LPGA Cognizant Founders’ Cup 2023 ReCap

To my surprise after working the event I actually found a picture of Ashleigh Buhai putting with me in the background as her score bearer (I stood where I wouldn’t be in her putting site-line).

The LPGA’s Cognizant Founders’ Cup was an incredible experience. I was a standard bearer for 2 days, and 3 separate pairings. The Third Round: Ryan O’Toole & Gemma Dryburgh were both spectacular. For the Fourth (Final) Round Pairings I worked with: Yu-Sang Hou & Annie Park, then Ashleigh Buhai & Hae Ran Ryu, I had the opportunity to witness some of the world’s best golfers in action.

The event was held at The Upper Montclair Country Club, in Clifton, NJ. The weather was perfect, and the atmosphere was electric from start to finish. The tournament was played over four days, and the level of competition was intense. The golfers were all focused on winning the tournament, and it was clear that every shot mattered.

As a standard bearer, my job was to carry a sign displaying the players’ scores and walk with them around the golf course. It was an honor to be so close to the action, and I was amazed by the skill and precision of the golfers.

All are/were fantastic players, but Ashleigh Buhai and Hae Ran Ryu both finished in the top 4.  It was a privilege to be a standard bearer for all 6 players.  They were gracious and kind.  I was truly moved at how much time they all gave to the young ladies’ golfing “clinic” held right there on the grounds. 

The event production was well done.   Was it perfect?  – no, there were many pain points, but the attendees did not seem to notice. The organizers had put much effort into making sure that everything ran relatively smoothly, and it showed. The course was in great condition, and the facilities were top-notch. There were plenty of food and drink options available, and the staff were all friendly and helpful.

One of the highlights of the tournament was the Pro-Am event, which took place on the Wednesday before the tournament started. This gave amateur players the chance to play with the professionals and experience what it’s like to compete at the highest level. It was great to see so many people getting involved and enjoying the game of golf.

Another highlight was the closing ceremony, which of course took place on the final day of the tournament. The atmosphere was electric as the golfers made their way to the 18th hole, and the crowd cheered them on every step of the way.

In the end, it was Jin Young Ko who came out on top in a sudden death round with the amazing Minjee Lee. An impressive match-up to say the least.

Ashleigh Buhai finished in third place, and Hae Ran Ryu in fourth, both with strong performances throughout the tournament. Both “burned” many of the hole rims throughout the competition.  Those misses were so so close, it could break your heart.

Overall, the LPGA’s Cognizant Founders Cup was an amazing experience. It was a honor and a privilege to be so close to the action to the end.  I witnessed some of the world’s best golfers live in action. 

Thank you Ladies!

USFL uses HRP Cameras, Drones, & Helmet Cams

The USFL (United States Football League) was a professional American football league that operated from 1983 to 1987. It was created to compete with the National Football League (NFL) during the spring and summer months.

The HRP (High-Resolution Panoramic) model is a type of camera that captures high-resolution panoramic images. It uses multiple cameras to capture a wide-angle view of a scene and then stitches the images together to create a seamless panoramic image.

Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles that can be used for a variety of purposes, including aerial photography and videography. They are equipped with cameras that can capture high-quality images and video footage from unique perspectives.

HelmetCams, also known as action cameras, are small cameras that can be attached to a helmet or other equipment to capture first-person point-of-view footage. They are often used in action sports such as snowboarding, skateboarding, and mountain biking.

Overall, these technologies have been used to enhance the viewing experience of sports broadcasts by providing unique and immersive perspectives on the action.

HRP (High-Resolution Panoramic) cameras are a type of camera that captures images with a wide field of view. They use multiple cameras to capture a scene from different angles and then stitch the images together to create a seamless panoramic image.

There are several manufacturers of HRP cameras, including Panoscan, Seitz, and Roundshot. Each manufacturer offers a variety of models with different resolutions and features. For example, the Seitz Roundshot D3 camera has a resolution of up to 80 megapixels and can capture full 360-degree panoramas in just a few seconds.

