What is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy refers to the form of energy derived or extracted from the earth’s natural resources. Unlike traditional energy, it’s not exhaustible or finite. For example, wind, sunlight, and water are natural alternatives that don’t rely on fossil fuels. Also, renewable energy is considered the interconnecting link to the green future we strive for since it’s significantly less detrimental to our already struggling environment.

6 Links to A Green Future

There are six renewable energy resources, including wind, solar, ocean, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass. While a few of these resources are re-shaping the energy sector gradually, others are making a comparatively extinguishing and quick stand. Not to mention, although some of these resources’ significance isn’t yet widely realized or understood, they’re still making progress and surfacing despite the current limitations.

To put things into further context, let’s understand the benefits and limitations of these six types of renewable energy resources in brief detail:

1. Wind

Turbines and wind-powered machinery situated on open green fields capture the energy retrieved from wind flow and convert it into electricity. Nowadays, we can see several energy sector businesses planting single-wind turbines and other commercial systems using this particular type of renewable energy to boost a positive attitude among competitors.
The wind is a clean energy source that does not release carbon dioxide or other harmful toxins that pollute the air in any way. Moreover, making investments in wind-powered technology opens up new career opportunities, jobs, and avenues since the equipment installed on wind farms must be maintained and serviced with proficiency to keep them running.

Current Limitations
Considering that most wind farms are planted in remote areas, they aren’t much help for the bustling cities where electricity is needed the most. The reason behind this is that while wind turbines produce close to no pollution, they generate noise and dominate skylines, which is unsuitable for the local wildlife like birds in the area.

2. Solar

Solar energy captured from the sunlight turns into heat, electricity, and even hot water. The Photovoltaic (PV) systems we usually see on rooftops or wide-open fields convert direct sunlight into electricity through solar cells. The best long-term benefit of this renewable energy is that it is an endless supply of a natural resource that could eventually make our reliance upon fossil fuels obsolete.

Current Limitations
While installing solar panels is not that much of a limitation for industrial sectors, personal households can’t usually find spaces with ample sunlight to use this energy appropriately. The upfront maintenance costs can also be an unrealistic expense for them.

3. Ocean

The ocean is a source of renewable energy that offers us thermal and mechanical power. While thermal energy production depends upon the ocean’s warm water going through different systems, mechanical energy relies on the tide’s ebbs and flow generated by the earth’s rotation. Ocean energy, also referred to as wave energy, is an abundant natural resource for cities near oceans and harbors. Moreover, it’s an untapped natural resource that can potentially produce power for around 93,850 homes in the U.S. alone with just 1 TWh/yr of wave energy!

Current Limitations
Individuals living in landlocked areas can’t reap benefits from this particular energy resource. Moreover, the plantation of ocean energy machinery can disrupt the ocean floor and sea life habitat to some extent.

4. Hydroelectric

Hydroelectric power is associated with the energy produced from dam turbines to turn into electricity, also referred to as pumped-storage hydropower. We can see this as an excellent alternative to ocean energy for the landlocked areas that store water in large reservoirs for public consumption. In general, hydroelectric is one of the best types of renewable energy due to its versatility since we can incorporate it at both large and small-scale projects on dams, rivers, and streams.

Current Limitations
The animals living in the waterways where the hydroelectric equipment is placed may suffer due to changing water levels and currents. This type of energy source is also impacted by droughts. Changes in water levels impact energy production. Plus, most hydropower facilities haven’t yet found a way to develop more energy than they use for production.

5. Geothermal

Geothermal energy is the heat trapped under the earth’s crust which often escapes naturally, resulting in disruptive volcanic occurrences. We can produce renewable energy from the heat rising to the earth’s surfaces, saving our earth from natural disasters in the process. While this natural energy is not as common as other renewable energy resources, it still packs plenty of potential for extensive energy supply. Since this system can be built underground, there’s significantly less footprint on the land.

Current Limitations
While cost and infrastructure planning is the major limitation of producing this renewable energy with geothermal plants costing between 2.5 to 5 million to build. Construction of these plants can also cause instability in the land and trigger earthquakes.

6. Biomass

Lastly, we can produce a significant amount of bioenergy from biomass, which is an organic matter extracted from previously living plants and organisms. A few examples of this inaugural renewable energy include harnessing methane gas and burning biomass produced by the natural decomposition of organic materials found in landfills and waterways. Simply put, bioenergy production creates a balanced atmosphere that we can benefit from if our ultimate goal is to see a greener tomorrow.

Current Limitations
We currently don’t have the technology required for replacing fossil fuel consumption with bioenergy production. It can also lead to deforestation because of the vast amounts of wood that is needed to produce enough renewable energy.

As consumers, we have several opportunities to improve our environment by opting for greener energy solutions. We can elevate our standard of living with safer, eco-friendly products that don’t rely upon resources that harm our ecosystem. The day we all begin to strive for the same purpose together as a community, leaving a carbon footprint would become a thing of the past!

