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Uncrowned Guard

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Posts posted by Uncrowned Guard

  1. 3 hours ago, ZandraJoi said:

    We used to go visit my husband's family but his parents have since passed away. Then Christmas we would go to my parents. Now we do both holidays with my parents. We make a simple meal of roast with potatoes & gravy. None of us do pie anymore lol For us, the holidays are us 4 getting together just like any other visit we have with each other. 🙂

    We have also downsized our meals and generally don't even have turkey for Thanksgiving anymore. We used to have large family meals and such but now there is only one remaining grand parent between me and the wife's family, so we generally head there and have more of a get together than a Thanksgiving meal. Overall it's just too challenging to haul a fully cooked turkey around then it is to take a couple trays of food and desserts.

    • Like 1
  2. As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, many of us look forward to Thanksgiving — a time for gratitude, feasting, and family. But traditions can vary widely. Do you gather around a turkey, try out new recipes, volunteer, or even forego the holiday altogether? Whether you're all about the parade, the football game, or a unique ritual that's all your own, we'd love to hear about it. And if Thanksgiving isn't part of your annual celebrations, what do you do instead? Share your stories, customs, or alternative ways of observing (or not observing) Thanksgiving in this thread!

    Charlie Brown Eating GIF by Peanuts

  3. HTC has unveiled a revolutionary application for its Vive Focus 3 VR headset, aiming to enhance astronaut mental health during prolonged space missions. According to a report by The Verge, this initiative aligns with HTC's commitment to leveraging technology for wellbeing and introduces a unique collaboration between various sectors to address the mental challenges faced by astronauts. In the upcoming NASA Crew-7 mission, Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen will engage with a specially modified Vive Focus 3 VR headset over an eight-month period.

    Addressing Astronaut Mental Health: A Collaborative Effort

    Understanding the unique stressors of space travel, including isolation, demanding workloads, and distance from loved ones, HTC has partnered with XRHealth, a virtual reality therapy company, and Nord-Space ApS, an aeronautics R&D firm. Together, they have developed a "virtual assistance mental balance initiative" using the Vive Focus 3. The headset has undergone adjustments to ensure it remains user-friendly in a microgravity environment, addressing past challenges where VR in space led to disorientation and nausea.

    The modifications to the Vive Focus 3 involve both software enhancements and power management adjustments, ensuring that the spatial orientation issues are resolved. The tracking algorithms have been linked to a stationary controller, providing the necessary relative positioning for seamless motion synchronization. Furthermore, the device allows for navigation through eye-tracking or using another controller, offering versatility in interaction.

    Potential Implications and Future Developments

    This extended space mission serves as a crucial test for the viability of HTC's technology in supporting astronaut mental health. If successful, it could pave the way for more comprehensive VR experiences tailored to longer space voyages, possibly even a two-year round trip to Mars. In addition to the hardware adjustments, XRHealth has developed VR software that includes a variety of 360-degree videos and meditation exercises to create a comforting and familiar environment for the astronaut.

    This project represents a small but significant step forward in integrating VR technology for behavioral health in space. With future updates and expansions, there is potential for astronauts to connect with people on Earth, including professional therapists and coaches, enhancing the support system available during missions. HTC, XRHealth, and their partners continue to explore the boundaries of technology and wellness, striving to create solutions that address the unique challenges of space travel.

    HTC's innovative approach to utilizing the Vive Focus 3 VR headset in space reflects a broader commitment to advancing technology for wellbeing. By addressing the mental health challenges faced by astronauts through a collaborative and tech-driven initiative, HTC is contributing to the future of space travel and astronaut care. This mission is a significant stride towards integrating VR as a tool for supporting mental wellness in one of the most challenging environments known to humanity.


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  4. On 10/8/2023 at 11:32 AM, brinxy29 said:

    I just upgrade parts in my PC every few years but I am looking to downsize away from a bulky gaming rig to a mini. I can get so much power for so little these days it is worth just having a smaller computer to allow for more desk space. My desk is fairly crammed! 

    Mini PCs are looking pretty good as of late, so I can see the appeal.  I have also thought about the idea of a mini PC, but I'm too far out from my next upgrade to really get too involved with it.

  5. Hello Forum Enthusiasts,

    We’re thrilled to roll out an exciting initiative designed to give your forums the spotlight they deserve – welcome to the “Community Highlights” Social Media List!

    What is “Community Highlights”?

    “Community Highlights” is our proactive approach to highlight and promote the fantastic content you share on the Forum Addicts Club. By being part of this list, your news, updates, and standout posts don’t just stay within the confines of the forum – they get broadcasted to our dedicated Forum Addicts Social Media Group, comprised of forum lovers and enthusiasts just like you!

    How it Works

    1. Post on Forum Addicts Club: Share your forum’s latest news, events, or any engaging content on the Forum Addicts Club.
    2. We Spot and Share: Our eagle-eyed team keeps a constant watch on the Club. When we spot your amazing content, we amplify it by sharing it on our Forum Addicts Social Media Group.
    3. Your Forum Shines: Gain instant exposure and connect with a wider audience who are as passionate about forums as you are.

