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deanstead · 1 year

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Unknown Threat

Pairing: Jay Halstead x Reader

Requested: no

Summary: When Y/N walks in on a horrific scene in her own house, Jay is determined to find out who's responsible and keep her safe.

Square Filled: Facing Fears for #resa.3kfiestabingo

Word Count: 4.7K+

Tags/Warnings: mentions of sexual assault, explicit mentions of blood, panic attack

A/N: This is a fic no one asked for lol. Thanks to @creativepromptsforwriting for the confession prompt which got me out of a rut lol. Also, this got a stamp of approval from @sheetsonfire so im posting it, thank you bestie! Any mistakes are all mine.

JAY HALSTEAD MASTERLIST

You stretched as you climbed out of your car.

It had been a long day running around the city meeting clients and today was just one of those days when you wanted to put your feet up and not move any longer. You’d even regretted putting your make up on because that meant you had a longer shower process before you could finally stop for the night.

“You just getting in too?”

You turned around at the familiar voice, giving Jay Halstead a smile as you watched your best friend sidle up the driveway that the both of you shared, holding a pizza box in his hand.

You’d kind of known Jay all your life, even though you’d fallen out of touch somewhere in between. But by some stroke of luck, you’d found a perfect little house within your budget only to realize that your new neighbor was that friend you’d never totally gotten out of your mind.

At first, you’d been a little worried that it would be awkward, but somehow you and Jay had jumped right back into being best friends, the six years you’d spent without contact almost seeming to fade into the background so much that you’d wondered if those six years had even happened.

Jay noticed your eyes shift down to what he was carrying and smiled. “You haven’t eaten, right?”

You didn’t answer him immediately. You kind of wanted to go right to bed but the temptation of food was a little too overwhelming.

“Can I feed Luna and get into sweats? Please?” You asked, turning your eyes back towards him.

Jay let out a tinkle of a laugh. “Get comfortable. I’ll wait.”

You were quick, sliding Luna her bowl of kibble as she wagged her tail and ate, before you let her out into the back garden while you quickly washed up. As your empty stomach egged you on, you cleaned Luna up, patting her head gently with a “I’ll be back soon” before heading next door to Jay’s.

Jay looked up as you let yourself in, pushing a glass of wine towards you as you slid yourself in the seat across from him.

“Long day?” Jay asked, helping himself to a slice as you took a sip from the glass.

“Don’t even get me started.” You said in a low voice, gently putting the glass back down.

There was a small silence before Jay looked up. “The kid called me today.”

You glanced up. “Dylan?”

Jay nodded, taking another bite. “I think he’s just worried about his sister.”

You nodded quietly. “I’d love nothing more than to get enough evidence to sue that asshole out of his entire fortune and then let you throw him behind bars. But you know these things take time.”

Jay had met Dylan Stevens during one of his cases. He hadn’t even been a person of interest, just a witness that had helped point the team in the right direction. But there’d been something about this kid that made Jay take a second look.

And Jay’s hunch was proven right when it finally got too much for Dylan’s older sister and she’d finally asked for help - her mentor and boss couldn’t keep his hands to himself.

Other than the fact that Leah desperately needed this job so that she could support both herself and Dylan, her boss was getting more aggressive and other than the anger that was always eating at her, she was also getting a little scared.

Cases like this ate at you. All you wanted was to throw the dickbag to the DA but a case like this was complicated. There were repercussions for going forward with a trial, and being embroiled into a he said-she said situation wouldn’t help Leah. But you’d promised her that you’d help her as best as you could and that you’d be with her, every step of the way.

You held back from releasing a sigh. “I’m trying.”

Jay nodded, leaning forward for your hand, squeezing. “I know.”

It was about two seconds later that he realized he was actually holding your hand. Jay cleared his throat pulling his hand back and you reached for your wine glass to take a sip, both of you trying your hardest to ignore the sudden awkwardness in the air.

You stole a glance at Jay who wasn’t looking in your direction, before you looked back at the clock. While the both of you had spoken at length about the Stevens, time seemed to fly by and you were hours behind your intended sleep schedule for today.

“I should go. I have another long day tomorrow.”

Jay nodded. “Leave it, I’ll take care of this.”

You shot your best friend a grateful smile before standing.

“Let me know if you need any help?” Jay asked as he walked you towards his front door.

You turned and smiled. “You know it.”

Jay leaned forward for a hug that felt a little more awkward than normal before you smiled and slipped out the door, shoving your feelings for Jay Halstead back into the small secret box tucked away in your heart.

The next few days passed in a blur as you threw all your efforts into finding some form of evidence for Leah. So when you arrived at your driveway tonight, you were wiped. You hadn’t even dared to drive home, leaving your car in your regular parking lot and taking a cab from the front of your office building. You figured you could see if Jay could drop you off the next morning or you’d just call a cab again.

The fact that your door wasn’t locked or closed properly only registered after you’d stepped inside and you froze.

The moonlight streaming in through the windows illuminated the darkened interior of your house, where everything seemed to be turned upside down.

Your eyes raked the scene in front of you, where it looked like a tornado had literally ripped through your house and you took another step forward until you froze again.

The tip of the flats you had on grazed the edge of what you were now looking down at - you could see the dark color of red even with just the sliver of moonlight, the viscous pool right at your feet that could only be blood like something right out of a horror show.

You could hear your ears start ringing, feel your breathing pick up, and somewhere in the trenches of your mind, the horrific memories that you’d tried so hard to pack away seemed to be spilling out, starting with the scream of a woman right in your mind.

And then a hand slid over your eyes, interrupting the hold that the pool of blood seemed to have on you for just a second, even though your lungs still felt like they were constricting. At the same time, an arm went around your shoulders.

The rational part of your brain was screaming at you to move but you seemed to be literally frozen, until you heard his voice. “It’s me. Keep your eyes closed.”

Your heart felt like it was pounding in your head and closing your eyes only made it harder to breathe because now the traumatic memories were playing like a reel in your head, as if it was happening in front of you all over again.

You felt Jay turn you around now. “Y/N, it’s okay.”

But it wasn’t. The memory seemed to have taken a hold on you, even though you could hear Jay’s voice, feel his warm hands on your shoulder.

“Y/N!”

Your eyes snapped back open.

“Breathe. Just look at me and breathe.” Jay said, his voice calm.

You took a short breath and Jay nodded. “Alright, just focus on me, okay?”

Jay studied you as he stood close to you, watching the expressions flash across your face. You’d started having panic attacks back when the both of you were still in school, after you’d walked in to your mother lying in a pool of her own blood. So this wasn’t the first time that Jay had been here for one of your panic attacks, far from it. Even so, you hadn’t had one since you and Jay had reconnected.

Your body shook a little and Jay reached forward and swept you into his arms, your breaths so shallow that it almost sounded like you were gasping for air.

“Just focus on me, alright?” Jay said quietly. You trained your eyes on him and nodded, looping your arms towards the back of his neck for balance before he turned heel and headed out your door and towards his place.

As gently as he could, Jay lowered you onto his couch now, his eyes not missing the beads of sweat that lined your forehead.

Your arms didn’t move from where they were locked around Jay’s neck, even though you felt your body make contact with Jay’s couch.

“Y/N, it’s okay. Shh, I got you.” Jay whispered, not trying to pull away but instead leaning in further to gather you deeper into his arms.

The action seemed to calm you, even just slightly, as your breathing regulated. Before it hit you again.

“Jay… Luna…”

Jay pulled back gently to look at you, nodding his head. “Will has her. He came to get her for the vet appointment this morning, remember?”

You nodded now, slightly calmer, your arms falling gently to your sides.

