Arts & Lifestyle

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, talks about plans to sell its aviation business to AirAsia X. He says the newly formed AirAsia Group intends to go public by December.

Titantimepiece

Steve Wozniak is an accomplished American, electrical engineer, computer programmer, philanthropist, inventor and technology entrepreneur. Most people will be familiar with his name in conjunction with Apple, which he co-founded with Steve Jobs. For a guy with an estimated net worth of over $140 million, you would expect him to wear a luxury timepiece. However, in contrast, Steve favors a very eclectic Nixie Watch from Cathode Corner. I actually own one of these watches and think it’s pretty cool. In my opinion, the deconstructed appearance (with a visible battery) is very distinctive but several design refinements are lacking.  Nevertheless, this innovative timepiece did stimulate many other brands to make more sophisticated versions with better materials and charging facilities. A great example can be found in the Dosimeter Nixie by Titantimepiece. 

Titantimepiece

Titantimepiece is a small artisanal boutique watch brand that is located in Italy. The business is the brainchild of Igor Gudiy who is a professionally trained engineer. Unlike competitors, Titantimepiece uses high-grade materials like titanium, zirconium and sapphire crystal. From the initial concept (CAD drawing, milling, electronic board design, and software development) to the final assembly, every detail is meticulously executed in-house. Recently I reviewed their retro LED GP Watch on JustLuxe and was incredibly impressed with the overall quality. In contrast, the Dosimeter Nixie uses cold cathode tubes to display time. 

Titantimepiece

The Dosimeter Nixie began life as a pocket watch and that explains the colossal 66mm x 30mm titanium case. Igor decided to make a wristwatch conversion and thankfully maintained the same proportions. Essentially this is the largest Nixie watch in the world and will only appeal to a small demographic. I feel the bold industrial façade is very effective and there are some ultra-cool details. For example the beveled coin edge bezel and open worked dial. This showcases the 4 cold cathode nixie tubes in all their glory. Overall the design is refined and the quality is first-rate. My only slight pedantic quibble is the small lugs are disproportionate to the huge case and could have been better engineered.   

Titantimepiece

Powering the watch is a sophisticated electronic system entirely developed by Titantimepiece. This model features hours, minutes seconds and an X-ray radiation dosimeter. Effectively there is a built in Geiger counter that can be calibrated at a desired radiation level. This will trigger customized sound and vibration signals to alert for danger.  All the functions are displayed on the nixie tubes, which emit a warm glowing light. Unlike earlier Nixie watches this particular model is chargeable via a USB port on the side of the case. The Dosimeter Nixie has an accuracy rating of  +/- 5 seconds per day and has optimum operating temperatures of 0 to +40°. It’s pertinent to mention this is a novelty piece and therefore advisable to avoid dust and water. 

Titantimepiece

The Dosimeter Nixie is presented on a Nato-style strap and retails for $2,489. For more information about this watch follow this link: https://titantimepiece.com/products/nixie-watch-titanium-watch-nixie-watch-with-γ-β-and-x-ray-radiation-dosimeter-1

The hero’s journey is a timeless mythical narrative, echoing across cultures, that portrays the transformation of individuals who step away from the familiar to forge their own paths. These journeys are not solely confined to mythical or fictional heroes; they are lived experiences for many who dare to defy societal expectations and embrace the unknown. In a world that often values conformity over individuality, choosing an unconventional path requires not only courage but a profound commitment to authenticity and the call to adventure.

Among the most challenging paths are those steeped in societal stigma, such as sexual content creation or sex work. These are fields that society has long judged harshly, shrouded in taboo and misunderstanding. Yet, for many who embark on this journey, the choice is not just about making a living — it is often about reclaiming agency, exploring self-expression, and challenging deep-seated norms that dictate what is deemed acceptable.

The modern hero’s journey, particularly in these hyper-stigmatized fields, involves a unique form of bravery. It’s about redefining narratives, not only for oneself but for a society that too often confines individuals to narrow roles, laying the road for other souls to follow. By embracing paths many might shun, these individuals force us to reconsider what it means to lead a life of purpose and integrity. Their journeys remind us that true heroism lies in the willingness to walk a path of one’s own making, regardless of the judgment or stigma that may come with it.

