Abstract: A method of sending an emergency alert from a wearable device. The wearable device is connected to a low-power wide area cellular network and to global positioning services as soon as it is turned on. The wearable device receives inputs from the user and/or from at least one sensor located within the wearable device measuring parameters associated with the status of the user. A determination is then made if an emergency condition has occurred, if so, an emergency alert is transmitted to recipients based on a configured set of emergency contacts. The determining of an emergency condition occurs based on the inputs received through the wearable device or by the inputs received by the at least one sensor corresponding with a set of rules established for determining if an emergency alert should be sent.

Abstract: A footwear closure system includes an article of footwear, such as a boot, having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a mid-portion that is positioned between the upper portion and the lower portion. The footwear closure system also includes a plurality of reel based closure devices that are coupled with the footwear. The plurality of reel based closure devices are configured to effect closure or tightening of the upper portion, the lower portion, and the mid-portion of the footwear. Each reel based closure device is independently operable and each reel based closure device effects closure or tightening of one of the upper portion, the lower portion, the mid-portion, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A method is described for transferring a tax-deductible donation from a donor's account with an asset holder to at least one qualified charitable organization for subsequent transfer to at least one charity. The donor electronically advises the asset holder of the asset to be donated and the charity that is to receive the donation. The asset holder then transfers the designated asset to at least one charitable organization. The charitable organization then transfers the asset to the identified charity, and transmitting information relating to the donation to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, and to the donor.