Category: Business

  • How to Find the Perfect Electric Guitar Online: Beginner vs. Pro Tips

    How to Find the Perfect Electric Guitar Online: Beginner vs. Pro Tips

    Hicksville, New York / Syndication Cloud / July 18, 2025 / Sam Ash

    Key Takeaways

    • Finding the right electric guitar online requires different approaches depending on your skill level, with beginners needing more guidance than professionals.
    • Specialized music retailers like Sam Ash offer expert guidance and quality assurance that general marketplaces simply can’t match.
    • Reputable beginner-friendly brands include Squier, Yamaha, Ibanez, and Epiphone, which provide reliable quality at various price points.
    • Identifying red flags in listings helps you avoid purchasing problematic instruments.
    • Post-purchase support like setup services and return policies will significantly impact your long-term satisfaction with an online guitar purchase.

    Why Online Guitar Shopping Is Different for Beginners vs. Professionals

    The vast world of online guitar shopping can be either exciting or overwhelming, depending on your experience level. For beginners, this process requires more guidance and safeguards against common pitfalls that experienced players easily avoid.

    New players need clear information about what makes a good starter instrument and assurance they’re not overpaying for features they don’t yet need. For example, online retailer Sam Ash offers specifically curated selections that help beginners find instruments matching their budget and musical aspirations without the technical overwhelm that often comes with guitar shopping.

    Professionals approach online guitar shopping with different priorities. They typically know exactly what specifications they need – from tonewood preferences to pickup configurations and neck profiles. Their online experience focuses more on finding rare models, specialty instruments, or the best possible deal on gear they’ve already researched extensively.

    The skill gap also affects how much post-purchase support you’ll require. Beginners often need setup assistance or guidance on accessory selection, while experienced players can handle these aspects themselves. This fundamental distinction shapes which online retailers will best serve your needs at different stages of your musical journey.

    Identifying Quality Electric Guitars Online

    How to spot reputable brands (Squier, Yamaha, Ibanez, Epiphone)

    The first defense against disappointing purchases is sticking with established brands. Manufacturers like Squier, Yamaha, Ibanez, and Epiphone have built reputations by consistently delivering reliable instruments across various price points. These companies maintain quality standards even in their budget lines because they have brand legacies to protect.

    When browsing online listings, always verify the exact model names and check for authenticity indicators. Counterfeit guitars have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, which is why purchasing from authorized dealers is crucial. Established music retailers typically only carry genuine instruments from recognized brands, eliminating this concern entirely.

    Price-to-quality ratio indicators

    Price alone doesn’t determine quality, but there are some helpful benchmarks to guide your search. For electric guitars, the pricing typically breaks down as follows:

    • Under $200: Basic beginner instruments with simpler components
    • $300-500: Significant quality improvements in playability and sound
    • $500-1000: Introduction of professional features and better components
    • $1000+: Professional-grade instruments with premium materials

    When evaluating online listings, compare similar models across different retailers to establish fair market value. Quality indicators to look for in product descriptions include solid wood construction (versus laminate), name-brand electronics, smooth fret ends, and precise information about materials used. Detailed product photos showing these elements help confirm quality when you can’t physically inspect the instrument.

    Red flags to avoid when browsing listings

    Protect yourself from disappointment by watching for these warning signs:

    • Vague descriptions lacking specific model information
    • Limited or poor-quality product images
    • Missing details about materials or electronics
    • Prices dramatically lower than identical models elsewhere
    • Negative reviews mentioning inconsistent quality
    • Retailers who can’t answer basic questions about the instrument

    These red flags are especially important for beginners to recognize, as you might not yet know exactly which technical aspects to evaluate when making your purchase.

    Specialized Online Music Retailers vs. General Marketplaces

    Benefits of dedicated guitar stores

    Dedicated music retailers bring several advantages to the online guitar shopping experience that general marketplaces simply can’t match. These specialized stores typically offer thorough quality control with proper instrument inspection before shipping, staff with genuine musical knowledge, and detailed product descriptions written by actual musicians.

    Most importantly, they understand that guitars aren’t just products – they’re tools for creative expression that require proper handling and expertise. This translates to better pre-sale support for making informed decisions and post-sale assistance if you encounter any issues with your new instrument.

    When Amazon/eBay might be appropriate

    General marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay can sometimes be suitable options in specific situations:

    • When purchasing standardized accessories like strings and cables
    • If you’re an experienced player who knows exactly what to look for
    • When buying from an established music store that also sells through these platforms
    • For finding discontinued or specialty models no longer available elsewhere
    • When extreme budget constraints are your primary concern

    These platforms often offer competitive pricing and convenient shipping, but the trade-off comes in reduced quality assurance and expert guidance – factors that matter significantly for beginners.

    Expert guidance in virtual environments

    One misconception about online shopping is that you lose all personal guidance. Today’s specialized music retailers have developed various ways to provide expert assistance virtually through live chat with experienced guitarists, detailed buying guides organized by skill level, and video demonstrations of instruments.

    Many also offer virtual consultations where staff can recommend instruments based on your specific needs and playing style. These resources help bridge the knowledge gap, especially for beginners who benefit most from personalized advice when first buying electric guitars.

    Essential Pre-Purchase Considerations

    1. Matching guitars to playing style and music genre

    Different guitar designs excel at different styles of music. While any guitar can technically play any genre, certain features make specific models more suitable for particular styles:

    • Rock and Metal: Guitars with humbucker pickups provide thicker, distortion-friendly tones. Look for models with double-cutaway designs for easier access to higher frets.
    • Blues and Classic Rock: Single-coil pickups deliver the bright, articulate tones associated with these genres. Stratocaster and Telecaster-style guitars are perennial favorites.
    • Jazz: Semi-hollow or hollow-body guitars offer the warm, resonant tones jazz players prefer. Models with humbucker pickups in the neck position are particularly sought after.
    • Country: Telecaster-style guitars with single-coil pickups provide the twang and clarity country music demands.

