#interactions || abilene 1 !

[serendipitywest]

"I don't need the preaching." Perhaps Abilene had clarified that that was not she was doing, but it sure as hell came off as it! She'd gotten enough consoling for five lifetimes by now, and she'd gotten enough 'why are you really [xyz]?' for... eh, maybe three? "If that's what I was looking for, I would've gone t' the Pastor." -- The Pastor who she did not plan on seeing ever again, and not just because God had become a ghost!

"I ain't mad at the mountain." Quite frankly, the mountain had become the one thing in the town that she still respected. Nature was gonna do what nature wanted to do -- you don't fuck with nature. You let it live, you let it be. "Civilization's been what's letting everyone down." That continued to elude her, no matter how hard she tried to be a proper part of it (once to spite Isaac after his passing, now to essentially infiltrate it in order to perform this vigilante investigation), but nature? It was easy to understand.

Civilization, which contained the police who were failing to lead Calliope's official investigation. Civilization, which made her grand plan unacceptable to share. Civilization, which put Baylor in a hospital bed and said there was hope.

Civilization was a failure.

Without civilization, there would be no police that let Calliope down. Without civilization, there would be no town that let down so many of its residents. Without civilization, some sort of lawless land, it would all be fair game. Maybe Callie would still be dead, but there'd be no possible repercussions waiting at the end of her real investigation! Maybe Baylor would still be dead, but there wouldn't have been the false hope of him recovering in the hospital. Maybe, maybe, maybe. But, but, but.

And there was everything to do. Everything was to be done -- she just couldn't share that because, say it with me: civilization! She may not have been the best with the social script, but she knew enough to know you don't tell a person that you have a very detailed plan as to how you will torture then kill your sister's murderer -- years of pent-up rage and pent-up pain to be inflicted upon one individual! 'I won't close my eyes, don't worry! I will find them and I will shoot them in the legs and I will stuff their mouth with a rag and I will bind their hands and I will skin them alive.' -- see, it just didn't really flow.

Abilene didn’t move right away. She stood rooted in place, the winter chill biting at her cheeks as she let Serendipity’s words settle in the quiet between them. The flatness in the other woman’s tone wasn’t surprising - Abilene had heard it before, in different voices and different gravesites. People said they were fine when they weren’t. Said they were okay when the weight of the world was crushing them. It was a similar feeling she often felt, including when her own grandmother died. But, comparing some old lady she barely liked to croaking was no different than losing someone so young.

Abilene glanced toward Baylor’s grave, then back to Serendipity. Her gaze softened, but there was a steeliness beneath it, a resolve that had been shaped by countless Sundays spent in pews and a lifetime of trying to reconcile hope with heartache.

“That what you tell yourself?” she asked, her voice cutting through the cold air like the strike of a match. “That it’s just the way of the mountain? That it’s hungry, and we’re just here to feed it?”

She shook her head, her hands brushing against the fabric of her coat as she crossed her arms. “Maybe it’s easier to believe that - that the mountain’s got a mind of its own, and there’s nothin’ we can do about it. Makes it hurt less, maybe. Makes it easier to put one foot in front of the other without lookin’ too hard at the ground beneath you. But we both know it’s not the dirt or the rocks or some ancient curse that’s doin’ this.”

Abilene stepped closer, just enough to close some of the space between them but not enough to push past the invisible boundary she could feel Serendipity holding onto. She didn’t want to spook her, didn’t want to push too hard - but she wasn’t going to tiptoe around the truth, either.

“I’m not here to preach at you,” she said, her voice softening, though her words remained firm. “And I’m not here to fix you. But maybe you oughta ask yourself who you’re really mad at. The mountain? Or the people who’ve let it get this way? The ones who close their eyes and tell themselves there’s nothin’ they can do.”

[the-unexplained-orb]

Whispers in the Dark: Uncovering the World’s Most Terrifying Urban Legends

“Urban legends are a reminder that truth is often stranger than fiction.”

Remember when we used to hear myths and urban legends as children? We used to be both terrified and fascinated by it. As kids, we used to wonder: Do they exist? Are the myths true?

However, urban legends exist all over the world, and we’ve scoured the globe to find the eeriest and most pervasive ones, from the haunting, spine-chilling stories of La Llorona in Mexico to a half-deer humanoid wendigo living in the depths of Native American cold forests.

1. The Black-Eyed Children

In the late 1990s there was an urban legend of the Black Eyed Children . It revolves around children or teenagers who approach people’s homes or vehicles seeking help or permission to enter, but their most notable feature is their solid black eyes without any pupils or sclera.

Most reports of encounters with black eyed children involve feelings of intense fear and dread. Those who have interacted with them describe a sense of overwhelming danger and a feeling that they are not human. Some claim that the black eyed children emit a strange, low-frequency hum or emit a foul odor. 

One of the most well-known encounters occurred in 1998, when a journalist named Brian Bethel claimed to have encountered two black eyed children in Abilene, Texas. Bethel reported that the children appeared at his car window, asking for a ride home, but he was overcome with a sense of fear and fled the scene.

“ Both boys stared at me with coal-black eyes. The sort of eyes one sees these days on aliens or bargain-basement vampires on late night television. Soulless orbs like two great swathes of starless night. My fear must have been evident. The boy in the back wore a look of confusion. The spokesman banged sharply on the window as I rolled it up. His words, full of anger, echo in my mind even today: ‘We can’t come in unless you tell us it’s OK. Let us in! ’ ” —Brian Brethel on Abilene Reporter News

2. The Wailing Woman

The weeping woman often described as a woman in the mid 20s dressed in white haunts the rivers and streets of Mexico, searching for her children and crying out in anguish .The locals have described it as ‘The La Llorona ’ . It was used to scare the children so that they dont wander in the streets at night .

The story goes by a beautiful mexican lady fell in love with a man of high status . they married had kids an was living a happy life when one day the man left her for another woman . In a fit of jealousy and rage, Maria drowned her children in a nearby river. When she realized what she had done, she was filled with remorse and grief, and she began to wander the streets and riverbanks crying out for her lost children. She was said to have been heard wailing, “Ay, mis hijos!” (“Oh, my children!”) . It is said that she was cursed and was denied to enter the gates of heaven and now she wanders as a spirit looking for her children .

3. The Wendigo

The wendigo is often described as a tall, thin creature with matted hair and glowing eyes. It is said to have long arms and legs, and its skin is stretched tightly over its bones. Some legends also describe the wendigo as having antlers or horn .

It has been the subject of countless stories, songs, and works of art over the years. The wendigo is often portrayed as a malevolent and dangerous creature that preys on humans. In 2019, a man in Quebec claimed that he had been attacked by a wendigo while out hunting. He stated that the creature had glowing eyes and a thin, skeletal body. According to the man, the wendigo knocked him to the ground and attempted to bite him before he was able to fight it off.

“We were sitting around the fire when we heard this really strange noise. It sounded like something was breathing heavily, almost like it was right behind us. When we turned around, we saw this tall, thin creature with glowing eyes. It was watching us, and then it just disappeared.” — locals in Minnesota .

4. The New Jersey Devil

The legend of the New Jersey Devil dates back to the 18th century, when it was said to be the offspring of a woman named Mother Leeds. According to the legend, Leeds cursed her 13th child to be a devil, and the creature was born with wings and supernatural powers.

The New Jersey Devil is often described as a winged creature with a horse-like head, hooves for feet, and a forked tail. It is said to be about the size of a large dog or small deer. There have been numerous reported sightings of the New Jersey Devil over the years, particularly in the Pine Barrens region. In 1909, there was a wave of sightings that made national news. People reported seeing a creature with glowing eyes and wings that flew over their homes and farms.

“We were driving through the woods at night when we saw something in the road. It was a creature with wings and a horse-like head. We were too scared to get out of the car.” — Reported sighting from a group of teenagers, 1995

In conclusion, urban legends have been a part of human culture for centuries, and they continue to fascinate and terrify people around the world. From the Wendigo and Slenderman to the New Jersey Devil, these legends tap into our deepest fears and anxieties, often providing a cautionary tale or moral lesson. While some legends may have a basis in reality, most are purely fictional and serve as a form of entertainment or a way to explain the unexplainable. Despite their often gruesome and terrifying nature, urban legends are an enduring part of our cultural heritage and will likely continue to be passed down from generation to generation.

[getseospecialist-blog]

Top Advantages of Choosing Reputed SEO Companies

It doesn't matter that SEO is old, it still has the potential of providing way better benefits than Social media marketing and many other types.

There are SEO companies offering amazing services, but if you choose reputed SEO Company USA and get your website optimized, then you can avail a vast number of benefits. To explore all, this post can definitely help. The below mentioned are the top five reasons which can help you know that why it is advantageous and reliable.

1. Boost Visibility of Website

By using backlinking and optimizing your website properly, the SEO company will make your website get rank in SERM. It lets your business progress at a faster rate and you can rely on it without any issue. Even, some companies offer the website development which will eradicate all the issues and provide enormous benefits. Keep in mind that you choose a reliable company because they are only able to provide better visibility.

2. User-Friendly Design

SEO has shown its presence by making the websites simple in UI so that these become user-friendly. Such websites are good to keep all the users interacted and increasing the stats. These stats may look bad on paper, but Google chooses websites that are user-friendly in design and the traffic stay on a particular website for a longer time period. It can definitely help you out in various manners and make your website load faster.

3. Provide Important analysis

You can check out the stats and know that where your company stands. Getting better results without an SEO company is hard. The optimization works for sure and it can provide a significant number of benefits as compared to others that's why you can rely on it without any issue. The proper analytics can bring graphs and help you understand that what you gained after implementing SEO strategy.

4. Uses Keywords

The SEO companies choose the best keyword with less competition. You can add content, or you can leave it to the SEO Company in USA  because they will outsource this work and write some quality articles and blogs. The content will contain keywords and the company will also ready Meta-description as well as improve the readability of the content to eradicate all the issues. You can also rely on it.

5. SEO is better than PPC

Pay Per Click (PPC) is effective to obtain traffic but the price is higher and it doesn't provide much traffic as SEO because of the potential. Due to such reasons, you can rely on SEO and obtain a range of traffic where most of the traffic will be quality one. Such people will find your website again and the traffic keeps on increasing with the time that's why you can rely on it and eradicate all the issues with ease.

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[youngandhungryent]

God Bless: Orlando Brown Releases Rap Video About Beating Drug Addiction, Twitter Rejoices

Source: David Livingston / Getty

Orlando Brown has made headlines over the past few years due to his run-ins with the law and a public battle with drug addiction. The former That’s So Raven star has since turned his life around and has delivered a new set of verses celebrating the triumph over his demons

Brown, 33, overcame his addiction by way of a faith-based program as part of Rise Discipleship, a six-month in-patient recovery program at Rise Church in Abilene, Texas that he completed last fall. We’re happy to report that Brown is continuing his journey in the church and music, with evangelist Danté Lee sharing Brown’s testimony via a video and verse that explains how faith informs his current lifestyle as a sober individual.

“[N]ot only did Orlando Brown overcome drug addiction, but he gave his life to Jesus. WHY ISN’T ANYONE TALKING ABOUT THIS,” Lee wrote, adding in following tweets,” the whole world is talking about him when he’s getting in trouble, but he gets saved and everyone’s quiet.. PUT THIS ON THE NEWS.”

Not for nothing, Brown is spitting with ferocity and clarity, and it’s heartwarming to see him happy, healthy, and surrounded in love. Brown and his wife Danielle Brown are raising a beautiful baby boy together, and Brown credits his wife for leading him to Rise Church.

As Lee noted in his tweets, folks are barely speaking on Orlando Brown’s transformation from a struggling addict to a man of God. While we’ve done our coverage on some of Brown’s missteps in the past, he rightfully should be celebrated for overcoming those dark days.

Salute to you, Orlando Brown.

not only did Orlando Brown overcome drug addiction, but he gave his life to Jesus. WHY ISN’T ANYONE TALKING ABOUT THIS?

pic.twitter.com/xHhKCGOGYY

— Danté Lee (@whoknowsdante) October 6, 2021

—

Photo: Getty

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1.

Shout out to Orlando Brown (That’s So Raven). He beat drug addiction, found faith, and has a beautiful family. Love to see it!

pic.twitter.com/kXi3GtVT4i

— Da Kid Gowie (@DaKidGowie) October 7, 2021

2.

I heard Orlando Brown got clean. I need us to be as loud about that as we were when we were making fun of him high as hell. Congratulations on getting your life back man!

— Toph Beifong

(@PunchinelloSaid) October 6, 2021

3.

Raven Symoné, Orlando Brown and Anneliese van der Pol will always be one of the best comedy teams ever created. Period. pic.twitter.com/j7D3UuLs3G

— ClockOutWars (@clockoutwars) October 7, 2021

4.

Even if no one else notices, I’m really proud of Orlando Brown. He overcame his addiction and really turned his life around.

pic.twitter.com/9e1MwNwtWl

— DEMI

(@truepyt) October 7, 2021

5.

If Kanye don’t put Orlando brown on an album, he wild. https://t.co/34y9RLu4E2

— MajinGnarly

(@GnarlyJevy) October 7, 2021

6.

A deleted prediction that came true: Orlando Brown will be in the news. Positivity.

pic.twitter.com/WzYbL5kTr1

— .... (@theegypsy1) October 7, 2021

7.

