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  • Laser Graffiti Cleaning: A Modern Solution for Graffiti Removal

    Laser Graffiti Cleaning: A Modern Solution for Graffiti Removal

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    Graffiti, while considered art in some contexts, can be a nuisance when it appears on private properties or public buildings without consent. The traditional methods of graffiti removal, such as chemical solvents, pressure washing, and sandblasting, often come with drawbacks like surface damage, environmental concerns, and high costs. Enter laser graffiti cleaning—a revolutionary approach that promises effective, damage-free, and environmentally friendly results.

    What is Laser Graffiti Cleaning?

    Laser cleaning uses concentrated laser beams to remove unwanted substances from surfaces. When the laser is directed at the graffiti, it vaporizes the paint without affecting the underlying material. This precision allows for the safe and efficient removal of graffiti on delicate or porous surfaces that might be damaged by traditional cleaning methods.

    The science behind laser cleaning lies in its ability to create rapid pulses of high-intensity light. These pulses create thermal expansion in the contaminants (such as paint, rust, or dirt), causing them to detach from the surface without disturbing the material beneath. This makes laser graffiti cleaning ideal for preserving the integrity of surfaces, whether it’s a heritage structure or modern building facade.

    Advantages of Laser Graffiti Removal

    1. Damage-Free Cleaning
      One of the greatest advantages of laser cleaning is its precision. Unlike harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive methods that can erode or scar the surface, laser cleaning targets only the graffiti. This ensures the original surface remains intact and unblemished.
    2. Environmentally Friendly
      Laser cleaning does not require chemical solvents, making it a green alternative to traditional graffiti removal techniques. With zero chemical runoff, this method helps protect the environment, making it a preferred choice for eco-conscious property owners and municipal bodies.
    3. Cost-Effective
      While the initial investment for laser cleaning equipment may seem high, the overall cost is reduced due to its efficiency and minimal maintenance needs. There is no need to purchase chemicals, replace abrasive materials, or repair surface damage caused by other methods.
    4. Versatility Across Various Surfaces
      Laser cleaning works on a range of surfaces, including brick, concrete, metal, stone, glass, and even wood. This versatility makes it suitable for diverse applications, whether it’s cleaning graffiti off a commercial building, a public monument, or a historic structure.
    5. Minimal Noise Pollution
      Laser cleaning is significantly quieter compared to pressure washing or sandblasting. This makes it ideal for use in residential areas or other locations where reducing noise pollution is a priority.
    6. Precise Control and Safety
      Operators have complete control over the laser’s intensity and focus, which ensures that only the unwanted graffiti is removed. This precise control minimizes the risk of damaging sensitive or historically significant surfaces.

    Surfaces Suitable for Laser Graffiti Removal

    Laser graffiti cleaning is effective on a variety of surfaces, making it a go-to option for both private and public entities. Here’s a breakdown of the surfaces that can benefit from this technology:

    • Brick and Masonry: Brick walls are often the target of graffiti artists. Laser cleaning can safely remove graffiti from brick without causing flaking or surface erosion.
    • Stone and Concrete: Graffiti on porous surfaces like stone and concrete can be tough to clean using chemicals, as these surfaces tend to absorb the paint. Laser cleaning, however, provides deep cleansing without penetrating or weakening the structure.
    • Metal Surfaces: Metal surfaces like building facades, monuments, and signage can develop rust along with graffiti. Laser cleaning not only removes the paint but can also address any oxidation, leaving the metal clean and polished.
    • Glass: Removing graffiti from glass without scratching or dulling the surface is a challenge for many traditional methods. Laser cleaning offers a non-contact, precise method for removing paint from glass surfaces without leaving any residue.
    • Wood: Laser graffiti removal can be used on wooden surfaces, though caution is required to avoid charring. When set at the right intensity, the laser can lift paint off wood without damaging the grain.

    Choosing the Right Laser Graffiti Cleaning Provider: Renovate Rx

    If you’re looking for a reliable and effective laser graffiti cleaning service, Renovate Rx stands out as a leader in the industry. With a commitment to using cutting-edge technology and a focus on preserving the integrity of your property, Renovate Rx offers tailored solutions to meet your specific graffiti removal needs.

