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4 Famous Athletes Who Have a Disability
Paralympic swimmer Rebecca Meyers won three gold and one silver medals in Rio 2016.
Just because you have a physical disability, it does not mean that your love of sports is restricted to fantasy football or sports gambling, or Everygame casino no deposit bonus game playing on your laptop.
Many people with disabilities “take advantage of their strengths to compensate for their weaknesses.” It starts with learning about yourself, so you can understand what your strengths are and what your weaknesses are.
Here is a secret that successful people don’t want you to know: everybody has strengths and everybody has weaknesses. The ones who are successful understand that, and the ones who are not don’t understand that.
Aaron Fotheringham
Aaron Fotheringham is also one of the most famous skaters in the world. His specialty? Wheelchair skating. Aaron Fotheringham was born with spina bifida.
Aaron Fotheringham is an extreme wheelchair athlete who performs tricks adapted from skateboarding and BMX. He competes in the Vegas Am Jam series in skate park competitions, usually against BMX riders.
He is the first person to successfully perform a backflip in a wheelchair at the age of 14, and a double backflip at the age of 18.
He performs many other tricks in his wheelchair including 180 degree ‘aerials’, one-wheeled spins, and rail grinds. He plans to fuse the back flip with the 180 aerial into what is known as a ‘flair’.
When he was a young boy, he used crutches early on, but he has been a wheelchair user full-time since the age of eight. He would watch his brother riding his BMX at the skate park, and one day his brother told him that he should try riding his chair in the park.
Fotheringham uses a customized WCMX wheelchair designed by Box Wheelchairs, which is both lightweight and features four-wheel suspension. This enables him to perform the same sorts of tricks that skateboarders and BMXers can do, as the suspension cushions his landings.
Fotheringham has worked with Box Designs Wheelchairs to help refine the design in real-world situations, resulting in a custom-made chair that is in his words, “pretty much indestructible”.
In 2022, he competed on America’s Got Talent: Extreme. After receiving Nikki Bella’s golden buzzer in the audition round, he advanced to the finale, and earned second place.
Rebecca Meyers
Rebecca Meyers (born November 20, 1994, in Baltimore) is a Paralympic swimmer from the United States. She won three gold and one silver medals in Rio 2016. She was also a member of the 2012 Paralympic Team, and won a silver and bronze in London. Rebecca Meyers also competed at the 2009 Summer Deaflympics which was held in Taiwan.
Meyers has Usher syndrome and has been deaf since she was born. Since she was young she has used a cochlear implant, an electronic device that allows her to hear. Meyers is also losing her vision to a disease called retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and has a Seeing Eye dog named Birdie, who helps her navigate the world.
She grew up in Baltimore, attended Notre Dame Prep, and went on to graduate from Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania where she studied history with a concentration in Disability Studies.
In June 2021 the US announced the 34 Paralympic swimmers who would be going to the delayed 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo. The women’s team was Meyers, Jessica Long, McKenzie Coan, Elizabeth Marks, and Mallory Weggemann. On July 20, 2021, Meyers withdrew from the Paralympics after being denied her request for a personal care assistant due to the reduced allocation of staff members amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Matt Brown (parathlete)
Matthew S. Brown, known as Matt P.F. Brown (born November 24, 1976), is currently a football and track and field coach at Idalou High School in Idalou in Lubbock County, Texas. He is also a gold and bronze winner in the Parapan American Games. Brown’s left leg was amputated above the knee because of an accidental industrial explosion on December 20, 2005.
In September 2007, Brown won a gold medal in the discus, having set a record throw of 154 feet 9 inches (47.17 m), and a bronze in the shot put at the 2007 Parapan American Games held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He also competed in the 2008 Summer Paralympic Games in Beijing, where he finished fourth in the men’s discus.
On July 12, 2011, Brown was suspended for three months by the Paralympic team after a United States Anti-Doping Agency test revealed the presence of a marijuana metabolite in his body. He was also made ineligible to participate in official track and field events for a calendar year. He tested positive for marijuana again in a June 2012 test and was again suspended for twelve months.