I saw Orlando Brown trending & I’m glad it’s all good and he’s still doing well in a better place than he was pic.twitter.com/dm5eYAm6Qp

— TheBlkMusashi (@Halftym3) October 7, 2021

8.

Orlando brown trending positively, the universe is beginning to heal. pic.twitter.com/dALSOJgCV4

— Fatherless Behavior (@MijoPapito) October 7, 2021

9.

From someone who admittedly laughed at some of Orlando Brown's bad videos, I should be the first to congratulate him on getting his life back in order. Ive got to be better. Seeing people in pain and struggling should never be entertaining.

— RyanH. (@alms4thepoor) October 7, 2021

10.

We don’t see these stories enough. Orlando Brown’s transformation is inspiring and encouraging to anyone going through an addiction

https://t.co/5juugK69mS

— Love live and laugh (@Keys2life__) October 7, 2021

11.

Salute to Orlando Brown man dude legit turned his life around and has a beautiful family…we see you King

pic.twitter.com/XB9sSADQUC

— Black Ghost

(@theinfinitypoet) October 7, 2021

12.

Orlando Brown and Steve O are inspirational tbh. You can climb out of any hole no matter how deep. pic.twitter.com/Ik0H2FwyGa

—

MBO Dame (@dvme_WillBarYou) October 7, 2021

13.

It’s the fact Orlando Brown is championing over drug addiction and the fact it was the CHURCH —a FAITH BASED RECOVERY FACILITY that helped him do it. THAT IS WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT!!!!!!!

— Adara Sherron, M.A. (@adarathexplorer) October 7, 2021

14.

Love to see it! A lot of people was making fun out of him when he really needed help. He was crying out for help right In front of our eyes, BUT GOD! God can bring you from your lowest to your highest. A rock at the bottom, I’m happy for Orlando Brown

https://t.co/NmYvmZHuq6

— LANDO (@LandoSoReal) October 7, 2021

15.

I am so beyond glad to see one of my favorite childhood actors Orlando Brown HEALTHY,HAPPY & SOBER & pray GOD Continues to bless him & his family

pic.twitter.com/063Uxwopdc

— 𝙷𝚘𝚘𝚍𝚒𝚎𝙻𝙱𝙹 ➐ (@HoodieLBJ) October 7, 2021

source https://hiphopwired.com/playlist/orlando-brown-rap-video-drug-addiction-reactions/

[robronforever]

Get to know me  ᵔᴥᵔ

Rules: Answer the questions in a new post and tag 20 blogs you would like to know better.

I was tagged by @beyondthebridge 

Age: physically - 35 emotionally - somewhere between 16-22 Birth place: Abilene Kansas Current time:  1:32 pm Drink you last had: Coke Easiest person to talk to:  I don’t really talk to anyone about things other then tv or the Cowboys (American football team) Favourite song:  Right now it’s Issues by Julia Michaels (it’s SUCH a Robron song!!) Grossest memory: Cleaning out the pig pens at the girls home. In love: I’ve only ever been in love with people I’ve never met (fictional characters/football players/actors) Jealous of people:  EVERYONE. ALL THE TIME. Killed someone:  Not that I remember. (I did run over a girls foot with my car once, but it was totally her fault and she lived) Love at first sight or should I walk by again: Doesn’t matter, I’ll never actually get up the nerve to speak so just keep on going. Middle name: Lynn Number of siblings: 2 full. 2 half One wish: To be different/better then I am Person you called last:  My sister Question you’re always asked:  Nobody really asks me questions Reason to smile: Robron & the Dallas Cowboys. My 2 favorite things in the world. @beyondthebridge and how she puts up with me messaging her :-)  Song you last sang: Issues by Julia Michaels Time you woke up:  9:15 (But I tried to go back to sleep for quite a while before I gave up) Underwear colour: Blue Vacation: The one place I’ve wanted to go my entire life is Ireland Worst habit: Too many to list. Let’s go with avoidance. X-rays:  Don’t think I’ve ever had any. Your favourite food:   Ok, this is weird but right now I’m obsessed with putting Lime juice and/or Feta cheese on almost everything I eat. Last night I had popcorn with Lime juice and for lunch I had baked Feta. Zodiac sign:  Virgo (I had to look it up because I didn’t know)

I tag: @amandaj718  @hummusandcoriander @capseycartwright  @realityisonlythebeginning  @twatcitytrick

These people are going to be like who/why is this random person I’ve never/barely spoken with tagging me. Just because I don’t have the courage to interact with you much doesn’t mean I don’t think you are awesome and want to know more about you!

[ciathyzareposts]

Game 121: Freddy Pharkas: Frontier Pharmacist (1993): Introduction

by Alex

Hello there, dear The Adventure Gamer family. I am back after a long absence to review another game, and another Al Lowe game, but this time it’s not an entry in the Leisure Suit Larry series. No, I’m leaving my polyester pal behind and traveling to the old west to play Freddy Pharkas: Frontier Pharmacist, Mr. Lowe and co.’s 1993 outing in the Sierra adventure game library. There was a CD-ROM version (more on this later), with voices and everything, released in 1994, but I’m playing the DOS version, mainly because I’m not a huge fan of CD-ROM games.

1993 is smack in the middle of the golden age of Sierra adventure games, which I contend lasted until 1996. You might disagree with me, and I’m sure will let me know in the comments below, but that’s what makes life interesting, right? And we all need a little adventure, uncertainty, and chaos in our lives right about now.

Well actually, no. I certainly don’t! Thankfully, I live out in the middle of nowhere, USA, where nothing happens and we like it like that, but life has certainly been adventurous, uncertain, and chaotic enough for me and my family, thank you very much! We’re all fine, and I hope you are too. But with civil society is crumbling all around me, there’s nothing better to do than fire up an old adventure game and blog about it. So here we go.

The last game I blogged about for The Adventure Gamer was Quest for Glory III: Wages of War back in 2018. In the interim, my wife and I had another child, started a business, and I’ve published two novels, with another novel and a non-fiction book set to publish before the year is up. Plus, I got to meet Joe Pranevich in person, which was really cool. But how many adventure games did I play during this time? With the exception of the first two Quest for Glory games with my son, zero. So I’ve been busy. If both my adventure gaming prowess and my writing are rusty, please bear with me as I play myself back into shape.

Freddy Pharkas: Frontier Pharmacist—and I’m sorry, every time I hear the name Pharkas all I can think of is Scott Farkus, the bully who tormented Ralphie, his brother, and their friends in A Christmas Story.

This guy.

Anyway, Freddy Pharkas: Frontier Pharmacist is Al Lowe’s homage to comedy westerns a la Mel Brooks’s popular 1974 comedy Blazing Saddles. Would you believe I have never seen Blazing Saddles? I know Gene Wilder’s in it, there’s a gigantic Indian named Mongo that punches his horse, that Cleavon Little’s character gets called the N-word a lot (which means this movie is probably not long for this world), and that the central bit of humor is a gigantic fart joke.

Al Lowe

So, yes, no wonder Al Lowe wanted to make his own version of it. That sort of humor is right up Lowe’s alley. I didn’t intend that to sound dirty, but since we’re talking about an Al Lowe game, all of our minds immediately went to the gutter (don’t lie).

But Lowe wasn’t alone! Oh no, Lowe designed Freddy Pharkas: Frontier Pharmacist (I’m calling it FPFP from now on because the full title is a real mouthful (fingerful?) to keep on typing) with Josh Mandel. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because he worked on many Sierra games either as a producer, designer, writer, voice actor, artist, or some combination of those roles. Which games? How about Space Quest 6, The Dagger of Amon Ra, King’s Quest V and VI, and EcoQuest: The Search for Cetus. Mandel worked for other companies afterwards, such as Take-Two Interactive and Mattell, but he also lent his voice talents to the fan remakes of the first three King’s Quest games, reunited with Al Lowe on 2013’s Leisure Suit Larry: reloaded, and was a writer on Quest for Glory designer (and sometimes TAG commenter) Lori and Corey Cole’s Quest for Glory quasi-reboot Hero-U: Rogue to Redemption. He was also the model for the coroner in Police Quest III: The Kindred, but the less said about that game, the better.

Josh Mandel

I also think he might like fart jokes.

Before firing up the game, let’s take a look at the manual.

Titled The Modern Day Book of Health and Hygiene, 1881 edition, the manual is presented like an old-time medical—some might say “pseudo-medicine” almanac written by one Hyman J. Lipschitz, M.D., the President of Phrenologists for Health, Enervating Elixers, Longevity, and Mental Energy, aka (sigh) PHEELME.

This guidebook also has a pretty humorous disclaimer on page two:

Note to those people who might think a parody of a quack remedy guide that pretends to be from the 19th Century could really contain factual information but are too stupid to read disclaimers such as this anyway: The information contained herein is absolute and utter balderdash, provided by Sierra On-Line, Inc. for your Entertainment ONLY and to provide information and clues for FREDDY PHARKAS, FRONTIER PHARMACIST. Do not take the medications we prescribe. Do not apply the balms and liniments we describe. Do not attempt the procedures we outline. Do not believe that Manual Labor is still the President of Mexico. Nothing within this pamphlet is accurate and truthful, to the best of our ability. We are being entirely facetious. Do not, repeat DO NOT, use this documentation as a real medical guide! It’s a joke! Okay? Get it?

We get it, Al and Josh, we do. Also: the president of Mexico being named Manual Labor is a precursor to the horrible/awesome name puns that pervade this game.

Anyway, this isn’t so much an instruction booklet on how-to-play, but what I’m assuming is a very elaborate form of copy protection. You see, Part 1, the Pharmacopoeia, describes various chemicals that can be used as medicines, and in some cases, how to make them. They are sometimes funny, and clearly some entries are there just for laughs, but I’m getting serious King’s Quest III vibes from this whole thing.

Excerpt from the Pharmacopoeia

Part 2 features “home procedures” for things like acne, broken bones, and constipation (no coronavirus though). There’s also a (sigh) flatulence spectrometer, where the doctor is advised to catch fart gas in a paper bag or something and burn it in a spectroscope to figure out the exact chemical compound of what is causing the patient to have the vapors. Things like lentils, apples ‘n brown sugar-cinnamon, and meaty by-products, along with the cure. This is the level of humor we’re dealing with, people. It’s an Al Lowe game, what should I expect?

Actually, the manual is pretty funny, full of the dry, straight-faced humor we’ve come to expect from Mr. Lowe, and the kind of humor I actually get a kick out of. It reminds me of Mad Magazine, where the humor is stupid and low-brow, but an intelligent kind of stupid and low-brow. You know what I mean, right?

In any event, it’s time to start this game up.

Hello, old friend.

The familiar Sierra fanfare and accompanying logo always give me all sorts of warm and fuzzy feelings, as does the sound and graphical style of the title screen, and I’m particularly excited to delve into Freddy Pharkas (wait, that didn’t come out right . . .) since I’ve never played this game. That’s right! Other than reading about this in Sierra’s InterACTION magazine (Sierra’s version of Nintendo Power) when I was a kid, I have no experience whatsoever with FPFP. I’m playing this blind, and have been looking forward to this for quite some time.

This issue right here—I wish I still had it, but scans of it are available at Al’s site

I decide to check out the game’s prologue, and am treated to a well-written and well-composed Western ballad detailing the life of one former famous gunslinger Freddy Pharkas and how he came to be a one-eared pharmacist in the frontier town of Coarsegold, California, a real town near Sierra’s actual location in Oakhurst, California. Coarsegold was apparently also the setting for Sierra’s 1981 On-Line Adventure #3: Cranston Manor, which TAG reviewer Joe Pranevich is yet to review.

The ballad is quite good and humorous while packing in a lot of backstory (kind of like this post). Al Lowe wrote the music—although future Quest for Glory IV composer Aubrey Hodges is the main composer for this game—and Lowe and Mandel both wrote the lyrics. I’ve reprinted the lyrics below so you understand the game’s premise, interspersed with screenshots from the intro (follow the bouncing ball!)

He was born in old St Louie, By the age of four Dad knew he was the Best little crackshot the West had ever seen. By the time he reached pubescence, He could outshoot all the adolescents West of Durango and north of Abilene.

Pharkas, Freddy Pharkas. Famous gunslingin’ deputy. Freddy Pharkas, Freddy Pharkas, Frontier hero-to-be.

Then one day young Freddy Pharkas Stared at eyes as black and dark as night, the Eyes of an outlaw, well-known throughout the West. Oh, the tough kid’s name was Kenny, And he outdrew Freddy Pharkas, when he Shot Freddy’s ear off to prove who was the best.

Now our hero, Freddy Pharkas, With wounded pride and earless carcass, Vowed to the heavens to give up gunnery. He’d be better off, he reckoned, With the lifelong dream that always beckoned: Pestles, not pistols, and pharmacology.

Pharkas, Freddy Pharkas, Highest score on his S.A.T., Freddy Pharkas, Freddy Pharkas. Five-year college degree.

After Fred matriculated, Got his Ph.D. and graduated, Moved out to Coarsegold and bought a pharmacy. He’s a real prescription writer, And they don’t know he’s an ex-gunfighter, Locked up his mem’ries, repressed them totally.

But his peaceful new survival Soon was shot to hell upon arrival Of Coarsegold’s schoolmarm, the sweet Penelope. She has captured Fred’s affection, But he’s scared he’ll get a huge …rejection, Can’t bear to tell her just what he used to be.

Pharkas, Freddy Pharkas. Frontier Pharmacist bourgeoisie, Freddy Pharkas, Freddy Pharkas. Peerless, earless, and free!