The process of stitching the images together is typically done using specialized software, such as PTGui or Autopano. These software programs use algorithms to analyze the images and find common features that can be used to align and blend the images together. The software can also correct for any distortion or perspective issues that may occur due to the different angles of the cameras.

Once the images are stitched together, they can be exported as a single panoramic image or as a virtual tour, which allows viewers to navigate through the scene using interactive controls. HRP cameras are often used in applications such as real estate photography, tourism, and virtual reality experiences, television broadcasts.

How is all of this technology used specifically in sports production broadcasts?

HRP cameras, drones, HelmetCams, and other similar technologies are used in sports production broadcasts to provide viewers with immersive and unique perspectives of the action.

HRP cameras are used to capture high-resolution panoramic images of stadiums and arenas, providing viewers with a 360-degree view of the venue. These images can be used for pre-game introductions, establishing shots, and post-game analysis. They can also be used to create virtual tours of the venue, allowing viewers to explore the stadium or arena in detail.

Drones are used to capture aerial footage of the action, providing viewers with a bird’s-eye view of the game. This footage can be used for replays, establishing shots, and highlights. Drones can also be used to capture footage of the surrounding area, giving viewers a sense of the location and atmosphere of the event.

HelmetCams are used to capture first-person point-of-view footage of athletes, providing viewers with a unique perspective of the action. This footage can be used for replays, highlights, and analysis. HelmetCams are often used in extreme sports such as snowboarding, skiing, and motocross.

Overall, these technologies are used to enhance the viewing experience of sports broadcasts, providing viewers with new and exciting perspectives of the action. The use of these technologies has become increasingly common in recent years, as broadcasters look for new ways to engage viewers and provide a more immersive viewing experience.

Sports Broadcasting Tracking Systems

Broadcasters and Sports Teams use varied tracking systems to enhance the viewer’s experience, as well as tracking players’ performance and stats.

Some examples:

1. NFL Football: The NFL uses a tracking system called Next Gen Stats, which uses sensors that are embedded in the shoulder pads of players to track their movements and performance on the field. This system captures data such as player speed, acceleration, and distance traveled, which is then used by broadcasters to create enhanced graphics and visualizations for viewers.

2. Major League Baseball: MLB uses a system called Statcast, which uses cameras and radar to track the movements of the ball and players on the field. This system captures data such as pitch velocity, spin rate, launch angle, and exit velocity, which is then used by broadcasters to provide real-time analysis and insights for viewers.

3. Major League Soccer: MLS uses a system called Opta, which collects data on player performance and match statistics. This data is then used by broadcasters to provide real-time analytics and insights, such as player heat maps, pass completion rates, and shot accuracy.

4. Basketball: The NBA uses a system called SportVU, which uses cameras and sensors to track player and ball movement on the court. This system captures data such as player speed, distance traveled, and shot trajectory, which is then used by broadcasters to provide enhanced visualizations and real-time analytics for viewers.

5. Golf: Golf has multiple tracking systems, including ShotLink, which uses lasers and cameras to track the trajectory and location of each shot on the course. This data is then used by broadcasters to provide real-time analysis and insights for viewers, such as distance to the hole, putting accuracy, and shot dispersion. Other golf tracking systems include TrackMan, which uses radar to track ball flight, and Toptracer, which uses cameras to track the flight path of each shot.

Overview: 30 Cloud Security Companies

Cloud security is a hot topic as streaming, processing, editing in the cloud is growing at a brakefast speed, not to leave out AI learning for meta data, closed captioning, transcribing, and DAI (Dynamic Ad Insertion). Keeping information secure is essential.

Below are 30 cloud security companies and the specific services they provide:

1. Microsoft Azure: Provides cloud security services such as identity and access management, threat protection, and security management.

2. Amazon Web Services (AWS): Offers security services such as identity and access management, data protection, network security, and compliance.

3. Google Cloud Platform (GCP): Provides security services such as identity and access management, data encryption, and threat detection.

4. Palo Alto Networks: Offers cloud security services such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention, and threat intelligence.