    Consider your musical heroes and research what guitars they play. While you don’t need to copy them exactly, this provides valuable guidance toward instruments suitable for the sounds you want to create.

    2. Understanding specs that matter for your skill level

    As a beginner, focus on playability over advanced features. Key specifications to prioritize include neck profile (thinner, “C”-shaped necks are generally easier for beginners), scale length (standard scales from 24.75″ to 25.5″ work well for most players), and string gauge (lighter strings require less finger strength).

    Intermediate and advanced players should pay attention to more nuanced specifications:

    • Pickup configurations and switching options
    • Tonewood combinations and their tonal impacts
    • Fret size and material (jumbo vs. medium, nickel vs. stainless steel)
    • Bridge and tremolo systems (fixed bridge vs. various tremolo designs)
    • Tuning stability features like locking tuners

    A good online specialist should provide these detailed specifications in their listings, allowing you to make informed decisions even without handling the instrument first.

    3. Budget allocation (guitar vs. accessories)

    A common mistake for beginners is spending their entire budget on just the guitar, forgetting essential accessories. A balanced approach to your budget should look something like:

    • Guitar: 60-70% of your total budget
    • Amplifier: 20-25% (even a small practice amp is essential)
    • Accessories: 10-15% for cables, picks, strap, tuner, and case/gig bag

    For beginners with a $500 total budget, this might mean spending $300-350 on the guitar, $100-125 on an amp, and $50-75 on accessories. Many online retailers offer bundles that include these essentials, often at better value than purchasing separately.

    If your budget is limited, prioritize a decent-quality guitar over an expensive amplifier – you can always upgrade the amp later as your skills develop.

    After-Purchase Support That Makes the Difference

    Setup services and their importance

    Even brand-new guitars typically benefit from professional setup. This process includes adjusting string height (action), setting intonation for proper tuning across the fretboard, checking and adjusting neck relief, and ensuring electronics function correctly.

    Many specialized online retailers offer setup services before shipping your guitar. This service is particularly valuable for beginners who may not recognize setup issues or know how to address them. A properly setup guitar plays more easily, stays in tune better, and generally provides a more enjoyable experience – making this small investment worth it.

    Return policies worth investigating

    Before purchasing, always understand the retailer’s return policy. Important aspects to check include the return window (how many days you have to evaluate the instrument), condition requirements (what state the guitar must be in for returns), any restocking fees, and who covers return shipping costs.

    The most guitarist-friendly policies offer 30+ day evaluation periods, reasonable condition expectations (understanding you’ll need to play the instrument to evaluate it), minimal or no restocking fees, and clear instructions for returns if needed.

    Quality online retailers stand behind their products and want satisfied customers, not just completed transactions. This commitment to customer satisfaction becomes particularly important when purchasing something as personal as a musical instrument.

    Finding Your Perfect Match: Beyond the Purchase

    Finding your ideal electric guitar online is just the beginning of your musical journey. The right retailer becomes a valuable resource throughout your development as a guitarist.

    The best online guitar stores provide ongoing resources like tutorial videos, maintenance guides, and community forums where you can connect with fellow players. They’ll also keep you informed about new gear that might complement your playing style as your skills advance.

    Whether you’re a beginner purchasing your first instrument or a seasoned professional adding to your collection, choosing a retailer that understands the guitar journey makes all the difference. With specialized knowledge spanning from beginner needs to professional requirements, Sam Ash helps guitarists at every level find their perfect match.

    Sam Ash

    278 Duffy Ave
    Unit B
    Hicksville
    New York
    11801
    United States

  • Jacob Zach Winsett, Attorney, Urges Support for Youth Sports as a Lifeline for At-Risk Kids

    Jacob Zach Winsett, Attorney, Urges Support for Youth Sports as a Lifeline for At-Risk Kids

    Former Judge and Current Attorney Highlights Real-Life Impact of Sports, Mentorship, and Community Involvement

    EVANSVILLE, IN / ACCESS Newswire / July 20, 2025 / Attorney and former Warrick County Judge Jacob Zach Winsett is calling for greater awareness and grassroots support of youth sports programs, citing them as a powerful tool for keeping kids out of trouble and giving them a structured path forward.

    “Youth sports kept me out of trouble as a kid,” Winsett said. “Now I try to pay that forward.”

    Winsett, who grew up in the small farming town of Chrisney, Indiana, played basketball, baseball, and football through school. He credits those experiences with shaping his leadership skills and work ethic-traits that would later guide his career as a public defender, Drug Court advocate, and judge.

    “I learned discipline from the farm, but I learned teamwork on the field,” he said. “That balance taught me how to listen and lead at the same time. I still use that every day.”

    The Data Behind the Message

    His message aligns with research. According to the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, kids who participate in sports are:

    • 92% less likely to use drugs

    • 75% more likely to attend college

    • More likely to report higher self-esteem and mental well-being

    But many youth programs are struggling. Rising costs, shrinking school budgets, and limited community support have made sports less accessible, especially for low-income families.

    From Courtroom to Community

    Winsett’s legal experience also reinforces his stance. As a Drug Court public defender, he worked directly with people battling addiction-many of whom lacked stable support systems early on.

    “Some folks came in completely defeated,” he said. “But I’ve seen the ones who turn it around. And they often had someone-maybe a coach or mentor-who believed in them before the system ever did.”

    Now, in his role at Bob Zoss Law Office, Winsett continues to advocate for second chances and personal accountability-but also for early intervention.

    “It doesn’t have to start with a courtroom,” he said. “It can start with a basketball. Or a coach who shows up every week.”

    Winsett isn’t asking people to donate money or start a nonprofit. His call to action is simpler.

    “Find a way to show up,” he says. “If you can’t coach, go watch a game. If you can’t play, cheer from the sidelines. Be part of something that shows kids someone cares.”

    He believes lasting impact comes from small, steady actions. “Leadership isn’t about making noise,” he said. “It’s about doing the work when no one’s looking.”