Who knows what his sports career might have been if he did not waste his talents on using marijuana? Yes, marijuana is legal in several states in the US, but that does not mean that it will not affect your ability to do sports.
Amy Bockerstette
Amy Bockerstette (born October 15, 1998) is an American competitive amateur golfer and disabilities advocate with Down syndrome. She is the first person with Down syndrome to both receive an athletic scholarship to attend college and also to compete in a national collegiate championship.
In high school, Bockerstette became the first person with Down syndrome to play in the Arizona High School Girls Golf Division I State Championship, where she competed as both a junior and senior. In 2017, she was honored at the AZCentral.com Sports Awards with the Best Moment of the Year Award for Arizona High School Sports.
As a representative of Special Olympics Arizona, Bockerstette played in the LPGA Bank of Hope Founders Cup Pro-Am with professional golfers Sarah Jane Smith and Gerina Piller in March 2017. She was named by AZCentral.com as one of the “Ten Most Intriguing High School Athletes of 2017”.
In May 2018, Bockerstette signed a letter of intent to play golf at Paradise Valley Community College in Phoenix, Arizona. She studied dance at PVCC and played on a full golf scholarship, completing her college career in May 2022. She was afforded two one-year golf scholarship extensions due to COVID-19.
Bockerstette is a Special Olympics athlete in golf, swimming and volleyball and plays Challenger baseball. She also plays piano.
Bockerstette and her family launched a 501 nonprofit corporation, the I GOT THIS Foundation, at her 21st birthday party in October 2019. The foundation’s mission is to promote golf instruction and playing opportunities for people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities.
On April 29, 2022, Bockerstette was named as one of the 48 Most Intriguing Women of Arizona by 48 Arizona Women and the Arizona Historical Society. She is featured in a coffee table book entitled: Arizona’s 48 Most Intriguing Women—A New Decade, telling each woman’s story in words and photos. Honorees were selected from 15 cities across Arizona.
On June 6-9, 2022, Bockerstette competed at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando Florida in the Level 5 category, 18 holes individual golf competition, at Orange National Golf Center, where she won a Silver medal.
Bockerstette continues to represent the I Got This Foundation, as a speaker and by attending various charity golf tournaments and fundraising events, where she advocates for inclusion and for people with disabilities.
Summary
These 4 individuals are examples of people who “took advantage of their strengths” so they could fulfill their dreams. So the next time you try to tell yourself, “I cannot do X” just read these famous athlete’s stories (and many more like them). Then find your own strength, so you can take advantage of it to be the best you can be.
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What Is a Bitcoin ATM and How Does It Work?
While you might think Bitcoin ATMs are just for tech-savvy investors, they’re actually designed with simplicity in mind, allowing anyone to buy or sell Bitcoin with ease.
These machines operate similarly to traditional ATMs but deal in Bitcoin rather than fiat currency. You’ll find the steps to use one quite straightforward, from verifying your identity to conducting your transaction.
With their growing global presence, understanding how they work and their security measures is crucial, especially if you’re considering diving into the world of cryptocurrency.
Let’s explore what sets these ATMs apart and why they might be a game-changer for digital currency accessibility.
Defining Bitcoin ATMs
While Bitcoin ATMs may resemble traditional ones, they’re specialized kiosks that allow you to buy or sell Bitcoin using cash or a debit card. Stemming from Bitcoin’s origins in 2009 as a decentralized digital currency, these ATMs offer a physical point of interaction with the digital currency world. They’re designed with unique hardware to ensure secure transactions, differentiating them from their banking counterparts. This hardware design often incorporates advanced security features to protect your transactions.
You’ve got to be aware of the transaction fees, which can vary widely among different Bitcoin ATMs. These fees are for the convenience of converting fiat to digital currency (or vice versa) on the spot. Furthermore, regulatory compliance is a significant aspect of Bitcoin ATM operations. Operators must navigate a complex landscape of regulations to offer their services, ensuring that transactions are legal and secure.
Lastly, wallet compatibility is crucial. You need a digital wallet to use a Bitcoin ATM, as it sends or receives your Bitcoin. Make sure your wallet is compatible with the ATM you intend to use. This seamless integration between hardware and digital wallet ensures a smooth transaction process.
