#Virtual event platform UK

[tilluvirtualevent]

Unlocking the Power of Virtual Event Platform in the UK

In recent years, the way we connect, communicate, and collaborate has undergone a significant transformation. The advent of virtual event platforms has revolutionized the event industry, offering a powerful and accessible medium to host conferences, trade shows, webinars, and more. In the United Kingdom, the popularity and adoption of virtual event platforms have skyrocketed, providing countless opportunities for businesses, organizations, and individuals to engage with their audiences in innovative ways. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of virtual event platforms in the UK, exploring their benefits, features, and their impact on the events landscape.

The Rise of Virtual Event Platforms: Virtual event platforms have experienced a meteoric rise in the UK, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With restrictions on physical gatherings and the need for social distancing, businesses and event organizers turned to virtual solutions to continue engaging with their audiences. This shift brought virtual event platforms to the forefront, providing an immersive and interactive experience that rivals traditional in-person events.

Overcoming Physical Limitations: One of the primary advantages of virtual event platforms is the ability to overcome physical limitations. Regardless of geographical location, attendees from all corners of the UK, or even the world, can participate in events without the need for travel expenses or time constraints. This opens up a vast array of possibilities, enabling organizations to reach a broader audience and connect with participants who may have otherwise been unable to attend.

[startups-bar]

Best Virtual Networking Platforms for Professionals in the Startup Scene

Networking is a critical component of success in the startup world. With the rise of digital technology, virtual networking platforms have become indispensable tools for entrepreneurs looking to build connections, gain insights, and access resources. These platforms provide a space for early-stage startups to interact, share ideas, and collaborate within the broader startup ecosystem. Here, we explore some of the best virtual networking platforms for professionals in the startup scene, focusing on their features and benefits.

The Importance of Virtual Networking in the Startup Community

Virtual networking platforms play a crucial role in the startup community by offering a space for entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate regardless of their geographical location. These platforms are essential for:

Expanding Networks: Connecting with other entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors worldwide.

Startup Growth: Accessing valuable resources, advice, and opportunities for growth.

Fostering Startup Culture: Building a supportive community that encourages innovation and collaboration.

Top Virtual Networking Platforms for Startup Professionals

1. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is one of the most widely used professional networking platforms. It offers a robust suite of tools for networking, content sharing, and professional development.

Features:

Professional Profiles: Showcase your experience, skills, and startup projects.

Groups: Join relevant startup communities and engage in discussions.

Content Sharing: Post updates, articles, and resources to share with your network.

Benefits:

Wide Reach: Connect with millions of professionals globally.

Networking Opportunities: Easily find and connect with potential investors, mentors, and partners.

Learning Resources: Access LinkedIn Learning for courses on entrepreneurship and startup management.

2. Slack

Slack is a popular communication tool that has been adopted by many startup communities as a platform for networking and collaboration.

Features:

Channels: Create dedicated channels for different topics and projects.

Direct Messaging: Connect with individuals for private conversations.

Integrations: Integrate with other tools like Google Drive, Trello, and Zoom.

Benefits:

Real-Time Communication: Engage in real-time discussions and collaborations.

Community Building: Join or create startup communities focused on your interests.

Collaboration Tools: Use integrated tools to streamline your startup’s workflow.

3. Hopin

Hopin is a versatile virtual event platform designed for hosting online conferences, networking events, and meetups.

Features:

Event Management: Host virtual events with various interactive elements.

Networking Areas: Dedicated spaces for one-on-one networking and group discussions.

Interactive Sessions: Engage with attendees through Q&A, polls, and breakout rooms.

Benefits:

Comprehensive Event Solution: Manage all aspects of virtual events in one platform.

Networking Opportunities: Facilitate meaningful connections through structured networking sessions.

Global Reach: Host events that attract participants from around the world.

4. Zoom

Zoom is a leading video conferencing tool widely used for virtual meetings, webinars, and workshops.

Features:

Video Conferencing: High-quality video and audio for meetings.

Webinars: Host webinars with up to thousands of attendees.

Breakout Rooms: Create smaller groups within larger meetings for focused discussions.

Benefits:

Ease of Use: User-friendly interface with reliable performance.

Scalability: Suitable for both small meetups and large conferences.

Collaboration Tools: Screen sharing, chat, and recording features enhance collaboration.

5. Mighty Networks

Mighty Networks is a community-building platform that allows you to create a dedicated space for your startup community.

Features:

Community Spaces: Create and customize your community’s layout and features.

Courses and Events: Offer online courses, workshops, and events within your community.

Content Sharing: Share articles, videos, and other resources.

Benefits:

Customizable: Tailor the platform to meet the specific needs of your startup community.

Engagement Tools: Use built-in tools to foster engagement and interaction.

Integrated Learning: Combine community building with educational content.

Case Study: StartupsBar - Best Startup Community in the UK for Entrepreneurs

StartupsBar stands out as one of the best startup communities in the UK for entrepreneurs. It leverages virtual networking platforms to create a dynamic environment for its members.

Key Features of StartupsBar:

Virtual Networking Events: Regularly hosted events to connect members with mentors, investors, and peers.

Resource Sharing: Access to a wealth of resources, including articles, tools, and best practices.

Community Engagement: A supportive culture that encourages knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Impact on the European Startup Ecosystem

StartupsBar has made significant contributions to the European startup ecosystem by fostering a collaborative and innovative environment. Through its use of virtual networking platforms, it has enabled entrepreneurs to connect, grow, and succeed.

Conclusion

Virtual networking platforms are indispensable tools for professionals in the startup scene. Whether you're part of an early-stage startup or a growing business, these platforms provide the means to connect with the right people, access valuable resources, and foster a supportive community. By leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, Slack, Hopin, Zoom, and Mighty Networks, entrepreneurs can navigate the startup ecosystem more effectively and drive their startups toward success. Platforms like StartupsBar exemplify the power of virtual networking in creating thriving startup communities that support innovation and growth.

[louisupdates]

[Translated from Spanish]

Louis Tomlinson raises funds to support children in Gaza

The British singer begins his tour of Mexico and has decided to collaborate with the organization War Child UK to benefit the human rights of affected children.

Andrea Elizondo / Diario de Querétaro

On the most important night of his career as a soloist, Louis Tomlinson decides to raise funds with the War Child UK organization to benefit Palestinian children who have been affected by the genocide in Gaza.

This weekend the visit of the British singer to the stages of our country begins. His presentation at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City is the largest of his tour with a capacity of up to 80 thousand people, becoming the first male act to perform a show on his own tour in said place.

Taking advantage of how significant this night is for his musical career, the British singer decided to organize a livestream to involve the rest of his fandom in the event.

Through the Veeps.com platform you can view the concert that will be held tonight in Mexico City in real time. The livestream will be directed by Sam Wrench, acclaimed director who has been responsible for the music documentaries “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Film” and “Billie Eilish: Live at the O2.”

Access to the broadcast of the event, which will start at 8:00 p.m. today, costs 288.66 pesos and can be repeated as many times as desired up to 72 hours after the end of the event. Although today the concert will be seen in real time, tomorrow, June 2, the 'encore' premiere will take place with exclusive behind-the-scenes material in addition to the concert video.

The virtual event is held in collaboration with the British organization, War Child UK, focused on the protection and attention to the needs of children whose human rights are violated in war zones. A portion of each ticket sold, as well as additional donations made during the event (options range from 16 pesos) will be donated directly to the organization.

This Tuesday, Tomlinson will be at the Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez Auditorium on his penultimate night of his “Faith in the Future World Tour.” Tickets to the event are completely sold out. The event with the public is at 9:00 p.m. and will feature the Australian group, DMA'S, as the opening act.

[o-ddel]

Tape Hair Extensions UK – Oddel Guide to Luxurious Hair

Tape hair extensions have revolutionized the world of hairstyling. Known for their seamless blend, lightweight feel, and long-lasting results, these extensions have become a favorite among beauty enthusiasts. If you're in the UK and searching for the perfect tape hair extensions, this guide will introduce you to everything you need to know, including why they’re a game-changer and how to find the best options on the market.

What Are Tape Hair Extensions?

Tape hair extensions uk are pre-taped wefts of hair that are applied to your natural hair using a medical-grade adhesive. They lie flat against the scalp, creating a natural and discreet look. These extensions are versatile, reusable, and perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet professional hair transformation.

Benefits of Tape Hair Extensions

Natural Appearance Tape extensions are virtually undetectable when installed correctly. The thin wefts blend seamlessly with your natural hair, making them a popular choice for a polished look.

Lightweight and Comfortable Unlike traditional extensions, tape hair extensions are lightweight, reducing strain on your scalp and making them comfortable to wear daily.

Durable and Reusable With proper care, tape extensions can be reused multiple times, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term wear.

Quick Application The installation process is fast and hassle-free, typically taking less than an hour, making it ideal for those with busy schedules.

Low Maintenance These extensions require minimal upkeep, making them a convenient option for everyday use.

Why Tape Hair Extensions Are Popular in the UK

In the UK, tape hair extensions have gained massive popularity due to their versatility and high-quality results. Whether you’re attending a special event or simply enhancing your daily look, tape extensions offer a reliable solution.

