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back in June of 2024

Demand Finds Supply

Recently, I came across a thought-provoking tweet that succinctly captures a fundamental principle of economics: "Demand finds Supply." This simple yet profound statement illustrates how market forces respond to consumer demand, shaping the availability and production of goods and services. Let's delve into the examples provided and explore the broader implications of this concept, particularly in relation to two unique assets with fixed supply: time and Bitcoin.

Housing: Building to Meet Demand

The tweet begins with housing, a basic necessity. When there's a surge in demand for housing, developers respond by constructing more homes. This is evident in rapidly growing cities where new developments pop up to accommodate increasing populations. The supply of housing isn't static; it expands to meet demand, driven by the potential for profit and the need for living spaces. However, this process can be slow and encumbered by regulatory and logistical challenges, highlighting that while supply can grow, it is not always immediate.

Apple Stock: Adapting to Investor Demand

The next example is Apple stock. When demand for Apple shares skyrockets, the company may opt for a stock split. This doesn't change the overall value of the company but makes individual shares more affordable and accessible, thereby increasing liquidity and encouraging more investors to buy in. It's a strategic move to balance supply and demand in the stock market, ensuring that the company's shares remain attractive to a broad base of investors.

Gold: Mining the Final Frontier

The notion of mining gold in space might sound like science fiction, but it's grounded in real economic principles. As terrestrial gold becomes harder and more expensive to mine, the idea of extracting minerals from asteroids or other celestial bodies becomes increasingly viable. If demand for gold continues to outpace supply on Earth, human ingenuity will likely turn to the cosmos to bridge the gap, demonstrating that supply can be extended beyond our planet.

The Fixed Supply of Time and Bitcoin

Despite the adaptability of supply in many areas, the tweet rightly points out that some things remain fixed, regardless of demand. Time and Bitcoin are two such examples.

Time: The Ultimate Scarcity

Time is the most finite resource we possess. No matter how high the demand, we cannot create more time. This intrinsic scarcity underpins its immense value. How we choose to spend our time reflects our priorities and influences our quality of life. The fixed nature of time encourages us to use it wisely, emphasizing the importance of time management and the pursuit of meaningful activities.

Bitcoin: Digital Scarcity

Bitcoin, often dubbed "digital gold," is designed with a fixed supply of 21 million coins. This artificial scarcity is built into its protocol, ensuring that no more than 21 million Bitcoins will ever be created. This feature makes Bitcoin unique among digital assets and underpins its value proposition as a store of value. Unlike fiat currencies, which can be printed in unlimited quantities, Bitcoin's fixed supply offers a hedge against inflation and fosters trust among its users.

Implications for the Future

The principle that "Demand finds Supply" has broad implications for various sectors. It drives innovation, as companies and industries strive to meet consumer needs. However, the examples of time and Bitcoin remind us that not all resources are flexible. Understanding the dynamics of supply and demand, along with recognizing the limits of certain resources, is crucial for making informed decisions in both personal and professional contexts.

Conclusion

The tweet "Demand finds Supply" encapsulates a core economic truth with wide-reaching applications. While supply can often be expanded to meet demand, the fixed supply of certain resources like time and Bitcoin introduces unique challenges and opportunities. As we navigate an ever-changing economic landscape, appreciating these nuances can help us better understand the forces at play and make more strategic choices.

 

fivethirtyeight.com

What is the current trend for this year's election? Who winning in the polls?

fivethirtyeight.com has your answer. Simply check out the latest poll results to see who is trending well. You can see the trends and when major milestones happen.

Very useful information during the busy election season.

Website Description

Updating average for each candidate in 2024 presidential polls, accounting for each poll's recency, sample size, methodology and house effects.

Five Thirty Eight
https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/president-general/2024/national/

 

Day One

In the digital age, the quest for the perfect note-taking app can seem endless. Enter Day One Journal, an app initially designed for journaling but with capabilities that make it a robust note-taking tool. Whether you're a professional, a student, or a coding enthusiast, Day One Journal offers features that cater to a variety of needs. Let's delve into how its powerful search, simple interface, and versatile applications can enhance your productivity and organization.

Effortless Search: By Date or Tag

One of the standout features of Day One Journal is its powerful search functionality. Whether you need to find notes from a specific date or tagged under a particular category, Day One makes it a breeze.

Search by Date

For those who prefer chronological organization, Day One's calendar view is a game-changer. You can easily navigate through your entries by month, week, or day, making it simple to locate notes from a specific time frame. This feature is especially useful for tracking progress on projects or recalling important meetings.

Search by Tags

Day One's tagging system is another powerful tool. Tags help you categorize your notes for quick retrieval. For instance, you might tag notes related to a specific project, meeting, or topic. When you need to pull up all notes related to a particular subject, a quick tag search will bring everything to the forefront. This method is incredibly efficient for organizing diverse types of information and ensuring nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

Simplicity Meets Quality

Day One Journal's interface is both simple and elegant, making it easy to create and manage high-quality notes. The minimalistic design eliminates distractions, allowing you to focus solely on your content. Here are a few features that enhance the note-taking experience:

Clean Interface

The app's clean interface is designed to help you concentrate on your writing. With an intuitive layout, you can quickly add entries, insert photos, and format text without fuss. This simplicity makes it easy to jot down ideas, capture thoughts, and document information efficiently.

Multimedia Integration

Day One allows you to add photos, audio recordings, and even videos to your notes. This multimedia capability enriches your entries and makes them more comprehensive. For instance, you can snap a picture of a whiteboard discussion during a meeting or record a voice memo during a brainstorming session.

Performance Reviews and Accomplishment Tracking

Keeping track of your professional achievements and progress can be challenging. Day One Journal simplifies this with its seamless organization and search features.

Documenting Accomplishments

By regularly noting down your achievements, big or small, you can build a comprehensive record over time. Use tags like "accomplishments" or "milestones" to easily compile a list when performance review time comes around. This habit not only makes performance reviews less stressful but also helps you stay motivated by reflecting on your progress.

Preparing for Reviews

When preparing for performance reviews, you can quickly pull up relevant entries, organized by date or tag. This ensures that you don't overlook any accomplishments and can present a detailed account of your contributions and growth.

Storing Commonly Used Code

For those who dabble in coding, Day One Journal can be a valuable repository for storing snippets of commonly used code.

Code Snippet Storage

Create a tag like "code snippets" and use it to save and categorize bits of code you frequently use. This makes it easy to find and reuse code, saving you time and effort. The app's search functionality ensures that you can quickly locate specific snippets when needed.

Annotations and Comments

You can also annotate your code snippets with comments and explanations, making them even more useful. This practice helps you remember the context and purpose of each snippet, streamlining your coding workflow.

Conclusion

Day One Journal transcends its original purpose as a journaling app, offering a versatile and powerful tool for note-taking and beyond. Its easy search functionality, simple interface, and multimedia capabilities make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their organization and productivity. Whether you're tracking accomplishments for performance reviews, storing code snippets, or simply taking notes, Day One Journal provides the features you need to keep your life in order. Give it a try and experience the benefits of a well-organized digital journal.

 

MacUser Instant Replay

In the mid-1990s Mike Throckmorton created a tool call "Instant Replay." It was distributed by MacUser magazine. I wasn't able to find the actual tool, but I did find the ReadMe file.

The tool only works in System 7.

About MacUser's Instant Replay

When you press its hot-key, Instant Replay repeats either the last menu command you selected (by way of the mouse) or the last series of keystrokes you typed. Command-key menu selections count as keystrokes so Cmd-C (Copy) for example, would be included as part of a key-stroke sequence.

Operation

Like I already said up there, Instant Replay repeats either the last menu command you selected (using the mouse) or the last series of keystrokes you typed. Command-key menu selections count as keystrokes so Cmd-C (Copy) for example, would be included as part of a key-stroke sequence.

If the series of keystrokes you've typed since the last menu-selection don't meet your needs (or if you are thinking ahead and wish to "record" a specific set of keystrokes) you'll need to "clear" the keystroke buffer by holding down the shift key (either one) and typing the Instant Replay hot key. For example, if your Instant Replay hot-key is Control-~, then you would hold down shift-Control-~ to clear the keystroke buffer.

You can set the Instant Replay hot-key using the Instant Replay control panel. Simply invoke the Control panel and press a key-stroke combination to set the hot-key.

Currently, the keystroke buffer holds 256 keystrokes.

If you invoke Instant Replay to instantly replay and you discover that it is replaying all kinds of stuff you forgot and you want to tell it to "Stop! Stop!" you can do so by holding down the Command key and pressing "." (the period key).

Instant Replay is not QuicKeys. It is not Tempo. It is intended simply to repeat a simple set of key-strokes or a menu command without having to become a scripting whiz-kid. It is limited in capability and function but is also, therefore, limited in complexity and the brain power required to use it.

Which makes it perfect for people like me.

