Professional Summary

Krystle Vermes is a professional writer and editor with more than a decade of experience in digital journalism. Her work has been featured in publications including VentureBeat, Pharmacy Times, Screen Rant, and Healthline. In her free time, she enjoys writing short fiction, painting, drawing, and working with mixed media.

Education

Suffolk University
Boston, MA
Bachelor’s Degree in Print Journalism

Professional Experience and Achievements

Static Media - August 2021 - Present
– Daily features editor for Chowhound, the cooking and food industry publication of Static Media
– Previous: Daily news and features editor for Glam, a digital women’s lifestyle publication, as well as other Static Media brands as-needed; news writer and editor for Health Digest, a health industry news publication.Walker Sands (formerly KoMarketing Associates) – July 2014 – June 2023
– Weekly B2B marketing news reporter.
– Previously conducted interviews with industry thought leaders on research reports monthly for extended feature stories.XDA Developers - November 2023 - March 2024
— Daily technology writer covering PC hardware news for XDA-Developers.comScreen Rant - November 2020 - August 2021
- Lead News Editor of the Reality TV section, responsible for managing the freelance news writing team, fielding pitches, and editing more than a dozen news pieces per day.DigitalTrends – March 2015 – June 2015
– Daily technology and PC news reporter for DigitalTrends.com.VentureBeat – July 2014 – Oct. 2014
– Former daily technology, mobile, SEO, and small business reporter for VentureBeat.com.TechRadar – July 2015 – November 2015
– PC news freelance reporter for TechRadar.com.Laptop Mag – September 2015 – February 2016
– Weekly Deals reporter for LaptopMag.com.Healthline.com - October 2019 - May 2020
- Healthline.com freelance reporter; composed long-form feature pieces on topics ranging from mental health to nutrition and wellness.Pharmacy Times – August 2014 – March 2017
– Daily biopharmaceutical/biotechnology news reporter for The Pharmacy Times.Tech Times – April 2016 – June 2016
– Daily technology news reporter for TechTimes.BioSpace.com – August 2014 – December 2020
– Aggregated news writer for BioSpace.com, reporting on the pharmaceutical industry daily.Android Police - September 2023 - July 2024
— Daily technology writer covering Google and Android news for AndroidPolice.comHealthyPlace.com - January 2020 - January 2021
- Author of the Dissociative Living blog on HealthyPlace.com, creating blog and video content about personal experiences relating to mental health and living with DID.Upstate Interactive – April 2017 – December 2020
– Editor-in-Chief/Content Strategist for Upstate Interactive, a software development and consulting agency.
– Responsible for editing long-form articles on the B2B software industry.
– Editorial management via TrelloInside.com – June 2016 – January 2019
– News writer/curator and editor for the Inside.com family of newsletters.
– Daily editor for 5-10 email newsletters on topics including podcasting, retail, and streaming.Slickdeals – July 2015 – February 2016
– Feature writer for Slickdeals.com, the consumer electronics website.Resolute Technologies – June 2015 – September 2016
– Blog writer for Resolute Technologies, developing content on recruiting and technology team management.Huumun – April 2015 – October 2015
– Blog contributor for Huumun (formerly PharmiWeb Solutions), the global pharmaceutical marketing agency.Recycle Nation – February 2015 – November 2015
– Weekly feature story writer for the Recycle Nation branch, composing articles on green living, environmentalism, and energy conservation.Seismic Software – Nov. 2013 – June 2014
– Employed as the Content Marketing Manager, producing blog content for Seismic.com on sales enablement, SaaS, and B2B content marketing.
– Organized and hosted webinars pertaining to financial services and wealth management.
– Orchestrated the development of long-form content, including white papers, case studies, and ebooks.Brafton Inc. – July 2010 – Nov. 2013
– Employed as a Lead Writer, producing news and website copy for business websites.
– Composed content for clients in personal finance, health, education, and lifestyle, writing an average of 5,000 words per day.
– Copy-edited/peer-edited for 2+ yearsMetroWest Daily News – April 2008 – July 2008
– Covered general small-town news assignments, writing weekly news briefs for Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.
skill proficiency

Blinatumomab Now Indicated for Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The FDA has expanded the use of Amgen’s blinatumomab (Blincyto) to treat Philadelphia chromosome-negative relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in pediatric patients.Blincyto is a bispecific CD19-directed CD3 T-cell engager antibody construct that has previously been granted breakthrough therapy, priority review, and orphan drug designations by the FDA. It binds to CD19 on the surface of cells of B-lineage origin, as well as CD3 on the surface of T cells. It is administered as a continuous intravenous infusion at a constant flow rate using an infusion pump, which should be programmable, lockable, nonelastomeric, and have an alarm.The drug’s latest indication is based on results from a Phase 1/2 open-label, single-arm, multicenter trial designed to evaluate its safety and efficacy in pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL. With treatment completed, the study’s subjects are now being monitored for long-term efficacy.Potentially life-threatening or fatal cytokine release syndrome and neurological toxicities have been reported in some patients who received Blincyto. Other warnings and precautions included in the drug’s label are serious infections, tumor lysis syndrome, neutropenia and febrile neutropenia, effects on driving ability, elevated liver enzymes, pancreatitis, and leukoencephalopathy.Pharmacists should also be aware of the risk for preparation and administration errors, including underdose and overdose. Plus, vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 2 weeks prior to the start of treatment, during treatment, and until immune recovery following the last cycle of Blincyto.

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Biogen Alzheimer’s Drug Aducanumab Exceeds Expectations

Massachusetts-based Biogen Idec (BIIB) revealed the results of a Phase Ib study today that looked at aducanumab as a form of treatment for prodromal or mild Alzheimer’s disease. The data showed that the drug, also known as BIIB037, could reduce amyloid plaque in the brain, which is thought to play a key role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Biogen Idec’s stock is now up 4 percent since closing on March 19.The results from the study, also referred to as PRIME, will be presented at the 12th International Conference on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases and Related Neurological Disorders in Nice, France. PRIME is an ongoing Phase Ib randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-dose study designed to look at the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of aducanumab in patients with the disease.A total of 166 patients participated in the 54-week-long study. At Week 54, the group of patients who had received aducanumab saw a significant reduction in amyloid plaque.“This is the first time an investigational drug for Alzheimer’s disease has demonstrated a statistically significant reduction on amyloid plaque as well as a statistically significant slowing of clinical impairment in patients with prodromal or mild disease,” said Alfred Sandrock, group senior vice president and chief medical officer at Biogen Idec.

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FDA Approves New Indications for Harvoni and Sovaldi in Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older With Chronic Hepatitis C Infection

Gilead Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: GILD) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved supplemental indications for Harvoni® (ledipasvir 90 mg/sofosbuvir 400 mg) tablets and Sovaldi® (sofosbuvir 400 mg) tablets for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in adolescents without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis, 12 years of age and older, or weighing at least 35kg. Harvoni was approved for pediatric patients with genotype 1, 4, 5 or 6 chronic HCV infection. Sovaldi was approved for pediatric patients with genotype 2 or 3 chronic HCV infection, in combination with ribavirin. There are an estimated 23,000-46,000 pediatric HCV patients in the United States, most of whom were infected with the virus at birth.“The approvals of Sovaldi and Harvoni for pediatric patients will enable adolescents to finally benefit from interferon-free treatment for HCV infection,” said Karen Murray, M.D., professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Seattle Children’s. “These therapies address a significant unmet medical need and represent an important advance for HCV-infected adolescents.”“Gilead’s goal is to develop and deliver treatments that provide all patients with HCV the potential to be cured,” said Norbert Bischofberger, Ph.D., Executive Vice President of Research and Development and Chief Scientific Officer at Gilead. “For the first time, children 12 and older in the United States with genotypes 1 through 6 chronic HCV infection now have options of two direct-acting antiviral regimens that offer high cure rates while eliminating the need for interferon injections.”Harvoni and Sovaldi each have a boxed warning in their respective product labels regarding the risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation in HCV/HBV co-infected patients. See below for important safety information.