The CD-ROM version is apparently sung by Al Lowe himself, because as he describes on his website, everyone thought he had a “funny voice.” You can read all about it, and listen to the ballad, here.

Act I then begins, making me think this game is going to be chapter-based, and you are taken to Coarsegold’s main street as someone is boarding up a building, where a toothless old coot named Whittlin’ Willy starts to tell you all about ol’ Freddy.

Nope, not sitting on your lap. Not getting anywhere NEAR that lap, thanks.

I gain control of Freddy and check the interface. The standard Sierra point-and-click icons are there (Walk, Look, Action, Speak, Inventory), and I take a moment to click the Action icon on various things, which may-or-may-not have included Freddy’s man-region.

I mean, it’s an Al Lowe game. I kind of had to.

There are no surprises, which works for me as this interface generally works really well. In my inventory I only have the key to Freddy’s pharmacy. I’m looking forward to inventory gags, as Al Lowe’s Leisure Suit Larry V was full of humorous messages—each unique!—when you clicked any item on any other item in your inventory. I hope this attention to detail, and bad jokes, carries over to FPFP.

And of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that there is a (sigh) Golden Balls Saloon.

This humor style, of course, is par for the course and I don’t view it as a negative per se. I groan and cringe at these kinds of jokes, but I actually like them. They’re generally harmless and Al always seemed like a good guy who just like getting a few yuks out of gamers.

Here he is, describing the inspiration for FPFP:

“In 1992, I noticed that there wasn’t a single Western computer game, even though Western movies had been popular off and on for years. But I wanted to make a humorous Western. What sort of Western could be funny? While discussing this with Roberta Williams, I started to say ‘farmer’ but my mouth tried to say ‘rancher’ and out came a tangled mess that kind of sounded like, ‘farmer-cist.’ Hey! A pharmacist? Why not? Thus was born Freddy Pharkas, Frontier Pharmacist!

I think it may well be my funniest game, due in great part to the wit of Josh Mandel. Computer Gaming World called it ‘The Blazing Saddles of computer games’ (see box cover below) which I considered perfect praise since that movie was my inspiration.”

Funniest gmae, huh? I sure hope so! Leisure Suit Larry has its moments, but nothing is really laugh out loud funny. Maybe FPFP will be. We’ll see!

I have high hopes reading this bit of trivia from Josh Mandel:

“Mandel had explained in a commentary the reason why there were so many more jokes in the Floppy Disk version as compared to the CD-ROM version of the game, ‘I had co-designed, directed, produced, and written the floppy version; there were no plans at all, at the time, to produce a CD version. When sales of the floppy version justified a CD version, I was no longer available to produce and direct it, having by then started on SQ6. Al Lowe was then tapped to do the casting and recording of the CD version, but the game already had so much text in it that, when it came time to record the inventory text, Al just stopped—he was, he said, tired of sitting in the sound studio. As I had written the vast majority of the game’s text and dialogue, I pointed out to him that, in the process of cutting roughly 15% of the game’s text from the recording, he’d not only left out many jokes, but many clues and hints as well.’”

And like I said, I’m playing the DOS version, so not only will I not be missing out on “clues and hints,” I’ll be getting all the jokes as well. Oh boy!

Mind you, I have no clue what the plot is, but I’m eager to hop in and see what Coarsegold has to offer. If there are references I don’t get in my posts, please let me know. I’m a medium-sized Western fan. I love the idea and image and aesthetic of cowboys and the American west, I’ve seen several John Wayne and Clint Eastwood movies, and I have some Louis L’Amour paperbacks I need to get around to reading, but I’m no expert or connoisseur of the Western genre. Then again, I’m no expert or connoisseur of the adventure game genre and that doesn’t stop me from writing about, so maybe I have nothing to worry about.

Anyway, time to saddle up and play. See you next time, pardner! Yee haw, yippie-ki-yi-yay, and all that jazz.

source http://reposts.ciathyza.com/game-121-freddy-pharkas-frontier-pharmacist-1993-introduction/

[recentanimenews]

Anime Conventions You Can Attend Online in 2020

Photo by Kevin Matyi

With SARS-CoV-2 continuing to shut down events and businesses, and the potential of a second wave coming later in the year, anime conventions have needed to adapt and consider the safety of bringing large groups of people close together.

As a result, many conventions have shut down for the year, promising to return next time, some have been postponed to see if the COVID-19 situation changes, and others have moved to virtual conventions to adapt to the current environment. For example, our own Crunchyroll Expo is now a virtual convention scheduled for September 4-6.

  With all of the confusion and rapid changes though, it’s difficult to know what conventions are still going to happen at all in 2020. To help out, here’s a list of every anime convention still happening this year, including when it’s occurring and a link to its website for more information. Check back for updates as situations change.

Photo by Kevin Matyi

Without further adieu, here are the remaining conventions still scheduled to happen in some form during 2020:

    Anime Expo Lite

“Anime Expo is the largest anime con around, with over 100,000 fans in attendance. Grab your friends, craft your cosplay, and get ready to experience anime like never before.” When/Where: July 3-4; Virtual Website

  Aniplex Fest Online

“The festival will feature a diverse array of online content including talk shows with the staff and cast from popular anime, special appearances and past live shows from music artists, and behind-the-scenes stories from the anime industry!” When/Where: July 4-5; Virtual Website

OokiiSoraCon

“OokiiSoraCon was formed in 2017 with the mission to develop an ever growing gaming, anime, entertainment and culture driven convention that is affordable and accessible to Montana and the Northwest.” When/Where: July 11; Virtual mini-convention Website

  Okashicon

“Okashicon At Home will be a community-driven, virtual two-day event on July 18-19, 2020. Leading up to July 18th, however, we’ll be hosting a number of contests and providing quality content to bring you together with the community you know and love.” When/Where: July 18-19; Virtual Website

KuroNeko Con 

“Get ready for the premier anime convention in Spokane, Washington! Three exciting days of Japanese culture and pop culture at the Spokane Convention Center!” When/Where: July 19; Virtual Website

  AnimeIowa

“AnimeIowa is the largest anime convention in Iowa and still growing, hosting well over 3000 attendees each year.” When/Where: July 31-Aug. 1; Virtual Website

  PopCult Anime Con

“We want to make PCAC feel like a summer vacation compared to more crowded and heavily scheduled cons. A place with all the same great programming, such as the Masquerade, AMV contest, game shows and exhibitors’ room; as well as less common and more relaxing activities like evening dances, blanket fort building workshops, intimate guest opportunities or taking a dip in one of the Sheraton Framingham’s two beautiful pools!” When/Where: Aug. 15-16; Virtual Website

  Otakuthon

“Otakuthon est le plus grand festival bilingue au Canada célébrant la culture pop japonaise! | Otakuthon is Canada's largest bilingual festival celebrating Japanese pop culture!” When/Where: August; Virtual Website

  Crunchyroll Expo

"We are excited to announce Virtual Crunchyroll Expo, a digital event that celebrates the best and brightest in anime. Join us September 4 - 6 as we come together with our passionate community for amazing guest panels, interactive events, special announcements and more." When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Virtual Website

  Photo by Kevin Matyi

  A few conventions are still going the conventional, in-person route (for now). Think carefully about the risks of attending and please wear a mask if you do.

  Ani-Me Con

“Ani-me Con is the largest anime convention in the central valley!” When/Where: July 11-12; Fresno, CA Website

Delta H Con

“Delta H Con is the budding flower of hobby Gaming enthusiasts and Anime aficionados in the southern United States.” When/Where: July 17-19; Houston, TX Website

  Feria Mundo Anime

“Feria Mundo Anime, the convention of anime, comics, video games and entertainment in the Dominican Republic and one of the largest in Latin America.” When/Where: July 25-26; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Website

  Anime-zing!

“This Iowa anime convention includes dozens of anime screenings, a plethora of discussions, autograph signings, a dealers hall, and group meetups for fandoms including several anime, BJDs, Homestuck, Lolita fashion, MLP, science-fiction, and video games. We're not just about anime - we are everything Otaku.” When/Where: July 31-Aug. 1; Davenport, IA Website

Anime Sekai

“Anime Sekai is a 3-day convention that celebrates Japanese culture, geek culture, anime & manga, cosplay, tabletop & video gaming, comics, TV shows, movies, and much, much more!” When/Where: July 31-Aug. 2; Abilene, TX Website

Anime: Roseville

“Roseville’s anime convention.” When/Where: Aug.2; Roseville, CA Website

Anime Houston

“Join your fellow anime fans in talking about your favorite anime and cosplays. Come together and learn about anime, video games, and more.” When/Where: Aug. 7-9; Houston, TX Website

Kawaii Kon

“Kawaii Kon is a 3-day convention that celebrates Japanese anime (cartoons), manga (comics), and all facets of Japanese culture.” When/Where: Aug. 7-9; Honolulu, HI Website

SaikouCon

“SaikouCon, which means ‘best convention’, is the annual anime convention of Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains with several side events in the Lehigh Valley, boasting a dedicated staff of longtime Japanese anime and manga fans.” When/Where: Aug. 7-9; White Haven, PA Website

Kin-Yoobi Con

“It's Kin-Yoobi Con's thirteenth year hosting a cosplay gathering & contest, video gaming & tournaments, panel discussions & workshops, dealers hall & artists alley, live music performances, and free food!” When/Where: Aug. 9; Union City, CA Website

Star Con Leon

“Donde la estrella eres tu!” When/Where: Aug. 14-16; Gto, MX Website

Ani-Medford

“SOUTHERN OREGON's ONLY anime convention.” When/Where: Aug. 15; Medford, OR Website

  Superstar Anime

“SUPERSTAR ANIME is a new annual 2-day convention held in Virginia Beach, VA or fans of Japanese Animation, Entertainment, and Culture.” When/Where: Aug. 15-16; Virginia Beach, VA Website

Anime Matsuri

“Anime Matsuri is the spectacular annual anime and Japanese pop culture convention hosted in Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center. Join attendees from over 30 different countries in a celebration of anime, music, art and cosplay, with hundreds of hours of programing and exciting Guests, Celebrities and Industry Experts.” When/Where: Aug. 20-23; Houston, TX Website

Liberty City Anime Con

“The best three-day anime convention in New York City.” When/Where: Aug. 21-23; New York City, NY Website

Tiger Con

“Welcome to Tiger Con III. The third year of Valdosta’s anime, gaming, cosplay and comic convention.” When/Where: Aug. 22-23; Valdosta, GA Website

Anime Magic

“We're a convention by fans, for fans with a focus on FUN. This isn't your typical cookie-cutter convention! We have all the normal fanfare you've come to expect from other conventions, while pushing the boundaries even further.” When/Wherel: Aug. 28-30; Schaumburg, IL Website

MizuCon

“MizuCon is an annual convention that celebrates Anime and Japanese culture.” When/Where: August (and ongoing livestream events); Miami, FL Website

Colossalcon

“Colossalcon is a Japanese animation convention held in Northern Ohio during the beginning of June each year, and prides itself with being the region’s kick-off to the start of summer vacation.” When/Where: Sept. 2-6; Sandusky, OH Website

Meta Con Minneapolis

“MetaCon is a massive entertainment expo filled with exhibitors, guest stars, interactive events, costuming, exhibitors, artists, entertainers, and beyond. We bring together thousands of geeks for a three-day celebration of geek culture and nerd life.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Minneapolis, MN Website

Nan Desu Kan

“For us, the love of anime and Japanese culture isn’t just a marketing tool or a nifty side feature on our schedule; It’s our purpose for existing and a mandate of our Nonprofit Charter. We bring people together to further the knowledge of Japanese Art, animation and culture, and welcome people from all over the region under our roof.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Aurora, CO Website

SacAnime

“SacAnime is the show where ‘Fans Come to Play’. Our philosophy has always been to provide fun, safe, family friendly environment, with top shelf entertainment at a reasonable price.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Sacramento, CA Website

San Japan

“San Japan is the Largest Anime & Gaming Convention in the South Texas Region.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; San Antonio, TX Website

Saboten Con

“Saboten Con is the largest anime convention in Arizona with attendance reaching 13,298 (unique) / 37,983 (turnstile) for the 2018 event.” When/Where: Sept. 4-7; Phoenix, AZ Website

Animex

“ES EL EVENTO DE CÓMICS, ANIME Y ENTRETENIMIENTO MÁS ANTIGUO DEL NORTE DEL PAÍS. BIENVENIDO A #ANIMEX” When/Where: Sept. 5-6; Monterrey, MX Website

RTX Austin

“RTX is the world’s greatest celebration of gaming, animation, comedy, and internet culture.” When/Where: Sept. 5-7; Austin, TX Website

CampAnime 

“A summer-camp and anime convention hybrid that is perfect for all ages, families, geeks, & otakus of every kind. With activities like boating, archery, and rock-climbing, & panels for every fandom and interest, there's something for everyone at CampAnime.” When/Where: Sept. 11-13; Woodstock Valley, CT Website

Star Con Lagos de Moreno

“Donde la estrella eres tu.” When/Where: Sept. 12-13; Jal, MX Website

Anime USA

“At its heart, Anime USA seeks to discuss and promote anime; other associated arts such as storytelling, costuming, and voice acting; and Japanese culture at large.” When/Where: Sept. 18-20; Washington, D.C. Website

Colossalcon East

“We offer the most fun you will ever have at an anime, gaming, and Japanese culture convention.” When/Where: Sept. 18-20; Pocono Mountains, PA Website

