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David Ellefson Rings in the Holidays with a Fresh Take on Donnie Iris’ “Ah! Leah!”

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Grammy Award-winning bassist David Ellefson is closing out the year with a special holiday surprise: a vibrant and reimagined version of the 1980s classic Ah! Leah! by legendary singer-songwriter Donnie Iris.

This fresh take on the iconic track boasts an all-star lineup. Joining Ellefson are vocalists Chip Z’nuff (Enuff Z’nuff) and Stephen Shareaux (Kik Tracee), Drew Fortier (The Lucid) on guitar, and Paolo Caridi on drums. The new rendition, brimming with talent and nostalgia, is now available across all digital platforms.

Reflecting on the project, Ellefson shared, “The skinny tie alternative rock movement of the early ’80s was such a fun and creative era for music. Ah! Leah! Was not only a massive FM radio hit; it’s a hauntingly beautiful song with an unforgettable melody and lyric. Alongside acts like Aldo Nova, The Greg Kihn Band, Joe Jackson and The Cars, this was a transformative time for rock music that shaped me as a young musician. This rendition brings together an amazingly talented group of friends and musicians to create a really cool version of this classic, setting a creative tone for the holiday season!”

Chip Z’nuff added his thoughts on the collaboration, “Anytime I get the opportunity to work with heavyweights on a classic 1980s hit, I sonically attack with as much reflection and intent as possible. David Ellefson picked an incendiary track with Donnie Iris Ah! Leah!, which is the perfect combination of pop meets metal in 2025!”

With Ellefson’s knack for reinvention and a stellar team of musicians, this reimagined Ah! Leah! is sure to resonate with fans of the original while introducing its magic to a new generation.

Beyond the Sun: Using Parasols as Decor for Outdoor Events

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By Mitch Rice

Parasols have long been cherished for their practical role in providing shade, but their aesthetic appeal has made them an increasingly popular choice for outdoor event decor. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, a wedding, or a summer soirée, parasols can transform any space into an enchanting setting. With their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and timeless elegance, parasols go beyond functionality to become striking decorative elements that elevate the ambiance of any event.

A Splash of Color and Elegance

One of the most compelling reasons to use parasols as decor is their ability to introduce vibrant colors and patterns into your event. From bold, bright hues to soft pastels, 日傘 can be selected to complement your event’s color scheme. For instance, floral-patterned parasols are perfect for a romantic garden wedding, while parasols in tropical prints can enhance the festive vibe of a summer luau. Their versatility allows event planners to customize the look and feel of the venue, creating a cohesive aesthetic that ties all elements together.

Parasols also add a touch of elegance to any setting. Their delicate structure and intricate designs can evoke a sense of sophistication and refinement, making them ideal for formal events. For vintage-themed gatherings, antique-style parasols with lace or embroidery can transport guests to a bygone era, adding an extra layer of charm.

Functional and Decorative: Dual Purpose Parasols

Beyond their decorative appeal, parasols serve a functional purpose that is particularly valuable for outdoor events. They provide shade and protection from the sun, ensuring that guests remain comfortable throughout the day. Strategically placing parasols around seating areas, dining tables, or lounges can create cozy, shaded spots where guests can relax and enjoy the festivities.

To maximize their dual-purpose potential, consider using parasols with unique features. For example, parasols with LED lighting can illuminate the space after sunset, adding a magical glow to the event. Alternatively, parasols with built-in misting systems can keep guests cool on particularly hot days, seamlessly blending practicality with style.

Creative Ways to Incorporate Parasols

Parasols can be used in a variety of creative ways to enhance your event decor. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

  • Ceiling Installations: Suspend parasols from above to create a whimsical canopy that adds depth and visual interest. This works particularly well in tents or outdoor venues with overhead structures.
  • Photo Backdrops: Arrange parasols in an artistic pattern on a wall to create a stunning photo backdrop. This not only serves as a focal point but also provides guests with a memorable spot for pictures.
  • Table Centerpieces: Miniature parasols can be incorporated into table centerpieces, paired with flowers, candles, or other decorative elements to create a cohesive look.
  • Pathway Decor: Line pathways with open parasols to guide guests through the venue. This can be especially striking when using parasols in uniform colors or designs.
  • Hanging Decor: Attach parasols to trees or pergolas to create floating decor that sways gently in the breeze, adding movement and a sense of enchantment to the setting.

Sustainable and Reusable Decor

In an era where sustainability is a growing concern, parasols offer an eco-friendly decor option. 高品質なパラソル can be reused for multiple events, reducing waste and providing long-term value. For those looking to minimize their environmental impact, consider choosing parasols made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or organic cotton.

After the event, parasols can be repurposed as home decor items or donated to charities, extending their life cycle and contributing to a more sustainable approach to event planning.

