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Hybrid work is among the most common — and most desired — flexible work arrangements. In fact, a recent FlexJobs survey revealed that the majority of workers want some form of remote work, with 37% reporting that hybrid jobs are their preferred work arrangement. Good news for job seekers: Hybrid careers are on the rise in key areas. To help job seekers pinpoint which career fields offer the most…
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Posted on: September 19, 2024, 03:46h.
Last updated on: September 19, 2024, 03:46h.
The 30-year annuitized jackpots for Powerball and Mega Millions will be impacted by the Federal Reserve’s decision this week to cut its benchmark interest rate by a sizeable half-point.
The Federal Reserve’s first cut to its benchmark rate in more than four years will lead to lower borrowing rates for consumers, something that’s expected to help ignite the economy. For Powerball and Mega Millions, however, the cut isn’t necessarily welcomed news.
Since the Feds began trying to offset skyrocketing inflation in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic by increasing interest rates, which the U.S. Treasury uses to set its bond rates, the two major interstate lottery games have benefited from seeing their advertised jackpots grow faster than they would at lower rates.
“The annuity factor, or the cost to fund an annuity prize, is a key component [of calculating jackpots]. The annuity factor is made up of interest rates for securities purchased to fund prize payments,” Powerball officials said.
The higher the interest rates, the higher the advertised grand prize. You might not realize that an economic reality like interest rates impact even the Powerball jackpot, but they do,” the Powerball explanation read.
Bigger jackpots lead to bigger game sales, as many Mega Millions and Powerball players only participate when the advertised prize grows to unthinkable fortunes.
The advertised jackpots for Powerball and Mega Millions include how much the winner would receive over 30 years. The money is before a federal tax of 37%, the highest rate levied on the country’s top earners.
Winners of the life-changing jackpots typically choose one-time cash sums. Those who opt for the full value of the pre-tax jackpot receive an immediate distribution followed by annual payouts for the next 29 years.
Instead of the cash going directly to the winner, the lottery instead invests the money in bonds backed by the U.S. Treasury. The current rate for a 30-year Treasury Bond is 4.25%.
The Federal Reserve’s benchmark cut this week reduced the government’s interest rate from 5.3% to 4.8%. The half-point reduction will result in the 30-year Treasury bond being lowered in the coming months.
Assuming the economy continues to stabilize, more rate cuts are likely in the forthcoming quarters. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said interest rate cuts are reasonable after inflation cooled in recent months.
“We know it is time to recalibrate our (interest rate) policy to something that’s more appropriate given the progress on inflation,” Powell said. “We’re not saying, ‘mission accomplished,’ … but I have to say we’re encouraged by the progress that we have made.”
Inflation in August came in at 2.5%, a three-year low and down from a mid-2022 high of 9.1%.
Advertised jackpots could slow in their drawing-to-drawing growth because of the interest rate cut. But winning the Mega Millions top prize might get a little bit easier next year.
As Casino.org reported earlier this month, the Mega Millions Consortium is expected to soon reveal a major overhaul. Proposed changes include eliminating the Megaplier and Just the Jackpot options and reducing the number of gold Mega Balls from 25 to 24.
By reducing the number of Mega Balls, players’ odds of winning the jackpot will be reduced slightly from the current odds of one in 302.5 million. The proposed changes are to be implemented beginning with the April 8, 2025, drawing.
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Not long ago Beats decided to Kardashianize the Studo Pro headphones with some new colors, and today – coincidence or not – Sony is following suit. Only there’s no Kim Kardashian here, and we’re only getting one new color, not three.
Both the WH-1000XM5 over-ear headphones and the WF-1000XM5 true wireless earbuds are now being offered in pink. This seems to be true across regions, but the exact name of the new colorway will vary by locale for some reason. Rest assured that it is, however, the exact same pink everywhere.
The products are identical in every other respect to their non-pink siblings that have already been available for some years now. Sony’s marketing materials seem to be implying that this new color will attract more women towards its flagship headphones and earbuds, so that’s probably what the thinking was behind the scenes.
Sony WH-1000XM5 (left) and WF-1000XM5 (right) in pink
Whether that’s going to prove true or not, we’re just glad we’re getting a new hue for products that are generally not very excitingly colored. The pink 1000XM5s should go on sale at the same price as their non-pink versions.
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Get ready to question humanity’s control over the technology that surrounds us because another season of Netflix’s Black Mirror is in the works. Earlier today, the official Black Mirror X page revealed the cast of the new season coming next year along with some other interesting clues and Easter eggs.
The video features an old, flickering computer screen that appears to unload a complete data dump of the entire cast for season 7. Some of the names that jumped out at us includes Oscar nominee Paul Giamatti, Doctor Who star and Oscar winner Peter Capaldi (he won in 1995 with his live action short film Franz Kafka’s It’s a Wonderful Life), Awkwafina, Issa Rae, Tracee Ellis Ross and Rashida Jones.