Operating Principles
To understand how Bitcoin ATMs work, it’s essential to grasp their operating principles. Firstly, you’ll encounter transaction limits, which are set to comply with local regulations and vary from one machine to another. This means you can’t deposit or withdraw unlimited amounts of Bitcoin in a single transaction; there’s always a cap to keep things legal and manageable.
The role of software providers is also crucial. They supply the ATMs with the necessary software to facilitate transactions, ensuring the machines are up to date with the latest security measures and functionalities. This software is the backbone of every Bitcoin ATM, managing your transactions and interacting with the blockchain.
Then there’s hardware maintenance. Like any machine, Bitcoin ATMs require regular checks to keep them running smoothly. This includes servicing the physical components that accept and dispense cash, as well as ensuring the user interface remains intuitive and user-friendly.
Network fees are another aspect you’ll come across. These fees are paid to miners for processing your transactions on the blockchain. They can vary based on the network’s congestion at the time of your transaction.
Usage Steps Explained
Having understood the operating principles behind Bitcoin ATMs, let’s now explore the steps you’ll follow to use one. Initially, you’ll encounter user verification, a security measure varying from simple SMS verification to more comprehensive identification processes, depending on the transaction amount and the machine’s location. Be prepared; this step is crucial for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Next, you’ll need to be aware of the transaction fees, which can significantly differ from one ATM to another. These fees are usually a percentage of the transaction and are higher than traditional online exchanges. It’s essential to check these beforehand to avoid surprises.
Another important aspect to consider is the withdrawal limits imposed by the ATM. These limits can affect how much Bitcoin you can buy or sell in a single transaction, so always verify what these are before you start your transaction.
When conducting the transaction, you’ll use QR codes for wallet compatibility. Ensure your digital wallet is compatible with the ATM by having your QR code ready for scanning. This step facilitates the transfer of Bitcoin to or from your wallet, making the process smoother and quicker.
Global Availability
Bitcoin ATMs have rapidly expanded across the globe, offering users in various countries the convenience of buying and selling Bitcoin locally. This expansion is a clear indicator of market growth in the cryptocurrency sector, reflecting both increased cultural acceptance and the evolving financial landscape.
As you delve into the world of Bitcoin ATMs, you’ll notice distinct location trends. Urban centers and tech hubs tend to have a higher density of these machines, making it easier for city dwellers to engage with digital currencies. However, accessibility issues still persist in rural areas, where Bitcoin ATMs are less common, highlighting a gap in global coverage.
The regulatory impact on the availability of Bitcoin ATMs can’t be overstated. In some regions, stringent regulations have slowed the spread of these machines, affecting how quickly and easily you can access them. Conversely, in areas with more relaxed cryptocurrency laws, there’s been a noticeable uptick in the number of ATMs, illustrating how legal frameworks influence their distribution.
Cultural acceptance also plays a crucial role in where Bitcoin ATMs flourish. In societies more open to digital currencies, you’re likely to find a welcoming environment for Bitcoin transactions, further fueling the demand and accessibility of Bitcoin ATMs.
Security Measures
Understanding the security measures of Bitcoin ATMs is crucial for ensuring your transactions are safe and private. As the popularity of Bitcoin continues to rise, so does the need for robust security features to protect users against fraud and theft.
Here’s a breakdown of the key security measures you’ll encounter:
- 1. Biometric Authentication: Many Bitcoin ATMs now incorporate biometric verification methods, such as fingerprint scans, to ensure that you’re the only one who can access your digital wallet. This layer of security adds a personal safeguard against unauthorized transactions.
- 2. Encryption Protocols: Your transaction data is protected by advanced encryption protocols. These protocols scramble your information, making it nearly impossible for hackers to intercept and decipher your financial details.
- 3. Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with local and international financial regulations not only legitimizes the operation of Bitcoin ATMs but also ensures that they adhere to strict anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) guidelines, which help in preventing fraudulent activities.
