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Choosing Schools - All Kids Learn Differently

(NewsUSA) - Later this month, the nation's largest-ever celebration of educational opportunity will kick off. During National School Choice Week (Jan 26-Feb 1), 50,000 events and activities around the nation will raise awareness about K-12 education choices.

The real impact of school choice is what gives the Week such energy. A learning environment can change a life, sometimes unexpectedly. Remember the Dr. Seuss story featuring a character who, until he actually tries it, insists a dish of green eggs and ham is not for him? As President of National School Choice Week, I have the joy each month of hearing students, parents, and educators around the country share their own "green eggs and ham" moments.

A teacher who was ready to leave the education field - until she overcame her skepticism about teaching in a virtual school. A mom who never dreamed she'd homeschool - until her son's medical needs led her to discover its benefits. A student who felt out of place in his previous school, but is now happy and thriving in a different traditional public school.

That's the power of school choice. All children learn differently and families' needs vary. In the midst of healthy differences and human change, choice empowers families to access the learning environments that work for them now.

School choice recognizes that parents are best positioned to know their child's passion for botany, reading struggles, or penchant for drawing quirky cartoons. And those same parents are best qualified to choose their children's learning environments.

National School Choice Week celebrates traditional public, public charter, magnet, private, online, and home education. We celebrate and support families, too, whichever type of school they choose. That's because when families and schools bring their gifts together, students succeed.

All children deserve to close their school books at the end of each week inspired and equipped to give back. So, if you love your school, celebrate it during School Choice Week! If you're searching for a school, be willing to try something new to find the right fit. You might have a green-eggs- and-ham moment, when your child's frustration with learning turns into an excited "I do love it!"

For more information, visit schoolchoiceweek.com.

Ref: Cultures - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Later this month, the nation's largest-ever celebration of educational opportunity will kick off. During National School Choice Week (Jan 26-Feb 1), 50,000 events and activities around the nation will raise awareness about K-12 education choices. The real impact of school choice is what gives the Week such energy. A learning environment can change a life, sometimes unexpectedly. Remember the Dr. Seuss story featuring a character who, until he actually tries it, insists a dish of green eggs and ham is not for him? As President of National School Choice Week, I have the joy each month of hearing students, parents, and educators around the country share their own "green eggs and ham" moments. A teacher who was ready to leave the education field - until she overcame her skepticism about teaching in a virtual school. A mom who never dreamed she'd homeschool - until her son's medical needs led her to discover its benefits. A student who felt out of place in his previous school, but is now happy and thriving in a different traditional public school. That's the power of school choice. All children learn differently and families' needs vary. In the midst of healthy differences and human change, choice empowers families to access the learning environments that work for them now. School choice recognizes that parents are best positioned to know their child's passion for botany, reading struggles, or penchant for drawing quirky cartoons. And those same parents are best qualified to choose their children's learning environments. National School Choice Week celebrates traditional public, public charter, magnet, private, online, and home education. We celebrate and support families, too, whichever type of school they choose. That's because when families and schools bring their gifts together, students succeed. All children deserve to close their school books at the end of each week inspired and equipped to give back. So, if you love your school, celebrate it during School Choice Week! If you're searching for a school, be willing to try something new to find the right fit. You might have a green-eggs- and-ham moment, when your child's frustration with learning turns into an excited "I do love it!" For more information, visit schoolchoiceweek.com. Ref: Cultures - in Blogs

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Some places on the planet are so sunny

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How to Buy the Best Video Games for Your Kids

(NewsUSA) - If you're reading this story, that probably means you're a concerned parent who wouldn't dream of buying your 8-year-old the new "Battlefield 4" video game for the holidays, no matter how many hissy fits are thrown. But let's face it, you've also got a zillion other things on your mind right now -- how's that work deadline coming? -- and not every title is so obviously age-inappropriate.

What to do?

Well, first, remember the reason most kids enjoy playing video games is a positive one. "When kids are asked, in focus groups and surveys, what they like about video games, they generally talk about freedom, self-direction and competence," Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College, wrote in Psychology Today. And second, know that you're not without helpful resources.

Here's how to ensure you make a smart choice:

* Check the box. Not only does each one include a letter on the front indicating the maturity level assigned by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) -- i.e., "EC" for early childhood, "E10+" for those 10 and over, and "T" for teen -- but the cover's flip side provides the basis for the grade. Meaning, if you're unsure whether a video game rated "E" for everyone (or even "M" for mature, 17 or older) is right for your child, content descriptors like "fantasy violence" could be the clincher.