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Test your soil to determine the ph level. Lawns along with plants need adequate nutrients in the soil in order to grow. Testing your soil can let you know of any issues you may have and allow you time to apply the needed nutrients to promote healthy growth come spring. If you need to raise your soil pH, lime should be applied. Lime requires a few months to completely absorb into the soil and applying in warmer climates can cause damage to plants. A fall soil test should show a mid-range result in key nutrients, letting you know you supplied an adequate amount of fertilizer and nutrients throughout the growing season, too low of reading means you ran out of nutrients before the end of the season, and too high means too much fertilizer was used. Fall readings are perfect for gauging the success of your previous growing season.

While you want to test your soil, fall is also the time to fertilize your lawn before heading into the winter months. As fall approaches, plants and grasses begin to “prepare” for winter. The change in temperature and the shorter days trigger the plants to start slowing growth and shift their food storage to their roots. Fertilizer that is applied in the fall is giving the grass the nutrients it needs to store for the winter and use it as fuel for the spring. When spring arrives, the grass greens up quickly and grows thick and lush blocking out weeds.

Fertilizing your lawn provides the nutrients needed for the winter months, however, you do not want to be providing nutrients for the plants/grasses you don’t want. Remove weeds prior to winter. These pesky plants will compete for the nutrients throughout the winter months and take away what is needed for your grass to be healthy come springtime. Also, you will want to remove your annual plants. These plants have to be replaced every year and leaving the dead plants discourages spring growth and can also be home to many lawn and garden killing insects.

Once you have removed all the unwanted weeds, you will want to make sure to cut the grass. As fall approaches, the grass starts to slow down growth so mowing will not be necessary as often. Climate plays a role in how often you should cut your grass through the winter months. For warmer climates, cut your grass as you normally would just about half as many times. So if you are used to cutting it every week, switch to a bi-weekly schedule. Be sure not to cut the grass too short, cutting it short can damage your lawn and impact spring growth. In colder climates, shorter grass is the key. Grass in cooler areas has to regrow in spring and cutting it short during the winter months helps keep it from being matted down and inhibits new growth. If you are concerned about length and how many times to cut your grass as you prepare for winter, your local landscape firms can provide winterizing services to ensure a healthy lawn in spring.

Fall months are a great time to over-seed your yard. This is basically applying grass seeds over the existing turf. You will want to make sure you do this before the temperatures get too cold. The ideal temperatures for seed growth are between 60 and 70 degrees. Just like with mowing your grass, what seeds to use on your lawn and when to apply will vary depending on where you live. In colder areas, overseeding is used to help prevent weeds so waiting until late autumn is not optimal. Seeds need time to establish roots in order to prevent weeds from filling in those thinner areas of your lawn. Northern areas should over-seed in early fall. In warmer areas, overseeding with cooler season grasses helps keep your lawn looking green all year long. By overseeding with cooler season grasses, when your warm-season grasses are dying out or going dormant the other varieties are ready to take over.

Not to be overlooked during this process are your trees and shrubs. Make sure you are pruning and cutting back trees and shrubs. Fall is the perfect time to do this. Once spring arrives, your yard will be starved for sunlight. Removing those overgrown limbs will allow complete exposure to the warm spring sun your lawn has been missing.

All of these steps outlined above are important to the upkeep and maintenance of your lawn and getting it ready for the winter months. However, one of the most important things you can do to ensure your lawn is lawn of the month come spring is to make sure you rake the leaves and keep them raked throughout the season. Nothing is harder on a lawn than a thick carpet of wet leaves. If these are not removed it can leave you with a dirt patch to deal with come spring. Raked leaves also serve as a great compost, so be sure to rake them up and save them for later. If you are lucky enough to have a small amount of leaves accumulated, consider mowing them instead of raking, this will provide a thin compost layer over your grass providing nutrients for the winter months.

Caring for and preparing your lawn and garden for the winter is not a step you want to forget. While most people are more concerned with the upkeep during the warm growing season, it is also important to make sure your lawn is prepared for the winter months. Following these simple tasks outlined will help to ensure that your lawn is ready to thrive come spring.

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Factory Closures and Struggling Small Car Companies

As mentioned earlier, automakers were in a tight spot even before the coronavirus. Many automotive factories already had more capacity than they needed in pre-COVID times. The virus has widened this capacity even further. The silent and stock-still manufacturing spaces with minimal sales have been just a recipe for tremendous outlays faced by automakers.
Even though things are not as bleak as they were in May/June, experts believe that the nasty COVID hit will push many carmakers to shut down their underutilized auto manufacturing factories. Companies that make small cars will have to make this decision more soon because their units boast small profit margins. Companies like Renault, Fiat, SEAT (Volkswagen’s subsidiary) may have to make difficult decisions in this regard. However, there is also a silver lining for small car manufactures amid the dark clouds of financial uncertainty. Pandemic has turned social distancing into a common element of our lifestyle. Many people have well adapted to this need of the time. Since we still don’t know when the vaccine will be ready, these COVID safety protocols will remain here for some time. It is also believed that many will keep those protocols intact even after the pandemic ends. This in-the-making situation will certainly promote individual commute, which could be a game changer for small cars.

