Preparing for Winter: Safeguarding Natural Gas Meters in Snowy Regions

As another winter season approaches, the lessons learned from the heavy snowfall of last year are still fresh in our minds. The weight of snow and ice accumulation puts undue stress on meters and piping, potentially causing leaks and other hazards. Our community’s safety is paramount, and Southwest Gas has some helpful safety tips and precautions for customers.

Southwest Gas Behind the Meter Reno-LakeTahoe Area Corporate Photography by Mark Skalny 1-888-658-3686 www.markskalnyphotography.com
Southwest Gas Behind the MeterCorporate Photography Services by Mark Skalny

Southwest Gas urges customers in heavy snowfall areas to proactively install a snow shelter to protect the natural gas meter and surrounding piping. Once the first snowfall hits, it is too late to install a snow shelter. Installing a structurally engineered snow shelter prevents snow and ice accumulation on the meter and lessens the chances of damage to natural gas infrastructure, which reduces the potential of customers being without natural gas to heat their homes and businesses, cook, access hot water, and use clothes dryers for extended periods of time.

For the safety of the customer and the community, Southwest Gas will immediately suspend service to a home or business when damage from snow and ice is discovered at a natural gas meter or surrounding piping. Gas service will only be restored when snow and ice are cleared, adequate meter protection is installed, and requirements imposed by the local jurisdiction have been observed by the customer.

For additional information about snow shelters, including tips to help protect against potential snow damage, snow shelter design drawings, and contractor referrals,  visit www.swgas.com/en/safety#snow-precautions or call 877-860-6020.

While a snow shelter is the preferred method to keep meters safe, there are other practical ways to keep infrastructure safe during the winter months:

  1. Use a Broom: Instead of a shovel, use a broom to clear snow or ice off the natural gas meter and outdoor appliances, including regulators and associated piping. Using a broom is gentler and less likely to damage the equipment.
  2. Avoid Piling Snow: When shoveling, plowing, or using a snow blower, make sure not to pile snow on or near the gas meter or outdoor appliances. Keep these areas clear to prevent potential damage.
  3. Gutter Maintenance: Ensure that all outside gutters, especially those above or near the natural gas meter and outdoor appliances, are free of leaves and debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and obstruct ventilation.
  4. Ventilation Checks: Natural gas appliances require proper exhaust and ventilation. It’s crucial to know the location of air supply and exhaust ducts and keep them free of snow, ice, leaves, or debris. Clearing vents prevents operational issues and the accumulation of harmful carbon monoxide in buildings.

In preparation for the colder months, it’s also a good time to get natural gas appliances inspected. While Southwest Gas doesn’t perform inspections on natural gas appliances, such as gas fireplaces or stoves, customers are encouraged to visit www.swgas.com for a comprehensive list of approved contractors who can help ensure the safety and efficiency of these appliances.

As winter approaches and the memory of last year’s heavy snow season lingers, safeguarding the natural gas meter and appliances isn’t a matter to be taken lightly. Remember, the key to winter readiness is early preparation. Southwest Gas is dedicated to safely and reliably delivering an energy source that helps sustain and support quality of life in our communities. Customers are welcome to contact the company if they have questions about natural gas safety or their gas service.

Unveiling the Shadows of Sunlight: Skin Cancer and Premature Aging

Sunlight is an essential element for life on Earth. While it provides us with vitamin D and a sense of well-being, it also has a dark side, as prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can have detrimental effects on our skin. We talked with Dr. Adam Wallach, Board-Certified Dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute, to explore the ill effects of sunlight, specifically focusing on its role in developing skin cancer and premature aging. Understanding these risks is crucial for adopting sun-safe practices and maintaining healthy, youthful skin.

Q: What is the connection between sunlight and skin cancer?

UV rays, or ultraviolet rays, are a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. They fall into three categories based on their wavelengths: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are mostly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and do not reach the surface. UVA and UVB rays, however, can penetrate the atmosphere and impact the health of our skin.

UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and affect the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis. They are the primary cause of sunburn. Over time, the damage caused by UVB rays can lead to mutations in the DNA of skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

On the other hand, UVA rays have longer wavelengths and can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, reaching the dermis. They are present with relatively equal intensity throughout the day and can pass through clouds and glass. UVA rays cause long-term damage to collagen and elastin fibers, but they also play a role in suppressing the immune system, making the skin more susceptible to damage and skin cancer.

Q: Are there other ways to get UV radiation besides the sun?

Yes, we should be aware of various other sources of UV radiation. Some examples are UV nail curing lamps, plasma torches, bactericidal lamps, welding equipment, mercury lamps, and indoor tanning. At Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute, we advise our patients to avoid using any indoor tanning beds or booths. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, indoor tanning increases the risk of developing melanoma by 75% from just one indoor tanning session before age 35.

Q: How does sun exposure affect the aging of our skin?

Premature aging, often called photoaging, is another unwelcome consequence of excessive sun exposure, causing visible signs such as wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and uneven skin tone. UV radiation damages collagen and elastin, proteins responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity. As these fibers break down, the skin loses its ability to bounce back, leading to sagging and the formation of wrinkles.

Melanin, the pigment responsible for our skin color, acts as a natural defense against UV radiation by absorbing and scattering harmful rays. However, excessive sun exposure can overwhelm this defense mechanism, producing uneven melanin distribution, resulting in age spots or hyperpigmentation.

Q: What are the best protective measures to prevent the harmful effects of the sun?

It is worth noting that the effects of sun exposure are cumulative, meaning that even brief periods spent in the sun without protection can add up over time. Since we cannot avoid the sun altogether, it is essential to get into the habit of using sunscreen daily. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting from both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 30 or higher. You can also adopt sun-safe practices such as the ones recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology, which include wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, seeking shade during peak hours, and wearing sunglasses with UV protection. Remember to reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day, particularly if you are out on the lake, pool, beach, or exposed to sun for extended periods.

Q: If we start seeing premature aging signs on our skin, what are some ways to counteract those effects?

Some options available include chemical peels and microdermabrasion to improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin and the skin’s texture. Dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic are effective in counteracting fine lines and wrinkles. Different types of laser treatments help with many aspects of premature aging. Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute offers various treatments at the Truckee location to repair damaged skin using the Quanta EVO Light™ 4V.

Q: How does the Quanta EVO Light™ laser work to diminish the effects of the sun?

The Quanta EVO Light™ combines the functionality of multiple individual lasers. Multiple wavelengths target different skin depths to achieve better outcomes for various skin conditions. The Elluminate Treatment, in particular, is a four-layer facial rejuvenation laser treatment that effectively eliminates sun spots while stimulating collagen production to soften fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture significantly, all in one painless procedure.

If you are looking to take charge of your skin health and address any concerns related to premature aging, visit SkinCancerDerm.com now and book an appointment at any of our 11 convenient locations, including Truckee. Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide personalized care and guidance, ensuring your skin remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.

About Our Dermatology Provider

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In private practice since 1997, Dr. Adam Wallach treats patients at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute’s Truckee location. He diagnoses a full range of dermatologic problems for both adults and children and specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology, including the use of various lasers over the last 25 years. He is a strong proponent of patient education in his practice and is a contributing author to the chapter on skin in the upcoming book, The 21st Century Man. Dr. Wallach and his family live in the North Tahoe area. Get to know Dr. Wallach and book an appointment online here.

Your Greater Reno-Tahoe area Dermatology experts combine market-leading skin and patient care with the most advanced technology and lasers. Some of our locations include Carson City, Elko, Fallon, Reno, and Truckee. You can make an appointment online at SkinCancerDerm.com or by calling 770.324.0699.

Ask the Doctor: To Questions on Skin Cancer Awareness with Adam Wallach, M.D.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. It serves as an occasion to raise awareness on the most prevalent cancer in the United States as more than five million skin cancer cases are identified every year. The Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute values knowledge as a source of empowerment when it comes to skin health. Dr. Adam Wallach, board-certified dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute’s Truckee location, shares insights on skin cancer, how to help prevent it, and tips for self-exams.

Dr. Adam Wallach, M.D.
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Q: How can I tell if my cancer is melanoma?