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Tresiba Label Seeks Hypoglycemia Trial Data Inclusion

Novo Nordisk has submitted a supplemental application to the FDA to include data from the 2 phase 3b SWITCH trials in the prescribing information for insulin degludec (Tresiba), a once-daily basal insulin that provides a duration of action beyond 42 hours for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.In the SWITCH 1 trial, patients with type 1 diabetes were randomized to crossover treatment with Tresiba and insulin glargine U100, both in combination with an oral antidiabetic agent. Those treated with Tresiba had an average of 11% fewer episodes of blood glucose-confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia. They also had 35% fewer episodes of severe hypoglycemia and 36% fewer episodes of nocturnal blood glucose-confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia.In the SWITCH 2 trial, patients with type 2 diabetes were randomized to crossover treatment with Tresiba and insulin glargine U100, both in combination with an oral antidiabetic agent. During the study’s maintenance period, those who were given Trebsiba had 30% fewer episodes of overall blood glucose-confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia. They also exhibited 42% fewer episodes of nocturnal blood glucose-confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia.In both trials, the mean HbA1C baseline was 7.6%, and both studies showed that Tresiba was noninferior to insulin glargine U100 in terms of HbA1C reduction, meaning the requirements for objectively comparing hypoglycemia episodes between the 2 treatments were met.“Hypoglycemia continues to be a real challenge for many people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes,” said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, executive vice president and chief science officer of Novo Nordisk, in a press release. “We believe that inclusion of the SWITCH trial results in the prescribing information for Tresiba will provide health care professionals with important information to make an informed choice when prescribing basal insulin.”

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Proposed Revisions to USP797

In an effort to prevent harm through contamination, the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention proposed a series of changes to USP 797 in September 2015. Pending approval, a series of compounded sterile preparations (CSP) will be affected, including injections, irrigation solutions for internal body cavities, ophthalmics and aqueous bronchial inhalations.Furthermore, the changes to USP 797 will apply to all individuals who prepare compounded sterile preparations, as well as those who work in these environments. Administrative professionals are exempt from the guidelines of USP 797.The Purpose of Change
USP 797 is being altered to prevent harm through microbial contamination, excessive bacterial endotoxins and inappropriate quality of ingredients. Additionally, USP 797 will be updated to reduce risk associated with unintended physical and chemical contaminants, as well as variability in intended strength.Currently, USP 797 is enforceable by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as well as 28 State Boards of Pharmacy.Proposed Major Changes to USP 797
There are a series of major changes being proposed to USP 797, including the rejection of the following statement from Section 503A:“Compounding does not include mixing, reconstituting, or similar acts that are performed in accordance with the directions contained in approved labeling provided by the product’s manufacturer and other manufacturer directions consistent with that labeling.”Additionally, a new Beyond-Use-Date paradigm has been presented as a part of USP 797. The proposed rule states that the BUD can only be determined from the time that the CSP is compounded. Furthermore, the BUD cannot exceed 45 days, regardless of sterility testing.Here is a summary of additional proposed changes to USP 797.- Master formulation and compounding records will be required for all batch and non-sterile compounding activities.
- “In-Use Time” will be used to describe the time before which a manufactured product or compounded dilution bag must be utilized after it has been punctured.
- Sterile items, such as gloves and sleeves, need to be re-sterilized before further use.
- Viable air and Surface sampling is required each month.
- A visual observation of hand hygiene and garbing must be conducted every quarter.
- USP 800 will be used to outline Hazardous Drug requirements.
- Three risk levels have been changed to two categories, which are distinguished according to the conditions under which they are made and time within which used.CSP Categories Under USP 797
The two categories under USP 797 would be titled “Category 1 CSPs” and “Category 2 CSPs.” Under the first category, endotoxin and sterility testing would not be required. The compounding environment also does not have to contain ISO classified air. Category 1 CSPs would have a BUD of 12 hours or less at room temperature and 24 hours or less when refrigerated.The BUD for Category 2 CSPs would be the same, and endotoxin testing would not be required for sterile components. However, sterility testing would be recommended based on the BUD, and the environment is required to have ISO classified air.Personnel Training Under USP 797
Depending on whether the personnel is working with Category 1 or 2 CSPs, their garbing may vary. In all cases, non-cotton, low-lint disposable gowns should be worn. Head and facial hair should also be covered, and sterile sleeves and gloves must be used.However, Category 2 CSPs would require the use of a mask, unlike Category 1 CSPs. Eye shields would also be an option for personnel handing Category 2 CSPs.A gloved fingertip test would be recommended each quarter under the new USP 797 guidelines, as opposed to semi-annually or annually. A media fill would also be required quarterly, instead of semi-annually or annually. Furthermore, a failed test would require three repeats prior to restarting. At the moment, a failure constitutes requalification.Facility Design
Under USP 797, a compounding area must be free of cracks and crevices. The buffer area around the compounding location must also be free of water sources, such as sinks or floor drains.Category 2 CSPs must have a positive pressure buffer room with access through a positive pressure anteroom. It also needs to be situated in an ISO Class 7 area, or cleaning room, where garbing is worn by personnel.The room temperature in both Category 1 and 2 CSPs should be at 20 degrees or cooler with a relative humidity level of less than 60 percent. In these conditions, a CSP cannot be re-frozen after it has been thawed.The Introduction of Urgent-Use CSPs
Assuming the changes to USP 797 are implemented, “Urgent-Use” will replace “Immediate-Use” in terms of specific CSPs that need to be utilized as soon as possible. The Urgent-Use guidelines state that a CSP can be prepared in conditions worse than ISO Class 5 air when it needs to be used for a single patient.Compounding procedures are not permitted to exceed one hour, and an aseptic technique must be used during preparation.

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Navigating Digital Apps for Multi-Channel Marketing in Pharma

