Introducing the S604-20 Safety Flashlight Megaphone

The AmpliVox Safety Flashlight 20-watt Megaphone is the perfect compact solution for voice amplification with additional safety and playback options.


The Safety Flashlight’s slim two-pound figure is easy to carry and store while an efficient piezo amplification system sports 900 yards of range with significantly more battery life than most compact models.

With durable ABS construction that’s built for the long haul, this is the ultimate low-profile microphone for your professional needs.

The megaphone comes with record & play feature that can easily reign crowds in and broadcast a pre-recorded message when needed with an emergency flashlight illuminating from the bell.

Plays up to 240 seconds voice recordings from the control panel and music or other recordings in MP3 file format from the USB port.

Microphone

Record
Indicator

Power
Indicator

Power
On/Off

Last Song /
Volume Decrease

Play /
Pause

Siren

LED

Replay

Record

Next Song /
Volume Increase

Attached carrying strap, megaphone folds for easily portability.

Battery compartment holds 4 "C" batteries (not included) for up to 30 continuous hours.

No safety kit or car trunk should be without the Safety Flashlight Megaphone, all emergency personnel should have one. The Safety Flashlight makes it the perfect choice for traffic control and outdoor events that stretch into evening hours.

Next Stop Freedom: Black History Month at North Suburban YMCA 2023

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the contributions and experiences of Black Americans throughout history. This year, the theme "Black Resistance" is particularly significant as it focuses on the ways in which African Americans have fought against oppression and systemic racism, from the time of slavery to the present day.

At the North Suburban YMCA, the programming for Black History Month is centered around Chicago's role in the Underground Railroad.

The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved Black Americans to escape to freedom.

The network stretched across the United States, with many routes passing through Chicago.

During the mid-19th century, Chicago was a hub for the abolitionist movement, and the city played a significant role in helping enslaved people escape to freedom.

Many prominent abolitionists, such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, visited Chicago to rally support for the cause.

Frederick Douglass, an American social reformer and abolitionist made several visits to Chicago often speaking out against slavery and advocating for the rights of African Americans.

Harriet Tubman, a prominent abolitionist and conductor of the Underground Railroad, arrived in Chicago as part of a speaking tour to raise awareness and support for the abolitionist cause.

The visual displays at the North Suburban YMCA showcased the history of the Underground Railroad and its significance to the fight for freedom and equality. The displays featured information on the routes that passed through Chicago, the role of abolitionists in aiding escapees, and the dangers that those involved in the Underground Railroad faced.

"Black history is American history.

We not only celebrate Black astronauts, scientists, inventors, artists, and activists of the past, we also celebrate the rise of Black business, arts, and literature that will influence the future," said Megan Vazquez, Senior Wellness Director at the NSYMCA.

"At the Y, our programming goes beyond Black History month, it’s about building an inclusive community for everyone regardless of ability, age, background, ethnicity/race, faith, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation," noted Kathy Fielding, North Suburban YMCA CEO.

"Black Resistance" is a powerful theme that encourages us to reflect on the resilience and strength of the Black community in the face of adversity. By highlighting the history of the Underground Railroad, the North Suburban YMCA is helping to educate and inspire its community to continue the fight for justice and equality.

A Closer Look at Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a debilitating eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a leading cause of vision loss in people over 50 years of age and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life.

The macula, a small central portion of the retina, is responsible for our central vision and ability to see fine details. AMD damages this vital part of the eye, leading to a gradual loss of central vision and making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.


In Memory of Nancy Roth – a Personal Story
By Don Roth, CEO AmpliVox

On September 4, 2018, Nancy Roth lost her six-year battle with ocular melanoma. This rare disease, which occurs in 2,000 adults each year, currently has no cure in its metastatic form.

Her struggle began with AMD. Since her passing, her husband Don Roth has been raising funds to help support research and treatment of ocular melanoma and raising awareness.

Causes of AMD

Age is the main risk factor. As we get older, the tissues in our eyes break down and become more susceptible to damage, including the macula.

A family history of AMD increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Research has also shown that certain genes increase the risk of AMD.