More Acquisitions and Mergers Are On the Cards

Automotive stocks have been underperforming for the last couple of years. The pandemic has pushed them to the rock bottom. The valuations across the board have been dipping, making the industry tempting for all those investors who don’t mind investing in low-valuation ventures with high-risk and nominal profits. Let’s take the example of Renault. It has experienced a more than 70% reduction in its share price in the last two years. Today, it is valued at around $6 billion, which is even lesser than the individual worth of many billionaires. Chinese investors are supposed to be more interested in buying those struggling European and American carmakers. However, the acquisitions won’t be easy due to political and diplomatic strife between countries. For instance, France has passed legislation that will make it harder to process foreign acquisitions. Germany is also expected to pass similar legislation. The trade tension between the USA and China might also fend off investors from getting into foreign car company buyouts. Nonetheless, the pandemic-driven economic turmoil may push countries not to resist foreign investment and acquisitions for job preservation and growth.
Besides buyouts and acquisitions, the abysmal balance sheet can also push struggling carmakers to do mergers. Like Volkswagen and Ford, we can see more partnerships coming along in the next few years. Car manufacturers will try to consolidate their unique strengths under one banner to turn around their financial woes.

The Future with Electric Cars

Car dealerships witnessed an interesting phenomenon at the beginning of the lockdowns. During March, when the entire European gasoline and diesel-powered car market was struggling due to plummeting sales (almost in half), the registration of electric cars spiked by over 20%. The complete lockdowns eventually hit the electric car sales too. They fell by 31% in April against the whopping 80% drop in traditional car sales. We still don’t know what instigates the hike in battery-powered cars sales and why their market didn’t get as severely affected as gas cars. However, it has become evident that the electric future is not far away. We are already closing in on 2021, and many countries have pledged to cut down their greenhouse emissions in the next few years. Therefore, governments will surely facilitate carmakers in producing more battery-powered cars. The mass production of electric vehicles perhaps also slashes their existing expensive price points. Besides environmental regulations and goals to meet, another interesting element can rev up electric car sales, i.e., changing consumer preference. This lockdown has made many people realize how tailpipe emissions contribute to environmental pollution. Social media was filled with pictures showing how lockdown has helped improve the visibility index and air quality in bustling downtowns worldwide. This real-life demonstration of a world without carbon emissions may convince more people to invest in electric cars. The rising popularity of electric cars may also encourage more auto startups to enter the market and challenge the well-established big gasoline players in the industry. The above discussion suggests that the automotive industry will continue its bumpy ride for the next few years. However, the electric turnaround changing the gasoline-driven status quo is one thing to look forward to. It may give rebirth to the automotive industry and make battery-powered vehicles a standard means of road transportation.

The post An Outlook of the Automotive Industry in the COVID and Post-COVID Era appeared first on Koshka.

Understand What It Entails

Commercial construction is the development process for buildings constructed for the public and private sectors. These properties can be used for different purposes from retail spaces to highrises for selling or leasing. Moreover, the companies that undertake such projects are referred to as ‘contractors’ or ‘general contractors.’

Some examples of commercial construction projects include:

• Factories and warehouses
• Institutional buildings
• Shopping malls
• Medical facilities
• Restaurants
• Retail stores
• Sports facilities
• Corporate high-rise

Initial Planning

Pre-construction planning is the first step towards the successful completion of any small-scale or large-scale commercial development projects. If this construction phase is skipped over in favor of initializing the building and designing process without proper planning, you’ll likely get stuck afterward because of a lack of solid foundation and laid-out plans. The initial planning stage for commercial construction constitutes basic jobs, like choosing the perfect site after doing detailed research. While some industry professionals know precisely what they require from their commercial project, it’s always wise to hire a company specializing in design-build services to streamline this process more efficiently.

The Design Phase

Coming up with the perfect schematic, an illustrative design or plan for a commercial development project is essential for three major reasons:

1. It lays out the architecture for your project, keeping the contractors well-informed and updated regarding how the construction process will be executed.
2. It allows you to iron out the project details with the client concerning the project’s scale, location, and structure before a full rendering is performed.
3. Implementing this step makes it easier for you to make a cost estimate and timeline based on the project’s scale and design complexity.

The design phase also includes the following crucial steps:

1. Construction Bidding – Each commercial construction project must pose a construction bid to determine its total cost based on the contract documents and schematic designs.
2. Programming – The architect usually handles the programming phase, and it helps you establish an idea of your project’s space, functional needs, and building flexibility.
3. Feasibility – The site requirements are also comprehended during the design phase. These include building orientation, site access, and utility connections.

