Branded Content – New York Daily News https://www.nydailynews.com Breaking US news, local New York news coverage, sports, entertainment news, celebrity gossip, autos, videos and photos at nydailynews.com Mon, 06 May 2024 14:32:43 +0000 en-US hourly 30 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 https://www.nydailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/cropped-DailyNewsCamera-7.webp?w=32 Branded Content – New York Daily News https://www.nydailynews.com 32 32 208786248 Marko Stout’s “Glitz & Glamour”: A dazzling affair that showcases artistic luxury https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/05/06/marko-stouts-glitz-glamour-a-dazzling-affair-that-showcases-artistic-luxury/ Mon, 06 May 2024 14:32:43 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7672080 New York City, a metropolis synonymous with the shimmer of the stars and the grit of the streets, is about to be illuminated once again by one of its most illustrious sons. He is gearing up to present his latest oeuvre, “Glitz & Glamour,” at the Anita Rogers Gallery. This anticipated exhibition, set for a VIP preview party on May 9 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, promises to be an opulent affair, reflective of Stout’s iconic status in the NYC art scene.

Stout’s upcoming showcase at 494 Greenwich St. is not just an exhibition; it’s a vibrant commentary on luxury, glamour and their intersections with society. His paintings, a hallmark of his storied career, delve deep into the fabric of modern luxury, exposing its allure as well as its paradoxes. Stout’s work is a mirror held up to the city itself, reflecting the dazzling highs and shadowed lows of the pursuit of opulence.

Why Marko Stout? His significance in the art world transcends aesthetic beauty. Stout is a New York City artist whose narrative weaves through the very streets that have inspired countless dreamers. His art does more than just decorate spaces; it sparks dialogue, challenges preconceptions and celebrates the complexity of human desire. Featured in numerous publications and having held many international solo shows, Stout’s contributions to contemporary art are both a reflection and critique of our times.

“Glitz & Glamour” is expected to draw attention not only for its artistic brilliance but for the societal themes it promises to explore. Stout’s latest works serve as a cultural barometer, measuring the temperature of today’s luxury and glamour through a critical, yet appreciative, lens. This exhibition is a testament to Stout’s enduring relevance in a city that prides itself on being the vanguard of the art world.

Stout’s exhibition extends beyond the visual spectacle. It is a convergence point for art enthusiasts, critics and the glitterati of New York, offering a momentary escape into Stout’s meticulously crafted visions of splendor. This event is not only a celebration of Stout’s artistic journey but also a symbol of continued vibrancy and resilience of New York’s art scene.

In addition to “Glitz & Glamour,” Stout will make a return to the renowned Kate Oh Gallery, located at 31 E. 72nd St., further solidifying his presence in the city’s artistic landscape. This back-to-back showcase underscores Stout’s prolific nature and his commitment to exploring the depths of contemporary society through his art.

For those looking to immerse themselves in Stout’s latest exploration of luxury and glamour, a limited number of complimentary tickets for the May 9 VIP preview party are available. This is an exclusive opportunity to experience Marko Stout’s art firsthand, a chance to peer into the soul of New York through the eyes of one of its artists.

Marko Stout’s “Glitz & Glamour” encapsulates the essence of New York’s ever-evolving narrative of luxury and identity. As the unveiling draws closer, one thing is clear: The city is poised for another unforgettable night in the world of art, courtesy of Stout.


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7672080 2024-05-06T10:32:43+00:00 2024-05-06T10:32:43+00:00
NJ Spine & Orthopedic: Helping patients recover faster https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/04/08/nj-spine-orthopedic-helping-patients-recover-faster/ Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:45:05 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7622882 It’s difficult to imagine anything as painful as back and neck problems. Forget about going to the office, just getting out of bed can feel impossible. Unfortunately, while treatments like realignments and physical therapy can work temporarily, they are often not enough to treat the underlying issue.

In many instances, back and neck pain requires surgery to be corrected, leaving patients hospitalized or otherwise recovering for months afterward. That’s why NJ Spine & Orthopedic is devoted to delivering the best, minimally invasive laser spine surgeries to eradicate pain and discomfort in the back and spine.