About The Author

I'm an old guy, born Feb. 6, 1953 but my brain was frozen in time (some might say just in time) during elementary school. So my sense of humor never made it to the level of maturity commonly known as "sophomoric". Perhaps "sub-pre-moronic" or simply "sickeningly stupid". One of my eldest daughter's first spoken thoughts was "No jokes, Daddy". Which is an amazing coincidence because her name is Victoria and one of Queen Victoria's most famous quotes "We are not amused" pretty well sums up her attitude.

Although at this stage of the game irrelevant, I have a B.S. in mathematics (real math, mind you, I was on my way to a PhD when I bugged out in favor of computers) and an M.S. in Computer Science. Since college, I have: supported mainframe operating systems, large corporate databases, large corporate networks, developed big online application systems, network operating systems, network software for workstations and mainframes, preemptive OS's for PC's, communications drivers, and on and on and on (I've never written a game program, though, hmmmmm....). Presently, I work part-time developing medical imaging software, doing Ziffware and other freelance programming.

I am married, am possessed by 3 kids (all girls) and am the only male in the house besides 5 neutered male cats (I take the hint and watch my step). I spend a lot of time doing community volunteer kinds of things (for example, I'm a Girl Scout leader, gasp). For exercise, I ride my mountain bike every where I can and play roller-blade basketball (useful tip: when driving for a fast-break lay-up, swoop in from the side rather than driving directly at the basket...those steel support poles are hard).

 

Mastering Image Fill Capabilities

Amadine is a versatile and user-friendly vector graphic design app that empowers designers to create stunning visuals with ease. Among its array of features, the Image Fill capability stands out, offering a robust set of tools for enhancing shapes with background images. Whether you're looking to add depth, texture, or a splash of creativity to your designs, understanding Amadine's Image Fill options can elevate your work to the next level. Let's dive into how you can make the most of these features.

Image Fill Amadine

Adding Background Images

To begin, you can click on the "Choose Image" button to add a background image to any shape. This straightforward process opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to integrate external images seamlessly into your designs.

Fill Types: Fill, Tile, and Stretch

Amadine offers three primary fill types to control how your background image is applied to a shape:

  1. Fill: This option scales the image to cover the entire shape. You can adjust the alignment using the area just below the "Fill Type" option. Additionally, you can scale and shear the image to fit your design needs perfectly.

  2. Tile: This setting repeats the image to fill the shape. It's perfect for creating patterns and textures that need to be consistent across a larger area.

  3. Stretch: As the name suggests, this option stretches the image to fit the shape's dimensions, ensuring that the image covers the entire shape without any gaps.

Image Application Options

Amadine also provides several options for how the image interacts with the shape and underlying objects. These blending modes can dramatically alter the appearance of your design, offering creative flexibility. Here are the available modes:

  • Normal: The image is applied as-is without any blending.
  • Multiply: Darkens the base color to reflect the blend color by multiplying the colors.
  • Screen: Lightens the base color to reflect the blend color by screening the colors.
  • Overlay: Combines Multiply and Screen modes, preserving highlights and shadows of the base color.
  • Darken: Selects the darker of the base or blend colors.
  • Lighten: Selects the lighter of the base or blend colors.
  • Color Dodge: Brightens the base color to reflect the blend color by decreasing the contrast.
  • Color Burn: Darkens the base color to reflect the blend color by increasing the contrast.
  • Soft Light: Gently lightens or darkens the colors, similar to shining a soft light on them.
  • Hard Light: Harshly lightens or darkens the colors, similar to shining a harsh light on them.
  • Difference: Subtracts the blend color from the base color or the base color from the blend color, depending on which is brighter.
  • Exclusion: Creates an effect similar to Difference but with lower contrast.
  • Hue: Applies the hue of the blend color to the base color.
  • Saturation: Applies the saturation of the blend color to the base color.
  • Color: Applies the hue and saturation of the blend color to the base color, preserving the luminosity.
  • Luminosity: Applies the luminosity of the blend color to the base color, preserving the hue and saturation.

Practical Applications

Using these fill types and blending modes, you can create a wide range of effects, from subtle textures to bold graphic statements. For instance, you might use the Multiply mode to add a textured paper effect to a shape, or the Overlay mode to integrate complex patterns without losing the shape's original color dynamics.

By mastering Amadine's Image Fill capabilities, you can add a professional and creative touch to your vector designs. Experiment with different combinations to discover unique effects that can make your work stand out.

Conclusion

Amadine's Image Fill feature is a powerful tool that offers endless creative possibilities. By understanding and utilizing the different fill types and blending modes, you can enhance your designs in ways that were previously unimaginable. So go ahead, explore these features, and let your creativity shine!

 

Discovering Gluten-Free Nabisco Cookies at Wegmans

As a frequent shopper and a dedicated advocate for delicious gluten-free options, my recent trip to Wegmans in Northborough was nothing short of delightful. I was on a mission to explore the gluten-free section, and to my pleasant surprise, I found an impressive array of Nabisco's gluten-free cookies, prominently displayed in their distinctive white packaging.

A Gluten-Free Haven

Unlike other grocery stores like Stop & Shop and Shaws, which embed gluten-free options within their regular cookie aisles, Wegmans has a dedicated gluten-free section. This thoughtful organization makes it incredibly convenient for those of us navigating dietary restrictions. As I walked through the aisle, the white packaging of Nabisco's gluten-free cookies immediately caught my eye, standing out against the backdrop of other products.

Wegmans Cookies Display

The Classics Reimagined

Among the offerings, I found two of my all-time favorites: Gluten-Free Oreos and Gluten-Free Chips Ahoy!

Gluten-Free Oreos: These cookies are a triumph of taste and texture. The crispy chocolate wafers sandwiching that iconic creamy filling brought back nostalgic memories. Nabisco has done an excellent job ensuring that these gluten-free versions maintain the same delightful taste and satisfying crunch as the originals.

Gluten-Free Chips Ahoy!: Equally impressive are the gluten-free Chips Ahoy! cookies. With their rich, buttery flavor and generous chocolate chips, these cookies are perfect for a quick snack or a comforting treat. I couldn't help but marvel at how Nabisco managed to preserve the beloved taste of Chips Ahoy! while making them accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.

Why This Matters

The availability of these gluten-free options is more than just a convenience; it's a testament to how far we've come in accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For individuals with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, finding snacks that don't compromise on taste can be a game-changer. Nabisco's commitment to delivering high-quality, delicious gluten-free cookies deserves recognition and appreciation.

A Shoutout to Nabisco

Congratulations to Nabisco for their dedication to quality and inclusivity. Their gluten-free cookies not only taste the same as their gluten counterparts but also bring joy to those of us who have had to forgo certain treats due to dietary restrictions. It's this kind of innovation and attention to consumer needs that sets a company apart.

Final Thoughts

Next time you're at Wegmans in Northborough, or any of their locations, take a moment to explore the gluten-free section. Whether you're gluten intolerant or simply looking for a tasty snack, Nabisco's gluten-free Oreos and Chips Ahoy! are sure to satisfy your cravings. Here's to enjoying delicious treats without compromise!

 

The Woods Apartment Complex

In the ever-evolving landscape of media consumption, it's fascinating to take a trip down memory lane and revisit how we engaged with technology in the past. One such journey takes us back to April 27, 1998, when I made a video recording of the "Woods Apartments Complex" cable channel in San Jose, California. Living in this complex until 2002, I witnessed firsthand how cable television was a cornerstone of entertainment and information for many households.

The "Woods Complex" Cable Channel

In 1998, the "Woods Complex" had a unique setup where all the apartments shared a single cable line. This setup was quite different from today's individual subscriptions and on-demand streaming services. Channel 3 was the basic information channel, serving as a hub for residents to access essential information, from channel lineups to pricing details.

Channel Lineup and Pricing

The video I recorded provides a glimpse into the channel lineup and pricing for cable services at the time. Basic cable in 1998 cost $26?a figure that might seem modest compared to today's prices, but it was a significant part of the monthly budget for many families back then. The channel lineup featured a mix of popular networks, local stations, and niche channels that catered to various interests.

A Snapshot of 1998

Reflecting on the video, it's clear how much has changed in the world of media and technology. In 1998, cable TV was the primary source of entertainment for most households. Streaming services, binge-watching, and on-demand content were concepts yet to revolutionize our viewing habits. Instead, we relied on scheduled programming and eagerly anticipated our favorite shows each week.

Watch the video

 

The Long-Term Value of Teaching Others at Work

This past week, I stumbled upon a heartfelt post on LinkedIn where someone expressed their gratitude to those who had helped them advance in their career. It struck a chord with me, reminding me of my own experiences in teaching others throughout my career. It also underscored a powerful lesson: never underestimate the value of teaching at work and always give back, no matter how small it may seem.

In my previous two jobs, I found myself frequently involved in technical teaching. I helped many colleagues understand various software processes and procedures. This was not something I did for recognition or accolades; rather, it was driven by a genuine desire to share knowledge and help others grow. Looking back, I realize just how impactful those moments of teaching have been?not only for those I taught but for myself as well.