Crystal Millenium Convention

“The Crystal Millennium Convention, also known as Crystal Con, is an anime themed event held in Vancouver, Canada dedicated to the magical girl genre, specifically the groundbreaking 1992 Japanese animated series Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon.” When/Where: Sept. 18-20; British Columbia, CA Website

Ramencon

“Ramencon was built by anime fans for anime fans. We get a lot of our ideas from the fans. We want you to feel that this is your convention.” When/Where: Sept. 25-27; South Bend, IN Website

Senshi Con

“Senshi Con is an annual convention that caters to enthusiasts of Asian culture, animation, graphic novels, and gaming held in Anchorage, AK.” When/Where: Sept. 25-27; Anchorage, AK Website

KimiKon

“We aim to service and celebrate our local talents as well as showcasing international ones, by creating an outlet of expression for them through the next big convention in Toronto, KimiKon!” When/Where: Sept. 26-27; Ontario, CA Website

Queen City AniFest

“Queen City AniFest is a single-day convention held to celebrate anime, games, all things nerdy in Regina and the surrounding area.” When/Where: Oct. 3; Saskatchewan, CA Website

Super Dimension Convention

“Originally known as ‘MacrossWorld Convention’, Super Dimension Convention (SDCon) is the largest gathering of Macross fans in North America!” When/Where: Oct. 3; Torrance, CA Website

Pop Culture Convention

“Pop Culture Con is a convention that brings together the talents and passion of local fans and businesses; created to be a safe place where people can come and geek out either as an attendee, guest, or volunteer. A convention that local fans can call their own.” When/Where: Oct. 9-10; Provo, UT Website

Tsubasacon

“Tsubasacon is West Virginia’s first Anime, Gaming and Cosplay convention.” When/Where: Oct. 8-10; Charleston, WV Website

Bakuretsu Con

“Bakuretsu Con is Vermont's premiere anime convention! Our family-friendly event draws approximately 600 attendees, and is sponsored by The Anime Society of Vermont, a public, non-profit organization whose primary mission is to promote cultural awareness and diversity through the celebration of anime and manga.” When/Where: Oct. 16-17; Colchester, VT  Website

Animatic Con

“Animatic Con started in March of 2015 with the idea of delivering to the fandoms across the U.S. a convention that was fun, and had a higher purpose. After much consideration and discussion, we decided that we wanted to help raise funds for Autism, and with that we wanted to create a convention that welcomed people with limitations, and accommodate to their needs.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Cincinnati, OH Website

Anime Banzai

“Presented by UAP, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, this three-day weekend is filled with anime, manga, gaming, Asian culture, guests, panels, games, contests, kids’ events, viewing rooms, an Artist’s Alley, an Exhibitor’s Hall, silent auctions for various charities, two dances, and so much more.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Layton, UT Website

Anime Fusion

“Anime Fusion is truly a convention for all ages, with many family-friendly activities along with 18+ restricted programming for the older crowd. With our family discount options, it’s the perfect place for parents and children to share their love of anime and games. Our nightlife features dances and room parties, and the daytime hours are filled with panels and activities.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Plymouth, MN Website

AnimeCon Arkansas 

“Join us for a magical celebration of fandoms, geeky stuff, animation, art, music, and everything else beautiful!” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Little Rock, AK Website

Another Anime Convention

“Another Anime Convention is a run by people who love Japanese culture especially Japanese animation. It is a place for fans to gather in New Hampshire for a three day convention to enjoy events, special guest's and other media that celebrate aspects of Japanese culture.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Westford, MN Website

YumeconUSA

“YumeCon staff aspires to create a more intimate con experience than what you might find at a large scale convention. Enjoy cosplay, gaming, panels, and a maid cafe in a friendly environment.” When/Where: Oct. 17; Palo Alto, CA Website

Kantaicon

“Kantaicon is an anime event that will be held on Oct 24th, 2020 at the AAF Tank Museum. Vendors and Artists will be selling their wares and cosplay is encouraged!” When/Where: Oct. 24; Danville, VA Website

Anime Weekend Atlanta

“AWA has been recognized as one of the most popular Japanese Animation conventions in the United States, and one of the top ten attended anime conventions in North America. In 2016, over 28,000 people attended the event.” When/Where: Oct. 29 - Nov. 1; Atlanta, GA Website

Youmacon

“Youmacon is a celebration of Japanese animation, videogames, popular culture and costuming, and its influence on our own culture over the past few decades.” When/Where: Oct. 29 - Nov. 1; Detroit, MI Website

Banzaicon

“While Banzaicon is a Japanese anime convention, we offer a wide variety of programming options by diverse members of the community throughout the course of the weekend which include our costume contest, dances, events and discussions featuring anime industry guests, game shows, and a wealth of educational seminars and workshops about not only anime, but manga, video games and aspects of Japanese culture as well.” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; Columbia, SC Website

DerpyCon

“DerpyCon is New Jersey’s Anime, Gaming, Sci-Fi, and Comic Convention, bringing every nerdy genre under one roof.” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; New Brunswick, NJ Website

Lumi-Con

“LUMI-CON is a Florida Halloween Convention based off Animation, Video Games, Cosplay and Interactive events!!” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; Tampa, FL Website

Oni-Con

“Oni-Con offers many things to do such as: anime viewing rooms, a manga lounge, table top and card gaming, an arcade, concerts, contests, dances, demonstrations, a masquerade and various panels.” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; Galveston, TX Website

Anime Festival Orlando

“Anime Festival Orlando has earned the title of “Florida’s Favorite Anime Convention” as well as being voted one of the “Top 10 Things To Do In Orlando” by DK Publishing’s Travel Guide.” When/Where: Nov. 6-8; Orlando, FL Website

Anime Nebraskon

“Anime NebrasKon is Nebraska's longest running Anime Convention! Our mission is to connect all people and community through Japanese animation and pop culture with education and activity.” When/Where: Nov. 6-8; Omaha, NE Website

NekoCon

“NekoCon is Virginia's oldest and longest running anime convention. Spanning nearly two decades, NekoCon is dedicated to bringing you the finest in entertainment from the world of anime, educating it's attendees on Japanese culture, and expanding horizons with new and innovative programming.” When/Where: Nov. 6-8; Hampton, VA Website

Anime Iwai

“With a decade on convention experience behind us, we have both learned a lot about how to run a convention and seen the changes that have taken place within the con community over the years. We are proud to have contributed this labor of love to a community and a culture that has provided us entertainment, insight, and so much more.” When/Where: Nov. 13-15; Fort Lauderdale, FL Website

SNAFU Con

“Sierra Nevada Anime Fans Unite Convention (SNAFU Con) is a collaborative effort of local anime, game, comic-book, and science-fiction fans. Our goal is to provide a convention that will benefit both the producers within the local area and community at large. The primary goal is to connect local fans to each other as well as producers and retailers, allowing them to interact with their customers in a fun and relaxed setting.” When/Where: Nov. 13-15; Reno, NV Website

J-1 Con

“Are you a fan of animation, cosplay, gaming (tabletop, card and console), artists, vendors, panels, and live music? You’ve come to the right convention! You can enjoy all of that here, for a GREAT PRICE!” When/Where: Nov. 14-15; Atlantic City, NJ Website

Con-Nichiwa

“Con-Nichiwa is the largest anime convention in Tucson Arizona with attendance reaching over 2,000 yearly.” When/Where: Nov. 20-22; Tucson, AZ Website

Sin City Anime

“Our mission is to create and orchestrate an anime convention focused on three values. Entertainment, Inclusion, and Guest Hospitality.” When/Where: Nov. 20-22; Las Vegas, NV  Website

Pacific Media Expo

“Pacific Media Expo is a new generation of convention for a new generation of fans! PMX brings the cutting edge of Asian entertainment to America, whether it is the newest anime from Japan, the hottest bands from the Pacific Rim, the latest street fashion from Harajuku, or the most disturbing horror films from Asia.” When/Where: Nov. 21-22; Pasadena, CA Website

Anime Pasadena

“Now in our 3rd year, we are creating an awesome 2 day event with a focus on Anime, Cosplay and Nerd Culture in Pasadena, California.” When/Where: Nov. 28-29; Pasadena, CA Website

Holiday Matsuri

“Holiday Matsuri is a multi-genre convention that brings the members of our community together during the holidays to have fun and give back!” When/Where: Dec. 18-20; Orlando, FL Website

  Know of a convention we missed? Tells us about it in the comments!

    Kevin Matyi is a freelance features writer for Crunchyroll. He's been watching anime for as long as he can remember, and his favorite shows tend to be shonen and other action series.

  Do you love writing? Do you love anime? If you have an idea for a features story, pitch it to Crunchyroll Features!

By: news+feed@crunchyroll.com

[s4g2seo]

What Are The Different Ways to do SEO? And How to Perform SEO?

Using off-the-shelf tricks, you can increase your webpage's ranking, be noticeable, and get drive traffic to your webpage. Let's look at strategies to improve the web page.

Link building

This is one of the most popular ways of doing off-page optimization. Link building is defined as creating external links with your website. The main goal is to get as many links or votes as you can to rank higher than your competitors.

Example: SEO Company is your keyword, what you need to do is you have to hide your link to this specified keyword, we can call it as hyperlink or anchor text

Webmasters are looking for cheat codes on how to create links to their websites. The more power the backlinks have, the more power they have. Some ways to increase connection structure are:

Blog Directories

These are directories, such as yellow pages, that link back to an entry with a website.

Forum Signatures

By commenting on forums, people get a link back to their website as they leave links in their signatures.

Feedback link

Like forum signatures, when you comment on a link to any other blog, you leave a link in your signature, and here, you're writing keywords for consideration instead of writing your name. For example, instead of writing a joe's comment, you can comment on where to buy dogs or something like that.

Article directories

If you publish your article in article directories, you will get a backlink to your website. Mainly directories accept only the original content, but there may be some directories that accept a revised or rotated article.

Shared Content Directories - In shared content directories, websites such as HubPages or Infobarrel allow you to publish your content, instead, you can add affiliate links to your website.

Affiliate exchange programs

This is an interesting way to make connections. This project talks about interacting with webmasters of different websites and exchange links, that is, linking website '1' to website '2' and instead linking website '1' to website '1'. There is another complex method of exchanging links with 3, that is, from website 1X' to website '1' and website 'Y' links to another website.

Social media

Another way to create links is by engaging your website on social media sites. This is a great way to attract traffic. The links you see on social media are usually not follow-up links, but that does not mean that those links have no value. Referring to your brand on social media sites can generate a lot of traffic. Go straight with your strategy and website and you will start to rank.

Social bookmarking

This is another great way to promote and attract great traffic to your website. You can do this by promoting your blog on popular websites like Reddit, ScoopEdit, Tick, Glitch. Content on such sites is frequently updated, which is appreciated by search engines.

Guest blogging

We are aware of the fact that creating new links will increase traffic to your website by managing new, unique, compelling content. Blogging is just a way to attract traffic at a cost. Posting comments on other websites will allow you to add links to the comments section. Links are crawled by search engines that drive traffic to your website.

How do you get the benefits of off-page optimization in SEO? What are the benefits of SEO?

More ranking

By using "off-page" optimization techniques, a successful strategy can help increase your website rankings in SERPs. This will help attract more traffic.

Excessive exposure

When you start to rank better in SERPs, you get more exposure, which means more clicks, more visits, more links, and more tips on social media. It is a chain of events that take place one after the other.

Excellent PageRank

PageRank is a concept introduced by Larry Page, which talks about the importance of a website in the eyes of Google. The concept of ranking web pages from 1 to 10. The higher the ranking, the better the website in Google's view.

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[felipemx]

40 powerful concepts for understanding the world.

Some are complex so forgive me for oversimplifying, but the main purpose is to incite curiosity. Okay, here we go: 

- Causal Reductionism: Things rarely happen for just 1 reason. Usually, outcomes result from many causes conspiring together. But our minds cannot process such a complex arrangement, so we tend to ascribe outcomes to single causes, reducing the web of causality to a mere thread. 

- Ergodicity: A die rolled 100 times has equal probabilities to 100 dice rolled once; rolling a die is “ergodic”. But if the die gets chipped after 10 throws so it’s likelier to roll 4, then 1 die 100 times =/= 100 dice once (non-ergodic). Many treat non-ergodic systems as ergodic. 

- Dunning-Kruger Effect: Awareness of the limitations of cognition (thinking) requires a proficiency in metacognition (thinking about thinking). In other words, being stupid makes you too stupid to realize how stupid you are. 

- Emergence: When many simple objects interact with each other, they can form a system that has qualities that the objects themselves don’t. Examples: neurons creating consciousness, traders creating the stock-market, simple mathematical rules creating “living” patterns.

- Cultural Parasitism: An ideology parasitizes the mind, changing the host’s behavior so they spread it to other people. Therefore, a successful ideology (the only kind we hear about) is not configured to be true; it is configured only to be easily transmitted and easily believed.

- Cumulative Error: Mistakes grow. Beliefs are built on beliefs, so one wrong thought can snowball into a delusional worldview. Likewise, as an inaccuracy is reposted on the web, more is added to it, creating fake news. In our networked age, cumulative errors are the norm. 

- Survivorship Bias: We overemphasize the examples that pass a visibility threshold e.g. our understanding of serial killers is based on the ones who got caught. Equally, news is only news if it’s an exception rather than the rule, but since it’s what we see we treat it as the rule. 

