#Word Add-ins development

[i4technolab]

VSTO (Visual Studio Tools for Office) web add-ins are a type of Office Add-in that is developed using the VSTO technology and is designed to run in the web version of Microsoft Office, such as Office Online or Outlook on the web.

Traditionally, VSTO add-ins are developed using the .NET framework and are designed to run within the desktop version of Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. However, with the advent of Office 365 and web-based versions of Office applications, VSTO web add-ins have become increasingly popular. This prompted clients to hire .NET developers to meet their Add-in requirements.

Planning to hire a top-rated VSTO Add-in development company? CONTACT US NOW.

All in all, custom Office 365 Add-ins development is a recommended way that offers users with personalized Office experience and streamlined workflows with integrated external services.

[the-masked-ram]

Fics for Gaza

Here I am taking the plunge. I'm a small blog but fast writer even when it comes to my slower times. So might as well put it to good use.

Planning on joining this fundraiser run by @ficsforgaza and help make everyone happy with some content in the process. Here is my plan of action for my wip and donation costs.

To participate- please make a donation to a vetted fundraiser and send a screenshot/proof of your donation to me in a DM. PLEASE MAKES SURE TO CENSOR ALL YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION. (internet safety and all that jazz). In the message also let me know what fic you are donating to and I will adjust expected word counts. These screenshots are merely for keeping things as honest as possible and will be shared with @ficsforgaza

-I obviously will not be taking the money myself. Please send it to one of the vetted fundraisers mentioned in the link below.

$5.00 per 800 words or a full drabble series installment

Link to vetted places to donate here!

More fundraisers here!

As soon as 50% of any of the fics are sponsored I will automatically start on them.

Drabble series-

Sweet and Sour- Ren Kaji x Fem Reader Drabble Series

Your the new girl in the city. You are tough, sassy, but don't know a lick about the gangs, and if your honest you couldn't care less. But something about Ren Kaji catches your eye. He may snap and bark like a feral dog, but you can see through it and he knows it too. Slowly, you become his sanctuary even though you are the one person he's most afraid won't accept him. And he thought he was past all that. (NSFW)

5.00 for full installment

Read Part One here!

False Immunity- Hiei x Fem Reader Drabble Series

Where Hiei learns the ins and out of human courtship. (NSFW)

Find Part One-Six on my masterlist here! 5.00 for full installment

Multichap Fics-

Flawed Hope- Astarion x OC (BG3)

Brit was a paralegal, someone who had a normal life and enjoyed what she did for the most part. Yet, the only true excitement she felt lately was when she played Baldur's Gate Three. A simple video game brought her more joy than her friends or fleeting romances. One night as depression crushes her she wishes to live one day in BG3. Her wish is granted, however the world of BG3 needs her far longer than her wish had originally intended. And the worst part? She does not get along with her favorite vampire in the slightest. (NSFW)

Read the first four chaps here! WC: 1961/4000

Falling for Frogs- Sebastian x Fem Reader (SDV)

You are game developer about to make their debut into the market. The world you are about to venture into isn't exactly friendly to those of the feminine persuasion and as such you have flown under the radar using a masculine alias online. After a complete mental break down at a very important convention in Zuzu you realize you need to get away from the city for a bit so you can finish your game. Your best friend who runs a farm in Stardew Valley invites you to come stay with her. However as you stay there and get to know the locals, you realize the cute boy you saw at the con is her neighbor. What's even worse is he remembers you and just to add salt to the wound, he's one of your Kickstarters. (NSFW) WC: 309/3000

Read the first three chaps here!

The Unseen and Those Forgotten- Dabi x Fem Reader (BNHA)

The age of the Greek gods is long past. Dabi is one of the few left, his name in the ancient days had been Hades. Now he skulks among the humans, as a deity at half strength. With the old gods dying, the new ones have taken control of the humans’ feeble minds. There is a storm on the horizon though, quite literally, the end of days is nipping at mortality’s heels and the key to unlocking Kronos’s resting place, the only creature strong enough to put a stop to the apocalypse, is you. Sadly you have no idea what part you will play, after all, you are just an office worker who has an affinity for plants.... WC: 0/2000

Find the first three chaps on my masterlist here!

The Hellebore Rift- Hayato Suo x Fem Reader (Wind Breaker)

The town of Makochi has changed and so have all the gangs within it. Gone are the days of allies and rival schools. Gone are the days of delinquents battling for top spots and coming home with happy smiles from good fist fights. Now the world has been ripped apart by rifts that tear the very dimensions in two, spewing forth gigantic blood-thirsty monsters. It has forced the gangs to protect only their parts of town from everyone. Even the civilians, even those they once called friends. With those rifts and monsters, humans were gifted with powers, yet everything good always comes with a fall out. You are one of those few, blessed with the ability to Guide, to save those Espers from the toxicity that their own powers created within themselves when they protect their parts of town. You live in a small section Makochi outside any of the gangs control with a scant few Espers to call your own… or well you did until the day Hayato Suo found you. WC 313/2000

(Chapter one just started)

Oneshots-

Dog Park with Megumi (no title yet)- You don't have dogs but you find yourself at the dog park everyday because you can't have pets. That's where you meet Megumi Fushiguro (NSFW)WC: 0/15000

A Bouquet of Deadly Thorns- Hanahaki Soulmate Gojo x Fem Reader

The world now is riddled with the phenomenon known as soulmates. You don't know yours but before you can even think about finding them, you must get rid of your growing feelings for Satoru Gojo, the only problem is they've grown suffocating and you've started coughing up blood and flower petals. (NSFW) Current WC: 3590/8000 donation additions: 50.00- 8k words

Tetsuro Kuroo bar night (no title yet)- The first night you meet Kuroo he was celebrating with his friends who'd just won their volley ball game. You were drinking away your sorrows yet again from another shitty date. Fate had a funny way of making you forget things when he gets dared to make a move on you. (NSFW) WC: 0/10,000

My name in your mouth- Professional Poker Player!Suo Hayato x CardShark Fem!Reader