Pre-Construction Stage

During the pre-construction phase, it is ensured that all the building permits have been officially acquired and the insurance requirements are being acknowledged. After that, the contractors are permitted to proceed with the list of materials sent out to commercial subcontractors and vendors for quotes. Moreover, a design-build services is conducted to establish whether any environmental hazards might complicate or delay the construction process. The soil is also tested to make certain the chosen site is suited for commercial construction purposes. Lastly, different roles and tasks are designated to separate team members during the pre-construction step. Such as:

• Project Manager – They act as a point person for the rest of the construction team so that the project can be executed without any mismanagement.
• Superintendent – They are responsible for on-site construction activities and maintaining schedules.
• Contract Administrator – They assist the project manager and the superintendent with the contract details.
• Field Engineer – They investigate the construction site to determine whether any steps need to be taken before initializing the construction process.

Procurement

All the materials and essentials needed for the construction project are purchased during the procurement phase. An agreement is signed between the owner and seller, called the ‘purchase order.’ This contract establishes that the products purchased for the commercial construction meet the required specifications, both quality-wise and price-wise. Hiring professional contractors for this purpose can benefit you even further, as they specialize in managing the procurement phase proficiently.

The Construction Phase

The construction process for commercial development begins with a meeting organized by the superintendent. This meeting’s aim is to finalize decisions regarding specifics of getting the construction phase coordinated with all parties involved including on site logistics as well from storage units, site access, work hours, and quality control. Once a plan is developed, the construction process is initiated with the established ground rules in place. The construction phase continues until the construction requirements are met and finalized according to the plans and agreed upon scope of work and approval is obtained from all parties involved including property owner and project manager.

Post-Construction

Lastly, a few steps need to be taken before anyone can officially move into the building, even after completing the construction process. This stage is referred to as ‘post-construction.’ This development phase includes finalizing the project punch list, replacing the broken light fixtures, painting or repainting walls, installing equipment and furnishings, and making sure the electricity and water lines are working adequately. Once all these requirements are met, and it is made sure that the architecture is 100% secure for commercial use, the architect issues the certificate of completion. This step is followed by a thorough inspection from the building officials, declaring the end of the project. These are the primary steps carried out by commercial construction companies for successful project completion. Following these steps help projects go from pre to post construction with as minimal issues as possible.

The post The 7-Step Guide to Commercial Construction appeared first on Koshka.

Often during the initial years of a firm, its bills are generally paid by credit sometimes to the extent of a card’s limits. When the company needs a loan to grow, traditional lenders will look at the business’ assets vs debt load and the major shareholders’ credit scores to consider its creditworthiness. At this point, too much debt, and scant profit to offset it, coupled with a FICO that is lower than 700 are major red flags. For many small businesses, the very strategy they used to get them ahead, seems to be coming back to haunt them in the form of financing rejections. Fiscal responsibility begins with a higher FICO. The following is a sound strategy for getting your numbers up and your business moving towards fulfilling its business objectives:

Increase Your Credit Limit

The Debt-to-Limit ratio is one metric that lenders consider during the loan approval process. It is also used to determine your credit score. This is news to many business owners who use their personal credit cards for business expenses. Asking your credit card company for a limit extension may not bear fruit at first. However, watch your inbox for follow-up emails that offer the very relief you were seeking. Funny how things sometimes ‘work’ that way.

Timing Is Everything

To raise your credit score, it is a given that your business’ and personal credit card bills must be paid on time. Just not at the time you think…sign up to monitor your credit report through the top credit reporting agencies such as Experian. Next, learn when your bank reports your balance to that credit agency. In other words, your card’s monthly bill may be due on the 20th of the month, and you try to pay it in full. But your bank reports to the credit agency on the 15th. So to show a negative balance you’d have to pay your card in full several days before the 15th of the month. It’s that pesky Debt-to-Limit ratio rearing its head again. Credit bureaus reward cardholders with less than 10% credit debt. This is the fast way to a higher FICO and can add up to 30 points in a single month following this very simple procedure.

Is That Right?

Once you are familiar with monitoring your credit report, it is less scary and very informative. You may also uncover mistakes including out-dated information and remediated debt that still presented as an open loan. Take charge of your credit and be sure to fix any errors to further boost your score. All you have to do is contact the agency with documentation that the loan was satisfied, or that you are not THAT John Smith.

Does Your Business Need It?

It is something of a mantra to this writer, but usually, it is not what you earn, it is what you keep. Do not waste business profits through needless spending. Be scrupulous about the purchases you make from paper clips to office furniture. Always ask yourself, does the firm need this? Is there somewhere it can be found more cheaply such as the secondary market? As for big-ticket items such as office furnishings, if one’s firm works with the public, there are scores of options. Rather than digging deep for an impressive designer workspace, hire remote workers, and ‘rent’ office and/or conference space in a furnished facility to give that great first impression. Another trick is to have one room in your facility that is impressively decorated and teleconference with prospects. Separate your business wants from what your firm really needs to operate and you’ll pare down company expenses from the get-go.

