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2021 U.S. Road Conditions by State

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ConsumerAffairs recently published an analysis of which states have the worst (and best) roads of 2021.

This holiday season, drivers traveling through Rhode Island, Hawaii, Wisconsin, California, Massachusetts, South Dakota, New Jersey, Louisiana, Michigan and New York are in for the bumpiest rides. Weather conditions and low infrastructure budgets have led to potholed and hazardous roads in these states, according to the new study.

Those traveling through the Midwest, Upper Great Plains and South — particularly Kansas, Alabama, North Dakota, Kentucky, Florida and Idaho — should experience smoother travel than road warriors in parts of the Northeast.

As for the middle-of-the-road states, drivers may still have complaints worth voicing this holiday travel season. Interestingly, a plurality of survey respondents rated their roads “terrible,” even in states that would appear to have quality road conditions on paper.

ConsumerAffairs data scientists compared four factors to determine which states have the worst roads: dollar amount spent per mile of roadway, percentage of “poor” road conditions, annual motor crash fatalities and 1,027 email survey responses.

“Survey data is always biased, but politically distributed highway budgets are doubly so,” according to ConsumerAffairs Vice President of Data and Analytics George Earl.

Each factor was normalized, rescaled and weighted, assigning greater or lesser importance to some data points. Next, ratings from each dimension were combined to produce the final scores.

“In this scenario, public opinion must clearly be weighted higher than spend. Especially since there’s no other way to know if that money was effectively utilized,” Earl said.

To see where each state ranks in our study, see the table below or check out the full report HERE.

ABOUT

ConsumerAffairs: ConsumerAffairs is an independent, web-based news and resource center. We believe that everyone deserves to make smart decisions about how they spend their money. Since 1998, our website has offered free access to buyers guides and verified reviews on a variety of topics. ConsumerAffairs works hard to share our resources with a variety of online audiences in an effort to be a trusted source of information and help as many people as possible through important purchasing decisions.

Twelve Tips for Creating an Effective Onboarding Process at Your Startup

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To run a successful start-up you need the right employees for your team. Once you find talent, you can start the onboarding process. This is an important step that helps workers adjust to your company. Here are twelve tips for an effective process.

1. Start Early On

There are things you can do before the onboarding process even starts. Create an agenda for the workers first week, so everyone is on the same page. Also, talk to the other co-workers about the new hire’s responsibilities.

In addition, get the new employees’ workspace set up. Fill their desk with office supplies and key documents, like the employee handbook. Place a gift at their desk, such as a mug with the company’s logo, to show how much you value them.

Make sure you prepare the worker as well. Send them essential company information and their first-day agenda. Have it include the dress code and any company rules. Also, provide them a copy of their first week’s schedule, so they can plan ahead. Note where they should park and who they should speak to when they first arrive. Giving them this information will help put their mind at ease.

2. Allow Employees to Get Acclimated

During the first week of orientation, give workers time to adjust to the company. Instead of having them jump into projects immediately, give them a tour of the office. It’s important they’re familiar with the work processes as well. Be sure to cover how to use company software, any website passwords, and the communication protocols.

Plus, go over company culture and decision-making processes. Once new employees understand everyday operations, they will work more productively.

Onboarding is also the perfect chance for staff members to build relationships. Introduce the new hire to multiple team members. Have the whole team go out for lunch to help welcome the new worker. Having strong co-worker relationships can improve team morale.

Also, schedule a meeting between the employee and the direct supervisor. It gives both of them a chance to get to know each other. Within the meeting discuss the worker’s goals and preferred management style.

3. Be Open to Feedback

Receiving feedback from your employees can help you gain a new perspective. Remember they are looking at the company with a fresh set of eyes. Plus, it can help address any concerns before they turn into long-term issues. Be sure to encourage feedback from day one, so they feel more comfortable speaking with you in the future.

Make sure you show genuine interest in their suggestions. To help move the conversation forward, ask questions. In addition, pay attention to non-verbal cues, such as limited eye contact. When addressing employees’ negative feelings don’t get defensive. Use surveys, interviews, or a question box to get feedback.

4. Have Employees Job-Shadow

Job shadowing current staff allows the new hire to learn new skills. They also can see exactly how projects are completed and what mistakes to avoid. In addition, it gives them a chance to build relationships with other co-workers. They can even shadow someone with a different role to see how all the positions work together.

5. Put a Plan in Place

Having a standard structure for onboarding is critical. After your very first onboarding process, write down everything you did. Make sure to note what worked well and what didn’t. Update the document after each time. Having this internal document allows for a smoother transition with less stress. Store the information in a safe place, such as the office filing cabinet.

6. Have Realistic Expectations

When you hire new staff, you want to see immediate results. However, it’s also important you remain patient and give them time to adjust. Rushing through the training process can have long-term consequences. For example, the staff member may not feel comfortable in their new role. Take the time to properly train your staff and allow them to ask questions.

