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Memory Snapshot: Inner Core Wound Triggered
Memory Snapshot: Inner Core Wound Triggered (Draft version) Friday February 21, 2025 I arrive to work super excited for work today. It’s approximately 2:55 p.m. when I’m due in at 3 p.m. I head back to the meat department to do my demo. As I enter the locker, I’m surprised to see no one in the locker except an older meat cutter who is finishing cleaning the locker. I greet him and he says: I’m glad to see you. Which coming from him it felt like performance.
By Chelsea DeVries17 days ago in Humans
Puss's Boots - Chapter 3
“There was a most interesting joust; did m’lady have a chance to join in the festivities?” “My sister does not take part in such bloody events, Lady Heightmyer. Was it a fair tournament?” Orlando’s voice was cool, refreshing to hear to Caoimhe over the sugar-heavy voices in Court. He stood straight and tall, and, to both Orlando and Dione’s good fortune, his hands were steady on his teacup. Puss, seeing the poise that his two charges managed to display smiled a secret cat smile, curled up on his accustomed spot on the window seat, and feigned a nap during the proceedings.
By Dionearia Red17 days ago in Chapters
Innovation Under Pressure: Transforming Industry Obstacles into Growth Engines
Every industry faces moments of pressure that test its stability and direction. Economic shifts, changing consumer behavior, supply disruptions, and rapid digital transformation often create uncertainty. While these challenges can feel disruptive, they also open the door to meaningful innovation. Organizations that respond thoughtfully can convert industry obstacles into powerful drivers of growth, efficiency, and long-term success.
By Ian Schenkel Haliburton17 days ago in Education
The Immensely Fantabulous Career of Catherine O'Hara
This really hurts, big time. On January 30, 2026, we all received the news that still hurts us: Catherine O'Hara passed away at the age of 71. An amazing, iconic, and talented actress with a career that spanned five decades, Catherine Anne O'Hara was born on March 4, 1954 (a Pisces, like myself) in Toronto, and it was in that same city that she began her comedy career with The Second City in 1974. Two years later, O'Hara began her eight year run on the sketch comedy series, SCTV, which was the original Canadian clone of Saturday Night Live and pre-dated another Canadian sketch comedy series, Kids in the Hall, by just over a decade and a half.
By Clyde E. Dawkins17 days ago in Viva
Trump Family Crypto Firm Sold Major Stake to UAE Investment Firm. AI-Generated.
A cryptocurrency company linked to members of the Trump family has sold a significant ownership stake to a major investment firm based in the United Arab Emirates, according to sources familiar with the transaction. The deal highlights the growing role of Middle Eastern capital in the global digital asset market and raises new questions about the intersection of politics, private business interests, and emerging financial technologies. The firm, which operates in blockchain services and digital asset management, has been expanding its footprint in international markets over the past two years. While financial terms of the transaction were not publicly disclosed, the UAE investment firm is believed to have acquired a substantial minority stake, giving it influence over strategic decisions and future expansion plans. Representatives for the Trump family business interests declined to comment in detail on the transaction but said the company remains independently managed and focused on innovation in the digital economy. A Strategic Investment Move The sale comes at a time when cryptocurrency companies are seeking stable sources of funding following volatility in global markets. The UAE has emerged as a hub for crypto-related investment due to its regulatory framework, which is viewed as more welcoming to digital assets than those of many Western nations. Industry analysts say the partnership reflects a broader shift in how crypto firms are financed and governed. “This is part of a trend where capital from the Gulf region is becoming increasingly important in shaping the future of blockchain enterprises,” said a digital finance researcher. “It also reflects how politically connected business ventures are seeking international partners to expand their legitimacy and reach.” The UAE investment firm involved in the deal reportedly manages billions of dollars in assets across technology, infrastructure, and energy sectors. Its entry into the crypto market aligns with the country’s push to diversify its economy away from oil dependence and toward advanced technology and financial services. Political and Ethical Scrutiny Because the company is associated with members of the Trump family, the transaction has drawn scrutiny from ethics experts and political watchdog groups. Former President Donald Trump has been increasingly vocal in recent years about cryptocurrency and digital finance, shifting from earlier skepticism to a more