and a few left overs from previous posts. Here is what I am bringing to the table today! Reasonable offers are always considered especially if supported by comps.
****************************************************
Collector Deal(s)
These are deals geared towards others who are building a collection. Anyone can buy them, but each will have a special discount for anyone who has already started building a set.
- NEW! Do you have a MS69/70 2006-W Silver Eagle Proof? If so make it a 3 coin 2006 20th Anniversary Set by adding on the missing types for $100 Shipped.
NEW! Are you building a set of the ATB Quarters? If so get the2021 Silver Tuskegee Airmen NGC GEMfor as little $5 (20xFV in a Slab!)I would prefer to sell at the lowest possible price to a collector. This weekmy price is $40 but you may be able to take up to $35 off.Take off $5if you have any any mint set in the series (2010 to 2021).Take off an additional $10if you have the 2018 Reverse Proof Set (no set is complete without this one)Take off an additional $10if you have years 2019 or 2020Take off an additional $10if you have the full set (2010 to 2020) and just need this one last annoying coin to complete it.
- PRICE DROP! Do you have any Rwanda Nautical Ounces? If so get a 2020 Rwanda Nautical Ounce Proof with Cap/COA (only 1,000 minted) as low as $50 shipped!
- I would prefer to sell at a lower price to a collector and will be lowering the price it until it sells. This week my price is $85.
- SPECIAL: I will take $10 off per unique Rwanda Nautical Ounces in your collection until you get to the best price of $50 shipped!
New Items
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MintDirect Collectionsold as a set for $140
10g Argor-Heraeus Gold Bar- $650I recently paid about $1,000 for 6 Morgan Dollars so in a way I am selling this bar for way less than 6 Dollars! 😋
Leftovers / Items for Trade listed below
****************************************************
Upgraded Morgans Trade / Sale!
As some of you know I have started down the road of picking MS Morgans and recently upgraded a MS64 to a MS65. The 64 sold once, and then again via BIN, but fast forward and now it is still with me. I would be more than happy to trade for a Morgan of similar value or selling for my cost (let me know if I overpaid).
- 1886 Morgan NGC-MS64 with nice crescent toning - $110
- Will also entertain trades for Morgans of similar value.
🦅 Silver Eagles for Trade / Sale! 🦅
All ASE's are available for trade for ASE's of similar value, especially the standard Brown label NGC or Blue First Strike PCGS Labels.
I tried my best to point out any issues on these and dropped prices accordingly. All of these looked good in hand and most issues went unnoticed by these old eyes until I took the detailed photos. For instance the 2018-W with the spot is really only visible at a certain angle, but it is there so I pointed it out. Please ask for videos/pictures if condition is a concern.
🦅 American Silver Eagles 🦅
- 2006 MS69 Silver Eagle (First Strikes) - $45
- 2009 MS70 Silver Eagle (First Strike) - spots/rim tone - $60
- 2011(S) MS69 Silver Eagle (Early Releases) - $45
- 2011 MS70 Silver Eagle (Early Releases) great coin with scratch on the slab - $60
- 2013 MS69 Silver Eagle (Early Releases) - $45
- 2014(W) NGC MS70 Silver Eagle (Early Release) great coin with scratch on slab- $55
- 2016 PCGS MS70 Silver Eagle spot by "T" - $55
- 2006-W NGC MS69 Burnished Silver Eagle (Early Release) - $60
- 2018-W NGC MS70 Burnished Silver Eagle (First Day of Issue) spot by sun - $70
Coming Soon... Graded 2011 Sets and a few more ASE slabs to make a 10+ coin 🐳 lot
****************************************************
Payment and Shipping information:
Zelle, Venmo, or PPFF (in order of preference). Let's be friends, and use smiley emojis (no notes).
Shipping via USPS to U.S. Residents only. If not included shipping is $5 First Class in a bubble mailer, or $10 Priority in Small Flat Rate Box. Insurance, Signature Confirmation, or upgraded shipping available at buyers request/expense.
Notable recent feedback about my shipping includes:
- I lost my job because I thought I'd have time to open this package over lunch hour!
- If I ever sent my son priority mail... I'd ask HalfDeafYeller to package him.
- The shipping was so secure, it may have taken me longer to open than it took to ship
- Had to call in the Army Corps of Engineers to help me get through all the packaging.
- Clear your calendar and get a sharp knife because unboxing your item is going to be an event to remember
- Packaging should be used as a "Forged In Fire" blade test.
I try to be the type of seller that I would like to buy from! Check my feedback, get a reference from those I have sold to in the past, and if you want we can use a middleman.