Suo Hayato is well known in the gambling circuit, he strikes fear in all his opponents. Terrified that they will lose all the winnings and perhaps even worse to him. You however are a dark horse, a rising star lurking in the shadows among the tables, and you have the arrogance to back it up. You take Suo on and surprise him in more ways then one. But he's desperate to wrest back control from you and the rising sexual tension between the two of you gives him the perfect excuse. (NSFW) WC: 0/7000

Single Drabbles- 5.00 for a full drabble

Jo Togame festival day (sfw) - Link

Jo Togame the baths (NSFW) - Link

Nobara/fem! reader (jjk) (NSFW) shopping day, in the dressing room

Himuro tatsuya/male! reader (knb) (NSFW) pining, street ball rivals

Seishiro Nagi/gn!reader (blue lock) (SPICEY (not full nsfw)) comfort, lazy day, reuniting after long distance for a while

Sebastain/fem! reader (SDV) (nsfw) phone sex

Astarion/male!reader (BG3) (NSFW) dry humping, semi public sex

Suo Hayato/fem!reader (wind breaker)(NSFW) overstimulation

[neixins]

since i'll be posting my massive gijaeha fic, cut to the feeling, later than i'd hoped, i've decided to share the full first scene as a lil sneak peek <3 in case u haven't heard me yap about it already, it's a canon-compliant missing scenes compilation, and the first scene is set after the events of ch 41

(it's also currently in all lowercase bc i subscribe to the shirley jackson school of writing drafts in all lowercase but the final version will be properly capitalized i prommy)

the night is calm, if uncharacteristically cold for the season, and gija is struggling to stay awake.

the fire has burned down to the embers, and the ceaseless trill of nightjars from a nearby thicket, occasionally accentuated by the hoot of an owl, is lulling him to sleep. he slaps himself awake; just because they set up camp in a secluded area far enough from any roads to avoid run-ins with either soldiers or bandits doesn’t mean he can let his guard down. after his disgraceful behavior the previous night, he must prove that he’s still dependable, still worthy of the white dragon’s title and of his place by her highness’ side. even if her highness had been magnanimous enough not to hold it against him, the recollection makes his stomach lurch.

that he hadn’t meant to drink the abominable love potion in the first place, that he’d fought its effects and passed out before anything could happen hardly matters. he could feel his admiration for her highness getting twisted into something gnarled and wrong, a warped reflection of itself, and it frightened him.

what had granny been thinking, concocting and selling something so awful? the elder chief developed that for you, the merchant they’d met had said, all smiles. she’s concerned because you aren’t married yet. it had been intended for him. he’d been meant to drink it. had nobody considered how dangerous the whole scheme could be for her highness? had nobody considered that he didn’t want to marry?

he takes a few breaths to settle down, and focuses on a nightjar resting between the roots of a nearby tree, determined to think about nothing except the intricate pattern of the bird’s feathers, the various shades of gray providing ideal camouflage.

his mind, lightheaded with fatigue, has other ideas, though, and it inevitably wanders to the memory of jaeha’s lips on his neck, his warm breath igniting something within gija that he’s never felt before, his confident hands pinning him beneath his weight, his voice low and sultry; your existence is stirring up my heart.

he rests a hand on the side of his neck, hoping to keep the memory there, safe from the cold breeze.

he doesn’t realize he’s drifting off again until jaeha places a hand on his shoulder, startling him awake. “go get some sleep, gija,” he says. “i’ll take over here.”

gija shakes his head. “i’m fine.”

jaeha settles down beside him regardless. “you look like you haven’t slept in days.”

“i’m not tired.” the words come out sharper than he’d intended, so he adds, “what are you doing up?”

“couldn’t sleep. these little critters are quite loud,” jaeha says, waving a hand languidly to encompass the unseen chorus of nightjars. there’s a restlessness to him that makes gija suspect he isn’t telling the whole truth. he’s been like that all day, glancing in gija’s direction whenever he thought he wasn’t paying attention, worrying at his bottom lip, drumming his fingers. it isn’t as apparent now, but gija can still sense it in the air between them.

“really? i like them. there’s one over there.” he indicates the nightjar at the foot of the tree.

it takes jaeha a moment to spot it. when he does, he remarks about it being cute before falling silent. then, he looks back at gija. “sorry,” he says. “i might’ve gotten carried away with the love potion. i didn’t think you’d take it so seriously.”

“how could i not take it seriously? my behavior towards her highness was unacceptable!”

jaeha stares at him before pinching the bridge of his nose with a sigh. “that’s not what i’m trying to apologize for, gija. that part was hardly my fault anyway.”

“then what are you apologizing for?”

“for kissing you. or whatever.” he looks towards the embers, scowling. “i shouldn’t have done that without asking.”

“oh…” none of the women in his village had ever asked if they could kiss him either, and they hadn’t been under the influence of a dreadful drug, but he suspects that saying that right now wouldn’t make jaeha feel better about the whole matter. “i’m not upset about that,” he says instead.

jaeha turns to look at him again. “you seemed ready to tear me to shreds yesterday.”

“i was…overwhelmed. i-i liked it,” gija admits. beneath the initial surprise and embarrassment he’d felt, there had been an exhilarating feeling like plunging into pleasantly cool lake water before sunrise, while everyone is still asleep. “i just wish you hadn’t taken the love potion.”

the silence stretches out, and jaeha leans back. “right,” he finally drawls, almost like a question.

“if you hadn’t been under the influence, i wouldn’t have pushed you away,” gija adds in an attempt to explain.

jaeha stares at him. “…what?”

“what?”

in the quiet that follows, gija finally realizes what he just said, and more importantly, that it’s true. his face feels hot all of a sudden, and he buries it in his hands. “forget i said anything!”

a beat, and jaeha laughs. gija steals a glance at him; he’s covering his mouth with his hand in an attempt to stifle the laughter so as not to wake anyone, and when he meets gija’s gaze, violet-blue eyes glimmering with mirth and the light of the embers, gija forgets both the embarrassment that seemed ready to swallow him whole moments before, and how to breathe.