supportive stance. Critics argue that foreign investment in a firm tied to a prominent political family raises concerns about influence and transparency, especially if Trump returns to public office or maintains strong political power. “Any time a business connected to a political dynasty receives substantial foreign investment, it creates questions about conflicts of interest,” said a government ethics analyst. “Even if everything is legal, perception matters greatly in democratic systems.” Supporters counter that the firm operates as a private commercial entity and that international investment is common in the technology sector. “There is no evidence that this transaction violates any law,” said a spokesperson familiar with the deal. “This is a standard business arrangement driven by market opportunity, not politics.” The Firm’s Role in Crypto Markets The Trump-linked crypto firm has positioned itself as a bridge between traditional finance and blockchain-based services. Its offerings reportedly include digital asset custody, tokenized investments, and advisory services for institutional clients seeking exposure to cryptocurrency markets. Over the past year, the company has launched several pilot projects focused on tokenizing real-world assets, such as real estate and commodities, allowing investors to trade fractional ownership on blockchain platforms. Executives involved in the venture have described their mission as making crypto more accessible and regulated, appealing to mainstream investors wary of risk. “Digital assets are moving out of the shadows and into the financial system,” one executive said in a recent interview. “We want to be part of that transition.” The UAE investment firm is expected to help accelerate this vision by providing capital and connections to financial institutions in the Middle East and Asia. Regulatory Environment and Global Impact The deal comes amid shifting regulatory landscapes for cryptocurrencies worldwide. In the United States, regulators continue to debate how digital assets should be classified and supervised. Meanwhile, the UAE has developed licensing regimes for crypto exchanges and blockchain firms that attract international businesses. Experts say such cross-border deals could complicate regulatory oversight. “When a politically connected American firm partners with a foreign investment group, it creates layers of jurisdiction and accountability,” said a professor of international finance. “That can be perfectly legal, but it also demands transparency.” The partnership may also signal growing competition between financial centers such as New York, London, Dubai, and Singapore for leadership in the digital economy. Public Reaction and Market Response News of the transaction generated mixed reactions online. Supporters praised the deal as evidence of strong investor confidence in U.S.-based crypto innovation. Critics questioned whether political branding was being used to attract foreign capital. Some market analysts noted that the firm’s valuation reportedly increased following the announcement, suggesting investors see strategic value in the UAE partnership. “The optics may be controversial, but the market tends to focus on growth potential,” said one investment strategist. “Access to Gulf capital can dramatically expand a company’s operational reach.” Looking Ahead While the full details of the stake sale remain confidential, observers expect further disclosures as regulatory filings are completed. The firm is reportedly planning to expand into new regions and launch additional blockchain products in the coming year. For the Trump family-linked venture, the deal marks a significant step toward becoming a global player in digital finance. For policymakers and ethics watchdogs, it also raises important questions about how political influence, private enterprise, and international investment intersect in the rapidly evolving crypto economy. Conclusion The sale of a major stake in a Trump family crypto firm to a UAE investment company underscores the growing globalization of the cryptocurrency industry and the increasing involvement of politically connected enterprises in digital finance. While supporters see the move as a strategic business decision, critics argue it highlights the need for greater transparency and ethical safeguards. As cryptocurrency continues to reshape global finance, deals like this will likely become more common—and more closely examined—by regulators, investors, and the public alike.
By Fiaz Ahmed 17 days ago in The Swamp
Silent
Sweet Sublime Silent
By Christopher Beard17 days ago in Poets
Griffin Snowden Drops Highly Anticipated Single “HEARTBEAT”. AI-Generated.
In a world of excess—excess content, excess opinions, excess noise—Griffin Snowden is taking the high road. His new single, HEARTBEAT, represents a conscious decision to prioritize meaning over momentum.
By Variety Press17 days ago in Beat
The World’s Largest Cruise Ship Sets Sail for the First Time, Marking a Historic New Milestone for the Global Cruise Industry. AI-Generated.
