Slot Machine Cheats That Don’t Work

Slot Machine Cheats That Don’t Work (Photo by Longxiang Qian from Pexels)

Unfortunately the history of gambling has always been marred by various opportunists who have tried to cheat their way to a win at every opportunity, something that is doubly annoying because it means there is less cash for the genuine gamblers in the world to compete for too. Whilst casino cheats in general are frustrating, it actually isn’t all bad when it comes to these miscreants, because they have helped the overall industry in certain ways too. 

You see, casinos have historically had to make sure they are cheat proof over the years, and that is more difficult than you might think if there is nobody actively trying to cheat. Take the world of slot machines, for example, these incredibly popular gambling games did have a profound problem with slot cheats back in the day, however it simply galvanised developers to make doubly sure that their games at Thor Slots were uncheatable. 

The coin on a string slot machine cheat 

One of the most famous slot machine cheats from back in the day that no longer works was the coin on a string slot machine cheat. As you might expect from the name, this involved drilling a hole through a coin and threading a piece of string through it, something that then resulted in the coin mechanism being able to be tricked. 

As soon as slot machine developers caught on to this trick they took steps to make it an option no more, something that was achieved by making the coin feeder mechanism more complex. 

The electro-magnetic slot machine cheat 

Another famous slot machine cheat that no longer works because of the good work done by developers is the electro-magnetic slot machine cheat. This involved using powerful electro-magnets to manually spin the metal reels in place to make winning combinations, something that was possible due to the thin plastic protecting the reels at the time. 

All slot machine engineers really had to do to combat this was to install thicker protective layers covering the reels, and when video slots arrived there was no need to worry about the problem anymore. 

Slot machine cheating from the inside 

One of the weirder and hopelessly ambitious old slot machine cheats actually involves climbing into the mechanism of the slot machine itself, hoping to either spin the reels into a winning combination, or simply make a smash and grab with the money already in the machine. 

And yes, this actually happened, with a woman once being found trapped inside a Las Vegas slot machine. Needless to say, this isn’t a cheat that actually works… 

The fake coin slot machine cheat 

Another popular way of trying to cheat a slot machine coin feeder mechanism was to use fake or foreign coins, something that delivered a fair amount of success with slots cheats, mainly because it was a very inconspicuous way of cheating. 

But you cannot hide these things forever, and it wasn’t long before slot engineers noticed the problem and took steps to rectify it.

How To Be Daring and Stand Up to Others

How To Be Daring and Stand Up to Others (Photo by Jill Wellington from Pexels)

Were you ever bullied as a child? If so, it could be something that you carry with you into your adult years. You may yield to those who bark louder, so to speak. But, there are times when you need to stand your ground. These are the times to be daring and stand up to others.

• You may feel like you are an easygoing person. There’s nothing wrong with that. If you are a person who would defer to others because you don’t want to make waves, this can be okay, in the right circumstances. But, if you do this all the time, you eventually will get trampled on with more important issues.

• You do need to pick your battles. If you become the stronger person in your group, you run the risk of becoming bully-like yourself. In fact, this is something that can happen when people stand up to others for the first time. They take on the strong-willed persona and become that person they used to fear. The key is to be strong when it’s important and let the little stuff go by.

• Also, let others have some wins. This shows strength and leadership. You will win people to your way of thinking as they won’t feel threatened by your presence. When you show your willingness to cede to them, you can develop a great working relationship going forward.

How To Be Daring and Stand Up to Others (Photo by Kaboompics .com from Pexels)

• When you do take a stand, make sure that you do it respectfully. If you don’t, you risk losing respect from everyone around and not just the person you are going up against. Whenever possible, try to find an arrangement where both you and the other party wins. The person will see that they can’t take advantage of you, while at the same time, they don’t lose out in the interaction.

• Not everyone will take your newfound strength well. That’s okay. As long as you do everything you can to try and work with them, you will be the bigger person. He or she may have issues with you, but at least they know you aren’t willing to back down on the bigger issues. You also will find people need time and may come around after a while. Your relationship won’t be the same, but that could be for the best.

• Try to keep anger out of the picture because it makes people react in ways they later regret. It’s okay to be firm when dealing with others, but there’s no reason to elevate the situation to the point where you start getting personal.

How To Be Daring and Stand Up to Others (jmage via Pexels)

Related Stories:

• How to Handle a Bully [Video Included]
• The Anatomy of a Boss from Hell [Infographic]
• 5 Memorable Bullies From The Big Screen

How to Handle a Bully [Video Included]

How to Handle a Bully (Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels)

It’d be nice to think that once you’re out of school, you’d be done with bullies for the rest of your life. Unfortunately, that can be far from the truth, as anyone who’s ever had a bullying boss, co-worker or friend can attest.

We all know what bullying looks like as a kid: name calling, pushing, meanness, just to name a few. But how do you know that someone is an adult bully?

Often, in the name of security and keeping the peace, we may let bullying just roll off our back. But if someone you know is a bully, they may take subtle actions such as:

• Ignoring you - This is a form of disrespect, and aims to control you by keeping you guessing and never knowing. You make a request or ask a question, and don’t get a response.

• Being late, or not showing up at all - Again, this is another form of disrespect, but it can sometimes have more serious consequences, such as missing an important appointment or being late for a meeting.

• Starting rumors - The bully that starts untrue rumors is seeking to sabotage you and your reputation. Seeing you react (or overreact) to hearing lies told about yourself is what they thrive on. 

• Passive-aggressive behavior - Backwards compliments, deliberate procrastination, having to have the last word... these are all examples of passive-aggressive behavior that a bully might exhibit.

These are only a few examples of how a bully might act as an adult to control a situation. How you handle each situation is the key to taking away the bully’s power.

How to Handle a Bully (Photo by Josh Hild from Pexels)

First and foremost, if you find yourself being bullied a lot as an adult, take a close look at whether you’re playing the victim. Due to your upbringing, you may not even realize that you’re doing it, but often, a bully will instinctively aim for the person who already has a victim mentality. If that’s you, you’ll need to learn to stand up for yourself and become more assertive in the face of the bully.

If all else fails, simply separate yourself from the bully. This may be more difficult to accomplish in a work situation, but be creative, and try to create space between you and the bully. The less you are around them, the less harm they can do.

Also, try to remember that most bullies end up that way because of low self-esteem and a fragile sense of self-worth. By asserting yourself, you take away the bullies power, and maybe... just maybe... you’ll show them that they don’t have to be that way.

The Video:

Related Stories:

• How To Be Daring and Stand Up to Others
• The Anatomy of a Boss from Hell [Infographic]
• 5 Memorable Bullies From The Big Screen

Mega Spins Slot Feature Explained

Slot machines (image via Pexels.com)

A slot machine is excellent – it offers you entertainment for possibly hours (or maybe even longer if your finances are huge and/or you invest carefully), and also it is a fantastic method to unwind and relax. What can be better? Well the answer can be a slot game which hasn't got only one extra game hidden away inside it, but which really has a number of games all in one. If this is what you want, you can enjoy yourself to the max with Mega Spins - check out Free Slot Sites.

What Are Mega Spins?

Mega Spin video games are a combination of five different games in one. They have multiple screens, and show the different elements you can play with. This was a concept by Microgaming, and although Mega Spins came out quite a while ago, they're equally as popular now as they have always been. Continue reading to find out much more about these five games and the reason they're fun to play.

Mega Spin Major Millions

Mega Spin Major Millions has six distinct screens, and every one is really a slot alone, with three reels and three paylines. This is what you may call a traditional slot, since the symbols are conventional cherries, 7s, and bars from a single to triple. You are able to play with as little as 1p per bet, so this is a fantastic one to extend that budget as far as it will go. When you play, you may run into the wild sign, that in this instance would be the slot logo. This could substitute for another symbol, therefore it is a good way to finish a winning combination.

Mega Spin Double Magic

As opposed to Major Millions which is fixed, in Double Magic you are able to pick the quantity of screens you wish to play with. The minimum number is four and the maximum is nine. Each and every display screen features one payline, and then the symbols are the standard types, though stars may also be put into the mix. The minimum bet is still 1p (the maximum is £5). The blue stars are everything you want to see right here since this is the wild which will enable you to finish more winning combinations.

Mega Spin High 5s

Another Mega Spin game with nine screens, plus a different option (from four up) depending on just how many you wish to activate and play in the same period. In reality, this game is really exactly the same as the Double Magic, except with regards to just how much you are able to play with. You can bet with as much as £135 per spin if you wish to – that is the reason why this Mega Spin is the one for any high rollers. But with a high risk will come a potentially high prize, since you are able to earn as much as 15,000 coins if you find the wilds aligned in the proper places.

Mega Spin Fantastic 7s

This game is quite eike High 5s, though it is much easier, harking right back to the first fruit machines. That means you can find absolutely no wilds, absolutely no extras, simply the pure slot game. And so, in case you are a high roller that wants their slots played in the most conventional method, Fantastic 7s is the game for you.

3 Celeb Workout Plans Which Will Motivate You Today

Man and woman holding battle ropes (image via Pexels.com)

If you have found your workout routine has relaxed dramatically over the quarantine period, you aren’t alone. Since March, people around the world have been quarantined in their homes, watching Netflix, baking banana bread and trying to come to terms with the COVID-19 pandemic. Unsurprisingly, then, we have all gotten a little less fit, and a little more fat. People on Instagram have been hashtagging the #Quarantine15, referring to the 15 pounds it has become customary to gain while in quarantine.

It’s totally normal that our bodies have changed as our lives have so dramatically. But if you’re ready to get back to kicking your own ass in the gym, here are three celeb workouts which will motivate you to put down the chips, switch off the TV, and get that butt back into some workout gear.

1- Lebron James’ Home Workout

Lebron’s basketball workout has been a popular one for LA Lakers fans to research and emulate. After all, Lebron is one of the most celebrated athletes of all time for a good reason. The guy embodies dedication, excellence and relentless hard work in all he does. Lebron broadcasted on Instagram over lockdown, showing off his workout routine despite being unable to play basketball as normal. Lebron’s home workout consisted of gym equipment because, well, he obviously has a home gym. But now the gyms are back open again, why not watch Lebron’s powerful workout and get motivated to reach his levels.

2 - Khloe Kardashian’s Weight Loss Workout

Khloe Kardashian has undergone one of the most dramatic celebrity transformations ever. Part of this transformation has been from using facial reconstruction surgery to change her look, but part of this has been her weight loss. Khloe reportedly lost 40 pounds in recent years and regularly shows off her svelte physique on Instagram. In addition, the third oldest Kardashian sister has released a clothing line, Good American, which now stocks workout gear. Khloe is serious about this fitness lifestyle.

Luckily, Khloe has also let us in on her workout secrets. Snippets of her workouts are regularly posted to Instagram, and her personal trainer also posted this helpful video with advice and tips on how Khloe got her body in shape.

3 - Beyoncé’s 44 Day Coachella Workout

Beyoncé headlined Coachella in 2019 after giving birth to twins just a few months prior. Her trainer, Marco Borges, designed a 22 day nutrition program which Bey followed for 44 days while rehearsing for her iconic Coachella performance which is now immortalized in the Netflix documentary, Homecoming.

For this diet and workout, Beyoncé worked out daily alongside full days of dance rehearsals and eating a purely plant based diet. No sugar, no caffeine, no meat, no dairy, no processed foods. This plan is now available to members of the program, so you too can sweat, eat and eventually look like the Queen B herself.

Misinformation: Tech Companies Are Removing 'Harmful' Coronavirus Content – But Who Decides What That Means?

Misinformation: Tech Companies Are Removing 'Harmful' Coronavirus Content – But Who Decides What That Means? (Pearl PhotoPix/Shutterstock)

The “infodemic” of misinformation about coronavirus has made it difficult to distinguish accurate information from false and misleading advice. The major technology companies have responded to this challenge by taking the unprecedented move of working together to combat misinformation about COVID-19.

Part of this initiative involves promoting content from government healthcare agencies and other authoritative sources, and introducing measures to identify and remove content that could cause harm. For example, Twitter has broadened its definition of harm to address content that contradicts guidance from authoritative sources of public health information.

Facebook has hired extra fact-checking services to remove misinformation that could lead to imminent physical harm. YouTube has published a COVID-19 Medical Misinformation Policy that disallows “content about COVID-19 that poses a serious risk of egregious harm”.

The problem with this approach is that there is no common understanding of what constitutes harm. The different ways these companies define harm can produce very different results, which undermines public trust in the capacity for tech firms to moderate health information. As we argue in a recent research paper, to address this problem these companies need to be more consistent in how they define harm and more transparent in how they respond to it.

Science is subject to change

A key problem with evaluating health misinformation during the pandemic has been the novelty of the virus. There’s still much we don’t know about COVID-19, and much of what we think we know is likely to change based on emerging findings and new discoveries. This has a direct impact on what content is considered harmful.

The pressure for scientists to produce and share their findings during the pandemic can also undermine the quality of scientific research. Pre-print servers allow scientists to rapidly publish research before it is reviewed. High-quality randomised controlled trials take time. Several articles in peer-reviewed journals have been retracted due to unreliable data sources.

Even the World Health Organization (WHO) has changed its position on the transmission and prevention of the disease. For example, it didn’t begin recommending that healthy people wear face masks in public until June 5, “based on new scientific findings”.

The World Health Organization has updated its advice as new evidence has emerged. (FABRICE COFFRINI/EPA)

Yet the major social media companies have pledged to remove claims that contradict guidance from the WHO. As a result, they could remove content that later turns out to be accurate.

This highlights the limits of basing harm policies on a single authoritative source. Change is intrinsic to the scientific method. Even authoritative advice is subject to debate, modification and revision.

Harm is political

Assessing harm in this way also fails to account for inconsistencies in public health messaging in different countries. For example, Sweden and New Zealand’s initial responses to COVID-19 were diametrically opposed, the former based on “herd immunity” and the latter aiming to eliminate the virus. Yet both were based on authoritative, scientific advice. Even within countries, public health policies differ at the state and national level and there is disagreement between scientific experts.

Exactly what is considered harmful can become politicised, as debates over the use of malaria drug hydroxychloroquine and ibuprofen as potential treatments for COVID-19 exemplify. What’s more, there are some questions that science cannot solely answer. For example, whether to prioritise public health or the economy. These are ethical considerations that remain highly contested.

Moderating online content inevitably involves arbitrating between competing interests and values. To respond to the speed and scale of user-generated content, social media moderation mostly relies on computer algorithms. Users are also able to flag or report potentially harmful content.

Despite being designed to reduce harm, these systems can be gamed by savvy users to generate publicity and distrust. This is particularly the case with disinformation campaigns, which seek to provoke fear, uncertainty and doubt.

Users can take advantage of the nuanced language around disease prevention and treatments. For example, personal anecdotes about “immune-boosting” diets and supplements can be misleading but difficult to verify. As a result, these claims don’t always fall under the definition of harm.

