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The 4 Top Things To Do While in Chicago

The 4 Top Things To Do While in Chicago

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Chicago, also known as the windy city, is the largest city in the Midwest region of the United States. With a population of around 2.7 million, it is the third largest city in the whole country, behind Los Angeles and New York City. 

There are plenty of activities to do and sites to see in the windy city, so keep reading this article to find out all there is to know about what to do while in Chicago.

  1. Chicago Architecture River Cruise

The Chicago River cruise is one of the most popular tourist attractions across all of Chicago, as it allows people to take in the stunning sights of the city’s architecture without having to walk or drive all over town.

During your cruise, you will also be provided with information about the history and architectural style of various buildings along the Chicago River, including Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, the Wrigley Building, and the Citigroup Center.

Chicago is able to have such a stunning skyline due to its bustling economy and large population. The Citigroup Center, for example, is the company’s headquarters for the Midwest United States. The corporation has many top-level executives based out of there, such as this executive. 

  1. The Art Institute of Chicago 

With a collection of over 300,000 works of art, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-stop for any museum-goers or art fanatics. Some of the more world-renowned pieces of art in the museum are: 

  • A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte (Georges Seurat)
  • American Gothic (Grant Wood)
  • Nighthawks (Edward Hopper)
  • The Old Guitarist (Pablo Picasso)
  • The Bedroom (Vincent van Gogh) 

General admission is $25 per adult, and we recommend purchasing tickets ahead of time online to save some of the hassle. Just head over to their website by following this link, and choose the date you would like to visit using the calendar. 

  1. Millennium Park

Covering an area of 25 acres, Millennium Park is a popular attraction for both tourists and Chicago residents alike to come and visit. The park was designed to celebrate the new millennium, and was officially opened in 2004. There are many stunning art sculptures you can see throughout the park, such as the famous Cloud Gate, otherwise known as “The Bean.”

This sculpture was designed by Anish Kapoor, and is made from 168 individual pieces of stainless steel plates that were welded together to create the shape. Due to the shape of the structure and its high reflectiveness, it gives visitors a distorted reflection of themselves and the Chicago skyline.

Additionally, Crown Fountain is another popular site at Millennium Park. Sitting on opposite sides of a shallow reflecting pool are two 50 foot tall towers with LED screens projecting random faces of the citizens of Chicago and having them spout out water from their mouths into the pool. 

  1. Deep-Dish Pizza

The deep-dish pizza is a staple of Chicago dining, and a must-try for everyone visiting the city. The dish was first created in the 1940s in Chicago, and has become one of the most iconic parts of Chicago’s culinary history. 

We recommend going to Pequod’s Pizza, where they make some of the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago. Reserve a table at their website by following this link.  

Wrapping It Up

We hope you found this article helpful, and that you now have an idea of some activities and sites to see while you are on your trip in Chicago. 

What Is An IRS Notice

What Is An IRS Notice

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An IRS notice is a written communication from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to a taxpayer, notifying them of a discrepancy, inquiry, or audit related to their tax return or account. It is essential to take IRS notices seriously and respond promptly to avoid penalties, interest, and other legal actions. If you have received an IRS notice, it may be in your best interest to enlist the help of the best tax debt relief companies. They can provide guidance on how to respond and negotiate with the IRS. These companies typically employ tax professionals, such as enrolled agents, certified public accountants (CPAs), and tax attorneys, who have experience dealing with the IRS.

What Should You Do if You Receive an IRS Notice? 

If you receive an IRS notice, the first step is to read it carefully and understand its contents. The notice should explain the reason for the communication, the amount owed (if applicable), and any actions you need to take to resolve the issue. It is important to note the deadline for responding, as failure to respond can result in additional penalties and interest. If you owe taxes and are unable to pay in full, there are tax debt relief services available that can help. These services work with the IRS on your behalf to negotiate a payment plan or settlement that is affordable and manageable for you. They can also help you navigate complex tax laws and regulations and ensure that you are taking advantage of all available tax relief options. When selecting a tax debt relief service, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable company with a track record of success. Look for companies that are licensed, insured, and accredited by reputable organizations such as the Better Business Bureau. Be wary of companies that make unrealistic promises or charge exorbitant fees upfront. Once you have selected a tax debt relief service, they will work with you to assess your tax situation and develop a strategy for resolving your debt. This may involve negotiating a payment plan, submitting an offer in compromise, or requesting a hardship status. The resolution will depend on your financial situation. They will then communicate with the IRS on your behalf and handle all aspects of the resolution process.

Possible IRS Notice Meanings: 

IRS notices can have different meanings depending on the nature of the inquiry or audit. Here are some possible meanings of different types of IRS notices: 

  • CP14IA Notice: This notice is sent to taxpayers who have an outstanding tax balance. It informs them that the IRS intends to apply their refund to the balance due. Taxpayers have the option to dispute the balance or set up a payment plan. 
  • C75 Exam Initial Contact: This notice is sent to taxpayers who are under examination. It informs them that the IRS has selected their tax return for review and requests additional information or documents to support their tax return. 
  • CP501 Reminder Notice: This notice is sent to taxpayers who have an outstanding tax balance. It serves as a reminder to make a payment or set up a payment plan to avoid further collection actions. 
  • CP504 Final Notice: This notice is sent to taxpayers who have ignored previous notices regarding an outstanding tax balance. It informs them that the IRS intends to take collection actions, such as wage garnishment or bank levies. 
  • CP523 Intent To Terminate Your Installment Agreement: This notice is sent to taxpayers who have a payment plan in place but have missed payments or failed to comply with the terms of the agreement. It informs them that the IRS intends to terminate the agreement and take collection actions. 
  • CP90 Intent To Seize Assets: This notice is sent to taxpayers who have ignored previous notices and have an outstanding tax balance. It informs them that the IRS intends to seize their assets, such as real estate or personal property, to satisfy the debt.

