Successful small business owners can speak about the importance of sticking to a budget as it helps guide the most strategic moves that align with business objectives. Business specialists on the Everest Business Funding team are familiar with what is required when operating a small business and scaling its growth, such as recruiting. 

Spending company funds on recruiting can divert financial attention away from other business needs. When a company has limits on recruiting costs or is trying to decrease a hiring process’ overall spending, Everest Business Funding offers these practical tips:

Tip #1: Turn to Networking

Networking is a valuable tool to take advantage of when saving dollars from recruiting costs. Small business owners should make constant efforts to build their network as an extensive network can present numerous opportunities to take advantage of, including locating desired talent. 

Tip #2: Utilize Social Media

When thinking about how to limit spending on a small business’ recruitment process, it saves to utilize free talent scouting platforms, such as social media. For small organizations that have invested quality time and resources into building their social media presence, going to a community filled with talented individuals who have already engaged with a company in the past is a great avenue to try. 

Tip #3: Seek Referrals

Small business owners can also look to team members and trusted individuals within the company for quality referrals to fill new job openings. When keeping the importance of company culture in mind, bringing in an individual who already gets along with someone within the organization can easily make a great addition to the company team from the start.  

Tip #4: Limit Amount of Interviews

One of the costliest and most time-consuming pieces of a recruitment process is conducting interviews. Though it might seem necessary to host five or more interviews, a small business owner will significantly cut costs by limiting the number of interviews to no more than four. 

Tip #5: Ask Strategic Questions

Asking the right questions can make a hiring process more timely, cost-effective, and efficient. When is the best time to ask the most strategic questions? Narrow down the interested pool of candidates to the right few by asking pre-screening questions to help discover the top talent to invite to interviews. Before an interview, to get the most from time spent with a candidate, analyze what kind of individual, in regards to talent and personality, would be the ideal fit for the role and the company. Then form interview questions around this anticipated image to produce answers to help gauge the best end choice.

Tip #6: Optimize Job Posts

Business owners who post their job openings online will get more out of their time, and money, by optimizing job listings. A job posting with a searchable, common title will reach more applicants seeking that specific position. 

Tip #7: Create an Intern Program

An excellent way to cut down on recruiting costs is implementing a program, such as an internship position that leads to a needed job role—hiring interns aid in avoiding the recruiting process altogether and is the opportune time to see a candidate working in action. Small businesses can advertise their internship program through local colleges and universities to acquire quality candidates. 

About Everest Business Funding

Everest Business Funding is a small business owner’s trusted partner. They support entrepreneurs by providing them with working capital to expand their business and operations. The entire application, approval, and funding process is completed in record time. When you need cash for equipment, staff, renovations, inventory, marketing, or anything else, Everest Business Funding can help. 

Source: TG Daily – Everest Business Funding Communicates How Small Business Owners Can Drive Down Their Recruiting Costs

26 million people in Shanghai have been under total COVID lockdown since April 5. Food supplies are said to be running low as China’s government struggles to cope with COVID-19 cases.

21,000 positive cases were registered in the city on Friday, as authorities ramped up a severe mass testing program.

Chinese government censors have taken down videos and articles critical of the lockdown, but this hasn’t stopped information leaking out from Chinese social media.

Some people have been completely barred from leaving their homes to get supplies for more than two weeks. Food delivery apps are showing up as completely out of stock, pushing many to breaking point.

A pet corgi was filmed getting beaten to death by a health worker after its owner reportedly tested positive for COVID in Shanghai on Friday. 

What it’s like to live inside Shanghai’s Covid lockdown

Shanghai is at the center of China’s efforts to stamp out the country’s largest outbreak of Covid since the start of the pandemic more than two years ago. No one is allowed to leave their residential compounds, even to buy food, and that’s creating huge pressure on the system.

Continue reading on CNN

Shanghai?s lockdown resembles a horror movie as residents scream out from high rise apartments

Other viral videos coming out of the city show pets being beaten to death, parents being separated from their children, and a struggle for food and other necessities

Continue reading on Fortune

Chinese health care worker sparks outrage for beating dog to death over COVID fears

The disturbing video, verified by Agence France-Presse, shows the worker completely covered in a hazmat suit as the corgi wanders in an otherwise deserted Shanghai street.

Continue reading on New York Post

Source: TG Daily – Screams From Shanghai Residents Heard As Covid Lockdown Continues

Chiropractic treatment after car accidents can reduce pain and stiffness, improve range of motion, and prevent scar tissue. Car accidents stretch ligaments and muscles, which can result in internal scar tissue and inflammation. Natural healing processes also contribute to inflammation and scar tissue. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of chiropractic treatment. Read on to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic care after a car accident. Also, get started on the road to recovery with chiropractic care today.

Chiropractic Treatment After A Car Accident Can Reduce Pain:

In addition to reducing pain, chiropractic treatment after car accident can also help to eliminate scar tissue. Because our bodies are constantly in a state of repair, they will naturally form scar tissue after an injury. These scars can be very uncomfortable and hinder our range of motion, so chiropractic care can help break up scar tissue to help with the healing process. When it comes to the benefits of chiropractic treatment after a car accident, there are a lot of them.

One of the benefits of chiropractic care after a car accident is the reduction of pain. Chiropractors use gentle manual manipulation to realign the spine and relieve pressure on injured nerves. A chiropractor may recommend exercises and heat or ice for aching muscles and joints. This can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing without the need for surgery. The treatment may also help to reduce pain and stiffness in the neck and back.

It Can Reduce Stiffness:

After a car accident, many people experience stiffness in their neck, lower back, and upper back. These symptoms are often a result of tissue damage around the spine. Chiropractic treatment after a car accident can reduce stiffness through spinal manipulation. In addition to pain reduction, chiropractic treatments can speed up recovery by breaking up built-up scar tissue. However, if you wait too long to seek treatment, you may end up needing to undergo surgery. Seeking chiropractic help is a far more affordable alternative.

It Can Reduce Inflammation:

Inflammation is a common symptom of a car accident. The force of a collision can cause micro-tears in the body’s tissues that x-rays can’t pick up. These injuries can cause stiffness and pain for many people. Chiropractic manipulations can help to release chemicals in the body that fight inflammation, reducing internal swelling and promoting healing. Chiropractic treatment after a car accident can help to relieve this complication.

It Can Reduce Scar Tissue:

If you were injured in a car accident, you’re likely to have some scar tissue in your body. This tissue, made up of collagen, can cause long-term pain and stiffness. While it will eventually heal on its own, a chiropractor’s techniques can break up scar tissue and promote faster healing. Here are some ways chiropractic treatment after a car accident can benefit you:

First, chiropractors target areas with damaged scar tissue. They will help you move the bones back into place as your injury heals. They will also prescribe exercises that will increase mobility and reduce pain. Once the bones are back in place, your doctor may prescribe pain medications to help with the discomfort. But these can be addictive. By avoiding these medications, you’ll be on your way to true recovery. A chiropractor will use specific techniques to target the areas with damaged tears and encourage the body’s natural healing process.

Source: TG Daily – Why You Should Consider Chiropractic Treatment After Car Accidents?

Bobby Kotick has been the CEO of Activision Blizzard for 31 years. He’s guided the company through the evolution of games and gaming platforms for decades and now he has his sights set on making Activision’s mark on the metaverse. Kotick says he “is certain that our incredible talent and extraordinary games combined with Activision Blizzard’s shared commitment to the very best workplace will enable us to grow in an increasingly more competitive race for leadership as gaming through the metaverse evolves.” 

Making Sense of the Metaverse

The metaverse is shaping up to be the future of not just the video game industry but also the entire internet. If you’re confused about what the metaverse is, it may help to think of it as not referring to any specific type of technology but more to a change in how we interact with technology. 

The technologies that comprise the metaverse include virtual reality (VR), a virtual world that continues to exist even when you’re not playing a game, and augmented reality (AR), which blends aspects of both the physical and digital worlds. It’s also expected to be a vital component of the digital economy because users or players can buy, create, and sell goods that only exist in the metaverse. Bobby Kotick’s World of Warcraft has been participating in augmented reality for years as players can sell or buy goods. And Fortnite, which was developed by Epic Games, also hosts virtual concerts and exhibits. 

