Hello everyone. I’m a 23 year old Male seeking any and all advice on how to keep my health a secret from the United States Government.
I want to join the U.S. Air Force. I have since I was 8. I have been an Army brat my whole life and I got an 82 on the ASVAB & was on the right path to do that and I suddenly was bitten by a tick. It turned my life upside down. The amount of fatigue and joint pain I feel on a daily basis is borderline crippling but I still want to serve my country. I genuinely wouldn’t be happier doing anything else but I legitimately cannot run because of my pain. I can endure it but not for long. I want to go to the doctor but I don’t want the Air Force to get their hands on the records because it would almost certainly permanently disqualify me.
Please keep in mind that when you join the U.S. Military, you have to sign over any and all medical documents which will confirm or deny any information you’ve given your recruiter, hence me not reporting joint pain would most likely come up in a medical document review especially with the U.S. Government’s new Genesis system which is designed to scour almost every health providers system for your name or other individual markers like your SSN or your birthdate etc.
Getting this procedure done in the proper channels will likely end up with me getting caught in the long run. On the other hand not getting seen by a doctor is genuinely painful and won’t allow me enough time to train my legs after an extensive physical therapy period. A constant above moderate 7 pain in both legs. As it stands now, I certainly couldn’t run 26 minutes without serious physical repercussions (yes you run that far in Air Force Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio Lackland Air Force Base to train for the 1.5 mile run which is 60% of yo overall PT Score.)
This illness has seriously affected my quality of life. I want nothing more than to find a cure or any kind of relief so I can be the man I always wanted to be: A U.S. Airman.
Im under the impression I need an MRI to scan the tissues on my leg as the pain is centralized mostly around the lower part of my thigh right above my knee. I believe most people refer to it as quadriceps tendonitis but I’m no doctor. That’s just what I’ve been able to gather from the internet over the last 3 years. At home treatments for Quadriceps Tendonitis have yield no results in minimizing my pain. I need help but I don’t want it to affect my future. I wouldn’t be happy in another career field. I genuinely don’t know what I’d do if I had to be a civilian. No disrespect to civilians of course.
Please help me. Anything. If you can suggest a doctor anywhere in the Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma Arkansas area that would do an MRI off the books for some extra cash please let me know or if there’s some way I can lie about my name and not go to jail that’s be awesome too.
I can’t begin to tell you how much it would mean to me if I was to get any kind of relief and fulfill my dream. Yes, before anyone gets all uppity about it I’m aware that lying to the federal government is a crime however plenty of patriots join every year despite the risk. Please afford me the opportunity to do the same. Aim High.
TL;DR: I need to get an MRI done as soon as possible to get my joints looked at and take any preventative measures possible to reverse or stop and degeneration I have as well as combat any tick-borne illnesses without it being on my permanent medical record. Please help me. Thank you in advance for your replies 🇺🇸

I've been around for several changes to the spawn zones, and noticed that each time the devs shake it up, the playerbase quickly recalibrates and settles on a new hot spot. I started to wonder why this happens, and I think it may be something to do with the intersection of diet incentives, player psychology, and map size.
First I looked inward, and asked myself why I choose south plains or east plains versus other spawn points. My rationale is as follows;
Remote or uncommon spawns make survival uncertain, since the likelihood of getting perfect diet or even finding AI is low. Hot spot spawns like E/S plains are way more likely to provide me a perfect diet and fast start, since they are constantly littered with bodies from the PvP which results from player density.
Because of this logic, most players quite reasonably spawn at the point they perceive as most populous. The pursuit of diet and the immense effect that diet has on growth time incentivizes clustering, no matter how many times devs reshuffle or delete zones.
The second half of this is the size of Gateway. I find Gateway quite beautiful, and I appreciate the updates and developments it has seen. That being said, its scale seems incommensurate with the number of players on a server. It's entirely possible to play a whole session without encountering another player, all while the server is at max capacity (particularly if you choose unpopular spawns). This sparsity means that players can't really "afford" to gamble on a start without guaranteed players.
The opportunity cost of a "bad spawn" is really quite high. It means that you are almost certainly robbing yourself of interesting player interactions, as well as slowing your growth to a crawl by foregoing optimal diet. The amount of time it takes to cross the map makes regular migration less appealing than chilling around a hot spot. If it only took a few minutes to transition from one area to another, I would imagine that players wouldn't mind venturing away from tried and true areas.
Other than fundamental reworks to map size and the way diet works, here are some other ideas which could be more quickly implemented. These are just random thoughts meant to spur discussion, they could end up being bad.

• More sources of potable water, even small ones scattered around. A lot of the map at the moment feels fundamentally inhospitable due to not having fresh water nearby. There is a balance to be struck here though so that deino players still have a chance to catch prey.
  
• Fully randomizing spawns, or making each spawn zone much more broad. This is a spicy one but I would be interested in the results. If players had no say in their start location, similar to DayZ, it could in theory promote a more even spread of activity across the map.
  
• Penalties for overpopulation. Another potentially annoying change, but this is something which efficiently regulates ecosystems in real life, so maybe it could be worth trying. I imagine a small penalty like -10% to growth if a certain player density is reached. Nothing catastrophic but enough to nudge people to spread out.
  

I'm interested in other takes, I am fairly new and have only played on Gateway so I haven't experienced the way players behaved on differently designed maps.
TLDR: Gateway is too big and the diet system is too consequential for players to risk going anywhere but a hotspot. No matter what devs do to spawns, the most logical course of action is for players to cluster.

Hey y'all. Possibly dipping my toe into 40k on account of the homies. Looking to see if this list for 1k is a good starting point? I wanted to keep it more squad based and have the big heavy as support.
Solid image projection to be able to re deploy. Some Drones to give more range and viability. Lots of squads for board mobility
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

• FACTION KEYWORD: Xenos - T'au Empire
  
• DETACHMENT: Kauyon
  
• TOTAL ARMY POINTS: 1000pts
  

+

• WARLORD: Char3: Commander Shadowsun
  
• ENHANCEMENT: Exemplar of the Kauyon (on Char1: Cadre Fireblade)
  

& Exemplar of the Kauyon (on Char1: Cadre Fireblade)
& Solid-image Projection Unit (on Char2: Cadre Fireblade)
& Solid-image Projection Unit (on Char2: Cadre Fireblade)

• NUMBER OF UNITS: 8
  
• SECONDARY: - Bring It Down: 1x5 - Assassination: 3 Characters
  

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Char1: 1x Cadre Fireblade (70 pts): Close combat weapon, Fireblade pulse rifle, 2x Twin pulse carbine
Enhancement: Exemplar of the Kauyon (+20 pts)
Char2: 1x Cadre Fireblade (80 pts): Close combat weapon, Fireblade pulse rifle, 2x Twin pulse carbine
Enhancement: Solid-image Projection Unit (+30 pts)
Char3: 1x Commander Shadowsun (100 pts): Warlord, Battlesuit fists, Flechette launcher, 2x High-energy fusion blaster, Light missile pod, Pulse pistol
10x Breacher Team (100 pts): Support turret
• 1x Breacher Fire Warrior Shas'ui: Close combat weapon, Pulse blaster, Pulse pistol, Twin pulse carbine
• 9x Breacher Fire Warriors: 9 with Close combat weapon, Pulse blaster, Pulse pistol
10x Breacher Team (100 pts): Support turret
• 1x Breacher Fire Warrior Shas'ui: Shield Drone, Close combat weapon, Pulse blaster, Pulse pistol, Twin pulse carbine
• 9x Breacher Fire Warriors: 9 with Close combat weapon, Pulse blaster, Pulse pistol
10x Pathfinder Team (90 pts)
• 9x Pathfinders
6 with Close combat weapon, Pulse carbine, Pulse pistol
3 with Close combat weapon, Ion rifle, Pulse pistol
• 1x Pathfinder Shas'ui: Close combat weapon, Pulse carbine, Pulse pistol, Semi-automatic grenade launcher
3x Stealth Battlesuits (60 pts)
• 2x Stealth Shas'ui
1 with Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon
1 with Battlesuit fists, Fusion blaster
• 1x Stealth Shas'vre: Homing beacon, Marker Drone, Battlesuit fists, Burst cannon, Twin pulse carbine
1x Stormsurge (400 pts): Cluster rocket system, Destroyer missiles, Thunderous footfalls, 2x Twin smart missile system, Pulse blast cannon, Twin burst cannon