Jay cast another worried glance at you, but pulled a blanket over your legs. “I’ll be right back.”

Reflexively, your hand shot out, grabbing his. “Jay.”

“I’ll take care of it, alright? Try to get some rest. I’ll be right back.”

You gently let go of Jay’s hand and nodded. Jay gave you a small smile and after a small hesitation, leaned down and pressed his lips to the top of your head, before he headed out the way he’d come as if he hadn’t noticed your surprise at the action.

“Jay, what happened?”

Jay glanced up as his older brother headed up towards him, Luna by his heel and shook his head. “She’s on my couch. Can you just check her out then put her in my bed and give her something to sleep it off.”

On any other occasion, Will wouldn’t have let Jay get away with a “put her in my bed” without some teasing or a raised eyebrow but his eyes swept across the police cars and crime scene vans before he nodded. “Luna’s gonna be in your place for a while then I guess?"

Jay just nodded. “Can you stay with Y/N?”

Will nodded, raising the bag he had in his hand. “I came prepared.”

Jay nodded his thanks, his eyes resting on his own house before he turned back around to your place and flipped a switch in his head to focus, heading towards Voight who’d just arrived.

Voight nodded at Jay. “We swept the place. The lock has obvious signs of being jimmied and they ransacked the place. There’s a pool of blood in there so the crime lab will take it back for testing but there’s no sign of where the blood came from. I think whoever did this brought it with them.”

Voight nodded quietly as Jay spoke before he looked back at his senior detective again like he was waiting for an explanation. “Sarge, she’s… she’s a good friend of mine. And it could be linked to a case we were working.”

Before either of them could say more, Hailey jogged right up towards them, glancing at her partner before she started speaking. “We’re pulling cam footage, and the crime scene guys have gone over the house twice. We’ve gotten all we can from the scene.”

Voight looked back at Jay. “Talk to her and see if there’s anything helpful she can provide for us. We’ll see you at the district tomorrow.”

Jay glanced up, knowing that Voight was giving him the night to look in on you and make sure you were okay.

Hailey nodded. “We got this, Jay.”

Jay nodded his thanks with a small smile before he turned and left, his eyes flicking towards your house just once more before entering his own place to check on you.

Will was sitting on the couch when Jay walked in, Luna curled up on the floor at his feet.

Luna got to her feet as Jay walked in, wagging her tail as she greeted him and Jay bent down to pat Luna gently on the head like a habit, even though he was distracted.

Will glanced at his brother. “I gave her something to help her sleep but you should check on her.”

Jay nodded quietly. “Thanks.”

Will smiled. “I’m gonna crash. If you need me…”

Jay nodded, reaching out to flip off the main light in the hall for his brother. “Yeah, thanks Will.”

Quietly, Jay headed up towards his room, where there was just a small dim light still on. Your eyes were closed as you lay curled up in his sheets and Jay lowered himself quietly towards the floor as he reached out and pushed a section of hair off your face, his worried eyes grazing over you.

Your eyes fluttered open and Jay registered a sliver of alarm before you recognized him and he smiled, reaching down for your hand to squeeze. “You’re okay.”

You smiled. “Sorry about this.” You whispered, your voice low.

Jay shook his head with a smile, raising his hand to stroke the top of your head. “Get some rest, we’ll talk in the morning. Will and I are not going anywhere.”

You let out a small smile, which put Jay’s heart a little more at ease. “I get both Halstead brothers? No one has been safer.”

Jay exhaled gently, glad you were at least okay enough to start making jokes. At the same time, your hand curled reflexively around Jay’s.

“I’ll stay until you sleep.” He said, reading your mind in that weird little way he’d been doing for almost all your life.

You nodded, letting your eyelids droop closed again.

When you opened your eyes to the sunlight streaming in through the small gap in the blinds across the windows, it took you a while to gather your bearings, your eyes slowly widening with alarm when you realized you were sleeping on an arm that wasn’t yours.

You glanced behind you as slowly as you could without jostling too much, even though you were pretty sure your heart was thumping loud enough to wake him. Deep down, you’d already known the quiet even breathing right behind you was Jay, one arm under you and another draped across your waist effectively putting you right in his embrace.

You wondered for just a second why you’d found yourself in this position before the memories hit you again, the fragmented memories of the night before hitting you like a punch in the gut - from what you’d found in your house, the panic attack, Jay offering to stay until you fell asleep and then the long night plagued by nightmares of screaming women or blood.

You remembered Jay pulling you out of each nightmare as gently as he could and maybe a vague feeling of Jay climbing in behind you.

Of course, that was probably why you’d finally been able to get some restful sleep. But now, you were embarrassed. Well, maybe mortified was a better word.

You felt Jay stiffen a little from where he was squeezed in behind you now and you realized he’d probably woken as well.

You knew someone had to move first so you shifted but instead of getting up, impulsively turned to face Jay.

Jay looked a little startled, like he was surprised and then confused.

“Hey.” Jay offered with a smile, taking your cue and not moving, one hand still draped under you. “You seemed like you were having some trouble sleeping last night, I didn’t mean to…”

You smiled. “Thank you.”

Jay’s smile widened a little like he was relieved but neither of you had moved yet.

“Jay, last night, I…”

Jay reached out to cup your face gently. “I’ll always be here. As long as you need… or want.”

Your eyebrows lifted slowly as you tried to read what Jay was trying to tell you.

“You will never lose me. I will always be right here beside you.” Jay whispered.

“Jay… you…”

Jay’s eyes moved across the expressions on your face like he was trying to figure out what was going on in your mind.

You didn’t know what to say, mainly because you really hadn’t expected to find yourself in this situation. Half of you wondered whether you weren’t really awake yet but all this was too real.

Sensing hesitation, Jay pulled backwards, both literally and figuratively. “Y/N, you don’t have to… I just wanted to…”

You didn’t know what to say so you snuggled just a little closer, reaching for his hand. “You can’t take it back, Jay.”

Jay paused for a bit and then smiled, before he moved closer towards you and when you didn’t move away, Jay pressed a gentle kiss on your lips. “Promise.” He whispered, as he pulled his lips away from yours.

“You ready?” He asked.

You weren’t, not really. You knew that when the both of you got up, you’d have to talk about what had happened in your house and you weren’t sure you were ready to relive it.

Jay reached for your hand and squeezed.

“I’ll be with you. All the way.”

That seemed to be enough to get you moving. Jay swung his legs out of his bed before stretching his hand out to you and you fit your hand into his, like it was meant to be there all along.

Even if Will hadn’t already gone up to check on you in the middle of the night only to find the both of you huddled together in one bed, he didn’t need to be told that things had changed between the both of you.

He just smiled because if he didn’t know any better he would have thought last night had just one of those normal pizza and beer nights. Whatever, he was just relieved that you seemed to be doing okay, considering everything.

“I gotta get to Med, alright? You’re in good hands.” Will said, smirking.

“Shut up.” You growled, punching Will on the arm but leaning in as he gave you a hug.

Will ruffled your hair gently. “Call if you need me, alright? Although I doubt it.” He couldn’t resist another gentle tease.

You just smiled this time before Will headed out Jay’s door.

Jay gave you a smile as he handed you a cup of tea before sliding into the seat opposite you. “Let’s talk here and then we can go to the district, alright?”

You swallowed and nodded.

Jay reached over, putting his hand over yours and squeezing. “I’m right here.” He reminded.

You smiled, nodding once again.

You don’t know how long you and Jay sat there in his kitchen, going over the cases you were working on recently, or had recently wrapped up. The list wasn’t small, but at least it was exhaustive.