The Ripple Effect of Teaching

Teaching at work creates a ripple effect. When you take the time to teach someone, you are not just imparting knowledge; you are also fostering a culture of learning and collaboration. The skills and understanding you provide can help your colleagues tackle challenges more effectively, contribute more meaningfully to projects, and even mentor others in the future. This creates a chain reaction where the initial act of teaching continues to multiply its impact over time.

Former Employee Sign
"There is a Former Employee Out There That is Better Off Today Because of What You Taught Them."

Building Stronger Teams

A workplace where teaching and knowledge sharing are encouraged tends to have stronger, more cohesive teams. When team members are willing to teach and learn from one another, it builds trust and camaraderie. Everyone feels valued and empowered, knowing that their growth is supported by their peers. This not only enhances individual performance but also elevates the overall success of the team.

Personal and Professional Growth

For those who teach, the benefits are twofold. On one hand, teaching solidifies your own knowledge. The process of explaining complex concepts to others forces you to refine your understanding and stay current with industry trends and best practices. On the other hand, it enhances your communication and leadership skills. Being able to convey ideas clearly and effectively is a critical skill in any career, and teaching provides ample opportunities to hone this ability.

Creating a Legacy

Teaching others at work is a way of creating a lasting legacy. The knowledge and skills you impart can shape the careers of your colleagues long after you've moved on to new opportunities. When people look back and acknowledge the contributions that helped them succeed, your name may very well be among those they remember. This sense of contributing to the success and growth of others is incredibly rewarding.

The Power of Small Acts

It's important to remember that teaching doesn't always have to involve formal training sessions or extensive mentorship programs. Sometimes, it's the small, everyday acts of sharing knowledge that make the biggest difference. Whether it's a quick tip during a coffee break, a detailed explanation in a meeting, or a thoughtful answer to a colleague's question, these moments add up and contribute significantly to a culture of learning and support.

Conclusion

The long-term value of teaching others at work cannot be overstated. It's a powerful way to give back, build stronger teams, and leave a lasting impact on the careers of those around you. As you navigate your professional journey, remember to seize opportunities to teach and share knowledge. You never know how far your efforts will reach or how profoundly they will influence someone's career. So, embrace the role of a teacher, and watch as the seeds you plant grow into a thriving garden of talent and success.

 

Late Night Line Up

Have you ever found yourself eagerly anticipating the appearance of your favorite celebrity on late night TV, only to miss it because you didn't know when they were scheduled? Fear not, because there's a fantastic resource that will keep you in the loop and ensure you never miss an exciting guest spot again: Interbridge's Late Night TV Lineups.

Why Interbridge's Lineups is a Must-Visit

Interbridge's Lineups is a dedicated website that meticulously compiles and updates the schedules of all your favorite late night talk shows. Whether you're a fan of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," or any other late night staple, this site has got you covered. Here's why you should bookmark it right now:

Website Description

I am not connected in any way with the producers or stars of any late night talk show. Also, I have no idea when your favorite star might be appearing on a show, so please don't ask me; just keep checking this page. If you wish to contact a late night talk show or host, please do so directly. (Unfortunately, few shows have public email addresses these days.)

Believe it or not, this web site predates every single official network talk show page! I've been supplying late night line-ups to the Internet community since 1994, first to USENET and now on the web. The Late Night TV Page is visited by over 5,000 people every day.

Late Night T V
https://www.interbridge.com/lineups.html

 

XnView MP

XnView MP is a free and powerful image viewer that goes way beyond just opening your pictures. It's a one-stop shop for managing, editing, and even batch-processing your photos. Let's dive into some of the cool things you can do with XnView MP:

1. Tame Your Image Zoo:

We've all been there - a disorganized mess of photos scattered across folders. XnView MP helps you wrangle them in. Browse your images in various ways, from thumbnail view for quick scanning to a filmstrip view for a more cinematic feel. You can even sort and filter based on date, size, or even camera model.

2. Batch Editing Power:

Need to resize a bunch of vacation photos for sharing online? XnView MP lets you edit entire folders of images at once. Apply basic edits like resize, rotate, and crop to a whole batch, saving you tons of time.

X N View Batch Convert
Sample Options available in Batch Convert

3. Enhance and Refine:

Don't underestimate XnView MP's editing tools. Adjust brightness, contrast, and colors to make your photos pop. Apply artistic effects or subtle tweaks to bring out the best in your images.

4. Format Flexibility:

Working with different image formats can be a hassle. XnView MP supports a vast array of formats, from common ones like JPEG and PNG to camera RAW files and even PDFs. This makes it a versatile tool for photographers and graphic designers alike.

5. Conversion Made Easy:

Need to convert a batch of images from one format to another? XnView MP does it with ease. This is handy for preparing photos for specific uses, like converting to a web-friendly format for sharing online.

6. More Than Meets the Eye:

XnView MP offers a surprising number of hidden gems. Want to compare two images side-by-side? No problem. Need to extract text embedded in an image (useful for receipts or scanned documents)? XnView MP can handle it.

Xn View File Browser
File Browser lets you see detail preview of EPS Files. Very handy when you have a log of them!

7. Free and Feature-Packed:

The best part? XnView MP is completely free and available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. With its user-friendly interface and extensive features, it's a powerful tool that can replace multiple single-purpose software programs. So next time you're looking for an image manager that can do it all, give XnView MP a try!

 

Macintosh Centris 660av

Centris660av

In the early 1990s, I purchased a refurbished Centris 660av computer from a store in New Hampshire. I originally intended to buy a refurbished Quadra 610, but they were out of stock. The salesperson recommended the Centris 660av instead, as it was similarly priced and slightly better due to its AV capabilities.

Centris 660av Computer

When I moved to California in 1996, I brought the computer with me. I used it frequently until I bought the 8600/200 a few years later. I used the Centris 660av to encode many of the Real Audio files found on this site. Additionally, I used it as my answering machine and to digitize my voicemail.

Today, the computer sits unused in my home office. I need to find a monitor that works with it, as I currently don't have a VGA monitor. Perhaps I'll find one on Craigslist or somewhere similar.

This is the last pre-PowerPC computer that I would ever buy. This is also the only computer that I currently have that still runs System 7 - so I do want to boot it up some day to take a look back at the classic Macintosh.

I don't know if the hard drive works, but I did back everything to a CD.

Computer Specifications

  • CPU: 25MHz 68040 CPU
  • DSP: 55MHz 3210
  • ROM: 2MB
  • RAM: 8MB, expandable to 68MB using 70ns 72-pin SIMMs; motherboard has 2 SIMM slots which can be filled independently
  • VRAM: 1MB
  • L2 cache: optional
  • ADB ports for keyboard and mouse
  • DIN-8 serial ports on back of computer
  • DB-25 SCSI connector on back of computer

Microprocessor

  • Motorola 68040, running at 25 MHz
  • Integrated floating-point unit, Page Memory Management Unit (PMMU), and 8KB cache

Digital signal processor

  • AT&T 3210, running at 55 MHz

Memory

  • Comes with 8MB of RAM
  • Can be expanded to up to 68MB of RAM with 32MB SIMMs (dealer installation required)

Disk drives

  • One built-in Apple SuperDrive 1.4MB floppy disk drive that uses high-density floppy disks and reads, writes, and formats Macintosh, MS-DOS, OS/2, and ProDOS disks
  • One internal hard disk (80MB, 230MB, and 500MB options available)
  • Optional internal Apple CD-ROM drive
  • Optional external SCSI hard disk drive (many capacities available)

Displays supported

  • All Apple displays up to 21 in.
  • A wide range of third-party displays, including NTSC, PAL, VGA, and SVGA monitors Video RAM (VRAM)
  • 1MB standard

Color depth support

  • 16-bit; permits display of thousands of colors on monitors up to 16 in., and up to 256 colors on 21 in.

Interfaces

  • One internal NuBus expansion slot via NuBus adapter, which includes support for digital audio video (DAV) connector
  • One Apple Desktop Bus (ADB) port, supporting a keyboard, mouse, and other devices
  • AAUI-15 Ethernet connector
  • Two serial (RS-232/RS-422) ports
  • Two S-Video and two composite video ports, one each for input and output
  • SCSI interface for connecting up to a total of seven SCSI devices
  • Sound-out port for stereo playback from CDs or Macintosh audio applications
  • Stereo sound-input port (supports 16-bit stereo audio)

Networking

  • Built-in Ethernet
  • Serial port for AppleTalk
  • Integrated GeoPort telecommunications architecture for data, fax, and voice connectivity

Sound generator

  • DSP-based 16-bit stereo audio
  • Sample rates: 8 kHz to 48 kHz

Keyboard and mouse

  • Several Apple Desktop Bus keyboards with numeric keypads available
  • Apple Desktop Bus Mouse II

Clock/calendar

  • Custom integrated circuit with long-life lithium battery

Electrical requirements

  • Line voltage: 100 to 240 VAC, RMS single phase, automatically configured
  • Frequency: 47 to 63Hz, single phase
  • Power: 86 W maximum, not including monitor power

ADB power requirements

  • Maximum current draw for all Apple Desktop Bus devices: 500mA (a maximum of three Apple Desktop Bus devices is recommended)
  • Mouse draws 10mA
  • Keyboard draws 25-80mA (varies with keyboard model used)

Size and weight

  • Height: 3.4 in. (8.5 cm)
  • Width: 16.3 in. (41.5 cm)
  • Depth: 15.6 in. (39.7 cm)
  • Weight: 14.0 lbs (6.4 kg) (Weight varies based on internal devices installed)

Operating environment

  • Operating temperature: 50? to 104? F (10? to 40? C)
  • Storage temperature: -40? to 116.6? F (-40? to 47? C)
  • Relative humidity: 5% to 95%, noncondensing
  • Maximum altitude: 10,000 ft. (3,048 m)

 

Sheets in Amadine

Sheets in Amadine are akin to layers in traditional design software, but with an added dimension of organization. They allow you to compartmentalize different parts of your design within a single document, making it easier to manage, edit, and navigate large or complex projects.