The story of Skylar Blue is a compelling example of this modern hero’s journey, navigating the complexities of societal expectations to carve out a path that is uniquely her own. From her early years as a dedicated dancer to her current role as a digital content creator, Skylar’s story is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself and leaning into what serves you.

From Dance to Communications:

Skylar’s story begins with a profound connection to dance. Starting at the age of two, she immersed herself in the world of competitive dance, dedicating countless hours to her craft. By the time she was in high school, she attended a performing arts school where dance was a central part of the curriculum. Dance was not just a hobby; it was her identity, a passion that she believed would shape her future career.

However, as she approached adulthood, the realities of a professional dance career began to weigh on her. The physical demands, the instability, and the uncertainty of a long-term future in dance led her to reconsider her path. Seeking stability, she pivoted to a more traditional route, enrolling in college to study communications, with a focus on public relations and advertising. It was a practical choice, one that allowed her to leverage her skills in writing and connect with a different side of herself.

Skylar excelled in her studies, graduating magna cum laude, and soon found herself working in New York City at a global media and marketing agency. Despite her academic success and a promising start in the corporate world, she quickly realized that the conventional nine-to-five life was not for her. The daily commute, the corporate environment, and the disconnect from her creative roots left her feeling unfulfilled and out of touch with her true self.

A New Direction:

The COVID-19 pandemic, a period of global uncertainty, also marked a turning point in Skylar’s life. After being furloughed from her job, she found herself at a crossroads. It was during this time that she began exploring Reddit, where she discovered a vibrant community that allowed her to reconnect with her creative side in an unexpected way.

What started as a casual exploration of Reddit communities soon turned into something much larger. Skylar began sharing content that resonated with a wide audience, quickly gaining popularity. This newfound success on Reddit led her to explore opportunities on OnlyFans, a platform that was rapidly gaining traction at the time.

Skylar’s transition into digital content creation was not just a career shift—it was a return to the physicality and artistic expression that had always been central to her identity. Her content, characterized by a keen sense of aesthetics and artistic integrity, stands out in a space often misunderstood by mainstream audiences. For Skylar, this work is not merely about creating content but about crafting a visual experience that is both personal and meaningful for her audience.

Challenging Norms and Embracing Artistry:

Skylar’s approach to content creation is deeply rooted in her background as a dancer and her love for the human body and movement. Her work is a form of self-expression that allows her to maintain a strong connection to the physicality that has always been a part of her life. This connection, combined with her artistic sensibilities, elevates her content beyond the superficial, offering her audience a unique and engaging experience.

In a world where her line of work is often stigmatized, Skylar is committed to challenging these misconceptions. She views her work as legitimate and valuable, not just for the financial freedom it provides, but for the empowerment and confidence it has given her. Her journey into this space has been marked by a growing sense of self-assurance, countering the common narrative that such work stems from insecurity.

Skylar’s story is also a testament to the evolving landscape of digital content creation. She embodies the “less is more” philosophy, choosing to limit her online presence to a single platform where she can connect with her audience on her terms. This selective approach not only sets her apart but also reinforces the authenticity and intentionality behind her work.

Looking Ahead:

As Skylar continues to navigate her career, she is contemplating new ways to connect with her audience on a deeper level. She is considering launching a new account under the name “Sincerely Skylar,” where she would share more about her personal life, hobbies, and the aspects of her identity that go beyond her current work. This potential new venture would offer her fans a more holistic view of who she is, further humanizing her and breaking down the barriers between creator and audience.

Skylar Blue’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her own vision. From her early days as a dancer to her current role as a content creator, she has consistently chosen paths that align with her true self, even when they defy societal expectations. As she looks to the future, Skylar remains committed to challenging norms, embracing her artistry, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.

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Photo by @samuele_piccarin unsplash.com

Transporting a luxury vehicle requires special attention to detail and care. Choosing the right car shipping company is crucial to ensure your high-end car arrives safely and in perfect condition. Here are some key points to consider when selecting the best luxury car shipping service.