“there’s no shame in being wiled by my irresistible charms, gija darling,” he says with a wink and a flip of his long hair, let loose from its ribbon this late at night. gija wonders if his hair feels as silky as it looks. perhaps jaeha would let him reach out and run his fingers through it.

remembering how to speak, gija says, “don’t tease me.”

“oh, but it’s so fun.”

“and i’m not ashamed,” gija adds. if anything, he’s fairly certain what he’s feeling is the opposite of shame, though he’s not quite clear on what to call it.

“good.” jaeha’s voice sounds so soft, and gija wants him to keep talking, wants to be closer to him. however, the fatigue is casting its impenetrable fog over his thoughts, making it difficult to continue speaking.

“gija,” jaeha calls his name in that same tone. “you should go to sleep. i can handle things here.”

he shakes his head.

“what, am i untrustworthy after all?” he clearly intended it as a joke, but there’s a hint of a quiver in his voice. for all his guardedness, he still wants to belong; gija had realized as much the moment he saw the awestruck expression on his face during their conversation back in awa.

“i trust you!” he blurts out, desperate to salvage this new fragile bond building between them. “i just— i want to be useful.”

“and passing out from exhaustion plays into that how exactly?”

the words sting despite the lightness of his tone, but jaeha wouldn’t have said them if he wasn’t worried, so gija announces, “i’ll sleep here, then,” before shifting closer and resting his head on jaeha’s shoulder. he can hear jaeha murmur something in response but he’s too tired to catch it.

[specterofyou]

Visual Novel Plug-ins That I Recommend for Newcomers!1!!1!

This post is primarily aimed at first-time visual novel developers! The majority of plug-ins here are Free but I will note when they cost money! (Note: these add-ons are not necessarily aimed at newcomers, but are just ones I recommend before you venture into other add-ons for Ren'Py).

Layered Image Visualizer for Ren'Py by Feniks ($5 or more). Layered images are when a sprite has multiple components that are separate from the base (for example, a separate eyes file from the base). This visualizer lets you see what you're combining and provides the code for it!

Easy Ren'Py GUI by Feniks (free). If the way the default UI is handled is too complicated to use, this GUI template has become a staple of visual novels! This changes the code and images provided to make it easier to create VN GUI.

Lint+ Ren'Py Word Counter by KigyoDev (free with an optional bonus for donating). This keeps track of a variety of text-related components, including how many lines/words there are, the frequency of characters appearing in the script, etc. Ren'Py All-In-One GUI Template by tofurocks (free with an optional bonus for donating). It comes with a variety of features like a built-in image gallery, developer's notes, etc. Any questions? Let me know!

[velvet-cupcake-games]

Made Marion Development Update, July 2024

Hello everyone!  Hope you're enjoying the summer, and my best wishes to all of you on the eastern half of North America who have been dealing with hurricanes.

Project Status

Unfortunately, my fatigue and other medical stuff prevented me from finishing Will Chap 3 this month. To give you an overview of where we are on the route as a whole:

Writing: Will Chapter 3/4, close to 50k words out of about 80k

Coding: Half of Chapter 1, waiting on editorial

Editing: Writer edits complete on Chapters 1-2, waiting on reader edits.

Backgrounds: 100% complete.

Sprites: 3 NPC sprites needed (can launch without but hope to have).

CGs: 2/5 complete.

Cut-Ins: 1 of 3 nearly complete (the most complex one).

So we still have a ways to go, unfortunately. After many many tests, I'm officially being referred to an internal medicine specialist to see if we can improve my fatigue. I don't know how long it will take me to get in to see them, but hopefully not too long!

Thanks as always for all of your patience as our team navigates the challenges of complex illness!

Here's Will's intro CG that will show near the beginning of Sherwood Common:

And a set of new facial expressions made specifically for this route (though I will add some rolling eye Will to the other routes as well).

See you next month!

[ufonaut]

"a disaster beyond description" - the parallax view on parallax (& coast city's destruction)

i've often talked about the importance of pre-parallax retcon hal jordan, what a radical move his downfall had been for an art medium so uniquely focused on status quo and how much walking that back in post-2005 continuity damaged the character & his development. however, something i've become increasingly interested in lately is the outsider point of view on the magnitude of coast city's destruction and hal's descent into madness -- the reverberations of one of the darkest days in the dcu were far and wide for a good long while there but rarely acknowledged outside of nostalgia pieces nowadays and even more rarely understood as a thoroughly visceral, well-written, well-planned arc that intentionally portrayed the superhero world as largely unsympathetic to the trauma of one of their own but the average civilian as grappling with that loss nearly on the same scale that hal did.

to that effect, i thought i would show a highlights reel of this outsider POV and how much it adds to the weight of the pre-2005 story. while i've accepted some tie-ins to major events (ie zero hour 1994, final night 1996), this will feature titles entirely unrelated to green lantern presented in real life chronological order by publication date in order to showcase the impact that's compelled me so (that's no convergence: green lantern, no legends of the dcu #33-36, etc).

"every office, every home, every school and hospital is atomized. the west coast and its entire ecosystem is instantaneously shattered-- and more than seven million men, women and children that once called the coast city area home-- die."

to set the scene, the explosion that destroys coast city actually appears in superman 1987 #80 (cover date: aug 1993) as part of hank henshaw and mongul's plan.

the destruction had spread as far as santa barbara & the los padres national forest. getting closer to ground zero, hank henshaw also proceeds to resolutely take care of a handful of the sole survivors:

(adventures of superman 1987 #503, cover date: aug 1993)

you all know the reading order here. past the return of superman and the events of emerald twilight, the first outsiders to have gotten the news are the darkstars

whose immediate course of action is to brand hal jordan a criminal (darkstars #23, cover date: aug 1994)

and as zero hour-induced temporal anomalies keep coming up, the darkstars start seriously considering further tampering with time in order to prevent "the creation of a power-mad monster" (darkstars #24, cover date: sept 1994).