The award-winning team of spinal surgeons and medical staff at NJ Spine & Orthopedic offer the latest in research technology, using only cutting-edge equipment in their treatments for pain management. Unlike many traditional options, the comprehensive concierge services provided by NJ Spine & Orthopedic range from non-surgical, conservative methods to gentle, minimally invasive surgeries. These procedures are performed with incisions smaller than a postage stamp.

Provided by Ascend Agency
Provided by Ascend Agency

Their team of highly skilled and expertly trained surgeons is committed to achieving the best results for every patient. To accomplish this tremendous feat, each surgeon uses only state-of-the-art equipment and procedures to promote faster recovery times. A faster recovery time means that patients can return to normal activities sooner than ever before.

At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, patients are granted expert diagnosis and treatment for pain and dysfunction caused by anomalies such as deformity, degenerative disc disease, trauma, failed neck or back surgeries and more. Further setting NJ Spine & Orthopedic apart from other back surgery specialists is their robust team of doctors. Patients are in good hands with back and orthopedic specialists such as Drs. Scott Katzman, Steven Schiebert, Howard Sharf and Douglas Slaughter, all of whom were recognized as being top doctors in their field in 2023.

But there is more to a trusted, professional spine and orthopedic center than just innovative approaches and methodologies. At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, they understand that everyone has busy, chaotic lives. This is why they offer same-day office visits to get you the answers you need in the most timely manner possible. In an industry where patients often feel like numbers, NJ Spine & Orthopedics’ brilliant and compassionate team understands that you deserve punctual service.

Their team combines advanced technology with a patient-centered approach to ensure that all patients get the best possible outcomes. The experienced and board-certified neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic specialists and physicians at NJ Spine & Orthopedic work together to treat spine and back disorders while tailoring their approach to each person’s needs.

Standing at the forefront of medical innovation, the expert team at NJ Spine & Orthopedic is devoted to applying advanced state-of-the-art technology to provide minimally invasive techniques devised to decrease discomfort, diminish scarring and speed up the recovery process. NJ Spine & Orthopedic operates in the most effective way possible to create a safe environment and deliver the most efficient surgical services possible to patients located in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. No matter what caused your suffering, NJ Spine & Orthopedic offers the treatment and care you deserve.


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7622882 2024-04-08T10:45:05+00:00 2024-05-02T12:08:29+00:00
Wake-up call for solar owners: Time to clean up the Lead Gen Act https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/26/wake-up-call-for-solar-owners-time-to-clean-up-the-lead-gen-act/ Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:09:39 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7599721 Rich Feola of Solar Exclusive shares how ethical lead gen isn’t just the right way to do business — he says it’s the only way (and the FCC agrees).

Provided by Ascend Agency
Provided by Mindful Media

The Wild West of lead gen is finally being tamed. With new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules closing the “lead generator loophole,” businesses across the U.S. have only a year to become compliant.

The FCC has wanted to take a crack at online marketers for a long time. For consumers fed up with robocalls and text spam, these new rules could be seen as a massive win.

This isn’t a win, however, for the many businesses that have relied on the lead gen loophole to bring in sales prospects. In the past, if a consumer consented to a single lead generator, that information could be sold to multiple telemarketers — making leads cheap and easy to throw into an autodialer.

In an industry like solar, this practice has become a norm, and many businesses are currently working with soon-to-be-illegal shared leads.

For a solar business owner, there are two reactions. Some feel they can maintain the current model without getting caught. Others see this as a kill shot to their online marketing efforts that will force a return to the “old fashioned” approach: knocking doors full time.

Online marketing expert Rich Feola, founder of Solar Exclusive, has a different take. A leader in the solar lead gen space since 2017, Feola sees this as a massive opportunity for solar companies trying to double down on new business.

“The lead generator loophole was a quantity-over-quality approach that did more to waste a sales team’s time than it did to bring in steady business,” Feola says.