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Disclaimers:
- Making an Offer - Rule #5 prevents you from doing WTB's for less than spot, so that now applies to any offer made to me. If you want to make an offer please be aware of the current market for the items you are interested in. I strongly suggest new members send a comp to show you at attempted to research the current market value. You are welcomed (even encouraged) to make an offer below the comp. However if I think the offer is to low and there is no comp you will be ignored or blocked. On a side note, I have unknowingly made unreasonable offers before, but only on numismatic items. If that is the case I will not hold it against you... this disclaimer is more for the users that waste my time with offers below spot and 30-40% below retail value.
- Shipping Risk- I cannot be responsible for delivery after the package has left my possession but I will do my part to make sure the package and its contents will arrive safely. Your items will be in multiple layers of bubble wrap, cardboard and up to 5 different types of tape and I will hand deliver it, over the counter, to USPS. If your concerned about the safety of the times I will take photos of the items, the shipping label, and the package before I send it and I will always keep the receipt from when I hand it off.
- Condition of Items - I am not a professional coin grader. Use pictures and videos to judge for yourself. If the condition is a concern I will upload more videos/photos of any coin listed so you can fully inspect it prior to any money changing hands. I would rather take the time to make sure you will be happy with your purchase than rush into a sale.
2023.06.07 23:57 jericho1960 Prosecutors Ready To Ask For Trump Indictment
The Department of Justice is preparing to ask a Washington, DC grand jury to indict former president Donald Trump for violating the Espionage Act and for obstruction of justice as soon as Thursday, adding further weight to the legal baggage facing Mr Trump as he campaigns for his party’s nomination in next year’s presidential election.
The Independent has learned that prosecutors are ready to ask grand jurors to approve an indictment against Mr Trump for violating a portion of the US criminal code known as Section 793, which prohibits “gathering, transmitting or losing” any “information respecting the national defence”.
The use of Section 793, which does not make reference to classified information, is understood to be a strategic decision by prosecutors that has been made to short-circuit Mr Trump’s ability to claim that he used his authority as president to declassify documents he removed from the White House and kept at his Palm Beach, Florida property long after his term expired on 20 January 2021.
That section of US criminal law is written in a way that could encompass Mr Trump’s conduct even if he was authorised to possess the information as president because it states that anyone who “lawfully having possession of, access to, control over, or being entrusted with any document ...relating to the national defence,” and “willfully communicates, delivers, transmits or causes to be communicated, delivered, or transmitted or attempts to communicate, deliver, transmit or cause to be communicated, delivered or transmitted the same to any person not entitled to receive it, or willfully retains the same and fails to deliver it on demand to the officer or employee of the United States entitled to receive it” can be punished by as many as 10 years in prison.
It is understood that prosecutors intend to ask grand jurors to vote on the indictment on Thursday, but that vote could be delayed as much as a week until the next meeting of the grand jury to allow for a complete presentation of evidence, or to allow investigators to gather more evidence for presentation if necessary.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-indictment-espionage-prosecution-charges-b2353397.html
submitted by jericho1960 to atlanticdiscussions [link] [comments]
The Independent has learned that prosecutors are ready to ask grand jurors to approve an indictment against Mr Trump for violating a portion of the US criminal code known as Section 793, which prohibits “gathering, transmitting or losing” any “information respecting the national defence”.
The use of Section 793, which does not make reference to classified information, is understood to be a strategic decision by prosecutors that has been made to short-circuit Mr Trump’s ability to claim that he used his authority as president to declassify documents he removed from the White House and kept at his Palm Beach, Florida property long after his term expired on 20 January 2021.
That section of US criminal law is written in a way that could encompass Mr Trump’s conduct even if he was authorised to possess the information as president because it states that anyone who “lawfully having possession of, access to, control over, or being entrusted with any document ...relating to the national defence,” and “willfully communicates, delivers, transmits or causes to be communicated, delivered, or transmitted or attempts to communicate, deliver, transmit or cause to be communicated, delivered or transmitted the same to any person not entitled to receive it, or willfully retains the same and fails to deliver it on demand to the officer or employee of the United States entitled to receive it” can be punished by as many as 10 years in prison.