Activision CEO Bobby Kotick Powers the Company Into the Future of Gaming 

“I could not be more appreciative of your efforts, focus, and dedication to connecting the world through fun and joy. And I am incredibly proud of this company and the work we have done together,” Bobby Kotick told all the employees in a companywide message after Microsoft confirmed it was attempting to buy out Activision Blizzard through a $68.7 billion all-cash deal. “Now it is on to the next chapter and the endless possibilities the transaction represents for all of us at Activision.”

Kotick says, “For the last 31 years, we have continuously shaped gaming through our commitment to deliver fun, joy, and the thrill of accomplishment.” He pointed out that Blizzard Activision has played a crucial part in transforming games into social experiences. “And our games have enabled our players to discover purpose through entertainment,” notes Kotick. “By doing so, we have created and entertained communities of hundreds of millions of players.”

Kotick is confident the talent at Activision Blizzard will thrive in the metaverse. “We have always attracted the very best game makers and built the best games, seizing the opportunity with inspiration, passion, determination, and focus,” he says. “As investments in cloud computing, data analytics, AI [artificial intelligence] and machine learning — and user interface and experience capabilities — are becoming more competitive, so we believe this partnership will better enable our ambitions.”

Bobby Kotick on the Importance of Connecting Gaming Communities

“Established and emerging competitors see the opportunities for virtual worlds filled with professionally produced content [connected with] user-generated content and rich social connections,” explains Activision CEO Bobby Kotick. So, connecting all of the gaming platforms could be the ultimate goal to benefit gamers around the globe. “The next step is to bring together communities with ambitions for their own gaming and metaverse initiatives,” says Kotick. Those communities include Facebook, NetEase, Apple, Sony, Google, Tencent, Disney, and Amazon. 

Activision Blizzard’s stable of popular games includes Crash Bandicoot, Candy Crush Saga, Overwatch, Sekiro, Diablo, Tony Hawk Pro Skater, and the successful multiplayer franchise games Call of Duty and World of Warcraft.

Source: TG Daily – Will Bobby Kotick’s Activision Blizzard Survive in the Metaverse?

Every major tech company has a largely unique partner program, and NVIDIA is no exception. Partners are critical to the operation of any company providing sales, installation, and service support, as well as dealing with most of the customers in countries where the vendor lacks its own sales or support structure. Partner events are designed to reassure loyalty, and get the partners fired up about selling new vendor products. Some of those events can get a tad out of hand, but it’s all in good fun. 

This month, NVIDIA had its big partner event where it recognized not only its top performers but those smaller companies growing at impressive rates. Partners can be very competitive, so a well-designed reward that conveys status and recognition can go a long way to ensuring a partner sells your products over your competitors.  

This year’s awards were focused on several of NVIDIA’s growth areas, including recommender systems, conversational AI, and Computer Vision.  

Let’s talk about these segments and who won.  

Why these segments are important

Recommender Systems, particularly for vendors with complex lines, like large companies that sell appliances, cars, or PCs. Recommender engines assure a prospective buyer is pushed to the product or products that will best fit their lifestyle and interests. These systems can significantly impact sales close rates either by assisting a sales rep to make a custom offer or for online services that do this automatically. Amazon, for instance, uses them aggressively. Facebook seems to use them as well but, at least with me, they clearly don’t know what I like, or they think I can be easily fooled by scams.  

Conversational AI has been used effectively in Telesales where current-generation conversational AIs regularly outperform people and have even been asked out on dates in the past. But these systems go beyond sales and can include customer interface and helplines, medical support lines, and potentially even emergency lines to make sure calls are picked up and questions answered quickly and correctly. These systems are likely how many of us will begin to form relationships with AIs, and while it is doubtful you can date them, because of their programming, they may be more concerned about what you need than many of your relatives.  

Computer Vision is critical to autonomous robot and car efforts, advanced security efforts, and in both military and law enforcement. This technology will eventually be key to creating realistic avatars, fully autonomous robots and cars that can safely operate around lots of people, and future efforts to improve your digital image and office automatically on a zoom call.  

When taken together, these three technologies form a foundation for the coming wave of autonomous machines interacting with people, the heart of the autonomous robotic movement. Clearly, assuring leadership in this emerging market was NVIDIA’s focus for this latest partner event.

Who won?

Here are the companies that won and what they do:

• Cambridge Computer – awarded 2021 Americas Higher Education Partner of the Year for its continued focus on the higher-ed market, resulting in broad growth across platforms and NVIDIA DGX AI infrastructure solutions. 
• CDW Canada – awarded 2021 Canadian Partner of the Year for fostering extensive growth of AI in the Canadian market through strategic collaboration with NVIDIA and customers.
• Colfax – awarded 2021 Americas Networking Partner of the Year for driving end-to-end NVIDIA AI solutions through a skilled team with robust resources, enabling the company to become a leader in the NVIDIA networking space across industries, including manufacturing, higher education, healthcare, and life sciences. 
• Deloitte Consulting – awarded 2021 Americas Global Consulting Partner of the Year for building specialized practices around Omniverse Enterprise, NVIDIA Metropolis, and new NVIDIA DGX-Ready Managed Services, plus adding the NVIDIA DGX POD to its Innovation Center.
• Future Tech – awarded 2021 Americas Public Sector Partner of the Year for leading the federal government through the world’s largest AI transformation. Future Tech is the first company to bring Omniverse Enterprise real-time 3D design collaboration and simulation to federal customers, helping to improve their workflows in the physical world. 
• Insight Enterprises – awarded 2021 Americas Software Partner of the Year for the second year in a row for broad collaboration with NVIDIA across AI, virtualization, and simulation software, with leadership in making continued investment in NVIDIA technology with proof-of-concept labs, NVIDIA certifications, sales, and technical training.
• Lambda  – awarded 2021 Americas Solution Integration Partner of the Year for the second consecutive year for its extensive expertise and commitment to providing the full NVIDIA portfolio with AI and deep learning hardware and software solutions across industries, including higher education and research, the federal and public sector, health and life sciences.
• Mark III – awarded 2021 Americas Rising Star Partner of the Year – a new category added to recognize growing excellence in innovation, go-to-market strategies, and growth in the AI business landscape. Mark III won for creatively setting the pace for NVIDIA partners as they guide clients toward architecting AI Centers of Excellence. 
• PNY – awarded 2021 Americas Distribution Partner of the Year for being a value-added partner and trusted advisor to the channel that has delivered NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platforms and software across the media and entertainment and healthcare industries, and many other vertical markets, as well as with cloud service providers.  
• Quantiphi – awarded 2021 Americas Service Delivery Partner of the Year for its diverse engineering services, application-first approach, and commitment to solving customer problems using NVIDIA DGX and software development kits, positioning itself to capitalize on the rapidly growing field of data science enablement services. 
• World Wide Technology – awarded 2021 Americas AI Solution Provider of the Year for its leadership and commitment in driving the adoption of the complete NVIDIA portfolio of AI and accelerated computing solutions, as well as continued investments in AI infrastructure for customer testing and labs in the WWT Advanced Technology Center.
• World Wide Technology – also named 2021 Americas Healthcare Partner of the Year for expertise in driving NVIDIA AI solutions and accelerated computing to healthcare and life sciences organizations, demonstrating strong capabilities in end-to-end scalable AI solutions and professional development to support biopharma, genomics, medical imaging and more.

I share NVIDIA’s congratulations for the awards winners.  

Wrapping up:

NVIDIA clearly focuses on the future and assures it not only has a seat at the coming autonomous machines revolution, but will hopefully go a bit differently than this one, and its partner event showcases that critical focus and interest.  The winning partners each stepped up to this critical challenge and performed well above average to their credit, becoming the superstars of NVIDIA’s channel and the champions of that coming robotic transformation. As we move forward to our ever more automated future, these are the companies that are stepping up the most to get that job done. 

Congratulations! Now, get back to sales so I can say nice things about you next year!

Source: TG Daily – NVIDIA Announces Partner Program Winners: Watch the Rising Stars

Prepaidify has adopted blockchain technology in their digital gift cards bringing together retail industries and cryptocurrency.

Anyone must have wondered at some point in their lives what role digital gift cards play within cryptocurrency. The crypto topic remains mind-boggling to most people while some companies are welcoming its concept. 

The gift card industry being one of them continues to embrace crypto as more programs and wallets that accept gift cards are being created. Prepaidify makes ownership of crypto gift cards possible.

Most people are clueless about this matter. However, this article is going to demystify how digital gift cards are becoming involved in cryptocurrency. Read along and be informed!

So, what is cryptocurrency?

Currency is the monetary system used in a particular country. Cryptocurrency, therefore, is a medium of exchange in virtual or digital form. It is decentralized as opposed to the centralized banking system. It uses blockchain technology to verify and secure transactions. 

Cryptocurrencies are emerging and growing every day and according to Forbes, there are 2,530 cryptocurrencies with a $123 billion value. The most popular crypto is Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin.

How do digital gift cards come into play?

Applications are starting to make capital of the interchangeability of crypto and digital gift cards. They interact in the following ways:

As Bitcoin gift card

This allows customers to offer Bitcoin gifts to people without fear of risk. It makes it easy for the average consumer to access it, making buying Bitcoin painless.

Payment option

Some programs like Swych, Gyft, and eGifter offer crypto as a payment option during the purchasing point. When checking out you will see this option among the payment methods like PayPal and card type.

Crypto wallets and apps

Various applications allow the cryptocurrency to be spent in online stores. Buyers can pay for products using crypto gift cards.

Advantages

• New consumers: Using crypto as a way of buying digital gift cards makes it accessible to new audiences or consumers.
• Multiple currencies with zero interchange fees: Using crypto to buy digital gift cards make it accessible to a worldwide audience with different currencies. This also means no interchange fees.
• Safer transaction: Most payment options like credit cards have reversible transactions while cryptocurrencies are irreversible. Upon confirmation of the transaction in the network, the transaction cannot be attacked or rolled back. This makes purchasing gift cards online safer.

Disadvantages

• Stage of growth: Crypto is in the early stages of development. No data exists as to how much crypto is being used for digital gift cards or cashed out. Some applications are recording constant cashouts which may not be much as compared to digital gift card programs.
• Fraud: Cyber security is on the rise in the digital age as cybercriminals steal crypto. Trust is bestowed on the security strength of your crypto of choice.

Conclusion

In summary, cryptocurrency is a new and somewhat hard topic to comprehend. There is so much to learn about it as it pops up in the gift cards arena. Gift cards like Prepaidify may help crypto holders to purchase in online retail stores around the globe in multiple currencies.

Source: TG Daily – Understanding Cryptocurrency Within Digital Gift Cards in Prepaidify

The European Union is proposing a ban on Russian coal in its fifth round of sanctions against the country.

Russia was the world’s third-largest exporter of coal in 2020, according to the IAEA.

The EU is also considering restrictions against its oil imports, but the trade bloc notably left natural gas out of the conversation. Europe has been moving away from coal to the cleaner natural gas for electricity generation.

The announcement came amid reports of Russian atrocities in Ukraine, accusing Russian forces of killing 300 civilians in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha over the weekend, which Ukraine says was a result of a military clash with the country’s troops and civilians. 

EU’s new Russia sanctions to likely include steel, luxury goods, jet fuel and more, sources say

However, the bloc remains divided over whether to extend those sanctions to energy imports.

Continue reading on CNBC

Europe is finally coming after Russia’s energy

European leaders have planned to phase out Russian coal imports in response to harrowing scenes in Bucha, a suburb of Kyiv.

Continue reading on CNN

France wants new sanctions against Russia after Bucha killings

French president says targeting the oil and coal industries would be particularly painful for sanctions-hit Russia.

Continue reading on

Source: TG Daily – EU Proposes Ban on Russian Coal Amid Ukraine War

Stress is part of our life, and each of us has a way on how to handle it. However, long battles of stress can begin to compound various health problems, which is why it is better to find healthy alternatives to reduce stress before it becomes harmful.

There are three proven ways to reduce stress: Meditation, Yoga, & Counseling.  

The first is meditation, which has been used for centuries as a way of relaxing the body while also calming your mind. When you are feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, it’s hard to make healthy decisions when you are feeling stressed out.  To lower anxiety levels by keeping blood flowing properly through one’s system- think of all good things…or even just doing some exercise!

Counselors can help those who suffer from high emotional tensions deal with issues, such as anger management or other mental health conditions discussions.

Let us Stress the Definition of “STRESS”

What does stress out mean? As you adjust to a continually changing environment, stress is the wear and tear on your body that leads to physical effects such as headaches and upset stomachs.

Emotional responses can also occur from too much pressure, which may result in feelings of anger resulting in health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

The interesting thing about stress is that it can have a positive or negative effect. And it depends on how you react to the situation.

If major events happen in life, such as losing someone close, getting engaged/ married, etc., then these will cause much more excitement than sadness which helps propel us forward into taking action.

Strategy #1: Meditation

Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, and its original purpose was to help people understand the forces that govern their lives more deeply.

These days, we use this quiet time as an opportunity not only to relax from daily stresses but also to tap into our inner wisdom so we can make better decisions about what matters most in life.

Meditation may be a great way for you to relax and relieve stress.

It has been shown in studies of people with cardiovascular disease, like cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments, that meditating regularly can help reduce their anxiety levels while also improving sleep patterns.

Meditation has been used as an effective way of calming the mind. It also increases physical and emotional well-being. This process enhances the quality of life for those who practice it regularly.

Different Types of Meditation

Meditation is a very popular way to achieve inner peace. There are many types of meditation and relaxation techniques that can be used for various purposes, like stress relief. But they all share the same goal: achieving tranquility within yourself by any means necessary.

Ways to meditate can include:

●   Guided meditation- Guided imagery or visualization is a type of meditation in which you form mental images and try to use all senses. You could be led through this process by your guide, teacher, or even self-talkers that encourage positive thinking.

●   Mantra meditation. When you meditate in this way, your thoughts are prevented from distracting by repeating a calming word or phrase.

●   Mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation is an ancient technique that was used to help people transition into a mindful state of mind.

This type of practice helps you become more accepting and aware of the present moment by focusing on your breathing or other sensations, such as pain if desired). You can observe those thoughts & emotions without judgment.

●   Qi gong. Qi gong is an ancient Chinese healing art that helps you to restore and maintain your balance. The practice generally combines meditation relaxation exercises for the body, including movement with breathing techniques.

●   Tai chi. Tai chi is a form of slow, flowing martial arts that can be calming to practice. The movements are gentle and forgiving while also teaching deep breathing techniques which help you remain calm in stressful situations.

●   Transcendental Meditation. The Transcendental Meditation technique is a simple, natural way to achieve inner peace. In this practice, you repeat the word or sound of your choosing in an easy-to-follow manner, which may lead not only towards relaxation but also higher levels of understanding.

Strategy #2: Yoga

80-90% of medical visits are stress-related, but only 3% of doctors talk to patients about how they can reduce their levels.

Yoga and meditation train your body-mind for better coping with the everyday hustle, so you have an easier time managing life’s challenges while improving overall health.

Yoga is not just a great way to relieve stress but also has powerful effects on your physical and mental health.

The main concept in yoga which helps you get rid of accumulated surplus energy called “stress,” can be relieved by being mindful while doing poses, such as downward dogs or prancing posse movements across the mat throughout practice sessions.

The practice of mindfulness allows one to focus less on their inner thoughts and more on the present moment. It can lead you into a state where your self-judgemental feelings are reduced significantly.

Yoga is a system designed to help you establish balance in your life. The practice affects the physical and mental planes, thus improving overall well-being by correcting imbalances that may exist within each domain individually and across these two aspects simultaneously.

Yoga is an excellent form of exercise that can improve your balance, flexibility, and focus. It helps you become more aware of how much tension there might be in certain parts so that it can hopefully help release some by practicing yoga.

Yoga not only trains your body but also trains the mind to handle stress. With regular yoga practice, you will find less chronic daytime stress hormone levels and higher heart rate variability in those who do therapeutic exercises often.

Strategy #3: Counselling

The effects of stress on the body are devastating. It can lead to addiction, chronic illness or pain, and lack of pleasure – all of which affect our well-being negatively when left untreated.

You don’t need to suffer in silence. There are many ways for professionals, including health care providers and mental coaches who will be able to work with you to treat your stress symptoms – without any long-term effects or consequences.

Therapy is an effective way to address the stress from life events such as divorce or a life-altering medical issue.

When it comes time for you and your loved ones to deal with these concerns, therapy can offer invaluable assistance by helping people explore their options to find solutions they may not have thought about otherwise. All while reducing overall levels of tension within any given relationship.

Take The Edge Off

With the demands of modern life, many people are struggling with their mental health. The good news? There is a way for you to manage your symptoms and live an active lifestyle.

Being stressed out is one way of proving that we are humans, and it is one way for us to learn essential life lessons. These three strategies are one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and help you calm your mind.

However, most people experiencing stress are busy individuals who do not have the time to do these time-consuming things. Don’t fret because, with a vagus nerve stimulation device, you can alleviate stress, boost sleep, and improve focus. Making your daily life productive and healthy.

Written by Barbara McGee

Source: TG Daily – Stressed Out? 3 Simple Proven Strategies to Prevent It

When Mark Zuckerberg announced in October 2021 that Facebook was rebranding all its apps and technologies under the new name Meta, it brought heightened interest to a concept even those in the digital world struggle to explain – the metaverse.

The term “metaverse” isn’t that new. First coined in the 1992 science fiction novel Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson, it was used to describe a 3D virtual space where avatars and software agents interact. Today, the metaverse is being touted as the future of the internet, loosely coined Web 3.0, with the intent of transforming education, industries, and financial institutions. But defining it in a way we mere mortals can understand, is proving tricky.

In February 2022, Alex Kipman, Vice President of Artificial Intelligence and Mixed Reality at Microsoft and the man behind the company’s Hololens, spoke at the “Future Talks” series at Dubai’s Museum of the Future. 

“It [the metaverse] is the idea of correspondence between the real and virtual world. It’s the idea of technology existing in the real world. It’s a bridge between the virtual and the real world. This is done through the language of people, places, and things. It can displace space and time,” Kipman told the audience at his “Mixed Realities and Metaverse” talk. He added that the concept is no longer that of science fiction but instead “science fact.”

Today, digital giants like Meta and Microsoft are ploughing funds into developing this next version of the internet. In January 2022, Microsoft announced it was buying video game maker Activision Blizzard for $75 billion USD, in a move the company said would help to “power its move into the metaverse.”

In a recent interview with Richard Waters of the Financial Times, Satya Nadella, executive chairman and CEO of Microsoft, explained, “Metaverse is essentially about creating games. It’s about being able to put people, places, things [in] a physics engine and then having all the people, places, things in the physics engine relate to each other. You and I will be sitting at a conference room table soon with either our avatars or our holograms or even 2D surfaces with surround audio. Guess what? The place where we have been doing that forever… is gaming.”

So is the metaverse really defining a new standard for social inclusion at a digital scale? 

As the general population becomes more aware of the metaverse and its place in the future, the question regarding inclusivity begins to pop up. While many might think this refers to representation (gender, race, disabilities, etc) within the digital world, there’s another definition this must also encompass – inclusivity of users and their ability to access the technology. Not everyone will have a VR headset, or the computing power necessary to access these new digital worlds.

This begs the question: how do creators ensure the metaverse is truly open to the masses?

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has been a vocal proponent of the metaverse and its need to be accessible across different platforms. In November 2021 he told CNN Business about the future he envisions for the metaverse.

“I think it will take a decade or more to really get to the endpoint, but I think that is happening. And it will be a better online experience than we’re having today. It will succeed because it’s better. The metaverse doesn’t require fancy new hardware. It doesn’t require all that reality hardware or [virtual reality] or things that haven’t been invented yet. You can get online and start experiencing this right now.”

Examples of this “get online and experience it now” can already be seen. From Epic’s Fortnite hosting a Travis Scott concert in 2020 with over 12 million players attending, to the virtual Australian Pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai leading countries by attracting an astounding 30 million online attendees from around the globe (on top of the over 1 million in-person attendees hosted at the physical pavilion), virtual experiences, conferences, and events are increasingly becoming more than a futuristic dream.

Experiences are exactly what creators are looking to enhance in the future. Digital technologies and the companies powering them are in high demand. But the key to success in this evolving market will be tapping into this idea of an open metaverse, where everyone, from everywhere, has access. Virtuworx is one metaverse platform rethinking radical inclusion within its platform.

Powered by UK-based The Virtulab, Virtuworx was originally created as an in-house training solution to facilitate remote training of oil and gas engineers. During the pandemic, the company, which is part of the CG Tech Group, saw an opportunity to share the technology they were harnessing with the broader public. Today, Virtuworx has hosted a variety of virtual events and campuses for the likes of TEDx Lytellton, Womanomics, and Idna Africa and even hosted the president of South Africa during an immersive event.

“The hybrid working model is something we are definitely going to see as standard in the future,” says CG Tech Chairman Niall Carroll. “Therefore, it’s important to give people options and ways to meaningfully connect and collaborate.”

With an understanding that technology is key to productivity in the future, Virtuworx has developed two models of connection to help users access a more personalized experience. Immerse provides a 3D virtual reality experience that requires a PC and a download file. Here, your digital avatar moves around a virtual world, much like it would in real life. Whereas, Connect is a version of the same platform that offers on-the-go access for those with a phone.

“We’ve even integrated ZOOM and Microsoft Teams into the Virtuworx platform to help users further enhance their remote encounters,” explains David Cummins, Executive Director of The Virtulab.

Inclusivity was key for Virtuworx designers, understanding the importance of providing an experience that translates for those in-person, on-the-go, and those who want the full VR environment.

“We understand the importance of people being seen and heard,” explains Jason English, Chief Ecosystem Officer at CG Tech. “With Virtuworx we wanted to make sure teams and even those outside their ecosystem were able to share in a common experience. Whether it’s a business meeting, conference, or live event, you want people to feel included and to enjoy the experience, as if they were physically present.”

As the race to own the metaverse heats up, inclusivity looks set to be the driving force in implementing widespread adoption. With cross-platform connectivity and a mix of experiences setting the standard for big tech companies set to dominate the sector in the future. 

Source: TG Daily – Inclusivity Key to Widespread Metaverse Adoption

HONG KONG, April 2022- Artists Jieying Li and Guillermo Fajardo are set to launch their iconic South American deity figures as NFT collectibles – “Wacky Gods” – powered by CrossVerse, which is an innovative platform by Cross Studio Asia. Li & Fajardo aim to infuse the meme-driven NFT space with a collection that is at once culturally significant, artistically masterful, and socially resonant. 

The Wacky Gods are NFT versions of the figures Li & Fajardo originally crafted from South American festival day deities, updated with a sense of cultural fusion reflective of the artists’ backgrounds. Unlike a traditional god who judges us from the sky, the Wacky Gods have returned to earth to help us celebrate modern life and are just as quirky and up-to-date as the digital generation. They are also endowed with unique designs and personalities deeply significant to Li and Fajardo, making the Wacky Gods truly artistic collectibles and unlike other meme-driver NFT projects in the market. 

“We selected our favorite creations, and gave them personalities resonant with the festival day functions of our earlier series,” says Fajardo. “Lil’ Shiva, for example, has returned to earth as a raver, dedicated to urban music, dancing, and partying.” 

“The Wacky Gods are here not just to celebrate life as we know it, but also empower us to change the world for the better. Dragon the Eco-King is the God of Yogis. He’s a vegan who protests against polluting corporations, and his style is a blend of classic Chinese dragon design with pre-Columbian color schemes.” says Li. After meeting Fajardo in university, Li teamed with him to create their studio Jumping Lomo, holding their first exhibition in 2013. “The studio name itself speaks to a classic Peruvian-Chinese fusion dish. That fusion carries over to the studio’s work, and the Wacky Gods,“ says Li.

The Wacky Gods are not only artistically but culturally unique, revisiting earth to help believers celebrate their own diversity, embrace the quirkiness of 21^st century culture, and change the world for the better. To preserve that uniqueness and rarity, Cross Studio founder Ken Wong and his team decides to empower a “Wacky Tribe”. Collectors, or “Wackies”, will have access to mystery boxes during sale, revealing NFTs of differing rarity. 

After the sale ends and the characters in the boxes are revealed, holders will be assigned special roles in their Wacky Tribes, getting special access to games, competitions, online events, talks with the artists, and more. “We want to emphasize the unique cultural significance of this NFT Collection,” says Wong, “and will leverage all our Cross Studio resources, as well as our world-class tech proficiency.” 

About Jumping Lomo

Jumping Lomo is Jieying Li (Guangzhou, China) and Guillermo Fajardo (Lima, Peru), two artists who decided to officially join forces in 2013 as a design and art studio.

The duo started to work together back in 2010, when they designed and developed their first characters as rag dolls for their screen-printing class in the Faculty of Arts at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú.

Their first solo show was presented 3 years later, called “Los Patroncitos”, at Galería Indigo, with art-toy-influenced sculptures and paintings inspired by several Patron Saint Festivals around Peru. Since then, Jieying and Guillermo have been expanding the imagination of their universe by getting inspiration from their own contrasting heritages and pop culture across the world. Jumping Lomo has participated in different fairs and art collectives such as ArtLima, CasaCor, Beijing Toy Show, Expo-Deco, and Casa Perú, among others. They have also collaborated with different brands such as Absolut Vodka, Monskey Maniacs, and Great Twins.

In 2019, the duo presented their latest solo show “The Awakening of Wiracocha” at Galeria Indigo, where the pluricultural heritage of Peru continues to be used as a tool for preservation and evolution, which transmits and connects different generations with art, crafts, symbology, and ancestral worldview.

🌐 https://www.jumpinglomo.pe/         
@jumping.lomo

About CrossVerse

Cross Studio Asia is leveraging its artistic and design strengths by building Crossverse, a unique NFT platform that will empower artists and brands to easily launch and sell their NFTs, and their fans to purchase and resell them. CrossVerse will specialize in helping fashion & lifestyle brands to seamlessly extend their intellectual property into the burgeoning Metaverse.

🌐 http://crossverse.io/

About Cross Studio 

Cross Studio is a platform to bring new artists from the West to Asia through all forms of art products and exhibitions since 2016. It is committed to introducing art into China via more diverse forms, and we work with a number of artists to bring new cutting-edge art through forms of exhibition and limited product collaboration so that more people can learn and appreciate their artwork.

‍Cross Studio also devotes to designing, developing, and producing high quality and highly detailed collectibles and special limited-edition products with the artists.

🌐 https://www.crossstudio.asia/
@cross.studio.asia

For more press information, please contact: 
Gina Wu | gina.wu@crossstudio.asia; Anita Hu | anita.hu@crossstudio.asia

Source: TG Daily – For Pervian-Chinese Artists’ NFT Gods, Heaven Is A Place On Earth 

Data, the omnipresent and omnipotent commodity in today’s world, has infinite value if one knows how to harness its power. With every person creating 1.7 MB of data per second, collectively, we produce over 2.5 quintillion data bytes every day. Everything we do, from browsing social media and visiting websites to viewing ads and making a purchase online, we create quintillions of data bytes every day. This data reflects who we are, how we think, and how we behave as individuals.

Businesses, both big and small, have realized the potential of such data and are trying to leverage this resource to gain insights into the preferences of their target customers. In addition, knowledge of this data helps create a competitive advantage. Here is where web analytics plays a significant role.

Four reasons why web analytics is essential for your business

In modern digital marketing, web and social media analytics is a proficient and valuable tool for businesses to leverage data and use it to create a customized product strategy and marketing plan that captures the interest of the target audience. These analytics provide a wealth of data for businesses to succeed online. Let’s take a look at some benefits of web and social media analytics:

Get a sneak-peek into the minds of customers:

Web and social media analytics offer unique insights into the minds of your customers and allow you to understand what makes them tick. You can use these insights to identify potential business opportunities and build new products (or services) to stand out among competitors.

Drive strategy: 

Insights from web analytics can help businesses drive both marketing and pricing strategy by creating a marketing message and product offering tailored to the needs of your target customers. This way, you can build a loyal customer base that will advocate for your company, creating brand awareness and a strong brand image.

Improve user experience:

 Web and social media analytics allow you to understand the experience users have while interacting with your website and brand online. These insights are critical to ensuring that the customers are satisfied with your online presence and tweak the aspects that are causing them dissatisfaction.

Optimize costs and maximize revenue: 

Web analytics lets you know which aspects of your strategy work and which parts you need to tweak (or get rid of). This includes your product offerings and marketing campaigns. You can stop investing resources in the aspects that are not working out and instead focus on those that meet customer expectations.

The ease of accessing data is transforming businesses, industries, and economies. Armed with the right technology and tools, such as web analytics, organizations can ensure positive outcomes in the form of improved productivity and efficiency, better decision-making, and increased revenue.

Key takeaways

Be sure to choose a web analytics platform that complements your business and does not require the technical implementation or tools that you lack. Study the market and figure out what your competitors are using. Define the key performance indicators and metrics that you want to track to improve your business, identify your target audience, and increase profits. Before finalizing a platform, take the time to understand what parameters best fit your business requirements.

You can also hire experts who offer tailor-made web analytics solutions for your business without having to invest in resources, experience, and in-house expertise. With services such as web and social reporting, automated web analytics solutions, and predictive analysis solutions, you can optimize digital assets to serve consumers better and improve customer satisfaction while optimizing costs.

Web analytics solutions have become an integral part of business as we transition towards a more digital business ecosystem. But the bigger question is whether you’re prepared to harness the power of the web through analytics.

Written by Scott Weathers

Source: TG Daily – Web Analytics: Harness The Power Of Data To Build A Successful Business

Out of 195 countries all over the world, it’s understandable why you may be finding it hard to choose a country to move into. This is most especially if you plan on staying there permanently or just for a long time.

Your new country will be your home, the location of your work and/or business, and that is also where you will find new friends. Easy to say, the country that you will choose will play a big part in how your life will turn out.

That said, it’s just right that you put a lot of thought into choosing where you will migrate. To help you with this, we have provided some pointers that you can go through in the following sections.

1. Take the Language and Cultural Barrier into Account

If you want a country that you can easily settle into once you land, then one of the first things that you should look at is the possible language and cultural barrier between you and the country.

As a rule of thumb, if you already know how to communicate in English, you can already live in more than 50 countries, hence your best option. If you want to start learning, then you might as well start with the said universal language.

You should also consider the existing culture of a certain country if you find it particularly hard to adjust to extreme changes. Each country has its own, so when choosing, you can consider those with similar beliefs as your own home country.

2. Consider Ease of Acquiring Citizenships

If you plan on acquiring citizenship from the country you’ll move to in the future, then you should also take their requirements into account. See if the whole process will come off significantly easier than others, and decide from there.

For recommendations, Canada, Peru, and Argentina are some of the countries that top the ranks when it comes to citizenship generosity.

Apart from checking citizenship requirements, make sure to also check the availability and ease of applying for a visa. This is most especially if you will be getting a rather complex type, such as a visa for family members, sponsors, and likes.

3. Figure Out Which Country Will Serve Best for Your Future Plans

Each country has its own field that it excels in. Some take pride in their workforce, others prioritize their business centers, and some focus on their people’s benefits and wellbeing.

That said, it’s just right that you figure out your plans and decide on a country that has the best offers according to your needs. You can easily know which one it is with just a few taps on your keyboard. Don’t forget to specify the search for immigrant-specialized benefits, so you can land accurate results. Talking to locals and fellow immigrants in a certain country will also help you have a more precise answer to your questions. Seeking help with immigration will help you too as professionals can give you better advice in terms of moving from your comfort zone to another country. 

4. Take How the Country Treats Immigrants Into Account

No matter how good a country is, it won’t be a good choice if it doesn’t treat immigrants well. This applies to all aspects, specifically their people, amendments, and overall treatment. You have to make sure that you won’t have to face issues like discrimination, loss of opportunities, peace-deprived life, and likes.

Another thing, you should check if a country has specific laws that protect expats like you from the issues we talked about previously. This is where a lawyer or any legal professional will come in handy.

5. Make a Checklist of All Your Needs and Preferences

Since figuring out if a country will be able to cater to both your needs and wants, consider making a checklist consisting of all the things and qualities that you’re looking for in a country. You can do this way before you screen every country that you’re looking into, so you can have a clear view of which one passes your standards and which ones don’t.

Summary

To sum it up, you need to have a clear view of your wants and needs before finalizing the country that you want to move to. You should also take the suggestions of the people that you will be moving with into account.

Note, though, that your responsibility doesn’t stop by just choosing one country. You still have to process your travel documents, such as your passport, visa, entry requirements, and likes, in your local immigration office. Make sure to work with a professional immigration lawyer throughout the process, so you can ensure that you won’t be able to skip a step in your migration needs.

Written by Lara Harper

Source: TG Daily – How to Choose a Country When Moving Abroad

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said in an address on Thursday that people in Afghanistan are “selling their children and their body parts” to provide for their families amid the country’s near economic collapse.

“Without immediate action, we face a starvation and malnutrition crisis in Afghanistan,” he said in remarks delivered in New York.

The need for humanitarian aid has tripled since June — just before the takeover — and is increasing “day by day and month by month,’ he said.

The United Nations warned in September that millions of Afghans were at risk of starvation after Kabul was overtaken by the Taliban in August, the United Nations had warned that 97 percent of people in the country could be living below the poverty line by mid-2022.

Earlier this month, Taliban leaders in Afghanistan closed secondary schools to girls, alleging that they would reopen when there is a plan in place that is compliant with Islamic law.

Afghan people selling children, body parts amid economic crisis

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in an address on Thursday that people in Afghanistan are selling their children and their body parts to provide for their families amid the

Continue reading on The Hill

UN: Afghans need $4.4bn to have enough to eat

UN head called for donations to stave off a crisis as he launched the UN’s biggest ever single-country funding drive.

Continue reading on

UN donor conference falls billions short of $4.4bn target to help Afghanistan

Conference raises only $2.44bn as Russian foreign minister says west is responsible for country’s humanitarian crisis

Continue reading on the Guardian

Source: TG Daily – Economic Crisis Forces Afghan People To Sell Children, Body Parts

So you’ve been smart, setting aside money for savings and investments over the years. But when the stock market hits the roller coaster, you may be among the many looking for somewhere to put some money that isn’t so reliant on the whims of Wall Street and conflicts half a world away. 

That’s where alternative investments come in. We’re taking a closer look at these less common places to put your money and how they can help diversify your assets.

What is an Alternative Investment?

There’s no “official” definition of an alternative investment. It’s generally used to refer to any sort of investable asset beyond the traditional stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other common financial products. 

Alternative investments may be physical objects you can touch and see or exist only on paper or in cyberspace. Their primary goal is to offer diversification to a well-rounded portfolio – in other words, assets that don’t necessarily lose value as the stock and bond market goes down or gain value as it goes up.

Why Should I Diversify?

You know the old saying about not putting all your eggs in one basket? That’s especially true when it comes to your investments. 

The best performing portfolios over the long run contain a diverse mix of assets, from stocks and mutual funds to bonds, CDs, annuities, and of course, alternative investments. That way, you should be assured some protection even if certain assets don’t grow as you expect. Smart diversification is the key to safeguarding your portfolio from things outside your control – a financial crisis, a war, a real estate crash, and more situations than you can imagine.

6 Best Alternative Investments To Diversify Your Assets

Now that you understand what alternative investments are and why they’re so valuable, you may ask which are the best choices. As always, your personal financial situation will dictate a great deal about your best investment choices. But these six options are among the best choices for investors.

Real Estate

Real estate is a physical asset and, in most cases, has value whether or not you plan on selling it at a given moment. Real estate can produce income and serve as a hedge against inflation, especially when financed with a mortgage. It’s one of the most common alternative investments because almost everyone understands it in some capacity. 

Your home may count as a real estate investment in some cases; you may operate real estate as a rental property, lease it for agricultural use, or any other number of things. Real estate’s ability to be tailored to your needs is one of the reasons it’s such a popular choice.

Cryptocurrency

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years, you’ve likely heard something about cryptocurrency, or ‘crypto.’ The biggest and most widespread of these is Bitcoin, though in the decade or so since it was introduced, literally dozens of others have sprung up. The most well-known competitors include Ethereum and Litecoin, among many more. 

Cryptocurrencies use technologies like the blockchain and smart contracts to offer a decentralized financial network, theoretically separate from any ‘normal’ currency. While many approach cryptocurrency as pure speculation, it can also serve as a hedge on U.S. dollars or other currency as well as a forward-looking investment.

Commodities

This can refer to a broad group of alternative investments, from the physical to the purely financial. Commodities investors can invest in options or contracts involving the price of everything from wheat to oil or buy physical commodities like gold or other precious metals to store themselves. 

Certain commodities, particularly gold and oil, have historical relationships to other investments or stores of value like the stock market or the U.S. dollar. Investing in commodities can offer the opportunity for speculative gains, income, and a hedge of value – sometimes all at once!

Art and Collectibles

Everyone knows art can be valuable. Still, few consider its potential as one of the best alternative investments. Pieces of art have sold for nearly half a billion dollars, while anyone who’s ever been to an antique or other collectible store knows how valuable certain items can be, from vintage clothes to comic books. 

The best part of investing in collectibles is that many of us already have some knowledge about some field of interest that can help us get started finding the perfect investment item. Concerned about the price of investable artworks? There are now numerous funds or other investment vehicles designed to help you own a piece of work without paying the entire cost or taking physical possession.

Private Equity/Venture Capital

For high net-worth individuals, investing can become a challenge as they seek to make the most of their money. One method that has exploded in popularity in recent decades is private equity and venture capital. Either on their own or with the help of a firm, private equity allows investors to fund typically the early stages of a promising company in the hopes that they’ll be richly rewarded when the company or product makes it big. 

This isn’t an option for every investor, not only because of the high amount of capital and connections required but also the risk tolerance. While you might make it big, you might also lose it all, and therefore private equity and venture capital should be avoided by all but sophisticated, high net-worth investors.

Hedge Funds

Everything said above about private equity goes for hedge funds, as well. You’ll need a hefty amount of capital and likely some connections to get involved with a hedge fund. On the one hand, hedge funds can offer innovative investment strategies from the industry’s top minds, offering incredible returns. 

On the other hand, they can be high risk with a chance of losses, as well as come with high fees that can eat into your gains. Consider this option carefully if presented with it, but exercise caution.

Dive Into Alternative Investments

Whether you’re looking for a way to explosively grow your wealth or safeguard the assets you already have, alternative investments are a key part of any diversified portfolio. Keep these options in mind, and you may find your investment goals closer than ever!

Source: TG Daily – 6 Types of Alternative Investments To Diversify Your Assets

An order of protection against you is a legal court’s method of limiting your ways of living and talking. When one is taken out on you, you are bound to act specifically around the person who took out the order. The specific order may restrict the victim from portrayals of violence, even in passion around the person who took out the order or other people they are surrounded and connected by. This court order is often bound by a specific date, although it can also be expunged. Only after the order is no longer valid can the person affected by it act and talk freely while keeping in line with the existing laws.

Explanation of the Order

An order of protection may vary from person to person, depending on the circumstances of each case. Although the overall purpose of an order is to protect a person who faces harassment, violent behavior, domestic violence, and abuse, it also covers the cases wherein a person is stalked or threatened by someone. The purpose of this court-declared order is to prevent the protected person from being subjected to any harassment or abuse while the order stands. During this time, the order also guarantees that the victim does not have to deal with the target. Even if circumstances occur where the two will have to meet, the order ensures that the interaction is safe and peaceful.

The Consequences of the Order

While the order stands, it protects not only the person who took out the order but also the people surrounded by said person. This ensures that the safety of the protected one’s extended family, children, grandchildren, and close friends are not compromised. The order can last for as long as two years. The details of the order can vary from victim to victim, so the restrictions set by the court may be so grave that the target might not even be able to send messages or stay in touch with their friends and family. The target sometimes also has to maintain a certain amount of physical distance, which may occasionally affect the living situation of the affected person, especially in cases where both the victim and the target live together. In such cases, the target might be required to leave the house. 

The target is not allowed to carry any weapons, and the order may make a huge impact on their activities as well such as daily habits and hobbies. It can also end up revoking the visa and green card of a non-citizen target.

Fighting against the Order

Since the order can make an enormous effect on the target’s life, one should always consider fighting against the order. As criminal defense lawyer Omeed Berenjian of BK Law Group says, “an order of protection may dictate the personal and community relations of the affected person. For that reason, it is important for an affected party to speak with a lawyer to ensure that all of the general procedures are followed.”

The procedure of fighting against the order includes hiring a lawyer and negating the evidence of the victim by presenting proof of the target being innocent. The evidence can either be witnesses of the instance of attack or other people who can assure that the target does not have violent behavior.

In the end, the affected person would have to explain the whole scenario which resulted in the order of protection, while also mentioning the negative effects of the order on his or her life. The correct evidence and the right reasons can result in the cancellation of the order.

Source: TG Daily – The Order of Protection

Biking has always been a popular way to get outside and exercise. During the pandemic, many cyclists were seen hitting the road. But cycling on the roads with heavy vehicles and speedy traffic is always difficult and requires a lot of precautions and safety measures. Adherence to these safety measures is crucial when it comes to biking. An average of two percent of crashes each year involve bicycles, And as many as around 843 dead cyclists were reported in 2019 alone. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect yourself from dangerous interactions with other vehicles on the road while cycling.

Stick to Bike lanes

Protected bike lanes make the road safer for both cyclists and car drivers. As bicycles are also vehicles, the same road rules apply to them as any other vehicle. This means following all traffic signs like halting at a red light, signaling turns, and riding in the bike lanes along with other traffic. Different states have different laws for cyclists, so one should know and follow them.

What Statistics show

According to the statistics, most of the accidents reported involved men and occurred in the evening resulting from peak traffic hours and lower visibility. Women are less affected because they seem to follow bike lanes more often than men. The number of deaths among cyclists 20 years and above has tripled since 1975, which is alarming.  

“Biking can very easily turn dangerous, as a bike is much less safe and less protected in comparison to cars on the road. Following bike safety tips and wearing good safety gear can protect you and your loved ones from injury.” Says personal injury lawyer Charles Boyk, of Charles E. Boyk Law Offices LLC. 

Safety measures to follow

Following some safety measures can help you ride safely and prevent accidents. First, your bike must have proper lights. Ideally, white light in front and a red light at the back. But if there are low light conditions and you need to increase your visibility, you can add battery-powered or rechargeable lights or reflective strips to your bike frame or wheels. You can also use reflective clothing and backpacks to make yourself fully visible to other vehicles on the road.

Wearing a helmet is the most important protection while biking. Out of 843 reported deaths in 2019, only 127 wore helmets while the other 520 did not. This shows wearing a helmet can save you from fatal injuries. In some states, helmets are also required per law for children under 18.

As for alcohol, the same rule applies to bikers, do not drink while riding. About 21 percent of cyclists 16 and older who died in 2019 had alcohol concentration in their blood at or above 0.08 percent.

Driving predictably is very important. This means to stay focused on your route, stay in your lane, use appropriate hand signaling while taking turns. Always remain on high alert and don’t panic.

Avoiding parked cars is as important as preventing moving traffic. The term “doored” is used for cyclists hit by doors of parked vehicles that opened suddenly without checking the cyclist. This may result in a severe injury; that’s why it is essential to drive a few feet away from the parallel parked cars.

Sudden stopping and slowing of cars are also a cause of accidents. Thirty-five percent of accidents occur at intersections. Sometimes while you are riding in your bike lane, some panicked car driver can enter your lane unpredictably. Therefore it is important to stay focused all the time while driving. 

If at some point you are feeling not well it is ok to stop by and relax for some time. Focus on your route, don’t panic, choose an alternate route if not feeling comfortable.

Follow these simple steps to protect yourself and avoid dangerous interactions with other vehicles on the road when you mount your pedal-powered vehicle. Stay safe and enjoy your ride. 

Source: TG Daily – Biking tips to increase safety while on the road

Personal injury lawsuits usually arise when a person suffers from an injury or accident due to the fault of another person. The individual who causes the accident is legally liable for the harm inflicted on the other person. In such cases, the responsible person’s insurance company will have to pay for the victim’s medical expenses and other ongoing medical bills. 

Personal injuries and their compensation typically vary from one person to another depending on the injury’s circumstances. Similarly, Indiana has its injury lawsuit process, which is different from those living in other states. 

 “To fully establish who is legally at fault in cases of dispute or personal injuries, a lawsuit needs to be filed”, says attorney Michael McCready of McCready Law. This article is a guide to Indiana personal injury lawsuits, their elements, time limitations, damages, and compensation. 

Things you should know about an Indiana Personal Injury Lawsuit 

Before filing a personal injury lawsuit in Indiana, you should be familiar with certain provisions made by the law including:

#1. Time Limitation 

Time limitation is also known as the “statute of limitations.” It is the amount of time given for a person to file a lawsuit after an accident has taken place. The Indiana personal injury lawsuits statute of limitations extends the timing for filing a lawsuit to two years.

However, there are certain exceptions to these time limitations on personal injuries in Indiana, such as in cases of medical malpractice or any other specific claims. In such cases, your time limitation begins upon your discovery of the injury. 

An example could be when a person suffers an injury and discovers after a series of medical treatments that the injury was due to another’s negligence. With the help of a personal injury attorney, the injured person can build and establish a case based on time limitations. 

For claimants filing a claim against a city or county, the time limit is usually 180 days. Where the defendant is a state government agency, the limit is extended to 270 days. If a claimant fails to file a claim before the time limitation lapses, they stand the chance of losing their case. 

#2. Comparative Fault for Personal Injury Claims

A comparative fault lawsuit in Indiana is filed in cases where an injured person is partially responsible for the incident leading to the injury. In such cases, the victim must be less than 50 percent at fault for the accident caused to file the suit successfully. The purpose of the comparative lawsuit is to reduce and even eliminate the degree of damages on the injured person. 

An example could be in a car accident case if your car brake fails and hits a person’s personal property, and you are then given a fine of $10,000. However, you later discover that the cause of the accident was that the driver tampered with your car brake while parking it. 

During the lawsuit, if the jury determines that the driver is 80 percent at fault for mishandling your brake and you are 10 percent at fault for negligence, you can recover your award by 10 percent. If your jury discovers that you are more than 50 percent at fault due to negligence over a long period, then this lawsuit fails, and you cannot apply for damages. 

#3. Liability for Cases of Dog Bite/Attack

The court will rule off a dog as not being dangerous in cases where it injured someone for the first time. Here, the dog owners enjoy protection from injury liability. In Indiana, this liability is usually referred to as the “one bite” rule.

The Indiana Code 15-20-1-3 provides for strict liability by the dog owners. Where a dog bites a person on public property without provocation, or on private property without the victim trespassing, the owner of the dog is liable for all damages suffered by the person bitten. The owner would then be required to pay compensation to the victim.

#4. Punitive Damages 

A lawsuit on punitive damages in Indiana is created to punish the person who committed the crime and has no intention to compensate the victim for the crime. The person who committed the crime must be highly responsible for the crime. In such cases, the plaintiff keeps 25 percent of the damages award, and the remaining 75 percent goes to the Violent Crime Victim Compensation Funds.