UK salons and online retailers have embraced this trend, offering a wide variety of colors, lengths, and textures to cater to every preference.

How to Choose the Best Tape Hair Extensions in the UK

Hair Quality Opt for 100% Remy human hair extensions, as they offer a natural look, soft texture, and durability. This ensures the hair cuticles are intact and aligned, preventing tangling and promoting a smooth finish.

Length and Volume Choose extensions that complement your desired length and volume. Popular lengths in the UK range from 16 inches for a natural look to 24 inches for a dramatic effect.

Color Matching Ensure the extensions match your natural hair color for a seamless blend. Many UK retailers offer color-matching services to help you find the perfect shade.

Adhesive Quality Look for tape extensions with strong, medical-grade adhesive to ensure a secure and long-lasting bond.

Trusted Retailers Purchase from reputable UK-based retailers or salons with positive customer reviews. Popular options include both in-store and online platforms specializing in premium hair extensions.

Top Places to Buy Tape Hair Extensions in the UK

Online Retailers Oddel: Known for high-quality Remy tape hair extensions, Oddel offers a variety of lengths, textures, and colors at competitive prices. Oddel Offers an extensive range of tape extensions with fast UK-wide delivery.

Salons Many professional salons across the UK specialize in tape hair extensions. A stylist can provide personalized recommendations and ensure a flawless application.

How to Apply Tape Hair Extensions

Prepare Your Hair: Wash and dry your hair thoroughly to remove any oils or residues that might affect the adhesive. Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into small sections for easier application. Apply the Extensions: Peel off the adhesive backing and place the tape extension close to the scalp. Secure it by sandwiching a section of natural hair between two tape wefts. Press and Secure: Use gentle pressure to ensure the tapes stick firmly. Style as Desired: Once all extensions are applied, style your hair to blend the extensions seamlessly.

How to Care for Tape Hair Extensions

Proper maintenance will extend the lifespan of your tape hair extensions. Follow these tips:

Washing Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to protect the adhesive and hair quality. Wash your hair gently, avoiding excessive scrubbing near the tapes.

Styling Minimize heat styling to prevent damage. If necessary, use a heat protectant spray. Avoid applying products like oils or serums directly to the adhesive area.

Brushing Use a wide-tooth comb or an extension-friendly brush. Start detangling from the ends and work your way up.

Re-Taping After 6–8 weeks, the extensions may need to be re-taped due to hair growth. Many salons in the UK offer affordable re-taping services.

Tape hair extensions uk are the perfect choice for anyone looking to achieve a natural, voluminous, and stylish look with minimal effort. Their versatility, durability, and lightweight feel make them a popular option in the UK.

Oddel stands out as a trusted provider of premium tape hair extensions, offering a wide variety of options to suit every style and need. Whether you’re new to extensions or a seasoned user, tape extensions are a worthwhile investment for your beauty routine.

Contact Us

Call: 844 665 0176

Email: info@oddel.co.uk

Address: Unit 11, Bartlett Court, Sea King Road Yeovil Somerset BA20 2NZ

Website: https://oddel.co.uk/product-category/tapein/

[innonurse]

Mark your calendar for these health tech conferences in 2024-2025

- By InnoNurse Staff -

Interested in health technology-related events for fall 2024 and 2025? Fierce Healthcare has compiled a list of key conferences, both virtual and in-person, scheduled for the upcoming seasons.

Read more at Fierce Healthcare

///

Other recent news and insights

Lapsi transforms the stethoscope into a health tracking data platform (TechCrunch)

UK: The Department of Health and Social Care set to review clinical risk standards for digital health technologies (Digital Health)

AI-based cancer test determines if chemotherapy is needed (The Financial Express)

New tool enhances microscopic imaging by eliminating motion artifacts (UC Berkeley/Tech Xplore)

Researchers integrate a fast optical coherence tomography system into neurosurgical microscopes (Optica)

AI model achieves clinical-expert-level accuracy in complex medical scans (UCLA/Medical Xpress)

Bioinformatics reveals the hidden prevalence of repeat expansion disorders (Queen Mary University of London/Medical Xpress)

Ultrasound detects 96% of ovarian cancers in postmenopausal women (University of Birmingham)

AI ‘liquid biopsies’ using cell-free DNA and protein biomarkers could improve early ovarian cancer detection (Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures)

Mammograms show potential for detecting heart disease (UC San Diego/Medical Xpress)

IMRT and proton therapy provide similar quality of life and tumor control for prostate cancer patients (American Society for Radiation Oncology/Medical Xpress)

Machine learning enhances MRI video quality (Graz University of Technology/Medical Xpress)

Robotic surgery for colorectal cancer reduces pain and accelerates recovery (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center)

Global human brain mapping project releases its first data set (Allen Institute)

AI could speed up PCR tests, aiding faster DNA diagnostics and forensics (Flinders University/Medical Xpress)

AI-powered apps may detect depression through eye snapshots (Stevens Institute of Technology/Medical Xpress)

[artbusiness5]

USA Art

The art scene in the USA is incredibly diverse and vibrant, encompassing a wide range of styles, mediums, and historical influences. Here’s an overview of key aspects of American art, including its history, major movements, and contemporary trends:

1. Historical Overview

Colonial and Early American Art: Early American art was heavily influenced by European styles and included portraits, landscapes, and historical events. Notable artists include Benjamin West and John Singleton Copley.

19th Century:

Hudson River School: Focused on American landscapes, emphasizing the beauty and majesty of the American wilderness. Key figures include Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church.

American Realism: Artists like Thomas Eakins and James Whistler depicted everyday life with a focus on accuracy and detail.

Early 20th Century:

Ashcan School: Known for its gritty, realistic portrayals of urban life. Prominent artists include George Bellows and John Sloan.

American Modernism: Embraced abstraction and experimental styles. Key figures include Georgia O'Keeffe, Marsden Hartley, and Charles Demuth.

2. Major Art Movements

Abstract Expressionism (1940s-1950s): Characterized by large-scale, abstract works and an emphasis on spontaneous, expressive techniques. Key artists include Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning.

Pop Art (1950s-1960s): Drew inspiration from popular culture and mass media, often using bright colors and commercial techniques. Famous artists include Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

Minimalism (1960s-1970s): Focused on simplicity and the use of geometric forms. Prominent artists include Donald Judd and Agnes Martin.

Conceptual Art (1960s-1970s): Emphasized the idea or concept behind the artwork over its aesthetic or material aspects. Key figures include Sol LeWitt and Joseph Kosuth.

Contemporary Art: Encompasses a wide range of styles and practices, often incorporating new media and technology. Notable contemporary artists include Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Kehinde Wiley.

3. Major Art Institutions and Museums

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City): One of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world, with extensive collections spanning various periods and styles.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) (New York City): Focuses on modern and contemporary art, including significant collections of abstract, pop, and conceptual art.

The Getty Center (Los Angeles): Known for its impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as its research library and conservation efforts.

Smithsonian American Art Museum (Washington, D.C.): Focuses on American art from the colonial period to the present, with a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and folk art.

4. Contemporary Trends

Diversity and Inclusion: There is a growing emphasis on representing diverse voices and perspectives, with more focus on artists from various ethnic backgrounds, genders, and socioeconomic statuses.

Digital and New Media Art: The use of digital technology, virtual reality, and interactive media is increasingly prevalent in contemporary art practices.

Social and Political Commentary: Many contemporary artists address social, political, and environmental issues through their work, using art as a platform for activism and dialogue.

Street Art and Graffiti: These forms have gained significant recognition and are often featured in galleries and public spaces. Notable artists include Banksy (although UK-based) and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

5. Art Markets and Collecting

Art Fairs: Major events like Art Basel (Miami Beach) and The Armory Show (New York City) showcase contemporary art and attract collectors and dealers from around the world.

Auction Houses: Houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s regularly auction high-profile American artworks, often reflecting market trends and collector interests.

Private Collections: Many private collectors and philanthropists contribute to public art institutions and support emerging artists.

6. Art Education and Community

Art Schools: Renowned institutions like the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), and California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) train the next generation of artists.

Art Organizations: Organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and various local art councils support artists and art initiatives across the country.

business, forex, art, usbiz, usa art, fine art, trading, forex trading

[indiesellersguild]

December 2023 Newsletter – Year in Review

Here is our December Newsletter!

Main event:

As we end 2023, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on our victories for the year. Truly, it has been an incredible ride, with far more success than we could have hoped for.

The rest of the text is under the cut; relevant links are embedded in the text on our website.

Lobbying with the US Senate: We worked with Senator Baldwin’s office to help the COOL Online Act (a bill to crack down on dishonest resellers) pass committee. Read our analysis of the bill here.

Fighting Etsy’s Reserve Payment Policy: Our work, combined with the heroic efforts of UK sellers and the media, pressured Etsy to reduce or lift their devastating payment reserve policy for many sellers. Samantha Vass, a prominent UK seller who spoke out, had her Etsy shop suspended, learn more and support her business here.

Feedback to the FTC: An US Federal Trade Commission lawyer reached out to us for feedback on a new FTC rule against unfair and deceptive business practices around online platform fees. Learn more here.