Benefits of Using Sheets

  1. Improved Organization: Sheets enable you to keep different elements of your design separate, preventing clutter and making it easier to locate specific components.
  2. Streamlined Workflow: By organizing your design into sheets, you can focus on one aspect of your project at a time, which can lead to a more streamlined and efficient workflow.
  3. Enhanced Collaboration: When working on a project with a team, sheets can help distribute tasks more effectively by assigning different sheets to different team members.

Getting Started with Sheets

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started with Sheets in Amadine:

  1. Creating a New Sheet
    • Open your Amadine project.
    • Navigate to the Sheets panel. If the panel is not visible, you can enable it from the View menu.
    • Click the "+" icon at the bottom of the Sheets panel to create a new sheet.
    • Name your sheet appropriately to reflect its content (e.g., "Background," "Text," "Icons").
  2. Adding Content to Sheets
    • Select the sheet you want to work on by clicking its name in the Sheets panel.
    • Use the drawing tools to add elements to the selected sheet.
    • Repeat the process for each sheet, adding specific elements as needed.
  3. Managing Sheets
    • Reordering Sheets: Drag and drop sheets within the panel to reorder them.
    • Visibility: Toggle the visibility of individual sheets by clicking the eye icon next to each sheet's name. This is useful for focusing on specific parts of your design without distraction.
    • Locking Sheets: Click the lock icon to prevent accidental edits to a sheet.
  4. Editing Sheets
    • To edit content on a specific sheet, ensure it is selected in the Sheets panel.
    • Make your desired changes using Amadine's comprehensive set of design tools.
    • You can also move content between sheets by cutting from one sheet and pasting into another.

Advanced Tips for Using Sheets

  1. Layering Effects: Apply different effects to sheets to create depth and dimension in your design. For example, you can apply a blur effect to a background sheet to make foreground elements stand out.
  2. Sheet Templates: Create template sheets for recurring design elements, like headers or footers. This can save time and ensure consistency across projects.
  3. Grouping Sheets: Group related sheets together. For example, if you're designing a UI, group sheets for buttons, forms, and navigation elements separately.

Practical Applications

  1. UI/UX Design: Use sheets to separate different components of your interface, like navigation bars, buttons, and content areas.
  2. Illustration: Organize your illustration into foreground, middle ground, and background sheets to simplify the process of adding details and making adjustments.
  3. Marketing Materials: Create sheets for different versions of your design, such as versions with different color schemes or text layouts.

Conclusion

Sheets in Amadine offer a versatile and powerful way to manage your design projects. By effectively utilizing this feature, you can maintain a high level of organization, streamline your workflow, and improve collaboration with team members. Whether you're a solo designer or part of a larger team, mastering Sheets in Amadine will undoubtedly enhance your productivity and creativity.

 

Tugboat Resturant

Gluten Free Cape Cod

Last July, my family and I had the pleasure of dining at the TugBoat Restaurant in Hyannis, a charming spot that quickly became a favorite. Our daughter, who has Celiac disease, sometimes faces challenges when dining out, but TugBoat Restaurant exceeded our expectations with its extensive gluten-free options and accommodating atmosphere.

A Bustling Atmosphere

TugBoat Restaurant is a bustling hub of activity, especially during the summer months. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure you get a table without a long wait. The vibrant energy of the place adds to the overall experience, making it a perfect spot for a family meal or a casual gathering with friends.

Gluten-Free Goodies Galore

One of the highlights of our visit was the variety of gluten-free options available. For those with dietary restrictions, finding a restaurant that offers delicious and safe choices can be a challenge. TugBoat Restaurant, however, delivers on this front with aplomb.

Our daughter ordered the TugBoat Burger, which comes with a side of cole slaw. As a cole slaw enthusiast, she was delighted with her choice and didn't even miss the fries, though they are also gluten-free. The burger was juicy, flavorful, and came on a gluten-free bun that didn't disappoint.

Tug Boat Hyannis

Savory Seafood Selections

For my meal, I opted for the Marina Fish Sandwich. While not gluten-free, it was a memorable choice with perfectly cooked fish and fresh toppings. My only minor gripe was the serving of tartar sauce?like many places, they didn't provide quite enough for my liking. But that's a small detail in an otherwise excellent meal.

A Raw Bar Delight

Seafood lovers will be thrilled to know that every item in TugBoat's Raw Bar is gluten-free. This is fantastic news for those who can't consume gluten but love fresh seafood. However, if you're like my daughter and not a fan of seafood, the Raw Bar might not hold much appeal.

Final Thoughts

Our dining experience at TugBoat Restaurant in Hyannis was a delightful one. With its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and a wide range of gluten-free options, it's a fantastic choice for anyone, especially those with dietary restrictions. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty burger, a fresh seafood dish, or a simple yet satisfying cole slaw, TugBoat Restaurant has something to offer.

If you're planning a visit to Hyannis, make sure to add TugBoat Restaurant to your list. And don't forget to make a reservation to secure your spot in this very popular dining destination.

 

Pixelmator Pro Color Adjustment for Videos

Pixelmator Pro is a robust image editing tool that offers a wealth of features to make your photos and videos stand out. One of its standout functionalities is its comprehensive suite of color adjustment tools. Whether you're a professional photographer, a budding videographer, or just someone who loves tinkering with images, Pixelmator Pro has everything you need to enhance your visual content. Let's dive into some of the essential color adjustment features that can take your work to the next level.

White Balance

White balance is crucial for ensuring that the colors in your photos look natural and consistent. Pixelmator Pro makes it easy to adjust the white balance, allowing you to correct any color casts that might have occurred during shooting. By tweaking the temperature and tint sliders, you can achieve the perfect balance, making your images look true to life.

Selective Clarity

Selective clarity is a fantastic tool for enhancing the midtone contrast of your photos. This adjustment can make your images pop by adding depth and detail without affecting the overall exposure. With Pixelmator Pro, you can apply selective clarity to specific areas, giving you precise control over where you want to add that extra sharpness and texture.

Hue & Saturation

The Hue & Saturation adjustment allows you to modify the intensity and colorfulness of your images. This tool is perfect for creating vibrant, eye-catching visuals or achieving a more subdued, muted look. Pixelmator Pro lets you adjust the hue and saturation of individual color channels, giving you the flexibility to fine-tune your images to perfection.

Pixelmator Color Adjustment

Selective Color

Selective color adjustment is a powerful feature that lets you modify the colors in your images selectively. You can adjust the hue, saturation, and brightness of specific colors without affecting the rest of the image. This tool is incredibly useful for creating striking color contrasts and enhancing the overall visual impact of your photos.

Color Balance

Color balance adjustments help you fine-tune the colors in your images by adjusting the shadows, midtones, and highlights separately. This level of control allows you to create a harmonious color palette that enhances the mood and atmosphere of your photos. Pixelmator Pro's color balance tool is intuitive and easy to use, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.

Levels

The Levels adjustment tool is essential for correcting the tonal range and balance of your images. By adjusting the black, midtone, and white sliders, you can enhance the contrast and brightness of your photos. Pixelmator Pro's Levels tool provides a histogram display, giving you a visual representation of the tonal distribution in your image, making it easier to achieve precise adjustments.

LUTs (Look-Up Tables)

LUTs are an advanced color grading tool that can transform the look and feel of your images with a single click. Pixelmator Pro supports the use of LUTs, allowing you to apply professional-grade color grading to your photos and videos. Whether you're going for a cinematic look or a vintage aesthetic, LUTs can help you achieve your desired style quickly and easily.

Additional Tools and Features

Pixelmator Pro doesn't stop there. It offers a range of additional color adjustment tools such as Vibrance, Curves, and Color Fill, giving you even more options to refine your images. The software's non-destructive editing capabilities ensure that you can experiment freely without worrying about losing your original image quality.

Conclusion

Pixelmator Pro is a versatile and powerful tool that provides all the essentials for making your photos and videos look their best. With its comprehensive suite of color adjustment tools, you have everything you need to enhance your visual content and bring your creative vision to life. Whether you're adjusting white balance, fine-tuning selective colors, or applying LUTs, Pixelmator Pro makes it easy to achieve professional-quality results. So, dive in, explore these features, and take your color adjustments to new heights with Pixelmator Pro.

