BEBÉ ELLISON: A MODERN RENAISSANCE WOMAN IN A WORLD OF MAKEUP

By Daryl K. Jones

Imagine, if you will, a young girl in a dimly lit attic. To this young girl, this particular attic is much more than just a space; it’s a wonderland filled with posters, costumes, jewelry, shoes, wigs, and makeup. All remnants from a curiously transitional period in the history of entertainment – Vaudeville. This young girl rummages through costumes in trunks, pulls out drawers in bureaus, and tries on pearls, all while being enchanted by the over-sized red sequin gown, mirroring the stars in her eyes. Now, imagine this same girl growing up to be as glamorous today as she was in the childhood fantasies of her youth.

Enter Bebé Ellison, the owner of Baby Does Make-up and More, a modern renaissance woman whose personal brand of wisdom, strength, and beauty is both inspiring and infectious. She’s not just any makeup artist; she’s the makeup artist to the stars, with names like Wendy Williams, Joan Rivers, and R&B/Pop star Akon on her client list. Her experience goes beyond entertainment, and what sets her apart is her background as a private investigator, where her makeup skills helped her change her look and go incognito. “You know you’re badass when you can stand next to people who have met you and they do not know it is you,” boasts Ellison. Inspired by her early attic experiences, she hasn’t looked back since.

Bebé Ellison takes immense pride in her ability to personify the element of service, and it shows not only in her professional life but also in her personal life. She’s ventured into the nonprofit sector by collaborating with bestbuddies.org, an organization that enhances the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their focus is on programs that create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for the intellectually and developmentally challenged. “One of my love languages is servitude,” explains Ellison. “I use my talent for makeup and styling to assist people with disabilities and show them how to prepare themselves for the world.” Noble work, indeed.

For over 25 years, Bebé Ellison has honed her skills and sharpened her keen and stylish eye. She’s now considered a trailblazer in the world of fashion, beauty, and art. Beyond makeup, she runs a trendy boutique filled with original pieces created by her designer partners, where everything is one-of-three. The boutique carries only three of each item, and once it’s gone, it’s gone. Ellison also operates an art gallery with limited edition pieces, making her a versatile artist who can style not only you but potentially your home as well. In essence, when it’s about beauty, it’s about Bebé.

Bebé Ellison has come a long way from the young girl in the attic. She is a testament to hard work, passion, an innovative spirit, and creativity leading to success and the perfection of one’s craft. She continues to be of service through her volunteerism, and she will remain influential in the space in which she operates for years to come.

Contact Bebé Ellison at babydoesmakeup@gmail.com or call 718.440.2210 to experience her exceptional makeup artistry.

The Perfect Time to Stryke: Issac Stryker, Real Estate Expert.

Issac Stryker decided to work in real estate out of an innate desire to help others, but also because he has deep respect for land and the improvement of such. He realized he could use his talent for working with people, as well as his talent for creative problem solving to make an impact on individuals, families, and communities.

One factor that separates Issac from many other realtors is his desire to build relationships with people that are not solely based on profit. “I am happy to meet and show someone some homes even if they’re not pre-approved for a loan” submits Issac. “I want to find out what they expect so I can tailor my service to their specific needs. I want to be invited to their backyard BBQs to celebrate moving into their new home.

Being relationship driven is not the only thing that differentiates Mr. Stryker from his counterparts. Stryker also participates in vacant land deals (under 100k). He deals with multi-million dollar buyers, as well as with families on their first purchase. “I will never turn down a client because of price”, explains Issac.

What makes Issac successful as a realtor is the fact that he puts his own needs aside and tells the truth! He takes his responsibility to serve his clients’ best interests extremely seriously. “I have to stay on top of market data and have the most current and accurate information about what is happening, and where things are going”, Issac explains. That knowledge helps him be an invaluable advisor to everyone in his sphere of influence. “I know if I treat people the right way and come from a place of respect and care, I will have clients for life”.

Contrary to the old adage, what you don’t know can hurt, especially when you’re talking about buying or selling homes. That’s why it is imperative to seek the guidance of a trusted and tested professional like Issac Stryker. We asked Isaac to give our readers a glimpse into where he sees the market heading, and he happily obliged.