Keep Satisfied Loans ON Your Credit Report

Once they’ve paid off their loan, most businesses rush to rout any old loans from their report. In fact, keeping fully-executed loans in place will increase your overall score as it demonstrates responsible credit handling.

Good to Know:

BTW: in most cases, checking your credit report will not affect your credit score. Consumers’ reviewing their own FICO are called a “soft pull” with little or no impact. When a bank or lender performs a credit inquiry, however, that’s a “hard-pull” which drops points off your score. When you apply for a loan is not the time that any potential borrower wants to see their FICO drop. So the workaround is to find out what your lender will need from your credit reporting agency and pull the paperwork yourself. Present this documentation at the time you apply for a business loan and you’re home free.

Follow these simple steps and not only will your credit score increase but with it, your chances and ability to access additional capital to attain your business goals.

The post Top 5 Tips to a Higher FICO appeared first on Koshka.

Back in the 1980s, the Public Broadcast Company offered a TV series that demonstrated how early inventions influenced future innovations which prompted even further technological development through the ages to the present day and beyond. “Connections” ‘, hosted by British scientist Dr. James Burke, explained in layman’s terms how great minds have influenced each other and thereby improved all our lives. Mindful of Burke’s hypothesis, here are the emerging technologies for the coming decade that will support existing initiatives to improve the ways business is conducted as well as how we continue to live.

INTERNET OF THINGS (IoT): The first time this author heard this expression was 15 years ago in an advice column from a financial publishing guru. The article heralded IoT as the investment possibility of the future and advised that one should get on board before the lemmings. But what is it? The Internet of Things can be loosely defined as the relationship and reliance upon computers and similar devices, such as digital machines, objects, animals or people featuring unique identifiers. These identifiers can be used to transfer data over a network without the need for human intervention. When we tell you that Smart devices are common examples, you’ll immediately understand where we have come from, although it may not be clear where IoT will be taking us next. Today IoT is influencing the future of people, places, things, and businesses, including, would you believe, -Marketing?

5G (6G/7G/8G): For most of us, 5G simply means a visit to their cell phones carrier’s website or brick and mortar for a Smart Phone upgrade. In reality, 5G networks facilitate moving, manipulating, and analyzing data via WiFi. For businesses, it will level the playing field to enable emerging markets to participate in the same arenas as more mature enterprises. For investors, it is easy to understand that the race goes to the swift. This means those who back developers who offer solutions to specific industries, as well as those companies, will also profit. The potential boost offered to the global economy by responsible and considered 5G development is said to be staggering.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)/ VIRTUAL REALITY (VR)/AUGMENTED REALITY (AR): While different by definition and scope, it is expected over the next decade that these three disciplines will interact and interrelate to create business solutions. Of these, AI is the best known and is already part of our daily lives via interactive websites and bots. This trend will continue. Currently, AI is frequently behind the technology that increases data security. Over time it is expected to enhance the speed with which decision-makers can facilitate change as well as to further enhance its original purpose (back in the 1980s) to train employees virtually. For many years Fortune 100 companies have invested in AI solutions as a means to increase staff efficiency and to increase output/productivity while decreasing operating costs. Going forward, AR and VR which offer a combination of mixed reality and sensory technology, are being incorporated as team players to produce optimal business outcomes.

ROBOTICS/DRONES: From the first time we saw images of automobiles advancing on an automated assembly line, to the windowless mega warehouses that dot many an interstate, even to the disc-shaped vacuums no Millennial household wants to be without, robotics have held our interest and sparked our imaginations. Development and integration with drone technology now enable automation without geographic restrictions. The possibilities are endless: future services alone could include postal and package deliveries from local depots or even around the globe.

BIOMETRICS/3D PRINTING: Several years ago, this author remembers inadvertently witnessing a 3D printer demonstration with the awe and wonder of a child. Its possibilities seemed endless. Currently, this technology offers a low-cost solution for manufacturers of complex parts including medical devices. From mobile devices to home security systems, Biometrics is quickly becoming the chief means to verify identity. Biometric face, fingerprint, and retina scans combined with 3D Printing will facilitate forensics, as well as offer more secure encryption options.

BLOCKCHAIN: Overhyped from the get-go, blockchain is still a mystery to most consumers and many investors. Simply put “block” = the digital information that is stored in the “chain” = public database. An example most of us can relate to is the marked change in delivery speed for our online purchases over the past few years. Blockchain technology says, “You’re welcome!” Blockchain also utilizes Bitcoin to facilitate and provide transactional security and is well-regarded in the banking and financial sector. Hype notwithstanding, blockchain’s future looks bright- and lucrative.

SERVERLESS COMPUTING: This advance enables firms to create a NoOps IT environment- one that is automated and abstracted from its basic infrastructure. The goal is to reduce operational expenses in favor of more significant core business value-adds. As with all new technology aimed to move data, encryption and security will prove to be as important as the technology itself.