Key Takeaways

• Look for companies that focus specifically on luxury vehicles and have the right equipment.
• Check online reviews and ratings to gauge the company’s reputation and reliability.
• Ensure the company has experience handling high-end brands and a solid track record.
• Confirm that they have the necessary insurance coverage to protect your vehicle during transport.
• Ask for detailed estimates and be aware of any additional fees involved.

Specialization in Luxury Vehicles

When you’re looking to ship your luxury car, you want to make sure you choose the best car shipping company that knows how to handle high-end vehicles. Here are some key points to consider:

Customer Testimonials

Customer testimonials can provide valuable insights. Look for:

• Detailed experiences: Testimonials that explain the shipping process can be more helpful.
• Photos: Some customers share pictures of their vehicles upon delivery, which can be reassuring.
• Response to issues: See how the company handled any problems that arose during shipping.

Remember, a company’s reputation is built on its past performance. Take the time to read reviews and ratings to make an informed choice. This will help you find a company that treats your luxury vehicle with the care it deserves.

By evaluating reviews and ratings, you can ensure that you choose a company that aligns with your needs and expectations. This step is crucial in your journey to find the best car shipping company for your luxury vehicle.

Experience and Expertise

When it comes to shipping luxury vehicles, you want a company that knows what they’re doing. Here’s what to look for:

Years in the Business

• Look for experience: Companies with a long history in car shipping are usually more reliable.
• Established reputation: A company that has been around for years likely has a solid track record.
• Specialization: Make sure they focus on luxury vehicles, not just any car.

Volume of Luxury Cars Shipped

• High volume: A company that regularly ships luxury cars shows they have the right expertise.
• Diverse experience: They should have experience with various high-end brands, from Ferraris to Lamborghinis.
• Customer base: Check if they have a loyal clientele who trusts them with their expensive vehicles.

Driver Qualifications

• Trained professionals: Ensure that drivers are trained specifically for handling luxury cars.
• Background checks: A good company will conduct thorough background checks on their drivers.
• Safety records: Look for companies that prioritize safety and have a clean driving record.

Choosing a company with the right experience and expertise can make all the difference in ensuring your luxury vehicle arrives safely and securely.

By focusing on these aspects, you can feel confident in your choice of car shipping company for your prized possession.

Essential Equipment and Processes

When you’re shipping a luxury vehicle, the right equipment and processes are crucial to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s what you should look for:

Advanced Tie-Down Methods

• Secure Your Vehicle: Make sure the company uses advanced tie-down methods to keep your car stable during transport. This prevents any unwanted movement that could cause damage.
• Multiple Contact Points: The vehicle should be secured at multiple points, not just the wheels, to ensure it stays in place.
• Specialized Equipment: Look for companies that use specialized equipment designed for high-end cars, as this shows they understand the unique needs of luxury vehicles.

Meticulous Paperwork Process

• Documentation: Ensure that the company has a clear and organized paperwork process. This includes contracts, insurance details, and pre-transport photos.
• Inspection Reports: They should provide inspection reports before and after transport to document the vehicle’s condition.
• Easy Access: All documents should be easily accessible to you throughout the shipping process.

Specialized Loading and Unloading Equipment

• Low Clearance Handling: Luxury cars often have low clearance, so the loading and unloading equipment should be designed to handle this safely.
• Careful Maneuvering: The process should involve careful maneuvering to avoid any damage during loading and unloading.
• Professional Staff: Make sure the staff is trained in handling luxury vehicles to ensure they know how to treat your car with care.

Remember, the right equipment and processes can make a big difference in the safety of your luxury vehicle during transport. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their methods before making a decision!

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

When you’re shipping a luxury vehicle, understanding the insurance coverage is super important. You want to make sure your car is protected during transit. Here’s what you need to know:

Insurance Limits and Deductibles

• Know what’s covered: Check what the shipping company’s insurance covers. Some might only cover certain types of damage.
• Understand deductibles: This is the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket if something happens. Make sure you know how much that is before you ship.
• Consider extra coverage: If you think the standard coverage isn’t enough, ask about buying additional insurance.