“According to the Fed” Issac states, “we’re going to continue to see these higher interest rates that we have now, (7-8%) for most of 2024. While this is scaring a lot of people and slowing down buying and selling, this is actually a GREAT opportunity!” Mr. Stryker goes on to explain that prices are much lower than they were the last two years, and they will be again, when rates finally come down. That means “bidding wars” are rare and buyers can negotiate on terms. If you can afford the mortgage, you’ll be able to refinance soon, and bring your payments way down.

Also, for sellers, if your loan is assumable (FHA, VA, & USDA) your home can still be sold at a premium since more buyers will want to take over your 2.75% or 3.5% loan at a higher sales price. “There are really a ton of ways to benefit from the current and upcoming market”, he states emphatically.

So, what’s next for Issac? Well, when he’s not playing and producing music, performing, or writing scripts about the Austin music scene with his friends, he spends his time collaborating with a group of people on a development project which aims to provide affordable housing in a regenerative earth-focused environment. This includes spaces for diverse events, film locations and all kinds of hospitality and amenities. This is a special project for Issac and we’re excited to see what the future holds for Mr. Stryker.

Q and A with Soomin Kim: A New Talent in Real Estate.

How long have you been in real estate?
I have only been licensed for approx. 3 years. Beginning Nov of 2020.

What inspired you to get into real estate?
Well I relocated my family from another State to Texas in 2020, the process was an all-together physical, financial, emotional and spiritual. Having settled here in Austin and seeing that many were have or was in the process of doing the same, I felt the need for a professional opportunity to which I can passionately serve the needs of those embarking on a similar journey. I realize that most successful agents in the area were born and raised here and may not be able to relate to those coming here and moving here for the first time. A passion to share my story and help others to do the same led me to seeking Real Estate as a profession.

What differentiates you from others in your field?
I consider myself a ‘Modern Agent’. I see that Real Estate is composed of, influenced by and trained by office and team leaders that have become successful in a different era, beit the 80’s, late 90’s and early 2000’s. They are still teaching the same strategies and technique for a world that no longer exists. What differentiates me is that I have never performed ‘traditional’ strategies such as cold-calling, door knocking, etc., I rely heavily on the efficiencies today in communication such as video and social content.

Do you participate in land/commercial real estate deals?
I have tremendous partners when it comes to this subject and my clients can be best served with my referral of collaboration with experts in this field. I am more focused on residential.

What are the core values that guide your actions and drive your success as a realtor?
Efficiency and adaptability. I will use efficient platforms to seek buyers for listings and data for buyers. My clients understand this competitive advantage in working with me, this is why they seek me.

What has been your biggest obstacle as a realtor and how do you deal with it?
Although I have only been in this profession actively for 3 years, my production would exceed some that have been doing this for 20+ years. Experience should then be measured by transactions and not simply longevity. I also remain humble and surround myself with those that have been in the industry much longer than I have.

What would you consider to be your greatest accomplishment as a realtor?
Besides the true joy and satisfaction of helping families into their new home, my greatest accomplishment as a Realtor is seeing the many colleagues that have shared my strategies and success on social platforms. There is not a day I don’t see someone copy my posts, channels, announcements, flyers, logo, captions, speech, branding, etc. I came to realize that I may be helping usher the next generation of modern agents in this market locally, nationally and globally.

What advice do you have for those looking to find a great real estate professional?
Ask your prospective agent what differentiates them from any other agent on the market. Listen to their answer and believe them. If you don’t feel there is any unique advantages mentioned, keep looking!.

What other services do you offer?
I offer other agents and colleagues my partnership if they are seeking to advance their production, add new strategy or bring their marketing into a more modern era. I have helped hundreds of agents to effectively do this with a partnership with me. I am also a conduit of all necessary services within the transaction of residential real estate: contractor work, pool, cleaning, flooring, roofing, paint, pressure washing, etc.

What is the best way our readers can get in touch with you?
Instagram: @soominkimgroup

Email: SoominSK@gmail.com

Call: 714.926.5730

She Means Business! Laura Hartnett and GlowGal Enterprises

We know Laura Hartnet as the driving force behind, and owner/operator of GlowGal Salon; a full-service hair salon and extension bar located in Cedar Park. Additionally, this year she launched GlowGal Enterprises: an online business that teaches mothers, (or anyone wanting to earn an income online), how to earn money while staying home and raising their kids. “We as women have an abundance of choices”, states Hartnett, “I’ve talked with many women that are still desiring to earn money without sacrificing time with their kids, and GlowGal Enterprises shows you how”.

Laura Hartnett has been a working mom, mom boss, business owner, as well as a stay at home mom. It is more than fair to say that she sees the value of all these choices. Laura’s hope is to inspire women to feel comfortable with whatever path they choose, and assist in any way she can to help them succeed.

As for what’s new with GlowGal Salon, it is growing into a tiered salon which will allow Laura and her team to service many different clients, (regardless of budget), so clients receive a “quality, and fun experience”. This is evidenced by the reviews many have posted regarding GlowGal’s acumen, as well as their superior service. The overall message received is that they work with heart, alongside their talent. Laura is proud of this reputation for customer service, and feels that this needs to become a focus again in business. To inspire this sentiment in a new generation of stylists, Laura has also added to the team, and now offers an apprenticeship program. Concerning GlowGal Salon’s newest services, they are most proud of being one of the only salons in Texas that offer Mesh Integration Systems, which are the most advanced methods of hair extensions in the hair care industry. It helps those suffering from alopecia.

Additionally, throughout 2023 Laura opened her salon up to several industry educators so her staff is always ahead of the latest trends and techniques, also ensuring that her staff is provided with the support they need to give the best service. This year they had Cole Thompson pay them a visit to expand their cutting techniques, and Jessica Powers to grow their talent in vivid coloring. Anyone who decides to visit GlowGal Salon will definitely be satisfied with their work.

For more information on GlowGal Enterprises: Visit Instagram @glowgalenterprises, or search the web at www.glowgalaffiliate.com/256f494b

For more information on GlowGal Salon: Visit Instagram @glowgalsalon, or search the web at http://www.glowgalsalon.com

Be Your Own Boss, Control Your Own time, Determine Your Own Income, Build Your Wealth by Acquiring property with Wayne and Lynn Morgan

by Daryl K. Jones

Congratulations! You’ve got your real estate license. Now what? If you’ve ever had the notion to buy real estate, sell real estate, or invest in real estate, Wayne and Lynn Morgan are unquestionably the ones you should consult. Aside from having invaluable wisdom and experience to impart on a conversational level, this duo has made it their mission to assist as many as they can in this regard. By establishing and facilitating Texas Real Estate Commission-approved courses through their Real Estate Business School, (a business school for Realtors®), they teach people not only how to obtain a license, but they also teach them how to use it to create the income to have the life about which they have always dreamed. “Real estate is about making your dreams come true”, submitted Wayne and Lynn. “That’s why it’s the best business in the world. We make other people’s dreams come true while achieving our own”. What differentiates Wayne and Lynn Morgan from others is that they understand one crucial factor of licensing. That is to say, that licensing courses only teach you the information needed to obtain a license, but do not teach you anything about what it actually takes to be a great real estate professional. Your license guarantees you nothing; it is merely the entry fee you pay to get into the business. The licensing courses do not prepare you to be successful in the business. They are a good foundation, but obtaining the license is just a start. How will you find people who are thinking about buying or selling a home today? What will you say to them when you find them to convince them to hire you?

There are three types of education required to become successful and get to the financial top of the heap in real estate. One is the technical education required to pass the licensing exam. Two is the business education that your clients expect you to have, and three is the financial education required to maximize returns and mitigate risk in the process of acquiring wealth by way of prudent real estate acquisitions. Wayne and Lynn Morgan teach all three. This is what sets The Real Estate Business School apart from other schools that simply offer licensing classes. The Real Estate Business Blueprint® shows the six components of a business, the definition and goal of each, and how all of these components fit together. “We get new licensees up and running in 10 days” boasts Wayne and Lynn. “You don’t need 6 months of savings to get into real estate. You just need to be committed and coachable and follow our proven formula”.

The Real Estate Business School is the only school in the state of Texas that offers over 30 hours of mentoring at no extra charge in all the pre-licensing courses. What that means is as soon as the license arrives in the mail the licensee can start to access their own personal mentor, start learning how to generate leads, and help people buy or sell their property and get to the closing table quickly. It’s an accelerated learning program available online 24/7/365 with bi-weekly follow up calls to keep them on track. Simply put, they not only help you get into the industry, they also help you stay in the industry. They have authored over 25 books and created the Texas Real Estate Commission-approved courses to go with them. They have taken their experience from thousands of transactions (representing buyers, sellers, investors, developers and builders), and used all of that experience to attack the greatest enemy of realtors: attrition.

For more information, you can contact Wayne and Lynn Morgan at: www.buildmyrebusiness.com

info@buildmyrebusiness.com

512-453-0900

The Best of MyVegas: Chill Bar and Grill

By Daryl K. Jones

Introducing Chill Bar and Grill: a restaurant that boasts a complete menu inspired by dishes from southern Italy with a Mediterranean twist. They are best known for taking well-known favorites and elevating them to a level well beyond the norm. This includes items such as their fresh specialty pizzas prepared to perfection in their brick pizza oven. There’s the 10”, 12” Neopolitana, 14” and 12” gluten-free options. Choices include Pizza Margarita (Passata tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil leaf, and olive oil), Pizza Prosciutto (Passata tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, burrata, prosciutto,and basil leaf), Pizza Pepperoni, Pizza Fig & Balsamic (Fresh ricotta cheese, caramelized onion, figs, and gorgonzola), Pizza Supreme (Mozzarella, sausage, pepperoni, mushroom, onion, bell pepper and black olives), Pizza Diavoletta (Passata tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, hot capicola ham, basil leaf, and chili oil), Pizza Meat Lovers (Passata tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, ham, and pancetta), Pizza Con Acciughe (Passata tomato sauce, mozzarella, anchovies, and oregano), Pizza Formaggio Burrata (Passata tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil leaf, and burrata), Cheese Pizza, and Pizza Al Pesto (Fresh made pesto sauce & fresh mozzarella cheese).

The restaurant serves Italian and Mediterranean dishes, as well as American favorites such as their six piece bone-in chicken buffalo wings. Chill Bar and Grill also offers specialty menu items which include house-cut french fries tossed in truffle garlic sauce with sautéed mushrooms and a parmesan crisp. Those are only a couple of the appetizers that they offer!

Other menu items include Gourmet pastas (Paccheri Boscaiola, Gnocchi Al Gorgonzola with chicken or shrimp, Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken or shrimp, and Penne Alla Bolognese), sandwiches (Bison burger, Panino Al Pollo Sandwich, and Prosciutto Sandwich), salads (Greco salad, gluten-free popeye spinach salad, Caprese and caesar salad), seafood (Shrimp skewers, and fried shrimp, salmon, and calamari served with aioli sauce), and gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, as well.

Entrees include Parmigiana Di Pollo (Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmigiano cheese, served with spaghetti)., Salmon Alla Griglia (Fresh Atlantic grilled salmon served with sauteed vegetables.), Chicken Kabob (Mediterranean Chicken Kabob served with rice, grilled zucchini & tomatoes), Mediterranean Strudel (Assortment of grilled veggies wrapped in puff pastry.), and Lamb Chops (Marinated grilled chops served with veggies and rice). Chill Bar and Grill also offers desserts such as Cannoli, Gluten Free Flourless Chocolate Cake, and Crema Catalana: a traditional Spanish crème brule.

Conceived by the great culinary mind of Giancarlo Bomparola, owner/operator of the popular Las Vegas Italian restaurant Siena Italian Authentic Trattoria, Chill Bar and Grill provides a casual-dress atmosphere where diners can enjoy a relaxing ambience, hence the name. When asked what inspired Giancarlo to open Chill Bar and Grill, his response was simple; he was looking to embark on a new culinary “adventure”. Located at 7905 W. Sahara Avenue, Suite 102-103, Chill Bar and Grill also hosts live performances every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. In addition to this, they provide a happy hour menu twice a day, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a reverse happy hour starting at 9:00 PM and lasting until closing. The restaurant is also available for events and all-day buyouts, so they are well-equipped to service all of your leisure or corporate needs.

For more information, be sure to visit chillbargrill.net, or contact the restaurant at

(702) 202-4218.

Success and Security: The Value of Homeowners Associations

By Daryl K. Jones

The “American Dream”. It seems that it is sometimes elusive, but the harder one works and keeps their nose to the grindstone, the less elusive it becomes, at least theoretically. One of the hallmarks of achieving success with the “American Dream” is home ownership. However, like anything else worth having, it does not come without sacrifice. Similarly, it does not come without its perks. The balance between sacrifice and success is something that homeowners have learned to navigate quite well. Most often, these perks are emblematic of said success, and organizations such as homeowners associations ensure that their residents get to enjoy these amenities, provided they follow the organization’s mandates.

What Is A Homeowner’s Association?

Let’s discuss exactly what defines a homeowners association. Legally, a homeowner’s association is defined as an organization in a subdivision, planned community, or condominium building that makes and enforces rules for the properties and residents. Those who purchase property within an HOA’s jurisdiction automatically become members and are required to pay dues, which are known as HOA fees. A Homeowners’ Association is run by a board of directors that is elected by homeowners to oversee the common assets of a property/area, manage its finances, run business affairs, enforce and set rules, and see to the maintenance and upkeep of the area. A homeowner’s association has more than guidelines and suggestions; they have bylaws and articles of incorporation. The articles of incorporation allow the HOA to operate as a nonprofit governing body that can pass bylaws, community rules, and regulations.

What Are the Perks of Membership in a Homeowner’s Association?

There are several benefits afforded to those who live within a homeowner’s association’s jurisdiction, but for the purposes of this article we will identify the top 3: amenities (which can include gated security and armed patrols), freedom from the responsibility of repairs, and the protection of property value.

Amenities

Common areas such as private club facilities, enclosed dog parks, swimming pools and sports courts are made accessible through homeowner’s associations. The dues that are paid by residents help to pay for the maintenance and upkeep of these facilities, as well as the increased measures that are taken by these associations to ensure the comfort and security of its members. Some HOAs require a security escort to even access the community and/or properties, whether visiting or attending open houses in the area.

Repairs

Members in community organizations such as HOA’s enjoy the added luxury of being released from the obligation of completing certain repairs that may have to be done. The experts at answerfinancial.com state that the fees you pay to an HOA typically go toward services and maintenance that you might otherwise have to perform, or contract for, yourself.

Property Value

According to associatedasset.com, each resident who owns a home in the community is held to the same set of standards for the upkeep of their home’s exterior, as well as the adherence to noise policies, parking restrictions, short-term rental guidelines, etc. They go on to state that property values are maintained since residents are held accountable to deed restrictions, homes and common areas are consistently taken care of and well-maintained. They contend that having a well-kept home in a well-kept neighborhood is what makes living in an HOA desirable to a lot of home buyers.

Although homeowner’s associations have their cons as well as their pros (just like anything else), there are many benefits to membership in a homeowner’s association that are enjoyed by homeowners. It is important to note that all homeowner’s associations are not the same.However, all of them are designed to protect the communities they serve, and provide a higher standard of living for residents.

Amber Vazquez Law: The Queen of Acquittals

The Vazquez Law Firm was started in 2005 by Amber Vazquez. Amber’s inspiration to practice law can be traced back to a tumultuous event from her childhood. She saw firsthand how crushing the criminal justice system could be on a family, and not only the person against which it is applied. Amber’s senior year in high school, her best friend’s brother developed a crippling drug addiction that led to him getting arrested with a large amount of drugs. “He ended up going to federal prison, and it broke him in a way that I did not understand, and irreparably changed not only the course of his life, but their whole family”, explains Ms. Vazquez. “It was beyond devastating, and I wanted to make it better. I know I cannot save the world, but I have the opportunity to change one person’s life at a time.”

Being a fifth generation Texan, mother of boys, and cancer survivor, Amber Vazquez has not only a “can-do”, but a “will-do” attitude. It is with this mindset that she attended the University of Texas for her undergraduate studies, and the University of Denver College of Law for law school. Amber later went back to UT Law (her third year) in order to participate in the Death Penalty Clinic. Currently, Amber is Board Certified from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Criminal Law, meaning she is a criminal defense specialist. “I love my job” boasts Ms. Vazquez. “I get to do what lawyers do on TV every day. I try the hardest cases in the hardest places all over Texas and around the country. I have had the opportunity to solve 40 year old cold cases and work on some of the most fascinating cases imaginable.”

Since founding her law practice almost 20 years ago, Amber Vazquez now has two lawyers and an amazing office manager. Their offices are located in a historic house in downtown Austin, two blocks from the courthouse. Amber and her team have distinguished themselves by winning hard trials and getting the absolute best results possible, in every single case. Things have gone so well, Texas Monthly recently referred to Amber as “The Queen of Acquittals”. This is a designation that any defense attorney would kill to have, but few are worthy to carry.

To earn her accolades, Attorney Vazquez has won trials for murder, attempted capital murder, aggravated assault, sexual assault of a child, burglary of a habitation, thefts, many driving while intoxicated(s), family violence assaults and drug possession cases. She was named a Super Lawyer in Texas Lawyer, won the Criminal Justice Award from the Travis County Women’s Bar, Best Criminal Defense Attorney by the Austin Bar Association, and was named one of the 20 top “Winning Women in Texas.” She also sits on the Judicial Committee and Police Oversight Committee for the City of Austin. Another area of service in which Amber Vazquez inserts herself is non-profit work and volunteering in her community. She also donates her time and expertise by taking cases pro bono on a regular basis.

Amber Vazquez is an attorney who knows that the quality and preparation of the lawyers in trial could make a dramatic difference in people’s lives. She has seen how a vigorous defense could literally save a person’s life, and keep a family together. Amber Vazquez is well-deserving of the honor of defending the United States Constitution and the rights it affords us.

Austin’s Own Goodnight Loving Vodka – Pure, Simple, and Impeccably Smooth

Distilled by Austin Vodka Company, Goodnight Loving Vodka is the most palate pleasing and refreshing vodka that you may ever taste. Conceptualized by father, son, and family friends, GLV is made with corn and is 100% gluten-free. What’s more, it is made with Texas artisanal spring water from the 1000 year old Goodnight Loving Spring that runs through the family ranch in Mason County.

Austin is the proud home of many creatives, major corporations, and local small businesses. However, when it comes to distilleries located in Austin, what people may not realize is the heavy competition that exists between them. Austin is the live music capital of the world, and most of these performances are held in entertainment venues that make the majority of their sales serving alcoholic beverages. A study conducted in June of 2019 places Austin as one of the top cities for consuming alcohol, with 90.6 % of its residents choosing to partake. What sets Goodnight Loving Vodka apart from others is how simply smooth it is. This can be credited to the source of their spirit. Initially conceptualized to produce beer, the father and son team quickly realized that the 1000 year old Goodnight Loving Spring running through their property was much better suited for distilling vodka. This was later confirmed by an LCRA study of the water. This could also explain why Goodnight Loving Vodka refuses to add flavors to their vodkas. “We prefer to focus on unflavored vodka because it truly highlights the clean uncomplicated finish of our vodka” states Megan, the marketing rep for the company. While available at most large liquor store chains and independent retailers across Austin, the beverage is also in many fine restaurants and bars as well. You can check availability on their website and order the vodka to be shipped directly to your door! They can schedule a private tour if you contact them. They occasionally have Bottling Parties throughout the year, and they are always a great time! Additionally, supporting their brand is to support the community. Through their many initiatives, Goodnight Loving Vodka supports a wide range of causes from The Girl Scouts to Autism Awareness.

Goodnight Loving Vodka is handmade in Austin, TX. at their distillery off of Fitzhugh Rd. The natural qualities and the high mineral content of the water are the secret to its smoothness. The water is so pure that it imparts a slight sweetness to the finish of the vodka. Whether you fancy a great screwdriver, or you desire the perfect martini, Goodnight Loving Vodka hits the mark every time.

Elon Musk: From Your Cars, to Your Social Media, to Your Brain

Many people don’t know, but some do, about the neural implant company co-owned by Elon Musk called Neuralink. Musk described his long-term goals with Neuralink in November, stating that said goals may sound a little “esoteric”. Neuralink works by digital interfacing directly with the brain, via a microchip implanted in the brain just beneath the skull. You can’t see the neural implant, it is miniaturized to the point where it matches the thickness of the piece of the skull that was removed.

Immediately upon hearing this, one might draw some dark conclusions concerning the implications that Neuralink presents. What would happen if the implant malfunctioned? Are we taking Artificial Intelligence too far in its journey, and trying to develop superintelligence? These are important questions that cannot be ignored. However, Musk asserts that he is confident that they will solve many brain injury and spine injury issues along the way to the final development of Neuralink. One of the major medical applications of Neuralink, for instance, is to help cure quadriplegics by reading the signals from the brain, as well as writing signals from the brain. This means that Neuralink can be used to communicate with the nervous system, if you have a severed spinal cord or neck.

In a 30 minute presentation that can be seen on YouTube, Musk tells his audience that we are all “de-facto cyborgs anyway”, citing the fact that our devices are now essentially extensions of ourselves. As such, we have become accustomed to having access to information almost instantaneously. But what if we could access it even faster? One benefit of direct interfacing with the brain is the elimination of limitations. He cites that although our devices are extensions of ourselves, (thus the cyborg comparison) we are still limited by (quite literally) how quickly we can “move our thumbs”, meaning how fast we can actually type to send or receive information on these devices. Neuralink does away with physical limitations such as these.

Going from Prototype to Product

Musk compares this process to going to the moon. The idea of it is easy, the execution is 100 times more difficult. 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration. The difficulty comes from balancing quality control with the economics of developing such a complex concept. The product must be safe, reliable, must work under a wide range of circumstances, must be affordable and done at scale. Similar to our everyday devices, the neural implant consists of software, batteries, radio, and conductive charging. The hypothesis being that the best thing to interpret the signals from a bio-neural net is a digital neural net. However, another part of this process is, inevitably, testing and clinical trials.

Neuralink remains cautious and careful about testing the device on humans. They’ve performed a range of offline testing before even implanting in animals. They have brain simulators that emulate the aesthetic and the texture of the brain, for instance. The company has submitted most of its paperwork for approval to the FDA and expects to install Neuralink in the first human within 6 months. Once Neuralink was implanted in animals, they could complete tasks such as telegraphic typing; the ability to move the cursor to the highlighted keys on a computer monitor, without using a keyboard. This is one of the functions that inspired Neuralink’s medical applications. The neural implant is designed to get better over time, as well. Similar to a cell phone, the implanted device can also be upgraded. Musk makes a comparison to the iPhone. “I’m sure you wouldn’t want an iPhone 1 stuck in your head, when the iPhone 14 is available”, states Musk as he addresses the crowd at his Neuralink Show and Tell in November.

Human Applications and Possible Implications

The first two applications for humans will be to give original sight to those that were born blind (or restore the sight of those who were blinded), and to enable those who have no ability to operate their muscles to make neural connections in the motor cortex. These are lofty and noble goals that would no doubt create a quality of life that some who are affected have never experienced, but what about what could go wrong? Aren’t the stakes too high to make even the simplest of mistakes anywhere in the process? Does the prospect of scientific discovery make the risks worth it? What about privacy? In regard to transmitting digital signals directly from my brain, can it be hacked? These are interesting questions, but we are assured that the Neuralink neural device is no less safe than an artificial heart. It can’t be hacked, because it only sends signals, not receives them. It is aesthetically undetectable. No one would ever know you had an implant unless you told them.

The more interesting question is what do we do with A.I.? What are we doing in the way of mitigating the risk of having digital superintelligence? Can devices stop taking orders from us and become cognitive of themselves? Is that even possible? With self-driving automobiles, and self navigating flight systems, it would seem like the answer is obvious. Smart homes getting smarter, smart T.V.s with predictive programming, and The Internet of Things as we know it pales in comparison to what is on the horizon. Whatever happens, I’m excited to see what’s next for Neuralink.

Ascension360 Business Consultants

A Well Rounded Approach to Growing Your Business

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