- 4. Anti-Fraud Algorithms and Wallet Security: Sophisticated anti-fraud algorithms monitor transactions for suspicious activity, while enhanced wallet security measures protect your digital assets from unauthorized access.
Future Prospects
The future of Bitcoin ATMs holds promising advancements and wider adoption, as they become an integral part of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. You’ll likely see an increase in adoption rates as people become more familiar with digital currency, driving market expansion across the globe. As adoption grows, so will the network of Bitcoin ATMs, making it easier for you to access cryptocurrency in your daily life.
However, regulatory challenges are a significant hurdle. Governments around the world are grappling with how to regulate cryptocurrencies, and these decisions will impact how Bitcoin ATMs operate. You’ll need to stay informed about the regulations in your area, as they could affect how you use these machines.
Technological advancements will also shape the future of Bitcoin ATMs. Expect to see improved security features, making transactions safer for you. Additionally, innovations may reduce the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining, a concern that’s grown as cryptocurrency has become more popular. This could make using Bitcoin ATMs a more environmentally friendly option for accessing digital currencies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you’ve now grasped the essence of Bitcoin ATMs, their operation, and their global reach. Using one is straightforward, offering you a seamless way to convert cash to Bitcoin and vice versa. With security measures in place, you can transact with confidence.
As they become more widespread, their future looks promising, potentially revolutionizing how we interact with digital currencies. So, next time you spot a Bitcoin ATM, you’ll know exactly how to use it.
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Digital Dating Trends: What’s Hot in the World of Online Relationships?
The world of digital dating has never been more dynamic. What started with simple dating apps has evolved into a vast landscape of virtual connections, AI-powered matchmakers, and immersive experiences that blend the boundaries between online and real-life interactions. Whether you’re looking for a long-term relationship or something more spontaneous and fun, online dating is transforming in ways that cater to every kind of connection. Let’s dive into the hottest trends that are shaping the future of digital romance.
Casual Flirting and Erotic Encounters in Video Chats
One trend that’s seen significant growth is the rise of video chat services tailored for casual flirting and more intimate encounters. Unlike traditional dating apps, which focus on building relationships, these platforms are designed for users who want to explore instant connections and erotic experiences. This type of digital interaction provides a safe, anonymous space for people to engage in flirtatious or even erotic conversations, without the pressures or commitments of in-person dating.
With a video chat, you can experience real-time chemistry with someone, creating a sense of spontaneity and excitement. For those who enjoy the thrill of flirting but prefer to maintain their privacy, these platforms are a perfect fit. They also cater to a wide audience, from those curious about exploring their desires to those who are simply looking for a fun, non-committal way to pass the time. Tip: Here you can meet up with girls 1 on 1.
AI-Powered Matchmaking
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing how we find romantic partners online. Many Apps and websites have been pioneers in using algorithms to analyze users’ preferences, behavior, and compatibility factors. But now, AI has gone beyond basic matchmaking. These algorithms don’t just look at superficial likes and dislikes; they delve deep into communication styles, emotional intelligence, and even your tone in messages. With AI learning from every interaction, dating apps are getting better at predicting compatibility, offering more personalized matches that increase the chances of genuine connection.
What makes AI-driven matchmaking even more attractive is its efficiency. No longer do users need to scroll endlessly through profiles. Instead, they are presented with quality matches, filtered based on compatibility and shared values, making the process more streamlined and less exhausting.
Virtual Dates and Long-Distance Connections
As technology advances, the way we date has also evolved. Virtual dates have become increasingly popular, especially after the pandemic shifted many interactions online. Today, people aren’t just swiping and texting — they’re setting up virtual dinners, watching movies together via streaming platforms, and even taking part in interactive online games. These virtual experiences have allowed couples, especially those in long-distance relationships, to maintain intimacy even when miles apart.
The appeal of virtual dates goes beyond practicality. They offer a low-pressure way to get to know someone before committing to a real-life meeting. Many couples who meet online now start with a video call to gauge chemistry. For those who prefer to keep things light and fun, certain platforms have introduced more intimate experiences, allowing users to explore their playful or sensual side from the comfort of their own space.
