#Ingredient Management Software

[sgsystemsglobal]

Why SG Systems Global is the Best for Ingredient Management Software

Managing ingredients efficiently is a cornerstone of success in food production, pharmaceuticals, and other industries requiring precision and traceability. SG Systems Global leads the market with its cutting-edge Ingredient Management Software. Designed to optimize Ingredient Batching, streamline processes, and enhance transparency, their solutions are trusted worldwide.

The Importance of Ingredient Management in Modern Industries

Ingredient management is not just about tracking inventory. It’s about ensuring precision, reducing waste, maintaining quality, and meeting regulatory standards. Whether it’s an Ingredient Batching System for production or an Ingredient Traceability System for compliance, businesses need robust tools to remain competitive.

Challenges Without an Effective Ingredient Management Software

Failing to implement a reliable Ingredient Management Software can lead to significant setbacks, such as:

Inconsistent Batching: Manual processes increase the risk of errors and product inconsistencies.

Compliance Issues: Regulations demand accurate tracking and reporting of ingredient usage.

Inefficient Production: Lack of automation slows down operations and increases costs.

Why SG Systems Global Excels in Ingredient Management

SG Systems Global stands out because of its innovative solutions and a deep understanding of industry needs. Here’s why they are the best choice:

Advanced Ingredient Management Software SG Systems Global provides software that simplifies and automates ingredient tracking and batching.

Seamless Ingredient Batching System Their batching system ensures precision in ingredient measurements, enhancing consistency and quality.

Reliable Ingredient Traceability System Traceability tools offer full visibility of ingredient sourcing and usage, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Customizable Solutions SG Systems Global tailors its systems to meet the unique requirements of different industries.

Features of SG Systems Global’s Ingredient Management Software

Their software is packed with features to optimize operations:

Real-Time Tracking Monitor ingredient usage and inventory levels in real time.

Batching Accuracy Automated systems ensure precise ingredient measurements every time.

Traceability Reporting Generate detailed reports for audits and compliance effortlessly.

Integration Capabilities Their software integrates with existing production systems for seamless workflows.

Improving Production with an Ingredient Batching System

Accurate batching is essential for consistent product quality. SG Systems Global’s Ingredient Batching System automates the measurement and mixing of ingredients, minimizing waste and ensuring repeatability in production.

Enhancing Transparency with an Ingredient Traceability System

Traceability is crucial for compliance and consumer trust. SG Systems Global’s Ingredient Traceability System tracks ingredients from their source to the final product, offering full transparency and simplifying recall processes when necessary.

Building Efficiency and Compliance with SG Systems Global

Efficient ingredient management isn’t just about operational improvement—it’s also about meeting stringent industry standards. SG Systems Global’s software ensures businesses stay ahead in compliance while optimizing their production workflows.

Conclusion

SG Systems Global is the ultimate partner for businesses seeking robust Ingredient Management Software. Their advanced Ingredient Batching System and Ingredient Traceability System streamline operations, reduce costs, and ensure compliance. With SG Systems Global, businesses can achieve precision, transparency, and efficiency, setting themselves up for long-term success.

[flufflecat]

the scavenger hunt password chain through the book of bill has everyone stumped at the silas birchtree question. so far the chain is:

RIDDLE -> "Would you like to play a game?"

YES -> "What's Mcgucket's favorite soda?"

MOUNTAIN DON'T -> "What's a medieval homonym?"

LYRE LIAR -> "The 20th ingredient of anti-cipherizing tonic?"

HAROLD'S RAMBLINGS -> "How is clown repellent made?"

UNION MADE -> "Bill's govt file number?"

29121239168518 -> "Who comes from Zimtrex 5?"

GREBLEY HEMBERDRECK -> "What's on Bill's flag?"

A RAT -> "Thurburt's number?"

3466554 -> "What leaves a thin line in the snow?"

TINSEL SNAKE -> "The 6th option on Bill's editing software?"

TORTURE MENTALLY -> "Name an unpronounceable wizard"

XGQRTHX -> "Where do tri angels come from?"

333 SUNDAPPLE LANE COZY CREEK IL 60714-94611 -> "Bill Cipher's lawyer?"

MULTILEVEL MARK (or CAESAR ATBASH & VIGENERE) -> "Who defeated Silas Birchtree--?"

The only mention of Silas is on this page, and nothing in any of the text seems to be the answer.

i swear that the blue triangle has some very, very low contrast green text on it, starting with "SUC" on the topmost layer, but i cant make out anything else no matter how many flashlights i shine at it.

if anyone can manage to get a good scan of this page and up the contrast, that might answer it

EDIT:

the pyramid is confirmed to say "SUCCESS, MIDDLE, FAILURE" (thank you to everyone who commented and let me know!!)

and another EDIT:

the answer to "Who defeated Silas Birchtree is"

EMMALINE BUTTERNUBBINS

thank you @floweramon for letting me know!!

[michaelwriston]

Hi Michael!

Not long ago I've discovered you and your photography (through a Flickr tag by Patrick Joust :) ) and I was immediately amazed and fascinated by your esthetic style. I love the apparent simplicity and the cleanliness of the composition, the way you manage to present as interesting a boring subject. The portraits in the street are stunning, both in terms of the subject's attitude and the pictures' colors; I'm impressed by the natural look, white balance and colors, that also seems so filmic; great edit!

Would be to much to ask what are your guidelines when framing empty streets / building? And can you reveal some ingredients of your editing?

Thanks a lot! Keep up the lovely work, cheers from Eastern Europe!

Hi there,

First, thank you—truly—for taking the time not just to look at my work, but to reach out with such thoughtful questions. It’s humbling that you'd devote any of your attention to my photography, and I can't say thank you enough. Sharing the city I love with others is a joy, and I’m grateful it resonated with you. I’m also honored to be photographed by Patrick Joust. He’s a dear friend and someone I deeply enjoy exploring Baltimore with. That his work could serve as a passage to mine feels like a real privilege.

I’ve written elsewhere that I view the camera as more than a tool for documentation. I use my camera as an invitation—to the world and to others—to engage. That sense of receptivity is central to how I work. Whether I’m photographing a portrait, a landscape, or some combination of the two, my first guideline is simply to be present. I try not to approach with a checklist or preconceived notions. Doing so risks missing what the world is offering at that moment, be it subtle or strange, quiet or sublime.

My second guideline is this: never punch down. I try to use the camera to relate, not to narrate or dictate. When I photograph strangers or their environments, I see it as an opportunity to build empathy and to better understand that which I don’t already know. If I happen to be in a disinvested neighborhood or photographing people going through hard times, I aim first to earn their consent, and then to represent not the hardship itself, but the human behind it. I try to highlight dignity rather than dramatize suffering. I’m also keenly aware of my own privilege—that I get to walk away from a given scene or story, while the subject might not. With that in mind, I strive to approach every interaction with respect, grace, and a bit of levity. These are real people, not characters. That is foundational to my artistic approach.

On a technical note, I shoot with a Canon 6D paired with a Sigma 35mm f/1.4 ART lens. That focal length works well for me in tight urban corridors and unpredictable light, and it strikes a strong balance for the kind of environmental portraiture I prefer—wide enough to frame some context, close enough to keep the subject grounded and present.

When I photograph buildings or street scenes, I often shoot from a medium distance. I like to place the subject in relationship with its surroundings. I’m drawn to contradiction, irony, and the unexpected: a grand car parked in front of a row of identical homes, or a burst of color from an overly lit storefront in an otherwise empty lot. I tend to see the world with the openness of a transcendentalist and the disposition of an absurdist. That is perhaps chiefly why I love photographing Baltimore. It’s a city in extremis, and it rarely fails to deliver.

As for editing, I’ll be honest. I’d much rather be outside shooting than in front of a computer. I suffer from terrible decision paralysis, and I find the infinite sliders of modern processing software more draining than liberating. That said, I shoot in RAW for the flexibility and detail, and I do my editing in DxO PhotoLab 8. I’ve tried Lightroom, Capture One, ON1, and a handful of open-source tools, but PL8 fits my style best. It helps me get to a final image efficiently, with minimal fuss.

My workflow is fairly straightforward. I ingest, cull, and tag everything in PhotoMechanic—sometimes cutting a hundred shots down to just three or four. Then I open those images in PhotoLab, where I apply a minimalist preset I made that:

Uses the DxO Neutral color rendering as a base

Applies the Portra 160 VC LUT from the (free!) G'MIC collection at 40% opacity

Reduces vignetting and sharpness for a softer, less “processed” look

Uses DxO’s excellent DeepPRIME engine to denoise high ISO shots

Adds the faintest trace of film grain—barely visible in JPEGs, but it gives a little texture in print

I try to keep the look subtle and restraint-driven. My hope is that the images hold a kind of stylized clarity without tipping into anything flashy or artificial. Ideally, I’d like them to age gracefully.

Thank you again for the generosity of your note. If anything I’ve shared here is informative, then I am glad.

All the best,

mw

[sketch-owl]

All About the Joker Post!

Hello fellow Tumblr users, if you’ve stumbled across this wall of text congrats! You love and enjoy Batman content just as much as I do. This is a dedicated lore dump all about the one and only Joker as he exists in my Batman AU.

If this is the first one you’re reading, here’s a bit of backstory: This AU has existed in my brain for many years, though in true writer fashion I haven’t properly written it all out. Though eventually, I intend to make this into a work of fiction with chapters and everything. For now though, I have managed to write out all of our major characters’ backstories.

Before delving right in you should know that this story has dark themes that take place within the story and content that can be triggering, so if you are sensitive to those please read with caution or skip this one altogether. Mental health takes first place over silly Batman characters.

⚠️ Trigger warning for:

Death

Torture

Murder

Jack Napier aka the Joker had a loving and supportive family growing up, living a life of privilege. Both his mother and father had successful careers, his father working in software engineering and his mother owning her own business selling home-made baked goods and doing custom catering orders for large events. Jack was an only child, but he had no shortage of his mother’s undivided attention. He would often help her in the kitchen with measuring ingredients and adding them into bowls, and in between baking times they would play pretend in their living room. Jack loved baking with his mom, developing a love for everything sweet from an early age. But what he loved even more was playing theater, where he would stand on stage (the couch) with hundreds watching (his mom). He would throw plays where he would act every part, and the audience would add in the sound effects. The clapping of horse hoofs in his old western play, the creaking of a basement door in his scary monster play, and the dramatic punches of a hero fighting the villain in his superhero play.

In school, theater was also his favorite. The singing, the dancing, the costumes, he wanted to do it all. He would often practice his lines on his classmates during other subjects, or try out his new jokes on the teacher, earning him the title of class clown. He had dreamed of growing up and becoming a famous comedian or actor. Though between the ages of 16 and 17 that dream had changed.

His father had died suddenly and tragically in a car accident, falling asleep at the wheel as he was on his way home from a long night at work. The car veered off the road, striking a light post and rolling down the sloped landscape several meters before stopping. The accident was just minutes away from home. Jack and his mother watched from the window as an ambulance and several police cars went by. His mother convinced herself that it was nothing to worry about, whatever was going on didn’t need her concern. When her husband didn’t return at the normal time, she told herself that he must have been held up by the accident, that was all. He would be home safe soon. She stayed up all night waiting for him, praying. There would be a knock on the door early the following morning. Jack had crawled out of bed at the noise, peeking his head into the front room. His mother answered the door, wiping the tired from her eyes. Two police officers stood on the other side. One of the officers spoke quietly, something Jack couldn’t make out. His mother screamed and collapsed to the ground before the officer could continue. Jack rushed to her, holding her, and that’s when he heard it. His dad had died. The officer did his best to explain what happened. His mother wailed hysterically while Jack sat quietly, hugging her.

From that moment forward things had changed in their home. His mother had closed her baking business and found a job as a server in order to make ends meet. At first there was a period of time where his mother was constantly angry. She would cry and yell and rant about how stupid his father was to fall asleep while driving. He should have gone to a hotel. How could he leave her and his son like this. It wasn’t fair. She had planned out her whole life with him, and now she was left alone to pick up the pieces. His mother’s short fuse was often directed at her son. If he was falling behind in his academics in favor of doing theater, she would scream at him about how she already had a heavy burden to bear, and how disappointed his father would have been if he were here.