it's a sentiment that the majority of hal's justice league colleagues share, as zero hour: crisis in time and the final night both tell us, but a more sympathetic view comes two years later in the spectre 1992 #47 (cover date: nov 1996)

and a more neutral one from waverider in superman: the doomsday wars #2 (cover date: dec 1998)

interestingly enough, more details of the in-universe perception of hal's actions comes from deadman: dead again

where we learn that "sources close to the JLA" have actually issued a press statement naming hal as wholly responsible for the green lantern corps massacre, with no hint that they've been equally forthcoming about the motive behind his actions (deadman: dead again #4, cover date: oct 2001)

the last pre-retcon word goes to superman: day of doom #3 (cover date: jan 2003), a sobering portrayal of the immense horror of coast city's annihilation and subsequently a look into the reality that had made hal snap:

post-retcon, nostalgia pieces like dcu: legacies #8 (feb 2011) and dc retroactive: superman - the 80s (oct 2011) both treat the mad-with-grief version of the story as the truth -- as does the 2015 convergence event --but outside of these few instances, the tour de force of storytelling that is this years-long arc has been cast aside in favor of an unnecessary retcon. as the zero hour: crisis in time 30th anniversary approaches, i'd say it's just the right time to remember that hal (unrepentant hal, power-hungry hal, hell-bent on making everything right hal) had had a perfectly proportional reaction to the tragedy he'd endured, if not outright a justified one.

[thekinkyqueerarchive]

What is Risk Aware Consenual Kink (RACK)? a brief summary

( I couldn't find a post so um ... heres me trying to explain it - please feel free to add on)

Risk-Aware Consensual Kink (RACK) is a framework used within the Kink community to ensure that activities are carried out in a safe, consensual, and informed manner. Many (if not all) kinks have some level of risk attatched to them by nature.

Participants need to be fully aware of the risks involved in the activities they are engaging in. This means that they have a thorough understanding of the potential physical, emotional, and psychological consequences.

AND freely give their informed consent to the activities. Consent must be explicit, enthusiastic, and can be withdrawn at any time.

well then - How do you be Risk Aware? A) Education and Research:

Understand the Activities: Learn about the specific kinks or activities you are interested in. This includes understanding the physical, emotional, and psychological risks involved.

Resources: Use books, articles, workshops, and online forums to gather information. Reputable sources include BDSM community websites, educational materials from experienced practitioners, and classes or workshops offered by knowledgeable instructors. B) Communication:

Discuss with Your Partner(s): Have open and honest conversations with your partner(s) about the activities you want to engage in. Discuss boundaries, limits, and expectations.

Establish Safewords: Agree on a safewords or signals (in the case that a verbal safeword cannot be used) to pause or stop the activity if anyone feels uncomfortable or unsafe. heres a helpful execrpt from The New Topping Book (2003) by Dossie Easton & Janet W. Hardy on what to do in the event of a safeword

C) Preparation and Planning:

Set Boundaries: Clearly define and respect each other’s limits and boundaries. Know what is off-limits and what is acceptable.

Have a Plan: Create a plan for the activities, including steps to take in case of an emergency. This might include having first aid supplies on hand or knowing the location of the nearest hospital. heres a post by @/houndmother // pansy-butch giving some excellent advice about planning and running a scene

D) Risk Assessment:

Identify Potential Risks: Consider the potential risks of the activities. This includes physical risks (e.g., injury), emotional risks (e.g., trauma), and social risks (e.g., privacy concerns). these will be diffrent for diffrent kinks.

Mitigation Strategies: Develop strategies to minimize these risks. This might involve using safe words, ensuring you have the necessary skills and equipment, and having a clear aftercare plan.

E) Skill Building:

Training and Practice: some kinks may need necessary skills to perform activities safely. This might involve practicing techniques, learning from experienced practitioners, and participating in training sessions or workshops.

Continuous Learning: Stay updated with new information and techniques. The BDSM community is continually evolving, and staying informed helps ensure safer practices.

F) Aftercare:

Plan for Aftercare: Aftercare is the process of attending to the physical and emotional needs of all participants after a scene. This might include providing comfort, discussing the experience, and ensuring everyone feels safe and supported. Aftercare is crucial and non optional. it may look diffrent in diffrent dynamics, and that is valid so long as everyone feels adequately supported and cared for

Check-Ins: Follow up with your partner(s) after the activity to discuss how they felt and address any issues that may have arisen. heres a great post on aftercare by @//babygirlbondage

[hakugin0]

tablet just force halted art prog by being almost dead so have some late night ramblings (dol edition? kinda) anyway I really need them to drop an update so I can be hit with the insanity:tm: I miss Ines and I miss my fox PC twins that are stuck unfinished on some canvas in WIP limbo. And also! Because I see so many people's pretty PCs on my tl and I'm... wrangles my hands... your barbies so pretty I need to simp (my guy I mean this so hard if I wasn't shy I'd be openly barking in some people's inboxes) i know game dev takes a while but maaaaaan... next part is gonna be a bit critical so ya know puts it in a read more for anyone that does not care! YOUR PCS ARE STILL HOT AND I HOPE THEY'RE THRIVING KBYE

So ever since last update (but kinda from the temperature/weather update too) dol left a certain familiar taste in my mouth that for the longest time I couldn't put a finger on... BUT I FINALLY DID IT

It's kinda reminding me of Yandere Simulator development (I've just dated myself so hard). And before you jump on me about how shitty yandev was and everything, trust I know, I mean more in the feature bloat, bear with me for a second. Did DOL need a housekeeping class/way to level housekeeping easier as imo it was the hardest skill to level? Yes. Did it need like 100+ (it might be less but I know it's a lot) recipes related to that? I think we can all agree that no it didn't. It's a nice addition don't get me wrong but that still feels a bit wasteful. I kinda have the same thoughts on the temperature/weather update, yes it's a nice addition but there were some other things that could've used updates. I know DOL is a sandbox but there is clearly a wider plot/quest to engage with except lore/plot progression is tied to some very particular actions/characters so unless you're interested in those particular characters then boohoo.