By using the ABCDEs for detecting melanoma:

A – Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half.

B – Border: An irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.

C – Color: Is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown or black; is sometimes white, red, or blue.

D – Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser), they can be smaller.

E – Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest, or is changing in size, shape, or color. A mole that is suddenly itchy, inflamed, bleeding, or scabby should also be examined.

The ABCDE rule does not apply to all melanomas. During your monthly self-exams, screen for the following lesions:

Elevated: Look for a new spot that is raised above the skin’s surface.

Firm: Look for spots that are firm to the touch, not flabby.

Growing: Look for spots that are fast-growing or continue to grow for more than two to three weeks.

“Ugly Duckling Rule”: Most people’s moles tend to look alike. If there is a mole that doesn’t match the others (i.e., the ugly duckling), that mole should be examined.

Q: What are the signs of skin cancer?

Individuals 40 years and older should look for changes when performing a self-examination. Specifically, when examining spots, pay attention to new growths, changes in shape, or anything that appears different from your typical spots. Essentially, keep an eye out for the mole that stands out from the rest of your moles. It is also important to note that cancers may sometimes bleed, and a mole that is turning cancerous may itch periodically.

Q: How should I perform my self-exam?

Regular self-exams are critical to becoming familiar with your spots. Ensure you check your entire body at least once every month. Here are some helpful tips for checking your skin:

  1. Set a monthly reminder on your calendar.
  2. Use a handheld mirror to check difficult-to-see areas, like your neck and back.
  3. Ask family members to help monitor changes.
  4. Take photos to track any possible changes.
  5. Schedule an appointment with your dermatology provider if you notice any changes.

Q: Why is it important to raise awareness about skin cancer?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), melanoma can affect 1 in 27 men and 1 in 40 women during their lifetime, making it a significant issue in the United States. Skin cancer does not discriminate based on skin color and can impact anyone. However, it is primarily a preventable disease as 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancer and 85% of melanoma skin cancer are caused by UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds.

Raising awareness about skin cancer is crucial in reducing the number of people affected by it. Therefore, the entire month of May is dedicated to this goal. As a dermatologist, I frequently remind everyone to schedule their annual full skin exams during this month.

Q: How does sun exposure contribute to sunspots, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles?

The aging process can be categorized into two types – intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic aging is the natural aging that would happen even in the absence of external factors and is primarily determined by genetics. Even if one is not exposed to the sun, one would still experience aging, including the loss of collagen and elastin, which can lead to the development of wrinkles.

However, extrinsic factors such as sun exposure significantly add to the aging process. Sun exposure can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkles. Additionally, it can cause the appearance of sunspots and dilated blood vessels. Therefore, sun protection is crucial to prevent extrinsic aging and maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin.  

Q: What are some little-known facts about skin cancer? 

Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent skin cancers in the United States. Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful tool to educate people on this important issue. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they turn 70? This is a significant statistic. Moreover, we are seeing a growing number of younger patients being diagnosed with skin cancer compared to 20 years ago. It used to be more common in individuals aged 50 and over, but now we are seeing it in people as young as their 20s, 30s, and 40s.

Many individuals are unaware that daily sun exposure can be just as harmful as spending a day at the lake without sunscreen. While people tend to apply sunscreen on big sun days, they tend to forget about everyday exposure. It is important to incorporate sunscreen into our daily routines and to reapply throughout the day.

Skin cancer is not only the most common cancer in America, but it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute encourages our community to come together and raise awareness about skin cancer prevention, not just during this month but throughout the year.

Get to know Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute, and learn more about medical dermatology, Mohs surgery, and cosmetic surgery at SkinCancerDerm.com. Appointments may be made online.

About the Dermatology Provider
In private practice since 1997, Dr. Wallach treats patients at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute’s Truckee location. He diagnoses a full range of dermatologic problems for both adults and children, specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology, including the use of various lasers over the last 25 years. He is a strong proponent of patient education in his practice and most recently is a contributing author to the chapter on the skin in the new highly reviewed book, The 21st Century Man. Dr. Wallach and his family live in the North Tahoe area. Get to know Dr. Wallach and book an appointment online today.