Jack decided the following year of school that he would drop theater as a class. He devoted a majority of his time to studying and greatly improved his GPA. Outside school he would also start working a part-time job, and help with a majority of the house chores. The house would always be clean when his mother came home. Eventually the anger and resentment his mother had went down, though she did not go back to her old happy self like Jack hoped. Her spirit was gone, only a shell of her remaining. Baking was the thing that had brought her so much joy, and now she had ordered takeout for every meal. But Jack couldn’t blame her. She had been through so much that the only thing he could do was be the support that she was missing.

After graduating, Jack had excitedly announced to his mother that he decided to pursue engineering. Not quite the same career that his father had, but it was within a similar field. He took her hands while trying his best to contain himself. This news was only half of the surprise that he had been holding onto, and the other half was something he had been wanting to do for his mom for a long time.

With a wide grin on his face, he said that he also was planning to move out to Gotham, the most technologically advanced city and then begin his career as an intern at Wayne Tech. He already had a place picked out that he would be renting, a spacious apartment in a good area of West Gotham with an amazing view over the city. He asked her if she would move with him. The apartment had two rooms and one bath, and a good sized kitchen. It would be perfect for her to do any baking or cooking just like she did before. She didn’t need to keep working her server job anymore, because as soon as he was done with university and his intern program he would bring enough money for the both of them. She could retire early and best of all, he would be right there to take care of her.

He was holding her hands close to his chest, eyes bright as he laid out his plans for the next several years. He beamed about how he was going to be at the forefront of technology innovation, and be a part of a massive team of incredibly intelligent people. As he spoke her expression didn’t change. After he was done, he waited for her response. She looked away from her son, shaking her head.

She said in a soft voice that she had lived in the same home for decades. All of her happiest memories were attached to the house. Marrying the love of her life, raising him, starting her business. While it was thoughtful of him to think of her, she couldn’t just uproot her life on a dime. Jack’s smile slowly fell. He told her that it was alright if she didn’t want to decide right now, saying that she could think about it. She pulled her hands away, saying that she was deciding right now, and her answer was no. Jack insisted that she reconsider then, saying that when he makes it at Wayne Tech she could start her baking business again and make new happy memories. She said that she didn’t want to go back to baking. That dream had passed a long time ago, but that didn’t mean he needed to hold himself back from reaching his dream. If he wanted to go be an engineer then he could do that without her.

Jack looked at his feet. He breathed deeply, holding in the emotions that threatened to spill over. He said that he didn’t want to go anywhere without her. Gotham city was on the opposite side of the country, and if something were to happen to her he wouldn’t be able to help her. She looked back at him. She said that if anything happened to her, then he would be ok.

Over the course of the following month, Jack had packed up his life into boxes. His belongings would be traveling by a moving truck while he and a backpack would be traveling by train. He hugged his mom tightly the day of his departure like it would be the last time, and then set off for a new life.

It took several days before he finally crossed into Ohio, then soon after he was at the Gotham Bay docks. Since Gotham was a series of islands that floated in the mid-section of Ohio, he would then need to board a ship to make it the rest of the way. The weather during the trip had shifted drastically from the hot humidity of Florida to the cold dryness of the northern states. It would take him some getting used to. The wind whipped through him as the ship moved steadily forward through dense clouds of fog. He wondered to himself how the captain of the ship knew where he was going, but then he saw it. Small lights in the far distance. Gotham city was so bright that you could find it even in the fog.

The ship pulled into the East Gotham docks. From a distance Gotham looked small in comparison to the rocky waters that surrounded it. But as they drew closer, the buildings on the island grew larger. Jack felt so tiny but so captivated. He had never been outside his home town before except for trips to the beach, and now here he was, standing before this massive and beautiful city. Despite it being dark and cloudy, the island seemed to glow with lights coming from buildings and signs and billboards with screens.

The people around him began to shuffle off of the ship and Jack followed along with the flow of traffic. He knew where to go, but looking around him he also didn’t at the same time. His sense of direction and confidence had been ripped out from under him the moment he stepped onto the train back home. Though everyone ahead of him seemed to know where they were going, as large groups of people filtered into a line to go down a flight of stairs that disappeared under the cobblestone walkway.

Making his way down, he was met with a place that was just as large as the boat docks he got off from, but more grandiose. It reminded him of an underground town square, as this place was bustling with people that arrived on other vessels. The walls were made of brick and held candle holders which lit the space, as well as chandeliers overhead. In the middle of the large open area were deep trenches that stretched across the room and into tunnels through the back wall. Jack looked at them puzzled, though it wasn’t a moment later before a train with a sleeker style came through the tunnel and slowed to a stop with steam hissing off its body. The world’s first ever subway. Jack tried to hold back his excitement but couldn’t help but jump giddily, a wide grin on his face. Some people around him gave him odd looks, but he didn’t care. This was the coolest thing he’s ever seen.

Looking at a nearby map board, Jack figured out which train he needed to take and which stop he needed to exit off of to get to the far side of the island. From there he would need to board another vessel to take him to West Gotham. Though after arriving at his destination, he was looking around confusedly. There was meant to be another travel ship at this dock but there was only a shipyard where goods and trade are delivered and sent out.

He went to ask someone who was walking out from the subway, but they only sneered at him in response and kept walking. Perhaps he was at the wrong dock. He was taking another look at his map when a strange sound caught his attention. His eyes shifted up towards it, and peeking out from the clouds in the sky slowly moving through the air was what he could only comprehend as a skyship. Jack would later learn that it was called a blimp. Forget the subway, this was the coolest thing he’s ever seen.

In complete awe and wonderment he watched the blimp descend down onto a landing platform a few blocks away. The flying ship was just as big as the city buildings surrounding it, and when he went to board it there were close to a hundred people on board. The inside of the blimp didn’t have much for seating, just a few benches for the elderly and disabled. Everyone else was standing, which had Jack worried. He made a beeline to the wall which had large windows going all the way around the room. When the blimp was set to rise in the air, Jack pressed his back against the wall and prepared to be shaken. Though nothing happened. He opened his eyes and looked over his shoulder at the window. They were slowly rising upwards getting lighter like a balloon being blown up. The ground got further and further away, until eventually it disappeared underneath low hanging clouds. He could feel the pressure in his head shifting as it entered the higher atmosphere, a feeling he was not used to. The blimp slowed to a stop for a few moments before moving forward, the sound of soft whirring kicking on as the propeller blades on the ship sprung to life.

The ship moves in a counterclockwise direction going from island to island he came to find out later. From East Gotham they went to South Gotham, then West Gotham. Much like a train making stops, he stayed onboard until he reached West. The entire trip he was looking out the window, taking in as much as the weather would allow. The sight of the city from this height was beautiful.

Upon landing, he tracked down the nearest subway station and caught one that would take him closest to his apartment. It was a bit of a walk after departing the train, but Jack didn’t mind. He got to look around on ground level what would be his new home, getting to know the street names and nearby shops. While walking, he noticed there were a lot of cars and traffic on the road. It was a lot of traffic in his experience at least. He wondered why everyone in Gotham couldn’t walk to their destinations, it seemed much easier and quicker, especially with the subways and blimp.

Finally at last he arrived at the apartment complex. This was where he would be staying for the foreseeable future, at least until he gets hired full time at Wayne Tech and starts saving his money for a house. A thought had crossed his mind as he stepped inside the landlord’s office to retrieve his key. Once he got a house he could ask his mom again to move in with him. Perhaps the idea of living in an apartment turned her off to it, but a nice house and him being financially successful could change her mind. He pushed that thought away for now though, greeting the landlord behind the desk. His moving truck should be coming in by the end of the day, so he had some time to kill.

He spent the rest of the day sightseeing, visiting the park, browsing the shops, grabbing food and sweets. Wherever his eyes were drawn he followed. When it started to get late he headed back to the apartment. His mind was buzzing with excitement still from it all, though he felt his feet drag behind him exhausted from travel. Surely he would be able to wind down enough to sleep while unpacking his bedding. He went to the landlord’s office, though the lights were turned off. A sign was posted in the window: hours 8am - 8pm closed on Sundays. Jack scratched his head. This shouldn’t be a problem, he could simply go check the back parking lot himself for the moving truck.

Going around the building, Jack had checked all around the place with no truck in sight. Perhaps his things were moved into his room already. He didn’t ask them to do that, but it’s possible. He went up to his apartment room, unlocking the door with his key. He hasn’t been inside the room yet, and while excited to see it in person he was first looking for a pile of boxes. Swinging the door open, he was met with nothing. The apartment was empty. He laughed nervously. Ok, don’t panic. Just call the moving company and see what’s going on before jumping to conclusions.

He took a breath and went around the rooms, finding the home landline phone. It had taken a while before he could get a hold of someone. He anxiously tapped his foot while waiting to hear where the truck was. The front desk clerk had finally returned and said that the truck with his things was running behind, and instead of arriving by today it was going to arrive a few days later. His heart sank. All he had was what he brought with him on the train. That night he slept on the floor, using his bag as a pillow.

Before he knew it the sun was rising and he barely slept. His back was stiff as he pushed himself up, moving over to the window. While watching the sunrise, he went over in his mind what he needed to do that day. His first semester at college will be starting next week and he needs to get books and supplies. He also needs to attend orientation tomorrow. But first things first, he was hungry. A few donuts and a shower later and he was off to the nearest book store.

Gathering up the books that were required by the school and a few other supplies like notebooks and pencils, he brought everything up to the register. He reached into his bag to retrieve his wallet. He couldn’t find it though with the amount of things he had packed into it, so he apologized to the store clerk and pulled some of the stuff out of the bag. His wallet must have fallen to the bottom. He pulled everything out, searched every pocket, patted down his pants. He couldn’t find it anywhere. His wallet was missing.

He left the store empty handed. He shook his head at himself. How could he be so careless as to misplace his wallet? It had to be at the apartment, maybe it fell out of his bag. A quick jog back home and a look around the place turned up nothing. There was only one conclusion left. He had been robbed. Jack cursed to himself. The cash that was in the wallet was as good as gone, but most of his money was still on his card. He went downstairs and phoned the bank, placing a hold on his card and requesting a new one. Though it would take some time before it would arrive.

He hung up the phone, staring at the wall of the apartment lobby. What was he going to do now? He needed money for those books and more importantly food for the week. The snacks he had gotten yesterday would be gone by tomorrow. It was then that something caught his attention. A bulletin board next to the phone. Several flyers were posted, some about service advertising, some about missing persons. But one stood out to him from the rest: a flyer promoting a comedy show at a local bar.

The show was free and just the distraction he needed. After his college orientation, he went to the bar that night. While he wasn’t able to buy himself a drink, he enjoyed himself watching different comedians go up on stage and do their acts. One of the comedians had done a bit where he was interacting with people in the audience, guessing what kind of drink they were having. He then pointed to Jack, asking him if he was having a drink tonight. Jack shook his head, which the comedian booed him for. The guy on stage said that he would have asked if he was the designated driver tonight, but he’s seated alone. So instead he asked why he came to see the show by himself. Jack answered honestly, saying that he’d just got into town. The comedian nodded, welcoming him to Gotham and asked the audience to do the same.

He jokingly asked Jack how the rats had been, which made the bar erupt into laughter. He then asked Jack what made him move to Gotham. Jack said that he was going to be starting college soon. The comedian chuckled and said if that was why he wasn’t drinking tonight, he was a broke college student already.

That jab had struck a nerve in Jack. He was painfully reminded of why he was here seeing this show in the first place. When he had stopped smiling, the comedian said to him to not take himself so seriously. He continued, saying his situation was very common, in fact many people from around the world come into Gotham to attend school. Only difference is they have mommy and daddy paying for everything, and he’s a sorry sap in a bar who can’t afford a drink. The audience laughed. Jack felt himself sink in his chair. He wanted to get up and leave right then and there. Coming to this show was a mistake and he should have just stayed home in his empty and sad apartment.

But then the comedian asked him another question. He asked him what he was going to be studying in college. Jack looked up at him, and without much thought or hesitation he answered ‘How to be a real comedian, unlike you.’