Blachowicz here.
Kept yah’ waiting, huh? Heh, sorry about that one, but I can explain. As we all know… we lost a few good men the last few months.
That’s the brutal part of a hybrid war like ours: We’re fighting a foe unconventional, with half our arsenal tied down because those who grant us authorization are either in disbelief of the true facts, or scared… or already assimilated. That being said our momentum recently was a change not seen in years, and because of that… despite the losses we have garnered, we were close through a breakthrough. One last night Krol pulls myself and other two must trusted squad leads into the back of our COP. There is one of our equipment cages, surrounded by m-bitter radios, tripods, and several hundred thousand dollars of equipment he brought us around a simple worn table. Before us he laid a map of eastern poland… red markings indicating cells that seemed to dot the countryside like a pestilence, or used to… as deep gashes of advance from raids had trisected their lines, even if ones did pop up in the interior.
It was a back and forth; an outside virus infecting Polska at it’s heart, and we were the antibodies sent to drive them out. To which… Major Krol points to one of the largest symbol on the map: a dark red diamond, the NATO symbol for an enemy unit, deep inside of an untouched wooded area, adjacent to a mountain ridge. Several jagged lines indicated entrenchment, with red horizontal lines indicating possible enemy control… or our contested control, for over 20kms surrounding it. Letting us all look, the Major lit himself a cigarette.
“Sir, you sure it’s wise to smoke in here with the dive tanks just behind us” 1st Squad’s lead quipped. “Fuck off” Krol dryly said.
“Alright… this is it… this is the one we’ve been searching for for years, this is the nucleus my predecessor commander died trying to find” he says, pointing to it. Not far from Zamosc, it was almost touching the border with Belarus, the contested area indicating the Strigoi did operate over it… indicating one of the largest spill through points. “-It’s an old soviet bunker, made during their 1960s initiative it was designed to hold the munitions and manpower of several units in the event of a NATO first strike” Krol explained. “It’s gotta be massive then…” I said gazing at the map; “Didn’t the army demolish all of the old soviet hulks near Belarus to prevent any infiltrations?” 3rd Squad’s lead asked. “National Police took the effort over… and by extension, the Strigoi. It was halfway demo’ed before they burrowed into it and have been using it as a bridgehead ever since. This is it…” Krol said. He looked around at all of us, a sense of certainty I had never seen before as he blew smoke from his nostrils; “We’ve been fucking around in the dark for so long, it’s hard to believe we’ve made any progress, but this is it. With this gone, this will set them back over a decade and the momentum will finally shift into our favor… into Poland’s… -Europe’s”.
I swear there was almost a flash of joy, of pride in his eyes and a phantom of a smirk before reality set back in “That being said… we can’t leave this to chance, especially not something as important as this. We’re going to have to go there ourselves… clear through every inch of that place, and tear it all down, piece by piece. I will be straight with you all… when we go, there will be some of us that aren’t coming back. -but we are going… a whole generation is counting on us, and unborn billions rely on us to succeed”. We all nodded, a silent agreement washing over us as we took this upon ourselves. Echo-1 spoke up: “So… They’re authorizing a raid? How big?”. “We’re rolling in as a hard target, armor, explosives, and air support” Krol answered, taking a drag off his cigarette. “Aviation? How the hell did we get that approved, we’ve gotten attempts shot down four times due to those leeches” I said in disbelief. “There’s too much evidence here pointing to the human trafficking tied to their actions… We’ve finally got too much weight pinning them down, to keep the hammer from slamming into their necks” Krol chuckled. He looked around “Any questions?”. “When?” Echo-3 asked. “Three hours. We’re hitting them in the dead of night, only time we could get the birds authorized. Get your boys ready. We’re rolling out” Krol said, dying the cigarette bud out on the table. I can’t begin to tell you the euphoria we felt leaving that cage, as our men started arriving, they did so a lot quicker, and with their heads a lot higher than they had in weeks. As Second Squad’s lead we were going to be one of the main arms of attack into the bunker, thus I made sure we had a breacher loaded with enough thermite, charges, and tools to cut through anything. Our shield bearer we ready to go, as was our assaulters, grenadiers, and machine gunner. I double checked each and everyone of their weapons; ensuring the feeder paws of our squad’s belt fed were intact, making sure every breach charge we had was properly set and packed. There was going to be no mistakes, no slip ups. The margin of error needed to be the smallest it had ever been for us tonight if we were going to make the gore spilt worth it.
Finally… there on the outside of the building, the bright LED lights kept the darkness of the ensuing night at bay as the roar of our MRAPs could be heard. It was said once that war is 99% peace, and 1% chaos, they were right. The slow periods where the blood slowed and the doubt creeped in was the worst… yet we all kept it at bay. We needed to, there was going to be no backing down tonight. All three squads were up, all of us ready to go… we circled up… short stares and shaky nods telling us one things: We were in this together, till the end… the finish line so many before us had been searching for, we were being granted tonight.
A single set of footsteps could be heard as we turned, Major Krol stepping into the center. He took the last drag of a cigarette, throwing it down to the ground and stamping it out onto the damp concrete. He looked around… his chin strap blowing in the weak air as he met everyone of our gazes… then mine… then looked around. “I want you to remember every detail of tonight, as you have every other night… when you are situationally aware, scanning for the enemy, liberating the subjugated, I want you to remember the sting of anxiety, the shake of adrenaline, the chill of the bunker, the heat of your weapon as it cuts them down… because tonight we are going to write every fine detail of our victory, their defeat, in history…” Krol’s words echoed deep into our souls. He paused for a moment, staring around he looked down… a small pause before he said “When you are ruthless in combat, remember to be patient, and reserved in victory. This conflict is for our existence… a lot of innocents have bled due to the mistakes of those who failed to listen, a lot of our brothers are now laid under because we had to bridge the gap of uncertainty with their lives. We remember them now… but in an hour? We forget them… when we raise our barrels, when we cut into those foes, and we liberate Polska!! This does not end tonight, but history puts everything in it’s place, and patience is the companion of the victor… All of our hard work will be cemented, no matter the obstacles we face in that darkness… no matter the demons, the blood, no matter what incomprehensible horrors, we will make them comprehend that to invade our land, to bleed our people, the justice will be paid in full… Load up. It’s time*”*.
The purpose in our steps was heavy as we climbed the back ramps of the MRAPS; Four of the heavily armored vehicles, one for each squad with an additional for attached personnel including our JTAC, the term means Joint Terminal Attack Controllers. With air support requisitioned to us for this operations, there needs to be a definite liaison on the ground who can directly communicate to the birds, and coordinate their fire and progress. I’d worked with many of them in the past, resourceful guys, quick thinking though I guess that comes with the position they hold of needing to quickly figure out what bombs to drop, on which target, at what precise points, whilst taking contact. He loaded in the lead vehicle with Major Krol… and soon, our convoy kicked off.
The drive was several hours as myself and my squad sat in the back of that forty ton goliath, the rumbling of the engine keeping us awake as the crap heater fought to keep the cold from the outside frost from setting in. I looked around to each of them, some were catching some sleep because even with the circumstances… better to get all the energy you can, than to stay awake for nothing. Others were checking their weapons… My gunner locked eyes with me, the same one from the village extraction… many of these men I had trained with for a while now, fought with for months.
We may have met on unconventional circumstances but those in JW Grom thrive on austere chance and create opportunity from scratch. I was pulled from my thought by the sound of a transmission, my peltors were set up for dual comms so I could both receive information from the Major and other leads, whilst communicating with my team.
Krol himself sent out: [“Approximately 10 minutes from enemy AO…”]. As the rest of the squads acknowledged, I quickly sent out [“Echo-2 Copies”], before kicking the boots of any of them sleeping: “Look alive, we’re here”. Through the exterior net armor of the MRAPS, and the bars protecting the small reinforced windows, we could barely see jack shit. I reached up, turning off the overhead light as we all looked through our nods to scan the outside. A dark wall of dense trees was shown before us, making it difficult to see… in addition to night vision capabilities we had also requisitioned ourselves some thermals… when mounted onto rifles they were bulky, made it a pain to aim down quickly, but considering the supernatural capabilities of spotting our foes we needed every advantage necessary.
I flipped out one of my tubes… scanning the outside with my scope. I looked over to one of my assaulters who had been assigned to man the turret of the MRAP, seated near the view screen as he controlled the 50. Cal. Each of the vehicle turrets had been assigned a direction to cover… we took the 9 o’clock, the left flank. “See anything?” I asked. He shook his head; “Negative… wait… I’ve got two cold signatures, front left heading to our rear”.
I quickly scanned the far tree line, at approximately 60 meters off our left were two cold signatures… followed by a third heading to our front… then another. They were surrounding us, moving at speeds so fast I could barely keep my reticle on them. Is this what the National Police saw? What they faced at that lodge without the benefit of a foot of heavy armor protecting them on all sides. Then… suddenly. Something slammed into the side of our MRAP so hard, it caused it to shake. From over the leader comms, Echo-3 quickly shouted [“Contact right!! 4 hostiles!!”].
One of the Strigoi… so bold, had charged and slammed into the side of our MRAP. I quickly looked to see the figure, a dark blue mass of cold energy through my thermal, back away without so much as a stagger… as they tried to flee into the woods, the white hot justice of Echo-3’s gun fired at them, cutting them down. “Blachowicz I’ve got a few breaking for our vic” my man on the turret called out, I spun around, spotting out the window.
Just then, Major Krol announced [“weapons free, watch and shoot for targets of opportunity…”]. I turned to him… “take those fuckers out-”. Without hesitation my vic’s turret began to quickly target them, and through the darkness I saw a stream of outgoing fire bisect one of them, the ISR of the black blood freaking out the optic so badly it didn’t know what temperature to register it as… but it did register it. As another was cut down, one broke through the tree line and latched onto the side of our MRAP. The thing tore at one of the outer net armor panels, usually made to stop RPGs. It grabbed at the bars near the windows, tearing one off… I lowered my rifle as we locked eyes through the reinforced window.
The thing… the Strigoi looked at me, skin cracked as putrefied muscle fibers seemed to leak through dead flesh. It’s teeth were corroded and worn down to sharp fragments, alongside newly mutated fangs that messily protrude from the jaws. Even through the thick walls of the MRAP I could hear it’s roar, as it then tried to punch it’s way through… it cracked the outer coating of the vehicle… but it wasn’t getting anywhere near. My machine gunner, seated next to me, seemed to chuckle at the sight, quippily saying “Yeah… fuck you too”. It’s then our vehicle lurched upwards, as we began to climb the small incline of the bunker. I knew the layout, mapped it in our head, the main entrance was built into the rocky side of an old cliff meaning we could easily set up a defensive perimeter around it, a horseshoe. Krol’s vehicle was first, taking to the right as Echo-3’s MRAP followed. My vehicle, third, left the incline and took a left and… that’s where things got complicated.
We’re still trying to work out what happened but… from what Joakim says his drone captured. Right when the MRAP turned, several of the monsters quickly slammed into the side of the vehicle, as another more bulkier one, pushed at it’s undercarriage. The result.. Was the 40 ton armored vehicle tipped over. It wasn’t uncommon, hell in some cases a well placed IED, a good shot with a recoilless rifle, have been known to tip over Oshkoshs and Maxpros all the time. But this beast? Needless to say we barely had a second to comprehend it as it leaned to the left; “Grab on to something-” is all I had time to shout. A mess of gear and men spilled onto one side of the vehicle as it slammed into the old gravel and dirt.
Several of my assaulters, my grenadier planted right ontop of myself and the others as we came to a stop. Someone’s knee slammed directly into the side of my skull, causing me to dazily bob in and out of consciousness as my face was smushed against the glass of one of the windows.
Through my peltors, the other squads were erratic;
[“Echo-2’s vehicle is down!!”].
[“Echo-3 to Echo-2… Echo-3 to Echo-2…”].
Krol’s voice came through the comms;
[“Echo-Lead to Echo-2… Fuc-... Echo-1 secure Echo 2’s flank, Echo-3”].
[“Echo-3 to other units, they’re spilling through, I’ve got several enemy combatants converging on Echo-2’s vehicle”].
I pushed the legs of my grenadier off my head as I fought to my hands and knees, unfucking my nods as I looked around… “Fuck it… we’re going lights on, shield your eyes” I muttered as I reached for the overhead lights and flipped them on. The bright LEDs bathed the inside of the vehicle as we all gained our bearings, a mess of multicam, gear, and weapons as we quickly pushed each other off. My gunner caught as he fought to realign his promask, from what I gathered one of the assaulters had landed directly into his gun, pushing it directly into his jugular, as pulled back at the rubber and coughed, freeing up his esophagus. We didn’t have time to think however… the sound of bending metal caught our attention… as the back ramp door of the MRAP was ripped clean off. I could barely believe it but as the white light of the MRAP’s interior poured to the outside, a hulking mass leaned in, the dead flesh on it’s face nearly fallen off as the hideous Strigoi leaned inside.
Without hesitation I aimed took aim, yelling “Keep to the deck!!” to any of those inbetween myself and the invader as I opened fire. A burst of full auto fire tore through it’s collar and neck, my men quickly clung to either sides of the fallen MRAP as a few more fired out. As the thing backed up, a blast of .50 cal fire quickly tore it to shreds, along with several others as I realized they were fuckin swarming over the outside of our vehicle. Echo-3’s vehicle continued to carefully fire on the Strigoi on the outside, the sounds of .50 cal ricocheting off the outside of our armor was enough to make the pucker factor set in.
[“Echo-3 to Echo-2”].
[“This is Echo-2, we’re green on ammo, equipment, men”].
[“Roger, we’re shifting fire, exit the vehicle”].
“Hurry up let’s go!!” I barked to my men, leading the way as I staggered out. I turned on my peq, taking aim at silhouettes in the brush as I began to fire. The sounds of machine guns lighting up the brush, as a sea of growls, howls, and incomprehensible roars fired back at us was the ambient noise of the night. My men quickly exited, my gunner being the last as he and I pulled back to the rest of the defensive perimeter. I set in my men to take up the frontal security, as 3rd squad took the right flank, 1st squad to the left. Major Krol and the JTAC were bickering with each other; “How far out are the birds”. “They’re entering airspace now…” Joakim said, already scanning his smart book.
I asked “What’ve we got?”. He then flipped through… to the NATO combined arms segment, quippily saying; “Apaches…”. This caused me to pause as Echo-3 turned their head whilst directing their squad’s fire “The hell… where did we get apaches from?”. “The Americans… they volunteered” Krol said dismissively as he took aim at the darkness, firing off a controlled trio. “Volunteered? They’re aware of what’s going on?” I asked.
Krol seemed to stop, glancing back at me before returning his focus “There’s a lot more going on than you realize, Blachowicz… Prep the breach, you and 1st are going on”.
I quickly pulled my breacher off the line, securing some thermite as the reinforced bunker door wasn’t going to go as easily as a conventional door breach would. 1st Squad pulled back, stacking up and preparing themselves to be the first in. All the while… Joakim gave his firing solution; “Alpha Hotel Two Five Nine, This is Bravo-4…… Type 2….”.
I snapped to my right, watching as a Strigoi managed to dark across the clear gravel field, only to be cut down by my gunner, the peq’s laser marking the burst as it tore through the beasts’ hips, as it hit the ground and still continued to claw, another GROM operator took aim and fired into it’s skull. Joakim popped up to his feet…. “Marking laser, high power…”. He then pulled out a target marking laser… if you’ve watched night operations, you’ve probably seen them.
The green laser than as it says on the label, marks targets. The pattern of which can vary… if it’s a point target, it’ll usually lasso an area, or remain on target until the target is removed with extreme prejudice. If its close air support, then it’ll be a line of the general area… and Joakim damn near marked the entire perimeter around us. He quickly pocketed the tool, turning back to Krol; “Don’t go past 20 meters unless you want to be liquidated”.
With that… 2nd and 1st stacked up at the door as 3rd squad took up the perimeter security. As Major Krol went over to Echo-1… I saw them. A single blinking IR strobe from the beasts as they moved on the far off horizon, converging from several angles… and fired. The sound of the Apache’s main gun, the M230, truly sounds like the hammer of god… the 30mm cannon shot through the dark sky, lighting it up as we saw three incoming streams tear up the woods. Only then as the sound broke did we start to hear their rotors as they broke and began to circle, firing again… then… Joakim dipped his head and looked to Krol; [“Foxtrot Mike, hang onto your teeth…”]. One of the Apaches fired off a AGM-114… a Hellfire. I barely saw it out of the corner of my eye as the Apache from our right flank fired off at a target approximately 200 meters off. A fireball lit up the forest as the horrendous roar echoed throughout… then went silent.
Echo-3 scanned the horizon carefully;
[“Echo-3 to Echo-Lead, enemy contact is starting to die down”].
[“Maintain perimeter, Close Air is to maintain fire mission until we are boots up, Break…”].
[“Echo-Lead to Echo-1, condition white has been met. Proceeds”]. I saw Echo-1 and his men quickly stack up close to the wall and gesture to me; Breaching. I quickly pulled my stack back against the wall as his and mine breacher quickly hit their actuators. Now under normal circumstances, it doesn’t take much for thermite to melt the locks off of a metal surface, in fact it’s a more precise took as alternative means get real medieval like saws, pry bars… we weren’t in the mood for precision, we need to breach their little lair, and drag them out. The sound of several pounds of hellfire burning through the metal could be heard around the corner as a sea of white and red sparks flew out… after several seconds, two of our men tossed a fragmentation grenade and a nine-bang through the opening… a series of concussive blasts and a large explosion rang out.
Echo-1 and his men maneuvered. 1st Squad quickly converged as we followed them in.
Stepping through the black wall of smoke, the dark abyss of the interior was illuminated in a white light as entered barrels raised. Shots rang out as several of the beasts near the entrance were cut down, though not immediately, rounds disconnected the shoulder of one of them, leading to their arm hanging limply by a single tendon as they roared… another series of rounds putting them down. What greeted us was a messy concrete hell of rust and debris, fecal matter, trash, and all kinds of obstacles laid in our way, our boots sticking to the floor. I thank every god we had promasks that night. I called my shield bearer up, 2nd squad leapfrogging ahead to take the next corridor as 1st squad checked their weapons.
One of my men mule kicked the metal door ahead, twice, finally the latch gave away as we tossed in a grenade. A horrifying roar was cut off as an M67 shook the walls of the ancient soviet mausoleum, frag and spall kicked off the walls as I moved in right behind my shield man. The cramped russian design meant there was barely enough space for three people, and that’s three normal people, not in 50kgs of kit, moving slowly and maneuvering against creatures of the dark. Still… we moved forward, my shield bearer and I pushing the pace as two stacked of either squad formed on either wall.
As we passed doorways they flowed in… “Door Left!!”, “Door Right!!”. “Move!!”.
Two men entered each side, no gunshots, we moved up, a roar came.
“Door left!!-”. A series of gunshots came out as we continued to push forward.
“Two down!!”. “Confirm them” Krol commanded, as a series of gunshots run out in response. From one of the doorways, a Strigoi emerged… a female… clumps of hair had been ripped from her decaying skull, as her blooded eyes locked on myself and my shieldman. The skin on her hands had been tore down to the point where barely her bones and tendons remain… looking like huge talons as she roared and lunged at us. He fired off his pistol, though the rounds did little to stop her as she pushed against our stack.
“Fuck!!” he muttered, somehow her strength caused him to stagnate, holding up the advance… fuck that. I shoved the muzzle of my MK18 into her ribcage, flipping the weapon to auto as I fired of round after round. The 5.56 salvo disconnecting her spinal column, causing her to fall as I continued to fire, along with a man to our right and left as the stacks reformed as we pushed to the end of the hall. I fell back, dropping the magazine and loading a fresh one, like clockwork a GROM Operator from 1st squad took my place. Krol was beside me as we approached the end of the hall.
[“-Prep an entry”] I radioed to my breacher, a comrade handed him one of the charges from his back panel as he took to the door, quickly securing it. We all moved as far back as we could, look away, exhale. The blast knocked metal and wood in all directions, scrapping against our uniforms and kit as we made our way in and what laid before us was… it used to be the center atrium of one of these bunkers. Soviet’s loved their grandiose designs, the complex was supposed to be a circular room around a central planning table… instead. It had been turned into some sort of church. Runes and old eastern Romuva pagan symbols written in black ink and blood across the walls, old rotten filing cabinets, long receipt terminals. In the center… several of the Strigoi were kneeling before the table where someone had been tied down, flayed, and… shared amongst the group. They rose to their feet, we aimed our barrels…
The ladder amongst turned to us… his skin wasn’t cracked, or flayed, it was smooth… it still looked dead as the body on the table but it seemed more… accustomed to it. I don’t know… evolved? Under the surface however I could see it’s darkened veins pumping whatever cursed blood ran through them as it locked two blood red eyes onto each of us. It’s nose had long since been turn off, exposing boney nostrils to the open air as it seemed to smirk. All across it’s body were the same symbols on the walls, in every cell… markings of death, of rebirth, of assimilation… From behind this seemingly Alpha emerges another figure I had never seemed before… dressed in a white cloak with a deer head.
"So they've followed the trail... they're too late" the Deer headed individual spoke, definitely not from here, a dialect similar to an Americans but... aristocratic? Each word was drawn out, assurance as if they had everything mapped down to our actions. They didn’t sound like they were from Poland or the east.
“Doesn’t matter…” the Alpha growled… and then, it lunged at us. Quickly breaking from their ground it slammed into my shield man knocking both him and myself at the ground as it displayed an intense feat of strength. Around us I could see several of the Strigoi leap at our comrades… though to no fruitful endeavor as I could see one GROM operator cut two down, as another got into a hand to hand confrontation… my breacher, crafty as they were, reached back and slammed one of the prybars of his kit into the skull of the beast.
The Alpha however was not content as it threw away the 90lb shield, sending it flying across the room as it grabbed my comrade by the skull. I quickly kicked up at it, firing my MK18 into it’s body as the rounds pierced it’s gray and rune covered flesh. The thing simply seemed to chuckle… that was until Major Krol blasted away at the side of it’s head, the alpha turned… and it’s smirk turned to a scowl when face to face with the major. A knowing pause almost like they had done this dance before…
The creature lunged, locking up with Major Krol as it swung and slammed railing. Krol didn’t back down however as he pushed against the creature, hiptossing it to the ground even as it tore at his armor and gear. But the beast pulled, both of them rolled and the Major was on his back as the thing reached for his neck. I fought to a kneel, firing into the creature messily with my MK18, trying not to hit my commander… then…
Click. A sound sends a chill up the spine of every warfighter during a firefight.
My gun ran dry. I dropped the magazine, looking to load another, but the thing came up and with one of it’s claws, sliced deep into my cheek, through the pro mask. I could feel my own blood go flying through the air as I landed hard on my back plate, spitting out red iron as I quickly tried to adjust my mask. Through my fogged up, blood covered lense… I saw my shield man raise his pistol, firing into the skull of the thing staggering it with a roar. Krol came from behind, drawing his knife he sunk it deep into the neck of it…. I reached for my rifle, forcing a new magazine in and damn near punching the bold release. ““Sir, down!!” I shouted, Krol rolled away, back to his own rifle as I fired. So did my comrade as he continued to fire his pistol… so did the Major as he fired his rifle. All of us chewing through that apex predator of darkness, that beast… the leader that had been preying on our people for so long. Layer by layer, muscle group by bone… eventually… the alpha landed on whatever was left of his back.
The silence of the fight died down as all of us checked our surroundings, GROM Operators putting controlled pairs in the heads and nerve stems of any Strigoi laying around… I flicked my weapon onto safe, letting it hang as I pulled off my mask. I dared not touch the wound on my face… the pain nearly crippling me if it wasn’t sheer will pushing me through, and adrenaline doing all it could to subdue it. The sound of the apaches continuing to lay hate drew us from our moment of contemplation as the Major went back to work; [“Confiscate any info, burn the rest…”]. He turned back to me as I shoved my damaged M50 mask back into it’s bag, chuckling as he looked at the sight; “You need a medevac, Blachowicz?” he quipped.
I shook my head, barely able to speak as I muttered; “Negative sir…”. The two of us scanned the room as my shield bearer went to collect his defense implement turned 90lb projectile, we scanned the center of the room, checking and confirming bodies, until we got to the last one alive. His white gown was soaked in red crimson and black ooze, as his dear head was mangled from bullet fire and impact from falling on it. I swear… the way his blood poured out of it though made me wonder if it was a mask. I gave it no second thoughts as he looked to Krol; “You… you can’t stop this, they’ve already-”.
The Major was in no mood for communication as his rifle snapped up and fired off three rounds to the body, four the head. The violent yet quick salvo ending the cultists life, I looked down at it, then to him as he remarked; “Have your squad drag him out to the front, burn the rest”. I stood alongside him, looking down as the sight of it’s deer head was both captivating and horrifying… the curiosity in me wanting to look closer at it fighting the primal instinct I had to burn the thing to ash. “-Haven’t seen one of those before…” I muttered, thinking the Major had an answer.
He didn’t. Krol saying “Neither have I…” shortly before he walked away, was what truly shook my soul about that entire night. Victory stood firm in our hearts that night as we stood outside of the bunker. The night sky burning with fire and white phosphorus as we watched the ruin burn from the inside from the other side of the lot. In the distance, the Apaches continued to scan and circle the forests, no longer firing…. Which meant they had driven any or turned to glass any enemy combatants within a four miles, probably both, more than likely the latter. Echo-1 patted me on the shoulder as we stood there, soaking it all in, though Krol looked none to pleased. “In the time it took us to take this one down, they’ll be trying to set up three more cells… that being established…” he said, looking to either of us, then to Echo-3. “-Hell of a thing we did tonight, been waiting for this one for a decade, cleanly, maybe more… but no time to rest on our laurels… we’ll have another task for us as soon as we’re boots down back home” he said, to which his eyes followed mine, the body of whatever cultist that was zipped up in a black body bag beside the wheel of one of the MRAPs. The fire from the bunker casting an orange hue over it’s shiny jet black outside, something didn’t sit right with me… “That wasn’t a Strigoi…” I said to Krol.
“That’s very clear…” the Major said, shoving his mask under his arm and lighting a cigarette. “So… someone’s helping them?” I asked. The meer notion of it shook me to my core, sickened me. This parasite was already badly infecting Europa, Polska… if it was spread like this throughout the world. Krol settled my nerves: “We’ll be ready… It’s not just us anymore”. As he said that, I realized what he meant… my eyes looking to the Apaches as they started to form up, leaving the areas as their thunderous propellers melted into the night’s calm, unnerving ambience.
It’s been a couple of weeks since then, Echo Detachment has been busy. We’ve gained good ground against the enemy and honestly I think in a few years, we might see a much larger change. For now… we must keep going, that being said the Strigoi aren’t the only ones we’ve been combating. Recently we’ve made contact with of some sort of extermination coalition, they’ve known about the Strigoi, and others plaguing the world, the level of corruption and corrosion on society goes deep. Regardless a lot of the units we’ve been working with are apart of NATO, such as this “4th Special Forces Group” of the American Military. I don’t know where the road from here leads, but we’ve gotten momentum on our side, finally. Just remember… these things are out there, in every town, every city, every nation… preying and waiting for you to be alone, vulnerable, so they can take you and replace you.
Watch your back, and stay safe.
For now, Blachowicz signing out. Until next time