“Alright, come on. We’re going to the district.” Jay got up, swinging an arm around your shoulders before the both of you left the house, but not before you assured Luna you’d be back as soon as you could.

“What do we have?” Jay asked as he closed the pantry door behind him where he’d left you.

Voight nodded and the team took turns speaking. Jay had sent the list of names ahead of them, so both Kevin and Kim had managed to get a preliminary look at them.

“Jay, any idea if we can narrow this down?” Kim asked, even though she kind of knew it was a long shot. “The perp doesn’t seem to be an expert at this, so we got an image to run facial recognition on.”

Voight glanced at Jay.

Jay paused for a moment, thinking. “There’s two people on that list I’d push to the top. Lucas Russell and Jake Lloyd.”

Kim nodded, heading for her computer as Jay turned towards Voight. “Remember that case we handled with the kid? Dylan Stevens’ sister later came in with the harassment accusation and Y/N took her on as a client. They’re smack in the middle of trying to get some evidence to prove their case against Russell.”

Jay paused before continuing. “Lloyd was one of Y/N’s clients but he was hopping mad that he didn’t manage to get full custody and made threats but that case wrapped up months ago. I figured we should look into these two first.”

From where he was standing at his desk, Adam put down the phone.

“That was the lab.” Adam said. “It’s pig’s blood, which is why there was nothing else but blood. They can get those at some butcher shops, I’ll get a list of places in the area.”

Voight nodded, as Adam and Kevin headed out to try the butchers they had on the list who would have and sell a large enough quantity of pig’s blood.

“I’ll scour the pods again to see if I can find anything new.” Kim said, heading back down as Hailey and Jay stayed at their desks and delved straight into both Russell and Lloyd. At least they were starting somewhere.

The monotony was only broken the few times that Jay had gotten up to go check on you. You’d reassure him that you were okay and that you couldn’t feel any safer than you felt now before Jay had thrown himself back into what he had to do.

No matter what, he was going to solve this crap.

Despite his determination, they were still at pretty much a dead end. Facial recognition had come back with a hit but they still weren’t able to connect either Russell or Lloyd directly to the man who’d broken into your house.

Adam and Kevin had gone to pick him up immediately, but he wasn’t telling them anything useful and Jay was losing his patience.

“Go on home.” Voight warned, stepping out of his office. “Take her home.”

“Sarge…” Jay stood, ready to argue but Voight gave him a look.

Jay knew Voight well enough that considering Adam and Kevin’s progress, Voight was going to go into the interrogation room himself.

Jay glanced into the pantry where you’d dozed off on the couch before he looked back at his sergeant and nodded, giving in.

Stepping into the pantry quietly, Jay roused you as gently as he could. “Y/N.”

You jumped, your eyes snapping open. “Hey, it’s okay. It’s me.” Jay whispered. “Sorry.”

You blinked and then shook your head. “Sorry. What is it? Did you get someone?”

The look on Jay’s face told you everything you needed to know. You reached forward to take his hand and squeezed. “I’m okay.”

Jay gave you a small smile. “Come on, let’s go home.”

The word ‘home’ made you smile.

“We’ll grab some food on the way.” Jay said with a smile as he took your hand, the both of you heading out of the district.

You’d had had a quick bite in Jay’s living room together before he’d curled up with you on his couch.

“You should get some sleep.” Jay said quietly, even though he didn’t seem to have any intention of letting you go, his arms still wound around you.

You smiled. “But I love it here.”

Jay let out a little chuckle, even though his mind was still racing through the information he’d gone through earlier. There had to be a connection he was missing.

Just as the thought formed in Jay’s mind, the power went off, the lights and television all shutting off at once.

Jay felt you stiffen in his arms as he sat up.

Jay reached for your hand. “Come here.” Jay reached for the drawer and pulled out his gun as you climbed off the couch as well.

Jay led you back towards the kitchen. “Stay low, stay hidden. Don’t come out until I come and get you.”

You didn’t let go of Jay’s hand.

“It could be nothing. Let’s just be cautious, alright? I’ll be right back.” Jay said quickly, pressing a kiss to the back of your hand.

A little unwillingly, you let go and nodded, crouching low behind the island counter that you’d sat at with Jay countless times for drinks.

You tried to focus on your breathing, focusing on the rhythm and making sure it wasn’t too loud. You’d breathe evenly and softly and just wait for Jay to come back and get you. Everything was going to be okay.

You’d counted to about 80 in your head when you heard the sound of shuffling footsteps.

A part of you hoped it was Jay but you also knew that if Jay was being careful, he wouldn’t walk like this. No way in hell.

The footsteps stopped and you glanced up, the terror gripping you as you looked up into the face of Lucas Russell.

Fuck.

Russell leaned forward and tugged you roughly upwards and out of where you’d been crouched. The scream was stuck in your throat but you needed to let Jay know someone else was here.

But even before you unstuck your own voice, Jay came out of nowhere, tackling Russell towards the ground.

The sudden lift in pressure from Russell's grip on you caused you to lose your balance and you tumbled onto your side, feeling the pain of crashing onto the floor resonate throughout your body.

“Get out of here. Now!” Jay yelled, as he wrestled with Russell, landing a punch across his face before Russell pushed Jay off him.

You didn’t have time to think, stumbling out of Russell’s reach.

But all you knew was that you couldn’t leave Jay behind. No matter what.

“Y/N!” Jay yelled, afraid you hadn’t heard him.

As if pushed out physically from your trance, you started moving but a crash from behind you made you turn.

“Jay!” You yelled, as your eyes registered Jay on the ground a little way away and trying to get to his feet.

Russell pulled out a knife, the blade glistened in the moonlight but before the fear could even register, you heard a chorus of voices that finally made you breathe.

“Chicago PD!”

You let Kim gently pull you towards her as Voight and Adam headed straight for Russell, Voight’s gun hovering dangerously nearer to Russell’s temple than normal as Adam forced him down to the ground to slap the handcuffs over his wrist.

Jay was already by your side. “Are you okay? Are you hurt?” He demanded, his eyes roving across you.

You shook your head even though the tears were already gathering in your eyes and Jay pulled you gently into his arms. “Alright, I got you. I got you. It’s over.”

You shook gently even as you were wrapped in Jay’s arms and your legs finally gave way. You felt yourself sinking but Jay merely pulled you tighter against him, a protective hand wrapped around the back of your head. “I got you.”

The team had filled you and Jay in once they’d brought Russell back in - the guy they’d arrested had finally cracked and given them the information they needed. Even so, they’d almost sped off to his house but not before Hailey had found a message on Russell's phone that hinted at him ending things tonight. So they’d detoured back to Jay’s.

Now, after things were mostly settled, you lay in Jay’s arms, the both of you squashed into his bed that had clearly been meant for one person.

“I shouldn’t have let you get pulled into this mess.” You whispered, your fingers gently tracing his face.

Jay shook his head. “I will always be between you and a threat. I promised and I’ll deliver.”

You scooted closer towards Jay and Jay laid a protective hand on the back of your head again. “It’s over.”

“You know what?” You asked him after a short silence.

Jay raised an eyebrow as he looked down to meet your eyes.

“At least there’s one good thing out of all of this.” You said quietly.

“What’s that?” Jay asked. You could hear the smile in his voice without even looking up.

You shifted. “I get to do this now.” You leaned up to press your lips to his.

Jay chuckled even as both your lips were still pressed together. “No arguments there.”

THANK YOU FOR READING!! PLEASE TELL ME WHAT YOU THOUGHT OF THIS!!