- Simpson’s Paradox: A trend can appear in groups of data but disappear when these groups are combined. This effect can easily be exploited by limiting a dataset so that it shows exactly what one wants it to show. Thus: beware of even the strongest correlations.

- Condorcet Paradox: a special instance of Simpson’s paradox applied to elections, in which a populace prefers candidate A to candidate B, candidate B to C, and yet candidate C to A. This occurs because the majority that favors C is misleadingly divided among different groups. 

- Limited Hangout: A common tactic by journos & politicians of revealing intriguing but relatively innocent info to satisfy curiosity and prevent discovery of more incriminating info. E.g. a politician accused of snorting cocaine may confess to having smoked marijuana at college. 

- Focusing Illusion: Nothing is ever as important as what you’re thinking about while you’re thinking about it. E.g. worrying about a thing makes the thing being worried about seem worse than it is. As Marcus Aurelius observed, “We suffer more often in imagination that in reality.” 

- Concept Creep: As a social issue such as racism or sexual harassment becomes rarer, people react by expanding their definition of it, creating the illusion that the issue is actually getting worse. I explain the process in detail here: How progress blinds people to progress. 

- Streetlight Effect: People tend to get their information from where it’s easiest to look. E.g. the majority of research uses only the sources that appear on the first page of Google search results, regardless of how factual they are. Cumulatively, this can skew an entire field. 

- Belief Bias: Arguments we'd normally reject for being idiotic suddenly seem perfectly logical if they lead to conclusions we approve of. In other words, we judge an argument’s strength not by how strongly it supports the conclusion but by how strongly *we* support the conclusion. 

- Pluralistic Ignorance: Phenomenon where a group goes along with a norm, even though all of the group members secretly hate it, because each mistakenly believes that the others approve of it. (See also: Abilene Paradox) 

- The Petrie Multiplier: In fields in which men outnumber women, such as in STEM, women receive an underestimated amount of harassment due to the fact that there are more potential givers than receivers of harassment. (See also: Lotka–Volterra equations).

- Woozle Effect: An article makes a claim without evidence, is then cited by another, which is cited by another, and so on, until the range of citations creates the impression that the claim has evidence, when really all articles are citing the same uncorroborated source. 

- Tocqueville Paradox: As the living standards in a society rise, the people’s expectations of the society rise with it. The rise in expectations eventually surpasses the rise in living standards, inevitably resulting in disaffection (and sometimes populist uprisings). 

- Ultimate Attribution Error: We tend to attribute good acts by allies to their character, and bad acts by allies to situational factors. For opponents, it’s reversed: good acts are attributed to situational factors, and bad acts to character. 

- Golden Hammer: When someone, usually an intellectual who has gained a cultish following for popularizing a concept, becomes so drunk with power he thinks he can apply that concept to everything.

- Pareto Principle: Pattern of nature in which ~80% of effects result from ~20% of causes. E.g. 80% of wealth is held by 20% of people, 80% of computer errors result from 20% of bugs, 80% of crimes are committed by 20% of criminals, 80% of box office revenue comes from 20% of films 

- Nirvana Fallacy: When people reject a thing because it compares unfavorably to an ideal that in reality is unattainable. E.g. condemning capitalism due to the superiority of imagined socialism, condemning ruthlessness in war due to imagining humane (but unrealistic) ways to win. 

- Emotive Conjugation: Synonyms can yield positive or negative impressions without changing the basic meaning of a word. Example: someone who is obstinate (neutral term) can be “headstrong” (positive) or “pig-headed” (negative). This is the basis for much bias in journalism. 

- Anentiodromia: An excess of something can give rise to its opposite. E.g. A society that is too liberal will be tolerant of tyrants, who will eventually make it illiberal. I explain more here: Alex Jones Was Victimized by One Oligopoly. But He Perpetuated Another.

- Halo Effect: When a person sees an agreeable characteristic in something or someone, they assume other agreeable characteristics. Example: if a Trump supporter sees someone wearing a MAGA cap, he’s likely to think that person is also decent, honest, hard-working, etc. 

- Outgroup Homogeneity Effect: We tend to view outgroup members as all the same e.g. believing all Trump supporters would see someone wearing a MAGA cap, and think that person is also decent, honest, hard-working, etc. 

- Matthew Principle: Advantage begets advantage, leading to social, economic, and cultural oligopolies. The richer you are the easier it is to get even richer, the more recognition a scientist receives for a discovery the more recognition he’ll receive for future discoveries, etc. 

- Peter Principle: People in a hierarchy such as a business or government will be promoted until they suck at their jobs, at which point they will remain where they are. As a result, the world is filled with people who suck at their jobs. 

- Loki’s Wager: Fallacy where someone tries to defend a concept from criticism, or dismiss it as a myth, by unduly claiming it cannot be defined. E.g. “God works in mysterious ways” (god of the gaps), “race is biologically meaningless” (Lewontin’s fallacy).

- Subselves: We use different mental processes in different situations, so each of us is not a single character but a collection of different characters, who take turns to commandeer the body depending on the situation. There is an office “you”, a lover “you”, an online “you”, etc. 

- Goodhart’s Law: When a measure becomes a goal, it ceases to become a measure. E.g. British colonialists tried to control snakes in India. They measured progress by number of snakes killed, offering money for snake corpses. People responded by breeding snakes & killing them. 

- Radical Phase Transition (my term): Extremist movements can behave like solids (tyrannies), liquids (insurgencies), and gases (conspiracy theories). Pressuring them causes them to go from solid => liquid => gas. Leaving them alone causes them to go from gas => liquid => solid. 

- Legibility: We see a complex natural system, assume that because it *looks* messy that it must be disordered, then impose our own order on it to make it “legible”. But in removing the messiness we remove essential components of the system that we couldn’t grasp, and it fails.

- Shifting Baseline Syndrome: Frog says to Fish, “how’s the water?” Fish replies, “what’s water?” We become blind to what we’re familiar with. And since the world is always changing, and we're always getting used to it, we can even become blind to the slow march of catastrophe. 

- Availability Cascade: When a new concept enters the arena of ideas, people react to it, thereby amplifying it. The idea thus becomes more popular, causing even more people to amplify it by reacting to it, until everyone feels the need to talk about it. 

- Reactance Theory: When someone is restricted from expressing a POV, or pressured to adopt a different POV, they usually react by believing their original POV even more. For a detailed example read my piece on my attempt to deradicalize a neo-Nazi: How not to de-radicalize a Twitter neo-nazi.

- Predictive Coding: There is no actual movement on a TV screen; your brain invents it. There are no actual spaces between spoken words; your brain inserts them. Human perception is like predictive text, replacing the unknown with the expected. Predictive Coding leads to… 

- Apophenia: We impose our imaginations on arrangements of data, seeing patterns where no such patterns exist. A common form of Apophenia is…

- Narrative Fallacy: When we see a sequence of facts we interpret them as a story by threading them together into an imagined chain of cause & effect. If a drug addict commits suicide we assume the drug habit led to the suicide, even if it didn’t. Another form of Apophenia is… 

- Pareidolia: For aeons predators stalked us in undergrowth & shadow. In such times survival favored the paranoid — those who could discern a wolf from the vaguest of outlines. This paranoia preserved our species, but cursed us with pareidolia, so we now see wolves even in the skies.

And that’s it! There are many other ideas but these are the ones that came to mind first (availability bias), and I think they provide good springboards for understanding a wide range of phenomena.

Retirado de: Gurwinder Bhogal.

[s4g2]

What Are The Different Ways to do SEO? And How to Perform SEO?

Using off-the-shelf tricks, you can increase your webpage's ranking, be noticeable, and get drive traffic to your webpage. Let's look at strategies to improve the web page.

Link building

This is one of the most popular ways of doing off-page optimization. Link building is defined as creating external links with your website. The main goal is to get as many links or votes as you can to rank higher than your competitors.

Example: SEO Company in Coimbatore is your keyword, what you need to do is you have to hide your link to this specified keyword, we can call it as hyperlink or anchor text

Webmasters are looking for cheat codes on how to create links to their websites. The more power the backlinks have, the more power they have. Some ways to increase connection structure are:

Blog Directories

These are directories, such as yellow pages, that link back to an entry with a website.

Forum Signatures

By commenting on forums, people get a link back to their website as they leave links in their signatures.

Feedback link

Like forum signatures, when you comment on a link to any other blog, you leave a link in your signature, and here, you're writing keywords for consideration instead of writing your name. For example, instead of writing a joe's comment, you can comment on where to buy dogs or something like that.

Article directories

If you publish your article in article directories, you will get a backlink to your website. Mainly directories accept only the original content, but there may be some directories that accept a revised or rotated article.

Shared Content Directories - In shared content directories, websites such as HubPages or Infobarrel allow you to publish your content, instead, you can add affiliate links to your website.

Affiliate exchange programs

This is an interesting way to make connections. This project talks about interacting with webmasters of different websites and exchange links, that is, linking website '1' to website '2' and instead linking website '1' to website '1'. There is another complex method of exchanging links with 3, that is, from website 1X' to website '1' and website 'Y' links to another website.

Social media

Another way to create links is by engaging your website on social media sites. This is a great way to attract traffic. The links you see on social media are usually not follow-up links, but that does not mean that those links have no value. Referring to your brand on social media sites can generate a lot of traffic. Go straight with your strategy and website and you will start to rank.

Social bookmarking

This is another great way to promote and attract great traffic to your website. You can do this by promoting your blog on popular websites like Reddit, ScoopEdit, Tick, Glitch. Content on such sites is frequently updated, which is appreciated by search engines.

Guest blogging

We are aware of the fact that creating new links will increase traffic to your website by managing new, unique, compelling content. Blogging is just a way to attract traffic at a cost. Posting comments on other websites will allow you to add links to the comments section. Links are crawled by search engines that drive traffic to your website.

How do you get the benefits of off-page optimization in SEO? What are the benefits of SEO?

More ranking

By using "off-page" optimization techniques, a successful strategy can help increase your website rankings in SERPs. This will help attract more traffic.

Excessive exposure

When you start to rank better in SERPs, you get more exposure, which means more clicks, more visits, more links, and more tips on social media. It is a chain of events that take place one after the other.

Excellent PageRank

PageRank is a concept introduced by Larry Page, which talks about the importance of a website in the eyes of Google. The concept of ranking web pages from 1 to 10. The higher the ranking, the better the website in Google's view.

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[jodyedgarus]

How Our March Madness Predictions Work

References

Brian Burke’s Excitement Index / DonBest injury report / ESPN’s BPI / Sports-Reference.com

Jeff Sagarin’s ratings / Joel Sokol’s LRMC ratings / Ken Massey’s ratings / Ken Pomeroy’s ratings / Sonny Moore’s ratings (men, women)

The Details

We’ve been issuing probabilistic March Madness forecasts in some form since 2011, when FiveThirtyEight was just a couple of people writing for The New York Times. Initially, we focused on the men’s NCAA Tournament, publishing a table that gave each team’s probability of advancing deep (or not-so-deep) into the tournament. Over the years, we expanded to forecasting the women’s tournament as well. And since 2016, our forecasts have updated live, as games are played. Below are the details on each step that we take — including calculating power ratings for teams, win probabilities for each game and the chance that each remaining team will make it to any given stage of the bracket.

Men’s team ratings

Our men’s model is principally based on a composite of six computer power ratings:

Ken Pomeroy’s ratings

Jeff Sagarin’s “predictor” ratings

Sonny Moore’s ratings

Joel Sokol’s LRMC ratings

ESPN’s Basketball Power Index

FiveThirtyEight’s Elo ratings (described below)

Each of these ratings has a strong track record in picking tournament games. We shouldn’t make too much of the differences among them: They are all based on the same basic information — wins and losses, strength of schedule, margin of victory — computed in slightly different ways. We use six systems instead of one, however, because each system has different features and bugs, and blending them helps to smooth out any rough edges. (Those rough edges matter because even small differences can compound over the course of a single-elimination tournament that requires six or seven games to win.)

To produce a pre-tournament rating for each team, we combine those computer ratings with a couple of human rankings:

The NCAA selection committee’s 68-team “S-curve”

Preseason rankings from The Associated Press and the coaches

These rankings have some predictive power — if used in moderation. They make up one-fourth of the rating for each team; the computer systems are three-fourths.

It’s not a typo, by the way, to say that we look at preseason rankings. The reason is that a 30- to 35-game regular season isn’t all that large a sample. Preseason rankings provide some estimate of each team’s underlying player and coaching talent. It’s a subjective estimate, but it nevertheless adds some value, based on our research. If a team wasn’t ranked in either the AP or coaches’ polls, we estimate its strength using the previous season’s final Sagarin rating, reverted to the mean.

To arrive at our FiveThirtyEight power ratings, which are a measure of teams’ current strength on a neutral court and are displayed on our March Madness predictions interactive graphic, we make two adjustments to our pre-tournament ratings.

The first is for injuries and player suspensions. We review injury reports and deduct points from teams that have key players out of the lineup. This process might sound arbitrary, but it isn’t: The adjustment is based on Sports-Reference.com’s win shares, which estimate the contribution of each player to his team’s record while also adjusting for a team’s strength of schedule. So our program won’t assume a player was a monster just because he was scoring 20 points a game against the likes of Abilene Christian and Austin Peay. The injury adjustment also works in reverse: We review every team to see which are healthier going into the tournament than they were during the regular season.