7. Keep Up With Communication

During the first few months, regularly follow up with new staff members. Take time to see how they’re adjusting and address any of their concerns. You can send them a checklist to ensure they are completing all their necessary tasks. Another idea is forwarding them a quiz on the company’s policies and procedures. Keep in mind face-to-face communication is the most effective, whenever possible.

8. Be Available

Be available to answer any questions your employees may have. Set aside a small portion of your day for answering staff inquiries. If a coworker needs a larger chunk of time, have them schedule a meeting and place it on the calendar. To ensure proper communication, let staff members know the best way to reach you. Are you more responsive to emails or texts?

9. Pair the New Hire With a Current Employee

When you pair a new hire with a current employee, they feel less isolated. They now have someone they can talk to and learn from. Plus, their partner can introduce them to other staff members. Having a support system increases office morale and promotes productivity. In addition, it gives workers an extra resource to help clarify project guidelines. Then you have more free time to focus on other management responsibilities.

10. Go Over the Benefits and Policies

When explaining the companies’ benefits, go over them in detail. Discuss what they are and how staff members can use them. For example, how much paid vacation time do they get off? When employees understand all their benefits they are more satisfied in their job. Have workers read the staff handbook as well. If they have any questions ensure they know who to contact. This helps prevent any future miscommunication.

11. Emphasize Your Company’s Culture

Make sure the new staff member is familiar with more than just their role. You want them to have a strong understanding of your business’s vision and values. Give them background on your company’s history and your plans for the future. If you have a mission statement, share that as well. Then ask employees how they feel they can contribute to these values. The more connected new hires are to the company the more loyal they will be.

12. Give Your Staff S.M.A.R.T Goals

These are goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. When making them specific, consider who is involved and what resources are needed. Determine a deadline for completion as well. Setting goals for your new hires encourages them to take on more responsibilities. It can even motivate them to work harder and be more productive.

How to Have a Successful Onboarding Process

The onboarding process is one of the most important steps for new team members. It gives them a chance to get settled into their role. There are many steps you can take to make the process smoother, such as open communication. Review these steps before onboarding your next employee.

Ten Cybersecurity Tips for New Businesses

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The internet is full of opportunities that allow your business to operate more smoothly through computer-based resources. Whether you own a website, use email or a cloud-computing system, consider cybersecurity as part of your business plan.

Keeping your business optimally secure provides safety measures for your business and its consumers. Without it, new business owners run the risk of common daily threats. For many enterprises, cybersecurity is a growing concern. Projections show that businesses will spend an estimated $170.4 billion in cybersecurity by 2022.

Invest in a safe culture for your business. Building a security plan will help you remain confident in your business and your consumers.

Why Cybersecurity Matters to New Businesses

Cybercriminals will likely target new businesses through a data breach. This concern makes your company more vulnerable to several types of cyberattacks that can break your business.

Data can include sensitive information on financial documents, credit cards, intellectual property and more. Likewise, cybercriminals can also access employee and customer information such as names and addresses to steal their identities.

Therefore, cybersecurity practices are essential for protecting all categories of data from fraudulent activities.

Most Common Cyber Threats

It’s important to know that criminals are becoming more creative when launching new cyberattacks. Although, here are some of the most common types of cyber threats that attack new organizations each day.

Phishing

Phishing is a cyberattack targeting a recipient by email, phone or text. Cybercriminals will pose as a legitimate company to lure businesses into providing sensitive data. This method often involves an individual clicking on a malicious attachment link that downloads ransomware and compromises security.

As a result of phishing scams, businesses continue to reach massive losses. Ransomware attacks cost organizations an average of $233,217 and 19 days of downtime. As a new business owner, this matter at hand is a price you’ll want to avoid paying altogether.

Watering Holes

Watering holes are legitimate websites that attackers will hijack and make them malicious without notice. The attack requires a site user to click on a link or download a file. In turn, the action installs malware on the device and obtains personal information.

Drive-by Download

Like watering holes, a drive-by download uses a malicious website to install malware on a device without permission. This typically happens when security systems are inadequate, or an operating system is outdated.

Compromised Passwords

Compromised passwords can occur when a user enters login credentials unknowingly on a fraudulent website. This issue often arises when the username and password are common, which leaves accounts vulnerable to attacks. Additionally, the reuse of passwords across multiple platforms makes your system susceptible to attackers – leaving multiple accounts at higher risk.

10 Cybersecurity Tips for New Businesses

Broadband and information technology play a significant role in businesses increasing productivity, new market reach and operational efficiency. To protect your organization and customers from cybersecurity threats, utilize these hacks to establish a well-crafted guide.

1. Update and Authenticate Passwords

Create a policy where employees create unique passwords and change them every three months. Implementing a multi-factor authentication will also require additional information upon password entry. You can also work with vendors that handle sensitive data to see if they offer multi-factor authentication for your accounts.

2. Implement Employee Training on Best Security Practices

Creating policies around implementing security practices will guide employees in handling and protecting passwords and sensitive data.

3. Use the Latest Security Software for Protection

Updating your security software can protect operating systems and web applications from malware, viruses and internet threats. You can set up antiviral software to run a scan after each update. Additionally, as soon as you see an available update, you must install it accordingly.