Customization for a Personal Touch

Personalized parasols are a fantastic way to add a unique touch to your event. From monograms and logos to custom colors and patterns, parasols can be tailored to reflect the theme and personality of the occasion. For weddings, parasols with the couple’s names or wedding date can serve as keepsakes for guests. Similarly, branded parasols can be used for corporate events, providing both functionality and a promotional opportunity.

Memorable Guest Experiences

Incorporating parasols into your event decor is not only visually impactful but also enhances the guest experience. Parasols can be distributed to guests as functional favors, allowing them to stay cool and comfortable while enjoying the festivities. This thoughtful gesture ensures that guests feel cared for and adds an interactive element to the event.

For larger gatherings, consider hosting a parasol-decorating station where guests can personalize their own parasols. This creative activity adds a fun and engaging dimension to the event, leaving guests with a unique souvenir to take home.

Conclusion: Elevating Events with Parasols

Parasols are more than just practical accessories; they are versatile decor elements that bring beauty, elegance, and functionality to outdoor events. From adding splashes of color to creating magical installations, parasols have the power to transform any venue into an unforgettable setting. By incorporating parasols into your event planning, you can craft a unique and memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression on your guests. Whether you’re hosting an intimate garden party or a grand celebration, parasols offer endless possibilities to elevate your event beyond the ordinary.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Landscape of Privacy in Online Gambling in 2025

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By Mitch Rice

The online gambling landscape has undergone massive changes in privacy norms and regulations over the past few years. With advanced tracking, data collection and responsible gaming initiatives, privacy is no longer a straightforward concept for operators or players. This article explores the key privacy battlegrounds that define the online gambling experience in 2025.

Protecting Player Data from Unauthorized Access

Online gambling operators, like Casiny Australia, collect vast amounts of personal data on players, including identity, contact information, financial data and gaming history. Players expect this data to be kept private and safe from hackers and unauthorized access by third parties.

Several high-profile data breaches in recent years have heightened concerns around data security. A 2023 survey found 78% of players worry about the privacy of their data held by gambling operators. In response, many jurisdictions have introduced stricter know-your-customer (KYC) regulations and data protection laws with severe penalties for non-compliance.

Table 1: Regulations related to player data security in major online gambling jurisdictions

Jurisdiction Year Introduced Key Provisions
UK 2021 Mandatory encryption for player data

Fines up to £17.5 million or 4% of global turnover for GDPR violations

Malta 2024 Player data must be anonymized after 90 days

Breach notifications required within 72 hours

Australia 2023 KYC checks required within 72 hours of registration

Access controls and activity monitoring mandated for employee data access

Regulations Around Geo-tracking and Targeting

The ability to track player locations and target personalized promotions based on activity was a major driver of online gambling growth prior to 2020. However many jurisdictions now view some geo-tracking and targeting tactics as invasive or manipulative.

For example, the UK Gambling Commission banned the use of third-party data for targeting in 2023. Operators can only target players based on data collected on-site. Multiple European countries have introduced similar “privacy by design” regulations.

At the same time, interstate gambling in the US remains illegal under the Wire Act. Strict geo-blocking and location verification measures are mandatory for operators. This limits targeting capabilities but ensures regulatory compliance. The evolving patchwork of regulations presents complex challenges for multi-territory operators.

Data Collection for Responsible Gaming Initiatives

As problem gambling gains recognition as a public health issue, operators face pressures to identify at-risk players early and intervene with responsible gaming tools. However these tools require collecting and analyzing player behavior data to detect harmful patterns.

Obtaining player consent for broader data collection has proved challenging. For instance, a 2024 trial by the UK Gambling Commission to detect problem gamblers through live play tracking achieved only a 27% opt-in rate among players. Privacy advocates also argue such intrusive, automated monitoring violates player autonomy.

Nonetheless, responsible gaming remains a top priority for regulators. Balancing problem gambling safeguards with player privacy concessions will only grow more complex for the industry.

Tensions Behind Anonymized Data

While anonymized and aggregated player data offers insights without compromising individual privacy, even this faces skepticism today.

Critics point to the risk of re-identification and the lack of transparency around anonymization processes. A 2022 lawsuit alleged one operator’s “anonymized” datasets contained enough unique identifiers to reconstruct player profiles. This erodes trust in promises of anonymity.

However anonymized data enables many public interest initiatives – from identifying inequality to planning urban infrastructure. Online gambling regulators face calls to mandate more robust anonymization standards and audit processes instead of restricting access to such data.

Navigating this tension between utility and perceived privacy risks continues to pose ethical and technological challenges for regulators.

