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There's a new giant in our midst. Known as super competitors, these corporate colossi are breathtaking in size and scale, with cavernous footprints in market share and unprecedented merger-driven muscle power. So wide is their stride over the competition that, according to McKinsey Global Institute research, 10 per cent of the world's public companies are gobbling up 80 per cent of all profits today.
But the so-called 'armour' that outfits superstar companies can lead to crippling corporate inertia. As these companies grow, so too do the systems and processes needed to control them. These systems and processes invariably act as a quick sand that slows down their decision making. Even worse, it constrains their thinking to preserve what they have created, and risk taking is avoided.
In future, the bravado of management teams touting being the 'biggest and the best' might be code for the 'slowest and the most risk averse'. Does this mean the demise of the mega-corporation? Quite possibly, if they don't reposition themselves to think differently around how to win.
When it comes to business: small might literally be the new big!
When David challenges Goliath, David often wins!
Within large enterprises, change does not come easily. Decisions can take months, as they run their course through the chains of command and bear burdensome cost implications. Failing products are not easily pulled off the production line, and cracks in organisational culture take time – and a whole lot of undoing – to mend. Vehicles of this size make slow and wide turns, and it's never fun for anyone involved.
Smaller businesses, conversely, have speed on their side. Unlike their big counterparts, their lack of complexity allows for decisions to be made quickly and seamlessly. With low staff numbers and streamlined services, they facilitate quick turn-arounds that respond aptly to market demands.
Tappsi, for example, has managed to disrupt the powerful traditional taxi industry of Latin American cities by offering an e-hailing mobile app that secures a safe and reliable experience within vulnerable urban settings. Launched in 2012, the company currently has over one million app users and over fifty thousand taxi drivers on their books. The idea isn't new (insert Uber), but the ability to bring a mass-scale solution to this significant societal ill is.
Going outside a cumbrous system but using its resources, Tappsi leveraged unconventional methods to infuse new value into a historically hamstrung industry. It didn't take a lot of cash and people to do it.
Growth isn't (necessarily) good
When they are challenged, the response from most large companies is to use their corporate muscle to 'muscle out' the competition: they try to drive down prices by buying power or offshoring; buy out the competitor (mergers and acquisitions); or create monopolies where they are the only service provider in the market.
It gets worse when they become publicly listed. When they are on the stock exchange, they have to do what the market values, i.e. pursue these strategies aggressively to grow.
But by doing this, they are actually disconnecting themselves from their customers. Despite this massive growth, they are losing touch with their clientele's real needs and leaving the door open for another more nimble, agile smaller competitor to come in from below.
Staying close to the ground
The inherent disadvantage to being at the top is that your ear is nowhere near to the ground. And though large corporations can perform studies or hire consultants to scope the land of buy-and-sell, small enterprises can achieve the same results in a fraction of the time by leveraging their client relationships.
The ability to engage one-on-one with customers and clients enables small organisations to come up with relevant solutions to real-time problems in a way that large corporations cannot. Backed by organisational agility, clients' on-the-ground insight can inspire small business to differentiate on products and services which add original value to the market. Their unique insight into customers' preferences and spending behaviours give them a one-up edge on what is needed and wanted, or even unanticipated, amongst consumers. And as such, they can move into that unoccupied space of the market and gain the competitive corner.
So, what then should big companies do? If they want to keep on winning, they'll need to learn to 'cannibalise' themselves. They'll have to cultivate a culture which 'eats' its own businesses – meaning they will have to constantly divest themselves of services and products that they value highly today so as to enable the new to come through and to make room for focusing on what will be successful tomorrow. In other words, they'll disrupt themselves purposefully so that they don't get caught out following an unalterable course called status quo.
If large companies don't divest themselves of the services and products that they value highly, they'll never create the sense of urgency that drives successful start-ups, i.e. "We simply have to make something work, because if we don't, we won't survive." They'll have to let go of that which they value the most to enable the new to get the focus and attention and oxygen it needs to be brought to life.
With disruption moving at a thunderous rate, those positioned to keep up with the pace are not necessarily the largest. Though dwarfed by the deep shadows of the superstars, small businesses are poised for success. Nimble, adaptable and able to align to overcome, small may just be the new big – and big business would do well to pay attention.
Carl Devereux is a regional director at Aurecon. This post originally appeared on Aurecon's Just Imagine blog.


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Luke Combs Celebrated Eric Church's Entertainer Win With Cookout and Jack Daniels
As Church Choir fans across the world celebrated Eric Church's first-ever Entertainer of the Year win at the 2020 CMA Awards, no one celebrated harder than the fan sitting across the table from the Chief himself: his fellow nominee in the category, Luke Combs.
In fact, Combs' elation at seeing Church win was visible on the screen. After the win was announced, the younger artist could be seen yelling "Yeah!" and pointing a celebratory finger in Church's direction.
Backstage in the virtual press room, Combs elaborated that he would have been happy seeing any of his fellow Entertainer nominees bring home the trophy, and, in fact, that family spirit is part of why he loves country music so much.
"I think our ability to come together is like unlike any genre," said the singer, who walked out of the 2020 CMAs with Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year trophies in hand. "I'm a huge advocate of us being excited for each other when we win."
But more specifically, the singer said he was thrilled to see the trophy go to someone who has long been a musical legend in his eyes. Combs' fandom of and friendship with Church is well-documented, and the two men even teamed up for "Does to Me" on Combs' What You See Is What You Get album.
"Without him, there is no me," Combs told outlets flatly. "And so I think no one has ever deserved anything more than he deserved to win that trophy tonight. As much as I would have loved to win, I couldn't have been more excited for him to."
The two artists were seated at the same table at the CMA Awards this year, and Combs related that throughout the night, they'd been thinking about whether the top prize might go to either of them.
"We were joking about each other winning all night, and so I'm pumped that he did," the singer went on to say, though he admitted that social distancing protocols kept him from celebrating quite as intensely as he wanted to.
"We can't exactly kick beers back and hug each other tonight, so I'm gonna be doing some of that with him in spirit," he continued. "I'm gonna have a little Jack on the bus ride home, and probably eat some Cookout with my wife, which would be the best way to celebrate, in my opinion."