The audience ‘ooooh-ed.’ The comedian looked taken aback, though righted himself quickly. He asked Jack if that was why he was really here, to steal his material. Jack said back that he didn’t need to because his jokes were shit. The comedian brushed him off, saying that the audience clearly disagrees with him. But in any case, he’s not going to entertain hagglers. He then moved on, pointing to another person in the audience to make a guess on what kind of drink they were having. The person he picked had spoken up before he could continue, saying that she wanted to see the college kid on stage. The people around her said they did too. Soon the whole audience was looking at Jack and asking him to show up the other comedian.

What was once a fun comedy night had quickly turned into a battle of comedians, which was arguably more entertaining. Jack got up on stage, his opponent forcing the microphone into his chest before finding a table. The audience stared at him, waiting expectantly. Jack cleared his throat. His mind was blank. He hadn’t been on a stage since he was a kid. He searched his brain for something to say, some introduction joke to get the crowd laughing. But all he could think about was how alone he was. He had moved out to this city to start a life of his own and nothing had gone according to plan. He had no bed, no money, and no mommy or daddy to help him.

He looked at the microphone in his hand. It was then that a realization struck him. He held the microphone up, introducing himself and where he was from. He told the audience that Florida was nothing in comparison to Gotham city, truly. When he was living on his own back home, it took him at least a week before he got robbed. But here it took him less than a day before his wallet was stolen.

He retold the unfortunate series of events, making himself to be this young and dumb college kid that is more book smart than street smart. The audience had ate it up, laughing at every turn of the story and waiting to see what happened next. The final part to his story was how he wound up in the bar, not a penny to his name, being picked on by an asshole on stage. Even the asshole in question was smiling at his table. After his tale was concluded he thanked everyone for coming out tonight, then went back to his seat.

The crowd clapped and cheered, some even shouting that they wanted more. A bar staff member jumped up on stage to calm the energy level down and introduce the next comedian. Jack sighed with relief. Although the audience had loved his performance, he didn’t mean to take over the other guy’s show. Even if it was shit. He was snapped out of his thoughts when a glass was placed down at his table by one of the waitstaff. Jack excused himself, saying that he didn’t order anything and that they had the wrong table. The waiter said that someone else had bought him the drink, then went on their way. He looked back at the glass. A smile spread across his face. He sipped on the drink while watching the rest of the show.

Once the show had concluded, the bar staff had gone on the stage one last time to remind the audience to tip the comedians and waiters if they liked what they saw and wanted more. People got up from their seats and began shuffling towards the door. Jack had stayed behind to finish off his drink, getting up from the table after nearly everyone had left.

A bar staff person had come up to him before he went out the door, handing him an envelope. Jack looked at them confusedly, asking what it was. They answered, saying it was the tips he made from the show. Jack looked even more confused, saying he wasn’t a part of the show. The tips should go to the actual performers. He tried to hand the envelope back, but they held their hand up and said that the people requested the money go to him specifically. They continued to say that the bar has comedy shows every weekend, so he was welcome to come by again but as a performer.

Later on when he was back in his apartment, Jack had opened the envelope. There was over a hundred dollars in cash contained inside. He stared at the money in disbelief. He didn’t feel he deserved it, though at the same time performing on that stage was so much fun. Perhaps it wasn’t a mistake after all to attend the show.

The next morning he went out and purchased the supplies he needed, having just enough left over cash to get himself some groceries. When he got back home, the landlord let him know that his moving truck arrived. For the rest of the day he unpacked, setting up everything just as he envisioned it. The last thing he did was his desk where he would be studying and doing homework. In a couple more days he would be a college student at West Gotham University. He just couldn’t wait to get started.

When the day finally arrived, it was everything he dreamed of and more. The university was bustling with students from all over the world. Even some in his class came from as far as New York to attend this school. Jack had felt right at home, surrounded by people who were just as passionate about technology as he was. A bit after starting school he received his replacement card in the mail and he had access to his money again. His funds that he had saved wouldn’t last forever though, and he would need to find a part-time job.

Though at night while he was studying at his desk, or while he was cooking himself dinner, his mind would wander back to the comedy show at the bar. He would daydream often while staring out at the city from his apartment window, thinking about the jokes and stories he could tell on the stage.

He played with the idea in his head of going back. The other comedians might not like him being there on the account that he stole the show from one of them. He couldn’t get the thought out of his head, until eventually one weekend where he just went for it. He went back to the bar and sighed himself up as one of the acts that night.

He was correct in assuming that the others wouldn’t be as welcoming towards him. Some of them made snide comments to him while he was waiting backstage to be called. The same guy that he called out was there as well. When Jack saw him he felt a tinge of guilt. But the man smiled at him, wishing him good luck tonight and that there were no hard feelings. Jack felt instant relief from hearing that, and the anxiety that was building had subsided some.

When it was Jack’s turn on stage, he gave it his all. He used the material that he thought up over the last couple of weeks, and he absolutely knocked it out of the park. He was well received by the audience, and the bar staff called him a natural for being new to the comedy scene. Then at the end of the show he was tipped almost double the amount he was given last time. Jack would continue to perform every weekend, using the show like his part time job. Not only did performing pay his bills, but he also had so much fun doing it. It never felt like a job to him, more like a second dream that came after his first one of being an engineer.

He continued this routine throughout his time in college, taking small breaks here and there when he was able to financially, that way he could allow his creativity to recharge. It was during his final semester that he met someone after one of his shows.

He introduced himself as someone who worked for the city of North Gotham, specifically he was the manager of Amusement Mile. He said that he loved Jack’s performance, saying that he obviously stood out from everyone else there. He could tell he put a lot of thought into how everything is written and structured, and that takes drive which he admired. Saying that he would cut right to the chase, he offered Jack a job opportunity working for him at Amusement Mile doing the same thing he was doing here but being paid much more than tips. His hours were flexible, and he would have full creative freedom to do what he wanted with his act. He didn’t need to make a decision right away, but if he was interested in going bigger to give him a call.

The man handed him a business card, which Jack accepted. He thanked him for enjoying the show, and the man left. He looked down at the card, absolutely stunned. He had known that the audience liked his performance, but he didn’t know he was good enough to be approached by a talent recruiter for a theme park.

While he loved the thought of performing on a proper stage and not in a bar, he wouldn’t have the time to do that after he started his career at Wayne Tech. Before he knew it his graduation day was here, and he was walking across a stage adorned with the tasseled cap and robe to receive his diploma. The feeling was bittersweet. He was the top of his class, his teachers saying he had a bright future ahead of him. Though looking out over all the parents sitting on the sidelines watching their now grown up children complete their final year of school had made him miss his mom that much more. She had already been on his mind that whole day, but now even moreso. His eyes stung with emotion. He inhaled sharply, pushing those thoughts down. He knew she would be proud of him regardless of if she were here to see him or not.

The following day he made preparations to apply to Wayne Tech. He called the front desk and asked if they had an opening for an intern or engineer apprenticeship. The secretary said he could come in for an interview a few days later. When the time came, he traveled over to North Gotham and took the subway to Wayne Tower. While up in the air he could clearly see what building he would be heading to, as it was the largest one on the island and possibly the whole city. Being the biggest landmark, the subway brought him right outside the building. Looking up at the building from this close really puts things into perspective. It was mind bogglingly massive.

The front had a courtyard area with trees, grass, benches, and a water fountain in the center. There were some people sitting outside either working or reading. One person sitting on a bench had their face in a newspaper, and as he passed them by his eyes skimmed over the headline. It was an article about Martha and Thomas Wayne and the recent charity they attended. How Jack wished he could meet the man that started it all, what a dream that would be.

Heading into the main lobby of the building, everything inside was just as ginormous as the outside. Right away everything felt so futuristic. The entryway had the Wayne Tech logo imprinted into the tile floor, and the walls were covered with television screens that displayed various looping photos of the company and its creation. Some photos were from when Wayne Tower was first being built, to now with the CEOs setting up charity events and donating great sums of money.

In the middle of the lobby there was a circle shaped help desk with a team of people working behind it. All of them were busy either answering phone calls or typing out letters on a writer. When he went up to the desk, one of the secretaries welcomed him to Wayne Tech before asking what she could help him with. Jack felt a sudden spike in his anxiety. He needed to make a good first impression with everyone he met here, because all of the people who work at this company know each other. Trying his best to smile normally and not be awkward he said he was here for an interview.

The secretary called one of the managers to let them know he was there, and after a couple minutes someone had come down the stairs and greeted him. She had him follow her to an upstairs office where she took a seat at the desk and he sat down across from her. This was it. This was his moment to secure a spot at the best company to work for. This needed to be his best performance yet. He needed to make his mom proud. His dad proud. The anxiety had moved up into his throat by this point. He couldn’t help but wring his hands together in his lap. He could feel his heart beating against his chest. The interview started with the manager asking him how he was. Jack laughed nervously, almost too loudly. He cleared his throat, saying he was good and excited to be here.

Minutes passed by like seconds, and just like that the interview was over. The manager had asked him all the usual questions that interviews ask. What made you interested in working for this company, what are your qualifications, what department are you interested in, what are some things about yourself, can you work in a team with other people. Jack had practiced answering these questions in his head several times leading up to this moment. At the end he felt very good about how it went. He knew he absolutely nailed it out of the park. His answers were spot on, he had the starting qualifications for an internship, and the manager seemed to like him. All he had to do now was wait for them to call him and say that he was hired.

So he waited. And waited. And waited some more. Over the weekend where he normally would go to the bar to perform, he opted to stay home on the chance that Wayne Tech would call him. Two weeks had passed by and he hadn’t heard anything. The doubt was eating away at him. What if he thought he did good but actually bombed it. He couldn’t take the uncertainty anymore. He called Wayne Tech’s help desk and asked for the status of his application. The secretary on the other end went to look for it. When she returned, she told him that there wasn’t a position open at this time for an engineer intern but they would keep him in mind for when the position opens up.

Jack’s heart sank to the bottom of his chest. He was so racked with emotion he didn’t think to ask her when the position would be open, he simply thanked her and hung up. He put the phone back on the receiver. He walked up the stairs to his apartment. He closed the door behind him. He looked over at the window in his living room. The view he had over the city. He sat down on his couch. He looked at the windows in all the other buildings for as far as he could see and how they lit up the island like stars in the sky. He buried his head in his hands and sobbed.

What was he to do now? He came to this city wanting to be at Wayne Tech. He went to school, worked hard, spent late nights studying, and earned his degree. But he was expected to wait around until they had room for him. The whole reason for him leaving home was to be an engineer at this company. He wasn’t even sure at this point if they would hire him even when the position did open. He was at an utter loss. He wanted so badly to call his mom. He missed her so much. Having her there made him feel safe. Like he could fall and she’d be there to catch him. They went through some hard times together, but she had still been there for him even if it wasn’t emotionally. But a part of him didn’t want to disappoint her. Telling her that he failed would make him feel even worse.

Eventually he had laid down in bed. His eyes had glanced over to his nightstand. The business card the man from the bar had given to him was resting on top. A thought had entered his mind, though he pushed it away immediately, it being too absurd to even consider. As he tried to sleep off the heavy weight that was resting on top of him, he kept returning to the thought. It was pestering him almost. Being an entertainer at Amusement Mile sounded fun and the man made it seem like he would be doing the same thing but with more perks. But he had no clue what he’d actually be signing up for. A theme park was far bigger than a mere bar. His act would need to be different to capture the attention of a much larger audience, all of different ages and backgrounds.

Despite being so exhausted that night, he tossed and turned. He fought with himself on what to do next and whether or not that was the right thing. He didn't want his money to have been wasted on a degree he was never going to use, but he also needed money that this performing job could potentially give him. He didn't want to disappoint his mom by becoming a clown act, but also he didn't know how long it would be before Wayne Tech decided to hire him. He was torn. While restlessly looking up at the ceiling, he had thought back to a time when he was this indecisive. His dad had told him that if he ever found himself torn, the best answer was either neither choice or both choices. Early the next morning he came to a final decision. He would do both.

