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    Rejoice Moses creativemistress02


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    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - How much will I need for my kid's college education? And how the heck will I pay for it?

    With the cost of a four-year degree rising nearly eight times faster than wages since the 1980s, those two questions are enough to give today's parents a serious case of night sweats. You can argue about the reasons for the disconnect -Administrative costs? Fancy amenities? - but you know there's a problem when a writer at Education Week is incensed.

    "Madness," she decried.

    Which is all the more reason to mark May 29 down on your calendar.

    Otherwise known as National 529 College Savings Plan Day -Get it? 5/29? - it's the perfect time to consider setting up one those tax-advantaged 529 plans, as they're called, to help sock money away to cover tuition, books and other education-related expenses at most accredited two - and four-year colleges, universities and vocational-technical schools.

    "It's a way of keeping your son or daughter from being saddled with too much debt when it's time to jump start their careers," explained Melissa Ridolfi, vice president of retirement and college products at Fidelity Investments. "Plus, any investment earnings compound on a tax-deferred basis, and qualified withdrawals are entirely free from federal and state income taxes."

    And now to the big question: How much?

    Two factors are mainly at play:

    * Public vs. private schools. The cost difference can be about as mind-boggling as "Avengers: Endgame's" record $357.1 million opening weekend domestic haul: an average of $21,370 a year at the former, according to the College Board's latest figures, as opposed to $48,510 at the latter.

    * The percentage of the bill you plan to foot. If you were counting on scholarships and other grants to pick up all or most of the tab, you should probably rethink that unless your kid is either a bona fide child prodigy or football star. Sallie Mae's "How America Pays for College" 2018 report found that both categories combined paid for just 28 percent of college costs.

    One guess where 47 percent of the costs came from. That's right, "family income and savings," with another 24 percent covered by borrowing.

    In other words, as Ridolfi said, "any way you look at it, the family is on the hook to pay the lion's share of college expenses." Which probably helps explain why a recent Fidelity study found that parents are increasingly starting to save before their child even reaches the age of two.

    To see where you stand, try using what Fidelity calls "the college savings 2K rule of thumb." Simply multiply your child's current age by $2,000 to figure whether your savings to date are generally on track to handle approximately 50 percent of the College Board's $21,370-a-year average cost of attending a four-year public college.

    Or, especially if you want a more customized estimate - one that lets you play around with percentages and switch back and forth between public and private schools - the firm's free online college savings calculator takes the angst out of doing the math yourself.

    Fidelity provides 12 savings ideas to help reach your own goal, and offers a choice of two different investment strategies in the 529 savings plans it manages - including an age-based portfolio of funds that automatically becomes more conservative as the beneficiary nears college age.

    Hopefully, armed with all that info, you'll be sleeping better at night.

    Ref: Family - in Blogs
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    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - As the coronavirus pandemic rapidly turned the "new normal" household into hubs for all daily activities, Summer 2020 now means moving parents' offices, kid's camps, vacation destinations, and virtually everything under one roof.

    Although this dynamic could forge family bonds, it can also ignite the already heated stresses and struggles facing many Americans during this difficult time - making optimal home climate control a critical key to keeping their cool as temperatures heat up this season.

    Recent studies show how our increased togetherness can significantly disrupt domestic bliss. In fact, research suggests that people forced to live in quarantine conditions face a greater risk of anxiety, depression, anger, irritability, insomnia and post-traumatic stress symptoms.

    And, despite feeling close to their children during the pandemic, 61percent of parents say they have shouted, yelled, or screamed at them at least once over the past two weeks, according to a University of Michigan study. Further, married and engaged couples in quarantine are fighting more, with only 18 percent of surveyed couples reporting satisfaction in communication with their partner, according to a survey conducted by the publication, "The Knot and app Lasting."

    When temperatures - and tempers - rise, a dreaded "Family Thermostat War" can ensue. Following are some useful tips to help you save money on utility bills and keep your family cool.

    With home heating and cooling accounting for nearly half of home energy use and air conditioner energy expenses costing homeowners more than $11 billion a year, small steps can go a long way.