subset: commoncrawl


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After selling our company and retiring at 50 years old, I didn't work at all for about 4 years. We started a new life in a beach town, visited our kids often and traveled the world.
After 4 years of retirement, I received a call from a good friend and past associate that was joining a startup company and they were looking for someone to build a software solution. He knew I was retired but asked if I would be interested in consulting with them to build the solution.
I said No. Why would I leave retirement after working so hard for over 27 years and obtaining the ultimate goal of retiring early? He asked that I think about it for a few days and would call me back.
I mulled it over for a few days. If I could dictate my terms, should I consider it? Would it impact my ability to travel freely, play golf several times a week, and do the things I love — fitness, boating and travel?
A few days later, he called back. I told him I loved being retired but I do miss the intellectual challenge of problem solving and the engineering challenge of developing software that can impact businesses in a positive way. I would consider it, but I had terms:
- I would have to be free to choose and hire the team that would build the software
- I don't want to work full time, I prefer to work 4 hours or less per day
- I love to travel and must be free to do so (sometimes a 3 to 4 weeks at a time)
- If I begin working too much, we would have to hire backup help to reduce the workload
- My bill rate would have to be commensurate with my experience
To my surprise, he agreed to all my terms. It's been a couple of years since I began. So how has it worked out? Incredibly well.
- I built the team – True to his word, he allowed me to the build a talented software team. The business stakeholders and I provided the vision, I worked with designers and engineers to build great looking software that met the business need. The product has been in production now for over a year and has been a great financial investment for the company. It has already paid back the investment and is starting to become a profit center for them.
- I work part-time – I've averaged about 4 to 5 hours a day of work. I normally start work early (around 7 a.m. — done by noon), that allows me to golf, boat and pursue other activities in the afternoon.
- I still travel (a lot) – Since I've started just over 2 years ago, I've taken long vacations (sometimes for 4 weeks). I've visited 11 countries:
1. Ireland
2. Scotland
3. Northern Ireland
4. Batswana Africa
5. Cuba
6. Namibia Africa
7. New Zealand
8. South Africa
9. Zimbabwe Africa
10. Zambia Africa
11. Australia - Hired Backup – Because I love to travel and the software has grown over the past 2 years, I needed backup. I hired a really talented engineer I've known for a long time to back me up and he has done a phenomenal job.
- Financial Reward – Because of this consulting, we haven't taken any money from our investment accounts since I started and we've added more money to my retirement coffers. We've also been able to contribute even more to charity, help my Mom financially in her final years of life. And best of all, we've been to spend freely on things we enjoy (like furnishing a new house, paying for all our travel, and buying a new car — all with cash).
Looking back, this has been right for me. I've enjoyed the work, made a very nice living, and followed my passions. I never thought I would still be doing this 2 years later, but the software has impacted the business in such a positive way, they want me to keep working with them. As long as I can do this in my own terms, it works out nicely.
Steve and his wife built a software company, sold it and retired early. Steve enjoys blogging about lifestyle freedom, financial independence and technology. If you like this blog, subscribe here to get an email each time he posts.
If you like this post, you might also like these prior posts:
- Financial Independence 101: What are Stocks?
- Financial Independence 101: What are Bonds?
- Financial Independence 101: How are Stocks and Bonds Classified?
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Our Professional Snake Removal Services in Morgan City. Wildlife Controllers Can Remove Both Venomous & Non-Venomous Snakes From Your Home And Property. Contact Us Today.
Snakes have a reputation for being poisonous creatures. Although the United States has some dangerous snake species, the vast majority of snake sightings are of common harmless snakes. To make the best determination, and for the safety of your family, call Wildlife Controllers in Morgan City, Louisiana, at 877-540-4156 for the Best Snake Removal Services. Our Wildlife removal services provide highly trained and experienced professionals to tackle your exposure to snakes in a safe and professional manner. Snakes are removed safely and are humanely released into the wild. Wildlife Controllers provides the best wildlife removal services in Morgan City, Louisiana for getting rid of snakes. To Get Rid of Snakes in Morgan City, Louisiana, contact Wildlife Controllers by calling at 877-540-4156. Get a quick response from experts looking forward to helping you solve your snake problem.
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Infant snakes still have the ability to bite. Furthermore, baby poisonous snakes can still be lethal. Discovering one juvenile snake may be a sign of an infestation. This issue should be addressed right away. Contact Wildlife Controllers, the trusted Wildlife Removal Company to help you with baby snake removal in Morgan City, Louisiana. Call immediately at 877-540-4156 when you find baby snakes and need them to be removed.
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There are approxiamately 50 snake species in the United States. Around 30 of these species are poisonous. Making this determination on your own is extremely risky. Connect with Wildlife Controllers For Snake Removal Near You in Morgan City, Louisiana. If you find yourself facing a snake connect with Wildlife Controllers. They offer Removal of Any Type of Snake. Call at 877-540-4156, in Morgan City, Louisiana for expert snake removal service.
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Wildlife Controllers has professional experts to safely remove snakes from your home. They arrive as quickly as possible after receiving a Request To Remove A Snake From The House and remove the animal. The snake gets placed in a snake bag and transported to the wild for release. In addition, Wildlife Controllers in Morgan City, Louisiana inspects the house to determine how it got inside and seals the access hole.
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Wildlife Controllers provides all snake removal services in Morgan City, Louisiana - both venomous and non-venomous. Connect with a highly trained staff who knows how to remove snakes from inside your home, or anywhere around your property. To connect with Snake Removal Services, contact Wildlife Controllers anytime.
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If you suspect you have a snake problem, Wildlife Controllers can assist you. Once the venomous or nonvenomous snake has been removed, Snake Removal Experts Will Research The Snake's access points. If holes in the foundation or walls of the house are found, they will be sealed off. No snakes will be able to enter your home through these access points again.
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Snakes can often be found under raised structures such as porches, sheds, or decks. Wildlife Controllers Offers Removal of Snakes Under Your Home Or Deck in Morgan City, Louisiana. Call Wildlife Controllers to connect with expert snake removal services in Morgan City, Louisiana.
Snakes FAQ for Morgan City
How often do snakes shed their skin?
Most snakes shed at least three times a year. They shed usually within a few days of emerging in the spring. Their skin is adjusted to the growth rate of the snake and its general health. A snake that has suffered a skin injury or infection might shed more frequently than usual. A mature snake that is young and growing will shed more often than a mature one.
Are Snakes able to hear?
Many people believe snakes are deaf due to their lack of visible ears. Although snakes don't have external ears, they do have internal ear bones. These bones are remnants from their origin as lizard-like creatures. These tiny bones enable them to hear quite well thanks to their hearing ability. They can pick up sounds travelling through the air and detect sound vibrations passing through the ground. These vibrations can be used to tell a snake if its prey or predators are near.
What do snakes eat?
Snakes eat other animals. Snakes don't have the right teeth to chew their food, so they must eat their catch whole. Their jaw opens wider than their body to allow them to swallow their prey whole. Snakes will eat rodents such as rats, birds, eggs, mice and small rodents. Large snakes can even eat deer and pigs as well as monkeys and other large prey.
Are all snakes dangerous?
A snake lives in a world that requires them to defend themselves. They are not out for revenge. They are simply defending themselves against a human who is much bigger than they are. As a defense mechanism, a snake will coil to be able to see better. They don't need to be coiled in order to strike. They strike quickly and can reach victims at distances nearly equal to the length of their bodies.
How can I avoid snakes?
You can reduce their likelihood of being near your home by removing any items they might use as shelter or for prey, such as boards, scrap sheet metal, and woodpiles. It is easier to store materials above the ground and attracts fewer animals. It is almost impossible to eliminate the possibility of encountering a snake when there are woodlands nearby. You should be able to identify dangerous species in your area and be careful when you are engaging in activities that could encourage encounters.