According to Feola, leads who haven’t consented to a solicitation — or had only shown a passing interest in the product months prior — don’t result in productive sales calls. The leads may have been cost-effective to acquire, but the juice was still never really worth the squeeze. If anything, these new FCC rules are a welcome wake-up call to start investing in quality leads, rather than continuing to scrape the bottom of the barrel, he says.

This only affirms what Feola has been telling business owners for years.

“You could be pushing prospects into something they’re not interested in,” Feola says, “or you could be pulling in people that are already willing and qualified to make the purchase.”

The difference lies in exclusive leads — which Solar Exclusive specializes in. In this model, prospects have consented to share their information with a specific solar company — and that company is the only one who will be giving them a call.

“We generate all our leads through search engines and video streaming,” Feola says, “from people who are using those platforms to actually research solar. They are in the market and ready to buy.”

Provided by Ascend Agency
Provided by Mindful Media

While this targeted approach costs more than shared leads, it’s soon to be the only alternative to door-knocking and other traditional marketing methods. The good news is that lead gen is one area where you definitely get what you pay for, he says.

“We talked to so many clients who have tried everyone and know we have the best quality leads,” Feola says. “It’s night and day different from anything that they’ve ever done elsewhere. Even in a tough year in solar, our clients have doubled down with us, even as our competitors go out of business.”

Feola reports that Solar Exclusive gained 100 new clients in December 2023, representing a new wave of companies looking to get compliant well ahead of when the FCC hammer drops (and better their businesses along the way).

With the age of the low-quality lead coming to an end, Feola sees opportunities for his business to grow outside of the solar world.

“We’re expanding right now — kitchen and bath, windows, roofing — moving into other home service industries,” he says. “We’re a process-oriented business that just happens to have started in solar. Our model works anywhere, and we want to keep bringing it to new industries.”

The rise of Solar Exclusive — and Feola’s vision for its future — is a big piece of the wider trend that’s going on in online marketing. Businesses are getting all too comfortable cutting corners to get leads, consumers are getting frustrated, and the FCC is moving to clean up the landscape.

Solar Exclusive represents a future where engaging a prospect with consent, precision and respect is an ideal way to do business. For Feola’s company, this isn’t a knee-jerk reaction to change; it’s something that they brought to the market seven years ago.

As he helps tame the Wild West of lead gen, Feola is excited about a new standard of excellence in solar marketing.

“We’re looking into a partnership with the Residential Solar Association, a nonprofit trying to fix many of the industry’s ethical problems, to promote better lead gen practices,” he says. “The industry is changing for the better — and it starts with the people running the ads and generating the leads.”

To see the future of solar lead gen for yourself, visit SolarExclusive.com.


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7599721 2024-03-26T11:09:39+00:00 2024-05-02T12:07:53+00:00
Vision and expertise: David Ebrahimzadeh leading Corniche Capital to new heights https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/13/vision-and-expertise-david-ebrahimzadeh-leading-corniche-capital-to-new-heights/ Wed, 13 Mar 2024 15:52:04 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7578408 Real estate offers a unique way to shape your future, and David Ebrahimzadeh, president of Corniche Capital, understands that. With his passion for unlocking the potential within real estate projects, Corniche Capital is achieving its real estate goals through expert development and professional property management services.

With a passion for unlocking the potential of real estate, Ebrahimzadeh is guiding Corniche Capital to new heights of success in real estate and private equity investments. In addition to investing and developing real estate, the company also handles property management.

As the mastermind behind Corniche Capital, Ebrahimzadeh has carved a niche in the investment landscape thanks to his rich experience and education in this sector. With a background steeped in the intricacies of commercial real estate development and private equity, Ebrahimzadeh’s competency stands unparalleled. Hailing from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and honing his skills at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., Ebrahimzadeh naturally pivoted into investment to make his mark.

Inspired by his familial roots in real estate, Ebrahimzadeh’s passion for the industry grew early on. From multifamily dwellings to sprawling office complexes, his ventures spanned the length and breadth of the real estate industry. However, it was his fascination with industrial real estate that defined his career. With an insatiable appetite for opportunity and a penchant for swift execution, Ebrahimzadeh has cemented his status as a trailblazer in the field.