He picked up the business card and gave the number on it a call. The new plan would be to see if he liked Amusement Mile, and if all goes well he would work the job until Wayne Tech hired him. He also planned to call them once every month to check in on his application and if the position opened. It had been awhile since Jack had met the man who gave him the card, but after introducing himself over the phone the man remembered him instantly. He said Jack could call him Jefferson or Jeff for short, and invited him to come over to Amusement Mile for a tour and chat whenever he was ready.

Jack went to go meet him that same day. Much like how Florida is known for being the home of Disney World, Gotham is also known for being the home of Amusement Mile, a massive carnival styled theme park on North Gotham. While flying over, Jack couldn't help but look out the window at Wayne Tower. He tried not to dwell on his thoughts, instead focusing on what questions he wanted to ask Jeff. Like before, after the blimp landed Jack rode the subway to the Northernmost side of the island. Not only is Amusement Mile the name of the park, but it’s also the name of the district with the actual park being one section of it on the edge of the beach.

Jeff had met him at the front entrance of the park, welcoming him in. It was still morning so Jack wasn’t expecting the park to be busy, but after Jeff started to show him around there was actually a sizable amount of people. There were rides and games of course, all typical of a regular carnival. But there were also live shows, band concerts, vendors, and an entire zoo. It was like a fair that was here all year long. The place was much bigger than Jack was anticipating, making this job even more intimidating. But as he and Jeff were walking he explained that Jack would be working in the big top tent where they host live shows.

They headed inside the tent, which was more like an auditorium. The place was arranged in a big circle with the stage in the center and the seats were raised bleachers that went all the way around. Instead of facing the audience in front of him, Jack would need to constantly be turning around as he was performing. Jack could feel his palms starting to sweat. He laughed nervously, the sound jumping out of his chest like a squeaking mouse. Jeff told him not to worry, adjusting to the style of seating is actually a lot easier than he’s thinking. He also needn’t worry about straining his voice, he said while walking over to the far back of the tent. He picked up what looked to be a microphone from behind a table, but it was much smaller with a headband attached to it.

At the end of the tour, Jack got to meet some of the other performers that had come in to do their show that morning, as well as the sound team. Jeff said that he was welcome to stick around and get to know everyone around the park, and after the show he could use the empty tent to practice. Jack smiled and thanked him. His heart was beating so fast that he couldn’t focus on much else. He sat down on the bleachers for a few minutes to catch his breath, feeling entirely overwhelmed by it all. What was wrong with him? He used to be so comfortable on a stage and now just the thought of getting up on this one is terrifying to him.

While trying to rationalize to himself, people began to filter into the tent. A few early birds turned into crowds of people, and soon every seat was taken. He wanted to leave and get away from the noise, though he decided against that. It would be rude of him to miss the show after meeting the performers, and he wanted to start off on the right foot this time.

The show involved a group of clowns doing comedy improv skits. They would call on audience members to randomly change something about the scene, either it be a prop, setting, or character that the performer was acting out. The show devolved into a hilarious chaotic mess, with the group just rolling with whatever the chosen audience members shouted out. Jack had forgotten all about feeling anxious, being absolutely captivated and laughing along with the people around him. Seeing the clowns freely jump from one idea to the next had given him so much inspiration for his own show. He could do anything, it didn't need to standup. He could start new and be anything he wanted, the only limits being that it needed to be age appropriate for kids. He would go home and get right to work.

Jack's first show at Amusement Mile would be at night when the amount of guests would be at their highest. He was nervous still, but breathed through it, reassuring himself that he would be alright. He could do this. He was getting ready in one of the dressing rooms next to the big top tent. He looked at himself in the mirror. You're alright, you can do this, he said to himself. There was a knock on the door, startling him out of his pep talk. Jeff was on the other side. He said he just wanted to check in with him and let him know that he had 5 minutes before showtime. He smiled and said that Jack looked fantastic. Jack thanked him, saying that he hoped the audience liked him too. Jeff reassured him that they absolutely will. He was going to knock their socks off. And he did.

When Jack stepped onto the stage, he was dressed from head to toe in a full colorful clown outfit. He had painted his face a traditional white with a red nose, lips, and tear drops under his eyes. He also tried to dye his hair blue but it ended up coming out as green, which he ended up liking way better. He took a dramatic bow in front of the audience, introducing himself as Jack the Joker.

The first half of his act started as standup, something he was familiar and comfortable with. He played the character of Joker, a goofy but mischievous clown who had been destined to be a prince but ran away from his life of luxury to follow his dream of spreading laughter and joy. As his persona he told stories to the audience with jokes sprinkled in. The ending would always tie back into the start of the story somehow, making a funny and satisfying conclusion. Then the second half of his act involved magic tricks. Jack had begun to teach himself how to do them, but it was taking him a while to perfect them. So instead the joke was that he was terrible at magic and his tricks would backfire on him. For this he would use firecrackers and sparklers, his simple card trick 'exploding' and making a huge mess across the stage.

At the end of the show he took a bow, making sure to rise up, turn around and bow again so he faced everyone. The crowd was the loudest one that he's ever gotten. Everyone, especially the kids were clapping and screaming and shouting for him to do one more trick. Hearing that, he decided that he could do one more. He said to the audience that for his last trick he would make himself disappear, and he was triple sure that this time it would actually work. He had saved some extra pyrotechnics in his jacket just in case the sparklers didn't light. He waved his arms around, shouting the magic pun-filled phrase before letting loose a smoke bomb. Just like that he had vanished. The kids went nuts.

Needless to say, the show went off without a hitch. Jack the Joker's show continued to be the most popular event to see at Amusement Mile. People of all ages came to watch, and each one was a different experience than the last. Jack would spend all of his free time coming up with new ideas and writing new material. The years had sped by like minutes. He had become so successful that he never thought about going back to Wayne Tech and asking to be an intern. Not when he had his face on a billboard advertising the park.

In that time he had improved greatly with his magic tricks and picked up more and more to use for his shows, only to intentionally have them fail spectacularly, though making it seem like it was accidental. Along the way Jeff had been a guiding hand to him. The pair had gotten to be very close, and often they would sit in the dressing room or big tent and work on their separate things. Occasionally Jack would run an idea by him, and Jeff would ask him his opinion on how to improve the park or tackle a problem. Then after another successful show they both would celebrate by going out to eat.

Jack was financially comfortable enough to where he could get himself a house, and then ask his mom if she would move in with him. That was always the plan, though he hasn't called her once since moving to Gotham. He had been too much of a coward to, backing out at the last minute out of fear of what she would say. He's gone over it in his head probably hundreds of times. How he would tell her everything leading up to him being successful as a performer. Perhaps she would be genuinely happy for him. Perhaps not. The uncertainty of how she'd react left him paralyzed to follow through with it. In his mind, if he kept putting off buying a house, then he never had to make that phone call.

He was thinking about it even now as he was wrapping up for the evening after another show. He just needed to do it. Like ripping off a bandaid. Jeff had poked his head in the dressing room, praising him for an amazing show and asking if he wanted to grab dinner. After the park's gates were closed the two of them walked out together, as they usually did. They both laughed about how funny the kids in the audience were that night, with their mouths held agape when Jack did his magic tricks.

Jeff told him how lucky he was to have stumbled across him that night at the bar. He had been out with some friends who lived in West Gotham and they wanted to grab some drinks. By pure luck and chance he met one of the funniest and most talented guys that he's had the pleasure of calling a friend. Jack smiled at him, saying he also felt lucky. When the plan he made for his life wasn't panning out, he had taken a leap of faith not knowing where he would land. Jack had owed it to him for believing he would make it, and encouraged him to keep going.

After they had dinner the pair went their separate ways. That would be the last time Jack would see Jeff. The following day Jack had gone to the park to do some writing for his next show. When he walked up to the front gates, the staff person behind the ticket booth had called him over. She asked him if he had heard yet. His confused response let her know that he hadn’t yet. She lowered her voice to a very soft tone, telling him that Jefferson had passed away last night.

After Jeff had gotten home last night he suffered a major heart attack. His neighbors had gone to check on him that morning because his normally quiet and sweet dog wouldn’t stop barking. When the paramedics arrived he was already gone and there was nothing they could do. The staff woman apologized to him, saying that she knew they both were close. She added that the park would be open today, but tomorrow it would be closed until a new manager is appointed by the owner of the park. Jack thanked her for telling him. He thought he should say more, but his voice had hung up in his throat. He needed to leave. He needed to leave right now, but his feet felt like cinder blocks firmly planted on the ground. The woman must have seen the hurt on his face because she told him that Jefferson had been in a long battle with his health, though he hid it from everyone. He never wanted others to worry about him. He was the kind of person that always wanted to lift you up, and he came into work everyday to do just that.

He thanked her again and turned to leave, forcing his feet to carry him back home. Without Jeff at the park Jack had no reason to be there outside his normal showtime. He tried to hold in his emotions until he got back to his apartment but was quickly failing. His heart ached. The suddenness of it all had made his mind go blank. He didn’t know if he should continue on like he had before, or cancel his next week’s show. The only thing on his mind was how could this have happened. If he had known, if he had seen the signs, maybe he could have been there to help him. He could have gotten the paramedics faster and they would have had more time to save his life. It was only after he stepped through his door that the realization finally hit him. He had just lost his best friend. He sobbed long and hard.

Jack had taken a few days to just do nothing. He decided during that time he would do the show coming up if the park was open. Jeff would have wanted him to keep going. But when he sat down to write he had trouble focusing. His head still felt like mush. Nothing he wrote down sounded good. He looked back through his old jokes and ideas for inspiration, but that spark that he once had wasn’t there. He knew he needed more time to clear his head, though he forced himself to continue anyway. He wasn’t happy with the end result, but it was the best that he could come up with.

The day before his show he went over to the park to see if it was open, which to Jack’s slight disappointment it was. He went over to the staff person at the ticket booth, which was a different person than last time he was here. He asked them if there was a new manager for the park. Not yet, the guy said, but in the meantime the owner was here keeping the place running.

Jack felt slightly relieved by that. Of course he would eventually have a new boss, but replacing Jeff this early felt too soon. It was already hard enough going into a performance and putting on a brave face. While he was there he might as well rehearse his show. Going inside, he went to the big top tent. There wouldn't be another show for a couple hours so he would have the place to himself. He began to walk through his lines like usual, improving some jokes to see if it sounded better. But as he continued he just wasn't into it. What he wrote wasn't landing in the same way it did before, and he wasn't sure why. Everything about it just felt wrong.

He tossed the book to the side, too frustrated to look at it anymore. He needed to come up with an entirely new act before his show tomorrow night, and he was at a loss of what to do. If Jeff were here he would have bounced ideas off of him. But he wasn't here. He needed to do it on his own.

A small voice had startled Jack out of his thoughts. He turned his head and a young looking girl was standing in the entrance way of the tent. She asked him if he was using the space. He shook his head no, hopping off the stage. She thanked him and got up. As he turned to leave, the girl asked him if he was done for the day. Jack said that he was just giving her space to do her thing. She nodded, looking down timidly. He had gotten to the entrance before the girl spoke again, asking if he didn't mind being her audience while she practiced, as she had found it hard to talk with no one there. Jack said he didn't mind at all, and walked back over to a seat.

As the girl did her act, Jack had given her some tips and suggestions on how to improve upon it. The main thing was her confidence. Jack said that he himself gets nervous before every show, but putting on a character helps him find that larger voice. Her character could just be her, but bigger and bolder. By the end of the rehearsal she could project her voice a lot louder and clearer, and her stiff movements were more free and natural. She felt a lot better with her performance, and gave him many thank yous.

Jack wished her good luck and went home for the day to write. For his show he ended up using more magic tricks than standup, that way the audience wouldn't pay as much attention to his jokes. The people loved him all the same, but he couldn't help but feel guilty. The audience deserved to have nothing but the best from him and he didn't deliver that. He sat in his dressing room taking off his makeup. He looked at himself in the mirror, half of his clown face wiped away.

There was a light knock on his door. A voice on the other side asked if Jack was there. He cleared his throat, acknowledging that he was. The voice apologized for interrupting him, but they came to tell him that the owner of the park wanted to speak to him. Jack froze in place. The owner wanted to talk to him? Instantly his mind began to race. His show didn't go well like it normally does and the owner wanted to talk to him. He quite possibly could be fired over this.