Claims Process

• Document your car’s condition: Before handing over your vehicle, take clear photos and note any existing damage. This helps if you need to file a claim later.
• Review the bill of lading: This document is crucial. It’s like a contract that details your car’s condition and the shipping terms. Make sure everything is accurate.
• Know how to file a claim: Ask the shipping company how to report any damage. Understanding this process can save you a lot of hassle.

Peace of Mind with Full Coverage

• Choose wisely: Not all companies offer the same level of coverage. Look for those that provide comprehensive insurance, ideally over $250,000 for luxury vehicles.
• Ask about personal items: Most companies don’t cover personal belongings left in the car, so it’s best to remove them before shipping.
• Stay informed: Keep in touch with the shipping company during transit to stay updated on your vehicle’s status.

Remember, understanding your insurance options can help you avoid surprises and ensure your luxury vehicle is safe during its journey. Always ask questions if you’re unsure about anything!

Cost Considerations

When you’re looking to ship your luxury vehicle, understanding the costs involved is super important. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Getting Written Estimates

• Always ask for auto shipping quotes from multiple companies. This helps you see the range of prices.
• Make sure the estimates are detailed, including all potential fees.
• Don’t just go for the cheapest option; consider the services included.

Comparing Quotes

• Look at what each quote covers. Some may include insurance, while others might not.
• Check if the quotes are for open or enclosed transport. Enclosed is usually pricier but safer for luxury cars.
• Consider the delivery method. Door-to-door is convenient but can cost more than terminal-to-terminal.

Understanding Extra Fees

• Be aware of potential extra charges, like for inoperable vehicles or special handling.
• Ask about seasonal pricing. Costs can go up during peak moving times, like summer.
• Check if there are fees for specific pickup or drop-off locations, especially in rural areas.

Remember, understanding how much does it cost to ship a car can save you from unexpected expenses later on!

Safety and Security Measures

When it comes to shipping your luxury vehicle, ensuring its safety and security is a top priority. Here are some key measures to consider:

Background Checks on Drivers

• Make sure the shipping company conducts thorough background checks on their drivers. This helps ensure that your vehicle is in trustworthy hands.
• Look for companies that provide information about their drivers’ experience and qualifications.
• Ask if they have a training program specifically for handling luxury vehicles.

Regular Maintenance of Transport Vehicles

• Check if the transport vehicles are regularly maintained. Well-maintained trucks are less likely to break down, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Inquire about the company’s maintenance schedule and any inspections they perform on their vehicles.
• Ensure that the transport vehicles are equipped with the necessary safety features.

Real-Time Tracking Options

• Opt for a shipping company that offers real-time tracking. This allows you to monitor your vehicle’s journey and know exactly where it is at all times.
• Ask if they provide updates via text or email, so you can stay informed without having to call.
• Having this feature gives you peace of mind knowing your luxury car is being transported safely.

Remember, the safety of your luxury vehicle is paramount. Choosing a company that prioritizes these measures can make all the difference in your shipping experience.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Luxury Car Shipping Company

When it comes to shipping your luxury vehicle, choosing the right company is essential. Take your time to research and ask questions to ensure your car gets the best care possible. Look for companies that specialize in luxury vehicles, have great reviews, and offer solid insurance. Remember, your high-end car is an investment, and it deserves to be treated with respect. By following these tips, you can find a reliable shipping service that will keep your vehicle safe and sound during transport.

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True luxury living is not defined by price but isn’t cheap. Only a few people can spend large sums on prestigious goods and services. The appeal of these products is undeniable – excellent quality, a recognizable logo, a limited edition. But in a world where Instagram and other social media show people enjoying luxury items daily, it may be very tempting to spend money we don’t have.

One-click of a button, and you’re already the owner of a new credit card or loan that can help you buy a new gadget or go on a dream vacation. But before deciding, it’s important to consider whether the fleeting pleasure is worth future debt problems.