Elements of a Personal Injury Case

Certain elements must be in place before claimants can file for a personal injury Lawsuit in Indiana. These elements include: 

• Duty to exercise reasonable care: There is a duty to exercise reasonable care, and this duty is usually owed to the victim by the person at fault. The obligation to exercise reasonable care is typically easy to establish if the victim is in the same environment as the person at fault. 
• Failure to exercise reasonable care: The victim has to prove that the person at fault failed in their duty to exercise reasonable care. In such cases, even if the victim is partially at fault, the other party will still be held liable for negligence. 
• That there was causation: Causation is another element that has to be in a personal injury case. Here, the victim proves that the defendant’s failure to exercise reasonable care is the actual cause of the injury. The person at fault contributed to the accident. However, if the victim has a hand in the accident, it may reduce the amount to pay as damages. It is the responsibility of the person accused to prove that the victim is responsible for the accident. 
• That the Victim Suffered Actual Damage: The victim may need to prove that as a result of the other elements, the victim suffered actual damages from the accused. The case is usually filed to compensate the victim for the injury caused to himself or his property.

Conclusion 

Individuals affected by personal injury cases in Indiana can decide whether to settle in or outside the court. It is, however, essential to have background knowledge of how these types of cases work. However, speaking with a knowledgeable attorney can make a difference in your case.

Source: TG Daily – Indiana Personal Injury Lawsuit

Increased demand for products and goods has driven people and businesses to expand their production and storage capacities. As a result, the warehousing sector has seen significant growth in employment, with over 1.3 million employees working in the industry. 

Experts predict that this number will reach 2 million by 2030. The warehousing industry is a relatively dangerous place to work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, warehouse accidents accounted for eight percent of all the nonfatal injuries and illnesses reported in 2019.

Falling Objects, and Slips and Fall

Falling objects resulting from collapsing pallet racks are among the most prevalent warehouse accidents. These accidents are particularly dangerous if pallets are stacked improperly or are relatively high. 

One way of minimizing falling object accidents is building steady racks by putting bulky items at the base and ensuring that items with cylindrical surfaces are stored and moved with the flat side facing down.

Slip, trip, and fall accidents are also pretty common in warehouses and are responsible for approximately 12 percent of all workplace accidents. These accidents are usually caused by oil and water spills or obstacles on the warehouse floor. 

Warehouses can minimize slip and fall accidents by keeping the warehouse floor clean, dry, free of debris or potholes, and ensuring that warehouse workers are equipped with non-slip shoes.

Forklift Accidents and Overexertion Injuries

Another common accident in warehouses is forklift accidents. These accidents can be prevented by adequately training operators and ensuring that the forklifts are in their perfect working condition. 

Other safety practices include:

• Maintaining reasonable speed.
• Keeping the headlights on in areas with low visibility.
• Carrying the recommended weight.
• Using the horn where needed. 

Due to the nature of work in warehouses, injuries resulting from overexertion and repetitive movements such as strains and sprains, back pains, and other musculoskeletal illnesses are also pretty common. 

OSHA Inspections

“An employer has a responsibility of keeping work environments safe for all employees and visitors,” says workers’ compensation attorney Felix Gonzalez. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is also responsible for conducting inspections of workplaces to ensure that employers comply with the set rules. 

OSHA prioritizes several safety aspects when conducting the inspections, which include:

• Situations that indicate imminent danger
• Reported severe injuries or illnesses
• Workers’ complains
• Targeted inspections 
• Follow up inspections

As a federal government agency tasked with ensuring workers’ safety, OSHA inspections must follow a standard procedure that includes various steps. 

In the first step, OSHA officials research a business’s safety compliance based on information provided in the complaint. After research, the next phase is the inspection which starts with an OSHA official debriefing a warehouse manager or business owner on the reason for their inspection and what it will entail. 

The inspector then performs a walkthrough to examine the safety standards in the facility with the help of a workers’ union representative. After the walkthrough, the inspector holds a closing conference with the business owner and a workers’ representative. They disclose their findings, what they mean for the business, suggest an improvement, and maybe schedule a follow-up inspection in the future. 

Source: TG Daily – Warehouse Accidents: Prevention and OSHA Inspections

It is essential to know that the at-fault insurer or their lawyer will not easily yield to your settlement request. They are in business and want the most out of their investment. They may try to lower the value of your claim, deny it, or even deny your claim. Having a skilled personal injury lawyer on your corner will increase your chances of getting fair compensation.

Referrals Can Help You Get the Right Attorney

Use your resources by asking people who you know for a referral. You probably know a family member, a colleague, a neighbor, or an acquittance that has been in your situation or something similar. Talking to them about their experiences with their lawyers can give you an idea of which lawyers would fit your case best. 

If you do not have anyone to ask, you may seek help from your local bar association or lawyer referral sites. Most bar associations or lawyer referral sites cannot refer lawyers unless they establish their reliability. 

Track Record Matters

After getting referrals from the people in your circle, the next step would be narrowing down your options. Some of the things you may want to establish are the track records and the reputation of the lawyers or law firms on your list. 

Additionally, you may want to ensure that your lawyer of choice has good standing with the local bar association or has ever had disciplinary issues against them. After all these considerations, you should be down to two to three options.

Visit Their Physical Office and Determine Payment Options

Once you have narrowed down options to two to three, the next step would be visiting their office. While it is possible to have a feel of what a law firm has to offer by visiting their website, visiting in person is a good idea. By visiting, you can judge whether an attorney is a good fit for your case by how they treat you or how organized they appear to be.

Understand All the Charges Involved 

Most attorneys offer a first free consultation, so you do not have to worry about the consultation cost if you want to visit a few law firms. It is important to ask about their payment options during your visit to ensure that you get a good deal. Also, ask to know all applicable fees upfront to avoid being surprised with hidden charges later.

Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. A contingency fee basis means you do not have to pay the lawyer until they win your injury case and you recover compensation. Typically, the contingency fee should be at most a third of the value of your compensation, although the figures may vary from one lawyer to the other.

Getting the right attorney can be a daunting task, with so many in the market boasting their expertise online, on TV ads, and on billboards. But having excellent marketing skills does not mean that a lawyer is a good fit for your case. “Being a great advertiser and being a great lawyer is not correlated,” cites Lone Star Injury Attorneys. This is why it is important that people do their research and carefully select a lawyer to represent them.

Source: TG Daily – Getting A Good Lawyer for Your Injury Claim

Sky Mavis, a crypto startup operating the popular ‘Axie Infinity’ game, said hackers had stolen over $600 million worth in cryptocurrency.

Hackers gained access to accounts holding cryptocurrencies and drained 173,600 ether and 25.5 million of the USD stablecoin.

This was the second-biggest crypto hack ever, according to analysis firm Elliptic.

The assets were worth around $540 million on the date of the theft and are worth $615 million now, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Users are also reportedly unable to withdraw or deposit funds to the Ronin network, but the firm said it will make sure that all the drained funds are recovered and reimbursed.

North Korea has been using cash from government-sponsored hacking groups who have performed crypto thefts, PYMNTS reported. The report also wrote that the isolated country has been stealing digital assets, as opposed to its last focus on stealing COVID vaccine research, said Mandiant, which has recently reported.

“Axie infinity” is part of a small number of play-to-earn crypto games, which center around the buying, trading, and selling of virtual assets backed by non-fungible

Crypto hackers steal over $615 million from network that runs popular game Axie Infinity

Continue reading on CNBC

$600 million gone: The biggest crypto theft in history

Hackers have stolen some $600 million in cryptocurrency from the decentralized finance platform Poly Network, in what it says is the largest theft in the industry’s history.

Continue reading on CNN

Here?s how a hacker stole $800,000 worth NFTs through Discord

The attacker was able to steal NFTs including Rare Bears and other NFTs from various collections including CloneX, Azuki, a mfer from artist sartoshi, and six LAND tokens used for The Sandbox metaverse.

Continue reading on MSN

Source: TG Daily – Axie Infinity Hacked For 0M in Crypto