    Why Choose Renovate Rx?

    • Expert Technicians: Renovate Rx’s team consists of trained professionals who understand the nuances of laser cleaning, ensuring optimal results without any risk to the underlying surfaces.
    • State-of-the-Art Equipment: The company uses the latest in laser cleaning technology, providing efficient, eco-friendly, and non-damaging solutions.
    • Comprehensive Services: Whether you need graffiti removal for commercial buildings, residential properties, or public spaces, Renovate Rx has the experience and tools to handle any job.
    • Customer Satisfaction: With a track record of satisfied clients and successful projects, Renovate Rx has become synonymous with high-quality service and exceptional results.

    Contact Renovate Rx Today

    Ready to say goodbye to unwanted graffiti and restore your surfaces to their original condition? Visit RenovateRx.com to learn more about their laser graffiti removal services and request a consultation. With Renovate Rx, you can expect nothing less than a pristine, graffiti-free surface, free from chemicals, damage, and hassle.

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  • Henri Bergmann’s ‘Guardian Angel’ arrives to Crosstown Rebels : Dancing Astronaut

    Henri Bergmann’s ‘Guardian Angel’ arrives to Crosstown Rebels : Dancing Astronaut

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    Henri Bergmann, Wennink debut on Crosstown Rebels with ‘Guardian Angel’240815 HENRI 5501 FINAL VIBRANT 1

    London-based duo Henri Bergmann and Wennink are making waves once again their debut on Crosstown Rebels, delivering an emotive crossover, “Guardian Angel.” Known for blending Bergmann’s melodic sensibilities with Wennink’s haunting vocals, the pair has already garnered attention from heavyweights like Afterlife, featuring on Dancing Astronaut‘s 2022 Label of the Year’s Realm Of Consciousness Pt. VI. The new cut showcases their ability to craft deep, emotional soundscapes, pairing richly textured percussion with Wennink’s vocals for a truly captivating experience.

    Accompanying the original are remixes from Stimming, and London-based talent Hardt Antoine, both offering their unique takes on the track. Stimming’s version leans into a driving rhythm with ethereal effects, while Antoine’s remix ventures into darker, sci-fi-inspired territory. This release marks another milestone for the duo, who continue to carve out their space in the melodic house and techno scene. The duo asks the question, “Do you believe in Guardian Angels?”

    Featured image: Henri Bergmann/Instagram

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  • The Most Dangerous Phrase In Education

    The Most Dangerous Phrase In Education

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    dangerous-phrasedangerous-phrase

    by Terry Heick

    I was speaking (tweeting) with Mark Barnes tonight, and he mentioned the idea of challenging existing forms and practices. And then someone tweeted the above image–a quote attributed to Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, according to the image source globalnerdy.com–and I was happy and favorited and saved and blogged.

    “We’ve always done it this way” implies legacy and tradition, which can be good. But it’s also one of the most dangerous phrases we can use—and this danger extends to education, as well.

    I talk a lot about disruptive teaching and paradigm shifting in teaching and learning not because I’m inherently rebellious, or some kind of academic anarchist. I’ve just taught long enough–in a wide variety of places–to realize that this idea of progress–and slow iteration–through data and sharing and ‘opening our classroom door’ just isn’t sufficient.

    It’s not bad, it just doesn’t reflect the priority and urgency of our collective challenge. At best, students come to school to play the game and be thought of as smart and successful; at worst, they come to disrupt and resist and simply make it through the year because they see no value in what they do.

    We have to create laws to force students to come to school, and it’s often the students that need school the worst who aren’t ‘made’ for it; that is, school is made for students who are strong readers and writers that can manage their work while learning to play nicely with others.

    Changing lives usually comes from relationships with teachers rather than the power of curriculum. But talking about mobile learning, self-directed learning, new content areas, adaptive learning, or valuing questions over answers can kill conversations in school and elicit polite smiles from teachers, mainly because those aren’t the rules of the game they know.

    The problem with the safe approach to teaching is that it won’t yield anything other than what we’ve always had. Without doing things radically different, the most we can hope for is some kind of increment. This isn’t a plea for chaos, but rather the courage to make mistakes.