Today’s technology is the realization of yesterday’s dreams. So while some of the innovations reported above may seem to owe more to Buck Rogers than reality, each does exist and all are in successive generation status. It will be interesting to observe how not only how each continues to evolve but also synergizes with future technologies as these emerge. We’ll all just have to stay tuned!

The post Top Tech Innovations Driving Change appeared first on Koshka.

Ye Olde Day Trip

Imagine an afternoon of hiking or a trail ride capped by going down on one knee and asking for their hand? Think about the possibilities near you. Add a star if you can manage to pause at an elevation with the sun going down behind you. Perfect, and perfectly within budget.

Okay, if the rugged outdoor life is not for you, arrange for a wine or beer tasting at a local winery/brewery. If you include the vendor in your plans, they may throw in some lovely and memorable perks, such as tapas, chocolates, and/or a bouquet gratis.

Breakfast in Bed

Face it, the weekend at a bed and breakfast can be pricey, privacy nil, and, well, there are checkout times, too. Instead, prepare a sumptuous feast ahead of time that can quickly be reheated such as french toast, waffles, and sausages, or something simple like a croissant and a fruit-filled butter, add a tray, a single bloom and hot coffee or tea. Spruce up your room by decluttering, maybe buy a couple spa robes, and if you are lucky enough to have a canopy bed, create an intimate place by stringing inexpensive drapes up on the bars using electrical ties.

Make Something Together

Whether it is a RTA credenza from that Swedish big box store, or a ceramics class, find something neither of you is good at, and learn about it together. Big hint: that credenza comes with easy to follow instructions and the finished product is something you’ll be proud to display. Your first thrown pot, well…kinda like your first potholder- a creation only your mother could love!

Couples That Cook Together

It is highly likely, especially if you are Millennials, that you already cook together at least a few times a month. Even so, bet you’ve never made heart-shaped food. What could be more fun, or more romantic, than to make a pepperoni, red onion, and steak-topped heart-shaped pizza as your main course, followed by a dessert fruit tart shaped like that vital organ? Downed with red wine, of course! If you’ve only time for breakfast, what about a heart-y (pun intended) leek quiche?

Treasure Hunt to Pleasure Hunt

Even the smallest apartment can become a place of adventure. Wrap your http://www.buchwaldjewelers.com/ (jewelry, an expensive pen, tickets to an event, etc.) festively in your partner’s favorite color, and hide it around your digs. Write a list of questions based on dates and travels you’ve had together and take turns quizzing each other. Every correct answer scores points ‘til they’ve earned enough to unwrap your gift. Be sure to consider hiding the gift under their pillow. Just saying. After all, where do you want the evening to end?
Write a Love Letter

Millennials’ vows, at least every wedding I’ve attended in the last couple of years, has required attendees to suffer through the couple’s lengthy (and often tedious) pledges of love. Since your intimacy is best shared with each other, take the time, and consider using a quality blank greeting card AND a fountain pen, and write your love, a letter. If is absolutely okay to draft it on lined paper or a word processing program first. This is no time for stream of consciousness nor typos. The goal is to share your innermost feelings. If you succeed, years from now your gift may be found in someone’s sock or lingerie drawer.
Message in the Mirror

For the price of a couple pads of hot pink Post-Its™, start his or her day off romantically by writing a sentiment on each of the sheets “You Complete Me” “Best Partner” “You are Amazing” etc. Just stick each sheet to the bathroom mirror. Think how special this will make them feel and anyone can do this!

Create a Future Adventure Box

Short on money, but not ideas? Buy a nice gift box at the craft store and some small cards. On each write a promise to do something with your partner. “Couples Massage“, “Dinner at Maxim’s”, “Day Trip to Mystic Seaport“, “Wine Tasting on LI’s East End“, etc. At various internals over the next year, the giftee will present a card and you’ll be off!

Valentines’ Day for Non-Romantics

There are those, and this author is one of them, who would prefer not to acknowledge what we call, “The Hallmark Holidays”. So instead of plying these people with champagne, roses, or a ring, instead, try being more attentive, and saying, “Well, I would like to acknowledge the day by doing something with you!” After all, there is no reason for a romantic paired with a Valentine’s Day Scrooge to suffer. So downplay the day, and upsell the person. February is a dreary time and there are not too many events to attend after the Holidays until Spring. So ask if they’d like to go to a concert and buy tickets for that event on V-Day. Maybe acquiesce and watch their choice of movie that night, order in something a grade up from Chinese take out or a pizza, etc. This way you’ll both have a good time, and still have money in the bank.

As with anything else, it does not have to eclipse the National debt to have a memorable Valentine’s Day. It just takes a little planning, usually the internet, and the element of surprise. Try one and be sure to save the post for reference for next year! To love!

The post Top Romantic Ideas to Celebrate Valentine’s Day appeared first on Koshka.