 

Dark Social: Understanding and Harnessing the Power of Private Social Sharing

Platforms used for harnessing the power of private social sharing.

Harnessing the power of private social sharing can significantly simplify your efforts to grow your customer base and outreach! By understanding and leveraging private sharing channels effectively, businesses can expand their reach, drive engagement, and foster trust with their audience.

What is dark social?

Dark social is a term used to mark all sharing of content through private channels like messaging apps or email. This makes it challenging to track its origin, hence the name. This phenomenon includes sharing via platforms such as WhatsApp, Messenger, or Snapchat, where conversations remain hidden. However, this accounts for a significant portion of online sharing, making it hard to ignore it! Especially since, unlike public platforms, private sharing allows for more intimate conversations, fostering trust and authenticity. For businesses, leveraging it presents unique opportunities for word-of-mouth marketing and reaching highly engaged audiences. So, companies can unlock new avenues for growth and engagement by analyzing them and tailoring content for private sharing.

The hidden power of dark social

Unlike public platforms, where content is often diluted by noise, dark social interactions occur in private, fostering trust and authenticity. By tapping into these private conversations, marketers can then extract invaluable insights into consumer preferences and typical behavior. This intimate sharing environment presents a unique opportunity to tailor marketing messages for maximum impact! So, to improve your approach to marketing, you need to understand the nuances of dark social and leverage it effectively. Encouraging sharing through private channels and creating content optimized for private sharing can amplify your brand's reach and engagement! Likewise, integrating this kind of sharing into broader marketing strategies can enhance overall campaign effectiveness.

Understanding dark social analytics

While tracking dark social traffic poses challenges due to its encrypted nature, various tools and techniques can help illuminate this hidden data. Marketers can employ URL shorteners, advanced web analytics platforms, or specific tracking tools to gather insights. Interpreting this data also involves analyzing metrics such as direct traffic, referral patterns, and engagement rates. By delving into these analytics, you'll get valuable information about current audience behavior and preferences. This deeper understanding enables them to refine their strategies, optimize content for private sharing, and target dark social audiences more effectively.

If you are struggling with this, you can rely on industry specialists to help you out. In the service industry, particularly the competitive moving industry, professionals can sometimes have a hard time reaching a broader audience and achieving customer turnaround. Luckily, moving companies can look for assistance from Movers Development. With their experience and unique insight, they will ensure that you can easily understand your analytics and properly guide your marketing strategy!

Building trust in dark social communities

In private conversations, authenticity and privacy are the name of the game, making it important to engage with users transparently and respectfully. One effective strategy is to showcase your expertise by providing valuable insights and information relevant to the community's interests. By sharing helpful tips, answering questions, and offering solutions to common challenges, you can position yourself as a trusted authority within the group. Likewise, actively participating in discussions and demonstrating a willingness to listen and learn can further enhance your credibility and rapport. It's also necessary to respect the privacy of group members and avoid overly promotional or intrusive tactics. Instead, focus on building meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and trust.

Leveraging dark social for business growth

Businesses can amplify their brand's reach and engagement by encouraging sharing through private channels and creating content optimized for private sharing. Integrating dark social into broader marketing strategies also enables companies to connect with consumers on a deeper level, fostering loyalty and advocacy. Additionally, leveraging influencers and advocates within private networks can further extend your brand's reach and credibility. As such, embracing dark social as a key component of your marketing approach can lead to significant growth and success in today's digital landscape. Of course, social media and traditional advertising both come with pros and cons. So, it's best not to commit only to dark social advertising if you want your business to be successful.

Targeting dark social audiences effectively

Targeting dark social audiences effectively requires a deep understanding of their preferences and behaviors. For example, identifying key demographics that engage in private sharing is needed to tailor your messaging and content. Thankfully, by analyzing data from CRM software, businesses gain valuable insights into customer interests and interactions, allowing for personalized targeting. Leveraging this information, marketers can then put out content that perfectly resonates with users and drives engagement. In addition, collaborating with influencers and advocates within private networks can also help expand your reach and credibility. This way, businesses can connect with highly engaged audiences, build meaningful relationships, and drive growth.

Measuring dark social ROI

To make the best use of the power of private social sharing, you still need cold-hard facts backing you up. Here, establishing key performance indicators (KPIs), such as direct traffic, conversion rates, and engagement metrics, helps track success. Utilizing advanced analytics tools and techniques designed to capture and analyze dark social data can provide deeper insights, too. By correlating these metrics with business objectives and revenue outcomes, marketers can accurately calculate the ROI of dark social efforts. From there, iterating and optimizing strategies based on performance metrics allows businesses to refine their dark social marketing initiatives. Still, it's also important to consider the long-term value of dark socials, like brand loyalty and advocacy, when assessing ROI. This way, you'll have insight into all the tangible results and contributions of your efforts to your overall marketing success.

Ethical considerations in dark social marketing

There are some rules that must be observed if you want to make use of this kind of marketing! Respecting user privacy and obtaining consent before engaging in private conversations is paramount. Transparency and honesty are essential in all communications, making users feel respected and valued. Marketers must also be mindful of the potential for misinformation and rumors to spread within private networks. This makes taking proactive measures to verify information and promote accurate messaging necessary. Thankfully, upholding ethical guidelines fosters trust with audiences, enhancing brand reputation and credibility in the long run.

Leveraging the power of private social sharing

With the right strategies in place, harnessing the power of private social sharing opens doors to untapped opportunities for growth and success in today's digital landscape. After all, businesses can forge deeper connections with their audience by embracing the authenticity of private conversations.

 

National Day

Have you ever wondered what "Holiday" is it today? We all know the major holidays, but what about the little ones? When is National Pizza Day? How about National Coffee Day?

National Day makes it easy and let's you know what's special about today.

This is a great ice breaker for conversations.

Website Description

What if every week's happy hour revolved around a theme? As the world's fastest-growing viral marketing agency, we were already leveraging a buzzworthy holiday on the cultural calendar for our clients. We had crafted stories around Budweiser for National Drink Beer Day. We spread the word about Del Monte's iconic green bean casserole for Thanksgiving. And we were hot on the trail of some viral holidays for Meow Mix, Smuckers, Milk-Bone, Mercedes and Dr. Pepper.

Why were we using these holidays for our clients but not celebrating them ourselves - and why were we not spreading the love to all?

And so it was decided.

In spare moments in between pitching stories and scheduling interviews for clients, we built a beautiful website to share everything we were learning about these delightful daily holidays.

National Today
https://nationaltoday.com

 

Vivaldi Browser

In the crowded world of web browsers, Vivaldi has emerged as a compelling alternative to the ever-popular Google Chrome. While Chrome continues to dominate with its speed and extensive features, Vivaldi offers a refreshing take with a host of unique features designed to enhance user experience, particularly for Macintosh users. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key differences between Vivaldi and Chrome and explore why Macintosh users should be excited to install Vivaldi.

Welcome Vivaldi

Key Differences Between Vivaldi and Chrome

  1. Customization Options
    • Vivaldi: Vivaldi is renowned for its unparalleled customization capabilities. Users can tweak almost every aspect of the browser, from the appearance of the interface to the behavior of tabs. The browser allows you to create custom themes, rearrange interface elements, and even create your own keyboard shortcuts.
    • Chrome: While Chrome does offer some customization options, they are relatively limited compared to Vivaldi. Chrome users can change themes and add extensions, but deeper interface customization is not as comprehensive.
  2. User Interface
    • Vivaldi: The Vivaldi interface is designed with power users in mind. It includes features like a sidebar (Web Panels) where you can pin your favorite websites or tools, a tab management system that allows for stacking and tiling tabs, and a quick commands menu for efficient navigation.
    • Chrome: Chrome's interface is clean and straightforward, designed for simplicity and speed. While this makes it accessible for many users, it lacks the advanced tab management and multitasking features that Vivaldi offers.
  3. Privacy and Security
    • Vivaldi: Vivaldi places a strong emphasis on privacy. It does not track your usage or collect data, and it includes built-in ad blockers and tracking protection. The browser also offers encrypted sync options for your data.
    • Chrome: Chrome has robust security features, but it is developed by Google, a company that relies heavily on data collection. Chrome tracks browsing activity to personalize user experience and advertisements, which raises privacy concerns for some users.
  4. Built-in Tools
    • Vivaldi: Vivaldi comes with a suite of built-in tools designed to enhance productivity. These include a notes manager, a screen capture tool, an email client, and an RSS feed reader. These tools are seamlessly integrated, reducing the need for additional extensions.
    • Chrome: Chrome relies heavily on extensions to provide additional functionality. While this allows for a high degree of customization, it also means users need to find, install, and manage these extensions themselves.

Tab Location
Users can setup Vivaldi so that it works best for them.