    The phrase, ‘We’ve always done it this way’ symbolizes stagnant thinking and a resistance to innovation, reflecting an unwillingness to question established methods or consider new ideas. This mindset often stifles creativity, limits progress, and prevents growth by clinging to outdated practices simply because they are familiar.

    It can also create an environment where change is seen as a threat rather than an opportunity for improvement, discouraging individuals from challenging the status quo or exploring alternative solutions. Over time, this rigid adherence to tradition can lead to missed opportunities, decreased efficiency, and a lack of adaptability in a rapidly evolving world. To foster innovation and continuous improvement, it’s crucial to replace this mindset with one that values flexibility, embraces change, and encourages forward-thinking approaches.

    To ‘experiment’ on students (because that’s what’s already happening anyway). Dream, try, and collect data.

    Do something different this year.

    Don’t necessarily–and mindlessly–do what you’re told. 

    Light up a new pathway.

    Creatively, professionally, and persistently agitate your department, grade level, school, or district to not just become the best version of their existing selves, but become something else that they didn’t think was possible.

    The same hope you have for your students.

    The Most Dangerous Phrase In Education

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  • Weekly Meal Plan #20 | The Recipe Critic

    Weekly Meal Plan #20 | The Recipe Critic

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    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

    This week’s meal plan has a wide variety of meals and I made sure there was something for everyone! My family’s favorite is the Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup, you will love it!

    A collage of 5 pictures with a graphic that says week 20 meal plan with shopping list.

    This week has a wide variety of different foods. I covered all the bases with chicken, Asian, steak, seafood, and a delicious hearty soup! Don’t forget to add in a delicious dessert to the menu! I love anything with strawberries to follow up my yummy steak Diane!

    Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken

    Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken is an incredible restaurant-quality meal you can make in under 30 minutes. Tender, juicy chicken is smothered in a creamy lemon parmesan sauce- it’s a meal the family will go crazy for! 

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    Easy Teriyaki Noodles

    Packed with flavor, these easy Teriyaki Noodles are so much better than takeout! Throw these together in just 20 minutes with pantry staples for the perfect busy weeknight dinner. You can keep it vegetarian or serve it alongside your favorite protein.

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    Cheeseburger Soup

    Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is a thick and hearty soup with lean, tender ground beef, shredded carrots, diced celery and potatoes in a warm and creamy cheese soup. This is an award winning soup and it is excellent! 

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    Steak Diane

    Juicy and succulent Steak Diane is the perfect dinner for any occasion. Diane refers to the delicious cream sauce made that includes mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Cognac. The steak is flattened and seared in butter, and couldn’t be more flavorful!

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    Pesto Salmon

    Pesto Salmon is the BEST salmon you will ever make! Smothered in fresh basil pesto and soaked in roasted tomatoes, this salmon is then baked to perfection for a juicy and tender salmon fillet.

    View Recipe

    How Many Does it Feed?

    This free weekly meal plan is just what you need to get your week started. It provides five meals that will feed 4-6 (depending on if you are feeding adults or kids), AND it includes a shopping list! With fresh new ideas and easy-to-make recipes, having a weekly menu plan will be a lifesaver.

    Why Should I Meal Plan? 

    If you haven’t tried planning your meals ahead of time, this is going to be a game-changer for you! Here’s why I swear by meal planning:

    • Time Saver: No more 4:00 PM panic about dinner. With a menu plan, you know exactly what’s on the menu, what you need, and how long it takes to cook.
    • Money Saver: Meal planning works wonders for your wallet. When you organize your shopping list for the week, then you’ll easily spot opportunities to buy in bulk and creatively repurpose leftovers for future meals. It’s a clever approach that keeps more money in your pocket.
    • Bye-Bye Takeout: When your dinners are planned ahead of time and groceries are stocked, you’re less likely to hit the drive-thru. Because you are cooking at home, that means more savings and healthier eating. Win-win!

    Side Dishes for Dinner

    My weekly meal plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!

    Storing Leftovers for Meal Planning

    I only meal plan Monday-Friday because we sometimes have plans over the weekend or I have leftovers that we can have to finish off the week! If you do have leftovers, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in your fridge.



