Playing Games Live Online: How Live Streams Create New Experiences for Gamers

 

Gaming has become a true cultural phenomenon and a fixed part of our society today. The number of gamers across the globe grows steadily, as more people enjoy immersing themselves in virtual worlds and sharing their passion with fellow enthusiasts online. Modern technologies such as the internet and live streams have allowed users from anywhere in the world to connect with fellow gamers and share their gaming sessions with the community online. Meanwhile, entertainment providers have created innovations to let modern users experience entertainment that used to only take place offline in a new way.

Let’s plays let gamers across the world play together   

Twitch started out over a decade ago as a humble platform for gamers to connect and has since developed into the biggest live-streaming platform in the world. It’s a place where gamers from across the globe come together to share their gaming sessions with the community in real time. Gamers broadcast so-called “let’s plays” live, which show the gamer’s game screen and usually a live video of the streamer themselves. This allows other users to watch and follow along as they play and use the live chat to comment, ask questions, and share thoughts with the streamer and audience. With this trend, live streams have created a way for huge, international video gaming parties to take place as you no longer have to be seated on the same couch to watch your friends play.

Not just gamers who play as a hobby have found an online community on Twitch and other live-streaming platforms. Additionally, professional and competitive gaming has seen tremendous growth thanks to live streaming. With its large reach, gaming live streams proved integral in the emergence and success of esports. Live streams allow gamers to watch professionals take it out on the virtual battlefield from anywhere in real time and participate in this growing trend. Esports tournaments attract millions of viewers who follow the action via live online broadcasts.

Virtual game night with friends

Nowadays, you don’t have to gather your friends around one table to play tabletop games together. Digital versions of classic games, live streams, and video calls now make it possible to play together regardless of where everybody is. Some of the most popular video conference software, such as Zoom, allow users from around the world to connect and come together virtually to play all kinds of games. Zoom has a variety of games, including trivia, dice, and party games, already integrated into its app to allow a smooth and seamless playing experience with friends and teams with the click of a button. Using digital versions of other games, such as the online game of CATAN or the mobile game of Exploding Kittens, friends can start private game rounds to play together digitally. By taking advantage of a video call, all participants are able to see, hear, and talk to each other to imitate the experience of a traditional game night with friends. Thanks to live video calls, it’s even possible to play classic party games such as charades over long distances.

Live streams create new ways to experience traditional entertainment

Many entertainment options that used to just take place in physical attendance have made the transition to the online realm and are taking advantage of live-streaming technology to create immersive virtual experiences. One great example are escape games, which have seen a tremendous trend over the past few years, as more escape room locations open their doors across the globe. Now, you don’t have to come together physically anymore to play and solve mysteries in a team. Taking advantage of live streams and video calls, many escape game providers now let players experience the game fully virtually from the comforts of their homes. You can even visit a casino online with life-like experiences offered virtually with the help of live streams. Many of the best-rated real money casinos in the US offer so-called live casino games within their extensive game libraries that can be played using real money. For an authentic casino experience from the comfort of players’ homes, a real dealer appears on the screens via a live stream. The technology allows game enthusiasts to experience these games, which used to only take place physically, in a virtual realm.

Bringing gamers from across the globe together on the web and allowing providers to create new and immersive entertainment experiences, live-streaming technology has truly changed the game.

Image Credit

Han – The Little Merman

The medieval town of Elsinore, in Denmark has recently found it has a new addition to its waterfront. As you will see, it was designed to complement Edvard Eriksen's statue of the Little Mermaid which commemorates the character created by Hans Christian Anderson in Copenhagen (left).

London and Berlin based artists Elmgreen and Dragset have installed Han, the Little Merman (my subtitle), a thoroughly modern and controversially male interpretation of the Danish national icon and occasional Disney wannabee.

Sketchi

Anyone who has ever owned a dog will tell you how much they loved the little critter.  This little girl and her dog, Sketchi, are inseparable but her canine companion is old and it is time for him to go to the dog kennel in the sky.

Yet the little girl has other ideas and goes to drastic lengths to try and revive her pet.

This is a sad and funny animated short by Lily Sun. It is sad without being maudlin and funny without being cruel – which is a difficult job to get right. Wonderful work, Lily!

Why Science is NOT ‘Just a Theory’

Oh for a unit of currency for each time I have had to explain the difference between an everyday theory and a scientific theory.  Elvis is still alive? Theory.  Darwin and evolution? Theory!  So what’s the difference, say people, they’re both just theories! However, the time of raised eyebrows and explanations is over – now I will just plonk them in front of this animation where Jim Al-Khalili puts the record straight for the Royal Institution.

Innuendo

The wonderfully barmy English philosopher Jeremy Bentham once wrote: Stretching his hand up to reach the stars, too often man forgets the flowers at his feet. It is so true. Life on earth is about so much more than the birds and the bees – it’s also about the ‘shrooms. Under our feet the amatory ballet of reproduction goes on and without it our own cycle of birth, love and death would not exist. This vital component of life on earth is here brought to life in a larger than life way by five students of the Utrecht School of the Arts in the Netherlands. It is visually stunning and it’s obvious that a whole lot of work – and love – has gone in to this wonderful project.