Instant Gratification: A Double-Edged Sword

The appeal of buying an expensive, luxury item without saving for months or even years is undeniable. Credit cards, personal loans, and $1,500 same-day loans make it easy to purchase everything you want immediately. These financial tools can be extremely handy in emergencies. For example, payday loans are a lifeline for many people when they need quick cash for essentials rather than a fancy new handbag.

However, using loans can be slippery when buying unnecessary luxury items. According to a 2022 Federal Reserve study, the average credit card debt per U.S. household is about $6,065. High interest rates, especially on credit cards, can significantly increase the cost of a luxury purchase over the long term, sometimes doubling or tripling the original cost.

Social media is full of people chasing the image of wealth, often at the expense of their finances. More and more influencers have been found renting expensive items, from designer bags to luxury cars, just to take photos. This trend is causing regular people to feel pressured, leading many to take out loans or max out their credit cards to afford things they don’t need.

The story of Anna Delvey, also known as Anna Sorokin, is a good example of the dangers of living on borrowed money. In the mid-2010s, she fraudulently presented as a wealthy heiress in New York City. Delvey stayed in expensive hotels and flew on private jets, promising she would soon receive an inheritance to pay off her debts. She lived on loans and deception, and her scam was uncovered in 2017 after she defrauded people and financial institutions of $275,000.

Another famous case is Danielle Miller, an Instagram influencer who lived a lavish lifestyle but on other people’s money. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she used stolen credentials to obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and spent almost $1.5 million on expensive travel and clothing. This case shows how people sometimes pursue an unattainable lifestyle using loans and deception.

Why Is It Often a Bad Idea to Buy Luxury Items on Tick?

Strategic Spending: When Luxury Makes Sense

It is important to understand that not all luxury spending is pointless – in some situations, it can be justified and even strategically useful. For example, appearance matters for real estate, finance, or law professionals. Expensive suits, accessories, and watches often become part of an image that conveys success and confidence. The Nevada Today’s research shows that a professional appearance can increase clients’ trust and improve a specialist’s perception as successful and influential, positively affecting closing deals and career development.

Some luxury categories, such as watches, jewelry, bags, or cars, can be considered an investment. Unlike most consumer goods that lose their value over time, rare or exclusive luxury items can increase their cost. For example, brands such as Rolex or Patek Philippe produce watches that retain their value and increase in value on the secondary market. The same goes for some bags, like the Hermès Birkin, which also increases in value over time due to rarity and demand. Of course, buying these items requires a deep knowledge of the market and an understanding of how luxury investing works, but if done right, it can be a smart deal.

Make Wise Decisions in a Wealth-Obsessed World

It’s clear that using borrowed funds to buy luxury is a sharp, double-edged sword. Sometimes, it can make sense, especially when done strategically and responsibly. However, the temptation to live beyond your means, especially in the age of Instagram and TikTok, can lead to financial ruin. According to a 2023 Bankrate survey, one in five consumers (20%) said they were unhappy with their finances after seeing posts on social media. Moreover, 9% say that social media influences have negatively impacted their ability to manage their money.

So before making any luxury purchase on credit, it’s important to ask yourself: Will this item improve my life in the long run? Or am I buying it to fit someone else’s idea of ??success? Financial experts advise adhering to the “50-30-20” rule — no more than 30% of your budget should be allocated to discretionary spending, including luxury items.

Conclusion

Police in northern Switzerland said Tuesday that several people have been arrested and a criminal case has been opened in connection with the suspected death of a person in a so-called “suicide pod.”

The “Sarco” pod has been in the works for years, but up until now has never been used.

The Sarco pods — short for sarcophogus — allow a person to control their death inside the pod by quickly reducing internal oxygen levels. The person intending to end their life is required to answer a set of pre-recorded questions, then press a button that floods the interior with nitrogen. The oxygen level inside is quickly reduced from 21 per cent to one per cent, and the person is supposed to fall asleep and die by suffocation in a matter of minutes.

After death, the pod can be used as a coffin.

Prosecutors in Schaffhausen canton were informed by a law firm that an “assisted suicide” involving the Sarco had taken place Monday near a forest cabin in Merishausen, regional police said in a statement. They said “several people” were taken into custody and prosecutors opened an investigation on suspicion of inciting, and aiding and abetting suicide.