California is likely to vote to legalize online sports betting – what to expect

During the pandemic, US betting markets saw a massive rise in popularity. More people than ever before have picked up an interest in betting in various formats, and the industry exploded in terms of both players and different offerings. California has so far decided to go against the many states legalizing betting. Still, with the way that the debate is going, California will, likely, take the step to legalize betting in not too long.  

More and more states are legalizing betting, and it’s likely that the voices for California to follow the rest of the country (and the world). But what can one expect if California does decide to go down the route of allowing online sports betting? Even if gambling at tribal casinos has been possible for many years, the prospect of being able to place bets from one’s phone while sitting at home is something completely different. If you want to see what legalized gambling can look like online, there’s a lot to learn from online casino reviews

When can one expect the issue to be raised again? 

The most likely scenario is that the issue will be voted on in conjunction with the election in 2022. The proposition was overwhelmingly voted down in 2022, which led to many analysts projecting that the issue won’t be raised until 2024. 

Will online sports betting cut into the profits of the tribal casinos?  

Strong lobby groups, as well as loud voices from tribal casinos, were a major factor in the proposition to legalize. Many tribal voices running casinos argued heavily against the legalization of online betting while fully supporting in-person betting. It’s difficult to say whether online betting would cut into the margins of the casinos. It would make sense for their revenue to suffer slightly should online gambling become legal, but what the casinos offer is completely different from the experience online. Tribal casinos often also host various events

What would be the state’s upsides and negatives if sports betting was legalized? 

Sports betting is something that engages a large number of sports fans, of which there are many in California. The most significant upside to allowing online betting is the tax revenues that would fall into the hands of the state, a very appealing reality. But at the same time, gambling is gambling. Problem behaviors can arise in conjunction with online betting, and it’s easy to see why many groups are critical towards opening up the taps and making betting available through a couple of clicks on the phone. 

Best Indoor Hobbies You Can Try

Having a hobby is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Not only does it bring joy and satisfaction, but it also offers numerous other benefits that can help improve your overall well-being. For starters, having a hobby gives you an opportunity to take a break from the stresses of daily life and immerse yourself in something enjoyable. Doing something you love will help reduce stress levels and give you more energy to tackle everyday tasks. Here are some of the best indoor hobbies you can try:

Find the joy of watching sports

Watching sports is a great hobby for many reasons. It can be an enjoyable way to spend time with friends and family, as well as a great way to stay connected with the world of sports. Watching sports also provides an opportunity to learn about different teams, players, and strategies. Finally, watching sports is simply fun, it’s exciting to watch your favorite team compete against their rivals or see a player make a wonderful play that wins the game. If you love basketball, for example, you can also search for nba picks and try to guess scores.

Play new and funny board games

Board games are a great way to spend quality time with family and friends. Not only do they provide hours of entertainment, but they also help to develop important skills such as problem-solving, strategy, and critical thinking. Board games can also be used to teach children about different topics such as math, science, history, and geography. Playing board games is an excellent way for people of all ages to bond and have fun together. It’s a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just relax with loved ones. Board games can also help improve communication skills by encouraging players to talk about their strategies or discuss the rules of the game. 

Learn creative writing

Creative writing is a great hobby to have for many reasons. It can help you express yourself in ways that you may not be able to do in other forms of communication. Writing can also help you explore different topics and ideas, as well as develop your own unique style and voice. Creative writing can also be a great way to relax and take a break from the stresses of everyday life. It allows you to focus on something positive and creative, rather than worrying about all the things that are going wrong in your life. Additionally, creative writing can help improve your communication skills by teaching you how to effectively communicate with others through words. 

Fun Activities to Keep You Entertained During a Snowy Day

While most people dread snowy days, such days can offer great opportunities to have some fun and get creative. Here are some ideas on how to make the most out of your time when the winter cold get you stuck indoors. 

