(NewsUSA) - The global pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus has accelerated an adoption of online work, video meetings, and virtual conferences that will likely continue.<br /> <br /> Almost every business professional has hosted and participated in multiple online meetings, but how many have taken the time to consider how they present themselves on camera and how to make the most of virtual interactions with colleagues, clients, or customers?<br /> <br /> If you want to optimize how you appear on video and improve and enhance your ability to communicate in a virtual meeting setting, check out the Presence Summit, a day of professional development and interactive exercises scheduled for July 15. The event is sponsored by camera manufacturer HuddleCamHD and the audiovisual distributor company Starin.<br /> <br /> The Presence Summit "is for any individual or business that uses online communications and considers professional development a priority," according to the meeting website.<br /> <br /> Organizers say that "this thought-leader forum is designed specifically for enhancing communications in a video presence era."<br /> <br /> The summit will show the new opportunities that online meetings can provide, and participants will hear from communications experts and industry professionals about how to be more effective in online meetings and how to use video communications to promote products and services, as well as to improve customer experiences.<br /> <br /> Keynote speakers will include Joseph Pine, author of "The Experience Economy," and Fatima Doman, author of "Authentic Resilience." The live stream of the summit is free, and an optional professional development track (registration required) allows access to Zoom breakout sessions led by experts on topics including identifying and optimizing your communication style, applying best practices for online meetings and priming video meeting participants for success.<br /> <br /> In addition, all virtual conference attendees receive a free copy of "The Online Meeting Survival Guide," by Paul Richards, business development manager at HuddleCamHD.<br /> <br /> "The book serves as the pivotal guidebook to help people navigate this new normal of video communication," says Richards. "Readers will learn about best practices for using the latest software to make online meetings more productive."<br /> <br /> Leading up to the Summit, the book can be downloaded for free at huddlecamhd.com/online-meetings.<br /> <br /> Visit PresenceSummit.com for additional details and speaker information. And watch a video about the event on YouTube at <a target='_blank' href="https://bit.ly/2Chpki1.">https://bit.ly/2Chpki1.</a><br /> <br /> Ref: Business - in Blogs

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(NewsUSA) - "To shave strokes from your golf game, the only equipment you need is a good eraser."<br /> <br /> Although this phrase is uttered jokingly by many golfers, recreational golfers who've reached their plateau have had very few other options, until now.<br /> <br /> "If recreational golfers insist on following the rules used by the PGA Tour, there's little they can do to immediately improve their game," says John Hoeflich, executive director, of the United States Recreational Golf Association (USRGA). "However, if they play by USRGA rules, they do have the option to switch to better equipment."<br /> <br /> The USRGA is the official organization that governs recreational golf. Its rules allow the use of higher-performance golf equipment. Hoeflich estimates that more than half of U.S. golfers agree with the USRGA rules that permit equipment that "puts fun back in the game, speeds up play and helps achieve better scores."<br /> <br /> Callaway Golf started the recreational equipment movement in 2000 with the ERC II driver. Now Polara Golf is advancing the movement with its Advantage driver and Ultimate Straight golf balls -- both engineered to eclipse the PGA limits, which means you can't play them in the Masters or U.S. Open.<br /> <br /> David Felker, chief technology officer for Polara Golf, explains, "Our drivers and balls are not intended for the top amateur players and professionals. We purposely designed equipment that exceeds the performance limits accepted by the PGA Tour, so that recreational golfers can experience less frustration, score lower and have more fun."<br /> <br /> A 2012 Google consumer survey revealed that 63 percent of respondents would consider using golf equipment that provides a performance advantage. This sentiment is shared by the PGA of America president, Ted Bishop, who says, "I think anything we can do to relax the rules, if it means putting non-conforming equipment in the hands of players that enable them to hit the ball higher and farther and enjoy the game more -- what's the problem?"<br /> <br /> According to the National Golf Foundation, golf rounds have fallen by 8 percent since 2007, largely due to the frustrations of the game, excessive play times and high costs.<br /> <br /> "The technology now exists to make golf more pleasurable for everyone," says Felker. "Who doesn't want to have more fun?"<br /> <br /> For more information, visit www.polaragolf.com and www.usrga.org.<br /> <br /> Ref: Golf - in Blogs