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  • Fat Bear Week Campaign Poster Winners: 2024

    Fat Bear Week Campaign Poster Winners: 2024

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    Introducing the top-voted posters of 2024!

    1. Vote for 128 Grazer! Round and fluff, can’t get enough!! by Top Bear Fan

    2. Team Grazer!! by Tara Larson

    3. Big Belly, Big Fun! Bead’s the cub for everyone!! by Nick Bear

    4. Vote 32 Chunk for FBW, by Erica Measday

    5. The Brother Bear want you to vote for Fat Bear Jr. 2024!! by Samantha Ashley

    6. 128 Grazer and her cute cub. Grazer for the win. Grazer the champion of mama bears. by Nemo Laine

    7. The Beady Bunch | Gorgeous. Girthy. Our Favorite Girl Gang. | reference photo by Willy Nilly, art work by Widfarend

    8. Fat Bears are healthy bears! Original watercolor poster of a Bear enjoying the bounty of nature. Here’s to all of our amazing bears at Katmai! by Kristin F. Simmons

    9. 901: Bodacious Beach Bod by Jo Spinner

    10. He’s packed on the pounds fishing while sitting on the lip. Vote for 903! by Sara (twelve22)

    11. Vote for 32 Chunk !! He’s the biggest in the trunk !! by Bear Friend

    12. Vote for 903! by FernW

    13. Retire #480—Katmai Hall Of Fame by Stacy Jeffries

    14. Vote for 806jr – the cutest cub in Katmai! Super cute, resting on his foot. Vote for the sweet 806jr! by katbears katbears

    15. 901 is on the cover of FBW in the super model edition. ⭐️ Vote 901. The world is her runway. She’s pretty & powerful 📸 Photographed by Ronald S Woan, poster by Marcie Cagle

     

    We’d be remiss not to include a few of the top-rated posters submitted by elementary schoolers. Here are a few from the gallery:

    “Even if he can be a punk.” – poster by Wyatt C. (8yo)

    Poster by Willow C. (6 yo)

    Ellerhorst Elementary, Pinole, CA, poster by Ariana G.

     

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  • How Much Sole Water to Drink Everyday

    How Much Sole Water to Drink Everyday

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    I’ve been drinking Himalayan sole water for a few years now and occasionally mention it in my blog posts. People frequently ask me questions about drinking it. One of the most common is “How much sole water should I drink?” Here are my thoughts on sole water and how much to drink based on your situation. 

    What is Sole Water? 

    Sole (pronounced “so-lay”) is basically a saltwater solution made with plain water and pink Himalayan salt. Himalayan salt is a high-quality natural salt with a rich mineral content. 

    While regular table salt is only sodium chloride (NaCl), Himalayan salt may have dozens of beneficial trace minerals besides sodium and chloride. (The exact number is subject to debate). So, it can serve as a daily all-natural mineral supplement.

    To prepare the sole, you need a quart-sized glass jar, filtered water, and Himalayan salt. When the salt crystals are dissolved in water, they are split into ions. So, NaCl spits into Na+ and Cl-. The positive ions in the salt surround the negative ions in the water, creating a new electrically charged structure. 

    This new substance may support detoxification and enhance energy levels. To keep the natural charge, keep the sole away from metals. So, use a plastic lid on the Mason jar and stir with a wooden spoon. If you’re concerned about interaction with metal braces, just drink it with a glass straw! 

    Here are a few more potential health benefits. 

    Health Benefits of Drinking Sole 

    People drink this Himalayan salt water for a variety of reasons. Some potential health benefits of sole water include: 