    * Ease Into Electric: According to Columbia University's Earth Institute, electric systems are a solution to decarbonize home climate control. Among the most energy-efficient heating and cooling products, electricity-powered ductless mini-split systems, offered by companies including Fujitsu General America, can save as much as 25 percent on your energy bill. Mini-splits use thin copper tubing to pump refrigerant from an outdoor compressor directly into an indoor air-handling unit, where the air is quietly distributed to the interior space.

    * Get "Smart" About Climate Control: When it comes to smart home temperature control, there are Smart HVAC Systems and Smart Thermostats. Smart HVAC systems have built-in Internet capability and can be controlled directly without additional equipment. Smart Home Thermostats create "smart" systems by enabling remote temperature control via a mobile or Internet-connected device or voice-operated home automation system.

    * Voice Your Preference: Take control of your comfort. Most HVAC manufacturers offer apps that enable systems to be controlled from anywhere using a mobile device. Voice-control capability uses digital assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home, to verbally dictate home temperatures. Easily controlling the temperature more closely allows homeowners to be more comfortable and improve energy savings.

    * Find Your Efficient Comfort Zone: Many of us live in homes designed for bigger families, but have yet to downsize. If you find yourself using a fraction of your home on a regular basis, consider upgrading to a zoned, ducted, or ductless system. That will allow you to save energy heating and cooling spaces where you and your family don't spend a lot of time. This will multiply savings as you're not only needing less cooling, but you also gain from a more efficient system in the spaces you do still use.

    * Try Low-tech Fixes: Simple changes can have a big impact. Try to use heat-producing appliances - stoves, irons and dryers at night or early morning. Switch to LED light bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs - which consume 90 percent more power. Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and places where pipes and wires come through walls. And check existing caulking and weather-stripping for gaps or cracks.

    Achieving a sense of peaceful co-existence in your increasingly crowded, multi-functional home does not need to make your family members hot under the collar. If a new system is right for you, many Fujitsu systems with the Energy Star rating are more than twice as efficient as the minimum standard set by the government. To learn more or find a contractor near you, call 888-888-3424 or visit www.constantcomfort.com.

    Ref: Furnitures - in Blogs
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    Velvet And Vine velvetandvinesoul
    You ever notice how everyone's got a morning routine? "I'm a morning person," they say. "I'm a night owl," they claim. But let's be real, most of us are just trying to survive until our first cup of coffee.

    I was talking to my friend George the other day, and he told me his morning routine involves hitting the snooze button 12 times. I'm pretty sure that's not what the wellness experts had in mind.

    So, what's your morning routine? Are you a zen master or a caffeine junkie? Do you meditate, journal, or hit the gym? Or do you just roll out of bed and stumble into the kitchen?

    Let's get real about our morning habits. What's working for you? What's not? Share your morning struggles and triumphs with us! 🤣☕️ #MorningRoutine #Lifestyle #ComedyOfErrors
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    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Independent films are the heart and soul of the movie industry. These original works of art have the potential to push the boundaries of film; engage new, underserved audiences and, just maybe, develop into blockbuster hits seen by millions of viewers worldwide.

    This journey of growth, however, is no easy task. For an independent filmmaker, distribution can be the difference between a flop and a million-dollar success.

    How can filmmakers trump this trend? The Movie Studio (TMS) evolved with an answer to this ever-important industry problem.

    The TMS model is two-fold. The company both creates its own movies and simultaneously distributes other independent films. The combination provides TMS with a full library of diverse work that appeals to a broad network of buyers worldwide.

    Currently, TMS is focused on English-speaking films. Plans are in the works, however, to enter the foreign films language market in the near future.

    Gordon Scott Ventures, CEO, stated, "We are very excited to assist many independent producers, with their collective team in their quest for having their efforts rewarded by reaching audiences around the globe."

    TMS' growth comes through enrolling indie producers from the top film schools and film festivals. If recruited, producers have the opportunity to share their work with audiences in more than 60 countries. These moviemakers can also become a member of TMS' growing family of followers, shareholders and supporters, ultimately working together for a mutual profit.

    In addition, TMS continues to prove its value through its finesse and speed, period. The organization prides itself on giving viewers the power to decide for themselves if a film is successful.

    As a pledge to its commitment to the industry, the TMS team has solidified a powerful, well-coordinated media platform through NewsUSA and FilmFestival.com. This platform will boast a strong social media program intended to reach new independent producers and savvy film watchers alike.