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(NewsUSA) - Most of us can't imagine life without Internet service at home. We use it every day for news and entertainment, as well as to research healthcare options for our families; to connect with friends and family; to search and apply for jobs, scholarships, or schools; or to shop and save time.<br /> <br /> Unfortunately, many low-income households in this country aren't connected and they're missing out on the life-changing resources the Internet has to offer.<br /> <br /> According to the U.S. Census American Community Survey, 81 percent of U.S. households have broadband Internet access, but only 63 percent of those with annual incomes of less than $35,000 do.<br /> <br /> For the past seven years, Comcast has been on a mission to do something about this so-called "digital divide" through its acclaimed Internet Essentials program, which has become the largest broadband adoption program for low-income families across the U.S.<br /> <br /> The program has had an enormous impact on families and their children and, since its inception, more than six million low-income Americans have been connected.<br /> <br /> To put that in perspective, six million people is larger than the populations of each city in America except New York City. While the numbers can be numbing, the individuals who have benefitted all have their own stories to tell.<br /> <br /> "Low-income people face problems when it comes to accessing technology and a lot of people are left behind," says Pam Ogglesby, an Internet Essentials customer.<br /> <br /> "I signed up for the program and I now see what I was missing. I feel connected now and it's all because of Internet Essentials. I think this is going to change my life drastically. I intend to use the Internet to learn new things."<br /> <br /> In the beginning, Internet Essentials was offered to low-income families with children eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program. Eligibility has also been extended to low-income seniors in more than a dozen markets, as well as to those households receiving HUD-housing assistance, which includes HUD's Public Housing, Housing Choice Voucher, and Multifamily programs.<br /> <br /> This year, the company is expanding eligibility again to low-income veterans living within the Comcast service area. About a third of the veterans in the U.S. do not have Internet access at home, and only about 60 percent even own a computer, according to the U.S. Census American Community Survey, creating a need for better options for the veteran community. As a result, more than one million veterans across Comcast's footprint are estimated to be eligible.<br /> <br /> Comcast's Internet Essentials program works with community partners to break down the main barriers to Internet access - lack of affordable service; lack of a computer or other device; and lack of digital training by providing high-speed Internet service for $9.95 a month plus tax, the option to purchase an Internet-ready computer for less than $150, and free digital literacy training in print, in person, and online.<br /> <br /> To apply, visit www.internetessentials.com/apply, or call 1-855-846-8376. For Spanish-only speakers: call 1-855-765-6995.<br /> <br /> Ref: Courses - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Almost everything today is digitally connected …whether at home or on the go. Connected technology saves you time with everything from smart phones to smart homes!<br /> <br /> Tech Lifestyle Expert Carley Knobloch has partnered with KillerApps.com and four brands for a look at some great smart tech for 2019 that will help simplify your life.<br /> <br /> First up … a laptop is a must! Made for today's mobile multi-taskers, the thin and light Yoga C630 combines the power and productivity of a Windows 10 laptop with the always-on, always-connected mobility of a smartphone thanks to integrated 4G LTE and Wi-Fi support. Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 850 Mobile Compute Platform, the Yoga C630 gets up to 22 hours of local video playback and features a natural pen-on-paper experience on its vibrant 13.3-inch FHD IPS touchscreen display with optional Lenovo Pen and Windows Ink.