How Does a Tax Debt Relief Company Help? 

A tax debt relief company is a professional service provider that specializes in helping individuals and businesses resolve their tax problems with the IRS and State Revenues. These companies offer a range of services, including legal research, tax dispute resolution, representation, and advice on legal rights. 

Legal Research: 

Tax debt relief companies conduct legal research and analysis to understand the specific tax issues affecting their clients. They use this information to develop effective strategies and solutions for resolving their clients’ tax problems. 

Handle Tax Disputes: 

Tax debt relief companies handle tax dispute resolution with the IRS. They can negotiate with the IRS to potentially reduce or eliminate tax debts, penalties, and interest. They can also help clients secure payment plans or other forms of tax relief. 

Representation: 

Tax debt relief companies can represent clients before the IRS and state revenues. They can prepare legal documents, provide testimony, and negotiate on behalf of their clients. 

Advise You About Your Legal Rights: 

Tax debt relief companies advise clients about their legal rights and responsibilities. They help clients understand the tax laws and regulations that apply to their situation, and they provide guidance on how to navigate the complex tax system.

What To Do If You Have Unsecured Debt?

If you are struggling to manage other unsecured debts, such as credit card debt or medical bills, consider contacting a debt settlement firm for debt settlement services. They can negotiate with your creditors on your behalf to potentially settle your debt for less than what you owe. Debt settlement services work by collecting monthly payments from you that are deposited into an escrow account. Once this account has enough savings accumulated, the debt settlement firm will begin to contact your creditors in an attempt to negotiate a settlement for less than what you originally owed. 

How to Get Better Stamina

How to Get Better Stamina

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Stamina helps people sustain physical and mental activity. With higher stamina, you can perform at elite levels for longer, and there is a more gradual decline in performance as you tire. On the other hand, people with poor stamina see sharp dropoffs in performance and typically have difficulty recovering quickly. 

Better stamina prevents excess fatigue after a run or any sporting activity. It gives people confidence in their physical capabilities and keeps people going longer. 

Whether you’re out on the track or looking for ways to boost your energy at work, here are some helpful tips on improving stamina to stay in great shape. 

Start Exercising

The best way to build stamina is by increasing your overall fitness level. You’ll feel more comfortable doing something longer the more you do it. If you’re trying to learn to surf longer, you should get out in the water more frequently. 

Your body will begin to build resilience as you acclimate to the activity. You’ll get in better shape and develop more stamina as you push yourself. When you’re in good shape, your body doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the same level of intensity. You’ll have stronger muscles, and your lungs will have more capacity. Your heart will be healthier, so you won’t experience massive swings in heart rate when you’re working or exercising. 

Drink Caffeine

People who drink caffeine typically experience better short-term stamina. It’s a stimulant that can help you run faster or stay sharp when you need to perform at work. The energy benefits of caffeine mean you can overcome feelings of being tired or mental fog. 

Focus on Breathing

Your breath is vital to stamina because it affects your heart rate. Short, shallow breaths tend to increase the heart rate, which affects stamina as the body rallies more resources and depletes energy stores faster. 

However, high-performance athletes with increased stamina typically have lower heart rates and better breathing techniques. When exercising, focus on controlling your breath during intense activities and recovery. Keep your breath under control to maintain high-intensity levels and hasten recovery times. 

Eat a Healthy Diet

Does diet also affect stamina? It makes sense because food is the body’s fuel. You need to fill your muscles and brain with quality fuel for better stamina. Try eating a high-protein diet and avoid excessive sugar and unhealthy carbohydrates. 

With a better diet, you’re less likely to see a sharp drop in performance as you exercise. The same goes for mental stamina; quality foods keep the brain sharp and prevent cognitive decline. 

Listen to Music

Staying relaxed is a key to better stamina. When you’re free from stress, you can focus on the task at hand for longer. Relaxing music, for example, can lower the heart rate and keep you centered on a run or as you write an important paper for school. The lower your heart rate stays, the more likely you’ll stay on-task for longer. 

Avoid Stress

Many of our tips for better stamina emphasize keeping your heart rate low and controlling breathing. Stress, however, can make both much more difficult. It’s hard to track your heart rate when your brain is moving a mile a minute. Stress triggers fight-or-flight impulses and increases oxidative stress in the body. If you want better stamina, enter a competition or significant work assignment with as little stress as possible. 

One way to lower stress and improve stamina is to put yourself in simulated situations to improve the way you react to stressful situations. Elite athletes, for instance, try to simulate the conditions at large sporting events to mimic how they’ll feel and what they’ll experience. As a result, they don’t experience the same swing in heart rate or mental reactions when the real competition comes. It’s a way of conditioning the physical response, which increases stamina in the future. 

Can C60 Lower Oxidative Stress?

Carbon 60 is a unique molecule made from 60 carbon atoms that form something like a hollow soccer ball. It’s known as a powerful antioxidant that can alleviate the oxidative burden in the body. People take it because they’re interested in its potential to optimize mitochondrial function and a balanced immune response. C60 may also improve recovery times and has other performance benefits. 