The list also included some of the cast who played virtual crew members of the USS Callister from the iconic fourth season episode of the same name. The names from the USS Callister episode that appeared on the list include Cristin Milioti, Jimmi Simpson, Billy Magnussen, Milanka Brooks and Osy Ikhile.
We’ve known for a while now that series creator Charlie Brooker has been planning to . The season 4 opening episode starred Jesse Plemmons as the chief technology officer named Robert of a top tier game studio and a big fan of a Star Trek-esque TV show called Space Fleet. By day, he gets pushed around and little credit for the company’s success from his colleagues and staff. He uses immersive virtual reality technology to play as Space Fleet Capt. Robert Daly away from work on a virtual starship and takes out his frustrations and anger on the crew in increasingly cruel and inhumane ways. The crew members were replicated in the game using his boss and staff members’ DNA that Robert obtained without their permission or knowledge. The crew revolt and escape to the open Internet while leaving a seething “Capt. Robert” stranded in the game.
Of course, this wouldn’t be a true Black Mirror reveal if it didn’t contain some clues and hidden items in the teaser. The loading screen features the studio name Tuckersoft, a reference to the game studio in the interactive movie. The cast names are listed in alphabetical order by first name but they’ve been broken into eight groups. There are some cryptic phrases between the scrolling group names like “Too soon?”, “A rose for a rose” and “Shields 58 percent.”
Could these be episode titles? The latter definitely sounds like a reference to the USS Callister and Brooker and company love symbolic episode titles taken from songs for their tech hell stories like “Shut Up and Dance” and “Hang the DJ.” The new Black Mirror episodes haven’t even landed yet and they’ve already screwing with our heads.
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I really enjoyed The Plucky Squire, an action-adventure game in the vein of classic Legend of Zelda titles. It’s got not one, but two, whimsical art styles: one reminiscent of children’s picture books, and another in which the hero is presented as a miniature toy that comes to life in a child’s bedroom. The game is most often presented in the former, where screen transitions are accompanied by the turning of a page, and the middle of most stages appropriately folds where they meet. The eponymous hero goes on many adventures with his friends Violet and Thrash, who each embody noble and righteous virtues, while triumphantly defeating the forces of evil time and time again. At the close of these journeys, the Plucky Squire comes home and writes about it all, because naturally he’s also a bestselling author in the land of Mojo. It’s a game with all the fixings of a kids’ classic, something that can be shared with the children in one’s life to encourage them to dream big and boldly. As I played the game, though, I did find myself wishing that The Plucky Squire actually believed in its audience as much as it claims to.
You see, The Plucky Squire falls prey to one of modern gaming’s most well-intentioned, but still utterly annoying, sins and overtly tutorializes everything. When it deigns to allow the player to pop out of their storybook for a 3D platforming level, the camera pans across the entirety of the stage outlining the intended path before you’ve even really set foot in the world. Even within the confines of the 2D world in the book, The Plucky Squire will often deploy humorous narration via onscreen text and a corresponding voiceover, which adds flavor to the game but also explicitly communicates what is expected of you at every turn. At just about every step of the way, the game lacks any faith in your ability to figure out solutions and paths forward for yourself, preferring to bludgeon you over the head with answers before you can even be afforded a chance to think for yourself. It’s a frustrating wrinkle in an otherwise charming tale.
Due to this design decision, which feels borne out of the well-meaning developers at All Possible Futures making a game for kids of all ages to enjoy, The Plucky Squire can feel like it’s pandering too hard. Considering there is already a hint system that you can opt into by conversing with a character known as Minibeard on puzzle screens, this approach feels like an overcorrection, especially given the places from which The Plucky Squire mines its inspiration, particularly The Legend of Zelda.
The Legend of Zelda is, it goes without saying around these parts, a classic. It’s one of the most influential games of all time, and it is also hard as nails. The original title is dripping in mystique and opacity, which famously made it exceptionally tough to finish. It gave players a set of tools and trusted them to use every single one to explore the intricacies of its overworld and dungeons. Yes, there were rooms hidden behind walls that couldn’t be told apart from normal unbreakable ones, but back then, players relished the chance to bomb every single wall in sight in search of secrets, and The Legend of Zelda welcomed these player-fueled explorations.
A few years ago, I decided that, given my adoration for Breath of the Wild, I should play one of the seminal titles in the series and booted up A Link to the Past, which is handily available on the Nintendo Switch via the Switch Online service. In it, I encountered a pain in the ass called a Red Goriya, which mimics Link’s movement like a mirror reflection. Since it’s got armor on its front side, I couldn’t just fire an arrow or hit it with my sword and hope for it to die. It took me frustratingly long to figure out that I needed to shoot an arrow and then turn it to the side in order to land an attack on it, but the breakthrough has stuck with me for years because it made me understand what was expected of me without treating me like I lacked enough intellect and imagination to figure it out. The Zelda series has always rewarded players for solving problems by intuiting solutions to puzzles that actually challenged them, and overcoming those obstacles should feel like a genuine triumph.