    Take the First Step

    To learn more about supporting local youth sports programs or volunteering in your community:

    • Contact your local parks and recreation department

    • Reach out to school athletic programs

    • Volunteer with youth leagues or after-school clubs

    “Start with what’s in front of you,” Winsett says. “The big stuff comes later. First, do the small things well.”

    About Jacob Zach Winsett

    Jacob Zach Winsett is an attorney at Bob Zoss Law Office in Evansville, Indiana. He previously served as a public defender, magistrate, and Superior Court judge in Warrick County. Winsett has also worked extensively with Drug Court programs and served on committees focused on jail reform and addiction recovery. He continues to mentor and volunteer through local youth sports organizations.

    Read more about Jacob Zach Winsett’s message on Infinite Sights at https://infinitesights.com/jacob-zach-winsett/

    Media Contact

    Jacob Zach Winsett
    info@zachwinsettattorney.com
    https://www.zachwinsettattorney.com/

    SOURCE: Jacob Zach Winsett

    View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

  • New to The Street Invests $10 Million in Media to Accelerate Deposits.com – The World’s Premier Financial Domain

    New to The Street Invests $10 Million in Media to Accelerate Deposits.com – The World’s Premier Financial Domain

     In Celebration of the Genius Act, the National Broadcast Leader Seeks Strategic Partners for Development, Technology, and Brand Execution

    NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 19, 2025 / In celebration of the recently signed Genius Act, New to The Street, one of America’s most influential financial media platforms, has committed a landmark $10 million media investment to supercharge the launch, development, and visibility of Deposits.com, the most powerful financial domain name in the world.

    This initiative is designed to ignite innovation in digital banking, fintech access, and consumer financial empowerment-amplifying the national call-to-action sparked by the Genius Act to support transformative ideas, technology, and entrepreneurship.

    “This is not a $10M cost-it’s a $10M catalyst,” said Vince Caruso, Co-Founder of New to The Street. “We are aligning our national media engine behind Deposits.com because it is not only the best financial domain in existence, it is a platform built for what’s next in finance, identity, and innovation.”

    Fueling the Future of Consumer Finance

    The campaign will include widespread exposure across Bloomberg and Fox Business television networks (as sponsored programming), multi-story billboards in Times Square, and strategic content across New to The Street’s digital ecosystem, including its 3-million-subscriber YouTube channel and social media network exceeding 500,000 followers.

    Deposits.com will serve as the definitive platform for connecting consumers to AI-driven personal finance tools, credit card offers, crypto access, and investment options-all under a trusted, iconic brand name.

    As part of this mission, New to The Street is actively seeking strategic development partners in technology, digital banking, AI integration, and financial infrastructure.

    “We believe Deposits.com can become the consumer’s front door to everything in modern finance,” said Shota Bagaturia, President of Deposits.com Gen AI Corp. “With the Genius Act opening new lanes of innovation, and with a national media partner like New to The Street behind us, the time is now.”

    About Deposits.com

    Deposits.com is a next-generation financial platform powered by one of the most valuable domain names in the world. Focused on bridging traditional banking with blockchain, AI, and digital asset access, it offers consumers simple, trustworthy, and intuitive tools to manage, grow, and protect their money. The company’s technology roadmap includes intelligent onboarding, personalized financial paths, and secure integrations for savings, lending, and investing.

    About New to The Street

    For over 16 years, New to The Street has led the financial media space by combining national television broadcasts with digital, social, and outdoor media. Its weekly shows on Fox Business and Bloomberg, its 3M+ YouTube subscribers, and its iconic Times Square billboards make it the most comprehensive media platform for public and private companies. Its mission: turn ideas into visibility, and visibility into value.

    Media Contact:
    Monica Brennan
    Monica@NewToTheStreet.com

    SOURCE: New to The Street

    View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

  • Become a Founding Flamekeeper: Lifetime Access Now Open for a Limited Time

    Become a Founding Flamekeeper: Lifetime Access Now Open for a Limited Time

    Early registrants of the Flameborne Journey can now become lifetime-certified Flamekeepers — no renewals, full access, limited time only.

    Jul. 19, 2025 / PRZen / ORLANDO, Fla. — A powerful new wave of transformational leadership is rising. Visionary author Bruce Goldwell has opened lifetime registration for a limited number of Founding Flamekeepers, the certified guides of The Flameborne Journey and The Becoming: Weave Your Legacy.

    This one-time opportunity grants early adopters lifetime certification as Flamekeepers, bypassing future annual renewal fees. Founding members will gain access to all current and future training materials, advanced tools, and sacred community portals.

    “The Becoming and Flameborne Journey aren’t just books — they’re gateways to the Golden Age of Enlightenment,” says Goldwell. “Flamekeepers will be the leaders of that awakening.”

    Rooted in the emotionally charged teachings of The Starlight Bond saga, Flamekeeper Guides are trained to hold sacred space, facilitate emotional alchemy, and guide others through the Spiral of Becoming — an eight-week journey of soul-authorship and truth activation.

    This special invitation is limited to the first 25 registrants and will never be offered again. Founding Flamekeepers receive:

    • Lifetime certification access (no renewals)
    • A permanent listing on the Flamekeeper directory
    • “Founding Guide” badge and status
    • Priority access to all future materials

    Practitioners, coaches, and lightworkers ready to step into soul leadership can apply now.
    Learn more and apply: https://www.mykindlebooks.net/Flamekeepers/
    Join the movement. Tend the flame. Become the guide others have been waiting for.

    About the Founder
    Bruce Goldwell, a resident of Kissimmee, Florida, is the founder and creator of the Flameborne Journey and The Becoming series. A visionary author and spiritual guide, Goldwell has pioneered a new path of philosophical mentorship that blends storytelling, emotional alchemy, and transformational tools for modern seekers. His work empowers coaches, lightworkers, and soul-guides to lead others through a journey of awakening, purpose, and inner authorship.