4. Use Firewall Protection for Internet

Firewall security will prevent attackers from breaching your data through a private network. Enhance your operating system’s security by installing free firewall software online. Firewall systems are especially beneficial for remote employees who utilize their home network.

5. Backup Business Data and Information

Continuously backup data regularly for all devices. This ensures that critical information such as financial details, human resources files, spreadsheets, payment accounts and other vital information is protected. Use weekly automated backups to store copies offsite or in the cloud if possible.

6. Secure Wi-fi Networks

If you use a wi-fi network, ensure it is secure, hidden and encrypted. To keep it safe, use password protection and set up your router with an SSID (Service Set Identifier) to hide the network name.

7. Process Payments Securely

Work with your banks and payment card processors to ensure anti-fraud protection and validated tools are offering security all around. There may also be agreements you can pursue with your bank or processor for added security.

You can further follow other best practices by isolating payment systems from less secure programs. Lastly, consider using a separate device to process payments and browse the web.

8. Limit Employee Access to Data and Software Installation

Avoid entrusting all data access to employees. Workers should only have access to pertinent data they need to do their job. Additionally, they should not be permitted to download any software without gaining permission.

9. Control Access and Create User Accounts for Individual Employees

Maintain limited access to business computers for unauthorized employees. Laptops are particularly vulnerable to theft. So be sure to lock these devices up before leaving them unattended.

Create individual user accounts and strong passwords for each employee. In addition, consider entrusting administrative privileges only to IT staff and management.

10. Make an Action Plan for Mobile Devices

Mobile devices can contain security vulnerabilities when they hold access to confidential information.

Consider enforcing password protection, data encryption and security apps for all users. This strategy will prevent cybercriminals from stealing information while the device is on a public network.

You should also create a reporting procedure in case equipment gets lost or stolen.

Protect Your New Business

Avoid putting your business at risk of cyberattacks. By assessing the risks and implementing strategies, you make it possible to protect your business from data breaches. The time to enhance your cybersecurity is today.

Ensure you implement these tips, and you’ll avoid falling victim to cybercriminals.

What to know before watching Arcane

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League of Legends is one of the most well-known MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) games of all time. Riot Games’ 2009 release, League, drew gamers from all over the world and developed a significant esports scene. It features two spin-off games: Teamfight Tactics, an auto-chess battler, and Legends of Runeterra, a card game.

League of Legends lets players to choose from over 100 playable champions from the mythical realm of Runeterra. The mythology and people of Runeterra inspired Arcane, a Netflix animated version of League.

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Arcane will dig into this universe, concentrating on the narrative of the sisters Vi and Jinx, who are estranged after being separated as young infants in the undercity of Zaun. There’s a lot to study before viewing the adaptation, with 12 years to build up the mythos. Before you watch Arcane, here’s all you need to know, starting with a glimpse at Runeterra.

Regions in Runeterra

Runeterra is a huge fantasy planet divided into 13 sections. These locations are occupied by a vast range of ethnicities and span a wide range of civilizations and biodomes. Runeterra is rich in history and magic, from the lush, verdant flora of Ionia to the enormous deserts of Shurima, the militaristic kingdom of Noxus to the solitary territory of Ixtal. Arcane takes place in two distinct areas: the shining City of Progress Piltover and the undercity neighborhood of Zaun.

Piltover and Zaun are so inextricably intertwined that Legends of Runeterra treats them as a single area in its game. Piltover is constructed above the cliffs that Zaun is built in, thus they practically stand on top of one other. Despite their close proximity, the two areas frequently clash owing to variations in living circumstances and customs.

Piltover, also known as the City of Progress, is a center for trade, science, and education. Piltover is well-known for its Academy, which educates Runeterra’s greatest brains in cutting-edge hextech science procedures and how to further enhance it. Its ports are also a major source of trade, with merchants travelling from all across Runeterra to Piltover. As a result, Piltover has become a wealthy city with a good level of living.

Zaun, on the other hand, is a far grimmer region, absorbing much of Piltover’s runoff and suffering from significantly greater rates of poverty and crime. Tragic chemtech and other industrial incidents occur often, but the Zaun Gray is one of Zaun’s most hazardous risks. The Gray is a thick haze from the industries in Zaun and Piltover, and its varying thickness makes breathing in Zaun a nuisance to a hazard. The people of these contrasting regions harbor a deep dislike of each other; the citizens of Piltover look down on those of Zaun as a lower class, while Zaunites have a simmering hatred of the Pilties for creating the impoverished conditions they live in. Arcane promises to explore these tensions, with the official trailer showing glimpses of riots and hinting that the tenuous peace between the regions is coming to an end. Of course, any fantasy world is only as good as the characters who inhabit it, so let’s take a look at the champions who will be in Arcane.