The Innuendo team consist of (right to left in this wonderful mugshot from the animation's Facebook page) Tim de Haan. Louise van Putten, Kjeld Slingerland, Niels Bosch and Dieuwer Feldbrugge. I have to say that this is probably my favorite student animation of the year so far (a prize which more often than not goes to Supinfocom and not just because France is where I learned about the birds and the bees. Honestly).

Steadfast Stanley

It always seems that pets get somewhat neglected in times of zombie apocalypse. I can’t think of a single movie or TV series where they get any sort of priority (but please leave a comment and correct me if I’m wrong). So it is with Stanley – the little Welsh Corgi gets left behind when life as we know it comes to a sudden stop in John Cody Kim’s CalArts graduation film. Will he find his human again? Watch and find out!

The Red Menace: Anti-Communist Propaganda of the Cold War

Every age has its bogeyman.  If you grew up in 1950s and 60s America you would have been bombarded with anti-communist propaganda. In hindsight it is perhaps easy to raise a wry eyebrow.  Yet at the time the threat was taken very seriously indeed. Here, hysteria intact, are a few of the stranger messages delivered to the American people.

“Employees lose their respect for a company that fails to provide decent facilities for their comfort” goes the by-line for this advertisement.  Yes, quite possibly, but does that really mean that they are going to turn into rampaging Bolsheviks because the paper towels at work are rough on their hands?  This apparently was a real danger back in the fifties and sixties.  Fortunately the introduction of soft tissues on a massive scale helped to avoid the commie takeover of the western world. 

Why It’s Important to Self-Reflect After a Hard Day in College

 Self-reflection is often overlooked among students. However, it is an integral part of learning and development. It can change the whole college experience and bring a lot of advantages to an individual.

Why Is It Crucial in Learning

It is nice sometimes to reflect on things and events from your life. But the process itself is not only entertaining but valuable. It is a crucial stage of the learning cycle. For instance, according to David Kolb, an educational theorist, the learning cycle consists of four steps:

• Concrete experience;

• Reflective observation;

• Idea development;

• Active experimentation.

This means that a person experiences something, reflects on the experience, evaluates why it happened and decides on what to do next. This model applies to learning new course material and to self-development as well.

For instance, a student facing difficulties with academic writing might assess the reasons behind this challenge and strategize on how to improve. A common method to address this issue is to leverage professional assistance. By seeking the response to "write paper for me cheap," a student can benefit from collaborating with experts. Qualified writers can aid with writing, editing, and proofreading various types of college papers. Therefore, if you're struggling with academic writing, obtaining an objective and expert perspective can prove to be immensely beneficial, providing insights into how to enhance your writing skills without breaking the bank.

Academic writing platforms deliver help quickly and according to your requirements. They can polish your work or do the paper from scratch. In any case, experts provide guidance and support, which is a powerful learning experience. This is also very helpful for busy students that need more time on their hands.

In this situation, self-reflection leads to understanding the problem deeply and acting on it. Without it, a person is more prone to make the same mistakes all over again.

Benefits of Self-Reflection

It is a foundation of personal development that comes with many benefits.

Processing Feelings and Thoughts

After a long day in college, you might be tired and buzzing with thoughts of all sorts. Self-reflection helps process them and untangle the ideas that might affect your mood or well-being.

By separating feelings and experiences from each other, a person can fully comprehend them. Maybe you feel frustrated but why? What happened today that led to this frustration? Why was this particular encounter stressful?

This ensures you understand your feelings and boundaries better. And this process relieves a decent amount of stress. A lot of times, students might feel overwhelmed because of all experiences, feelings, and thoughts mixed. But when you address them one by one, the brain doesn’t have to keep them all in focus. This is somewhat similar to journaling when putting worries on paper makes one calmer and less stressed.

Understanding Personal Development

By thinking about your activities throughout the day, week, and year, you can gain a deeper understanding of your development.

This allows learning what processes were easy for you and what took a lot of effort. Maybe you are better at one course in college than others. Why is it so? Understanding the reasons behind a mistake ensures you do not make it again. At the same time, figuring out the reasons behind the success allows replicating it.

This is an essential part of achieving any personal or academic goals.

Articulating Emotions and Skills

Also, self-reflection helps build emotional intelligence. It keeps you connected to your feelings and thoughts. This allows articulating them better to others. As a result, students are more capable of building healthy relations with peers, colleagues, or relatives.

For example, you have a slightly negative feeling about an encounter during this hard day. You need to think about what exactly you feel, why you feel it, and what happened during the encounter that led to this. Maybe your classmate made a joke about something at your expense. At the moment, you didn’t register it and went along with your day.

But with reflection, you can learn what exactly frustrated you and how you can articulate this clearly to your classmate the next time you see them. Maybe after they realize that this joke was triggering, they will not allow this to happen again.

Value and Gratitude

In a busy schedule, it might be complicated to find time to appreciate what you have. It is all about a new goal, deadline, or achievement. Such a hectic life might be incredibly stressful. And it also doesn’t give one an opportunity to see the value of what has been happening.

After a hard day in college, students might realize that those challenging assignments were not a waste of time. That professors are giving them valuable knowledge and teaching advanced skills that will come in handy outside the college environment. Maybe those brain-simulating activities will set you above the competition in the job market.

Self-reflection also helps with feeling gratitude. And it is a huge part of feeling content, satisfied, and happy with your life. By thinking about what you have and what you experience, you can grow more appreciative of all the possibilities in your life.