    Source: Bruce Goldwell

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33586891

  • Real Estate Content Marketing: How Contractors Build Authority & Win More Bids

    Real Estate Content Marketing: How Contractors Build Authority & Win More Bids

    Hailey, ID / Syndication Cloud / July 16, 2025 / Scale Hawk Media Group

    Key Summary

    • Authority Building: Content marketing establishes contractors as trusted experts in their specialties, leading to higher-value project opportunities and premium pricing power.
    • Lead Quality: Educational content attracts property owners and developers who are already researching contractors, resulting in warmer prospects and shorter sales cycles.
    • Cost Efficiency: Content marketing costs 62% less than traditional advertising while generating three times more qualified leads for construction businesses.
    • Long-term Value: Unlike paid ads, content creates lasting digital assets that continue attracting prospects for months or years after publication.
    • Competitive Edge: Most contractors still rely on word-of-mouth and basic websites, creating opportunities for early content marketing adopters.

    The construction industry has always operated on relationships and reputation, but the game has changed. Property developers, general contractors, and homeowners now research potential partners online before picking up the phone. Smart contractors are adapting by creating content that positions them as the obvious choice when decision-makers are ready to hire.

    Content marketing for construction professionals works differently than flashy advertisements or cold outreach. Instead of interrupting potential clients, it attracts them by answering questions they’re already asking and solving problems they’re actively researching. This approach builds genuine authority that translates directly into better project opportunities and higher profit margins.

    Why Traditional Construction Marketing Falls Short

    Most contractors still rely on the same marketing tactics that worked decades ago. Yellow Pages ads have moved to Google Ads, but the approach remains the same: pay money, hope for visibility, stop paying and disappear. This model creates several problems that content marketing solves.

    The Trust Gap Problem

    Construction projects involve significant investments and trust. Homeowners renovating their kitchen or developers planning a new subdivision need confidence in their contractor’s expertise. A basic website listing services doesn’t build that confidence the way educational content does.

    When contractors publish articles about common renovation mistakes, cost-saving strategies, or project timelines, they demonstrate knowledge that potential clients can verify immediately, explains content marketing agency Scale Hawk Media Group. This educational approach builds trust before the first phone call, making subsequent sales conversations much easier.

    Limited Reach and Timing Issues

    Paid advertising reaches people when advertisers decide to spend money, not when prospects are ready to buy. Content marketing reverses this dynamic by being discoverable whenever someone searches for relevant information.

    A well-optimized article about “residential electrical upgrade costs” will attract homeowners researching that exact topic for months or years after publication. This evergreen approach provides consistent lead generation without ongoing advertising spend.

    Building Authority Through Strategic Content

    Effective construction content marketing requires understanding what information your ideal clients need at different stages of their decision-making process. Property owners and developers follow predictable research patterns that smart contractors can anticipate and address.

    Early-Stage Educational Content

    People beginning construction projects often start with broad questions about feasibility, costs, and timelines. Content addressing these topics attracts prospects early in their research phase, allowing contractors to influence their decision-making process from the beginning.

    Topics like “How much does a kitchen renovation actually cost?” or “What permits do you need for a home addition?” capture attention from homeowners just starting to explore their options. This early engagement creates opportunities to build relationships before competitors enter the conversation.

    Technical Expertise Demonstrations

    Once prospects understand basic project parameters, they begin evaluating contractors based on technical competence. Content that demonstrates deep knowledge of building codes, material specifications, or construction techniques helps separate qualified contractors from general competitors.

    Detailed articles about structural engineering requirements, energy efficiency upgrades, or specialized construction methods show potential clients that a contractor understands complex aspects of their project. This technical authority often justifies premium pricing and attracts higher-value opportunities.

    Content Formats That Generate Leads

    Different types of content serve different purposes in the construction marketing funnel. The most effective contractors use varied formats to engage prospects across multiple touchpoints and preferences.

    Case Studies and Project Showcases

    Before-and-after project documentation provides compelling proof of capabilities while addressing common client concerns about quality, timelines, and problem-solving abilities. Effective case studies include specific challenges faced, solutions implemented, and results achieved.

    These detailed project stories help potential clients visualize working with the contractor and understand the value delivered. Including client testimonials and specific metrics makes case studies even more persuasive for similar future projects.

    Problem-Solving Guides and How-To Content

    Construction projects involve numerous decisions and potential complications that property owners need help navigating. Content that guides readers through complex choices positions contractors as helpful advisors rather than pushy salespeople.

    Topics like “Choosing the right foundation type for your building site” or “How to prepare for a major renovation project” provide genuine value while subtly demonstrating the contractor’s expertise and approach to client service.

    Local Market Insights

    Construction requirements vary significantly by location due to climate, building codes, and local contractor availability. Content addressing location-specific considerations helps contractors capture local search traffic while demonstrating relevant local knowledge.

    Articles about “Building considerations for coastal properties” or “Navigation permit requirements in [specific city]” attract prospects searching for local expertise and help contractors compete against larger, non-local companies.

    Measuring Content Marketing Success

    Construction content marketing success goes beyond website traffic metrics to include lead quality, project value, and client lifetime value improvements. Smart contractors track multiple indicators to optimize their content strategy over time.

    Lead Quality Metrics

    Content-generated leads typically show higher engagement and conversion rates than paid advertising leads because they’re further along in the research process. Tracking metrics like email open rates, consultation show-up rates, and proposal acceptance rates helps contractors understand content effectiveness.

    Prospects who engage with educational content before contacting contractors often have more realistic expectations and budgets, leading to smoother project discussions and higher closing rates.

    Long-Term Authority Building

    Content marketing’s cumulative effect means results often improve over time as search rankings increase and content libraries grow. Contractors should expect gradual improvement rather than immediate dramatic results, but the long-term benefits often exceed initial expectations.

    Content marketing represents a fundamental shift in how contractors can build authority and attract ideal clients in the real estate industry. While traditional marketing interrupts potential clients with promotional messages, content marketing attracts them by providing genuine value and demonstrating expertise.

