Blog

  • Motorola Moto G35 hands-on review

    Motorola Moto G35 hands-on review

    [ad_1]

    The new Moto G35 5G is the most affordable entry in this year’s Motorola G-series and it brings a competent specs sheet for just €199. We got to spend some time with the device following its announcement and these are our first impressions.

    Motorola Moto G35 hands-on

    Motorola is turning a new page in its G-series design language with the G35 and the G55. Both devices offer a sleek looks with the camera island gently rising from the back. The textured back on the green color variant features vegan leather made with renewable materials including soy and bamboo. The black and red versions get a polycarbonate back with a sparkle-like finish that also provides plenty of grip.

    Motorola Moto G35 hands-on

    Motorola went with a dual camera setup headlined by a 50 MP main shooter which is joined by an 8 MP ultrawide lens.

    Moto G35 comes in three color options – Guava Red, Midnight Black, and Leaf Green which is the one we got to test out. The green color is our personal favorite. The vegan leather helps with the grip and is a nice option if you want to go case-less.

    Motorola Moto G35 hands-on

    Moving to the front, we have a sizeable 6.72-inch LCD with FHD+ resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate. The panel is rated at up to 1,000 nits peak brightness and it features an embedded 16 MP front-facing camera.

    Moto G35 relies on the Unisoc T760 chipset and now comes with 128GB base storage, unlike its predecessor which started with 64GB storage.


    Moto G35 top and bottom
    Moto G35 top and bottom

    Moto G35 top and bottom

    The phone boots Android 14 out of the box with Motorola’s Hello UI interface on top and features a 5,000 mAh battery with 18W charging. You also get a microSD card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • OpenAI and Anthropic agree to share their models with the US AI Safety Institute

    OpenAI and Anthropic agree to share their models with the US AI Safety Institute

    [ad_1]

    OpenAI and Anthropic have agreed to share AI models — before and after release — with the US AI Safety Institute. The agency, established through an executive order by President Biden in 2023, will offer safety feedback to the companies to improve their models. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman hinted at the agreement earlier this month.

    The US AI Safety Institute didn’t mention other companies tackling AI. But in a statement to Engadget, a Google spokesperson told Engadget the company is in discussions with the agency and will share more info when it’s available. This week, Google began rolling out updated chatbot and image generator models for Gemini.

    “Safety is essential to fueling breakthrough technological innovation. With these agreements in place, we look forward to beginning our technical collaborations with Anthropic and OpenAI to advance the science of AI safety,” Elizabeth Kelly, director of the US AI Safety Institute, wrote in a statement. “These agreements are just the start, but they are an important milestone as we work to help responsibly steward the future of AI.”

    The US AI Safety Institute is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It creates and publishes guidelines, benchmark tests and best practices for testing and evaluating potentially dangerous AI systems. “Just as AI has the potential to do profound good, it also has the potential to cause profound harm, from AI-enabled cyber-attacks at a scale beyond anything we have seen before to AI-formulated bioweapons that could endanger the lives of millions,” Vice President Kamala Harris said in late 2023 after the agency was established.

    The first-of-its-kind agreement is through a (formal but non-binding) Memorandum of Understanding. The agency will receive access to each company’s “major new models” ahead of and following their public release. The agency describes the agreements as collaborative, risk-mitigating research that will evaluate capabilities and safety. The US AI Safety Institute will also collaborate with the UK AI Safety Institute.

    It comes as federal and state regulators try to establish AI guardrails while the rapidly advancing technology is still nascent. On Wednesday, the California state assembly approved an AI safety bill (SB 10147) that mandates safety testing for AI models that cost more than $100 million to develop or require a set amount of computing power. The bill requires AI companies to have kill switches that can shut down the models if they become “unwieldy or uncontrollable.”

    Unlike the non-binding agreement with the federal government, the California bill would have some teeth for enforcement. It gives the state’s attorney general license to sue if AI developers don’t comply, especially during threat-level events. However, it still requires one more process vote — and the signature of Governor Gavin Newsom, who will have until September 30 to decide whether to give it the green light.

    Update, August 29, 2024, 4:53 PM ET: This story has been updated to add a response from a Google spokesperson.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Snag The Hitman Trilogy For $30 On PlayStation Right Now

    Snag The Hitman Trilogy For $30 On PlayStation Right Now

    [ad_1]

    The fervor around the upcoming Metal Gear Solid 3 remake is a great reminder that once upon a time, we were drowning in iconic stealth franchises. Over the years, some series have dwindled or transformed into whole other things, but one of them has kept kicking and found even greater success as of late, and that’s the most recent Hitman games.

