Alcon reward card balance

TLDR: what is another stable, decent paying, future-proof, creative field I could consider? I'm really struggling trying to figure out if I want to stay in this field or pursue something else entirely. For pretty much my whole life I've just wanted to do something creative. As a kid it was drawing, legos, drums, then guitar, photography, cinematography, then video editing and acting. I fell in love with filmmaking through my major coursework in college around 2011. I began investing in equipment and started freelancing with whatever work I could find. I've lived in Atlanta since 2014 to pursue the TV/film industry. I worked as a production assistant for a year and a half, joined the union for cinematographers to start working my way up. I joined as an entry level position but could not get work despite doing everything the union reps recommended to network, but after a year and a half of paying monthly dues and only working 2 days, I left to keep doing freelance work. Around that same time I decided to try my hand at acting, and was very lucky to get picked up by an agency and start auditioning. I've had some success booking co-staguest star roles on network shows, but haven't booked anything since 2020. I also kept running into conflicts with auditions/callbacks coming up on days I had shoots scheduled. Almost 2 years ago I was offered a pretty good salary with a consulting firm to edit corporate videos. Those offers are pretty hard to come by. I was 32 and tired of living with roommates paycheck to paycheck and wanted to try stability for a change. At first it felt really good for my mental health. I was able to buy a condo which is something I had started to question would ever be in the cards for me, and finally felt okay about turning my brain off from work at 5PM instead of always questioning what I should be doing to make a living.
But now I'm just painfully bored. I work in a typical post-covid office where most of my team is remote. Editing makes you pretty isolated in your work for the most part which would be fine if I actually cared about my projects instead of editing corporate union-busting videos (oh the irony). The only 2 people I do see at my office are much older and more conservative, and days I work from home I don't really talk to anybody so work culture is definitely missing for me. I have been looking for other editing jobs for about 6 months now, but often roles like this are low pay or just delegated to interns.
As for acting, I've really gotten fed up with how that business works. Recording auditions yourself for casting directors is the norm now, and it's required to have someone else in the room read the other lines with you. I usually audition 1-2 times a week, so it's too frequent of a favor to ask of a friend, so I use a paid service to have a scene partner virtually on-demand but the cost of that adds up. I probably spent $1200 last year just auditioning, on top of the other online profiles you have to pay for monthly to be submitted for auditions.
This field just feels like a shit show no matter how I try to spin it. If I try to go back to camera work, it's no work-life balance, with 14 hour days being the norm. You won't spot many wedding bands amongst crew members on a film set. Nothing else piqued my interest until I had to pick a major in college and started exploring this field. And I never felt like a regular desk job was for me.
Not to mention the conversations around AI and creatives are really concerning now since I was already fighting for decent pay rates as a freelance videographephotographer.
All I've wanted to do is make things, and I feel like can't figure out how to actually make a life doing that. Basically what I'm asking is...what is another stable, decent paying, future-proof, creative field someone like me could consider?

Hi all. I’m using a throwaway account. I’d appreciate your card recommendations.
Current Cards

1. Citi Thank You Preferred, $4,000, opened 2012
2. Citi Premier, $10,000, opened 2012

FICO: 800
I haven’t applied for a card since about 2015. I had a chase sapphire card that was ultimately deactivated due to inactivity. At the time, I didn’t know how to use the card and had no interest in learning, so I couldn’t justify the annual fee.
Income $450,000
Average Monthly Spend and Categories:

1. Dining: 400. Another 400 for Door Dash/UberEats alone.
   
2. Groceries: 0 (groceries are currently charged to joint checking account, but we probably spend 600-800 per month)
   
3. Other: About 1k (retail, entertainment etc.). I am thinking about also charging daycare costs to credit card, which would add an additional 1,600 per month
   
4. Travel: maybe 10k per year (family of 5 and two vacations a year. We travel coach with slightly-above average hotel accommodations.)
   
5. Gas: $350
   

Open to Business Cards? Sure, but I don’t have a business.
Purpose of next card? I primarily want to receive travel rewards. In the past, I have booked travel through credit card portals, but I found that prices were usually higher. I would like the ability to book direct. I would also like travel protections. A large sub and significant purchase protections would also be nice.
Do you have any cards you’ve been looking at? Yes, the AmEx Platinum and Gold combo, but I wonder if they are worth the annual fees.
Are you okay with category spending? I don’t know if the amount I spend in categories justifies a category-specific card.