On the topic of characters there's some that have much more content comparatively to each other (there is a whole Whitney rant in here as a former/maybe-not-former Whitney fucker but that's for another day). Now I might be wrong but I remember seeing in a Vrel QnA that there was also a plant person LI planned too which I'll be honest I scrunched my nose at 'cause we have enough LIs/NPCs already (that need more development anyway), but of course that is just my humble opinion. If I were to put it in one word it feels like current development is a bit aimless? I won't claim to have some extensive game dev knowledge but I did have to write a game bible before and plan for something small scale and a thing that was heavily pushed was knowing what the core of the game was and then adding on to it. So yeah you'd think you'd first focus on the core and then add side bits to it.

Mind you I wanna believe they're actually actively working on the core plot/quest (paying Bailey off/finding out what the whole cult's deal is/etc) but I think the last active update to that we got was either the new Avery poker date(but do please correct me if I'm wrong). I know there's people dissatisfied with some of the lore elements and I think devs being a bit flip floppy with the lore helps, we started at non-con game where you try to make rent to PC being basically at the core of a whole religious cult without meaning to 'cause they clearly are in some way related to frankly everything. Anyway I just wanted to scream to the void so don't mind me but I also enjoy game dev and DOL did at some point inspire me to maybe try doing a text-adventure style thingie

[lazaruspiss]

Lower Gotham: Part Three

Bar 8-bit: Over the years, the 8-Bit has flipped between being just a particularly unhygienic dive bar to an active funnel for contraband, thanks to its basement access into The Cauldron. It's been raided so many times over the years that the GCPD Vice unit started holding their Christmas parties there. My latest intel says a new player has moved in from outside Gotham. They call themselves The Regulators, and the 8-Bit's new owner, Demetrius Long, seems to be connected. If the bar's power usage is any indication, The Regulators seem to be running a lot of servers in the basement. That would line up with the gang's focus on cyber-crime and technology theft. Barbara's working on a way to install a backdoor into their systems, but The Regulators' security is surprisingly good.

Daggett Enterprises: Daggett Enterprises is a pharmaceutical company that was established in Lower Gotham in the 70s during the city's financial boom. It was specifically established near the Dixon Docks to make the shipment of products easier. The building houses laboratories, clinical trial facilities and cold storage, though it is mainly used as a warehouse for all Daggett products. For this reason, many gangs have tried breaking into the building in the past in an attempt to steal some of the company's trial drugs. Jim and I had set up patrol routes around Daggett Enterprises to reduce crime near the building, but Catherine Kane dismantled that project when she became police commissioner. There have been many break-ins and reported thefts since then. Notes: Less police presence around Daggett Enterprises. Will have to patrol near the building more often to compensate.

S.T.A.R. Labs: The Science and Technology Advanced Research Laboratories (S.T.A.R. Labs) satellite facility was established in Gotham City in the 1990s to take advantage of regulatory opportunities in Lower Gotham. S.T.A.R. Labs is a research organization specialized in exotic materials, biotech and applied physics. The building has been upgraded several times since its original construction. It features its own power generation and water filtration infrastructure on the waterfront. For the last few years, the company has been developing cryogenic systems for the military. I've been keeping track of their shipments, and so far, it would appear Victor Fries has kept his word. The local gangs have taken a few shots at the Labs, but without much luck. The facilities/security systems seem to work so far.

The Holesome Dough: Tim, why did you add an entry for The Holesome Dough?

Because it's great. It started off as a donut shop, but it's much more than that now! They make everything from cinnamon rolls to cookies, but my favorite is the apple tart. It's amazing! The Holesome Dough first opened about ten years ago and it's become so popular that it's now a franchise. And it really deserves its name. Steve, one of the two owners, used to work in construction and decided to build his wife Sandra her own pastry shop like she always dreamed. Talk about Wholesome! Now it's one of Gotham City's most popular dessert places. I go there like… a lot and every time I come across the owners, they always give me free samples. It's just nice to have somewhere safe and friendly to go to in Gotham, you know? - T.D.

[i4technolab]

Microsoft Word is often the first name that springs to mind when you think about documentation. A popular content platform renowned for its adaptability and top-notch features. What makes it more interesting is its support for hundreds of add-ins and the ability to seamlessly integrate third parties.

The actual power of Microsoft Word lies in its authoritative Add-ins. These remarkable extensions serve as a reliable companions and provide invaluable assistance throughout the documentation journey. That is the reason businesses prefer to go for Custom Word Add-ins development to focus on what truly matters.

In this blog, we will span across the significance of Word plug-ins and learn the step-by-step process of developing Word Add-ins.

[smartgirl1970]

Digital Essay on my Technology Literacy (Class Assignment)

Digital Essay on my Technology Literacy (Class Assignment)

In 1981 the IBM Personal Computer model 5150 was released. My parents bought one for my 11th birthday, thinking it would be a great asset for school. I used it as a glorified typewriter. You had to essentially add the programs yourself, and that was not easy to do. I was too young to understand what all the bells and whistles did, and there were not many. The World Wide Web, or WWW, was not introduced until 1989, my freshman year in college (the first go-round).

My first video gaming system was Atari. This came out in 1977. However, I didn’t get one until I was about 10 years old. To be perfectly honest, I wasn’t a big gamer. I skipped right over the Nintendo era. My cousins and friends had one, but other than Leapfrog and the first Mario Brothers game, it wasn’t my thing. I wasn’t good at Pac-Man either.

I bought my first cellphone in 1992. It was a Nokia. The first phone bill came in at $289. You got something for 1000 minutes free and were charged .30 cents a minute over that. I understand that in 2023, that may not sound like a lot of money, but in 1992, it took an entire paycheck to pay it. I made $7 an hour, and that was a decent salary working at Macy’s flagship store on 34th Street in New York.