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#resa.fics #resa.3kfiestabingo #jay halstead #jay halstead x reader #chicago pd #jay halstead fanfic #jay halstead imagine #jay halstead one shot #chicago pd x reader #jay halstead x you #jay halstead x y/n

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elendsessor · 11 months

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i got this little reply for my cgi jack frost appreciation gifset and god i need excuses to talk about the devil summoner tv show because it’s actually fucking insane. so @blazescompendium i must thank you because i have some reason to talk about my videya gayme hyperfixations yay.

now i haven’t seen all of it, since i haven’t been able to find all the episodes (let alone translated), but if you want an interesting piece of megaten history and/or are in the mood for an old campy tv drama this is. certainly a show. it is slow bc drama and there’s a lot of not great acting but it has its moments. a warning that the show is nsfw. there’s a ton of fetish scenes (i’m not joking and it’s really uncomfortable i’m not a fan) but it’s kinda funny to think about since megaten is pretty tame for the most part when it comes to suggestive stuff. there’s also some gore in there. some translated episodes are included in this playlist but not all. there’s also no dvd release—it’s only on vhs, so if you’re looking for high quality clips you won’t get them.

(ps i can’t find any way to watch the full show currently but i will probably update this post if i find some way or someone provides a link to all episodes.)

marsh made a quick but great video about it so if you want a basic rundown of what the show’s all about i recommend it.

-actually the cgi was worked on by tsuburaya entertainment, a special effects studio WHO WORKED ON THE OF ULTRAMAN AND SUBSEQUENT SEQUEL SERIES. they still do ultraman stuff too which is amazing to me.

-and no the cgi isn’t the best. the show is noticeably low budget and the cgi especially reflects that. it’s incredibly slow and if you’re looking for a lot of demon appearances i’m sorry you won’t get many. the gump doesn’t show up until episode 5 anyways and don’t think you’ll see it get used. most of the show is just talking.

no translation for this episode that i can find but i’m 99% sure this is the first episode jack frost shows up in. it’s byotiful.

-while it follows the plot of the game for the most part, it diverts in a lot of ways. lore surrounding the kuzunoha isn’t explored much, and it’s kinda a prequel in some ways??? but also not really???? the second season is apparently way different.

-you get to see this shot in the first episode

-most of the show is kyouji doing nothing and aside from the crap cgi that’s the best part. seeing him be more of an asshole. just skip to those scenes since they’re funny.

literally the only things that are entertaining unless you’re into slow burn drama are the absurd parts but those bits are so amazing it’s kinda worth it. unfortunately that does include the nsfw which yeah. watch the first episode and you’ll figure out if you’re gonna like it or not. also cozy and kaneko make appearances in the first episode as well so the show has their stamp of approval. kaneko has stated his favorite branch of megaten is devil summoner (which same here ngl) and if you know about how he used to be pretty into night life stuff that somehow explains a lot of how the crazier parts of the show turned out. the writers have a lot of explaining to do.

#this might not sound super interesting but trust me it’s kinda a weird footnote in smt history #shantien rambles

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dojae-huh · 1 year

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I feel like Christmas Carol Special from DoJaeJung should have "produced by Kim Dongyoung" somewhere stamped. The idea and the production just screams him (in both positive and negative ways).

K-pop companies produce a lot of Christmas songs, SM especially.

In 2016 Doyoung had a Christmas song with Joy. It was released as a single.

In 2018 Doyoung started to do covers and upload them on NCT Music channel. He made a quick cover for Christmas (with no proper MV prepared).

Do's example was followed by Taeil and Jaehyun, their first covers were carols.

In 2019 4 Season presented an original winter song and did an impromptu carol medley. Doyoung did a quick Christmas cover. His example of a cover-maker was followed by Yuta. And I'm inclined to think that Do didn't have an MV to give the spotlight to Yuta. From Yuta we know that he approached Do for vocal tips/guidance.

In 2020 Doyoung, Jaehyun and Johnny, as well as Jaehyun, Jungwoo and WinWin were meant to sing carol songs, but the "task" was never fulfilled. Instead, Doyoung, Jungwoo, Chenle and Renjun had a Christmas cover. That year Do got closer to Chenle and Renjun thanks to NCT projects.

2021 had an official song from Universe album released on December 24th. Sweet Dream (Jaehyun)

2022 - Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo carol medley.

In interviews before 2022 Doyoung mentioned how he would like to sing with Jungwoo and Jungwoo and Jaehyun, and that the style that would suit JaeDo duet is Disney songs. Jaehyun said he would like to do a carol medley. (before 2021) Jungwoo expressed desire to make covers. DoWoo regularly sang on lives and for programmes.

So you can see the development. From Doyoung coming up with uploading covers on YT (SM had just started to develope NCT's presence on the platform), his tendency to gift fans something on holidays, to his pushing for a winter album/songs and singing with his biases.

We know Doyoung comes up to the management with ideas. Awzas was his idea. So was the video for concert version of "Golden Dust" and the siluettes for DoJaeJung Link performance.

From the way Do talked about the song the unit was given, and remembering how he pushed for 4 Seasons to be a thing, I think the Carol medley is more of what he wants for the unit (but he will go the successful path, whatever SM will come up with for DoJaeJung if it will have a continuation). Doyoung wants vocal-focused songs with nice lyrics.

The medley had an SNCD's song (Doyoung is a sone) and a jazzy carol (Jaehyun's taste). I don't know Jungwoo's interests well enough to guess if the third song was of his choice or not. It probably was? Obviously, they had to choose from songs known to Koreans and available for covering.

Jaehyun is a well known lover of vinyls, the setting for the medley is about him. JaeDo also sported very similar coats in the end.

Jungwoo got to sing in a lower voice (if I'm not mistaken, he expressed desire to show it off in addition to his high?).

To sum it up. Jaedo gets to sing together. Woo gets another cover and can show off more of his voice. DoJaeJung unit has another "test" for the stuff to gauge the audience's reaction. Fans get a gift. NCT tics off "Christmas song" from "to do" list.

Doyoung is nothing but an efficient bunny.

Even if it was the stuff that offered DoJaeJung a medley (which I doubt because of the low budget, last minute shooting of the video, and the three rotating around the central position, minGtion arranging the songs), the groundwork was laid out in the past by Doyoung and Jaehyun.

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adamwatchesmovies · 1 year

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The Last Man on Earth (1964)

Richard Matheson’s 1954 post-apocalyptic horror novel I Am Legend has received three big-screen adaptations, all of which have certain elements that work and their share of flaws too. This one may not be as slick as the later adaptations but it’s moody and exciting. The combination of Vincent Price as the world-weary hero and the ending cements this as the best version.

In 1965, a plague ravaged mankind. Most died, only to return to life as undead vampire-like creatures who crave blood, cannot stand sunlight, the sight of their own reflection or the smell of garlic. Three years later, the last man on earth is Dr. Robert Morgan (Vincent Price). He defends his home from the creatures at night and goes hunting for them during the day.

Although Vincent Price has no one to speak to for a large chunk of the film (some of it is set in flashback to explain how the world came to this sad state) he narrates his character's thoughts as he goes about his monotonous days checking the defences for weaknesses, addressing the dead bodies he finds around the city and hunting any vampires hiding from the sun so he can take their corpses to a pit and burn them. Price’s voice perfectly sets up the mood. He’s very matter-of-fact about everything, reminding us that he no longer has room in his life for luxuries such as anger. He’s become a shadow of himself; not even looking for a cure as much as a way to eliminate the creatures who have taken over the world that once belonged to his people. Even when signs of hope burst through the hardened soil, it’s not long before it gets stamped out. Maybe if he stumbles upon some kind of breakthrough, he'll suddenly find a greater purpose than daily extermination. More likely, he's going to make a mistake and get taken down by the vampires. The third possibility? He'll grow tired of it all and give up. It’s grim and unsettling.