League of Legends Champions in Arcane

Jinx

Jinx is well-known throughout Piltover and Zaun as an anarchic madman armed with amazing armament, including her shark-shaped missile launcher Fishbones and explosive fire chompers. Jinx conceals many of her misdeeds under pranks ranging from changing all of the city’s street signs to wrecking and stealing Piltover’s most protected vaults. Much of Jinx’s background has remained a mystery, including a fascination with Vi that went unanswered until Arcane revealed that the two are sisters who grew up together in Zaun. The trailer also implies that Jinx’s madness is not a natural development for her, but rather a state of mind imposed on her by an unknown figure.

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Vi

Vi is a prominent character in Arcane, and she is voiced by Hailee Steinfield. Vi grew up in Zaun’s streets and rapidly earned a reputation for being quick to rage and even faster to punch. She led a gang in her teens for a brief period until a failed heist with a partnered game went wrong, putting innocent people in danger. Vi departed from Zaun shortly after putting the other gang in their place with her legendary hextech gauntlets. She subsequently reappeared as a member of Piltover’s Wardens, the organization in charge of maintaining peace and order in the city of progress. To this moment, the reason Vi departed Zaun has mostly remained a mystery, and Arcane will very certainly provide an explanation.

Caitlyn

Caitlyn, played by Katie Leung, grew up in a wealthy home, the daughter of renowned hextech engineers. Caitlyn, on the other hand, felt just as at home in the forest beyond Piltover as she did in the opulent metropolis where she grew up. Caitlyn learned to hunt wildlife and became an exceptional shooter as she explored the wilderness, which proved useful when she returned home to discover her parents taken. Caitlyn hunted out the crooks responsible – except for the mastermind, C – and went on to become a well-known private investigator. Caitlyn’s prowess eventually persuaded the Wardens to hire her as a sheriff, and she now maintains the peace in Piltover with the powerful hextech rifle her parents manufactured.

Jayce

Jayce, played by Kevin Alejandro, was raised in the City of Progress and exemplifies many of its principles of creativity and discovery. Jayce is a bright creative with a profound grasp of technology that allows him to outperform his contemporaries, including those who have studied for longer than him. His intellect has also caused some to regard him as aloof and arrogant since he just can not understand why others struggle with things that he finds simple. Viktor was the only scientist who could compete with Jayce’s intelligence until Viktor’s goals escalated to unethical proportions that Jayce could no longer ignore, leading to his murdering his only friend.

Viktor

Viktor grew up in Zaun and immediately learned that many of the industrial mishaps that plagued the undercity were the result of human mistake. He developed self-driving machines capable of performing manufacturing operations and eliminating the human component. Viktor’s talent attracted the notice of Piltover’s Academy, where he flourished alongside some of Piltover’s best brains, including Jayce. Viktor and Jayce collaborated on a number of projects, including a mechanized diving suit. Viktor advocated adding a chemtech helmet to the suit, allowing supervisors to manage the divers and eliminate human mistake even more – but Jayce regarded it as the unethical death of free choice.

Verdict

Now that you’ve learned all the important details related to League of Legends before Arcane, prepare to hop into Summoner’s Rift to get a firsthand experience of the popular game. Don’t forget to use Eldorado.gg to get awesome prices on League of Legends RP and boosting services.

Five Ways Ice Baths Help Post Workout

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If the idea of taking an ice bath sounds terrifying, don’t freak out just yet. Ice baths are incredibly beneficial for a number of reasons, and are especially great for athletes and people who maintain a regular workout routine. An ice bath is a practice that involves submerging a substantial part of your body in a tub of ice or ice water for a certain amount of time to achieve a number of benefits. If this doesn’t already make you want to look for an ice bath for sale, here are five ways ice baths can help you post-workout.

It Aids in Muscle Recovery

One of the reasons ice baths are so popular with athletes and people who exercise regularly is because they can help the muscles recover after an intense workout. This is due to the fact that when you are exposed to cold water, the blood vessels in your body constrict and become smaller. When you get out of the water, the sudden change in temperature causes your blood vessels to quickly re-open, which helps to release the metabolic waste products from your body.

It Can Improve Your Mental Health

Regular exercise has been proven to have a positive effect on mental health, which is why taking an ice bath after a workout can be all the more beneficial. Taking ice baths has been proven to increase relaxation and focus, even if the ice cold temperatures can be a bit shocking at first. After your first ice bath, you will probably find the experience to be relaxing and refreshing. If that isn’t “cool” enough (get it?), studies have shown that taking two cold showers a day can decrease depressive symptoms.

It Can Help Improve Your Quality of Sleep

Taking ice baths has been shown to improve quality of sleep, which is great news for anyone struggling with insomnia or any other sleep disorders or issues. This is because sleep and mental health often go hand-in-hand, and because ice baths can be great for your mental health, your quality of sleep will likely improve as well. Spending just 15 minutes in an ice bath can have a positive impact on your central nervous system, which not only helps you fall asleep but helps you feel great overall.

It Can Boost Your Immunity

Studies have shown that taking ice baths can help boost your immunity, which many people will find especially helpful during the current times we’re living in. According to research, those who take cold showers as opposed to hot showers are almost 30 percent less likely to take a sick day from work or school. If you’re someone who gets sick often or simply wants to avoid getting sick, try incorporating ice baths into your daily routine. A better immune system means more productive days at the gym and a better post workout feeling.