And while producers aren't required to submit games for review, retail partners of the ESRB like GameStop (www.gamestop.com) say they make a point of only carrying ESRB-rated games. "Each child has a unique personality, and we believe in helping parents protect younger players from overly mature content," says Jason Cochran, vice president of store operations and strategic initiatives at the company, which is the world's largest multichannel retailer of video games.

* Understand the gaming lingo. You know that clueless feeling you get when your child drops gamer terms like "FPS" around the house? The website RespectTheRatings.com explains their meaning -- in this case, "first person shooter," signifying a game where the player sees the action through the eyes of its main character -- and also offers such other handy tips as the availability of built-in parental controls on consoles and handheld devices.

* Ask the experts. About 73 percent of all video games are rated "E" through "T," and GameStop actually has "Game Advisors" in every store who can tell you which ones harness creativity ("Disney Infinity"), say, and which are delightful fantasies ("Angry Birds: Star Wars").

One last tip: When in doubt, try the games in stores yourself.

Ref: Gaming - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - If you're reading this story, that probably means you're a concerned parent who wouldn't dream of buying your 8-year-old the new "Battlefield 4" video game for the holidays, no matter how many hissy fits are thrown. But let's face it, you've also got a zillion other things on your mind right now -- how's that work deadline coming? -- and not every title is so obviously age-inappropriate. What to do? Well, first, remember the reason most kids enjoy playing video games is a positive one. "When kids are asked, in focus groups and surveys, what they like about video games, they generally talk about freedom, self-direction and competence," Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College, wrote in Psychology Today. And second, know that you're not without helpful resources. Here's how to ensure you make a smart choice: * Check the box. Not only does each one include a letter on the front indicating the maturity level assigned by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) -- i.e., "EC" for early childhood, "E10+" for those 10 and over, and "T" for teen -- but the cover's flip side provides the basis for the grade. Meaning, if you're unsure whether a video game rated "E" for everyone (or even "M" for mature, 17 or older) is right for your child, content descriptors like "fantasy violence" could be the clincher. And while producers aren't required to submit games for review, retail partners of the ESRB like GameStop (www.gamestop.com) say they make a point of only carrying ESRB-rated games. "Each child has a unique personality, and we believe in helping parents protect younger players from overly mature content," says Jason Cochran, vice president of store operations and strategic initiatives at the company, which is the world's largest multichannel retailer of video games. * Understand the gaming lingo. You know that clueless feeling you get when your child drops gamer terms like "FPS" around the house? The website RespectTheRatings.com explains their meaning -- in this case, "first person shooter," signifying a game where the player sees the action through the eyes of its main character -- and also offers such other handy tips as the availability of built-in parental controls on consoles and handheld devices. * Ask the experts. About 73 percent of all video games are rated "E" through "T," and GameStop actually has "Game Advisors" in every store who can tell you which ones harness creativity ("Disney Infinity"), say, and which are delightful fantasies ("Angry Birds: Star Wars"). One last tip: When in doubt, try the games in stores yourself. Ref: Gaming - in Blogs

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How to Protect Your Data in a Connected World

(NewsUSA) - The phrase 'six degrees of separation,' suggests that only a minuscule measurement is what divides one person from another. Today, the Internet of Things (IoT) has decreased those degrees dramatically, connecting us not only to each other, but to everything from our fitness trackers to our coffee makers.

Consider this: according to a recent report by the Federal Trade Commission, the number of Internet-connected devices tops 25 billion worldwide. And that number is expected to double in the next five years, according to experts cited in the report.

In a world where everyone and everything is connected, digital security is a must-have, just as important as the lock on your front door or the keys to your house.

"Technology is revolutionizing the way consumers use cars, homes, work spaces and everyday items," Rep. Darrell Issa, R- Calif., told USA Today in a recent interview. "These devices raise both opportunities and questions about regulatory policy, spectrum space, privacy and more."

Underscoring Issa's concerns are high-profile hacks, including one that took remote control of a Jeep on a busy highway. Experts warn who consumers need to understand that, although convenient, the IoT is an interconnected system, and security is needed to prevent a weakness in one device (like a SmartWatch) from becoming an open door to attack in another device (such as a connected car).

The good news is that sensitive industries such as banking, government, and healthcare have worked with companies like Gemalto, a global leader in digital security, to solve difficult security challenges. While most may not recognize the name "Gemalto," experts say that almost everyone uses at least one or two of the company's solutions, which are embedded in a wide variety of connected devices, credit cards, passports, and ID badges.

So, to ensure that your data is protected from hackers, Gemalto recommends the following tips:

* Secure the device. Sensitive devices need an added layer of protection, such as a SIM card or a tamper-resistant Secure Element that stores data in a safe place.

* Control the access. Implement two-factor authentication to ensure that only authorized people are granted access to the data.