As he finished changing into his normal clothes, the dread was setting in. If he went home now he wouldn't be reprimanded for how horribly his act had gone. He could just skip past it like nothing had happened. But if he did that he would be in even worse trouble. As he grappled with himself on what to do, the decision was made for him. He heard someone call his stage name. He looked over and it was a taller man dressed in formal attire.

Jack smiled politely, walking over to him. The man introduced himself as the owner of the park and said that he'd been wanting to meet him. The owner asked to walk with him. Jack felt his heart beating out of his chest. He could tell just looking at the owner's expression that he was not happy. He swallowed, following the owner next to him as they walked around the park.

The owner started off by thanking Jack for putting on such an amazing show for the past several years. The amount of guests visiting the park had exploded in numbers, all to see his show. Jack nodded quietly, thanking him. The owner continued, saying that running an entire theme park was never easy. He had worked with Jefferson for a very long time to keep everything in the park safe and fun for all ages. But it was people like Jack that really kept the place open. Guests crave to see new and exciting things, and Jack has consistently done that.

They had stopped in front of one of the rides, brightly glowing with florescent lights as it spun around. The owner said that Jack could very well keep doing his thing, being a colorful character on stage. But he wanted to offer him an opportunity to help him that much more in overseeing the park as its new manager.

Jack looked at him dumbfounded. The owner laughed, saying that he knows it's sudden but to just hear him out on it before making a decision. Not only did Jefferson speak very highly to him of Jack and his problem solving skills, but he also had been looking for someone who could work well with others and keep spirits up just like Jeff did. The other day while he was there he had spoken to someone who said that Jack helped them improve their confidence. They said he listened to them, was kind and patient, and gave them helpful advice.

If he accepted the offer, the owner said he would train him himself on how to do everything involved with running the park. Customer service, safety inspections, budgeting, scheduling, everything. He also didn't have to give up being a performer either, even with all this new responsibility. The owner would work with him so he had time to write and plan his shows. He could have the best of both worlds. But if it was too much to take on the owner said he understood. It was a lot to ask of him. Finding the right person was like finding hay in a needle stack. If you choose wrong then it could result in major consequences.

Jack couldn't believe it. Just a few short years ago he was starting out as a performer dressed as a clown and now he was offered the position of park manager. The thought of being essentially the boss of everyone was more than a little intimidating. Helping out one performer with their show was one thing, it was an entirely other thing to watch over a hundred employees. This was simply just impossible. Though somehow Jeff found a way to make it work.

The following day he had made the decision to accept the job. For the next 5 or so years he would work hard to fill Jeff's shoes. He would go home everyday constantly exhausted from the work, but to him it was all worth it. He loved helping others and getting to use his creativity and knowledge in engineering to bring to life new ideas for the park.

Guests visiting the park were steadily going up with every new ride and show added. Instead of Jack performing once every week, he would perform once biweekly. One week Jack would have the responsibility of running the park, and the following week the owner would take over for him, only asking Jack to help him with smaller managerial tasks so he had enough time to write for the show.

Though during this time, crime rates in Gotham were also on the rise. A territorial war had begun with several different mafia organizations and the GCPD were struggling to keep up. Not only did this war cause mass amounts of property damage, in some areas even leveling multi-story buildings, but also the casualty count was skyrocketing including both mafia members and innocents caught in the crossfire. The people of Gotham were too scared to leave their homes for fear of being swept up in the chaos happening outside.

As a result of this, Amusement Mile was suffering financially. Tickets being sold were at an all time low to no fault of the park. Jack had figured once everything calmed down and the mafia was dealt with, things would go back to normal. Guests would return to the park and be able to enjoy the new attractions again. But the war had continued and persisted for months on end. Jack had brought the problem to the owner, suggesting that they temporarily close down the park to save on costs. However, the owner was of the opinion that the media were using the mafia for their news stories and making crime activity out to be a bigger issue than it was. Guests were still coming into the park, and it would be unfair to them to close their doors.

Money began to get tighter, and soon Jack was needing to pull money from anywhere he could just to keep the park afloat. Show budgets were cut, ticket and food prices increased, and eventually employees were laid off. It physically hurt when he needed to tell his own people that he couldn’t afford to pay them for their work any longer. The owner still wasn’t budging, insisting that the rates of crime would be handled soon and that they would be ok. Frustrated now more than ever, Jack had dipped into his own savings to stall having to let go more people.

He was lost on what to do. Usually he was able to come up with a solution to any problem, but not this time. They were going to go under and be forced to close and Jack wasn’t able to fix it. At least until he was approached one late night by a man who was waiting outside the park gates for him.

Jack had just finished a show, the tent being less than half full. The owner had pulled him aside afterward, telling him that he had to leave early and that he needed him to close up the park that night. Jack agreed, staying behind and waiting for all the guests to make their way out before locking the gate. As he turned around to head home as well, he came face to face with a man.

Startled out of his skin, he went to take a step back but the man just got closer and grabbed his shirt. He felt something shoved into his side painfully. The man spoke in a low, gruff voice, telling him to be quiet and not to move. Jack threw his hands up to the man’s chest, using all his weight to shove him off. Suddenly he became aware that he was surrounded by a group of men. One of them yanked him back by the hair, another punched him in the gut, causing him to collapse onto the gravel. He rolled onto his side, gasping for air and fighting the urge to throw up. He felt one of the men behind him grab the back collar of his shirt, picking him back onto his feet. The man he had shoved leaned into his face. He told him not to be stupid unless he wanted a bullet in him next, spitting the words as he talked.

Jack couldn’t move even if he wanted to, as his body uncontrollably coughed and convulsed. The man explained that he and his ‘friends’ were going to take his park and claim it as theirs. He was giving him two options: the first is that they break every bone in his body starting with his fingers, and when they’re done hang him out for the crows. The second option was that he tell them where his boss was and they’d think about letting him go. Jack’s heart was beating so fast that the sound was pounding in his ears. He held his hands up and said wait, wait, wait, the words spilling out of his mouth. Shakily he told them he didn’t know where his boss was, as he had left hours earlier. The man tsked. That wasn’t the response he wanted. One of the men took Jack’s hand, picking one of his fingers to bend backwards. Jack shouted for them to stop, there had to be something else he could do. Anything they wanted, they could have it. He just didn’t know where the owner was.

The man motioned for the other thug to stop. He said as a matter of fact, there was something they needed from him. If he paid them a fee they’d set him loose. The amount that he asked for was ridiculously high. Jack said that coming up with that much was impossible. The man shrugged, saying that he was out of luck then. The thug bent his finger back, snapping it with a sickening crack. Jack yelled out painfully, begging them to stop. He didn’t mean it was impossible to get the money, he meant that it was impossible to get it all at once. The money from the park was in a bank account, and he couldn’t withdraw all of it in one day. The man paused, looking hard at him. Jack was lying through his teeth. But the thugs bought it. The man said that he had a week to come up with the money. He warned him not to talk or run, as they’d be watching him. They’d know, and all the people that he works with would join him. After the men left, Jack laid on his back, breathing heavily. What did he just do? What did he just agree to?

As soon as he got home that night, he raced to the phone and called the owner. As the line kept ringing he was looking all around him with his back pressed up against the wall. Jack had called over and over, begging for him to pick up the phone, but there was no answer. No, it couldn’t be. Jack didn’t want to believe it. The owner had left him in the hands of the mafia. He was completely on his own.

He didn’t sleep that night. He had barricaded his door and window with anything and everything he had, but even then he didn’t feel safe. He was terrified that they would come for him because he made that phone call. He just wanted to warn him, but now he wasn't even sure if he was still in Gotham. He sat on the floor of his now empty living room utterly terrified. He didn’t know what to do now. He couldn’t call the police or try to leave, they would skin him alive before he could set foot on a boat and who knows what else they would do to his employees. The money they were asking for he didn’t have. He was barely scraping by with the park. The only thing he thought to do was continue running the park and hope that within a week it was enough.

Jack had gone back to work like nothing had happened. He greeted guests, helped performers with their shows, carrying on like he usually was. But while walking the grounds his eyes were darting everywhere. The men that cornered him that night could be inside the park, watching him, hiding amongst the crowds of people. With every passing day he would count up the money, his hands trembling when the numbers were short yet again. He looked down at his bandaged finger. It pained him to do it, but Jack withheld everyone’s paycheck. When they came to him the following morning asking about it, he lied and told them that there was an error with the bank and that they would be paid soon. He had no idea where he was going to get the money to pay them. In the end, it didn’t matter at all. His week was up and it wasn’t enough.

He had been so focused on getting the money and pretending like everything was fine that he didn’t write for his show. His show, which was so important to him that once upon a time he thought he would be fired over it not being up to par to his normally high standards, had been entirely forgotten. It was the least of his concerns. He only had three quarters of the money after pulling it from everywhere he could think of even lying to his own people. He had prayed to whatever holy force that the men would be satisfied and decide to spare him.

His show that night, the day of his deadline, would be entirely improv. He was getting ready in his dressing room, his hands shaking too much to get the teardrop on his other cheek to look right so he just left it as the one. His mind was spiraling. He hadn’t seen or heard anything about the men since. Perhaps they had forgotten about him, or even better they were killed by one of the other mafia. He breathed through the tightness in his chest. Out of all the places in the park that he’s been, the stage was where he had spent most of his time. That’s where he felt the safest, the audience being with him. He wouldn’t be alone, and that was assuring to him.

He breathed, in and out, focusing on becoming someone else. Someone a lot braver and bolder than he was. He went inside the big top tent, stepping onto the stage, the bright lights shining down on him. He took a bow, the audience clapped. He stood back up and his eyes made contact with someone sitting in with the crowd. It was the leader of that group of men. No, that wasn’t right. It was just someone who looked like the guy. His eyes were playing tricks on him because he was sleep deprived. They wouldn’t be here with all these people around. If they did come looking for him they would have waited for him outside the gates like they had done last time.

They both were looking at each other. The man clapped, a slight smile on his face. Jack the Joker grinned, thanking the audience for coming. He could feel the sweat begin to gather at his head. He had nothing prepared for what to say or do, he simply started talking about whatever came to his mind. He pulled a random story that he had written a long time ago but he never used it because he couldn’t come up with a good ending.

The story was about when he, the Joker, had run away from becoming a prince. He had rode far away from home on a horse. But when he stopped to rest, the horse had run away. He considered himself unlucky. But walking along the path on foot, he came across some farmers who had found his horse, and they were using it to steer their wagon. The farmers gave him a ride, and he considered himself lucky. But then it began to rain very heavily and the path became too muddy to continue. He considered himself unlucky. After it stopped raining, all the water filled a dried up stream bed. He and the farmers used the wagon to float down the river all the way to the next town. He considered himself lucky.

This was where the story had ended. As he was telling it, he thought about what could happen next to wrap it up nicely like all his other stories. But after telling it he realized that the story was perfect the way it was, as though it was always meant to be that way.

Jack used all of the fan favorite magic tricks for the latter half of the show. He produced flowers out of a wand, tossing them to an audience member, pulled apart connected metal rings with a flick of his wrist, and performed a dazzling and comedic light show with firecrackers. Even improvised, the audience loved him. They cheered his name as he took a bow. After everyone had made their way out of the tent, there was one person left.

The man slowly stood, clapping while he approached Jack on stage. The man said that he was impressed. He’d seen nothing quite like it before. Jack was frozen in place. He wanted to run but he knew that would just make it worse. He cleared his throat, saying that he had his money. From his coat pocket he produced a fat envelope. The man stepped onto the stage, snatching it from him and opening it. He looked through it, then looked at Jack, asking him if this was all. Jack swallowed, saying quietly that he couldn’t quite get all of it, though if they gave him more time he could make them the other quarter.

The man said that he had given him his chance already, and he was out of patience. He put the money back in its envelope, shouting for his men. As the thugs filed into the tent, Jack pleaded with him to just give him a little more time, just a little more patience and he would have it. He had nothing left in their account to give them, not his account, not the park’s account, he even stole what he did give him. The mafia surrounded him, grabbing hold of his arms and shoved him down to his knees.