Forming a Habit

If you do it everyday or every other day, it becomes a habit. This becomes a more analytical and comprehensive approach to everything in your life. Students who regularly self-reflect can apply it to their education, career, relationships, or other goals.

This way, students will be able to be more aware of their experiences. They can also improve any sphere of their lives by understanding what should be improved and how it can be done. And all of that leads to better well-being overall.

It is all about being present and being aware, which is a key factor in a fulfilling life. You will understand your experiences better and learn what makes some best write my essay services better for you than others. And you’ll be able to build better and healthier relationships with people.

In Summary

Without self-reflection, it is easy to lose control of one’s life and feelings. It is a critical part of the learning experience. That’s after a hard day in college; it is very useful to devote some time to it.

What Mobile Games Do Different Generations Prefer? Choices Are Different

Technology is popular across every age bracket. This reflects the notion that every generation that emerges has a unique perspective on the global community. From time to time, generations have modified, leading to a more enhanced approach towards the gaming industry.

Gamers progressively span all age groups and socioeconomic classes. Users of all ages like playing mobile games. Starting from traditional board games to current-day VR-gear-enabled games, the gaming market has transformed rapidly. Of course, not all of these people are using identical systems or playing the exact same games.

They differ with generation and technology gap, with each sticking to a particular category. This is relevant to their progressing surroundings and technological expansion. In this article below, we discuss the 4 major generations and their outlook and preference regarding mobile games and their evolution with time.

Millennials: Casino Games

In their early years, they learned to adjust to the changed digital scope after the rise of the internet. 21% of the entire gaming population consists of Millennials. Playing mobile games on a regular basis is common among millennials, especially after the rise of the popularity of Bitcoin casino mobile game offers, which we will talk about more later. This demographic is born between the years 1981-1996. They are also keen on mobile ads presented in return for virtual products.

Also, millennials prefer to play competitive games that are reward-based. Not only that, but they opt for role-playing games as well, such as God of War. Millennials lean toward games with intricate gamification systems. They are interested in both original and rigorous gameplay concepts. As mentioned, online casino games are popular and in demand among this group of people.

●    A wide variety of internet-based casino games such as poker, slots, and roulette are highly sought after. These are run on the basis of cryptocurrency or online bank payments.

●  Owing to their accessible way to gamble, Millennials choose mobile-friendly online casinos. They can be played from anywhere around the globe with the help of internet access.

●     Such casinos offer bonuses, promotions, and big rewards for winning, making them increasingly attractive.

●   Furthermore, online casinos are also run through e-wallets. So money management is easy, whichalso makes Millennials gravitate toward slot and poker games.

Gen Z: Action / Strategy Games

The generation is born between the years 1997-2012 and is the youngest of the lot. The interconnectedness of Gen Z is its defining feature. Being exposed to modern technologies from birth explains this. From the time they were conscious, they were firmly rooted in the digital realm.

They dominate the internet, from instant chats to social media. Their phones provide endless knowledge and worldwide trends, even about the gaming industry. They contribute 27% of the total mobile gamers, which is the highest among all others.

This is the portion of the population, that saw virtual reality take over the digital world. PlayStations and Xbox games are all the rage during their time. They are most likely to make in-app purchases. Likewise, they understand the monetization potential of games.

●   They prefer playing Strategy games such as Battle Royale, Fortnite, Roblox, Match 3, Candy Crush, Sandbox, etc.

●     They opt for social, creative, and competitive games that unite all aspects.

●   This category of gamers likes playing games that are action-based. They opt for games that createa sense of social interaction. 

Gen X/Alpha: Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMO)

Despite stereotypes, members of Generation X have emerged as a powerful demographic in the world of mobile gaming. They were among the first generations to get introduced to cell phones. After that, they have seen a dramatic increase in their interest in playing mobile games.

Born between the years 1965 and 1980, this generation belongs to the time when gaming consoles were a thing. They actively like playing mobile games that are sport-oriented and that pose challenges. They prefer level-based games with chances of progression and represent 18% of the total gaming population.

●     Furthermore, they prefer playing games such as FIFA Soccer, Call of Duty Mobile, and various others.

●     They opt for games that are played in shorter intervals rather than tournaments.

●     Time limitations are a contributing element to Gen X's preference for mobile gaming.

●   They gravitate towards MMOs for a variety of reasons. These include a need for stress relief. This is also because of their growing desire for nostalgic activities.

Baby Boomers: Casual / Classic Games

In general, statistics show that Baby Boomers spend considerable hours each week engaged in mobile gaming, which is the second highest after. They contribute 23% of the entire gaming population and are usually born between 1946 and 1964.

Baby Boomers saw the emergence of the Internet. They became intrigued by the possibilities it presented. Most people born during the Baby Boomer generation fall under the generic time-filling mobile game participation category. In their free time, they engage in more relaxed games.

●   Puzzle games, card games, Solitaire, Words with Friends, Subway Surfers, and other casual games are right up their alley of preferred mobile games.

●     For this generation, playing video games is primarily a means of relieving stress.

To Sum Up

With time and digital transformation, the gaming sector has also evolved. From baby boomers being the first generation to access mobile games, Gen X followed suit with more sport-focused games. The Millennials then took charge with a competitive and gaming systems approach.