Other factors such as lifestyle, smoking, and diet. Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, a diet low in antioxidants, and exposure to UV light, can increase the risk of developing AMD. Obesity and high blood pressure are also associated with an increased risk of the condition.

It's important to note that not everyone with risk factors for AMD will develop the condition, and some people may develop AMD without any known risk factors. However, by understanding the causes of AMD, people can take proactive steps to help protect their eyes and prevent the progression of the condition.

Symptoms

The symptoms of AMD can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but they typically develop gradually over time.

One of the earliest signs of AMD is a gradual loss of central vision. This can make it difficult to see fine details, such as the faces of loved ones or small print.

Some people with AMD may experience distorted or blurred vision. This can make it difficult to recognize objects or read text clearly.

As the condition progresses, people with AMD may find it increasingly difficult to perform daily tasks such as reading, cooking, or driving.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an eye exam with an ophthalmologist or optometrist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help slow the progression of the condition and preserve vision.

Types of AMD

There are two main types of AMD: dry and wet.

Dry AMD is the most common form of the condition and accounts for about 85-90% of cases.

It is characterized by the gradual buildup of waste material in the retina, leading to a gradual loss of central vision.

There is no cure for dry AMD, but there are steps that can be taken to help slow its progression, such as eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and avoiding smoking.

Wet AMD is less common but more severe than dry AMD. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid, causing damage to the macula.

Wet AMD can cause rapid vision loss, but there are treatments available that can help slow the progression of the condition and preserve vision.

It's important to note that some people with dry AMD may progress to wet AMD, so it is important to have regular eye exams and monitor any changes in vision. An ophthalmologist or optometrist can diagnose and monitor the progression of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Coping with AMD

Living with AMD can be challenging, but there are resources available to help people affected by the condition manage its impact and maintain their independence and quality of life.

Low vision rehabilitation can help people with AMD learn new strategies for completing daily tasks, such as using magnifying glasses, special lighting, and assistive technology.

Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and emotional support for those affected by AMD.

These groups can also offer helpful information and resources for coping with the condition.

Assistive devices, such as magnifying glasses, large print books, and talking computers, can help people with AMD maintain their independence and continue to enjoy their favorite activities.

Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding smoking, and engaging in physical activity, can help slow the progression of AMD and improve overall health.

Living with AMD can be challenging, but there are resources and support available to help people affected by the condition manage its impact and maintain their quality of life. It's important to stay positive, seek support, and stay informed about the latest developments in treatment and management options.

Black History Month 2023: Celebrating Contributions & Achievements

February is the time when we pay homage to the incredible Black individuals who have played an important role in shaping our society and to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions to the world.

From leaders, activists, and artists, to the everyday people who've made a difference, Black History Month is an opportunity to educate others and raise awareness as well as to inspire future generations to continue their legacy of excellence.

Recognizing Contributions and Achievements

Black History Month ensures that the contributions and achievements are not forgotten or overlooked. This is especially important in light of the fact that many of these achievements have been downplayed or marginalized in the past.

From the Civil Rights Movement, to the arts and entertainment industry, to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the Black community has pushed boundaries and broken barriers.

Civil Rights Movement: Leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Nelson Mandela fought for equality and justice, inspiring a global movement for human rights.

Arts and Culture: Artists, musicians, writers, and actors have made significant contributions to the world of art, literature, and entertainment, including figures like Maya Angelou, Louis Armstrong, and Toni Morrison.

Science and Technology: Scientists, engineers, and inventors such as George Washington Carver, who made groundbreaking discoveries in agriculture and food science, and Garrett Morgan, who invented the gas mask and traffic signal.

Sports: Athletes have shattered records and broken barriers in a wide range of sports, including track and field, basketball, football, and tennis, with famous figures like Jesse Owens, Michael Jordan, and Serena Williams.

Politics: Politicians have made important contributions to local, national, and international politics, including Barack Obama, the first Black President of the United States, to David Dinkins and Harold Washington, the first Black mayors of New York City and Chicago.

Business and Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurs and business leaders have made important contributions to the world of business,finance, and entertainment, including Robert Smith, Oprah Winfrey, and Sean Combs.

Educating the Next Generation

By teaching young people about the role of African Americans in shaping our society, we can help to instill a sense of pride and understanding in their cultural heritage. By contributing a dedicated space for learning and reflection, Black History Month can provide a more comprehensive understanding of Americas shared history.

Moreover, by highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, it can help to demonstrate the power of perseverance, determination, and resilience, and encourage young people to strive for greatness in their own lives.

This is particularly important for those who often lack representation in leadership positions and may feel underrepresented in mainstream society.

By showing them the achievements of their predecessors, Black History Month can help to foster a sense of belonging and empower them to pursue their goals and dreams.

Benefits of a Portable PA System for Funeral Directors

As a funeral director, ensuring that the funeral service is conducted smoothly and respectfully is of the utmost importance.

One tool that can greatly aid in this process is a portable PA system.

A portable PA system is a compact and lightweight public address system that can be easily transported from one location to another.

It allows the funeral director to amplify their voice, making it easier for mourners to hear and understand the service, regardless of the size of the venue or the presence of background noise.

From improved communication to increased comfort for mourners, PA systems can help funeral directors provide high-quality services that are professional, efficient, and memorable.




Improved Communication

One of the most significant benefits for funeral directors is improved communication. During a funeral service, it is essential that the funeral director's voice is heard clearly by all attendees.

Portable PA systems ensure that the funeral director's voice is amplified and audible, even in large venues or noisy environments.

This can greatly enhance the mourners' experience, as they will be able to hear and understand the service with ease.

It allow the funeral director to make announcements or provide directions without having to raise their voice, which can be especially important for older mourners or those with hearing difficulties.

This not only helps to ensure that everyone is able to participate in the service but also shows that the funeral director is considerate of the mourners' comfort and needs.

Their use can greatly enhance the communication during a funeral service. It ensures that the funeral director's voice is heard clearly by all attendees, and it allows for seamless and efficient communication, making the service more meaningful and memorable for the mourners.




Flexibility

Unlike traditional sound systems, which can be heavy and difficult to move, a portable PA system is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport from one location to another.

This allows funeral directors to provide services in a variety of settings, from small chapels to large outdoor venues.

In addition to being easy to move, they eliminate the need for a separate sound system and the associated set-up and take-down time.

This makes the funeral process more efficient and streamlined, as the funeral director can quickly and easily prepare for the service.

The flexibility and convenience of a portable PA system are especially valuable for funeral directors who provide services in multiple locations, as they can easily bring the system with them and ensure that they have a reliable source of amplification wherever they go.




Enhanced Professionalism

A portable PA system can also enhance the professionalism of funeral services. The use of a professional-grade sound system demonstrates that the funeral director is dedicated to providing high-quality services that are both efficient and respectful.

By using a portable PA system, the funeral director can ensure that their voice is amplified and clear, which can make the service more dignified and meaningful.

In addition, a portable PA system allows funeral directors to incorporate music, prayers, and other elements into the service with ease.

This can greatly enhance the atmosphere of the service and provide a more complete and memorable experience for mourners.

Their use can also demonstrate a level of technical proficiency and expertise that sets the funeral director apart from others in the industry.

This can increase the funeral director's reputation for delivering high-quality services and can help to attract new clients.

Portable PA systems can greatly enhance the professionalism of a funeral service. It demonstrates the funeral director's dedication to providing high-quality services, allows for the seamless incorporation of music and other elements, and can enhance the funeral director's reputation in the industry.




Increased Comfort for Mourners

One of the most important aspects of a funeral service is ensuring that the mourners are comfortable and able to participate fully in the service. A portable PA system can greatly enhance this experience by providing clear, amplified sound. This can make it easier for mourners to hear and understand the service, even if they are seated in the back of a large venue or if there is background noise.

In addition to making it easier to hear the service, PA systems can also provide a more meaningful and memorable experience for mourners. By being able to clearly hear the words and music of the service, mourners are better able to focus on the ceremony and pay their respects to their loved one.

The use of a portable PA system can greatly enhance the comfort and experience of mourners during a funeral service. By providing clear, amplified sound, mourners are better able to participate in the service and find comfort in the ceremony.