The leader of the group tucked the envelope into the back of his pants, then produced a small, curved knife from his sleeve. He told him that for his trouble, and for putting on a great show, he would pay him back and show him mercy. He leaned down, grabbing Jack by his cheeks. Tears were spilling over his fear-filled eyes and causing his clown makeup to run. ‘Why so sad?’ The man asked him. ‘Turn that frown upside down.’

The man used his thumb and pulled the side of Jack’s mouth wide. He tried to thrash his head and crane his neck back, but one of the thugs grabbed him by the hair while the leader shoved his knife against his teeth, dragging the blade up. Jack screamed in horrific pain, and continued to scream when the man kept slowly pulling his knife further and further up his face. No one could hear him from outside over the sounds of the park.

After he was done carving one side of Jack’s face, he moved to the other side, forcing his mouth into a crude smile that went past his eyes. He was barely conscious by this point, his head bobbing around as though he were fighting sleep. All he could do was moan, the sound escaping his throat as a gurgle.

The man stood up and looked down at him, wiping the blood from his knife. Jack could see him talking, but he couldn’t hear the words. The men holding him let him go, and his body slumped over. The world seemed to move at a slower pace. He was getting cold, but he didn’t mind it. As he stared out through the entrance of the tent, everything had turned upside down. He was upside down, suspended by his feet above the stage. As his blood pooled to the back of his throat, Jack couldn’t keep his eyes open any longer. His world was darkening, inviting him to join it. And he did.

His eyes flew open and he was instantly blinded by a bright white light. He winced, shutting them again. He went to cover them but he couldn’t move his hands. He could hear voices all around him, and as he tried to squint he was made acutely aware of the massive headache in his temples. Slowly his vision returned to him, and he realized that he wasn’t alone. He was surrounded by people, all wearing white coats, and they were staring at him. He was laying down on an uncomfortably flat table, his wrists and feet strapped down with a light over him shining in his face.

‘Can you understand us?’ He heard one of them ask. ‘Yes?’ He said confusedly. ‘Can you tell us your name? How do you feel?’ His eyebrows knitted together, his head pounding. They wanted to know his name? He’d only just woke up and he was being asked too many questions. ‘J- uh..’ He searched his mind for an answer but the pain only worsened. ‘Where am I?’ He said instead. ‘You’re in Arkham Asylum.’ The doctor answered.

[playstation5247]

The 8th Pac-Man themed Pole Position team is here, this time it's the Inky Ghost Inkyniti racing team, a parody of the Red Bull Racing Formula 1 team. Have you ever attended a race in real life? Chances are that you have seen the logo of a familiar energy drink with two charging bulls everywhere. And in the Pac-Man universe, not even the Pole Position racing championship can escape the charging bulls... or charging ghosts?? This team features an all-ghostly driver line-up featuring Inky the ghost, and Lord Betrayus's lackey Dr. Buttocks. Both these drivers are driving for different reasons. Inky wants to demonstrate that he's the fastest driver of the ghost gang, let alone the best driver out of everyone in the Pole Position grid and won't yield to anyone or anything, even if he resorts to aggressive or reckless driving. Dr. Buttocks on the other hand, wants to demonstrate that he is the best engineer a team has ever hired by building a car that can leave the others in the dust. Dr. Buttocks also managed to harness the ingredients of the Inky Ghost Energy Drink and use the beverage as the car's fuel. Who knows, Dr. Buttocks might also be capable of putting mischievous ingredients in the Inky Ghost cans for the unknowing consumer of these drinks. It may not be a good idea for Pac-Worlders to buy Inky Ghost Energy Drink cans because... well... Inky Ghost Gives You Sliiiiiiiime!!!!!

Pacrelli is a spoof of Pirelli Tires Inkyniti is a spoof of the Infiniti Motor Company Inky Ghost is a spoof of Red Bull Energy Drinks Orsoncle is a spoof of the Oracle Computer Software Company Miru 1 is a spoof of Mobil 1 Motor Oil Pac Heuer is a spoof of Tag Heuer S.A. Watches

[archoneddzs15]

Super Famicom - Outer World (Another World / Out of this World)

Title: Outer World / アウターワールド

Developer: Delphine Software International / Interplay Productions

Publisher: Victor Musical Industries

Release date: 27 November 1992

Catalogue Code: SHVC-TW

Genre: Cinematic Platform Action

Outer World is largely the work of just one man, Eric Chahi. He has managed to create a game that is more satisfying than nearly any modern game you will have played in the past five years, and perhaps more satisfying than any you have ever played. There were no games like it before it came out, and the later imitations (i.e. Heart of the Alien on the Sega CD) can't quite capture the unique spirit of their inspirational source. It's simply that good. While the gameplay is nearly beyond reproach, the best traits of this classic are its imagination, its gorgeous design, and above all its trust in the player's ability to imagine, to commit to the alien world on its terms.

The beginning of the game shows you one major ingredient of the game's genius when the primitive vector graphics are displayed in fully animated glory during the opening cinematic. The crude shapes would seem cheap and disappointing if not for the precision and elegance with which they are employed--cinematic angles and an engaging trust in the player's imagination serve to make these primitive scenes interesting even today. Lester's fancy car squeals into view, and we are treated to some of the green hologram-like interfaces Flashback fans will be intimately familiar with as we watch a physics expert burning the midnight oil. Something goes wrong during particle acceleration, and suddenly Lester and most of his console disappear with a flash of blue sparks and light.

Immediately, you are thrown into the game. Lester must escape from the pool and the grasping tentacles or face what will likely be the first of many, many deaths. Once out of the pool, you can appreciate the appealing sparseness of the alien landscape. With pale, simple blocks of color, an evocative alien world is realized: misty pillars of rock trail off into the horizon below a crescent moon; a beast colored an impenetrable shade of black lopes into view and looks at you with red eyes. And then a tentacle reaches for you from the heretofore calm pool surface and it's time to move again.

From this bleak, lonely landscape that emphasizes sheer scope and emptiness the player travels to a claustrophobic cage, to a deadly alien tank, and to a swinging harem--all the while that cinematic touch to the scenery rarely fails to amaze. Enemies are more than dimwitted patterns that are learned and consequently no longer require thought--the cinematic design goes down to individual enemy behavior. The puzzles come down to how exactly to defeat the alien who is behind six energy shields and lobs energy bombs that can penetrate your own, or how to defeat two soldiers who come in at both sides simultaneously. All the while the story is being told by your actions, and those of your surprisingly expressive alien friend. After you attract the ire of the guard below your cage, when he fires his gun, another guard appears to watch the action in the background. When you crush the guard below you with your falling cage, the prisoners in the background stop breaking rocks as you grab the gun and flee. At no point is there a rote procession of action that involves the same stale maneuvers used just a screen ago--nearly every enemy encounter presents a new and unique challenge, often a new wonder of art direction, and sometimes a diabolically difficult puzzle to be solved. When the game is finally over, its ending battle and cutscene are as cinematic, as boldly unique, and as cohesive with the game's tone as anyone could wish for.

What's the point of all this cinematic style? It makes you accept the world on its own terms. You don't think of Lester as an abstract object, running lifelessly around a gaming world distorted and simplified into a recognizable gaming archetype--you live and breathe the world along with him, because both of you are experiencing this exotic environment for the first time, and it is full of wonders and adventure rather than trite platforming cliches. This game asks the player's imagination to fill in the corners, to ignore the blockiness and palette limitations of vector graphics. All but the most closed of minds will happily go along with that request. Those that do will be richly rewarded by this game because a lot of love has been put into it.

[gmppros]

What is an Electronic Batch Record (EBR)?

When I initially entered the pharmaceutical manufacturing world, I realized immediately how important Electronic Batch Records (EBRs) are. In an industry where precision is so pivotal that one miscalculation can initiate a recall, accuracy isn't merely a priority—it's paramount.

Nearly 50% of manufacturing mistakes are caused by manual entry of data, a study by the FDA found. Small errors in regulated industries such as pharma or biotech can have consequences running into millions of dollars and even jeopardize patient safety.

That's why the transition from paper-based records to EBRs was akin to a shift from dial-up to fiber. The impact was immediate and dramatic.

Understanding EBRs in Real-Life Operations

An Electronic Batch Record or EBR is a computerized equivalent of the conventional Batch Manufacturing Record or BMR. It records each and every step involved in the manufacture of a batch—automatically. From raw material to packing, everything is followed up by the EBRs, in real time.

They're built to 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, which rules on electronic signatures and records in FDA-regulated businesses. In my experience, that's a big auditor blessing. Inspectors no longer rummage through binders. Now, they click through neat, timestamped logs.

We tied in our EBR system with our Manufacturing Execution System (MES), and the benefit was instant. Suddenly, errors fell, document speed doubled, and batch approvals were half the time.

What Makes EBRs So Powerful?

Data Integrity: No more illegible handwriting or missing records. Every entry is validated and secure.

Master Batch Records: Standard templates ensure consistent production across all facilities.

Traceability: I can trace every ingredient, machine, and operator involved in any batch.

Operator Interface: Touchscreen prompts guide workers through each step, reducing errors dramatically.

Real-World Benefits I've Seen

At one plant where I worked, we reduced documentation time by 40% following the adoption of EBRs. That translated into quicker product release and less downtime. Operators found the easy-to-use system that guided them through SOPs, complete with electronic sign-offs adding accountability.

EBRs don't eliminate paper—they enhance the whole process.

Fewer Errors: Automated checks catch issues before they become problems.

Audit Ready: Digital audit trails satisfy FDA and EMA inspectors with a few clicks.

Cost Savings: No more storing boxes of batch records. Everything is archived digitally.

Why Pharma Can't Afford to Ignore EBRs

Pharma is embracing Pharma 4.0, with a combination of automation, analytics, and digital transformation. EBRs are the cornerstone. They bridge data, enhance visibility, and facilitate quicker decisions.

When one of our regulatory audits came in, our EBR system enabled complete traceability in minutes. The auditor was amazed. "This is just what the industry requires," he commented.

Transition Tips from My Experience

Shifting to EBRs is not about software alone. It takes the production, quality, and IT departments on board. The system must be validated, trained, and integrated. But the payoff? More control, less rework, and peace of mind.

Partnering for Success

We collaborated with GMP Pros, a group that knows both compliance and tech. They assisted in customizing our EBRs to fit our particular requirements, and every detail had to meet Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) regulations.

Their support turned our chaotic documentation into a streamlined, digital operation. No more chasing signatures or rechecking entries.

Final Thought

If you’re still managing production on paper, you’re not just behind—you’re vulnerable. EBRs aren’t optional anymore. They’re your best defense against errors, non-compliance, and inefficiency.

[sgsystemsglobal]

Streamlined Ingredient Batching System

An Ingredient Batching System automates the precise measurement and mixing of ingredients in food and beverage production. This system enhances efficiency, reduces waste, and ensures consistency in product quality. By integrating real-time data and inventory management, it allows for accurate recipe execution and facilitates compliance with industry standards. Users benefit from faster production times and improved traceability, ultimately leading to higher customer satisfaction. Ideal for manufacturers looking to optimize their processes, the system supports scalability and adaptability to meet varying production demands.

[robbno]

Nerd or dork talk?

I think I manage to break my online algorithm a little bit.

"Why" you ask? No? Not asking?

Well, I'm gonna write about my experience anyway. For starters. I'm a regular guy and not at all a pro at these things. Just throwing that out there. I'm an idiot. A proud "air flow through my skull" fellow.

I just wanted my units to function better. Get back some more battery time, better performance and data memory for things like art projects or gaming. Not to forget bringing down the amount of data I'm sending through my internet connections all day. We all pay for that service ourselves and some have limited data, so I think it's in our right to decide what comes and goes through.

I had to change quite a lot of settings over google and manage to keep away certain services that I never use (Like AI and cloud services as examples). Unnecessarily difficult it was to deal with, I have to say. Like they put the options there because the law said so and yet wanted to keep me out.

Like they are being forced to store their cookie jar, made from the users own ingredients, in our kitchen cabinets without being allowed to glue the lid shut, and therefore are trying to hide it really good.

What the hell am I saying...?