Approximately 70 percent of mobile searches lead to an online action within an hour, according to iAcquire, the digital marketing agency. As of 2012, eMarketer reported that more than 116 million Americans owned a smartphone. In order to go beyond white papers and case studies, pharma professionals must utilize digital apps to take advantage of multiple channels. As more consumers filter into the mobile channel, additional opportunities are sprouting for pharma professionals.Prioritizing Marketing Needs
Today, there are several channels that can be used to reach out to specific audiences. Some of these include social media, the company blog and the company website. In order to make the most of these channels, pharma companies need to quickly determine which digital apps work best for their initiatives.Take social networking, for example. It may be critical for a marketing team to use Facebook if its target demographic is frequently on the site. Facebook reported in March 2014 that it has one billion active users on its mobile app, according to The Verge. This information indicates that the marketers should utilize the Facebook app to work with this channel.Understanding which channels create connections to the target audience is essential for pharma professionals navigating through digital apps.Understanding the Customer
In the pharmaceutical industry, customers may range from medication distributors to patients. It’s critical for companies to focus on their primary audience above all else, as well as targeted messaging. Crafting highly specific campaigns and messaging remain top challenges for pharma professionals navigating through digital apps.Identifying the specific pain points of the target customer can help companies use digital apps effectively. When pharma companies can pinpoint the problems of their prospects, they can provide more viable solutions via digital apps.GRACE 2.0 from AstraZeneca is one example of an app that can uncover patients’ pain points, specifically for companies focusing on heart health. GRACE 2.0 is based on the Global Registry of Coronary Events, which holds information that is key to identifying high-risk heart patients and their complications.Addressing Pharma App Overload
There are more than 7,000 medical apps in the iTunes store alone. The lack of curation in combination with the abundance of features make it challenging for pharma professionals to identify which apps are best for their strategy.For this reason, self-curation is necessary for individuals to make most of available apps. Over time, there may be evident overlap in the functionality of numerous applications.Medical Reader for iOS is one example of an app that can help pharma professionals slim down their number of applications. Although it does not provide access to full length articles, it stores the most recent pieces from the New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet and Journal of the American Medical Association. This eliminates the need to download multiple apps for access to widespread information.Ideas for the Future
As the pharmaceutical industry continues to evolve, companies need to be prepared to change alongside it. Furthermore, they need to be on top of channels as they grow over time. By aligning company strategy with the pain points of customers, pharma companies can increase their chances of success through multiple channels.

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mCube raises $37M to prepare the way for the Internet of Things

As published in VentureBeatLaptops with 180-degree hinges are all the rage these days, and CTL has unveiled a new one designed for educational applications. The CTL NL6 Education Chromebook has a 180-degree hinge that allows its screen to lie completely flat, according to liliputing.com. However, it does not have a touchscreen or the tablet-like capabilities that are reminiscent of a 2-in-1 computer.Its 180-degree hinge is meant more for those who are looking for a little versatility. For instance, the hinge allows the laptop to fold back and be held like an eReader. You could also lay it completely flat on a table and view the screen from above.CTL is known for creating laptops for educational settings. This means that the potential for wear and tear is high, and its computers are made to handle heavy use. The CTL NL6 Education Chromebook has a rugged case and a water-resistant keyboard. It also has reinforced ports and can support a drop of 5.5 feet (not that you should try).The product has a fanless design, which means less noise for its users. Its screen is 11.6 inches and features a 1,366-by-768 pixel display. The CTL NL6 comes with 4GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, and a quad core processor. In terms of ports, it comes with a USB 2.0, USB 3.0, HDMI port, and an SD card slot.You also don’t have to worry about this laptop dying on you in the course of the school day, as it boasts up to 9.5 hours of battery life. Connectivity-wise, it has Bluetooth 4.0 and 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi. The laptop weighs approximately three pounds, making it a lot easier to transport to and from school than a backpack full of books.The regular retail price of the CTL NL6 Education Chromebook is $330, but the website is currently selling it at a special price of $259. The product is being marketed to teachers and students alike.

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New Ctl Education Chromebook Has a 180-Degree Hinge, but No Touchscreen

As published in Digital TrendsIn its third round of institutional financing, mobile sensor-maker mCube has announced that it has raised $37 million.The company’s existing investors, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, MediaTek, iD Ventures America and DAG Ventures, all participated in the financing round. Additionally, new investors including Keytone Ventures, SK Telecom (China) Ventures and Korea Investment Partners joined the effort as well.“mCube is well positioned with the world’s smallest MEMS motion sensors to enable this high-growth new market we refer to as the Internet of Moving Things,” said Ben Lee, mCube president and CEO, in a statement on the news.The company considers itself to be a leader in the new era of the “Internet of Things.” The demand for mobile sensors is beginning to expand into the tech industry – more manufacturers are looking to integrate them into smartphones, watches and 3D gaming devices.“Virtually anything in motion can benefit from mCube’s high-performance and low-power sensors,” Lee continued. “This latest financing round will enable mCube to accelerate its growth and develop more motion sensor products to capitalize on this massive IoMT market opportunity.”The company, which provides the world’s smallest MEMS motion sensors, has been providing its products to businesses in the industrial and automotive industries for years. Since 2009, mCube has been able to expand its product line to include accelerometers and magnetic sensors.It has shipped more than 60 million accelerometers into the China smartphone and tablet markets. In 2012, mCube was awarded the EE Times “Startup of the Year” prize in 2012 and named by Gartner as a 2013 “Cool Vendor.”

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Raspberry Pi Debuts a Camera Connector for the Raspberry Pi Zero

As published in Tech TimesOn May 16, Raspberry Pi Founder Eben Upton announced that the company would be launching a camera connector for Raspberry Pi Zero, which debuted back in November 2015. Upton specified that the company discovered that the same fine-pitch FPC connector that is used on its Compute Module Development Kit fits perfectly onto the right side of the Zero’s board.To connect a camera to Zero, Raspberry Pi is offering a custom six-inch adapter cable. This will allow for the conversion of the fine-pitch connector format to the coarser pitch utilized by the camera board.
Though some may feel like the camera connector was delayed for a bit too long, Upton notes that the organization has been swamped since the launch of Zero.“We immediately sold every copy of MagPi issue 40 and every Zero in stock at our distributors; and every time a new batch of Zeros came through from the factory they’d sell out in minutes,” he wrote on the Raspberry Pi blog. “To complicate matters, Zero then had to compete for factory space with Raspberry Pi 3, which was ramping for launch at the end of February.”Today, there are approximately 30,000 Zeros out there in the world, according to Upton. Additionally, he says the organization will continue producing more Zeroes – in the thousands – until all of the demand is met.The camera connector itself looks like two small microchips and a yellow ribbon. The company has since posted images of the connector on its Twitter account.
Raspberry Pi Zero, developed in Wales, debuted at a price of $5, which may be partially responsible for the high demand. It includes a Broadcom BCM2835 application processor, 512MB of SD RAM, and a MicroSD card slot. It also features a mini-HDMI socket for video output. Out of all of the Raspberry Pi models, it has the smallest form size at 65mm-by-30mm-by-5mm. In honor of its launch, the December 2015 edition of The MagPi included a free Raspberry Pi Zero.Since Raspberry Pi began marketing its “mini computers” back in 2012, millions of people have been utilizing the device to learn more about programming at an affordable price.

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Apple Just Went Full Android in the EU

Sideloading — also known as the process of downloading third-party apps outside of a native app store — is an option that Android users have had for a while. In some cases, it’s a draw for those who want to be able to pick and choose the apps on their device. One of the disadvantages of using an Apple product is the inability to sideload software. Now, the tech giant is making changes to its sideloading restrictions to comply with legislation in the European Union (EU).In response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act, geared toward sustaining competition in the tech industry, Apple has made adjustments to its app policy. Specifically, it is embracing a new program called Web Distribution — it is aimed at allowing developers to offer their apps directly on their website, as opposed to only the App Store, for iOS users to download. Similar to sideloading on Android devices, this means that iOS product users will now be able to download third-party apps. However, Apple has included several stipulations — EU developers have to be enrolled in the Apple Developer Program, for instance. They must also be in good standing, and app downloads are only permitted via a domain registered within App Store Connect. This means that alternative third-party websites with app downloads, for example, won’t be of any use to iOS device users. Developers will be required to disclose how they use app users’ data and handle governmental matters as well. There are small fees that they need to consider, too, pertaining to the Apple Developer Program as it exists in the EU.If you have an iPhone and reside in the EU, you’ll notice the change after installing the iOS 17.4 update. To reduce security risks for iOS device users, Apple is also putting a Notarization process into play. This means that all apps will be screened prior to being installed on a device, similar to Google Play Protect measures. More malware protection for iOS products is expected to be rolled out in the near future as well.