The world’s largest cruise ship has officially set sail for the first time, marking a landmark moment for the global cruise industry and signaling renewed confidence in large-scale tourism after years of disruption. The colossal vessel, built to redefine modern cruising, departed from its home port amid international attention, representing both an engineering achievement and a bold statement about the future of leisure travel. Towering over traditional ships and rivaling small cities in size, the vessel carries thousands of passengers and crew and features a wide array of entertainment, dining, and sustainability technologies. Industry leaders describe the launch as a turning point for cruise tourism, combining innovation, economic opportunity, and evolving traveler expectations. A Floating City Takes to the Sea The ship’s maiden voyage followed more than five years of planning, construction, and testing. Shipbuilders worked across multiple countries to assemble its massive structure, integrating advanced navigation systems and next-generation propulsion technology. With capacity for more than 7,000 passengers and over 2,000 crew members, the ship includes multiple neighborhoods, water parks, theaters, shopping promenades, and green spaces. It also boasts the tallest water slide ever installed at sea and a central open-air plaza designed to bring natural light into the heart of the vessel. Cruise executives say the ship represents the next phase of experiential travel. “This is not just a cruise ship—it’s a destination in itself,” said the company’s chief executive at the launch ceremony. “We wanted to create something that blends adventure, comfort, and community while raising the standard for what a vacation at sea can be.” Engineering and Environmental Advances Beyond its size, the ship introduces new environmental features aimed at reducing its ecological footprint. It is powered in part by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which emits fewer pollutants than traditional marine fuels. Advanced waste management systems and energy-efficient technologies were installed to align with stricter international maritime regulations. The cruise industry has faced criticism over environmental impact, particularly concerning emissions and port congestion. In response, the company emphasized that the ship includes shore power capabilities, allowing it to plug into local electrical grids while docked instead of running engines. Environmental groups remain cautious, acknowledging improvements while urging continued progress. “Cleaner fuel is a step forward, but sustainability must be central to future ship design,” said one maritime climate researcher. Economic Boost for Ports and Tourism The launch of the world’s largest cruise ship is expected to generate significant economic benefits for port cities along its itinerary. Hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and local businesses anticipate a surge in visitors, particularly in destinations that have invested heavily in cruise infrastructure. Tourism officials in the ship’s first ports of call welcomed the milestone. “This vessel brings thousands of visitors at once, which can have a powerful effect on local economies,” said a Caribbean tourism minister. “It also highlights our role in the global travel network.” Cruise industry analysts note that the ship’s debut comes at a time when travel demand has rebounded strongly following pandemic-era shutdowns. Bookings for its inaugural season reportedly sold out within days, reflecting pent-up demand for large-scale leisure experiences. Safety and Passenger Experience Safety has remained a top concern for cruise operators since the pandemic. The ship is equipped with advanced air filtration systems, expanded medical facilities, and upgraded sanitation protocols. Digital check-in and crowd management tools have also been introduced to reduce congestion in busy areas. Passengers on the maiden voyage described a mix of excitement and curiosity. “It feels like stepping into the future,” said one traveler. “There’s so much space and so many things to do that it doesn’t feel crowded at all.” The ship offers experiences for all age groups, from family-friendly attractions to luxury suites with private pools and exclusive dining areas. Entertainment ranges from Broadway-style shows to immersive virtual reality experiences. Symbol of Industry Transformation The launch comes amid ongoing transformation in the cruise sector. Companies are investing heavily in larger ships, smarter technology, and personalized travel experiences. At the same time, they face pressure from regulators and communities to address environmental and social concerns. Industry experts say the ship’s first voyage is symbolic. “It demonstrates confidence in the future of cruising,” said a maritime economist. “But it also puts the spotlight on how the industry balances growth with responsibility.” Smaller boutique cruise lines are taking a different approach, focusing on low-impact travel and remote destinations. The contrast highlights a growing diversity in cruise offerings, from mega-ships to eco-focused expeditions. Public Reaction and Cultural Impact The ship’s departure quickly went viral on social media, with videos showing crowds gathered along the harbor and drones capturing its immense scale. For many, it represents human ingenuity and the enduring appeal of exploration. However, critics argue that the era of mega-ships raises questions about overcrowding in popular ports and the strain on local resources. Several European cities have already imposed limits on cruise traffic, and similar debates are emerging elsewhere. Conclusion As the world’s largest cruise ship embarks on its first journey, it marks a historic milestone for the cruise industry and a statement about the future of global tourism. The vessel showcases advances in engineering, entertainment, and environmental design while highlighting ongoing challenges around sustainability and community impact. Whether viewed as a triumph of innovation or a test of responsible travel, the ship’s maiden voyage symbolizes a new chapter for cruising—one shaped by ambition, recovery, and the evolving expectations of travelers worldwide.
By Fiaz Ahmed 17 days ago in Journal