They widely participate and earn from online casinos. Gen Z is the newest of them, all prefer social games and invest in the games for monetary gains. We hope this article was of maximum help to you.

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Gambling Superstitions Around the World: From Lucky Charms to Rituals

Every gambler, whether seasoned or amateur, carries a set of beliefs when approaching their chosen game. It’s a fascinating blend of hopes, rituals, and certain items carried or worn. Though many might dismiss them as mere old wives’ tales, for gamblers, they are deeply symbolic and integral to their gaming experience. 

From ancient civilizations to modern day betting houses, superstitions have journeyed through time and space, often intertwining with cultural narratives and evolving along the way.

From the roll of dice to the shuffle of cards, gambling has always been shrouded in mystery and allure. Throughout history, it’s not just the excitement of winning that’s captivated players, but also the deeply rooted superstitions that come with the territory. It’s the belief that certain actions, objects, or rituals can influence the outcome of a game of chance.

The Cultural Mosaic of Gambling Beliefs

Around the globe, distinct cultural identities have been formed over centuries, each with its rituals, traditions, and, undoubtedly, superstitions. When these practices collide with the world of gambling, they create a rich tapestry of beliefs that reflect hopes, dreams, and the ageold quest for fortune. Each cultural group brings to the table its unique set of gambling superstitions, influenced by folklore, history, and often, spirituality.

The Crossroads of Faith and Fortuity

Superstitions are closely intertwined with cultural and historical backgrounds. From the bustling casinos of Las Vegas to the traditional gambling houses of Asia, every place has its own set of beliefs that intertwine fate, fortune, and faith.

The Chinese Luck Quotient

7 Chinese gambling superstitions to know | Leylaj

China, with its ancient civilization and rich tapestry of traditions, offers a captivating insight into how deeply cultural beliefs can influence practices. Gambling in China is not just about placing bets; it’s steeped in rituals and superstitions, deeply rooted in the language, history, and customs of this vast nation.

The Enigma of Numbers

In Chinese culture, numbers play an essential role in gambling superstitions. The number ‘8’ is considered particularly lucky because it sounds like ‘wealth’ in Chinese. Conversely, the number ‘4’ is avoided as it resembles the word for ‘death’.

The European Touch

Europe, with its myriad of countries and cultures, is a treasure trove of diverse beliefs and practices. When it comes to gambling, every nation has its unique set of superstitions. From the mystical lands of Ireland to the romantic corners of France, every gambler has a story to tell, often accompanied by a cherished charm or a peculiar ritual.

The Charmed Objects

European gamblers have a penchant for lucky charms. From horseshoes to fourleaf clovers, they believe these objects bring fortune. In countries like Italy, there’s a belief that wearing one’s underwear inside out while gambling attracts luck.

North American Beliefs

The vast expanse of North America, from its bustling cities to its serene landscapes, is home to a melting pot of cultures. With such diversity comes a unique blend of beliefs, especially when it comes to the world of gambling. Here, modernity meets tradition, and the ageold gambling superstitions find a place amidst the neon lights and digital screens.

The Rituals Before the Bet

Talk to the casino fans who play Ontario Online Slots for Real Money and you reveal a world where gambling superstitions span cultures. Many North Americans have rituals like blowing on dice before rolling or tapping the screen of a slot machine for added luck.

The African Gambling Traditions

Africa, often referred to as the cradle of civilization, is a land of diverse tribes, languages, and traditions. With such a rich cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that the continent is teeming with unique gambling rituals and beliefs. Every bet, every dice roll, every card game tells a story, deeply rooted in tribal legends and ancestral wisdom.

Invoking the Ancestors

African gamblers often believe in invoking the spirits of their ancestors before placing a bet. This ritual, grounded in respect and reverence, is believed to guide the gambler to success.

Latin America’s Passionate Play

Making the November Nine – WSOP 2014

Latin America, with its fiery spirit and vibrant cultures, has always been a land of passion and color. When it comes to gambling, this passion translates into a range of beliefs and rituals that are as diverse as the continent itself. From the bustling streets of Brazil to the serene landscapes of Argentina, every gambler carries a piece of their cultural identity with them.

The Dance of Fortune

It’s not uncommon in certain Latin American cultures for gamblers to perform a dance or chant before delving into a game. They believe that this energetic display can sway the spirits to favor them.

The Oceanic Connection

The Oceanic region, encompassing countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, is a realm where nature’s marvels intertwine with ageold traditions. Here, the vast oceans, starry skies, and indigenous cultures play a vital role in shaping gambling beliefs, making every game a dance between man, nature, and destiny.

Nature’s Role in Luck

In countries like Australia and New Zealand, some believe that the phases of the moon can influence gambling outcomes. A full moon, in particular, is considered a time of heightened luck.

Middle Eastern Insights

The Middle East, often referred to as the crossroads of the world, is a region steeped in history, faith, and tradition. The desert sands have witnessed the rise and fall of great empires, and with them, a myriad of beliefs. When it comes to gambling, the Middle East offers a blend of ancient rituals and modern practices, reflecting its rich tapestry of cultures.

The Sands of Chance

Middle Eastern gamblers often resort to ageold traditions when seeking favor in games of chance. Using certain spices or incense during games, for instance, is believed to ward off bad luck.

