#marine catering companies

[aryaks122]

Marine Catering Companies

Make your ship's catering operations as smooth and reliable as the voyage itself. Discover how our dynamic provisions-ordering system and dedicated Catering Manager can transform your approach to ship catering, ensuring a well-fed crew and a well-managed budget. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive catering solutions tailored to the maritime industry.

[anilaarunnnn]

A Marine Catering Provider specializes in delivering top-notch culinary experiences at sea. They expertly navigate challenges like remote locations and diverse preferences, ensuring fresh, diverse, and safe meals for crews and passengers. With a focus on quality and adaptability, these providers play a crucial role in boosting morale, enhancing passenger satisfaction, and supporting operational efficiency on maritime journeys.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Paying for it doesn't make it a market

I'm touring my new, nationally bestselling novel The Bezzle! Catch me SATURDAY (Apr 27) in MARIN COUNTY, then Winnipeg (May 2), Calgary (May 3), Vancouver (May 4), and beyond!

Anyone who says "If you're not paying for the product, you're the product" has been suckered in by Big Tech, whose cargo-cult version of markets and the discipline they impose on companies.

Here's the way that story goes: companies that fear losing your business will treat you better, because treating you worse will cost them money. Since ad-supported media gets paid by advertisers, they are fine with abusing you to make advertisers happy, because the advertiser is the customer, and you are the product.

This represents a profound misunderstanding of how even capitalism's champions describe its workings. The purported virtue of capitalism is that it transforms the capitalist's greed into something of broad public value, by appealing to the capitalist's fear. A successful capitalist isn't merely someone figures out how to please their customers – they're also someone who figures out how to please their suppliers.

That's why tech platforms were – until recently – very good to (some of) their workforce. Technical labor was scarce and so platforms built whimsical "campuses" for tech workers, with amenities ranging from stock options to gourmet cafeterias to egg-freezing services for those workers planning to stay at their desks through their fertile years. Those workers weren't the "customer" – but they were treated better than any advertiser or user.

But when it came to easily replaced labor – testers, cleaning crew, the staff in those fancy cafeterias – the situation was much worse. Those workers were hired through cut-out shell companies, denied benefits, even made to enter via separate entrances on shifts that were scheduled to minimize the chance that they would ever interact with one of the highly paid tech workers at the firm.

Likewise, advertisers may be the tech companies' "customers" but that doesn't mean the platforms treat them well. Advertisers get ripped off just like the rest of us. The platforms gouge them on price, lie to them about advertising reach, and collude with one another to fix prices and defraud advertisers:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/10/05/florida-man/#wannamakers-ghost

Now, it's true that the advertisers used to get a good deal from the platforms, and that it came at the expense of the users. Facebook lured in users by falsely promising never to spy on them. Then, once the users were locked in, Facebook flipped a switch, started spying on users from asshole to appetite, and then offered rock-bottom-priced, fine-grained, highly reliable ad-targeting to advertisers:

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3247362

But once those advertisers were locked in, Facebook turned on them, too. Of course they did. The point of monopoly power isn't just getting too big to fail and too big to jail – it's getting too big to care:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/04/teach-me-how-to-shruggie/#kagi

This is the thing that "if you're not paying for the product, you're the product" fails to comprehend. "If you're not paying for the product" is grounded in a cartoonish vision of markets in which "the customer is king" and successful businesses are those who cater to their customers – even at the expense of their workers and suppliers – will succeed.

In this frame, the advertiser is the platforms' customer, the customer is king, the platform inflicts unlimited harm upon all other stakeholders in service to those advertisers, the advertisers are so pleased with this white-glove service that they willingly pay a handsome premium to use the platform, and so the platform grows unimaginably wealthy.

But of course, if the platforms inflict unlimited harms upon their users, those users will depart, and then no amount of obsequious catering to advertisers will convince them to spend money on ads that no one sees. In the cargo-cult conception of platform capitalism, the platforms are able to solve this problem by "hacking our dopamine loops" – depriving us of our free will with "addictive" technologies that keep us locked to their platforms even when they grow so terrible that we all hate using them.

This means that we can divide the platform economy into "capitalists" who sell you things, and "surveillance capitalists" who use surveillance data to control your mind, then sell your compulsive use of their products to their cherished customers, the advertisers.

Surveillance capitalists like Google are thus said to have only been shamming when they offered us a high-quality product. That was just a means to an end: the good service Google offered in its golden age was just bait to trick us into handing over enough surveillance data that they could tune their mind-control technology, strip us of our free will, and then sell us to their beloved advertisers, for whom nothing is too good.

Meanwhile, the traditional capitalists – the companies that sell you things – are the good capitalists. Apple and Microsoft are disciplined by market dynamics. They won't spy on you because you're their customer, and so they have to keep you happy.

All this leads to an inexorable conclusion: unless we pay for things with money, we are doomed. Any attempt to pay with attention will end in a free-for-all where the platforms use their Big Data mind-control rays to drain us of all our attention. It is only when we pay with money that we can dicker over price and arrive at a fair and freely chosen offer.

This theory is great for tech companies: it elevates giving them money to a democracy-preserving virtue. It reframes handing your cash over to a multi-trillion dollar tech monopolist as good civics. It's easy to see why those tech giants would like that story, but boy, are you a sap if you buy it.

Because all capitalists are surveillance capitalists…when they can get away with it. Sure, Apple blocked Facebook from spying on Ios users…and then started illegally, secretly spying on those users and lying about it, in order to target ads to those users:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/14/luxury-surveillance/#liar-liar

And Microsoft spies on every Office 365 user and rats them out to their bosses ("Marge, this analytics dashboard says you're the division's eleventh-worst speller and twelfth-worst typist. Shape up or ship out!"). But the joke's on your boss: Microsoft also spies on your whole company and sells the data about it to your competitors:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/11/25/the-peoples-amazon/#clippys-revengel

The platforms screw anyone they can. Sure, they lured in advertisers with good treatment, but once those advertisers were locked in, they fucked them over just as surely as they fucked over their users.

The surveillance capitalism hypothesis depends on the existence of a hypothetical – and wildly improbably – Big Data mind-control technology that keeps users locked to platforms even when the platform decays. Mind-control rays are an extraordinary claim supported by the thinnest of evidence (marketing materials from the companies as they seek to justify charging a premium to advertisers, combined with the self-serving humblebrags of millionaire Prodigal Tech Bros who claim to have awakened to the evil of using their dopamine-hacking sorcerous powers on behalf of their billionaire employers).

There is a much simpler explanation for why users stay on platforms even as they decline in quality: they are enmeshed in a social service that encompasses their friends, loved ones, customers, and communities. Even if everyone in this sprawling set of interlocking communities agrees that the platform is terrible, they will struggle to agree on what to do about it: where to go next and when to leave. This is the economists' "collective action problem" – a phenomenon with a much better evidentiary basis than the hypothetical, far-fetched "dopamine loop" theory.

To understand whom a platform treats well and whom it abuses, look not to who pays it and who doesn't. Instead, ask yourself: who has the platform managed to lock in? The more any stakeholder to a platform stands to lose by leaving, the worse the platform can treat them without risking their departure. Thus the beneficent face that tech companies turn to their most cherished tech workers, and the hierarchy of progressively more-abusive conditions for other workers – worse treatment for those whose work-visas are tied to their employment, and the very worst treatment for contractors testing the code, writing the documentation, labelling the data or cleaning the toilets.

If you care about how people are treated by platforms, you can't just tell them to pay for services instead of using ad-supported media. The most important factor in getting decent treatment out of a tech company isn't whether you pay with cash instead of attention – it's whether you're locked in, and thus a flight risk whom the platform must cater to.

It's perfectly possible for market dynamics to play out in a system in which we pay with our attention by watching ads. More than 50% of all web users have installed an ad-blocker, the largest boycott in the history of civilization:

https://doc.searls.com/2023/11/11/how-is-the-worlds-biggest-boycott-doing/

Ad-supported companies make an offer: How about in exchange for looking at this content, you let us spy on you in ways that would make Orwell blush and then cram a torrent of targeted ads into your eyeballs?" Ad-blockers let you make a counter-offer: "How about 'nah'?"

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2019/07/adblocking-how-about-nah

But ad-blocking is only possible on an open platform. A closed, locked-down platform that is illegal to modify isn't a walled garden, a fortress that keeps out the bad guys – it's a walled prison that locks you in, a prisoner of the worst impulses of the tech giant that built it. Apple can defend you from other companies' spying ways, but when Apple decides to spy on you, it's a felony to jailbreak your Iphone and block Apple's surveillance:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/05/battery-vampire/#drained

I am no true believer in markets – but the people who say that paying for products will "align incentives" and make tech better claim to believe in the power of markets to make everyone better off. But real markets aren't just places where companies sell things – they're also places where companies buy things. Monopolies short-circuit the power of customer choice to force companies to do better. But monopsonies – markets dominated by powerful buyers – are just as poisonous to the claimed benefits of markets.

Even if you are "the product" – that is, even if you're selling your attention to a platform to package up and sell to an advertiser – that in no way precludes your getting decent treatment from the platform. A world where we can avail ourselves of blockers, where interoperablity eases our exodus from abusive platforms, where privacy law sets a floor below which we cannot bargain is a world where it doesn't matter if you're "the product" or "the customer" – you can still get a square deal.

The platforms used to treat us well and now treat us badly. That's not because they were setting a patient trap, luring us in with good treatment in the expectation of locking us in and turning on us. Tech bosses do not have the executive function to lie in wait for years and years.

Rather, as tech platforms eliminated competition, captured their regulators and expanded their IP rights so that interoperability was no longer a threat, they became too big to care whether any of their stakeholders were happy. First they came for the users, sure, but then they turned on the publishers, the advertisers, and finally, even their once-pampered tech workers:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/10/the-proletarianization-of-tech-workers/

MLK said that "the law can't make a man love me, but it can stop him from lynching me." It's impossible to get tech bosses to believe you deserve care and decency, but you can stop them from abusing you. The way to do that is by making them fear you – by abolishing the laws that create lock-in, by legally enshrining a right to privacy, by protecting competition.

It's not by giving them money. Paying for a service does not make a company fear you, and anyone who thinks they can buy a platform's loyalty by paying for a service is a simp. A corporation is an immortal, transhuman colony organism that uses us as inconvenient gut-flora: no matter how much you love it, it will never love you back. It can't experience love – only fear.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/22/kargo-kult-kaptialism/#dont-buy-it

[darkskippychan]

Temp Work and the Dangers of GMO

By DarkSkippychan

Hello fans of my darkness.  I wrote this story for a fan of mine who decided to share herself with me when I was feeling down as a token of appreciation.  I hope you are able to afford to go back to university soon and things work out better for you.  This story contains Non Con, Sommnophilia/drugging, F/Monster, Tentacles, Forced Orgasms, and Impregnation.  Please do not read this story if any of these things may be triggering for you.  You have been warned.

