Archives for March 2025

Happy Monday! A fresh start to the week! Just like a box of crayons, every day is a chance to add a little color to your work and creativity. What will you create today?

In This Issue: Backyard BBQ, Hidden Treasure & Pokémon Prep! | Deal of the Day | Cat6 Patch Panels | Does Copper Cabling Still Have a Place in Data Centers? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Backyard BBQ, Hidden Treasure & Pokémon Prep!

Happy Monday!

This weekend was fairly low-key, with a small backyard BBQ to celebrate my mother’s birthday. Family came over, and my mom really enjoyed spending time with her grand kids. We kept things casual—grilling, catching up, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

Later on, we ended up watching “Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn’s Treasure,” and it turned out to be a fascinating look into modern-day treasure hunting. It’s amazing how far people will go in pursuit of hidden riches, and the show did a great job illustrating the drama and dedication behind each search.

I also managed to fit in some post-rotation Pokémon TCG testing as I prepare for the Atlanta Regionals on April 11. Adapting to the new format always keeps things interesting, and I’m looking forward to seeing which decks come out on top once the competition heats up!

I hope you have a great and wonderful week!

Cris

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Patch panels are a great way to organize and terminate cable runs in the wiring closet. Adding these panels to racks allows for easy identification and faster adds/changes and modifications to cabling.

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Learning Center Article – Does Copper Cabling Still Have a Place in Data Centers?

More than 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are produced every day. That’s a mind-boggling number. Equally impressive is that roughly 90 percent of all data in the world was produced in the last two years. In the face of such overwhelming numbers, it often feels like the entire future of networking rests on the shoulders of fiber optics. Ethernet still has a strong place in networking, and that holds true even for the most advanced data centers in the world. Let’s take a look at exactly why Ethernet is still important and how we can expect it to function in the near future.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Disney+ is enhancing the viewer experience with a new feature that lets users remove shows from their “Continue Watching” list. Now live and rolling out to all programs in the coming weeks, this update makes navigating your watchlist cleaner and more customizable. 
• Internxt offers an open-source, end-to-end encrypted cloud storage platform here to replace Dropbox for good. Mac users looking for a secure alternative to cloud storage subscriptions will appreciate Internxt’s blend of privacy, performance, and permanence. You can get 10TB of lifetime cloud storage for just $279.99 ($70 off) when you use code STORAGE20 at checkout before April 27 at 11:59 PM PST.
• Microsoft is redesigning the Windows BSOD, and it might change to black.
• Hershey’s Kisses just released a nostalgic twist on their classic candy with the official launch of Hershey’s Kisses Cinnamon Toast Crunch-flavored candies, a flavor mash-up the whole family can enjoy.

Another week in the books! What’s one thing you’re proud of accomplishing? Take a moment to celebrate—you’ve earned it! 🎉

In This Issue: Simple Joys & Core Memories | Deal of the Day | Fiber Media Converter | Alternatives to Rack Mount Kits | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Simple Joys & Core Memories

Hi everyone! Hello, world!

It’s my favorite day of the week—Friday!

How’s everything going on your end?

This week officially marked the start of summer here in the Philippines. I usually prefer sunny weather over rainy days, but with how scorching hot it is in my province, I’m not so sure I’ll enjoy the summer season this year.
But last Wednesday, something unexpected happened—it rained for about an hour. After weeks of dry weather, I found myself just staring out the window, watching the raindrops fall. Then, I noticed a group of four dogs playing in the rain, probably our neighbors’ pets. I couldn’t help but smile as I watched them, lost in their carefree world, reminding me of what it was like to be a kid—no responsibilities, no worries, just play and food on the mind.

It took me back to my childhood when my grandma would scold my older brother and me for running out to play in the rain. But in the end, she always gave in—on one condition: we had to eat her vegetable soup for dinner. As a kid who wasn’t a big fan of veggies, that was quite the deal!

What’s one unforgettable childhood memory that still makes you smile? I’d love to hear your stories!

Have a relaxing and fun-filled weekend!

Kat

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Media converters are used to interconnect different types of cables within an existing network. They receive data from one type of cable and convert the signals for transmission along another cable type. The MC220CM converts 1000BASE-SX fiber to 1000BASE-T copper media or vice versa. The MC220CM works at 850nm for transmitting and receiving data. The device allows for auto-negotiation of half-duplex/full-duplex transfer modes and extends fiber up to 550 meters using 50/125 fiber or 220m using 62.5/125 fiber.

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Learning Center Article – Alternatives to Rack Mount Kits

In server settings, it’s common to use standardized racks to hold and house all of the equipment. These racks are made strong and stable. They allow you to stack all of your devices in ways that support the task and configuration at hand, and they provide safe conditions that also help you manage heat and airflow. The trick to racks is that every device can attach directly to the rack, creating customizable arrangements that are well-protected from vibrations and falls.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• The Light Phone 3, a sleek minimalist smartphone, is now available for pre-order at a discounted price of $599 (regularly $799). Featuring an AMOLED monochrome screen, USB-C, and dual cameras. 
• OpenAI is rolling out an upgraded DALL·E 3, enhancing ChatGPT’s image-generation capabilities with improved text-to-image creation and editing. Addressing past concerns over copyright and watermark removal, the update integrates OpenAI’s GPT-4o model and will soon be available to Plus and free users, as well as API developers.
• UPS launches import fee calculator for international shipping.
• Starbucks has officially launched its highly anticipated ready-to-drink lineup, including new canned Iced Energy Drinks and bottled Frappuccino. Available in Tropical Peach, Watermelon Twist, and Blueberry Lemonade flavors, the energy drinks feature 160mg of plant-based caffeine and zero sugar. Look for them at retailers nationwide with a suggested price of $2.99 per 12-ounce can.

Happy Thursday! It’s National Spanish Paella Day! A good meal can fuel a great day—what’s your go-to dish when you need an energy boost?

In This Issue: Car troubles & Exciting Times Ahead! | Deal of the Day | Cisco Stack Power Cable | 5G for Business Networks | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Car troubles & Exciting Times Ahead!

Hey everyone!

This weekend was a bit chaotic! My good old Ford Exploder (Explorer for those who don’t know about their issues ha-ha) didn’t quite explode on me, but the engine decided it had enough. It needs an entirely new engine, so car shopping is now on my to-do list. Luckily, I don’t need a car for about a month and a half, but I’ve already started checking local dealerships every day. It’s like window shopping but way more stressful and expensive! If anyone has advice on navigating the crazy process that is buying a car, please let me know!

Even though my car troubles got me down, I have an exciting weekend ahead! Here at UGA, we have ‘Dance Marathon’. If you think you may have heard of it, many colleges and universities host a version of it through their Miracle Organization. At UGA, we specifically raise money for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and our event is a 13-hour celebration full of family stories, activities, and dancing of course! Everyone pledges to stay the entire time in celebration of the money raised and in honor of the lives that will be saved. The energy is incredible, and I’m so lucky to be a part of something bigger than me that helps so many kids and families in need!

Overall, between car drama and getting ready to dance my heart out, it’s been eventful! I’m looking forward to seeing what happens and hoping it all works out!

Rachel

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

The Cisco 3750X Stack Power Cable enables power sharing and redundancy between StackPower-enabled switches. By pooling power supplies as a shared resource, this 1.5-meter cable supports both power-sharing and redundancy modes, ensuring higher availability during outages. It also allows for zero-footprint redundancy, providing backup power to the entire stack with an additional power supply.

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Learning Center Article – What does 5G mean for business networks?

There is a lot of technology generating excitement for more applications than we could hope to name. One central theme to virtually all of that technology is an increased demand on data and need of higher bandwidth for connectivity. More devices than ever are actively communicating, and they are placing massive burdens on existing infrastructure. Ultimately, we all need a network that is built for the new age of connectivity. That network will run on 5G.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is set to become the first city in the region to launch electric flying taxis following a deal with U.S.-based Archer Aviation and plans test flights in coming months. 
• Uber is expanding its airport shuttle service to include one of the busiest hubs in the world, New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. For a limited time, customers can grab a ride from specific stops in Manhattan or Brooklyn to JFK for just $10. After April 30th, the fare increases to $25, including taxes.
• Taco Bell is bringing back a fan-favorite with a twist! Launching nationwide on March 27, the new Toasted Cheddar Street Chalupas combine the cheesy, crispy shell of the 2019 Toasted Cheddar Chalupa with the flavorful meat, onions, and cilantro filling of the 2024 Cheesy Street Chalupas. Available for a limited time, you can grab two for $5.49 while supplies last!
• Gatorade is launching new Flavor Mashups, combining fan-favorite flavors like Lemon Lime, Orange, Cool Blue, and Fruit Punch into ready-to-drink bottles. These exciting new blends are hitting retailers nationwide this week, making it easier than ever for fans to enjoy their favorite flavors in one bottle!

Midweek check-in! What’s a small (or big) win you’ve had this week? Keep pushing forward—you’re doing great!

In This Issue: Big Brother Promotion | Deal of the Day | Surge Protector Power Strip | Tips for Maintaining Your Server | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Big Brother Promotion

Happy Wednesday!

I hope you’re having a great week so far. It was another fun and exciting weekend around our neck of the woods this weekend! Now that the cat is officially out of the bag to most, I’ll share here that my husband and I are expecting our second little bundle of joy come this September! It’s been a bit of a wild ride to this point, but we’re surviving.

We’ve been having lots of conversations about what life is going to look like with two little ones, and I have no doubt it will be beyond exhausting, but I’m sure it’s also going to be the sweetest time. I think between now and then, we’re just going to be trying to do all that we can to love on our little guy now so that he is assured going into his next stage as a big brother but also when things might feel a little uncertain to him.

That said, last night, we did just that! We didn’t have any solid dinner plans and last minute we said, let’s take him on a date. We took him to hibachi and boy did he love it. He was very entertained by the cooking that was happening right in front of us and LOVED the rice. I hope we can spend as much time as possible soaking up this time with just him before things get even crazier with another one alongside us.

Anyways, hope you all have a great rest of your week and are looking forward to the weekend.

Ashley

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This six outlet, surge protected power strip is perfect for both guarding electronic surges by adding additional NEMA 5-15R outlets near home entertainment systems or behind the family computer. With its LED power-on indicator, you will never have to guess if its on or off. The strip also houses a 15Amp circuit breaker. This device not only serves to protect and add convenience, it comes equipped with a 6 foot, heavy duty extension cord bringing the outlets closer to the devices needing power.

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Learning Center Article – Tips for Maintaining Your Server

Servers are powerful in every sense of the word, in fact, they can hum for 24 hours a day, seven days a week without having any issues. However, their efficiency can be reduced drastically or even cut short completely if they are deprived of proper maintenance. You can avert server failure or a major disaster by simply having a regular check-up on them. Hiring a server management solution is the easiest and worry-free way to go.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• AT&T will cut its autopay and paperless billing discounts in half starting April 24th. 
• China floods the world with AI models after DeepSeek success.
• The FBI is warning that a texting scam targeting Americans for months is now spreading to even more states. The ongoing scheme has been trying to trick people into thinking they have unpaid road tolls and that they have to pay them off immediately to avoid expensive late fees.
• Starbucks’ new free refill policy, aimed at encouraging customers to “sit and stay,” has tripled in-store traffic. Since late January, customers ordering “for here” can enjoy free refills on brewed coffee and tea when using ceramic mugs, glasses, or personal cups—helping the coffee giant strengthen its café experience.

Tuesday Check-In ✅ How’s your week going so far? We hope it’s shaping up to be a productive one! What’s something you’re looking forward to?

In This Issue: The Psychology of Responsibility | Deal of the Day | Desktop Power Socket | Common Network Switch Configuration Mistakes | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – The Psychology of Responsibility

Good morning & Happy Tuesday! Hope everyone is having a great week so far!

The other day, I finally checked out a local coffee and sandwich shop that I’ve been meaning to try for months. They’ve got a great selection of gluten free options which is a win for me since I have Celiac and have to eat gluten free 100% of the time. I’m happy to report that it did not disappoint! Not only was the food delicious, but it was a wonderful spot to set up my laptop and get a bit of work done.

While I was there, the lady at the table next to me got up and asked if I could watch her things while she stepped away to use the restroom. Of course, I said yes. When she returned, she told me she was a psychology major and shared an interesting study with me.

She said there’s a study that shows if you leave your belongings unattended in a public place, most people will just assume they’re someone else’s responsibility—and if someone tries to steal them, bystanders usually won’t step in. But if you ask just one person to keep an eye on your things, that person feels a sense of responsibility and is much more likely to intervene if something happens.

It’s a fascinating look at human behavior and the power of personal responsibility. It got me thinking about how often we assume “someone else will handle it” in all areas of life—at work, at home, even in our communities. But when we take ownership (or ask others to), things change.

So, next time you need to step away from your laptop or bag in a busy café, just ask. It’s a small request, but it could make all the difference!

What do you think? Have you ever experienced this in action?

Rebecca

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Our Desktop Power Socket has 5 charging ports including 2 AC and 3 USB ports. It allows multiple equipment to charge at the same time. This Desktop Power Socket is made out of 750°C Fireproof Material and is very durable. It also has a power cord attached to it with a pure copper core indicating good head dissipation capability. At the bottom of the power socket there are anti-slip footpads to keep the socket steady for desktop use. There is also a stand in the front of the socket to hold up a phone or other device upright.

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Learning Center Article – 5 Common Network Switch Configuration Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

When implementing network switches, seemingly minor configuration oversights can lead to significant performance issues, security vulnerabilities, or even complete network failures. Understanding these common pitfalls isn’t just about preventing problems – it’s about building a robust and efficient network that can scale with your organization’s needs.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Apple will upgrade the base iPhone 17 with a ProMotion display. ProMotion is basically an Apple marketing term to denote that the display has a 120Hz refresh rate. As it stands, only the iPhone Pro and Pro Max models have it. Apple’s base and Plus iPhones use a standard 60Hz refresh rate. 
• Shoppers will see Klarna Buy Now, Pay Later installment loan options integrated into Walmart’s checkout in the next few weeks and the retailer says you’ll see the option rolled out across all Walmart channels by the holiday season later this year.
• The FBI is issuing a warning about a scam from Chinese hackers who are attempting to steal people’s money and identity. According to the bureau, the scammers are sending deceiving text messages to iPhone and Android users, telling them they owe unpaid tolls on their cars.
• Snoopy and his pals are the face of a new “Peanuts”-inspired merchandise collection coming to Starbucks stores across the country starting Tuesday, March 25.

Happy Monday! 🌟 A fresh start to a new week! What’s one goal you’re setting for yourself today? Let’s tackle this week with focus and energy!

In This Issue: From State Champs to World Stage | Deal of the Day | Velcro Qwik Tie Straps | How VoIP Enhances Communication for Data Center Management? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – From State Champs to World Stage

Happy Monday!

On Friday we headed to Columbus State University in Columbus, GA where the State Odyssey of the Mind competitions were being held. Teams from all across Georgia arrived to showcase their creativity and engineering skills and once again it was an all-day event. I was a bit nervous for our team as I saw the other teams in our division bring their A game but was immensely proud once our team took to the stage. Not only was their performance nearly flawless, but they also killed it in the structural engineering portion. Their structure held so much weight that it was unsafe to add any more on top of it. The structure survived and could’ve held at least 200 more lbs. I’m not supposed to give out specifics, but it was a lot of weight! Once again, the team got first place and are now advancing to the World’s competition at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. The kids were thrilled and are excited to see what awaits them at the end of the school year when they travel to compete.

Other than that, the rest of the weekend flew by and we took some time to relax. If you are ever in the Columbus, GA area, I highly recommend The Columbus Museum. It’s a small, but lovely Museum that houses works from prominent American artists. They even had a couple of paintings from The Hudson River School, one of my favorite art movements. There’s also no admission fee and the museum is run on donations.

Anyways, I hope you have a great weekend and a wonderful week!

Cris

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Deal of the Day

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Keep your cables organized with these durable, reusable VELCRO® Brand Qwik Tie Straps. Perfect for network administrators and installers, these 3/4″ x 6″ hook-and-loop straps provide a secure and adjustable solution for managing copper, fiber, and power cables. Designed for long-lasting use, they simplify cable tracing, reduce clutter, and improve workspace organization.

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Learning Center Article – How VoIP Enhances Communication for Data Center Management?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a communication solution that surpasses traditional telephony by using the internet for voice communication. VoIP provides data centers with a versatile, scalable, and cost-effective tool, seamlessly integrating voice, data, and video to meet high stakes demands. It enhances system management and team coordination, supporting operations across multiple locations and remote sites.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Popular DNA testing company, 23andMe, has filed for bankruptcy after multiple failed takeover bids by its CEO, petitioning the US Bankruptcy Court to be allowed to sell its assets. 
• United Airlines is increasing annual fees for its popular rewards credit cards and lounge passes while also adjusting some benefits. Like other airlines, United is refining its loyalty program to better reward top spenders amid high demand for first-class cabins and airport lounges.
• Chick-fil-A is bringing both its Zesty Buffalo Sauce and Honey Mustard Sauce to grocery shelves for the first time.
• Disney’s ‘Snow White’ has a sleepy opening weekend after a string of controversies.