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Go 100% Alpha with Landon and Georgia!
London's square mile is witness to a revolution, a new breed of business woman. They call us tiger sharks. We out-earn, out-work and out-play our male counterparts. We work the system, play the game and most importantly, win. In a city full of sharks only the most ruthless make it to the top of the pool.
The number one rule: never sleep with the boss. Ever. I had no intention of breaking it until I met my new boss. No matter how strong my resolve, Landon Banks can smell weakness like a shark smells blood in the water, and I'm bleeding.
The hunter becomes the hunted, lines start to blur, and I have a choice to make. Screw or be screwed. Of course, I never was much good at taking it like a bitch. Landon Banks will be learning to grab his ankles if I have anything to do with it.
Things are about to get interesting in the game of predator versus predator. Who will come out on top?
Amazon US * Amazon.UK * Amazon.ES
Masque is where the darkest of creatures come to play, to fulfil warped desires without judgement or persecution. After all, you can't judge what you can't see.
I slip the mask out of my hand bag and tie the ribbons at the back of my head, pinning them into my hair with some grips. I knock on the door of what looks like a respectable and extremely expensive town house in the centre of London's most affluent area. The door opens, revealing a guy in a black suit, a plain black mask covering his eyes. He glances at my membership card and he waves me through.
Inside it looks exactly how you'd expect a high end sex club to look. Dark, luxurious, sensual. Rock music fills the room, contrasting wildly with the velvet chaise lounges and crystal chandeliers. Within the club, people resume a new identity. Their masks become their identity. Mine looks like a cat, the faint stripes of a tiger painted along the delicate lines that outline my face and accentuate my sharp cheekbones. There's a certain thrill in hiding, because in hiding who I am, it allows me to be who I really am. I come here for one reason, to be liberated on every level.
I go to the bar and perch on a stool, crossing my legs and allowing my short black dress to ride up my thigh. The waiter slides a martini in front of me and I thank him. I allow my gaze to drift around the room, shopping, because everyone in here is on the menu. My gaze stops on a guy sitting on one of the sofas, his fingers buried in the pussy of the woman straddling him. His mask is distinctive, made of white porcelain and depicting a Greek god. I know from experience that he has a body like a god as well. Sometimes I like to be surprised by a new partner, but other times I like to know that I'm going to be satisfied. Apollo as I call him, always satisfies my more aggressive appetites, and tonight I feeling positively savage after my interaction with Banks. There's nothing like a powerful man to make my inner alpha bitch rear her head with bared teeth.
I down the martini and stand, swaying my hips a little as I make my way to Apollo. He looks up, his eyes meeting mine through the mask that covers his eyes and nose. His lips kick up slightly on one side as he assesses me with a cockiness I've come to expect of him. The woman moans, her fingers clinging to his shoulders and scratching over the material of his open shirt.
"Come." I say to him.
"Well, it would be rude not to finish the lady." He says, humour lacing his voice.
I tilt my head to the side and study the girl, her long blonde hair cascades down her bare back as she throws her head back. I step close to her and grab a handful of her hair, fisting it. She moans, pushing her chest out. He watches me intensely as his bicep tenses, his fingers sinking deeper inside her.
I bend over, dropping my face into the crook of her neck and placing a kiss to her soft skin before sweeping my tongue up the side of her throat. Her breath hitches and she trembles gently. I lift my eyes to meet his, and I see the spark of lust in them, the need eating away at him as I wrench her head back even further and slide my free hand down her chest, pinching her nipple between my thumb and index finger. She bucks and writhes, moaning like a wanton slut as she rides his hand.
"Fuck." He says, completely enraptured by the sight of her coming apart under our combined touch. When she's done, he practically throws her off him and rises to his feet. My eyes instantly hone in on the bulge straining against the material of his trousers. His shirt remains open, the hard planes of his stomach on display. I jerk my head towards the stairs and he follows me without question.
This house has twenty rooms, each one identical to the other. For those who like their play a little rougher, there's the basement which houses a dungeon. I have certain tastes, but they don't venture into 'chain me up and beat me' territory.
We pass a line of doors, all with a red ribbon tied on the door. These are the occupied rooms, although some people don't bother with the ribbon in the hope that someone walks in on them. Each to their own. Then of course there are those who like to be watched, like that girl, they just fuck in one of the many public rooms downstairs.
I push open the door and step inside, watching him close it behind him with a resounding click.
I take slow steps backwards into the room, until a chaise bumps the backs of my knees. He pushes his shirt over his shoulders and allows it to fall to the floor. Apollo is a good looking guy, and he's utterly shameless. He likes sex anyway he can get it, and if it makes him come, he's game, the harder the better, any means necessary.
I reach behind me and lower the zip on my dress, shrugging the straps off my shoulders and allowing the material to pool at my ankles, exposing my bra.
Of course with that mask, I can't make out his expression clearly. It makes him seem hard and implacable. For some reason it makes me think of Landon. It shouldn't be a turn on but it is.
I step out of the dress at my feet and hook my thumbs into my knickers. I pause for a second, call it dramatic effect if you like, before slowly sliding them down my legs. Still he doesn't make a move or breathe a sound.
Lowering myself onto the chaise lounge behind me, I smile and beckon him forward with a crook of my finger. He obliges, crossing the room and coming to a halt right in front of me. I reach up and trail my fingers down his firm stomach before I unfasten his trousers and shove them down his thighs, exposing his hard cock just inches from my face. I'll suck dick like a pro when the feeling strikes me, but right now, it doesn't.
"Get on your knees." I command. He steps out of the material at his feet, kicking off his shoes and socks quickly before he does as I say and gets on his knees, completely naked in front of me. I reach behind me and unhook my bra, sliding it down my arms slowly. He watches my every move as I strip, until I'm left wearing nothing but my Louboutins.
I trail my fingers over my thighs and slowly spread my legs open. Wide open. His eyes lock on my pussy and I see his breaths pick up with the rapid rise and fall of his chest.
"Kiss me." I say quietly.
He doesn't hesitate as he grips the insides of my thighs with both hands and leans in. I feel his hot breath hit my pussy before his lips do, brushing gently across my clit. I bite my lip and lean back, raking my nails into the unforgiving material beneath me. His fingers dig into the sensitive skin of my thighs as he lashes me with his tongue. This is why I pick him. No questions, no bullshit, just pleasure and compliance. He works his tongue over my clit until I'm trembling, lingering on that beautiful precipice and just waiting to go tumbling off the edge. One more flick of his tongue, and I break, rolling my hips against his mouth as I ride out the orgasm. After shocks ripple through my torso as I lean my head against the back of the chaise, trying to catch my breath. I close my eyes, a small smile on my lips, because that was good, but what's about to come is even better. Sex is about physical and mental satisfaction, and I like to release in every way before I leave this club.
My eyes flash open as I drag myself upright. His hands are still on my thighs and my orgasm is all over his lips. I close my legs, pushing to my feet and dragging a hand through my hair as I step around him. He doesn't move. I go to my discarded hand bag and take out my favourite toy, also know as The Destroyer. I clip the harness in place around my pelvis and yank the straps tight- don't want it slipping now. This club is extremely accommodating, and I browse the shelf that's mounted in the corner, browsing over the range of lubes. I pick up one called Sex Water, the slogan written on the bottle reads; 'for when spit and courage isn't enough'. It couldn't be more apt.
Apollo glances over his shoulder, watching as I move toward him with the big purple cock protruding from between my hips.
He smirks. "You could at least suck a guy's dick first."
I laugh as I move beside him, raking my fingers through his short hair. "You know I make you come harder with a cock in your arse."
He shrugs. "True." The thing about coming to a sex club is that all the taboo's that are unacceptable outside this room, are completely acceptable inside it. Apollo likes a dick in his arse. He likes me to fuck him. He gets off on it. Simple. Apollo gets an orgasm out of it, and me? I get to plough the fuck out of a guy. I get to own him and make him my bitch for the small amount of time that I'm in here with him. Trust me, to a girl who is constantly bowing and scraping to men inside the office, fucking him is extremely empowering.
"Stand up and bend over." I order
He stands up and bends over, grabbing the back of the chaise lounge firmly. "Spread your legs." I tell him and he does without hesitation.
His cheeks spread and I get a view of his waxed balls and arsehole. I guess if you're into this kind of shit then you need to make sure the grass is cut.
I squirt a generous helping of lube on The Destroyer, before putting some on my finger and smearing it along his crack, pressing against his hole slightly and going lower until I cup his balls, rolling them in the palm of my hand. He moans as I squeeze them gently and then release them.
I grab his hips, his hot skin burning against my fingers as I line up the purple cock and push forward, pressing against him until the tip of it disappears inside him. He drops his head forward, a ragged gasp leaving his lips as I push just a little more. I wait, letting him adjust. When I feel him relax completely, I slam home until my thighs brush the backs of his. A choked groan fills the air as he pants heavily, trying to catch his breath.
"Take it." I tell him, my voice laced with warning. Of course he's twice my size, and could tell me to fuck off easily, but he won't, because this is what he likes, and I give it to him.
I give him a few seconds and then I move, pulling out and thrusting back in slowly. "Fuck." He hisses, his back muscles tensing and rolling beneath his skin. I drag my nails over his back, relishing in the way he shivers, and then I grip his hips and I fuck him. Hard. The straps of the toy rub against my clit and a low moan escapes my lips. I fuck him until a thin sheen of sweat covers my body and he's pushing back against me, panting and groaning whilst he fists his cock with one hand, his arm jerking furiously. I slow the pace, thrusting deeper, harder. He lets out a long guttural groan as every muscle tenses and then quivers violently. I keep going, fucking him until he's begging me to stop, slamming his hand on the back of the chaise like he's tapping out, and then I pull out of him. His legs give way and collapses, laying on his back on the thick carpet, breathing heavily. His come is all over the chaise and the carpet, and I smile with a strange sort of satisfaction at having made such a mess.
I go to the adjoining en-suite and take the strap-on off, rinsing it in the sink. When I walk back into the room, Apollo has climbed to his feet and is getting dressed. He looks a little worse for wear, but then he always does and yet he always comes back for more the next week. I pick my dress up before slipping it back on, fastening the zip and turning to check my reflection in the mirror beside the door. I straighten my mask slightly, throw the strap-on in my hand bag before I stride out of the room without a backward glance.
This is what I do every Friday night. It's my release and at times my salvation, hell, I'd even call it therapy. We all find different ways of coping with the stress of life, this is mine.
About the Author:
Lauren Lovell is an indie author from England.
She suffers from a total lack of brain to mouth filter and is the friend you have to explain before you introduce her to anyone, and apologise for afterwards.
Lauren is a self-confessed shameless pervert, who may be suffering from slight peen envy.
LP loves to hear from readers so please get in touch.