The Global Gambit

In today’s interconnected world, cultures often intersect and influence each other. As such, global gambling superstitions emerge, borrowing elements from various traditions, yet forming a unique set of beliefs. This global perspective is a testament to humanity’s shared hopes, dreams, and desires when courting Lady Luck.

The Collective Faith in Fate

While gambling superstitions differ across cultures, they all underscore a universal human need to believe in something beyond the realm of logic. It’s this collective faith, in luck or fate, that adds an extra layer of excitement to the world of gambling.

In wrapping up, gambling is not just about odds and strategies. It’s a world steeped in history, culture, and ageold beliefs. Whether these superstitions actually tilt the odds in one’s favor remains a debate, but one thing’s certain: they undeniably add color and intrigue to the game.

Whence Come Angels?

Angels are found in many religions around the world. Their purpose varies from one tradition to another, but these transcendental beings usually act as messenger from God. Whether you believe in them or not, these contemporary images of angels (as seen mostly through the Christian tradition) provoke a variety of emotions. Give some thought for the loneliness of angels! When we see them, are we simply looking in a mirror to our own hopes and dreams or is there even more to it? And whence come angels?

Chainsmoker

It is hard to give up smoking, especially if you have been doing it and enjoying it all your adult life. However, sometimes life can be a little cruel and here an inveterate chain smoker finds herself in sheltered accommodation for the elderly – where smoking is forbidden.  Add to that a caretaker who is more than keep to stop people indulging in their tobacco vices and you have something akin to a geriatric covert operation which, you know, is never going to go well!

Chainsmoker was created Ulf Lundgren of Lost Liner Productions back in 2001 but it only saw the light of day in terms of the internet a few years ago.  I have to say that although it is over a twenty years old the digital techniques used here still stand up very well indeed. Yet the most important elements of animation – character and plot – ensure that it would still be more than watchable however it was made.

Hum

A solitary dish washing robot living out his life in the back room of a restaurant is enlightened to the world that exists beyond his four walls, with the help of a small friend he breaks free of confinement to pursue his dream of exploration. Hum was created for the junior year advanced production class in 2015 by a group of students at Chapman’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. The film was created over one semester (February 2015 – May 2015) with a budget of $2000. 

Arrival: A Short and Very Sweet Coming Out Film

It’s 2023 and so, surely, no one needs to fear coming out as LGBTQ anymore?

If that’s the case then no one told the Chechen authorities who seem, currently, to be paving the way towards a new dark-age for those who do not identify as hetero.

Rare was the person, ever, who was able to spring blithely and fully-formed from the metaphorical closet but in many countries it is still almost impossible to do so without some form of repudiation, denunciation or reprobation.

So this short film, for me, was something of a breath of fresh air. Arrival tells the story of a young man who has a close bond with his mother.  Yet when he moves to the big city and not only discovers himself but also the love of his life, he is unable to share this amazing happening with his mother.  To see how this is resolved you will have to watch this beautifully made animated short film, written, directed and animated by Alex Myung.

Even today, in the most liberal of societies with the most liberal of parents, people still struggle to share their true nature with their loved ones leading to a ripple effect which makes everyone unhappy.  You could see this short two ways: first it is super-contemporary and very political. It is, after all, societal structure and its dictat that to be ‘normal’ is to fit in which makes so many young LGBTQ people unhappy and as such this is a plea for change and for enlightenment.

At the same time this is also (and predominantly) a very, very sweet story about the relationship between a mother and son and how, ultimately, their bond overcomes the obstacles that the social order puts in its way.

The Photography of Jack Délano - the Man who Colored the Forties

Above: A young worker at the C & NW RR 40th Street shops, Chicago, Illinois, 1942.

"I was interested in people not only as images, but also as human beings. In stories that they would tell me or interviews I had with them. It seemed to be it was an important part of what I was trying to communicate." 

    - Jack Délano, Far From Main Street

Image Credit Flickr Library of Congress

Above: Taken in September 1941, this is the backstage area of the girlie show at the Vermont State Fair.

Many people will admit to having eclectic tastes but a significantly smaller number would be able to raise their hands and profess to having eclectic talents too.  Not so Jack Délano whose pictures of ordinary American life in the 1940s made him world famous as a photographer.  He was, however, also a trained musician, a composer, an illustrator and latterly a film and documentary maker. Here, we shall focus on his photography but as we examine his work in this field we hope to also include detail of his other areas of artistic interests.

Alternative Math: A Visit to Post-Truth America

An experienced maths teacher runs in to more than a little trouble when she tries to correct a student who has failed his recent math test.  What should have been a quiet moment of teaching and learning turns in to a traumatic week-long hell on earth for the teacher: She may have a trick or two up her sleeve but what chance does she have against Tommy, his parents, the principal, the school board and the media?

All satire exaggerates and Alternative Math has hyperbole in spades.  The premise is ridiculous but it resonates because it has its roots well and firmly dug in to the truth – whatever that may be in 2023.  We may have breathed a sigh of relief decades ago when 1884 became 1985 and there was little sign of Orwell’s dystopian vision coming to life.  Yet a few decades later, Alternative Math highlights, through comedy, the insidious nature of what truth means today.  George would have recognized the scenario all too well.