In the ’80s, the spy agency investigated the "Gateway Experience" technique to alter consciousness and ultimately escape spacetime.
The intrigue revolves around a classified 1983 CIA report on a technique called the Gateway Experience, which is a training system designed to focus brainwave output to alter consciousness and ultimately escape the restrictions of time and space.
The CIA was interested in all sorts of psychic research at the time, including the theory of applications of remote viewing, which is when someone views real events with only the power of their mind. The documents have since been declassified and are available to view.
This is a comprehensive excavation of The Gateway Process report. The first section provides a timeline of the key historical developments that led to the CIA’s investigation and subsequent experimentations. The second section is a review of The Gateway Process report. It opens with a wall of theoretical context, on the other side of which lies enough understanding to begin to grasp the principles underlying the Gateway Experience training. The last section outlines the Gateway technique itself and the steps that go into achieving spacetime transcendence.
Let’s go.
THE TIMELINE
• 1950s - Robert Monroe, a radio broadcasting executive, begins producing evidence that specific sound patterns have identifiable effects on human capabilities. These include alertness, sleepiness, and expanded states of consciousness.
• 1956 - Monroe forms an R&D division inside his radio program production corporation RAM Enterprises. The goal is to study sound’s effect on human consciousness. He was obsessed with “Sleep-Learning," or hypnopedia, which exposes sleepers to sound recordings to boost memory of previously learned information.
• 1958 - While experimenting with Sleep-Learning, Monroe discovers an unusual phenomenon. He describes it as sensations of paralysis and vibration accompanied by bright light. It allegedly happens nine times over the proceeding six weeks, and culminates in an out-of-body experience (OBE).
• 1962 - RAM Enterprises moves to Virginia, and renames itself Monroe Industries. It becomes active in radio station ownership, cable television, and later in the production and sale of audio cassettes. These cassettes contain applied learnings from the corporate research program, which is renamed The Monroe Institute.
• 1971 - Monroe publishes Journeys Out of the Body, a book that is credited with popularizing the term “out-of-body experience.”
• 1972 - A classified report circulates in the U.S. military and intelligence communities. It claims that the Soviet Union is pouring money into research involving ESP and psychokinesis for espionage purposes.
• 1975 - Monroe registers the first of several patents concerning audio techniques designed to stimulate brain functions until the left and right hemispheres become synchronized. Monroe dubs the state "Hemi-Sync" (hemispheric synchronization), and claims it could be used to promote mental well-being or to trigger an altered state of consciousness.
• 1978 to 1984 - Army veteran Joseph McMoneagle contributes to 450 remote viewing missions under Project Stargate. He is known as “Remote View No. 1”.
• June 9th, 1983 - The CIA report "Analysis and Assessment of The Gateway Process" is produced. It provides a scientific framework for understanding and expanding human consciousness, out-of-body experiments, and other altered states of mind.
• 1989 - Remote viewer Angela Dellafiora Ford helps track down a former customs agent who has gone on the run. She pinpoints his location as “Lowell, Wyoming”. U.S. Customs apprehend him 100 miles west of a Wyoming town called Lovell.
• 2003 - The CIA approves declassification of the Gateway Process report.
• 2017 - The CIA declassifies 12 million pages of records revealing previously unknown details about the program, which would eventually become known as Project Stargate.
THE REPORT
Personnel
The author of The Gateway Process report is Lieutenant Colonel Wayne M. McDonnell, hereon referred to simply as Wayne. There isn’t a tremendous amount of information available on the man, nor any photographs. In 1983, Wayne was tasked by the Commander of the U.S. Army Operational Group with figuring out how The Gateway Experience, astral projection and out-of-body experiences work. Wayne partnered with a bunch of different folks to produce the report, most notably Itzhak Bentov, a very Googleable American-Israeli scientist who helped pioneer the biomedical engineering industry.
A scientific approach
From the outset of the report, Wayne states his intent to employ an objective scientific method in order to understand the Gateway process. The various scientific avenues he takes include:
• A biomedical inquiry to understand the physical aspects of the process.
• Information on quantum mechanics to describe the nature and functioning of human consciousness.
• Theoretical physics to explain the time-space dimension and means by which expanded human consciousness transcends it.
• Classical physics to bring the whole phenomenon of out-of-body states into the language of physical science (and remove the stigma of an occult connotation).
Methodological frames of reference
Before diving into the Gateway Experience, Wayne develops a frame of reference by dissecting three discrete consciousness-altering methodologies. He’s basically saying, there’s no way you’re going to get through The Gateway without a solid grounding in the brain-altering techniques that came before it.
1) He begins with hypnosis. The language is extremely dense, but the basic gist is as follows: the left side of the brain screens incoming stimuli, categorizing, assessing and assigning meaning to everything through self-cognitive, verbal, and linear reasoning. The left hemisphere then dishes the carefully prepared data to the non-critical, holistic, pattern-oriented right hemisphere, which accepts everything without question. Hypnosis works by putting the left side to sleep, or at least distracting it long enough to allow incoming data direct, unchallenged entry to the right hemisphere. There, stimuli can reach the sensor and motor cortices of the right brain, which corresponds to points in the body. Suggestions then can send electrical signals from the brain to certain parts of the body. Directing these signals appropriately, according to the report, can elicit reactions ranging from left leg numbness to feelings of happiness. Same goes for increased powers of concentration.
2) Wayne continues with a snapshot of transcendental meditation. He distinguishes it from hypnotism. Through concentration the subject draws energy up the spinal cord, resulting in acoustical waves that run through the cerebral ventricles, to the right hemisphere, where they stimulate the cerebral cortex, run along the homunculus and then to the body. The waves are the altered rhythm of heart sounds, which create sympathetic vibrations in the walls of the fluid-filled cavities of the brain’s ventricles. He observed that the symptoms begin in the left side of the body, confirming the right brain’s complicity. Bentov also states that the same effect might be achieved by prolonged exposure to 4 - 7 Hertz/second acoustical vibrations. He suggests standing by an air conditioning duct might also do the trick. (David’s Lynch and other celebrities are committed adherents to transcendental meditation today.)
3) Biofeedback, on the other hand, uses the left hemisphere to gain access to the right brain’s lower cerebral, motor, and sensory cortices. Whereas hypnosis suppresses one side of the brain, and TM bypasses that side altogether, biofeedback teaches the left hemisphere to visualize the desired result, recognize the feelings associated with right hemisphere access, and ultimately achieve the result again. With repetition, the left brain can reliably key into the right brain, and strengthen the pathways so that it can be accessed during a conscious demand mode. A digital thermometer is subsequently placed on a target part of the body. When its temperature increases, objective affirmation is recognized and the state is reinforced. Achieving biofeedback can block pain, enhance feeling, and even suppress tumors, according to the report.
The Gateway mechanics
With that, Wayne takes a first stab at the Gateway process. He classifies it as a “training system designed to bring enhanced strength, focus and coherence to the amplitude and frequency of brainwave output between the left and right hemispheres so as to alter consciousness.”
What distinguishes the Gateway process from hypnosis, TM, and biofeedback, is that it requires achieving a state of consciousness in which the electrical brain patterns of both hemispheres are equal in amplitude and frequency. This is called Hemi-Sync. Lamentably, and perhaps conveniently, we cannot as humans achieve this state on our own. The audio techniques developed by Bob Monroe and his Institute (which are comprised as a series of tapes). claim to induce and sustain Hemi-Sync.
Wayne employs the analogy of a lamp versus a laser. Left to its own devices the human mind expends energy like a lamp, in a chaotic and incoherent way, achieving lots of diffusion but relatively little depth. Under Hemi-Sync though, the mind produces a “disciplined stream of light.” So, once the frequency and amplitude of the brain are rendered coherent it can then synchronize with the rarified energy levels of the universe. With this connection intact, the brain begins to receive symbols and display astonishing flashes of holistic intuition.
The Hemi-Sync technique takes advantage of a Frequency Following Response (FFR). It works like this: an external frequency emulating a recognized one will cause the brain to mimic it. So if a subject hears a frequency at the Theta level, it will shift from its resting Beta level. To achieve these unnatural levels, Hemi-Sync puts a single frequency in the left ear and a contrasting frequency in the right. The brain then experiences the Delta frequency, also known as the beat frequency. It’s more familiarly referred to these days as binaural beats. With the FFR and beat frequency phenomena firmly in place, The Gateway Process introduces a series of frequencies at marginally audible, subliminal levels. With the left brain relaxed and the body in a virtual sleep state, the conditions are ideal to promote brainwave outputs of higher and higher amplitude and frequency. Alongside subliminal suggestions from Bob Monroe (naturally), the subject can then alter their consciousness.
The Gateway system only works when the audio, which is introduced through headphones, is accompanied by a physical quietude comparable to other forms of meditation. This increases the subject’s internal resonance to the body’s sound frequencies, for example the heart. This eliminates the “bifurcation echo”, in which the heartbeat moves up and down the body seven times a second. By placing the body in a sleep-like state, The Gateway CD’s, like meditation, lessen the force and frequency of the heartbeat pushing blood into the aorta. The result is a rhythmic sine wave that in turn amplifies the sound volume of the heart three times. This then amplifies the frequency of brainwave output. The film surrounding the brain—the dura—and fluid between that film and the skull, eventually begin to move up and down, by .0005 and .010 millimeters.
The body, based on its own micro-motions, then functions as a tuned vibrational system. The report claims that the entire body eventually transfers energy at between 6.8 and 7.5 Hertz, which matches Earth’s own energy (7 - 7.5 Hertz). The resulting wavelengths are long, about 40,000 kilometers, which also happens to be the perimeter of the planet. According to Bentov, the signal can move around the world’s electrostatic field in 1/7th of a second.
To recap, the Gateway Process goes like this:
• Induced state of calm
• Blood pressure lowers
• Circulatory system, skeleton and other organ systems begin to vibrate at 7 - 7.5 cycles per second
• Increased resonance is achieved
• The resulting sound waves matches the electrostatic field of the earth
• The body and earth and other similarly tuned minds become a single energy continuum.
We’ve gotten slightly ahead of ourselves here though. Back to the drawing board.
A psycho-quantum level deeper
Wayne then turns to the very nature of matter and energy. More materially (or less if you will), solid matter in the strict construction of the term, he explains, doesn’t exist. The atomic structure is composed of oscillating energy grids surrounded by other oscillating energy grids at tremendous speeds. These oscillation rates vary—the nucleus of an atom vibrates at 10 to the power of 22, a molecule vibrates at 10 to the power of 9, a human cell vibrates at 10 to the power of 3. The point is that the entire universe is one complex system of energy fields. States of matter in this conception then are merely variations in the state of energy.
The result of all these moving energies, bouncing off of energy at rest, projects a 3D mode, a pattern, called a hologram, A.K.A our reality as we experience it. It's best to think of it as a 3D photograph. There’s a whole rabbit hole to go down here. Suffice it to say, the hologram that is our experience is incredibly good at depicting and recording all the various energies bouncing around creating matter. So good, in fact, that we buy into it hook, line, and sinker, going so far as to call it our "life."
Consciousness then can be envisaged as a 3D grid system superimposed over all energy patterns, Wayne writes. Using mathematics, each plane of the grid system can then reduce the data to a 2D form. Our binary (go/no go) minds can then process the data and compare it to other historical data saved in our memory. Our reality is then formed by comparisons. The right hemisphere of the brain acts as the primary matrix or receptor for this holographic input. The left hemisphere then compares it to other data, reducing it to its 2D form.
In keeping with our species' commitment to exceptionalism, as far as we know humans are uniquely capable of achieving this level of consciousness. Simply, humans not only know, but we know that we know. This bestows upon us the ability to duplicate aspects of our own hologram, project them out, perceive that projection, run it through a comparison with our own memory of the hologram, measure the differences using 3D geometry, then run it through our binary system to yield verbal cognition of the self.
The click-out phase
Wayne then shows his cards as a true punisher, issuing, "Up to this point our discussion of the Gateway process has been relatively simple and easy to follow. Now the fun begins." Shots fired, Wayne. What he's preparing the commander reading this heady report for is the reveal—how we can use the Gateway to transcend the dimension of spacetime.
Time is a measurement of energy or force in motion; it is a measurement of change. This is really important. For energy to be classified as in motion, it must be confined within a vibratory pattern that can contain its motion, keeping it still. Energy not contained like this is boundary-less, and moves without limit or dimension, to infinity. This disqualifies boundary-less energy from the dimension of time because it has no rate of change. Energy in infinity, also called "the absolute state," is completely at rest because nothing is accelerating or decelerating it—again, no change. It therefore does not contribute to our hologram, our physical experience. We cannot perceive it.
Now back to frequencies. Wave oscillation occurs because a wave is bouncing between two rigid points of rest. It's like a game of electromagnetic hot potato (the potato being the wave and the participants' hands being the boundaries of the wave). Without these limits, there would be no oscillation. When a wave hits one of those points of rest, just for a very brief instant, it "clicks out" of spacetime and joins infinity. For this to occur, the speed of the oscillation has to drop below 10 the power of -33 centimeters per second. For a moment, the wave enters into a new world. The potato simply disappears into a dimension we cannot perceive.
Theoretically speaking, if the human consciousness wave pattern reaches a high enough frequency, the “click-outs” can reach continuity. Put another way, if the frequency of human consciousness can dip below 10 to the power of 33 centimeters per second but above a state of total rest, it can transcend spacetime. The Gateway experience and associated Hemi-Sync technique is designed for humans to achieve this state and establish a coherent pattern of perception in the newly realized dimensions.
Passport to the hologram
In theory, we can achieve the above at any time. The entire process though is helped along if we can separate the consciousness from our body. It’s like an existential running head start where the click-out of a consciousness already separated from its body starts much closer to, and has more time to dialogue with, other dimensions.
This is where things get a little slippery; hold on as best you can. The universe is in on the whole hologram thing, too, Wayne writes. This super hologram is called a "torus" because it takes the shape of a fuck-off massive self-contained spiral. Like this:
Give yourself a moment to let the above motion sink in...
This pattern of the universe conspicuously mirrors the patterns of electrons around the nucleus of an atom. Galaxies north of our own are moving away from us faster than the galaxies to the south; galaxies to the east and west of us are more distant. The energy that produced the matter that makes up the universe we presently enjoy, will turn back in on itself eventually. Its trajectory is ovoid, also known as the cosmic egg. As it curls back on itself it enters a black hole, goes through a densely packed energy nucleus then gets spat out the other side of a white hole and begins the process again. Springtime in the cosmos, baby!
And that is the context in which the Gateway Experience sits.
[Deep breaths.]
THE TECHNIQUE
The following is an outline of the key steps to reach focus levels necessary to defy the spacetime dimension. This is an involved and lengthy process best attempted in controlled settings. If you’re in a rush, you can apparently listen to enough Monroe Institute Gateway Tapes in 7 days to get there.
The Energy Conversion Box: The Gateway Process begins by teaching the subject to isolate any extraneous concerns using a visualization process called “the energy conversion box.”
Resonant Humming: The individual is introduced to resonant humming. Through the utterance of a protracted single tone, alongside a chorus on the tapes, the mind and body achieve a state of resonance.
The Gateway Affirmation: The participant is exposed to something close to a mantra called The Gateway Affirmation. They must repeat to themselves variations of, “I am merely a physical body and deeply desire to expand my consciousness.”
Hemi-Sync: The individual is finally exposed to the Hemi-Sync sound frequencies, and encouraged to develop a relationship with the feelings that emerge.
Additional Noise: Physical relaxation techniques are practiced while the Hemi-Sync frequencies are expanded to include “pink and white” noise. This puts the body in a state of virtual sleep, while calming the left hemisphere and raising the attentiveness of the right hemisphere.
The Energy Balloon: The individual is then encouraged to visualize the creation of an “energy balloon” beginning at the top of the head, extending down in all directions to the feet then back up again. There are a few reasons for this, the main one being that this balloon will provide protection against conscious entities possessing lower energy levels that he or she may encounter when in the out-of-body state.
Focus 12: The practitioner can consistently achieve sufficient expanded awareness to begin interacting with dimensions beyond their physical reality. To achieve this state requires conscious efforts and more “pink and white noise” from the sound stream.
Tools: Once Focus 12 is achieved, the subject can then employ a series of tools to obtain feedback from alternate dimensions.
Problem Solving: The individual identifies fundamental problems, fills their expanded awareness with them, and then projects them out into the universe. These can include personal difficulties, as well as technical or practical problems.
Patterning: Consciousness is used to achieve desired objectives in the physical, emotional, or intellectual sphere.
Color Breathing: A healing technique that revitalizes the body’s energy flows by imagining colors in a particularly vivid manner.
Energy Bar Tool: This technique involves imagining a small intensely pulsating dot of light that the participant charges up. He or she then uses the sparkling, vibrating cylinder of energy (formerly known as the dot) to channel forces from the universe to heal and revitalize the body.
Remote Viewing: A follow-on technique of the Energy Bar Tool where the dot is turned into a whirling vortex through which the individual sends their imagination in search of illuminating insights.
Living Body Map: A more organized use of the energy bar in which streams of different colors flow from the dot on to correspondingly-colored bodily systems.
Seven days of training have now occurred. Approximately 5 percent of participants get to this next level, according to the report.
Focus 15 - Travel Into the Past: Additional sound on the Hemi-Sync tapes includes more of the same, plus some subliminal suggestions to further expand the consciousness. The instructions are highly symbolic: time is a huge wheel, in which different spokes give access to the participant’s past.
Focus 21 - The Future: This is the last and most advanced state. Like Focus 15, this is a movement out of spacetime into the future.
Out-of-Body Movement: Only one tape of the many is devoted to out-of-body movement. This tape is devoted to facilitating an out-of-body state when the participant’s brain wave patterns and energy levels reach harmony with the surrounding electromagnetic environment. According to Bob Monroe, the participant has to be exposed to Beta signals of around 2877.3 cycles per second.
CONCLUSIONS
Wayne expresses concern about the fidelity of information brought back from out-of-body states using the Gateway technique. Practical applications are of particular concern because of the potential for “information distortion.”
The Monroe Institute also ran into a bunch of issues in which they had individuals travel from the West to the East Coast of the U.S. to read a series of numbers off of a computer screen. They never got them exactly right. Wayne chalks this up to the trouble of differentiating between physical entities and extra-time-space dimensions when in the out-of-body state.
Wayne swings back to support mode though, lending credence to the physics foundation of the report. He cites multiple belief systems that have established identical findings. These include the Tibetan Shoug, the Hindu heaven of Indra, the Hebrew mystical philosophy, and the Christian concept of the Trinity. Here he seems more interested in hammering home the theoretical underpinnings that make The Gateway Experience possible, rather than the practical possibilities promised by The Gateway Tapes.
Possibly with his CIA top brass audience in mind, Wayne then gives an A-type nod to The Gateway Experience for providing a faster, more efficient, less subservient, energy-saving route to expanded consciousness. This finishes with a series of recommendations to the CIA for how to exploit Gateway’s potential for national defense purposes.
The missing page
One curious feature of The Gateway Report is that it seems to be missing page 25. It’s a real cliffhanger too. The bottom of page 24 reads “And, the eternal thought or concept of self which results from this self-consciousness serves the,” The report picks back up on page 26 and 3 sections later as if Wayne hadn’t just revealed the very secret of existence.
The gap has not gone unnoticed. There's a Change.org petition requesting its release. Multiple Freedom of Information Act requests have demanded the same. In all cases, the CIA has said they never had the page to begin with. Here’s a 2019 response from Mark Lilly, the CIA’s Information and Privacy Coordinator, to one Bailey Stoner regarding these records:
One theory goes that that rascal Wayne M.-fricking-McDonnell left the page out on purpose. The theory contends that it was a litmus test—if anyone truly defies time-space dimensions, they’ll certainly be able to locate page 25.
[Cosmic shrug.]
Writing Credit Vice
​
CIA Declassified Report– The Gateway Experience
Here is a copy of the Missing Page 25
There will be a Gateway Help Post following within the next couple days. Thought you might be interested in a little history in the meantime. Cheers!