Corniche Capital operates under two central business units: real estate and private equity. With a keen eye for value-added prospects and a penchant for creative deal structuring, the team at Corniche Capital identifies opportunities where others see obstacles. The company has a widespread reach that knows no bounds to unlock wealth-building potential from the United States to Mexico, the Caribbean and beyond.

Private equity investments hold a significant place in Corniche Capital’s diversified portfolio. Focusing on middle-market companies, leveraged buyouts (LBOs) and distressed debt, Ebrahimzadeh’s expertise spans many industries, from manufacturing to logistics and beyond. With an impressive amount as a minimum consulting deal, Corniche Capital is paving the ground to utilize emerging opportunities while navigating the complexities of today’s market.

Looking into the future, Ebrahimzadeh envisions Corniche Capital as an opportunistic investing firm that promises continued growth and innovation. With a unique ability to discern projects that bear fruit, he believes he can inspire his team to scale new heights and expand the company’s reach. Ebrahimzadeh’s steadfast commitment to calculate investment in an uncertain industry is a guiding light, illuminating the path to prosperity for all who dare to dream.

With Ebrahimzadeh at the helm, Corniche Capital operates with a future-oriented vision. The company is constantly seeking new and innovative ways to navigate the complexities of the market and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Ebrahimzadeh’s commitment to calculated investment strategies provides a strong foundation for the company’s success.

]]>
7578408 2024-03-13T11:52:04+00:00 2024-05-02T12:07:08+00:00
Cross Country Moving Company introduces ‘white glove’ services for fragile and expensive items https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/05/cross-country-moving-company-introduces-white-glove-services-for-fragile-and-expensive-items/ Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:15:12 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7562136 The company provides extra care when handling expensive and rare items across the U.S. and around the world

Alex Ravich founded Cross Country Moving Company in 2012 after working in the industry for more than 20 years, starting as a mover and working up to foreman. CCM’s first location opened in Los Angeles and quickly expanded to many other cities to provide wider coverage for customers looking to move from one state to another.

Today, CCM has locations in 10 of the largest cities in the U.S. and is able to help people move anywhere in the country, as well as internationally. Their services include long-distance moving, international moving, auto shipping, and full packing and unpacking services — anything that’s necessary for a seamless “white glove” experience.

From day one, Ravich’s ultimate goal was to have a full-service cross-country moving company that focuses on providing affordable white glove long-distance and full international moving services. He always aimed to bring a white glove level of service to an industry that’s largely focused on just providing a couple of movers and a truck.

The CCM crew is now equipped to handle all sorts of valuable musical instruments and luxury items, no matter how much they are worth. “Pianos can be worth up to $100,000,” Ravich says. “Once, we moved one that was priced at $500,000.”

He also explains that grand pianos are tough to pack and move, but the crew from CCM has managed to handle them without a problem. The process starts by removing the three legs, followed by the pedals. After that, parts are carefully loaded onto a crate. However, he says upright pianos are easier to handle. Movers strap them to the piano board, the one that becomes a new base of the instrument, then they roll them out on a dolly.

Besides pianos, expensive gym equipment is the trickiest thing to pack and move because “everything needs to be dismantled and then put back together, which can take the whole day,” Ravich says. He adds that big sofas can also sometimes be difficult to handle because they need to be carried out through the window.

Jennifer Freeman, a client who hired the company for a move from Los Angeles to Pennsylvania, testifies to their special treatment of unique and fragile items. “We have a lot of breakable items in our home, from a large flat TV to my husband’s vintage guitars and vinyl records. So, naturally I was really worried about the way movers would handle them. We just gave them the dimensions of our most valuable items and they did the rest. CCM even brought packing materials such as foam pieces, blankets, bubble wrap and tape, so I felt really secure,” says Freeman.