My son was born in 1996, and the world of technology opened new doors for me. I bought him a LeapPad to be used as a learning tool for reading and math. He graduated to every gaming system created from an Xbox to Nintendo. I was introduced to the World Wide Web through social media when Facebook became a thing because I had to monitor his use of this platform. By 2008, my son was in the 7th grade, and I allowed him to interact with his friends on Facebook, but his time was limited, and it was conditional upon him accepting my friend request. My acquired sons (I dislike the word step) were older than him, and they kept me in the loop about how social media worked. Facebook was great for me because it was a link to communicating with my family in New York without having to call all the time. It was great for sharing pictures. Social media has taken a turn, and in some ways its great for activism, in other ways, people are very comfortable being contrary and saying things they would say publicly.

My concern with the development of AI is how easily things can be manipulated. AI’s voice generator can create words that do not come out of someone’s mouth. I see the dangers in that with a political leader’s voice. Manipulating photos can be fun. However, it can also be used to lie about where someone is, what they are doing, and who they are doing it with. Technology is changing rapidly. There isn’t much a robot can’t do. From driving a car without human intervention to soon enough, flying an airplane. My question would be, will there be a time when life imitates art, and we are faced with an iRobot catastrophe.

My technical literacy is almost nonexistent beyond the day-to-day life of social media and basic content creation. As a creative writer, storyteller, and activist, I took this class with the hopes that I will be able to better understand the basics of web design and create more enticing visual content when I use TikTok and other platforms to display my work. I am a Global student, so my entire degree has been online. I graduate in May of 2024!

Over the last year, I have learned to use social media sites like LinkedIn to further my writing presence and create an outlet to network with like-minded people. I am a self-published author on Amazon, and I had to learn how to utilize Canva when creating my book "Journal and Manifest with Your Ancestors." So I consider that to be an incredible success since I created this journal completely on my own. I followed someone on YouTube to learn the ins and outs of utilizing KDP Amazon and Canva.

[digitalteacherhydposts]

Improve Your English Skills Through Digital Teacher English Language Lab

Improve Your English Language Skills With English Language Lab Software

Now imagine a language lab as this awesome place where you can improve your language skills. Like science labs, which are filled with devices and materials, English language labs are also filled with amazing tools that help you learn the ins and outs of many languages. Keep in mind the language lab is a support system for those in need of a tool for language learning. It’s similar to having a guiding hand that advances your understanding of the English language and helps you become a specialist in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

You have to spend time in a language lab to learn it. Talk, listen, and keep up with the rhythm of the language. Speaking, listening, and practicing must never end if you want to become a language expert. It’s the key to success in language education. Speaking and listening are the two types of language skills: they require a great deal of practice.

What Are the Main Benefits of a Language Lab?

Language labs are the newest attractive thing in schools, colleges, and universities.

The language learning lab helps you learn words, vocabulary, and pronunciation. In India, the English language is treated like a foreign language.

Making the whole learning scene way more fun and reliable.

So, language labs are like the super tools of learning, creating this awesome online learning environment that students admire.

Teachers like it as well! These labs allow them to add the latest developments in technology to their classes, making studying as interesting as popular entertainment. Students receive more practice time, with English learning software.

Let’s look at skills now, with the main 4 as LSRW (listening, speaking, reading, and writing). The language lab is the playground, and it plays an important role in the study of English languages.

Features and Skills of English Language Lab Software

Have you ever thought why language labs are so popular in universities/colleges and schools? Now Read below and make sure you’re for these amazing benefits!

Language labs are the best student learning tool to learn English skills quickly through language laboratories. Using offline/online learning environment that students can enjoy.

As a result, the English language is the learning like of super-humans, enabling an environment where expertise in technology is present and increasing the overall reliability and joy of the learning process.

Now, let’s speak of English language skills. Its four key components are LSRW (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).

English Listening Skills: In English language lab software, Listening skills play an important role in effective communication. Listening is a physical ability, The capacity to listen correctly enables one to translate and understand what others are saying. With the use of the digital teacher English language lab software, these skills are taught in A1, A2, B1, B2, & C1, C2 with different types of levels and activities like (tutorials, group discussions) and More. The language lab is a playing field, and Students can Develop interpersonal skills.

Lectures, tutorials (with note-taking), and group discussions Activities in the language lab that enhance listening skills.

Speaking Skills: By Practice Words, Vocabulary, Conversations, Conversations at Home/School and Other Places. It can enhance personal life its contribute to their success. To enable students to express themselves fluently and appropriately in social and professional contexts.

with the help of digital teacher English language lab speaking skills software, students are aware of the role of speaking in English, and our software practice activities like Listening to the audio related to the pictures and listening to expert voice and your voice simultaneously.

Learn English Writing skills: Develop your English writing abilities by using proper grammar and sentence structure. Writing helps you express yourself clearly and easily to a much wider audience while also making your thoughts public. It’s easier than you would think to use the digitalteacher English digital language lab.

Reading skills: to improve students’ knowledge of writing as a specific and disciplined ability. to give students the tools necessary for many types of writing, starting with the simpler ones. It enhances your English writing abilities by using proper grammar and sentence structure. Writing helps you express yourself clearly and easily to a much wider audience while also making your thoughts public. It’s easier than you would think

The English language lab is a handy tool that facilitates classroom engagement and interaction via computer-based activities and exercises to increase language immersion.

More info. https://www.englishlab.co.in/

[constantcreates]

7 Innovative Ways to Repurpose Your Old Social Media and Blog Content

Repurposing old content is more than just recycling—it’s about reimagining its potential. As the digital world evolves, so should our approach to content. Just because it's old doesn't mean it's outdated. With a few creative tweaks, you can make your previous content shine like new, reaching a wider audience and reinforcing your brand’s message.

Rejuvenate Old Blogs with Video Content

The power of video in today's digital age is undeniable. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and even LinkedIn are prioritizing visual content, making videos a must-have component for brands.

Bite-Sized Video Summaries: Try converting blog posts into short and snappy videos that capture the essence of your message. It's a great way to keep your audience hooked and interested.

Behind-the-Scenes Footage: Showcase the making of your blog post, product, or service, offering your audience a personal connection with your brand.

Animated Explainers: Utilize animations to break down complex ideas, making them digestible and entertaining for viewers.