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Microsoft’s patch for a big Windows 10 BitLocker vulnerability is a dud

If you have a Windows PC, you know the importance of keeping up to date with the latest patches from Microsoft. Doing so can help ensure that your device is as secure as possible against evolving threats. However, you might hit a snag in your efforts if the patch can’t be seamlessly installed onto your PC. This is what some Windows 10 users are now facing following the release of a patch from Microsoft, created upon the discovery of a BitLocker encryption bypass vulnerability.Microsoft released security patch KB5034441 in response to a BitLocker vulnerability, which renders Windows 10 users prone to hacking. By exploiting it, bad actors can bypass BitLocker encryption via the Windows Recovery Environment and access users’ files. Specifically, the vulnerability was spotted in Windows 10 21H2 and 22H2 (via Tom’s Hardware). After the patch was released, however, many users found that they were unable to fully install it and remedy the issue. Microsoft caught onto the issue and discovered that it was due to recovery partitions — those without enough space to complete the update cannot install the patch. The company suggested that users manually resize their partition to install the update, which is something that not everyone is readily willing to do. If you’re fall into this category of users, your only other option is to wait in hope of Microsoft creating an automatic update that addresses the vulnerability.The error that apparently indicates an issue pertaining to the recovery partition is “0x80070643 - ERRORINSTALLFAILURE,” as stated by Microsoft. However, it may also present itself as “Windows Recovery Environment servicing failed (CBSEINSUFFICIENTDISKSPACE)” on some machines. For now, it seems that the recovery partition route is the only way to ensure you’re protected from the recently discovered vulnerability. That being said, many Windows 10 users have expressed on Reddit that they believe it’s only a matter of time before Microsoft addresses the problem.

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Another Nintendo DS emulator bites the dust following the folding of Yuzu

It might not seem like a big deal to sideload an emulator on your Android to play a vintage game. However, some of these apps and games walk along the fine line between piracy and legality. In the case of Yuzu, a Nintendo Switch emulator, Nintendo felt like the line was crossed altogether — the video game giant filed a lawsuit against the developer, Tropic Haze, and won in court. Now, it seems that other emulator developers are being scared off, including the one behind a popular Nintendo DS app.Drastic, the developer of a Nintendo DS app for Android, has now made its app free for Android device owners after previously charging $4.99 (via The Verge). Exophase, who spearheads the emulator, stated on Discord that the incentive was never to generate income from the emulator. It will also be pulled from the Play Store in the near future, but Exophase claims it is not due to the recent Nintendo lawsuit against Tropic Haze. On the flipside, the developer of a Steam Deck emulator has also said on Discord that it will be shuttering its software and cited the Nintendo lawsuit. While not everyone is willing to admit that they have been influenced by the outcome, the evidence is clear.The launch of Yuzu came after the end of Skyline, a Nintendo emulator that previously ran on Android devices. Nintendo also went after Skyline, claiming copyright infringement. In turn, the developers of Skyline maintained their supposed legality. However, the emulator was eventually pulled, despite parts of its code going public before disappearing. Now, that Yuzu has also been axed, it seems that Android device users are seeing their options dwindle. While piracy is a divisive topic among gamers altogether, it’s something that companies like Nintendo aren’t willing to tolerate. As more of them bring down the hammer, the developers of emulators are going to continue to be negatively impacted. For gamers, it might just be worth scoping out a vintage GameBoy or DS handheld to get a nostalgia fix.

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How the Snips App Uses Its AI To Act As More Than a ‘Digital Butler’

As published in Tech TimesTo make it a bit easier to stay organized, Snips launched a free iOS app on May 17 that is being marketed as a way to “extend your memory.”
Based on artificial intelligence, Snips can memorize your contacts, calendar and location, conveniently storing them in one place. The app also guarantees to keep all of this personal data private, meaning no one except you will see it.In the most basic sense, Snips works off of Artificial Memory, which is meant to gain a “deep understanding” of your life. The idea is to give it enough personal data to complete large-scale complex tasks. Snips is designed to act as “an extension” of yourself over time.“It could become ubiquitous, learning to imitate how we use technology in different contexts,” Snips writes on its website. “Technology could disappear into the background, giving us the sensation of being unplugged.”Rand Hindi, Mael Primet and Michael Fester are the co-founders of Snips. It initially started as a research lab in 2013 that was focused on machine-learning and building new interfaces between computers and people. The Snips AI was built out of the realization that new bots, apps and devices continue to add complexity to our daily lives.“Our goal is to build an AI that can take care of technology for us,” reads the App Store description. “We want Snips to be able to answer any question we might have, do anything we ask it to, and automate our connected devices.”Eventually, improvements will be made to Snips to allow it to act more like a digital butler. For example, the app will eventually allow users to use their natural voice to direct Snips (think Cortana or Siri). As more devices become connected, Snips may one day be able to pick up on how users utilize their tech and automate them for convenience.If you’re the type of person who likes to have ultimate control over multiple gadgets, Snips may not be for you. For everyone else, this could be the app we’ve been waiting for to simplify the world we live in, dominated by the Internet of Things.

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10 Ways to Conserve Energy & Shrink Your Bills This Winter

While it may seem like you’re already doing enough to help the environment, there’s always a little room for improvement. Winter is the perfect season to revamp your green habits and enhance your efforts to save energy – and money! Here are 10 ways you can conserve more energy, reduce your bills and the impact of your carbon footprint this season.1. Invest in a programmable thermostat.There are several benefits to investing in a programmable thermostat, and the most obvious one is that you won’t have to concern yourself with using too much energy. Programmable thermostats know when your home needs to be heated, meaning you won’t be utilizing energy to keep an empty house warm while you’re away.Best of all, a programmable thermostat can save your family up to $180 in your energy bill each year. Many devices also allow you to program and manage your thermostat while you’re away via mobile device.2. Conduct an energy audit.An energy audit may seem like an excessive step to take, but it can help you identify areas of your home that need improvement. During an energy audit, a professional takes a look at areas where heat and energy may be seeping out of your home – windows, doors, and outlets are common areas. Additionally, he or she will take lifestyle factors into consideration, such as the average thermostat temperature and which rooms are used most frequently. After the energy audit, you’ll have a better idea of which areas you should seal or insulate to conserve energy and money.3. Upgrade your windows.Your windows could be allowing cold air to flow easily into your house. Double-pane windows or energy efficient windows can help you reduce the amount of heat that you lose throughout the winter. Although upgrading your windows may be costly, it’s an investment that can pay off over time if you opt for insulated models.4. Protect your windows.If you don’t have the money to invest in new windows, you may want to consider taking proactive measures to reduce the energy that may be leaving through its cracks. This means purchasing window film to conserve heat, or using weather stripping to provide further insulation. Keeping curtains and blinds closed during the winter can also reduce cold air from mounting in the home.5. Invest in vinyl siding.If you can afford to make an upgrade to your home, you may want to consider new siding – specifically vinyl siding. Vinyl siding continues to grow in popularity among those who want to go green and improve their energy conservation. It’s low maintenance, long lasting, and it can qualify under Energy Star regulations. Additionally, vinyl siding has one of the highest returns on investment for remodeling projects.6. Take advantage of the sun.While you may want to keep your blinds and curtains closed during the chilly winter nights, it’s important to remember that the sun is your friend! The U.S. Department of Energy states that you can allow a beneficial amount of warmth into your home by opening your window treatments during the sunny days of the winter. Once again, make it a point to seal any window cracks with weather stripping beforehand. This will ensure that you aren’t welcoming cold drafts into your home when you tie back your curtains.7. Maintain your heating system.In addition to considering a thermostat upgrade, it’s worth taking a look at your heating system as a whole. While it may not need to be upgraded, it could benefit from a tune-up to ensure that it’s in working order. A faulty heating system can result in excessive energy use during the winter. If you are unsure of how to maintain your furnace or boiler, bring in a professional to look at it for you. He or she will be able to make sure that everything is in working order for the entire winter.8. Be mindful of your fireplace.Having a fireplace can be convenient during the winter, but it may let in cold air when you least expect it. Ideally, you should always keep the fireplace damper closed when a fire isn’t burning – this will prevent cold air from dropping down into your home. If you do not use your fireplace in general, keep the chimney flue plugged and sealed to improve your household’s energy conservation.9. Keep your furnace clean.Many people are unaware that furnace filters should be cleaned once per month. Dirty filters can increase energy use, and they should be replaced if they become too soiled. If you do not know how to clean out your furnace or change your filter, consult a professional.10. Change the direction of your ceiling fan.Using a ceiling fan in winter? Sounds crazy, right? The fact of the matter is that if you change the direction of your ceiling fan toward clockwise, you can push heat down to ground level and keep it within your home. When the fan is running counter-clockwise during the summer, it’s pushing hot air up toward the ceiling.While these 10 tips can help you change the way you save energy at home, they aren’t the only adjustments you can make to be a little greener. Getting into small habits, such as putting on socks or sweaters rather than cranking up the thermostat, can make a big difference.Investing in insulated curtains and area rugs can also provide a noticeable improvement to your home. If you’re willing to do some redecorating, you can dramatically increase the amount of energy you conserve during the winter months!Finally, try to remind your family that energy conservation during chilly weather is a team effort. Educate children on how they can help out with habits, such as only turning on the heat in the rooms they use. Leave sticky notes around the house, reminding family members of your green efforts as a whole. By getting everyone on the same page, you can make sure that you’re saving money and the environment this winter.