Have a few items i'm trying to clear out all in good condition, noted if games are loose or CIB.
Open to offers, bundle lots listed as well with discounts.
$5 Games for various systems available $25 Minimum if only buying from this list please.
$3.50 Shipping for first item & exact amount for bigger bundles sent via USPS and taking Paypal F&F with Pics available upon request.
Total estimate with PriceCharting is about $2,900
Will take and accept $2,450 Shipped on the entire Lot excluding Paperwork Material.

PS4 - $200 on Lot

PS4 Slim 500 GB Console with 1x OEM Black Dualshock $175
Metro Redux CIB $15
Plants vs Zombies 2 : Garden Warfare $10
Deus Ex MD $10
Grand Theft Auto V $10

XBox - $125 on Lot

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Metro Redux $10
Rare Replay/Ultimate Gears of War $20
Torment Tides of Nememura in GameStop Case $10
Transformers Devastation $20
Sunset Overdrive $10
Pillars of Eternity in GameStop Case $10
One Lords of the Fallen $10
XBox One Phantom Black Controller CIB USED $25 (Controller is 7/10 cosmetic wise with bottom back bumpers having heavy scuffs & 9/10 overall function wise)
XBox Series S White OEM Controller - $25 (Controller is 9/10 cosmetic wise. Left trigger buttons gets stuck randomly not sure if something small or dirt is stuck, buttons functions perfectly)

N64 - $500 on lot

https://imgur.com/a/H9g5GqQ
Cruis'N USA - $15
Body Harvest - $20
Aerofighters Assault - $10
Top Gear Overdrive - $10
Tony Hawk 3 - $65
Buck Bumble - $30
Pokemon Puzzle League with Manual (game and manual in great condition) - $40
Space Station Silicon Valley - $40
Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko (Entire label was missing so a cheap replacement was made) - $20
Command And Conquer - $20
The New Tetris - $30
Snowboard Kids 1 with Manual (manual and game in great shape small tear on back of Cart) - $70
Robotron 64 - $20
Forsaken 64 (video rental sticker on label) $15
Yoshi's Story - $25
Mischief Makers - $40
Wipeout - $15
Doom 64 - $30
Kobe Bryant In NBA Courtside Box(good shape includes inner tray) - $25
NHL Breakaway '98 Box (good condition no inner tray) - $10
Mario Tennis 64 Game with Box (Box is rough shape, missing ride side flap. includes inner tray, Cart is clean) - $50

Gameboy

TMNT Fall of the Foot Clan - $10

Switch - $325 on lot

Hori Split Pad Pro Blue CIB (used about 7 months in 9/10 condition) - $25
Old Skool GC Controller Adapter (Works on Switch/PC/Wii U) - $20
Hyperkin Joy-Con Grip Charger - $10
Monster Hunter Rise Joy-Cons with Grip NIB - $125
Shin Megami Tensei V [Steelbook Edition] - $30
Blacksad: Under The Skin [Limited Edition] SEALED $25
KORG Gadget $65
Psikyo Collection Vol. 3 JAP $45

PS Vita - $275 onLot

The Walking Dead: Season 2 $25
Hot Shots Golf World Invitational $15
Legend Of Heroes: Trails Of Cold Steel 1 $40
Dynasty Warriors Next $20
Stranger Of Sword City $25
Shantae Half-Genie Hero [Risky Beats Edition] $45
UnEpic SEALED $65
Risk Of Rain SEALED $35
Aqua Kitty SEALED $40

Dreamcast - $20 on Lot

NBA2K1 loose $10
World Series Baseball 2K1 loose $10
MTV Sports Skateboarding loose $10

3DS - $100 on Lot

Legend Of Legacy Launch Edition SEALED $60
Crush 3D Loose in 3DS Case $10
Cubic Ninja Loose in 3DS Case $10
Codename S.T.E.A.M $10
Smash Bros 3DS CIB $17
Steel Diver CIB $8

PS1 - $45 on Lot

Fighter Maker Loose $10
FF9 CIB (Case damaged) $15
Sim City 2000 Game+Case (damaged) $10
Oddworld Abes Oddysee CIB $20

DS - $50 on Lot

Bleach Blade Of Fate Loose $15
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Ring Of Fates - $15
OEM Charging Base for original 3DS $20
Intec DS Case(scuffed up) $10

PS3 - $85 on Lot

Final Fantasy X/X2 Remaster Limited Edition CIB $10
NiNoKuni 1 Steelbook CIB $20
Zone Of The Enders HD Collection CIB $15
Yakuza 3 Loose $15
Metal Gear Solid HD Collection Loose $15
Genji Days Of The Blade $20
Genji Days Of The Blade Loose $10

PS2 - $250 on Lot

https://imgur.com/a/pBJLqjf
https://imgur.com/a/1odALsV
MGS 2 CIB $10
DQ8 missing Demo Disc $20
Onimusha 2 CIB $15
MX vs ATV Unleashed CIB $10
Tekken 5 CIB $30
Kingdom Hearts 1 GH CIB $10
Kingdom Hearts 2 GH CIB $10
Stuntman CIB $10
Looney Tunes Back in Action CIB Looney Tunes Back in Action $10
Tak CIB $10
Soul Caliber 3 CIB $15
God of War 1 First Print CIB $50
GTA San Andreas (missing manual) $10
Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec $10
Soul Caliber 2 CIB $15
ATV Offroad Fury 4 $10
MDK 2 Armageddon Loose $10
Need For Speed Hot Pursuit 2 $10
The Getaway $10
007 Agent Under Fire Loose $10
Test Drive GH $10
Eye Toy Antigrav with Eye Camera $20

XB360 - $35 on Lot

3rd Party Controller $10
Marvel Ultimate Alliance in Gamestop Case $10
OEM Black Controller with Battery Pack $20

Gamecube - $275 for Lot

GBA to GC Link Cable loose - $15
Donkey Kong Bundle (includes CIB copy of Donkey Konga, 1x loose Bogo Drum controller and DK Jungle Beat Bongo Drum controller in box but missing game BOX IS IN ROUGH SHAPE) - $125
Odama CIB with Microphone (Big Box is in rough shape but Game/Case/Manual/Mic are in perfect condition) $40
GB Player OEM Case Holder *Missing outer cardboard and Manual $25
Monopoly Party+Manual in Blockbuster Case $10
Star Wars Rogue Leader+Manual in DVD Case $15
Spiderman 2 Player's Choice (Missing Manual) $15
Megaman Anniversary Collection (Missing Manual) $20
MC Groovez Dance Craze$10
Fifa Soccer 2002 $10
Need For Speed Hot Pursuit 2 loose in GC Case $15
Resident Evil 1 CIB Players Choice $35

Wii - $20 for Lot

Nights Journey of Dreams in Gamestop Case & Manual $10
Generic Dual Wiimote Charging Dock $10

$5 Games - $150 on Lot

GC 007 NightFire Case with Fantastic Four Games
GC NFL2k3 Loose with Cover & Manual
XB360 BF3 Limited Edition
XB360 Kinect Adventures
XB360 Motionsports
XB360 Call of Duty Ghosts
XB360 Darksiders 2
PS2 Wheel of Fortune
PS2 Motorcross Mania 3
PS2 Seaworld Deep Sea Adventures
PS2 Socom US Navy Seal
PS2 Final Fantasy X-2
PS2 ThrillVille
PS2 Star Wars The Force Unleashed CIB
PS2 Army Men Soldiers of Misfortune
PS2 Welcome to Jumpack Demo Disc
PS2 Metal Arms in Generic Case
PS2 MX vs ATX
PS2 Army Men
PS2 Rocky
PS2 NCAA Football 2004
PS2 Army Men : Sarges Hero
PS2 Full Spectrum Warrior
PS2 FIFA 2001 MLS
PS2 NCAA Football 2003
PS2 NCAA Football 2004
PS3 Need for Speed Most Wanted CIB
PS3 Call of Duty : Modern Warfare 3
PS3 Need for Speed Pro Street
PS3 Red Faction Guerilla x2
PS3 MoH Warfighter LE Loose
PS3 Crysis 2
PS3 Mercenaries 2 in Generic Case
PS3 Call of Duty MW3 x2
PS3 Assassins Creed 4 BF
PS3 Beyond Steelbook (Bad shape broken at spine)
PS3 Uncharted Dual Pack in Custom generic case
PS4 Has Been Heroes
PS4 The Division

Covers, Cases and Manuals

8x Universal Game Cases (N64,SNES,Genesis,etc) $8 Each
3DS Persona Q : Shadow of the Labyrinth Case $10
PS4 Rise of the Tomb Raider 20th Anniversary Extras Only No Game $10
Grand Kingdom Case $10
Toukiden : Kiwami Case $10
Wii Dragon Quest Swords Manual $7
Wii Monster Hunter 3 Manual $5
Wii Elebits Manual $5
GC Ghost Recon Case & Manual $7
GC True Crime Streets of LA Case & Manual $10
GC Spiderman 1 Case Only $7
GC Dead to Rights Case & Manual $10
GC Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow Case & Manual $10
GC Hitman 2 Case & Manual $10
GC MoH Frontline Case & Manual $7
GC Rainbow Six 3 Case & Manual $7
PS2 Red Faction Case $5
PS2 Call of Duty FH Case & Manual $7
GC NFL 2K3 Case $5
PS4 Nioh Case $5
PS Vita Exist Archive Case $5
PS3 Zone of Enders HD Collection Case & Manual $10
PS2 Dragon Quest 8 Case & Manual $10
PS2 Onimusha 2 Case & Manual $10
PS2 Tekken 5 Case & Manual $10
PS2 Kingdom Hearts 1 GH Case & Manual $10
PS2 Kingdom Hearts 2 GH Case & Manual $10
PS2 Area 51 Case PAL version $5
GC NBA 2K2 Case & Manual $10
PS2 Final Fantasy X-2 Case $ Manual $10
PS2 Starwars Battlefront Case & Manual $10
GC Prince of Persia Cover & Manual $10
GC Viewtiful Joe 1 Manual $20
PS2 Katamari Damacy Cover & Manual $10
GC Burnout 3 Takedown $5
PS2 Nightmare before Christmas Oogies Revenge Cover & Manual $15
PS2 GTA San Andreas Cover & Manual $10
PS2 Capcom Classic Collection Cover & Manual $15
PS2 Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution Manual $5
PS2 Megaman X Collection Cover & Manual $15
PS2 Star Ocean Till the End of Time Cover & Manual $10
PS2 R-Type Final Cover & Manual $15
PS2 Soul Caliber 2 Cover $7
XB Panzer Dragoon Orta Cover & Manual $30
XB Ninja Gaiden Black Cover & Manual $10
PS2 Mad Maestro Cover & Manual $10
PS2 007 Everything or Nothing Manual $5
PS2 Half Life 2 Cover $10
PS2 Devil May Cry 3 Cover & Manual $10
PS2 FF X-2 Cover & Manual $10
PS2 REZ Cover & Manual $15
PS2 Rygar Cover & Manual $10
PS2 Chaos Legion Manual $7
PS2 Zone of Enders 1 Cover & Manual $10
PS2 Final Fantasy 12 Manual $7
PS2 Front Mission 4 Cover & Manual $10
PS2 Metal Gear Solid 3 Subsistence Cover $7
PS2 Escape from Monkey Island Cover $7
PS1 Final Fantasy Chronicles GH Back/Front Cover & Manual $10
PS1 Tenchu 1 Cover & Manual $15
PS1 Final Fantasy 7 GH Front/Back Cover & Manual $15
PS1 Buster Bros Collection Cover & Manual $20
GC Zelda Master Quest Manual + Windwaker Promotional Paperwork $30
PS2 Black Case & Manual $10

Latest info i had on Arc for windows was that windows 10 support would come later down the line. Now i read a comment on reddit saying there will be no windows 10 at all. What is the reality?
Meanwhile latest data shows windows 11 market sharet reduced (from earlier 28% to now 26%) and windows 10 market share increased, from 67% to 70%...

• Windows 11 market share declines as users seemingly shift back to Windows 10 Tom's Hardware (tomshardware.com)
• Windows 10 still has more than double the market share of Windows 11, and that doesn't look like it will change any time soon Windows Central

I have a newly built powerhouse modern PC (beefy for gaming etc) but because it lacks that newly required TPM component i cant even install windows 11- and every other news i see from windows 11 makes me not want to ever shift frankly... and despite microsfot anouncements and push for windows 11 turns out microsoft is literally selling windows 10 pcs (apparently more then windows 11)... as if their sales department is following the actual demand while PR and the win11 team pushes a different narrative.
I was really really hyped when i first saw Arc years ago... but then it was Mac only with invite only, with huge waitlist then i waited a very long time on a waitlist for the windows beta (and not being picked from the waitlist until near its end)... and all that for a very early windows version and windows 11 only (why? waaay too many modern apps install on both win10-11 just fine)....
Frankly, just being sincere and pouring my feelings out here - i went from absolutely hyped fanboy to severely disapointed with Arc- and heck i couldnt even get hands on with it. Looking back my feelings toward Arc more akin to cult-like like Tesla/Elon-musk cybertruck owners. Watched and praised every video and update on features, been on some discussions and even defending some of the teams choices with direction and future plans.
But i cant wrap my head around this choice. I cant defend it. I cant even understand it... Some user got Arc working on windows 10 by just bypassing the setup check/requirment, literally lying to the setup it had win11 installed and... it installed, and worked. Only reason i hadnt tried that is because it was too cumbersome for something i was hoping would be coming around anyway- also because i wouldnt be able to give proper feedback and bug reporting that way, i like being useful with beta tests...
But apparently it wont ever come? I dont get it. Just past month i installed like 3 different newly released native apps for windows that have a single installer and setup to win10 and 11 seamlessly. Microsoft for all its terrible flaws and despite their latest baffling decision with tpm/win11 have a decades long history of back compatibility and so on- i can install some win98/Xp apps, turn on compatibility mode and just run then... for windows 10-11 we havent even reached that point yet.
Ive literally havent seen any app that works on windows 11 only or requirement reasons for doing so.. nothing except the setup for Arc windows beta.
This is probably the last topic/discussion i get on about Arc, unless that changes, or idk, if im really forced to get windows 11 (and able to) or the next one. In any case the hype deflated, the very idea of Arc soured a bit for me. Why are we like that with hype expectations and such even in a case like this where an app/service makes itself unreacheable?
Anyway sorry for the rant, i just felt like i had to mention it somewhere. I wasnt frustrated with microsoft decisions with windows 11, just ignoring it, but i wasnt expecting Arc would go this way - finally 'coming to windows' but in a way it managed to still keep me out of the door. I cant afford a mac (not in my country), i cant install windows 11...
Who knows, maybe in a few years i guess? Win12, hopefully without tpm, or whenever i buy/build another machine? Anyway i was holding on changing from my current browser(wich im disapointed with) for Arc, i will just have to make the jump to some other browser for the time being and be done with the subject

Come to Eclipse Roleplay where we are an economy based server looking to bring the best roleplay experience for everyone and to make this your new home.
We are a new small community looking to grow!
Located: San Andreas
Central: Standard Time
Laws: We use federal laws and any standard state law.
__
These are the requirements to join
Mature players only‼️
Must be in the Discord to play in server.
Working mic to talk in game.
Must be respectful to everyone.
__
There’s nothing short to do in our city! Here are just SOME of what we have to offer
WHAT DO WE OFFER?
Player owned businesses
PS MDT
Free-to-play
Gangs and mafias are welcomed
Mc groups are welcomed
Federal, state and local Jobs
Court system
Border system
Semi serious RP.
Drag cars
IRL cars (no GTA cars)
Weekly/monthly city events
Drugs
Heists
IRL guns
Active Staff
Well optimized server
Hunting
And tons more
__
Positions for Staff coming soon.
————————————————————
DEPARTMENTS
Blaine County sheriffs-Coming soon!
Los Santos Police Department -Coming soon!
San Andreas State Trooper-open
Ems-open
Dispatch-open
US Marshal-Coming soon!
Game Warden-Coming soon!
https://discord.gg/AtDmP9c6