    This approach builds trust, generates higher-quality leads, and creates lasting competitive advantages that compound over time. The contractors who embrace this strategy now will have big advantages over competitors who continue relying solely on traditional marketing approaches.

     

     

    Scale Hawk Media Group

    1561 Red Feather Way
    Hailey
    ID
    83333
    United States

  • How Holistic Employee Benefits Shape Workplace Culture, Engagement & Retention

    How Holistic Employee Benefits Shape Workplace Culture, Engagement & Retention

    Austin, Texas / Syndication Cloud / July 18, 2025 / TTEC

    The job market has undergone a major transformation over the past few years. And if the Great Resignation taught employers anything, it’s that salary alone doesn’t guarantee engagement and loyalty. Employees today want more than just a paycheck, they want to feel a sense of purpose, support, and the flexibility to bring their authentic selves to work. That’s where holistic employee benefits come in. Today, comprehensive, well-strategized employee benefits packages based on employee satisfaction surveys and career conversations are part of a larger business strategy that fuels long-term engagement, high performance, and loyalty.

    From Burnout to Belonging

    After the upheaval of the pandemic, workers began reevaluating their priorities. Many walked away from jobs that failed to support their well-being or meet them where they were on their career continuum. What they wanted was balance, recognition, and a workplace that respected the fact that life doesn’t pause during office hours. Employers who listened are the ones seeing the payoff.

    Why Benefits Are the Backbone of Employee Engagement

    Holistic employee benefits do more than cover medical needs. They reflect a company’s values and priorities. When employees are offered flexible health care, access to mental health tools, retirement savings support, generous time off, and support for personal development, they’re far more likely to feel connected to their workplace and far less likely to be snatched by competitors. Knowing an employer has your best interests at heart forms a business relationship that is more than just transactional. It’s meaningful.

    A strong benefits package helps foster this sense of belonging and support. It can also lower stress, increase motivation, and lead to a more positive workplace culture. This financial, emotional, and professional security translates directly into how employees show up for their work, and for their teams.

    Service Roles Require Even Stronger Support

    In sectors where employees are a company’s voice and brand ambassador, this matters even more. TTEC, a global leader in customer experience outsourcing, explains that excellence in customer service starts with people who feel valued, seen, and supported themselves. Professionals who provide excellent service and resolve customer issues help form valuable connections on behalf of the organization, strengthening brand loyalty, and influencing how people feel about a company. In today’s competitive environment, the difference between success and failure on this front can impact a company’s reputation, and its bottom line. To provide the best in customer service, employees need to feel supported, respected, and appreciated. After all, emotional resilience isn’t cultivated in a vacuum, it comes from a workplace culture that invests in their well-being and gives them the tools to manage life’s personal and professional challenges.

    What Today’s Talent Is Looking For

    Job seekers are increasingly looking at benefits packages as a make-or-break factor when choosing where to work. Tuition reimbursement, career mobility programs, paid leave, mental health access, and flexible work arrangements can all help elevate a company so that it’s seen as a top-tier employer.

    When employees are respected as whole people, organizations can build stronger, more resilient teams that are motivated to perform, and to stay with the company for years to come.

    How Work Can Work for Everyone

    In a jobs market where talent is paying closer attention to how well their company supports their well-being, holistic benefits should be considered a strategic necessity. Companies that prioritize career development and employee wellness are the ones fostering long-term loyalty, performance, and feelings of shared success.

    TTEC

    100 Congress Avenue
    Suite 1425
    Austin
    Texas
    78701
    United States

     

  • Exelon Leader Tamla Olivier Named 2025 Technologist of the Year by Waves of Change STEM Conference

    Exelon Leader Tamla Olivier Named 2025 Technologist of the Year by Waves of Change STEM Conference

    Trailblazing BGE CEO; Honored for Transformational Impact in Utility Sector

    Jul. 18, 2025 / PRZen / BALTIMORE — The 30th annual Waves of Change: Women of Color STEM Conference proudly announces Tamla Olivier as the 2025 Technologist of the Year. The prestigious award will be presented during the landmark conference in Baltimore on Friday, October 24, 2025, recognizing Olivier’s transformative leadership in utility operations, infrastructure innovation, and equitable energy service.

    Olivier’s recognition comes amid another milestone: her appointment  as President and CEO of Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Maryland’s largest utility. Parent company Exelon Corp. confirmed her promotion, marking a historic moment for the company and region. Olivier now joins Exelon’s Executive Committee and will oversee operations that serve over 1.3 million electric customers and 700,000 gas customers across central Maryland.

    “Tamla Olivier represents the gold standard of visionary leadership and operational excellence,” said Calvin Butler, President and CEO of Exelon. “We pride ourselves on developing top talent within Exelon, and Tamla’s promotion underscores our commitment to elevating leaders who deliver for our communities.”

    Olivier has led operations for Pepco Holdings’ three utilities since 2021—serving diverse customers in Delaware, Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New Jersey. Under her guidance, the company achieved record-high reliability rankings and implemented critical infrastructure upgrades, expanding energy resilience and customer satisfaction.

    A former President and CEO of BGE Home, Olivier is no stranger to Maryland’s energy landscape. She previously held senior roles at BGE, including Chief Customer Officer. She returns to BGE with more than a decade of industry experience and a steadfast commitment to customer-focused innovation.

    “Tamla is the kind of leader we dreamed of honoring when this conference began 30 years ago,” said Tyrone D. Taborn, Founder of the Women of Color STEM Conference and CEO of Career Communications Group. “She’s a mentor, an innovator, and a beacon for the next generation of STEM professionals.”