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8 Reasons Why You Should Start Caring About Rising Sea Levels

As the sea levels around the world continue to rise, some people are still having a hard time believing in global warming and its effects.
Others have the attitude of, “I won’t be around to see the impact, anyway.” In all of these cases, there are significant reasons for why we should care about what’s happening to the planet’s bodies of water, glaciers and ice shelves.If you’re still questionable on the matter, here are the eight key reasons why rising sea levels could cause problems for you well before the end of your lifetime on Earth.1. Ice melt will lead to more extreme weather.In August 2012, the Arctic sea ice extent hit a new record low that was set back in 2007. It has continued to decline, dropping below 1.5 million square miles. This represents a 45 percent reduction compared to the 1980s and 1990s, according to ClimateCentral.The Arctic may be really far away from you, but the impact of this melting sea ice can be felt around the world. As a result of the melting, the jet stream (which impacts weather) has become more amplified in the north-south direction. More extreme weather can be blamed on this change, according to Jennifer Francis, at atmospheric scientist from Rutgers University.“It’s like having a new energy source for the atmosphere,” Francis told the news source, citing the sea ice loss and boost in heat.2. Up to 216 million people can expect to see their homes submerged by 2100.The most at-risk countries for frequent flooding (according to total population) by 2100 include China, Vietnam and Japan, according to CNN. The United States is eleventh on the list of the top 20 countries, followed by the United Kingdom. The risk of regular flooding is directly tied to rising sea levels.Currently, countries such as Bangladesh would not be able to handle a slight rise in sea levels. An increase of just three feet would submerge more than 10 percent of the country.3. The world’s largest cities will lose money.By 2050, cities that are located in coastal areas prone to flooding could lose $1 trillion each year. This puts cities, such as Miami, New York and New Orleans at particular risk of suffering economically. The most at-risk city in the world is Guangzhou in China, located along the Pearl River, according to the World Bank.4. Living by the sea may not be an option in the future.However, the “future” is not that far off – think within the next 20 years. Government agencies and businesses are already taking rising sea levels into account, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. Local and state governments are considering prohibiting new roads and construction close to the water. Sea levels, as well as more extreme weather, could make restoration and maintenance too expensive for the community.“[Sea-level rise is] going to happen to every coastal area around the world, not just here and there," Coastal Scientist Michael Kearney told the news source. "Some communities are drawing up plans to move forward."5. Habitats are disappearing.Both animals and plants that rely on cold weather to survive in areas like the Arctic are seeing their homes disappear. Up to one-fourth of all plants and animals on the planet could go extinct if the Earth continues to warm over the next 100 years, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Because plants and animals tie into one eco-system, they each have a direct effect on one another. The extinction of one could impact a different species, and the impact would snowball over time.6. Beaches would disappear.Beaches are where many people make their homes, but they are also big business areas as well. When rising sea levels consume coastlines, commerce and tourism is directly impacted, according to the EPA.On the other hand, rising temperatures would affect those at higher elevations as well. For example, warm weather would quickly melt snow and shorten winters. This would result in shorter ski seasons, limiting commerce in communities that rely on tourism income.7. The risk of water contamination may increase.Rising sea levels could result in salt water intrusion. This would mean that ocean water could contaminate groundwater supplies. In turn, this can result in water contamination, according to the Oregon state government.Salinity could travel further upstream as a result of rising sea levels. This would bring destructive organisms, such as barnacles, with it toward fresh water. Wooden structures would suffer as a result of these organisms.If salinity impacted the mixing and flushing rates of an estuary, pollution would increase. Salt water would also threaten nearby wetlands and potentially cause damage to the local ecosystem.8. Farming would become more difficult.Because salt water would begin to dominate the overall freshwater supply, it would become more challenging for farmers to irrigate their crops, according to Business Insider. Saltwater is known for stunting and killing crops. However, desalination costs an ample amount of money – it’s so expensive that it would not be feasible for farmers over time. Rising sea levels and water contamination could hit the agricultural industry hard.Some of these reasons may have you downright fearful of the future. However, there are a few ways that countries are beginning to combat the impact of global warming. Burning less fossil fuels is one, according to TakePart. Reducing the amount of methane, tropospheric ozone, hydrofluorocarbons and black carbon in the atmosphere could prevent the rise of sea levels by up to 50 percent.However, it is undoubtedly a worldwide effort when it comes to preventing skyrocketing sea levels. As weather becomes more extreme, people around the globe will not be able to ignore the impact of pollution.Will this encourage more countries to take part in reducing carbon emissions? Could it save some of the world’s most dominant coastal cities? Only time will tell how far humans are willing to go for the sake of the planet.