    • Supporting Detoxification: Drinking water in general helps support detox pathways like the urinary system. Adding sole to water helps the digestive system as well. The dissolved salt crystals may trigger the release of hydrochloric acid due to the chloride they contain. Having adequate stomach acid stimulates the release of digestive enzymes. Removing toxins can also keep the immune system in balance.
    • Healthy Electrolyte Balance: Electrolytes are essential minerals that support the normal functioning of the human body. They regulate fluid balance, muscle contraction, the nervous system, and more. For that reason, adding sole may help reduce muscle cramps in some people.
    • Better Sleep: One of the key minerals in Himalayan salt is magnesium, known for its calming effects on the nervous system. It helps to regulate neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and sleep. A sodium-restricted diet can also lead to disturbed sleep patterns.
    • Increased Energy Levels: The adrenal glands play a major role in regulating energy and stress levels. Minerals like magnesium and sodium in the Himalayan sole support adrenal function. Healthy adrenals may help to maintain balanced energy levels and improve resilience.
    • Weight Loss: One potential side effect of drinking sole water is weight loss. While not confirmed in research, many people report slimming down after adding sole to their daily cups of water. That may be due to salt’s positive effects on insulin resistance. 

    How Sole Water Can Help

    I personally had more energy and better digestion within the first week. I noticed skin improvements a couple weeks in. I also slept better pretty soon after starting.

    Here are a few testimonials from our comments:

    • “I have been taking it for years. My skin is much smoother, and no more stuffy nose. I haven’t been sick for a long time.” – Miho
    • “I dissolve a pinch of Himalayan salt in warm water and drink a few glasses a day. I have great results. I just carry with me a small box of salt and add it to water whenever I need. I feel energized, my skin is glowing, my digestive system works better, I stopped having heart palpitations. It works great for me.” – Agnes
    • “Sole has had a huge impact on my life. I struggle with migraines and low blood pressure leading to dizziness and fainting. Taking sole every day has reduced my migraines to a tiny fraction of what they were and my blood pressure is now normal.” – Donna
    • “I learned about sole from my health practitioner who recommended it for use to eliminate the cramps I get in my feet at night. VOILA! Solved! I drink it every day now and haven’t had foot cramps since!”
    • “Thanks for a wonderful article. It really saved my life. I wasn’t eating salt for years. My muscles became painful. I had dark skin, my body swollen, fatigue, and allergies. Sole cleared all these lack of sodium symptoms. I’m active and well now. Thanks.” – Joy

    So, with all these great results, you’re probably wondering how to use Himalayan sole in your life! 

    How to Use Himalayan Sole 

    The best way to use Himalayan sole is by taking a small amount of the mixture in 8 ounces of water first thing in the morning. That way, it’s on an empty stomach. Wait 20-30 minutes before drinking plain water or coffee, eating breakfast, or taking in any calories. If you’re practicing daily oil pulling, do that before drinking the sole.

    However, not everyone likes to drink it as a single dose first thing in the morning. Some people also like to mix a teaspoon of sole in 32 ounces of water and sip it throughout the day. You can add freshly squeezed lemon juice to make it more enjoyable.

    When starting, it’s common to increase intake slowly, allowing the body to adjust. Begin with 1/4 teaspoon of sole water in water (8-12 ounces) on an empty stomach in the morning.

    Gradually work your way up to 1 teaspoon of sole water in a glass of water. This is the standard daily dose for most people. (My kids get half a dose). However, I’ve gone up to two teaspoons a day. Be aware, though, that some people have had diarrhea from taking three or more teaspoons in one day.  

    How Much Sole Water Should You Drink?

    The standard dosage of Himalayan Sole to drink is generally 1 teaspoon mixed in a glass of water taken once a day. This amount provides the benefits of electrolytes and minerals without overloading the body with salt. 

    However, your personal hydration needs may vary depending on activity level, climate, and overall health. Sole Water can be part of your hydration routine, but it shouldn’t be your only source of water intake.

    What About High Blood Pressure? 

    It’s interesting to note that one teaspoon of pink Himalayan salt contains about 1,700 mg of sodium. The same amount of table salt has about 2,300 mg. According to the Original Himalayan Salt’s website, 1 teaspoon of sole has only 478 mg of sodium. So, the one teaspoon of sole in water isn’t as high in sodium as you might think.

    Also, for most of the population, salt doesn’t even affect blood pressure. However, there is such a thing as familial hypertension. So, if you’re genetically sensitive to salt, be cautious and check with your health practitioner. 

    Sometimes, what looks like hypertension is actually underlying insulin resistance. Because avoiding salt can worsen insulin resistance, it can also reduce insulin’s ability to widen blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure.