    For more information about the Women of Color STEM Conference, visit www.ccgmag.com/woc

    Media Contact
    Jessica Smith
    4102447101
    jsmith@ccgmag.com

    Press Release Distributed by PRLog

    Source: Career Communications Group

    Follow the full story here: https://przen.com/pr/33586814

  • Matjaz Vidmar: Engineering Architect of the Modern Broadcast Cloud

    Matjaz Vidmar: Engineering Architect of the Modern Broadcast Cloud

    Team Editorial – Evrima Chicago

    NAPERVILLE, IL / ACCESS Newswire / July 18, 2025 / In the infrastructure-focused evolution of television broadcasting, few technologists have influenced the trajectory of modular playout and digital delivery more profoundly than Matjaz Vidmar. Through a career that spans over two decades-from founding ON-AIR Systems in the 1990s to leading Perception Group Inc. in the 2020s-Vidmar has consistently pushed the boundaries of integrated media architecture. His work has been most recently credited with establishing the technical foundation behind PerceptionTVCDN and its affiliated super-app platform, RapidoTV.

    An independent editorial investigation by Evrima Chicago into the current state of digital broadcast infrastructure repeatedly surfaced Vidmar’s name in relation to low-footprint, high-impact engineering strategies. While not a mainstream figure in consumer media, Vidmar’s legacy in software-defined broadcasting and scalable streaming has become a reference point in trade circles for cloud-based television deployment.

    Early Career and Founding of ON-AIR Systems

    Matjaz Vidmar began his engineering career in the late 1980s and early 1990s with a focus on analog and digital broadcasting workflows. In 1995, he founded ON-AIR Systems, a UK-based software company that pioneered the “Channel-in-a-Box” concept-a then-novel approach to television playout that consolidated hardware and software control into a single automated workstation.

    At a time when television broadcasting required racks of dedicated hardware, ON-AIR Systems offered a disruptive model: compressing scheduling, graphics, playout, and ingest into software modules that could run on commodity PCs. Industry trade journals from 2002-2010 (Broadcast Engineering, IBC Reports) cite ON-AIR as a key enabler of playout automation for regional and thematic broadcasters across Europe and the Middle East.

    By the end of the 2000s, ON-AIR’s solutions had been deployed in over 50 countries. Vidmar’s approach reduced engineering overhead, increased operational uptime, and marked one of the first large-scale attempts to abstract broadcast operations into virtual software-defined environments.

    Perception Group Inc. and the Evolution of Broadcast CDN

    In the early 2010s, Vidmar transitioned his core focus from linear playout to integrated streaming architecture. He founded Perception Group Inc., assembling a team of former ON-AIR engineers and network specialists to address the next challenge: fusing IPTV-grade logic with CDN-based distribution.

    According to industry documentation and deployment records reviewed by Evrima Chicago, the resulting platform-PerceptionTVCDN-emerged as a unique technical entity: a CDN that could perform traditional television functions (live streaming, nPVR, EPG indexing) inside the delivery fabric itself. Unlike conventional CDNs that served as passive distribution endpoints, PerceptionTVCDN was engineered to understand TV logic.

    This system has since been deployed in multiple telecom-backed streaming services across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia (EIN Presswire, TechAfrica News 2024-2025). Operators including Zain Sudan and Africell Angola publicly confirmed their use of the platform in rollouts of catch-up and live TV applications under local brand names such as El Shasha and AfriTV.

    Vidmar’s philosophy-visible across PerceptionTV’s platform architecture-is rooted in three principles:

    • Modularization: All broadcast services should be decoupled and interchangeable, akin to cloud microservices.

    • Vendor Independence: Operators must not be locked into multi-vendor dependencies or long deployment cycles.

    • Access and Localization: Streaming infrastructure must accommodate low-bandwidth markets with localized control and interface layers.

    RapidoTV and the Super-App Model

    In 2025, Vidmar re-emerged at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, where he appeared alongside the executive team behind RapidoTV, a generative AI-powered super-app that unites live streaming, VOD, e-commerce, and gaming. While Rapido operates as an independent business entity, its core backend-event scheduling, metadata handling, content playout-is powered by PerceptionTVCDN.

    According to Rapido CEO Fabio Pigo, who spoke at the MWC 2025 TechAfrica press briefing, the Rapido concept was heavily shaped by Vidmar’s architecture design:

    “We wanted a system that was deeply broadcast-aware but scalable like a consumer app. Matjaz gave us the blueprint to do both” (TechAfrica News, 2025).

    Vidmar did not speak publicly at MWC but was acknowledged in both Rapido and PerceptionTV’s executive releases as the principal architect of the streaming framework used by both entities.

    Engineering Legacy and Technical Contributions

    Through primary interviews, trade publication analysis, and archived system documentation, Evrima Chicago has compiled a consistent technical portrait of Matjaz Vidmar. His lasting contributions to the broadcast technology field include:

    • Software-Defined Television Playout: Enabling the automation and virtualization of linear broadcast chains.

    • Modular IPTV/CDN Convergence: Bridging the gap between operator control and scalable video delivery.

    • Infrastructure for Low-Bandwidth Regions: Architecting playout models that work with minimal latency and packet loss tolerance.

    • White-Labeled Middleware Alternatives: Allowing telecoms to create their own media platforms without proprietary middleware licenses.

    Vidmar’s contributions are often cited in internal whitepapers and platform RFPs by telecom providers across Eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. His background as an engineer, rather than a product marketer, may explain his relatively low profile in popular media, despite his significant influence on the technical design of widely deployed systems.

    President Trump’s Truth Social Streaming powered by Vidmar’s Perception Group

    In a recent development, it was revealed that the Perception Group, founded and majority-owned by Matjaž Vidmar, developed the private CDN technology enabling Truth Social-the platform operated by Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG)-to offer live video streaming to its users.

    Truth Social, launched in 2022 and 65% owned by U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, now allows users to stream content across web, iOS, and Android via a single television icon-powered entirely by Perception Group’s CDN infrastructure.

    The CDN, built as a turnkey hardware-software integration suite, operates on private server infrastructure (not public cloud), giving exclusive access and control to TMTG. According to official TMTG filings, the partnership is valued at over $17.5 million over three years.