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The Cloud: How It Impacts Electronics and What It Means to Go Green

As the world continues to go digital, the business realm is turning toward technology to boost efficiency and productivity in the workplace. When it comes to security, the cloud is giving professionals a place to safely store sensitive materials that are essential to their company.However, this means that dated electronics – hard drives and other storage electronics of the past – need to go somewhere once they are replaced by the cloud. This increases the need for new recycling methods and machinery to take on the task.But let’s back up for a minute and take a look at the cloud and its recent history.What is the Cloud?Even if you don’t work in the technology industry, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard of the cloud. Companies ranging from Microsoft to Apple are all about advertising cloud storage to their customers, but what is it?In the simplest terms, the cloud allows you to run your software and services from the Web, rather than your physical device. Some popular cloud services that you may already be using include Netflix, Flickr and Google Drive. In short, you’re using these features via the Internet – they are not based on software on your desktop or laptop.One of the largest reasons why businesses turn to the cloud is because of its extra layer of security. Cloud service providers dedicate all of their time to protecting data with the latest technology on the market. This can give companies peace of mind, especially when they don’t have the time to keep an eye on their data around the clock.Another big reason why businesses use the cloud is because of its reliability. Cloud service providers are prepared to handle hiccups in data storage technology. They have experts prepared to tackle any malfunctions, and they have backup equipment for their backups. This means an extra line of defense against everything from technology breakdowns to breaches. Once again, businesses have one less thing to worry about when they trust in a cloud service provider.Storing company data in the cloud can also enhance accessibility throughout a business. When files are stored in one employee-accessible location, there is more potential for collaboration.Furthermore, there is less chance of employees – particularly sales reps – working out in the field without access to critical company files.Remember, the cloud is situated on the Internet, which can give employees access to stored files on the go.Finally, companies that switch over to the cloud can worry less about their in-house technology for file storage. This means no more investing in equipment that is bound to become outdated and require an update. Cloud service providers are constantly upgrading their equipment to provide their customers with the best possible backup solutions.Making the Move to the CloudWhen a company decides that it wants to begin using cloud storage for all of its data, there are a number of factors that need to be considered. The biggest one is how existing storage equipment will be phased out and removed from the company.Electronics, such as hard drives, are not always easy to discard. Furthermore, the environment needs to be taken into consideration when it comes to disposing technology. Items, such as computers, can contain harmful chemicals that have a negative impact on the environment.Luckily, there are existing services on the market that are designed to help companies when they make this big move. For example, electronics can be sent to Electronic Recyclers International for dismantling. Experts work to dismantle all materials to be recycled with the highest environmental, health and safety standards in mind. Businesses also have the option of mailing in their items to ERI or scheduling a truck for pick-up.When the data of these storage devices needs to be destroyed for confidentiality purposes, ERI can also help. The company is has the tools needed to destroy software in accordance with standards set by the U.S. Department of Defense and National Institute of Standards and Technology.Furthermore, the environment is always taken into consideration by ERI when it comes to the disposal of data and electronics. The company determines if items can be refurbished, broken down for parts or shredded before disposing of them completely. All data is wiped, meaning companies can gain peace of mind, knowing that they are making a safe leap into the cloud.Is the Cloud Really ‘Greener?’With all of the destruction of dated technology and data that needs to happen, one has to wonder whether switching over to the cloud is the “greener” option for companies. However, one study conducted by Accenture has found that there may be some eco benefits associated with businesses making the move.Researchers have found that the reduction of the carbon footprint of each cloud user is enough to generate benefits. The sharing of applications and improved data center efficiencies also make it worth it to companies over time.“Organizations that plan to reduce energy use and improve their carbon footprint can consider migrating to the cloud as an important means for improving industry-wide environmental sustainability,” wrote the authors of the report.The study concluded that companies could reduce their carbon emissions by up to 90 percent by switching over to the cloud. However, there is notably still room for improvement. Furthermore, the cloud needs to catch on among more companies for it to become a truly “green” way of doing business.“The challenge is to ensure that the services provided in the cloud actually replace current activities of higher carbon intensity,” wrote the researchers of the study.In the end, switching over to the cloud can be a time-consuming process. However, doing so can potentially boost company efficiency while ensuring that sensitive data does not fall into the wrong hands. Benefiting the environment is just one of the many extra bonuses that can come from migrating to the cloud.

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Soap: Is There Such Thing as Too Much?

Soap is used for everything from cleaning dishes to washing away grime from our bodies. It comes in various forms these days, ranging from “waterless” to clear liquid. In the end, it’s meant to make our world a cleaner, healthier place, but is there such thing as too much soap?When you look at the back of a soap product, there’s a good chance that you can’t pronounce all of the ingredients. Some of the most dangerous ones come in items we use every day, such as toothpaste and shampoo. The exact products marketed to us to maintain cleanliness could be putting our health at risk.An Overview of TriclosanIn recent years, you may have started to hear more about triclosan, primarily because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has raised awareness of its presence in common goods – but what is it?Triclosan is a chemical that is added to consumer products to prevent bacterial contamination. Not only may it be incorporated into soap, but items such as toys and clothing could have it, too. Soaps, toothpastes and cosmetics are some of the most common products that include triclosan. Although it is not known to be hazardous to humans, the FDA has been investigating it more closely as a result of new studies that show its deeper impact.Some experts believe that triclosan can affect hormone regulation within the body. Others assume that triclosan is responsible for making humans more resistant to antibiotics over time. Although the FDA has not officially deemed it harmful, consumers can become more aware of its presence by reading soap labels before making a purchase.The Case Against ParabensParabens can be found in items including shampoo, makeup and body washes. However, more manufacturers are making it a point to eliminate them from their products. This is because new data continues to reveal that parabens can mimic estrogen within the body and alter hormone regulation, according to HealthyWomen.org.Parabens may be linked to decreased muscle mass and increased fat deposits once they enter the bloodstream. It’s also worth noting that parabens have been identified in biopsy samples from breast tumors, according to the Breast Cancer Fund.Parabens can be commonly identified in cosmetics, according to the FDA. However, they are also found in soaps and body washes. Their main purpose is to preserve products and protect against microorganisms.Similar to triclosan, parabens can be found on the manufacturer labels of soaps. By doing this little bit of reading, consumers can avoid these specific products at the store.The Hazards of FragranceEveryone wants to smell fresh after stepping out of the shower. To achieve this, it’s not uncommon for consumers to turn to fragrance soap or body wash. However, it’s these types of soaps that can cause the biggest problems.It’s no secret that Americans generally do not tolerate fragranced items particularly well. A study conducted by researchers from the University of Washington found that 30 percent of Americans find scented products to be “irritating.” A higher percentage of people – specifically those who have been diagnosed with asthma or chemical sensitivity – appear to have issues with fragrance products.Some of the items that go into fragrance-enhanced products include human carcinogens (i.e., cancer agents) and endocrine disrupters, which interfere with hormones.While you may enjoy smelling like roses for a temporary period of time, it’s worth considering the long-term effects of investing in fragrance-enhanced items. The irritation and health complications that can arise may outweigh the “benefits” of a pleasant scent.The Health ImpactIn short, too much soap may be a bad thing – at least for the general population. Tufts University Microbiologist Stuart Levy told Healthscout that the wide use of antibacterial products is killing off all of the “good” bacteria that our bodies need to defend against “bad” bacteria. After an antibacterial product is used, only the strongest bacteria survive. In turn, they become even stronger and more resilient to antibacterial medication."The image that germs should be destroyed, and kids should be raised in a sterile home is a mistake,” Levy told the news source. “If we over-clean and sterilize, children's immune systems will not mature. What worries me is that if we continue using antibacterials, we won't see [problems] until children get older, maybe 10 years from now.”Levy believes that individuals with compromised immune systems should be using antibacterial products, rather than the general public. However, we all know this isn’t the case – most stores have soap readily available for consumers, and everyone wants to be clean. As misperception continues to prevail, antibacterial product manufacturers will be in business for the foreseeable future.The Move Away from Antibacterial ProductsLevy believes that alcohol, chlorine bleach and hydrogen peroxide should be the primary items turned to for sanitation. Plain old soap and water, rather than antibacterial soap, is also recommended by Levy.That being said, it can be difficult to transition to an antibacterial product-free life after so many years of using these items. You can begin to cut out the dangerous items by turning to alternatives, such as plain soap.Plain soap is made with pure lye and oils that create a chemical reaction known as saponification -- the end result is soap and glycerin. Many researchers have concluded that it is just as effective as antibacterial soap, without the killing of “good” bacteria.By reducing the amount of antibacterial products you use regularly, you can also limit the number of chemicals that make it into the environment. The two antibacterial chemicals commonly found in soap, triclosan and triclocarban, typically end up in sewage sludge. In turn, they have the potential to degrade into carcinogens, which are responsible for causing cancer.Whether you want to improve your health or benefit the environment, there are numerous reasons to quit antibacterial soap. Learning more about the harmful ingredients in these products can help you become more conscious of their dangers as well.