The second adjustment takes place only once the tournament is underway. The FiveThirtyEight model gives a bonus to teams’ ratings as they win games, based on the score of each game and the quality of the opponent. A No. 12 seed that waltzes through its play-in game and then crushes a No. 5 seed may be much more dangerous than it initially appeared; our model accounts for this. On the flip side, a highly rated team that wins but looks wobbly against a lower seed often struggles in the next round, we’ve found.

When we forecast individual games, we apply a third and final adjustment to our ratings, for travel distance. Are you not at your best when you fly in from LAX to take an 8 a.m. meeting in Boston? The same is true of college basketball players. In extreme cases (a team playing very near its campus or traveling across the country to play a game), the effect of travel can be tantamount to playing a home or road game, despite being on an ostensibly neutral court. This final adjustment gives us a team’s travel-adjusted power rating, which is then used to calculate its chance of winning that game.

Women’s team ratings

We calculate power ratings for the women’s tournament in much the same way as we do for the men’s. However, because of the relative lack of data for women’s college basketball — a persistent problem when it comes to women’s sports — the process has a few differences:

Four of the six power ratings that we use for the men’s tournament aren’t available for women. But fortunately, two of them are: Sokol’s LRMC ratings and Moore’s ratings. We also use a third public system, the Massey Ratings, as well as a version of FiveThirtyEight’s Elo ratings that we’ve built for NCAA women’s basketball. Model tweak March 17, 2019

The NCAA doesn’t publish 68-team S-curve data for the women. So we use the teams’ seeds instead, with the exception of the four No. 1 seeds, which the selection committee does list in order.

For the women’s tournament, there isn’t much in the way of injury reports or advanced individual statistics, so we don’t include injury adjustments.

Turning power ratings into a forecast

Once we have power ratings for every team, we need to turn them into a forecast — that is, the chance of every team reaching any round of the tournament.

Most of our sports forecasts rely on Monte Carlo simulations, but March Madness is different; because the structure of the tournament is a single-elimination bracket, we’re able to directly calculate the chance of teams advancing to a given round.

We calculate the chance of any team beating another with the following Elo-derived formula, which is based on the difference between the two teams’ travel-adjusted power ratings:

\(\Large \frac{1.0}{1.0+10^{-travel\_adjusted\_power\_rating\_diff*30.464/400}}\)

Because a team needs to win only a single game to advance, this formula gives us the chance of a team reaching the next round in the bracket. The probability of a team reaching a future round in the bracket is based on a system of conditional probabilities. In other words, the chance of a team reaching a given round is the chance it reaches the previous round, multiplied by its chance of beating any possible opponent in the previous round, weighted by its likelihood of meeting each of those opponents.

Live win probabilities

While games are being played, our interactive graphic displays a box for each one that shows updating win probabilities for both teams, as well as the score and the time remaining. These probabilities are derived using logistic regression analysis, which lets us plug the current state of a game into a model to produce the probability that either team will win the game. Specifically, we used play-by-play data from the past five seasons of Division I NCAA basketball to fit a model that incorporates:

Time remaining in the game

Score difference

Pregame win probabilities

Which team has possession, with a special adjustment if the team is shooting free throws

The model doesn’t account for everything, however. If a key player has fouled out of a game, for example, the model doesn’t know, and his or her team’s win probability is probably a bit lower than what we have listed. There are also a few places where the model experiences momentary uncertainty: In the handful of seconds between the moment when a player is fouled and the free throws that follow, for example, we use the team’s average free-throw percentage to adjust its win probability. Still, these probabilities ought to do a reasonably good job of showing which games are competitive and which are essentially over.

Also displayed in the box for each game is our “excitement index” (check out the lower-right corner) — that number also updates throughout a game and can give you a sense of when it’ll be most fun to tune in. Loosely based on Brian Burke’s NFL work, the index is a measure of how much each team’s chances of winning have changed over the course of the game.

The calculation behind this feature is the average change in win probability per basket scored, weighted by the amount of time remaining in the game. This means that a basket made late in the game has more influence on a game’s excitement index than a basket made near the start of the game. We give additional weight to changes in win probability in overtime. We also add a bonus for games that spend a large proportion of their time with an upset on the horizon, weighted by how big the upset would be. Model tweak March 17, 2019 Values range from 0 to 10, although they can exceed 10 in extreme cases.

FiveThirtyEight’s Elo ratings

If you’ve been a FiveThirtyEight reader for really any length of time, you probably know that we’re big fans of Elo ratings. We’ve introduced versions for the NBA and the NFL, among other sports. Using game data from ESPN, Sports-Reference.com and other sources, we’ve also calculated Elo ratings for men’s college basketball teams dating back to the 1950s and for women’s teams since 2001. Our Elo ratings are one of the six computer rating systems used in the pre-tournament rating for each men’s team and one of four systems for each women’s team.

Our methodology for calculating these Elo ratings is very similar to the one we use for the NBA. Elo is a measure of a team’s strength that is based on game-by-game results. The information that Elo relies on to adjust a team’s rating after every game is relatively simple — including the final score and the location of the game. (As we noted earlier, college basketball teams perform significantly worse when they travel a long distance to play a game.)

It also takes into account whether the game was played in the NCAA Tournament. We’ve found that historically, there are actually fewer upsets in the tournament than you’d expect from the difference in teams’ Elo ratings, perhaps because the games are played under better and fairer conditions in the tournament than in the regular season. Our Elo ratings account for this and weight tournament games slightly higher than regular-season ones.

Because Elo is a running assessment of a team’s talent, at the beginning of each season, a team gets to keep its rating from the end of the previous one, except that we also revert it to the mean. The wrinkle here, compared with our NFL Elo ratings, is that we revert college basketball team ratings to the mean of the conference.

While we make no guarantee that you’ll win your pool if you use our system, we think it’s done a pretty good job over the years. Hopefully, you’ll have fun using it to make your picks, and it will add to your enjoyment of both NCAA tournaments.

Editor’s note: This article is adapted from previous articles about how our March Madness predictions work.

Model Creator

Jay Boice A computational journalist for FiveThirtyEight. | @jayboice

Nate Silver Editor in chief. | @NateSilver538

Version History

1.4 Added women’s Elo model and started adjusting excitement index for upsets.March 17, 2019

1.3 Added live win probabilities and men’s Elo model.March 13, 2016

1.2 Added women’s forecast.March 17, 2015

1.1 Started accounting for strength of schedule when making injury adjustments; started using reverted Sagarin ratings as preseason ratings.March 15, 2015

1.0 Forecast launched for the 2014 tournament.March 17, 2014

Related Articles

2019 March Madness predictions

2018 March Madness predictions

2017 March Madness predictions

2016 March Madness predictions

2015 March Madness predictions

2014 men’s NCAA tournament predictions

from News About Sports https://fivethirtyeight.com/methodology/how-our-march-madness-predictions-work-2/

[researching01]

Snow, ice and rain bring headaches across southern US | KNEB

New Post has been published on https://headacheshelp.com/trending/snow-ice-and-rain-bring-headaches-across-southern-us-kneb/

Snow, ice and rain bring headaches across southern US | KNEB

(NEW YORK) — A developing storm in the Southwest brought another round of snow to the Four Corners on New Year’s Day, including almost 3 feet of snow in the mountains north of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The storm will interact with a low in the Gulf of Mexico and bring snow, freezing rain, sleet and flooding in the southern U.S. through Friday. Winter storm warnings, winter weather advisories, flash flood watches and winter storm watches are in effect for parts of the southern U.S. from Arizona to Mississippi.

Temperatures are at or just below freezing in central Texas, which could make for slick spots Wednesday morning if rains freezes on contact with the ground. Travel between Abilene and Fort Worth could be treacherous in spots Wednesday morning.

An icy mix is possible from San Angelo to Fort Worth during the day Wednesday, while snow moves from Tucson, Arizona to El Paso, Texas. On the warmer side of the systems, heavy rain will move along a stationary front from Corpus Christi, Texas to Birmingham, Alabama. Locally, heavy downpours are possible in central and southern Louisiana, as well as southeast Texas. Flash flooding is also possible in this region.

By Thursday morning, as the systems merge, another round of heavy rain is possible across southeast Texas and much of Louisiana. Another round of snow and ice will move across central and western Texas. There is a possibility some of this precipitation will make its way into parts of Oklahoma on Thursday, including the greater Oklahoma City metro area.

The storm finally organizes by Friday morning and starts sliding off to the east. Unfortunately, the storm will still bring another round of very heavy rain for parts of the Gulf Coast.

Through Friday, 3 to 6 inches of rain are possible locally in parts of southeast Texas and much of Louisiana. Nearly 1 to 3 inches of rain are possible for the rest of the Gulf Coast from Texas to Georgia. Flash flooding will be a concern in this region for the next several days.

The worst ice should stay west of Fort Worth and Austin, but some slick roads are possible in parts of I-35 metro areas where temperatures dip down to freezing overnight.

As for snow, 3 to 6 inches are possible in parts of southern New Mexico to western Texas. It is unclear how much ice and snow will make its way into Oklahoma on Thursday. Accumulations of ice and snow in Oklahoma will ultimately depend on its ability to maintain colder temperatures as the storm tries to pull mild air northward.

Clipper heads toward Northeast

A quick-moving storm will slide down from Canada later Wednesday and quickly race across the Great Lakes and move into the Northeast by Wednesday evening.

This type of winter storm, called a clipper, generally brings a quick burst of light snow. Some light snow will move into parts of the Northeast by Wednesday evening and last into the early hours of Thursday.

This clipper narrowly misses an opportunity to combine with a developing disturbance in the Southeast and dump serious accumulation.

However, there could be 1 to 2 of snow in parts of the Northeast through Thursday morning, with all likely accumulations north and west of the I-95 corridor from New York to Boston.

Copyright © 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.

Source

Snow, ice and rain bring headaches across southern US

[zipgrowth]

3 Tips For Keeping Class Content Current (Even If You Use Multiple Learning Management Systems)

The following is the latest installment of the new EdSurge advice column about teaching in higher education. You can pose a question for a future column here.

This semester—at the same institution—I will be teaching 2 online graduate courses: a brand new one on Canvas, and an existing one on Blackboard. Any tips on keeping my eye on the teaching/learning objectives while having two major LMS’s in play simultaneously? —Adjunct at a tier 1 research university in the mid-Atlantic

Even a little bit of effort toward streamlining content that could be moved to multiple learning management systems (LMSs) can have a big payoff. There are approaches that can help even when only working within a single LMS, particularly given the changing nature of some course content.

I, too, teach between Canvas and Blackboard. I know Canvas much better, since I use it both as a professor and in coaching faculty. There is nothing that helps me learn faster than to hear how other people are trying to use an LMS.

Embed Often

Instead of trying to learn the creation tools for each learning management system, I suggest turning to mainstream platforms, like video for Youtube or Soundcloud for audio, and then embedding video or sound clips into any LMS you use.

Examples of this in approach abound, from embedding a form or signup sheet within a page on the LMS, to embedding a Kahoot game for your students to play from within their familiar course environment.

The Embed Responsively website can make this process easier for sites like YouTube, Vimeo, Google Maps or Getty Images, though I find that I can fine-tune most content to display just the way I want it within Blackboard or Canvas without needing to use the help from Embed Responsively.

A Canvas-specific resource I have found helpful in thinking more creatively about embedding is a CanvasLIVE video featuring Laura Gibbs, an online instructor at the University of Oklahoma: Beautiful Curation: Flickr & Pinterest (+Diigo & Padlet).

Subscribe to Class Calendars

Both Canvas and Blackboard allow you to subscribe to your course calendars and have them display within your primary calendar application on your computer or mobile device. On my laptop, phone and tablet, I am able to see all the calendars for courses I teach across both Canvas and Blackboard within my other appointments.

I like being able to see when assignments are due, as it helps me recognize the need to block off time in my calendar for grading. It’s especially helpful for me to be able to see what week in the semester or term we are in, especially as what I have previously called “the dip” starts to take its toll on a class.

Link Smart

I first started down this path of wanting to make my life easier solely when it came to course syllabi. I grew tired of uploading the syllabus as a file within our LMS, only to need to upload a new version every single semester. It also seemed like every time I would send my document off to the department’s administrative assistant, I would find an error, or something else would change. I then found myself needing to send out a revised syllabus to her and once again having to upload a revision to the LMS.

I then found a much better way. Dropbox (a cloud-based storage service) became the place where I would store my syllabi, and then I could just link to the files in the LMS. In Microsoft Word, I would do a file save-as each semester and name the file something time-based, like 2020f-syllabus-BUSN114.docx. However, instead of uploading the Word document in the LMS, as most people do, I would save the file on Dropbox as a PDF. The file name was crucial in eventually saving me time. I would name it something like syllabus-BUSN114.pdf with no indication of what semester’s syllabus the file contained.

Each time a new semester would come around, all I had to do was perform a save-as on the syllabus Word file to have an archive of date-specific syllabi from past semesters and then make modifications to the Word file for the new semester. When all the changes were done, I would save a PDF copy with the non-date-specific name (e.g. syllabus-BUSN114.pdf) that would take the place of the previous semester’s file on Dropbox. The link to the syllabus remained unchanged and therefore did not need to be updated on the LMS.

Here’s a screencast that shows this process of having a syllabus live in Cloud-based storage (like Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, or Google Drive).

A walkthrough of how to "link smart."