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A couple hundred years ago. hard apple cider used to be the drink of choice for thirsty Americans. It was easy to make and easy to find. But as people moved into cities, and beer became more popular, cider fell out of fashion.
Now it's come roaring back. U.S. hard cider sales are up 65 percent over last year, and just about all the big beer companies sell it, as well as many artisan brewers. Finding cider at your local bar is often no longer a problem.
Among the impressive assortment of beer taps at Two Brothers Tavern in Middlebury, Vt., for example, is one that is bright green and shaped like an apple. "Sales have probably doubled, tripled in the last two or three years," says Two Brothers bartender Andy Buxton. "It used to be nothing. But nowadays probably 30 percent of people who are coming in here are demanding cider, not just asking for it. Even our locals who are drinking Budweiser are starting to switch over to a little bit of cider."
Amanda Geiger of Binghamton, N.Y., began drinking hard cider a few years ago. "I think pretty much everywhere you go you see at least one cider on tap now."
And she says there's a tremendous variety in flavor. "It's not all like sweet apple juice with a kick — [there's] more variety. You've got your drier ones, your sweeter ones, you've got your spiced ones. And I just think there's more room for everyone's taste in there."
Cider's popularity has evolved since the late '80s, when the rise of microbrewed beers began, sparking a renewed interest in small batch brewing. But it's only in the last few years that cider's popularity has exploded nationwide, attracting marketing giants like Miller Coors and Anheuser-Busch.
Andrea Riberi, a beverage analyst for Nielsen, the market research firm, says it helps that cider appeals to both sexes. It's gluten free and seen as something new. "People who were born in the '80s and '90s — which we call millennials — they really want what's new, they're always looking for the next big thing," she says.
And the next big thing is hard cider, often with new flavor and fruit variations, such as pomegranate and pumpkin.
According to business advisors at SymphonyIRI Group, U.S. cider sales for the last 12 months were just shy of $90 million.
Leading the pack is Woodchuck Hard Cider, which was first bottled in 1991 in a small cidery in tiny Proctorsville, Vt. Today, Woodchuck's bottling plant employs 125 people and cranks out 70,000 cases of hard cider a week. Bret Williams bought the company in 2003 and says he's watched as the U.S. cider market has gone from a 4-million-case category to 7-million.
"When I started with the company way back when, all [we] heard was no," Williams says. "People didn't know what hard cider was. Now it's gone from fringe behavior to a very small movement. But it's becoming powerful. People are incredibly passionate about Woodchuck."
While Americans still don't drink nearly as much cider as folks in the United Kingdom, where cider never lost its appeal, Williams thinks there's plenty of room for growth. "The whole cider category is only 0.2 percent of the beer market, and in England and Ireland, it's 15 to 20 percent. So there is so much upward traction for the category, it's almost mind numbing," he says.
While industry analysts doubt the U.S. market for cider will ever be as big as the U.K.'s, Ireland's C&C Group, which makes the cider brand Magners, is more bullish. So bullish, in fact, that the company has announced plans to buy Woodchuck for $305 million.
Copyright 2012 Vermont Public


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What's not to love?
photo courtesy of the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle |
The first time I ran this race was in 1994. Running races was a lot different then, but the vibe of the Shamrock Shuffle remains the same. This race is all about having fun. When Steph asked me if I wanted to do it with her, of course, I said yes. She had never run the Shuffle before! Neither had Marcia, and the three of us hopped on the El early Sunday morning to toe the line with 25,000 other runners.
R-->L Zenaida, Steph, Marcia, me |
R-->L me, Tiffany, Marcia |
Not sure what we're laughing at but we're ready to run! |
Mile 5 takes the runners south on Michigan Avenue and up Mount Roosevelt. I vowed not to stop and I didn't. It's not a big climb but it is long! We turned north onto Columbus Drive and I flew down the final 200 meters to the finish line. I heard the announcer call my name as I approached.
Determined to conquer Mt Roosevelt (apologies to MarathonFoto) |
Finishing is winning |
This may be one of my favorite race photos ever! |
I'm linking up with Deborah and Kim for the Weekly Run Down.


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Greetings from the Department of Natural Resources Atchafalaya Basin Program!
News: HUNTING SEASONS Squirrel and Rabbit: Oct 1 - Feb 28 Daily bag limit: 8 Deer: Archery, Oct 1 - Jan 31Daily bag limit: 1 Alligator: Sept 7 - Oct 6Requires tag Atchafalaya Basin Program Hosts Public Meetings Louisiana Sportsman: Top 10 tips for squirrel season opening weekend The Advocate: Take along repellent for Saturday's squirrel season opener Houma Today: Hunting alligators: A novice tags along with a couple of experts Times-Picayune: 3 Louisiana towns collect more in speeding fines than taxes Save the Date: Iberville Swamp Life Expo, Oct. 1 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Iberville Visitor Center in Grosse Tete Fishing for Fausse Pointe tournament, Oct 1: 5 am registration, 3 pm weigh-in at Marsh Field Boat Landing Atchafalaya Basin Program Public Meeting Schedule for the FY2018 Annual Plan: Oct. 3 in Morgan City, Oct. 4 in Bayou Sorrell, and Oct. 6 in Henderson Atchafalaya Catfish Festival, Oct. 6 - 8 at the Melville Civic Center Grounds A Fausse Point Dinner in the Year 700 A.D. with Jim Delahoussaye, Oct. 11 at 6 pm at the Franklin Library Free talk on New Acadia Project, Oct 12 at 6 pm at the Jeanerette Museum located at 500 E. Main Street, Jeanerette Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, Oct 13-16 at Lafayette's Girard Park
Squirrel and Rabbit: Oct 1 - Feb 28 Daily bag limit: 8
Deer: Archery, Oct 1 - Jan 31Daily bag limit: 1
Alligator: Sept 7 - Oct 6Requires tag
Send in your Basin Pics! Let us know if you have an upcoming event to promote the Basin!
Send in your Basin Pics!
Let us know if you have an upcoming event to promote the Basin!
Checking the water:The information below is obtained from the USGS and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and has been compiled by DNR into this format to allow a quick look at information pertinent to the Atchafalaya Basin. Current Atchafalaya Basin water levels from NOAA.
Data is for 9/29/2016
Ohio River at CairoLocation: Southernmost gauge on the Ohio River in Illinois Reading significance - used to forecast rises on the Mississippi. Lag time, 4 to 6 days.Flood Stage: 40'Stage: 21.3'24 hour change: -0.8'Forecast: expect to RISE to 22.2' by 10/4
Mississippi River, just south of ORCS, at Red River LandingReading: Mississippi River south of ORCS, after the diversion into the Atchafalaya Flood Stage: 48'Stage: 32.2'24 hour change: -0.2'Forecast: expect to FALL to 30.2' by 10/4
Mississippi River at Baton RougeFlood Stage: 35'Stage: 16.9'24 hour change: -0.2'Forecast: expect to FALL to 15.0' by 10/4
Mississippi River at New OrleansFlood Stage: 17'Stage: 5.2'24 hour change: 0.0'Forecast: expect to FALL to 5.1' by 10/4
Atchafalaya River, just south of ORCS, at SimmesportReading: The combined latitudinal flows of the Red, Black, Ouachita, and ORCS flow from the Mississippi Flood Stage: 47'Stage: 11.7'Forecast: expect to FALL to 10.5' by 10/4
Atchafalaya River at MelvilleFlood Stage: 34'Stage: 7.5'Forecast: expect to FALL to 6.4' by 10/4
Atchafalaya River at Krotz SpringsFlood Stage: 29'Stage: 7.0'Forecast: expect to FALL to 5.9' by 10/4
Atchafalaya River above Butte La RoseFlood Stage: 20'Stage: 5.6'Forecast: expect to FALL to 4.9' by 10/4
Atchafalaya River at Bayou Sorrell Locks on the GIWWFlood Stage: 12'Stage: 3.8'Forecast: expect to FALL to 3.3' by 9/29
Atchafalaya at Millet (Myette) PointFlood Stage: 15'Stage: 3.3'Forecast: expect to FALL to 3.0' by 9/29
Atchafalaya River at Morgan CityFlood Stage: 6'Stage: 2.3'Forecast: expect to RISE to 2.7' by 9/29
Lower Grand River at Bayou SorrelStage: 5.80'
Bayou CourtableauStage: 18.24'
Middle Fork, Bayou LongStage: 3.07'
Arm of Grand Lake near Crook Chene CoveStage: 6.50'
Pontoon Bridge at Butte LaroseStage: 4.90'
Lake Pelba at I-10, HendersonStage: 8.23'
Little Alabama Bayou at SherbourneStage: 17.93'
Bayou La Rompe at Lake LongStage: 6.02'
Keelboat Pass below Lake ChicotStage: 3.45'