* Secure the data. Ensure that sensitive data is encrypted and that encryption keys are stored in a separate and safe place.

For more information, please visit www.gemalto.com.

Ref: Codes - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - The phrase 'six degrees of separation,' suggests that only a minuscule measurement is what divides one person from another. Today, the Internet of Things (IoT) has decreased those degrees dramatically, connecting us not only to each other, but to everything from our fitness trackers to our coffee makers. Consider this: according to a recent report by the Federal Trade Commission, the number of Internet-connected devices tops 25 billion worldwide. And that number is expected to double in the next five years, according to experts cited in the report. In a world where everyone and everything is connected, digital security is a must-have, just as important as the lock on your front door or the keys to your house. "Technology is revolutionizing the way consumers use cars, homes, work spaces and everyday items," Rep. Darrell Issa, R- Calif., told USA Today in a recent interview. "These devices raise both opportunities and questions about regulatory policy, spectrum space, privacy and more." Underscoring Issa's concerns are high-profile hacks, including one that took remote control of a Jeep on a busy highway. Experts warn who consumers need to understand that, although convenient, the IoT is an interconnected system, and security is needed to prevent a weakness in one device (like a SmartWatch) from becoming an open door to attack in another device (such as a connected car). The good news is that sensitive industries such as banking, government, and healthcare have worked with companies like Gemalto, a global leader in digital security, to solve difficult security challenges. While most may not recognize the name "Gemalto," experts say that almost everyone uses at least one or two of the company's solutions, which are embedded in a wide variety of connected devices, credit cards, passports, and ID badges. So, to ensure that your data is protected from hackers, Gemalto recommends the following tips: * Secure the device. Sensitive devices need an added layer of protection, such as a SIM card or a tamper-resistant Secure Element that stores data in a safe place. * Control the access. Implement two-factor authentication to ensure that only authorized people are granted access to the data. * Secure the data. Ensure that sensitive data is encrypted and that encryption keys are stored in a separate and safe place. For more information, please visit www.gemalto.com. Ref: Codes - in Blogs

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The 5 Best AI Chatbot Builder

Struggling to keep up with endless customer questions? You’re not alone. Businesses are realizing that AI-powered chatbots are no longer just “nice-to-have” tools they’re essential for delivering fast, 24/7 customer support.

But here’s the real challenge: with so many chatbot platforms out there, how do you know which one fits your business?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 5 best AI chatbot builders in 2025. These tools are not only user-friendly but also designed to help businesses of all sizes automate conversations, save time, and increase customer satisfaction.

What Makes a Great AI Chatbot Builder?
Before diving into the list, let’s set some standards. A solid chatbot builder should offer:

Ease of use – No-code or low-code platforms are best for beginners.
AI capabilities – Natural Language Processing (NLP) for smarter conversations.
Integrations – Works seamlessly with CRMs, websites, or apps.
Scalability – Can grow with your business.
Analytics – Helps you measure performance and customer interactions.

If a chatbot builder ticks most of these boxes, it’s worth considering.

1. ManyChat – Best for Marketing Automation
manyChat is a go-to chatbot builder if you’re running an online store or want to automate conversations on social media platforms like Facebook Messenger and Instagram.

Key Features:

Visual drag-and-drop builder
Automated workflows for lead generation
Supports SMS, WhatsApp, and email campaigns
Integrates with Shopify and HubSpot

Best For: E-commerce stores and social media marketers who want to convert followers into paying customers.

2. Intercom – Best for Customer Support
Intercom is one of the most popular customer communication platforms, and its AI chatbot functionality is top-notch. According to TechCrunch, Intercom has been a pioneer in scaling customer support with conversational AI.

Key Features:

AI-powered resolution bot
Proactive customer engagement
Powerful integrations with Slack, Salesforce, and Zapier
Real-time analytics

Best For: SaaS companies and customer support teams needing advanced automation.

3. Tidio – Best for Small Businesses
If you’re just getting started and want something simple yet effective, Tidio is a fantastic option. It combines live chat with AI automation in one platform.

Key Features:

Easy to install on WordPress, Shopify, and Wix
AI bot trained to answer FAQs
Mobile app for on-the-go support
Affordable plans

Best For: Small businesses that want a budget-friendly AI chatbot solution.

4. Drift – Best for B2B Sales Conversations
Drift positions itself as a conversational marketing platform, and for good reason. It focuses on creating real-time, personalized chat experiences that drive sales.

Key Features:

AI bots qualify leads automatically
Custom playbooks for B2B sales
Integration with major CRMs like Salesforce and Marketo
Personalized chat based on visitor data

Best For: B2B businesses that rely heavily on lead generation and relationship building.