Presentation to UK Small Business Commissioner: We were able to discuss the issue of online platforms messing with indie sellers’ money in a series of meetings with UK Small Business Commissioner Liz Barclay. Watch a video of the presentation here.

Marketplace Research Project: We had over 1,000 participants in our research survey on what creative indie sellers and their customers want from an online marketplace. Read more about how we will use that data to hold marketplaces accountable here.

In the works:

The first annual ISG virtual convention will be April 13-14, 2024!

We will launch our Marketplace Accreditation Program, unveil our new membership site, and discuss how we can continue to fight the exploitation of creative indie sellers by big tech platforms.

Panels will include:

What to do if you get screwed by a tech platform. – with Katharine from the Electronic Frontier Foundation

Etsy Alternatives: Data and tools to help you find the best marketplaces for your business

How to use your Etsy shop to direct traffic to your own site (without breaking Etsy’s rules) – with Kristi Cassidy, ISG President

Results from our Marketplace Research Project: What do sellers and customers really want from an online marketplace – with Samantha Close, Ph.D.

Interview with Racheal from Mayfli marketplace in the UK

Interview with Jon from goimagine marketplace in the US

Get your ticket now to reserve your spot! Tickets only cost $1 to help cover the costs of the convention.

Share your story!

The FTC is seeking public comment on their proposed “Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees”. After our meeting with the FTC, we are excited about the rule because it will also protect creative indie sellers from unfair and deceptive fees from marketplaces. If the rule goes through, we hope to use it to combat Etsy’s forced off-site ads and other unfair practices.

Please take a moment to share your thoughts in a public comment, we want to make sure the perspective of creative indie sellers is represented!

We heard you:

We know that the seller member directory, and members-only parts of the website in general are a bit difficult to navigate. One of our first goals in 2024 is to update our membership with new software and far more features. Stay tuned for information on how to set up your profile on the new site!

What ISG needs right now:

While we’ve managed some amazing things with a very small budget, thanks to our amazing volunteers and open source software, we need more funding for 2024 to continue to grow and advocate on your behalf.

Please consider making a small donation to the Indie Sellers Guild. If half of our members donate just $5, we will raise enough funding for the next 6 months. Or you can buy one of our awesome merch items so you can represent the Guild and show off the work of your fellow artists. The Guild receives $5 from every merch purchase.

Thanks so much for your support!

[mariacallous]

Meta’s online ad library shows the company is hosting thousands of ads for AI-generated, NSFW companion or “girlfriend” apps on Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger. They promote chatbots offering sexually explicit images and text, using NSFW chat samples and AI images of partially clothed, unbelievably shaped, simulated women.

Many of the virtual women seen in ads reviewed by WIRED are lifelike—if somewhat uncanny—young, and stereotypically pornographic. Prospective customers are invited to role-play with an AI “stepmom,” connect with a computer-generated teen in a hijab, or chat with avatars who promise to “get you off in one minute.”

The ads appear to be thriving despite Meta’s ad policies clearly barring “adult content,” including “depictions of people in explicit or suggestive positions, or activities that are overly suggestive or sexually provocative.”

That’s created a new front in debates over the clash between AI and conventional labor. Some human sex workers complain that Meta is letting chatbots multiply, while unfairly shutting their older profession out of its platforms by over-enforcing rules about adult content.

“As a sex worker, if I put anything like ‘I will do anything for you, I will make you come in a minute’ I would be deleted in an instant,” says Gemma Rose, director of the Pole Dance Stripper Movement, a UK-based sex-worker rights and pole-dance event organization.

Meta’s policies forbid users from showing nudity or sexual activity and selling sex, including sexting. Rose and other sex-worker advocates say the company seems to apply a double standard in permitting chatbot apps to promote NSFW experiences while barring human sex workers from doing the same.

People who post about sex education, sex positivity, or sex work have for years complained the platform unfairly quashes their content. Meta has limited some of Rose’s posts from being shown to non-followers, screenshots seen by WIRED show. Her personal Instagram account and one for her organization have previously been suspended for violating Meta policies.

“Not that I agree with a lot of the community guidelines and rules and regulations, but these [ads] blatantly go against their own policies,” says Rose of the sexual chatbots promoted on Meta platforms. “And yet we’re not allowed to be uncensored on the internet or just exist and make a living.”

WIRED surveyed chatbot ads using Meta’s ad library, a transparency tool that can be used to see all the ads currently running across its platforms, all ads shown in the EU in the past year, and past ads from the past seven years related to elections, politics, or social issues. Searches showed that at least 29,000 ads had been published on Meta platforms for explicit AI “girlfriends,” with most using suggestive, sex-related messaging. There were also at least 19,000 ads using the term “NSFW” and 14,000 offering “NSFW AI.”

Some 2,700 ads were active when WIRED contacted Meta last week. A few days later Meta spokesperson Ryan Daniels said that the company prohibits ads that contain adult content and was reviewing the ads and removing those that violated its policies. “When we identify violating ads we work quickly to remove them, as we’re doing here,” he said. “We continue to improve our systems, including how we detect ads and behavior that go against our policies.”

However, 3,000 ads for “AI girlfriends” and 1,100 containing “NSFW” were live on April 23, according to Meta’s ad library.

WIRED’s initial review found that Hush, an AI girlfriend app downloaded more than 100,000 times from Google’s Play store, had published 1,700 ads across Meta platforms, several of which promise “NSFW” chats and “secret photos” from a range of lifelike female characters, anime women, and cartoon animals.

One shows an AI woman locked into medieval prison stocks by the neck and wrists, pledging, “Help me, I will do anything for you.” Another ad, targeted using Meta’s technology at men aged 18 to 65, features an anime character and the text “Want to see more of NSFW pics?”

Several of the 980 Meta ads WIRED found for “personalized AI companion” app Rosytalk promise around-the-clock chats with very-young-looking AI-generated women. They used tags including “#barelylegal,” “#goodgirls,” and “teens.” Rosytalk also ran 990 ads under at least nine brand names on Meta platforms, including Rosygirl, Rosy Role Play Chat, and AI Chat GPT.

At least 13 other apps for AI “girlfriends” have promoted similar services in Meta ads, including “nudifying” features that allow a user to “undress” their AI girlfriend and download the images. A handful of the girlfriend ads had already been removed for violating Meta’s advertising standards. “Undressing” apps have also been marketed on mainstream social platforms, according to social media research firm Graphika, and on LinkedIn, the Daily Mail recently reported.

Some users of so-called AI companions say they can help combat loneliness, with others reporting them feeling like a real partner. Not all of the ads found by WIRED promote only titillation, with some also suggesting that an explicit AI chatbot could provide emotional support. “Talk to anyone! You’re not alone!” reads one of Hush’s ads on Meta platforms.

Carolina Are, an innovation fellow researching social media censorship at the Center for Digital Citizens at Northumbria University in the UK, says that Meta makes it extremely difficult for human sex workers to advertise on its platforms, she says. “When people are trying to work through and profit off their own body, they are forbidden,” says Are, who has helped sex workers reactivate lost and unfairly suspended accounts on Meta platforms. “While AI companies mostly powered by bros that exploit images already out there are able to do that.”

Are says the sexually suggestive AI girlfriends remind her of the unsophisticated and generic early days of internet porn. “Sex workers engage with their customers, subscribers, and followers in a way that is more personalized,” she says. “This is a lot of work and emotional labor beyond the sharing of nude images.”

Limited information is available about how the AI apps are built or the underlying text or image-generation algorithms trained. One used the name Sora, apparently to suggest a connection to OpenAI’s video generator of that name, which has not been publicly released.

The developers behind the apps advertising explicit AI girlfriends are shadowy. None of the developers listed on Google Play or Facebook as creating the apps promoted on Meta’s platforms responded to requests for comment.

Mike Stabile, director of public affairs at the Free Speech Coalition, an adult-industry nonprofit trade association, sees the apps promising explicit AI girlfriends and their advertising tactics as “scammy.” While the adult industry is banned from advertising online, AI apps are “flooding the zone,” he says. “That’s the paradox of censorship: You end up censoring or silencing an actual sex worker and allowing all these weeds to flourish in their place.”

Anti-sex-trafficking legislation signed into US law in 2018 called FOSTA-SESTA made platforms responsible for what is posted online, vastly limiting adult content. However, it resulted in consensual sex work being treated as trafficking in the digital world, shutting adult content creators out of online life and making already marginalized sex workers more vulnerable.

If Meta wipes the AI girlfriend ads from its platforms, it might emulate past sweeps of human sex workers. Despite diligently trying to follow Meta’s guidelines, the Pole Dance Stripper Movement’s account was banned “without warning” during a wave of removals of at least 45 sexuality-related accounts in June 2023, Rose says. Meta eventually rolled back some of the deletions, citing an error. But for sex workers on social media, such events are a recurring feature.

Rose’s personal account and its backup were also deleted in June 2021 during the Covid pandemic after she shared a photo, she says, of a pole-dancing workshop. She was hosting online pole-dancing classes and posting on the adult subscription site OnlyFans at the time. “My business was gone overnight,” she says. “I didn’t have a way to sustain myself.”

“OK, so I got deleted,” Rose adds. “But these companies are allowed to put out this kind of shit that sex workers aren’t allowed to? It makes no sense.”