So, I wanna start by saying I really love this game. It's the only game that I keep coming back to, even when I don't play it for years, which is usually the case. Now I reinstalled it, a few days ago, and I noticed than in ranked mode, the only mode where I would play continuously, there's a fortress and a card level limit, depending on the league where you're at, at the moment. Like, I'm currently at the iron league now and my cards are only level 2 max? Even if most of them are 3 or 4 originally and my fortress level is 15. Does this make sense to you guys? I understand it's to keep balance when you're climbing up the leagues, but still, it is frustrating that your cards full potencial can only be reached and, consequently, used when you reach your supposed level of league, having to climb up until there with cards at level 2, maximum

Hope I'm in the correct sub, I tried a few different ones before coming here.
I've been playing the tcg online for about a month, ever since I got a few free codes for online cards. When I saw I had enough gems to I lock the right side of the rewards page (whatever it's called, too upset to reopen the app and check ATM) I knew what my goal was going to be. Level 40.
I knew I didn't have enough time to reach the highest level and get all the cool prizes, but level 40 seemed like a cool goal, plus the right side had a grey box that just would not get off my mind. When I tried clicking for more details it just gave me pull rates, so I'm assuming it's a specific number of packs (though if anyone could confirm or deny, it would be nice to have confirmation).
When I checked today to see how close I was and do my dailies, I realized the prize had changed. Now it's just the one pack and some gems. No grey box or anything equivalent. I'm guessing it changed after the update yesterday, but, why?
I was hoping it was just a glitch, but when I closed and reopened the app it was still missing. Anyone have any idea what happened?

No-annual-fee Mastercard powered by Neo Financial will release in coming months, company says
Tim Hortons is launching a credit card that can be used through its mobile app, the latest move into an increasingly competitive rewards space.
Tims Financial is a new division of Tim Hortons that will offer a no-annual-fee Mastercard powered by Neo Financial, the company said in a press release Wednesday. The card will be launched in the coming months, but interested customers can sign up for a waitlist on the Tims Financial website.
Customers will be able to earn Tims Rewards Points on most purchases, including on many gas, grocery and transit purchases, and extra points at Tim Hortons restaurants.

I've had an Amex BlueCash Preferred with a 20k limit for around 6 years now. I initially used it a bunch, always paid in full. However, for the last couple years, I have barely used the Amex card at all. Balance has been $0 for awhile Still paying the annual fee, but otherwise not really using the card. I haven't closed the card because the 20k credit limt is helpful for my credit score (right?).
At present, I am looking for a 0% APR promo credit card with a high limit. I know Amex is really well known for giving high initial credit limites (20k or so)
I am wondering if it is a good idea for me to apply for a brand new Amex card? If I am accepted for a 2nd Amex card, do you think the credit limit will be dinged or otherwise adversely affected given my current Amex card has had zero activity on it for a really long time?
Given I already have Amex BlueCash Preferred, what is the best Amex card I should apply for with a 0% APR and guaranteed large credit limit?
My credit score is pretty good fyi, in the 700s

I am gathering your Conepinions on the potential introduction of a subscription fee to our subreddit.
As our Conemunity continues to grow, we recognize the need for sustainable resources to fuel our progress and members. The introduction of a subscription fee can play a crucial role in achieving these goals. It will enable us to enhance the stability, value, and overall experience of our Conemunity.
The subscription fee could be set at $5.00 per month, a reasonable amount that reflects our commitment to affordability while generating the necessary resources for our Conemunity growth.
Here are some key points to consider regarding the sub fee:

1. Token Buybacks and Liquidity: A significant portion of the subscription fee revenue would be dedicated to coneducting token buybacks from the open market. This strategy aims to reduce circulating supply, increase token scarcity, and potentially boost the value of our token. Additionally, a portion of the acquired tokens would be locked in liquidity, enhancing trading conditions for all participants.
   
2. Subscriber Rewards and Benefits: Your subscription would entitle you to exclusive rewards and benefits as an exclusive rewards and benefits as a token of our appreciation for your support. These rewards may include access to premium conetent, early feature releases, participation in a loyalty program, or other valuable incentives.
   
3. Conemunity Development and Expansion: The sub fee revenue would be invested in the development and expansion of our conemunity. It will allow us to fund new initiatives, improve infrastructure, and engage in effective marketing efforts. By expanding our reach, we can attract more like-minded individuals and create even more opportunities.
   

What are the legal issues? How Do we ensure Compliance?

1. Payment Processing: If we’re collecting payments for the subscription fee, we need to adhere to applicable laws and regulations regarding payment processing. This includes data protection, security, and ensuring compliance with payment card standards (PCI DDS) if applicable.
   