The Plucky Squire begins to get at that vintage ethos by the end of the game, but given its short runtime, there’s very little time and space afforded to the very best of its puzzle and platforming designs. Most of it is reserved for the final two chapters, once the game has deemed you worthy of being unburdened by a narrator who refuses to stop holding your hand. They don’t necessarily stop dictating the game’s action, but they do take a bit of a backseat to a series of gauntlets that finally realize the game’s utmost potential. Otherwise, The Plucky Squire feels simplistic and even infantile in places, which feels like an insult to the kids that its themes purport to uplift.
I don’t think The Plucky Squire reaches the point of treating its players as outright dumb, but it also doesn’t seem to have any faith in them, be they kids or adults like myself, to understand it. And I think it can stand to! If children could cut through the obscurity of The Legend of Zelda back in the day, they can certainly solve The Plucky Squire without the game screaming its answers at them. There are ways to bake accessible design (which again, The Plucky Squire does feature as an optional mechanic) into a game without completely demystifying the novel experience of discovery that games of this ilk are often known for.
It could also stand to just let players experiment free of any reward or mystery, and indulge in the very creativity that it preaches. The Plucky Squire will introduce new mechanics that literally alter the world by allowing you to tilt pages and let gravity affect elements of the book, but then restrict you from using it in places where its designers deem it unnecessary. Even if the solution to a problem couldn’t be found in the use of that tool, I wish it didn’t only let me deploy it sparingly and worse, take it away from me. Let me bomb random walls and push huge blocks to and fro. Dare to let me or the kids playing this game dream a little bit. It won’t hurt anyone.
At the end of the day, I get that The Plucky Squire just wants to be inclusive. Its developers want to guarantee that any player can get through this adventure, fall in love with its themes, and continue to spread the very real joy I got from playing it. But along the way, it does undoubtedly lose something that made its forerunners as timeless and influential as they are, and that is a genuine belief in its players that’s more than just skin deep.
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Keeping your pool tiles spotless has always been a challenging task. Traditional cleaning methods often involve harsh chemicals, abrasive tools, or high-pressure washing, which may damage your pool tiles and aren’t exactly eco-friendly. But now, there’s a revolutionary solution that’s changing the game—laser cleaning. Pool Tile Cleaning with laser technology is the best eco-friendly solution that not only protects your tiles but also ensures a cleaner, greener environment.
Laser cleaning is a non-abrasive, chemical-free method that uses high-energy laser beams to vaporize dirt, grime, and algae from the surface of your pool tiles. It’s a fast, precise, and environmentally responsible way of cleaning, especially for those concerned about the impact of harsh cleaning chemicals on the environment and their health. Here’s why Pool Tile Cleaning with lasers outshines other methods:
Laser cleaning isn’t limited to pool tiles. This innovative technology can be applied to various surfaces, offering a comprehensive solution for different cleaning challenges:
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When it comes to professional laser cleaning, Renovate RX is your go-to service provider. With state-of-the-art laser technology and a commitment to eco-friendly cleaning solutions, they offer unparalleled service quality. Whether you need Pool Tile Cleaning or rust removal, Renovate RX provides reliable and efficient solutions tailored to your specific needs.
From restoring pool tiles to their original shine to providing sustainable, chemical-free cleaning for various surfaces, Renovate RX is at the forefront of the cleaning revolution. Contact them today to experience the best in Pool Tile Cleaning services!
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Graffiti removal has always been a challenge, especially when it comes to preserving the surface underneath. Traditional methods like abrasive chemicals or pressure washing often risk damaging walls and monuments. However, with the advent of laser cleaning, graffiti can now be removed without compromising the integrity of the surface. But how exactly does it work, and why is it a better option? Let’s dive into why laser cleaning is revolutionizing graffiti removal.
Laser cleaning, as a non-abrasive and environmentally friendly technique, uses concentrated laser beams to break down dirt, paint, and other contaminants, making it perfect for graffiti removal. Here’s why laser cleaning stands out:
Laser cleaning isn’t limited to graffiti removal. Its versatile applications extend far beyond, offering a wide range of cleaning solutions:
When it comes to graffiti removal, choosing the right service provider is essential. Renovate RX stands out as a trusted and professional solution for all laser cleaning needs. Specializing in graffiti removal, rust removal, and more, Renovate RX uses state-of-the-art laser cleaning technology to ensure surfaces are cleaned thoroughly and safely.