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SXSW Interactive 2010 Recap
My South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive 2010 recap has finally been published! It's over on my personal blog and includes everything that I experienced in gritty detail.
From my presentation to the presentations I attended, the people I met and even a movie I saw. It's all there. Some of it is community related, but most of it is to do with personal stuff or networking.
If that sounds like something you'd be interested in, please head over to my personal blog and give it a read.


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Subject: WS-Reliability specification submitted for OASIS Standard
OASIS members: The OASIS Web Services Reliable Messaging (WSRM) TC has submitted the WS-Reliability v1.1 specification, which is an approved Committee Draft, for review and consideration for approval by OASIS members to become an OASIS Standard. The TC's submission is attached below. In accordance with the OASIS Technical Committee Process, the specification has already gone through a 30 day public review period. OASIS members now have until the 15th of the month to familiarize themselves with the submission. OASIS members should give their input on this question to the voting representative of their organization. By the 16th of the month I will send out a Call For Vote to the voting representatives of the OASIS member organizations, who will have until the end of the month to cast their ballots on whether this Committee Draft should be approved as an OASIS Standard. The normative TC Process for approval of Committee Drafts as OASIS Standards is found at http://www.oasis-open.org/committees/process.php#standard Any statements related to the IPR of this specification are posted at http://www.oasis-open.org/committees/wsrm/ipr.php -Karl ================================================================= Karl F. Best Vice President, OASIS office +1 978.667.5115 x206 mobile +1 978.761.1648 email@example.com http://www.oasis-open.org 1. A formal specification that is a valid member of its type, together with appropriate documentation for the specification, both of which must be written using approved OASIS templates; The zip file at http://www.oasis-open.org/committees/download.php/9330/WS-Reliability-CD1.086.zip contains the following five files: WS-Reliability-CD1.086.pdf WS-Reliability version 1.1, CD 1.086 ws-reliability-1.1.xsd Ws-Reliability schema reference-1.1.xsd Reference type schema fnp-1.1.xsd Features and Properties schema wsrmfp-1.1.xsd wsrm features and properties schema 2. A clear English-language summary of the specification; The WS-Reliabilty specification, version 1.1, specifies a transport-independent, SOAP based protocol for the reliable delivery of messages. Reliable message delivery may be critical to some applications using Web Services. SOAP over HTTP [RFC2616] is not sufficient when an application-level messaging protocol must also guarantee some level of reliability and security. This specification defines reliability in the context of current Web Services standards. The WS Reliability specification provides the following reliability features: - Guaranteed message delivery, or At-Least-Once delivery semantics. - Guaranteed message duplicate elimination, or "At-Most-Once" delivery semantics. - Guaranteed message delivery and duplicate elimination, or "Exactly-Once" delivery semantics. - Guaranteed message ordering for delivery within a group of (sequential) messages. The WS-Reliabilty specification uses SOAP 1.1 or 1.2 Part 1. It may be used with other transport protocols/bindings besides HTTP. 3. A statement regarding the relationship of this specification to similar work of other OASIS TCs or other standards developing organizations; This specification has been designed to be used in combination with other complementary protocols, and has built upon previous experiences from the ebXML Message Service [ebMS].) Both WS-Reliability and ebMS have same messaging reliability contracts as objectives: guaranteed delivery, no duplicate delivery, ordered delivery, and combinations of these. However, WS-Reliability has improved on scalability and performance by generalizing the use of sequence numbers, and can accommodate different security and access conditions on each party, as this is more frequently the case with a Web service and its clients, compared to more symmetrical access conditions in messaging. The reliability contract is more "application-oriented" in WS-R, where acknowledgment is on final delivery, in contrast to "on receipt" by the message handler in ebMS. 4. Certification by at least three OASIS member organizations that they are successfully using the specification consistently with the OASIS IPR Policy; The chair has received statements from the following TC member organizations. Hitachi: http://www.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm/200409/msg00000.html Fujitsu: http://www.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm/200408/msg00130.html Oracle: http://www.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm/200408/msg00125.html NEC Corporation: http://www.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm/200408/msg00127.html 5. An account of each of the comments/issues raised during the public review period, along with its resolution; http://www.oasis-open.org/committees/download.php/9025/PublicCommentsIsssues-090204.html 6. An account of and results of the voting to approve the approve the specification as a Committee Draft; Account of a TC roll call vote at teleconf on August 24, 2004 Name Company Vote for CD 1.086 --------------- ------------------- ------------------ Joseph Chiusano Booz Allen Hamilton y Jeff Turpin Cyclone Commerce y Jacques Durand Fujitsu y Kazunori Iwasa Fujitsu Not present Tom Rutt Fujitsu y Jishnu Mukerji Hewlett-Packard Not present Robert Freund Hitachi y Eisaku Nishiyama Hitachi y Nobuyuki Yamamoto Hitachi Not present Junichi Tatemura NEC Corporation y Alan Weissberger NEC Corporation y Abbie Barbir Nortel Networks y Mark Peel Novell y Sunil Kunisetty Oracle y Jeff Mischkinsky Oracle Not present Pete Wenzel SeeBeyond y Doug Bunting Sun Microsystems y Tony Graham Sun Microsystems y Chi-Yuen Ng Univ of Hong Kong y 15 yes, 0 no, 0 abstain, 4 not present 78% of eligible voting members voted yes 0% of eligible voting members voted no 0% of eligible voting members abstained 7. An account of or pointer to votes and comments received in any earlier attempts to standardize substantially the same specification, together with the originating TC's response to each comment; This specification has not been previously submitted to OASIS. 8. A pointer to the publicly visible comments archive for the originating TC; WSRM TC public comment list: http://lists.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm-comment/ WSRM TC list: http://lists.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm/ 9. A statement from the chair of the TC certifying that all members of the TC have been provided with a copy of the OASIS IPR Policy; The TC chair certifies that all members have been reminded to read the IPR statement on numerous occasions and also in an e-mail "Call for IPR disclosure regarding ws-Reliability spec" at: http://www.oasis-open.org/archives/wsrm/200405/msg00022.html 10. Optionally, a pointer to any minority reports submitted by one or more TC members who did not vote in favor of approving the Committee Draft, or certification by the chair that no minority reports exist. No minority reports have been submitted to the chair as of this writing. Submitted by the OASIS WSRM TC chair, Tom Rutt, firstname.lastname@example.com
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Sleep Apnea
Ask Lifetime Dental of The Woodlands if our services are right for you
Make an AppointmentWhat is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep Apnea is caused when the tissues in your throat collapse during the night, blocking your airway and preventing you from breathing normally. Sleep Apnea can wake you up throughout the night, which prevents you from entering the REM stage of sleep. Because Sleep Apnea affects the deepest, most crucial stage of the sleep cycle, it can leave you feeling tired the next day, and prevent you from functioning at your maximum potential.
Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Waking up with a choking sensation or gasping for air
- Insomnia or waking constantly throughout the night
- Excessive daytime fatigue
- Loud snoring
- Irritability and sudden mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Morning Headaches
- Waking up with dry mouth or sore throat
- Impotence
Long-Term Effects of Sleep Apnea
If you are putting off seeking treatment for Sleep Apnea because you're afraid it means having to wear an unflattering sleep machine at night, great news! There are now more options and treatments than ever. When left untreated, Sleep Apnea can lead to major health risks such as:
- High Blood Pressure
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer's
- Stroke
Please don't wait. Ask your dentist today about getting tested for Sleep Apnea, and we will work with you to find the best treatment plan for you! Call 281-363-0500 and talk to one of our team members about any questions you may have!
How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
In order to accurately diagnose sleep apnea, patients may be referred to a sleep specialist for a medical assessment. It is also important to consult with your dentist, who may perform an intraoral exam, which involves specialized x-rays, intraoral photos, gag reflex check, orthopedic exams, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. These tests will help us determine the most effective position for your lower jaw to open your airway. Lifetime Dental of The Woodlands has had success treating sleep apnea with a nighttime orthotic appliance that is thinner, lighter, and more comfortable than a bulky CPAP mask. This appliance will be customized especially for you. Depending on the severity of your condition, other repositioning devices may be considered.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Plans & Snoring Solutions
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machines: Traditional Method for treating Sleep Apnea, which delivers continuous airflow through a mask that adjusts around your face. Though many find the machine to be noisy, uncomfortable, and inconvenient. Used in cases of severe Sleep Apnea.
- Oral Appliances: Using an oral sleep device has advantages over CPAP for managing sleep apnea. These devices are non-invasive, customized for comfort, and don't involve masks or noisy machinery like CPAP. They are portable, making them convenient for active lifestyles and travel. The devices are personalized to fit your mouth, ensuring comfort and better compliance. Their comfort and ease of use contribute to higher patient compliance, enhancing the chances of successful treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on the most suitable option for your needs.
- Lifestyle Changes: In addition to other treatments, your dentist may recommend a healthier diet or exercise to improve and promote weight loss. Sometimes limiting alcohol and smoking consumption, throat exercises, or even special pillows can be the solution for Sleep Apnea.
Interested in seeing if you have sleep apnea? Or, are you looking for a sleep apnea specialist near Spring? Call us at 281-363-0500 to schedule a sleep apnea assessment!