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The Truth Behind Zoos and the Animals in Captivity

Zoos have always been a popular place for children and adults alike. Anyone who loves animals knows that the zoo is the perfect location to see everything from lions to giraffes from around the world. However, not everyone is happy with animals being kept in captivity. In fact, there has been plenty of controversy as of late surrounding zoos and how these creatures are allowed to live.The Reality of European ZoosAt the 2014 Euroscience Open Forum, one zoo science director came forward to shed light on what really happens at European zoos – and perhaps many others around the world, according to National Geographic.During the forum, Bengt Holst spoke of his work at Copenhagen Zoo. The facility was recently under fire after Holst controversially euthanized a giraffe and four lions. However, euthanasia is a standard practice at many European zoos, where animals are bred. Some animals are killed to make room for other species and maintain a diverse population."We should not tell the Disney story that animals are only cute and only get born and never die,” Holst said at the event, according to the news source. "We have to tell the real story: 'Death is a natural consequence of life.' If [we] don't tell that story, [we're doing] a bad job, because then we don't work for conservation—we work for an imaginary world."In some instances, zoos breed more animals than they need, which results in overpopulation. However, Holst views the need to euthanize animals as a “good” thing – this can be seen as an indicator of healthy breeding populations.The U.S. Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Vice President Rob Vernon has told the news source that euthanizing is not as common in U.S. zoos. Humane practices are used when an animal needs to be put down due to medical or quality-of-life concerns.A Real Look Inside the World’s ZoosFilmmaker Geoff D’Eon produced the documentary Zoo Revolution for CBC Television back in 2013 in hope of finding out what goes on in zoos around the world. However, he quickly found that many facilities were hesitant to allow him to film.For example, the London Zoo would not give D’Eon any access, and every aquarium he contacted denied his request.“There’s more people in North America that go to zoos than go to all the major sport franchises combined,” D’Eon told CBC. “So you’re dealing with an industry which is very conscious of its image and is very protective of its image.”Although D’Eon made contact with a dozen zoos for his documentary, many of the employees still chose not to talk to him about their facilities. For example, the Toronto Zoo would not discuss its elephants. The zoo had been under fire for the treatment of its elephants, which were being sent to a sanctuary in California, thanks to concerns from animal rights activists.Despite being banned from exploring the inner workings of these facilities, D’Eon ended his film by concluding that zoos “probably do more good than harm.” However, he confessed that he had seen some poor conditions, and D’Eon believes these locations should be shut down immediately.The Truth Behind Zoos?Despite the controversy surrounding zoos and aquariums, these facilities are constantly pushing information out to the public about the work they do to help animals. According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, zoos and aquariums are responsible for generating $16 billion in annual economic activity. They also create more than 142,000 jobs for people, and a 2008 national public survey found that 79 percent of Americans view zoos and aquariums as good for the local economy.But aside from the economic benefits of these facilities, what do they do for animals?For starters, the AZA claims that it only uses highly trained staff at its facilities to care for more than 700,000 animals. These individuals must meet professional standards for everything from veterinary care to wildlife conservation.Additionally, the AZA has a Species Survival Plan Program for the protection of endangered species. This plan incorporates conservation breeding, habitat preservation, field conservation and supportive research.It’s also worth noting that the zoos of today have come a long way. For example, not all animals are paraded in front of visitors for monetary gain, or kept in concreate cages with steel bars. Instead, zoos now work hard to create natural habitats for the animals who live there. Breeding programs are also dedicated to helping endangered species – some that may go extinct without the breeding conducted by zoos.Finally, many zoo employees are trained to prevent animals from becoming depressed. They may play games with the animals to eliminate the potential for mental deterioration.What Can You Do About Zoos?If you view zoos as entirely dedicated to the preservation of animals and their livelihood, you may feel the need to contribute to their well-being. Many zoos accept help from volunteers, which can give you an opportunity to get closer to the animals you visit.The AZA notes that at its accredited facilities, there are a number of volunteer positions that may suit your interests. For example, you can volunteer for an animal care job, which allows you to feed the animals and clean their habitats. You can also serve as an education volunteer, teaching visitors about everything from conservation to habitat restoration.However, the easiest way to make sure that you’re helping the zoo and its animals is to make a donation. Some zoos, such as the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston, Mass., and the Austin Zoo in Austin, Tx., allow you to “sponsor” an animal as well. When you choose to do so, your money goes toward feeding and caring for a particular species at the facility.Whether you’re interested in helping animals or learning more about zoos’ function, there is much to be learned.This can either be done through volunteering or simply attending an educational program hosted by your local zoo. In the end, you’ll feel better suited to make your own decisions about the benefits (or disadvantages) of zoos.

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4 Tips for Creating a Cozy, Welcoming Guest House

As published in KukunWhen you have a guest house for friends and family to use, you want it to be the definition of comfort. Your guest house should epitomize the old saying, “Home away from home.” However, this is often easier said than done, especially if you’re starting from scratch.To make your guests feel more welcome than they would in an unfamiliar hotel room, you need to focus on your interior design. Here are four tips for creating a guest house that your loved ones will never want to leave.1. Hone in on the nightstand.The nightstand is where your guests are going to look for everything they need before getting some shut-eye. This means it should be adequately prepped with a glass, a bottle of water and an eye mask for a special touch. You might also want to include some ear plugs and a good book for them to read before bed. Think of what you use before you drift off to dreamland, and use this insight as your inspiration.2. Consider the hungry traveler.Chances are, you’re going to have some guests who have just stumbled in from a long flight or car ride. Treat them right by providing enough snacks and treats they can munch on as soon as they settle. Consider comfort foods, such as tea, for your travelers to enjoy once they begin to unpack. It’s these special touches that show you truly care as a host.3. Think color.As you decorate your guest house, color should be a factor in your decisions. For instance, soothing ocean blue and soft eggshell can be pleasing to the eye, as well as relaxing. Avoid high-energy colors, such as stark red, in areas such as the bedroom. You want your guest house to feel cozy, not loud.4. Make it unique to your style.You may not be the one using the guest house frequently, but this doesn’t mean you can’t reflect your taste in the living space. In fact, incorporating a bit of your personality into your guest house can turn it into a unique place that beats out any boring hotel room. Think about bringing in furnishings you find from your travels, or antiques that have significant meaning to you. It’s these types of items that can transform your guest house into a space that says, “Come, sit and stay a little while.”Other rules of thumb that you might want to keep in mind for your guest house include the basics. For instance, make sure there are plenty of linens (towels, sheets) and pillows around for use. If your guest house has a kitchen, stock it with water bottles and non-perishable snacks.Finally, don’t forget to ask your guests if there is anything you can add to make their stay a little more comfortable before they arrive.