Researchers characterize C60 as a free radical sponge. Too many free radicals can increase the risk of oxidative stress, which puts a greater strain on the immune system, increases inflammation, and affects the healing process.If you want to learn what is c60, visit shopc60.com. Adding antioxidants from external sources may improve energy levels and protect cell vitality. 

Visitation and Custody of Children in Oklahoma

Visitation and Custody of Children in Oklahoma

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The “best interests of the child” criteria is used by Oklahoma courts, like those in other states, to make decisions about child custody and visitation. The usual inquiries about Oklahoma’s custody and visitation laws are addressed in this page.

Visit our Oklahoma website for further details on concerns related to Oklahoma family law. In our Child Custody section, you can also discover articles about custody and visitation.

Child Custody Laws in Oklahoma
The term “child custody” refers to all parental rights in a child’s upbringing, including the authority to control a kid’s activities and make decisions about their upbringing, care, education, health, and religion. Physical custody and legal custody are distinguished under Oklahoma’s child custody statutes.

Physical and Legal Custody
A parent who has “physical custody” of the child resides with them. One parent may have sole physical custody while the other enjoys visitation rights, or the parents may split physical custody. Legal custody is the authority a parent has to act in a child’s best interests.

A parent with legal custody has the authority to determine whether a kid should receive a particular medical treatment, where they should go to school, and if they should practice a particular religion.

Equal legal rights apply to mothers and fathers when requesting custody of their minor children. The judge’s choice will ultimately be based on what is best for the child. This holds true for both paternity and divorce cases.

Joint Parentage
Joint custody means that both parents share some or all of the responsibilities for a child’s physical and legal upbringing, custody, and control. Joint legal custody parents share responsibility for their children’s upbringing and collaborate on important decisions.

Although not always equally, parents who have joint physical custody will spend a lot of time together as a family. For instance, if you were granted joint custody, one parent might spend 4 nights a week with the child while the other spends 3 nights a week with the child.

Solitary Custody
Both sole physical and/or exclusive legal custody may be given to one parent. Sole custody, as the name suggests, grants the child’s legal or physical custody to just one parent.

Without the other parent’s input, a parent with sole legal custody can choose where their child will go to school. The other parent (known as the “noncustodial parent”) is nonetheless allowed frequent visits even if the parent with sole physical custody spends the majority of time with the child.

Shared Custody
Split custody refers to a custody agreement in which one or more of the children of the couple are given to each parent. For instance, in a divided custody arrangement, one parent might be given custody of the couple’s twin daughters while the other is given custody of the boy. In addition to having the right to frequent visits with the kids they don’t live with, both parents must reside with some of their kids.

“Birdnesting”
Divided custody arrangements known as “birdnesting” give kids more stability. The children will reside at the family home full-time under a bird’s nest custody arrangement, and the parents will alternately move in and out of the house. Birdnesting arrangements are uncommon and demand a great deal of parental collaboration.

How Does an Oklahoma Court Determine Custody?
Any custody decision in Oklahoma must be made with the child’s best interests in mind. The following elements, among others, will be considered by the judge when assessing the child’s requirements, the parents’ capacity to meet those needs, and all other pertinent circumstances:

willingness of each parent to help establish a bond between the child and the other parent
the physical and mental well-being of each parent
educational and emotional requirements of the child
each parent’s general stability and either parent’s history of domestic violence, child abuse, or neglect
the child’s bond with siblings and other family members the child’s adjustment to school, home, and community
The use of drugs or alcohol by either parent, as well as a child’s preference in some situations.
In Oklahoma, there is a rebuttable presumption against granting custody, legal guardianship, or unsupervised visitation to those who are registered sexual offenders, anyone living with a registered sex offender, convicted child abusers, people living with convicted child abusers, people who are alcohol or drug dependent, and those who are domestic abusers or people living with domestic abusers. Refer to OK Stat. 43-112.5. (2020).

A violent parent will likely not be granted custody, but he or she will still be allowed visitation, most likely under supervision. Unless the court is confident that the kid is secure in that parent’s care, restrictions on a parent’s visitation, such as supervised visits, remain in place.

It’s crucial to understand that a judge cannot decide custody based on a parent’s ethnicity or gender. A judge cannot, for example, grant custody to a mother over a father based only on the woman’s gender.

What Is the Oklahoman Norm for Visitation?
Any visitation plan can be created by parents who can agree on custody, provided it is in the child’s best interests. When parents are unable to come to an agreement, a judge will set up a visitation schedule. Minimum visitation requirements are outlined in the Oklahoma visitation form.

A noncustodial parent may have more visitation than the minimum permitted by the guidelines, but not less. This often entails overnight visits every other weekend and one weekday with the child per week for the noncustodial parent.

Holiday and summer vacation visits will be specified in the visitation orders. On important holidays, parents typically alternate who has the kids. The children may spend Thanksgiving with one parent, while Hanukkah or Christmas may be spent with the other parent. The mechanics of visitation, such as transportation between visits, will be covered in your visitation order as well.

Holiday and summer vacation visits will be specified in the visitation orders. On important holidays, parents typically alternate who has the kids.

In Oklahoma, do kids have a voice in custody disputes?
Even if a child displays a preference for which parent gets to have custody, the decision in the case will be based on what is best for the child, not what the youngster wants. Children who are 12 years old or older are given some consideration under Oklahoma’s child custody rules.