It is understood that prosecutors intend to ask grand jurors to vote on the indictment on Thursday, but that vote could be delayed as much as a week until the next meeting of the grand jury to allow for a complete presentation of evidence, or to allow investigators to gather more evidence for presentation if necessary.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-indictment-espionage-prosecution-charges-b2353397.html
2023.06.07 23:18 Dismal-Jellyfish Commissioner Hester M. Peirce: "Although I agree with the objectives of these rules—namely, to reduce the incidence of misconduct in the security-based swap markets—these final rules leave unaddressed concerns I had at the proposing stage about their breadth, and I accordingly cannot support them."
 | submitted by Dismal-Jellyfish to Superstonk [link] [comments] Source: https://www.sec.gov/news/statement/peirce-statement-security-based-swaps-060723 Thank you, Mr. Chair. As we have just heard, today the Commission will vote on finalizing Rule 9j-1, which would prohibit fraud and manipulation involving purchases and sales of security-based swaps, and Rule 15fh-4(c), which would prohibit coercion, manipulation, or deception of a security-based swap entity’s chief compliance officer. Although I agree with the objectives of these rules—namely, to reduce the incidence of misconduct in the security-based swap markets—these final rules leave unaddressed concerns I had at the proposing stage about their breadth, and I accordingly cannot support them. What Hester is against:Final Rule (136 pages):https://www.sec.gov/rules/final/2023/34-97656.pdfOverview of Security-Based SwapsSecurity-Based Swaps Generally:
Two common examples of security-based swaps – credit default swaps (“CDS”) and total return swaps (“TRS”)
'The trouble'
Overview of the Final Rules:Rule 9j-1
Rule 15fh-4(c)The Commission also is adopting a rule aimed at protecting the independence and objectivity of an SBS Entity’s CCO by preventing the personnel of an SBS Entity from taking actions to coerce, mislead, or otherwise interfere with the CCO. The Commission recognizes that SBS Entities dominate the security-based swap market and also recognizes the important role that CCOs of SBS Entities play in ensuring compliance by SBS Entities and their personnel with the Federal securities laws. As a result, the Commission is adopting Rule 15fh-4(c), which makes it unlawful for any officer, director, supervised person, or employee of an SBS Entity, or any person acting under such person’s direction, to directly or indirectly take any action to coerce, manipulate, mislead, or fraudulently influence the SBS Entity’s CCO in the performance of their duties under the Federal securities laws or the rules and regulations thereunder. Fact Sheet:https://preview.redd.it/dkubyk9ywn4b1.png?width=966&format=png&auto=webp&s=634948d848a6277ed7247d7803a5a63d2b866972https://preview.redd.it/5r40tixywn4b1.png?width=943&format=png&auto=webp&s=1757b80d2890e4460c1e4adfe1d3e5f25c4599d6 Press Release:The Securities and Exchange Commission today adopted rules to prevent fraud, manipulation, and deception in connection with security-based swap transactions and to prevent undue influence over the chief compliance officer (CCO) of security-based swap dealers and major security-based swap participants (SBS Entities). “Any misconduct in the security-based swaps market not only harms direct counterparties but also can affect reference entities and investors in those reference entities,” said SEC Chair Gary Gensler. “Given these markets’ size, scale, and importance, it is critical that the Commission protect investors and market integrity through helping prevent fraud, manipulation, and deception relating to security-based swaps. Today’s set of rules will do just that.”The antifraud and anti-manipulation rule adopted today is designed to prevent misconduct in connection with effecting any transaction in, or attempting to effect any transaction in, or purchasing or selling, or inducing or attempting to induce the purchase or sale of, any security-based swap. The rule takes into account the features fundamental to a security-based swap and will aid the Commission in its pursuit of actions that directly target misconduct that reaches security-based swaps.The Commission also adopted a rule to protect the independence and objectivity of the CCO of a security-based swap dealer or major security-based swap participant.The adopting release will be published in the Federal Register. The final rules will become effective 60 days after the date of publication of the adopting release in the Federal Register. TLDRS:
|
2023.06.07 23:07 ArchipelagoMind [SP]
Book cover
The Archipelago publishes every Wednesday. See the pinned comment for links to the contents.
-----------------------------------
I tied the boat up to a small jetti, somewhat relieved Alessia couldn’t see the knot I hastily threw together, and pulled myself up onto the platform.
Already I could feel a degree of exhaustion. The short row to the shore had already eaten away at the atrophied muscles in my arms. Still, the impatience in my brain had won out. It needed exercise more than my body needed rest.
While I built up some reserves of energy, I took in my surroundings. I hoped to find an islander on a break, idly waiting by the sea, and who might want to talk about Vexids. But while the port didn’t seem busy, anyone I could see was engaged in a task. Porters carried textiles - mostly wool and cotton - off to waiting traders, sellers and buyers negotiated with the waiting boats down by the dock, but no one was stopped. Usually, beyond trade, ports were a place where you’d find those relaxing, finding peace in the coming and going of the waves. But here, there were none.