    With the indie industry begging for more options to grow, TMS could be in the right position at the right time to swiftly become a leader in the entertainment industry at large.

    To learn more, please visit www.TheMovieStudio.com.

    Ref: Entertainment - in Blogs
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    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Nurses remain an essential and trusted part of the health care system, and the nation faces an urgent need for nurses due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

    The World Health Organization is also celebrating the value of nursing by designating 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. In addition, 2020 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the 19th- century social reformer known as the founder of modern nursing.

    The demand for nurses, and therefore for nurse educators, is likely to remain high, according to the National League for Nursing (NLN), as nurse educators are on the front lines teaching new nurses who are filling the shortages in hospitals and other health care settings.

    Nurse educators will likely continue to be well paid. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate the median salary for nurse educators at $73,490. They may work in academic settings, but some expand their focus to teaching in schools, businesses, hospitals, and community agencies.

    The NLN shares some key advantages to becoming a nurse educator:

    - Intellectual stimulation. Nurse educators know the latest research in the field, and have the ability to share it with others.

    - Flexibility. Nurse education allows for more autonomy and a flexible schedule. Not to mention that technology allows educators to teach from anywhere in the world, at any time, from the beach to the ski slopes.

    - Research. Nurse educators have opportunities for research and publication in scholarly journals to advance the field of nursing and their own careers.

    - Meaning. The desire for a purpose-driven life steers many people to the nurse education field, where they can make a significant difference in a variety of ways.

    - Fulfillment. Nurse educators rejoice in encouraging young students, and take pride in their accomplishments.

    - Impact. Nurse educators, by shaping and developing the next generation of nurses and by working in their communities, will continue to impact the shape of healthcare for future generations.

    - Inspiration. Everyone remembers the teacher or teachers who made a difference for them by giving them that extra encouragement, or helping them explore paths they might not have seen.

    But quite possibly the number- one reason to become a nurse educator, according to the NLN, is the unique chance to "teach what you love."

    Many career tracks exist for potential nurse educators. Teaching requires at least a master's degree in either education or nursing, but these degrees may be earned through a traditional college setting or through the variety of fully accredited programs now available online.

    For more information about careers in nursing education, visit NLN.org.

    Ref: Health - in Blogs
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    Samuel Chi-divine ic_sammie
    *I Will Keep Pushing Until I Push Through*

    I'll keep pushing, until I push through. Though the storms are fierce and roughly threatening, I will keep pushing. Though I might be uncertain in the journey and don't know how far I've gone and how much distance is left for me, I'll keep pushing. Though there's no one there to lean on and no support to beckon, I'll keep pushing. Though my strength is becoming weaker, and I cannot find the courage to continue, yet I'll keep pushing. Though the walls seem to be cracking and are about to collapse on me, with so much unseen danger, I'll keep pushing. Though I feel deserted, and find no one to believe in my dreams or help build with me, I'll keep pushing. Though the challenges may overwhelm me, and a whisper to quit surges its way to my heart, I'll keep pushing.


    Though the darkness tries to consume me, and the light seems too far away, I'll keep pushing. Though every step feels like a struggle, and every breath is a battle, I'll keep pushing. Though the weight of my doubts and fears threatens to crush me, I'll keep pushing. Though the path ahead is shrouded in uncertainty, and the future seems unclear, I'll keep pushing. Though I'm tired, worn out, and exhausted, I'll keep pushing. Though the voices of negativity echo in my mind, telling me I'm not good enough, I'll keep pushing.

    For every step forward, I'll take two more. For every obstacle, I'll find a way around it. For every setback, I'll learn and grow stronger. I'll keep pushing, not because I'm fearless, but because I'm brave. Not because I'm perfect, but because I'm persistent. Not because I have all the answers, but because I'm willing to learn.

    I'll keep pushing, until I reach the other side. Until I emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Until I've achieved my dreams, and fulfilled my purpose. I'll keep pushing, until I've pushed through.