    Beginning in 2016, IO Interactive released what would become a trilogy of Hitman titles comprising the World of Assassination. The first game, which released new levels episodically, struggled to find its footing, perhaps due in part to this new experimental delivery model, and eventually its publisher, Square Enix, parted ways with IO Interactive and the series. Hitman 2, taking some lessons from the first, released as one whole game to much more immediate success, though it still didn’t light the world on fire. Eventually though, IO struck gold with the third and final installment in the trilogy, which absorbed the content of the first two and polished things up a bit.

    Now, you can get the entirety of the acclaimed Hitman trilogy for just shy of $30 on PlayStation. Considering that it typically goes for $70, and the deluxe edition with every bit of DLC goes for $100, that’s the steal of a generation.

    I’ve never played the first of the trilogy despite owning it for some time now, but anecdotally, I’ve always heard that it’s a game that ramps up in quality. The first level, set in the midst of a Paris fashion show, sounds like it sets the stage for three games full of wildly immersive and interactive environments to manipulate in order to take out your target. Beyond that, the Sapienza is often talked about as one of the best levels of any game that decade, as well as Miami in Hitman 2, and the train mission in Hitman 3. Over the run of three games, IO seems to constantly challenge and one-up itself.

    In case you’re new here, the fun of Hitman isn’t just getting a clean kill, it’s how big you can go on its sprawling maps. You can equip and use remarkably different loadouts to try and tackle the game in both messy and stealthy ways. If you want to be a marksman, there’s a way forward. If you want to use an explosive golf ball or rubber duck, that’s also valid. Want to be up close and deadly with a garotte wire? Knock yourself out. Want to go virtually undetected and never even see the target? That’s also probably doable via some well-placed rat poison.

    There are even substories that the player can discover across levels, which culminate in flashy and hilarious alternative methods to complete the objective. In one playthrough, I managed to track a target to an underground experimental weapons facility and reprogram the robot they were field testing to fire on them. My personal favorite occurred in Mumbai, where I found signs of another assassin in the immediate area, and somehow got them to take out some of my targets for me. While these stories are meant to give you linear paths to feel out the extent of Hitman’s systems, the sky’s honestly the limit. If you can conceive of it and have the tools, you can pull off some seriously absurd hijinx in these games.

    You are going to want to do as many tricks as you possibly can. I’m not one to replay games or levels all that much, but Hitman 2 is one of the handful of games that stoked some kind of obsession from me. It doesn’t help that the series’ locales are so expansive and delightful to explore. Spanning the globe, the trilogy takes you to places like the Italian countryside, an English manor that hosts a Knives Out-style murder mystery dinner, the crowded city streets of Mumbai, a skyscraper in Dubai, a suburb in Vermont, and a race track in Miami among so many others. You can even pick up the DLC maps and missions for both Hitman 2 and 3 for another $21 as part of the Hitman World of Assassination Deluxe Pack on PlayStation.

    Miraculously, that isn’t all that’s on offer. Hitman 3 is still being supported as a live-service title, and receives special missions called Elusive Targets pretty regularly. These are limited-time missions that challenge players to kill the target in one attempt. Unless they restart the mission, a win or a failure will become the permanent state of the mission, though IO has reactivated some of these in the past to give players a second chance.

    And that still isn’t all! Last year, IO added a roguelike mode called Freelancer. In it, you can deck out Agent 47’s safehouse and take contracts to wipe out a series of targets in randomly picked locations from across the series 20+ maps. The goal is to lure out the big bad on every run by effectively taking out their lieutenants, but if you die, you take your XP gains, invest in more tools, and start a run again.

    More or less, Hitman has become an incredible offer over the years with more than enough replayable content to merit the asking price. Rather than rest on its laurels, the developers have spent the subsequent years honing it into one of the sharpest and best titles of the generation. I can’t imagine not picking up all three of the games for this abominably low price.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Bulk Sale of Musical Instruments and Stage Equipment in South Fallsburg, NY – RenovateRx

    Bulk Sale of Musical Instruments and Stage Equipment in South Fallsburg, NY – RenovateRx

    [ad_1]

    Looking for top-quality musical instruments and stage equipment? Your search ends here! We’re thrilled to announce our bulk sale featuring a vast selection of musical instruments and stage gear, ideal for musicians, event planners, schools, and anyone aiming to enhance their sound and stage presence.

    What’s on Offer?

    Our bulk sale features a wide array of essential musical instruments and stage equipment. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll find:

    • Speakers: High-performance speakers that deliver crystal-clear sound, perfect for concerts and events.
    • Controllers: Premium controllers for DJs and sound engineers, ensuring smooth, seamless audio control.
    • Microphones: A variety of mics suitable for all your needs, from vocal performances to instrument amplification.
    • Stage Lights: Professional-grade stage lighting to set the ambiance and spotlight your performance.