Marin Biotech (the 3rd largest biotech firm in the world) had just opened its newest research campus two months ago in her local suburban town.  The new work campus provided the nearby community with an influx of much needed capital as well as fueling a new boom in housing, local shops, and (of course) jobs.  Their sprawling 43-acre campus was home to many lab facilities, greenhouses, and office buildings all catering to the global companies’ many research projects.

She had been lucky enough to land an afterhours temp job entering data from several of the many research groups and labs.  Her normal shift ran from 6pm to 2am, so she seldom saw other employees of the company. 

Some people would have found the work conditions lonely, but she actually enjoyed the solitude and freedom to work at her own pace.  Not to mention she got full access to the company’s well stocked employee lounge and was pretty much left alone to do her job with little to no supervision as long as she was completing her assigned tasks.

After parking her car in the near empty concrete employee parking garage, she hurried quickly to the main facilities building, her breath fogging out in front of her from the winter cold.  Fortunately, snow hadn’t started falling yet, but it always felt right around the corner.

The building was quiet, and she didn’t see another soul as she used her employee pass to enter the building.  She crossed the lobby and took the elevator down to basement floor 1 where the buildings main labs and her computer terminal awaited her.

Upon reaching her workstation, she quickly removed her coat, scarf, and gloves before the heat of the heavily climate-controlled basement overwhelmed her.  The company always kept it a bit warm down in the lab levels, and she wasn’t sure why.  She had learned to drink generous amounts of coffee to offset the urge to doze or sleep while she worked in the comfortable warmth.

The hard copy file ‘In box’ on her desk had several inch thick manila files of printed paper data for her to enter, but she noticed that her workload was about half of its usual size.  Thinking it over, she figured some of the researchers had decided to get a head start on the three-day weekend with Monday being a company holiday.

She settled down and woke her computer from sleep mode, as she fell into a rhythm and began to get down to work entering all the collected data.

Lab 3 (of 8) of Marin Biotech main research building was currently devoted to the development of new Genetically Modified Organisms (or GMO for short) mixing plant and animal DNA to create new fast growing and disease resistant strains of plants and animals.

The work was slow and tedious and led to hundreds if not thousands of non-viable products.  More recently work had begun to create mutations of promising strains by bombarding them with different forms of hard Alpha, Beta, and Gama radiation, hoping to create organisms with a more favorable outcome.

Among the newest batch in the lab was genetic specimen Beta-317.  The Beta series were all different Amazonian Jungle species (picked for their high growth rates and competitive nature) mixed with different ocean animals to try to cultivate their unique properties.  Beta-317 or B317 was specifically Cissus Amazonica also known as the Amazon Jungle Vine propagated and enhanced with spliced genes of the Enteroctopus dofleini or Giant Pacific Octopus for its RNA editing abilities and regeneration properties.

Work in Lab 3 had ended early in the day as the staff left early for their vaunted three-day weekend.  Multi spectrum bulbs illuminated the far quarter of the lab where the Beta specimens were constantly exposed to full spectrum light as to encourage their rapid growth.  Each GMO hybrid had also been placed in a nutrient rich water bath to provide each with the proper nutrients to sustain rapid growth.

Unseen by human eyes, experiment B317 quivered under the constant UV assault, before unfurling several of its thin appendages in its nutrient bath.  Roots quested out and dipped into its neighbors fluid baths, draining the fluids and growing in size and length from the additional nutrition. 

One appendage discovered the edge of the pool of light and B317 quivered as it began to pull itself out of the damaging brightness still growing from all the rich nutrients it had just absorbed from its neighbors.

A couple of hours had passed in the blink of an eye while she worked when she suddenly let out a big yawn.  Stretching, she decided it was time to take a break and get some coffee to help her finish her work shift.

The employee lounge was just down the hall from her workstation, the ecofriendly lights automatically turning on as she entered.  She picked up a cup and placed it in the coffee machine, then frowned as nothing happened after she hit the dispense button.  Looking at the illuminated control panel she saw the machine was displaying an error code.

She sighed loudly and instead selected some Lavender tea from the tea display beside the coffee machine.  A little hot water, milk, and honey later and her second drink of choice was ready.

As she headed back to her workstation, sipping her tea, she didn’t notice the quivering greenish form of B317 clinging to the ceiling down the hall behind her.

B317 had moved through the empty building hallways virtually silently despite its growing size, but not finding anything of interest until it had spotted the woman’s movement as she left the employee lounge.

Attracted to her heat and scent, it slowly began to follow her down the hall moving silently along the ceiling, vine-like tentacles spreading it’s weight evenly as it moved.

She sat down and began working again, taking a sip from her tea now and then.  After a while she suppressed another yawn just as she finished up her current folder.  She stretched again and leaned back in her chair deciding to close her eyes to rest for just a moment.  After all, she thought, her workload was light, and a little nap couldn’t hurt.

B317 found its prey not moving as it slipped past the door frame and into the room.  The only sound in the room was the gentle rhythmic breathing from the woman reclined in the chair, and the quiet hum of the lights and office equipment around the room.

Slowly it moved along the wall and down onto the office floor.  Moving carefully, it cautiously reached out several tentacle vines towards the sleeping woman.  Delicately they brushed across her warm skin, savoring the heat from her body, before stopping as she murmured in her sleep.  As she settled back down, they continued to move along her body exploring.

B317 was confused by the cooler non-living clothing around the body of the young woman, but it began to become more excited by the closeness of her warmth and scent.  More of its appendages began to move to the body of the woman, wrapping around her very gently as not to wake her.

As B317’s vine tentacles began to move up her body to explore the woman’s face she suddenly shifted and began to blink awake, unconsciously knowing something was wrong.

‘Whaaaa..’ she began, her brain still foggy and dazed from her short nap.

B317 struck out of instinct, jabbing a needle like barb into her neck and injecting her with a potent venom.  The woman cried out and her body tensed at the sudden prick of pain.  Her eyes shot open, then almost just as suddenly her eyes rolled back into her head, and her body went limp as the creature’s venom coursed through her system.

The newly born mutant vibrated in pleasure as its prey surrendered to its toxin.  Hungrily it began to tear through the young woman’s clothing, vine tentacles desperate to expose more of her soft warm flesh.

The woman moaned weakly as the mutant creature stripped her body roughly and she involuntarily shivered at her body’s sudden exposure.  Questing tentacles began to explore every inch of her body, causing her body to react of its own accord.

Her nipples began to harden as her body was roughly explored and goose flesh rose as it attempted to fend off the sudden change in temperature.  The creature lifted her whole body up off the chair, easily holding her weight aloft.  Her head fell back, causing her mouth to open, which B117 took as an invitation to explore.  One thick tentacle vine pushed into her mouth, and began to slide down her throat, enjoying her mouth’s warm wetness. 

Her heart began to beat faster, her body aware of the danger, even if she herself was not.  Warmth flowed over her as her body flushed and reacted to the creature’s touch.  Moistness gathered as her juices begain to drip from between her legs.

The creature’s body quivered, and a bulge began to form along its body before bursting forth into a new appendage from its central mass.  More of the mutant’s vine tentacles wrapped around the woman’s legs, spreading them wide while it held her in the air before it.

The new appendage moved towards her exposed womanhood drawn there by her musky scent and dripping juices.  It slowly began to rub along her slit, collecting her juices along its length and head before nuzzling against the opening of her sex.

A soft moan escaped her lips around the vine tentacle in her mouth that quickly grew to a cry as the creature suddenly forced itself inside her.  Her cries just as suddenly turning into soft whimpers as the large appendage slid deeper and deeper inside her, stopping only once reaching the opening to her womb.

Suddenly the creature began to roughly pound its length in and out of her, causing the woman to involuntarily orgasm after just a few thrust of its large phallus like vine tentacle. 

B117 greedily absorbed her juicy discharge and the rich nutrients it carried, not stopping for one moment to let the woman rest as it continued to forcefully fuck her.  The head of the appendage struck the entrance of her womb like an ancient battering ram trying to forcibly enter a besieged castle.

The woman’s whole-body shook, and her breast bounced with each hard thrust into her limp unresisting body.  Orgasm after orgasm ripped through her as the creature continued to have its way with her and absorb her rich juices.

Finally, after several minutes of attempting to force its way inside her, the creature was able to modify its breeding appendage.  The tip forming petals that it used to pry and force her cervix open, thus allowing its head to slip deep inside her womb and nestle inside her.

Her stomach began to bulge as it worked more and more of itself inside her, stretching her out birth canal out.  She moaned in unconscious protest as the mutant filled her body fuller and more completely than ever before.

B117 pulled the young woman close to it as it felt something deep inside itself grow, then detach, and begin to work itself along the length of its body and down into the appendage connecting them.

Slowly bit by bit, it contracted and moved the hard lump along its length.  Reaching the connection between them, the creature was stymied by the tightness of the woman’s body wrapped around its breeding tentacle vine.

Slowly it began to push, harder and harder, increasing the pressure until finally with a loud moan from the woman, her vaginal passage stretched out far enough to allow the hard mass to pass.  Using more and more pressure now, the creature continued to push the hard lump of its seed deep inside her.

Centimeter by centimeter the seed moved up her birth canal to be stopped once more as it reached the much smaller opening of her cervix.  Twisting and pushing, B117 thrashed the tip of its tentacle inside her womb, causing her to orgasm once more.   The sudden tensing and relaxing of her body with each pulse finally allowing the seed to continue millimeter by millimeter up inside her until finally it plopped into the warmth and wetness of her womb.

The woman’s whole body suddenly relaxed as the mutant finished implanting its seed inside her.  Sweat dripped from her limp body to be collected greedily by the vine tentacles enveloping her as they sucked at her skin.

Content for now, the creature labeled B117 began to move out of the room, holding its prize in a cocoon of vine tentacles above it.

The woman rose to conscious slowly, her mind still slow and foggy from the mutant venom the plant hybrid had injected her with.  Her whole body felt sore, and every muscle abused as if she had run several marathons or had climbed a couple of tall mountains.

She could feel the cool air of the room on her naked skin and her throat felt raw and dry.  Her eyes moved around the room, not recognizing where she was.

A very bright group of lights was over a table in one corner of the room.  All around her was a green vine type plant mass, covering what she could only assume were tables, chairs, and office equipment.  The plant covered the walls, and even parts of the ceiling, and seemed to pulse almost as if it were breathing.

As she looked around, a vine began to move towards her mouth.  She tried to turn her head, or to pull back, but she found she didn’t have the strength to even do that much.

As the tip of the vine tentacle opened her mouth and slid inside, it suddenly pulsed and began to disgorge a warm, thick, starchy tasting liquid into her mouth.  Disgusted the woman had no choice but to swallow the liquid or risk drowning in it.  After a minute or so the vine tentacle stopped and slid back and out of her mouth.

Even as she was disgusted by what had just happened, the woman was surprised to find that she felt better and a little stronger.  But before she could even begin to adapt to her situation, she felt something twitch inside her lower belly.

She looked down and her eyes went wide as she saw that her belly had grown and was now stretched out as if she were six months pregnant.  Her eyes darted around wildly, looking for something to help steady her mind with.