2. Data Privacy: We should collection personal information from subscribers may be subject to data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union or similar regulations in other jurisdictions. Ensure that we have appropriate data protection policies and practices in place to handle and secure subscriber data.
   
3. Terms of Service and Privacy Policy: We should review and update our terms of service and privacy policy to reflect the introduction of the subscription fee. Clearly outline the terms, conditions, and the rights associated with the fee, including cancellation or refund policies.
   
4. Taxation: We should consult with tax professionals to determine any tax implications associated with collecting subscription fees and understand whether we need to collect and remit sales tax or value-added tax (VAT) based on our jurisdiction and the location of our subscribers.
   
5. Securities Regulations: Depending on the nature of our token and its distribution, there may be securities regulations, such as the Securities Act in the United States or similar regulations in other jurisdictions.
   
6. Jurisdictional Considerations: Laws and regulations related to subscription fees can vary across jurisdictions. We should research and understand the legal requirements specific to our operating location and the jurisdictions in which our subscribers reside.
   
7. Intellectual Property: We should Ensure that the conetent, branding, and the intellectual property associated without subreddit and any premium features are properly protected, by reviewing and updating our policies to address issues such as copywrite infringement or unauthorized use of our IP.
   
8. Consumer Protection: We ought to comply with consumer protection laws, which may include providing clear information about the subscription fee, cancellation policies, and dispute reslolution mechanisms. We will avoid engaging in deceptive or unfair practices.
   

**A little Hopium…
If half of our total members, which is 5,307 (ATOW), participated in the monthly subscription, it would amount to 2,653 members. Lets explore the scenario and calculate some statistics:

1. Monthly Sub Rev: $13,265.
   
2. Token Buybacks and Liquidity: we can allocate a significant portion to liquidity. The desired amount would depend on our desired plans.
   
3. Subscriber Rewards: we could reward subscribers with half of the monthly fees which is $6,250 in Bitcone redistributed to subscribers.
   

Your opinion matters, and I want to ensure that your voice is heard. Please take a moment to participate in this poll and share your thoughts. Your feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of our Conemunity!
View Poll

I know a lot of us in the US who grew up in the 90s have found memories of BookIt! and Pizza Hut's personal pizza rewards. Does anyone know of anything similar for adults?
There are so reading challenges out there, wouldn't it be great if there was a central place to find them based on theme (ReadingEverybodyBlack/LGBTQIA/OTHER COUNTRIES/ect) where we can track our reads on virtual bingo cards and then get a little star or sticker or something?
Does anything like this exist??

Ritual decks are often under powered due to the resources needed to properly use them compared to other summoning mechanics. Theres a card I wanted to use for reference is Ground Xeno.
So the ritual spells will have consistency effects like searching monsters or special summoning along with GY effect to banish themselves for a ritual summon. For balance I was thinking some end of main phase effect to blow-up everything if you don't control a ritual monster to prevent them for being used as just random combo pieces.
Also what level would be interesting? My idea was for two rituals that either 1. First one is a combo lf any two non-rituals while the second three or 2. Have the non-ritual level split in half with one being the lower+upper half and the second being ritual+lower half or two upper halves

Hi all,
​
Just a quick query. I am playing DMZ a lot at the moment on PC. I am looking at getting the BattlePass and can get some Xbox gift cards through Microsoft Rewards. I have an Xbox One but I've not played it on Xbox so not too sure how it works but can I redeem the Xbox gift card on the console and then use it to buy the BattlePass on my PC?
​
Apologies if this is a stupid question but I wasn't sure where else to ask.
​
Many thanks

Here are my notes I gathered about Lenovo Legion 7 Gen 7 AMD 2022 (16ARHA7), aka AMD Advantage. Sharing them for future researchers like myself. Something useful is missing? Do tell.

Product pages

Unlike most brands, these actually have most information you may need: * Marketing page (lenovo.com)/len101g0017) - specs, ports, generic information * Product Specifications Reference (psref.lenovo.com) - specs in detail, exact model list, ports (other images) * Support page (pcsupport.lenovo.com) - software and drivers download, user manual and guides, parts, customer support (select your exact model - take it from PSREF)

Reviews

• [YouTube] Jarrod's Tech - Legion 7i (Intel) - Intel+NVIDIA model, rest applies
• [YouTube] Jarrod's Tech - Legion 7 vs 7i - comparison between AMD+AMD and Intel+NVIDIA models
• [YouTube] Mash IT

Possible configurations/variants

• GPU: AMD Radeon RX 6700M (10 GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 6850M (12 GB VRAM) > keep in mind that S suffix is different from M suffix on regular factor laptops
• RAM: 2 DDR5 4800 MHz SO-DIMM memory sticks, usually in total of 16 or 32 GB configuration
• SSD: 1 TB or 2 TB M.2 SSD

Aside from the above, most models vary in keyboard layout. See PSREF for details.