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Winners Announced for Presentations at 32nd Annual J. Engelbert Dunphy Resident Research Symposium
The 32nd Annual J. Engelbert Dunphy Resident Research Symposium was held Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at UCSF Medical Center at Mission Bay. The program showcased the laboratory research of residents, fellows, and medical students in the Department of Surgery, and honors the life and accomplishments of J. Engelbert Dunphy, M.D., a legendary surgeon and a former chair of the UCSF Department of Surgery.
This year's J. Engelbert Dunphy Visiting Professor, Dr. Lillian Kao, Professor and Division Chief of Acute Care Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), delivered a highly engaging keynote presentation titled, "Academic Surgery and the Art of the Pivot."
LEFT TO RIGHT: Eva Mae Gillis-Buck, Quoc-Hung Nguyen, Greg Haro, Kelly Mahuron, Lillian Kao (Dunphy Visiting Professor), Julie Ann Sosa (Department Chair), Andrew Wisneski, Iris Liu, Peter Stock (Chair of Research Committee), Arya Zarinsefat
2019 Presentation Winners
Best Abstract Presentation
Eva Mae Gillis-Buck
"A Role for Aire-Expressing Cells in Maternal-Fetal Tolerance "
Best Abstract Presentation
"Fetal Molecular Therapies to Treat Neurological Disease in Mice with Lysosomal Storage Disorders "
Outstanding Abstract Presentation
"Novel Microtubule and PARP Inhibitor Drug Attenuates Neointimal Hyperplasia in a Rat Model of Arterial Injury"
Outstanding Abstract Presentation
"Layilin is Enriched in Tumor-Infiltrating CD8+ T Cells in Human Cancer and Contributes to Anti-Tumor Immunity"
Best Quick-Shot Presentation
"Deep Immune Profiling of High- vs. Low-Risk Lung Adenocarcinoma"
Best Quick-Shot Presentation
"Biomechanics of Ascending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: Computational Modeling and Pursuit of Wall Stress Based Rupture Risk"
Outstanding Quick-Shot Presentation
"An Analysis of Differentially Hydroxymethylated Genes in HIV-Infected Kidney Transplants Undergoing Acute Rejection"