Conspiracy theories involving “elite” pedophile rings have recently been dominating social media in a disorienting frenzy. They have been around for some time but in this century rose back to popularity during the 2016 Election cycle. This crop, at least, took root with what became known as “Pizzagate.”
Promoters of that conspiracy theory in 2016 used social media platforms to make unfounded but viral allegations that Hillary Clinton and other prominent Democrats were running a pedophile ring out of the basement of a pizzeria even though that restaurant had no basement, or any ties to known politicians other than the typical flesh pressing (Phrasing I know) moments fit for a picture hung on the wall.
Since then, the dark theme of Pizzagate has found new life with permutations forming part of the #Qanon conspiracy theory, incorporated under the umbrella term “pedogate.” The gist of the #pedogate conspiracy theory is that global elites (politicians, celebrities, and wealthy businesspersons) are covertly involved in a far-reaching ring that uses young children for sexual purposes.
“What most of these conspiracy theories involve in one way or another is laying accusations of pedophilia or involvement in pedophile rings at the feet of people that they despise or hate, and during the 16’ election cycle, Democrats were a wide target for an opposing political movement that had hijacked the rival Republican party. Pizzagate originated with the “alt right” and “alt lite,” far right extremists who range from outright white supremacists to those who publicly shun racists but otherwise fall in step with their belief systems.
Pizzagate jumped from the fringes to the mainstream because as it denigrated Hillary Clinton, it sucked in supporters of then-candidate Donald Trump.
After the election all mention of pedogate seemed to be put on a simmer while other National outrages boiled over (#Covid #RussiaGate #BLM) and just like clockwork (heading into our next election cycle has been turned back up.
The pedogate conspiracy and all associated stories employ a centuries-old tactic: playing on deep-seated human anxieties by conjuring images of imperiled children, the purest and defenseless victim of any manner of injustice.
An example in the modern era of weaponized conspiracy was the satanic panic of the 1980s, in which a wave of hysteria over alleged child molestation at daycare centers swept the nation. But while that phenomenon was a moral panic attributable, at least in part, to social anxiety over white middle class women entering the work force en masse for the first time and entrusting their children to others, the current conspiracy theories about pedophile rings equate to similar propaganda. They carry a danger for stirring up violence.
If you want to elicit violent action the way to do it is through hate and fear. Once you target and label a population as pedophiles, you can do anything you like to that population with full excuse being given to the myth you’ve wrapped around it.
That’s not to say fears of child abuse or sex trafficking are unfounded. There are many as pedophilia has ancient roots and in many cases was encourage by many world cultures and religions a lot later into Civilization than we’d like to admit. The International Labor Organization reports that 25 percent of the world’s 40.3 million victims of human trafficking are children.
The most vulnerable, according to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, are migrants, runaways, the homeless, and youngsters who have been victims of violence. Despite their obsession over the topic, conspiracy followers aren’t worked up about those children who are in true harm’s way.
In the world of propaganda, it’s never about real children. Instead, it’s about what children represent. The children imperiled by conspiracy theories, in other words, are only metaphors.
Children carry a vast amount of weight in any society, but especially modern ones when they’re expected to survive past the age of five. It wasn’t as intense before the 18th century when child mortality rates were really high. They represent the future, and all that is beautiful and decent and honest in a society, because they are innocent.
For most people also, the meaning of their existence is rooted in their children. Children are eschatological, they represent death for us, and what is coming behind us after we are gone. They also represent the threat of loss, if they disappear, if they die, that is the death of society. That’s why they became so crucial and central to Cold War propaganda. The real terror of the nuclear holocaust would be the death of the children, because that’s the death of everyone.
A recent example of this is in a recent police investigation into conspiracy claims of PizzaGate style accusation of Portland’s Voodoo Doughnuts. Detectives attempted to contact the person accusing Voodoo Doughnuts on social media of running a pedophile ring. The accuser did not cooperate with investigators and it’s been documented in other coverage online that they had become agitated and accused the Police with complicity when tracked down in person, even though they were attempting to investigate.
The pendulum of conspiracy theories about systematic child abuse has swung back and forth for centuries. Examples such as blood libel, when Jewish communities were attacked over false allegations of murdering and consuming Christian children in the Middle Ages.
In Europe, During the Thirty Years War, entire villages were put to the sword because it was believed they were abusing children of the other religions.
One characteristic that helps Pizzagate-style conspiracy theories gain popularity is that they function like a puzzle game and give its audience a large level of involvement through social media.
A lot of conspiracy theories are oracular, where the information comes from one source an oracle. Then there are others where there are a few people who promote the notions, almost like gurus or a conspiracy priesthood.
With Pizzagate, it’s more of what one would call a participatory conspiracy theory. Participatory conspiracy theories lay out a scenario or situation and then they ask their audience, ‘what more can you find out about this, what more can you add?’ It turns the audience into willing participants, some knowing they are creating a destructive madlib and other (potential real victims) caking on mystical distraction to issues that have been unreported or scars that have not bee properly treated.
The thing about participatory conspiracy theories is it can really create a devoted following because it gives people something to do, it makes them feel they can solve the whole thing or uncover new aspects to it. Once you get that energy going it’s almost self-sustaining. Followers of the Qanon conspiracy theory, call themselves “bakers” because their protagonist “Q” pops up on Internet message boards and leaves “crumbs” (i.e., clues), and they are tasked with picking up the crumbs in order to solve the puzzle. (“Q” is supposed to reference the character’s government security clearance level).
*#Q followers believe an even more incoherent version of Pizzagate. This is largely a right-wing fantasy that originated in a series of incoherent posts on #4chan in 2017 by someone calling themselves #QAnon. Following on the heels of similar idiocy such as Pizzagate, it advances a fantastic web of deceit that wraps up Trumpism, deep state fearmongering, evil, satanic pedophilia rings controlled by the Democratic Party, investigations into Russian meddling in the 2016 US election, the Las Vegas shooting, and New World Order paranoia into a package easily and wholeheartedly promoted by internet cesspools and far-right personalities such as Alex Jones.
The premise is that President Trump is secretly working to take down a global ring of elite, cannibalistic, satanic pedophiles. And the investigation into Russian meddling into the 2016 election, led by former FBI director Robert Mueller, is actually an investigation into the so-called “deep state”, where a cabal of evil, globalists, including Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, are responsible for everything from a global pedophile ring to the mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017.
According to the enlightened, when Trump awkwardly took a drink from a bottle of Fiji water at a press conference in November 2017, it wasn’t because he was thirsty; it was actually a secret signal to those in the know that the annihilation of deep state pedophiles had begun (or was about to begin). Because as everyone knows, Fiji is a hot spot for child trafficking.* ( I could go on and on with this poorly thought-out shit, I will spare you )
The role the Internet and social media play in helping to spread such insanity can’t be underestimated. Just a few decades earlier, conspiracy theorists would identify each other using letters to the editor printed in newspapers and magazines. It was a lot harder to identify your fellow conspiracy theorists. You would have to physically meet to swap your stories or send letters or call. They would set up these groups that would communicate by newsletter. They would meet in a physical space, like someone’s living room.
I personally witnessed people from my childhood, dutifully photocopying newsletters they had received in the mail to give to others (Primarily at my #JW congregation, how ironic). Now obviously it can go much more quickly, because you can identity people immediately. You can quickly share ideas and the data you’ve collected.
The Internet allows such people to exist in bubbles where they rarely have their beliefs challenged. The extraordinarily polarized society we’re in right now has made people less willing to seek out other view points. Because of the internet you have less chance of doing this.
There’s very little incentive to look outside one’s own bubble once they have become invested in a conspiracy theory. Once you start to act out on those behaviors you are forced to double down by repeating the act to prove it was a just act. Eventually you get caught up in a movement that totally defines your conscious and you can’t get out of it. The second you step out of that world view your actions go back to being reprehensible.
Now the question becomes, “What’s the harm? If it sheds light on child abuse, then isn’t it still productive?” The answer in this case is a resounding NO. In my opinion and PAINFUL experience, the root cause and sustaining factors of institutionalized child sex abuse are all things that would counter your typical Conspiracy Nut’s world view, thus causing a complete blackout to the problems.
The entity taking part in the harming of children on a local and tangible level aren’t some suit and tie wearing global elitist. It’s a guidance counselor, youth pastor, unvetted young substitute teacher, aunt/uncle/cousin/neighbor.
It’s anyone who has been given routine private access to a child’s mind and body because of the social conventions that have been protected for generations by our relatives whether they themselves are guilty of abuse or not.
In all the Qanon madness I also kept very close tabs on the pending prosecution of the Boy scouts of America and never saw any widely shared memes about their involvement in the abuse syndicate.
Why is this? How is this so? Aren’t these people watching the news, seeing the court records and hearing the individual cases being brought against Scout Leaders (SOME OF WHO RAN THEIR OWN NETWORKS!!)?
When I would find mention of accusation it was met with the ever scarce “skepticism” because if the media is covering it, it must be a plot to destroy the organization. There are now non-for profit organizations setting up victim funds and protections for people to come out with their stories and somehow THIS is the fake ruse.
Some that know me know that I was a Jehovah’s Witness as a youth/teen/young adult. That chapter of my life could fill many chapters and the research on the organization, the real true black and white history of the religion would honestly surprise you. I saw what I now know was abuse, I personally experienced abuse in many forms. The perpetrators involved are either still Witnesses or are dead or have moved “away from the organization”.
One thing that was left intact in each situation was the secret that they prey on children. The parents, these organizations and the collective promise to keep up appearances are directly to blame for the suffering untold thousands, millions of children and broken adults.
All for what? Pride and Vanity and a commitment to all involved to protect them from the “mean old world” despite allowing predators to eat their children from within.
Being a #JW was a very interesting experience. It provides a very efficient form of insulation from outside society and allows people involved to view the chaos from afar. There is this persistent (albeit false) sense of shared peace that members have. It’s as though for three days a week you go to this meeting where no matter what, everyone has a smile and feels about things EXACTLY how you do. There is no cursing, there are no politics, there surely isn’t any destructive influences that would tarnish your chances of salvation. For a parent this is a refuge when raising a child in a world that is dangerously unpredictable.
A Child that you are unable (or unwilling) to teach coping skills to get along by societal standards, A child you want to protect by hiding. This is problem #1.
As an adult the congregation presents an avenue for which you can act and behave in a way that allows you to reconcile your past, a way to have less of those nights awake because you think about past wrongs you’ve committed against people. It’s the proverbial band-aid for a guilty, bruised, destroyed conscious of any size. Coming into the organization takes nothing more than the desire to change, publicly declaring your willingness to hand over your life to God (The organization). Bam, You’re in! No credit check, no background check. This is problem #2.
A JW is taught that “every facet is an asset” (Ministerial Servants know what I’m talking about). What this means is that every facet of your life is an asset to the organization to spread its word. If the world see’s their product’s application into your life and thereby how much better it is than a normal person’s, then they’ve made an “Effective Witness” to the world. This causes Witnesses of any age to allow almost every facet of their life to be a tool by the organization. For a parent this includes their children. This is problem #3.
When you get a culture that insulates itself from the real world, that allows you to enter without any coherent vetting, give access to children whose parents feel obligated to present as a “witness” to the lifestyle. You get a twisted corridor in which victims can get lost for a lifetime and predators can hide in plain sight.
For any proponents of the “Save-The-Children” movement to not take a step back and really analyze their local community and lifestyle through these lenses only illustrates that child abuse is being weaponized politically at the expense of others whom you aren’t willing to save because it would look bad for ‘your side’. If you truly care, you wouldn’t be sharing email forwards about what evil unverified unmentionable thing you read some celebrity or politician did. Instead, you’d be drawing back on your experiences as a child.
Even if nothing happened directly to you, I’m sure you know some one that had an experience that forever harmed their life. Who did it? Was there a pattern or social condition that allowed for this as was laid out in the JW example?
How could it have been avoided? Would you have stopped it if you saw the signs? Are you willing to stop it in the future, knowing what you know now?
If you can answer any of those questions with a yes, then you have all you need to WRITE your own material to reach real victims and their families. Does your action cause problems for your ‘side’? It shouldn’t matter and you know that. If it does make a difference to you then you are no better than the shadowy pedophilic cabal that you are so obsessed with.

Well after a seriously fucked up combat tour in afganistan I was out on the street left to pick up the peices of my life in my mid twenties..working out was one of those things that seemed to keep alot of things In check for me and Like every good lad and lady after a good swoll, I hit my local gnc for supps religiously. I was in the army and I received certain awards that are specific to combat and I proudly wore a hat with two awards along with my unit imsignia I recieved while I was in combat. Anyway upon walking Into the gnc a tall ripped dude who had alot of pain in his eyes called me out for my hat, so as to check and make sure my combat story aligned with my awards... this is more common than you think and while in the millitary these types are known as badge protectors making sure everything is on the up and up, its a douchey thankless job but i guess it warns off stolen valor in some situations., anyway I took it as that and shared my story and he shared his..

 His story was particularly horrifying he was in a marine regiment that took heavy heavy casualties in helmand province a couple miles from where I was stationed during the troop surge in kandahar province a few years later. As I explored the va system and getting help for injuries and trauma I sustained during combat I thought I would go out of my way to help this marine and be a freind, even though in his mind only the weak " went to the VA. I was always careful not to push to hard and was careful to put my trauma away because his was more serious. As in i lost a couple people, he lost 1/3 of his unit..I spent many many nights consoling my freind who often lamented about his struggle for survival in battle his lost freinds and I could relate. Years later I had many issues and ended up moving away to my home state after a combat ptsd progragram. 

Unfortunately, unexpectedly, i saw my freinds family had posted the worst news on fb. My freind and hero marine had ended his life. I had to memorialize this marine who i had known for years and shared my deepest shit with , I knew his struggle, and saw where it led him. In some ways I felt like I had failed. My last post addressed to my freind was an RIP Marine salute on instagram....thats when shit gets crazy...About 2 hours after I posted this, I received a call from his baby mama with news that would change the way I viewed life and people around me forever.
I heard a cracking voice on the other end of the line as I say my condolences, "I'm sorry I have to be the one who tells you this, Matt was never a marine. I laughed, what, why would you say this, I was furious, I demanded answers, and then got them. So apparently Matt had never been a marine, but had always had a fascination with them.... I couldn't understand still, all the talks the lingo the stories specific to that area, the specific units and marines who died, to god damn specific. He was in many fb groups with these specific units talking to parents of fallen and more specifically hero marine sniper Matthew Abate. He was talking to Abates father and had told and showed me their convos on fb, it was all apart of the con...So apparently what led to the suicide was Matt developed a drug problem and his life was spiraling out of control , this was on top of an apparent full blown double life where he was a hero combat marine sniper, and had infiltrated many veteran groups stealing stories stealing personalities, stealing valor. As he spiraled, he leaned heavily on the veteran groups for support and they insisted on getting him emergency assistance, apparently the only thing he could provide that proved he was in the millitary was an anti terrorism class that you take pre bootcamp. So this raising g many red flags the group did a FOIA on him and found out he was a total fake. The marine groups quickly smelled the blood in the water and he apparently ended his life in a jotel room alone. It's taken me a long time to get this story out because it really fucked me up for a long time. I could never make it make sense in my head. I guess I can accept that today.

Hello. My name is Bungling-Worm. You may remember me from my highly condemned submissions such as "Socialists-The Moralist Busybodies Preventing You From Beating YOUR Cheating C\nt of a Wife and Annoying Children", "Profit or: Humanity's Raisin Deter (sic).", "Who Really 'Needs' Clean Air and Water Anyway?", "Hayek Was Right! - How Fascism Saved Western Civilization™ From the Bolshevik Menace" and "SWEATSHOPS!-The Greatest Gift to Third-World Youths Since the Polio Vaccine.*"
Today I'd like to address my fellow capitalists. It's no secret that, much like the U.S. military in Iraq circa 2003-2011, we're losing the battle for the hearts and minds of our intended slav..subje...vict...vassa...thral...our fellow men™. For this reason my employer, Generic Right-Wing Think Tank Inc., in partnership with our good friends in the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency and the U.K. Special Intelligence Service (formerly U.K. Military Intelligence, Section 6), have contacted the eminent propagandist conservative philosopher picnic-boy and gained his gracious permission to make an official Part 2 to his highly acclaimed How to argue in favor of capitalism and against socialism, a helpful guide the table of contents of which is freely available (for a limited time only) here: https://www.reddit.com/CapitalismVSocialism/comments/1cqvdsv/comment/l3wuegi/
Without picnic-boy's pioneering achievements in sophistry this work would not be possible. Now, without further add-do (sic) I give you a sneak peak into the table of contents of How to argue in favor of capitalism and against socialism, a helpful guide: Part 2.