[webants01]

Top Web Development Services in London: Build Your Online Success

Introduction

In today’s digital era, having a well-designed and functional website is crucial for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence. Whether you need an expert corporate website developer for professional branding, a specialized Shopify website developer to enhance your e-commerce store, or want to explore cutting-edge web development using React JS and leveraging Node JS for scalable web development, the right web solutions can make all the difference. London is a global hub for innovation, making it a prime location for web development services.

Cost Analysis for Corporate Website Development

The corporate website development cost depends on various factors, including project scope, required features, design complexity, and developer expertise. A well-designed corporate website serves as a company’s digital identity, improving credibility and customer engagement. Businesses must consider elements such as branding, user experience, and security to ensure their website meets industry standards. Custom development, SEO optimization, and responsive design further contribute to pricing variations, making it essential to work with skilled professionals who can deliver high-quality solutions.

E-commerce Growth with Shopify Website Development in the UK

Shopify is a leading e-commerce platform that enables businesses to set up online stores with ease. In the UK, shopify website development uk​ services offer customization, scalability, and a user-friendly interface tailored to the needs of various businesses. Shopify provides a range of themes, seamless payment integrations, and built-in marketing tools that allow companies to reach a broader audience. Whether a business is a startup or an established brand, Shopify’s flexibility ensures that online stores can grow and adapt to changing market demands.

Tailored Solutions with Custom Shopify Website Development

A custom shopify website development​ approach allows businesses to create a unique and tailored shopping experience. Custom development ensures branding consistency, flexibility, and advanced features like custom themes and plugins. By investing in customization, businesses can enhance their website’s aesthetics, improve functionality, and integrate third-party applications that boost sales and streamline operations. Custom Shopify solutions also support SEO optimization and mobile-friendly designs, ensuring a seamless experience for customers across devices.

Why Should We Learn Web Development in London?

London is a global technology hub, offering access to top-notch digital agencies and industry leaders. Learning web development in London provides immense opportunities to work with renowned companies and access a vast job market in the tech industry. Aspiring developers can benefit from networking events, training programs, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies that prepare them for successful careers in web development.

Cutting-Edge Solutions with Web Development Using React JS

React JS is a popular JavaScript library for building fast and scalable web applications. Many businesses prefer web development using react js because of its component-based architecture, virtual DOM, and efficient rendering capabilities. React allows developers to build interactive user interfaces and dynamic web applications that offer a smooth user experience. The library’s flexibility, strong community support, and reusable components make it a preferred choice for both startups and large enterprises looking for efficient front-end solutions.

Why Choose Web Development in London?

Choosing web development in London means working with industry experts, gaining access to world-class education, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies. The city fosters innovation and provides endless networking opportunities. London’s tech ecosystem is highly competitive, encouraging businesses to adopt the latest digital strategies to stay ahead in the market.

Leveraging Node JS for Scalable Web Development

node js for web development​ is widely used to build scalable, high-performance web applications, APIs, and real-time applications. It is a preferred choice for developers due to its fast execution, non-blocking architecture, and strong community support. Node.js enables developers to build full-stack applications using JavaScript, streamlining development processes and enhancing efficiency. Its event-driven architecture allows handling multiple requests simultaneously, making it ideal for applications requiring real-time updates, such as chat applications, online gaming, and live-streaming platforms.

Top-Rated Web Design Agencies in the UK

Finding the best web design agencies in uk is crucial for businesses looking for innovative and visually appealing websites. The top agencies offer custom designs, UX/UI optimization, and responsive web solutions. These agencies specialize in developing modern, engaging websites tailored to business goals, ensuring strong digital branding. Partnering with a leading web design agency provides businesses access to skilled designers, the latest industry trends, and effective digital marketing strategies to enhance user engagement and drive conversions.

Premium Website Design Services in London

London boasts a competitive web design industry, offering services like Website design services in london, branding, UX/UI design, and digital marketing. Businesses in London benefit from high-quality web solutions tailored to their needs. Professional website design services ensure that businesses have aesthetically appealing, user-friendly, and functional websites that improve customer interaction and brand perception. With London being a hub of innovation, companies gain access to cutting-edge design trends and advanced digital strategies that keep them ahead of competitors.

Expertise of a Corporate Website Developer

A corporate website developer specializes in building professional, user-friendly, and high-performance corporate websites. They ensure that the website aligns with a company’s branding and business goals. These developers focus on creating responsive designs, seamless navigation, and high-security standards to provide businesses with an effective online presence. A well-developed corporate website fosters brand credibility, enhances customer engagement, and supports business growth by attracting potential clients.

Understanding the Costs of Hiring a Shopify Website Developer

The hiring a shopify website developer cost depends on experience, project requirements, and customizations needed. Rates vary from freelancers to agencies, with pricing ranging from budget-friendly to premium services. The cost also includes factors like custom themes, third-party integrations, app development, and SEO optimization. Investing in an expert Shopify developer ensures an efficient, secure, and high-performing e-commerce store tailored to business goals.

FAQs 

What factors influence the cost of web development?The cost depends on website complexity, features, design, and the development team’s expertise.

How long does it take to build a professional website?A simple website may take a few weeks, while complex sites with custom features can take several months.

Is Shopify a good choice for e-commerce businesses?Yes, Shopify is one of the best platforms for e-commerce, offering flexibility, scalability, and ease of use.

What are the advantages of using React JS for web development?React JS provides faster performance, reusable components, and a strong developer community.

Why should businesses invest in a corporate website?A corporate website enhances brand reputation, increases customer engagement, and improves online visibility.

[leremitt]

International Buyers Website

Here’s a detailed list of websites catering to international buyers website across various categories, including general marketplaces, B2B platforms, trade resources, and directories. While I can't provide a complete list of 500+ websites in this response, I can give you a substantial selection to get started.

General International Marketplaces

Alibaba

Amazon Global

eBay

Global Sources

DHgate

Made-in-China

TradeIndia

ThomasNet

HKTDC

Kompass

B2B Marketplaces

TradeKey

Export Genius

World Trade Organization

BizVibe

Europages

AliExpress

Jungle Scout

Sourcing at Magic

Global Trade

Wholesale Central

Niche Marketplaces

Etsy

Reverb

Artfire

Zibbet

Trade Me

Soko

LightInTheBox

Fruugo

Not On The High Street

Catawiki

Import/Export Services

Freightos

iContainers

ShipBob

Flexport

Easyship

Trade Associations and Resources

U.S. Commercial Service

UK Trade & Investment

Canadian Trade Commissioner Service

European Union Trade Helpdesk

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Directories and Listings

Yellow Pages

Yelp

Angie’s List

Manta

Hotfrog

Online Trade Shows and Events

Virtual Trade Shows

Eventbrite

Meetup

Trade Fair Dates

Expo 2020

International Market Research

Statista

MarketResearch.com

IBISWorld

Research and Markets

Euromonitor International

Social Media and Networking

LinkedIn

Facebook Marketplace

Instagram

Blogs and Guides

Import Genius Blog

Trade Ready

Export Academy

The Balance Small Business

Business Networking Platforms

Alignable

Xing

Meetup

Additional Resources

NexTrade

Trade Map

SourcingGuides.comTradeKey

BizTrade

Conclusion

This list includes a range of platforms for international buyers, from general marketplaces to niche sites, trade resources, and networking opportunities. For a complete set of 500+ websites, consider expanding upon this list by including specific regional sites, local marketplaces, and specialized trade directories that cater to various industries. If you need more specific recommendations or have a particular focus in mind, let me know!

[tilluvirtualevent]

Best Virtual Conference Platform in London – Host Seamless Events Online

In an era where digital connectivity is more important than ever, virtual conferences have revolutionized the way businesses, professionals, and organizations connect. Whether you’re hosting a corporate summit, an industry trade show, or an educational seminar, choosing the best virtual conference platform in London is essential for delivering a seamless, engaging, and professional experience.

Why Virtual Conferences Are the Future

The demand for virtual events has skyrocketed in recent years. Businesses and event organizers are increasingly turning to virtual conference platforms for several key reasons:

✔ Global Accessibility – Connect with participants worldwide without geographical barriers. ✔ Cost-Effective Solutions – Save on venue, travel, accommodation, and logistics. ✔ Scalability & Flexibility – Host small meetings or large-scale conferences with ease. ✔ Enhanced Engagement – Utilize real-time Q&A, chat rooms, breakout sessions, and networking tools. ✔ Data-Driven Insights – Get detailed analytics on attendee engagement and event success.

Key Features to Look for in a Virtual Conference Platform

When selecting a virtual event platform in London, it’s important to consider essential features that enhance attendee experience and simplify event management:

✅ Customizable Virtual Venues – A platform should offer branding options, allowing businesses to personalize the digital space. ✅ High-Quality Live Streaming – Reliable, HD-quality streaming ensures a professional event experience. ✅ Interactive Engagement Tools – Features like live polling, Q&A, and networking sessions keep participants engaged. ✅ Multi-Device Compatibility – Attendees should be able to join from desktops, tablets, or mobile phones. ✅ Sponsorship & Monetization Options – Virtual exhibition booths and sponsored content can help generate revenue. ✅ Secure & GDPR-Compliant – Data protection and privacy must be a top priority for any online event.