Why Macintosh Users Should Be Excited About Vivaldi

  1. Optimized Performance
    • Vivaldi is optimized to run efficiently on macOS, ensuring smooth performance and low system resource usage. This is particularly beneficial for users with older Mac devices who may find Chrome's resource demands too taxing.
  2. Native macOS Features
    • Vivaldi integrates well with macOS, supporting native features like macOS shortcuts, gestures, and touch bar integration. This makes the browser feel like a natural extension of the macOS environment.
  3. Enhanced Multitasking
    • The advanced tab management and tiling features in Vivaldi are a boon for users who need to multitask. You can view multiple tabs side by side, making it easier to compare information or work on several projects simultaneously.
  4. Privacy Focused
    • Macintosh users who are concerned about privacy will appreciate Vivaldi's strong stance on data protection. With built-in tracking protection and no data collection policies, Vivaldi provides a safer browsing experience.
  5. Customizable Workflows
    • For professionals and creatives who rely on their Macs for work, Vivaldi's customizable interface allows them to create workflows that suit their specific needs. Whether it's rearranging the interface for better accessibility or using quick commands to streamline tasks, Vivaldi adapts to the user's preferences.

Quick Commands

Quick Commands

Quick Commands in Vivaldi are similar to the functionality you see in LaunchBar. You activate Quick Commands and simply type the command you wish to use; instantly, it opens up the desired dialog or functionality. This provides a much faster way to navigate around the browser. Quick Commands can also be used for basic math calculations.

Vivaldi offers 197 actions ready for use when you type in the shortcut Command E.

Vivaldi Quick Commands

Conclusion

Vivaldi offers a robust alternative to Chrome, particularly for Macintosh users who value customization, privacy, and advanced multitasking features. Its seamless integration with macOS and efficient performance make it a compelling choice for those looking to enhance their browsing experience. If you're a Macintosh user seeking a browser that adapts to your needs and respects your privacy, Vivaldi is definitely worth a try. Download it today and explore the myriad ways it can transform your browsing experience.

 

Macintosh 8600/200

8600-200

In the late 1990s, I purchased a Power Macintosh 8600/200 as my first PowerPC computer. I remember buying it through my company and getting a slight price break. I placed the order shortly after I started working there, and the CIO had to approve the sale because I was still a new employee.

This was one of my favorite computers. It was fun doing all sorts of video and graphic work. I did some programming, but most of the time, I was decoding VHS tapes and playing around with Photoshop.

When I left California, I donated the computer to Oakland Schools because I wasn't using it much and it would have taken up valuable space in my car. Fun fact: this is the only Macintosh computer I have ever parted with.

Here are some interesting specs from my computer:

Computer Specifications

  • 200-MHz PowerPC 604e microprocessor
  • 32MB of RAM, expandable to 512MB via 8 DIMM sockets
  • 256K level 2 cache on DIMM socket
  • Internal 2GB SCSI hard disk
  • Integrated Iomega Zip drive
  • Three PCI expansion slots compatible with PCI 2.0-compliant cards
  • S-video input and output connectors
  • Mini jacks for stereo audio input and output
  • 24-bit video input and output

Apple's Technical Information Library

If your profession demands a high-performance, expandable computer that's optimized for complex work with media and other demanding tasks, choose the Power Macintosh 8600/200 system. This high-performance computer includes built-in video-in and video-out capabilities in an innovative new design. It includes features that make it an ideal choice for in-house publishing, media authoring, and technical applications. And because its processor is mounted on a removable card for easy and inexpensive upgrade to faster processor cards (as available), you can protect your investment for the future.

The new tower design of the Power Macintosh 8600/200 provides incredibly easy system access for upgrades and servicing, new security features, and a built-in Iomega Zip drive for fast, easy storage or backup. In addition, built-in near-broadcast-quality video-input/output capabilities, high-resolution graphics, an AV-capable hard disk drive, a 12x-speed CD-ROM drive, and CD-quality stereo sound add vitality to professional projects and--with Apple's QuickTime software--make media authoring easy.

The three industry-standard Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) high-performance expansion slots on these systems let you customize them easily to meet your needs more precisely. You can find PCI cards for a variety of uses, including graphics, storage, and high-speed networking. And if you want to use your Power Macintosh 8600/200 to run MS-DOS and Windows applications as well as software written for the Macintosh, you can install a PC Compatibility Card from Apple in one of the PCI slotsÐand switch instantly between computing environments. In addition, connecting your Power Macintosh 8600/200 computer to an Ethernet network is easy because it includes both AAUI and 10BASE-TO connectors.

Today, more and more computer users are discovering the wealth of information and communications resources and opportunities offered by the Internet. The Power Macintosh 8600/200 makes it easy to get involved in this rapidly expanding community, because it comes with all of the software you need for easy Internet access.

The Power Macintosh 8600/200: exceptional performance for media authoring or any work with video, audio, or graphics--to enhance your creativity.

Features

High performance

  • 200-MHz PowerPC 604e processor
  • Built-in Iomega Zip drive
  • Built-in floating-point processor and 64K cache
  • 256K level 2 cache on a DIMM
  • Built-in graphics acceleration

Communications and multimedia

  • 64-bit VRAM graphics subsystem
  • Two high-speed serial ports compatible with GeoPort and LocalTalk cables
  • 12x-speed CD-ROM drive
  • 16-bit stereo audio input and output
  • 24-bit composite and S-video input and output
  • Support for speech-recognition and text-to-speech capabilities
  • Optimized for QuickTime Conferencing software

Expandability

  • Removable processor card allows easy upgrades
  • Three industry-standard PCI expansion slots
  • SCSI connector for hard disks, CD-ROM drives, and other SCSI devices
  • Internal expansion bays for additional storage devices (3.5-inch and 5.25-inch)

Compatibility

  • Includes 10BASE-T and AAUI Ethernet connectors
  • Supports Open Transport networking software (TCP/IP and AppleTalk)
  • Runs 680x0 Macintosh applications as well as applications accelerated for Power Macintosh computers
  • Reads Mac OS, Windows, MS-DOS, OS/2, and ProDOS floppy disk formats
  • Runs MS-DOS and Windows applications via optional PC Compatibility Cards
  • Comes with all of the software required for Internet access

System 7.5.5 software

  • Makes working with different applications consistent, so they're easier to learn and use
  • Allows easy customization of your Macintosh to reflect the way you work
  • Provides active assistance in learning new features with Apple Guide
  • Includes MacLinkPlus file translation software from DataViz

Ordering Information

  • Power Macintosh 8600/200: Order No. M5453LL/A

Power Macintosh 8600/200 computer with 32 MB of RAM, a built-in 1.4 MB Apple SuperDrive floppy disk drive, an internal 2 GB hard disk drive, an internal 12x-speed CD-ROM drive, an internal Iomega Zip drive, and a PlainTalk microphone. Includes keyboard and mouse; system software version 7.5.5 or later; Internet access software; complete setup, learning, and reference documentation; and limited warranty.

Optional Enhancements

  • GeoPort Telecom Adapter Kit: Order No. M5438LL/A
  • PC Compatibility Card Solutions
    - PC Compatibility Card with Pentium 100-MHz processor: Order No. M4092LL/A
    - PC Compatibility Card with 100-MHz 586 processor: Order No. M4091LL/A
  • Apple QuickDraw 3D Accelerator Card - Order No. M4333LL/A

Product specifications are subject to change. Check with your Apple reseller for the most current information about product specifications and configurations.

 

Personal Font Style Collection

Amadine, the intuitive vector graphics software, offers a plethora of features for designers and illustrators. However, one feature it lacks is a "Favorite" font section?a common convenience in many applications. But don't worry, there's a clever workaround to this limitation. By adding your preferred font styles directly to your Amadine library, you can access them with ease. Here's how to do it:

Creating Your Font Library

  1. Start by creating a new text field in your Amadine document.
  2. Apply your desired font and style to this text. Whether it's a bold header or an italicized sub-header, style it exactly as you would like it to appear in your projects.
  3. Select the styled text field and navigate to your personal Amadine Library.
  4. Right-click in the library window and choose "Add Object."

And that's it! You've successfully added a styled font object to your library.

Amadine Font Trick

Using Your Styled Fonts

Whenever you need to use your pre-styled fonts:

  • Open your Amadine Library and simply click on the font object you wish to use.
  • Drag and drop it into your project, and you're done!

This method is a quick and efficient way to add frequently used headers and sub-headers to your designs. It not only saves time but also ensures consistency across your various projects.

Why This Matters

In the fast-paced world of design, efficiency is key. By utilizing this simple trick, you can:

  • Reduce repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus more on the creative aspects of your work.
  • Maintain a consistent style throughout your designs, which is crucial for branding and professional aesthetics.
  • Speed up your workflow significantly, especially when working with text-heavy designs.

So, give it a try and see how this neat trick can enhance your design process in Amadine!

 

By The Way Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for delightful treats, BTW Bakery is a must-visit destination. Nestled in the heart of a charming community, BTW Bakery is renowned for its commitment to quality, flavor, and creativity. Among their array of delicious offerings, the Mini Cakes stand out as a unique and irresistible treat.

A Sweet Experience

At BTW Bakery, each Mini Cake is a masterpiece, crafted with the finest ingredients and a dash of love. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual get-together, a birthday celebration, or simply a treat to brighten your day. The bakery's dedication to excellence is evident in every moist, flavorful bite.

Variety and Creativity

One of the standout features of BTW Bakery's Mini Cakes is the variety. Each mini cake is a testament to the bakery's creativity and passion for baking. From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous combinations like lemon raspberry and caramel pecan, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Perfect for Sharing

Mini Cakes from BTW Bakery are not just a treat for yourself but also perfect for sharing. Their petite size makes them ideal for creating a dessert platter that will impress your guests. Plus, with their beautifully decorated designs, they add an elegant touch to any event.

A Commitment to Quality

BTW Bakery takes pride in using only the best ingredients. This commitment to quality ensures that every Mini Cake is as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you're a long-time fan of the bakery or a first-time visitor, you'll appreciate the care and attention that goes into each creation.

Visit BTW Bakery Today

If you're ready to indulge in some of the best Mini Cakes around, visit BTW Bakery today. Their friendly staff will help you choose the perfect selection of treats to suit your taste. For more information and to see their full range of offerings, check out their website at BTW Bakery.

In the world of desserts, BTW Bakery's Mini Cakes are a standout choice. Treat yourself to these delightful confections and experience the joy that comes from biting into a perfectly crafted mini cake.

MINI CAKES

By The Way Bakery
We got these Mini Cakes as a special treat

Adorable individual size cakes are the talk of the town

  • Amy Cake... a delightful little bundt cake with sprinkles inside and out
  • Apple Cake... its spiral shape gives it a donut-like crust
  • Carrot Bundtlette... a seasonal favorite with a delectable white glaze
  • Lemon Poppy? a classic combination with a tender crumb
  • ?The Schnibbles- an over-the-top Devil?s food chocolate chip bundtlette
  • Whoopie Pie... creamy filling sandwiched between two chocolatey cake-like cookies

 

Neighbor Tree Removal

Inspired by the beautiful sky last week, I grabbed my GoPro Hero 9 to capture a time-lapse as our neighbors had some trees removed. The compressed video condensed the felling and shredding of two trees into a short, captivating sequence. The vibrant colors of the sky added a unique backdrop to the powerful act of transforming the trees into mulch.

GoPro Timelapse Stats

Resolution: 1080p
Lens: Linear
Format: Video
Interval: 0.5s
Schedule Capture: Off
Duration: No Limit
Timer: Off
Zoom: 1.0x
Bit Rate: Standard
EV Comp: 0
White Balance: Auto
ISO Min: 100
ISO Max: 1600
Sharpness: High
Color: GoPro

 

Sports Clips Haircut

Sport Clip Northborough

This past weekend, I was thinking of getting a haircut at a popular barber shop, Sport Clips. This national chain offers excellent haircuts with an MVP service that includes a haircut, steamed towel, massaging hair shampoo, and neck & shoulder treatment.

I've had a couple of haircuts here and have always been satisfied.

On Saturday, I opened my Sport Clips app to check the wait time at the nearby location. I was surprised to receive this notification about 20 minutes after the store opened:

Sport Clips Haircuts
Yup 5 house and 53 minutes.

From personal experience, I know that the wait time is quite accurate. Even if you go to the shop, you don't bypass the line. While some users may "drop off" the list, the 5-hour wait is about right.

The lesson here is that the best time to go is on a weekday. In the future, it probably pays to sign up early in the app, likely before the store opens.

On the average day, the wait can be up to 90-mins in this particular location. Other locations have about a 60-minute wait.

 

Color Kit

When it comes to design, color is one of the most critical elements that can make or break a project. Whether you're working on a website, a logo, or any other creative endeavor, understanding and effectively using colors can elevate your work to new heights. One tool that can help you master the art of color is ColorKit's Shades and Tints Tool.

What is ColorKit's Shades and Tints Tool?

ColorKit's Shades and Tints Tool is an online application that allows you to generate various shades and tints of any given color. This tool is perfect for designers, artists, and anyone interested in exploring the full potential of colors in their projects.

  • Shades are created by adding black to a color, making it darker.
  • Tints are created by adding white to a color, making it lighter.

Using this tool, you can easily create a color palette that ranges from the lightest tint to the darkest shade of your chosen color, giving you a comprehensive spectrum to work with.

Website Description

ABOUT COLOR BLENDING
Color Blender generates color scales by mixing the shades between two colors. Enter a start and end color, and choose the number of blend steps, to reveal the stepped gradient.

ABOUT SHADES & TINTS
Shades are a color's mixture with black, and tints are its mixture with white. Enter a base color, and choose the number of steps, to generate the set of shades and tints.

Color Kit
https://colorkit.io/

 

Amadine General Review

This week, I decided to revisit Amadine. I last looked at it back in 2019 when it was still in beta. You can read the Amadine Beta Review from February 1, 2019.

Amadine has a very simple interface that makes it easy to create vector images. If you need to make a quick vector, Amadine is the way to go.

Amadine Review

Eight Things I Learned

  1. EPS is not supported on macOS 14 Sonoma and later.
    You can't import or drag and drop any EPS image. However, you can convert the EPS image to SVG format and open it in Amadine.

  2. Clipboard Image Format
    When you select and copy an image, the images on the clipboard are in PNG format. You can paste the image into any other app, maintaining the transparent format.

  3. Export Formats
    Amadine export formats include: SVG, EPS, PDF, TIFF, PNG, and JPG.

  4. Icon Libraries
    Amadine includes 18 icon libraries: Basic Shapes, Animals, Architecture, Arrows, Doodles, Flora, Food, Hand-drawn, Leisure, Medicine, Music, People, Science, Simple Icons, Stains, Stars, Symbols, and Transport. My personal favorite is the Doodles library.

  5. Creating Custom Libraries
    You can add your own library by creating a new library using the Library Panel. Select an object on the canvas, then return to the library, right-click, and select "Add Object." If you have multiple objects selected, you may want to group them before adding them to your library.

  6. Importing Libraries
    You can import libraries, but they must be in the *.amdl file format, which you get when you export a library. The export/import functionality is a useful way to share libraries between users.

  7. Access to Image Resources
    Amadine has access to Pexels, Pixabay, and Unsplash. While other graphic software programs have stopped supporting Unsplash, you can still access it in Amadine.

  8. Clipping Masks and Image Fill
    Amadine has excellent support for clipping masks, but in some cases, the image fill is easier to manage. Simply select an object, add a fill property, click on the color, and then select the image tab.

In Summary

Amadine is a great application, and its simple interface makes it practical for everyday use. I highly recommend exploring the application to understand how it works.

Starting next week, I'll be blogging weekly about cool things you can do with Amadine. Be sure to check out this new series and see how this application can become a part of your macOS dock.

 

FontScan

Font Scan was a way to generate a reference page of all the fonts you had on your computer. This was a great way to easily pick the best font that works for your project.

I have multiple copies of the FontScan application, I guess I found the utility to be very useful for my needs.

Today FontDoc does the same thing, a bit quicker and has a lot more customizations.

Font Scan Dialog2
Dialog Box to select the fonts. (Remember the UI for System 9? )

Font Scan Font Display
Sample Output.

Font Scan Description

Check out the description by the developer. Also check out some of the terminology from 1994:

FontScan
by Peter J. Welch 1994

No more guessing what each of your fonts looks like when printed! FontScan is a program that will scan all of the fonts that you have installed in your System Folder and display an example of each. The display generated by FontScan can then be printed on any Macintosh or PostScript compatible printer or laser writer.

CAPABILITIES: FontScan can handle up to 500 bitmapped, TrueType or Type I PostScript font families and is completely compatible with the Adobe Type Manager (ATM). FontScan requires System 7.0 or higher and will work perfectly fine (albeit a little slower) when running in the bunds background.

RUNNING FontScan: When you run FontScan, you have the option of either displaying ALL of your installed fonts -OR- you can pick and choose from the list. More than one font can be chosen from this list by holding down the SHIFT key while making your selections. Shift-clicking on an already selected font will de-select it. You can also open font suitcases which are not currently installed in your system folder. Therefore, do not throw out FontScan after you've used it once because it will come in very handy when you obtain new fonts. You are also allowed to pick the point size of the font(s) to be displayed, which can be any value between 1 point and 72 point text. Finally, by selecting Options... in the Other menu, you can specify which string FontScan will use when displaying the fonts and whether music will be played when 39.11 the fonts are displayed.

OUTPUT: If you have the Adobe Type Manager (ATM) installed, make sure your font cache is set to at least 256K. If you are printing on a laser writer, select Page Setup... from the File menu, uncheck the "Font Substitution" box, click on the Options button and check the "Unlimited Downloadable Fonts" box. This will ensure proper display of your fonts. Please note that when you display or print a Type I font which is not installed in your system (i.e. by opening a particular suitcase), it cannot take advantage of ATM and therefore may appear a bit jagged. To remedy this problem, move the font and printer font files into your Fonts folder in your System folder. Finally, be aware that not all fonts (even the commercial ones) contain a complete character set. If no character is available for a particular key, FontScan will display tris either a blank space.

ERRORS: The most common errors associated with displaying a large number of fonts in one document is running out of memory, either your computer's RAM or the memory in the printer (if it has any). These often appear as "PostScript", "VM" or "Type 25" errors. If this occurs, make sure there are no other applications running at the same time and try quitting FontScan as soon as you've sent the output to the printer. If this isn't enough, and you can't afford to buy more RAM, try scanning just half of your installed fonts, print them, and then run the other half through FontScan.

SHAREWARE NOTICE: lam a starving graduate student and ask you to please support the Shareware policy by sending just $5.00 to me if you use this program. Please feel free to distribute FontScan as long as it is unaltered and this READ ME file is associated with it. Any comments, bugs or suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

Display Month Name

Boost your typing efficiency with Keyboard Maestro! No more wasting time spelling out month names. This handy macro automatically inserts the current month's full name whenever you activate it.

Here's my Display Month Name Macro:

K M Display Month

Four Things To Note:

In this Macro, I use multiple shortcuts to execute the same Macro. 1 through 12 -> I type in the m. and then the month that I want to display and then a space.

The Macro set the Trigger value (m.6) to a variable, then GREP the Trigger name for the month. So I just get the number.

Then I use UNIX date/time command to get the full month name. (You may notice that 2017 in the year, that doesn't matter.)

The resulting text is typed out.

Display Month Detail

In Summary

I can easily change the month name format by changing the last command and it will impact all the macro shortcuts - no need to repeat the tast multiple time.

Keyboard Maestro offers a wide range of automation tools to streamline your workflow. This is just a small example of its capabilities. Explore Keyboard Maestro to discover how it can save you time and effort on repetitive tasks.

 

Bazille at Nordstrom (Natick Mall)

Looking for a break from the typical mall food court scene, we recently visited Bazille in Nordstrom at the Natick Mall. Located conveniently on the second floor near the elevators, it offered a perfect pitstop for a late lunch.

The restaurant itself was clean and quiet, a welcome change from the usual mall chaos. It boasted a variety of options, including gluten-free choices, which was ideal for my daughter with a gluten allergy.

Gluten Free Bazille Natick
Gluten Free Pizza

Gluten-Free Pizza: Crust Shines, Sauce Disappoints

My daughter opted for the gluten-free Margherita pizza. We informed the waitress about her allergy, and she took note of it. Service was prompt, and the food arrived quickly.

The pizza's crust received high marks for being delicious. However, a lack of sauce rendered it dry. This unfortunately meant she couldn't finish the pizza and had no desire for leftovers.

Price Point: Consider the Value

While the overall experience was positive, the cost was a factor. At $21.75, the gluten-free pizza was quite expensive, especially considering it was a single serving.

Final Verdict: Nice Ambiance, Room for Improvement on Pizza

Bazille offers a peaceful and clean environment for a relaxing lunch or dinner at the Natick Mall. While the service was good, the gluten-free pizza could be improved with a more generous amount of sauce. Be sure to factor in the price point when making your decision.

Bazille Menu
Bazelle Menu Listing the Gluten Free Pizza

 

Trending YouTube Shorts

Are you looking to create content that captures the pulse of what's trending? YouTube Shorts is a bustling hub for bite-sized videos that pack a punch, and staying on top of the trends can give your content that extra edge. Let's dive into what's making waves on YouTube Shorts and how you can leverage these trends for your channel.

Google Live #Short Trends

Trending Shorts
https://www.youtube.com/feed/trending

Google has a site where you can see the latest trends.

Understanding the Trending Sounds

Music is the heartbeat of many viral Shorts. Trending sounds often become the backbone of popular content, with creators crafting videos that ride the popularity of these audio snippets. A recent tutorial by Robert Benjamin highlights the importance of selecting trending sounds that have over 100,000 shorts made to them. This not only increases the chances of your content being discovered but also aligns your creation with what viewers are currently enjoying.

Top Viewed Content Categories

The variety of content on YouTube Shorts is as diverse as its creators. From comedy sketches and sports highlights to music covers and art showcases, there's a niche for every interest. Chuff Reacts' video commentary on the top 25 most viewed YouTube Shorts reveals a mix of genres, indicating that there's room for every type of creator to shine.

Trending Music Tracks

Music tracks are a surefire way to get your Shorts noticed. TOP MUSIC's compilation of the top 20 trending YouTube Shorts songs for 2023 provides a playlist of hits that are currently in vogue. Incorporating these tracks into your Shorts can help your content resonate with viewers who are already searching for these tunes.

Crafting Your Content

Now that you're armed with knowledge about trending sounds and topics, it's time to create your Shorts. Remember to: - Choose a catchy title that piques interest and includes relevant keywords. - Design a thumbnail that stands out and encourages clicks. - Aim for high watch time by keeping your content engaging with quick transitions, captions, and a clear storyline. - Stay consistent and patient. Virality often comes from a catalog of content rather than a single hit.

Conclusion

Trends come and go, but the key to success on YouTube Shorts lies in creating content that's true to your style while tapping into the zeitgeist. Keep experimenting with different sounds, topics, and formats to find what works best for you and your audience. Happy creating!

 

A Guide To Choosing The Right SEO Company For Your Small Business

pexels-kindelmedia-7688460

93% of online experiences begin with a search. Mastering search engine optimization (SEO) is therefore key if you want to improve the online visibility of your small business, and drive traffic, sales, and revenue. Although SEO has the power to transform your bottom line, a poorly-executed strategy can also harm trust and credibility with consumers. That's why it's so important to work with a trustworthy SEO agency who can make your campaign a success. But with so many agencies out there all promising incredible results, how do you know who to go with? By clarifying your goals, looking for specialists, and checking they're honest and communicative, you'll be able to find the right match for your business.

Get clear on your goals

Before you look for SEO agencies, first get clear on your business goals. For example, do you want to improve your online visibility? Build domain authority? Or boost sales from organic traffic? Your specific goals will ultimately guide the type of SEO services you need. So, for instance, if you want to increase organic traffic, you'll likely be interested in keyword research and optimization services. Or, if you want to improve your domain authority, you may need off-page SEO services that include getting quality backlinks for your website. Having a clear idea of your goals and needs will make it easier for you to filter out agencies that aren't a good fit. You'll also be better positioned to give potential agencies a concise summary of what you're after, which means you're more likely to get accurate quotes and proposals.

Look for specialists

Although you may be tempted to go with an agency that appears to do it all, you'll likely get better results with an agency that specializes in the services you're after. So, for example, if you need to strengthen your domain authority and organic search rankings, find agencies that specialize in white-hat link-building services. Or, if your website structure and on-page SEO needs to be tweaked, look for agencies experienced in technical SEO. You can also focus on B2B SEO agencies if your business needs to reach other businesses, and not individual consumers.

That said, it's best to go with an agency that has some flexibility and specializes in more than one area. So, that way if you need to branch out into another SEO strategy, the agency will be able to handle it no problem. You're therefore saved from the hassle of having to hire multiple agencies at once.

Are they good communicators?

Shockingly, 70% of business relationships ultimately fail, with personality clashes often a prime reason. By checking potential agencies align with your values, attitude, and preferred communication style, you'll increase the chances of a successful partnership in the long-term. Your chosen agency should be responsive, open, and honest. This type of partner is more likely to generate a positive return on your investment than one who doesn't communicate and keeps you in the dark. So, ask the agency how often they'll communicate with you. Which performance metrics will they monitor? How exactly will they report the results? In particular, a good agency should report site performance and keyword position changes on a monthly basis ? whether good or bad, so you get the whole picture. They should also provide you with clear and realistic goals, timeframes, and deliverables that let you know the results you can expect and when. A good agency will also keep you updated with any strategy changes made.

It's also useful to get references from businesses who previously worked with the agency. Ideally, find three of the agency's previous clients, and ask them about their experience. You want to find out whether their goals and milestones were met, as well as how the agency was to work with on an everyday basis. Were they good communicators? Were they committed to the project? Was the client made to feel like a priority? Although website testimonials can be a good indicator of these things, they tend to only show the most successful cases. References from average clients can give you a more realistic idea of what to expect.

Choosing the right SEO agency can help you achieve your marketing goals. By finding the right agency for your needs, you'll successfully improve your online presence and give your business a competitive edge.

 

KickassApp

Are you ever frustrated with a website to the point where you wish you could just blast it away? Well, now there's a playful solution to your digital vexations: KickassApp.

What is KickassApp? KickassApp is an interactive browser game that allows users to destroy website elements in an Asteroids-style arcade game. It's a novel way to relieve stress or simply pass the time when you're bored online.

How Does It Work? Using KickassApp is straightforward. You visit the website, drag the Kickass button to your bookmarks bar, and click it whenever you want to start the game. Once activated, your cursor turns into a crosshair, and you can click to shoot at different parts of any website, watching them disintegrate into pixels.

Website Description

Fun game of destroying live websites using a arcade-game like ship.

Kick Ass App
https://kickassapp.com/

 

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