1. State, often and always without evidence (because none exists), that socialists control all mainstream news media, organized religion (especially the Catholic Church, the Jesuit Order, the Hasidic Colleges and every sect of Islam), Western academia, K-12 public education, the entire U.S. civil service/bureaucracy (from the municipal all the way up to the federal), the FBI, the CIA, the Justice Department, the Democratic Party, the Fraternal Order of Freemasons, Hollywood, all police unions, the AFL-CIO board, the entire federal judiciary, all the major drug cartels and organized crime syndicates, the Federal Reserve System and the governments of literally every single third and second world country, especially the far-right and non-white majority ones. At the exact same time, and this is really important so pay close attention, accuse socialists of being unpopular teenage losers living in their parents' basement who're too lazy to get a job.
2. When socialists remark upon how similar the claims in point 1 are to contemporary Neo-Nazi conspiracy theories and start to question how you feel about Jewish people turn around and accuse them of being "the real anti-semites" for "wanting to take all the Jews' money away ". In no way is this conflation of all Jews with rich capitalists a form of economic antisemitism. If someone points out that it is simply cherry pick quotes from Marx's "On the Jewish Question" out of context so that none of the parts where Marx makes it clear he is only critiquing Judaism as a religion while at the same time advocating for the political emancipation of Jews as people are clear to the reader. After that go on to talk about how much you support Israel and how much happier you think diaspora Jews would be if they permanently immigrated there. Also and for no particular reason talk about the "failure" of the Kibbutzim apropos of nothing and don't elaborate on anything.
3. Always portray struggles of democratic socialists within ML states/the Eastern Bloc as struggles for capitalism. Yes, it is true the people who organized the East German Uprising of 1953, the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, the Prague Spring of 1968, and the Polish Solidarity Movement of the 1980's (before the Vatican and CIA hijacked it) all demanded democratic socialism, yes they all said that, but what they "really wanted" was capitalism and don't you let any so-called "historian" tell you otherwise.
4. Pretend that socialists invented the very concept of the state and thus that all state rulers from the Roman Emperors, Egyptian Pharaohs, Greek Archons, etc. to modern Kings, Kaisers, Tsars and Presidents were/are "socialists".
5. Don't forget to liberally pepper your psychotic rants with plenty of freudian slips and accusations in a mirror. For example, make the claim that socialists want to destroy the family so that they can isolate, abuse and indoctrinate women and children while at the same time assert that wives and children are nothing more than an extension of "the individual" who need to be shielded by this individual from an unrealistically hostile and confusing world (literally everything and everyone outside the home).
6. Assert that socialists invented taxation and ignore that the first taxes in recorded history took the form of land-rents set by the first governments (which were councils of militaristic landlords).
7. Defend rent-seeking and landlordism so long as it's done by private individuals. Remember rent-seeking is only bad when the government does it because they spend that money on social parasites and welfare leeches, unlike landlords who spend it on their second families in the next state over.
8. Claim fascism is a form of socialism but also defend the legacies of lesser known fascist regimes, military dictatorships and other totalitarian right-wing governments whose symbols and mottos the people in your country haven't developed a learned fear response to yet the way they have the Swastika and the Fasces.
9. When leftists point out that the main victims of things like the Great Purge and the Chinese Cultural Revolution were socialists,communists, anarchists and other left-wing intellectuals who opposed Stalin and Mao's cults of personality either ignore them and maintain that the "real victims" were the tiny minority of "innocent" religious extremists, ultranationalists (who were "definitely not" fascist collaborators or spies), and resource hoarders who were killed or do a complete one hundred and eighty degree pivot and actually defend the Great Purge and Cultural Revolution because "The more left someone is, the more violent/dictatorial they are, therefore anyone to the left of Stalin and Mao would have been more violent than them and it's a good thing they were killed."
10. If you think any of these points are self-contradicting just remember that doublethink is merely a tool and "communists" (Stalinists) shouldn't be the only ones allowed to make use of it.
11. Ignore the mountains of evidence that an anti-Stalinist left exists. Portray these leftists as right-wingers and edit their most famous works to leave out the many mentions of their own support for socialism.
12. Remind your interlocutor(s) that socialism is gay and cringe.
13. Remember that reading is gay but total illiteracy is still kinda cringe (unfortunately). Therefore read as little as humanly possible without going full illiterate. Our recommendation is to only read blurbs from ancap websites, your favorite right-wing conspiracy theorists' social media threads and your fellow "capitalists' " reddit posts and nothing else.
14. In keeping with point 13 let the only things you "know" or "learn" about socialism be things you absorbed through osmosis and half remember from your high school history textbooks assuming you even read them at all. Never look at primary sources, never listen to people trying to explain things to you in detail, always complain that quotes provided to you are "blocks of text" or "unoriginal".
15. Remember that conformism, unquestioning obedience to authority, an unflinching belief in the correctness of the current socioeconomic status quo and conventional wisdom, and a general Panglossian worldview with a huge heaping of moral nihilism (which is definitely a real philosophical school of thought and not just a rationalization of one's own sociopathic tendencies) are actually somehow radical and that "conservatism is the new punk rock" of the 21st century.
16. Remember that guy begging for spare change you passed on your way to work? That was a capitalist. Capitalists are actually worse off than everyone else in society as hard to believe as that may seem. You see when it comes to capitalists' they're "cash poor, asset rich" which means all their wealth is tied up in assets like yachts and sports cars and mansions and designer suits and second summer homes and third winter homes and tropical island resorts where "nothing unethical ever happens so shut up about it already"...and you see they can't use these assets to buy groceries or clothing or even pay the "exorbitant" property taxes on their assets. So you see the real unfortunates in our society aren't the homeless or the victims of police brutality or refugees or the working poor, it's capitalists. These brave men and women take (minor) financial risks by using what little cash they have to found businesses, not for their own benefit but for ours, so that they can give us jobs and provide us with products and services and then what do these generous souls get in return for their herculean efforts? Just a whole lot of ingratitude from socialists and a bunch of tacky junk they can't even use to feed and clothe their many, many illegitimate and adoptive children that they're definitely not doing anything questionable with on their tropical islands that aren't even worth that much anymore because of rising sea levels (which have nothing to do with climate change, which is just a Chinese communist plot to make Americans poor don'tcha know?).

Resolving immigration issues at the southern border is complex and requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some key strategies:

1. Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Implementing comprehensive immigration reform that addresses various aspects of the immigration system, including border security, pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, temporary worker programs, and improvements to legal immigration processes.
2. Border Security: Investing in technology, personnel, and infrastructure to enhance border security. This includes increasing the number of border patrol agents, deploying advanced surveillance technology, and fortifying physical barriers where necessary.
3. Address Root Causes: Addressing the root causes of migration from Central American countries, such as poverty, violence, and lack of economic opportunity. This involves diplomatic efforts, foreign aid, and partnerships with regional governments and organizations to improve conditions in sending countries.
4. Streamlining Asylum Process: Streamlining and strengthening the asylum process to efficiently and fairly adjudicate asylum claims while also deterring fraudulent claims. This may involve increasing resources for asylum officers and immigration judges to reduce backlogs and processing times.
5. Humanitarian Assistance: Providing humanitarian assistance to migrants, including medical care, food, shelter, and legal support, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and families.
6. Cooperation with Mexico and Central American Countries: Strengthening cooperation with Mexico and Central American countries to manage migration flows and combat human trafficking and smuggling networks.
7. Pathways to Legal Status: Creating pathways to legal status for undocumented immigrants already living in the United States, including those who have been contributing to their communities for years.
8. Workforce Development: Implementing workforce development programs to address labor needs in sectors that rely heavily on immigrant labor, such as agriculture and hospitality, while also protecting the rights of both immigrant and native-born workers.
9. Enhanced Border Management: Investing in modernizing and enhancing border management systems to facilitate legal trade and travel while maintaining security.
10. Public Education and Outreach: Conducting public education and outreach campaigns to dispel myths about immigration, promote understanding of immigration laws and policies, and foster empathy and support for migrants.

Ultimately, resolving immigration issues at the southern border requires a balanced approach that prioritizes security, humanitarian concerns, and the rule of law while also recognizing the economic and social benefits of immigration to the United States.
The first thing is to vote out anyone who will not actually address the issue. There are too many politicians who embrace the border issues because they help in reelection. If a politician is not part of the solution, they should be removed.

Introduction to energy consumption in vending machines

Vending machines have become an integral part of our daily lives, providing convenient access to a wide range of products. However, the energy consumption of these machines is a growing concern. In this article, we will explore the various factors that contribute to the energy consumption of vending machines and discuss strategies to optimize their energy usage. By understanding the impact of energy consumption in vending machines, we can work towards creating a more sustainable and efficient future.

Importance of optimizing energy consumption

Optimizing energy consumption in vending machines is of utmost importance in today's world. With the increasing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, it is crucial to minimize the energy usage of vending machines. By doing so, we can reduce the environmental impact and contribute to a greener future. Additionally, optimizing energy consumption can lead to significant cost savings for businesses. Lower energy consumption means lower electricity bills, allowing companies to allocate their resources more efficiently. Moreover, by optimizing energy consumption, vending machines can operate more effectively, ensuring a seamless experience for customers. Overall, the importance of optimizing energy consumption in vending machines cannot be overstated, as it brings both environmental and economic benefits.

Benefits of reducing energy usage in vending machines

Reducing energy usage in vending machines offers several benefits. Firstly, it helps in maximizing return on construction services. By optimizing energy consumption, vending machines can operate more efficiently, resulting in reduced energy costs and increased profitability. Additionally, reducing energy usage contributes to environmental sustainability, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with vending machine operations. This not only aligns with corporate social responsibility goals but also enhances the brand image by showcasing a commitment to energy conservation. Moreover, by minimizing energy consumption, vending machine owners can extend the lifespan of their machines, reducing maintenance and replacement costs. Overall, the benefits of reducing energy usage in vending machines are multifaceted, encompassing financial savings, environmental impact, and operational efficiency.

Understanding Energy Consumption in Vending Machines

Factors contributing to energy consumption

Factors contributing to energy consumption in vending machines include the type of refrigeration system used, the age and condition of the machine, and the location where it is placed. Additionally, the design and functionality of the machine's user interface can also impact energy usage. One important factor to consider is the implementation of a mobile-friendly website design. This allows customers to conveniently access information about the vending machine, such as product availability and nutritional information, through their mobile devices. By incorporating mobile-friendly website design, vending machine operators can enhance the user experience and reduce the need for physical interaction with the machine, ultimately optimizing energy consumption.

Types of energy used in vending machines

Vending machines are powered by various types of energy sources to operate efficiently. The most commonly used energy sources in vending machines include electricity, batteries, and solar power. Electricity is the primary energy source for most vending machines, as it provides a reliable and constant power supply. Batteries are often used as a backup power source in case of power outages or to ensure continuous operation in remote locations. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards using solar power in vending machines, as it is a renewable and environmentally friendly energy source. Solar-powered vending machines not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions. The choice of energy source in vending machines plays a crucial role in optimizing energy consumption and minimizing the environmental impact.

Measuring energy consumption in vending machines

Measuring energy consumption in vending machines is a crucial step towards optimizing their efficiency and reducing their environmental impact. By accurately measuring the energy consumed by these machines, companies can identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to minimize energy waste. One key aspect to consider when measuring energy consumption is the impact of custom advertisements. These advertisements, when displayed on vending machines, can significantly affect energy usage. By analyzing the energy consumption patterns during the display of custom advertisements, companies can make informed decisions on how to optimize energy usage without compromising the effectiveness of these promotional materials.

Strategies for Optimizing Energy Consumption

Implementing energy-efficient lighting systems

Implementing energy-efficient lighting systems is crucial in optimizing the energy consumption of vending machines. By using advanced lighting technologies such as LED lights, vending machine operators can significantly reduce energy usage without compromising on the quality of illumination. LED lights are known for their long lifespan, low energy consumption, and high efficiency, making them an ideal choice for energy-conscious businesses. Furthermore, implementing motion sensors and timers can further enhance energy efficiency by automatically adjusting the lighting levels based on the presence of customers. Overall, integrating energy-efficient lighting systems into vending machines not only helps in reducing energy costs but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly operation.

Utilizing motion sensors to control power usage

Motion sensors can play a crucial role in optimizing the energy consumption of vending machines. By utilizing motion sensors to control power usage, vending machines can automatically detect when there is no activity and enter a low-power mode. This not only reduces energy waste but also extends the lifespan of the machine. Additionally, motion sensors can be used to trigger the machine to power up when someone approaches, ensuring that energy is only consumed when necessary. By incorporating motion sensors into vending machines, businesses can significantly reduce their energy costs and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Optimizing temperature settings for refrigeration

Optimizing temperature settings for refrigeration is a crucial step in reducing energy consumption of vending machines. By carefully adjusting the temperature settings, operators can ensure that the refrigeration units are running efficiently without unnecessary energy waste. It is recommended to set the temperature at the minimum level required to maintain the freshness and quality of the products. Regular monitoring and maintenance of the refrigeration systems can also help identify any potential issues that may be causing excessive energy usage. Implementing these optimization strategies can not only save energy but also contribute to the overall sustainability goals of the vending machine industry.

Monitoring and Analyzing Energy Usage

Using smart meters to track energy consumption

Using smart meters to track energy consumption is an effective way to optimize the energy usage of vending machines. By installing smart meters, vending machine operators can monitor and analyze the energy consumption patterns in real-time. This data can then be used to identify areas of high energy usage and develop strategies to reduce energy waste. One of the key benefits of using smart meters is the ability to tailor service payments based on actual energy consumption. This allows vending machine operators to accurately bill customers for the energy used, promoting fairness and encouraging energy-efficient practices. By implementing smart metering technology, vending machine operators can take proactive steps towards optimizing energy consumption and reducing their environmental impact.

Analyzing data to identify energy-saving opportunities

Analyzing data to identify energy-saving opportunities is a crucial step in optimizing the energy consumption of vending machines. By carefully examining the data collected from various sources, such as energy usage logs and machine performance metrics, businesses can gain valuable insights into their vending machine operations. These insights can then be used to identify areas where energy consumption can be reduced, leading to cost savings and a more sustainable business model. Implementing data-driven strategies and technologies, such as smart sensors and machine learning algorithms, can further enhance the energy efficiency of vending machines. By leveraging data analysis techniques and adopting energy-saving measures, businesses can not only reduce their environmental impact but also improve their bottom line.

Implementing energy management software

Implementing energy management software is a crucial step in optimizing the energy consumption of vending machines. By utilizing advanced software solutions, vending machine operators can gain better control over the energy usage of their machines, resulting in significant cost savings and environmental benefits. Energy management software allows for real-time monitoring of energy consumption, enabling operators to identify inefficiencies and implement corrective measures promptly. Additionally, this software provides valuable insights into usage patterns and trends, facilitating the development of targeted energy-saving strategies. With the implementation of energy management software, vending machine operators can contribute to a more sustainable future while also improving their bottom line.

Best Practices for Energy Efficiency

Regular maintenance and cleaning of vending machines

Regular maintenance and cleaning of vending machines is crucial for optimizing energy consumption. By conducting regular maintenance checks, vending machine operators can identify and address any issues that may be causing excessive energy usage. This includes inspecting and cleaning the cooling systems, ensuring proper insulation, and monitoring the power consumption of individual components. Additionally, implementing effective cleaning practices, such as regularly wiping down surfaces and removing debris, can help maintain the efficiency of the machines. By prioritizing regular maintenance and cleaning, vending machine operators can reduce energy waste and improve the overall performance of their machines.

Educating users on energy-saving practices

Educating users on energy-saving practices is crucial for optimizing energy consumption of vending machines. By providing entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and tools, they can make informed decisions that promote energy efficiency and contribute to positive change. It is important to educate users on the benefits of energy-saving practices and the impact they can have on the environment and their own businesses. By implementing energy-saving measures, entrepreneurs can not only reduce their operating costs but also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, which can attract environmentally conscious customers. Emphasizing the importance of energy-saving practices and encouraging users to adopt them can create a culture of responsible energy consumption and drive positive change in the vending machine industry.

Collaborating with suppliers to source energy-efficient equipment

Collaborating with suppliers to source energy-efficient equipment is a crucial step in optimizing the energy consumption of vending machines. By working closely with suppliers, businesses can ensure that the equipment they acquire meets the highest energy efficiency standards. This collaboration allows for the identification and selection of energy-efficient vending machines that not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to cost savings. Furthermore, by partnering with suppliers who prioritize sustainability, businesses can align their values with suppliers who share a commitment to reducing environmental impact. This collaboration also provides an opportunity for businesses to explore innovative technologies and solutions that can further enhance energy efficiency in vending machines. By actively engaging with suppliers, businesses can establish a sustainable and energy-efficient business formation that benefits both the environment and the bottom line.

Conclusion

Summary of key points

The summary of key points is an essential section that provides a concise overview of the main ideas discussed in the article. In the article titled 'How to Optimize Energy Consumption of Vending Machines', several key points were highlighted. Firstly, it is crucial to understand the importance of energy optimization in vending machines to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Secondly, implementing energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting and smart sensors can significantly contribute to energy savings. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning of vending machines can help ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. Lastly, monitoring energy consumption through data analysis and implementing energy-saving strategies can further optimize energy usage in vending machines. By following these key points, vending machine operators can effectively optimize energy consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Importance of ongoing energy optimization efforts

Energy optimization is a crucial aspect that should not be overlooked when it comes to vending machines. The ongoing efforts to optimize energy consumption play a significant role in reducing the environmental impact and operational costs associated with these machines. By implementing efficient energy management strategies, vending machine owners can not only contribute to a greener and more sustainable future but also improve their bottom line. It is imperative for businesses to prioritize ongoing energy optimization efforts to ensure maximum efficiency and minimize wastage. By doing so, they can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enhance their reputation as environmentally responsible entities.

Future trends in energy-efficient vending machines

Future trends in energy-efficient vending machines are crucial for the entrepreneurial success of businesses. As technology continues to advance, there is a growing demand for vending machines that consume less energy while still providing efficient service. Companies are investing in research and development to create vending machines that are equipped with energy-saving features such as LED lighting, smart sensors, and power management systems. These advancements not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to cost savings for businesses. By embracing these future trends in energy-efficient vending machines, entrepreneurs can enhance their sustainability efforts and create a positive impact on the environment.
In conclusion, starting a vending machine business can be a lucrative venture. With the right strategies and a solid plan, you can tap into a market that is constantly growing. If you want to learn more about how to start a vending machine business in 2023, check out our website. We provide step-by-step guides and valuable resources to help you get started. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create a successful business in the vending machine industry. Visit our website today and take the first step towards financial freedom.

Understanding the importance of engaging with suppliers

Engaging with suppliers is crucial for businesses, especially when it comes to bulk purchases and discounts. By establishing strong relationships with suppliers, companies can benefit from various advantages. Firstly, engaging with suppliers allows businesses to negotiate better prices and secure bulk discounts. This can significantly reduce costs and increase profit margins. Secondly, suppliers can provide valuable insights and advice on market trends, product availability, and industry best practices. This information can help businesses make informed decisions and stay competitive in the market. Lastly, collaborating with suppliers fosters trust and loyalty, leading to long-term partnerships that can result in exclusive deals and preferential treatment. Therefore, understanding the importance of engaging with suppliers is essential for businesses seeking to optimize their purchasing strategies and maximize profitability.

Benefits of bulk purchases and discounts

Bulk purchases and discounts offer several benefits for businesses. One of the key advantages is cost savings. By buying in bulk, businesses can negotiate lower prices and secure discounts from suppliers. This can significantly reduce the overall procurement costs and improve the profit margins. Another benefit is increased efficiency. When businesses purchase in bulk, they can streamline their supply chain and reduce the frequency of ordering, resulting in time and resource savings. Additionally, bulk purchases allow businesses to maintain a consistent inventory, ensuring that they have sufficient stock to meet customer demands. Overall, engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts can provide businesses with cost savings, increased efficiency, and improved inventory management.

Key considerations before engaging with suppliers

Before engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts, there are several key considerations that need to be taken into account. One important factor is the visibility of your saree business. It is crucial to ensure that your business is easily discoverable by potential suppliers, as this can lead to better opportunities for bulk purchases and discounts. By increasing the visibility of your saree business through various marketing channels, such as online platforms and social media, you can attract the attention of suppliers and establish a strong presence in the industry. Another key consideration is the reputation of the suppliers you are planning to engage with. It is essential to research and evaluate the reputation of potential suppliers to ensure they have a track record of delivering high-quality products and providing reliable services. Additionally, it is important to consider the financial stability of the suppliers, as this can impact their ability to fulfill bulk orders and offer competitive pricing. By carefully considering these factors before engaging with suppliers, you can make informed decisions that will benefit your saree business in the long run.