“Can I help you?” I turned to see a woman in her mid-thirties bounding towards me with almost excessive enthusiasm.
“Yes. I’m just visiting. I came on the large ship.” I tilted my head towards the Deer Drum boat, floating off the coast like an island of its own
“Ah excellent. Another from Deer Drum. Welcome. Can I introduce you to our island? Maybe give you a tour?” She grinned wide, as though pulling her own cheeks back with hooks.
The woman’s overt enthusiasm felt abrasive against my own lethargy. An ache ran across my back. “I would love to understand more.” The words felt stiff, my vocal chords still stretching into shape. “We may have to move slowly though, I’ve been recovering from an injury.”
“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” the woman replied with the same tone and smile. “Well, if you want to learn more about the island, you’re in luck. My name is Endesha. My passion is sharing the island’s history with others, and I’m on my passion rotation right now. ”
“Passion rotation?”
“Yes. Are you familiar with our island at all?” She said, clasping her hands together by her stomach.
“Honestly, nothing. I know a couple of the islanders have been here. One girl in particular, fifteen years old.” I held up my hand out about Mirai’s height. “I hear she’s visited a lot and likes the place. But no idea beyond that.”
Endesha looked up, searching her memory. “Ah, yes. Mirai. Brilliant young woman. I’ve met her a few times. Fits right in here, a mind like that.” She said, pointing a finger. “Well, maybe we can walk to the town square, it’s only a short walk, and I’ll tell you a bit more about our history on our way.”
I nodded in agreement, and Endesha held up an arm to guide the way. She led me up through the town past beige stone structures till we arrived at a long, thin building. Inside I could hear the thrum of machines, the thudding so loud it threatened to topple the aged and cracked walls. Endesha pointed to an engraving; old eroded numbers that read 7-7-10.
“This is one of the oldest buildings in the work part of town. And it celebrates our most important rule.” Endesha looked at it with reverence. “When The Archipelago formed, those here felt that too many had died living wasteful lives, never doing what made them truly happy. And so beaame the law.” She began counting each point on her fingers. “Seven hours of work, our sacrifice to keeping the island running and ensuring we have food to eat. Seven hours to rest, eat and sleep.” She leaned in, her mouth grinning with delight. “And ten hours to chase our passions, and become the best people we can be.”
“You only work for seven hours? The other seventeen are all yours?”
“To be the best we can be.” She corrected me with a wagged finger. “The whole town is separated into three sectors. Here, near the harbour, is our industry, to the North we have the homes where people live and sleep, and to the east, is the true treasure of the island. The drive sector.” She turned and jolted with purpose, drawn eastwards by the sector’s mere mention. My legs strained to keep up, joints unsteady and unsure. “I’ve spent a fair amount of time pouring over the documents from the island’s founding and how they describe the old world. There are old descriptions of people watching moving pictures, or making men and women move with hand-held controllers just for fun. They use the term *to kill time*. Can you believe that? To kill time.”
I thought of the many times on Alessia’s boat, on a relatively still day, when I would simply sit on the edge, watching peaceful waves roll by. “I… I think we might still do that?”
“Not here.” Endesha said, her arms outstretched, allowing a broad chest to bellow the words out. “Tell me, Ferdinand. When are you happiest?”
“What?” I said, my feet almost tripping on the words.
“When do you feel happy?”
I tried to go through a list. The drunken walk back to our property on Talin Barier with Alessia. Singing songs with the Deer Drum crew. When Alessia gave me my room on the boat. So many came back to Alessia. Too many. “I’m not sure,” I said, still dodging the truth even to a stranger. “People maybe?”
“Even in the old world people spoke of having a calling. Something they wanted to do - not for glory or riches, but for the love of the task. Pursuing that is where happiness lies. Sure, you can be fine sitting about on a warm sunny day…” She waved an arm dismissively. “But real contentment lies in what drives us, what fascinates us. Don’t you agree?”
A small smile flickered across my lips as I remembered my own calling. While the chase of the Citadel on Kadear had been intoxicating, travelling the Archipelago had been more than a want. Happiness that lifted your chest as well as your lips. “I’m beginning to.”
Her already huge smile gained an extra lift at my agreement. “Then is it not the duty of this - or any island, to help you achieve those dreams? To push you to do what you are capable of.” She prodded my chest with a hard finger. “That is what those ten hours are for. To chase what drives you. To become what you are capable of. Not for the island, but for yourself.”