What makes it a little depressing is the fact that as a teacher this resonates a little too familiarly with me. The exaggeration in the film aside I have colleagues who have been through a form of what happens in this short albeit without the ending we have here (and it is worth the nine minutes of this short just to get to that point, believe me!).  It may be close to home but I am happy it's here.

Alternative Math is brought to you by Dallas-based Ideaman Studios and was written by Malcolm Morrison and David Maddox, with the latter doing the directing honors.  Well, that is if you believe the end credits are truthful, of course…

Canned

If you are a regular reader of Kuriositas then you know that we like two things (among others) – street art and animation.  Imagine our delight then when we came across Canned which combines both beautifully.  A young artist gets more than he bargained for when he creates his own latterday Venus – as do the police!

Made by students Ivan Joy, Nathaniel Hatton and Tanya Zaman at Ringling College, this is great fun – and has an ending that will make you go “aaah”.

The Remarkable Kindertransport Monuments of Frank Meisler

Frank Meisler (above) died in March 2018 at the age of 92. An internationally renowned architect and sculptor he enriched the world with his buildings and his works of art. Yet had others had their way his life would have been savagely curtailed in his teens.  Meisler never forgot how he escaped death, those who made the journey with him and those who made it possible. He left behind a remarkable legacy so that we might remember too.

Image Credit Wikimedia
In August 1939 Frank Meisler was a frightened 13 year old boy.  As a Jew he was no longer safe in his home town, the Free City of Danzig (now Gdańsk in Poland), a German enclave which had embraced Nazism.  There had been anti-Jewish riots and the city’s Great Synagogue had been taken over and demolished.  Desperate, his parents requested his evacuation from the city by the Kindertrasport (German, Children’s Transport) an organised rescue that took place just before the outbreak of the Second World War.  Frank Meisler escaped to the UK.  Seventy years later in 2009 he would return to his birthplace with his memorial dedicated to the children of the Kindertransport and those who had made their salvation possible.

Write Four Things, List Four Things – Making GCSE English Language Paper 1 Question 1 in to a Competition

Ah, the much neglected Paper 1 Question 1 of GCSE English Language (AQA).  Neglected?  Perhaps overlooked is a better word.  We can make the assumption that it will look after itself: that it is only worth four marks anyway.  However, having had some students, albeit a handful, fall one mark (out of 160) short of a grade 4 in June 2018 I’m not going to take anything for granted in the future. The angst that goes with one mark short is indescribable and makes me want to find the nearest rabbit hole and to plunge head-first in to it. So Question 1 will not be overlooked again..

I wanted to create a fairly straightforward (i.e. easy) way to make this question the centre of attention but – keeping in mind the time I have to deliver the curriculum in an FE college – I felt the need to add some other skills in to the mix too – primarily writing for an audience.

The Light of Life

Life is transparent, warm and swirls randomly like a soft light. And it constantly changes...

Life illuminates itself and then it begins to illuminates a new life.

A sprouted mass of innumerable lights become a flow before long, and then become the part of the life-throb of ages.

That ties life, this moment now.

The Century Old Color Photographs of Prokudin-Gorsky

Image Credit Flickr User Sergei Prokudin-Gorsky

In 1909 a remarkable project was initiated by Russian photographer Sergey Mikhaylovich Prokudin-Gorsky. His mission was to record – in full and vibrant color – the vast and diverse Russian Empire. Here, with his story, is a selection of his amazing century old full color pictures.

Image Credit Flickr User Sergei Prokudin-Gorsky

Just over one hundred years ago a Russian photographer, began a remarkable project. With the blessing – and funding – of the Tsar, Nicholas II, he embarked on an extraordinary journey to capture the essence of Russia in full color photographs. Many of these pictures look as if they could have been taken yesterday, with only the costumes worn by the people captured in their moment of time betraying the age of the work. The first shows two men crossing a small river.

How Can a High School Student Become a High-Paid Football Player

Welcome to our dive into the exhilarating world of professional football! For the high school students among you balancing dreams of football stardom with academic demands, you might find yourself grappling with how to become the highest-paid player in the game while also acing your studies. This journey calls for perseverance and strategic planning, not only on the football field but within your academic life as well. Making use of resources that offer to "write my papers for cheap" can help handle your academic responsibilities while you concentrate on your athletic aspirations. This guide aims to shed light on how you can optimize your football potential right from high school. Whether you're a budding player, a supportive parent, or a die-hard football fan, our goal is to provide you with helpful tips and a spark of inspiration. So, fasten your helmet, lace up your cleats, and let's set off on this thrilling journey to football stardom and extraordinary academic success!

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Exploring the Exciting World of Professional Football

Before dreaming of hefty paychecks, you need to understand the path to becoming a pro football player. Your journey begins in high school, where your talent is nurtured and showcased. College football is often the next step, serving as a vital springboard to professional leagues. It's a path that requires passion, perseverance, and strategic decisions. Understanding this roadmap is key to preparing yourself for the rigorous but rewarding journey to being the highest-paid football player.

High school football is the breeding ground for professional athletes. It offers a platform for developing essential skills, understanding team dynamics, and gaining exposure. The experiences and lessons learned during these formative years can shape a student's football career, serving as a solid foundation for their journey to becoming a top-earning pro player.