5. Symantec: Provides cloud security services such as data protection, threat detection, and compliance.

6. IBM Cloud: Offers security services such as access management, data protection, and threat intelligence.

7. Cisco Cloud Security: Provides cloud security services such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention, and threat intelligence.

8. McAfee: Offers cloud security services such as data protection, threat detection, and compliance.

9. CrowdStrike: Provides cloud security services such as endpoint protection, threat detection, and incident response.

10. Akamai Technologies: Offers cloud security services such as web application firewall, bot management, and DDoS protection.

11. Fortinet: Provides cloud security services such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention, and threat intelligence.

12. Check Point Software: Offers cloud security services such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention, and threat intelligence.

13. Trend Micro: Provides cloud security services such as data protection, threat detection, and compliance.

14. F5 Networks: Offers cloud security services such as web application firewall, bot management, and DDoS protection.

15. Zscaler: Provides cloud security services such as web security, DNS security, and cloud firewall.

16. Cloudflare: Offers cloud security services such as DDoS protection, web application firewall, and bot management.

17. Sophos: Provides cloud security services such as endpoint protection, email security, and web security.

18. Rapid7: Offers cloud security services such as vulnerability management, threat detection, and incident response.

19. Tenable: Provides cloud security services such as vulnerability management, threat detection, and compliance.

20. Alert Logic: Offers cloud security services such as intrusion detection and prevention, log management, and compliance.

21. Qualys: Provides cloud security services such as vulnerability management, threat detection, and compliance.

22. Carbon Black: Offers cloud security services such as endpoint protection, threat detection, and incident response.

23. Netskope: Provides cloud security services such as data loss prevention, web security, and cloud access security broker.

24. Bitdefender: Offers cloud security services such as endpoint protection, email security, and cloud security.

25. Barracuda Networks: Provides cloud security services such as email security, web security, and cloud security.

26. CipherCloud: Offers cloud security services such as data protection, threat detection, and compliance.

27. FireEye: Provides cloud security services such as threat intelligence, incident response, and forensics.

28. Imperva: Offers cloud security services such as web application firewall, bot management, and DDoS protection.

29. Qualys: Provides cloud security services such as vulnerability management, threat detection, and compliance.

30. Skyhigh Networks: Offers cloud security services such as cloud access security broker, data protection, and threat detection.

Overall, these cloud security companies provide a range of cloud security services, including identity and access management, data protection, threat detection, and compliance.

Top Live Broadcast Providers, Overview: CP Communications, NEP, Broadcast Solutions, Gearhouse Broadcast, & Gravity Media

There are Many Live Broadcast Event Companies out there, all with their own range of services.  Following is a short overview of some of them.  Feel Free to chime in with others…..

CP Communications is an audiovisual and live event production company that provides services for sports and entertainment events. They specialize in live event production, audio and video equipment rental, and staging and lighting design. The company offers a range of services, including:

1. Live event production – live event production services for sports, music, and entertainment events. This includes production planning, camera coverage, audio and video mixing, and on-site technical support.

2. Audio and video equipment rental -offers a range of audio and video equipment rental services, including cameras, microphones, speakers, and projectors. They also provide on-site technical support for equipment setup and operation.

3. Staging and lighting design – staging and lighting design services for live events, including custom stage design, lighting installation, and video projection mapping.

NEP Group is a leading provider of production services, engineering solutions, and media management for live sports and entertainment events worldwide. NEP Group provides a wide range of services, including:

1. Live event production – production services for sports, music, and entertainment events. This includes production planning, camera coverage, audio and video mixing, and on-site technical support.

2. Remote production – remote production services for sports events, allowing broadcasters to produce live events from a centralized location. This includes remote camera control, audio and video mixing, and on-site technical support.

3. Media management – media management services, including content storage, archiving, and distribution. This includes video editing, metadata tagging, and asset management.

4. Technical support – technical support services for audiovisual equipment and systems, including equipment rental, maintenance, and repair.

Broadcast Solutions is a global provider of production services and engineering solutions for sports, music, and entertainment events. The company offers a range of services, including live event production, remote production, and media management.