The conversation paused as the road widened out into a large town square. In the middle was a wooden stage made of varnished pine. It was low enough that you could step up to it with a good leap, but wide enough to hold a good thirty or forty people if required.
“We have a bit of a ritual that comes with those passions,” Endesha chuckled, staring at the platform. “I took a while to understand it, I had to go through pages and pages of correspondence among the island’s first council members. However, what they realised is that one of the most important parts of chasing your passions is to acknowledge them. To state your dreams aloud and not cower from them.”
It made sense. So many times I had stared at that map in my home in Kadear. But other than brief conversations with Thomas my wishes of travelling were hidden. Only external events brought that desire out of the darkness.
Endesha walked towards the stage. I could almost see the years of the residents who had taken to the stand in her eyes. “Between the ages of fifteen and sixteen, all residents come here to declare their passion in front of the island. I came here,” she pointed to each individual invisible attendee. “I told them I wanted to learn about the history of Vexids Receives and share it with visitors. And in attending, they told me that they would help me, push me in pursuit of that passion.” She turned to me, her smile reverential. “In a few weeks, the next group will take to that stage. And you can be certain I will be witness to their proclamations.”
I thought about what I would’ve said on such a stage. How much easier would my travels have been if I had had to declare that drive to my fellow islanders, and they in turn were duty bound to help me pursue it?
Endesha meanwhile was telling me about the history of the stage. The details of when it was first built and the repairs done to it over the years, and how it intertwined with the rest of the planned town. But the dates and minutia weren’t the reason for the smile on my face. It was the growing understanding of this place, and the freedom to give yourself not just to your island, or your own greed and vices, but to what called you.
It seemed to shake off some of the lethargy in my bones, and when Endesha asked if I wanted to continue on to the see the passion sector, I obliged.
We made our way east, as Endesha regaled me with the founders’ foresight in the layout. A series of workshops each in their own courtyard, their entrances facing inward. Each one had large wooden shutters at the back and front the entire width of the building save for a small doorway at the end. The lack of warmth in Winter was a price worth paying for the community the openness created.
We turned and entered into one of the courtyards as I was met with the output of people’s hobbies: the sound of sandpaper grated across wood, the tune of an accordion pushing notes through its pipes. I could smell the aroma of old books, in between the wafts of fresh paint.
The sights and sounds were a melody somehow borne of cacophony. No thread connected each space. Each room was home to a different activity. All the island did was give space for them to grow. And yet, the end result seemed harmonious.
I watched a woman placing red hot metal into a great furnace, while next door another folded dough, flour pluming into the air each time the bread hit the table.
Creaking metal snatched my attention. Atop one of the rooms to the left was a small windmill. Rusted iron blades oscillated with each rotation, but still it turned in the light breeze. From its base, a slew of cables ran down the roof disappearing through a hole near the edge. Looking into the shadowy room I could see two figures. A middle aged man, with curly balding hair, and a teenage girl.
“Mirai!” I called out.
Mirai looked up, two wires in one hand, and a tool in the other. “Ferdinand! You made it off the ship.”
“Eir finally let me go.”
Mirai put the wires down on a bench and pointed to the man behind her. “This is Charles. Charles, this is Ferdinand. He helped us move from Deer Drum.”
The man took off a pair of thick, leather gloves and reached out to shake my hand. His face was blotched, and there were a few wrinkles across his brow. But his cheeks were taut and youthful. “Good to meet you. Welcome to my electrical shop.”
“Charles does electrical engineering as his passion,” Mirai said, jumping in to add more information. “He’s built so many things. Small engines, toys… every workshop in this courtyard has electric lights now thanks to Charles.” She pointed to the bulb hanging from dangled wiring above.
“I’m no genius. But I’ve got pretty good over the years.” Charles said, thumbs tucked into the straps of his overalls.
Mirai continued. “He’s currently trying to get a windmill working. He could power the whole island off wind power alone.”
“It used to be a common form of electrical power in the old world,” Endesha added, stepping between us. “I believe there may be the odd island in the Archipelago where it exists, but it would be a serious boon to have it here.”
Charles grinned but bowed his head.
“Charles has been letting me help out for the past few days. Soldering cables, testing currents, that kind of thing,” Mirai beamed.
“She’s been a great help. Hard to try and fix the turbine on the roof and measure the currents down here at the same time,” Charles added with a chuckle.
“It’s amazing. I’ve been sitting on that boat for months just watching the oceans roll by,” Mirai stretched out the words so they were as boring as a flat, windless sea. “I designed that one fish net, but other than that I haven’t got to do anything. But, Ferdinand, I love this stuff.”