Typically, a youngster can express a thoughtful, well-informed preference when they are 12 years old. The custody requests of a younger child may still be taken into account by the judge, but they won’t likely be given much weight.

Why, if I’m a good parent, do I need to take parenting classes?
Regardless of how terrific a parent you are, a divorce can significantly alter how parents interact with their children. The impact of those adjustments on the kids must be as little as possible. Parents involved in a custody dispute must go to a parenting education course, according to Oklahoma law and local court regulations as well as joint custody Oklahoma laws saying that too.

The conference will cover a variety of topics, including the effects of co-parenting and separate parenting on children, visitation and dispute resolution, developmental stages of children, and child financial responsibilities. Individual treatment is not the intended purpose of the course. The session will have been worthwhile if you learn even one thing that will benefit you or your kids.

Can My Custody Order Be Modified?
A request to change a custody arrangement may be made by either parent. The parent requesting a change in custody must demonstrate that there has been a significant change in circumstances since the previous custody arrangement and that changing custody is in the best interests of the kid.

Particularly, a parent’s second marriage or new employment is typically insufficient to support a change in custody. A custody change might be necessary if one parent has moved abroad or the custodial parent is experiencing a serious health issue.

Can the child move with one parent?
One parent must give written notice to the other parent of their intention to move with the kid at least 60 days before the relocation is anticipated or within ten days of learning of the move. When a parent is relocating more than 75 miles away, this regulation is applicable.

The notification should include the moving parent’s new address, phone number, moving date, moving-related details, and a suggested timetable for time-sharing with the kids after the move.

The opposing parent may launch a lawsuit to stop the relocation of the custodial parent if they object to the move. In order to determine if the move is justified and whether it would be in the child’s best interests for the moving parent to retain custody, a court will schedule a hearing and analyze the available information.

If one parent isn’t providing child support, can the other parent refuse visitation?
No, a parent cannot deny their child visitation because the other parent hasn’t made a support payment. In other words, a right doesn’t result from two wrongs. Both failing to grant access to a kid and failing to pay child support do not justify depriving a parent of their right to do so.

If the court determines that the custodial parent has interfered with the non-custodial parent’s right to visitation in an unreasonable manner, the court may order make-up visits, the posting of a bond that will be forfeited if visitation does not take place, attorneys’ fees and costs, or another suitable remedy.

How are Business Analysts Important to Organizations?

How are Business Analysts Important to Organizations?

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Organizations are always seeking methods to get the upper hand on their competitors in today’s fiercely competitive business environment. Business analysts are essential in assisting firms in achieving this objective. They are specialists skilled in deciphering data and using it to spot patterns, chances, and future issues. The organization may then be guided toward success by using this knowledge to make wise decisions.

If you are looking forward to starting your career as a Business Analyst, then you should definitely enroll in Intellipaat’s Business Analyst training course.

Given below are the following subtopics we are going to discuss in detail:

  • Who is a Business Analyst?
  • Why do we need Business Analyst?
  • How do Business Analysts play an important role in Organizations?
  • Applications of Business Analysts
  • Conclusion

Who is a Business Analyst?

A professional who specializes in business analysis is known as a business analyst. To increase the efficacy and efficiency of the firm, they are in charge of studying business processes, identifying issues, and proposing solutions. 

Business analysts closely collaborate with stakeholders from all departments and organizational levels to comprehend their needs and expectations. 

They employ data analysis tools to spot patterns, chances, and future issues before coming up with solutions. In the very dynamic corporate climate of today, business analysts are essential to keeping firms competitive and creative.

Business analysts work across a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, information technology, and government. They work closely with stakeholders from various departments, including business leaders, managers, and IT professionals, to understand their needs and requirements. 

By doing so, they help ensure that IT projects are aligned with business objectives and that everyone is on the same page regarding project goals and outcomes.

To be successful in this role, business analysts need to have strong analytical skills, communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. 

They also need to be adaptable, as the business environment is constantly evolving and changing. As such, they must be able to quickly identify new opportunities, challenges, and trends, and respond accordingly to help organizations stay competitive and innovative.

Why do we need Business Analyst?

Organizations need business analysts to help them identify and address problems, optimize their operations, and stay competitive in today’s dynamic business environment. Here are some of the reasons why we need Business Analysts:

  • Identify and resolve problems: Business analysts are skilled at identifying problems and inefficiencies within organizations. They use data analysis techniques to pinpoint areas where the organization is experiencing difficulties, and then work with stakeholders to develop and implement solutions.
  • Improve organizational efficiency: By analyzing business processes and systems, business analysts can help organizations improve their efficiency and effectiveness. This can result in cost savings, increased revenue, and improved customer satisfaction.
  • Bridge the gap between business and IT: Business analysts help to ensure that IT projects are aligned with business objectives, and that both business and IT stakeholders are on the same page. By doing so, they help to facilitate efficient communication and collaboration between different departments.
  • Ensure compliance: Business analysts help to ensure that organizations are compliant with regulations and standards. This is particularly important in industries such as healthcare and finance, where compliance is critical.
  • Facilitate change management: Business analysts are instrumental in facilitating change within organizations. They work with stakeholders to identify areas where change is needed, and then develop and implement plans to make these changes.

How do Business Analysts play an important role in Organizations?