The business also provides insurance covering up to $5 million of items moved so that owners of valuable, difficult-to-move items have peace of mind. “I wanted to provide not only exceptional customer service but also a stress-free moving experience. That’s why more than 90% of our clients are repeated and recommended,” says Ravich, explaining that most repeating clients are professionals who move for a new job across the U.S.

When it comes to moving highly valuable items, the CCM crew ensures that everything goes smoothly. “One of the first things we ask customers is, ‘What is the most valuable item we are moving?’ That can be anything from a piece of paper, a family heirloom, a piece of art or a musical instrument,” Ravich explains.

He adds that the foreman plays a significant role in making sure items arrive safely. “He ensures that the moving crew properly packs super-valuable objects,” he says. “The crew uses small cardboard boxes for smaller stuff, while we build custom wooden crates for paintings and statues.”

Ravich explains that it is the foreman’s responsibility to stay with customers and ensure they are calm. “They almost always have a million other things to worry about,” he says. “The least we can do is ensure they don’t worry about the move.”

CCM’s white glove moving services also include car shipping, and the company is  well-equipped to ship both regular and classic cars. Luxury or classic cars are loaded onto enclosed trailers, while regular vehicles are transported on open carriers.

From Ravich’s humble beginnings as a mover to 2012, when he started CCM with just a couple of trucks, he has learned the moving process and knows how to optimize it. He is now running a white glove service moving company that moves thousands of families every year.

Their white glove services mean even the most luxurious items can be moved with ease. “When you hire us, all you have to do is open the door,” Ravich says. “We want the customer to just sit back and relax while our movers do the heavy lifting. Our customers are like orchestra conductors, and all they need to do is point the movers in the right direction and relax.”

CCM’s tailored approach to every client allows them to be able to handle all household goods, no matter the price, with care. “We focus on providing personalized service to each and every one of our customers,” Ravich says. “We understand that each move is unique, and we work closely with our clients to ensure that their individual needs are met.”


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7562136 2024-03-05T11:15:12+00:00 2024-05-02T12:10:27+00:00
A world of casino games at your fingertips: The responsive design of DingDingDing.com https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/04/a-world-of-casino-games-at-your-fingertips-the-responsive-design-of-dingdingding-com/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 22:31:20 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7561123 Imagine a world where the exhilarating energy of the casino floor is just a click away. Picture a place where you can enjoy the thrill of slot machines, the camaraderie of bingo games and the competitive spirit of live tournaments all from the comfort of your own home. Step into the virtual world of DingDingDing.

DingDingDing’s ingenious fusion of custom games, responsive design and around-the-clock support make it different from other websites. Tailored to the gaming preferences of men and women over 25, this free social casino has been causing quite a stir across the USA. But don’t mistake it for a conventional online gambling platform. DingDingDing is much more: it’s a hub of engaging social interaction and riveting gameplay.

You’ll be greeted with a staggering 500,000 gold coins and five SweepStakes Coins as a welcome gift the moment you register. It’s an enticing introduction to the site’s captivating offerings — a treasure trove of hundreds of high-quality slot games, each with its unique theme and gameplay mechanics.

DingDingDing’s appeal lies in its variety of games. From fast-paced free slot games to the community-driven excitement of bingo, there’s a game for every taste. As you progress and your experience level rises, the rewards continue to improve. Free bingo games yield extra coins and big wins earn additional prizes.

DingDingDing is more than just a gaming platform. It’s an online community where players come together to share in the excitement and camaraderie of the games. Live tournaments add a competitive edge; daily gifts keep the experience fresh and exciting. The thrill of winning on the platform is heightened by the innovative dual currency system, where players can choose between gold or SweepStakes coins and exchange them for real-world rewards.

At the heart of DingDingDing’s success is its commitment to responsive, user-friendly design. So whether you’re on a desktop computer at home or on your mobile device, the gaming experience remains seamless. This free-to-play casino has been meticulously crafted to ensure that players can focus on the thrill of the game without any distractions or complications.