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Skills vs. Talent in Football 

In the world of football, skills and talent are the real game-changers. They separate the average players from the exceptional ones. However, innate talent is only the starting point. It's about relentlessly honing your skills, learning the game's tactics, and understanding the nuances of your position. Coaches can help shape your talent, but the drive to improve has to come from within you. Remember, the best players are those who continually work on their craft. Mastering your skills early on, especially during your high school years, sets the stage for a successful professional career, potentially leading you to become the highest-paid football player.

Physical Performance

Physical conditioning is pivotal in a high school student's journey toward becoming the highest-paid football player. Football demands peak physical performance, including speed, strength, agility, and endurance. By prioritizing physical conditioning during your high school years, you lay the foundation for optimal athletic performance. This includes regular workouts, strength training, cardiovascular exercises, and flexibility training. Conditioning not only enhances your physical attributes but also helps prevent injuries, boosts stamina, and improves overall game performance. Dedication to maintaining peak physical condition showcases your commitment and dedication to the sport, increasing your chances of catching the attention of college recruiters and eventually earning a spot in professional leagues as a well-rounded, top-paid football player.

Recruitment

Navigating the college recruitment process is a crucial step for a high school student aiming to become the highest-paid football player. It's a competitive landscape, and standing out requires a strategic approach. Researching potential colleges, reaching out to coaches, and attending recruitment events can help get your foot in the door. Showcasing your skills through highlight reels and game performances is vital for attracting attention. Building relationships with coaches and demonstrating your commitment to both academics and athletics can increase your chances of securing scholarships and opportunities at top-tier football programs. The college recruitment process serves as a springboard to higher levels of competition, setting the stage for your journey toward becoming a top-earning football player.

Maintaining the Image

Maintaining a high level of performance on the field and cultivating a strong brand image is paramount for a high school student aspiring to become the highest-paid football player. Consistently delivering exceptional performances showcases your skills and attracts attention from scouts, coaches, and potential sponsors. Off the field, building a positive brand image through social media presence, community involvement, and professionalism can enhance your marketability. A strong brand image attracts lucrative endorsements and sponsorship deals and instills confidence in teams and organizations looking to invest in a top-tier player. By prioritizing both performance and brand image, you can position yourself as a sought-after football talent and increase your earning potential in the long run.

Sponsorships

Endorsements and sponsorships play a pivotal role in the journey of a high school student aspiring to become the highest-paid football player. Once you gain recognition for your skills and performance, opportunities for endorsements and sponsorships start to arise. These partnerships can provide substantial financial rewards and boost your overall income. Endorsements involve promoting products or brands, while sponsorships involve a more comprehensive partnership with a company or organization.

To attract endorsements and sponsorships, it's essential to build your personal brand and cultivate a strong public image. Maintaining a positive reputation, both on and off the field, enhances your marketability to potential sponsors. Engaging with your fan base through social media, participating in community events, and showcasing your values and personality can make you an appealing ambassador for brands.

Building relationships with sports agents, marketing professionals, and industry contacts can also open doors to endorsement deals and sponsorships. These partnerships not only provide financial benefits but also enhance your visibility, credibility, and overall earning potential.

By strategically leveraging endorsements and sponsorships, you can maximize your financial success as a football player and solidify your position as one of the highest-paid athletes in the game.

Conclusion

The path to becoming a high-paid athlete starts from high school and can take you to professional leagues. You need to acknowledge the significance skills, talent, physical conditioning, and proper navigation of the college recruitment process has on the final result. Maintaining peak performance on the field, cultivating a strong brand image, and attracting endorsements and sponsorships are crucial steps toward achieving financial success. To balance academics and athletics, utilizing the support of the best assignment services can provide assistance with coursework. By combining talent, hard work, intelligent choices, and leveraging resources, you can position yourself for a rewarding football career. Remember, the highest-paid football players are those who combine exceptional skills, unwavering dedication, and strategic partnerships to make their dreams a reality.

2023 EssayHub Reviews: A Complete Service Overview by Susan Anne Mason

 

Picking an essay writing service you can trust isn’t a piece of cake. Thus, when you come across a new service, it’s natural to wonder whether it’s safe, legit, and reliable. And that’s what I’m here for.

For years, I’ve been reviewing different essay writing services to help students find the best services for their academic success. In this review, I invite you to learn more about the English paper writing service and essay writer from EssayHub and define whether it suits your unique needs!

EssayHub Review: First Impression

EssayHub impressed me right from the moment when I landed on its website. The first thing that drove my attention was the smooth and stylish design. The website is completed in white and light violet colors that look very appealing to the sight and, at the same time, don’t distract you from the vital information and features provided on the website.

The next thing worth highlighting from my first impression is the website’s homepage. Compared to similar services, it’s not overloaded with a plethora of text. At the same time, it provides visitors with all the information they need to get to know EssayHub better. On this page, you can learn everything about how the site works, what services it offers, and how to use it to the fullest.

Finally, one more factor that affected my impression was the flawless website architecture. It’s incredibly clear and convenient. All blocks and pages on the site are well-planned and organized in such a way as to help visitors navigate through the website with ease and find any information they are looking for in nearly no time.

Online Reputation

After carefully studying the service’s website, I instantly took my research beyond the site to learn what reputation EssayHub has on the web.