    Why Buy in Bulk?

    Purchasing in bulk comes with several advantages:

    • Cost-Effective: Maximize value by purchasing large quantities at competitive prices.
    • Consistency: Achieve a uniform look and sound across your equipment for a cohesive performance.
    • Convenience: Save time by sourcing all your gear from one location, ready for immediate use.

    Location

    This incredible bulk sale is happening in South Fallsburg, NY. Whether you’re nearby or willing to travel, this opportunity is too good to pass up.

    Competitive Pricing

    We know price matters. Our bulk pricing is designed to be competitive and accessible. We’re flexible and open to discussing pricing options that fit your budget, ensuring you get the best possible deal.

    Access the Full Product List

    To explore the complete range of instruments and stage equipment available, please check the linked PDF. It contains detailed images and descriptions of everything included in this bulk sale.

    View the Full Product List

    Get in Touch

    For inquiries, pricing information, or to schedule a visit to see the equipment in person, contact us. We’re here to help you find the perfect instruments and equipment for your needs.

    Location: South Fallsburg, NY

    Don’t miss this fantastic chance to upgrade your musical gear or stage setup with top-quality instruments and equipment at unbeatable prices!

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Bulk Sale of Musical Instruments and Stage Equipment in South Fallsburg, NY

    Bulk Sale of Musical Instruments and Stage Equipment in South Fallsburg, NY

    Are you in need of high-quality musical instruments and stage equipment? Look no further! We are excited to announce our bulk sale of an extensive range of musical instruments and stage equipment, perfect for musicians, event organizers, schools, and anyone looking to elevate their sound and stage presence.

    What We Offer

    Our bulk sale includes a wide variety of essential musical instruments and stage equipment. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

    • Speakers: High-performance speakers that deliver crystal-clear sound, perfect for concerts, events, and more.
    • Controllers: Top-of-the-line controllers for DJs and sound engineers, ensuring smooth and seamless control over audio settings.
    • Microphones (Mics): A range of mics suited for all your needs, from vocal performances to instrument amplification.
    • Stage Lights: Professional-grade stage lighting to set the mood and highlight the performance.

    Why Buy in Bulk?

    Buying in bulk offers numerous benefits:

    • Cost-Effective: Get more value for your money by purchasing in large quantities.
    • Consistency: Ensure uniform quality and style across your equipment, providing a cohesive look and sound for your performances.
    • Convenience: Save time by sourcing all your equipment from one place, ready for immediate use.

    Location

    This incredible bulk sale is available in South Fallsburg, NY. Whether you’re a local or willing to make the trip, this opportunity is too good to miss.

    Price Expectations

    We understand that price is a significant consideration. Rest assured, our bulk pricing is designed to be competitive and accessible for all buyers. We offer flexibility and are open to discussing pricing that suits your budget while ensuring you get the best deal possible.

    How to Access the Full List of Products

    To view the full range of instruments and stage equipment available, please refer to the PDF linked below. It contains detailed images and descriptions of everything included in this bulk sale.

    View the Full Product List

    Contact Us

    For inquiries, pricing details, or to schedule a visit to see the equipment in person, feel free to reach out. We are here to help you find the perfect set of instruments and equipment for your needs.

    Location: South Fallsburg, NY

    Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to upgrade your musical gear or stage setup with top-quality instruments and equipment at unbeatable prices!

    BUY NOW

  • To Truly Improve Learning, Schools Should Stop Trying So Hard

    To Truly Improve Learning, Schools Should Stop Trying So Hard

    [ad_1]

    by Terry Heick

    Education is a series of learning experiences informed by policy, and actuated by teachers.

    Policy, by its very nature, is sweeping and ambitious. It is designed to work on various scales, is well-intentioned, and often difficult to fault on paper. The teachers aren’t really much different. They are ambitious, designed to work on various scales, and are commissioned (quite literally) to enact the policies that govern the institutions (schools) they work in.

    The wrinkles arise however as teachers strive to realize a vision for education that is, as things are, entirely impossible: For every student to master every academic standard.

    No matter the starting literacy level, emotional intelligence, goals in life, family history, socioeconomic background, learning and thinking habits, or academic ambition, the same result is expected of all students–and increasingly troublesome word stuffed full of connotation and implication.

    Proficiency.

    And perhaps worst of all, this inclusive scale of proficiency is regarded not as a necessary evil, but the noblest of goals–equality manifest as democracy itself.

    Equality In Learning

    Equality in learning can mean anything. Same spending. Same resources–or rather, same fulfillment of relative needs. Same expectations.

    Fair doesn’t always mean equal, as many will correctly reason, but as we seek to democratize the learning process, we end up with scripted responses to unscripted circumstances, and as a result the homogenization of something that has no business being homogenized.