Business analysts are essential to an organization’s success. They are crucial in the following ways, for example:

  • Corporate analysts are adept at examining business procedures, systems, and data to spot issues and opportunities. They employ this knowledge to spot organizational issues and inefficiencies as well as fresh chances for development.
  • After issues are discovered, business analysts collaborate with key players to create and apply solutions. This might entail creating new procedures, frameworks, or technological advancements, as well as modifying already existing ones.
  • Business analysts play a key role in bridging the gap between various departments and stakeholders inside firms by facilitating communication and cooperation. They assist in making sure that everyone is working toward the same goals and objectives by fostering teamwork and communication.
  • Business analysts work to make sure an organization is in compliance with rules and standards. In fields like banking and healthcare, where compliance is essential, this is especially crucial.

Business analysts are crucial for firms because they support problem identification, communication and cooperation, compliance monitoring, and innovation. By doing this, they support businesses in their efforts to thrive and remain competitive in today’s marketplace.

Applications of Business Analysts

Here are some real-life applications in which Business Analysts have been used:

  • Project management: Business Analysts assist in making sure IT projects are implemented on schedule, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders while also being in line with business objectives.
  • Process improvement: To find inefficiencies and possibilities for improvement, Business Analysts assess current company processes and systems. After that, they collaborate with key players to create and put into practice ideas that will maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Data analysis: Data analysis techniques are used by business analysts to find patterns, opportunities, and possible issues inside firms. They create development and improvement initiatives using this knowledge.
  • Requirements gathering: To fully comprehend the needs and expectations of stakeholders, Business Analysts collaborate closely with them. In order to ensure that everyone is on the same page with regard to the objectives and results of the project, they utilize this information to establish and record the project requirements.

Conclusion

We hope that at this time you are aware of the critical function that business analysts play in the field of business analysis. We have made an effort to cover all areas of business analysis in this blog. Business analysts are continually expanding as time goes on, so if you’re wanting to jump-start your career, you’ve come to the correct spot.

Why You Should Convert Your VHS Tapes to Digital Format

Why You Should Convert Your VHS Tapes to Digital Format

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If you lived through the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, you probably have a collection of old VHS tapes somewhere in your home. While these are amazing to hang onto because of the nostalgia they bring, they are also old and outdated pieces of technology that can be difficult to store.

If you’re not already aware, digital conversion of VHS is an easy way to preserve your old home videos or favorite kids’ movies and make them more accessible. But why take the time to convert your VHS tapes to digital format? Here are a few key reasons to consider

VHS Tapes Are Fragile

One of the most significant benefits of VHS to digital conversion is that it can help preserve your old tapes from degrading and becoming unplayable over time.

Unlike digital formats, VHS tapes are sensitive to temperature changes and humidity levels, which means they can become damaged or ruined if not stored properly. This means that all those old home videos and VHS tapes you’ve been hanging onto for years could become completely unwatchable if not digitized soon.

Be sure to check out your VHS tapes often to ensure that they are in good condition and not showing any signs of deterioration.

VHS Tapes Take Up Space

Another practical benefit of VHS to digital conversion is that it can help you save valuable storage space in your home.

If you have an extensive collection of VHS tapes, then storing them in boxes or cabinets can take up a lot of room and make your home feel cluttered. Plus, it’s a perfect place for accumulating dust and dirt, which can quickly reduce your favorite movies to worthless pieces of junk.

Converting VHS tapes to a digital format is an easy way to free up some much-needed space in your home while still having access to all of your old videos and movies at any time.

Converting to Digital Format Is Easy and Cheap

While taking a physical VHS tape and transferring it to a digital format may sound complicated and very expensive, it’s actually straightforward and affordable.

The rise of the new technology in Capture Memories digitization is the one behind these changes.

Created by the team at Capture, they make it easy to send your VHS tapes directly to them by mail and have them converted to a digital format in just a few days.

Plus, they offer one of the fastest VHS to digital conversion services on the market, meaning you won’t have to be without your favorite home videos or movies for long. Capture is the clear choice for VHS to digital conversion, compared to other services that require a long and drawn-out process that can take weeks or even months to complete.

Practical Benefits

Instead of letting those old home videos or movies just sit as static, outdated pieces of technology, you can have a little fun with the digital versions.

Creating edited versions on your computer means you can create fun mashups of your old home videos and share them with friends and family.

Plus, the digital conversion also allows you to watch your favorite movies and shows on any screen or device you want. You’ll be able to take them with you wherever you go, so even if you’re away from home for an extended period, you can still watch all your favorite tapes you want.

Conclusion

If you’re still hanging onto your old VHS tapes, it’s time to consider VHS to digital conversion. 

Not only can this help preserve your old home videos and movies by making them less fragile and more accessible, but it is also an easy way to save valuable storage space in your home while still enjoying all of your favorite memories.

Preserve your old home videos and movies by converting them to digital today!

Tips to Improve Your Work-Life Balance

Tips to Improve Your Work-Life Balance

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More people today consider work-life balance a key factor in achieving a successful career. The gap between work and personal lives has grown in importance and requires more awareness due to ever-increasing workplace commitments.

The pressing demands of a job or personal challenges can be stressful. Such situations can have a physical and psychological impact on employees. Technology has transformed many professional work cultures and expectations, resulting in a blurrier and much more interconnected distinction between “work” and “personal” time.