    So, I'll take a deep breath, square my shoulders, and keep moving forward. I'll face my fears, and overcome my doubts. I'll push through the pain, and rise above the struggles. I'll keep pushing, until I've reached the pinnacle of success. And when I finally emerge victorious, I'll look back on the journey, and smile. I'll smile at the struggles, and the setbacks. I'll smile at the doubts, and the fears. For I will have pushed through, and come out stronger on the other side.

    I keep pushing, for necessity is laid on me to push until I push through for the millions of lives that are connected to my breakthrough.



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    Rebecca Ebert Rebecca_Ebert


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    Millie Zemlak Millie_Zemlak
    (NewsUSA) - Well, actually, it's both … the charm of hummingbirds is most certainly apropos and "a charm" of hummingbirds is actually factual! Yep, that's right, the collective noun for these unique creatures - just like a gaggle of geese or a flock of birds, is a charm of hummingbirds. Since the definition of the noun 'charm' is "the power of giving delight or arousing admiration," one doesn't need to be a wordsmith to see how right that is.

    Hummingbirds are charming.

    And there are over 330 varieties of the species, Trochilidae, which is their biological family name and they're found in the Western Hemisphere. When one sees a hummingbird, it's a stunning, stop-in-your-tracks sight. Their brilliant throat color is actually a result of the iridescence in the arrangement of their feathers, not color pigment. Light level, moisture, angle of viewing and other factors all influence just how bright and colorful their throats may appear. Perhaps you've heard them, too - the name hummingbird comes from the buzzing sound of their fast-flapping wings.

    Hummers are migrant birds, so although many stay close to the Equator, lots of varieties travel this time of year, so there may be a 'charm' coming to your backyard soon. If you have the desire to see one up close or are curious about how to attract them to your yard, the folks at Cole's Wild Bird Feed Co have got you covered. First, they figured out the engineering of an elegant, deceptively simple, easy-to-use (and easy-to-clean!) feeder. The patented Hummer High Rise has a clever design that offers a stress-free position for your charming guests to get their fill, a fantastic 360-degree vista, all the while keeping other unwanted creatures at bay.

    For example there's an ant moat that stops the armies of industrious workers who'd love to get some sweet nectar, from beating a path to the liquid food. The genius is, it's an actual moat, with nothing but H2O keeping the ants at bay, so while it does its job, it doesn't do harm. Nice!

    A charm magnet.

    The second definition for the noun 'charm' is a small ornament worn on a necklace or bracelet. Hummingbirds weigh on average the same as a nickel, so while you'll want to wear a replica from the jewelers, Hummers can be your own garden's jewelry all season long.

    And in return for their arousing your admiration, they'll feed on those annoying garden insects and pests. For their small size, hummers eat a lot. They are voracious eaters, feeding on mosquitos, gnats, spiders, aphids and other six-legged creepy crawlers. But, besides pests for protein, their primary 'food group' is nectar, which they get in by flitting from flower to flower and using their long beaks and equally long tongues to get their fill. All that flitting is exhausting!

    Since hummingbirds drink up to half their body weight a day of nectar you can help them out by keeping your High Rise fully stocked, for a one-stop fill of their favorite nectar treat.

    Let's not leave out the definition of the verb, "charm," which is to "delight greatly." If you want these Disney-esque caricatures to delight you on a regular basis with their wonder - and bring their distinctive song to your yard - there is something you can buy: the creme-de la creme of what these charmers crave: Nature's Garden from Cole's.

    By identifying and harnessing the nutrients of the hummer's favorite wildflowers, and tapping their vast store of wild bird knowhow, Cole's has created the next-best-thing to actual flower nectar - a proprietary formula that's far and away a cut above your 'garden-variety' sugar water. Nature's Garden is a healthy, all-natural alternative to homemade syrup, no mixing and no boiling required. It comes in an eco-friendly soft pouch; just shake and pour. You'll be delighted with how easy it is to keep your hummer feeder filled and overjoyed at seeing hummers frequent your yard. Your neighborhood hummingbirds will love it, so they'll keep coming back.

    A brief postscript: a natural predator to the hummingbird is the praying mantis. Despite their equally small size and saintly appearance, they feed on our fascinating feathered friends and are a real threat (and a protected species), so if you find a mantis hanging around your High Rise, take care to evict it gently, to a lower piece of real estate and keep hummers safe.

    Ref: Camping - in Blogs
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