  1. Try out some entertaining online casino games. Online casinos offer a great variety of games from which you can find a few to play for fun. 
  2. Get crafty. Pull out your crafting supplies and get to work on making something unique. Whether it’s a scrapbook or a handmade card for someone special, there’s always  something tangible you can make to look back on later, with admiration.
  3. Cook something delicious. If you’re feeling creative, why not try cooking with some new recipes?

Try Out Some Entertaining Games at an Online Casino

If you’re looking for a fun and entertaining way to pass the time, you could try out some games at an online casino. Online casinos have a wide variety of games, from classic table games like blackjack and roulette to more modern slots and video poker. You can even find live dealer versions of these popular casino games. With so many options available, it’s easy to find something that suits your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick game or an extended session of casino entertainment, there are many options available at an online casino.

Get Creative to Keep Yourself Occupied and Entertained

Snowy days can be a great opportunity to get creative and have some fun. If you’re stuck indoors, why not try your hand at some arts and crafts? Gather up your supplies – paper, scissors, glue, markers, etc., – and let your imagination run wild. You can make cards for friends or family members, create decorations for your home, or even design a new outfit. If crafting isn’t really your thing, you could curl up with a good book. Reading is an excellent way to pass the time during a cold snowy day. Or, if you’d rather stay active while indoors, there are many indoor activities that don’t require much space. Yoga is one option; it helps you relax both body and mind while also enabling you to do some physical exercise. 

Easy Recipes for Comfort Food in the Wintertime

Wintertime is the perfect time to indulge in cooking some delicious dishes. One of the easiest recipes you can try is a classic macaroni and cheese. All you need is elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, cheddar cheese, salt and pepper. Another easy recipe is shepherd’s pie – you only need potatoes, ground beef or lamb, carrots, onions, garlic cloves, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Both dishes will warm you up and make you feel cozy at home while the snow keeps falling outside.

Lake Tahoe Sports – Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a Lake Tahoe resident and want to know more about what kind of sports you can do in your local area, you have come to the right place. You might also be residing in other parts of the US, and thinking about making a move to a popular destination. In that case, this read might be relevant for you too. Lake Tahoe is famous for many reasons, one of them being an amazing skiing destination, with some of the best skiing resorts worldwide. 

If you like sports Lake Tahoe is a paradise for you, with options all year around. In the winter you can enjoy magnificent winter sports options, such as skiing and snowboarding. But in the summer seasons, this place is also a haven for outdoor sports as well. If you prefer indoor sports, such as basketball, baseball, and football, don’t worry you’ll find these here as well. For information about March Madness picks in terms of sport, have a look at the link. 

On the website, you can read sports news for NFL, NHL, soccer, and boxing, as well as many others. If you’re into sports betting you can also check current odds out. For more info, check the link above. 

Winter Sports in Lake Tahoe

When the winter season hits Lake Tahoe, it’s a paradise for winter-loving people. In Lake Tahoe, one of the best skiing resorts is Palisades Tahoe, which was once the host place for the Olympic Winter Games. Of other popular skiing destinations in Lake Tahoe, you’ll find Heavenly Ski Resort, Northstar California, and Kirkwood Ski Resort.

Enjoy the outdoors

Whether you like adventure sports or prefer to do them at a slower pace, you can be sure to find something suitable. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America, which means a lot of water sports are available. Sports like water skis, wakeboarding, and wake surfing are all options there. You can also sail in kayaks or do SUP boarding. 

If you’re not so much of a fan of water, you can also go on numerous hikes in the beautiful area. You’ve got the beautiful lake to walk around, but also the dramatic mountain scenery from the Sierra Nevada mountain range. If you like tranquil scenery you have to check out Emerald Bay. 

Biking is also widely popular around Lake Tahoe. For more information about the many sports options, have a look online. 

Why Basketball Is The Perfect Sport For Your Child

It is fair to say basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. It definitely has a special place in the culture of America. If you are a parent and want your child to play a sport, you should consider basketball. If you are a basketball aficionado, you can discuss the NBA odds with your friends and even analyze the games you watch on your local courts. But being an expert for NBA lines is one thing, but being a parent of a basketball player is a whole other thing. Today, we will show you why basketball is the perfect sport for your child.