Industries Leveraging Virtual Conference Platforms in London

A wide range of industries are benefiting from virtual conferences to host events, share knowledge, and foster collaboration:

🔹 Corporate & Business Events – Virtual summits, product launches, and annual meetings. 🔹 Education & Training – Webinars, e-learning conferences, and online workshops. 🔹 Healthcare & Medical – Medical symposiums, health expos, and research presentations. 🔹 Technology & Innovation – Tech conferences, startup networking, and IT summits. 🔹 Finance & Legal – Online networking for financial advisors, lawyers, and investment firms.

How to Host a Successful Virtual Conference

1️⃣ Define Your Objectives – Outline the purpose, audience, and key takeaways of the event. 2️⃣ Select the Right Platform – Choose a feature-rich virtual event platform that aligns with your goals. 3️⃣ Plan an Engaging Agenda – Mix live sessions, panel discussions, and interactive networking opportunities. 4️⃣ Use Interactive Tools – Incorporate polls, live Q&A, and breakout rooms to boost engagement. 5️⃣ Market Your Event Effectively – Leverage email campaigns, social media, and influencer marketing to drive registrations. 6️⃣ Measure & Optimize Performance – Analyze attendee participation, feedback, and engagement metrics for future improvements.

The Future of Virtual Conferences in London

The rise of virtual events has transformed the events industry, making it easier to connect with a global audience. With continued advancements in AI, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR), the future of online conferences is set to be even more immersive and interactive.

Businesses and organizations that embrace virtual conferencing technology will gain a competitive advantage, offering attendees a dynamic, accessible, and highly engaging experience.

🚀 Start planning your virtual conference today and take your events to the next level!

[david-d-levine]

Biggest, Best Toy EVAR: A Feindfahrt LARP Report

When I was a kid, there was an ad that ran in virtually every comic book for a "Polaris Nuclear Sub" that was "Big Enough for 2 Kids" and "Sturdily constructed of 200 ib. test fibreboard." Of course I begged my parents to buy it for me, but my dad pointed out that "fibreboard" was just cardboard and we had plenty of that. So together we built a submarine our of cardboard boxes, and it was better than anything we could have mail-ordered for $6.98 plus 75¢ for shipping and handling.

Fast-forward to 2024, when I learned of the existence of a Live Action Role Playing event called Feindfahrt (), an anti-war LARP held in the submarine set originally built for Das Boot (1981), which also happens to be one of my favorite films ever. Of course I had to sign up for it, and as I write this I'm on a plane home from Munich where I just finished playing it.

Massive SPOILERS for the game follow. Proceed at your own risk.

The fictional premise of Feindfahrt is that after the capture of the German submarine U-505 (this really happened, and the sub is currently on display at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago), the Allies decided to staff the captured sub with a mix of US and UK sailors and send it deep into enemy territory on a secret mission. The intent of the game was to give players a sense of how oppressive and cruel the life of submariners during WWII was, with a good dose of interpersonal drama as well. It wasn't intended to be a realistic submarine simulation or a strategic military game, but a game of communication and psychology in a tense and claustrophobic setting. There were 35 players of all genders (playing characters of all genders, in one of several departures from historical accuracy) drawn from countries including Germany, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the UK. I was the only person who came all the way from the USA for the game, though several other players were Americans who lived in Europe.

The Das Boot set is a life-sized recreation of the full interior of a Type VII-C German U-boat, 60 meters long and about 6 meters wide. During filming the set was mounted on a hydraulic platform that could tilt through 45 degrees in 5 seconds in both the pitch (fore-and-aft) and roll (side-to-side) dimensions to create dramatic scenes of diving, rolling in high seas, and being shaken by depth charges. Today the set sits on solid ground under a tent at the Bavaria Filmstadt studio. Which, given that the high temperatures in Munich this week were 39-45 degrees Fahrenheit, meant that it was as cold as the North Atlantic in there. However, we were forewarned about this, so I packed two sets of long undies, lots of wool socks, and a heavy sweater and I was reasonably comfortable the whole time.

As you can see from the above diagram, the boat was equipped with a Heckin' Torpedo Room, an E-Machine, and a Bug Room. (Not really.) From left to right they were Aft Torpedo Room; Electric Engine Room; Diesel Engine Room; Galley; Non-Commissioned Officers' Quarters; Control Room and Conning Tower; Officers' Quarters, Radio Room, and Sonar/Hydrophone Room, Head, and Forward Torpedo Room. When I say "quarters" I mean "tightly packed bunks with a narrow passageway in between;" the enlisted men slept in shifts in hammocks slung between the torpedoes. Note the size of the little red person at the forward end of the top diagram; we're talking cramped here.

We spent 12-13 hours per day in the sub, but we didn't sleep there. The set did not actually have enough bunks to sleep 35 players even in shifts, and also it was terribly cold and the head wasn't functional. So we all had to find our own accommodations in a nearby(ish) hotel (I chose the Bio-Hotel Alter Wirt, https://www.alterwirt.de, five stars would stay again) and commute to the submarine each day. We could easily leave the set whenever we wanted to, for bathroom breaks or just to decompress, and took our meals in a heated building nearby. I personally never felt particularly claustrophobic.

The set was not and had never been a real submarine. For one thing, the interior walls were painted black to create a claustrophobic feeling, whereas in a real sub they are painted in light colors for exactly the opposite effect. The controls and indicators were almost all nonfunctional and in many cases not technically accurate. Many parts that would have been metal in a real sub were made of wood or drywall, and were also over 40 years old, so we were repeatedly reminded to be careful not to break the sub. Despite these limitations the whole thing was incredibly detailed and immersive and I would definitely describe it as the Biggest, Best Toy EVAR. Also, the LARP organizers had repaired the diesel engine prop so that it moved realistically (after being broken for 18 years) and added some functional instruments such as depth gauges, battery meter, and speedometer; Arduino-powered interactive hydrophone and sonar; telephones for communication between the bridge, engine room, and torpedo room; and video screens so that people in other parts of the boat could see what was on the periscope. And there were speakers throughout to provide realistic sound effects such as rushing water, the hull creaking under strain, and depth charges exploding nearby.

In most European LARPs I've played there are a few non-player characters (NPCs) mixed in with the players to provide advice, guidance, and emotional support and keep the game from going off the rails. In this case, given the small cast of 35 players and confined play space, we had just one NPC, the Chief Engineer. But the organizers also did have cameras throughout the sub and were listening in on all phone conversations. This meant that sometimes we had to do things such as, for example, calling the bridge from the engine room to report that the speedometer was showing zero when the engines were running all ahead full, after which the speedometer would quickly correct itself. There was also a "red phone" (actually black) which we could use to contact the organizers directly. The organizers, in turn, could communicate to us in the form of radio transmissions from HQ, at least when we were surfaced.

Our characters were pre-written and assigned to us based on a fairly brief questionnaire about our preferences. The character descriptions were well-written and quite detailed, giving a full rundown of the character's background, personality, motivations, and relationships with other characters. I played CPO Robert Johnson, the Chief of the engine room, a highly experienced and trustworthy engineer who was generally on good terms with everyone -- though he could be stubborn and persnickety on technical matters. The one person on the boat he didn't like was the Executive Officer, under whom Johnson had previously served on the submarine Seahorse. The Seahorse had sailed into a minefield in a storm, killing most of the crew, and Johnson blamed her captain (now U-505's XO) for the disaster. However, other player characters who had also been there considered him a hero for saving anyone at all. Johnson also disliked the boat itself, as his father had been the engineer on a civilian ship that was torpedoed by a German U-boat early in the war, but saw it as his duty to keep this cold-blooded German war machine running smoothly for the sake of the mission and the crew.

Creative costuming is a big part of many LARPs, but in this case we were all in uniform, so all we had to provide was dark pants, dark waterproof shoes, and whatever long undies we wanted. US Navy sailors were issued khaki shirts, cardigans of various colors, and white sailor caps; Royal Navy sailors got dark blue cardigans and hats with ribbons; and officers got pea coats and big fancy officer hats. (Amusingly, I was Royal Navy, the only non-American in my watch; my watch mates were all American, but all played by non-Americans.) We also got embroidered name tags and drinking cups with our character names on them. I was rather alarmed that my name tag was bloodstained, and I was informed that my character in the previous run had lost an arm!

Having been handed our characters and issued our orders by headquarters, everything else in the game was improvised. It was up to each player to decide what to do and say minute by minute, and we each reacted to developing situations and other characters' actions according to our characters. But we were given some guidance to keep the game moving and fun: to choose drama and action over passivity and inaction, and to treat each other as experts in our fields and accept any improvised technobabble as gospel. Thus, if a player said that the frammistat needed to be reflanged, then by God that frammistat did need reflanging. This created a potential problem when I wanted to send a junior ensign on a wild goose chase: I had to make sure that the other members of the crew, most of whom did not have English as a first language, understood that a request for a "left-handed monkey wrench" or "sixty feet of waterline" was NOT to be treated as gospel but as a nonexistent item, a deliberate prank.