According to the service’s website, EssayHub has incredibly good ratings on various trusted platforms with reviews - 4.9/5 on ResellerRatings and 4.8/5 on Sitejabber and Reviews.io. So, first of all, I decided to check this information. Indeed, when I visited all these platforms, the ratings completely matched the ones given on the service. On each of the three platforms, I found hundreds of positive EssayHub reviews that confirmed its good standing among customers.

After reading tons of reviews, I found that the majority of satisfied reviewers highlighted the three core benefits of the service - timely delivery (even when the deadline is urgent), excellent quality of work, and affordable price.

Services

The next thing I wanted to check about EssayHub is the services it provides to students.

From the first glance at the website, I could tell that this platform offers everything a student might ever need academic-wise. The services are generally divided into three categories - writing, rewriting, and editing. That is, whether you need to get a completed paper from scratch or simply rewrite/polish the one you wrote yourself, this service has you covered in any situation.

The next impressive thing I noticed is a list of assignment types that students can order on EssayHub. The list is quite extensive and includes pretty much all kinds of academic papers, homework assignments, and questions/problems tasks, including:

• Essays;

• Dissertations;

• PowerPoint presentations;

• Math problems;

• Statistics assignments;

• And much more.

Finally, knowing that this site can help you with literally any type of assignment given on all academic levels, you must also be wondering what subjects are available. The good news is that EssayHub boasts an enormous pool of qualified writers proficient in pretty much all academic fields. On this site, students can get help with tasks for Math, Biology, History, Literature, Business, and many other subject matters.

Whatever kind of task you face, rest assured that EssayHub has a solution right for you!

Guarantees

A separate block of my EssayHub review is deservedly given to the service’s guarantees and promises.

The service has been around for years and boasts hundreds of thousands of happy customers. To retain its flawless reputation and deliver the best customer experiences, the service gives students a number of firm guarantees:

• Pocket-friendly prices;

• Fast turnaround time;

• Zero plagiarism in every paper;

• 10/10 quality;

• Any kind of task on any topic;

• Money-back guarantee in case of dissatisfaction.

All these promises are clearly stated and explained on the service’s website. I particularly liked how transparent the service is about its terms and guarantees. This gave me a feeling of reliability and trustworthiness of the site. Moreover, after studying customer testimonials, I have a firm impression that EssayHub doesn’t only give these promises but actually keeps them. After all, hundreds of positive EssayHub reviews confirm this.

Ordering Process

When it comes to using essay writing services, many students do this in a rush. Whether in school or college, students always have a lot on their plates. They rarely have enough time, even for rest. So clearly, they can’t afford to waste extra time using complicated and time-consuming services. That’s why the simplicity and convenience of the ordering process are some of the most important assessment factors when it comes to analyzing a paper writing service.

Based on my own experience (as well as customer reviews), the order process at EssayHub is super simple and intuitive. The whole process consists of three simple stages:

• Stage 1 - First, you will be asked to fill out a short order form and specify all your requirements for the task that you order. At this point, it’s recommended to get as detailed as possible to give the writer enough information to meet your needs.

• Stage 2 - After you place an order, you will be offered to check out the list of available writers. You will be able to study their profiles and compare their ratings and customer reviews to find the best expert to hire. Or you can also ask the service’s customer support team to match you with the perfect writer for your order.

• Stage 3 - Finally, after you hire the liked writer, you will need to make a deposit that will be stored in your account. After this, the writer will immediately get started with your order, and you will have the opportunity to communicate with them directly while your task is being completed. Finally, when the order is fulfilled, you can check its quality and release the payment only when you are 100% happy with the result.

In my opinion, the order process is simply flawless. It only takes a few minutes to place an order, and then you can mind your own business while professionals work on it. And the best part is that the process is 100% risk-free because you only pay after confirming your satisfaction.

Prices and Discounts

As was mentioned earlier, EssayHub guarantees pocket-friendly prices for its services. The rates start from only $10.8 for school-level writing help and from $11.4 for college level. Needless to say, these prices are more than just affordable. They are rather cheap compared with other services and given they provide impeccable quality.

Apart from initially low rates, the company also offers generous discounts - the more you order, the less you pay. Namely, a 5-page order will give you 20% off. For 10 pages, you will get 30% off. For 15 - 35%, and for 20+ pages, you will earn a 40% discount. And the best part is that you don’t have to seek out an EssayHub promo code and insert it to get a discount. All discounts are applied automatically when you check out. You can use a convenient calculator to know how much you will have to pay even before placing the order.

Payment Options

As for payments themselves, making them through this service is safe and risk-free. The website leverages secure payment gateways to keep your money and financial data safe. You can pay for your papers using Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

My Final Verdict About EssayHub

Apart from studying the service’s website and reading EssayHub reviews on unbiased platforms, I also ordered a 5-page research paper on the site to make my review look complete. I received my order three days before the deadline. The paper was well-researched, logical, and high-quality. It didn’t contain even the smallest hints of plagiarism and fully met my expectations.

Based on my own experience and everything else I’ve learned about EssayHub, I can confidently state that this service deserves students’ trust. So I can recommend you to use it.

Susan Anne Mason - Susan Anne Mason is a professional author with a deep passion for writing. Apart from writing herself, Susan found her mission in helping students. Susan uses her own expertise in writing to analyze popular essay writing services and give them objective assessments to help students find trustworthy services that can bring them academic success.