It Can Improve The Confidence Of Your Child

Basketball is a great way to help your child build confidence. It encourages physical activity, which can help boost self-esteem and improve overall health. Additionally, basketball teaches essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving that can be applied in other areas of life. Playing basketball also helps children learn how to handle pressure and adversity while developing their motor skills. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for social interaction with peers and adults alike, which can help foster positive relationships. Finally, the game’s competitive nature allows children to set goals and strive for success – something that will benefit them both on and off the court.

It Can Teach Your Child Teamwork

Basketball is a great way to teach your child the importance of teamwork. By playing on a team, your child will learn how to work together with others to achieve a common goal. They will also learn how to communicate effectively and cooperate with their teammates to be successful. Additionally, basketball can help your child develop leadership skills as they take on different roles within the team. This could include being the point guard who calls out plays or being the center who sets up screens for other players. Through these experiences, your child will understand what it takes to be part of a successful team and how everyone’s contributions are important for success. Finally, basketball can also teach your child about sportsmanship and respect for their opponents by showing them that even when they lose, they should still show respect for their opponents’ efforts and congratulate them on their victory.

It Is Good For Cognitive Skills

Basketball is an excellent way for children to develop their cognitive skills. It requires them to think quickly and make decisions in a split second, which helps them become more agile thinkers. Also, basketball encourages problem-solving skills as players must figure out how to score against an opposing team. This teaches children the importance of strategy and planning ahead. Furthermore, basketball also helps with hand-eye coordination as players must be able to accurately shoot the ball into the hoop while avoiding defenders. This can help improve their motor skills and reaction time. Finally, playing basketball can also help children learn teamwork and communication skills, as they must work with their teammates to win games. All these benefits make basketball an excellent activity for kids that will help them develop critical cognitive skills that will serve them well throughout life.

Those are some of the splendid benefits of your child playing basketball.

Tips for Preparing for Exciting Sporting Events

Are you an avid sports fan and love to follow different matches and tournaments? You are not the only one, because following sports is an incredibly popular way to spend time and have fun.

Even if you have followed different sports for a long time now, there are some tips you might want to use. Different types of sporting events require different levels of preparation, as you can notice soon. So, let’s find out different ways you can prepare for the matches, and how you can, for example, use March Madness picks during the preparation.

Yearly events can be exciting

Let’s begin with yearly events such as March Madness. This is one of the most popular sports tournaments that take place each year, and its popularity is not surprising. It’s a single-elimination tournament where college basketball teams compete.

Preparing for these yearly events is quite simple since they take place each year. Still, if you are interested in betting on them rather than just watching the matches, you need to do some extra work. This is because even in one year, a lot of things can happen that might affect the teams and the outcome of the tournament. Therefore, you should always make sure that you have all the latest information on the teams from that season.

Bigger events require more planning

March Madness is already a big sports event, but there are some much bigger ones. Tournaments like Alpine Meadows, FIFA, and The Olympics require much more planning.

Especially if you want to see the matches in real life at the place where they are held, you should start planning as early as possible. Often these events will increase all prices when it comes to traveling to the destination and the prices in the location. So if you want to be sure that you will make it there, you should start preparing as soon as possible, even years in advance.

You can arrange something fun at your own home

Even though nothing beats seeing the matches in real life, you can still arrange fun possibilities in your own home. Even though this takes much less preparation, there are still some things you should consider. Namely, make sure that you have everything you need to watch the games in real time. After doing so, you can focus on funnier things, such as getting all your favorite snacks. Then you are ready for any type of sporting event.

Adding crypto to your portfolio: why and how to do it

Ethereum price

Cryptocurrency is one of the hottest assets to add to your portfolio these days. There are thousands of digital coins available for investors. If you’ve decided to buy crypto, you’ll need to become familiarized with the blockchain ecosystem and all that it entails. It can also take many forms, from direct purchases to investing in cyber money funds and companies that utilize crypto. You’ll also have to pay attention to any transaction fees, as they can vary quite a lot depending on the digital money you’re investing into. You should also get accustomed to the risk. If you’re not at all comfortable with fluctuations in value, becoming a crypto investor is going to be tough. As a general rule, you shouldn’t invest more than you can afford to lose. That’s the first mark of a responsible investor who plans to do it for the long-term. 