    Learning
    But equality in learning is a dangerous chase to give, full of dead-ends, rhetoric, and, at times, waste.

    Learning is messy and personal–messy because it’s personal, in fact. And it’s wasteful for many of the same reasons. Not because people learn differently, but because education often tries to impose ‘sameness’ on it all. And when that approach doesn’t work, gobs (and gobs) of resources are spent troubleshooting, ‘remediating,’ and erstwhile tail-chasing.

    Learning can be frustrating for the same reasons it’s compelling–because it’s instinctive and primal. It starts out as play, and then quickly turns more formal as self-directed experimentation turns into sterile academia. Schools–well-intentioned–care so much for the learning that they pull out every stop: sirens, meters, and relief valves to let us know what’s going on at all times.

    This, however, is a (small) part of the problem, like checking a rubric and data during your first date to see how things are going. That doesn’t mean there is no place for data and rubrics, but it just might be that, in pursuit of proficiency we’ve found dull edges.

    And in pursuit of excellence we’ve found mediocrity.

    Not An Argument For Learning Models

    At this point, this is usually where the conversation turns to learning models–entrepreneurial learning, self-directed learning, mobile learning, play-based learning, project-based learning, inquiry-based learning, blended learning.

    And so on.

    And this is all pertinent and felicitous–all screaming for thinking, integration, and revision. But instead, a more immediate focus of our scope might be the way teachers and teacher systems push back on one another in the vast majority of public schools today.

    The Systems

    So what are these ‘systems’?

    District walkthroughs and their ‘non-negotiables.’

    Professional growth plans.

    Professional learning communities.

    Data teams.

    District and school-sponsored professional development.

    News media publishing of test scores.

    Actually, let’s stop and look at that one for a moment.

    Public Reporting Of Test Scores

    The publishing of test scores isn’t the problem–it’s the void of context most people have for internalizing those data. The public sees in more binary terms–failing school and performing school. Maybe improving school. That’s it.

    Never failing test, performing attention to literacy, or on the rise community support. Schools are not seen as completely interdependent with society, but rather widget factories, and are thus judged by their widgets. And perhaps worst of all, these widgets are children.

    Why this is a problem has to do with connotation and loaded language–old-guard advertising tricks to get people to care. A widget is cold, but a child is a living, breathing, blinking thing that deserves the best possible future–and the best from us today to help make that happen.

    And of course that’s true.

    Vague & Emotionally Loaded Language

    So when we talk, our language can be empty and generalized. We talk about the future, the learning, of our collective and unyielding intent to ‘do right by these kids.’ We make decisions that ‘are best for the kids,’ rather than the adults, because what adult would propose the opposite?

    But it’s exactly through this selfless ambition and pathos-based grandstanding that we get ourselves in trouble. We simply cannot consistently fulfill what we promise, and, puzzled, turn to professional development to solve our woes.

    If school is an analogue of post-modern industrialism–and it shouldn’t be but it currently operates as exactly that–then teachers and administrators are the ones that operate the levers and the presses. We create the molds, fill the conveyors with widgets, fill the pallets, operate the forklifts, and take very serious notes on our clipboards as we watch with equally serious eyes.

    But it’s the teachers and administrators, tirelessly planning and revising while the entire operation teeters, that are wheezing and chuffing. We promise and swear in both creed and policy to help every single child meet their potential as human beings. The pressure–and hubris–of that promise!

    We add empowering signatures on our email, ‘Failure is not an option,’ or ‘Preparing children for the future,’ and then ‘recharge our batteries’ during weekends and holidays so that on Monday afternoons we can sit erect in two hour staff meetings that rob us of any bit of innovative spirit we had managed to restore.

    We invite the parents into school every quarter with the promise of bake sales or a school play and other extracurricular events, pretending not to notice how awkward it all is—how we both are raising different parts of their children but barely know one another.

    How we stubbornly continue to teach children as an industry produces goods.

    How we fail to connect organizations with families and schools and universities and cultural programs and community centers in any compelling way because, as schools, we insist on going alone, only opening the doors on our schedule and our terms to help us do what we want to do because we wrote the book on what needs to be done.

    We use language and processes of education that are completely alien to most families. And in the process, we create a completely unsustainable–and morbidly private–system of learning that reduces the capacity of families and communities while we toil away in proud martyrdom, never realizing that our ambition is costing us everything.

    If schools serve students, and students are deeply embedded in the fabric of communities, how can we serve those students without knowing those communities? And without those communities knowing us?

    Maybe we open our school and classroom doors for meaningful interaction with families and communities on equal terms not at an extracurricular level, but a curricular level.

    That’s much easier said than done, but conversations about school improvement could do worse than start there.

    Exactly Where To Start With School Improvement

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Breakfast Monkey Bread | The Recipe Critic

    Breakfast Monkey Bread | The Recipe Critic

    [ad_1]

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

    Rise and shine to Breakfast Monkey Bread with delicious savory flavors! It’s made with Grands biscuits, eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese, all baked in a bundt pan. The result is a crowd-pleasing, pull-apart bread that everyone will devour!

    Overhead shot of savory breakfast monkey bread with piece pulled out.

    Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Delicious Flavor: This breakfast monkey bread has a wonderful savory, cheesy flavor combined with soft, tender bread! It’s so good you won’t be able to stop eating it!
    • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, one pan baking, and easy-to-follow instructions, you will love whipping this up for any brunch or quick reheat breakfast option for your kids!
    • Crowd Pleaser: This breakfast is sure to be a hit with everyone—kids and adults alike!
    • Great for Holidays: I love holiday brunches, such as Christmas morning, Mother’s Day, and Easter. This monkey bread recipe is the perfect addition to your brunch spread!

    What is Savory Breakfast Monkey Bread?

    If you love classic Monkey Bread with its cinnamon-sugar goodness, you’re in for a treat! This breakfast version keeps the fun pull-apart style but adds a savory spin with eggs, cheese, and breakfast meats. This breakfast monkey bread is one of my family’s all-time favorite brunch items.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    This breakfast monkey bread recipe might use Grands biscuits, but it tastes homemade! Only eight simple ingredients are needed, but once it’s baked, it looks so impressive. Perfect for holiday brunches! Check out the recipe card below for exact measurements.

    • Grands Biscuits: I love making pull-apart bread recipes with these canned biscuits! They are so versatile!
    • Large Eggs: This recipe uses six large eggs that are lightly scrambled and added to the breakfast bread.
    • Heavy Cream: A small amount of heavy cream added to the eggs makes them fluffy and light.
    • Seasoning: Everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.
    • Butter: Makes the eggs taste rich and SO delicious.
    • Meat: Precooked breakfast sausage and bacon are added to the mixture of ingredients for the most amazing savory flavor.
    • Cheese: I really like shredded cheddar cheese in this recipe, but feel free to add whichever cheese you prefer! Gruyère, white cheddar cheese, pepper jack, Monterey Jack, provolone, and Swiss are all great options.
    Overhead shot of labeled ingredients. Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.

    How to Make Breakfast Monkey Bread

    I love how wonderfully simple this recipe is. With nearly everything ready-made, you can just toss it all into a pan and let the oven handle the rest! Just follow my step-by-step instructions below for a breakfast that’s bound to become a favorite!

    1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a large bundt pan with pan spray. Cut all the biscuits into quarters and set them aside in a large bowl.
    2. Whisk Eggs: Add the eggs to a small bowl and whisk with the cream and everything bagel seasoning.
    3. Cook Eggs: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted, and then scramble the egg mixture until slightly undercooked.
    4. Combine Ingredients: Remove the eggs from the heat and transfer them to the bowl with the biscuits. Add the scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese.
    5. Stir Together: Toss everything together until evenly combined.
    6. Bake: Carefully fill the prepared bundt pan with the biscuit mixture until it’s full. Then, bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown. Once baked, allow the Monkey Bread to cool slightly before turning it out onto a serving plate. Finally, serve it warm and enjoy!

    Breakfast Monkey Bread Tips and Variations

    Here are some simple tips and ideas for making savory monkey bread! There are many ways to switch up the ingredients and make it your own. Have fun with it!

    • Seasoning Options: The Everything bagel seasoning can be substituted for other seasonings or just salt and pepper. Use 1/2 teaspoon salt and a pinch or two of black pepper.
    • Different Cooking Options: You can use a 6-cup bundt pan by cutting the recipe in half and baking it for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can spray a muffin pan with non-stick spray, divide the mixture into 12 portions, and bake for 13-18 minutes to make mini Monkey Bread muffins.
    • Other Canned Biscuits: If you use regular-sized canned biscuits instead of the Grands, use the same number of cans, but cut the biscuits in half instead of in quarters.
    • Add Onion and Peppers: Sauté 1/2-1 cup of onions or peppers and stir them in with everything to add a little more variety of flavor.
    • Add Chives: Try adding 1-2 tablespoons of chopped chives with the eggs or stirring them into the biscuit mixture.

    Side shot of someone pulling a piece of the savory breakfast monkey bread from the whole. Side shot of someone pulling a piece of the savory breakfast monkey bread from the whole.

    How to Store Leftover Breakfast Monkey Bread

    This breakfast monkey bread is great because it keeps fresh for many days! Follow my tips below for storing and reheating leftovers.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for about five days.
    • In the Freezer: Store in a freezer bag or wrapped in 2 -3 layers of plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Close up shot of the breakfast monkey bread with piece taken out. Close up shot of the breakfast monkey bread with piece taken out.

    More Breakfast Recipes

    Breakfast is my favorite because there are so many wonderful sweet and savory options! I love a good brunch, where I can make all sorts of recipes and enjoy them at the same time! Here are a few ideas for you to try that your whole family will love! Like this breakfast monkey bread, they would all be great as part of a holiday brunch spread!

    Pin this now to find it later

    Pin It

    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a large bundt pan with pan spray.

    • Cut all the biscuits into quarters and set them aside in a large bowl.

    • Add the eggs to a small bowl and whisk with the cream and bagel seasoning. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted, then scramble the egg mixture until slightly undercooked. Remove the eggs from the heat and transfer them to the bowl with the biscuits.

    • Add the sausage, bacon, and cheese. Toss everything together until evenly combined.

    • Carefully fill the prepared bundt pan with the biscuit mixture until the pan is full.

    • Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown. Let the monkey bread cool slightly before turning it out onto a serving plate. Serve warm.

    Calories: 836kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 24gFat: 57gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 21gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 209mgSodium: 1733mgPotassium: 452mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 725IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 235mgIron: 5mg

    Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.



    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • DIY Propolis Throat Spray

    DIY Propolis Throat Spray

    [ad_1]

    I always like to keep certain supplements on hand this time of year, like vitamin C, and elderberry syrup. With all of the kid’s activities and traveling I do, we’re often exposed to germs. Propolis throat spray is a great (and tasty!) way to get some more immune support.

    I keep several bottles of propolis spray in my house at all times. This way it’s always handy when I need one, like if I feel a sore throat or stuffy sinuses coming on. I love buying this brand, but it’s also possible to make it for yourself.

    What is Propolis?

    Bees make propolis from a mix of resin, beeswax, sap, and other things. You’ll also find antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols. It’s vital to their survival, helps protect the hive, and strengthens the structure. It also guards against invaders like disease and parasites. Not only does it do all that for bees, but it has some amazing properties for humans too.

    Benefits of Propolis

    Propolis has countless biological active compounds. In other words, it has so many beneficial things we haven’t even discovered them all yet. The lengthy list of what it’s thought to help with includes:

    • Antidiabetic
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Antioxidant
    • Anticancer
    • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • COPD
    • Heart disease
    • Digestive disorders
    • Protects the brain and heart.
    • Modulates the immune system
    • And lots more!

    This podcast guest recommends using propolis over raw honey for seasonal allergies. The good news is that with this DIY propolis spray you can have the benefits of both!

    Where to Buy Propolis Spray

    Maybe I’ve already convinced you to give propolis a try but you don’t want to make it yourself. The kids and I love this Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis spray (use code wellnessmama for 20% off). It’s naturally gluten-free, doesn’t have preservatives, and is made with New Zealand honey. This brand also has other bee products, like lozenges. And if your little ones aren’t keen on the taste of propolis, they also offer a kid’s propolis that’s milder and sweeter.

    I typically get their products online but you can find them in-store at certain health food stores too. I’ve also seen them at Whole Foods.

    How to Make a Propolis Glycerite

    There are two ways to make this throat spray. You can either buy a premade propolis glycerite or make your own. Glycerites are similar to herbal tinctures but instead of using alcohol, you use vegetable glycerin. They do take 6 weeks to make though, so if you’re in a hurry buying it may be the better option.

    Glycerites are safe for kids, naturally sweet, and won’t burn or irritate the throat like alcohol. Here’s how to make a bee propolis extract with glycerin:

    1. Place 2/3 cup of propolis powder in a 16-ounce glass jar.
    2. Combine 3/4 cup glycerin with 1/4 cup distilled water in a separate jar and stir well.
    3. Pour the glycerin/water mixture over the propolis powder and stir to combine.
    4. Put the lid on the jar and shake daily for 6 weeks.
    5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean jar (this will take a while!). You may need to do this step twice to remove all of the powder.

    You can easily double or halve this recipe depending on your preference. Once you have your propolis glycerite or have bought it, you’re ready to make the throat spray!

    DIY Propolis Throat Spray

    This propolis honey throat spray is great for soothing scratchy throats. You can also use it daily to help keep your immune system performing its best!

    Active Time3 minutes

    Total Time3 minutes

    Yield: 1 ounce

    Author: Katie Wells

    • Combine the propolis, water, and honey in a small spray bottle and shake to combine.

    • Add more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time if needed for the right consistency. You want the mixture to be thick enough to coat the throat, but just thin enough to come out of the spray bottle.

    Store the mixture in the fridge. This should last for several weeks.

    If your honey is already on the thin side you may not need to add the water. You can try it without at first to see if it will work. Mine reluctantly came out of the sprayer but worked much better when thinned with a little water. The more water you add the shorter the shelf life though, so use sparingly!

    How to Use Propolis Throat Spray

    I like to use propolis spray at the first sign of illness. All you do is squirt a few sprays directly into the throat. The kids like it too because it tastes good and is sweet! This spray is also good when traveling or anytime you need an extra immune boost. I always have some with me when I’m on a flight to help keep inflammation down.

    Here are more ways to stay healthy while flying.

    Have you ever used propolis before? What are your favorite bee products to keep on hand? Leave a comment and let me know!

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • There Are More Renters Than Homeowners in Wealthy States—Why?

    There Are More Renters Than Homeowners in Wealthy States—Why?

    [ad_1]

    If you’re looking to snag a cheap rental property in one of America’s less affluent states, like West Virginia, Mississippi, or Alabama, you might have a hard time getting it rented. That’s because, according to Federal Reserve and U.S. Census Bureau data, states with lower incomes per capita tended to have the highest homeownership rates. 

    As strange as that might sound, it largely comes down to the cost of homes and resident demographics. States with pricier homes tend to contain more cities with younger people who cannot afford to buy a home or don’t want to be saddled with a mortgage. In more rural areas, the opposite is true. 

    Zoning also has a lot to do with it. In pricier states, land is both hard to come by and not always zoned for residential use. According to a recent CNN article, it’s possible to buy 90 acres in West Virginia for less than half a million dollars. In more affluent states, that might not even buy you a 500-square-foot studio apartment.

    At the same time, restrictive zoning laws in major cities are currently being rethought by both Democrats and Republicans as the housing crisis pushes both buying and renting out of reach for many Americans.

    The CNN article also cites Federal Reserve data, which reveals that despite West Virginia’s average personal income of $52,585 per capita—the second-lowest in the country—it also has the highest homeownership rate—77%—of all 50 states. Similarly, Mississippi, which has lower personal income levels than West Virginia, has the third-highest homeownership rate in the U.S. 

    Federal Reserve data shows that the median sales price of houses sold in the U.S. was $412,300 as of the second quarter of 2024. However, according to Zillow data, as of June 30, the median home sale price in West Virginia was $218,667. The average sale price was $169,446 (up 5.3% year over year). Conversely, the average home value in New York City is $1,150,639 and $1,290,350 in San Francisco.

    Below, you can see a regression line showing the correlation between homeownership rates and per capita income by state.

    As you can see, as incomes fall, homeownership increases.

    Americans Still Desire to Live Away From Expensive Cities

    Given these dramatic swings in affordability, it’s not surprising that Americans are moving out of big cities faster than before the pandemic. According to U.S. Census data analysis by investment bank Goldman Sachs, remote work is a prime driver of this movement.

    Data shows that while the number of people working remotely has dropped from 50% during the pandemic to 20% now, it is still dramatically more than the 2% to 3% who did so before the pandemic. The report also noted that cities with high population densities grew slower than before the pandemic. 

    Data also reveals that while less affluent U.S. states are currently sparking high homeownership rates due to the lower cost of housing, should migratory trends continue, home prices could increase sharply. This is particularly true in smaller and mid-sized cities in traditionally low-cost states, as nationally, Americans have grown accustomed to working remotely and might not return to big-city living.

    “Maybe there isn’t going to be a rebound,” Hamilton Lombard, a demographer at the University of Virginia, told USA Today about the census findings. “Maybe the rebound is over.” 

    A Yawning Gap in Home Prices Offers Investment Opportunities

    Lombard noted in a study that domestic migration losses were concentrated in the largest metro areas with more than 4 million residents. Losses were around 400,000 before the pandemic but have been markedly higher since then, tallying more recently at 550,000 as workers have returned to big city offices. However, as recent home prices show, there is still a yawning gap between the cost of homes in different states, making shrewd investment purchases in burgeoning smaller towns and cities possible. 

    Interestingly, the report showed that in 2023, roughly 266,000 big-city escapees moved to metro areas with populations of 250,000 to 1 million, with 291,000 moving to areas with populations under 250,000. Thus, for the first time in decades, small towns have been the top destination for domestic migrants.

    Watch What the Corporate Chains Are Doing

    The cost-of-living crisis has undoubtedly caused many Americans to reconsider the value of city living, especially when quality-of-life issues such as clean air, space, and good school systems are concerned. The decision is far from cut-and-dried for box-store businesses, depending on a profit-and-loss statement. 

    For example, Lombard’s report says that since 2020, Starbucks has closed hundreds of underperforming urban shops and “opened hundreds of other locations in small towns across the country that are attracting new residents.” With new residents comes demand for new businesses, housing, and restaurants. 

    Recently, Mexican-style fast-casual restaurant Chipotle announced it was joining Starbucks in its expansion into small towns, followed by other bowl-centered fast-food restaurants like Cava and Panda Express. Cheaper land costs help corporations offset lower sales.

    “We look for proximity to the interstate and whether it is a hub of commerce in the area,” Chipotle’s chief brand officer, Chris Brandt, told CNBC, adding that there may be bigger towns nearby, but if they don’t have a Walmart or a Target to siphon traffic from, it’s not as desirable.

    Bennington, Vermont, which recently opened a Chipotle, fits that bill, with a Walmart Supercenter and Home Depot, to name a few retail giants in town. “Small towns that have a college are also a great fit,” Brandt added.

    Final Thoughts

    Despite homeownership being high in “poorer” states and rental demand being low, migratory stats infer that as populations shift, some of those statistics could change, especially in states that are within commutable distance to larger employment hubs or have seen a significant population movement. 

    For example, Morgantown, West Virginia, is only 30 minutes away from the Pittsburgh suburbs. The cost of living in Morgantown (9% below the national average) is considerably lower than in Pittsburgh (2% below the national average). Housing is far more affordable, too, and it has some of the lowest property taxes in the country. Thus, it’s hardly surprising that a recent Consumer Affairs report found that more people are interested in moving to West Virginia than away from it. 

    As an investor, you will need to dive deep into these metrics while paying attention to local municipality development news and corporate news from retail websites to see where major big-box stores are opening new branches. While you might not have the time and money to conduct the detailed data analysis corporations do before opening in a new location, you can piggyback off their efforts when choosing where to invest for affordable rentals with a growing clientele. Not every small or medium-sized town in an affordable state is a good investment, but many soon could be.

    Find the Hottest Markets of 2024!

    Effortlessly discover your next investment hotspot with the brand new BiggerPockets Market Finder, featuring detailed metrics and insights for all U.S. markets.

    Market Finder Site Module 1

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

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • America’s Christian Credit Union (ACCU) and Christian Care Ministry (CCM) ignite new era of faith-based collaboration with a three-year agreement

    America’s Christian Credit Union (ACCU) and Christian Care Ministry (CCM) ignite new era of faith-based collaboration with a three-year agreement

    [ad_1]

    MELBOURNE, Fla. — America’s Christian Credit Union (ACCU) and Christian Care Ministry (CCM), the visionary operators of the Medi-Share healthcare sharing program, are pleased to announce the signing of a new three-year agreement at CCM’s headquarters in Melbourne, Florida. This momentous occasion marks a renewed commitment to their shared mission of empowering the Christian community through faith-aligned financial and healthcare solutions.

    With a partnership spanning more than 15 years, ACCU and CCM have profoundly impacted the lives of more than 400,000 families, creating a vibrant ecosystem where resources multiply for the greater good. “It’s truly inspiring to witness the power of collaboration in action. Our members not only support one another’s healthcare needs through Medi-Share, but the funds entrusted to ACCU are simultaneously fueling life-changing initiatives,” exclaimed Vicki VannBernstein, CEO of America’s Christian Credit Union. “From supporting adoptive families to financing church expansions and promoting Christian education, our efforts are making a tangible difference in communities nationwide.”

    As ACCU celebrates its 65th anniversary this year, the partnership with CCM continues to reach new milestones. Together, they have driven over $1 billion in investments into Christian ministries, schools, and businesses, touching the lives of thousands across more than 900 sites. Additionally, 79,000 personal loans have been issued, and over $10 million has been generously donated to support Christian ministries nationwide.

    “For nearly 15 years, our partnership with ACCU has been laser-focused on building God’s Kingdom, and today, we celebrate the fruits of that unwavering dedication. Our members deserve nothing but the best in faith-based healthcare and financial services, and that’s exactly what we are delivering” said Joseph Turner, Board Chairman and Interim CEO of Christian Care Ministry.

    America’s Christian Credit Union has been a beacon of hope and financial strength since 1958, with a bold vision of “Christians financially equipped to serve God’s world.” With nearly $700 million in assets under management, ACCU offers robust lending and banking services to churches, ministries, and the individuals they serve. What sets ACCU apart is its unwavering commitment to its Statement of Faith, ensuring that every member is a voting owner in a cooperative community of believers united in purpose.

    ###

    Contact:
    Andrew Casanova
    America’s Christian Credit Union
    800.343.6328 x 5406
    [email protected]

    Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Religion News Service or Religion News Foundation.

    [ad_2]

    Source link