5. HubSpot Chatbot Builder – Best All-in-One CRM Integration
HubSpot offers a free chatbot builder inside its all-in-one CRM. This makes it incredibly useful for businesses already using HubSpot for marketing and sales.

Key Features:

No-code chatbot builder
Automated lead qualification
Seamless integration with HubSpot CRM
Free plan with premium upgrades

Best For: Businesses already in the HubSpot ecosystem who want a cost-effective chatbot solution.

Final Thoughts
The right AI chatbot builder depends on your business goals:

Use ManyChat if you’re focused on social media and e-commerce.
Choose Intercom for powerful customer support automation.
Try Tidio if you’re a small business on a budget.
Go with Drift for B2B lead generation.
Pick HubSpot for all-in-one CRM integration.

At the end of the day, the “best” chatbot is the one that fits your audience, budget, and growth strategy. Start small, experiment, and optimize as you go.

Have you tried any of these chatbot builders before? Share your experience I’d love to hear which one worked best for you!

Struggling to keep up with endless customer questions? You’re not alone. Businesses are realizing that AI-powered chatbots are no longer just “nice-to-have” tools they’re essential for delivering fast, 24/7 customer support. But here’s the real challenge: with so many chatbot platforms out there, how do you know which one fits your business? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 5 best AI chatbot builders in 2025. These tools are not only user-friendly but also designed to help businesses of all sizes automate conversations, save time, and increase customer satisfaction. What Makes a Great AI Chatbot Builder? Before diving into the list, let’s set some standards. A solid chatbot builder should offer: Ease of use – No-code or low-code platforms are best for beginners. AI capabilities – Natural Language Processing (NLP) for smarter conversations. Integrations – Works seamlessly with CRMs, websites, or apps. Scalability – Can grow with your business. Analytics – Helps you measure performance and customer interactions. If a chatbot builder ticks most of these boxes, it’s worth considering. 1. ManyChat – Best for Marketing Automation manyChat is a go-to chatbot builder if you’re running an online store or want to automate conversations on social media platforms like Facebook Messenger and Instagram. Key Features: Visual drag-and-drop builder Automated workflows for lead generation Supports SMS, WhatsApp, and email campaigns Integrates with Shopify and HubSpot Best For: E-commerce stores and social media marketers who want to convert followers into paying customers. 2. Intercom – Best for Customer Support Intercom is one of the most popular customer communication platforms, and its AI chatbot functionality is top-notch. According to TechCrunch, Intercom has been a pioneer in scaling customer support with conversational AI. Key Features: AI-powered resolution bot Proactive customer engagement Powerful integrations with Slack, Salesforce, and Zapier Real-time analytics Best For: SaaS companies and customer support teams needing advanced automation. 3. Tidio – Best for Small Businesses If you’re just getting started and want something simple yet effective, Tidio is a fantastic option. It combines live chat with AI automation in one platform. Key Features: Easy to install on WordPress, Shopify, and Wix AI bot trained to answer FAQs Mobile app for on-the-go support Affordable plans Best For: Small businesses that want a budget-friendly AI chatbot solution. 4. Drift – Best for B2B Sales Conversations Drift positions itself as a conversational marketing platform, and for good reason. It focuses on creating real-time, personalized chat experiences that drive sales. Key Features: AI bots qualify leads automatically Custom playbooks for B2B sales Integration with major CRMs like Salesforce and Marketo Personalized chat based on visitor data Best For: B2B businesses that rely heavily on lead generation and relationship building. 5. HubSpot Chatbot Builder – Best All-in-One CRM Integration HubSpot offers a free chatbot builder inside its all-in-one CRM. This makes it incredibly useful for businesses already using HubSpot for marketing and sales. Key Features: No-code chatbot builder Automated lead qualification Seamless integration with HubSpot CRM Free plan with premium upgrades Best For: Businesses already in the HubSpot ecosystem who want a cost-effective chatbot solution. Final Thoughts The right AI chatbot builder depends on your business goals: Use ManyChat if you’re focused on social media and e-commerce. Choose Intercom for powerful customer support automation. Try Tidio if you’re a small business on a budget. Go with Drift for B2B lead generation. Pick HubSpot for all-in-one CRM integration. At the end of the day, the “best” chatbot is the one that fits your audience, budget, and growth strategy. Start small, experiment, and optimize as you go. Have you tried any of these chatbot builders before? Share your experience I’d love to hear which one worked best for you! Category: Technology - in Blogs

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Not Over

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The Art Of Getting Up Every Morning

Follow me as I explain a different way to view the mundane of everyday life. Sometimes it's better to take a good look around you and discover the beauty that is right infront of you.

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Fall serenity in a colorful landscape

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