    Vidmar’s Perception Group, headquartered in Toronto with subsidiaries in London and Ljubljana, will face operational restrictions in certain U.S. sectors under the terms of the agreement. TMTG also holds a first-mover option in case of future sale of Perception Group.

    CEO Devin Nunes of TMTG described the rollout as

    “another step towards our goal of creating a safe haven for everyone who wants freedom of expression and family-friendly television content.”

    Though Vidmar has not commented publicly on the deal, the partnership has placed his once-under-the-radar CDN engineering into the heart of American political tech infrastructure.

    Industry Recognition and Media Presence

    Vidmar’s name appears primarily in technical and trade publications rather than general-interest press. Notable citations include:

    • Broadcast Engineering (2005-2010): ON-AIR Systems playout automation tools

    • IBC Technical Papers Archive: Channel-in-a-box presentations

    • TechAfrica News: Coverage of Zain and Africell deployments

    • GlobeNewswire (2025): Technical reference in RapidoTV + PerceptionTV joint press release

    • Truth Social Streaming Deal Coverage: Cited in Slovenian press, EIN, and independent telecom analyses

    While not a media celebrity, Vidmar’s consistent technical presence meets WP:CORP and WP:NBIO standards as a credible figure with sustained, independent impact across multiple markets.

    Conclusion

    From analog playout to CDN-embedded television logic, Matjaz Vidmar’s career reflects a systemic, engineering-led transformation of the broadcast industry. His innovations operate largely behind the scenes-under telecom banners, sovereign platform wrappers, and streaming app interfaces-but his architecture is there, threading through the broadcast DNA of our digital age.

    Whether enabling content delivery in under-connected rural regions or embedding AI logic in super-app platforms, Vidmar’s frameworks are not relics-they are living, scalable templates for the hybrid, modular, decentralized broadcasting systems of tomorrow.

    Media & PR Contact

    Dan Wasserman
    Head of Media & Public Affairs
    PR@EvrimaChicago.com
    +1 (909) 326-0347
    Evrima Chicago – Editorial Syndication Bureau

    Disclaimer

    This article was authored, developed, and distributed by Evrima Chicago, LLC, as part of an independent editorial investigation into the evolution of broadcast infrastructure and streaming technologies, with a focus on the engineering contributions of Matjaz Vidmar, founder of Perception Group Inc.

    • Evrima Chicago does not represent Matjaz Vidmar, Perception Group, Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG), or any affiliated entity in a legal, corporate, or public relations capacity.

    • The insights, observations, and analysis included in this article are based on interviews, publicly available documentation, and verified trade sources, with the intent to inform and contextualize developments in modular broadcasting and cloud media infrastructure.

    • This publication is not intended as financial, legal, or political endorsement, and it does not reflect the views of any government agency, political party, or commercial stakeholder.

    • All figures, company statements, and third-party platforms referenced are listed in the Sources & Citations table accompanying this publication.

    • Reproduction, excerpting, or redistribution of this content must credit both the author and Evrima Chicago, LLC as the originating editorial source.

    • Technologists, researchers, policymakers, and academic institutions are encouraged to use this article as part of wider discussions on media decentralization, telecom sovereignty, and the technical evolution of global streaming platforms.

    SOURCE: Evrima Chicago LLC.

    View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

  • Healing With Precision: Sacred Journey Recovery in Vista Offers Brain Mapping in Men’s Alcohol & Drug Rehab

    Healing With Precision: Sacred Journey Recovery in Vista Offers Brain Mapping in Men’s Alcohol & Drug Rehab

    As alcohol use continues to rise across California, particularly among adult men, communities like Vista are feeling the weight of an intensifying crisis. In San Diego County, recent data reveals that a significant portion of adults engage in binge or heavy drinking, with a concerning number of younger residents initiating alcohol use before age 18.

    These trends mirror a broader statewide and national problem, where societal norms often encourage drinking while discouraging emotional vulnerability, especially among men. In response to this mounting challenge, Sacred Journey Recovery in Vista has established itself as a transformative solution with its highly focused and deeply integrated men’s alcohol rehab program.

    SACRED JOURNEY RECOVERY 161 Thunder Dr #214, Vista, CA 92083 Phone: (760) 888-5202

    The program is built on the understanding that alcohol addiction is rarely just about the alcohol. It’s about the underlying pain, the unresolved trauma, the mental health issues left untreated, and the internalized pressure to perform, suppress, and endure. Sacred Journey Recovery addresses these deeper wounds through a clinically grounded, experientially rich approach that emphasizes not only symptom relief but true, lasting transformation. The treatment model integrates evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. These therapies aren’t offered in isolated sessions; instead, they’re woven into the center’s experiential curriculum—from climbing walls and fireside conversations to immersive process groups and rites of passage weekends.

    This isn’t rehab as usual. It’s a redefinition of what healing looks like for men. The clinical team at Sacred Journey guides each client toward emotional regulation, self-awareness, and psychological resilience. Whether it’s CBT helping to reframe distorted thought patterns, DBT cultivating emotional balance, or ACT inviting men to align their behavior with personal values, even in the face of discomfort, each modality is brought to life through real-world experiences. Narrative Therapy empowers men to reclaim their stories—to step out of shame and into a life marked by dignity, accountability, and agency.

    A cornerstone of Sacred Journey Recovery’s innovative programming is the use of brain mapping, or QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalogram), as a complementary part of every client’s experience. This cutting-edge, non-invasive technology tracks the brain’s electrical activity to identify patterns linked to trauma, addiction, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The insights gained from QEEG not only guide clinical treatment plans with greater precision but also give clients a concrete, visual understanding of how their brain is functioning and healing. For many, seeing the biological basis of their struggle helps remove self-blame and reframes recovery as a neurological reset rather than a moral failing.

    But what truly sets Sacred Journey Recovery apart is its commitment to cultivating a transformational masculine culture. Rooted in mentorship, integrity, and brotherhood, the program invites men to connect with their sacred purpose, to live authentically, and to hold one another accountable. This culture of deep relational growth stands in stark contrast to the isolation that so often accompanies addiction.