Proper time management, timely stress management, and effective burnout prevention can construct harmony between professional and personal lives. Here are some practical suggestions to help you achieve better work-life harmony:

  1. Schedule your workday to fit in social, recreational, and exercise activities. If you have many virtual meetings, consider having them while taking a walk.
  2. Take time off—whether for a vacation, sick leave, personal time, or emotional trauma, these are crucial strategies to support your wellness.
  3. Schedule a time to stop working for the day, and enforce it by turning off any work devices and closing your office.
  4. Make the most of your time by eliminating outside distractions and working in short, concentrated sessions.
  5. Allocate time slots for different tasks: schedule times for checking messages, attending meetings, collaborating with the team, or working on more challenging tasks.
  6. Eat lunch with coworkers or go somewhere to eat. Even if you work from home, you may get together with friends during your break.
  7. Take up a hobby outside of work. Our interests give us more life and energy.
  8. Be in touch with your team and managers. The anxiety that we’re not accomplishing enough can make it harder to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Speak with your superiors to set priorities for how you spend your work time and prioritize tasks.

Last but not least, smart tools like the Lumin online PDF editor can aid employees in managing files and facilitating document workflow. Once document flow is simplified, the team can relax and avoid any unnecessary stress. With Lumin, teams can easily edit PDF texts, edit PDF forms, and edit scanned PDFs on desktop or mobile. 

Effects of work-life imbalance

A  work-life imbalance typically happens when there are no clear boundaries between work and personal lives. Many employees find it difficult to draw clear lines between their needs and those of their employer. So, what are the possible effects?

Health Concerns. According to the Mayo Clinic, overworking and working long hours can negatively affect your team members. As per the research, those who work three to four hours of overtime have a 60% greater risk of developing heart-related illnesses than those who don’t.

Burnout and low productivity. Burnout can occur when working long hours and can have destructive mental health effects. It can interfere with your ability to focus and be motivated, lead to confusion, raise your chance of making mistakes, and lower your productivity level. Therefore, when you become overwhelmed at work, it’s essential to take breaks to minimize the risk of burnout. A burnout workforce are likely to put in the bare minimum when completing tasks, delaying the realization of corporate goals and objectives. Additionally, burnout staff often lacks creativity and is led by tunnel vision, therefore putting the success of many modern businesses at risk.

Low job satisfaction. A work-life imbalance has been linked to lower job satisfaction and increased turnover rates. This can greatly affect both the worker and the company since fewer employees would likely stay in their current positions for a long time, making employers spend more resources on hiring new people.

Building a strong work-life culture through technology

Technology helps you work smarter. By connecting with team members and collaborating on projects, your colleagues will feel your company’s support. In addition, modern tech tools can impact your work-life balance. For example, project management software can simplify tasks like taking notes, editing online, delegating tasks, and managing functions in one place.

Once your company embraces digitalization and starts offering awesome tools to your employees, they will gladly utilize Lumin, which is, for instance, the best PDF editor available online.

You can also conveniently manage your collaboration process with Lumin’s Circles. It allows you to:

  • View information on document collaboration inside your organization or department;
  • Create Teams inside your Circle to divide up groups and tasks;
  • Tag Circle members where you need their input, or ask them to eSign;
  • Quickly share documents Circle-wide and make fillable PDFs;
  • Make fillable PDF templates and forms;
  • Create folders to store documents;
  • Use Lumin to annotate and edit PDF files and work together in real time.

Benefits that increase employee retention

A wonderful method to draw in fresh talent, keep your existing staff invested, and enhance employee experiences is to set up various benefits programs.

The retention of employees and the development of a healthy workplace culture depend heavily on retirement and health benefits. Similarly, wellness benefits raise employee satisfaction and productivity while still being simple for HR staff to administer.

Flexibility can become another benefit — the flexibility to work from home has become a standard feature of many jobs. This way, you can make your company stand out to prospective recruits by giving remote work reimbursement options and the ability to work from home.

Does Medicare Cover Eye Exams

Does Medicare Cover Eye Exams

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Medicare doesn’t provide vision insurance coverage for eye exams or other eye-related procedures with a few exceptions for what is deemed medically necessary. For example, patients that have glaucoma, diabetes, or macular degeneration may have some procedures covered.

Medicare Part B covers exams for people with diabetes to test for diabetic retinopathy once a year. Only certain doctors are legally permitted to administer this exam from state to state. After the deductible is met for Part B, the patient is responsible for 20% of the approved amount.

Conventional routine eye exams cannot detect diabetic retinopathy. Dilated eye exams performed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist properly licensed to give the exam can detect it and allow for the doctor’s diagnosis. Severe diabetic retinopathy, which requires invasive treatment, can only be performed by an ophthalmologist. Treatments may include injections, eye surgery, or laser therapy.

Glaucoma testing is available for specific groups under Medicare Part B. The tests are provided every 12 months for those deemed high risk.

According to Medicare, these patients are at higher risk of glaucoma:

• Hispanic men and women 65 and older.

• African American men and women 50 and older.

• Patients with a family member with glaucoma.

• Patients who have diabetes.

After the deductible is met for Part B, the patient is responsible for 20% of the approved amount for glaucoma testing.

Macular degeneration treatments and tests may be covered under Medicare Part B. Medicare may cover injected drug treatment and certain diagnostics if the patient has age-related macular degeneration. As with the other exceptions for vision care, Macular degeneration also carries a 20% responsibility for the approved amount after meeting the deductible.