It Activates the Nervous System

Taking ice baths triggers a nervous system response that activates the immune, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems, which can help improve hormone production, as well as sleep, metabolism, circulation, AND can help keep your stress levels low. Pretty cool, right?

Top Five Tips for Planning a Trendy Event

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Planning a trendy event, like an album launch or a fashion show, is the dream of many an event planner. An event of this caliber and magnitude is thrilling beyond measure, but don’t let that fool you – they take untold hours of planning.

Here are the top five tips for pulling off an event that will have everyone buzzing for weeks afterwards:

Discuss Budget

The most important thing to know right from the start is what kind of budget you’re working with. Huge events cost huge amounts of money. When planning a super trendy event, the last thing you want to do is scrimp on spending.

Sit down with your client and discuss their expectations in brief to start, then find out how much they are prepared to spend to turn those into a reality. If you are on the same page with both, you can go ahead and unpack those expectations in more detail. If you’re looking to stay within budget but still need high-quality equipment and set up for your event in Florida, consider reaching out to AV rental and experts in Orlando. Their services can help you find cost-effective solutions without compromising on the impact of your event.

The Wow Factor

The trendiest events always have one thing that sets them apart from all other events – the “wow factor”. This is what happens when an event goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone is equally wowed by their experience.

Think performers, celebrities, pyrotechnics, and light shows. Nothing is too much, and you can never go too far when it comes to impressing your guests.

Plan Ahead

Ask any seasoned event planner, and they will tell you two things. Firstly, every event needs to be planned in great detail, and secondly – you need a backup plan for your original plan. Use a smooth event platform to ensure that your event goes off without a hitch.

Your plan should include your event goals and objectives, as well as a real-time budget tracker.

Practice Makes Perfect

Event pilots are great for identifying issues and hiccups. Most big and important events, like weddings, have rehearsals – so why not your super trendy event?

The guests who attend pilot events are more tolerant and understanding, this is both a good and a bad thing. You need honest feedback to make sure that the real event is as perfect as possible.

Hire Influencers and Buzzers

To make your event the talk of the town, you need to create an engaging atmosphere. Grab your guest’s attention by hiring celebrities, performers, and influencers. These people can either perform or pretend to be guests – that part is up to you.

Choose a location that is impressive and works for your theme. For fashion shows, your needs will be both practical and aesthetic. You will need a beautiful spot and a runway for your models.

Encourage your guests to take selfies and tag your event on their socials using your unique event hashtag.

To End

Planning an event that will have everyone’s tongues wagging will take a lot of effort, but it will be oh so worth it in the end. Follow the tips above and your event will be incredible!

Six Hobbies That Relieve Stress

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Some hobbies are excellent stress-relievers, as physical activity puts us in a meditative state. Doing something we enjoy triggers the release of dopamine. When you use your body or hands, your mind focuses on the task at hand. Add a bit of creativity to your life! Discover six simple activities that can give you a break from the constant barrage of stress.

1. Dance

Research conducted by Pennsylvania State University has demonstrated the stress-relieving effects of dancing. Endorphins released in your body make you feel good. If you don’t have a Delta 8 hemp flower on hand, try dancing to feel better quickly!

It does not matter if you choose free dance, instructed dance, or dance workouts. YouTube has a plethora of tutorials for any style, from hula to ballet. All you need is some space and inspiring music to get your groove on!

2. Drawing, sketching, coloring, or painting

Any of these activities will take your mind off the things that worry you. Focus on a creative project to de-stress. According to a study by Harvard, drawing and painting are particularly effective in this regard.

You don’t have to be an artist to experience the benefits! Download an app for digital sketching (for example, Procreate), buy an adult coloring book, or find some classes at your local Art supply store, museum, or library. The internet has a wealth of free information, including fun tutorials.

3. Writing

Different forms of writing, from journaling to letters to writing stories, alleviate stress. Jotting down your emotions is a proven way to feel better. Even 10-minute writing sessions are guaranteed to bring positive effects.

4. Playing a Musical Instrument

Listening to music and creating it can make you feel happier and more content. By playing an instrument, you will not only express yourself but also trigger an emotional release. According to a study in the Federal Practitioner, “there is evidence that playing an instrument elicits brain changes that positively influence cognitive functioning and decreases stress.”

Learning to play music is easier than before, as there are so many digital tools to help you. First, you can download apps for learning to play the guitar, piano, and other instruments. YouTube is packed with tutorials. Finally, you can always find private or group lessons. If you are too busy to learn, even listening to your favorite playlist will improve your emotional state.

5. Knitting

This is another meditative activity connected to calmness and happiness. You can find a treasure trove of step-by-step videos on YouTube. Every week, schedule a time for a meeting, alone or with a friend! The positive effects of knitting have been shown in a study published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy.