    Testimonials from families reflect the profound impact this program has made. One reviewer shared, “If you’re a man (or have a husband, brother, or son) in or around Vista, California, and are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, this place can help. Their adventure therapy, coupled with top-tier clinical practices including cognitive behavioral therapy, brings a holistic healing package for recovery. Do yourself or the man in your life a favor, check out Sacred Journey Recovery.”

    As the mental health and addiction crises continue to intersect, Sacred Journey Recovery’s men’s alcohol rehab program offers a blueprint for recovery that’s as dynamic as it is compassionate. In a time when many programs still separate clinical excellence from human connection, Sacred Journey bridges the two with integrity and intention. For men in Vista and beyond who are ready to turn the page, this center offers more than sobriety—it provides the chance to live with clarity, courage, and purpose.

  • ALT5 Sigma Signals Readiness as U.S. Stablecoin Legislation Passes into Law

    ALT5 Sigma Signals Readiness as U.S. Stablecoin Legislation Passes into Law

    LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / July 18, 2025 / ALT5 Sigma Corporation (NASDAQ:ALTS)(FRA:5AR1) (“ALT5 or the “Company”), a fintech company delivering blockchain-powered payment and trading infrastructure for global merchants and financial institutions, today welcomed the signing of the GENIUS Act, a landmark U.S. law establishing a regulatory framework for stablecoin issuance and oversight.

    “We believe this legislation marks a turning point,” said Peter Tassiopoulos, CEO of ALT5 Sigma. “With a clear legal foundation now in place, U.S. enterprises can finally build with confidence and unlock the transformative capabilities of blockchain.”

    ALT5 infrastructure has been designed from the start to support responsible, compliant digital asset adoption at scale for compliance-first deployments; aligned with the principles now being codified in law. The company sees this legislation as a critical step toward leveling the playing field for regulated actors while protecting the industry from bad actors and systemic risk.

    Stablecoins processed a staggering $27.6 trillion USD in on-chain transactions during 2024, surpassing the combined annual volumes for Visa and Mastercard. Their role in cross-border payments, remittances, and on-platform settlement continues to grow, particularly among fintechs and institutional users seeking efficiency and transparency.

    ALT5 has processed over $5 billion USD in cryptocurrency transactions to date, supporting more than 1,000 businesses worldwide. The company continues to see accelerating demand for stablecoin-related infrastructure as enterprises look to integrate blockchain-based payments into their existing operations.

    The company supports responsible regulation and welcomes ongoing efforts by U.S. policymakers to bring greater structure and transparency to the digital asset ecosystem.

    As adoption accelerates, this regulatory clarity is expected to streamline ALT5’s continued growth in an expanding global market.

    To learn more about how ALT5 supports institutional stablecoin integration, visit www.alt5sigma.com.

    About ALT5 Sigma Corporation

    ALT5 Sigma Corporation (NASDAQ:ALTS)(FRA:5AR1) is a fintech, providing next generation blockchain-powered technologies for tokenization, trading, clearing settlement, payment, and safe keeping of digital assets.

    Founded in 2018, ALT5 Sigma, Inc. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of ALT5 Sigma Corporation) enables the migration to a new global financial paradigm through its suite of blockchain infrastructure technologies. ALT5 Sigma, Inc., through its subsidiaries, offers two main platforms: “ALT5 Pay” and “ALT5 Prime.” The company has processed over $5 billion USD in cryptocurrency transactions since inception.

    ALT5 Pay is an award-winning cryptocurrency payment gateway that enables registered and approved global merchants to accept and make cryptocurrency payments or to integrate the ALT5 Pay payment platform into their application or operations using the plugin with WooCommerce and or ALT5 Pay’s checkout widgets and APIs. Merchants have the option to convert to fiat currency(s) automatically or to receive their payment in digital assets.

    ALT5 Prime is an electronic over-the-counter trading platform that enables registered and approved customers to buy and sell digital assets. Customers can purchase digital assets with fiat and, equally, can sell digital assets and receive fiat. ALT5 Prime is available through a browser-based access mobile phone application named “ALT5 Pro” that can be downloaded from the Apple App Store, from Google Play, through ALT5 Prime’s FIX API, as well as through Broadridge Financial Solutions’ NYFIX gateway for approved customers.

    The Company is also advancing the separation of its biotech business, which will continue under “Alyea Therapeutics Corporation.” Through its biotech activities, the Company is focused on bringing to market drugs with non-addictive pain-relieving properties to treat conditions that cause chronic or severe pain. Our patented product, a novel formulation of low-dose naltrexone (JAN123), is being initially developed for the treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), an indication that causes severe, chronic pain generally affecting the arms or legs. The FDA has granted Jan123 Orphan Drug Designation for treatment of CRPS.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that are forward-looking statements as defined within the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements relating to the profitability and prospective growth of ALT5’s platforms and business, that may include, but are not limited to, international currency risks, third-party or customer credit risks, liability claims stemming from ALT5’s services, and technology challenges for future growth or expansion. This press release also may contain statements and links relating to risks that JAN 101 will treat PAD, that JAN 123 will treat CRPS, the timing of the commencement of clinical trials, that the FDA will permit approval through a 505(b)(2) pathway for JAN 123, that upon approval JAN 101 will immediately disrupt the PAD market, and other statements, including words such as “continue”, “expect”, “intend”, “will”, “hope”, “should”, “would”, “may”, “potential”, and other similar expressions. Such statements reflect the Company‘s current view with respect to future events, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social uncertainties, and contingencies.

    Many factors could cause the Company’s actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements described in this press release. Such factors could include, among others, those detailed in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the assumptions set out in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s filings with the SEC underlying those forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. The Company cannot assure that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Individuals are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

    Media/Investor Relations Contact
    IR@alt5sigma.com
    1-800-400-2247

    SOURCE: ALT5 Sigma Corp

    View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire