Sponsored Archives - Times of San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/category/sponsored/ Local News and Opinion for San Diego Sun, 26 May 2024 03:59:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://timesofsandiego.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/cropped-TOSD-Favicon-512x512-1-100x100.png Sponsored Archives - Times of San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/category/sponsored/ 32 32 181130289 Survey Finds Small Businesses See Artificial Intelligence as Tool for Growth https://timesofsandiego.com/business/2024/05/23/survey-finds-small-businesses-see-artificial-intelligence-as-tool-for-growth/ Fri, 24 May 2024 05:45:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=273491 Office groupDespite the headlines touting artificial intelligence as human replacement, most small business owners and employees surveyed by Cox Business view the technology as a tool to strengthen and grow their teams.]]> Office group
Office group
Colleagues discuss business issues in an office.

Despite the headlines touting artificial intelligence (AI) as human replacement, most small business owners and employees surveyed by Cox Business view the technology as a tool to strengthen and grow their teams.

Cox Business surveyed small business owners and employees to better understand their sentiment toward AI and how they use the technology in the workplace. Among those surveyed, 52% of small business owners said AI enables them to increase or retain employees, while 65% of small business employees said the same.

According to the survey, small business owners are increasing their AI investment to grow customer service, marketing and sales in 2024.

Enhancing the Customer Experience

Both small business owners and employees feel that they have a good grasp on what AI is and are comfortable using the tools within their organization:

  • 85% of owners are somewhat to very comfortable using AI tools in their business
  • 75% of employees are somewhat to very comfortable using AI tools in their business

Small business owners (53%) report AI had a positive impact on customer experience in 2023 and plan to use AI to support the customer experience in several ways this year:

  • 36%: Online order product/service recommendations
  • 35%: Online order placement
  • 35%: Website live chatbot
  • 33%: Customer service calls

AI Investment

One-third of small business owners invested in AI for their company last year and 53% plan to invest in AI even more in 2024.

“The data clearly shows that small- and medium-sized businesses are embracing AI,” said Mark Greatrex, president of Cox Communications. “Leveraging AI to boost productivity and enhance the customer experience empowers entrepreneurs to take their business to the next level and prosper.  With our generative AI practice at RapidScale, we are making it easier to realize the benefits faster.”

Help Wanted

Currently, 75% of small business owners say they are responsible for their company’s AI implementation and operations. Even though more owners and employees say their company did not feel much impact from last year’s IT labor shortage, 42% of owners did see an impact, having experienced decreased revenue. Employees who saw an impact experienced:

  • 43%: Added job responsibility
  • 40%: Increased stress in the workplace
  • 38%: Working longer hours

“For SMBs with limited technology resources, building AI models specific to their business can be intimidating,” said Jeff Breaux, executive vice president of Cox Business. “But the engineers at RapidScale can make Generative AI accessible and guide businesses on the right deployments to improve a variety of use cases. From building the optimal data resources to training the machine learning models, we can make Generative AI achievable for a wider set of businesses looking for a powerful new growth engine.”

For more key survey findings, visit CoxBLUE.com/SmallBizSurvey.

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Five Reasons Why People Are Switching to Cox Mobile https://timesofsandiego.com/sponsored/2024/03/28/five-reasons-why-people-are-switching-to-cox-mobile/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 17:51:11 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=267523 Cox Mobile sales associateIn addition to offering unlimited talk and text, access to a network with unbeatable 5G reliability and no term agreements, there are five more reasons why consumers are switching to Cox Mobile.]]> Cox Mobile sales associate
Cox Mobile sales associate
A Cox Mobile sales associate works with a customer.

In today’s always-on world, staying connected to friends and family has never been more convenient — whether you’re sharing photos with your family or besties in a group text, posting good news on your favorite social media app, or singing happy birthday to grandma via video chat. 

And now the internet provider with the fastest speeds in America is also offering mobile service — and big savings.

In addition to offering unlimited talk and text, access to a network with unbeatable 5G reliability and no term agreements, here are five more reasons why consumers are switching to Cox Mobile.

Two simple data plans to save you money

  • Pay As You Gig$15 per month per Gig (ideal for customers who don’t use a lot of data and only want to pay for the data they need).
  • Gig Unlimited $45 per month per line/as low as $30 per month per line when you add four or more lines to your plan (perfect for families). The more lines you add, the bigger the discount.

Easy to switch from one plan to another — If your needs change and you need to increase or decrease your monthly data limit, you can easily change plans.

Discounted monthly rates on Cox Internet — Cox Mobile is available to Cox Internet customers, so you can enjoy a monthly discounted rate on your internet service when you combine Cox Mobile and Cox Internet, which offers some of the fastest speeds in San Diego County. Cox was recognized by Ookla® Speedtest® for offering America’s fastest download speeds for the fourth quarter of 2023.

Bring Your Own Device — Cox Mobile offers the latest in iPhones and Android devices, but if you like the phone you’ve got, you can bring it over when you sign up for Cox Mobile.

Access to four million wifi hotspots nationwide — Save on your plan’s data by accessing four million wifi hotspots nationwide, from San Diego and Las Vegas to New York City.

Example Bill

Keeping Dad Connected. The couple in your household loves staying connected, so they’re saving money with two lines on the Gig Unlimited plan. Now, they’ve added Dad to their plan, but he uses less data.

Line 1: Gig Unlimited, two lines $45    $40

Line 2: Gig Unlimited, two lines $45 $40

Line 3: Pay As You Gig, 1 GB $15

Monthly total $105 $95 (before taxes and fees)

To learn more about Cox Mobile and check out the latest phones, visit a Cox Store in Oceanside or Escondido, or find one that’s more convenient at cox.com. You can also go directly to www.cox.com/mobile or call Cox at 1-800-234-3993.

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Understanding the Leading Causes of Car Accidents in San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/sponsored/2024/03/04/understanding-the-leading-causes-of-car-accidents-in-san-diego/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=264661 Otay Mesa CrashAs we delve into the primary reasons for car accidents in the region, it's vital to remember that legal assistance can be a beacon of hope for those affected.]]> Otay Mesa Crash
Otay Mesa Crash
A collision in Otay Mesa in 2022. File photo courtesy OnScene.TV

Navigating the bustling streets of San Diego, drivers face various challenges that can lead to unforeseen accidents. Understanding the common causes behind these incidents is crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users. As we delve into the primary reasons for car accidents in the region, it’s vital to remember that legal assistance can be a beacon of hope for those affected.

Text Kevin Accident Attorneys stands ready to offer guidance and support, ensuring that victims have the resources they need to navigate the aftermath of an accident.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has emerged as the leading cause of car accidents in San Diego and across the U.S., signaling a widespread threat to road safety. From texting and talking on the phone to eating or selecting music, the distractions can be varied but the outcome is uniformly hazardous.

To combat this growing concern, it’s essential for drivers to prioritize their focus while driving. Simple measures such as setting your phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode, preparing your playlist before starting your journey, and avoiding eating or other activities while driving can significantly reduce the risk of distractions. Remember, every second your attention is off the road, the likelihood of an accident increases exponentially.

Speeding

The allure of speed on the open road can be tempting, yet it stands as a critical factor in numerous car accidents within San Diego. Speeding disrupts the delicate balance of reaction times and vehicle control, making it a perilous choice for any driver. 

To ensure safety, drivers are urged to adhere to posted speed limits, understanding that these guidelines are not arbitrary but designed to protect everyone. In areas prone to heavy traffic or pedestrian activity, extra caution and even slower speeds may be warranted. The momentary thrill of speeding pales in comparison to the lasting impact of an accident. By choosing to respect speed limits, drivers contribute to a safer environment for all, echoing a commitment to the well-being of the community.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant cause of car accidents in San Diego, casting a long shadow over road safety. Despite widespread awareness campaigns and strict legal penalties, DUI accidents continue to claim lives and cause injuries, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and prevention efforts.

To curb this dangerous behavior, it is imperative for individuals to make responsible choices, such as arranging for alternative transportation when planning to consume alcohol or substances that impair driving abilities. Ride-sharing services, taxis, and designated drivers offer viable options that can prevent the tragic consequences of DUI. Community education and personal accountability are crucial in reducing the incidence of these entirely preventable accidents, ensuring safer roads for everyone in San Diego.

Reckless and Aggressive Driving

Reckless and aggressive driving behaviors significantly contribute to the danger on San Diego’s roads, manifesting in actions that disregard the safety and well-being of others. From speeding and tailgating to unsafe lane changes and ignoring traffic signals, these actions not only endanger the driver but also fellow road users. The unpredictability and hostility inherent in aggressive driving can escalate into serious accidents, often resulting in injuries or fatalities.

To foster a safer driving environment, it is essential for drivers to adopt a more patient and considerate approach on the road. Recognizing the signs of frustration and anger early on can help individuals manage their emotions effectively, preventing aggressive responses to traffic conditions or the actions of other drivers. Moreover, education on the importance of defensive driving techniques and the consequences of reckless behavior can play a significant role in mitigating these risks. 

Adverse Weather Conditions

Weather plays a pivotal role in driving safety, with adverse conditions like rain and fog significantly increasing the risk of car accidents in San Diego. These elements can impair visibility, reduce tire traction, and extend braking distances, creating a challenging environment for even the most experienced drivers. 

Drivers are advised to:

  • Slow down to compensate for decreased visibility and slippery road surfaces.
  • Increase following distances, giving themselves more time to react to sudden stops.
  • Use headlights to improve visibility, even during daytime rain or fog.
  • Avoid sudden movements or sharp turns which can lead to loss of vehicle control.

Conclusion

Awareness and adherence to safe driving practices are essential in preventing car accidents in San Diego. By embracing the knowledge shared, we can all contribute to making the roads safer for everyone. Remember, support and guidance are available for those affected by accidents, ensuring rights and well-being are safeguarded. Drive safely and responsibly.

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Ookla Ranks Cox as U.S. Provider with Fastest Internet Speeds for Second Consecutive Quarter https://timesofsandiego.com/sponsored/2024/02/23/ookla-ranks-cox-as-u-s-provider-with-fastest-internet-speeds-for-second-consecutive-quarter/ Sat, 24 Feb 2024 06:30:45 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=263819 Browsing the internetCox Communications’ high-speed fiber-powered broadband service has once again been recognized by Ookla Speedtest for offering America’s fastest download speeds for the fourth quarter of 2023]]> Browsing the internet
Browsing the internet
Browsing the internet at high speed. Courtesy Cox Communications

Cox Communications’ high-speed fiber-powered broadband service has once again been recognized by Ookla Speedtest for offering America’s fastest download speeds for the fourth quarter of 2023, achieving median speeds of 261.27 Mbps. Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence.

Ookla

“We’ve taken proactive steps to ensure that our customers continue receiving the reliable speeds they need to optimize performance from a growing number of connected devices in their homes,” said Ingo Hentschel, market vice president for Cox Communications in San Diego. “This recognition from Ookla is evidence that the investments we’re making in our network across the country are producing meaningful results.”

By The Numbers

In the past 10 years, Cox has invested more than $11 billion in network upgrades to deliver some of the most powerful internet, TV, phone, smart home, and mobile services and will continue making multibillion-dollar annual infrastructure investments over the next several years. In 2023, the company:

  • Increased speeds for the majority of its customers, nearly 75% of whom now enjoy download speeds of a half-GIG or greater
  • Expanded fiber-to-the-home connectivity
  • Expanded multi-GIG speed capabilities, which are now available to nearly half of Cox customers. All customers already have access to GIG speeds or greater

Getting The Most Accurate Test of Internet Speeds

Cox customers seeking to measure the speed of a connected device while at home should download the Ookla Speedtest app for their desktops and mobile devices. Ookla Speedtest can also be run from a web browser at www.speedtest.net.

Internet speed test results can vary based on several factors such as:

  • The devices themselves
  • Location of the equipment
  • Sharing connections with other users

Most individual devices like smart phones, tablets and laptops aren’t capable of supporting super-fast speeds. The age and capabilities of the modem or router from which the test is run can also impact results. Newer model modems can better leverage available network capacity.

Device network interface is also important. For speed tiers above 100 Mbps, your router, modem or hardwired device must have a 1 Gbps Ethernet Port. It’s important to remember that most households can connect multiple devices at one time seamlessly with 250 Mbps download speeds.

About Ookla

Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence that provides consumers, businesses, and other organizations with data-driven insights to improve networks and connected experiences. We help our clients efficiently solve their biggest connectivity challenges and drive forward innovation.

Ookla is a division of Ziff Davis (NASDAQ: ZD), a vertically focused digital media and internet company whose portfolio includes leading brands in technology, entertainment, shopping, health, cybersecurity, and martech. Ooklaʼs world-renowned brands include Speedtest, Downdetector, Ekahau, RootMetrics, and more.

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Tijuana’s Medical Tourism Surge: A Lifeline for Bariatric Patients and Economic Boost for San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/health/2024/02/21/tijuanas-medical-tourism-surge-a-lifeline-for-bariatric-patients-and-economic-boost-for-san-diego/ Wed, 21 Feb 2024 18:10:16 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=263028 Tijuana hospitalThousands of Americans and Canadians flock to Tijuana for medical care that is 40 to 70 percent less expensive than in their home countries.]]> Tijuana hospital
Tijuana hospital
Oasis of Hope Hospital in Tijuana. Courtesy Renew Bariatrics

Medical tourism is on the rise. One study published in the American Journal of Medicine estimated that, as of 2017, more than one million people travel overseas for medical care. People travel overseas because medical care is too expensive in their home countries or they can’t get treatment as quickly as they would like.

Rising Demand for Medical Tourism in Tijuana

Tijiuana, in particular, has seen a surge in medical tourism. The high cost of healthcare in the United States brings patients south of the border for bariatric and other surgeries. Thousands of Americans and Canadians flock to Tijuana for medical care that is 40 to 70 percent less expensive than in their home countries. In the United States, bariatric surgery can be incredibly expensive. Even if a person has insurance, they may be facing high out-of-pocket costs for bariatric surgery. Fortunately, Tijuana has become a beacon of hope for U.S. patients who face high costs or stringent insurance barriers for bariatric surgery.

The San Diego-Tijuana Region

The rapidly growing medical tourism industry in Tijuana, especially for bariatric surgery, is reshaping the dynamics of healthcare and economy in the San Diego-Tijuana region. At the forefront of this change is Renew Bariatrics, a healthcare facility credited with over 8,000 successful surgeries.

The San Diego airport is the gateway to Tijuana’s medical tourism. Patients often prefer flying into San Diego Airport due to its convenience and proximity to Tijuana. The alternative, flying directly into Tijuana, typically involves a stopover in Mexico City, resulting in longer flights and a more complex immigration process.

This travel pattern presents a significant economic opportunity for San Diego, as patients frequently spend several days to weeks in the city either before or after their surgery

Medical Tourists Support The Local Economy

Medical tourism visitors support Tijuana’s local economy: shops, restaurants, hotels, and liquor stores all benefit from medical tourism. A downturn in medical tourism means lost money and lost jobs for many residents.

Medical tourism also benefits San Diego’s local economy.  Patients often prefer flying into San Diego Airport due to its convenience and proximity to Tijuana. Patients contribute to San Diego’s economy by spending on accommodations, dining, and entertainment. Many patients extend their stay to explore San Diego’s famous attractions, such as the renowned zoo, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Old Town, enhancing the cultural and recreational appeal of the region.

Patient’s also often visit Tijuana’s many cultural attractions, including Tijuana’s Zona Rio and new wineries in Baja’s hot grape-growing district Guadalupe Valley. In addition, the many local salons and spas offer unique experiences, contributing to the region’s appeal as a medical tourism destination.

Medical Community’s Growth in Tijuana

The demand for bariatric surgery has resulted in a number of state-of-the-art medical facilities and improvements in Tijuana. Medical tourism has spurred a number of new hospitals and facilities.  In addition, a special medical lane was recently opened at the border for medical tourists. This lane allows patients of Tijuana doctors to pass through the border in a special fast lane, avoiding long lines.

The demand for medical treatment has also attracted global medical professionals to Tijuana, seeking training and career opportunities. Dr. Hector Perez, a renowned surgeon at Renew Bariatrics, is a key figure in this growth, training medical professionals and contributing to the city’s rising status in the global medical community.

Tijuana hosts several annual medical bariatric conferences, with Dr. Perez often playing a significant role, including his position as this year’s scientific coordinator for the IFSO.

Why Do People Travel To Tijuana For Medical Procedures?

Bariatric surgery can be life-changing for patients who are obese. It can treat diabetes, sleep apnea, and other obesity related conditions. Most patients say that they have no regrets.

So, why do people travel south of the border for bariatric and other surgeries? Why not just have the surgery at home? Here are some of the top reasons why patients choose Mexico for surgery. 

High Quality Care

According to the New York Post, more than 90 percent of people who cross the border in California for medical services say that the medical care they received in Mexico was the same or better quality than that received in the United States.

World-Renowned Surgeons

Medical tourism provides patients with access to leading bariatric surgeons in Mexico, like Dr. Hector Perez, who is a key figure in the bariatric surgery space. Dr. Perez is a board-certified bariatric surgeon who has performed thousands of bariatric surgeries.

Healthcare Bargains

The more than one million people who travel to Mexico for medical care save 40 to 70 percent less on their treatment. If you desire great medical care and want to get surgery at a fraction of the cost, Tijuana is the way to go. The price of bariatric surgery in Mexico can start at under $5,000.

Final Thoughts

Tijuana is fast becoming one of the most popular places in the world for medical tourism. Patients choose to have procedures done in Tijuana due to the high quality of medical care and chance to spend time exploring Tijuana before or after their procedures.

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Savor the Taste of Spring at San Diego Restaurant Week https://timesofsandiego.com/arts/2024/02/12/savor-the-taste-of-spring-at-san-diego-restaurant-week/ Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:30:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=262505 Restaurant tableGet ready to embark on a culinary adventure as San Diego Restaurant Week returns from March 3 to 10. The event promises eight days of gastronomic delight, featuring over 100 restaurants.]]> Restaurant table
Restaurant table
A sumptuous dinner during San Diego Restaurant Week.

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as San Diego Restaurant Week (SDRW) returns from March 3 to March 10, 2024. Presented by the California Restaurant Association, this highly anticipated event promises eight days of gastronomic delight, featuring over 100 restaurants spread across 30+ neighborhoods throughout the city.

SDRW is more than just a dining event; it’s a celebration of the vibrant culinary landscape that San Diego has to offer. From cozy bistros to elegant fine dining establishments, participating restaurants will showcase the best of the season’s bounty, embracing the essence of spring with each delectable bite.

One of the most remarkable aspects of SDRW is its ability to bring communities together. As friends and families gather to share a meal, neighborhoods come alive with a sense of camaraderie and connection. It’s a time when people from all walks of life can come together to celebrate their love of food and support local businesses.

SDRW also provides an opportunity for high-end restaurants to offer their culinary creations at a more affordable price point, making fine dining accessible to a wider audience. This not only benefits diners who may not typically dine at upscale establishments, but also allows chefs to showcase their talents to a broader audience.

With two-course lunches and three-course dinners starting at just $20, SDRW is the perfect opportunity for foodies across San Diego to explore new restaurants and try new dishes without breaking the bank. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or eager to sample innovative dishes from up-and-coming chefs, SDRW has something to satisfy every palate.

Navigating the extensive list of participating restaurants is made easy with the intuitive website filters, allowing diners to search by neighborhood, cuisine, dining preferences, and price point. Visit SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com for a full list of participating restaurants, mouthwatering menus, and to make your reservations today.

Join us in savoring the flavors of spring and supporting our local culinary community during San Diego Restaurant Week. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable dining experience that brings people together and celebrates the diverse culinary scene of San Diego!
For more information, please visit SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com

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Former Professional Football Player OG Nwagbuo Hopes His Heart Health Story Will Inspire Others https://timesofsandiego.com/sponsored/2024/02/06/former-professional-football-player-og-nwagbuo-hopes-his-heart-health-story-will-inspire-others/ Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=261867 OG NwagbuoFormer pro football player Ogemdi “OG” Nwagbuo credits his success in life after a heart scare to an insertable cardian monitor from Medtronic.]]> OG Nwagbuo
OG Nwagbuo
OG played Division I college football where he started all 12 games as a senior.

The altitude in Denver can make even the best athletes feel out of breath.

Such was the case for 6-foot-4-inch, 300-pound defensive tackle, Ogemdi “OG” Nwagbuo, during a mid-season matchup against a division rival in 2011. Coming to professional football as an undrafted free agent, OG astonishingly went from working a summer job in San Diego to suddenly starting on the defensive line for his hometown team playing on national television.

But something on this October afternoon didn’t feel quite right. Something beyond the altitude. And it was a recurring feeling that had plagued OG off and on since his days playing Division I college football. Shortness of breath, light-headedness, a feeling of exhaustion. Yet, his vitals always looked normal when team doctors and training staff investigated. The perplexing feeling came and went, and like on many other past occasions, he made the most of his time on the field that day in Denver, finishing the game with one tackle in a 29-24 win.

“I remember thinking, ‘I just have to fight through this,’” recalled OG, who is currently a sales representative for medical device company, Medtronic. “I knew something was wrong, but nobody could pinpoint what was actually causing it.”

It would be a decade before doctors would identify a cause.

An Unconventional Path to Football

Growing up in San Diego, OG was more interested in basketball, and didn’t start playing organized football until the end of high school where he played sparingly. He enrolled at a nearby junior college, where football coaches noticed his size and raw potential. After posting two strong seasons in junior college learning the game, OG earned a scholarship to play Division I college football his final two seasons, where he ultimately became a starter.

OG played Division I college football where he started all 12 games as a senior.

Undrafted and unsigned, OG finally got his big opportunity when professional football coaches noticed him while he was working a summer job at a rental car company in San Diego. He joined the practice squad, and within weeks had assumed a starting role on the team, which had been decimated by injuries. OG went on to play for five professional football teams during his career, logging action in 36 games with 6 starts.

“Playing professional football was never a long-term goal for me. It just sort of happened,” said OG. “I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to play at that level, but I also knew it was temporary. I wanted to have a plan for life after football.”

During the off-season, OG took part in a business management and entrepreneurial program offered through professional football, which inspired him to later earn a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA).

A Heart Scare

But when OG’s football career came to an end in 2012, his abnormal symptoms (like those he experienced in Denver) persisted. Doctors suspected a heart condition — later identified and confirmed to be atrial fibrillation, or AF — where the upper chambers of the heart beat out of rhythm causing an unusually fast heart rate, quivering, or thumping sensations. AF can also cause blood to pool and form clots which can lead to stroke.

“I was on a variety of medications — taking 8 or 9 pills a day — to help manage my AF,” said OG. “It was a difficult time, and I had just started a career in medtech and was simultaneously raising my son.”

OG Medtech
OG now works in medtech – for the company that makes his heart monitor.

Scheduled to have a cardiac ablation a few weeks later, OG suddenly experienced a stroke in 2021 caused by his AF. After recovery and following a cardiac ablation, doctors recommended that OG receive a long-term continuous heart monitor so they could better manage his medication regimen and have consistent visibility to his heart condition. OG received the Medtronic LINQ II™ insertable cardiac monitor (ICM), which is placed just underneath the skin in the chest and monitors the heart continuously for up to 4.5 years.

OG now works in medtech — for the company that makes his heart monitor.
“I felt an immediate peace of mind knowing my doctors could keep tabs on my heart at all times, letting me know if something was wrong, or if my medication regimen needed to be adjusted,” said OG.

Staying Active

Today, OG lives an active life. He still likes to exercise, and has picked up some new activities, too — like yoga and cooking. His ICM monitors his heart continuously 24/7, and he’s now taking just one pill per day to manage his AF. When he’s not supporting cases in the operating room helping other patients with their own health conditions, OG enjoys spending quality time with his teenage son, who, like his dad, also plays football. OG helped coach his son’s team to the state championship final in 2023.

OG and his son
OG and his son enjoy spending time together, staying active.

OG and his son enjoy spending time together, staying active. “I actually feel better now than I did when I was playing football,” said OG. “Whether I’m doing yoga or coaching my son’s football team, I’m thankful to be here, and can hopefully be a good role model for others.”

To learn more about the LINQ™ family of ICMs, visit the Medtronic heart monitor site online.

Always talk to your doctor about risks, diagnosis, and treatment information.

Possible risks associated with the implant of the LINQ™ Family ICMs include, but are not limited to, infection at the surgical site, device migration, erosion of the device through the skin and/or sensitivity to the device material. Important safety information is available online.

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Cox Business Helps Veterans Village of San Diego Connect Homeless Veterans to Much Needed Services https://timesofsandiego.com/sponsored/2023/12/01/cox-business-helps-veterans-village-of-san-diego-connect-homeless-veterans-to-much-needed-services/ Sat, 02 Dec 2023 06:45:42 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=254899 Stand Down 2023Cox Business, a longtime supporter of veterans and a partner of Veterans Village of San Diego, stepped up for the eighth year in a row to support Stand Down and help homeless veterans.]]> Stand Down 2023
Stand Down 2023
An aerial view of Stand Down 2023.

With an estimated 1,000 homeless veterans living in San Diego County, it’s critical for a region with a large military presence to have an organization, and community, that supports and serves those who have served others.

It’s perhaps why more than 3,000 volunteers participated in Stand Down 2023. Hosted in July by Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD), this three-day event was designed to provide homeless veterans, and those at risk of homelessness, access to experts and services that can help remove barriers caused by medical, legal, mental health, and substance use concerns.

Cox Business, a longtime supporter of veterans and a partner of VVSD, stepped up for the eighth year in a row to support Stand Down.

Like a circus tent that suddenly pops up one morning and vanishes again in the dark of the night, Cox Business technicians spent the prior week quietly building temporary WiFi access points in the parking lot of the Pechanga Arena. The technicians strung cables from light pole to light pole and installed significant network infrastructure. This meticulous work delivered reliable, fast internet service to all participants of Stand Down 2023 and reinforced the importance of local partnerships.

Aiming high

In previous years, Cox Business provided the Stand Down event with simple, secure internet connections utilizing cable modem activated WiFi. This allowed vendors and VVSD employees online access. The 2023 event was different.

“Every year, we participate in this event and get them connectivity,” said Malcom Dykes, field operations supervisor. “But this is the first year that we offered the expanded WiFi for the entire venue.”

With more veterans in attendance and expanded resources to meet their changing needs, the size of Stand Down 2023 was considerably larger than in the past. Participants were offered haircuts, legal services, employment opportunities, medical and dental services, entertainment, meals, and much more.

In anticipation of the increased demand on the temporary WiFi service, business technology technicians Stephen Cox and Caleb Alarid worked with VVSD to come up with the best design to accommodate not just the vendors, but the attendees, as well.

The Cox Business team remained onsite throughout the weekend to provide technical support.

“The team that was onsite went above and beyond to make sure that we had everything we needed, and that systems were always up and running,” said event organizer Teresa Miller. “Stand Down was an incredible, emotional experience for all of us. Seeing it all come together, it was easy to see how much our community cares about the veterans we serve. It was an accomplishment to provide services for over 550 veterans and their families.”

Cox Business account manager Josh Bartels reflected on this year’s event as the best yet in Cox Business’s long partnership with VVSD.

“To be able to build a professional level, managed WiFi solution capable of handling 500 people — all connecting at the same time — was huge,” Bartels said.

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Ookla Ranks Cox as Fastest Provider of Internet Speeds in U.S. and San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/sponsored/2023/11/26/ookla-ranks-cox-as-fastest-provider-of-internet-speeds-in-u-s-and-san-diego/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 06:45:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=254224 Laptop and smartphoneCox Communications’ high-speed fiber-powered broadband service has been recognized by Ookla Speedtest for offering America’s -- and San Diego’s -- fastest download speeds.]]> Laptop and smartphone
Laptop and smartphone

Cox Communications’ high-speed fiber-powered broadband service has been recognized by Ookla Speedtest for offering America’s — and San Diego’s — fastest download speeds for the third quarter of 2023, achieving median speeds of 260.09 Mbps in the U.S. Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence.

Speedtest verified

“The enhancements we continue making to our fiber-powered network are helping us deliver a world-class experience to our customers, with an eye on immense value and equipping home networks for the technologies of tomorrow,” said Ingo Hentschel, Cox’s market vice president for San Diego.

“This recognition from Ookla, the standard bearer for reliable internet speed testing, is a testament to investments we’ve made and will continue to make for our customers in the coming years.”

By the Numbers

In the past 10 years, Cox has invested more than $11 billion nationally in network upgrades to deliver some of the most powerful internet, TV, phone, smart home, and mobile services and will continue making multibillion-dollar annual infrastructure investments over the next several years. This year, the company:

  • Increased speeds for the majority of its customers, more than 75% of whom now enjoy download speeds of a half-GIG or greater;
  • Expanded fiber-to-the-home connectivity; 
  • Expanded multi-GIG speed capabilities, which will be available to approximately half of Cox customers by the end of 2023. All customers already have access to GIG speeds or greater.

Getting the Most Accurate Test of Internet Speeds

Cox customers seeking to measure the speed of a connected device while at home should download the Ookla Speedtest app for their desktops and mobile devices. Ookla Speedtest can also be run from a web browser at www.speedtest.net.

Internet speed test results can vary based on several factors such as the devices themselves, the location of the equipment and sharing connections with other users. 

Most individual devices like smart phones, tablets and laptops aren’t capable of supporting super-fast speeds. The age and capabilities of the modem or router from which the test is run can also impact results. Newer model modems can better leverage available network capacity. 

Device network interface is also important. For speed tiers above 100 Mbps, your router, modem or hardwired device must have a 1 Gbps Ethernet Port. It’s important to remember that most households can connect multiple devices at one time seamlessly with 250 Mbps download speeds.

Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for fixed median download speeds, United States and San Diego, Q3 2023. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.

About Ookla

Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence that provides consumers, businesses, and other organizations with data-driven insights to improve networks and connected experiences. We help our clients efficiently solve their biggest connectivity challenges and drive forward innovation.

Ookla is a division of Ziff Davis (NASDAQ: ZD), a vertically focused digital media and internet company whose portfolio includes leading brands in technology, entertainment, shopping, health, cybersecurity, and martech. Ooklaʼs world-renowned brands include Speedtest, Downdetector, Ekahau, RootMetrics, and more.

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