Another option is to maintain syllabi within cloud-based document systems and to embed these documents inside the LMS. Google Docs and Dropbox Paper are two examples of these types of tools. As updates occur throughout the semester, they can be made within the cloud service and those changes are instantly reflected within the LMS.

Leverage Other Cloud Services

Once I saw how easy this process for managing syllabi was, I became intrigued by what other possibilities existed. Scott Self, assistant professor of organizational leadership for Abilene Christian University, joined me on the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast to share how he uses Evernote to minimize the time he needs to fumble around with different versions of documents.

Self uses Evernote notes to convey assignment information and to provide resources related to the course. He links to Evernote notes within the LMS, so whenever he makes changes within Evernote, he can rest assured those changes are instantly reflected in the LMS. Changes can be made to his Evernote notes on his computer, or even via his mobile devices.

Microsoft OneNote has a way to set up a class notebook that you can use in a similar way that Self uses Evernote. However, Microsoft’s OneNote takes it a step further and let you create interactive course content from within OneNote and give each student their own copy of the shared notebook that they can use to complete assignments, take notes, and receive feedback within their own notebook from their teacher.

Next Steps

It is not necessary to try to implement all these recommendations at once. Colleagues who have minimized the need to update their syllabi within the LMS by “linking smart” have said that the one idea saved them a great deal of time.

You can start small, and begin to see what works best within your classes.

3 Tips For Keeping Class Content Current (Even If You Use Multiple Learning Management Systems) published first on https://medium.com/@GetNewDLBusiness

[growthvue]

5 Ideas for Technology Stations

Leslie Swanson-Anaya on episode 145 of the 10-Minute Teacher Podcast

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

Follow @coolcatteacher on Twitter

Leslie Swanson-Anaya @InspiredLeslie elementary teacher of the year for Texas region 15 has ideas for awesome technology stations. These apps will work for all ages of students and subjects. Learn how she helps students learn and progress using technology.

Today’s Sponsor: GradeCam is a web-based tool that lets you customize assessments with multiple choice, true/false, number grids, rubrics, and more. You can instantly scan and score answer sheets using ANY device with a camera. You can even transfer grades into any digital grade book with the touch of a button.

Save time and start your free trial today at http://ift.tt/2gzEf8G. See how Gradecam can save you time and speed up your grading.

Listen Now

Listen to the show on iTunes or Stitcher

Stream by clicking here.

Below is an enhanced transcript, modified for your reading pleasure. All comments in the shaded green box are my own. For guests and hyperlinks to resources, scroll down.

***

Enhanced Transcript

Five Ideas for Technology Stations

Shownotes: http://ift.tt/2xxhbCb Friday, September 8, 2017

Vicki: Today we’re going to be talking with the author of #EduSnap17, Leslie Swanson Anaya @InspiredLeslie, about five ideas for technology stations.

So Leslie, what’s your first idea?

Idea #1: PBS Learning Media

Leslie: Well, my first idea – and one I have used in my classroom at the teacher-led station – is the interactive PBS LearningMedia. There are so many resources in there. Teachers, it’s so easy to log in, look at your grade level, your subject area, and pull up and interactive that you can actually use to augment the lesson.

Vicki: Oh, fun! Give me an example of one you’ve used that you thought was awesome.

The Cryptology using Algebraic Expressions Lesson

Leslie: The kids really loved the Cryptology one. We used it when we were solving equations. The students are given an equation, and they solve for the unknown variable. Then they have to match their answer to the country code to see where the criminals were coming from. They thought that was really fun!

Vicki: Oh, fun! And we forgot to mention that you’re actually an Elementary Teacher of the Year in Texas for Region 15, so these are elementary kids doing these really cool projects.

OK, what’s your second?

Idea #2: Flipgrid for a Collaborative Station

Leslie: My second one is Flipgrid. It’s a really amazing app for kids to collaborate with each other. At the collaborative station, I would set up a question that I ask the students. They would use their code to log onto the grid. Each one of them in the group can go ahead and give a response to that question and share the things that they created digitally as well.

Vicki: That’s such a fun tool, and we actually have an EdTech Tool Tuesday about that that I’ll link to in the Show Notes if you want to more about Flipgrid. This is one I’m going to be trying in the fall. It’s really cool.

See Flipgrid: 6 Fun Ideas to Engage Students in Collaboration with Teryl Magee

OK, what’s next?

Idea #3: Nearpod

Leslie: Nearpod. It’s an AR/VR app, but it’s really neat because you can set it up as teacher-led, so I can actually control what they’re seeing from my device to their devices. They can also work together, pair up with a partner, to solve the problems and go through the different steps that I’m sending them. It’s a really amazing app, as well as I can also take them though different virtual tours.

Vicki: OK, so some people may not know what AR and VR stand for. We’ve talked about both of these, so I will include previous shows in the Show Notes. But explain just a little bit more about what these do.

See: Aurasma and Augmented Reality in the Classroom with Dr. Tim Green

See: Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality in the Classroom with Steven Anderson

Leslie: Augmented Reality just adds another layer to what you’re looking at. So for example, if I’m showing student gallons or pints, it will add a layer to actually compare – they can visually see — how much they’re looking at to compare it.

Vicki: Cool. And then how about the VR piece?

Leslie: The Virtual Reality takes them on a tour using their device or their Virtual Reality Glasses. They can actually be in another place and see inside of it. So if I took them to an aquarium, or another country, they can see different spots within that 360. They can actually turn around and see everything that’s in that space.

Vicki: What devices are your students using?

Leslie: We use both Chromebooks and iPads.

Vicki: Cool. OK, what’s your fourth one?

Idea #4: Google Expeditions

Leslie: My fourth one is Google Expeditions. I’m really passionate about this one because they have so many resources. It’s really important for especially my students who come from a low socioeconomic background. (They) haven’t had the experiences they need to connect new learning to. I use this one quite often to help create experiences so they know what we’re talking about. Especially with my ESL students and special ed as well. It helps give them a frame of reference.

Vicki: So give me an example of a Google Expedition you love.

Leslie: Well, I took my students on an expedition actually to an aquarium when we were learning about different careers and personal scinotes. We were exploring different areas or things that they might be interested in, so that they could then go look those up. They knew what career it was, what it entailed, and they could look up what kind of education they needed for that career, what the annual salaries were, and things like that.

Vicki: Cool. So we can kind immerse and help them travel and see the world without them having to leave the classroom.

OK, what else?

Leslie: It’s amazing.

Vicki: What’s your fifth?

Idea #5: LearnZillion

Leslie: My fifth one would definitely be LearnZillion. That’s also a really easy one to set up. You just set up an assignment, you give the kids the code, they can do it at their individual technology stations, and they log on. It’s also aligned with state standards so you know that the students are working on activities that are aligned to what they’re supposed to be learning as far as the content goes.

Vicki: Oh, there’s so many! Five fantastic ideas! Now you’ve got a lot more ideas in #EduSnap17, and we are going to a book giveaway. But let me ask you this, Leslie, how do you keep up with all the tools out there so that you know what to bring into your classroom?

Leslie: A lot of times I just have to do some research, look some things up and play with it. I did learn quite a bit from Jaime Donally, from AR/VR in EDU, and then all my PLNs that I connect with on Twitter have taught me so much. The best learning that I’ve had thus far was definitely at ISTE 17. It was amazing!

Vicki: Oh, wasn’t it so much fun? Educators, I just want to encourage you. Leslie is modeling for us — in some ways she may or may not know what I call it – but I call it, “Innovate like a turtle.” Taking 15 minutes, two to three times a week to learn something new ad to level up. And then when you go to conferences, just immerse in them and learn everything you can to bring back to your students. This whole idea of having tech stations and having these resources can really help our kids engage with the world, even when they can’t travel.

So, follow Leslie online and get out there and be remarkable! And I hope you can use one of these ideas.

Leslie: The really best thing about not necessarily knowing all of these apps and how to use them is (that) the kids are so forgiving, you learn together and you learn with them. It’s OK to have a faceplant every now and then because we learn from it, and we grow, and it’s just awesome.

Vicki: It is awesome. I’ve never heard anybody say it like that, Leslie. “It’s OK to have a faceplant.” I guess it is. I certainly have had my own faceplants, but I won’t say I enjoy it. (laughs)

Leslie: (laughs)

Transcribed by Kymberli Mulford

Biography as Submitted

Leslie Swanson-Anaya received her undergraduate degree from Schreiner University in Kerrville, TX. She was a stay-at-home mother and foster mom for many years before pursuing her teacher certification credentials. After advocating for the educational needs of the children in her care, she felt a calling to pursue her teacher certification from Texas A&M- Commerce. Currently she is pursuing her M.Ed. for Concordia University Texas.

After serving as a special education teacher in Dallas ISD, Mansfield ISD, and Abilene ISD she found her teaching home in Brownwood ISD. Currently, she teaches sixth grade math at Coggin-Intermediate. As a strong proponent for student-centered instruction, she uses a blended learning model for her students using a strengths-based approach to differentiate for all student needs. Mrs. Swanson-Anaya believes in teaching the ‘whole child’, as evidenced by the strong relationships she has formed with her students, parents, colleagues, and school community.

Her professional interests focus on leveraging edtech resources, combined with solid pedagogy for student benefit. Ms. Swanson’s current projects, fueled by a passion to make a positive impact and inspire students to strive for the same, include creating blended learning experiences that incorporate student collaboration, to foster a growth and innovation mindset. Her practices will be featured in the upcoming EduMatch publication, as a contributing author, EduSanp17: A Snapshot in Education. In addition, she serves as a panelist for PBS Teachers’ Advisory Group, and is a Learning Ambassador of Atomic Learning. Finally, she was recently honored with Elementary Teacher of the Year for her contributions to the learning community in Brownwood ISD.

Blog: leslieswanson-anaya.com

Twitter: @inspiredleslie

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.)

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How Local SEO Can Help You Grow Your Small Business

In this post, you will understand how you can use local SEO services to grow your small business. Small businesses are those who have yet to grow or who have yet to create a brand. Around 20 years ago, it was difficult as you had to maintain most of the things online. But, today, with SEO services, you can take your business to the peak in the small time span.

Most of the small businesses start with the own area of the entrepreneur. So, the first thing a small businessperson is required to do is to focus on the local area, and if his/her business is appealing enough then take it to the national or global level. Therefore, if one needs to grow a small business, he/she is recommended to work on SEO or hire an SEO company for local SEO services.

Here are some of the points, which can help you in the growth of your small enterprises.

Local SEO Gives an Identity to Your Business

The first aspect of local SEO is mapping on Google maps. It is a perfect way to give an identity to your business. When someone searches for the services you deal in, he or she gets the list in the top search result in the local listing. Suppose, you are running a restaurant in New York, your restaurant comes in the list of restaurants when some searches for a restaurant nearby to your area. Besides, your restaurant will also come in the list when some traveler from some other area who has plans to visit New York will search the phrases like "restaurants in New York".

Local SEO Ranks Your Website in Local Searches

In the local SEO, you can decide the location where you want your website to appear at top ranking. So, when somebody searches for your services in your area, then your website appears at the high ranking. The competition in local areas is often less than in a national or global market. So, you have the chance to get more visitors with the help of local SEO services. If your business is not entirely local, but it is spread only in two or three cities or states, then you can also do or get local SEO services for these states.

You Reach Every Customer via Local SEO Services

Local SEO services are no doubt the new age yellow pages. A number of customers like to search for the local businesses on the go, through their mobile phones or tablets. So, it will not be wrong to say you're your reach every customer through local SEO services.

Local SEO Services Help Customers to Reach You Physically

Apart from searching, local SEO also enables the individuals to meet you physically. They can get the way to your place with the help of GPS if your location is properly mapped. It is really very helpful in searching the location at nearby places, so when the customers are finding it difficult to search the way to your office, shop or restaurant, they can easily get the location via mobile phone if your location is backed by GPS with the help of local SEO.

Good for Offline Purchases

In many of the businesses, offline interaction is required despite the online availability. For example, customers can search the availability of restaurants on Google, but they need to come to the restaurant in order to eat (however, there is also an option for home delivery in the case of restaurants). Similarly, when real estate buyers search for real estate dealers or builders on the internet, they are required to visit the places to look for the property and to sign the offline contracts. In the case of shops also, some customers like to see a few products themselves before purchasing. So, they are also needed to visit the shops offline after searching it via online option. The businesses that need offline interaction have the local appeals, or the customers who want to buy the products online look for the local shops. Here again, local SEO comes into the picture. With the help of local SEO, you can easily approach the customers.

Local SEO Is Perfect for Making Personal Connections

As local SEO deals in the local market, it is perfect for developing personal relations with customers. Even if you deal online, many of the customers would like to contact you personally. If they like your products or services, they may like to prefer you as you belong to their areas. This will help you in building personal relations.

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Top 20 Online Christian Colleges

Online education is a popular alternative to brick and mortar schools because of the flexibility offered. In the past, students seeking a higher education had to go to a physical location for all their classes, sometimes losing out on opportunities to continue working while furthering their education.

In the Christian sphere, schools like Liberty University and Abilene Christian University can offer students the opportunity to attend an online Christian college. Students can go to class on their schedule, working around jobs, children, and other scheduling conflicts. They can also pick a school across the country, or even across the world, and attend it from the comfort of their home.

Since online education got its start, Christian schools are turning to the program to offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees for students.

If you have no interest in traditional campus life, or if you want to complete your degree on your own time, an accredited Christian college can still be an option.