Not only does Renovate RX provide impeccable results, but their team is also committed to maintaining the quality and integrity of the surfaces they work on. Whether you’re dealing with graffiti, rust, or other stubborn contaminants, Renovate RX is your go-to provider for top-notch laser cleaning services.
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Laser cleaning is a cutting-edge method for removing contaminants, rust, and coatings from various surfaces. Unlike traditional cleaning techniques, laser cleaning is non-abrasive, eco-friendly, and highly effective. It utilizes laser beams to vaporize unwanted materials, leaving surfaces pristine. In this article, we will explore why laser cleaning is the superior choice and discuss the types of surfaces that can benefit from this advanced technology.
Traditional cleaning methods, such as chemical treatments, abrasive blasting, or mechanical scrubbing, often come with a host of drawbacks. These methods can damage the underlying material, produce harmful waste, and require significant time and effort. On the other hand, laser cleaning offers several advantages that make it a superior choice:
Laser cleaning is incredibly versatile and can be used on various materials and surfaces. Here are some common applications:
When it comes to choosing a reliable laser cleaning service provider, Renovate RX stands out for its expertise and state-of-the-art equipment. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Renovate RX offers laser cleaning services that cater to a wide range of needs – from rust removal to paint stripping and restoration. Their experienced technicians ensure that every project is handled with care and precision.
With Renovate RX, you can expect:
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Introduction to Real Estate Restoration
Real estate restoration is crucial in maintaining the value and integrity of properties. Over time, buildings face issues like rust, corrosion, and weathering, which can deteriorate both appearance and functionality. However, with advanced cleaning technologies, restoring properties has become more efficient and environmentally friendly. One of these cutting-edge solutions is rust-free laser cleaning, a game-changer in the restoration industry.
What is Rust-Free Laser Cleaning?
Rust-free laser cleaning is an innovative process that uses high-energy laser pulses to remove rust, paint, and other surface contaminants from a property. Unlike traditional methods such as sandblasting or chemical treatments, laser cleaning is non-abrasive and eco-friendly. It not only restores the original look of surfaces but also extends their lifespan by protecting them from further damage.
Advantages of Laser Cleaning in Real Estate Restoration
Using laser cleaning in real estate restoration offers numerous benefits:
How Does Rust-Free Laser Cleaning Work?
Rust-free laser cleaning works by directing a focused laser beam onto the contaminated surface. The laser pulses penetrate the rust or paint layer, breaking it down into tiny particles that are then removed through a suction system. The process is safe, quick, and can be adjusted to suit various surface types and levels of contamination.
Applications of Laser Cleaning in Property Restoration
Laser cleaning has versatile applications in real estate restoration, including:
Why Choose Rust-Free Laser Cleaning Over Traditional Methods?
Traditional cleaning methods, such as sandblasting or chemical treatments, often pose risks to both the environment and the property itself. These methods can be abrasive, leading to surface damage or leaving chemical residues that can cause long-term harm. In contrast, rust-free laser cleaning provides a non-contact, residue-free solution, ensuring that the property’s structural integrity is preserved.
Key Benefits of Rust-Free Laser Cleaning
Enhancing Property Value with Laser Cleaning
Investing in laser cleaning for property restoration not only improves the appearance of the building but also significantly enhances its market value. A well-maintained property attracts more buyers and tenants, resulting in higher returns on investment. Additionally, by using environmentally friendly cleaning methods, property owners can promote sustainability, which is increasingly important to modern consumers.
Conclusion: A New Era in Real Estate Restoration
Rust-free laser cleaning is transforming real estate restoration by offering a safe, efficient, and eco-friendly solution. Its precision, cost-effectiveness, and ability to protect surfaces make it the preferred choice for restoring and maintaining properties. Whether it’s for cleaning facades, restoring metalwork, or preserving historical buildings, laser cleaning is leading the way in modern property care.
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Maintaining the integrity of metal surfaces can be challenging due to rust and corrosion, which affect not only the appearance but also the performance of machinery and other metal products. Fortunately, Rust-Free Laser Cleaning offers an innovative solution to this issue. This cutting-edge technology uses high-energy laser beams to precisely remove rust, dirt, and contaminants from metal surfaces, leaving behind a clean and restored finish.
Imagine a rusted, worn-out surface covered with years of oxidation and grime. With traditional cleaning methods, removing rust is time-consuming and often damaging to the metal. However, Rust-Free Laser Cleaning transforms this scenario dramatically. In a matter of minutes, the laser technology strips away corrosion without harming the underlying metal. The results are striking: a clean, polished surface ready for use, repainting, or further treatment.
Before laser cleaning, metal surfaces may appear corroded, dull, and weakened. After the process, they emerge rejuvenated—rust-free, smooth, and fully restored to their original luster and strength.
If you’re looking for a solution that restores metal surfaces to their original state without hassle, Rust-Free Laser Cleaning is the answer.
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