Ongoing Developments

The online gambling ecosystem in 2025 presents complex, rapidly evolving privacy landscapes for both players and operators to navigate. While technology, regulations and public attitudes continue to develop, proactive communication and transparency around privacy practices are essential to maintain player trust.

The issues covered here reflect some of the most pressing current battlegrounds but the coming years will likely surface new dimensions to the privacy debate as technology and attitudes co-evolve. Regulators and operators must closely track emerging concerns around invasive marketing, biometrics, surveillance and interconnected technologies so they can balance privacy and broader public interests in a transparent manner.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

The Meaning of Life: Insights from Godfrey Reggio, Steve Albini, and Fred Armisen

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In a January, 2024 episode of Dispatches from The Well, Kmele Foster dives deep into the minds of filmmaker Godfrey Reggio, rock legend Steve Albini, and comedian Fred Armisen to explore the “why” behind their creative lives. From Reggio’s groundbreaking films to Albini’s analog commitment and Armisen’s fusion of music and comedy, this episode offers a unique perspective on purpose and creativity.

Gillian Anderson Reads Anaïs Nin’s Letter About Passion And Poetry

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In 1932, Cuban diarist Anaïs Nin and American novelist Henry Miller began a deep, lasting connection that would span many years. In the 1940s, while working with other writers to produce private fiction for an anonymous client known as the “Collector,” Nin wrote a passionate letter expressing her frustrations with the client’s demand to “leave out the poetry” and focus solely on the physical. In November 2023, Gillian Anderson read this letter during the 10th anniversary show of Letters Live at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Iman Opens the Doors to Her Catskills Home, Sharing Artistic Tributes to David Bowie

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In the 2021-taped Objects of Affection, supermodel Iman invites us into her Catskills home, filled with stunning tributes to her late husband, David Bowie. From a 1980 self-portrait he painted to a sculpture she gifted him on their first anniversary, Iman shares intimate treasures that celebrate their love and Bowie’s legacy. It’s a rare, heartfelt glimpse into a home that once hosted rock royalty, with echoes of their connection lingering in every corner.

Betty Boop and Cab Calloway’s Enchanted Adventure In Snow-White From 1933

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In 1933, Betty Boop took center stage in the animated short Snow-White, an ambitious project from Max Fleischer’s studio that became a pivotal moment in animation history. Directed by Dave Fleischer and largely animated by Roland Crandall, this surreal fairy tale introduces a magic mirror, a villainous Queen, and a series of whimsical, jazz-infused musical numbers. With groundbreaking animation techniques and a standout performance by Cab Calloway’s rotoscoped dance moves, Snow-White remains a masterpiece of the Golden Age of Animation and a cultural gem preserved in the National Film Registry.

Frank Herbert Discusses the Universe of Dune in 1969 Interview with Willis E. McNelly

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Willis E. McNelly interviews Frank Herbert on February 3, 1969 at Herbert’s house.

Set in the distant future amidst a feudal interstellar society in which noble houses, in control of individual planets, owe allegiance to the Padishah Emperor, Dune tells the story of young Paul Atreides, whose noble family accepts the stewardship of the desert planet Arrakis. As this planet is the only source of the “spice” melange, the most important and valuable substance in the universe, control of Arrakis is a coveted — and dangerous — undertaking. The story explores the multi-layered interactions of politics, religion, ecology, technology, and human emotion, as the forces of the empire confront each other in a struggle for the control of Arrakis and its “spice”.

Bob Dylan Reads “Twas The Night Before Christmas”

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In 2006, Bob Dylan brought his unique, gravelly charm to the holiday season, reciting the classic “Twas the Night Before Christmas” on his Theme Time Radio Hour. The iconic poet of rock ‘n’ roll spun the timeless tale with a voice full of whimsy and wonder, proving once again that Dylan can turn even a holiday tradition into a masterclass in storytelling.

The most unusual online casino bonuses: from cashback to free spins

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By Mitch Rice

Online casino bonuses are rewards given to attract and keep players. They include free spins, cashback on losses, and other offers. These bonuses help players increase their chances of winning without extra spending. Most bonuses, like deposit matches, are common. However, some casinos offer unusual bonuses that can provide more value. These unique offers often have special conditions and surprises. They are worth checking out. Let’s look at some of the most unusual online casino bonuses available today.

No Deposit Free Chips

Free chips are used as no deposit bonus codes in Australian casinos. These bonuses enable the players to take free chips without contributing through money depositing. Many casinos offer free chips as part of their welcome promotions to attract new players. To claim these offers, players often need to enter no deposit bonus codes free chip during registration. When redeemed, the free chips are credited into their account and they get to practice several games using the platform without actual deposit.