    Why Participate?

    • Wider Reach: Tap into an audience that is keen and ready to explore new forums.
    • Engagement Boost: Increase the interaction and engagement levels on your forum.
    • Free and Easy: No hidden costs, no complicated sign-ups. Simply post, and we’ll take care of the rest.

    Get Started Now

    Ready to get your forum the attention it deserves? Start by posting your news and updates on the Forum Addicts Club. Make sure your content is engaging and informative – we want to share the best of what your forum has to offer!

    Together, let’s create a buzz and bring more forum lovers into our amazing communities.

    Please note: We currently generate this list monthly, so there are delays in getting your notes out, special expectations may be made for time-sensitive content and events.

  6. In recent times, the YouTube community has been rocked by a scandal involving prominent content creators SSSniperWolf and jacksfilms. SSSniperWolf has faced backlash and temporary demonetization on YouTube due to her alleged involvement in doxxing jacksfilms on Instagram, a move believed to be in retaliation to a series of videos by jacksfilms highlighting controversies surrounding SSSniperWolf’s content. This situation has sparked a heated debate, not just on the intricacies of the ongoing drama, but on a broader and more critical question: Should YouTube hold its creators accountable for actions taken on other platforms?

    Background

    SSSniperWolf, a popular content creator known for her reaction videos and collaborations, has had her share of controversies in the past. The recent spat with jacksfilms has added fuel to the fire, culminating in her temporary demonetization on YouTube. While some argue that YouTube's action was a necessary step to uphold community standards and ensure personal safety, others question the appropriateness of penalizing a creator for actions taken on a separate platform.

    Debate Points

    1. Upholding Community Standards and Personal Safety
      • Supporters of YouTube’s decision argue that the platform has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its community, regardless of where the threat originates.
      • Doxxing, regardless of the platform it occurs on, can have severe and lasting impacts on a person’s life, and as such, should be condemned and penalized universally.
    2. Jurisdiction and Overreach
      • On the other hand, some argue that YouTube's jurisdiction should be limited to actions taken on its own platform. 
      • Penalizing creators for their actions on other platforms could set a precedent for overreach, potentially stifling freedom of expression and creativity.
    3. Consistency and Fairness
      • The need for a consistent and fair approach in handling such situations is paramount. 
      • If YouTube is to penalize creators for off-platform behavior, it must do so uniformly, without bias, and with clear guidelines in place.
    4. The Role of Other Platforms
      • Instagram, in this case, also bears responsibility for enforcing its own community standards and taking action against doxxing and harassment on its platform.
      • Relying solely on YouTube to police its creators' behavior across all platforms could be deemed as an abdication of responsibility.

    Conclusion

    The situation involving SSSniperWolf and jacksfilms opens up a can of worms on the responsibilities and boundaries of platforms in policing creator behavior, both on and off their respective sites. It raises critical questions on where the line should be drawn, and how platforms can navigate these murky waters to ensure a safe, respectful, and fair community for all. As we delve into this debate, it is crucial to consider the broader implications of our stance on these issues and strive toward a balanced and thoughtful resolution.

  7. We are thrilled to introduce a new and exciting feature on Uncrowned Addiction: Debate of the Month (DOTM)! This initiative is designed to bring our community together to discuss, deliberate, and dive deep into some of the most pressing and thought-provoking issues of our time.

    How Does It Work?
    Every month, starting from the first day of the month right until the last, we will feature a specific debate topic. These topics will often be centered around "hot topics," recent events, and time-sensitive matters. We believe that focusing on current issues will help to ensure that our discussions are relevant, engaging, and meaningful for all members involved.

    Why Participate?
    DOTM is not just about debating; it's about learning, sharing, and understanding different perspectives. It’s an opportunity to challenge your own beliefs, expand your knowledge, and connect with fellow members on a deeper level. Plus, it’s a chance to hone your argumentation skills, practice critical thinking, and articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely.

    Member Involvement
    We want to hear from YOU! Your thoughts, opinions, and perspectives are invaluable to the richness of the debate. The success of DOTM relies heavily on member participation. We encourage everyone to get involved, share their viewpoints, and engage in respectful and constructive discussions.

    Archiving Debates
    To maintain the relevance and focus of each debate, the DOTM threads may be locked at the end of each month. This ensures that we are always discussing current issues and prevents old debates from being resurrected when new issues arise. Instead, we can start fresh debates with updated information and perspectives, ensuring that discussions remain clear, focused, and pertinent to the times.

    Keeping the Waters Clear
    By archiving past debates and starting fresh with each new topic, we aim to prevent the muddying of waters with outdated or irrelevant information. We want our debates to be concise, to the point, and reflective of the current state of affairs.

    So, get ready to put on your thinking caps, sharpen your arguments, and dive into some stimulating and thought-provoking discussions. We can’t wait to see the diverse range of perspectives and ideas that our community brings to the table. Here’s to meaningful debates and enriched understanding!