Gearhouse Broadcast is a global provider of production services and engineering solutions for sports, music, and entertainment events. The company offers a range of services, including live event production, remote production, and equipment rental.

Gravity Media is a global provider of production services and engineering solutions for sports, music, and entertainment events. The company offers a range of services, including live event production, remote production, and equipment rental. Gravity Media also provides specialized solutions for specific industries, such as esports and motorsports.

The differences between the above competitors include their range of services, geographic coverage, and industry specialization. It is recommended to evaluate the features, capabilities, and pricing of each provider before making a decision.

Wiki Collab

Wiki collaboration refers to a collaborative process of creating and editing content on a wiki platform. A wiki is a website or online platform that allows users to create and edit content collaboratively. Wiki collaboration can be used in a variety of contexts, including education, research, business, and community building.

Some of the benefits of wiki collaboration include:

1. Collaboration – Wikis promote collaboration among users by allowing them to work together to create and edit content.

2. Easy accessibility – Wikis can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy for users to contribute and access content.

3. Version control – Wikis typically offer version control, which allows users to track changes and revisions to the content.

4. Transparency – Wikis are transparent, meaning that all changes made to the content are visible to all users. This promotes accountability and encourages users to contribute responsibly.

5. Knowledge sharing – Wikis can be used to share knowledge and information with a community of users, which can be beneficial for education, research, and business purposes.

To collaborate on a wiki platform, users typically create an account and log in to access the content. They can then create and edit pages, add images and videos, and collaborate with other users. Some wiki platforms offer features such as discussion forums, chat rooms, and task management tools to help users collaborate more effectively.

There are various wiki platforms available, including:

1. Wikipedia – The world’s largest and most popular wiki platform, Wikipedia is a free encyclopedia that anyone can edit.

2. MediaWiki – An open-source wiki platform that powers Wikipedia and many other wikis.

3. Confluence – A wiki platform designed for business and team collaboration, Confluence offers features such as task management, calendars, and chat rooms.

4. Fandom – A wiki platform for fan communities, Fandom allows users to create and edit pages related to their favorite TV shows, movies, and other interests.

5. DokuWiki – An open-source wiki platform that is easy to use and highly customizable.

Overall, wiki collaboration can be a powerful tool for promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community building. By allowing users to work together to create and edit content, wikis can facilitate the sharing of information and ideas across a wide range of contexts.

Turn Yourself Into a Resource (not a Commodity) that Companies Need!

Turn yourself into a resource that companies need!

1. Identify Your Unique Skill Set: First, you need to recognize and understand your unique skill set. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses and consider how they might be valuable to a company.

– For instance, if you are interested in the broadcast industry, you may have skills such as live event production, video editing, scriptwriting, or on-air presenting. Identify which of these skills you excel at and enjoy doing the most.

2. Research the Market: Research the target market and identify the skills or resources that companies are looking for. This will help you tailor your skills and promote them in a way that meets company needs.

– Research the broadcast industry and identify the skills or resources that companies are looking for. For example, many broadcast companies seek individuals who are skilled in live production, video editing, and social media management.

3. Focus on Value Proposition: Craft a strong value proposition that highlights the benefits of your skills, knowledge, or experience. Explain how you can add value and solve problems for the company by using your skills.

– Craft a compelling value proposition that highlights the benefits of your skills. For instance, you could say something like: “I’m an experienced live event producer with a passion for creating engaging, high-quality content that connects with audiences. With my skills and experience, I can help your broadcasting company create engaging programming and reach a wider audience.”

4. Develop a Professional Brand: Build a professional brand that conveys your skills, professional approach, and your unique value proposition. Use social media, online portfolios, cover letters, and resumes to showcase your brand.

– Build a professional brand that conveys your skills and value proposition. Create an online portfolio that showcases your work, and use social media to share your expertise and connect with others in the broadcast industry.

5. Network: Build relationships and connect with people in your target market. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with companies and their employees through social media. Establishing relationships with people can help you learn about new opportunities and make you a valuable resource in the eyes of companies.