Notes on hardware and firmware

• RAM: My unit has 2x8 GB Micron MTC4C10163S1SC48BA1 running in quad-channel with CL 40 (40-39-39-77)
• Storage: My unit has 2 TB SAMSUNG MZVL22T0HBLB-00BL2 NVMe PCIe 4 SSD
• WiFi card: My unit has RealTek RTL8852BE (WiFi 6 802.11ax)
• Ports: USB4 port (left side, left port) connects to iGPU when in Hybrid mode - all other video ports are connecting to dGPU
• Removing/replacing any part (battery, RAM, WiFi, SSD etc.) is described in Hardware Maintenance Manual with pictures. Don't forget to unplug the battery!
• "Hybrid mode" ON means that both iGPU and dGPU are enabled - OFF means dGPU only. There's no mode for iGPU only
• Toggling "Hybrid mode" requires reboot
• Battery in conversation mode limits charging to 80%
• "Thermal mode" has 3 levels:
  • Quiet (blue) - reduces CPU clocks to maintain lower temperatures, and so keep the fan quiet
  • Balance (white) - adjusts CPU clocks and fans as needed
  • Performance (red) - available only with charger plugged in, I recommend lifting the device up somehow to allow better cooling

Keyboard layouts

• ANSI QWERTY (Polish)
• ANSI QWERTY (Netherlands)
• Italian QWERTY
• German QWERTZ
• French AZERTY

Using exact model from PSREF, you can enter PC Support page and find how exact for the model exactly look like in Parts tab.

Hotkeys during boot

• F2 - BIOS Setup: contains information on CPU, GPU, BIOS version, serial number, thermal mode, boot device order, Graphic device selection (MUX Switch / "Hybrid Mode" ON/OFF), can proceed to settings
• F9 - "Novo Menu": quick access menu for everything else
• F10 - Diagnostics UEFI: can display information and test individual hardware parts and see storage's S.M.A.R.T.
• F12 - "Boot Device" (boot menu)

Function keys

• Fn + Space - firmware based RGB presets
• Fn + Up/Down - RGB brightness
• Fn + Q - switch power profile / thermal mode
• Fn + R - 60/165Hz switch ①③
• Fn + U - back port icon light
• Fn + L - Legion logo light on lid
• Fn + F1 - sound toggle (mute/unmute)
• Fn + F2/F3 - volume down/up
• Fn + F4 - microphone toggle (mute/unmute) ①
• Fn + F5/F6 - brightness down/up ④
• Fn + F7 - project screen menu (display modes when external display is connected)
• Fn + F8 - plane mode (no network) ①
• Fn + F9 - software quick access (Lenovo Vantage) ①②③
• Fn + F10 - touchpad toggle (enabled/disabled)
• Fn + F11 - Windows: ALT-TAB equivalent, Linux GNOME: something else (I am uncertain what is it)
• Fn + F12 - calculator
• Fn + PrtSc - screenshot cropping (like Win+Shift+S) ③
• Fn + Home/End/PgUp/PgDn - media keys (respectively: Play/Pause, Stop, Previous, Next)

① Windows: doesn't work without Lenovo Fn and Function Keys software
② Windows: requires Lenovo Vantage (Lenovo Legion Toolkit can use this shortcut for itself)
③ Linux: does not work out of the box as tested on Fedora 38 GNOME with kernel 6.3.5-200
④ Linux: does not work with Hybrid Mode OFF (dGPU only)

Official generic video

Linux support

Overall - pretty good. As shown in function key section - most of them work out of the box, as they are handled by firmware. This includes switching thermal mode, "RGB" (keyboard and other backlight) profiles, switching between them and changing brightness level. Project screen menu works, though there's no HUD/GUI for it and switches mode immediately, which may be inconvenient.
As tested on Fedora 38 GNOME with kernel 6.3.5-200, speakers, webcam, WiFi, Bluetooth works. Fingerprint reader does not work, at least out of the box. I came across mentions that speakers do not work for the slim variant.

Third party tools:

• Lenovo Legion Toolkit - open source alternative to Lenovo Vantage
• Lenovo Legion Linux - tools (power and fan control) for Linux

Community

• "Lenovo Legion" Reddit
• "Legion Series" Community Discord