The first half-day of the game was spent in orientation and workshops, as is typical for European LARPs. We spent time in groups getting to know the other members of our duty station (bridge, engine room, or radio/torpedo room), our watch (we were divided into two watches), our navy (US or UK; there was some tension between the two), and in some cases sailors we'd served with previously on the Seahorse or other vessels. We then got a tour of the set and some instruction in "how to U-boat." In the afternoon we got into costume and into character for a shakedown cruise near Bermuda (where the sub had been taken after being captured). We took the sub and crew through their paces and uncovered some issues, notably in communication. (Bridge: "Engine room, take her down to 15 meters." Engine room: "Not our department, you've got the controls for the ballast tanks and dive planes right there. We make ship go fast and slow, you make ship go up and down.")

My Engine Room crew's jobs were to run the diesel and electric engines as commanded; use the rudder control wheel to direct the sub's heading, again as commanded; keep all mechanical systems running smoothly; and fix anything that went wrong. Given that most of the controls on the sub were nonfunctional props, this involved a lot of "stare meaningfully at a gauge while tweaking a knob" and "pretend something broke and pretend to fix it." As the game went on, though, there was less making-up of problems and more problems appearing from sources external to our team, which made for more satisfying play. And everything is more fun when you work with other people, so I made sure to send people out to fix things in pairs.

We really did start to work together as a team and I felt a great camaraderie with my people. One superstition we decided on as a team was that it was bad luck to point at anyone or anything with one finger -- you should instead use two or more fingers, a thumb, or your whole hand. (This is, apparently, a real superstition in the Swedish Navy). If you violated this rule you had to knock three times on the overhead to regain your luck. Like saying "Macbeth" in a theatre, this was our superstition but anyone around us could get dinged for running afoul of it.

Then we skipped forward in time a few months for a scene set at a drunken party in a Scottish coastal town right before launch. But the party was interrupted by an air raid siren, and we all staggered out into the street heading for the nearest shelter... and then the bombs started falling, with real explosions and fire all around. It was a spectacular and dramatic opening to the game! Once we arrived at the bomb shelter we flashed back three days to a meeting with an Admiral in which we were all requested to write a letter to our next of kin, to be delivered in case we did not come back. On that sobering note the first day of play ended.

Before the second day of play began we were offered a chance to "calibrate" with other players about what we might want from them or offer to them. I said my character sheet indicated I was not bearing up well under the strain, and that I intended to have some kind of break late in day 2 or early in day 3, though I couldn't say when or what kind of break it would be.

The second day of the game opened with us already out at sea, where we received our orders: join a German U-boat wolf pack and accompany them back to their base, where we would use our torpedoes to destroy an important fuel depot which was protected from aerial attack. To many of us this seemed like a likely suicide mission, and my pointed questions about how exactly we were going to get away from the exploding sub pen were waved off.

We successfully located the wolf pack and made contact with them using stolen German codes, but then the pack moved to attack a civilan convoy. After one of the German subs torpedoed an Allied ship, we fired a second torpedo into it to demonstrate our bona fides. This was, for many of us, a morally indefensible choice. The captain pointed out that the ship was already sinking when we torpedoed it, but others protested that we'd almost certainly killed people who might otherwise have made it to lifeboats. As we submerged and ran from the scene, I collapsed in tears, saying "I feel like I just killed my own father!" As my crew helped me move through the bridge to my bunk one of the bridge officers asked if I was okay. "I'm a fucking war criminal!" I replied. Eventually, with the help of my crewmates, I calmed myself down, but I wasn't the only one who had severe qualms about our actions.

As we made our way through the minefield surrounding the base I was called to the bridge to offer my technical expertise on getting the sub out of the harbor after launching our torpedoes. With the help of my second in command, my best friend on the boat, I advised that we would need at least two sub lengths ahead of us, or one length behind us, clear of any obstacles in order to reverse course. I was ordered to work with the sonar operator to make that decision -- as soon as the fuel depot blew he would send out a ping and I would have five seconds to choose a course for our escape based on what came back. The ping showed clear both fore and aft, so I recommended a forward path as the quicker of the two options. That got us out of the immediate vicinity, but as we were beginning to run away another sub fired a torpedo at us. Thinking quickly, the XO -- the man I believed had killed the Seahorse -- ordered us to fire one of our own torpedoes at it, with the fuse set to just five seconds. The two torpedoes detonated right in front of us, damaging our bow but allowing us to slip away in the chaos. Thinking us destroyed, the Germans did not pursue and we made it through the minefield and into the open ocean without further incident. Thus ended the second day.

Calibrating at the beginning of day 3 I said that I'd been happy to be the supportive officer, directing my crew and doing my best to make sure everyone got as much game play as they desired, but I would like to do more fixing of problems as an individual contributor. (Cue ominous foreshadowy music.)

The third day's play opened with us steaming away from our successful raid on the fuel depot, when we were ordered to pick up a "high value target" off the coast of The Netherlands. On the way there we had a strange noise on the hydrophone which my second-in-command speculated might be something caught in our propellors. I suggested reversing the engines briefly to clear the possible problem, and damn if it didn't work! Later on there was a distressing hiss coming from something on the bridge; I tracked it to an air leak and patched it with period-appropriate chewing gum.

Evading both German and British ships as we approached the German-occupied Netherlands, we rendezvoused with a German speedboat, which handed us a defecting German scientist who specialized in the behavior of gases under pressure. But as we headed back out to sea the speedboat was intercepted and sunk by a British destroyer. The destroyer then pursued us, pounding us with depth charges. (I don't think there was ever an in-game reason given why we didn't just surface and surrender.) We took heavy damage and began to sink uncontrollably. Water shot from the walls (thankfully it was warm water) and I and the other engineers worked feverishly to patch the leaks. Once we got that problem solved the air compressor, which was needed to start the engine as well as to blow the ballast tanks, began to hiss and spew high-pressure air and we had to fix that. But though we stopped the air leak, the compressor itself was shot. Eventually we settled on the bottom, well below our maximum rated depth, with the hull creaking alarmingly and batteries and air running out fast.

With no air compressor to blow the ballast tanks or start the engines, and no forward motion to make use of the dive planes, we were well and truly stuck on the bottom. I had the idea of attempting to start the diesel engines (usually a Very Bad Idea while submerged) in hopes of pushing compressed air from the engine to the ballast tanks, but that didn't work. I tried asking the German scientist who specialized in pressurized gases, but she didn't have any ideas we hadn't already tried. We did have hand bilge pumps but pumping them with all our might didn't help. Finally the NPC Chief Engineer presented an unexpected solution involving sending volunteers diving into the pitch-black bilge (actually they went outside the sub, with hats pulled down over their eyes, and could only work as long as they could hold their breath) to find some strangely-shaped knobs, fit them to the corresponding attachments, and thus open the necessary valves to permit the bilge pumps to pump water out of the ballast tanks. This felt to me like an arbitrary escape-room-ish puzzle, and it left most of the players just shivering in the dark with nothing to do but hope it would work, but we did manage to find all the necessary valves before running out of volunteers and it did indeed work, allowing us to pull ourselves off the bottom and limp to the surface.

So we cheated death... barely. But as we were triumphantly steaming home we received a third assignment: to torpedo a ship carrying a German super-weapon. Upon receiving this order I lost my temper and repeatedly insisted that the sub was too badly damaged to survive anything resembling combat. This turned into a heated exchange with the Chief Engineer. He and I stood practically nose-to-nose, me with my arms crossed on my chest, saying with cold fury "In my professional opinion, SIR, any attempt to engage the enemy will inevitably result in the loss of this vessel and all hands, SIR." He ordered me to conduct a full inspection and repair all problems found. "I can tell you without doing an inspection that this vessel is beyond our capabilities to repair, SIR. We need to return to port and careen her, SIR." He repeated that this was an order. "Then I am insubordinate, SIR."

He relieved me of command and had me hauled to the brig. But we didn't have a brig, so he said to put me in the head. But there was only one head and we couldn't afford to be without it. Another officer, more sympathetic to me, offered to take me off my superior's hands, and he was happy to be rid of me. By this point I realized that my choices had been reduced to: die handcuffed to my bunk, or do what I could to save my crewmates (and most likely die trying). I chose option 2. I told my new commanding officer that I'd do what I could, but it would take as long as it took and I would be honest in my assessment of the situation. He set me to work beginning with the forward torpedo tubes, which had been damaged by our own torpedo as we escaped from the fuel depot the previous day.

We broke for dinner at that point, and several players inquired anxiously as to whether I was okay. "My blood is fizzing," I said, "but I'm having a blast." In the LARP community we call this "type 2 fun," meaning that "my character is miserable but I'm enjoying myself."

After dinner I kept trying to fix what I could in the time remaining, but I was really pessimistic. Basically, as I'd thought, the ship was absolutely beat to shit. "If we fire even one torpedo," I said, "I estimate the chance of it getting stuck in the tube and detonating right there is over 25%. And I don't recommend taking the boat below 50 meters." The XO gave a big angry speech about how our duty was to the Navy and to Britain, that we were to follow orders, that this was not a democracy, but that we would do as we were told, without question, in order to save democracy from the fascist threat. But I realized that my loyalty was, and always had been, not to the Navy or to Britain but to my fellow crew members, and that saving their lives was more important to me than duty or honor. I had sacrificed my reputation, my position, and finally my career in attempt to save them, and spending all those chips hadn't worked. But I had one chip left -- I could work as an individual to try to fix the ship -- and so I resolved to spend that one as best I could.