Navigating through the website is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive layout. New members can easily find their way around with the bonus of three times the bingo games and five free SweepStakes Coins to start their gaming journey. This attention to user experience has propelled DingDingDing to its place as the leading social casino website. In this digital age where privacy is paramount, DingDingDing offers the reassurance of secure, private payments, offering players peace of mind and ensuring they can focus solely on enjoying the games.

However, it’s crucial to underline that DingDingDing’s main purpose is not gambling; it’s for free-to-play social games. It’s about the joy of a big win, the friendly rivalry of a live tournament and the pleasure of sharing these experiences with others in a safe and enjoyable environment. So whether you’re a slots enthusiast or a bingo buff, DingDingDing offers a thrilling gaming experience. Welcome to the future of free social casino games, where the casino floor is just a click away.


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7561123 2024-03-04T17:31:20+00:00 2024-05-02T12:11:23+00:00
DRMAGDN launches thrilling new tribute remix https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/04/drmagdn-launches-thrilling-new-tribute-remix/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 21:17:06 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7560951 In the heart of New York City, an artist named DRMAGDN has crafted a heartfelt tribute to one of the greatest songwriters of all time. With his epic new remix, DRMAGDN takes us on a musical journey through the city that played a pivotal role in the history of the original song. As a resident of the West Village for many years, his connection to the city runs deep, and his music reflects that bond.

DRMAGDN is no stranger to the music scene, having graced the stages of renowned venues around the world and performances at notable events. His adventures have led him to tour 31 countries and 43 U.S. states, contributing his exceptional  talents to over 250 records.

Signed to BMG, he boasts an impressive track record with over 21 million views and plays, along with a loyal following of over 700,000 fans. Collaborating with acclaimed artists, DRMAGDN has tracks mastered by the engineers behind well-known music industry giants. These collaborations have propelled DRMAGDN’s accolades, including being listed as one of Blender Magazine’s “Best Drummers of All Time.”


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7560951 2024-03-04T16:17:06+00:00 2024-05-02T12:12:03+00:00
Big Money Records: Revolutionizing the music industry one beat at a time https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/04/big-money-records-revolutionizing-the-music-industry-one-beat-at-a-time/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 21:07:23 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7560934 Philadelphia’s own Big Money Records (BMR) is redefining the music industry. Adhering to a “bigger than life” mantra, BMR is set for worldwide acclaim.

BMR stands as a haven for musical talent, providing first-rate production, comprehensive artist development, and industry-standard recording facilities. At BMR, talent isn’t simply discovered; it’s sculpted into a worldwide sensation.

Despite the music industry’s constant transformation, BMR distinguishes itself through adaptability and commitment to in-house development. They’re constantly bolstering their media team and enhancing their production capabilities, setting the pace in a highly competitive industry.

BMR places artists at the heart of their vision. Their dedication to providing exceptional experiences to all collaborators reflects their commitment to nurturing and promoting talent.

BMR showcases artists from a vast range of music styles, reaching out to an expansive audience. A significant recent development is their joint venture with Republic Records, a move that amplifies BMR’s global presence and opens a plethora of opportunities for their artists, including Ralan Styles.

BMR recognizes the hurdles of building a label from scratch. However, through unwavering effort, patience and resilience, they’ve managed to construct a solid foundation within the industry.

BMR’s future goals are as grand as their journey so far. They aim to rule the music world, city by city, fueled by an unquenchable thirst for success. The label nurtures a work environment that strikes a balance between hard work and fun, promoting authenticity and dedication.

As Big Money Records continues to make strides in the industry, they are clearly here to stay. Their recent partnership with Republic Records and their innovative in-house initiatives prove that BMR is not just a label, but a testament to the power of dreams propelled by hard work and dedication.


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7560934 2024-03-04T16:07:23+00:00 2024-05-02T12:12:51+00:00
Videntifier: Icelandic technology company reimagines video hashing in the fight against illicit online content https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/04/videntifier-icelandic-technology-company-reimagines-video-hashing-in-the-fight-against-illicit-online-content/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:58:50 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7560856 The digital landscape is fraught with the perpetual challenge of combating harmful content. Amid this relentless pursuit, a standout company armed with advanced video identification technology has emerged. Videntifier Technologies has risen as a formidable force in the relentless battle against the proliferation of malicious content. As a result of utilizing advanced technology, Videntifier has forged strategic partnerships with renowned organizations such as Interpol, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), and major technology giants. Their shared mission — to combat the proliferation of illegal content that plagues the online world.