The film captures the feel of the novel (I’d hope so, as it was written by Matheson under a pseudonym) with a couple of deviations here and there. The scenario is inherently interesting. You want to see where what’s coming next. Even with the mostly unnecessary flashback scenes, your intrigue is peaked. Will these hold the clue to a cure somehow?

The flashback scenes are unfortunately where the film is at its weakest for a few reasons. Firstly, it’s pretty obvious the film was shot in Italian and then dubbed into English. Not helping are the voice actors who recorded the dialogue. Most are pretty bad. Some are even worse.

There’s a strange moment towards the end where Morgan’s actions don’t quite match up with everything we’ve been told about him previously (I attribute it to a culmination of tragic events that come in quick succession) that might rub you the wrong way but it leads to a solid conclusion. The way you see it, the plot can go one of two ways and you just don’t know which we’ll get. It makes things tense up until the very last second. The picture’s final act is the reason you'll overlook the flaws and the low-budget (it looks fine overall but it’s shot in black-and-white, probably the first widescreen film in the public domain I’ve seen like this). I've witnessed so many movies chicken out at the eleventh hour. The Last Man on Earth commits all the way.

For Vincent Price alone, I’d say The Last Man on Earth is worth seeing. This is by no means the definitive adaptation of the novel but so far, it’s the best version we’ve gotten. (On DVD, March 23, 2020)

#The Last Man on Earth #I am legend #movies #films #movie reviews #film reviews #Sidney Salkow #Ubaldo B. Ragona #Richard Matheson #Vincent Price #Franca Bettoia #Emma Danieli #Giacomo Rossi Stuart #1964 movies #1964 films

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tomorrowusa · 1 year

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NO great outcome was possible in the debt limit negotiations with Republicans. But Biden ended up with one which was far less bad than many people had feared.

Even though this crisis was provoked by House Republicans, many voters would have blamed Biden if the US had defaulted. As it turned out, Biden ended up with just a little dust on his jacket while McCarthy ends up with a self-made shit sandwich. 💩

Dan Pfeiffer was an aide to President Obama and has witnessed GOP blackmail close up. He writes...

Let’s be clear, this is shitty public policy foisted on the nation by a radical Republican House willing to blow up the economy and cause millions of jobs to vanish. Efforts to deal with deficits that do not include asking the wealthy and corporations to pay what they owe are cruel and wholly unserious. The tightening of access to aid for the most vulnerable Americans serves no purpose other than performative cruelty to appease the MAGA base.

But this could have been way worse in so many ways. The devil is very much in the details, but it seems like President Biden and his team outplayed McCarthy.

Republicans like to portray Joe Biden as doddering and totally out of it; never mind that Trump is only slightly younger and shows obvious signs of hysteria. But even if you don't grade Biden on a curve, he still comes out ahead of the GOP.

The far right MAGA fanatics absolutely hate the deal.

Jordan Weissmann at Semafor writes...

Afterwards, a quick consensus formed among much of the right and left: Republicans got blanked.

The agreement would temporarily freeze a portion of non-defense spending, while temporarily tightening the food stamp program’s work requirements for childless adults, and enacting modest changes to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

The early details prompted furious reactions from members of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus, who’d hoped to extract vastly more sweeping budget cuts and changes to the federal safety net in return for hiking the borrowing limit.

[ ... ]

As Josh Marshall of Talking Points Memo put it, it’s a bit like they walked into a Denny’s with a gun, demanded all the money in the cash register, and left with a breakfast instead. Extraordinary threats at the start, an ordinary transaction at the finish.

While this was not a great deal for anybody, Speaker McCarthy will likely suffer the most because of it.

Timothy Noah at The New Republic writes...

When this debt ceiling mess is concluded, Biden will stay president at least until January 20, 2025. McCarthy, I predict, will be gone by Christmas, and possibly before Labor Day. Should he somehow hang on to his speakership, he’ll be so diminished that you’ll barely notice he’s still there. He won’t be able to get anything done. So either way, McCarthy is toast.

McCarthy will probably have to rely on Democratic votes for the debt deal to pass. That will infuriate the far right even more.

Let's remember that one of McCarthy's concessions to the far right during the marathon election for Speaker in January was to make it possible for any member to introduce a motion to "vacate the chair". So any GOP members dissatisfied with the debt ceiling agreement could theoretically topple McCarthy – if Democrats decided to go along.

So while Republicans make a public spectacle of themselves, Dems can stock up on popcorn and collect crazy soundbites from Republicans who are more interested in nihilism than in governance.

#debt ceiling agreement #joe biden #kevin mccarthy #mccarthy is toast #us house of representatives #republican blackmail #house freedom caucus #republicans #biden outmaneuvers the gop #dan pfeiffer #jordan weissmann #josh marshall #timothy noah #election 2024

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nightravenuniversity · 2 years

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It's that time of year...!

Halloween!

October 31st is the one day of the year when the barrier between the realm of the living and the realm of the dead is thinnest, and ghosts who have passed on from one realm to the next are able to return. As such, Halloween is one of the most important holidays in the world of Twisted Wonderland, and every species has its own way of celebrating. At Night Raven University, a massive party is held on the 31st to draw in visitors and ghosts alike, and every student on campus is required to assist with preparations.

What is it?

This will be a two-part event spanning September through October 31st. The first half will be the preparation stage, where a special Halloween Committee will be established with representatives from each house to plan and prepare for the upcoming festivities. The committee serves as a go-between for the dorms and Headmage Crowley to ensure that each house is well-decorated, costumes are made, and a location is selected for the stamp rally during Halloween Week.

Each representative will receive a budget for their dorm's spending, with the following goals achieved by the end of September:

Each dorm must also decide on a costume design, and ensure that they gather enough materials to make a costume for each student (only the students actively in NRU currently).

A location must be selected to set up a booth for the stamp rally.

This year's Halloween Committee:

Kalen Roca

Ruggie Bucchi

Jade Leech

Jamil Viper

Vil Schoenheit

Rove Bogge

Ember Parca

How do I participate?

Each dorm and the Halloween Committee itself will have its own IC channel set up in our Discord server. These channels will be visible to everyone in the group, but only members of that particular house will be able to chat in them. These are for quick, text-based interactions so that your characters can discuss in-character what they would like to do for their costumes and decorations. They will not count toward monthly activity.

Beginning September 17th, Headmage Crowley will open up a shop with inventory and prices that change on a daily basis. This will be a mini game for participants to try to bid and fight for good deals to achieve their month's goals while also having enough of their budget left over for fun extras. More information about this will be posted when the shop goes live.

As always, if you have any questions, please ask them in the Discord server!

#nru frights2022

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nfinityfinancials · 4 days

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A First-Timer's Guide to Grants and Programs

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when navigating government assistance programs like the First Home Buyer Scheme in Australia. This guide aims to clarify everything you need to know about these schemes and grants, answering common questions about eligibility, application processes, and the benefits and drawbacks. Let's dive into the top FAQs about these schemes and grants.

Get the best advice from the best mortgage brokers.

Q1. Are There Any Disadvantages of Government Grants?

While government grants have helped many Australians buy homes, they do come with some downsides.

One major issue is that these grants can disrupt the housing market. When the government provides grants, it increases demand for homes, which can drive up prices, particularly in already expensive areas. This can make it harder for first-time buyers to afford a home, as prices can quickly exceed their budgets.