All of the Christian colleges on this list provide bachelor’s degree programs and are Christ-centered in their pursuits to offer an online education. In doing this, online Christian colleges offer a unique approach to higher learning. Students will learn important biblical principles that they can take home, to their next job, and to their communities.

The colleges in this list hold high a good Christian character while cultivating academic prestige and a high quality online program. A good Christian college should have full accreditation, a low student-to-teacher ratio, confessional status, and around-the-clock support if the student runs into any issues. Based on those criteria, here are the top 20 online Christian colleges.

#1 – Liberty University

Location: Lynchburg, Virginia Affiliation: Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia Cost per credit: $250-570

Liberty University has a strong reputation for online learning with a conservative evangelical setting. It is the worldís largest private nonprofit university and offers a variety of programs with Christian integrity and ease of access. Liberty offers certificates, high school classes, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as other postgraduate studies.

While enrolled, students at Liberty can take advantage of “Experiential Learning Credits,” which allows work experience to count as credit hours to hasten the student’s graduation. Students also have access to the Online Communities program, which helps them stay spiritually connected while taking their classes.

Classes at Liberty range from 8 to 17 weeks and offer multiple enrollment dates. This gives students more flexibility to find a program that fits into their schedules.

#2 – Regent University

Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia Affiliation: Non-denominational evangelical Cost per credit: $395

Regent University was founded by Pat Robertson and therefore it emphasizes the “Moral Majority” and the “Christian Coalition.” Because of this, Regent is known for its government and leadership degrees, though it is also nationally ranked in business and education. The school offers students seven schools of study in which they can earn certifications, associateís, bachelorís, masterís, and doctoral degrees.

Regentís goal is to keep costs low and quality high. It uses a Blackboard-based ìanytimeî access lecture archive. This allows students to plan studies around work and family. The only downside is a student-to-teacher ratio of 30:1. Regent has 10 years of experience in online education.

#3 – Colorado Christian University

Location: Lakewood, Colorado Affiliation: Interdenominational Cost per credit: $427

Colorado Christian may offer fewer degree options than Liberty and Regent, but it outclasses competitors with its ìanytime accessî online courses. The school offers 46 degree programs, in which students enjoy a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio and a ìcohort modelî community that encourages online students to build relationships with their peers.

CCU offers faith-based learning by hiring Christian faculty and affirming biblical inerrancy, the Trinity, the Resurrection, and other Christian staples. It promotes a living faith among students and offers scholarships to “World changers.”

#4 – LeTourneau University

Location: Longview, Texas Affiliation: Interdenominational Cost per credit: $350-445

LeTourneau is known for its low-cost, high-quality education both at the schoolís Longview campus and through online classes. The school boasts a 94 percent employment rate for graduates, gives students flexible scheduling, and ease of entry.

Students attend one class at a time and each class lasts about six weeks. LeTourneau offers anytime access to its curriculum while students obtain their associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees. The university strives to be bible-based and focuses on vocational training from a Christian perspective.

#5 – California Baptist University

Location: Riverside, California Affiliation: Southern Baptist Cost per credit: $511

California Baptist University entered the online education system in 2010 and already climbed the ranks to become a top rated online Christian college. The Southern Baptist standout offers 26 online Bachelor of Arts options, eight Master’s, and two certificate programs. No doctoral programs are offered yet.

CBU’s most popular program is its business degree with 76 percent of online students picking that program. Masterís students have a fast-track option that offers full-time class work and graduation in 16 months. Classes have no more than 25 students and it has a rolling application deadline, allowing new students to begin throughout the year.

#6 – University of St. Francis

Location: Joliet, Illinois Affiliation: Roman Catholic Cost per credit: $564

University of St. Francis is ranked 28th in online Bachelor of Arts programs. It offers more than 120 online courses and has over 1,500 students. The university offers rolling application for admission and financial aid, as well as class credits for work experience (up to 33 credit hours). Student enjoy anytime access lecture archives and a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

St. Francis offers degree specialities in Business Administration, Health Care, Organizational Leadership, Education, Management, Nursing, and Social Work. The university is a premier adult education option and the average student age is 39. The school is Christian, but not conservative, because it places emphasis on academic prestige more than Christian culture. Teachers and students are not required to sign confessional statements.

#7 – Indiana Wesleyan University

Location: Marion, Indiana Affiliation: Wesleyan Church Cost per credit: $417

Indiana Wesleyan University offers more than 80 online degree, certification, and endorsement programs and offers accessible online programs for adult learners. IWU online students are assigned a personal Academic Advisor who will provide information, resolve problems, and provide advice on how the student can achieve his or her goals.

IWU offers a Spiritcare program that introduces them to the person and community of Jesus Christ. The school offers Christ-centered support for online students, as well as resources and services that are all about God.

Courses at IWU often include several types of learning materials, from videos and audio podcasts to virtual tours, case studies, and interactive web-based activities.

#8 – Dallas Baptist University

Location: Dallas, Texas Affiliation: Baptist Cost per credit: $775ñ785

Dallas Baptist University offers online student three undergraduate certifications, 20 graduate certifications, three associateís degrees, 17 bachelorís degrees, and 58 masterís degrees. Students can chose to take classes exclusively online, or opt for a hybrid program where some classes are held on campus.

While classes aren’t cheap, students often say that the cost is equal to the quality education they receive from DBU. Unlike some schools on this list, DBU only offers a “guided” curriculum model where classes may involve group collaboration, timed exams, and “windows” where the student can access required materials. Students donít have to log in to the class at certain times, so there is some degree of flexibility.

Campus ministries include weekly chapels and monthly forums that push for deeper faith and learning. Online student should expect classes to include Christian principles and a Christian worldview.

#9 – Benedictine University

Location: Lisle, Illinois Affiliation: Roman Catholic Cost per Credit: $488

Class sizes at Benedictine University online are limited to 20 people and feature anytime-access archives, along with around-the-clock technical support. The online programs are less liberal arts driven and more vocational. Benedictine offers four certificate degrees, one associate’s degree, two bachelor’s degrees, 18 graduate degrees, and one doctoral degree.

The school’s strategy is to establish a strong core of degree programs in Business, Education, and Nursing. Should the school choose to expand its online degree offerings, it will be a force to reckoned with in the field of online Christian colleges.

#10 – Grand Canyon University

Location: Phoenix, Arizona Affiliation: Interdenominational Cost per credit: $350-$550

Grand Canyon Universityís online program offers a full-time faculty devoted solely to online students. The schoolís classes are eight weeks long and many fulfill four credit hours, rather than the typical three. High schoolers can take dual-credit classes alongside adults who are earning their bachelorís, masterís, and doctoral degrees. Adults are offered continuing education, evening, and hybrid classes that fit their schedule.

Degree programs offered at GCU include majors in psychology, counseling, ministry, performing arts, nursing, engineering, and others. The university is mission-minded and offers community outreach projects, student mission trips, and ìserve the cityî day.

#11 – Union University

Location: Jackson, Tennessee Affiliation: Southern Baptist Cost per credit: $600 for Winter or Summer, $880 for Spring and Fall

Union University is a contender in the online Christian college marketplace. It is Christian and sticks to its Southern Baptist roots, but it is also tolerant of different Christian denominations. Union offers five accredited fully-online graduate programs in the fields of Christian Studies, Education, and Nursing. The latter is the main attraction for students seeking a graduate degree.

Along with the graduate programs, Union offers several undergraduate degree programs, online certificates, and three doctoral programs, which are mostly online. Union University would be an excellent choice for someone in the Nursing field, as well as general Christian studies majors.

#12 – Biola University

Location: La Mirada, California Affiliation: Non-denominational Cost per credit: $962

Biola offers students a Christian standing and academic prestige, making it an excellent choice, depending on the major you want to pursue. Biola is considered one of the best schools in the world for Christian worldview and apologetics training. It is a recent entry into the online Christian education world, but it is an excellent option.

Biola Universityís online courses feature a 16:1 student-to-teacher ratio and offers several certificates and 11 degree options through its Arts & Sciences, Education, and Intercultural Studies schools. The premiere degree offering is a Master of Arts in Apologetics. The school would be a great option for missions and ministry-minded students.

#13 – George Fox University

Location: Portland, Oregon Affiliation: Evangelical Friends (Quakers) Cost per credit: $487+

George Fox University is ranked by Forbes as the third-highest-rated Christian school in the country. It brings the same level of prestige to its online program. GFU offers several undergraduate courses online, though there is no primarily online bachelorís degree yet. Still, the university offers a Bachelor of Arts in Online Management and Organizational Leadership. The degree is a hybrid fast-track option that offers a degree in 16 months and complements a general core or associateís degree.

While George Fox’s online presence is strong, it is qualified better as a “distance learning” school, rather than offering pure online degrees. This is because online degrees through GFU still require one or two in-residence classes or meetings.

#14 – Saint Mary’s College of California

Location: Moraga, California Affiliation: Catholic Cost per credit: $778

Degrees at Saint Mary’s College don’t come cheap, but they aren’t nearly as expensive as comparably prestigious schools. While online students may miss out on the schoolís beautiful campus, they can enjoy the same learning and professors as their on-campus counterparts.

Saint Maryís began online classes in 2009-2010. The school offers small classes, a small online student body, and anytime access to online class archives. Students can pick from several bachelor’s and master’s degrees which are structured on the same academic calendar as on-campus classes. Because of this, students can not complete classes on their own time but instead must complete exams and assignments on a deadline.

#15 – Gardner-Webb University

Location: Boiling Springs, North Carolina Affiliation: Baptist State Convention of North Carolina Cost per credit: $373-394

Gardner-Webb University’s online courses mirror the on-campus schedule class-for-class, but online students don’t have to attend any on-campus classes to complete their degree. The school is Baptist-related, but doesnít adhere as strictly to the Christian worldview of Biola or the denominational-emphasis of Liberty University.

GW features a Blackboard-based anytime access lecture archive, so students can fit their education into their schedule. Nearby nursing students can take advantage of the university’s hybrid post-doctoral Nursing degree and other students can participate in the hybrid “Goal-Degree Completion Program,” which allows them to earn up to 60 credit hours online toward the completion of an undergraduate degree or to turn an associate’s into a bachelor’s degree.

#16 – Marylhurst University

Location: Marylhurst, Oregon Affiliation: Catholic Cost per credit: $437

Marylhurst is a broadly Catholic school without any particular faith requirements for students or professors. The school reaches nontraditional and adult education students by a lack of SAT or ACT score requirement. Because of this, Marylhurst is excluded from ranking agencies like U.S. News & World Report.

Marylhurst offers students the option to shorten their bachelorís program by up to 45 credit hours if they take a Prior Learning Assessment. This can help the student earn their bachelor’s in as little as 2 Ω years. Courses are offered as five-week intensives and are offered sequentially one at a time. The schoolís online program is designed to offer efficiency and effective students. Many students opt into the accelerated MBA program, where they can earn the degree in 18 months.

#17 – Charleston Southern University

Location: Charleston, South Carolina Affiliation: Southern Baptist Cost per credit: $490 (undergraduate) and $460-625 (graduate)

Charleston Southern University offers online bachelor’s degrees in Nursing, Education, Technology, and several Human Resource tracks. The school also offers masterís degrees in Organizational Management, Education, Nursing, and Criminal Justice. A nationally recognized MBA program is also a possibility.

Charleston requires all faculty to sign a Christian doctrine statement saying they agree with the Southern Baptist schoolís point of view on Christianity.

#18 – Toccoa Falls College

Location: Toccoa Falls, Georgia Affiliation: Christian Missionary Alliance Cost per credit: $285

Toccoa Falls is an independent, non-profit institution known for its great pricing, online experience, and its adherence to Christian values throughout all its programs. Toccoa Falls is primarily a Bible college, but it is devoted to ministry-minded students who want a Bachelor of Arts degree in Nonprofit Business Administration. The school has six degree options and a Bible Certificate.

Other degree options include associate’s degrees in Business and General Studies, as well as bachelor’s degrees in Ministry Leadership, Organizational Leadership, and Youth Ministry. The class schedule is on a semester basis, though it has an open enrollment policy.

#19 – Abilene Christian University

Location: Abilene, Texas Affiliation: Churches of Christ Cost per credit: $675-775

Abilene Christian University is known best for its master’s programs in Human Resource Development and Conflict Resolution. However, it also offers several educational master’s degrees and graduate level certifications. ACU offers online summer courses for undergraduates, but complete bachelor’s degrees require on-campus classes. Only master’s degrees can be completed online.

Students interested in social work or education should seriously consider Abilene. The university’s master’s program uses a trimester schedule of three terms per year. Students take one or two classes at a time, which last eight weeks. Resident students participate in summer, winter, and spring break mission trips. Abilene is a proud member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

#20 – Trinity International University

Location: Deerfield, Illinois Affiliation: Evangelical Free Church of America Cost per credit: $365

Trinity International University is recognized for its global-Christian culture, as well as its affordable online classes. TIU’s degrees incorporate a general education core that includes courses like ìFoundation of Christian Thinking and Living,î ìCritical Thinking and Writing,î and ìNew Testament and Old Testament Foundations.î

TIU offers three fully-online bachelor’s degrees in Business, Psychology, and Christian Ministries. The university’s courses are six weeks long and typically offer three credit hours upon completion. They are sequential, allowing students to complete up to 10 modules per year. The Christian university allow students to take classes online and on-campus to complete their degree. Consider Trinity International University if you are looking into ministry or are considering seminary after your bachelor’s degree.

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