With the exponential growth of video-sharing platforms as vital mediums of communication and self-expression, it has become increasingly challenging to ensure the safety and security of internet users. Recognizing this pressing issue, the company has emerged as a pioneer in video identification by addressing the fundamental flaw inherent in hash technologies. The Videntifier team has revolutionized video identification by transforming local descriptor hashes into a powerful, flexible solution.

Image provided by Ascend Agency

Read on to explore the technological capabilities of Videntifier and examine how their innovative approach is revolutionizing the video identification field.

Hash technologies are methods of file fingerprinting used to distinguish one image or video from another They are often leveraged by online platforms, law enforcement and abuse hotlines to help detect modified illicit content reposted to the web. However, until recently, most hash types have proved themselves inadequate in providing a complete solution. For example, when identifying modified videos, the commonly employed cryptographic and perceptual hashes face inherent limitations. Cryptographic hashes can only identify exact matches, meaning that this method completely falls apart when even the slightest alteration is made to a file. Meanwhile, perceptual hashes are better suited to detecting minor modifications but less effective at detecting larger changes, such as cropping or adding pictures within pictures.

While these widely used identification methods hold value, they fail to comprehensively address the issue, often allowing reposted harmful content to remain undetected and persist online for extended periods. As a result, individuals continue to be re-victimized. This highlights the pressing need for more robust video identification solutions.

Videntifier adopts an innovative approach by leveraging local descriptor hashes, which possess unique capabilities not found in other hash types. Using this specialized hash type, videos can be identified even after they have been altered with such modifications as cropping, bordering, embedding, or picture-in-picture. Equipped with the necessary sophistication and power, local descriptors are invaluable tools for platforms that foster a safer online environment, particularly in accurately detecting known CSAM.

In the past, implementing local descriptor hashes has faced scalability and computational efficiency challenges, reducing their effectiveness in video identification. Yet, Videntifier’s team of skilled engineers has addressed these issues head-on, proposing a two-pronged approach. Combining their in-depth visual fingerprinting algorithm and NV-Tree’s patent-protected database index, they can provide quick and efficient video identification tools to trust and safety teams.

With Videntifier’s descriptor extraction component, video frames are processed, and visual descriptors are extracted as images. Known for its resource efficiency, this methodology involves fine-tuning the extraction process to deliver the optimal selection of frames, descriptors and levels of detail necessary to identify the target successfully. Videntifier’s NV-Tree database structure, a composite of multiple hotline hash databases (most notably NCMEC’s), is capable of accommodating billions of descriptors that facilitate rapid search across millions of hours of video and billions of images. The inherent scalability of this technique ensures the practicality and effectiveness of local descriptor searches.

Image provided by Ascend Agency

The NV-Tree’s unique structure supports collaboration among online platforms and law enforcement agencies, with the added benefit of protecting client and user data by utilizing one-way encoding techniques for queries and preserving user privacy throughout the process. Through the exchange of hashes representing identified instances of CSAM, these entities can forge a united front in their ongoing battle against harmful content. Their collective efforts effectively thwart the dissemination of such materials and expedite their removal from their respective platforms. This collaborative approach not only increases the potency of video identification operations, it also provides a more effective and responsive countermeasure against the illicit circulation of such material.

Trust and safety teams benefit from Videntifier’s cutting-edge video identification solution. Within seconds, moderators can easily query and identify content utilizing its rapid and precise search capabilities. Designed to facilitate a safer and more secure online environment, Videntifier’s solution offers a variety of search query options and advanced exposure reduction measures for moderators.