Additionally, because these grants are often time-limited, there can be a rush to buy homes before the grants expire. This urgency can lead people to make hasty decisions, such as purchasing homes with the expectation of flipping them for a quick profit. However, when the grants end, prices may drop, leaving new homeowners with properties worth less than they paid.

Moreover, these grants don't address underlying issues like the shortage of affordable housing. They can sometimes distract from long-term solutions, such as increasing the supply of affordable homes or making it easier to build new ones.

Finally, if the housing market becomes too dependent on these grants, it could lead to instability. A sudden stop in grant programs could cause the market to crash, creating significant problems for everyone involved.

While government grants can be a helpful tool for homebuyers, policymakers need to consider these potential downsides and work to maintain a healthy housing market in the long run.

Q2. How Does the First Home Buyer Scheme Work?

The First Home Buyer Scheme in Australia is designed to help individuals purchase their first property by reducing the financial burden. The scheme offers various types of support, including financial incentives like grants, deposit assistance, and discounts on taxes such as stamp duty.

The specifics of the scheme can vary by state or territory, but the overall goal is to make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers. These initiatives provide crucial financial support, especially for those who may struggle to save for a deposit or cover other upfront costs.

By offering this support, the scheme encourages more people to enter the housing market, boosting activity and contributing to the sector's health. It also helps individuals and families achieve the dream of homeownership, fostering stability and security within communities.

Q3. How to Apply for These Schemes?

To apply for the First Home Buyer Scheme in Australia, follow these steps:

Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements, such as being a first-time homebuyer and planning to live in the house.

Complete the Application: Fill out an application form provided by your state or territory government. This form will ask for details about your finances, employment, and the property you wish to buy.

Submit Required Documents: You may need to provide identification, proof of income, and information about the property.

Government Review: After submission, the government will review your application. If everything is in order, they will notify you of your eligibility and the assistance you can receive.

Q4. What Are the Eligibility Criteria?

To be eligible for the First Home Buyer Scheme in Australia, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

First-Time Buyer: You must not have previously owned or co-owned a property.

Residency: You need to plan to live in the home as your primary residence for a certain period.

Income Limits: There may be income limits to ensure the scheme helps those who need it most.

Citizenship: You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

During the application process, you’ll need to provide documents like proof of identity, income statements, and details about the property you're buying.

Q5. Do I Need to Disclose These Schemes When Applying for a Home Loan?

Yes, it's important to inform your lender if you're using any government schemes like the First Home Buyer Scheme when applying for a home loan. These schemes can affect your loan application and terms.

Disclosing this information helps the lender understand your financial situation and determine your loan eligibility. It also ensures that you receive the correct amount of assistance and that your loan is set up appropriately.

Different lenders may have their own rules or procedures for applicants using government schemes, so it’s best to be upfront about it from the beginning. This transparency helps ensure a smooth loan application process.

Q6. What Guarantees Does the Home Guarantee Scheme Offer?

The Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS) offers three types of guarantees:

First Home Guarantee (FHBG): Helps eligible homebuyers purchase a home with a deposit as low as 5%.

Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee (RFHBG): Allows eligible regional homebuyers to purchase a home in a regional area with a deposit as low as 5%.

Family Home Guarantee (FHG): Assists eligible single parents and legal guardians with at least one dependent in buying a home with a deposit as low as 2%.

Q7. What is the ‘Guarantee’ Provided by Housing Australia?

Housing Australia provides a guarantee on a qualifying loan from a participating lender to eligible first homebuyers through the FHBG, regional homebuyers through the RFHBG, and single parents or legal guardians through the FHG.

The guaranteed amount covers the difference between 20% of the property's value and the buyer's deposit (minimum 2% for FHG and 5% for FHBG or RFHBG). This guarantee allows buyers to purchase a home without paying for lender mortgage insurance.

Q8. Do All Lenders Have the Same Rules for Guarantees?

Yes, participating lenders follow the same basic rules for guarantees, but they may have additional requirements. These could include restrictions on property types, locations, or specific conditions related to your financial situation or deposit size.

Not all participating lenders offer the same home loan options. For instance, some might require you to sign a building contract before purchasing land, while others might allow you to buy land first. It’s essential to discuss these details with your lender to understand any additional requirements.

Q9. Is It Possible to Jointly Apply for a Loan?

Yes, you can apply for the FHBG or RFHBG either individually or jointly. Joint applicants can include a sibling, partner, friend, spouse, or family member.

The FHG, however, is only available for single applicants who are eligible single parents or legal guardians of at least one dependent.

Q10. If I Live in Regional Australia, Can I Get the Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee?

To qualify for the RFHBG, you (or at least one applicant in a joint application) must have lived in the regional area or a nearby regional area for the previous 12 months before signing a home loan contract.

If your current job has required you to relocate, making it impossible to meet the 12-month residency requirement, you might still qualify. Check with your participating lender for details. Additional eligibility and lending requirements apply to all applicants.

Q11. If I Already Own Land, Can I Use the Guarantees to Build a House on It?

If you currently own residential property in Australia, including land, you are not eligible for any of the Guarantees.

However, if you have previously owned property but do not currently own any, or if you will not own any property at the settlement of your new home, you may be eligible for the FHG if you are an eligible single parent or legal guardian.

Wrapping Up

Government schemes can make buying your first home easier, but it's crucial to understand how they work. While they offer significant benefits, they can also create challenges if not managed properly. By learning about these schemes and their rules, you can make informed decisions and achieve your dream of homeownership.

If you have more questions, such as whether stamp duty is waived under the scheme, how the benefits can help you get started, which guarantee to choose if eligible for more than one, or whether you can apply as a single applicant if you have a spouse or de facto partner, our team of specialists is here to help. Book a consultation call today at 1300 GET LOAN or visit our website for more insights.

#first home buyer #first home buyer schemes and grants #refinance #investment property

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novumtimes · 4 days

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Pet lovers flock to Aldi middle aisle as dog essential scanning at tills for 66p a box instead of 6 in huge discount

By Chloe Morgan FROM kids toys to cleaning products, bargain hunters will be all too familiar with some of the irresistible deals available in Aldi’s middle aisle. But if you’re either preparing to go on staycation or transform your tired-looking garden on a budget, then it could be worth visiting your local Aldi today. That’s because the high-street store have shared a glimpse into some of the bargains hitting the shelves – and prices start from as little as just £2.99. But if there’s anything you’ve got your eye on, you better be quick…because they don’t tend to hang around for long! Let’s face it, there are few things worse than trying to kick back and relax on a summer evening, only to be pestered by mosquitoes. Well, the ‘Abstract Citronella Candle,’ could just be the ideal buy for you. Costing just £5.99, it helps to deter pesky bugs and will add a pleasant scent to your outdoor space that’s both pleasing and practical. And for anyone looking to tuck into a tasty BBQ as the warmer weather hits, there’s good news for you…because Aldi are flogging a ‘Gardenline Portable BBQ’ for just £29.99. At the same price, you can also get your hands on the ‘Belavi Folding Recliner,’ which is the perfect way to soak up those summer rays. Elsewhere, there’s also a selection of bargain buys that’ll help to light up your garden in an instant. If you’re looking to rejuvenate your outdoor space on a budget, then the high-street store’s ‘Garden Bright Solar Star Lantern’ could just be what you’re looking for. Ideal for the warmer weather, the solar powered decoration would make a stylish addition to your garden – and all for the bargain price of just £6.99. Amongst the other products landing in Aldi today is the £8.99 6 pack of ‘Solar Festoon Lights,’ and the ‘Solar Spiral Light,’ which is priced at £3.99 and is perfect for hanging from trellis parasols, border crooks and hanging hooks. The online product description for both reads: “Solar powered, all you have to do is place your new decoration and let mother nature do the rest. “A stylish accessory, with practical uses, that will be perfect for your garden.” Or, there’s also the ‘Solar Marrakesh Crook Lanterns’ up for grabs, which costs just £12.99 and is sure to make a stylish addition to your garden. Alternatively, if you’re searching for a cheap and cheerful way to add some flair to your otherwise boring brick walls, then look no further than the new-in ‘Metal Bug Wall Decorations.’ At just £2.99, they’re a super easy to put your own personal stamp on your space and are a great way to create an immediate talking point. Source link via The Novum Times

#The Novum Times

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safethaw · 9 days

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Cement Vs. Asphalt Driveways: A Comprehensive Comparison

So, you're at that crossroads – deciding between cement vs asphalt driveway. It's kind of like choosing between a classic sedan or a rugged SUV. Both have their charm, right? But what's going to fit your home, your budget, and your lifestyle? Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense for us everyday folks. What’s In The Mix: Cement Vs Asphalt Driveway First off, let’s talk ingredients. A cement (or concrete) driveway is like a great recipe – a mix of cement, water, and aggregate (think sand and gravel). It's durable, versatile, and kind of like that reliable home-cooked meal. Asphalt? It’s more like a quick, efficient stir-fry. Made from aggregate and bitumen, it's the stuff you usually see on roads. Durability Talk: How Long Will They Hang Around? Durability is a big deal. Cement driveways are like those trusty jeans that last years and still look good. They can go up to 30 years with the right care. Asphalt driveways, while not as long-lasting (about 20 years), have a bit of give and take with temperature changes, making them less prone to cracking under pressure. Maintenance: The Effort They Need Maintenance-wise, cement driveways are the lower-maintenance buddies. They need a bit of TLC every few years (sealing, cleaning – the usual stuff). Asphalt driveways are like that garden that needs regular attention – resealing every couple of years to keep them looking sharp. Cost: What’s The Price Tag? When it comes to cost, asphalt usually takes the lead in being more budget-friendly initially. It’s like opting for an economical car – it does the job without a hefty price tag. Cement driveways are more of an investment. They might cost more upfront, but they often make up for it in longevity. Style Points: Which Driveway Has More Flair? Aesthetic appeal? Cement driveways have more room to show off. You can color them, stamp them, and play around with finishes. It's like having an array of outfits for your driveway. Asphalt is more like the classic little black dress – simple, elegant, and timeless. Thinking Green: The Environmental Angle Environmentally speaking, both have their quirks. Cement production is pretty energy-heavy, while asphalt is a byproduct of petroleum. However, asphalt scores a point for being recyclable. Winter Woes: Handling Ice And Snow In areas with harsh winters, how these driveways handle ice melts is crucial. Traditional salt or chloride-based ice melts can be tough on both surfaces. They're like using strong medicine – they work, but they can have side effects (like surface damage). Enter Safe Thaw: Your Winter Hero This brings us to Safe Thaw. Whether you go for asphalt vs cement driveway, Safe Thaw is a smart pick. It’s like choosing a gentle, eco-friendly cleaning product – it does the job without the harsh chloride. Its non-corrosive, toxin-free formula means it’s safe for your driveway, pets, and plants. Wrapping Up: Your Driveway, Your Choice At the end of the day, whether you choose a cement vs asphalt driveway comes down to what fits your world best. Budget, style, maintenance, and where you live all play a part. And remember, with a safe ice melter like Safe Thaw, you can keep your driveway in top shape through the winter months. Here's to finding the perfect match for your home and enjoying a driveway that ticks all your boxes! Stay safe and warm out there! Read the full article

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ymcconcreting · 26 days

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Elevate Your Curb Appeal with Stamped Concrete for Driveway: A Stylish and Durable Choice.

Introduction: Stamped concrete for driveways offers homeowners in Melbourne a unique opportunity to enhance their curb appeal with style and durability. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of stamped concrete for driveways and why it's becoming a popular choice among homeowners looking to elevate their outdoor spaces.

Unmatched Aesthetic Appeal: Stamped concrete allows homeowners to achieve the look of luxurious materials such as brick, stone, or tile, at a fraction of the cost. With a wide range of patterns and textures available, you can customize your driveway to complement your home's architecture and landscaping seamlessly.

Enhanced Durability and Strength: Despite its intricate appearance, stamped concrete is incredibly durable and resistant to heavy traffic, making it an ideal choice for driveways. When properly installed and sealed by experienced contractors, stamped concrete driveways can withstand the elements and daily wear and tear with ease.

Low Maintenance Requirements: Unlike traditional pavers or natural stone, stamped concrete requires minimal maintenance to keep it looking its best. Routine cleaning and occasional resealing are all that's needed to preserve its appearance and protect it from stains, fading, and deterioration over time.

Cost-Effective Solution: Stamped concrete offers homeowners a cost-effective alternative to expensive materials without compromising on aesthetics or quality. By choosing stamped concrete for your driveway, you can achieve the upscale look you desire while staying within your budget.

Quick and Efficient Installation: Compared to other driveway materials, stamped concrete can be installed relatively quickly and efficiently, reducing downtime and disruption to your daily life. With proper planning and execution, you can enjoy your newly stamped concrete driveway in no time.

Conclusion: Stamped concrete for driveways combines style, durability, and affordability, making it an attractive choice for homeowners in Melbourne. Whether you're looking to enhance your curb appeal or add value to your property, consider investing in a stamped concrete driveway for a stylish and long-lasting outdoor space.

For More Information Visit - https://www.ymcconcreting.com.au/

#Concrete Driveway Pavers #Concrete Footpath #Concrete Paths #Concrete Landscaping

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that-utsukushii-life · 1 month

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This is going here bc I feel like I'm channeling either Rook or Vil right now. Maybe both.

I am not a hateful person, but if there's one type of person that gets to me, it's the pretentious mid-level 'expert'. The ones who have enough experience in a field that they can navigate it fairly successfully, but are quick to put others down without considering logistics.

For example, at a con I went to a few years ago, there was an interactive panel on ukiyo-e that you had to pay a $10 material fee to attend, and had a cap of 50 people. Having some experience with block printing, of course I want to see what this is about.

Ultimately, it's less about ukiyo-e and more of letting everyone move from table to table, experimenting with block printing ink and pre-made linoleum stamps on rice paper. A little disappointing, as I would have at least liked to talk some process or see some examples of ukiyo-e, but I see red when I overhear two girls calling it a waste of time and ink.

It's a $10, 1-hour panel. With a 50-person cap and no pre-requisite experience in printmaking. Did you think you were going to be handed a piece of wood to hand-carve your own block? I teach 8-12 year olds block printing with Styrofoam plates and it still takes at least 2 hours for at most 20 kids to go through the whole process.

The point of the panel is to expose people to the process. To let them experiment with something that's expensive to dip your toes into. The girls acknowledged block printing ink isn't cheap. But printmaking is a form of art that makes you approach your process so differently, and it's a shame more people don't get to try it.

The beauty of that panel isn't in the product, it's in sharing knowledge. It's sparking creativity and joy. It's carrying on a craft a little longer.

Or tonight, at my community college where we were putting on final dress for our musical, and had a few high schoolers come see the show. Spoiler: I'm not very actively involved in theatre-I was brought in bc they needed someone to press the button that does the sound and projection cues.

Was the run perfect? No. We have 2 mics that we can't get to stay functional no matter what we do. A sign fell down. There were other various bugs.

But as the high schoolers were leaving, I hear them giggling amongst themselves. 'That was-' They see me and shut up. When they think they're out of hearing range, they continue giggling: 'that was bad.'

Let me put some things in perspective. Our stage is small. Our total theater budget is probably less than what they have for their musical, and we put on 4 shows over the academic year. They had maybe 6 weeks to put this together. We currently have 1.5 dressers, plus our 2 stage hands. Tech crew is 3 people, and 2 of them are students. Cast is maybe 15 people, from the school and local community.

But they shouldn't have to know that to judge the play. They just shouldn't be pretentious about it. It's just not beautiful.

You don't have to like the panel or the play, but you have to give it credit for the work behind it. The passion, the love, the experience and long nights-those are what make them beautiful.

If you can't see it for that, what you admire and make isn't utsukushii- its only kirei. That's all it can be.

#wisteria whispers #sorry I'm mad rn

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rightchannel · 1 month

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Invest Like a Pro: Real Estate Investment Strategies for Mumbai’s Volatile Market

Mumbai’s real estate market, much like the city itself, pulsates with an energy unlike any other. Soaring high-rises, bustling streets, and the constant hum of deals being struck paint a picture of a market brimming with potential. But for the savvy investor, navigating this dynamic landscape requires more than just a healthy bank balance. It demands Real Estate Investment in Mumbai acumen, strategic thinking, and an understanding of the unique trends shaping the city’s property landscape.

For those of you with your sights set on the vibrant stretch of Andheri-Borivali, this blog is your guide to conquering the Mumbai Real Estate Trends in this ever-evolving city. Here, we’ll delve into the key considerations that will transform you from a curious onlooker to a confident investor, ready to make informed decisions in this dynamic market.

Right Channel Constructions: Your Anchor in Mumbai’s Sea of Opportunity

We understand the intricate dance of dreams and rupees that define real estate investment. As a leading player in Mumbai’s property scene, we’ve witnessed countless aspirations blossom into tangible successes. Our core value lies in empowering individuals like you, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and navigate the intricacies of the market with confidence.

Throughout this blog, we’ll delve into the key considerations that will transform you from a curious onlooker to a confident investor, ready to make informed decisions in this dynamic market. Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking a strategic investment in a bustling commercial hub like Andheri East, or a young family aiming for the quietude and spaciousness of Borivali, we’ll guide you through the intricacies of location, market trends, budget planning, amenities, investment strategies, and the invaluable power of partnering with a trusted expert like Right Channel Constructions

→ Location: Decoding the Andheri-Borivali Landscape The first rule of Real Estate in Mumbai applies here too: location is of utmost importance. Within Andheri-Borivali itself, distinct pockets offer diverse investment opportunities. The bustling commercial hub of Andheri East, dotted with IT parks and multinational companies, attracts professionals seeking quick commutes and proximity to work. In contrast, Borivali offers a more relaxed, suburban vibe, perfect for families seeking spacious apartments and a quieter pace of life.

→ Understanding Market Trends Remember, Mumbai Real Estate Trends are dynamic. Stay updated on upcoming infrastructure projects like the metro expansion and coastal road, as these can significantly impact property values in specific areas. Analyze recent price trends in your target segment, be it a 1 BHK in Malad, Mumbai or a 2 BHK in Malad, Mumbai, to understand market sentiment and potential returns. Don’t hesitate to consult credible sources like industry reports and expert opinions to gain valuable insights.

→ Budget Binge or Calculated Choice? Striking the Right Balance Passion for a dream home shouldn’t cloud your financial judgment. Clearly define your investment goals and budget accordingly. Remember, hidden costs like stamp duty, registration fees, and maintenance charges add up. Utilize online calculators and consult financial advisors to ensure your investment aligns with your long-term financial objectives.

#property investment in mumbai #real estate investors in mumbai #investment in mumbai #real estate market mumbai

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printworld · 2 months

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Elevate Your Professional Image with Customized Business Cards: A Guide to Digital Printing Services

In today's digitally-driven world, where networking and making lasting impressions are key components of success, having a well-designed business card can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a freelancer, or a professional looking to advance in your career, a personalized business card can serve as a powerful tool in your arsenal.

In this guide, we'll delve into the importance of business cards, the benefits of customization, and how digital printing services can help you create business cards that truly represent your brand and leave a lasting impression on potential clients and contacts.

Why Business Cards Still Matter You may be wondering if business cards are still necessary in this day and age of digital communication. The truth is, they remain a valuable asset in the world of networking for several reasons:

First Impressions: A well-designed business card can create a strong first impression and leave a lasting impact on the recipient.

Professionalism: Having a physical card to exchange during meetings or networking events adds a touch of professionalism and credibility to your interactions.

Tangible Marketing: Unlike digital information, which can easily get lost in a sea of emails or forgotten, a tangible business card serves as a physical reminder of your brand and services.

Convenience: Business cards are compact and easy to carry, making them a convenient way to share your contact information quickly and efficiently.

The Power of Customization

While standard business cards serve a functional purpose, custom business cards take your branding to the next level. Here's why customization is essential:

Brand Representation: Your business card is an extension of your brand identity. Customizing it allows you to incorporate your brand colors, logo, and messaging, ensuring consistency across all your marketing materials.

Stand Out from the Crowd: In a competitive market, a unique and eye-catching design can help your business card stand out and leave a memorable impression on potential clients or collaborators.

Tailored Messaging: Customization allows you to tailor your message to your target audience, whether it's highlighting specific services, showcasing your expertise, or conveying your brand's personality.

Reflect Your Style: Personalized business cards give you the freedom to express your creativity and personality, making them more reflective of who you are and what you represent professionally.

Services for Digital Printing: Realising Your Idea

Now that we understand the importance of customization let's explore how digital printing services can help you bring your vision for personalized business cards to life:

High-Quality Printing: Digital printing offers crisp, high-resolution printing quality, ensuring that your designs look sharp and professional.

Variety of Finishes: Whether you prefer matte, glossy, or textured finishes, digital printing allows for a wide range of finishing options to enhance the look and feel of your business cards.

Customization Options: From choosing the paper stock to selecting special finishes like foil stamping or embossing, digital printing services offer a plethora of customization options to suit your preferences and budget.

Quick Turnaround: Unlike traditional printing methods, which can take weeks to produce, digital printing offers fast turnaround times, making it ideal for businesses with tight deadlines or last-minute networking events.

Cost-Effective: Digital printing is cost-effective for small to medium print runs, allowing you to order the exact quantity of business cards you need without breaking the bank.

Tips for Designing Your Custom Business Cards

Now that you're ready to create your personalized business cards, here are some tips to ensure your designs make a lasting impression: Keep it Simple: Steer clear of packing your business card with too many details. Stick to essential details like your name, job title, contact information, and logo.

Prioritize Readability: Choose legible fonts and ensure that the text is easy to read. Pay attention to font size and spacing to enhance readability.

Highlight Your Unique Selling Points: Use your business card to highlight what sets you apart from the competition. Whether it's your unique skills, industry accolades, or innovative services, make sure these stand out on your card.

Include a Call to Action: Encourage recipients to take the next step by including a call to action, such as visiting your website, scheduling a consultation, or connecting on social media.

Proofread Carefully: Before sending your designs to the printer, double-check for any spelling or grammar errors. It's essential to maintain a professional image.

Conclusion

In a digital age where virtual connections abound, the humble business card remains a powerful tool for networking and brand promotion. By investing in custom business cards and leveraging digital printing services, you can elevate your professional image, make memorable impressions, and stand out in a crowded marketplace. Remember, your business card is more than just a piece of paper—it's a reflection of your brand identity and a tangible representation of your professional capabilities. So, make it count!

#printing #business card printing #digital printing #digital printing services #custom business card printing

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