Finding the right suppliers

Researching potential suppliers

Researching potential suppliers is a crucial step in the process of engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts. As an entrepreneur, it is important to embrace change and adapt to the evolving market demands. By thoroughly researching potential suppliers, you can identify those who align with your business values and offer competitive pricing. Embracing change allows you to stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right suppliers for your bulk purchases. Additionally, embracing change as an entrepreneur opens up opportunities for innovation and growth, as you are constantly seeking ways to improve your business and meet the changing needs of your customers.

Evaluating supplier reliability and reputation

When it comes to evaluating supplier reliability and reputation, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and analysis. This involves assessing factors such as the supplier's track record, customer reviews, and industry certifications. Additionally, it is essential to consider the supplier's financial stability and their ability to meet bulk order requirements. By carefully evaluating these aspects, businesses can ensure that they engage with reliable and reputable suppliers for their bulk purchases. This not only helps in securing competitive prices and discounts but also minimizes the risk of disruptions in the supply chain.

Assessing supplier capacity and capabilities

Assessing supplier capacity and capabilities is a crucial step in the procurement process. It involves evaluating the ability of suppliers to meet the demands of bulk purchases and provide discounts. By thoroughly assessing supplier capacity, businesses can ensure that they are partnering with reliable and capable suppliers who can deliver the required products or services on time and at competitive prices. Additionally, evaluating supplier capabilities allows businesses to determine whether suppliers have the necessary resources, expertise, and infrastructure to handle large-scale orders. This assessment helps in mitigating risks and maximizing the benefits of bulk purchases and discounts. Self-love for entrepreneurs is an important aspect to consider when engaging with suppliers, as it encourages entrepreneurs to prioritize their well-being and make informed decisions that align with their business goals and values.

Negotiating bulk purchase terms

Determining the desired quantity and frequency

Determining the desired quantity and frequency is a crucial step in engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts. By accurately assessing your needs and forecasting future demand, you can negotiate better deals and secure cost-effective arrangements. It is important to consider factors such as storage capacity, shelf life of products, and market trends when determining the desired quantity. Additionally, understanding the frequency at which you require supplies allows you to plan your inventory management effectively and avoid stockouts or excess inventory. By establishing clear guidelines for quantity and frequency, you can build strong relationships with suppliers and optimize your procurement process.

Discussing pricing and payment terms

Discussing pricing and payment terms is a crucial step in engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts. It is important to establish clear and mutually beneficial arrangements to ensure a smooth payment process. When discussing payment terms, it is essential to consider factors such as the preferred method of payment, payment deadlines, and any applicable discounts or incentives for early payment. Additionally, it is advisable to inquire about the supplier's payment processing system to ensure compatibility and efficiency. By addressing these aspects, both parties can establish a strong foundation for a successful business relationship.

Exploring additional incentives and discounts

Exploring additional incentives and discounts is crucial for businesses looking to optimize their procurement strategies. One effective way to achieve this is by engaging with suppliers who offer bulk purchases and discounts. By establishing strong relationships with suppliers, businesses can negotiate favorable terms and secure cost savings. Moreover, suppliers may provide additional incentives such as extended payment terms or exclusive access to new products. To fully leverage these opportunities, businesses should consider partnering with a reliable business banking institution that can offer specialized financial solutions tailored to their procurement needs. With the right banking partner, businesses can streamline their payment processes, access working capital, and benefit from value-added services. By effectively engaging with suppliers and leveraging business banking services, businesses can enhance their purchasing power and drive long-term cost savings.

Building strong supplier relationships

Maintaining open lines of communication

Maintaining open lines of communication with suppliers is crucial for businesses looking to increase profitability. By establishing clear channels of communication, businesses can ensure that they are able to negotiate favorable terms and secure bulk purchases and discounts. Regularly engaging with suppliers allows businesses to stay updated on market trends, pricing fluctuations, and new product offerings, enabling them to make informed decisions that can positively impact their bottom line. Additionally, maintaining open lines of communication fosters strong relationships with suppliers, leading to a more collaborative and mutually beneficial partnership. To increase profitability, businesses should prioritize effective communication strategies with their suppliers.

Collaborating on product development and improvement

Collaborating on product development and improvement is crucial for businesses looking to engage with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts. By working together, businesses can leverage the expertise and resources of their suppliers to enhance the quality, features, and performance of their products. This collaboration allows for the identification of potential areas for improvement and the implementation of innovative solutions. Additionally, it fosters a strong relationship between businesses and suppliers, built on trust and mutual understanding. Through effective collaboration, businesses can not only achieve cost savings through bulk purchases but also gain a competitive edge in the market by offering superior products to their customers.

Providing feedback and addressing concerns

Providing feedback and addressing concerns is crucial when engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts. It allows businesses to maintain a strong and transparent relationship with their suppliers, ensuring that both parties are satisfied with the products and services provided. By providing feedback, businesses can communicate their needs and expectations, allowing suppliers to make necessary adjustments and improvements. Addressing concerns promptly and effectively demonstrates professionalism and commitment to quality, fostering trust and long-term collaboration. Moreover, open communication channels enable businesses to resolve any issues or disputes that may arise, minimizing potential disruptions to the supply chain. Overall, the process of providing feedback and addressing concerns is essential for optimizing supplier relationships and ensuring the success of bulk purchases and discounts.

Managing supplier performance

Setting clear expectations and performance metrics

When it comes to setting clear expectations and performance metrics, it is crucial for businesses to establish a solid foundation for their relationships with suppliers. This not only helps in streamlining the procurement process but also ensures that both parties are on the same page regarding the quality, quantity, and delivery of goods and services. One key aspect of this is credit card processing for tailors. By implementing efficient and secure credit card processing systems, tailors can offer their customers a convenient and hassle-free payment method. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also improves the overall efficiency of the purchasing process. Additionally, by setting clear expectations and performance metrics for credit card processing, tailors can ensure timely payments and minimize any potential disputes or issues. Therefore, it is essential for tailors to establish a robust credit card processing system that meets the needs of both the business and its customers.

Regularly reviewing supplier performance

Regularly reviewing supplier performance is crucial for businesses engaged in bulk purchases and seeking discounts. By regularly evaluating the performance of suppliers, businesses can ensure that they are meeting the required standards of quality, reliability, and timeliness. This evaluation process involves assessing factors such as product quality, delivery time, customer service, and adherence to agreed-upon terms and conditions. One important aspect of supplier performance evaluation is creating a rate sheet. A rate sheet provides a comprehensive overview of the pricing structure offered by different suppliers, allowing businesses to compare and negotiate better deals. By creating a rate sheet, businesses can identify suppliers offering competitive prices and leverage this information to negotiate bulk purchase discounts. Additionally, a rate sheet facilitates transparency and accountability in supplier relationships, as both parties have a clear understanding of the pricing terms. Regularly reviewing supplier performance, including creating a rate sheet, is essential for businesses looking to optimize their bulk purchasing strategies and secure cost-effective deals.

Addressing issues and resolving conflicts

Addressing issues and resolving conflicts is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive relationship with suppliers. Effective communication is key in this process, and it is important to approach any concerns or conflicts in a professional and respectful manner. One way to address issues is through email communication, which allows for clear and documented conversations. By utilizing effective email marketing strategies, such as personalization and targeted messaging, suppliers can be engaged in a more efficient and impactful way. For example, for a nail business, implementing an email marketing campaign that highlights the benefits of bulk purchases and discounts can be a powerful tool in engaging with suppliers. By emphasizing the value proposition and showcasing the potential growth opportunities, suppliers are more likely to be receptive and willing to negotiate favorable terms. It is essential to tailor the email content to address the specific needs and interests of the suppliers, ensuring that the message resonates with them and motivates them to take action. By employing effective email marketing techniques, the nail business can strengthen its relationship with suppliers and optimize its purchasing process for bulk orders and discounts.

Conclusion

Summary of key points

In summary, engaging with suppliers for bulk purchases and discounts is crucial for businesses looking to optimize their procurement processes and reduce costs. By establishing strong relationships with suppliers, businesses can negotiate favorable terms and secure volume discounts, resulting in significant savings. Additionally, effective communication and clear expectations are key to successful supplier engagement, ensuring that both parties are aligned on pricing, delivery schedules, and quality standards. Finally, leveraging technology and data analytics can further enhance the supplier engagement process, enabling businesses to make informed decisions based on real-time insights. Overall, by actively engaging with suppliers and implementing best practices, businesses can achieve cost savings, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Importance of ongoing supplier engagement

Ongoing supplier engagement is of utmost importance when it comes to bulk purchases and discounts. Establishing and maintaining a strong relationship with suppliers enables businesses to negotiate better prices, secure exclusive deals, and ensure timely deliveries. By regularly communicating and collaborating with suppliers, businesses can stay informed about market trends, product availability, and upcoming promotions. This allows them to make informed decisions and take advantage of favorable opportunities. Additionally, ongoing supplier engagement facilitates effective problem-solving and prompt resolution of issues, ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction. To optimize supplier engagement, businesses should implement effective calls to action, such as requesting quotes, participating in supplier meetings, and providing feedback on products and services. These calls to action serve as catalysts for proactive engagement and foster a mutually beneficial partnership between businesses and suppliers.

Benefits of long-term supplier relationships

One of the key benefits of establishing long-term supplier relationships is the ability to negotiate bulk purchases and secure discounts. By developing a strong partnership with suppliers, companies can leverage their buying power to obtain cost savings and competitive pricing. This is particularly advantageous for LLC service companies that frequently require large quantities of supplies and materials. Through ongoing collaboration and trust, these companies can establish favorable terms and conditions with their suppliers, ensuring a steady supply of goods at discounted rates. Additionally, long-term supplier relationships enable LLC service companies to streamline their procurement processes, reduce administrative costs, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
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Understanding the importance of handling customer complaints

Understanding the importance of handling customer complaints is crucial for the success of any business. In the cleaning industry, where customer satisfaction is paramount, it becomes even more essential. Customer complaints provide valuable feedback and insights into areas that need improvement. By addressing and resolving complaints promptly and effectively, cleaning businesses can demonstrate their commitment to customer service and build trust and loyalty. This, in turn, can lead to positive word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business. Therefore, it is imperative for cleaning businesses to prioritize the handling of customer complaints as a key aspect of their operations.

The impact of customer complaints on your cleaning business

Customer complaints can have a significant impact on the success and reputation of your cleaning business. It is crucial to understand the negative consequences that can arise from unresolved complaints. Firstly, customer complaints can damage your business's image and reputation. In today's digital age, dissatisfied customers can easily share their negative experiences on various online platforms, which can deter potential clients from choosing your services. Secondly, customer complaints can result in a loss of business. When customers are unhappy with the quality of your cleaning services, they are likely to terminate their contract and seek alternative options. This can lead to a decrease in revenue and a decline in customer loyalty. Lastly, customer complaints can hinder business growth and innovation. By addressing and resolving complaints effectively, you can identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes to enhance customer satisfaction. This proactive approach can drive innovation and help your cleaning business stay ahead of the competition.

Key principles for effectively handling customer complaints

When it comes to effectively handling customer complaints, there are key principles that every cleaning business should follow. One important principle is dealing with shame. It is crucial for businesses to acknowledge any mistakes or shortcomings and take responsibility for them. Instead of avoiding or ignoring customer complaints, businesses should address them head-on and seek to find a resolution. By demonstrating a willingness to learn from mistakes and improve, businesses can build trust and credibility with their customers. Dealing with shame also involves being empathetic towards the customer's feelings and concerns. By showing understanding and compassion, businesses can create a safe and supportive environment for customers to express their complaints. Overall, dealing with shame is a fundamental principle in effectively handling customer complaints and should be a priority for every cleaning business.

Creating a Complaint Management System

Establishing a clear process for receiving and documenting complaints

To effectively handle customer complaints in your cleaning business, it is essential to establish a clear process for receiving and documenting these grievances. This process should be formal and systematic, ensuring that all complaints are addressed promptly and thoroughly. By implementing a structured approach, you can demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction and improve the overall quality of your services. To begin, designate a dedicated point of contact who will be responsible for receiving and managing customer complaints. This individual should possess excellent communication skills and the ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations. Additionally, develop a standardized form or system for documenting complaints, including details such as the customer's name, contact information, nature of the complaint, and any actions taken to resolve the issue. This documentation will not only help you track and analyze patterns in customer feedback but also serve as a reference for future reference. Finally, establish clear timelines for addressing and resolving complaints, ensuring that each complaint is acknowledged and investigated promptly. By following these steps, you can establish a clear process for handling customer complaints and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction in your cleaning business.

Training your staff on complaint handling procedures

Training your staff on complaint handling procedures is crucial for the success of your cleaning business. By providing comprehensive training, you can ensure that your employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address customer complaints. One important aspect of complaint handling is understanding how to communicate with customers, especially through email marketing. Email marketing allows you to reach out to customers directly and address their concerns in a timely manner. It is important to train your staff on the best practices of email marketing, including crafting professional and empathetic responses, personalizing the communication, and providing clear instructions on how to resolve the issue. By incorporating email marketing into your complaint handling procedures, you can enhance customer satisfaction and maintain a positive reputation for your cleaning business.

Implementing a feedback mechanism for customers

Implementing a feedback mechanism for customers is crucial in the cleaning business industry. By providing a platform for customers to express their concerns and suggestions, cleaning businesses can gain valuable insights into their performance and identify areas for improvement. One effective way to implement a feedback mechanism is through the use of online surveys or feedback forms. These tools allow customers to easily provide feedback on their experience with the cleaning service, enabling businesses to address any issues promptly. Additionally, offering incentives such as discounts or rewards for completing the feedback process can encourage more customers to participate. By actively seeking and listening to customer feedback, cleaning businesses can enhance their services, build customer loyalty, and stay ahead of the competition.

Active Listening and Empathy

The role of active listening in resolving customer complaints

Active listening plays a crucial role in resolving customer complaints in the cleaning business. By actively listening to customers, cleaning business owners and employees can gain a deeper understanding of their concerns and frustrations. This allows them to address the issues more effectively and provide appropriate solutions. Active listening involves giving full attention to the customer, maintaining eye contact, and avoiding interruptions. It also includes paraphrasing and summarizing the customer's concerns to ensure accurate understanding. By practicing active listening, cleaning businesses can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, ultimately leading to the success and growth of the business.

Demonstrating empathy to understand customer concerns

Demonstrating empathy is a crucial skill when it comes to understanding and addressing customer concerns in the cleaning business. By putting ourselves in the shoes of the customer, we can gain a deeper understanding of their perspective and the impact that their concerns may have on their overall satisfaction. This involves actively listening to their complaints, acknowledging their emotions, and validating their experiences. By showing empathy, we can create a supportive and understanding environment that fosters trust and helps to resolve issues effectively. It is important to remember that demonstrating empathy is not just about saying the right things, but also about taking appropriate actions to address the customer's concerns and provide them with a satisfactory resolution. By doing so, we can not only retain our customers but also enhance our reputation as a reliable and customer-centric cleaning business.

Using effective communication techniques to show empathy

Using effective communication techniques to show empathy is crucial when handling customer complaints in your cleaning business. By actively listening to the customer's concerns and validating their feelings, you can demonstrate that you understand their perspective. It is important to use appropriate language and tone to convey empathy and assure the customer that their complaint is being taken seriously. Additionally, offering solutions and taking prompt action to address the issue can further show your commitment to resolving the problem and satisfying the customer's needs.

Resolving Complaints in a Timely Manner

Setting realistic response timeframes for complaint resolution

Setting realistic response timeframes for complaint resolution is crucial for the success and profitability of home security companies. By ensuring that customer complaints are addressed in a timely manner, companies can maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty. It is important to establish clear expectations with customers regarding the timeframe for complaint resolution, taking into account factors such as the complexity of the issue and available resources. By setting realistic response timeframes, home security companies can demonstrate their commitment to excellent customer service and enhance their reputation in the industry.

Prioritizing urgent complaints to prevent escalation

To effectively handle customer complaints in your cleaning business, it is crucial to prioritize urgent complaints to prevent escalation. By promptly addressing and resolving these issues, you can demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction and maintain a positive reputation. Prioritizing urgent complaints involves identifying the severity of the issue, assessing the potential impact on the customer, and taking immediate action to address the problem. This proactive approach not only helps in resolving the customer's concerns but also prevents them from spreading negative feedback. By prioritizing urgent complaints, you can ensure that your cleaning business maintains a high level of customer service and fosters long-term relationships with your clients.

Providing regular updates to customers during the resolution process

Providing regular updates to customers during the resolution process is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and trust. It shows that your cleaning business takes customer complaints seriously and is actively working towards a resolution. By keeping customers informed about the progress of their complaint, you demonstrate transparency and professionalism. This open communication also provides an opportunity to address any concerns or questions that customers may have, further enhancing their experience with your business. To ensure effective communication, consider using various channels such as email, phone calls, or even a dedicated customer portal. By providing regular updates, you not only keep customers informed but also show them that their feedback is valued and taken seriously by your cleaning business.

Offering Fair and Reasonable Solutions

Assessing the validity of customer complaints objectively

Assessing the validity of customer complaints objectively is an essential step in managing customer feedback in any business. It allows companies to determine the accuracy and legitimacy of the complaints and take appropriate actions accordingly. In the cleaning business, this process becomes even more critical as customer satisfaction is crucial for maintaining a positive reputation and attracting new clients. When assessing customer complaints, it is important to consider various factors such as the nature of the complaint, the credibility of the customer, and any supporting evidence provided. By objectively evaluating customer complaints, cleaning businesses can identify areas for improvement, address customer concerns, and enhance their overall service quality.

Providing appropriate compensation or remedies

When it comes to handling customer complaints in your cleaning business, providing appropriate compensation or remedies is crucial. As an entrepreneur, it is important to understand the value of customer satisfaction and the impact it can have on your business. When a customer expresses dissatisfaction with your cleaning services, it is essential to address their concerns promptly and effectively. Offering compensation or remedies demonstrates your commitment to resolving the issue and ensuring customer satisfaction. By doing so, you not only retain the customer but also enhance your reputation as a reliable and customer-centric cleaning business.

Negotiating mutually beneficial solutions

Negotiating mutually beneficial solutions is a crucial aspect of handling customer complaints in your cleaning business. It involves finding a middle ground that satisfies both the customer's needs and the company's objectives. By approaching the negotiation process with a formal and professional tone, you can effectively address the customer's concerns and work towards a resolution that not only resolves the issue at hand but also strengthens the relationship with the customer. It is important to listen attentively to the customer's grievances, empathize with their perspective, and propose practical solutions that demonstrate your commitment to their satisfaction. Through open and transparent communication, you can foster trust and collaboration, ultimately reaching a mutually beneficial outcome that leaves both parties satisfied.