Long before crowdfunding, issuing investment shares in exchange for money took hold in Europe back in the 12th century. In fact, most voyages to the New World had been underwritten all or in part by investors hoping for a percentage of whatever spoils the explorers had on board upon their return- assuming that they indeed returned. Such pacts were arranged by the voyage. Over time this evolved into exploration enterprises that issued stock for dividends on all proceeds from every voyage undertaken. Factor in non-competition clauses and improved boat building and navigation and investors had little to lose and so much to gain. Eventually even governments became investors. The rise of the British Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries not only expanded British colonies way beyond the sceptred isles’ shores, but also made the monarchy very, very, wealthy.

The Rise of American Investing

After the Revolutionary War two stock exchanges opened in America- in Philadelphia and New York. The NYSE, headquartered at 11 Wall Street in Lower Manhattan, coupled with the nation’s growth through railroads, urban and westward expansion, national resources, and immigration soon became the most powerful financial institution in the world. The NYSE retained its power until 1971 when what is now called FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) created a different type of stock exchange, Nasdaq (National Association of Securities Dealers). To begin, Nasdaq does not have a physical address nor brokers. It is a computer network that executes trades completely electronically. Nasdaq’s benefits include faster and more efficient trading, a reduced bid-ask-spread, and its existence forced the complacent NYSE to up its game to retain its crown.

This background history is helpful, but how can those seeking to make money with minimal risk proceed? When it is time to invest, first determine what monetary amount you are comfortable with. Next do some online research and determine the best strategy for your needs. You can consult an investor, but most professionals prefer to work with experienced investors who are willing to invest sizeable amounts of money. There are many online brokerages who will work with newbies, but do your homework and, as with any business transaction, sign with a reputable agency. What to invest in? Most opt for tradable assets including stocks and bonds, each with a known, but fluctuating monetary value. Since each asset can gain or lose value, the goal for investors is to build a portfolio of diversified holdings comprised of these securities. Stocks can be defined as shares, or equity, held in a publicly-traded business. By comparison, bonds are a fixed-income loan made to a company or even to a government. Details regarding how stocks and bonds are issued/sold and how they ‘work’ is an online search every reader should make and be clear about before investing.

Don’t Jump in the Deep End

A basic overview before taking the plunge is to know the recent history of the stock and bond markets. Go back 25 years and understand that the stock market not only fluctuates, but historically, it can also lose 50% or more of its value. Due diligence must be applied to every transaction. One cannot simply invest and walk away, returning when any money earned is required for another purpose and cash out. Bonds, as stated above, are a loan with interest. While a safer investment as risk is not as great, the gains are not either.

If all this information has only instilled greater caution and hesitation, perhaps speaking with a certified financial advisor is a solid next step. Successful investing requires knowledge, timing, having short and long term goals, along with a thorough understanding of the process as well as the ‘what ifs’. The safest investments are those that are made with full knowledge of all the risks involved. Arm yourself with information, seek professional guidance if needed, and watch your money like a hawk. Forget any stories you may have read about getting rich quick by investing in the latest technology or throwing too much of your hard earned at a high risk stock, unless you can afford to lose all. Knowing when to ‘fold ‘em’ does not just pertain to poker! Pay attention, proceed with caution, diversify, and watch your financial future grow!

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Back in the day, when one landed a job, the applicant essentially had a job for life. Many of our commuter fathers worked for the same company for their entire career. At the onset they would have been given a trajectory, a roadmap to assist them to ascend the corporate ladder. As they rose in stature, the number of staffers they presided over would multiply as well. Essentially, the more braves one had, the bigger one’s stature as a corporate chieftain. This was true if one worked for a plumbing supply house, major hotel chain, a Fortune 100 financial institution, or a medical equipment multinational.

Whenever a new concept or business tool was introduced, employees would attend classes presided over by a trainer, associated with the Human Resources department. AI changed all that. At first Artificial Intelligence was utilized as a training tool. This author remembers being left alone in front of a huge desktop computer and instructed to watch the program. Figuring out how to turn the desktop on was a conundrum, and the tedious instructional video, comprised of black on white line drawings and text, boring as all hell. Soon, however, the role of the Office Automator, or HR Trainer was history, supplanted by cost-effective AI.

Soon, other office positions, usually entry level or administrative, began to disappear. The team who serviced the copiers and the mailroom gave rise to more sophisticated IT personnel who maintained those cumbersome desktops which sprouted during the 1980s into every cubicle. Over time, more business processes were automated, some by AI, and soon, greater productivity was created by fewer personnel. The status of chieftain was no longer determined by the number of scalps, either. That concept spawned the myth of displaced workers and that AI was a job eater.

Enabling Employees = Greater Job Satisfaction

Actually, AI bridges the gap between management’s need to turn a profit and staffers’ needs to stay engaged and employed. If anything, AI predicts what is needed and fulfills it. Think about it. Years ago, when you wanted to update your W-2, you had to make an appointment to see someone in Human Resources. Today, you need only access your company’s intranet, fill out the online form, hit submit and your status is updated automatically. As for training, one does not need to leave one’s desk. Just click on a link and watch a vastly evolved educational presentation that is engaging, entertaining and highly informative. All thanks to AI.

Across the corporate universe the concept of providing the best possible customer service has taken hold. And it will not be going away anytime soon. For savvy business owners, providing that same concept to their employees, usually through AI-driven technology, provides greater job satisfaction, higher productivity, and an increased ROI. All because the human experience has been enhanced. The strongest argument for AI is not in looking at what it takes away, but what it gives. By marrying digital and human functions the hybrid result is a win-win for all parties. Additionally it furthers the advancement of technologies to propel the human experience forward.

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We are all utterly dependent on the internet. If you do not think so, try to remember the last time you were impacted by a natural disaster. Hereabouts, that was Hurricane Sandy back in Fall 2012. This writer’s domicile was without power for two weeks. Imagine two weeks without internet access for banking and paying bills, finding information fast, communication, remote working, gaming, NetFlix, and so much more! Our lives are on the internet (and Cloud). Other than a power outage what is the internet’s Kryptonite? Hackers. So this long-winded preamble sets the stage for Apple Card, touted as the most secure credit card in history. And, since its launch, the biggest target for hackers on the internet ever. Here are its pros and cons:

Before we delve into the specifics of Apple’s revolutionary (well sorta) transaction process it is important to note that the card itself is a work of art. Conventional size, but not conventional in appearance, Apple card bears the incised brand logo, the cardholder’s name, and the smart chip. It is spare, simple, and secure, much as Apple’s process.

The primary reason for Apple’s bravado regarding the security of its credit card is this: Apple owns the entire transaction process so in their minds, there are no weak links to invite fraud. With Apple Card, commonplace credit card encryption is passe. Biometrics, now common with their other products, confirm that the Apple cardholder is indeed making a purchase. Your fingerprint, face, or wrist + passcode are required in order to perform a transaction. This of course means that Apple Card owners must also have one or several other Apple products. At this point in our story, Apple’s modus should be transparent.
Vendor Does Not Read Apple Card

But back to performing that transaction. For additional security, when your Apple Card is held over a retailer’s card reader, a one-use token is passed to it instead of the device reading your card’s entire 16-digit number. In other words, your credit card number is never captured by the vendor who could be far more vulnerable to hackers than your individual account.

In the event a conventional credit card is lost or stolen, one has to call the bank or issuer, recite the card’s 16-digit proprietary number as well as the CVV number on the back of the card. And wait. Then listen to a recital of all recent transactions and exclude valid purchases from those one did not make. Or, one is completely unaware that their account has been accessed and learns from an automated voicemail that questions recent transactions from across the globe.
Another inconvenience for conventional cardholders is when they are unaware that their account has been breached until they attempt to make a purchase and find their card has been blocked. If shopping online, no problem, when shopping in a retail store, embarrassing!

With Apple Card (and frankly with many other card issuers) every transaction triggers an email so that you’ll notice if you receive word that you just bought dinner in Tokyo yet you reside in Duluth. The disparity in location will prompt an ‘Unusual Activity Detected’ alert notification along with useful information including the amount of the purchase, the date, exact location in text and on a map. Cardholders are prompted to tap either ‘Transaction is OK’ or another option to report a potential problem or dismiss the action. What happens next is where Apple distinguishes itself: if there is an issue, from that point Apple takes complete charge on to resolve or remediate. To recap, two taps is all it takes for an account holder to verify a purchase or to instigate an investigation by Apple.

Additional pluses include ease of access by the account holder. Instead of going to your card issuer’s website, then using logins to access your account to view your dashboard, Apple’s status summary is easily accessible from your iPhone using biometrics. Superb design is an Apple hallmark. Accordingly, the graphics and layout are meant to be read from any device. This means each summary page is succinctly laid out by color-coded category. Even for mobile device users, the state of your account can be understood at a glance.

What still needs to be ironed out? Okay, ordering food delivery for one. If the vendor does not accept Apple Pay you are essentially SOL. That’s because there are no numbers printed on Apple card, they are encrypted. And while we are on the subject, the incentive for brand loyalists is 3% cash back on purchases of Apple products, and 2% for items bought using Apple Pay. That is not very competitive and will not likely lure consumers away from banks they have been doing business with for years. So promotions are tepid and with their credit card, Apple is marketing to its minions (I know without asking that there is a slot in Kel’s wallet reserved for Apple card), not the greater percentage of individuals in this market share. A lost opportunity?

While the goal for Apple Card is to reduce the expenses and interest for its cardholders, offering a credit card may just be another way to have its Apple Pay product more widely accepted. And since Apple is renowned for making improvements to just about every existing technology, there’s the surety that Apple holds patents on their innovations and that the financial transaction herd will soon follow.

It is easy to predict that Apple card is the future of credit cards, at least to the point where electronic transactions will be made more secure which will also facilitate the sales funnel. The win-win here is for consumers who just offer their iPhone to be scanned at the drive-through as well as for Apple’s profit margins. Increased security and ease of use for cardholders and untold ROI for Apple. Not hard to see who is the bigger winner now is it?

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