I was continuing to try to fix the spavined engine when we intercepted the target and, somewhat to my surprise, did manage to successfully fire a torpedo and sink it. But the target vessel was not alone -- the area was swarming with German destroyers -- and in fairly short order they began depth-charging the hell out of us. Explosions pounded our ears, I flung myself around the engine room like a member of the Star Trek bridge crew, the depth gauge fell and fell, and the lights went out. Then we heard the music indicating the end of play. Game over, man.

We all silently filed out of the sub and walked back to the air raid shelter, where we saw the same Admiral we'd seen before instructing a lieutenant to send the usual condolences to the families of those lost on the Allied ship we'd helped to sink, and also those lost on the U-505. Then we heard a voice reading a letter. It was, I soon realized, one of the letters we'd written to our next of kin in that same room at the beginning of the game. More and more voices joined in then, all the letters overlapping in a Greek chorus of farewell. I certainly recognized my own words in there, and I imagine most everyone else did as well. And then the game was over. Roll credits.

There was an afterparty, but between jet lag and emotional exhaustion I faded out after less than an hour. As I walked past the sub on my way back to my hotel, I noticed that the sound system had not been turned off and there were still gurgling noises coming from the tent. Bubbles coming up from the bottom, I guess.

-=-

That ending felt so right and seemed so inevitable that I figured it had been on rails, but afterwards we learned that runs 1 and 2 of the game (we were run 4) had made it home alive, so our fate really was open, at least to some extent. I can't point to any specific decision that sealed our doom or could have saved us, but I think that out-of-game timing was a big part of it. We succeeded in our first two missions quite quickly so there wound up being time for a third at the end, which is the one that killed us. If we had finished our second mission closer to the end of the day Saturday, the game might have ended there with us still afloat or even home safe.

The pivotal moment of the game for me was when my character stood up on his hind legs and defied authority, even though it didn't change the outcome (or perhaps made it worse, as he might have succeeded in repairing the ship if he hadn't wasted time in rebellion -- though I strongly doubt it). It reminds me of my favorite scene in the Westworld game, where I resigned from my job and threw in my lot with the robots -- though in that case I did manage to save some lives, including my own. Perhaps I'm just a rebel at heart? But I can tell you that, unlike my breakdown on the previous day or my Westworld resignation, I did not plan that scene, or even anticipate that it would happen. It just emerged naturally from my character in the moment, especially from his experiences on the Seahorse (it said in my character sheet "He has sworn never to blindly trust an officer again when it comes to life and death").

I don't regret my actions, and indeed my conscience is at peace knowing that I did everything I could to save my crewmates. But in retrospect I've come to the conclusion that my character was actually in the wrong. In the end we achieved our goal -- we achieved a major strategic victory -- albeit at the cost of our lives and the ship, which is most likely the outcome the Admiralty expected when they gave the order. My attempt to disobey orders salved my conscience in the moment but in the larger context of the war was counterproductive and morally wrong.

On the other hand, if you take a bigger step backwards, was the war itself morally justified? But better people than I have been arguing this point for centuries, so I know I'm not going to be able to answer it. But considering these questions from the perspective of a realistic, immersive experience is, I think, the main point of this LARP.

Feindfahrt cost me a lot more than $6.98 plus 75¢ for shipping and handling. But in the end, the fun you make yourself is always the best.

[shailajasankalp]

How the Party Plan Model Empowers Direct Selling Success

In a world driven by connections and experiences, Party MLM Plan continues to shine as one of the most effective direct selling models. Its ability to blend social interaction with sales makes it especially appealing to modern audiences in the UK and USA. This blog explores everything you need to know about Party Plan MLM in 2025, incorporating facts, myths, and imaginative scenarios to help you see it’s potential.

What is Party Plan MLM?

Party Plan MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) is a direct selling strategy where distributors host social events, often called "parties," to demonstrate products, engage with potential customers, and recruit new distributors. These events can be held in person or online, creating a fun, informal atmosphere that encourages sales and team-building.

With Ventaforce's cutting-edge MLM Party Plan software, you can easily manage your events, track sales, and grow your team without the hassle of manual operations.

How Party MLM Plan Works

1. Organize a Party

A distributor arranges a gathering, either in their home, a rented venue, or online using platforms like Zoom or Facebook Live. Invitations are sent to friends, family, and acquaintances.

2. Showcase the Products

During the party, the host demonstrates the products, highlighting their features and benefits.

Example: A skincare distributor might perform a live facial demonstration, showcasing the effectiveness of a rejuvenating face mask.

3. Encourage Purchases

Guests have the opportunity to purchase the showcased products either on-site or through an online store.

4. Recruit New Distributors

The host shares the benefits of joining the Party MLM Plan network, such as earning potential, flexible hours, and discounted products.

5. Build Relationships

The process doesn’t end after the party. Follow-ups ensure customer satisfaction and keep the door open for repeat purchases or new recruits.

The Evolution of Party Plan MLM Business in 2025

The Party Plan MLM business model has adapted to meet the needs of a digital-first world. Key changes include:

Virtual Parties: Online events now dominate the space, with distributors hosting product demos for global audiences.

Social Media Integration: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are crucial for creating buzz and driving attendance.

Personalization: Advanced CRM tools help distributors tailor their approach based on individual customer preferences.

Immersive Technologies: Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are adding a new dimension to product demonstrations.

Did You Know?

$10 Billion in Annual Revenue: The Party Plan MLM segment generates billions globally, with the UK and USA being two of the largest markets.

30% Higher Retention: Customers who attend product parties are more likely to become repeat buyers compared to traditional retail.

Online Dominance: Over 60% of Party Plan MLM events in 2025 are hosted virtually.

Millennial and Gen Z Appeal: Younger generations are drawn to MLM’s flexible work models and emphasis on personal connections.

Myths and Facts about Party MLM Plan

Myth 1: "Party Plan MLM is outdated."

Fact: Far from it! The model has evolved to embrace virtual events and advanced tools, making it more relevant than ever.

Myth 2: "You need a big social circle to succeed."

Fact: Social media and digital marketing tools allow distributors to reach a broader audience beyond their immediate network.

Myth 3: "It’s impossible to make a full-time income."

Fact: Many successful distributors earn six-figure incomes by leveraging strategic planning and consistent effort.

Myth 4: "Party Plan MLM is only for women."

Fact: While historically dominated by women, more men are joining the Party Plan MLM business, especially in niches like tech, fitness, and gourmet products.

Imagination: Transforming Parties into Profit Centers

Imagine This:

You’re hosting a virtual wine-tasting event. Attendees from across the UK and USA join in, each with a curated wine kit delivered to their doorstep. As they sip and learn about the unique flavors, they’re drawn to purchase full-sized bottles and even sign up for a monthly wine subscription. By the end of the evening, you’ve secured sales, new recruits, and glowing reviews.

Or This:

A virtual fashion party where guests upload selfies to try on outfits using AR. They can mix and match accessories in real-time, creating their ideal look. The excitement leads to immediate purchases and future bookings for more parties.

Real-Life Success Stories

Emma’s Wellness Revolution

Emma, a stay-at-home mom in London, started her Party MLM Plan journey with a health supplement brand. Through virtual fitness challenges and interactive webinars, she built a community of health enthusiasts. Within three years, she achieved financial independence and became a top earner in her MLM network.

Jack’s Gadget Parties

Jack, a tech enthusiast from New York, transformed his passion into profit by hosting gadget demo parties. His innovative approach, coupled with viral TikTok content, helped him amass thousands of customers and a thriving distributor team.

Why the UK and USA Love Party Plan MLM

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Both regions celebrate entrepreneurial ventures and side hustles.

Diverse Consumer Interests: From beauty to tech, there’s a niche for everyone.

Tech-Savvy Audiences: High internet penetration supports the success of online events.

Emphasis on Experiences: Consumers value personalized, memorable shopping experiences.

Tips for Success in Party MLM Plan Work

Host Regular Events: Consistency builds momentum and keeps your network engaged.

Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram Stories and TikTok to attract attendees.

Invest in Technology: AR, VR, and AI tools can elevate your product demonstrations.

Offer Incentives: Discounts, freebies, or exclusive access can drive attendance and sales.

Build Relationships: Genuine connections create loyal customers and motivated team members.

Stay Educated: Attend training sessions and stay updated on industry trends.

Final Thoughts

Party Plan MLM is thriving in 2025, thanks to its adaptability and focus on creating meaningful experiences. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned network marketer, this model offers endless opportunities for growth and success. By embracing technology, busting myths, and tapping into your imagination, you can turn ordinary gatherings into extraordinary success stories.

Ready to host your next party? Partner with Ventaforce MLM Party Plan solutions and take your business to the next level!

[investoptionwin]

What is Serverless Web Development and How Can It Benefit Your Business?

In the ever-evolving world of website development in the UK, businesses are always on the lookout for innovative ways to improve performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency. One such solution that has gained significant attention in recent years is serverless web development. But what exactly is serverless development, and how can it benefit your business in the long run? Let’s dive into the concept and see why it might be the game-changer your company needs.