Learning from Customer Complaints

Analyzing patterns and trends in customer complaints

Analyzing patterns and trends in customer complaints is a crucial aspect of managing a cleaning business. By carefully examining the feedback received from customers, businesses can identify common issues and recurring problems that need to be addressed. This analysis allows businesses to understand the root causes of customer dissatisfaction and develop effective strategies for improvement. Furthermore, by identifying patterns and trends, businesses can proactively implement preventive measures to minimize the occurrence of future complaints. The insights gained from this analysis can also help businesses make informed decisions regarding product or service enhancements, employee training, and customer communication. Overall, analyzing patterns and trends in customer complaints enables cleaning businesses to enhance their operations, maintain customer satisfaction, and ultimately foster long-term success.

Identifying areas for improvement in your cleaning business

Identifying areas for improvement in your cleaning business is crucial for its long-term success. By understanding the specific aspects that need attention, you can enhance the quality of your services and exceed customer expectations. One effective way to identify these areas is by regularly assessing customer feedback and complaints. Analyzing customer complaints can provide valuable insights into the issues that customers are facing and help you pinpoint the root causes. Additionally, conducting internal audits and evaluations can help you identify any operational inefficiencies or gaps in your cleaning processes. By addressing these areas for improvement, you can ensure that your cleaning business continues to thrive and deliver exceptional service.

Implementing changes based on customer feedback

Implementing changes based on customer feedback is crucial for the success of any business. In the cleaning industry, it is especially important to listen to and address customer complaints in order to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction. By actively seeking feedback and taking prompt action to resolve issues, cleaning businesses can improve their services and build a strong reputation. One area that can greatly benefit from customer feedback is marketing. Understanding the marketing impact on patient retention is essential for cleaning businesses to attract and retain customers. By analyzing customer feedback related to marketing strategies, businesses can identify areas for improvement and implement changes that will positively impact patient retention. This may include adjusting advertising campaigns, targeting specific customer segments, or improving the overall messaging and branding. By actively incorporating customer feedback into marketing strategies, cleaning businesses can enhance their ability to attract and retain customers, ultimately leading to long-term success.

Conclusion

The importance of a customer-centric approach in handling complaints

A customer-centric approach is crucial when it comes to handling complaints in your cleaning business. By prioritizing the needs and concerns of your customers, you demonstrate your commitment to providing excellent service and ensuring customer satisfaction. Taking a customer-centric approach involves actively listening to their complaints, empathizing with their frustrations, and taking prompt and effective action to resolve their issues. This approach not only helps in resolving individual complaints but also builds trust and loyalty among your customer base. By putting the customer at the center of your complaint handling process, you show that their satisfaction and experience are your top priorities, which can significantly enhance your business reputation and success.

Building customer loyalty through effective complaint resolution

Building customer loyalty through effective complaint resolution is essential for the success of any cleaning business. When customers have a complaint, it is an opportunity for the business to demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction. By addressing complaints promptly and professionally, the business can not only resolve the issue at hand but also build trust and loyalty with the customer. This can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth recommendations. Implementing a structured complaint resolution process, training staff on effective communication and problem-solving skills, and monitoring customer feedback are key steps in building customer loyalty through effective complaint resolution.

Continuous improvement for long-term business success

Continuous improvement is essential for long-term business success. In the cleaning industry, it is crucial to constantly strive for excellence in order to meet the evolving needs and expectations of customers. One area where continuous improvement can make a significant impact is in handling customer complaints. By actively seeking feedback and implementing necessary changes, cleaning businesses can enhance their customer service and satisfaction levels. This not only helps in retaining existing customers but also attracts new ones. Additionally, continuous improvement allows cleaning businesses to stay ahead of the competition and establish a strong reputation in the market. To achieve continuous improvement, cleaning businesses can explore various landscaping payment solutions that streamline the payment process and provide convenience to both the customers and the business. These solutions can include online payment platforms, mobile payment options, and automated invoicing systems. By adopting such solutions, cleaning businesses can improve their efficiency, accuracy, and overall customer experience.
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Introduction to launching a pet supplies online business

Launching a pet supplies online business can be an exciting and profitable venture. With the increasing popularity of online shopping, pet owners are looking for convenient ways to purchase supplies for their furry friends. However, there are several pitfalls that aspiring entrepreneurs need to be aware of in order to ensure a successful launch. In this article, we will explore seven common pitfalls that you should avoid when starting your pet supplies online business. By understanding these challenges and taking the necessary precautions, you can set yourself up for success and build a thriving online business in the pet supplies industry.

Benefits of starting an online pet supplies business

Starting an online pet supplies business offers several benefits. One of the key advantages is the flexibility it provides. With an online business, you have the freedom to work from anywhere, at any time. Additionally, an online business allows you to reach a wider audience, increasing your potential customer base. Another benefit is the cost savings associated with not having a physical storefront. You can avoid expenses such as rent, utilities, and maintenance. Furthermore, starting an online pet supplies business gives you the opportunity to showcase your creativity and branding through logo design. Creating a unique and eye-catching logo can help establish your brand identity and attract customers. In this article, we will guide you through the logo design process step by step, ensuring that you create a visually appealing and memorable logo for your pet supplies business.

Challenges of launching a pet supplies online business

Launching a pet supplies online business can be an exciting venture, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the main challenges is HR recruiting. Finding the right talent to join your team and help your business grow is essential, but it can be a time-consuming and daunting task. Fortunately, with the help of tools like Canva, you can streamline the recruiting process and create visually appealing job postings that attract top candidates. Canva offers a wide range of templates and design elements that allow you to create professional-looking job ads in minutes. By leveraging Canva's features, you can save time and effort in the hiring process, ensuring that you find the right candidates to propel your pet supplies online business forward.

Lack of Market Research

Importance of conducting market research

When launching your pet supplies online business, it is crucial to understand the importance of conducting market research. Market research helps you gather valuable insights about your target audience, competitors, and industry trends. By analyzing the market, you can identify potential opportunities and challenges that may arise in the e-commerce business. This research allows you to make informed decisions and develop effective strategies to position your online business for success. Conducting market research ensures that you have a thorough understanding of the market dynamics and customer preferences, enabling you to tailor your offerings and marketing efforts accordingly. With a solid foundation of market research, you can navigate the competitive landscape and establish a strong presence in the pet supplies e-commerce industry.

Identifying target audience and their needs

Identifying the target audience and understanding their needs is crucial for powering your business. By determining who your ideal customers are and what they are looking for, you can tailor your pet supplies online business to meet their specific requirements. Conduct thorough market research to gain insights into the demographics, preferences, and purchasing behavior of your target audience. This will enable you to create targeted marketing campaigns, develop products that resonate with your customers, and provide exceptional customer service. By addressing the needs of your target audience effectively, you can position your business for success and establish a strong foothold in the pet supplies industry.

Analyzing competition and market trends

Analyzing competition and market trends is crucial for the success of any business. It allows business owners to gain valuable insights into the current market landscape and make informed decisions. By studying the competition, business owners can identify their strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies to differentiate themselves. Additionally, analyzing market trends helps business owners stay updated on consumer preferences and demands, enabling them to adapt their offerings accordingly. This article provides advice for business owners on how to effectively analyze competition and market trends to stay ahead in the pet supplies online business industry.

Inadequate Website Design and User Experience

Importance of a visually appealing and user-friendly website

A visually appealing and user-friendly website is of utmost importance when launching your pet supplies online business. Your website serves as the face of your brand and the first impression for potential customers. It is crucial to create a website that not only showcases your products but also provides a seamless and enjoyable browsing experience. One key aspect of a visually appealing website is a well-designed fashion logo. A fashion logo design can enhance the overall aesthetic of your website and create a strong brand identity. By incorporating visually appealing elements and user-friendly features, such as easy navigation and clear product descriptions, you can attract and retain customers, ultimately driving the success of your pet supplies online business.

Optimizing website navigation and search functionality

Optimizing website navigation and search functionality is crucial for the success of your pet supplies online business. A well-designed and user-friendly navigation system allows customers to easily find the products they are looking for, improving their overall shopping experience. By implementing effective search functionality, customers can quickly search for specific items and filter the results based on their preferences. This not only saves time for the customers but also increases the chances of making a sale. Therefore, investing time and effort in optimizing website navigation and search functionality is essential for attracting and retaining customers in the competitive online pet supplies market.

Ensuring mobile responsiveness and fast loading speed

One crucial aspect to consider when launching your pet supplies online business is ensuring mobile responsiveness and fast loading speed. In today's digital age, more and more people are using their mobile devices to browse and shop online. Therefore, it is essential to optimize your website for mobile devices to provide a seamless user experience. Additionally, fast loading speed is paramount as users tend to abandon websites that take too long to load. By optimizing your website's performance, you can improve user satisfaction and increase the likelihood of conversions. To achieve this, you can utilize tools and techniques such as compressing images, minifying code, and leveraging caching mechanisms. Implementing these strategies will not only enhance the user experience but also contribute to better search engine rankings, ultimately driving more traffic to your pet supplies online business.

Insufficient Product Selection and Inventory Management

Choosing a diverse range of pet supplies

When launching your pet supplies online business, one of the key factors to consider is choosing a diverse range of pet supplies. Offering a wide variety of products will attract a larger customer base and cater to the different needs of pet owners. By providing options for various types of pets, such as dogs, cats, birds, and small animals, you can ensure that your online store becomes a one-stop shop for all pet lovers. Additionally, including both essential items and unique, specialty products will help differentiate your business from competitors and provide customers with a comprehensive shopping experience. Remember, the more options you offer, the more likely you are to satisfy the diverse preferences of your target audience and increase your chances of success in the pet supplies market.

Implementing effective inventory management systems

Implementing effective inventory management systems is crucial for the success of your pet supplies online business. By having a well-organized and efficient inventory management system in place, you can ensure that you always have the right products in stock to meet customer demand. This not only helps you avoid stockouts and backorders but also enables you to optimize your inventory levels and minimize carrying costs. Additionally, an effective inventory management system allows you to track product performance, identify slow-moving items, and make data-driven decisions to improve your overall business operations. With the right inventory management system in place, you can streamline your processes, improve customer satisfaction, and ultimately drive growth for your pet supplies online business.

Monitoring product demand and adjusting inventory accordingly

When launching your pet supplies online business, it is crucial to monitor product demand and adjust inventory accordingly. This ensures that you always have the right amount of stock to meet customer needs and avoid overstocking or understocking. By keeping a close eye on product demand, you can identify popular items and make informed decisions about which products to prioritize. Additionally, monitoring demand allows you to identify any trends or changes in customer preferences, enabling you to adapt your inventory and offerings accordingly. This proactive approach helps you stay ahead of the competition and provide a seamless shopping experience for your customers.

Weak Marketing and Promotion Strategies

Creating a comprehensive marketing plan

Creating a comprehensive marketing plan is essential for the success of any online business. It involves strategizing and implementing various marketing techniques to reach the target audience and drive sales. One crucial aspect of a marketing plan is the use of captivating narratives. Captivating narratives have the power to engage customers and create a lasting impression. By incorporating captivating narratives into your marketing strategy, you can effectively communicate your brand story and values, making your pet supplies online business stand out from the competition. To create captivating narratives, consider highlighting the unique features and benefits of your products, sharing customer success stories, and leveraging the emotional connection people have with their pets. By doing so, you can create a compelling and memorable experience for your customers, ultimately driving customer loyalty and increasing sales.

Utilizing social media platforms for promotion

Utilizing social media platforms for promotion is a crucial strategy when launching your pet supplies online business. With the increasing popularity and widespread use of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, these platforms offer a great opportunity to reach a wide audience and promote your products or services. By creating engaging content, running targeted ads, and interacting with your followers, you can build brand awareness, drive traffic to your website, and ultimately increase sales. Additionally, social media platforms provide valuable insights and analytics that can help you optimize your marketing efforts and better understand your target audience. It is important to develop a comprehensive social media strategy and consistently monitor and evaluate your performance to ensure that you are effectively utilizing these platforms for promotion.

Implementing SEO strategies to improve online visibility

Implementing SEO strategies is crucial for improving the online visibility of your pet supplies online business. One important aspect of SEO is optimizing your website for relevant keywords. One such keyword is 'online payment solutions for home-based businesses'. By integrating reliable online payment solutions into your website, you can provide a seamless and secure payment experience for your customers. This not only enhances their trust in your business but also encourages them to make purchases. Additionally, by highlighting the benefits of using online payment solutions, such as convenience and flexibility, you can attract more home-based businesses to choose your pet supplies online store as their preferred platform. With effective SEO strategies and the integration of online payment solutions, you can boost your online visibility and attract a wider audience to your pet supplies online business.

Lack of Customer Service and Support

Providing prompt and helpful customer support

When it comes to launching your pet supplies online business, providing prompt and helpful customer support is crucial. A strong marketing strategy is essential for attracting and retaining customers. By implementing effective marketing strategies, such as targeted advertising campaigns and social media engagement, you can reach a wider audience and increase brand awareness. Additionally, offering exceptional customer service and resolving inquiries or concerns in a timely manner can build trust and loyalty among your customers. Remember, a satisfied customer is more likely to recommend your business to others, which can lead to organic growth and success.

Implementing live chat and email support systems

Implementing live chat and email support systems can greatly enhance customer satisfaction and improve the overall shopping experience. By offering real-time assistance through live chat, customers can get immediate answers to their questions or concerns, leading to faster resolution of issues. Additionally, email support allows customers to reach out at their convenience, providing a convenient and efficient communication channel. These support systems enable businesses to provide timely and personalized assistance, building trust and loyalty among customers. By implementing these systems, online pet supplies businesses can ensure that their customers receive the support they need, ultimately contributing to the success of their business.

Handling customer complaints and resolving issues effectively

Handling customer complaints and resolving issues effectively is crucial for the success of any online business. When customers encounter problems or have concerns, it is important to address their issues promptly and professionally. This can help build trust and loyalty with customers, as well as improve the overall reputation of the business. By actively listening to customer complaints and taking appropriate actions to resolve them, businesses can turn negative experiences into positive ones. Implementing a clear and efficient customer support system, training employees on effective communication and problem-solving skills, and regularly monitoring and evaluating customer feedback can all contribute to effective complaint handling and issue resolution. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and striving to exceed their expectations, online businesses can create a positive and rewarding shopping experience for their customers.

Ignoring Analytics and Data Analysis

Importance of tracking website analytics

Tracking website analytics is crucial for the success of any online business. By monitoring and analyzing website data, businesses can gain valuable insights into their audience, their behavior, and the effectiveness of their marketing strategies. This information allows businesses to make data-driven decisions, optimize their website performance, and improve their overall online presence. Without tracking website analytics, businesses would be operating blindly, without a clear understanding of how their website is performing and how to make it better. Therefore, it is essential for pet supplies online businesses to invest in robust analytics tools and regularly review and interpret the data to stay ahead of the competition and maximize their online success.

Analyzing customer behavior and preferences

Analyzing customer behavior and preferences is crucial for the success of any online business. By understanding the needs and preferences of our target audience, we can tailor our products and services to meet their specific requirements. When it comes to launching a pet supplies online business, it is important to analyze the behavior and preferences of pet owners, including those who are looking for group homes for their specific target audience. By studying their purchasing patterns, browsing habits, and preferences, we can gain valuable insights that will help us create a user-friendly website, offer personalized recommendations, and provide a seamless shopping experience. Additionally, by highlighting the keywords 'group homes for [specific target audience],' we can create hyperlinks that direct customers to relevant products and services that cater to their specific needs.

Using data to make informed business decisions

Using data to make informed business decisions is crucial for the success of any online business. By analyzing data, businesses can gain valuable insights into customer behavior, market trends, and competitors' strategies. One key aspect of data analysis is understanding Google revenue streams. Google, being one of the largest technology companies in the world, generates revenue through various channels such as advertising, cloud services, and hardware sales. Understanding these revenue streams can help online businesses optimize their marketing strategies and identify potential partnership opportunities. By leveraging data on Google revenue streams, businesses can make informed decisions that drive growth and profitability.

Conclusion

Recap of the pitfalls to avoid when launching a pet supplies online business

When launching a pet supplies online business, it is crucial to be aware of the pitfalls that can hinder your success. Better communication is one of the key factors to consider. Ensuring clear and effective communication with your customers, suppliers, and team members can help avoid misunderstandings and enhance overall business operations. By fostering open lines of communication, you can build trust, resolve issues promptly, and create a positive customer experience. Additionally, implementing tools and strategies for efficient communication, such as email, chat platforms, and project management software, can streamline processes and improve collaboration. Investing time and effort in establishing better communication practices will contribute to the smooth launch and growth of your pet supplies online business.

Importance of continuous improvement and adaptation

Continuous improvement and adaptation are crucial for the success of any business, especially when it comes to launching an online venture in the pet supplies industry. In today's rapidly evolving market, staying ahead of the competition requires a commitment to continuously assess and enhance your business strategies. By constantly evaluating customer needs, market trends, and technological advancements, you can identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to meet the ever-changing demands of pet owners. Embracing a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation not only ensures your business remains relevant and competitive, but also allows you to provide better products and services to your customers, ultimately leading to long-term success.

Encouragement to take the leap and start the online business

Starting an online business can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to the pet supplies industry. However, with the right encouragement and support, taking the leap and starting your own pet supplies online business can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavor. By understanding and avoiding the common pitfalls that many entrepreneurs face, you can navigate the challenges and build a successful online business. With determination, perseverance, and a passion for pets, you can create a platform that provides pet owners with the convenience and quality products they need, while also fulfilling your entrepreneurial dreams.
In conclusion, starting a pet supplies business online can be a lucrative venture. With the increasing demand for pet products, there is a great opportunity to tap into this market. By following the step-by-step guide provided on our website, you can easily set up your own online pet supplies business. Whether you are a pet lover or an entrepreneur looking for a profitable business idea, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Don't miss out on the chance to turn your passion for pets into a successful online business. Visit our website today and get started on your journey to becoming a pet supplies business owner.