“I’m glad it’s going so well,” I smiled.
Suddenly she snapped her fingers. “Here, let me show you something.” She turned, leaping between tables, before returning with a series of wires that connected a lightbulb to a small metal box with a wooden handle. “I made this. Turn the handle.”
I looked at her hesitantly.
“Go on.”
It was only the width of my palm, but still, the small pole was hard to turn.
Mirai laughed. “Harder. You’ll have to go faster.”
My muscles were still wasted and weak from the Anmanion islands, and even this small chore was causing my arm to ache. However, for Mirai’s sake, I put in more effort, pushing past the resistance, until the wheel span faster and I saw a small flicker of light from the bulb. The spark invigorated me, and I cranked harder until a soft yellow glow from the bulb rose and dimmed with each shift of my arm. We all watched the light for a few seconds, until the stiffness in my wrist returned and I had to stop.
“Mirai, that’s amazing.” I smiled, shaking off the aches.
“I mean, it’s nothing compared to what Charles has done.” Mirai looked to the side, turning her cheeks. “But it’s a start.”
“It’s an excellent start,” I nodded.
The enthusiasm came back. “I just love this stuff so much. I wish I could do it forever.”
“You could,” Endesha interrupted.
All heads turned to her.
“Anyone can join Vexids Receives over the age of fifteen. It was one of the rules created by the island’s founders. All you have to do is declare your passion during the ceremony.”
I felt my teeth grit, watching this stranger so ignorant of Mirai and her world. Mirai’s face lit up. “When’s the next ceremony!?”
“About three weeks’ time.” Endesha replied, ignoring my grimace.
Mirai’s eyes glossed over, filled with an idyllic vision. “I can keep doing this? I can stay?”
-------------------------------------
The Archipelago publishes every Wednesday. See the pinned comment for links to the contents.
submitted by ArchipelagoMind to shortstories [link] [comments]
The Archipelago publishes every Wednesday. See the pinned comment for links to the contents.
-----------------------------------
I tied the boat up to a small jetti, somewhat relieved Alessia couldn’t see the knot I hastily threw together, and pulled myself up onto the platform.
Already I could feel a degree of exhaustion. The short row to the shore had already eaten away at the atrophied muscles in my arms. Still, the impatience in my brain had won out. It needed exercise more than my body needed rest.
While I built up some reserves of energy, I took in my surroundings. I hoped to find an islander on a break, idly waiting by the sea, and who might want to talk about Vexids. But while the port didn’t seem busy, anyone I could see was engaged in a task. Porters carried textiles - mostly wool and cotton - off to waiting traders, sellers and buyers negotiated with the waiting boats down by the dock, but no one was stopped. Usually, beyond trade, ports were a place where you’d find those relaxing, finding peace in the coming and going of the waves. But here, there were none.
“Can I help you?” I turned to see a woman in her mid-thirties bounding towards me with almost excessive enthusiasm.
“Yes. I’m just visiting. I came on the large ship.” I tilted my head towards the Deer Drum boat, floating off the coast like an island of its own
“Ah excellent. Another from Deer Drum. Welcome. Can I introduce you to our island? Maybe give you a tour?” She grinned wide, as though pulling her own cheeks back with hooks.
The woman’s overt enthusiasm felt abrasive against my own lethargy. An ache ran across my back. “I would love to understand more.” The words felt stiff, my vocal chords still stretching into shape. “We may have to move slowly though, I’ve been recovering from an injury.”
“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” the woman replied with the same tone and smile. “Well, if you want to learn more about the island, you’re in luck. My name is Endesha. My passion is sharing the island’s history with others, and I’m on my passion rotation right now. ”
“Passion rotation?”
“Yes. Are you familiar with our island at all?” She said, clasping her hands together by her stomach.
“Honestly, nothing. I know a couple of the islanders have been here. One girl in particular, fifteen years old.” I held up my hand out about Mirai’s height. “I hear she’s visited a lot and likes the place. But no idea beyond that.”
Endesha looked up, searching her memory. “Ah, yes. Mirai. Brilliant young woman. I’ve met her a few times. Fits right in here, a mind like that.” She said, pointing a finger. “Well, maybe we can walk to the town square, it’s only a short walk, and I’ll tell you a bit more about our history on our way.”
I nodded in agreement, and Endesha held up an arm to guide the way. She led me up through the town past beige stone structures till we arrived at a long, thin building. Inside I could hear the thrum of machines, the thudding so loud it threatened to topple the aged and cracked walls. Endesha pointed to an engraving; old eroded numbers that read 7-7-10.
“This is one of the oldest buildings in the work part of town. And it celebrates our most important rule.” Endesha looked at it with reverence. “When The Archipelago formed, those here felt that too many had died living wasteful lives, never doing what made them truly happy. And so beaame the law.” She began counting each point on her fingers. “Seven hours of work, our sacrifice to keeping the island running and ensuring we have food to eat. Seven hours to rest, eat and sleep.” She leaned in, her mouth grinning with delight. “And ten hours to chase our passions, and become the best people we can be.”
“You only work for seven hours? The other seventeen are all yours?”
“To be the best we can be.” She corrected me with a wagged finger. “The whole town is separated into three sectors. Here, near the harbour, is our industry, to the North we have the homes where people live and sleep, and to the east, is the true treasure of the island. The drive sector.” She turned and jolted with purpose, drawn eastwards by the sector’s mere mention. My legs strained to keep up, joints unsteady and unsure. “I’ve spent a fair amount of time pouring over the documents from the island’s founding and how they describe the old world. There are old descriptions of people watching moving pictures, or making men and women move with hand-held controllers just for fun. They use the term *to kill time*. Can you believe that? To kill time.”
I thought of the many times on Alessia’s boat, on a relatively still day, when I would simply sit on the edge, watching peaceful waves roll by. “I… I think we might still do that?”
“Not here.” Endesha said, her arms outstretched, allowing a broad chest to bellow the words out. “Tell me, Ferdinand. When are you happiest?”
“What?” I said, my feet almost tripping on the words.
“When do you feel happy?”
I tried to go through a list. The drunken walk back to our property on Talin Barier with Alessia. Singing songs with the Deer Drum crew. When Alessia gave me my room on the boat. So many came back to Alessia. Too many. “I’m not sure,” I said, still dodging the truth even to a stranger. “People maybe?”
“Even in the old world people spoke of having a calling. Something they wanted to do - not for glory or riches, but for the love of the task. Pursuing that is where happiness lies. Sure, you can be fine sitting about on a warm sunny day…” She waved an arm dismissively. “But real contentment lies in what drives us, what fascinates us. Don’t you agree?”
A small smile flickered across my lips as I remembered my own calling. While the chase of the Citadel on Kadear had been intoxicating, travelling the Archipelago had been more than a want. Happiness that lifted your chest as well as your lips. “I’m beginning to.”
Her already huge smile gained an extra lift at my agreement. “Then is it not the duty of this - or any island, to help you achieve those dreams? To push you to do what you are capable of.” She prodded my chest with a hard finger. “That is what those ten hours are for. To chase what drives you. To become what you are capable of. Not for the island, but for yourself.”
The conversation paused as the road widened out into a large town square. In the middle was a wooden stage made of varnished pine. It was low enough that you could step up to it with a good leap, but wide enough to hold a good thirty or forty people if required.
“We have a bit of a ritual that comes with those passions,” Endesha chuckled, staring at the platform. “I took a while to understand it, I had to go through pages and pages of correspondence among the island’s first council members. However, what they realised is that one of the most important parts of chasing your passions is to acknowledge them. To state your dreams aloud and not cower from them.”
It made sense. So many times I had stared at that map in my home in Kadear. But other than brief conversations with Thomas my wishes of travelling were hidden. Only external events brought that desire out of the darkness.
Endesha walked towards the stage. I could almost see the years of the residents who had taken to the stand in her eyes. “Between the ages of fifteen and sixteen, all residents come here to declare their passion in front of the island. I came here,” she pointed to each individual invisible attendee. “I told them I wanted to learn about the history of Vexids Receives and share it with visitors. And in attending, they told me that they would help me, push me in pursuit of that passion.” She turned to me, her smile reverential. “In a few weeks, the next group will take to that stage. And you can be certain I will be witness to their proclamations.”
I thought about what I would’ve said on such a stage. How much easier would my travels have been if I had had to declare that drive to my fellow islanders, and they in turn were duty bound to help me pursue it?
Endesha meanwhile was telling me about the history of the stage. The details of when it was first built and the repairs done to it over the years, and how it intertwined with the rest of the planned town. But the dates and minutia weren’t the reason for the smile on my face. It was the growing understanding of this place, and the freedom to give yourself not just to your island, or your own greed and vices, but to what called you.
It seemed to shake off some of the lethargy in my bones, and when Endesha asked if I wanted to continue on to the see the passion sector, I obliged.