Deepen your understanding of visual branding and how it influences your audience with our article on Color Psychology in Social Media Design: How to Choose the Right Palette for Your Posts.

Enhance with Engaging Visual Graphics

They say a picture speaks a thousand words, and in the world of social media, visual graphics can be the differentiator.

Infographics: Represent data or lists visually, making complex information easier to understand.

Quotes & Highlights: Create graphics from noteworthy quotes or highlights, making them easily shareable.

Interactive Graphics: Engage your audience with clickable graphics, leading them to more in-depth content or resources.

Discover the ins and outs of captivating graphic design in our guide on Everything You Need to Know About Creating Cohesive Social Media Graphics.

Refresh and Update Information in Old Posts

The digital realm is constantly evolving. Ensure your content remains relevant by updating it periodically.

Integrate Latest Statistics: Keep your audience informed with the most recent data and research.

Incorporate Recent Trends: Weave in current industry news or changes to make your content timely.

Add New Examples or Case Studies: Real-world examples can provide added context and depth.

Stay updated and informed with insights from our Fridays With Faye: Weekly Newsletter.

Introduce a Lead Magnet or Freebie

Elevate your content by offering something tangible and valuable to your audience.

Printables: Design handy templates or worksheets that complement your post’s topic.

E-guides: Consolidate a series of related blog posts into a comprehensive, downloadable guide.

Exclusive Webinars or Live Sessions: Offer deep dives into the topic for those who want to learn more.

Elevate your branding game with our Free Branding Identity Checklist.

Convert Blog Posts Into Podcast Episodes or Webinars

Diversify your content formats to cater to a broader range of audience preferences.

Discussion Formats: Engage in in-depth conversations around your content, adding layers of depth and perspective.

Guest Collaborations: Feature industry experts to provide a fresh take on your old topics.

Interactive Q&A Sessions: Allow your audience to ask questions, making the content more interactive and engaging.

For insights on the importance of maintaining brand consistency across various content formats, check out our post on Transform Your Brand: The Ultimate Guide to a Consistent Identity.

Create a Series or Challenge Around a Popular Post

In order to really connect with your audience, it's important to focus on engagement. If you notice that a specific piece of content is getting a lot of interest, don't be afraid to create more content around it.

Content Sequels: Develop follow-up pieces that build on the original post.

Themed Monthly Challenges: Engage your audience with tasks or actions based on your content.

Community Discussions: Use platforms like Clubhouse or Twitter Spaces to discuss the topic with your audience.

Find more ways to boost engagement with Leveling Up Your Social Media Game With Post Templates.

Collaborate with Influencers or Brands for a Fresh Perspective

Expand your reach and introduce new voices to your content.

Joint Live Sessions: Collaborate on discussions that merge both brands' perspectives.

Guest Contributions: Allow external voices to provide updates or fresh takes on your content.

Content Swaps: Exchange blogs or social posts with like-minded brands to introduce each other to a new audience.

Navigate the complexities of brand identity with our guide, Steer Clear of These 7 Brand Identity Mistakes for Business Success.

Repurposing your content is all about creative reinvention. Every piece you create can be reshaped, reimagined, and reintroduced, reflecting the evolving needs of your audience. At Constant Creates, we champion the idea of constant evolution in branding and design. If you're eager to elevate your brand and make the most of your content, we're here to guide the way. Ready to start on your design journey? Fill out our contact form below. Let's reimagine the potential of your content together.

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[velvet-cupcake-games]

Made Marion Development Update, Feb 2024

Hello everyone, and happy belated Valentine's Day! Will took a moment of his time to make everyone a very special Valentine.

Darn it, Will.

The Writing Desk

I am moving into Will Chapter 2!  These first couple months of Will route development have been challenged by some unavoidable IRL issues, but those are all cleared up now and I am devoting the rest of February and March fully to writing Will's route.

Chapter 1, as predicted, will be around 20,000 words. I still have one more Chapter 1 scene to finish, but it's a big action scene, and those tend to take me forever as I figure out all the logistics. I decided that rather than delaying the rest of the adventure, I'll slowly add to that action scene while writing Chapter 2.

Will Preview Video:

In case you missed it, we created a preview stream featuring the beginning of Will's route for the Steam Storyteller's Festival in early February.  Here it is!

Art Roundup

Some backers have been curious as to the completion status of our art, so here's the roundup:

Sprites and CGs (Arrapso)

All main character sprites are complete, save for a ??? variant sprite that will only be seen in the DLC.

We have 3.5 major NPC sprites yet to be completed: Hugh, leader of the Grey Wolves (backer sprite); Issa, Lord Geoffrey's cousin in from Nibiru (backer sprite); Kafeel, leader of Nottingham's Sunjati Merchant association and Will's friend; and the final version of Thomas, a character who is only seen in Alanna's route. I will need Kafeel for Will's EA release and am hoping to have Hugh and Issa for it as well, although they are more important on the Nottingham side.

After those are complete, Arrapso's main job will be CGs. I have ordered 4/5 Will CGs and am still deciding on the design for the final one. We also still need to design the backer wallpapers (which will be available in PC and phone formats).

Backgrounds & Creature Sprites (Sandra)

Backgrounds are almost entirely finished. I have one more major background to commission and then it'll just be the occasional variation as needed or maaaaybe one or two more major backgrounds later on to add more variation to the Nottingham Town exteriors.

All major creature sprites are complete.  I may commission one of Geoff's beloved hunting hounds during his route, but haven't decided yet. Meissa's bird friend will likely be a cut-in like our messenger doves.

Lore Intro and Cut-Ins (Lawrichai)

Lawri has been having some IRL challenges but should be back with us soon. Her main jobs right now are sexy silhouettes and the lore intro animation. We may be transforming the lore intro graphics into a full .webm animation instead of using Ren'py's built in Animation and Transition Language, as this might actually be easier for Lawri, as well as looking a lot smoother and making me pound my head against my desk less. It's a win/win/win! We'll have more on this next time.