Gamified Dating Apps
Another innovative trend that’s capturing attention is the gamification of dating apps. Platforms like Tinder and Bumble have introduced playful, interactive elements to enhance the user experience. With features like Tinder’s “Swipe Night” or Bumble’s in-app games, these apps are making the dating process more fun and engaging. Gamification adds an element of competition, creativity, and excitement to online dating, giving users something to look forward to beyond just swiping through profiles.
These games are designed to help users break the ice, making the interaction more enjoyable and less awkward. For example, in Tinder’s “Swipe Night,” users make decisions in a choose-your-own-adventure story, which then affects the potential matches they are shown. It’s a clever way to inject excitement into online dating while encouraging users to think outside the box.
The Future of Digital Dating
The future of digital dating is undoubtedly bright, with technology continuing to reshape how we connect romantically. Virtual reality (VR) dating could be the next big leap, allowing people to “meet” in immersive virtual environments, from a beach in Bali to a cozy cafe in Paris — all without leaving their homes. Full-sensory experiences, where users can not only see and hear but also “feel” their date, may soon become a reality.
As these technologies develop, the boundaries between digital and physical intimacy will continue to blur. For now, the range of options available — from AI-driven matchmaking to casual video chats — ensures that there is something for everyone in the digital dating world. Whether you’re seeking true love or just a fun, flirty encounter, the future of dating is more exciting and diverse than ever.
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How to Bring Fresh Excitement into Your Relationship
Relationships, whether new or long-term, can sometimes hit a plateau. The initial spark may fade, and the routines that once felt comforting can become monotonous. However, revitalizing the excitement in your relationship is not only possible but can also be an enjoyable journey for both partners. Here are several strategies to infuse fresh energy and enthusiasm into your relationship.
Schedule Regular Date Nights
Amidst the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget to prioritize your relationship. Scheduling regular date nights can help you maintain a connection. Choose different themes or activities for each date night—such as a movie marathon, a fancy dinner, or a game night at home. Make it a rule to try something new each time, whether it’s a different cuisine or an activity you haven’t done together.
Communicate Openly and Honestly
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. Take time to discuss your feelings, desires, and needs. This openness can lead to deeper emotional intimacy. Consider dedicating time to share your dreams and goals, both as individuals and as a couple. When both partners feel heard and understood, it strengthens the relationship and enhances emotional connection.
Surprise Each Other
Surprises can reignite passion and excitement. Small, thoughtful gestures—like leaving love notes, planning an unexpected weekend getaway, or preparing a favorite meal—can create delightful moments. The key is to personalize your surprises based on your partner’s preferences and interests. These little acts of love can make a significant impact and show your partner that you’re thinking of them.
Explore Intimacy on a Deeper Level
Physical intimacy is vital in a romantic relationship, but emotional intimacy is equally important. Explore new ways to connect physically and emotionally. This could involve trying new things in the bedroom, being more affectionate in public, or simply spending time cuddling while watching a movie. Communicating about your desires and fantasies can also lead to a deeper understanding of each other’s needs.
Consider Hiring an Escort for a Unique Experience
For couples looking to explore new dimensions of their intimacy, hiring an escort can be an exciting option. This experience can introduce elements of fantasy and adventure that you might not have explored together. Whether it’s attending a social event or engaging in a fantasy scenario, this choice should be approached with clear communication, mutual consent, and respect for boundaries. It can serve as a unique way to spark conversations about desires and fantasies, ultimately strengthening your connection. It is best that you turn to a reputable escort directory like Xlamma Escorts for this.
Reflect on Your Relationship
Take a step back and reflect on your relationship’s journey. Consider discussing what brought you together in the first place and what has changed since. Reminiscing about your favorite memories and acknowledging the growth you’ve both experienced can strengthen your bond. This reflection can help you appreciate each other more and rekindle feelings that may have dimmed over time.
Set Goals Together
Setting shared goals can bring a sense of unity and purpose to your relationship. Whether it’s planning for a vacation, saving for a house, or starting a new hobby, working towards a common objective fosters teamwork and connection. Celebrating milestones along the way can also enhance your relationship and create lasting memories.
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