Anyway, the whole thing feels passively aggressive, like putting spikes on a park bench and blame it on architecture.

In the end I found a way to remove parts of my own personal information to google, probably confusing their other half systems in the progress. I don't know. I'm only guessing how this stuff works now.

But whatever I did, the result is pretty obvious. Adds are all over the place. I keep seeing the same user posts over and over, day after day. Same goes for online videos. It's like the system has no idea what to show me and are trying to find out really badly.

Although, it is nice not getting AI software adds all the time anymore. Now it's mostly internet providers, old people related painkiller salves and Spotify adds. Which made me chuckle a bit. Could it get more basic? Maybe.

Oh, If there only was a "follow users" list the web platforms could exploit instead of handing over the algorithm to these third party add companies.

Just talking rumors and self made notes now by the way. Don't take my word for it. Air head, remember? It's the only sense I could put together until I find a more reliable information source on how the whole online experience I'm having right now is working.

What a interesting start on this new year.

[taramjitsita]

Business Operations Plan for Eco Green Candles

Eco Green Candles is a sustainable candle business located in Greater Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. Our mission is to provide environmentally friendly candles made from natural ingredients and packaged using eco-conscious materials. This operations plan outlines the key strategies and processes we will implement to ensure the smooth functioning of our business.

Production Process

Ingredient Sourcing: We will source high-quality natural waxes such as soy or beeswax, along with essential oils for fragrance, from trusted suppliers with a commitment to sustainability.

Candle Making: Our candles will be handcrafted in small batches to maintain quality and consistency. We will utilize environmentally friendly production techniques and minimize waste throughout the manufacturing process.

Packaging: Eco Green Candles will be packaged using biodegradable and recyclable materials to reduce environmental impact. We will work with suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability.

Inventory Management

Stocking Levels: We will maintain optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing excess stock. Regular inventory assessments will be conducted to ensure efficient stock turnover.

Quality Control: All incoming materials and finished products will undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure adherence to our high standards of quality and sustainability.

Sales and Distribution

Sales Channels: Eco Green Candles will be sold through multiple channels, including:

Online store

Local retailers specializing in eco-friendly products

Farmers' markets and craft fairs

Distribution Strategy: We will establish partnerships with local courier services for efficient and eco-friendly delivery of online orders. For wholesale orders, we will work closely with retailers to ensure timely delivery and replenishment of stock.

Marketing and Promotion

Brand Identity: We will develop a strong brand identity centered around our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Online Presence: Our website and social media channels will serve as platforms to showcase our products, share our story, and engage with customers.

Promotional Activities: We will participate in community events, collaborate with local influencers, and offer promotions to attract new customers and retain existing ones.

Customer Service

Communication: We will maintain open and transparent communication channels with our customers, responding promptly to inquiries and addressing any concerns or feedback.

Customer Education: Eco Green Candles will provide resources and information to educate customers about the benefits of using eco-friendly candles and the importance of sustainability.

Operational Efficiency

Workflow Optimization: We will continuously review and streamline our operational processes to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.

Technology Integration: We will leverage technology solutions such as inventory management software and automated systems to streamline operations and improve productivity.

Financial Management

Budgeting: We will develop a detailed budget outlining projected expenses and revenue streams, allowing us to effectively manage our financial resources.

Profitability Analysis: Regular financial analysis will be conducted to assess the profitability of our products and identify areas for improvement.

Regulatory Compliance

Product Safety: We will ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards for the manufacturing and sale of candles, including safety labeling and product testing.

Environmental Regulations: Eco Green Candles will adhere to local and national environmental regulations regarding waste disposal, emissions, and sustainability practices.

Conclusion

The successful operation of Eco Green Candles relies on the effective implementation of the strategies outlined in this plan. By prioritizing sustainability, quality, and customer satisfaction, we aim to establish Eco Green Candles as a trusted provider of environmentally friendly candles in Greater Sudbury and beyond.

Thank you for your support as we embark on this journey to promote environmental stewardship through our business endeavors.

[plethoraworldatlas]

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has unveiled an online platform for modeling and predicting the toxicity of chemicals in food as a pioneering alternative to animal testing. Animal protection groups welcome TKPlate and urge the industry to adopt the open-access software immediately to alleviate animal suffering. Historically, safety assessments of chemicals in food and feed have relied on evidence from animal experiments. But, society and scientists are increasingly questioning this practice for ethical and scientific reasons.

Now, alternative tools to generate more representative information about toxicokinetics (how the body manages chemicals) and toxicity/toxicodynamics (what chemicals do to the body) are gaining momentum.

TKPlate was developed by EFSA and several European research organizations. The project was led by two senior EFSA scientists — toxicologist Jean-Lou Dorne and statistician and modeler Jose Cortiñas Abrahantes.“As far as we are aware, this platform is unique in the food and feed safety area,” says Dorne.Meanwhile, Cruelty Free International’s director of science and regulatory affairs, Dr. Emma Grange, tells Food Ingredients First the charity is encouraged by developments like TKPlate.

“Such models are a valuable resource in the progression to animal-free evaluation of chemicals, from substances found in food to potentially any type of chemical,” she says.

“It is essential that non-animal approaches such as this gain acceptance across all regulatory frameworks to provide a future where chemicals are managed in a more ethical and reliable way, based on data which better protects human health and the environment.”

[research-related-blogs]

Harnessing Data Potential: The Rising Landscape of the Product Information Management Market

The rising revenue generation capacity in the product information management market can be attributed to the need for PIM solutions amidst the increasing complexity of managing large volumes of product information across diverse channels. Seamless integration with third-party applications and platforms provided by product information management businesses makes it a priority in the market dynamics. The scope for the product information management market increased with the increasing awareness of the importance of efficient data management, as businesses realize that accurate and latest product information is critical for success in the digital age. PIM helps to standardize the increasingly complex demands of product content including size, ingredients, weight, colors, and other product specifics.

The growing adoption of PIM software solutions across various industry verticals delivers better consumer and omnichannel experience by streamlining an organization's internal and external marketing processes. PIM system facilitates the distribution of product information across various sales channels ensuring consistent and accurate data presentation. E-commerce websites, marketplaces, print catalogs, mobile applications, and many more sales channels use PIM to focus on robust data governance frameworks for data quality assurance.

 The integration of AI with PIM is revolutionizing the entire market dynamics. Automated processes are streamlining data management to improve efficiency. This contributes largely to market growth. Market players are leveraging blockchain technology to enhance data security and transparency by providing trustworthy product information. There are several investment opportunities in companies that are innovating within the PIM space, particularly those incorporating technologies like AI, machine learning, and automation to enhance data enrichment.

The product information management market landscape includes various players offering PIM software Solutions with innovative features, cost-effective price models, and regional audiences. The strategies adopted by market players to remain relevant in the market scenario include investing in companies that emphasize providing omnichannel experience across various touchpoints like online marketplaces, mobile apps, social media, and physical stores. This also helps them increase their consumer footprint.

[qposrestaurantbillingsolutions]

How to Increase Bakery Sales?

Running a successful bakery requires more than just delicious treats. To maximize profits and attract a steady stream of customers, bakeries must implement effective sales strategies. We’ll explore seven proven tactics that can help increase bakery sales and ensure long-term success. Let’s dive in!

Elevate the Visual Appeal:

First impressions matter, and for bakeries, that means presenting mouthwatering delights in an enticing manner. Invest in attractive displays, use eye-catching packaging, and decorate your storefront with tempting visuals. A visually appealing bakery will draw customers in and encourage impulse purchases.

Offer Diverse Product Range:

To satisfy a broad customer base offer a diverse range of products. From classic cakes and fresh bread to gluten-free options, vegan treats, and seasonal specialties, having a variety of items can attract different types of customers and boost sales. Regularly introduce new and innovative creations to keep your offerings fresh and exciting.

Focus on High-Quality Ingredients:

Superior ingredients are the backbone of any successful bakery. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients not only enhances the taste of your baked goods but also showcases your commitment to providing the best to your customers. Highlight the use of premium ingredients in your marketing efforts to build trust and loyalty.

Implement an Online Ordering System with QPOS:

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key. Set up an efficient online ordering system, powered by QPOS, that allows customers to pre-order their favourite treats for pickup or delivery.

With QPOS’s integrated online ordering feature, you can offer this convenience to your customers seamlessly. This addition not only increases sales and attracts customers but also streamlines your bakery operations by automating order processing and ensuring accuracy in transactions.

Leverage Social Media Marketing:

Social media platforms are powerful tools for promoting your bakery and engaging with your audience. Create visually appealing posts featuring your appealing creations, share customer reviews, and run special promotions to invite new and existing customers. Encourage user-generated content by photo posting on social media and tagging the shop along, expanding your reach even further.

Host Events and Workshops:

Engage with your community by hosting events and workshops at your bakery. Consider organizing baking classes or festival themed events. These experiences not only provide additional revenue streams but also help build a loyal customer base that will spread positive word-of-mouth.

Implement Loyalty Programs:

Reward loyal customers with a well-designed loyalty program. Offer discounts, freebies, or exclusive access to new products or events. A strong loyalty program can incentivize repeat purchases and turn one-time visitors into dedicated patrons.

Increasing bakery sales involves a combination of smart marketing, high-quality products, and exceptional customer experiences. By implementing these seven strategies – elevating the visual appeal, offering diverse products, using high-quality ingredients, implementing online ordering, leveraging social media, hosting events, and creating loyalty programs – you can drive growth and ensure your bakery’s success. Stay consistent, stay creative, and keep delighting your customers with scrumptious treats!

To increase bakery sales and stay competitive in today’s market, adopting QPOS, a smart restaurant management software is crucial. Integrating Restaurant Business Intelligence and analytics and Cloud Kitchen Management can provide the tools you need to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and boost your bakery’s profitability.

[eatos-blog]

Taking Stock: The Essentials of Restaurant Inventory Management Software

In the realm of gastronomy, where patrons demand nothing less than top-tier cuisine and impeccable service, restaurant proprietors and administrators face the arduous task of maintaining a well-stocked kitchen, minimizing wastefulness, and effectively managing expenditures. This is precisely where the realm of restaurant inventory management software comes into play. In this extensive discourse, we embark on a profound exploration of the fundamentals surrounding restaurant inventory management software, accentuating its merits, pivotal attributes, and the transformative potential it harbors for restaurant operations. 

What Constitutes Restaurant Inventory Management Software? 

Restaurant inventory management software stands as a formidable tool meticulously engineered to empower restaurant proprietors and supervisors in their relentless pursuit of methodically overseeing, tracking, and mastering their inventory infrastructure. It proffers a digital remedy to the timeless quandaries tied to the meticulous surveillance of ingredients, provisions, and equipment. This software forms the bedrock of a meticulously organized culinary haven, perpetually ensuring the harmonious rhythm of all operations. 

The Merits of Adhering to Inventory Management Software 

Meticulous Expenditure Oversight 

Amongst the most noteworthy advantages attributed to restaurant inventory management software is its capacity to exercise judicious expenditure control. Through precise monitoring of inventory levels and the vigilant observation of consumption patterns, avenues for curbing extravagance and trimming expenses are unveiled. The ramifications of this could be profound, bearing the potential to elevate profitability to unprecedented heights. 

Augmented Precision 

Manual inventory management bears the inherent vulnerability of yielding inaccuracies, a potential source of stock-related discrepancies. The advent of inventory management software dispels this risk through the mechanization of the entire process. It endows you with real-time data, perpetually ensuring the pristine precision of your inventory records. 

Amplified Efficiency 

Efficiency is the quintessential cornerstone upon which any prosperous restaurant establishment is erected. Inventory management software expedites the ordering procedures by triggering alerts when inventory dwindles perilously low. This precludes the peril of overstocking or the harrowing scenario of crucial ingredients vanishing from your inventory, safeguarding the seamless operation of your kitchen. 

The Pivotal Attributes of Restaurant Inventory Management Software 

To surge past competitors within the fiercely competitive restaurant landscape, a keen comprehension of the cardinal attributes rendering inventory management software indispensable is imperative: 

Inventory Surveillance - At its core, inventory management software is the sentinel of your inventory realm. It furnishes you with the means to vigilantly monitor the quantity and utilization of each constituent in real time. A mere glance suffices to discern which items teeter on the precipice of depletion, necessitating prompt replenishment. 