Understanding Serverless Web Development

At its core, serverless web development is a cloud-computing execution model where the cloud provider dynamically manages the infrastructure. Unlike traditional web development, where businesses need to manage and maintain servers, serverless architecture abstracts away the need for physical or virtual servers, leaving developers to focus purely on writing code.

In a serverless environment, developers use cloud services such as AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions, or Azure Functions to execute small, event-driven tasks. These tasks are billed based on usage, meaning you only pay for the resources your application uses. This flexibility significantly reduces overhead costs and allows businesses to scale quickly.

How Does Serverless Web Development Work?

In a typical server-based environment, developers need to maintain the server infrastructure, handle provisioning, scaling, and ensure the server is running at all times. With serverless development, developers can focus on creating the features and functionalities that matter most for the business. The cloud provider takes care of the rest, including scaling and infrastructure management.

Here’s how it works in simpler terms:

Event-driven execution: Serverless platforms respond to events (like a user submitting a form or making a purchase) and execute the appropriate function without needing to worry about server management.

Auto-scaling: The serverless model automatically adjusts resources depending on demand, so your site can handle sudden spikes in traffic.

Cost-effective: Since you pay only for the computing power used, serverless development eliminates the need to over-provision servers to handle peak traffic times.

Benefits of Serverless Web Development for Your Business

Cost Savings One of the biggest benefits of adopting serverless web development is cost efficiency. Since you pay only for what you use, there’s no need to invest in expensive hardware or maintain costly infrastructure. For small businesses or startups, this can significantly reduce upfront costs. It also means that resources can be allocated as needed, which optimizes your overall spending on cloud services.

Improved Scalability Serverless architecture can easily scale with demand. Whether you’re a small business or an established enterprise, if your website experiences a sudden surge in traffic, serverless web development ensures that resources scale up without you having to manually adjust settings. This dynamic scalability ensures that your website can handle high traffic volumes seamlessly — an important factor for businesses in the competitive digital marketing in the UK space.

Faster Time to Market With serverless development, your developers don’t need to spend time configuring or maintaining servers. This allows for faster iteration and quicker release cycles. Your team can focus on writing the application code and improving features instead of worrying about the backend infrastructure, which means your product can get to market faster.

Focus on Core Business Functions Serverless allows your team to focus on what really matters: enhancing the customer experience. By eliminating the burden of server maintenance, businesses can dedicate more resources toward website development in the UK, improving user interface (UI), and crafting a seamless user experience (UX), which are key to retaining customers in today’s competitive environment.

Enhanced Security and Reliability With serverless development, security is handled by the cloud provider. Providers like AWS and Azure offer built-in security features, including encryption and automatic software updates. This reduces the vulnerability associated with traditional server management, ensuring that your website remains secure and compliant with industry standards. In a world where digital marketing in the UK heavily relies on trust, ensuring your website is secure will build credibility with your customers.

How Can Serverless Web Development Benefit Your Business?

For businesses looking to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of digital marketing in the UK, serverless web development offers several advantages:

Optimized Costs for Marketing Campaigns: Since serverless platforms charge based on usage, you can optimize your digital marketing in the UK campaigns without worrying about the cost of scaling infrastructure to meet high traffic demands. This can be especially beneficial for high-traffic marketing events like product launches or seasonal sales.

Faster Marketing Campaign Deployment: Time-to-market is crucial in digital marketing. Serverless allows you to roll out new features or updates to your website faster, which is essential when running time-sensitive campaigns.

Improved Customer Experience: Websites developed with serverless architecture often perform better under load, providing a smoother, faster experience for visitors. A fast, responsive website not only helps in improving user engagement but also contributes to higher conversion rates — crucial for any website developers in the UK aiming to improve their clients’ business performance.

Why Choose Serverless Web Development for Your Business?

As a business operating in the UK, you want to ensure that your website can handle the ever-growing demands of your audience while staying ahead of the competition. By adopting serverless web development, you’re making an investment in scalability, cost-efficiency, and agility.

If you are working with website developers in the UK, integrating serverless architecture into your web development strategy can dramatically improve performance and lower costs. Plus, as digital marketing in the UK continues to evolve, having a website that’s scalable, secure, and cost-effective gives you an edge in a crowded marketplace.

Final Words

Incorporating serverless web development into your business strategy is no longer just a trend — it’s becoming an essential approach for staying competitive in the digital world. The cost savings, scalability, and flexibility it offers are invaluable for businesses looking to stay nimble and responsive to market changes. Whether you’re just starting or looking to modernize your digital infrastructure, serverless development provides a foundation that can grow with your business.

If you’re ready to take your website development to the next level, partnering with experienced website developers in the UK who understand serverless architecture can make all the difference. It’s time to future-proof your business and unlock the potential of serverless technology.

[sportingeventstoday]

Stream Super Bowl 2025: A Guide to Watching Live Online

Super Bowl 2025, also known as Super Bowl LIX, is set to take place on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.

It’s more than just a game—it’s a global event that brings together sports fans, music lovers, and even those who tune in just for the commercials.

If you’re planning to watch this year’s Super Bowl live online, this guide has everything you need to know.

Super Bowl 2025 Overview

The biggest game of the NFL season kicks off at 6:30 PM ET. This year, the AFC and NFC champions will face off for football’s ultimate prize—the Vince Lombardi Trophy. The halftime show features the dynamic Kendrick Lamar, promising a performance filled with energy and emotion. Adding to the event’s grandeur, Jon Batiste, a Louisiana native, will perform the national anthem.

How to Watch Super Bowl 2025 Online for Free

Watching the Super Bowl doesn’t have to cost a dime if you live in the right region. Here’s where you can stream it for free:

United Kingdom: ITV1 and ITVX offer free-to-air coverage.

Australia: 7Mate and 7Plus provide free access to the game.

Ireland: Virgin Media One and VM Play are broadcasting the game at no cost.

Mexico: Azteca 7 offers free Super Bowl coverage.

If you’re traveling outside these regions, you can use a VPN to connect to a server in one of these countries and access the free streams.

Paid Streaming Options for Super Bowl 2025

For those without free access, paid streaming services provide a reliable way to watch the game online. These platforms often include additional features like replays, multi-angle viewing, and commentary.

United States

FOX: Available through cable, over-the-air antennas, or streaming.

Sling Blue: Includes FOX, with plans starting at $50.99/month.

Fubo: Offers over 200 channels, including FOX. Plans start at $74.99/month, with a 7-day free trial.

Hulu + Live TV: Features FOX and a library of on-demand content. Plans start at $69.99/month.

Canada

DAZN: Offers Super Bowl coverage with plans starting at CA$24.99/month.

TSN/CTV: Available through cable subscriptions.

United Kingdom

Sky Sports: Offers live coverage for subscribers.

NFL Game Pass: Includes full Super Bowl coverage and more for £19.99.

Australia

Kayo Sports: Streams the game live on ESPN. Includes a 7-day free trial.

Foxtel: Features Super Bowl coverage through ESPN.

Streaming Super Bowl 2025 with a VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential for travelers or those in regions without access to streams. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in a country offering the game and watch it live as if you were there.

How to Use a VPN for Super Bowl Streaming:

Download a reliable VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Open the VPN app and select a server in the country where your desired stream is available (e.g., UK for ITVX or Australia for 7Plus).

Access the streaming platform and start enjoying the game.

VPNs also secure your connection, protecting your data while you stream.

How to Watch Super Bowl Ads and Halftime Show

The commercials are a major draw for Super Bowl viewers. U.S. streams, like FOX and NFL Game Pass, include the ads, offering a complete Super Bowl experience. The halftime show, headlined by Kendrick Lamar, will be broadcast on all official streams. If you’re outside the U.S. and want to catch the commercials, consider using a VPN to access a U.S.-based stream.

Frequently Asked Questions: You need Know before the big Game

Can I watch Super Bowl 2025 for free? Yes, free streams are available in regions like the UK (ITVX), Australia (7Plus), and Mexico (Azteca 7).

What’s the best streaming service for sports fans? Fubo is a great choice for U.S. viewers, while DAZN is ideal for Canadian fans.

Is it legal to use a VPN to stream the Super Bowl? Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries. It allows you to access content restricted to certain regions.

Can I watch the game after it airs? Yes, NFL Game Pass offers replays, highlights, and the full game for viewing later.

Conclusion

Super Bowl 2025 is a global event that promises thrilling gameplay, incredible performances, and memorable commercials.

Whether you choose a free stream or a paid service, you now have all the tools to watch the game online from anywhere.

Plan your setup early, grab some snacks, and enjoy the biggest night in football. Let the countdown begin!

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When Musicians Turn to OnlyFans: A Sign of the Times? Uncover the truth!

The Shocking Reality Behind Musicians’ New Ventures In a striking turn of events, prominent UK artists Lily Allen and Kate Nash have resorted to sharing racy images on OnlyFans, a platform often associated with adult content. Nash revealed that she created her “Butts 4 Tour Buses” page to finance her tour, exclaiming that traditional music streaming yields virtually no revenue. Nash discussed the…