Because prices for treatments and diagnostics fluctuate in different states and by different doctors, Medicare recommends that patients talk to their healthcare providers about costs. Factors that can impact price variance include:

• Where the patient gets the testing or service.

• The type of facility, doctor’s office, hospital, etc.

• If the patient’s doctor accepts the assignment.

• How much the doctor charges.

• Other insurance carried by the patient and what that covers.

Cataract surgery may also be covered by Medicare Part B. It can help cover the costs for corrective lenses required after the implantation of intraocular lenses. This can include glasses if lenses are not preferred.

Parts of Medicare and Approved Eye Exams and Procedures

Part A, considered hospital insurance, does not cover contact lenses, glasses, or routine exams. It can cover vision care for medically necessary procedures. This can include injuries or vision problems that require being hospitalized.

Part B, which is considered medical insurance, as mentioned, doesn’t cover eye examinations, save for a few exceptions. High-risk patients and those with glaucoma have 80% of some services covered. Medically necessary procedures related to cataract surgery may also be covered.

What is often referred to as Part C, Medicare Advantage, is a way to receive add-on benefits. This service can cover some of what Medicare does not in terms of dental, vision, and hearing.

Additional coverage from other providers often covers eye exams, glasses, and corrective lenses. Medigap, which is Medicare supplemental insurance, is a way to cover costs not covered by Original Medicare.

Vision providers that accept Medicare can be located on the Medicare.gov website. The database is accessible under the find care providers link.

Medicare Advantage plans are typically the way to go when looking for general vision care coverage. Several trusted institutions offer these programs, including UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross BlueShield (Anthem,) Aetna, and Humana. Each plan has different coverages and costs. Medicare Advantage plans can be found on Medicare.gov with just a zip code.

One area in which Medicare does offer the most benefits is the services of ophthalmologists. These doctors are specialists in eye disease treatment and in surgical and medical concerns of the eyes. While Medicare will not pay for a routine exam, medical and surgical cases can be covered by an ophthalmologist. Prior authorizations and referrals may be required. It’s suggested to check with the Medicare.gov site or speak with a representative to determine what is covered.

Medicare does not cover eye exams. According to Medicare—and most other insurance companies—eye exams are not considered a necessary part of the health care routine for people 65 years or older. This means that if you’re 65 or over and need an eye exam, you will have to pay for it out of your pocket. Some might argue that this is unfair, given that age can significantly contribute to vision loss, and there are some exceptions.

However, Medicare is not the only source of health care coverage in the country. Vision services may still be covered if qualified for gap insurance like Medicare Advantage. So, if whether your eye exam will be covered under your current health care plan is a concern, speak with your doctor or insurance company to see if it’s a covered service.

Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Needs

Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Needs

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One in five women in the United States does not use their preferred method of contraception, and this number is even higher among uninsured women. This is due to the lack of affordable access to contraceptive methods and the lack of awareness about public programs that provide such services.

Biological differences

There are biological differences between men and women regarding sexual and reproductive health. While men and women may experience many of the same health problems in early childhood, striking sex differences emerge in adulthood. Women are disproportionately affected by reproductive ill-health, and most of the disease burden is concentrated in developing regions. In developing countries, three of the top ten disease causes for women aged 15-44 are related to reproductive conditions. These illnesses are a major cause of DALYs, and most of the disease burden is preventable.

In addition to behavioral differences, women’s reproductive systems have specific needs. Since women’s reproductive organs are highly complex, they are susceptible to disease before and after conception. While men and women experience many of the same diseases, their disease patterns are different and are best served by a gender-specific approach to health care.

Sex and gender are closely related and can impact someone’s general health. Depending on their gender identity, women have different needs in terms of sexual and reproductive health. Therefore, it is important to screen transgender people for sex-specific illnesses like prostate and cervical cancer.. However, the Guttmacher Institute warns of the disastrous consequences of neglecting women’s reproductive health and sexual needs such as the use of adult toys like a vibrator with clit stimulator. According to their study, even a ten percent decline in the use of contraception could lead to 49 million women without access to contraception and unsafe abortions.

Societal factors

Historically, poor communities have had limited access to reproductive health services. This is often a result of a lack of affordable housing, a lack of education, and employment opportunities. As a result, women with few resources are often forced to choose between family planning and food. As a result, these women are often more likely to experience anxiety and depression. In addition, there are large disparities in behavioral health care among low-income communities.

The study also found that cultural beliefs and practices often limited knowledge about sexual health. Women interviewed in Dallas County reported that their churches discouraged discussions about sexual health and contraception, but a handful of churches organized events to promote HIV prevention. Formal, comprehensive sex education for women may be needed in a conservative community. Many women in abusive relationships experience reproductive coercion and cannot make informed decisions about their health. As a result, they end up having multiple children.

The study also found that poor sex education left many women and girls little information about sexual and reproductive health. While most states require sex education in schools, only half of them teach about abstinence or contraception. This lack of knowledge contributes to the high rates of teen pregnancy and STIs.

Intimate partner violence

Intimate partner violence is a serious health issue for women, and the effects are significant. Among its consequences are unintended pregnancy, induced abortion, and HIV infection. It also leads to diminished reproductive autonomy and a higher risk of contracting an STI, a dangerous disease that can lead to serious health consequences. Additionally, IPV during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.

Research shows that about 30% of women will experience some form of abuse during their relationships. While most prevalence estimates are based on physical violence, IPV may include psychological, financial, and social abuse. Many of these types of abuse are caused by a desire for power and control.

However, few studies have examined the relationship between IPV and women’s health outcomes. Only one study examined the relationship between IPV and reproductive health outcomes in Ghana. That study used national representative cross-sectional data from 2,289 ever-married women. It used multilevel modeling to estimate individual and community-level effects. It found that women with a history of physical or sexual violence were more likely to report unwanted pregnancy, and those who had experienced both were more likely to report experiencing pregnancy loss.

Access to quality sexual and reproductive health services

Access to high-quality sexual and reproductive health services is crucial to women’s overall health. The Affordable Care Act expanded Medicaid and private insurance coverage, making these services more affordable and available. This law also made it easier for private insurance providers to cover recommended preventive services, such as contraception and STI testing, without any cost-sharing for the patient.

It is imperative to ensure that women everywhere have access to quality sexual and reproductive health services, regardless of income or family status. The lack of access is especially devastating for women from low-income and minority backgrounds. Governments and the private sector must invest in health systems to ensure equal access for all. The WHO study highlights the importance of understanding the causes of unintended pregnancies and providing adequate health services to prevent unintended pregnancies.

STI and HIV testing are key for women. About one in four women have taken an STI or HIV test in the past year. This information is crucial for early treatment and disease transmission to sexual partners. Under the Affordable Care Act, private insurance plans must cover Pap smears and HIV tests without cost-sharing for women. Medicaid programs must also cover these tests. However, only about half of uninsured women have had a Pap smear.

‘Luck’ Review: A Magnificent First Feature From Skydance Animation and John Lasseter

‘Luck’ Review: A Magnificent First Feature From Skydance Animation and John Lasseter

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“Luck,” which is a 3D animated comedy film, is now available on Apple TV+. It is produced by Skydance Animation, headed by the animation guru John Lasseter. This is the first movie that John Lasseter has produced as the head of animation at Skydance Animation. “Luck” is directed by Peggy Holmes, who has also directed “The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning,” a direct-to-video film for the Disneytoons under the leadership of John Lasseter at Disney/Pixar. Lasseter is regarded as one of the best animation filmmakers in history, with movies such as “Cars,” “A Bug’s Life,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Toy Story.”

The newly released “Luck” is based on an original idea by Juan De Dios, Julian Romero, and Rebeca Carrasco, and it’s written by Keil Murray. While getting ready to direct “Luck,” Peggy Holmes met with orphan children in 2020 to prepare for her directing the animated movie. The main character in “Luck,” Sam, is shown to be an unlucky orphan. Peggy Holmes met with the orphan children to develop a better understanding of Sam’s character. Holmes was deeply impressed by the optimism, kindness, and never-give-up spirit of the orphans, and she used these character traits for Sam. These children have endured serious misfortune in their lives, and John Lasseter and Peggy Holmes decided to celebrate that courage through “Luck.”

The story of “Luck” starts when the main character, an orphan, Sam Greenfield, voiced by Eva Noblezada, settles into her new apartment after starting her new job. Sam is shown as the unluckiest person in the world, that is until she stumbles upon a penny that changes her fortune. Sam is joined by the enigmatic black cat, played by Simon Pegg, who shows her the way to the Land of Luck, a place in which both good and bad luck are created.

John Lasseter has once again demonstrated why he was the best choice to lead Skydance Animation through the outstanding creativity and skills he has shown through “Luck.” The “Luck” universe is extremely detailed and the animation in the film is visually appealing, with stunning locations like “Computer Keeps Crashing” on the Bad Luck side, or R&D for “Happy Accidents” on the Good Luck side. Some well-known Hollywood stars have lent their voices to “Luck,” including Whoopi Goldberg as a manager of leprechauns and Jane Fonda’s voice as the CEO of Good Luck.

The bureaucrats in charge of dispersing great luck are cats, bunnies, pigs, and leprechauns. Sam’s presence in such a location is a surefire recipe for turmoil. Audiences are expected to laugh out loud at Bob and his leprechaun aide Gerry’s, played by Colin O’Donoghue, attempts to stop Sam’s bad luck. Sam’s “Latvian leprechaun” costume will make everyone chuckle. The same goes for the ridiculous justification as to why she is significantly larger than everyone else.

The more sensitive issues in “Luck” are skillfully handled. The story has a melancholy tone at the start because of Sam’s lonely upbringing and her frantic attempts to transform her younger friend Hazel. But as the movie progresses, it brings joy and happiness. The movie reminds us to value our relationships with loved ones. In addition, finding a “forever home” should not be dependent on luck or chance. A fantastic dance performance by a group of bunnies and wonderful music are also included in the film. Overall, the movie is peppy, lively, and fascinating.

For Lasseter, “Luck” has a crucial role in articulating his studio’s ideas to the animation industry, regardless of whether the films go on to win major awards or not. Skydance Animation is also keen on recruiting talented employees due to the high demand for product development for streaming platforms.

The movie’s overarching message is to encourage people to accept life’s unpredictability and that bad luck is part of life, and it can be beneficial as it can lead you to a better path in life. John Lasseter, the brilliant animator, and storyteller is all set to bring good luck to Skydance through this movie. He has brought his extraordinary talent to “Luck.” This movie has all the ingredients to be a major success and help further reinforce the position of Skydance Animation as one of the leaders in the industry. “Luck” can be watched in theaters or through an Apple TV+ subscription.