    Who Should Consider Drinking Sole? 

    Those wanting to boost their healthy salt intake or dealing with the issues above may wish to try sole. It may be helpful for those who have low blood sodium for whatever reason.

    In general, Americans consume much less unrefined salt than our ancestors. Just be sure you’re not neglecting your potassium intake through fresh produce.

    However, if you have kidney disease, heart conditions, or other sodium-related health issues, check with your doctor. A low-sodium diet is sometimes necessary, especially when working on getting back to balance. 

    Final Thoughts on a Daily Himalayan Salt Routine

    Adding essential minerals to your routine is easy through Himalayan pink salt sole. It’s fine at room temperature, so you can easily keep it in a Mason jar on the kitchen counter. That way it’s forefront in your mind and becomes a seamless part of your morning routine. However, you can also chill it in the refrigerator.

    Here are the details for how to make sole water. If you don’t want to use Himalayan salt, then Celtic sea salt or Real Salt are also good options. Just be sure not to use refined table salt, which is pure sodium. 

    Do you try to incorporate sole into your routine? How much sole water do you drink each day? Share with us below!

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  • 5 Tech Tools for Short-Term Rentals to Amp Up Your Business

    5 Tech Tools for Short-Term Rentals to Amp Up Your Business

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    As short-term rental (STR) hosts, we balance a million things at once—guest communications, bookings, cleanings, and, occasionally, reminding guests that “no, your pet llama can’t stay.” 

    Luckily, you don’t need to do it all manually anymore and can rely on the great inventions of modern times. No, I am not referring to DoorDash. I’m talking about the STR secret sauce.

    From automating guest responses to keeping your property booked and clean beyond belief, these five tech tools will transform your rental game from “I’m ready to sell” to “I am an STR savant.”

    1. Property Management Software (PMS)

    Have you ever had nightmares of having your property double-booked and both guests showing up simultaneously? How about your cleaner never realizing they needed to clean your property, and the next guests arrived at a trash dump in house form? That is when property management software (PMS) like Hospitable comes in clutch. You might as well consider it the brains of your STR success. 

    Hospitable is like the concierge you never knew you needed. It automates your guest communication (yes, even those last-minute questions like, “Does the blender work?” at 3 a.m.). This beauty syncs with Airbnb, Vrbo, your direct booking site, Booking.com, and more, ensuring no message slips through the cracks. You can set up auto-replies, thank-you messages, and even prescheduled instructions so you look like the most organized host on the planet—even if you’re binge-watching Netflix.

    Hospitable frees up your time, makes you look like a professional, and prevents you from needing to throw your phone across the room in frustration. It is perfect for hosts with less than 10 or so properties and should even be set up when you are just starting with one. Plus, no more 2 a.m. texts using their artificial intelligence (AI) power!

    2. Dynamic Pricing Software

    If you’re still setting prices manually, you’re living in the short-term rental dark ages. Dynamic pricing tools that help you set competitive rates based on real-time market demand will pay for themselves in the first month you use them. You wouldn’t charge peak prices on a random Tuesday, right? 

    Dynamic pricing software ensures you’re always optimizing for those sweet, sweet profits. Some top companies include PriceLabs and Beyond Pricing, and even more are popping up every day.

    It’s like having a Wall Street stockbroker, but for your rental pricing—minus the pinstripe suits and coffee-fueled 4 a.m. trading. This tool considers factors like local events, holidays, and market trends to keep your prices competitive without you lifting a finger.

    Do you think Hilton or Marriott are setting their prices once a year and then just hoping they’re accurate? Dynamic pricing software ensures your property is always priced to book—and at the best rate.

    3. STR Data Analytics Companies

    Think of these STR data companies as your secret weapon for market research. Companies like AirDNA, Rabbu, Mashvisor, and more analyze millions of Airbnb and Vrbo listings to provide you with insights on pricing, occupancy rates, and market trends. Want to know how much that beach house three blocks away with a pool is making? They have you covered.

    Use this tool to compare your property’s performance to others in the area, determine if you’re under or overpricing, and discover new opportunities. You might find out that adding a hot tub or pet-friendly amenities could increase your bookings by 30%.