It’s reported that officers recovered the device and a body at the scene.

Swiss law allows assisted suicide so long as the person takes his or her life with no “external assistance” and those who help the person die do not do so for “any self-serving motive,” according to a government website.

Currently, assisted suicide in Switzerland means swallowing a capsule filled with a cocktail of controlled substances that puts the person into a deep coma before they die.

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Suicide pods now legal in Switzerland, providing users with a painless death

Switzerland, unlike some other countries including the Netherlands, does not allow euthanasia, which sees health-care practitioners inject patients with lethal drugs at their request and under specific conditions.

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There are a number of organizations in the country that are dedicated to helping people end their lives and they allow foreigners to enter their country to legally kill themselves. There has been much criticism from lawmakers that the Swiss rules surrounding assisted suicide are unclear and full of legal loopholes.

Exit International, an assisted suicide organization in the Netherlands behind the development of the Sarco pod, said in a statement that a 64-year-old American woman with “severe immune compromise” died Monday near the German border in one of its devices.

It said Florian Willet, co-president of The Last Resort, a Swiss affiliate of Exit International, was the only person present and described her death as “peaceful, fast and dignified.”

In July, The Last Resort said it anticipated the Sarco pod would be used for the first time this year.

Also in that month, Swiss newspaper Blick reported that Peter Sticher, a state prosecutor in Schaffhausen, wrote to Exit International’s lawyers saying any operator of the suicide capsule could face criminal proceedings if it was used there — and any conviction could bring up to five years in prison.

In other Swiss regions, prosecutors have also indicated that use of the suicide capsule could lead to prosecution.

Previously, Dr. Philip Nitschke, the developer of the pods and founder of Exit International, told SwissInfo.ch the machines can be “towed anywhere for the death” and one of the most positive features of the capsules is that they can be transported to an “idyllic outdoor setting.”

“We want to remove any kind of psychiatric review from the process and allow the individual to control the method themselves,” Nitschke said in 2021. “Our aim is to develop an artificial intelligence screening system to establish the person’s mental capacity. Naturally, there is a lot of skepticism, especially on the part of psychiatrists.”

“The benefit for the person who uses it is that they don’t have to get any permission, they don’t need some special doctor to try and get a needle in, and they don’t need to get difficult drugs,” Nitschke said in a 2020 demonstration of the device.

In a 2018 personal essay for HuffPost, Nitschke said his focus in the realm of assisted suicide has shifted over the years “from supporting the idea of a dignified death for the terminally ill (the medical model) to supporting the concept of a good death for any rational adult who has ‘life experience’ (the human rights model).”

“Time and again, we see the comfort and reassurance that is gained from knowing one has an ‘exit plan,’ so to speak, within reach, should the need ever arise. Being in control gives confidence. It restores one’s sense of self. And, yes, it generates dignity in living, knowing one will have dignity in dying,” he wrote.

Nitschke added that people who use the capsule will not feel any type of suffocation or choking in the low-oxygen environment. Rather, they will “feel their best.”

In the Exit International statement on Tuesday, Nitschke said he was “pleased that the Sarco had performed exactly as it had been designed … to provide an elective, non-drug, peaceful death at the time of the person’s choosing.”

On Monday, Health Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider was asked in Swiss parliament about the legal conditions for the use of the Sarco capsule, and suggested its use would not be legal.

“On one hand, it does not fulfil the demands of the product safety law, and as such, must not be brought into circulation,” she said. “On the other hand, the corresponding use of nitrogen is not compatible with the article on purpose in the chemicals law.”

Over the summer, a 54-year-old U.S. woman with multiple health ailments had planned to be the first person to use the device, but those plans were abandoned.

— With files from The Associated Press

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Health Matters: Assisted dying law faces court challenge

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If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help, resources are available. In case of an emergency, please call 911 for immediate help.

For immediate mental health support, call 988. For a directory of support services in your area, visit the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention at suicideprevention.ca.

Learn more about preventing suicide with these warning signs and tips on how to help.

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