Similarly, the use of humour and taking content out of context (“the weaponisation of context”) are strategies commonly used to bypass content moderation. Internet memes, images and questions have also played a crucial role in generating distrust of mainstream science and politics during the pandemic and helped fuel conspiracy theories.

Transparency and trust

The vagueness and inconsistency of technology companies’ content moderation mean that some content and user accounts are demoted or removed while other arguably harmful content remains online. The “transparency reports” published by Twitter and Facebook only contain general statistics about country requests for content removal and little detail of what is removed and why.

This lack of transparency means these companies can’t be adequately held to account for the problems with their attempts to tackle misinformation, and the situation is unlikely to improve. For this reason, we believe tech companies should be required to publish details of their moderation algorithms and a record of the health misinformation removed. This would increase accountability and enable public debate where content or accounts appear to have been removed unfairly.

In addition, these companies should highlight claims that might not be overtly harmful but are potentially misleading or at odds with official advice. This kind of labelling would provide users with credible information with which to interpret these claims without suppressing debate.

Through greater consistency and transparency in their moderation, technology companies will provide more reliable content and increase public trust – something that has never been more important.

About Today's Contributors:

Stephanie Alice Baker, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, City, University of London; Matthew Wade, Lecturer in Social Inquiry, La Trobe University, and Michael James Walsh, Associate Professor, University of Canberra

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

Do Not Disturb: How to Exercise Quietly at Home

Woman practicing yoga (image via Pexels)

If you live in an apartment, you know how thin the walls and ceilings can be. The past few months have been a test of true patience for apartment dwellers dealing with the sounds of their neighbors as everyone has been cooped up inside under Covid-19 quarantine restrictions. One particularly noisy activity is exercising, which is hard to do quietly under the best of circumstances. With many gyms closed during the pandemic, people have moved their workouts to their apartments, much to the chagrin of their neighbors.

Of course, there are some forms of exercises that are low-impact and do not involve jumping jacks and burpees that can be heard two floors down. There are also ways of making a space more soundproof and using equipment to soften the noise of exercising. Even slight modifications to your at-home workout routine can make a big difference to your elderly neighbors. Here are some tried and true tips to get you through until gyms fully reopen.

Use a noise reducing mat

You can still exercise wearing comfortable sneakers without making a lot of noise. Instead of jumping around directly on your hardwood floors, set an exercise mat down and use that to cushion your movements and absorb the sound of impact. The thicker the mat, the better it will be for absorbing sound. If you are doing yoga or a low-impact exercise routine, you can opt for a thinner mat. A PVC or rubber exercise mat also serves to ease the pressure put on your joints from exercising on a hard surface. 

Swap machinery for simple gear

Loud machinery, like a treadmill, can be heard by neighbors. For the time being, swap it for simpler equipment that won’t make a sound. For an intense core workout, try an ab wheel to deliver a challenging, yet quiet workout. Instead of weights, use resistance bands that are lightweight and don’t make noise when they hit the ground like weights. You can work every part of the body, from your legs to arms, chest, and shoulders with a resistance band.

Use coated weights

If you must use regular weights, try using ones that have a polyurethane or rubber coating rather than exposed metal as these will be quieter when you set them down. You can also buy silencer pads to lay on the floor to soften the sound of the weights.

Do bodyweight exercises

Instead of kickboxing or cardio dance classes in your living room, opt for bodyweight exercises that can give you a full workout without the noise. Bodyweight exercises include crunches, lunges, planks, wall sits, and push-ups, among other exercises. They make for a great full body workout because you use your core and the rest of your body to maintain balance in each position. Start small with a few reps for each exercise and add more each day.

Show that you are a considerate tenant by making slight alterations to your normal workout classes and all of your neighbors will thank you for it. In addition to low impact indoor exercise, there are also plenty of outdoor options like running, biking, and swimming that can be done while socially distancing. Grab your athletic women’s and men’s sneakers and head out into the great outdoors -- you’ll be back at the gym soon enough.

Rebecca & Josh Tickell's 'Kiss the Ground' Available On Netflix September 22 [Trailer Included]

Kiss the Ground - Poster (Courtesy of Big Picture Ranch)

'Kiss the Ground', a powerful documentary exploring soil regeneration and its place as a compelling and effective solution to our planet's climate crisis, will be available on Netflix September 22, 2020. 

Directed by Rebecca Tickell and Josh Tickell (FUEL, PUMP, THE BIG FIX), the film is narrated by Woody Harrelson and features Ian Somerhalder, Gisele Bündchen, Jason Mraz, and David Arquette. The film is produced by Big Picture Ranch.

'Kiss the Ground' is an inspiring and groundbreaking film that reveals the first viable solution to our climate crisis. 'Kiss the Ground' reveals that, by regenerating the world's soils we can rapidly stabilize the Earth's climate, restore local ecosystems and create abundant food supplies. Using compelling graphics and visuals, along with striking NASA and NOAA footage, the film artfully illustrates how, by drawing down atmospheric carbon, soil is the missing piece of the climate puzzle. The movie is positioned to catalyze a movement to accomplish the impossible - to solve humanity's greatest challenge, to balance the climate and secure our species' future.

Initial footage for the film was shot 9 years ago in Africa by Executive Producer Ian Somerhalder, (who grew up in the same town and went to the same high school in Louisiana as director, Josh Tickell). Somerhalder and the Tickells joined forces with the KISS THE GROUND nonprofit organization with the mission to make a movie that showed how to turn deserts back into lush ecosystems while reversing climate change. The result has been an almost decade-long journey to produce a film which includes never before seen footage from around the world showing the reversal of ecological damage and giving a playbook for the restoration of Planet Earth.

"This film represents the culmination of tens of thousands of hours of research by scientists around the world who have finally cracked the code on managing climate change - before it's too late," says Josh Tickell. "Never before has there been a more important message, and the good news is it's hopeful, it's actionable and the film shows us steps we can take right now," says Rebecca Tickell.

The film was a selection of the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival. Producers include Rebecca Tickell, Josh Tickell, Bill Benenson, Ryland Engelhart and Darius Fisher and Executive Producers are Laurie Benenson, Gisele Bündchen, Bill Cameron, John Paul DeJoria, Pedro Diniz, Anna Getty, George Hagerman, RJ Jain, Jena King, Julian Lennon, Michelle LeRach, Melony & Adam Lewis, Craig McCaw, Angus Mitchell, Elizabeth Moore, Stephen Nemeth, Larry O'Conner, John Roulac, Regina K. Scully, Nicole Shanahan, Jon & Susan Sheinberg, Mark Sims, Iris Smith, Ian Somerhalder, and Tara & Brian Swibel.

The Trailer:

• 'Kiss the Ground' is part of a new crop of true 4k resolution documentaries. Technology to make the film including computers, servers, hard drives and speciality film equipment was provided by Other World Computing, Price.com and Black Magic Design.

About Big Picture Ranch

Nested in the Los Padres National Forest in Ojai, California sits Big Picture Ranch - an organic avocado farm which also operates 24/7 as a soup-to-nuts film studio. Founders Josh and Rebecca Tickell are Sundance Award-Winning documentarians. Big Picture Ranch creates content that changes the global narrative around important environmental issues. Filmmakers Josh & Rebecca Tickell won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival with their first film FUEL, premiered their oil spill documentary THE BIG FIX as an official selection at Cannes, and are launching their first scripted feature film, HEARTLAND soon.

About Josh Tickell

The author of four books, Josh Tickell has worked on environmental issues for over twenty years. His career spans a unique mixture of science, journalism and filmmaking. His directorial debut film, FUEL, is the 2008 Sundance Audience Award winning documentary that investigates the possible replacement of fossil fuels with renewable energy. His 2017 Simon and Schuster book, Kiss the Ground, How the Food You Eat Can Reverse Climate Change, Heal Your Body and Ultimately Save Our World, was an Amazon Bestseller in multiple categories. Tickell holds an MFA in film from Florida State University's Film School. He is a regular guest on talk shows and gives keynote presentations internationally on sustainability, regeneration and filmmaking.

About Rebecca Tickell

Rebecca Tickell is a director, producer and environmental author & activist. She produced the Sundance Audience Award Winning, environmentally-themed movie, FUEL, and co-directed/produced 'The Big Fix', an 'Official Selection' of the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. She spent several years documenting the impacts and root cause of the BP oil spill. While investigating the spill she became ill and was left with permanent damage from exposure to the oil and dispersant in the atmosphere. Her directorial debut (with husband Josh) was the critically acclaimed documentary PUMP, narrated by Jason Bateman. She directed and produced the John Paul DeJoria story, GOOD FORTUNE, the YouTube sensation, THE EARTHING MOVIE as well as the forthcoming documentary THE REVOLUTION GENERATION and the forthcoming feature scripted film, HEARTLAND. As a child, she starred in the Orion (now MGM)'s Christmas Classic movie, Prancer.

About KISS THE GROUND 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Film Partner

KISS THE GROUND is a Los Angeles-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission of creating awareness around the extraordinary potential of healthy soil. KISS THE GROUND has educated and activated millions through their Media Program, Farmland Program, and Stewardship Program. Their Farmland Program supports transitioning farmers and ranchers with training, mentorship, and soil testing and has a robust scholarship program for farmers who need financial assistance to take part. The Stewardship Program is an education platform, community, and resource hub that was created to educate, inspire and empower individuals to become powerful and impactful advocates for the regenerative movement. KISS THE GROUND has become a premier online educational hub for regenerative agriculture, offering an online "pathway" for anyone to find resources and their unique way forward in contributing to this expanding global movement.

SOURCE: Big Picture Ranch

Top 5 Ideas For Beginner Investors

Top 5 Ideas For Beginner Investors (image via Pexels)

The world of investment allows us to improve our finances, learn new skills and build up a diverse portfolio. Whether it’s investing in stocks or investing in a holiday home, every asset you have brings you that little bit closer to financial freedom. If you’re a beginner looking to start investing, take a look at these top ideas for newbies.