Astute Supplier Management - Effective supplier management assumes a pivotal role in the flourishing of any dining establishment. Inventory management software empowers you to maintain meticulous records of your suppliers, encompassing their contact details and pricing specifics. Some advanced iterations even facilitate the automation of reordering contingent on predetermined criteria. 

Integration with Culinary Repertoire - Seamless integration with your restaurant's menu constitutes a game-changing facet. It ensures that you perpetually possess the necessary ingredients to conjure each culinary masterpiece. Additionally, it provides insights into the most financially rewarding items on your menu. 

The Prudent Selection of Restaurant Inventory Management Software 

The task of selecting the apt software solution for your dining establishment is a decision of paramount importance, one that warrants meticulous deliberation. Here are some sagacious pointers to steer you toward an informed decision: 

Discern Your Precise Requisites 

Before embarking on your quest, undertake a comprehensive assessment of your restaurant's unique requirements. Contemplate factors such as the scale of your establishment, the intricacies of your culinary repertoire, and your fiscal constraints. Such self-awareness will function as the compass guiding you through your selection process. 

2. Embrace a User-Friendly Interface 

Opt for software that boasts an intuitive interface. Your staff should be able to acclimate themselves to it effortlessly, sans the need for extensive training endeavors. A user-friendly interface will not only conserve time but also stave off the specter of inadvertent errors. 

3. Seamless Integration Capabilities 

In instances where you are already availing yourself of other restaurant management software solutions, ascertain that your inventory system possesses the seamless integration capability essential for harmonious coexistence. Integration simplifies your operational workflow and obviates the redundancy of effort. 

In Denouement 

Inventory management with point of sale restaurant software appears as a hidden catalyst with the potential to propel your dining establishment to previously undiscovered levels of excellence. It is an important asset for any restaurateur or manager because of its ability to control expenses, improve precision, increase productivity, and provide invaluable data insights. You gain a competitive advantage in the frenetic world of gastronomy by meticulously handpicking software that matches your specific needs.

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Embedding Quality into Your BPM Strategy: A Practical View

Organisations are in a constant race to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver value faster. Business Process Management (BPM) often becomes the go-to strategy for achieving these goals. However, a key ingredient is frequently overlooked in this pursuit: quality.

Efficiency may help you reach the finish line faster, but quality ensures you stay in the race long enough to win. Without embedding quality into your BPM strategy, the result is often speed without sustainability—processes that might work for now but fail under scrutiny from customers, regulators, or even internal teams.

This blog takes a practical view of how businesses can embed quality into their BPM strategy and ensure that process improvement efforts are not just fast but faultless.

Why Quality is the Hidden Gear in BPM Success

Many organisations view BPM primarily as a cost-saving or time-reducing measure. But focusing solely on speed creates blind spots: compliance gaps, rework, and dissatisfied customers. Quality is not a separate discipline—it is the backbone of effective Business Process Management.

When processes are designed with built-in quality mechanisms, compliance and customer satisfaction become default outcomes, not afterthoughts. Simply put, efficiency without quality is like building a highway with potholes: you may move fast, but breakdowns are inevitable.

Defining Quality in the Context of BPM

Quality in BPM isn’t just about defect-free outputs or meeting ISO standards. It’s about designing processes that are:

Accurate: Minimal errors, rework, or bottlenecks.

Consistent: Delivering predictable results across teams and timeframes.

Compliant: Aligned with regulatory and industry standards.

Customer-centric: Built around end-user satisfaction.

Resilient: Able to adapt without losing their integrity.

The Pitfalls of Treating Quality as a Post-Process Check

When quality is treated as a final checkpoint rather than a core design principle, the consequences ripple across the organisation:

Rework Costs Surge: Errors discovered late in the cycle often require expensive fixes.

Compliance Risks Rise: Missing regulatory touchpoints can lead to audit failures or penalties.

Automation Backfires: Automating flawed workflows only magnifies inefficiencies.

A real-world example? A service firm streamlined its approval process using BPM software to cut time by 30%. However, they neglected to embed compliance checkpoints during process modeling. The result: rejected claims skyrocketed, negating any time saved.

The lesson is clear: speed is meaningless if your processes deliver low-quality outcomes.

Embedding Quality into Your BPM Strategy: The Practical Blueprint

Here’s a step-by-step approach to embedding quality into your BPM efforts:

1. Map Processes with Quality Touchpoints in Mind

Quality starts with visibility. Use robust business process mapping and modelling software to create visual maps that reveal inefficiencies, risks, and quality choke points.

Key actions:

Identify steps where errors are most likely to occur.

Map compliance checkpoints directly into workflows.

Involve quality managers early in the process design phase.

With tools like Prime BPM, organisations can analyse workflows holistically, ensuring quality is not left to chance.

2. Define Measurable Quality KPIs Early

What does “quality” look like for your organisation? Establish clear, quantifiable KPIs such as:

Error or defect rates.

SLA compliance percentages.

Audit pass rates.

Customer satisfaction scores.

Link these KPIs directly to process dashboards within BPM software so that quality performance is tracked in real-time.

3. Align Quality Goals with Business Objectives

Quality initiatives often fail because they feel disconnected from business value. Aligning quality KPIs with broader objectives—cost reduction, compliance, customer retention—makes quality a non-negotiable part of strategic outcomes.

For example, embedding quality controls in procurement workflows not only avoids compliance penalties but also enhances vendor reliability, ultimately supporting faster and more cost-effective operations.

4. Embed Compliance and Standards into Workflow Design

Regulatory compliance is often seen as an add-on rather than an embedded function. By integrating ISO or industry standards directly into BPM workflows, compliance becomes part of the daily process rather than a periodic scramble.

With the process analysis tool within BPM software, you can link process steps to compliance requirements, automate documentation, and create audit-ready trails effortlessly.

Leverage BPM Software for Quality Automation

Modern BPM software makes quality automation simple:

Built-in error validation flags incorrect inputs.

Workflow rules ensure steps cannot progress without meeting quality standards.

Dashboards highlight non-compliance or recurring bottlenecks.

Prime BPM’s Prime Improver module, for instance, uses data-driven insights to continuously refine processes for both efficiency and quality.

Continuous Improvement: Sustaining Quality Beyond Implementation

Quality is not a “set and forget” objective. It thrives on ongoing monitoring and iteration. Borrowing from methodologies like Kaizen or Six Sigma, organisations should view BPM as a living ecosystem where every cycle of improvement incorporates lessons learned.

Key practices:

Schedule periodic process audits using BPM tools.

Gather feedback from end-users and customers to uncover hidden quality gaps.

Leverage analytics from BPM software to identify trends and fine-tune workflows.

This iterative loop ensures that processes evolve with changing regulations, technologies, and market demands—all while maintaining quality as the foundation.

Practical Example: Quality-First BPM in Action

Consider a mid-sized manufacturer struggling with frequent product defects and regulatory penalties. By using BPM software, they pinpointed three root causes: inadequate inspection steps, lack of version control in documentation, and insufficient training.

They implemented BPM software to:

Automate inspection checkpoints within workflows.

Embed compliance requirements directly into task flows.

Monitor defect trends via real-time dashboards.

The result?

A 30% reduction in defects within six months.

Audit compliance scores rose to 98%.

Delivery times improved by 20% without sacrificing quality.

This example illustrates how embedding quality transforms BPM from a mere efficiency tool into a strategic driver of excellence.

Read more related success stories.

The Business Impact of Quality-Embedded BPM

When quality is seamlessly woven into your BPM strategy, the business benefits multiply:

Cost Savings: Reduced rework and error-related losses.

Risk Reduction: Built-in compliance reduces audit failures and penalties.

Customer Satisfaction: Consistent, reliable outputs strengthen loyalty.

Cultural Shift: Employees see quality as integral, not additional work.

Ultimately, embedding quality into BPM creates a future-proof foundation for operational excellence.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Even with the right tools, embedding quality faces hurdles:

Perceived Slowdowns: Teams fear that quality checks delay progress. Solution: Show how automation can make quality checkpoints seamless.

Change Resistance: Employees resist new processes. Solution: Engage stakeholders early using visual process modelling software to demonstrate value.

Overcomplication: Too many quality steps bog down workflows. Solution: Focus on high-impact quality touchpoints tied to measurable KPIs.

Make Quality Non-Negotiable in BPM

Business Process Management is no longer just about doing things faster—it’s about doing them better. By embedding quality directly into your BPM strategy, organisations can create processes that are not only efficient but also resilient, compliant, and customer-focused.

Through the complete BPM Methodology, quality becomes the linchpin for sustainable growth.

If your current BPM strategy focuses on speed alone, it’s time to re-evaluate it through the lens of quality. After all, efficiency wins headlines, but quality builds legacies.

Ready to embed quality into your BPM strategy?

Get in touch with BPM experts to create custom plans based on your unique business needs.

[all-india-database-website]

Improving Customer Experience by Connecting Hotels and Bars with Top Service Providers Using a Comprehensive Database

In the hospitality industry, customer experience is king. Whether it's a boutique hotel in Goa or a rooftop bar in Mumbai, today’s guests expect seamless service, personalized attention, and high-quality experiences. To deliver on these expectations, hotels, restaurants, and bars must constantly collaborate with top-tier service providers—from food and beverage suppliers to event managers, interior decorators, and tech solution vendors.

But how do you consistently connect with the right partners across a vast and diverse country like India?

The answer lies in accessing a comprehensive, verified database of hotels, restaurants, and bars—a game-changing resource that helps service providers reach their ideal clients efficiently and effectively.

Why Service Providers Need Direct Access to Hospitality Businesses

Vendors, consultants, and B2B service providers in industries such as:

Food & beverage supply

Event planning & entertainment

POS and hospitality software

Housekeeping and sanitation

Interior design and renovation

Recruitment and staffing

...often face difficulties in reaching the right decision-makers within hospitality establishments. Cold calls or unstructured email campaigns yield low conversions without accurate contact data.

That’s where the Database of Hotels, Restaurants & Bars of India from DBTantra becomes an essential sales and marketing tool.

What Does the Hospitality Database Contain?

The database includes:

✅ Hotel, bar, and restaurant names ✅ Owner or manager contact details ✅ Verified email addresses and phone numbers ✅ Location (city and state-wise segmentation) ✅ Property type and scale (e.g., 3-star, 5-star, lounge, resort)

This structured data gives vendors and B2B marketers a direct line of communication to decision-makers who are actively looking for ways to improve their operations and guest experience.

How Service Providers Use This Data to Improve Customer Experience

1. Offer Personalized Hospitality Solutions

With access to detailed contact information, vendors can tailor their offerings based on the size, location, and category of the hotel or bar. For example, a supplier of gourmet ingredients can target 4-star hotel chefs in metro cities.

2. Enable Faster Collaboration and Setup

Whether you're setting up a sound system for a rooftop lounge or deploying a hotel management app, reaching the right person quickly cuts down setup time—enhancing the guest experience from day one.

3. Create Long-Term Business Relationships

By consistently connecting with general managers and F&B heads, service providers can become preferred partners, creating recurring business opportunities and value-added services that improve customer retention for both parties.

4. Support Hyperlocal Marketing Efforts

Service providers can run regional campaigns by filtering leads by city or tourist zones—essential for businesses like linen suppliers, event decorators, or liquor distributors looking to target specific areas.

Real-World Use Case

A company providing smart keyless entry systems targets boutique hotels across Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. Using the Hotels, Restaurants & Bars Database, they reach out to 700+ properties with tailored brochures. Within 45 days, they onboard 18 new clients and create joint promotions to market their modern guest experience tech.

Final Thoughts

In a competitive hospitality industry, the guest experience is shaped by the vendors behind the scenes—and success begins with finding the right connections. Whether you're offering supply chain services, entertainment, or guest-tech innovation, a verified hospitality contact database enables faster outreach, deeper engagement, and lasting partnerships.

The Database of Hotels, Restaurants & Bars of India is more than a contact list—it’s a bridge between B2B service providers and India’s most experience-driven businesses.