But why exactly should you be trading in crypto? If it’s all about the fact that it’s popular right now to do so, it can provide little incentive if you don’t give much thought to trends. However, this isn’t the only reason why crypto is a solid investment you should consider adding to your portfolio. Here are some of the main reasons you need to get on board as soon as possible. 

Innovative technology

Although blockchain technology has existed since the 90s, it is only recently that it has become popular. The reason is no other than cryptocurrency. Now, researchers and experts estimate that this decentralized ledger is going to replace traditional technologies sooner rather than later. Their main advantage lies in the fact that nobody is in charge of anyone else’s information. Removing intermediaries and third-party entities from the equation opens the door for the possibility of new types of economic activity and transactions that were not possible so far. 

Postulated to be a complete game changer for everything from supply chains to healthcare, when you invest in crypto you also get to be at the forefront of this incredibly promising technology. A few years from now, when crypto might as well be used with the same frequency as fiat money, and the blockchain network becomes common across numerous platforms, you’ll be proud to feel you’ve contributed to its improvement and public acceptance. 

Great variety 

Crypto is still a growing niche of the trading sector, and as such there’s a lot of variety when it comes to currencies. This is good news for any trader, as it means you won’t be forced to choose between a limited number and settle for something that sounds less than ideal. However, you also need to be careful about where you choose to put your money. 

Any seasoned trader would advise you to opt for a cryptocurrency that’s well-established on the market. One of the best options is none other than Ethereum. Currently one of the largest names in the digital coin world, it has become increasingly popular among investors due to its stability compared to its peers. Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to search for the ETH price before you begin an undertaking. Knowing exactly where Ethereum stands at a given time helps you make more informed trades. If you don’t get the hang of the fluctuations, you’re more likely to commit mistakes, such as buying high and selling low. While you cannot realistically expect smooth sailing throughout the entirety of your investing career, one too many poorly-timed decisions will weigh you down in the long run. If you’re just beginning your trading career, it might even be enough to deter you from continuing. 

Store of value potential 

According to skeptics, crypto will never reach the heights and recognition of more traditional forms of trading due to its infamous volatility. For this reason, they are certain that any trade in digital money is bound to be more of a loss rather than a gain of any type. However, this is a rather reductive view. You don’t have to look any further than the progress cryptocurrencies have made since their introduction only a little over a decade now. From the relative obscurity of its incipient years, cyber money has been propelled into wider recognition into an unbelievably short amount of time. The trend also seems to point towards continuous growth, so cryptocurrency is not going anywhere. 

One of the other reasons why crypto is often derided as nothing more than a fad is the craze that has surrounded it over the past years. However, digital money is not the only asset subjected to speculative mania. Precious metals, technology stocks and even real estate have also experienced market bubbles during times of heightened interest. Some of it is ill-advised exuberance, some of it is well-timed trading in a market that is facing a very favorable period, but the fact is that many of these ventures, which rarely get the same negative rep as crypto, ended poorly for investors. 

As a beginner in crypto trading, you should be wary of falling for psychological trades such as FOMO or herd instinct. They can often make all the difference between a good and a bad undertaking. So if you feel like you shouldn’t begin a trade at a certain time, trust your gut feeling and don’t. Even if it turns out to have been a missed opportunity, you can at least feel content that it’s a decision you’ve made based on your own gut feeling and not due to external pressure. 

Starting a trade 

When you’re looking to commence your career as a crypto investor, you’ll have to find a trustworthy exchange and create an account. After you’ve been verified, you can begin your financial transactions. You’ll also have to find a wallet that works for you. While storing your coins on the blockchain is a viable option, you should avoid it since it is most likely not going to also be the safest of the bunch. Software wallets are also only a good alternative if you don’t plan on getting too serious about digital money. Their internet connectivity makes them vulnerable, and once your crypto is lost, it is typically lost forever. Hardware is the safest, sturdiest option. 

Crypto is currently getting a lot of time in the limelight. If you’re still on the fence about whether you should become a trader or not, this may just be the sign you need to take the first step.