– Build relationships and connect with people in the broadcast industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with others in the industry through social media. This can help you learn about new opportunities and make valuable connections.

6. Demonstrate Credibility: Establish credibility by sharing your expertise through articles, presentations, or blogs. Share your knowledge, insights, and experiences related to your area of expertise, both online and offline. This will show companies that you are a credible expert and a valuable resource.

– Establish your credibility by sharing your expertise through articles, presentations, or blogs. For example, create a YouTube channel where you share live event production tips or write articles on the latest trends in video editing. This will show companies that you are knowledgeable and passionate about your craft.

7.  Be Consistent.  

You can set yourself apart in the broadcast industry, or any Industry really, and become a valuable resource that companies are eager to work with.

Overview: Riedel’s Line of Products

Today I’m going to give an overview of Riedel Communications.  I do not work for them, nor have I been paid by them for this article.

Riedel Communications is a company that provides innovative solutions for the broadcast, event, and AV industries. Riedel’s line of products includes a range of solutions for streaming and connecting disparate systems, including:

1. MediorNet – A real-time network for video, audio, and data signals. This solution enables the transport and processing of signals over fiber-optic, coaxial, or CatX cables. MediorNet can be used for point-to-point connections, as well as complex network topologies.

2. Artist – A digital matrix intercom system that enables communication between different locations and production teams. The Artist system can be used for traditional intercom applications, as well as for signal routing and distribution in broadcast and live event productions.

3. Bolero – A wireless intercom system that provides high-quality audio and reliable connectivity. Bolero allows for up to 10 beltpacks to be connected to a single antenna, providing coverage over large areas.

4. SmartPanel – A user-friendly intercom panel that can be used with the Artist and Bolero systems. SmartPanel features a touchscreen interface and can be customized to meet the needs of different production teams.

5. MicroN – A compact signal router for video and audio signals. MicroN can be used for point-to-point connections, as well as for routing signals in broadcast and event productions.

6. STX-200 – A solution for converting SDI signals to IP signals. STX-200 enables the integration of traditional broadcast workflows with IP-based workflows.

Riedel’s products are designed to provide flexibility, scalability, and reliability for streaming and connecting disparate systems. The company’s solutions are used in a range of applications, including broadcast, live events, sports, and corporate AV. Some of the features and specs of Riedel’s products include:

– High-quality audio and video signals
– Reliable connectivity over long distances
– Scalability for small and large productions
– User-friendly interfaces for easy operation
– Customizable configurations to meet specific needs
– Support for a range of protocols and standards, including SMPTE, Dante, and AES67

Overall, Riedel’s line of products provides innovative solutions for streaming and connecting disparate systems. The company’s products are designed to meet the needs of different production teams and can be customized to meet specific requirements.

Riedel’s programmable SFPs (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) are part of the MediorNet line of products. SFPs are modular components that can be inserted into MediorNet frames and other devices to enable the transport of video, audio, and data signals over fiber-optic, coaxial, or CatX cables.

Riedel’s programmable SFPs are designed to provide flexibility and customization for different applications. The SFPs can be programmed with different signal types and protocols, including 3G/HD/SD-SDI, MADI, AES, and Ethernet. This allows users to configure their MediorNet systems to meet specific requirements.

Some of the features and specs of Riedel’s programmable SFPs include:

– Support for a range of signal types and protocols
– Programmable with Riedel’s MediorWorks software or third-party software
– Hot-swappable for easy configuration and maintenance
– Automatic signal detection and configuration
– Low power consumption and compact size

Riedel’s programmable SFPs are used in a range of applications, including broadcast, live events, sports, and corporate AV. By enabling the transport of different signal types over a single network, these SFPs provide a flexible and cost-effective solution for video, audio, and data transport.

Quick Overview: Checksum / How it’s Utilized & How to Use Them

A checksum is a value that is computed from a block of data using a specific algorithm. The purpose of a checksum is to provide a way to verify the integrity of the data. When a sender transmits data, it can compute a checksum and include it with the data. The receiver can then compute a checksum on the received data and compare it to the transmitted checksum. If the two values match, it is likely that the data was transmitted without errors.

Checksums are used in a variety of applications, including network protocols, file transfers, and software updates. They are particularly useful in situations where data corruption or errors are likely to occur, such as over unreliable network connections.

In network protocols, checksums are often used to detect errors in data packets. For example, the Mo of each IP packet. If the checksum indicates that the packet is corrupted, it can be discarded and a new packet can be requested.

In file transfers, checksums are used to verify that the file was transferred correctly. After a file is transferred, the sender can compute a checksum on the file and include it with the file. The recipient can then compute a checksum on the received file and compare it to the sender’s checksum. If the two values match, it is likely that the file was transferred without errors.

In software updates, checksums are used to verify that the update was downloaded correctly. After a software update is downloaded, the user can compute a checksum on the downloaded file and compare it to the checksum provided by the software vendor. If the two values match, it is likely that the update was downloaded correctly.

Overall, checksums are an important tool for ensuring the integrity of data in a variety of applications.

In broadcasting, checksums are often used in conjunction with SCTE markers to ensure the integrity of the video and audio streams. For example, SCTE-35 markers are used to signal ad insertion points in a video stream. When an ad break is signaled, the receiver can use a checksum to verify the integrity of the video data before and after the ad break. If the checksum indicates that the video data has been corrupted, the receiver can request a retransmission of the video data.

Similarly, checksums can be used to verify the integrity of audio data in a broadcast stream. For example, if an audio stream includes a checksum value, the receiver can use the checksum to verify that the audio data has not been corrupted during transmission.

Overall, checksums are an important tool for broadcasters to ensure the quality and integrity of their broadcast streams. By using checksums in conjunction with SCTE markers, broadcasters can provide a more reliable and consistent viewing experience for their audiences.

Quick Overview: API Calls-What Are They & What Is The Workflow?

API stands for Application Programming Interface. An API call is a request made by one software application to another application’s API in order to retrieve or manipulate data. APIs enable different software applications to communicate with each other, allowing developers to integrate different services and functionalities into their own applications.

API calls work by sending a request to the API, specifying the endpoint and any required parameters. The API processes the request and returns a response back to the calling application. The response can include data, metadata, or error messages, depending on the specific API.

APIs are used in a variety of applications, including web and mobile applications, IoT devices, and enterprise software. For example, social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook provide APIs that allow developers to access and manipulate user data, such as posts or tweets. E-commerce platforms like Shopify provide APIs that enable developers to build custom applications that interact with the platform’s inventory and customer data.

APIs are also used to integrate different software applications in enterprise settings. For example, an API can be used to connect a customer relationship management (CRM) system to a marketing automation platform, allowing marketing teams to access customer data and automate targeted campaigns.

Overall, APIs are a powerful tool for software developers, enabling them to build more complex and sophisticated applications by integrating different services and functionalities. Users can select GPT-3.5(ChatGPT) or GPT-4 to interact with me.

Building an API from scratch typically involves several steps. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Define the API endpoints: Determine the specific functionality and data that will be exposed through the API. This includes identifying the specific endpoints that will be used to access the data.

2. Choose a programming language: Select a programming language that is well-suited for building APIs, such as Python, Ruby, or Node.js.

3. Choose a web framework: Choose a web framework that supports building APIs, such as Flask, Django, or Express.

4. Design the API data model: Create a data model that defines the data that will be exchanged through the API, including the data types and relationships between different data entities.

5. Implement the API endpoints: Use the chosen web framework and programming language to implement the API endpoints, including handling request and response data.

6. Test the API: Use API testing tools to verify that the API endpoints are working as expected and returning the correct data.

7. Deploy the API: Deploy the API to a server or cloud hosting service so that it can be accessed by other applications.

8. Document the API: Create documentation that describes the API endpoints, parameters, and data structures so that other developers can use the API.

Overall, building an API from scratch can be a complex process that requires a solid understanding of programming, web frameworks, and data modeling. However, there are many resources available online that can help guide you through the process. Users can even utilize AI, ChatGPT 3.5/4 to assist the process.