 

New players can also take advantage of free chips to explore a certain casino they want to try and at the same time increase their balance. The regular players can therefore use these bonuses to play even more games and win real money prizes. However, most free chip winnings enjoy certain conditions placed on them. The bonus must be wagered and only then money that users put in when betting is withdrawn. These requirements vary from one casino to another, therefore it is advisable to read the terms and conditions whenever undertaking this promotion.

Cashback Bonuses

Cashback bonuses let players get back a percentage of their losses. Unlike deposit bonuses, cashback focuses on giving a safety net for losses. For example, if a player loses $100 in a week, a 10% cashback bonus would return $10 to their account.

These bonuses often have rules. Players may need to make a minimum deposit or place qualifying bets. Cashback usually applies only to net losses, after winnings are deducted. Some casinos also limit how much money can be refunded.

The main appeal of cashback bonuses is the sense of security they provide. Players know they will get back part of their losses, even if luck isn’t on their side. This allows them to keep playing without feeling completely defeated. Cashback bonuses act as a backup, helping players feel more confident with their bets.

No Wagering Bonuses

“No wagering requirement” bonuses let players keep their winnings without extra betting. With regular bonuses, players must meet a wagering limit, like betting the bonus 30 times, to withdraw winnings. No wagering bonuses skip this step. Any winnings are available for withdrawal right away. This gives players more control over their money.

These bonuses are rare and highly valued. They remove the usual rules and limits of regular bonuses. Players don’t have to meet high wagering requirements or wait to access their winnings. This makes no wagering bonuses perfect for those who want simple terms. The biggest benefit is simplicity. Players can enjoy the bonus without dealing with complicated rules. These bonuses are a great way to grow your bankroll with less hassle.

Free Spins with a Twist

In most online casinos, there are different bonuses, such as the free spin bonus. These bonuses allow players to play slot machines with an opportunity to win real money. Free spins are usually awarded following a deposit or during a promotion offer.

Free spins’ winnings usually are followed by wagering that must be completed before the money can be cashed out. Free spins can be quite colourful – hence their interesting variations. One of the most common kinds connects free spins with particular slots, therefore. This means players can only use them on specific games since some of them have extra features or bonus payouts. For instance, a casino can use free spins on the new slot game and make the players play the game first before they can be awarded the bonus.

The second type is obtained when free spins are combined with multipliers. In these cases, the winnings are then multiplied by a selected number such as 2 or 3 times. This can significantly add to the worth of the incentive, particularly for those assigned to the high-revenue lanes. Often free spins are used together with other bonuses such as cashback or deposit bonuses.

For instance, a casino offers a deposit match bonus and free spins to customers. This is much more valuable because it not only provides additional cash but also additional attempts to win. Such distinctions make free spins more interesting. They increase the number of opportunities players have to get a favourable result and bring some intrigue into the process.

Reload Bonuses

Reload bonuses are rewards for returning players. They encourage players to keep making deposits. Unlike welcome bonuses for new players, reload bonuses are for loyal players. These bonuses usually match a percentage of the player’s deposit, giving extra money to play with.

Some reload bonuses include extra perks like free spins, multipliers, or bonus credits. For example, a reload bonus might give a 50% match on your deposit and 20 free spins on a slot game. These extras make reload bonuses more exciting and offer more chances to win.

Reload bonuses are great for loyal players. They provide benefits beyond the welcome offer and reward ongoing deposits. These bonuses also keep players interested in the casino over time.

VIP and Loyalty Bonuses

VIP and loyalty bonuses reward players who often return to a casino. These bonuses include special perks like faster withdrawals, personal account managers, and higher deposit limits. Some casinos also give VIP players custom rewards, like special bonuses or invites to exclusive events.

Loyalty programs can offer creative rewards. Players may earn points to exchange for items like holidays, electronics, or luxury gifts. These programs are often for high-rollers or long-term players. They provide bigger bonuses and rewards based on the player’s preferences.

Refer-a-Friend Bonuses

Refer-a-friend bonuses reward players who invite others to join an online casino. When the invited friend signs up and makes a deposit, the referring player gets a bonus. This bonus can include cash, free spins, or bonus credits.

Some casinos offer special versions of this bonus. They may combine cash with free spins or give extra perks like loyalty points. These bonuses reward the referring player and help the casino get new members.

Summary

Different types of casino bonuses are available to play in online casinos, all having a different playing style. Starting from the cashback bonuses, which serve as a kind of insurance, or no-wagering bonuses which let the players withdraw the money right away, these and other promotions offer new possibilities and value. Free spins with extra advantages, cashback bonuses for regular clients, no-deposit bonuses for new players and VIP clubs with privileged bonuses also matter creative ideas. This is because a referral bonus does a good job of growing the pool while giving people incentives.

 Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.