We made our way east, as Endesha regaled me with the founders’ foresight in the layout. A series of workshops each in their own courtyard, their entrances facing inward. Each one had large wooden shutters at the back and front the entire width of the building save for a small doorway at the end. The lack of warmth in Winter was a price worth paying for the community the openness created.
We turned and entered into one of the courtyards as I was met with the output of people’s hobbies: the sound of sandpaper grated across wood, the tune of an accordion pushing notes through its pipes. I could smell the aroma of old books, in between the wafts of fresh paint.
The sights and sounds were a melody somehow borne of cacophony. No thread connected each space. Each room was home to a different activity. All the island did was give space for them to grow. And yet, the end result seemed harmonious.
I watched a woman placing red hot metal into a great furnace, while next door another folded dough, flour pluming into the air each time the bread hit the table.
Creaking metal snatched my attention. Atop one of the rooms to the left was a small windmill. Rusted iron blades oscillated with each rotation, but still it turned in the light breeze. From its base, a slew of cables ran down the roof disappearing through a hole near the edge. Looking into the shadowy room I could see two figures. A middle aged man, with curly balding hair, and a teenage girl.
“Mirai!” I called out.
Mirai looked up, two wires in one hand, and a tool in the other. “Ferdinand! You made it off the ship.”
“Eir finally let me go.”
Mirai put the wires down on a bench and pointed to the man behind her. “This is Charles. Charles, this is Ferdinand. He helped us move from Deer Drum.”
The man took off a pair of thick, leather gloves and reached out to shake my hand. His face was blotched, and there were a few wrinkles across his brow. But his cheeks were taut and youthful. “Good to meet you. Welcome to my electrical shop.”
“Charles does electrical engineering as his passion,” Mirai said, jumping in to add more information. “He’s built so many things. Small engines, toys… every workshop in this courtyard has electric lights now thanks to Charles.” She pointed to the bulb hanging from dangled wiring above.
“I’m no genius. But I’ve got pretty good over the years.” Charles said, thumbs tucked into the straps of his overalls.
Mirai continued. “He’s currently trying to get a windmill working. He could power the whole island off wind power alone.”
“It used to be a common form of electrical power in the old world,” Endesha added, stepping between us. “I believe there may be the odd island in the Archipelago where it exists, but it would be a serious boon to have it here.”
Charles grinned but bowed his head.
“Charles has been letting me help out for the past few days. Soldering cables, testing currents, that kind of thing,” Mirai beamed.
“She’s been a great help. Hard to try and fix the turbine on the roof and measure the currents down here at the same time,” Charles added with a chuckle.
“It’s amazing. I’ve been sitting on that boat for months just watching the oceans roll by,” Mirai stretched out the words so they were as boring as a flat, windless sea. “I designed that one fish net, but other than that I haven’t got to do anything. But, Ferdinand, I love this stuff.”
“I’m glad it’s going so well,” I smiled.
Suddenly she snapped her fingers. “Here, let me show you something.” She turned, leaping between tables, before returning with a series of wires that connected a lightbulb to a small metal box with a wooden handle. “I made this. Turn the handle.”
I looked at her hesitantly.
“Go on.”
It was only the width of my palm, but still, the small pole was hard to turn.
Mirai laughed. “Harder. You’ll have to go faster.”
My muscles were still wasted and weak from the Anmanion islands, and even this small chore was causing my arm to ache. However, for Mirai’s sake, I put in more effort, pushing past the resistance, until the wheel span faster and I saw a small flicker of light from the bulb. The spark invigorated me, and I cranked harder until a soft yellow glow from the bulb rose and dimmed with each shift of my arm. We all watched the light for a few seconds, until the stiffness in my wrist returned and I had to stop.
“Mirai, that’s amazing.” I smiled, shaking off the aches.
“I mean, it’s nothing compared to what Charles has done.” Mirai looked to the side, turning her cheeks. “But it’s a start.”
“It’s an excellent start,” I nodded.
The enthusiasm came back. “I just love this stuff so much. I wish I could do it forever.”
“You could,” Endesha interrupted.
All heads turned to her.
“Anyone can join Vexids Receives over the age of fifteen. It was one of the rules created by the island’s founders. All you have to do is declare your passion during the ceremony.”
I felt my teeth grit, watching this stranger so ignorant of Mirai and her world. Mirai’s face lit up. “When’s the next ceremony!?”
“About three weeks’ time.” Endesha replied, ignoring my grimace.
Mirai’s eyes glossed over, filled with an idyllic vision. “I can keep doing this? I can stay?”
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The Archipelago publishes every Wednesday. See the pinned comment for links to the contents.