6. Photography

You do not need a high-end camera to experience the positive effects of photography. Even simple snaps with your smartphone can melt your stress away! Go outdoors and take photos daily to improve your well-being, slow down and find meaning in small things.

Six Winter Tips for Restaurant Management

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The restaurant industry has witnessed more than its fair share of change over the preceding months. Now, just as things are starting to return to normal, the seasons have turned, demanding still more alterations.

You do need to do things differently in today’s world, but many of your tried-and-true practices from yesteryear will also benefit your customers. Here are six winter tips for restaurant management to increase your profit margin.

1. Improve Your Visibility

By 5 p.m., winter skies obscure your eatery under the cover of darkness. While humans can see with low light levels in partial darkness, it takes our eyes several hours to adjust. You might have the most clever billboard out front during daylight hours, but it won’t draw a single customer once the sun goes down unless you illuminate it.

Signs are the most visible communication tools a restaurant has. Ensure you use proper spelling and grammar on your signage — you don’t want to end up getting poked fun at on a subreddit forum after someone posts a picture. Use large, easily legible fonts, especially if your venue lies along a public thoroughfare like a highway. Potential customers don’t have time to interpret funky cursive at 55 mph.

Your graphics also matter. Think about what customers want. If you serve alcohol at your establishment, a beer bottle or cocktail glass lets thirsty travelers know where they can rinse a little road dust off their tongues. When it comes to food, think comfort this season — a mouthwatering roast or pie gets salivary glands flowing.

2. Address Customer and Staff Safety Concerns

Despite public opinion cries of “hold, enough,” the Covid pandemic continues. Vaccines mean fewer restrictions and more reasons for restaurateurs to rejoice — but you still need to protect vulnerable customers and staff members alike. Doing so can increase your profits as you gain a reputation for an eatery that cares.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should change your layout to ensure all tables remain six feet apart. You should continue to limit seating capacity to encourage social distancing. Doing so may require you to adjust other policies. For example, you might decide to start taking reservations, even if you previously operated on a walk-in basis.

Additionally, it would help to keep and possibly expand your delivery and take-out options. If you don’t have a dedicated fleet, you can often find smaller delivery apps that provide service at a fraction of the price of large names like GrubHub. Adding extra touches — like various sauces and condiments — to take-out bags keeps customers coming back for more. Allow for as much customization as possible.

3. Update Your Menu With Seasonal Ingredients

Top chefs know that cooking in season results in improved overall nutrition and more delicious flavor. You should update your menu to reflect what’s in season and take advantage of local produce vendors.

For example, now is the time to add plenty of braised kale and steamed broccoli to your menu as they come into season this time of year. Other good choices include winter squash, collard greens, rutabagas, sweet potatoes, mushrooms and turnips.

Get creative with your drinks menu, too — cocktails can significantly pad your bottom line. Invent beverages unique to your venue so that if customers have a craving, they have to come through your door. Mexican restaurants can create a signature margarita. Those venues hoping to draw holiday traffic can craft red and green cocktails that make folks feel festive.

4. Adjust Your Hours of Operation

If you’re like many restaurants, you probably keep consistent hours of operation during ordinary times. You’ve no doubt noticed that the present is extraordinary.

Therefore, you might have to adjust your hours of operation based on customer demand and staff availability. Some venues choose to do so by closing certain days of the week. Others open a bit later or close earlier.

Base your business practices around the clientele you typically attract. For example, you might consider switching from lunch and dinner to an exclusive brunch-through-early-afternoon business model if you notice that you get slammed with corporate customers from nearby office buildings around noon but hear crickets in the evening. Could you bring on more midday staff, expand delivery options to local offices and curtail your dinner service?

5. Attract Large Groups and Avoid Slow Times

If you’re still struggling to rebuild from pandemic slowdowns, you might have to get a bit creative. Can you fill empty seats by attracting large groups, thus cutting back on your slower hours?

For example, many organizations are now returning to in-person work. Others are experimenting with hybrid solutions because many staff prefer telework arrangements. Could you partner with such local businesses, offering meeting space during your slower afternoon times? Their organization could replace a full month of conference room rent while increasing your traffic and sales.

Likewise, happy hour discounts and specials are the perfect way to drive business right now. Those who have grown weary of telecommuting welcome the opportunity to once more mix and mingle with colleagues in the afternoon. Find a low-cost appetizer special that people love and upsell your drinks, perhaps crafting special cocktails for this traditional social time.

6. Reward Your Staff Members

Many restaurants had a tough time finding staff members. In the hospitality industry, your team works together to create an experience for your customers — a job they can do more readily when they aren’t worried about how to pay their rent.

While the federal minimum wage remains at $2.13 for restaurant employees, you know that your staff deserves better. The living wage for a family of four is $68,808 per year, which breaks down to $16.54 if there are two wage-earners in the home, twice that if the individual is a single parent. Please consider increasing the hourly rate and implementing policies that ensure your workers receive fair compensation.

For example, some establishments include gratuity on the check to eliminate the risk that customers will dine and go without tipping. Others get rid of the tip system altogether, opting instead to find new sources of revenue or raise prices. Experiment and see what works best, including your team in the process. Ask for their input and democratically choose the best process.

Winter Tips for Restaurant Management

The restaurant industry knows how to overcome changes, especially after recent events. Implement these six winter management tips to improve your bottom line.

Eight Tips for Fundraising During the Holidays

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The holidays are a time for giving. It’s also a time for nonprofit organizations to line their coffers. If you’re chairing a committee, you may find yourself in charge of the annual drive.

What can you do to get customers to open their wallets, especially after the hardships of the past two years? Here are eight tips for fundraising during the holidays to help your group reach its goals.

1. Employ Technology to Stay Organized

Modern technology makes it less cumbersome to stay on top of frequent donors. The Rolodex is now a dinosaur from antiquity. Today’s customer relationship management systems (CRMs) track who gives the most and when, making it easier to maximize your holiday fundraising strategy.

However, you must trust that your databases won’t crash during crunch time. Ensure that your system scores well in high volume resiliency, preventing system breakdowns when your patrons have their wallets open, ready to give. Run checks on all computers and review the importance of anti-malware software on all devices to access your client information.

Technology works best with a personal touch. For example, feel free to use computerized phone and text messaging systems to reach out to frequent donors. Don’t, however, send multiple alerts with no one covering the lines to give a genuine, human response should someone reply.

2. Include Gift-Matching Incentives

Depending on the size of your organization, you may be able to match your patron’s gifts. Even the mere mention of doing so results in a marked increase in marketing response rates. Fully a third of donors will give more if they believe that their contribution will double.

Matching gifts benefit your organization’s overall reputation by making it appear more of a leader in charitable giving. If you’re like many who have a for-profit and affiliated nonprofit or charity, your act generates community goodwill by showing your dedication to vital social causes.

3. Make It Competitive

Another way to hit your holiday fundraising goals is by including an element of competition. Many organizations give out T-shirts or other tokens to those who donate to the cause. Why not award prizes according to how much a person gives, perhaps starting with a sticker or postcard and going all the way up to sweatshirts and hoodies?

Remember those old “you’re the hundredth shopper” incentives stores used to use? You can utilize a twist of this idea in your fundraising. Who will put you over the top of your goal? The lucky donor who hits that magic number wins a prize.

4. Leverage the Holiday Spirit

Charities have long leveraged the human spirit of generosity during the holidays to reach their goals. Think about the Salvation Army and their prominent bell ringers in front of nearly every grocery store. The trick is to make giving a convenient act of spontaneous joy, not a burden or hassle.

If you’re a smaller group, consider partnering with local businesses, arranging to use some of their sidewalk space for fundraising. Many are amenable as long as you don’t block traffic — having you out there shows their community spirit, too.

Consider other types of partnerships as well. For example, is a local restaurant willing to give patrons a free or discounted treat if customers bring in their raffle ticket stubs from your fundraiser? The promise of a cup of hot cocoa, gratis, at the end of a long, cold day may inspire some folks to spend their spare change on your worthy cause.

5. Use Social Media Campaigns

Social media is a glorious way to spread the news of your fundraiser, especially around the holidays. Be sure to mention the spirit of the season in all your advertisements and posts.

Please don’t overlook the spending power of the younger generation. For example, many brands stick to the big markets of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. However, you may have more luck on TikTok — and a lot of fun making fundraising videos — to capture different demographics.

6. Create Opportunities for Fun

Another way to fundraise is to create opportunities for family fun around the holiday. For example, does your church host a regular bingo? Why not go all out one month and create a carnival-like atmosphere, with games and small attractions like a dunk tank to draw donations?

You could combine such an event with a bake sale. You’ll allow your talented chefs to peddle their wares while patrons can pick up that much-needed dessert for their holiday table. Please ensure that you label all products clearly with their ingredients so that those with food allergies or sensitivities can rest assured their purchase is safe to eat.

7. Customize Your Giving Pages

If you always wanted to go a little wild and wacky with your graphic design, the holidays are your chance. Now’s the time to use big, bold fonts that grab attention and colors in line with the season.

Customize your giving pages with holiday designs. Doing so reminds your patrons of the reason for the season, perhaps inspiring more generosity than they would normally demonstrate. Plus, it creates a festive, cheerful mood.

You also want to make donors feel secure. Please ensure your website has an SSL certificate — you’ll see the lock icon on the address bar — so that patrons feel safe entering their credit card information. Streamline the checkout process, keeping it to one page whenever possible. The more complex it is, the more opportunities potential givers have to change their minds.

8. Recognize Your Donors

Some people hate recognition for their good deeds, but most like to be known for their philanthropy. Find a way to recognize your donors. Many organizations publish a list of names, sometimes with different tier levels acknowledging the generosity of their contributions.

Another way to say thank you is with a small gift. If you also run a for-profit entity or your charity has a gift shop, repay donations with a coupon. Otherwise, treats like cute candy cane and pen bouquets are inexpensive ways to express gratitude to your generous patrons.

Fundraising Tips During the Holidays

Now is the time for people to give. Follow these fundraising tips during the holidays to exceed your goals.

Ten Benefits of Increased Blood Circulation

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Blood circulation makes your mind and body thrive, but it doesn’t always flow as it should. Various health conditions could make your body struggle to get oxygen to your vital organs. These 10 benefits of increased blood circulation may encourage you to speak with your doctor and fix this issue before it becomes a significant health concern.

1. Additional Oxygen to Your Brain

Your brain never takes a break like the rest of your body does while you’re sleeping or relaxing. It’s constantly processing memories and directing your bodily functions, so everything becomes affected if it doesn’t get enough oxygen. When lifestyle changes or medications improve your circulation, you’ll immediately notice a difference because your brain can thrive again.

2. Improved Moisture Retention

Blood helps every part of your body, including your skin. You might not think about it often, but reduced circulation could cause dry skin problems. Washing your hands too often or living in a dry environment isn’t the only factor in keeping your skin from becoming itchy or splitting open around your knuckles.

Your skin cells won’t stay healthy if they don’t get the essential oxygen they need through your blood. Help it nourish your skin cells and promote their functionality by increasing your circulation with assistance from your doctor.

3. Strengthened Immune System

Red blood cells are vital for your health, but blood also contains white cells. They fight bacteria and illness to keep you from getting sick or help you recover. You might not think about them very often, but they’re always at work so you can live your best life.

Poor circulation prevents white blood cells from remaining strong enough to strengthen your immune system. Don’t wait until you’re sick during flu season to start enjoying this necessary benefit of circulation. Help yourself remain happy and healthy by improving your blood flow throughout the year.

4. Reduced Tingling in Extremities

If your body parts don’t get enough blood flow, it could affect your nervous system. Consider how your arm feels when you wake up after sleeping on it all night long. It’s tingly and uncomfortable, but it quickly returns to normal as blood flows through your veins again. Certain conditions can cause severe problems that feel similar but disrupt your lifestyle because they aren’t easily resolvable, like sleep-induced numbness.

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is one such issue that often stems from poor circulation. It compresses nerves and causes tingling in fingers and other extremities. Increased blood circulation reduces that sensation along with any prescribed TOS symptoms. Talk with your doctor if you think you might have this condition and need assistance with improving your blood flow.

5. Better Digestive Functionality

Your digestive system can make your life feel effortless or cause you to stay at home with stomach pain. It can’t process nutrients and break down waste if there’s less blood flow to your organs. Blood is like gas in the engine of your digestive system, so top it up regularly by improving your blood flow. You may suffer from extensive digestive problems if your circulation isn’t working as well as it should.

6. Reduced Risk of Diabetes

Plaque buildup in your veins and arteries could be the reason your blood circulation isn’t working well. Sometimes that buildup is an underlying symptom of undiagnosed diabetes, so make an appointment with your doctor if you think that might be a possible health concern.

Improved circulation reduces your risk of diabetes because it makes you proactive in monitoring your health and nutrition. Your blood sugar management and improved diet will cause less buildup and improve your odds of living without diabetes.

7. Continual Physical Improvement

Whether you’re an athlete or want to generally improve your physical endurance, strengthening your stamina is one of the best benefits of increased blood circulation. More blood flow sends more oxygen to your muscles when they need it the most, like during strength training exercises or moments of physical exertion.

Cardiovascular endurance relies on increased oxygen flow so your muscles can repair themselves after your workout. You’ll improve your gym routine and become stronger after that crucial repair process. Without enough oxygen circling through your blood, your physical fitness goals may not be possible.

8. Easier Waste Processing

Your kidneys continually process your blood. They remove any toxins and send the resulting urine to your bladder, but that’s difficult to do if they don’t get enough oxygen and blood flow. Without it, toxins will build up in your blood. You’ll begin to suffer from a chemical imbalance that leads to acute kidney failure and death.

Waste processing is one of the benefits of increased blood circulation because it directly supports every other bodily function. Chat with your primary care physician if you’re concerned about this effect of poor circulation and need help increasing your blood flow.

9. Routine Bowel Movements

When people become constipated, their medical advisors often recommend adding more physical exercise to their routine. Along with proper hydration and fiber intake, exercise gets your heart rate up and increases your blood flow. Additional blood to your digestive system helps it work properly and regulate bowel movements.

10. Less Daily Stress

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but there are a few ways to manage it. Besides self-care habits and adjusting your lifestyle, you can also improve your blood circulation. Your brain might experience a buildup in stress hormones because it isn’t at the top of its game.

Imagine finishing a stressful day with a casual walk down a nature trail or around your neighborhood. The slight physical activity immediately boosts your circulation and oxygenates your brain. It will monitor your hormone production more efficiently and decrease your stress by helping your blood easily reach your brain.

Improve Your Blood Circulation

Now that you’ve read about a few benefits of increased blood circulation, consider how these changes would improve your life. Your doctor will help you identify anything that’s decreasing your circulation and prescribe the best lifestyle changes, treatments or medications so you can enjoy these health benefits once again.