<br /> <br /> Next, to stay connected at home, Orbi Voice is a smart speaker integrated with Amazon voice assistant, Alexa and uses the Qualcomm Wifi Mesh platform to create expansive whole home Wi-Fi coverage (up to 4500 square feet) to create an entire ecosystem of mesh Wi-Fi products. It also features premium audio technology, creating incredible room-filling sound from the audio experts at Harman Kardon. Alexa makes it easy to play music from the most popular streaming services, control other IoT devices, check traffic, weather, and so much more - without needing a separate device. It's truly an innovative leap, and the start of a trend expected to accelerate in the 5G era.<br /> <br /> Smart products can also help keep families safe. Fire is getting faster, but you can get ahead by installing Kidde Wire-Free Interconnect Smoke Alarms in your home. Kidde's new interconnect alarm solution offers exceptional safety benefits without the hassle of hardwiring or a Wi-Fi connection. The interconnect technology helps alert you to a fire no matter where you are in your home. When one alarm senses a hazard, all interconnected alarms sound throughout the home. The alarm also comes with a sealed 10-year battery, which you don't have to worry about changing alarms batteries. Simply replace the entire alarm after 10 years.<br /> <br /> Home security solutions are getting smarter and more convenient too. Schlage Encode is the newest connected device to enhance the brand's portfolio of innovative smart locks. The deadbolt is easy to install, with a quick connection to in-home WiFi, making it even more convenient for homeowners to have secure, remote access control. The built-in Wi-Fi technology eliminates the need for an additional hub and allows users to set-up and manage the lock via the Schlage Home or Key by Amazon apps. This means users can lock and unlock their deadbolt, monitor the lock's status, and send virtual keys to trusted friends and family, all from the convenience of their smartphone. Homeowners can create up to 100 unique guest access codes for temporary, recurring or permanent access. This information, along with the lock's activity, can be tracked and monitored within the app, giving homeowners greater peace of mind. Through the Schlage Home app, users can also pair their deadbolt with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. When managing the lock via the Key app, users can enjoy compatibility with other platforms such as Amazon Cloud Cam, Ring video doorbell and cameras, and Alexa.<br /> <br /> For more information, visit KillerApps.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Futurology - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Most Americans don't have $400 saved to cover for an unexpected emergency, but a recent poll from Chase found that consumers may be ready to change that this year. 80 percent plan to save more and 51 percent say emergency savings is their goal.<br /> <br /> Savings is key to financial health and Chase Financial Education Ambassador Farnoosh Torabi has tips and advice on how to get started and make savings a habit. (watch video)<br /> <br /> According to Torabi, increasing savings is key to stability and gives people the ability to quickly recover when there are ups and downs.<br /> <br /> Chase is focused on helping encourage the habit of savings and support people by providing information and resources that can help customers on their savings journey.<br /> <br /> Take a first step by understanding your expenses and building a budget. Budget Builder is a great tool from Chase to help you monitor your monthly spending and saving.<br /> <br /> Once you have this baseline, the key to reaching your goals is to just start saving, even if you're starting small. "My advice is to automate," says Torabi. "There is a great feature through the Chase App called Autosave which allows you to decide on your own how much you want to save and how frequently you want to save, so you can feel in control of this. The good news is the technology does the savings for you." With this feature, you can save as little as $1 a day.<br /> <br /> While consistency is key, savings is about what works for you. In a month when you have extra cash, you can always accelerate your savings, but in a tighter month, it's all right to take a pause or draw from your savings to cover an unexpected expense.<br /> <br /> Check out chase.com/autosave for more information and tips on how to make savings work for you.<br /> <br /> Ref: Crowdfunding - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - The days of using a stick, some string and a worm are as much a part of American culture as apple pie and baseball. Unlike that time, there are now many choices for anglers this spring, depending on where you'll be fishing.<br /> <br /> In fact, selecting your gear is half the fun. But for starters, set aside the rods, reels, rigs, jigs and tackle, it's also just as important to remember these items that are often overlooked:<br /> <br /> * Use sunscreen. You only have to suffer from sun poisoning one time to understand the relationship between sun and water. While the water may be cold and temperatures out-side chilly, sun reflecting off the water will still give you a burn. A sweat proof sunscreen that won't run and sting the eyes is ideal, as is one that won't leave a greasy residue that could adversely affect your grip.<br /> <br /> * Wear a base layer. A thin T-shirt is a must as a base layer, better if it is made of fabric that wicks away moisture. There are even some that are made to be water repellent and stain resistant with anti-odor properties for those in warmer climes. Since this is the layer that is in direct contact with your skin, you want something that will allow moisture to escape as you sweat.<br /> <br /> * Find the right pants. Spring days on the water are usually an all-day event, and call for versatility in your clothing. To that point, pants that convert to shorts are ideal. Like shirts, pants should be stain-resistant. Additionally, the pants should have plenty of pockets (with zippers) to carry anything extra. If you don't have access to a boat or dock, extend your fishing range with a good pair of fishing waders.<br /> <br /> * Cover your head. Hats with a hard-hat liner will keep your neck, ears and head warm in cold weather. For warmer climates, a wide-brimmed hat will guard against sunburn, overheating and overexposure.<br /> <br /> * Bring the extras. This could include a life vest, cooler or, if you happen to be a smokeless tobacco user, a portable spittoon like those offered by Flasr. The Atlanta-based company prides itself on creating the first-of-its-kind portable spittoon that is small enough to fit in your pocket and carry along wherever you go -- whether it's fishing on a lake or hunting in a blind. Its advanced closing mechanism ensures that it stays securely closed, eliminating the risk of spills and leaks.<br /> <br /> For more information, visit www.flasr.com; Market listing: FLASR (OTCQB: FLSR).<br /> <br /> Ref: Fishing - in Blogs

**Embracing the Ethereal: A Celebration of White Flower Blossoms**<br /> <br /> In the tapestry of nature's grandeur, few sights rival the delicate allure of white flower blossoms. These ethereal blooms, with their pristine petals and subtle fragrances, evoke a sense of purity and serenity that captivates the soul. Whether nestled in a verdant garden, adorning a tree branch, or scattered across a meadow like scattered pearls, each white blossom tells a story of beauty and resilience.<br /> <br /> **The Elegance of White Blossoms**<br /> <br /> White blossoms, in their simplicity, exude a timeless elegance that transcends seasons. In spring, they herald renewal and hope, blanketing orchards and gardens with promises of abundance. Against the backdrop of lush greenery, their purity stands out, drawing admiration and inspiring contemplation. Each petal, a testament to nature's intricate design, delicately unfolds to reveal a pristine heart—a beacon of tranquility amidst life's bustling rhythms.<br /> <br /> **Symbolism and Cultural Significance**<br /> <br /> Across cultures and centuries, white blossoms have held deep symbolism. They embody purity, innocence, and spiritual enlightenment. In many traditions, they symbolize new beginnings, making them popular choices for weddings and ceremonies. The Japanese revere the cherry blossom (sakura) for its transient beauty, celebrating it with hanami—a tradition of enjoying the blossoms under spring's fleeting embrace. Meanwhile, in Western cultures, white roses symbolize love and reverence, gracing weddings and commemorations alike.<br /> <br /> **A Symphony of Fragrance and Form**<br /> <br /> Beyond their visual splendor, white blossoms enchant with their subtle fragrances. Jasmine whispers its sweet aroma on warm summer evenings, while magnolia releases its heady perfume in the early morning light. Each bloom adds a unique note to nature's olfactory symphony, inviting us to pause and immerse ourselves in their sensory delights.<br /> <br /> **Preserving Nature's Treasures**<br /> <br /> As guardians of our environment, we bear a collective responsibility to protect these natural wonders. Climate change and habitat loss threaten the habitats of white blossoms and other flora. By cultivating awareness and advocating for conservation efforts, we can ensure future generations continue to marvel at these exquisite gifts of nature.<br /> <br /> **Conclusion: A Call to Appreciation**<br /> <br /> In the fleeting beauty of white flower blossoms, we find solace and inspiration. They remind us to cherish life's ephemeral moments and embrace the beauty that surrounds us. Let us cultivate gardens of the soul where these blossoms bloom eternal, and in doing so, nurture a deeper connection to the natural world. As we celebrate their elegance and resilience, may we also pledge to preserve and protect these delicate marvels for generations to come.<br /> <br /> In the quiet majesty of white flower blossoms, let us discover the enduring poetry of nature's embrace. <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Nature - in Blogs</span>