Otherwise, Lawri's work is ongoing depending on budget and how much she is able to complete from route to route (I can always add in more cut-ins, but for now we're focusing on more critical ones as we have time after the sexy sils are complete per route).

So that's where we are with art right now!  We're in pretty good shape overall, there just might need to be some more intense art production while I complete the second half of Will's script.

See you next month!

[efficiencytracker]

The Onboarding Blueprint: A Foolproof Employee Checklist

Employee onboarding is a critical process that sets the tone for a new hire’s experience within your company. A well-executed onboarding strategy not only helps new employees feel welcomed but also ensures they become productive members of the team. To make this transition smooth and effective, having a structured employee checklist is essential.

Why An Onboarding Checklist Matters

When an employee joins your organization, the first few days are crucial in forming their impression of the workplace. A comprehensive onboarding process helps new hires quickly adapt to their roles while understanding company policies, culture, and expectations. Using an employee checklist ensures that no crucial steps are overlooked, leading to higher retention rates and better job satisfaction.

Step 1: Pre-Onboarding Preparations

The onboarding process starts even before the new employee steps through the door. Start by sending a welcome email that includes essential information like reporting time, dress code, and necessary documents. Set up their workstation with the required equipment, including a laptop, phone, and stationery. Preparing IT credentials and login information ahead of time also helps eliminate first-day technical issues.

Step 2: First-Day Orientation

The first day should be dedicated to introducing the employee to the company culture and their team members. Start with a warm greeting and a tour of the office. Introduce the new hire to their manager and teammates. An orientation session should cover company policies, code of conduct, and workplace safety guidelines.

Providing a remote onboarding package containing the employee handbook, company values, and role expectations helps the new hire feel more confident. Make sure the checklist includes verifying completed paperwork, including tax forms and identification verification.

Step 3: Role-Specific Training

Customized training sessions are vital for helping employees understand their tasks and responsibilities. Schedule hands-on training sessions that are specific to their role. Assign a mentor who can guide them through daily tasks and answer any questions. This peer support system will boost their confidence and integration into the team.

Step 4: Setting Goals and Expectations

Clear communication skills of job expectations and performance metrics is vital. During the first week, schedule one-on-one meetings to discuss short-term and long-term goals. This step helps the new hire understand how their work contributes to the organization’s overall success. Add these meetings to your employee checklist to ensure consistent follow-ups.

Step 5: Continuous Support and Evaluation

Onboarding doesn’t end after the first week. Regular check-ins during the first three months are crucial to address any challenges or concerns. Schedule feedback sessions to discuss progress and areas for improvement. Adjust the checklist to include reminders for ongoing training and development opportunities.

You can also watch: EmpMonitor: Manage Remote Work Easily

Final Words:

Building an effective onboarding process requires careful planning and execution. An employee checklist is an invaluable tool that ensures every step is completed efficiently. By investing time and effort into onboarding, you create a positive first impression and set the stage for long-term employee success.

Implementing a foolproof employee checklist will not only boost productivity but also increase job satisfaction and retention rates. Make onboarding a priority, and watch your new hires thrive from day one.

[businessnews01]

Game Over for Bad Odors! 12 Locker Room Supplies That Keep Things Fresh

We’ve all been there. You step into the locker room, and BAM! That overwhelming mix of sweat, damp towels, and musty shoes hits you like a brick wall. It's not exactly the fresh start (or finish) you were hoping for.

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to accept locker room stink as a fact of life. You can turn any smelly space into a fresh, clean environment with the right supplies.

Let’s talk about the 12 essential locker room supplies that will keep your locker room smelling great.

1. High-Quality Air Fresheners

A quick and easy fix. Automatic dispensers, plug-ins, or simple spray bottles work wonders. Opt for neutral scents like citrus or fresh linen—something crisp and clean.

2. Odor-Absorbing Locker Fresheners

Tiny but mighty. Charcoal bags, baking soda pouches, or deodorizing disks can be placed inside lockers to absorb odors before they spread.

3. Antimicrobial Gym Mats

Floors are bacteria breeding grounds. Invest in mats designed to resist mold and mildew. Bonus: They help prevent slipping, too.

4. Disinfecting Wipes & Sprays

Sweat. Germs. Bacteria. They’re everywhere. Keeping wipes and disinfecting sprays handy means keeping gym equipment, benches, and even personal lockers clean.

5. Heavy-Duty Ventilation Systems

No airflow? That’s a recipe for disaster. Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup, the main culprit behind musty odors. If a full HVAC upgrade isn’t an option, powerful fans can help.

6. Odor-Eliminating Laundry Detergents

Sweaty uniforms and towels hold onto smells. Using a detergent designed for sports gear keeps them fresh. Pro tip: Adding vinegar to the wash cycle can help neutralize odors.

7. Shoe Deodorizers & Antifungal Sprays

Shoes trap sweat. Sweat breeds bacteria. Bacteria cause stink. The fix? Odor-fighting sprays and moisture-absorbing insoles. No more smelly sneaker disasters.

8. Sweat-Resistant Towels

Regular cotton towels can stay damp and develop mildew fast. Opt for quick-drying, antimicrobial options to keep that “fresh-out-of-the-laundry” feel.

9. Industrial-Strength Floor Cleaners

Mop water alone won’t cut it. A deep-cleaning solution targeting bacteria and mildew will keep floors fresh and hygienic.

10. Essential Oil Diffusers

Want a natural fix? Essential oils like eucalyptus and tea trees help purify the air and add a subtle, refreshing scent.

11. Odor-Control Trash Cans

Locker room trash—used towels, protein bar wrappers, sweat-soaked wipes—needs a proper disposal system. A trash can with a tight-sealing lid and built-in odor control makes a huge difference.

12. Sweat-Proof Gym Bags & Storage Solutions

Have you ever opened a gym bag and almost passed out? The solution: Ventilated, antimicrobial storage options that don’t trap moisture.

Final Words

No one should have to power through a workout in a space that smells like a locker room from a horror movie. With these 12 essential locker room supplies, you can create a fresh, clean environment that keeps everyone returning for more.