    • Like 1
  8. YouTube is intensifying its campaign against ad blockers, encouraging users to either disable these tools or opt for the YouTube Premium service. The company's communication manager, Christopher Lawton, has revealed an extensive global initiative to address this issue and promote compliance with the platform's terms of service. YouTube has been proactive in its approach to deal with ad blockers, and recently, there has been a noticeable increase in the platform's efforts. Users with ad blockers have reported encountering notifications that prevent video playback, urging them to either disable the ad blocker or consider YouTube Premium. 

    A Shift in Advertising Strategy

    YouTube's strategies around advertising have seen significant changes over the past year. In May, the platform implemented unskippable 30-second ads on its TV app and started testing longer, albeit less frequent, ad breaks on television. These changes seem to be part of a broader strategy to nudge more users towards YouTube Premium. However, this move might face challenges given the recent $2 increase in the Premium subscription price and the discontinuation of the more affordable Premium Lite plan.

    Encouraging Premium Subscriptions

    By tightening the noose on ad blockers and altering ad strategies, YouTube seems to be channeling users towards its Premium service. With this subscription, users can enjoy an uninterrupted viewing experience, free from ads. Although the price hike and discontinuation of the cheaper plan might deter some users, YouTube is banking on the allure of an ad-free experience to drive subscriptions.

    YouTube is taking definitive steps to ensure that its platform remains a lucrative space for creators, while also offering users an alternative for an ad-free experience through YouTube Premium. The platform's recent initiatives highlight its commitment to maintaining a balanced ecosystem that supports creators and provides users with options to tailor their viewing experience. Granted, balance is often a challenging task to complete properly.


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  9. Apple has pleasantly surprised tech enthusiasts and professionals by launching three advanced chip models: the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max, showcasing a significant shift in the company's traditional release timeline. Although there were rumors about supply chain challenges delaying the M3 series launch, the chips have made their debut just in time for the holiday season, including Halloween.

    Revolutionizing Graphics: The M3 Series GPU

    The highlight of Apple's M3 chip series is undoubtedly the GPU performance, aligning with Apple's intensified focus on gaming in recent years. The M3 chips mark a colossal advancement over their predecessors, the M1 and M2, bringing hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading to Apple's devices. These features enhance rendering capabilities, resulting in more realistic lighting, reflections, and the ability to handle complex geometries. According to Apple, the M3's rendering speed is up to 2.5 times faster than the M1, representing a significant improvement in graphics performance.

    The M3 chip series also introduces Dynamic Caching, a novel feature that allocates the precise amount of local memory needed for a task, optimizing GPU utilization and enhancing performance for demanding applications and games.

    Diverse Options and Enhanced Performance

    Apple's new M3 chip series offers diverse options catering to different needs. The 24-inch iMac and the 14-inch MacBook Pro will be powered by the standard M3 chip, while the M3 Pro will be available for both the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros. For those seeking top-tier performance, the M3 Max will be exclusive to the 16-inch MacBook Pro model.

    In terms of CPU performance, the M3 series does not disappoint. The new performance cores are touted to be up to 30% faster than the M1, and the efficiency cores have received a 50% boost. Despite these enhancements, the chips maintain Apple's impressive battery life, with up to 22 hours on a single charge. 

    The M3 chips are built with more transistors than their predecessors, with the M3 featuring five billion more than the M2, a 10-core GPU, and an 8-core CPU. The M3 Pro and M3 Max take it a step further with even more GPU and CPU cores, ensuring that users have the power and speed they need for the most demanding tasks.

    Apple's M3 chip series represents a monumental leap in graphics and performance, solidifying the company's commitment to providing cutting-edge technology to its users. With enhanced GPU capabilities, faster CPU performance, and innovative features like Dynamic Caching, the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips are set to redefine user experience across Apple devices.


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  10. On 10/21/2023 at 1:53 PM, Aerodynamic said:

    Advertising is possible for free on https://admin-junkies.com/🙂

     

    Ha... just noticed it was added already. 

    Yes, I tried to get a lot of the dedicated promotion/admin forums right away.

    On 10/26/2023 at 7:10 PM, The Hulk said:

    While we are a general discussion forum we have a directory people can submit their forums and blogs to. The three most recent items in the directory are featured below the quick reply in every thread 😄

     

    https://forumexplorers.com/

    Added

    On 10/27/2023 at 11:24 AM, Lucy Lacemaker said:

    https://digitalcampfire.proboards.com

    general chat and niches 

    Added

  11. On 10/29/2023 at 12:00 PM, Lucy Lacemaker said:

    Can I bump?

    Yes, I just added that bumps can be done every 24 hours.  Best of luck to your community!  Looks like you are off to a good start.

  12. On 10/28/2023 at 10:25 AM, ZandraJoi said:

    Happy Saturday Morning! @Uncrowned Guard Do your kids like doing the Trunk or Treats? Are they far for you to go? I know when I was young, it was at the local Fire Department.

    @The Hulk Happy Saturday to you 🙂 What do you like to do for Halloween?

    They have really taken over lately around here for how everyone does it.  The kid enjoys them, and they are much more controlled and easier than going house to house, so I feel like they are overall a win.  We have two from our fire departments and one from our police department all within walking distance.

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