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Our Best Tips on How To Get Carrie Bradshaw’s Iconic Curls

As published on Glam.comPerhaps one of the most memorable traits of Carrie Bradshaw in the original “Sex and the City” series was her hair. As the show rolled on through the 90s, Carrie’s flowing natural curls became as iconic as “Sex and the City” itself. “Before a scene would shoot, [Sarah] would run her hands through her hair to get it going; that was her vibe,” hairstylist Sacha Quarles, who worked with actress Sarah Jessica Parker for a portion of the show, told Vogue. “It wasn’t just a magazine cover. It was beauty with a real-life feel to it.” Despite the show being revived as “And Just Like That,” Carrie’s nostalgic curls haven’t made it into the new era. While her mane is still beautiful, it has a more polished look that suits the new phase of her life.These days, Sarah Jessica Parker’s character runs around New York City in “And Just Like That” with softer curls. In some instances, her tresses can even be considered wavy, as opposed to curly. However, it still manages to suit her character, who hasn’t let fame get to her as a successful, wealthy writer. Her loose curls give her an effortless yet chic look that works in both the daytime and night. Whether you aspire to rock Carrie’s “And Just Like That” locks or the tight curls she flaunted in the original “Sex and the City,” there are haircare tools and treatments to help you achieve your goal.Creating the foundation for Carrie Bradshaw curlsIf you have straight or wavy hair, it may seem impossible to get anything close to Carrie Bradshaw’s curly mane. However, you can mimic the look if you start with a proper foundation.If you have waves or curls, you’ll want to begin with curl-defining shampoo and conditioner in the shower to enhance the natural texture of your hair. Using shampoo and conditioner that is formulated to work with your tresses can help bring them to life. Furthermore, they can help you address any underlying issues that may pertain to your type of hair, such as frizz or dryness.In the case of straight tresses, you might find it easier to work with clean, dry hair instead. This is because Carrie’s curls always featured ample volume, and straighter locks can be easily weighed down when wet and conditioned. If you want to wash your hair beforehand, be sure to use a lighter conditioner and focus on applying it to the ends of your tresses — stay away from the roots.If your hair tends to be oily, you may be hesitant to skip washing. However, keep in mind that your natural oils can help when you’re going without a wash. "The natural oils in your hair will act as the product, allowing your hair to be molded more easily,” hair stylist Octavio Molina told Byrdie.How to use a texturizing hair product effectivelyBecause texture is the name of the game when it comes to curls, you’ll want to have the right styling products for the task at hand.Texturizing products come in a wide range of formulas from mousse to clay. If you’re new to clay, you might want to consider using it if you want curls that’ll last throughout a long day. "A light-hold clay or wax will act as a forming cream, allowing your hair to set in any direction you want," hair stylist Octavio Molina told Byrdie.If you’re using a texturing spray, be mindful of how much you apply — adding too much of the product can make it difficult to style. “The most common mistake people make is spraying it too close and using too much,” stylist Chad Wood told Hair.com by L’Oréal. “You should really spray an arm's length away, and you want to spray and mist and shuffle, brush out your hair, pull it out as you’re misting. Do it ever so slightly and build it.”If you decide to opt for texturizing mousse instead, use it on your tresses before you begin styling, ideally when they’re damp. Start with a golf ball-sized amount and run it through your locks before you apply heat. This texturizing product can also help your curls maintain their shape for longer once they dry.Creating Carrie Bradshaw-inspired curls with heatBefore you reach for your hair dryer, you’ll want to make sure your tresses are sealed with a heat protectant. In addition to preventing heat damage, this product can help you maintain your final style while limiting frizz and flyaways. Once it’s been applied, you can grab a round brush and begin creating your Carrie Bradshaw-inspired curls.If you have medium or long hair, you can simplify the process by sectioning portions into upper and lower segments. While working on the lower segment, roll your hair up in the brush toward the base of your scalp, stopping a couple of inches away from your roots. Then, begin adding heat with your blow dryer, and vertically unroll your tresses once they’re sufficiently dried. Repeat this process with the upper segment of your hair until you have all of the curls you desire.If you find that your locks aren’t holding their curls, wait to unwrap each section that you blow dry until it fully cools. It can also be helpful to add a spritz of hair spray once you’re finished styling to maintain your look for longer. For more natural-looking curls, run your fingers through your hair after you finish to create a looser, more flexible style.Getting the curls you want with curlersNot everyone prefers to use their blow dryer or curling iron to get an iconic look, no matter how much they want to channel Carrie Bradshaw. Luckily, there are rollers for those who have some time and don’t mind setting-and-forgetting their tresses.If you want to create curls that mimic the look of Carrie Bradshaw from “Sex and the City,” you might want to use foam rollers, which can help you develop tight ringlets. "Foam rollers have a very easy design for clients to use on their own,” stylist Shelly Aguirre told Byrdie. “The clip to secure them is attached to the roller so some clients will have an easier time. The bigger the roller, the bouncier the hair, the smaller the roller, the more tight the curls will be." Velcro rollers can help you achieve the same type of curls, and they come in a wide array of sizes, in case you ever want “And Just Like That” Carrie Bradshaw waves instead — the larger the roller, the bouncier the curl. These rollers work best on dry hair, but both Velcro and foam rollers give you the best results when worn for a few hours or overnight.If you want faster results, you might want to opt for hot rollers. Similar to other types, they come in different sizes for different variations of curls. However, they use heat, as the name implies, to provide instant results. Just keep in mind that smaller rollers should be reserved for longer locks to prevent creating curls that are too tight.Troubleshooting common curling mistakesIf you’re having trouble getting your locks to hold a curl, there are a few factors you might want to consider. First, take the products you’re using before curling into consideration. For example, if you’re applying a hair oil prior to styling, you might be weighing down your tresses. Doing so can drastically cut the lifespan of any curl you add to your hair.Next, reexamine your technique when you’re styling, especially if you’re using a curling iron. “If you want more volume, heat the root of your hair first and hold the iron perpendicular to the section—i.e., at a right angle—you're curling," hair stylust Javon Stone told Glamour. It should be straight off your head. "If you don’t want volume, hold the iron straight down instead.” Similarly, think about how you’re releasing each curl — if you’re allowing it to go limp, rather than holding it in your hand while it cools, you could be unintentionally creating looser curls.Finally, don’t be afraid to seal your curls as you work. This means spritzing your locks with hair spray before and during the styling process, rather than just at the end. By doing so, you’ll extend the longevity of your look from sunrise to sunset.

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HGTV's Home Town Season 5: Premiere Release Date, Airing Time, Cast, Episodes

As published on ScreenrantHGTV’s beloved reality series, Home Town, is returning for another season at the beginning of the New Year. The show features Ben and Erin Napier, a couple dedicated to renovating the homes of their neighbors in Laurel, Miss. Think Fixer Upper, but with a different twosome in the Deep South.
Each episode of Home Town features a different client who Ben and Erin try to help with their whimsical home designs and renovation know-how. The series, which premiered back in 2016, has become a staple for HGTV. Now on their fifth season, it doesn’t seem like Home Town is leaving the network’s lineup any time soon.Season 5 of Home Town is officially slated to debut on Sunday, Jan. 3 at 8 p.m. ET. This coming season is full of several highlights. According to Discovery, Ben and Erin will tackle a cabin for a Grammy-nominated producer and guitarist in Nashville. In addition, they will develop an outdoor kitchen for a Louisiana family that is looking to relocate to their hometown of Laurel. And last, but not least, they will take on the first home of Ben’s brother, Jesse.But it’s the actual season premiere that may be a tear jerker. