Thursday, September 4, 2025

A Bumpy Landing And A Temporary Haven On Xbox

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Games can be maddeningly elusive. Take Hollow Knight Silksong, for instance - its availability on Steam is a mystery, at least for now. The game's release was marred by technical issues. The Steam store crashed immediately after it went ---, leaving many players in limbo. But that's not all - the Switch 2's eShop also experienced a similar crash.

So, where can you play Hollow Knight Silksong? For now, Xbox is a safe bet. You can purchase the game from Xbox's store on both PC and console. Those who have Xbox Game Pass or the Xbox Windows App may need to wait, though. Some players have reported an error message: "Do you own this game or app?" It's unclear how long the issue will persist.

One thing is certain, however - gamers are eager for a resolution. The wait is on for an official update from the developers. In the meantime, some players are exploring workarounds. Buying the game directly from Xbox may be the most straightforward solution. The game's developer, Team Cherry, has a reputation for delivering high-quality games, and fans are hopeful that this issue will be resolved quickly.

Hollow Knight Silksong is an expansion to the critically acclaimed Hollow Knight.

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Background Document: Hollow Knight Silksong Hollow Knight Silksong is an upcoming action-adventure game developed by Team Cherry, an independent game development studio based in Australia. The game is an expansion to the critically acclaimed Hollow Knight, which was released in 2017 to widespread critical acclaim.

### History The original Hollow Knight game was a massive success, praised for its atmospheric sound design, beautiful hand-drawn graphics, and challenging gameplay. The game's success led to a dedicated community of fans, who eagerly awaited new content from Team Cherry. In 2019, Team Cherry announced that they were working on a new game, Hollow Knight Silksong, which would serve as an expansion to the original game.

The game follows the story of Hornet, a character introduced in the original game, as she explores a new region filled with challenges and secrets. ### Achievements Although Hollow Knight Silksong has not been officially released yet, the original game has received numerous awards and nominations, including several Game of the Year awards.

The game's success has also led to the creation of a community-driven wiki, which provides detailed information about the game's world, characters, and mechanics.

A detailed breakdown begins

Its arrival was...well, a bit of a bumpy landing. The digital realm quaked. One recalls similar tremors when certain much-anticipated films debuted. The Steam store stumbled. Technical gremlins are often persistent.

Xbox, in contrast, seems to have weathered the storm reasonably well.

One might even dare to suggest it's the temporary haven for hopeful players. A direct purchase appears to be the most reliable route.

Team Cherry, the artisans behind this intricate creation, have earned a certain degree of trust. One remains optimistic. The issue, undoubtedly, will soon pass. Gamers are an patient bunch.

In other news, the esteemed composer Christopher Larkin, who wove the sonic tapestry of the original "Hollow Knight," is rumored to be crafting equally enchanting melodies for "Silksong." In an interview last year, Larkin hinted at a few "surprising" themes. "I'm trying to evoke a sense of mystery," he stated.

His music is known for its haunting beauty. "It's really about capturing the feelings of the world."

Hollow Knight Silksong game

The world of indie game development is a vibrant and dynamic one, with new titles and studios emerging all the time. One of the most exciting aspects of this scene is the way in which developers are pushing the boundaries of what games can be. From innovative mechanics to bold storytelling, indie games are often at the forefront of gaming innovation.

This is partly due to the fact that indie developers are often more willing to take risks and try new things, unencumbered by the commercial pressures that can weigh heavily on bigger studios.

One of the key trends in indie game development right now is the rise of metroidvania games. These games, which combine elements of exploration and platforming with a focus on character progression, have become incredibly popular recently.

Titles like Ori and the Blind Forest and Salt and Sanctuary have shown that these games can be both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, and many developers are now looking to create their own takes on the genre.

Despite the many successes of indie game development, there are still challenges that developers face.

One of the biggest hurdles is getting games noticed in a crowded market. With so many new titles being released all the time, it can be difficult for developers to get their game seen by the right people.

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Read on to learn more about Hollow Knight Silksong's availability on Steam and whether it is live right now. Looking for Crossword hints ⁘ solutions? Check out latest NYT Mini Crossword Answers , LA Times Crossword Answers , and Atlantic Crossword Answers

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

The Power Of Storytelling In Marketing: Does The Messenger Matter More Than The Message?

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does success hinge on the art of selling or the product itself? This question has plagued marketers, sales leads, founders, and eCommerce experts for decades. As Steph Darmanin astutely observes, the rise of influencer marketing, personal branding, and social media has only intensified the debate. At the heart of this dilemma lies a profound truth: emotional storytelling is the spark that ignites purchase behaviour.

A 2025 meta-analysis in the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science revealed that stories blending emotion and logic are more persuasive than fact-only pitches. This is because narratives have the power to create intrigue, foster connections, and convey the value of a product in a way that resonates with customers.

However, the delivery style can be just as crucial as the product itself. A 2022 study in The Leadership Quarterly demonstrated that charisma and communication channels can drastically shift customer responses. The same product, same offer, but wildly different outcomes depending on the personality presenting it and how it's received. This raises a crucial question: is it sometimes the messenger, not the message, that truly matters?

In today's market, brand authenticity has become a valuable currency.

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Steph Darmanin is a prominent figure in the marketing and eCommerce industry, known for her insightful perspectives on the intersection of branding, customer experience, and sales. As a seasoned expert, she has been invited to share her thoughts at various events, including the upcoming Debate Club event in Sydney.

With a deep understanding of the complexities of marketing and sales, Darmanin has established herself as a thought leader in her field. Her expertise spans the nuances of emotional storytelling, brand authenticity, and the impact of delivery style on customer responses. Through her work, Darmanin aims to help businesses rethink their leverage and focus on building strong brand identities that resonate with their target audience.

With a keen eye on the latest research and trends, she provides valuable insights that inform marketing strategies and drive business growth. As a respected voice in the industry, Darmanin's contributions are highly anticipated by marketers, sales leads, founders, and eCommerce experts alike.

Marketing and sales strategy

The art of persuasion is a delicate dance, one that requires a deep understanding of human psychology and behavior. Effective marketers know that it's not just about showcasing a product's features, but about crafting a narrative that resonates with their target audience. By tapping into emotions, values, and desires, brands can create a lasting connection with their customers, one that goes beyond a simple transactional relationship.

This is why storytelling has become a crucial component of modern marketing strategies, allowing brands to convey their message in a way that is both memorable and impactful.

In today's digital landscape, the lines between marketing and sales are increasingly blurred. With the rise of social media and influencer marketing, brands are no longer limited to traditional advertising channels.

Instead, they can engage with their audience directly, building relationships and trust through personalized interactions.

This shift has forced marketers to rethink their approach, focusing on creating authentic, two-way conversations that drive engagement and conversion. By doing so, brands can create a loyal customer base that advocates for their products and services.

The concept of customer experience has become a buzzword recently, and for good reason.

As consumers, we are constantly bombarded with choices, and it's the brands that deliver seamless, intuitive experiences that stand out from the crowd.

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Baked into the heart of every CMO, Sales Lead, Founder, and eCommerce Expert is an age-old question: does success depend more on how you sell (the branding, charisma, and customer experience) or what you sell (the product or service itself)? Here, Steph Darmanin unpacks the dilemma ahead of the next Debate Club event in Sydney this evening.

Marketers and ad execs have wrestled with this for decades, and the rise of social media, personal branding, and influencer marketing has only turned up the heat. Recent research has poured petrol on the fire, forcing businesses to rethink where their real leverage lies.

Embracing The Uncomfortable: How Cringe Marketing Is Revolutionizing Digital Engagement

Embracing the Uncomfortable: How Cringe Marketing is Revolutionizing Digital Engagement** As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing, it's time to confront a harsh reality: perfection is no longer the goal. In fact, it's become a liability. Enter cringe marketing, the unconventional approach that's captivating Gen Z and redefining the way brands connect with their audiences.

Leeron Walter, award-winning VP Marketing at Teramind, a global cybersecurity leader, is at the forefront of this movement. As an international speaker on secure innovation, Walter understands the importance of authenticity in a world where curated feeds and polished brand messaging have become the norm. Cringe marketing is a breath of fresh air, eschewing traditional notions of good branding in favor of rough edits, awkward timing, and self-deprecating humor. It's a strategy that feels authentic, self-aware, and low-stakes – a far cry from the sterile, studio-produced content that's become all too familiar.

Duolingo's TikTok presence is a prime example of cringe marketing done right. Their giant green owl mascot dances badly, makes obscure pop culture references, and pokes fun at the company's push notifications. The result? Consistently viral content that's both absurd and endearing.

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Leeron Walter: A Pioneer in Cringe Marketing and Secure Innovation** Leeron Walter is a highly accomplished marketing executive and international speaker, currently serving as the award-winning Vice President of Marketing at Teramind, a leading global cybersecurity company. With a passion for secure innovation, Walter has established himself as a thought leader in the marketing industry, particularly in the realm of cringe marketing.

As a marketer, Walter has been at the forefront of a new trend that challenges traditional notions of branding and digital engagement. He advocates for a more authentic and honest approach to marketing, one that eschews perfection and polished messaging in favor of rough, lo-fi, and sometimes uncomfortable content.

This approach, known as cringe marketing, has resonated with younger audiences, who crave authenticity and relatability in the digital landscape. Walter's expertise in secure innovation has also made him a sought-after speaker on the international circuit. He has shared his insights and knowledge with various audiences, highlighting the importance of balancing security and innovation in today's digital world.

Through his work at Teramind and his speaking engagements, Walter has demonstrated a deep understanding of the evolving marketing landscape and the need for brands to adapt to changing audience preferences.

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Cringe Marketing is Topic

The Evolution of Brand Authenticity** In today's digital landscape, brand authenticity has become a buzzword. Consumers are no longer satisfied with superficial marketing messages; they crave genuine connections with the brands they support. This shift has led to a rise in authentic marketing strategies, where brands prioritize transparency, vulnerability, and relatability.

By sharing their imperfections and flaws, brands can build trust with their audiences and establish a more human connection.

For instance, brands like Dove and Patagonia have successfully leveraged authenticity in their marketing campaigns, showcasing their commitment to social and environmental causes. The Power of Emotional Storytelling Emotional storytelling has emerged as a potent tool in marketing, allowing brands to connect with their audiences on a deeper level.

By tapping into universal emotions and experiences, brands can create narratives that resonate with their target audience.

This approach not only fosters empathy but also drives engagement, loyalty, and ultimately, conversions. Brands like Airbnb and Coca-Cola have mastered the art of emotional storytelling, using compelling narratives to transport their audiences and create lasting impressions.

The Rise of Influencer Marketing 2. 0 Influencer marketing has undergone a significant transformation recently.

Gone are the days of partnering with celebrities and macro-influencers; brands are now turning to micro-influencers ← →

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Leeron Walter is an award-winning VP Marketing at Teramind , a global cybersecurity leader and an international speaker on secure innovation. In an age of curated feeds and overly polished brand messaging, there's a new type of content rising to the top, and it's not what you'd expect. It's awkward. It's lo-fi. Sometimes it's intentionally weird or even uncomfortable to watch. It's what many are calling cringe marketing, and Gen Z can't get enough of it.

Columbia University's Innovative Approach To Biodiversity Conservation

Mental health is intricately linked to our connection with nature, and it's heartening to see educational initiatives addressing this intersection. The pressing issue of biodiversity --- has prompted Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) to launch a pioneering program in Biodiversity Data Analytics, in collaboration with the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology (E3B). According to sps.

columbia. edu, this innovative program aims to equip professionals with the skills to tackle biodiversity-related challenges using data-driven solutions. The curriculum is meticulously designed to foster both technical fluency and ecological insight, delving into topics such as data science, spatial data, and geographic information systems.

Students will explore decision-making with data, conservation policy, and climate finance, among other areas. The program culminates in a team-based capstone project, where students will develop real-world solutions to pressing biodiversity challenges. These solutions will be grounded in data and aligned with sustainability goals.

Troy J. Eggers, dean of Columbia University School of Professional Studies, emphasizes the significance of this program, stating that "Biodiversity Data Analytics is not just an emerging academic field; it is a necessary one." This collaboration between SPS and E3B brings together the practical, career-oriented approach of SPS with E3B's ← →

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Biodiversity Data Analytics program.

The Imperative of Environmental Education As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and sustainability, the importance of environmental education cannot be overstated. The need for a well-informed and environmentally conscious populace has never been more pressing.

Environmental education is not merely about imparting knowledge; it is about fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between human societies and the natural world.

By integrating environmental education into academic curricula, we can empower future generations to make informed decisions that promote sustainability and mitigate the impacts of environmental degradation.

## The Role of Interdisciplinary Approaches Environmental issues are complex and multifaceted, requiring interdisciplinary approaches that bring together insights from natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

By combining the strengths of different disciplines, researchers and practitioners can develop more comprehensive solutions to environmental problems.

For instance, understanding the ecological impacts of climate change requires insights from biology, ecology, and environmental science, while addressing the social and economic implications of climate change necessitates expertise from sociology, economics, and policy studies.

Interdisciplinary approaches can facilitate the development of innovative solutions that account for the intricate relationships between human and natural systems.

## The Power of Data-Driven Decision-Making Data-driven decision-making has become an essential tool in environmental conservation and ← →

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The curriculum emphasizes both technical fluency and ecological insight, exploring topics such as data science, spatial data and geographic information systems, decision-making with data, conservation policy, climate finance, and more. Students will complete the program with a team-based capstone project, developing real-world solutions to biodiversity-related challenges.

These solutions will be grounded in data and aligned with sustainability goals. In addition to conducting online coursework, students will participate in two in-person sessions in New York City at the opening and conclusion of the program.
"Biodiversity Data Analytics is not just an emerging academic field; it is a necessary one," said Troy J. Eggers , dean of Columbia University School of Professional Studies. "This program reflects our commitment to advancing education that addresses the urgent challenges of our time. We are proud to offer a curriculum that empowers professionals to lead with both data and purpose."

Monday, September 1, 2025

DHL ECommerce Acquires Minority Stake In Ajex Logistics Services To Capitalize On Saudi Arabia's ...

is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of global commerce, one thing is clear: adaptability is key. In a move that promises to shake up the Middle Eastern parcel market, DHL eCommerce has completed its acquisition of a minority stake in Ajex Logistics Services. This strategic partnership not only solidifies DHL's foothold in Saudi Arabia but also paves the way for Ajex to expand its reach across the region.

With a $570 million expansion plan in place, DHL Group is poised to make a significant impact on the Middle Eastern market, encompassing its Express, Forwarding, and Supply Chain divisions. The Saudi Arabian e-commerce sector is ripe for growth, with anticipated double-digit expansion driven by the country's young, digitally savvy population - 63% of whom are under 30. As the Kingdom continues to diversify its economy, away from fossil fuel extraction, e-commerce is set to play a vital role.

With a projected annual retail growth rate of 4. 6% through 2027, the stage is set for Ajex and DHL to capitalize on this trend.

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Background Document: Ajex Logistics Services and DHL eCommerce Partnership** Ajex Logistics Services, a domestic and regional parcel provider, was established in 2021 with a vision to cater to the growing demands of the Saudi Arabian parcel market. Owned by Ajlan & Bros. Holding Group, the company has rapidly expanded its operations, boasting a network of over 60 facilities, 1,200 vehicles, and 2,000 employees.

This remarkable growth trajectory has been marked by a 20-30% increase in facilities, vehicles, and employees since the start of the year. The company's achievements can be attributed to its strategic partnership with DHL eCommerce, which has acquired a minority stake in Ajex Logistics Services. This deal, part of DHL Group's $570 million expansion plan in the Middle East, aims to capitalize on the anticipated double-digit growth in Saudi Arabia's e-commerce sector.

The partnership enables Ajex to leverage DHL's expertise and international reach, providing its customers with faster, smarter, and more innovative delivery services. The Saudi Arabian e-commerce sector is poised for significant growth, driven by the country's young, digitally savvy population and projected annual retail growth of 4. 6% through 2027.

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Business and E-commerce Acquisition

The e-commerce landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the increasing demand for seamless and efficient logistics solutions. As online shopping continues to rise, companies are investing heavily in digital infrastructure to stay ahead of the competition. This shift has led to a surge in acquisitions and partnerships, as businesses seek to expand their capabilities and reach new markets.

One notable example is the growing trend of logistics companies acquiring e-commerce platforms, enabling them to offer end-to-end solutions to their customers.

By doing so, these companies can provide a more streamlined and integrated experience, from order fulfillment to delivery. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is emerging as a key hub for e-commerce growth, with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates driving this trend.

The region's young population, increasing internet penetration, and rising disposable incomes are all contributing factors.

As a result, companies are investing heavily in digital infrastructure, including logistics and payment systems, to support the growth of e-commerce. This investment is expected to pay off, with the MENA e-commerce market projected to reach $54 billion by 2025. The rise of e-commerce has also led to an increase in demand for specialized logistics services, such as same-day delivery and cold chain logistics.

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DHL eCommerce has officially completed its acquisition of a minority stake Ajex Logistics Services, giving it a larger foothold in the rapidly growing Saudi Arabian parcel market and enabling Ajex to expand in the Middle East. DHL announced in February that it planned to invest in Ajex Logistics, which is owned by Ajlan ⁘ Bros. Holding Group. The deal is part of a $570 million expansion plan by DHL Group in the Middle East to include its Express, Forwarding and Supply Chain divisions.

Separating Fact From Fiction

Mental health experts warn that financial stress can be debilitating, and for those struggling with IRS tax debt, the weight can feel crushing. The marketing campaigns of companies promising quick fixes can be enticing, with polished ads and convincing assurances that seem like a ---line to desperate taxpayers. But, as former IRS agents and experts Michael Sullivan and Peter Salinger point out, the reality is often far more complicated.

People are led to believe that settling IRS tax debt is easy, but the truth is that only a small percentage of settlements are accepted - a mere 21% in the last reported data, which is significantly lower than the historical average of 30-40%. This downward trend is alarming, yet marketing efforts continue to claim that anyone can settle for pennies on the dollar.

Many taxpayers find themselves in deep financial trouble due to a lack of knowledge or understanding of their tax obligations. For instance, someone who has been a wage earner for years with taxes automatically withheld may become self-employed and fail to realize they need to make estimated payments. Before they know it, they're tens of thousands of dollars behind, without a clear understanding of how it happened or how to fix it.

The tactics used by companies marketing IRS debt relief are often misleading from the start.

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Background Document: Michael Sullivan and Peter Salinger Michael Sullivan and Peter Salinger are renowned experts in the field of IRS tax debt relief, leveraging their extensive experience as former IRS agents to guide taxpayers through the complex process of settling their tax liabilities. As co-founders of MD Sullivan Tax Group, they have established themselves as trusted authorities, dedicated to providing accurate and reliable information to individuals and businesses struggling with tax debt.

With a deep understanding of the IRS system, Sullivan and Salinger have authored the insightful book "Exposing The Secrets For IRS Settlements," which offers a candid look at the realities of tax debt relief. Their expertise has been shaped by years of experience working with the IRS, allowing them to identify common pitfalls and misconceptions that taxpayers often encounter.

One of the key issues that Sullivan and Salinger address is the prevalence of false and deceptive marketing by companies promising quick fixes for IRS tax debt. They emphasize that settling tax debt is not as easy as advertised, with acceptance rates for settlements hovering at a mere 21% - significantly lower than the historical average of 30-40%. This downward trend is a cause for concern, and Sullivan and Salinger are committed to educating taxpayers about the realities of the process.

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IRS tax debt can feel like a crushing weight, and in that moment of vulnerability, struggling taxpayers are often drawn to companies promising quick fixes. The marketing is polished, the assurances sound convincing, and the desperation to believe them is real. But as Michael Sullivan and Peter Salinger, authors of Exposing The Secrets For IRS Settlements , co-founders of MD Sullivan Tax Group , and both former IRS agents and true experts, point out, the reality is rarely as simple as advertised.

"Due to false and deceptive marketing, people are often led to believe that settling their IRS tax debt is easy," says Sullivan. "The truth is, only a small percentage of settlements are ever accepted. The last data reported, acceptance rates were among the lowest we have ever seen at only 21%, far below the historical average of 30-40%. The downward trend is alarming.

Yet marketing continues to tell taxpayers that anyone can settle for pennies on the dollar."

Arlington County Police Department Struggles To Fill Open Positions Despite Aggressive Recruitment...

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Background Document: Arlington County Police Department Recruitment Efforts The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) has been facing staffing challenges recently, with a significant number of officer departures hindering its ability to maintain full strength. In response, the department has intensified its recruitment efforts, launching a new website and social media accounts dedicated to attracting new recruits.

The recruitment campaign, which began earlier this year, features a tagline "___ your story" and highlights a hiring bonus of up to $25,000 and an increased starting salary of $72,014. The department has also introduced a video series, "Stories Behind the Badge," which showcases the experiences and achievements of individual officers, emphasizing themes such as community engagement, support for women in law enforcement, and outreach to diverse communities.

The recruitment website invites potential recruits to join a team committed to protecting, serving, and uplifting the county. Despite these efforts, the department still faces significant staffing challenges. Of its authorized strength of 377 sworn police officers, 74 positions remain unfilled. Since the start of 2025, 33 officers have either retired or resigned, including 14 who accepted the county's Voluntary Retirement Incentive.

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Police Department Recruitment Efforts

Law enforcement agencies across the country are grappling with a critical issue: retaining and recruiting top talent. The challenges facing police departments are multifaceted, with many struggling to adapt to changing community needs and expectations. recently, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of individuals pursuing careers in law enforcement.

This trend has significant implications for public safety, as police departments face increased difficulty in maintaining adequate staffing levels.

One major factor contributing to the recruitment challenges facing police departments is the shifting landscape of public perception. The role of law enforcement has evolved significantly in recent years, with many agencies placing greater emphasis on community policing and de-escalation techniques. While these changes are widely regarded as positive, they also present challenges for recruiters, who must now appeal to a new generation of candidates who may be hesitant to join the force.

To address these challenges, many police departments are rethinking their recruitment strategies.

Some agencies are turning to innovative approaches, such as social media campaigns and targeted outreach to underrepresented communities. Others are focusing on highlighting the benefits of a career in law enforcement, such as opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a positive impact on the community.

Despite these efforts, police departments continue to face significant hurdles in their recruitment efforts.

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The Arlington County Police Department has been expanding recruitment efforts with new digital advertising and outreach, although departures from the force continue to hinder staffing. Earlier this year, ACPD launched a new recruitment website and dedicated recruitment social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram , department spokesperson Ashley Savage told ARLnow.