With an eye toward the future, the company is committed to preventing the proliferation of CSAM and other malicious content online. A key component of their mission involves supporting the dedicated moderators and analysts monitoring such distressing material. Through its state-of-the-art technology, Videntifier aims to alleviate the burden on these professionals and mitigate the psychological toll associated with their highly sensitive work.

With a commitment to innovation, Videntifier pushes the boundaries of its solutions. In doing so, they seek to create a safer online environment in which harmful content is effectively dealt with, thus fulfilling their long-held dream of impacting positive change in the battle against illicit online content.


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7560856 2024-03-04T15:58:50+00:00 2024-05-02T12:13:38+00:00
SOS Therapy Centers’ commitment to autism community outreach and inclusive events https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/04/sos-therapy-centers-commitment-to-autism-community-outreach-and-inclusive-events/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 19:41:27 +0000 https://www.nydailynews.com/?p=7560666 Families with children on the autism spectrum are often forced to deal with unforeseen challenges that leave many feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Whether it’s managing sensory issues, navigating social interactions or finding activities that are both engaging and accessible, the journey is fraught with a number of obstacles.

This is precisely why collaborative initiatives and programs that involve the parents, their children and, possibly, the children’s therapists have become an invaluable source of power to tread through this dense landscape.

One company that possesses an intimate understanding of the complexities of autism care and that has risen to the challenge of providing a comprehensive care system is Success On the Spectrum, founded by Nichole Daher.

Extending its branches to the broader community, the franchise has been smashing barriers left and right, and in doing so, it has helped foster an inclusive world that goes far beyond standard applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy, which has been shown to benefit children with autism.

One won’t find any fundraisers at SOS because all of their events are free to the public. The centers have discovered a unique magic that has been deeply transforming the lives of parents, their children and entire communities through their innovative outreach programs.

“We have created much more than simple support systems,” Daher explains. “Our goal is to create lasting memories for these families. We want to give the kids a place where they fit in and belong.”

With a genuine activist spirit, the SOS franchise has created a number of events and initiatives within its outreach program. And these aren’t just feel-good gestures but also life-changing experiences for both children on the spectrum and their families.

Picture a prom where everyone fits in or a festival designed to be a haven for those with sensory processing sensitivities. These aren’t just fanciful dreams but tangible realities brought to life by SOS. Their events are sanctuaries for families with autistic children, conceived as places where judgments are left at the door and understanding is the guest of honor.

“We host an event called Autism Prom. It’s adorable, and honestly it’s incredibly fun for everyone involved,” Daher shares. “The children we work with would otherwise never be able to experience an event such as a prom, so we’re thrilled that we can help them have fun without the fear of being judged or rejected.”

Additionally, SOS has hosted other events and activities, such as sensory-friendly carnivals, arts and crafts events, and bubble parties, all aiming to promote social inclusion, reduce the stigma regarding autism and provide fun activities for children and parents alike.

One aspect of SOS’s outreach program that sets them apart is an event the team has dubbed Parents Night Out. Recognizing the fact that parents with autistic children can’t frequently afford to relax, go out or spend quality time with their friends, SOS has stepped in with an activity designed to lift some of the weight off the parents’ shoulders.

“For Parents Night Out, we offer free babysitting services and allow the parents a chance to go out and have fun while ensuring their kids are safe and taken care of,” Daher says.

As Daher explains, those who wish to participate in any of the events can simply join, whether or not they are a SOS client.

SOS’s community outreach program has proven to be more than a series of events — it has evolved into a powerful movement, a revolutionary shift in how autism care is perceived and provided.

The world of autism care can often be clinical, focused on treatment and therapeutic goals. But SOS reminds us that care is more than a procedure; it’s a commitment to the whole person.

As Daher puts it, “We’re a tight-knit family. United, we are carving out a path toward a world where each child feels embraced, cherished and empowered irrespective of their challenges.”

Find a list of upcoming Success On the Spectrum events in a city near you at SuccessOnTheSpectrum.com/Events/


The news and editorial staffs of the New York Daily News had no role in this post’s preparation.

]]>
7560666 2024-03-04T14:41:27+00:00 2024-05-02T12:15:24+00:00