    You can’t improve what you don’t measure—you need actionable data so you can make decisions based on numbers, not gut feelings. (which, let’s be honest, may or may not always be reliable).

    4. Smart Noise/Smoke Detectors

    It’s 11 p.m., and your guests are “just having a small get-together,” but you start getting complaints from the neighbors about a full-on rager. This is when tools like NoiseAware, Minut, Wynd, and more could become your personal party bouncer.

    These magical devices monitor noise levels without invading privacy (so you don’t have to be that host). If noise levels exceed a certain threshold, you get notified before things spiral out of control. They can also sense different types of smoking to notify you if your guest is fogging out the place or just “cooking” (burning to a crisp may be better). Plus, you can set it up to send polite but firm automated messages to your guests, reminding them that the whole neighborhood doesn’t want to hear their impromptu concert.

    Noise complaints can lead to bad reviews and even fines in some cities. Smoking can lead to canceled incoming guests and heavy cleaning fees. These technologies help you prevent party disasters before they happen—and your neighbors will love you for it.

    5. Cleaning and Operations Management (COM) Programs

    Once your guests leave (hopefully without burning the place down), it’s time to get your property back in tip-top shape. These cleaning and operation management (COM) programs can automate the scheduling and management of cleaning, inspections, and maintenance. Tidy, Breezeway, Turno, and others are some of my favorites with stellar reputations.

    Using these means no more frantically texting your cleaner to ask, “Did you remember to replace the towels?” COM programs make sure your property stays pristine, so you don’t end up with any horror stories like finding a missing sock in the microwave (yes, it’s happened).

    Guests expect perfection. Your cleaner wants to be updated regularly. You don’t want to be your cleaner’s personal scheduler. COM programs help you deliver by streamlining cleaning and maintenance tasks so every turnover is flawless.

    Take Control of Your Business

    Short-term rental success isn’t just about having a great property—it’s about making your life as a host easier.  Your time is valuable, and STRs will never be entirely passive by nature (unless you have an unlimited budget, which I cannot relate to). Taking your systems and processes seriously will pay off in the long run.

    These five tech tools will help you automate, optimize, and streamline your operations, allowing you more time to enjoy the good parts of hosting (like counting your 5-star reviews). And who knows? With all this extra time, you can start your TikTok series about the wildest guest stories.

    I’d watch and love to chime in with the time I had a guest attempt to do a goat sacrifice. I’ll save that story for Halloween.

    Find the Hottest Deals of 2024!

    Uncover prime deals in today’s market with the brand new Deal Finder created just for investors like you! Snag great deals FAST with custom buy boxes, comprehensive property insights, and property projections.

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    Note By BiggerPockets: These are opinions written by the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BiggerPockets.

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  • Kristin Du Mez and Mary J. Novak

    Kristin Du Mez and Mary J. Novak

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    Mary J. Novak and Kristin Du Mez are two incredible women whose work at the intersection of activism and faith is driving critical change in our society. This week, they join host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush on The State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio program and podcast, to explore how faith can be used as a tool for tremendous social progress, or for abuse – and how people can work together to help foster inclusive communities and challenge the forces of oppression.

    Kristin’s new film, For Our Daughters, explores the troubling culture of submission and sexual abuse within the evangelical church, and its connection to the Christian nationalist agenda aimed at undermining women’s rights in the upcoming 2024 election.

    “I thought it was really important to put their stories, in all of their power, in front of the country. In front of Christian women in particular, in front of Christians, and just hear them and grapple with: how could this be allowed to happen? How could, even after these wrongs were exposed…How could this persist? And then, what are we doing as Christians, as church members, and as voters to perpetuate these systems that foster abuse?” 

    – Kristin Kobes Du Mez, New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. She has contributed to The New York Times, The Washington Post, and NBC News and has been featured on NPR, CBS, and the BBC. Her latest works include her book, Jesus and John Wayne and groundbreaking documentary, For Our Daughters: Stories of Abuse, Betrayal, and Resistance in the Evangelical Church.

    “People of all backgrounds and religious and cultural persuasions are working together to help build the common good through policy and politics…because we can all come together. And when we collaborate, we have the power to decide the future we will inhabit.”

    – Mary J. Novak, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, the first lay leader and the sixth woman to hold this role. With a background in organizing, activism, law, education, chaplaincy, and restorative justice, she introduced a shared leadership model to advance NETWORK’s mission. Under her guidance, the organization is building stronger partnerships for the common good and positioning itself for future growth in pursuing justice. NETWORK organizes the incredible Nuns on the Bus & Friends Tour, traveling across the country starting September 29th to directly advocate for and pursue social justice through the lens of Catholic social teaching.

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  • Ask Ethan: Does space require dark energy in order to exist? | by Ethan Siegel | Starts With A Bang! | Sep, 2024

    Ask Ethan: Does space require dark energy in order to exist? | by Ethan Siegel | Starts With A Bang! | Sep, 2024

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    While we conventionally think of quantum physics as bringing an inherent uncertainty and “quantum-ness” to the particles that exist in our Universe, these effects necessarily extend beyond the particles themselves to include the fields that permeate all of space, even in the absence of particles themselves. Whether space can exist without the zero-point energy brought along by those fields is not yet known. (Credit: Aalto University)

    It’s possible to remove all forms of matter, radiation, and curvature from space. When you do, dark energy still remains. Is this mandatory?

    Here in our Universe, one of the few things we can be certain of is that every signal we’ve ever observed has originated within the fabric of spacetime itself. Galaxies, stars, planets, atoms, particles and antiparticles, photons, gravitational waves and more all exist within, and propagate through, the fabric of space, affecting everything they encounter. Although it’s difficult, it is possible to find regions of space that are exceedingly empty: with only the smallest traces of matter and radiation, found in the deepest voids in intergalactic space. However, even in those regions, space itself not only has no problem continuing to exist, but the fabric of spacetime itself continues to expand, just as it does throughout the rest of the Universe.

    Is there something profound about this? Does it mean that space and the energy that cannot be extracted from it — also known as dark energy — depend on one another for their mutual existence? That’s the question of Allan Hall, who asks:

    “If you could remove all baryonic and dark matter from space it seems to me that…

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  • Frito-Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks 20-Count Variety Pack ONLY $7.99 on Target.com

    Frito-Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks 20-Count Variety Pack ONLY $7.99 on Target.com

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    Hip2Save may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you via trusted partners and affiliate links in this post. Prices and availability are accurate as of time posted. Read our full disclosure policy here.

    Score HUGE savings on Frito-Lay snacks at Target!

    frito lays chips

    For a limited time, head to Target where select Frito-Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks Chips & Chocolate Variety Packs are on sale for $9.99 (regularly $13.99) – valid in-store and online!

    Even better, through October 5th, select varieties have a 20% off Circle offer that you can stack with the sale price for some pretty hot savings.

    Don’t forget, Target Circle Card holders get an extra 5% off and score free shipping!

    Also, be sure to check your Circle account for additional ‘Just for You’ savings and bonus offers.

    Target Frito-Lay Deal Ideas (Thru 10/5):

    a frito lay 20 count variety box of sweet and salty snacks stock image

    Frito-Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks – Chips & Chocolate 20-Count 9.99 (regularly $13.99)
    Less 20% off select Frito Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks Target Circle offer
    Final cost $7.99 – just 40¢ per snack!

    Includes 3 Lay’s Classic Potato Chips, 4 Doritos Nacho Cheese, 3 Cheetos Crunchy, and 10 Fun Size Snickers & M&Ms.

    a frito lay 20 count variety box of sweet and salty snacks stock image

    Frito-Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks – Chips & Candy 20-Count 9.99 (regularly $13.99)
    Less 20% off select Frito Lay Sweet & Salty Snacks Target Circle offer
    Final cost $7.99 – just 40¢ per snack!

    Includes 3 Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn, 3 Doritos Spicy Nacho, 4 Ruffles Cheddar & Sour Cream Potato Chips, and 10 Fun Size Snickers & Skittles.

    Check out these other grocery deals!


    About the writer:


    Cara has a Bachelor’s Degree from Northwestern State University, with a background in writing about food, culture, and beauty.


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