She saw a clock on the wall displaying the time and date.  Only a few hours had passed since she went to the lounge for her tea.  It seemed incomprehensible to her.

How could all this have happened in only a couple of hours?

Suddenly she felt a large movement inside her growing belly.  She managed to flop from her side onto her back as the first contraction hit her.  She cried out loudly and moaned as she felt something moving, fighting its way out of her.

‘Oh god… noOOOOOOOO!’ her hands each wrapping around a vine and squeezing hard as her legs spasmed.  The vines felt almost like a kind hard rubber with very little give in them as she panted and struggled with the new life growing inside her trying to be born.

Sweat covered her entire body as she panted and felt the organism inside her moving towards its birth and freedom.  She cried out again as another contraction helped to move it along.  Two small vine tentacles burst from the slit of her red swollen sex and began to wrap themselves around her thighs, giving the creature additional purchase to pull itself out of its mother.

She came then, hard and long despite everything, the pain and pleasure signals mixed up and scrambled in her brain.  The hard rubbery body of the birthing creature pushing hard against her G spot as it pulled itself out of her, raping her from the inside out.

With a final push she collapsed back against the labs floor, totally spent.  Her eyes fluttered as she fought to stay conscious despite the struggle of birthing the creature and her ordeal. 

The newborn creature began to slide up its mother’s body, two vine tentacles questing for the milk already dripping from her nipples.  Attaching themselves to her hard nipples, they began to suck greedily on their mother’s breasts, nourishing itself on her milk and already beginning to grow.

B117 began to stir once more.  Vine tentacles quested out for the young woman’s warm sweat covered body once again.  After all, her womb was now empty and available, and it had a full three-day weekend to procreate and progenerate…

As the young woman began to slip back into unconsciousness, she felt the touch of B117 along her body once more and wondered if taking the temp job had actually been such a good idea….

I hope you enjoyed my little dark story.  Thanks for reading and congratulations for making it this far.  If you did in fact enjoy the story, please feel free to buy me a coffee or send me a nude or two.  Nudes nourish my soul and fuel my imagination.  Till next time friends, stay dark and weird.  DarkSkippychan Feb/2024

[thesilliestrovingalive]

Updated: November 14, 2024

Reworked Group #2: Regular Army

Overview

As international matters related to criminality and political issues continued to deteriorate, the Earth Federation, a unified global governing body comprising representatives from every country's government, was approached by a civilian officer who led the Joint Military Operations Headquarters. The officer suggested establishing a peacekeeping military branch, leading to the creation of the Regular Army. Following this, the civilian officer was promoted to dual leadership roles: President of World Security for the Earth Federation and Chief of the Regular Army. The forces were then divided into seven garrisons: the North American Garrison, the South American Garrison, the European Garrison, the Eurasian Garrison, the Asian Garrison, the Middle Eastern Garrison, the African Garrison, and the Oceania Garrison.

The Intelligence Agency was integrated into the Regular Army amidst concerns that it was becoming too autonomous with its own combat unit, sparking fears among ordinary citizens. Agents from the Intelligence Agency undertook high-risk missions, including deliberately allowing themselves to be captured to supply allies with ammunition and heavy weapons. Others conducted espionage and assassination operations.

The Regular Army established the Marine Corps to serve as a specialised force for naval and amphibious warfare as well as water-borne operations. Its primary mission is to deter aggression and maintain freedom of the seas. The Peregrine Falcons Squad, part of the Joint Military Police Headquarters, and the S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S., affiliated with the Intelligence Agency, served as special forces units within the Regular Army. Later, the Ikari Warriors, a mercenary organisation, and Division 6, a group that defected from the Japanese Infantry of the Rebel Army, joined forces with the Regular Army after reaching an agreement.

The Regular Army was established to maintain peace and order among nations and provide orphaned and abandoned teenagers with a chance for a better future. Often shunned by society and left to fend for themselves, these young individuals were adopted by them. They offered the teenagers a supportive environment, basic necessities like food and clothing, proper education, and a stable income through jobs catered to their talents. This not only helped them become self-sufficient but also served as a means of recruiting new soldiers. The Regular Army was revered as a symbol of hope and unity, embodying a strong sense of justice and duty. Composed of idealistic and courageous individuals who genuinely wanted to serve and protect the international world, they inspired hope for a safer future for all.

Over time, the leadership of the Regular Army became increasingly power-hungry and corrupt as the chief grew dissatisfied with the military organisation's finances and resource development. In a surprising turn of events, a man known as President Marx approached the Regular Army with an offer they couldn't refuse: his company would become their primary defence contractor, supplying them with weaponry, tanks, and other essential equipment. Furthermore, President Marx would influence the chief and his colleagues to exploit their authority for personal gain and political manipulation, exacerbating the corruption within the Regular Army's leadership. The superiors are the only ones aware of the information that President Marx's supplies are tainted with questionable business dealings, ethical quandaries, and possible human rights issues, such as exploitative labour practices and financial irregularities.

The Regular Army's leadership began to engage in illicit activities, but their corruption remained concealed from public scrutiny through a combination of propaganda, media manipulation, and strategic cover-ups. While their public image remained heroic, they simultaneously conducted clandestine operations behind closed doors. These covert activities included expanding their influence, controlling resources, and silencing whistleblowers within the organisation, further solidifying their grip on power. The corrupt leadership of the Regular Army took measures to preserve the idealism of low-ranking soldiers and new recruits regarding world peace, deliberately keeping them uninformed about the corruption. Meanwhile, many high-ranking officers were either complicit in the corruption or actively contributed to its perpetuation.

The corrupt leadership of the Regular Army colluded with Ghyslaine to establish the Amadeus Syndicate, which served as a front for covert experimentation with hazardous technologies, the exploitation of living beings, including Martians and humans, and the manipulation of psionic energy. These experiments had far-reaching consequences, including the development of hyper-advanced nuclear weaponry and the transformation of Hyakutaro into the first recorded esper of contemporary history. Additionally, they created an unnamed prototype of the Metal Slug tank, powered by nuclear energy, but it was quickly abandoned due to its potentially catastrophic risks.

Rumours have circulated that the Amadeus Syndicate and Regular Army discovered a Martian crash site in a remote desert, utilising the technological debris and remains of the deceased alien entities for scientific research and experiments.

Although the Regular Army never intended to use their hyper-advanced nuclear weaponry themselves, they had been secretly lending it to various organisations, including the Ptolemaic Army and Amadeus Syndicate. These groups planned to exploit the weapons at opportune moments, seeking to maximise their impact and avoid squandering the arsenal's devastating potential. The Regular Army provided them with such a dangerous arsenal because they believed that a balance between good and evil was necessary.

As the 21st century dawned, they disregarded numerous terrorist attacks, viewing them as insignificant global threats. However, their inaction would ultimately tarnish their reputation, prompting them to employ strategic measures to mitigate the damage. These measures included assassinating journalists who threatened to expose them and manipulating public opinion to their advantage. Unbeknownst to them, their failure to act against the Central Park bombing in 2023 would inadvertently pave the way for the emergence of the Rebel Army.

Insignia

It features an emerald-hued heater shield with a green gold motto ribbon, bearing the Latin inscription "Nos globum defendemus" ("We will defend the globe" in English). The shield depicts a gilded blade with outstretched wings, surrounded by a flame-coloured halo with radiating light rays behind its hilt.

Uniforms

Cadet Uniform

They wear a blue-grey short-sleeved jacket with a brass six-button front, four pockets, and two hidden strapped compartments. They don a black utility belt that secures essential gear, and an African violet armband displays the Regular Army insignia. They also wear blue-grey army cargo pants with additional pockets, tucked into caput mortuum paratrooper boots. They carry a massive light grey load-bearing backpack containing camping gear and various military supplies.

Commanding Officer Uniform

They wear a double-breasted linden green jacket with gilded epaulets, eight metallic silver clasps, and breast pockets with the Regular Army insignia emblazoned above the right pocket. They pair this with a light blue dress shirt, a Tyrian purple cravat, and a built-in rifle green utility belt that has a cummerbund-like appearance. Their ultramarine trousers feature a vertical silvery stripe pattern and are either tucked or untucked into polished black leather boots with a low heel. They complete their uniform with a wedge cap made of linden green seal fur, adorned with a gold band edged with emerald piping and a central line of a flame hue.

Peacekeeper Uniform

Low-ranking peacekeeping troops wear a Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) featuring a unique camouflage pattern of cerulean, lavender grey, and Cambridge blue, which holds ammunition and their walkie-talkie. Their uniform consists of a blue-green Lightweight Helmet (LWH), a reseda chartreuse armband displaying the Regular Army insignia, and a lavender moisture-wicking dress shirt with an open collar. They wear light grey gloves and a taupe utility belt with a holster for their handgun, a sheath for their combat knife, eight blue-green pouches for ammo, and a coyote brown waist pack for rolling bombs. In addition to their SPCS, they wear a matching camouflage jacket and army cargo pants, featuring the same distinctive cerulean, lavender grey, and Cambridge blue pattern. Their cargo pants are equipped with built-in knee pads and adorned with three silver stripes on the left leg, which are tucked into sturdy navy blue combat boots.

They carry around a taupe load-bearing backpack containing various supplies, including handheld rockets, portable ammo boxes, communication devices, portable water purification systems, first aid kits, rations, maps and navigation tools, and cultural and language guides. Their arsenal includes a large bazooka capable of firing explosives with low levels of nuclear radiation, a special material shield that absorbs shocks, an anti-personnel sniper rifle, and a minigun that shoots rounds filled with corrosive acid. Some troops are responsible for carrying and operating mid-range artillery mortars that fire homing missiles. A few are responsible for operating portable AA Machine Gun Turrets, which requires a team of three or four men to carry.

High-ranking peacekeeping troops wear uniforms similar to those of Rebel Army bodyguards, but with several distinct differences. Their exosuits are crafted from a unique blend of dark, metallic carbon fibre and adaptive, hexagonal titanium plates that have a greyish-green sheen. The headpiece features a nanotech-enhanced air filter with self-healing membranes and four durable, translucent tubes connecting to dual, high-capacity oxygen canisters on the suit's back, ensuring extended operational duration. It’s equipped with a voice modulator featuring AI-driven noise cancellation, surrounded by retractable, silver-tipped stubs for secure communications connections.

The high-impact bluish-purple resistant eye slits offer advanced capabilities, including low-light enhancement via quantum dot technology, thermal imaging, AI-powered threat detection, and real-time language translation via neural network integration. A rhomboid electric lamp, housed in a protective, aerodynamic casing, is centred on the forehead and automatically activates in low-light environments. The headpiece proudly displays the Regular Army insignia on its rear, accompanied by the national flag of the country the wearer serves emblazoned underneath.

When activated, the suit's propulsion system amplifies the wearer's movements, granting incredible jumping and running capabilities. The AI-powered computer system provides real-time strategic analysis with predictive threat modelling, seamless control of integrated weapon systems, and dynamic mission parameter updates via neural network sync. The built-in load-bearing backpack features modular compartments for various supplies, including smoke canisters, stun grenades, flashbangs, a hydration pack with self-purifying water and electrolyte-rich nanofluids, an advanced first-aid kit, energy bars with nano-encapsulated nutrients, and fire starters with plasma ignition.

Underneath their exoskeletons, they wear sapphire-hued bodysuits made of heat-resistant, bulletproof latex, along with a vest featuring four pockets and a camouflage pattern identical to that of the SPCS worn by low-ranking peacekeeping troops.

Urban Uniform

They wear a Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) featuring a unique camouflage pattern of asphalt black, dirty grey, cordovan, and raw umber, which holds ammunition and their walkie-talkie. Their uniform consists of a steel grey Modular Integrated Communications Helmet (MICH), a mahogany armband displaying the Regular Army insignia, and a black moisture-wicking T-shirt. They wear khaki beige tactical gloves with grip palms and a dark brown drop leg holster for their taser. They don a black utility belt with a holster for their handgun, a sheath for their combat knife, eight mocha pouches for ammo, and a sandy beige waist pack for smoke bombs.

They wear rugged, low-profile black combat boots with a grippy sole, slate grey knee and elbow pads, and army cargo pants with two bronze stripes on the left leg. Their jacket and cargo pants match their SPCS, featuring the same distinctive asphalt black, dirty grey, cordovan, and raw umber camouflage pattern. They carry around a khaki beige load-bearing backpack that contains various supplies such as grenades, portable ammo boxes, flashbangs, a hydration pack with a built-in water filter, and a compact first-aid kit.

Special Forces

Troops who work for the Peregrine Falcons Squad wear a Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) featuring a rose quartz, silver-grey, and gunmetal camouflage pattern, which holds ammunition and their walkie-talkie. Their uniform consists of a rosy brown ballistic helmet, brass-plated goggles, a Mountbatten pink armband displaying the Regular Army insignia, and a sleeveless bone white shirt. They wear brown leather gloves, a blue-grey vest with the P.F. Squad logo on the back, four pockets, and two hidden strapped compartments, and an earthy green utility belt with a sheath for their combat knife and a holster for their handgun. They also wear army cargo pants with five crimson stripes on the right leg, which are tucked into earthy green paratrooper boots. Their cargo pants match their SPCS, featuring the same distinctive rose quartz, silver-grey, and gunmetal camouflage pattern.

Troops who work for the S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. wear a Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) featuring a brownish-orange, earth yellow, and khaki camouflage pattern, which holds ammunition and their walkie-talkie. Their uniform consists of a citron ballistic helmet with a bright orange futuristic visor, a platinum grey armband displaying the Regular Army insignia, and a cinereous T-shirt. They wear chestnut brown wristbands and a taupe grey Eisenhower jacket with the S.P.A.R.R.O.W.S. logo on the back and two hidden strapped compartments.

They don a chestnut brown utility belt with a sheath for their hatchet, a holster for their handgun, a holder for their tonfa, and a goldenrod waist pack for a medical kit. They also wear burnt orange paratrooper boots and army cargo pants with four saffron-yellow stripes on the right leg. Their cargo pants match their SPCS, featuring the same distinctive rose quartz, silver-grey, and gunmetal camouflage pattern.

They both carry around dark brown load-bearing duffle bags that contain various supplies such as grenades, fire bombs, cyber warfare kits with advanced hacking tools, secure communication devices, first-aid kits, waterproof match cases, portable ammo boxes, and canteens full of water.

Pilot Uniforms

Troops operating as tank pilots wear a sleeveless champagne-hued shirt, a greyish-brown vest with four pockets, and fingerless black gloves. They also wear a greyish-brown helmet with bronze-plated goggles featuring red-orange lenses, paired with harvest gold army cargo pants tucked into blackish-blue paratrooper boots. Additionally, they wear a black belt with a silver buckle, a holster for their handgun, six citron pouches for ammunition, and a cognac waist pack containing a medical kit and several smoke bombs. Their arsenal includes a sledgehammer, a foldable multitool, a portable Gatling gun, and a rocket launcher.

Troops who operate as aircraft pilots wear a standardised military flight suit with a camouflage pattern of army green, brown, and dark grey. They don burnt orange leather jackets with grey wolf fur trim and the Regular Army insignia on the left breast pocket. They wear luxor gold helmets with dark-tinted visors and earth-toned oxygen masks as well as desert sand woollen scarves around their necks. They also wear insulated, grip-enhancing blood red gloves, ankle-high, steel-toed steel grey boots with rugged soles, and secure harnesses in durable silver for attachment to aircraft seats or parachutes.

Scientist Uniform

Scientists working in this field are required to wear suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) for both laboratory experiments and field duties. To distinguish themselves from regular scientists, they wear a metallic orange armband featuring the Regular Army insignia. Their protective gear includes jade green hazmat suits with built-in luxor gold gas masks equipped with purple-tinted lenses. It also includes lab coats with two hidden compartments for storing military-issued firearms and blades, authorised for self-defence purposes.

Tactical Gear

Winter and Desert Gear

Snowy gear consists of a frosty white parka, light grey Gore-Tex pants, icy blue waterproof mittens, brass-plated goggles, and insulated black boots lined with polar bear fur. Additionally, it features warmth-enhancing layers like a cream-hued synthetic sweater, bluish-purple thermal socks, brownish-black balaclava, woollen light grey scarf, and fallow brown earmuffs. Furthermore, the package encompasses shelter and sleeping essentials, comprising a four-season tent with snow stakes and guy lines, an insulated sleeping pad, and a bivy sack.

Desert gear consists of a sand-coloured poncho with Regular Army insignia, a Desert Combat Uniform (DCU) featuring a sandy beige, light brown, pale grey, and earthy red camouflage pattern, desert combat boots, sand-resistant khaki socks, and a terracotta-coloured ballistic face mask. Additionally, it features essential survival items like water purification tablets, broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, and DEET-based insect repellent.

Marine Corps Scuba Gear

The gear consists of a coppery brass diving helmet infused with a rebreather system for extended underwater breathing, paired with navy blue flippers featuring rugged, rubberised spikes for enhanced propulsion and stability. The gear includes a flexible purplish-black wetsuit with the Regular Army insignia emblazoned on the back and two red-orange stripes running along each side. Additionally, it features dual oxygen tanks that provide a maximum depth rating of 2,200 feet (670.56 metres). Their arsenal consists of arc-dropping mines, a trident, and a rifle-like firearm equipped with a scope and a bayonet-esque harpoon attachment.

Jetpack Gear

The gear consists of a flight suit featuring a silver-grey, dark blue, and purplish-white camouflage pattern, accompanied by a high-visibility ivory-hued parachute bearing the Regular Army insignia. The suit is equipped with sleek, ergonomic oxygen masks with dual oxygen canisters that offer extended duration and automatic refill. Additionally, it features dark grey helmets with an integrated communication system and orange-tinted visors for enhanced visual clarity and glare protection. Their arsenal includes an advanced jetpack powered by a self-replenishing fuel source for extended flight duration, explosive canisters, and a rocket launcher capable of firing homing missiles.

Biker Gear

The gear consists of grip-enhancing ruddy blue gloves, navy blue biker helmets with red-tinted visors and the Regular Army insignia on the back, and a brass-hued leather jacket. They ride a variety of military-commissioned motorcycles, and their arsenal consists of a grenade gun, a missile pod, a machete, and a shotgun.

Disguise Kit

This gear is used by soldiers and covert agents to safely provide supplies and intelligence on the frontlines, while disguising themselves as completely different people.

Special Gear

The Regular Army possesses two advanced special gear developed by the Amadeus Syndicate: E-Armour and Devil’s Organic Latex Lattice (DOLL). The E-Armour is known for being somewhat heavy when worn, and the DOLL bodysuit is remarkably skin-tight. Despite being uncomfortable for most people, which limits their widespread use, there are a select few who have found them wearable.

E-Armour is a ceramic-plated bulletproof vest of pure adamant that’s designed to absorb and dissipate the intense kinetic energy of tank blasts. The vest's advanced, nano-tech infused Kevlar-inspired material provides flexibility and protection. Tactical pouches integrated into the vest's lower hem securely store ammunition for firearms. Strategically positioned, reinforced trauma plates—sculpted to mimic toned, muscular contours—fortify the chest and midsection, ensuring critical vital organs remain safeguarded.

The Regular Army insignia is emblazoned on the centre of the vest in a non-reflective, matte finish. Complementing the E-Armour vest are articulated lapis lazuli knee, elbow, and shoulder pads. Each features four strategically angled, tungsten-carbide spikes, which are designed to deflect shrapnel and incoming projectiles.

DOLL is a high-tech, stun-resistant, latex garment that bears a striking resemblance to the Doll bodysuit from Metal Slug Attack. It's combined with the vest of the E-Armour and reinforced with cutting-edge synthetic muscle tissues, allegedly derived from the Super Devil, which impart inhuman physical strength and durability to its wearer.

On its back, a humanoid-reptilian hybrid—believed to be the carcass of a Martian species donated by the Pipakhroz Army to the Regular Army—is fused to synthetic muscle tissues and latex. This hybrid has a skull melded to its chest, skin flaps on its head resembling those of a frilled-neck lizard, sharp clawed fingers, and sturdy legs similar to those of an iguana. The hybrid houses a dead heart that generates life-saving electrical pulses and an intestinal tendril that connects to the skull's mouth, resembling a breathing apparatus. When wearing the suit, the wearer's eyes have a red sheen, and their skin takes on either a green or purple tint. These effects gradually disappear once the suit is removed.

They're able to lift up to 120,000 kg with relative ease once their muscles expand and become semi-rigid. Their bodies are immune to bullets, punches, and normal blades, but their exposed heads are vulnerable. However, emotional stress and receiving too many powerful impacts without time to recover can tear the bodysuit and weaken the synthetic muscle tissues, rendering it useless.

To activate these tissues, the suit interfaces directly with the wearer's nervous system, making it accessible to only a select few. Compatibility is extremely rare, with only about one in a thousand candidates suitable for use. However, utilising the system comes with a significant trade-off: users experience intense hunger, requiring far more sustenance than a normal human. When the wearer falls unconscious or is near death, the suit automatically initiates emergency resuscitation protocols. Utilising electrical signals from the nervous system and its own internally generated pulses, the suit administers electric resuscitation to revive the wearer.

Vehicles

Combat

SV-000 (discontinued)

SV-001 Metal Slug

SV-001 Type-R

LV Slug Armor

SVW-001 Slug Gunner

SVX-15D Slugnoid

Animal

SV-Camel

Elephant Slug

Ostrich Slug

Donkey Slug

Support

SVX-22UG Drill Slug

Protogunner (discontinued)

Slug Digger

Walking Machine

RA-TTT

TIAF600 Slug Mobile

Aerial

SVF-07V Slug Flyer

SVH-03 Slug Copter

Astro Slug

Marine

SVX-17M Slug Mariner

Borobune Slug

Middle-Son 1999

Large Scale

Augensterm

Slug Gigant

Repurposed Vehicles

Black Hound

Iron Nokana

Type-2 Di-Cokka

LV Armor

Landseek

M-15A Bradley

Hi-Do

Regular Army Base

The Joint Military Operations Headquarters, a heavily fortified military compound located in the Great Victoria Desert, serves as the primary base for the Regular Army. This heavily fortified facility is designed to withstand the harsh desert environment and potential threats, while providing a secure and self-sufficient hub for military operations. The compound's architecture is carefully crafted to blend seamlessly into its desert surroundings, minimising visibility from the outside. The facility features multiple blast-resistant windows designed to withstand extreme pressures and temperatures, ensuring enhanced security. Additionally, it’s equipped with six secure parabolic communications antennas for reliable connectivity with other military units and command centres.

The base has strict access protocols in place, featuring checkpoints and biometric scanning, to ensure that only authorised personnel can enter. Additionally, the base is equipped with water purification and recycling facilities to minimise dependence on external resources. Furthermore, it has a robust power generation infrastructure, including backup generators and renewable energy sources.

The compound features multiple facilities, including:

A robust, high-wall barrier that surrounds the compound, reinforced with watchtowers and guard posts to prevent unauthorised entry and protect against enemy attacks.

A Combat School that serves as a recruitment and training program for cadets aspiring to join the Regular Army.

A training ground for low-ranking soldiers to practice combat skills, tactics, and drills, honing their abilities in a controlled environment.

Advanced simulation rooms for immersive training exercises, allowing troops to prepare for various scenarios and environments.

Simple, functional living quarters for soldiers, providing basic amenities and housing.

A central dining facility offering standard military rations and meals.

A well-equipped medical facility for treating injuries and illnesses.

A secure storage facility for tactical gear, weapons, and vehicles with restricted access and inventory management.

A large garage serving as a maintenance facility for Slugs and other vehicles, including those repurposed from external sources.

A well-maintained storage area for food, fuel, ammunition, and other essential supplies.

Numerous offices accommodating military personnel, commanders, and support staff.

A strategic planning and operations management centre where military superiors oversee key activities, make tactical decisions, and coordinate missions.

A secure briefing room for classified discussions and situation assessments among high-ranking military officials and special forces operatives.

A dedicated facility for secure communication, including satellite uplinks and encrypted transmission systems.

A secretive, heavily restricted underground laboratory for conducting classified experiments on soldiers, developing cutting-edge technologies, and housing a mutant and supernatural entity containment facility.

Extra Information

Most high-ranking officers and special forces superiors embezzle funds intended for equipment and supplies, using them for personal enrichment.

New recruits and underperforming soldiers are often coerced into purchasing overpriced gear from corrupt quartermasters.

The Regular Army often favours its special forces units over the Regular soldiers who make up the bulk of its personnel. This preference can lead to tension between Regular soldiers and special operatives because they feel their contributions are overlooked and undervalued, believing that the special forces branches receive disproportionate attention and recognition from the Regular Army.

Special operatives receive more vacation days than Regular soldiers due to the high intensity of their work, the need to maintain operational security and avoid raising suspicions of mistreatment, and the value that’s placed on their specialised skills and knowledge. As a morale booster, the Regular Army often provides both special operatives and Regular soldiers with complimentary plane tickets to popular vacation destinations.

Highly skilled natural-born espers and special operatives, who have played crucial roles in pivotal world events and possess specialised expertise and intimate knowledge of enemy organisations like the Ptolemaic Army, often find retirement elusive. To the higher-ups, they are invaluable assets, making it difficult to let them go, even when retirement is overdue.

Members of the special forces branches within the Regular Army are subjected to extremely rigorous and coercive training regimes, which promote unconditional obedience and a willingness to engage enemy-affiliated individuals, regardless of innocence or hostile intent. Many special operatives and Regular soldiers accept this as a necessary aspect of their duty, unaware of the underlying psychological manipulation. However, a select few, including Walter, Fio, and Clark, secretly question the moral implications of such actions.

Special operatives serving the Regular Army are tasked with neutralising potential security threats, including journalists and other individuals who attempt to probe into their missions or the peacekeeping force's activities. This is done to maintain operational secrecy and prevent sensitive information from being disclosed.

Soldiers of the Regular Army are responsible for maintaining peace and are tasked with conducting infiltration missions. They serve a supportive role because the Earth Federation prefers to deploy specialised teams to infiltrate enemy fortifications, minimising civilian casualties and avoiding prolonged, all-out battles.

Soldiers of the Regular Army possess superior strategic and combat skills, boasting enhanced accuracy and greater agility compared to their Rebel Army counterparts.

Tank pilots are known for seizing the tanks of enemies after their own vehicle has been destroyed or rendered inoperable.

Many soldiers have undergone experimentation with psionic energy, granting them enhanced intellectual and physical capabilities. However, due to faulty bioengineering and a lack of understanding regarding the activation of Super Devil forms, they’re unable to metamorphose and have not received an esper title.

All soldiers and special operatives are required to undergo genetic modification, masquerading as a routine medical test to ensure they’re healthy and combat-ready. This modification not only enhances their endurance and physical strength but also grants them immunity to diseases. Remarkably, the genetic alterations enable them to withstand the extreme conditions of space, including intense pressure and temperature fluctuations, and even breathe in the vacuum of space without protective gear. The known side effects of these genetic alterations are limited to the following: increased susceptibility to weight gain, enhanced spatial awareness, and hormonal fluctuations that lead to heightened aggression and appetite. These effects vary in severity and impact, but are generally considered manageable.

[sodomighty]

The Tattoo

© 2019 Leland Dirks.

He was seventy-five, and I was the only one of his seven nephews who would visit him. Sharp as a tack, he reeled off one-liners faster than anyone I’d ever met.

Sometimes he’d tell me stories. What it was like to look for someone to love when that search could get you fired or killed. What it was like to change the gender of the one you loved when you talked about them. What it was like to know a friend committed suicide because he was being blackmailed or because he’d been disowned from his family.

Other times he’d tell me the glorious stories of dating a Marine on the down low. Of finding a bar that catered to a clientele of men who preferred the company of other men.

The summer he turned seventy-six, I spent a week with him. In the year between this visit and my last, he’d aged a decade. His skin was nearly translucent. In the evening sun, sometimes I thought I could see his bones through his skin.

There weren’t so many jokes nor very many stories. He walked slower, more cautiously, afraid to fall. I pretended not to notice.

On my last day with him, I asked him if there was anything special he wanted to do. He looked at me for a second, as if trying to discern my reaction before he’d even answered. He swallowed. Hard.

“There is.”

“Okay.”

“You promise not to laugh?”

“I swear.”

“I want a tattoo.”

“Let’s do it.”

We drove thirty-five miles to the nearest tattoo parlor. His face lit up like a Christmas tree when they showed us the books of artwork that, for a small fee, could live forever on skin.

“What do you think you want?”

“Oh, I already know. But it’s fun looking at other ideas, too.”

I didn’t press him. He took off his shirt, and I tried to imagine what he must have looked like when he was in the Navy some fifty years before.

He whispered in the tattoo artist’s ear and prepared himself for what must have been a lifelong dream.

I watched as they drew an outline of the tattoo above his heart. Simple. Geometric. A triangle.

He saw my questioning look.

“It’s what the Nazis made thousands of homosexuals wear in the concentration camps. A pink triangle. We took it back, as a sign of liberation, long before anyone thought of a rainbow flag. So we’d never forget what happens when a whole group of people are demonized. So we’d remember how thin the veneer of civilization really is.”

The sound of the automated needle filled the small space. I watched the black outline take shape. I watched as the pink was colored in. He grimaced every once in a while but was stoic overall.

The tattooist finished, gave him care instructions, and asked him if he was satisfied. Uncle only nodded, but the grin on his face made him look a decade younger.

He got ready to pay, but I stopped him. His sky blue eyes searched my face.

“Think they’d give us a discount for two?”

He died that winter, and I couldn’t make it to his funeral. But every day when I step out of the shower and look in the mirror, I remember how two black sheep of the family wound up with pink triangles on their chests, and sometimes I cry.

© 2019 Leland Dirks.

[gildedmuse]

(Shout out to @jhaernyl for helping me write this!)

I've been half working on some writing prompts from this book while in bed. And when I got this one:

My immediate reaction was, "I don't know PRECISELY what went down but I can tell you, it's Law's worst ever day working on Sora: Warrior Of The Sea!"

So a crew meeting has been called. It's not the first time Shanks has decided to turn a simple set announcement into a whole ordeal - no one has ever accused their ginger haired show runner of lacking a sense of theatrics - and no one is expecting it to be any bigger of a deal than the last time he'd gathered everyone for one of his big proclamations, and that turned out to be about the company changing caterers.

It's not until everyone sees the gloomy, serious look on their other executive producer's face that some of the chatting turns to more worried whispers. True, it would be far MORE worrying if Mihawk didn't look overly serious and vaguely bored, but most of them had become experts at reading his expression and this one was pointedly less bored than usual. Which is rarely a good sign.

Shanks: Now, no need for everyone to get all serious on him! Shanks wanted to be the one to tell everyone the great news! You know how they've been really struggling to nail down the new Marine Admiral who is so central to this next arch? Well, Shanks has found the perfect solution!

Franky: Oye, you finally cast Admiral Tartaglia! That's 🌟SUPER🌟!

Shanks: Hey now, you're going to watch to hold some of that excitement back! Because the casting!? It's far more SUPER than you're prepared for Franky! Get ready to have your mind blown!

Crew: *Carefully steps away from Franky, just in case. Well expect-*

Luffy: *Stays hanging over Franky's shoulders to get a good view, vibrating in excitement.*

Robin: *Also remains next to Franky, giggling into her hand at the crew and Shanks and just all this in general.*

Shanks: It's an multi talented, award winning actor (who also just so happens to be Shank's own beloved husband 💕):

✨Buggy D. Clown!✨

And everyone just sort of tenses up, even as the confetti cannons go off and Buggy's own little troupe of personal assistance rolls out the red carpet for his entrance.

Zoro: What? What's wrong? Why is everyone being stupid all the sudden?

(Zoro might not get all social cues but he can tell when people are purposeful avoiding eye contact.)

Ace: *Still cracking up too hard to speak*

Zoro: *punch in the arm* Stop being an idiot, tell me what's going on.

Ace: It's just - it's so amazing.

Ace: *Not. Over. Laughing* This is going to be a disaster.

Zoro: Eeh? *Cocking his head, watching as a man pedals his way out of a unicycle, holding one end of a banner proclaiming Buggy's interest while a llama - dressed as an elephant mind you - chews at the other corner, unbothered by the theatrics going on all around.* I still don't get it. What's this circus guy doing here?

Ace: *endless amused*

And while Shanks is smiling and clapping for Buggy's entrance and everyone else is either awkwardly clapping along or trying to avoid eye contact, somewhere to the side of the room is one of their writers.

Law: *BSoD*

Everyone knows Buggy is going to cost a fortune but be stingy about everyone else getting anything, wanting to compare salaries, squawking over his treatment as their Newest Best Ever Star, etc. etc.

And Shanks, their supposedly fearless leader, the one they all look to when things seem hopeless and people feel as though the shoot will never get back on track, will just laugh it off and go with it.

Shanks: Why all the worried faces! Buggy is great! Sure, he can be a little dramatic but he's an actor, it's par for the course!

Law's scripts.

Law's poor, amazing, very, VERY particular scipts.

Law's scripts. That should NOT be changed under any circumstances once so ever or else the entirety of Sora canon will be at risk!!!!

The... the story's integrity it's...

Robin: It's so sweet seeing two people who work in this business still so affection with one another, isn't it, Law-kun?

Law: *still in shock* Love is ruining everything.

Mihawk is going to be winning points with Law by being the guard dog of the scripts (and who thought Law would be depending on the one Northerner that seems not to care about Sora and the one who seems to care a little TOO much about Zoro-ya, don't think he hasn't noticed, Hawk-ya!) Not so much to impress Law but because Mihawk has a list of all the shows Buggy has tanked after getting on them.

And he will go through it, every time Buggy starts to argue he knows better about scripts. His work is extremely well cited. He also has all the interviews with people who swore to never work with Buggy again, because he's such a difficult actor.

And yet, so popular with audiences!

(Which Shanks is only too happy to bring up every time it seems the crew is getting a little too close to an all out revolt. At least it keeps Buggy happy enough that he'll usually back down in whatever minor thing he's decided to turn into an all out war with Mihawk.)

Mihawk: Be that as it may, I'd much prefer to maintain a crew that will continue working with them after Buggy leaves, since he's only cast for half a season. *(Mihawk wouldn't agree to a longer constract.)*

Shanks: *Not giving up on this since everyone else can't seem to see the endless upside?* Truly, one of the most devoted fanbases you will meet!

Buggy: *Happily waving to his new crew, all beloved fans he's sure as his troupe quickly works to seep the confetti they'd fired to announce his arrival* It's true, it's true! He can hardly help it, being one of the most celebrated actors of his day! If only not for all the production problems that he seems cursed to endure!

(ie: that he directly causes)

Mihawk: That you directly cause.

Mihawk: I have been on those sets, I have the backstage videos, Buggy.

Mihawk: Do not tempt me.

Law doesn't even like their executive producer that much for reasons that are entirely his own and don't interfere with their work so are of no real concern (but seriously, the man is neither an actor nor a stuntman nor the director! Give Law one excuse for the way he is constantly finding reasons to put his hands all over Zoro-ya when he's practicing his swordsmanship! The mere fact that he happens to be world Kendo league champion for five years running is NOT a good enough reason!) But the way the man has been protecting his scripts lately cold thaw even a Northern heart.

Mihawk: They are not changing their award-winning scripts and that's final!

Law: *swoons slightly before catching himself*

Law: Does Hawk-ya seem more interested and less apathetic about the project than he usually projects?

Mihawk: *walking off all serious and mature and not at all muttering curses about that annoying clown under his breath*

Robin: I suppose it depends on where you think Hawk-san's interest lies, Law-kun.

Later, Buggy's troupe will be busy trying to pull off some stunt work - according to his contact while Buggy doesn't do any of his own stunt work his personal and private troupe has full power of his stunts - until it's all just too pathetic to witness. Zoro just wants to get his stupid scene over with okay?

Zoro: Tch, that's what you call sword work? *Grabbing the sword from the shock man's hand, who can only stand there, eyes wide. No one had ever dated before!* Stop embarrassing yourselves and get out of the way!

And he doesn't care about the protests OR the shocked gasps from the crowd because Zoro has absolutely no fucks to give for that sort of weak ass kendo.

Zoro: Why should he care if everyone is staring or if the guy with the big red nose gets all pissy? He's always angry anyway, how is that Zoro's fault!? And did you see those idiots? He couldn't stand it one second longer!

Law's poor heart.

Robin giggling so hard that Shachi has to nudge her. Hey, the sound equipment is right here.

Zoro easily showing up Buggy's swordsman, not that it was all that difficult.

Zoro: You call that sword work? What kind of hack are you?

Oh, and of course he does the whole scene shirtless, because he was mid-work out on the sidelines as he waited for them to finish. Which turns out to be a sort of saving grace, since if he'd been in costume all the footage would have been unusable. Instead, it's all amazing quality footage of Zoro, sword out, gleaming with sweat.

Law's poor heart.

It takes some serious elbow prodding from Robin before Law realizes he's staring

Law: Because -!! You know -!!!

Law: He's so happy the scene turned out well and all!!

Robin: It doesn't hurt that our stuntman-san is particularly forgetful when it comes to things like shirts, does it! Law: *blushing* I hadn't noticed. Ace: *loudly, from the back* Really? The rest of us did!

.... Law hates his coworkers. He really does...

Ace was never shy in showing Zoro, or any other coworker, how much they were appreciated.

Or as Law would say... "Inappropriate, and he's lucky it was a closed set with no one around. Imagine the stories if pictures got out. As if worrying about Clown-ya isn't putting them all under enough stress!"

At least that is a short clip of the 20 minute rant he subjected Mihawk to.

Mihawk: Trafalgar realizes that Mihawk is neither H nor PR, right?

Law: Obviously! But Hawk-ya is an executive producer, surely he can do something about this pattern of behavior!

Law: .... Also, HR has requested he file less complaints. And PR has reported him to HR due to an "excessive focus on details to the determinate of our department's mental health."

Law: Or something to that effect. Point is, as the executive producer, Hawk-ya MUST have the power to do SOMETHING.

Mihawk: Could Law work Daichi's presence in that scene?

Mihawk: The fans of the show will rip the stuntwork of Buggy's stuntman apart, and as much as Mihawk would personally enjoy that, he wouldn't like the effect it would have on their reputation as a show.

Mihawk: Roronoa has spoiled their audience for actually accurate sword fights.

Law: What? No, that -that was am- f-fine. Zo-Roronoa-ya did excellent stunt work - certainly gave them more usable content then that other green hair one - they can probably just cut around it in an manner that, well, it's not like Roronoa-ya would be uncomfortable if they showed-

Law: No, wait, this is off topic!

Law: He meant PORTGAS-YA! Portgas-ya's behavior was just so unprofessional!

Law: It made the entire crew uncomfortable! Just look! *Waves down to the floor!*

Luffy: *Laughing at his brother and bestie getting along, joking Ace in piling on Zoro, hanging off the both of them*

Robin: *openly taking photos prior to Luffy's presence, at which point she lowers her phone and just smiles at the show*

Crew: *gives no fucks, goes about working*

(Well, Sanji did protest but like they can't stop work qevery time Sanji complains about two guys "upsetting the more delicate actresses and female crew members around!" Just because he's so obvious got issues. So not really bothering to mention.)

(It's pretty much only Law who is in anyway upset but only because he cares so much .... About the show.)

Zoro actually does approaching Law later in order to apologize for "jumping into the shot".

Zoro: He knows how Torao gets about his scripts, and he should have just let them do their work, but it was taking forever, and watching them was starting to grate on his nerves.

Zoro: But he'll try and keep out of it next time, for Torao's sake. (Even if it IS painful to watch and makes Zoro want to stab something....)

Law: You know actually, I know I may have ... Dismissed Zoro-ya's acting a few times when he was first... But his stunt work is really.... And anyway, he did really, really great and ... Well, um he could probably work with the camera crew and direct next time just to.... But honestly he was just so.... Really helped save Law's script so - err.... And okay thank you! *Hurries away; what the hell did he just say and why!?!?*

Zoro: *feels strangely warm even though that was...*

Ikkaku: Boss, just wanted to check with you on something.

Law: *still blushing, not once looking back as he high tails it back to the shadows* Hmm hmm? Yeah? Uh, what is it? A lighting problem?

Ikkaku: No, no.

Ikkaku: Just wanted to make sure you knew how much of a human disaster you just were.

Her criticism is noted.

[tripvisionwork]

top 10 travel agency in mumbai

At Trip Vision, we don't just plan trips; we craft unforgettable experiences tailored to your desires. Our personalized approach ensures that every journey is unique and memorable, setting us apart from the rest.

TRIP VISION is on Tour Operator Company for more than 30 Years in Mumbal. So we Provide Tour Packages for Domestic as well as International. We accept Group Tours Family Tours, Honeymoon Tours, Corporate Tours. Student Groups. Leisure Tours. Trekking Tours. Biker's Tours . TRIP VISION is a growing travel consultant. It provides tours & travel services around the world. TRIP VISION formed with the vision to give top services to travelers within and beyond India. Over the years, with the help of our experience, we have created expertise in travel industry. to cater both, the seasoned traveler as well as those who are new to the world of travel 

Our story started with a simple yet powerful idea: to redefine the way people experience travel. Founded in 1994, Trip Vision emerged from a collective passion for exploration and a desire to offer travelers something truly unique. Trip Vision was born from a shared passion for exploration and a desire to redefine the travel experience. Founded with the vision of creating unforgettable memories, our journey began with a commitment to excellence and a dedication to providing travelers with something truly special.

You can find us conveniently located at J.S.S Road, Marine Lines, near Metro Cinema. Visit us and let's start planning your next adventure together!.

Let's turn your travel dreams into unforgettable memories – contact us now to get started!

[soniez]

Spice Up Your Life – The Ultimate Guide to Making Homemade Red Chilli Pickle

Red chilli pickle is a beloved condiment in Indian cuisine, renowned for its fiery flavor and ability to add a punch to any meal.  Whether enjoyed with parathas, rice, or as a side to your favorite curry, red chilli pickle is a versatile and delicious addition to any dining table.  In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to create your own homemade red chilli pickle, ensuring that you can enjoy this spicy delight whenever you desire.

The Art of Pickling Red Chillies

Ingredients:

Fresh red chillies

Mustard seeds

Fenugreek seeds

Asafoetida (hing)

Turmeric powder

Salt

Mustard oil

Vinegar

Method:

1.   Prepare the Chillies:

Wash the red chillies thoroughly and pat them dry.

Remove the stems and slice the chillies lengthwise into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.  Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the fiery heat of the chillies.

2.   Dry Roast the Spices:

In a dry pan, lightly roast the mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds until fragrant.  Allow them to cool, then grind them into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

3.   Prepare the Pickling Masala:

In a bowl, mix together the ground mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, turmeric powder, asafoetida, and salt to taste.  This aromatic masala will form the base of your red chilli pickle.

4.   Marinate the Chillies:

Place the sliced red chillies in a clean, dry glass jar.

Add the pickling masala to the jar, ensuring that the chillies are well-coated with the spice mixture.

5.   Add Vinegar and Oil:

Pour enough vinegar into the jar to cover the chillies completely.

Heat mustard oil in a pan until it reaches smoking point, then allow it to cool slightly.  Pour the cooled mustard oil over the chillies until they are fully submerged.

6.   Let it Mature:

Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld and develop.  Your homemade red chilli pickle will continue to improve in flavor over time.

Why Make Your Own Red Chilli Pickle?

While there are many commercial varieties of red chilli pickle available in the market, making your own at home offers several distinct advantages:

1.   Freshness:  By making your own red chilli pickle, you can ensure that you are using the freshest ingredients available, resulting in a superior flavor and texture.

2.   Customization:  Homemade red chilli pickle allows you to tailor the level of spiciness and seasoning to suit your personal taste preferences.  You can experiment with different varieties of red chillies and spices to create a pickle that is uniquely yours.

3.   Quality Control:  When you make your own red chilli pickle, you have full control over the quality and purity of the ingredients used.  You can avoid additives, preservatives, and artificial colors commonly found in commercial products.

4.   Satisfaction:  There is a sense of satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious from scratch in your own kitchen.  Homemade red chilli pickle is a labor of love that you can proudly share with family and friends.

Red Chilli Pickle Supplier and Manufacturer in India

As a leading food product company in India, we take pride in offering high-quality red chilli pickle made from the finest ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers.  Our state-of-the-art food processing facilities ensure that our red chilli pickle is manufactured under strict hygiene and quality standards, preserving its freshness and flavor.

Whether you are a fan of traditional spicy pickles or prefer a milder, tangier flavor, our range of red chilli pickles caters to every palate.  From classic recipes to innovative twists, we strive to delight our customers with our diverse selection of pickled delights.

Spice Up Your Meals with Homemade Red Chilli Pickle

In conclusion, making homemade red chilli pickle is a rewarding culinary experience that allows you to savor the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your own home.  With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a mouthwatering condiment that will elevate any meal to new heights of deliciousness.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, making red chilli pickle is a fun and rewarding endeavor that is sure to impress your taste buds.  So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a flavorful journey as you create your own homemade red chilli pickle.  Your taste buds will thank you!

[avzz012]

The Vital Role of Marine Catering in the Maritime Industry

When we think about the maritime industry, massive cargo ships and bustling ports often come to mind. However, there's a less visible but equally important aspect that keeps these operations running smoothly: marine catering. This specialized service ensures that seafarers have access to nutritious and delicious meals, which is crucial for their wellbeing and efficiency on long voyages.

What is Marine Catering?

Marine catering is about more than just feeding the crew. It involves meal planning, food preparation, housekeeping, and managing supplies, all while adhering to strict safety and hygiene standards. The aim is to create a comfortable living environment on board, making life at sea a bit more like home.

The Unique Challenges

Catering on a ship isn't as simple as it is on land. There are numerous challenges, such as limited storage space, the need to cater to diverse dietary preferences, and ensuring balanced nutrition over extended periods. Additionally, everything must be done while maintaining impeccable hygiene standards to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Why the Best Marine Catering Company Stands Out

Among the various providers in this field, the Best Marine Catering Company truly sets the benchmark. Their reputation for excellence is built on several key factors:

Quality and Variety: They offer a wide range of meals that cater to the multicultural nature of ship crews. By using fresh ingredients and catering to dietary restrictions, they ensure every meal is both healthy and enjoyable.

Professional Staff: The company invests in continuous training for their staff, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest culinary techniques and safety protocols. This dedication to professionalism guarantees high-quality service.

Efficient Logistics: Understanding the logistical challenges, the Best Marine Catering Company has perfected their supply chain management. They ensure timely delivery of provisions, no matter how remote the ship's location.

Customer Focused: They regularly seek feedback from their clients to continually improve their services, ensuring that the crew's needs and preferences are always met.

The Impact on Crew Welfare

Good food is more than just a necessity; it's a morale booster. A well-fed crew is healthier and happier, which translates to better performance and cooperation on board. Nutritious meals help prevent illness and injuries, while also making the crew feel valued and cared for.

Conclusion

Marine catering is a crucial, though often overlooked, component of the maritime industry. The Best Marine Catering Company exemplifies how excellence in this field can significantly enhance the wellbeing and efficiency of seafarers. As the maritime industry grows, the role of top-notch catering services will become even more essential, ensuring that those who spend their lives at sea are well taken care of.

[anilaarunnnn]

Prevention Of Food Poisoning!!!

Drawing attention to the recent unfortunate mass food poisoning onboard couple of vessels, leading to fatal deaths. This broadcast is to reiterate the importance of maintaining food safety on board and more importantly “always”.we are Top Marine Catering company

Good food hygiene is more than cleanliness; it requires food to be protected from the risk of harmful contamination by bacteria, chemicals, and other foreign bodies from the point of delivery to point of consumption. Food must be protected against all forms of bad bacterial contamination. Hence, maintaining high standards of personal cleanliness and food safety is a must to start with. Any existing bacteria already in the food must be prevented from growing to dangerous levels. Most bacteria can be destroyed by thorough cooking (except pre-formed toxins). 

To reduce the risk of food poisoning, the following control measures to be in place:

Personal hygiene.

Temperature control (keep food hot >63°C or cold <5°C).

 Segregation of raw and cooked foods.

Ensuring no risk of cross-contamination via hands, clothes, etc.

 Thorough cooking (cook to 70 Celsius for minimum 15 seconds).

To help stop bacteria from growing, please ensure the following:

 When the label says, ‘keep refrigerated’, food must be stored in the fridge.

 Food should be cooked as near as possible to the time of meal service.

 Raw food must always be kept apart from cooked food.

 Separate refrigerators should be used for this purpose.

 All food in the refrigerator should be wrapped to prevent cross-contamination (SS container with lid/cling film/silver foil).

 Raw food (that often contains pathogenic bacteria) to be wrapped and placed at the bottom of the refrigerator (below-cooked food).

 Food should always be subjected to the least possible handling and full use is to be made of serving implements (tongs/spoons/ladles/food gloves).

Prepared dishes, such as meat, desserts with milk, egg, or cream ingredients must always be cooled as quickly as possible, covered, and refrigerated.

Food for cooking or service is to be covered and stowed in a refrigerator.

Butter and conserves for table use are to be similarly protected.

Flies and insects are carriers of disease and exposed food provides a serious threat to health. Newspaper / printed papers must not be used for food wrapping. Only grease-proof paper or a suitable food wrap should be used.

Food, when being transported, must be suitably covered. The suitable head covering must be always worn when working in a food preparation area/galley (head has the maximum bacteria on a person).

All fruit and salad items are to be thoroughly rinsed in freshwater prior to issue.

All dry provisions are to be stored in sealed bags or containers. This helps to keep them fresh and stops anything falling into the food by accident.

Do not store food items near cleaning chemicals (chemical contamination).

Do not use food containers to store cleaning chemicals or non-food for food.

Do not reuse plastic water bottles unless they are certified for the same.

Do not place or store food on the floor (even inside the storerooms/freezer), this will lead to contamination through pests or dirty liquids.

Maintain the required temperatures in all the storerooms.

Personal Hygiene

It is essential for food handlers to strictly practice high standards of personal cleanliness. They should be clean and tidy and wear suitable light-colored protective clothing.

There must be adequate hand washbasins with soap and drying facilities. Disposable towels or a hot air dryer only must be used and NOT a cloth towel (shared towels cause cross-contamination).

Hands and Arms Clean:

 Cleaning Procedures: Clean hands and exposed portions of your arms with a hand wash liquid by vigorously rubbing together for at least 20 seconds and thoroughly rinsing with clean water. Pay more attention to the areas underneath the fingernails and between the fingers.

When to Wash Hands: Clean your hands and exposed portions of your arms immediately before starting any kind of food preparation, including working with exposed food, clean equipment, and utensils.

After touching bare human body parts other than clean hands and clean exposed portions of arms. After using the toilet/restroom.

After coughing, sneezing, using a handkerchief or disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating, or drinking.

After handling soiled equipment or utensils. During food preparation(as often as necessary to remove soil &amp; to prevent cross-contamination when changing tasks).

When switching between working with raw food and working with Ready-To-Eat food.

Before putting on gloves for working with food or clean equipment and between glove changes.

After engaging in other activities that contaminate the hands.

Good food hygiene requires the sourcing of safe food. In certain circumstances, unsafe food will always remain unsafe regardless of the measures taken. Hence it is important that we engage with reliable and recommended vendors to supply safe provisions.

[digitalglobalcompass]

Discover Ecuador: A Traveller's Dream Come True

In a world of fast-paced cities, demanding routines, and incessant digital distractions, the significance of travel is immeasurable. It's an opportunity to escape the routine, discover other cultures, sample unique foods, and take in breath-taking scenery. Journeying revitalises the spirit, expands viewpoints, and produces lifelong memories.

Ecuador is a hidden gem that is just waiting to be found if it's your next travel destination. Located in the centre of South America, this small but diversified nation provides an unmatched combination of vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking natural features. Ecuador has enough to offer everyone, from the verdant beaches of the Pacific coast to the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains and the lush Amazon rainforest.

Now, let's delve into some of the best places to visit in Ecuador

Galápagos Islands

A sanctuary for wildlife aficionados and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Galápagos Islands present a rare chance to see a wide variety of exotic species up close. The islands are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, sea lions, giant tortoises, and marine iguanas. Hiking, diving, and snorkelling are all abundant, letting tourists fully experience this natural paradise.

Quito

Ecuador's capital city is a mesmerising fusion of vibrant plazas, busy markets, and colonial grandeur. Discover the UNESCO Cultural Heritage site, Old Town, with its intricate churches and quaint cobblestone alleyways. Don't pass up the opportunity to ride the second-highest cable car in the world, the Teleférico, for expansive views of the city.

The Amazon Rainforest

Venture into the heart of one of the planet's most biodiverse ecosystems, the Amazon rainforest, on an unforgettable experience. As you make your way through the maze-like network of rivers and thick jungle, you'll come across pristine nature, rich ecosystems, and indigenous settlements. Experience unusual animals, such as birds, monkeys, and elusive big cats, and learn about the rich cultural legacy of the Amazonian tribes.

Cotopaxi National Park

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Cotopaxi National Park is home to the magnificent Cotopaxi volcano, the highest active volcano in the world. Trek across difficult terrain while taking in breathtaking views of rolling grasslands and snow-capped peaks. Adventurers can ride horses through the park and see the spectacular grandeur of the Andean highlands, or they can attempt to peak Cotopaxi.

Now, why should you choose Digital Global Compass company for your travel trip to Ecuador?

With Digital Global Compass, travelling is smooth and hassle-free, and every part of your trip is meticulously planned and carried out. Digital Global Compass alleviates travel stress by emphasising price, safety, and security so you can fully enjoy Ecuador's beauties without worrying about the details.

To guarantee that your trip surpasses your expectations, Digital Global Compass goes above and above with professionally designed itineraries, informed guides, and dependable transportation. Personalised service catered to your requirements and preferences is offered by Digital Global Compass, whether you're going on a family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a solo excursion.

Why then wait? Utilise Digital Global Compass to begin organising your ideal trip to Ecuador and set out on an incredible journey.

In Conclusion

Travellers seeking to take in the splendour of the natural world, the depth of cultural diversity, and the excitement of adventure will find Ecuador to be an excellent location. There is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you choose to explore the Amazon rainforest, cruise through Quito's historic alleys, or explore the Galápagos Islands.

Additionally, Digital Global Compass is the ideal travel companion to ensure a worry-free and seamless vacation. They prioritise quality, value, and individualised care so you can unwind and savour every second of your journey across Ecuador.

Why then wait? Prepare for an incredible experience in one of the world's most stunning nations by packing your baggage and using Digital Global Compass to plan your travel.

[solicotanks]

1966: The Genesis of Solico Group

In 1966, Solico Group emerged onto the scene, catering to the flourishing construction industry in the UAE. The company's initial focus was on delivering cutting-edge Composite products, laying the groundwork for its subsequent global expansion and the introduction of groundbreaking solutions like Solico Tanks.

1984: Pioneering Water Storage Solutions

A watershed moment occurred in 1984 when Solico introduced a revolutionary water storage solution – hot-pressed GRP panel-type water tanks. By partnering with the esteemed Japanese brand Bridgestone, Solico swiftly captured market share, transforming conventional water storage practices towards cleaner and healthier alternatives. This strategic collaboration, coupled with a robust global marketing initiative, marked a paradigm shift in the industry.

2000: Innovation, Growth, and a New Manufacturing Hub

After years of innovation, commercial success, and expansion, Solico relocated to a state-of-the-art 220,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Jebel Ali, Dubai, in 2000. This move facilitated an expansion of product offerings and processes, incorporating Polyurethane molding, SMC hot-press compression molding, and thermoforming. Solico earned acclaim as a supplier of premium OEM products to globally recognized brands.

2001: Diversification into Boat Manufacturing

In 2001, Solico diversified its portfolio by launching the boat business division ASIS. Leveraging expertise in fiber wet and pre-preg lay-up processes, this venture yielded successful products, including rigid inflatable boats for renowned brands like Zodiac, ASIS, and Ocean Craft Marine.

2003: Expanding Manufacturing Capacities

Rapid expansion led Solico to embark on the second phase of its manufacturing facility in 2003, significantly increasing production capacities to accommodate future projects.

2004: SWS Board Technology and Sports Manufacturing Leadership

The launch of SWS Board Technology in 2004 marked Solico's entry into the water sports business, specializing in compression molding and Polyurethane molding. The company played a pivotal role in designing and manufacturing OEM products for globally respected sports brands.

2012: Next-Generation GRP Panel-Type Water Tanks

In 2012, Solico introduced a hot-press SMC manufacturing plant for its advanced GRP panel-type water tanks. The brand Solico Tanks was officially launched, signaling a new chapter in the group's illustrious history.

2016: Golden Jubilee Celebration

In 2016, Solico Group celebrated its 50th anniversary, a testament to five decades of remarkable achievements. The company had become one of the world's most esteemed suppliers and OEM manufacturers of quality molded composite products, with a strong focus on the American and European markets.

2019: Third-Phase Facility Expansion

Solico Group initiated the third-phase expansion of its manufacturing facility in 2019, increasing it to an impressive 400,000 ft2. This expansion aimed to meet the escalating demand for its diverse range of products and services.

2020: Commitment to Sustainability

In 2020, Solico Group underscored its commitment to sustainability by installing solar panels on the roof of its Jebel Ali manufacturing facility. This initiative aimed to reduce the company's carbon footprint and align with eco-friendly practices.

2023: Advancements in Research and Development

Since the inception of Solico Tanks, continuous investments in research and development have expanded the product range and enhanced product effectiveness. The company now boasts the capability to design and manufacture 6-meter-high water tanks with varying seismic classes, ensuring secure water supplies in some of the world's most vulnerable regions.

[ecolates]

The Future of Hotel and Restaurant Industries: Embracing Sugarcane Bagasse Products

In the realm of hotel and restaurant industries, the future is shaped by the embrace of sugarcane bagasse products, marking a significant shift towards sustainability. Gone are the days when sustainability was merely a buzzword; it now stands as a driving force behind consumer choices and business practices. As conscientious patrons seek environmentally responsible establishments, businesses are reevaluating their operations and seeking innovative solutions to reduce their carbon footprint. Sugarcane bagasse products have emerged as a game-changing alternative to traditional single-use items, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to foodservice operations. This article delves into the future of the hotel and restaurant industries as they wholeheartedly embrace sugarcane bagasse products to enhance sustainability and cater to the demands of discerning consumers.

The Eco-Revolution in Hospitality

A Paradigm Shift in Consumer Behaviour

Over the past decade, the hospitality industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation in consumer preferences. Modern patrons no longer seek solely top-notch service and delectable cuisine; they also prioritize the environmental impact of their choices. Sustainable practices have transitioned from being a mere desirable feature to a necessary criterion for hotels and restaurants striving to thrive in a fiercely competitive market.

Addressing the Plastic Problem

Single-use plastics have dominated the foodservice business for far too long. However, the negative environmental impact of these plastics, particularly on marine life and ecosystems, has sparked a global cry for action. Forward-thinking companies are actively looking for feasible replacements for standard plastic objects, which frequently wind up harming landfills and oceans.

Sugarcane Bagasse: A Sustainable Solution

Transforming Waste into Opportunity

Sugarcane bagasse, the residual fiber left after extracting juice from sugarcane, was once considered a waste product. Today, thanks to innovative manufacturer of Sugarcane Bagasse products, this byproduct has been transformed into valuable resources for the production of eco-friendly packaging and tableware. By utilizing sugarcane bagasse, the hotel and restaurant industries can play an active role in waste reduction and the promotion of a circular economy.

Biodegradable and Compostable

One of the most remarkable qualities of sugarcane bagasse products is their innate biodegradability and compostability. When disposed of, these products naturally decompose into organic matter without leaving behind any harmful residues. This characteristic perfectly aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable waste management and responsible consumption within the hospitality sector.

Versatility and Functionality

Sugarcane bagasse products encompass a wide range of items, including take-out containers, plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery. These products boast impressive functionality, offering heat resistance and durability that rival their conventional plastic counterparts. Restaurants and hotels can confidently utilize sugarcane bagasse products without compromising on quality or performance.

Benefits for the Hospitality Industry

Meeting Customer Expectations

As sustainability continues to dominate consumer choices, hotels and restaurants that integrate sugarcane bagasse products into their operations can effectively cater to the demands of environmentally conscious patrons. By offering environmentally friendly alternatives, businesses can enhance their brand image and attract a broader customer base that values responsible practices.

Reducing Environmental Impact

By replacing single-use plastics with biodegradable sugarcane bagasse products, the hospitality industry can significantly minimize its environmental impact. This proactive step contributes to the reduction of waste generation, the conservation of natural resources, and the mitigation of pollution, all of which are crucial for preserving the delicate ecosystems of our planet.

Nurturing Corporate Social Responsibility

Sustainability has become an integral part of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives for businesses worldwide. Embracing sugarcane bagasse products aligns with the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices and reflects a genuine dedication to environmental stewardship. Such commitments enhance the brand’s reputation and foster positive relationships with stakeholders.

Embracing Change: Implementing Sugarcane Bagasse Products

Assessing Feasibility and Compatibility

Before adopting sugarcane bagasse products, hotels and restaurants must carefully assess their feasibility and compatibility with existing operations. Factors such as storage capacity, logistics, and customer preferences should be considered to ensure a smooth transition and seamless integration into daily workflows.

Collaboration with Suppliers

Establishing collaboration with reliable suppliers who specialize in sugarcane bagasse products is vital for procuring high-quality and certified items. By establishing long-term partnerships, businesses can ensure a steady supply of sustainable alternatives and foster mutually beneficial relationships based on shared environmental values.

Staff Training and Education

Introducing sugarcane bagasse products necessitates educating and training staff members on their proper usage, handling, and disposal. Empowering employees with knowledge and awareness ensures the effective implementation of sustainable practices and maintains consistency in delivering exceptional service.

Conclusion

The future of the hotel and restaurant industries is intrinsically linked to sustainability, and embracing sugarcane bagasse products represents a significant step in that direction. By adopting these eco-friendly alternatives, businesses can cater to the evolving needs and preferences of environmentally conscious patrons. With their biodegradability, versatility, and functionality, sugarcane bagasse products provide an opportunity for hotels and restaurants to reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

#sugarcanebagasseproducts #ecolates #ecolatespvtltd #ecofriendlyfoodpackaging #gogreen #sustainability #ecofriendlyproducts #biodegradeables #sugarcanebagasseproductsmanufacturer

[metal-finishing-detroit]

Detroit Metal Finishing Services Offered By Automotive Tumbling! Call 313-925-7450 or visit https://automotivetumbling.com/

DETROIT METAL FINISHING & DEBURRING

Automotive Tumbling stands at the forefront of superior metal finishing, setting the benchmark for excellence. Operating from its headquarters in Detroit, the company caters to a diverse range of industries, encompassing automotive, heavy truck, fastener, agricultural, structural, recreational, military, medical, marine, appliance, furniture, and plumbing sectors. Our unwavering commitment lies in fulfilling the unique needs of every industry we serve. Above all, we adhere to a resolute motto: to not just meet, but consistently surpass your expectations with every interaction.

TUMBLING AND VIBRATORY DEBURR DETROIT

Both tumbling and vibratory deburr techniques employ abrasive media to eliminate unwanted sharp edges and burrs from stamped or machined parts. These components are introduced into a vibratory machine, where they undergo a tumbling or vibrating process while being rotated in abrasive media. This effectively smoothens rough surfaces and eliminates any sharp corners, resulting in a refined product. For specific applications requiring careful handling, such as camshafts, telescoping magnesium steering columns, and stainless steel IV stands in the medical industry, Vibratory deburring in Detroit is particularly well-suited. Furthermore, these methods find application in creating precise cosmetic surfaces, as well as in the cleaning and descaling processes. Automotive Tumbling possesses the expertise to perform vibratory tumbling to achieve a specific RA/RZ profile, and handles all types of metal tumbling and deburring in Detroit and its surrounding areas.

DETROIT DEBURRING PROCESSES FOR BUSINESSES OF ALL TYPES AND SIZES

Automotive Tumbling has the capabilities to provide deburring for virtually any type of industrial operation, regardless of size. We can even take on high production deburring and finishing projects for which other Detroit metal finishing industry companies may not have the knowledge or resources to meet the high quality standards you demand and deserve.

AUTOMOTIVE TUMBLING IS YOUR DETROIT DEBURRING SOURCE

Automotive Tumbling offers cost-effective Detroit vibratory deburring processes that are an invaluable asset in your quest to improve quality, reduce lead times and enhance your competitive position in the marketplace. We provide our value-added metal finishing services in Detroit to industries such as automotive, manufacturing, electronics and telecommunications. As a customer-focused metal finishing company, we are committed to achieving total customer satisfaction.

   Detroit Metal Finishing Services Offe...  

Detroit Metal Finishing Services Offered By Automotive Tumbling! Call 313-925-7450 or visit https://automotivetumbling.com/