1 . Robo advisor platforms

A robo advisor is a digital platform which provides financial planning and the opportunity to make investments. The platform uses algorithms and collects data about your finances. Using the data, the robo advisor can make auto investments and provide advice. There are plenty of benefits to using a robo advisor, including security, portfolio management, low fees and customer service. One of the best things about a robo advisor is that you do not need to put in lots of money to get started.

2. Real estate options

Real estate is one of the most popular ways to start investing. You can choose to make money by either buy-to-let or property flipping. With a buy- to- let you purchase a property, rent it out and use this as a form of passive income. To save time on the admin and legalities, choose a property management service. Property flipping refers to buying a property, refurbishing it, and then selling it on for a higher price. Both property investment options are fine for beginners, but you’ve got to put in the time to learn about the property market.

3.Try investment apps

Investment apps are the perfect place for beginners to learn the ropes. Acorns is the leading investment app, it's inexpensive to make a start, and making small investments is simple. Acorn offers lots of detailed financial content, so it’s also a great place to learn new things. If you’re saving to retire, be sure to check out the ‘Acorns Later’ feature.

4. Invest in Balanced Funds

Balanced Funds are a type of mutual fund; they are made up of a money market, a stock and a bond. Each part exists within the same portfolio. A balanced fund is balanced between both equity and debt, and the goal is to grow the funds and generate an income. These types of funds are ideal for those who want safety, income and capital. With a balanced fund you invest across a variety of assets, combining low-risk and high-risk elements.

5. Social lending

Social lending allows investors to provide loans to other individuals. Sometimes this type of lending is referred to as ‘crowdlending’ or ‘peer-to-peer’. If you become a P2P lender, you’ll have the chance to create a portfolio using smaller loans. You will earn around 10% on each loan, and there are plenty of associated services, including Funding Circle and Prosper.

Investing is one of the best ways to secure your financial future and make more money. The problem is, debts can hold you back. If you’re looking to settle your debts and start investing, be sure to check out the DTSS program at www.dtss.us/programs.html.

How To Take Part In Comic-Con@Home July 22-26, 2020

Comic-Con@Home Badge Sponsored by Amazon and Prime Video

San Diego Comic Convention (Comic-Con), the world's premier event of its kind, today announced details of its first-ever virtual event, Comic-Con@Home.

For the first time in its 50-year history, Comic-Con organizers were forced to make the heartbreaking decision to cancel the annual celebration of comics and pop culture. Soon after the cancelation, they announced an online version to launch July 22, the official start date of the originally scheduled convention. 

"We're very excited about bringing Comic-Con online," said David Glanzer, spokesperson for the nonprofit organization. "And it couldn't have been achieved without the help and support of so many of our usual friends, and some new ones too."

The virtual event will exist on the www.comic-con.org website which, at 9:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time on Wednesday, July 22, 2020, will transform to Comic-Con@Home. The redesigned Home Page will be the means by which participants can access programming, the Online Exhibit Hall, and various events and interactive elements, as each will be supported by a variety of different platforms. While programming for each day will be available on the website, Comic-Con is working again with Sched.com for those who would like to create their own daily schedule.

Joining in the fun is the Comic-Con Museum which has long planned an interactive component to their efforts. They began offering activities through Comic-Con Museum@Home earlier this summer which will continue through the Comic-Con@Home weekend and beyond.

• YouTube will host over 350 panels and programs as well as the 2020 Eisner Awards. 
• The Online Exhibit Hall, with approximately 700 exhibitors, will exist on the GoExpo by Community Brands page. 
• And for fans of Gaming, those activities will live on the Discord platform.

ComicCon@Home 2020 Currently Attending Window Sign (image via www.comic-con.org)

Fans will be excited to learn that DC Comics, longtime supporters of Comic-Con, will again provide exceptional artwork for the official event T-shirt. The event T-shirt will be accompanied by an assortment of official Comic-Con-related and Comic-Con Museum-related merchandise available on the Merch store page on the Comic-Con website.

Amazon and Prime Video are official sponsors of Comic-Con@Home and will be treating fans to additional activities from a variety of Amazon-owned platforms through their Amazon Virtual-Con portal. Prime Video is also the official sponsor of the Comic-Con 2020 print-at-home badge, which will allow participants to print and wear the free badge and take part in many fun, yet to be announced, interactive challenges.

Collaborator and sponsor IGN will stream roughly 34 Comic-Con@Home panels as well as produce extensive hosted shoulder content, hosted interviews and more, all in support of the online initiative.

Tumblr will serve as the platform for both the Comic-Con Art Show and the always popular Masquerade. The 46th annual Masquerade will open for viewing Friday, July 24, and winners announced on Saturday, July 25.

Films and anime have long been popular elements at Comic-Con. This tradition continues as both will employ the Scener Watch Party Platform, Funimation will exclusively host all of the anime watch parties including Black Clover and Fruits Basket. Scener is a Chrome browser plug-in that will allow fans the ability to simultaneously watch and discuss movies and anime.

Anyone who has visited Comic-Con is familiar with and may have participated in the outside activations (immersive experiences). Even they will be represented as FX will unveil the digital experience: FX UNLOCKED- where fans will engage with virtual activations for American Horror Story, What We Do in The Shadows, Cake and DAVE.

FutureTechLive! returns for a fifth year to present the virtual "World Builders" activation, featuring content by a global community of creators. In this unique experience, participants can explore new worlds in mixed reality, and unleash their imagination to create some of their own!

If that weren't enough, there will be a number of activities including portfolio review, gaming, a SideWalk Art Challenge, a Cosplay Challenge, the SuperVolunteer Challenge, and even some shared recipes should you need a break and a little sustenance during the Comic-Con@Home weekend.

Comic-Con will also be offering an online version of its Souvenir Book, which will be available as a free, downloadable PDF, starting on Wednesday, July 22. The 260-page book contains new art and articles celebrating various anniversaries, including the 100th birthdays of Ray Bradbury and Ray Harryhausen, plus celebrations of EC Comics, Moomin, Jack Kirby's Fourth World comics, and more. This year's cover is by William Stout.

"This type of online event is a first for us," Glanzer continued, "and we are grateful for the support of all involved. Our hope is that Comic-Con can provide a small respite from the confines of various stay-at-home orders. While we can't be together in person, we can be together online."

SOURCE: Comic-Con International

Property Ownership Types You Might Not Know About

Low angle view of two high rise buildings under blue sky (image via pexels.com)

Property ownership isn’t something we often think about. Probably we are familiar with how our parents organised their finances, and that is good enough for us as well.

There are, however, a broad range of options when it comes to property ownership and asset management. The social and economic landscape is always changing, and a new generation of people are finding ways to invest in properties collectively successfully.

Also, opportunities exist for fractional ownership of luxury assets such as vacation villas, yachts, and even private jets. In this post we duck under the surface and take a look around.

Communal Ownership

Did you ever hear about the one about the twenty-something woman who bought a dilapidated property with some friends and together they turned it around in a matter of weeks? She was soon renting the rooms out to her friends which more than covered the mortgage payment and provided a steady stream of passive income. Pretty smart right?

Brown wooden center table (image via pexels.com)

This type of story is becoming more common for a number of reasons. The economy is one of them, but so are the attitudes and expectations of younger generations coming through, like the Gen Zeds. Years of austerity and massive student loans have encouraged young people to think outside the box, and communal property ownership is one thing they’ve come up with.

In this model trusted friends invest in a property. It could be somewhere rundown that requires some heavy lifting, or a brand new flat in the city, somewhere just out the wrapper. It all depends on the investors and their preferences. Initially, the rooms can be let to those same investors, but there is flexibility too. If someone needs to move away for instance, the room can be let out.

Built To Order Flat

Built to order flats (BTO) are unique to Singapore but that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of the fantastic opportunities on offer as an American. Have you ever been to Singapore? It’s one of the most modern and diverse city-states in the world and a perfect hub for exploring the riches of Asia. A BTO flat in Singapore could provide you with a second income or a unique vacation home.

The way BTO homes and flats operate is very efficient - a bit like Singapore in general! An allocation system offers flexibility in timing and location. Eligible buyers can apply for apartments in their preferred areas and when demand is higher than 70% construction will begin. Otherwise, the project is abandoned. At the moment there are some upcoming HDB BTO 2020 locations on offer.

Imagine subletting a flat in one of the most lucrative cities in the world where business people are coming and going all the time. When it is not in use you could always jet off to Singapore yourself and take advantage of the excellent weather and culture.

Fractional Ownership

Have you ever dreamt of owning your own luxury house on the beach, flashy car, or even private jet? What was once the preserve of the super-rich is becoming more accessible to ordinary people with systems like fractional ownership.

So what’s it all about?

Fractional ownership is different from a timeshare in a number of key ways. With a timeshare you pay an annual fee in order to rent a property for a particular time of the year, but with FO you invest, along with other buyers, in the property or asset, and share it with them based on an agreed schedule.

Woman laying down on bed inside room (image via pexels.com)

There are many advantages to this. Firstly, as a part share owner, you will benefit from tax incentives and an increase in the value of the asset. Furthermore, you will not feel compelled to use the property at every opportunity, the way you might if you entirely owned a vacation home. You will have a set schedule for the asset, and you can choose to use it or not.

Joint Tenancy

Joint tenancy is when two or more people share an equal undivided interest in a property. You might think this is limited to spouses but you’d be wrong. It’s common for friends and business partners also to use joint tenancy as an ownership option. That said, there are particular advantages if owners are married.

If owners are married and one of them dies the value of the deceased property transfers to the living spouse. Conversely, if individuals are not married the value of the property is incorporated into the deceased estate. This can make it a potentially risky ownership strategy for unmarried individuals.

But, if it is a short term investment opportunity, if buyers are young, healthy, and trustworthy; and if they are looking to buy a property in order to renovate it and sell it on for profit, then a joint tenancy agreement can be a useful option. Speak to a financial consultant about this and ensure you have a solid business plan if you intend to go ahead with it.