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Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles is committed to safeguarding your privacy. Contact us at email@example.com if you have any questions or problems regarding the use of your Personal Data and we will gladly assist you.
By using this site or/and our services, you consent to the Processing of your Personal Data as described in this Privacy Policy.
Table of Contents
- Definitions used in this Policy
- Data protection principles we follow
- What rights do you have regarding your Personal Data
- What Personal Data we gather about you
- How we use your Personal Data
- Who else has access to your Personal Data
- How we secure your data
- Information about cookies
- Contact information
Personal Data – any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person.
Processing – any operation or set of operations which is performed on Personal Data or on sets of Personal Data.
Data subject – a natural person whose Personal Data is being Processed, also referred to as "user"
Child – a natural person under 16 years of age.
Data Controller
The natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of Personal Data, including the security measures concerning the operation and use of this website. Referred in this document as We/us (either capitalized or not) – Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles.
Data Protection Principles
We promise to follow the following data protection principles:
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We take appropriate security measures to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or unauthorized destruction of the Data.
The Data processing is carried out using computers and/or IT enabled tools, following organizational procedures and modes strictly related to the purposes indicated. In addition to us, in some cases, the Data may be accessible to certain types of persons in charge, involved with the operation of this website (administration, sales, marketing, legal, system administration) or external parties (such as third-party technical service providers, mail carriers, hosting providers, IT companies, communications agencies) appointed, if necessary, as Data Processors by us. The updated list of these parties may be requested at any time.
We use your Personal Data on legitimate grounds and/or with your Consent to:
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We will inform you of any further Processing and purposes.
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Who else can access your Personal Data
We do not share your Personal Data with strangers. Personal Data about you is in some cases provided to our trusted partners in order to either make providing the service to you possible or to enhance your customer experience. We share your data with:
Our processing/business partners:
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- Feedburner
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We only work with Processing partners who are able to ensure adequate level of protection to your Personal Data. We disclose your Personal Data to third parties or public officials when we are legally obliged to do so. We might disclose your Personal Data to third parties if you have consented to it or if there are other legal grounds for it.
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What are the seven habits that allow some people to excel at being frugal?
1. Be Proactive
Frugal people are proactive about their money, taking action to monitor and control spending and maximize income. They find ways to spend less and reduce expenses — even if it requires effort and creative thinking. They direct most of the money they save from reduced expenses into savings and investments for long term goals.
Although the first thing that comes to mind with frugality is saving money, many frugal people maximize income through side hustles or by generating passive income in addition to controlling their spending. An extra dollar saved or an extra dollar earned both contribute favorably to the bottom line.
Frugal people know how much money they have coming in and how much is going out, often with great precision. This is accomplished by creating and following a budget and proactively monitoring spending. They focus on what they can control within their budget to achieve financial success.
2. Begin With the End in Mind
Why do frugal people work so hard to control spending and keep track of their money? Are they simply not interested in buying things? On the contrary, most frugal people are striving to reach financial independence so that they can travel or launch a second career or to have plenty of money to buy the things that matter to them. Frugal people are willing to worry about money now so they don't need to worry about it later.
Surprisingly, many frugal people care more about their time than their money. Saving money buys financial independence, which buys time to do whatever you want. Frugal people want freedom to use their time as they wish and not be locked into working at a job until they reach old age.
Frugal people begin with the end in mind. The end they want to achieve is financial independence. With that end in mind, they make a plan to reach the goal and follow it every day. The sacrifices along the way are worth reaching the goal.
3. Put First Things First
What is the first thing you pay every month? Do you pay your mortgage first? Perhaps you pay your utility bill or car payment first. Frugal people pay something else first — themselves.
Paying yourself first means that you invest in your retirement fund or other savings accounts first, then you pay other bills using the money that is left. Most people pay their bills first, and then save or invest if there is any money left.
Frugal people realize that having money to invest is the most important priority, and they take care of that priority first. If there is not enough money left to pay the bills, then frugal people find ways to make their bills smaller so they can fully fund their investment goals.
4. Think Win-Win
Stephen Covey talked about win-win situations in terms of structuring deals where both parties involved get something beneficial. His point was that someone doesn't have to lose in order to make a great deal — in fact, the best deals happen in win-win situations.
Looking at this habit in the context of frugal success, just because you spend less money doesn't mean you have to benefit less or receive less value. In fact, frugal people find ways to spend less money and achieve greater benefit at the same time.
Frugal people find plenty of win-win situations for their money. For example, why do many of them prepare most of their meals at home instead of dining out? Of course, making food at home is cheaper than paying the bill at a restaurant, but eating at home is healthier as well. The benefit of making your own food goes beyond just saving money.
Buying a smaller house is less expensive than a larger house and it costs less for maintenance, insurance, heating/cooling, and lighting. In addition to the lower initial price and reduced ongoing costs, a smaller house also takes less time to clean and maintain, freeing up time for other activities.
Most win-win scenarios involve not just price, but value. Frugal people consider the overall value that a purchase would provide throughout its life, including hidden expenses and potential benefits. Frugal people are willing to spend money to get a good value, and they shop around and use coupons to get the best deal they can on the right item.
5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
Most frugal people don't start out being frugal. They start out as "normal" spenders and rack up credit card bills and student loans like most people. Over time, they come to understand that spending and debt are not the path to contentment. They realize that sometimes less really is more, at least when it comes to debt and spending.
Frugal people reach an understanding of how much stuff they need to be happy, which is often far less stuff than most people think they need to be happy. Frugal people make spending decisions in terms of needs and wants, while most people think primarily in terms of having more and better stuff than their friends and neighbors.
As far as being understood, most frugal people don't seem to care much what "normal" people think of them. Frugal people understand that spending money to keep up with the Joneses, or anyone else, doesn't make much sense and is certainly not the path to long term contentment.
6. Synergize
Synergy is the concept that sometimes, one plus one adds up to more than just two. How is this possible?
If you decide that you can live without cable TV, you can save about $100 per month. Not only do you save $100 this month and every month thereafter, but you have significantly reduced the amount of money you need to retire by forgoing a recurring expense during your retirement years. You could retire years earlier due to the synergy of eliminating a recurring expense.
Another example of synergy is reducing clutter. If you minimize the amount of clutter you collect over time, you will require less space to store your stuff. You will be able to live in a smaller, less expensive house. With less clutter, you will be better able to find and use the items that you do have. Savings of time and money will accumulate over the years greatly exceeding the small amount of effort it takes to nip clutter in the bud. This is another example where a seemingly insignificant action can allow you to achieve your goals years earlier due to synergy.
7. Sharpen Your Saw
As you are reading this, you are sharpening your saw! If you have ever tried to cut something with a dull saw, you know that it takes a lot of work and a long time to get the job done. Keeping your saw sharp is time well spent.
Sharpening your saw means to continue learning and finding new inspiration to get the most from your money. Frugal people tend to seek out ideas on saving money from blogs, podcasts, books, and by talking with other frugal friends. Reading about the financial success and failures of others can provide inspiration to keep your goals firmly in mind and on track.
This article is from Dr. Penny Pincher of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website.


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Books of Jacob
Olga Tokarczuk More by this author...£20.00Out 15 Nov 2021- Fiction
- Pre-Order
In the mid-eighteenth century, as new ideas begin to sweep the continent, a young Jew of mysterious origins arrives in a village in Poland. Before long, he has changed not only his name but his persona; visited by what seem to be ecstatic experiences, Jacob Frank casts a charismatic spell that attracts an increasingly fervent following. In the decade to come, Frank will traverse the Hapsburg and Ottoman empires, throngs of disciples in his thrall as he reinvents himself again and again, converts to Islam and then Catholicism, is pilloried as a heretic and revered as the Messiah, and wreaks havoc on the conventional order, Jewish and Christian alike, with scandalous rumours of his sect's secret rituals and the spread of his increasingly iconoclastic beliefs.
In THE BOOKS OF JACOB, her masterpiece, 2018 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate Olga Tokarczuk writes the story of Frank through the perspectives of his contemporaries, capturing Enlightenment Europe on the cusp of precipitous change, searching for certainty and longing for transcendence.


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Guest Post
In case you haven't been paying attention, zombies are pretty much everywhere. In fact, they're so widespread in the entertainment portion of our culture that one famous actor even thinks we're on the brink of an epidemic. In an interview with the HuffingtonPost.com, living legend Morgan Freeman said that he believes "[we] may already be in the midst of a growing zombie apocalypse." Fair enough. He also said that we have all become so obsessed with these undead creatures because of "our desire for immortality." He may have a point there, though it's one more existential than simply stating what may be the obvious at this point: zombies cannot, and will not, be stopped.
Seriously, let's take a quick look back at the television side of things, where these brain-noshing jerks have invaded a number of networks. The most prominent and well-known example, of course, is The Walking Dead, the acclaimed series that centers on survivors making their way through a zombie apocalypse. That's an obvious example, though, and one that neglects to mention, say, Castle's run in with these particular monsters. They also showed up on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which Katie Hart discussed in an article on the episode "Dead Man's Party" a few years back.
The zombies outbreak goes well beyond the small screen. In terms of feature films, it would be a thankless task to even simply list the zombie movies that have been released in the past decade alone. That's partially because there are a plethora of B-movies out there that cashed in on the craze surrounding these monsters. That being said, there have been plenty of notable releases with zombies at the center of it all. They include the Brad Pitt-starring World War Z (2013), the fantastic kids' movie ParaNorman (2012), and the flat-out hilarious Zombieland (2009) that featured Woody Harrelson and Jesse Eisenberg. If this sort of thing tickles your cinematic fancy, you should probably check out Boston.com for their list of the best zombie movies ever released.
There are then the various zombie-themed franchises running rampant through both cinema and another branch of entertainment: video gaming. You'd probably have to be living under a rock (for at least 10-15 years, at this point) to not have heard of the Resident Evil series and its many games, books, movies, etc. But it's not the only zombie-heavy gaming content to sweep over the industry. One can simply look to arcade hub Intercasino.com for several examples of the undead further crossing over into mainstream popularity. Namely, they host a goofball, family sitcom-inspired game, "The Zombies," in addition to a survival horror-leaning experience, "Zombie Rush." The latter falls somewhere between what you'd expect from Resident Evil if it had less of a we-want-to-scare-the-pants-off-you vibe.
So what, then, does this mean for the connection between entertainment and the undead moving forward? Plenty, it would seem. Given the popularity of The Walking Dead and everything else mentioned here, it's extremely doubtful that we've seen the last of the zombies for, at the very least, the next several years. That'll be particularly true if that Walking Dead spinoff can capture the same fire as the original.
Rick Sanchez is a longtime zombie enthusiast who's constantly researching what to do if the undead actually do take over the world. He lives in New York with his girlfriend and two dogs, Frank and Gizmo.


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AP: Facebook shuts out NYU academics' research on political ads
August 5, 2021
Facebook has shut down the personal accounts of a pair of New York University researchers and shuttered their investigation into misinformation spread through political ads on the social network.
Facebook says the researchers violated its terms of service and were involved in unauthorized data collection from its massive network. The academics, however, say the company is attempting to exert control on research that paints it in a negative light.
The NYU researchers with the Ad Observatory Project had for several years been looking into Facebook's Ad Library, where searches can be done on advertisements running across Facebook's products.
The access was used to "uncover systemic flaws in the Facebook Ad Library, to identify misinformation in political ads, including many sowing distrust in our election system, and to study Facebook's apparent amplification of partisan misinformation," said Laura Edelson, the lead researcher behind NYU Cybersecurity for Democracy, in a statement.
Facebook's action against the NYU project also cut off other researchers and journalists who got access to Facebook data through the project, Edelson said.
The researchers offered Facebook users a web browser plug-in tool that let them volunteer their data showing how the social network targets political ads.
But Facebook said the browser extension was programmed to evade its detection systems and vacuum up user data, creating privacy concerns.
In a blog post late Tuesday, Facebook said it takes "unauthorized data scraping seriously, and when we find instances of scraping we investigate and take action to protect our platform."
Facebook sent a cease-and-desist letter to Edelson and another researcher, Damon McCoy, in October but didn't shut down their accounts until Tuesday, hours after Edelson informed the platform that she and McCoy were studying the spread of disinformation on the platform about the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, the researchers said.
Mike Clark, Facebook product management director, wrote in the blog post that the Menlo Park, California, company welcomes research that holds it accountable but that doesn't compromise the security of the platform or users' privacy.
"While the Ad Observatory project may be well-intentioned, the ongoing and continued violations of protections against scraping cannot be ignored and should be remediated," he wrote.
At least two Democratic senators expressed concerns about Facebook's move. Mark Warner of Virginia said tech platforms should "work with, and better empower, independent researchers" but instead the company has "seemingly done the opposite." Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota said she was troubled by Facebook cutting off researcher access to political advertising data, "which has shown that the company continues to sell millions of dollars' worth of political ads without proper disclosures."
Facebook says it makes information on political ads available through its Ad Library and provides "privacy-protected data sets" to researchers through other means.


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Like just about everything worth buying, hearing aids need just the right amount of care, but it's a worthwhile effort because it extends the life of the device and makes it work better. Taking care of your hearing aid requires a combination of practical knowledge, proper cleaning and careful handling. Educating yourself about the right way to keep them safe and clean will mean you and your hearing aid can live happily together for many years.
About That Earwax
You don't spend a lot of time talking about it, but everyone has it. Earwax, or cerumen as medical professionals call it, has a distinct purpose in your ears. Earwax protects the skin inside the ear canal from bacteria, insects, and water. It is an important role so, your body makes quite a bit of it, and it can end up on your hearing aids. Chances are if you notice a hearing aid isn't working quite right, earwax is to blame.
The solution is to get into the habit of cleaning the wax off the device on a regular basis. At the end of the day before you put it away is a good time. Take a soft toothbrush or cotton swab and run it over the surface of the hearing aid. Make sure to dig into any crevices on the device and to remove build up on the receiver and microphone.
Some hearing aids come with filters or guards to protect the delicate internal components from earwax. You don't clean these filters; you replace them. Look at the paperwork that came with the hearing aid to see if it mentions an earwax filter or guard. If you are unsure if your device has this feature, contact the retailer or manufacturer for help.
Keeping it Dry
Pick a good place to store your hearing aid; one that is dry and secure. This helps prevent water from penetrating the casing and doing damage. Do not touch the device with wet hands and take them out before you get into the shower or pool.
If you live in an area with excess humidity, consider purchasing a dehumidifier designed for hearing aids. As you have probably figured out, this is a device that removes water from the unit. They also make storage cases that help keep hearing aids free from condensation.
If your hearing aid does get moisture in it, carefully wipe it down with a towel. Don't look for a fancy solution to the problem like a hair dryer or any other heated device because that will likely cause damage.
Charge It Up
For most of you that will involve changing or charging the batteries when they need it. A degrading battery will damage your device as it corrodes the delicate circuitry. When you remove your hearing aid before going to bed, open the door that holds the battery to prevent moisture from building up and causing this corrosion.
As you do switch out the battery, take the time to wipe down the contact points before putting in the new one. Just rub a dry cotton swab over them to remove any debris like earwax.
Handling Your Hearing Aid
One of the essential things to learn is how to handle your hearing aid. Start by making sure your hands are clean before you touch it. They should be free from lotion and hand sanitizer, too.
Be careful not to drop the device down onto a hard surface like the kitchen counter. If you do place it there, do it gently and be sure that counter is clean first. You can damage the unit if you put it down right where you spilled your coffee earlier! Avoid placing your hearing aid near heat or in direct sunlight. They are sensitive to high temperatures, too.
Take care not to leave a hearing aid where the dog can get to it. Some hearing aids continue to make a sound even when they are out of your ear in a tonal range that the dog can hear. Your best friend might eat the hearing aid to shut it up, and that's bad for both you and the dog.
See a Professional When You Need One
If there comes a time when your hearing aid needs repair, look for a certified retailer to get it the job done. These dealers have the training to manage unique digital hearing aid technology. They also have tools that let them test each component to determine the problem and all the right replacement parts. Frankensteining your hearing aid with parts from other units rarely turns out well.
Plan to schedule a professional cleaning for your hearing aid regularly if you want it to last. A repair technician is able to clean the inside and make adjustments when necessary so you know you are getting the most from it. This is a good time to ask any questions that you might have about caring for your hearing aid, as well.
You put a lot of time and money into getting a hearing aid, why not do what is necessary to keep it working at it's best for as long as possible. A little careful consideration and care are all it takes to extend the life of your hearing aid.


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The contest ended and unfortunately we didn't receive enough votes for the first place prize. However, all finalists receive an LCD display ($400 value). I already have hope for using it with my apple TV so I can use the computer/projector and iPad to display at the same time. Now that would be super useful! Thanks to all who helped to vote!
Thank you to Mrs. Wolff for suggesting that we enter.
Made with the Green Screen app by DoInk. Music by Kevin MacLeod.


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How to Choose Plus Size Jeans That Are Right For You
It wasn't much more than a century ago that Levi Strauss started a little business supplying blue jeans to gold miner at wholesale prices. Those gold miners needed clothes that would endure rugged terrain and rough treatment. Today, blue jeans have earned their place as the most popular and versatile garment, maintaining that same strength yet winning the gold in comfort and appeal.
Plus-sized people agree that shopping can be extremely difficult. Finding a stylish yet comfortable pair of jeans is a rarity. The majority of jeans either hug your legs too tightly or cut into the waist or stomach. Locating the right pair of jeans for your body type can add the illusion of longer legs and smaller hips.
Plus size jeans are increasingly being made with a stretch material that allows the jean fabric to give slightly. Be on the lookout for the word "stretch" when perusing plus size jean labels. Stretch fabric is made of a cotton/poly/spandex blend. As such, it virtually glides on the body and stretches only when and where needed. Stretch fabric jeans provide maximum comfort and enhance your shape. Stretch jeans will continue to stretch out with wear, helping to keep you feeling comfortable throughout your day.
You need to also look for "mid-rise" qualities in plus size jeans. Most jeans sold today are "low-rise" jeans, which are fine if you have no curves; however, if you do have them, low-rise jeans don't compensate for larger waists or hips and thus can look very bad. They emphasize the midriff, pushing excess fat over the waist band, and are also very painful to wear for long periods of time.
Classic cut jeans (called mid-rise cut jeans) are much more appealing and attractive and will help you stay stylish while allowing you to stay covered and comfortable. Classic cut jeans sit just below the waist and have a straight leg from the hip all the way down to the floor. This will give a plus size woman's body a long, lean look.
Avoid plus size jeans that are over-styled and include embroidery, extra pockets, extreme fading and fancy stitching. Instead, choose solid, dark wash jeans that are perfect with tee shirts, dress shirts and sweaters.
People who are larger than average need wider pant legs, and should select a dark-colored pair of jeans with five pockets.
Jeans can be worn for everyday, or for a night on the town. They go with a variety of shoe-types. They come in a plethora of colors and fabrics. Plus sized people have so many varieties to choose from.
Look for the stretch fabric and rise quality when you are shopping for plus size clothing and jeans. When you do find the perfect pair of plus size jeans, it's always worth it to invest in a second pair. The perfect pair of plus size jeans can help you look and feel great!