Vacation Home

If joint ownership is not your thing you might be more interested in the sole ownership option. Have full control over your asset, use it any time you like and benefit from its entire value when sold. This can be an excellent choice if you are single and wish to buy a primary residence, or if you like the idea of having a second home, either as a vacation spot or as a passive income stream.

There are many advantages to owning a vacation home that go beyond the obvious. There are tax breaks available, convenience, rental incomes, along with chosen familiar surroundings for leisurely breaks. Firstly, if a second home is primarily used for vacations and is not rented out for more than two weeks of the year, it qualifies for tax-deductible mortgage interest and property taxes. But if you feel you would be better off renting it throughout the year this can also be a lucrative option.

A vacation home is a comfortable and familiar place that is perfect for a family vacation once or twice a year, as well as gathering for special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries.

Should you Invest in a PA System?

Should you Invest in a PA System? (Photo Credit: cottonbro)

There are many different uses for a PA system these days. A PA system is generally comprised of a system of microphones, amplifiers, speakers and other equipment that is used to provide sound for large venues or even buildings in which a lot of people are congregated, to easily pipe sound into various rooms and areas. The microphone converts the sound into voltage, which is then sent to a mixer or loudspeaker for amplification, and then is fed through the speakers. The higher the voltage, the louder the sound. Different types of businesses, groups and individuals need different levels of sound - some need the most basic amplification for smaller rooms or venues, while others in larger buildings or outdoor events need something much larger and louder. PA systems of various types are used in schools, businesses, concert venues and arenas, bars and restaurants, auditoriums, warehouses, and even on aircraft or ships. Obviously, there are many different types of PA systems and setups out there for various industries and uses, ranging from the very elaborate to the reasonably small and easy to install. It all depends on how much amplification you need.

Do you think a PA system is right for you, your band, your business or school? Chances are the answer is yes! PA systems are a great investment and well worth the money; because they come in so many different types, sizes and setups, you can easily find one that accommodates your needs and is within your price range. Many local musician and electronics shops have staff that will be happy to talk with you about your needs.

If you’re interested in installing a PA system for your business, venue or event you may be wondering what type to get and whether you can set it up yourself. Depending on your size requirements and the type of PA you’re interested in, there are lots of different tutorials out there; for instance, this basic guide for how to set up a PA system. It can definitely save you money to set your own PA system up, just make sure you do it right!

Depending on what you need it for, you might need a specific type of PA system. It’s important to do your research to determine what type is right for your specific location and use. Here’s a few examples:

Bands/Performances

If you’re a musician who wants to invest in your own PA to carry around to gigs, house parties and recording/practice sessions, you may want to invest in a PA that’s already assembled and easy to transport. Nobody wants to spend an hour or two before a show setting up a PA and installing a bunch of equipment. Luckily, several music supply stores carry ready-assembled basic PA systems that have great sound, are easy to use, and easy to transport, giving you convenience and accessibility so you can focus on the music.

These are also great for other types of performers and those in industries that need to transport their PA for other in-public performances, lectures or events.

Schools

Most schools these days, whether it’s a K-12 school or an established university, utilize some sort of PA system to make it easy to communicate with students and faculty, as well as make announcements, amplify assemblies, games and events, and so on.

Most schools have custom PA systems that are installed by a professional, so you’ll likely want to hire a professional in your area to set up the PA system in your school. Take the time to compare costs and look at different PAs to determine which one is right for the size, layout and uses of your individual school.

Wifi PA systems are becoming increasingly popular around the country, with various schools choosing to go with these for the ease of access and how easy they are to install.

Warehouse/Business

If you run a big business with lots of staff that are scattered across a large building, or if you run a warehouse, manufacturing plant or assembly line, a PA system is going to be your best friend. Being able to communicate over speakers to all of your employees is definitely a more efficient and safe way to speak to your employees while they’re working in various parts of the building. Having a PA system makes it so much easier to find a staff member who might be elsewhere in the building or make announcements while people are busy on the floor.

Because so many warehouses are crowded and dealing with heavy or dangerous equipment, having a wireless PA system is really important. Tangled wires, heavy speakers and bulky audio equipment is only going to get in the way and potentially get damaged and/or cause accidents. Luckily there are many great wireless PA systems on the market especially designed for businesses, manufacturers and warehouses. Some can be installed on your own and others may require a professional install.

Churches and Religious Institutions

Many churches and religious institutions are beginning to use PA systems for a variety of needs. They find that having a PA system eliminates the need for their religious clergymen and women to shout and yell across a congregation that may or may not hear them due to hearing difficulties. A PA system adds a little professional polish to a church service while making sermons and meetings more accessible. Many smaller churches choose to go with PA systems that are easy to install and set up on their own, but they sound every bit as good as one that was professionally installed.

These are just a few examples of businesses, groups and people who have a need for PA systems. Setting up your own custom PA system for your individual needs is easier than you think, and you’ll be thrilled with the accessibility and amplified sound that they can provide you. Whether you choose a ready-assembled PA system, a system you install yourself or have an elaborate PA system set up by a professional, you’ll be thrilled when you see how a PA system can improve your business, school, church or band.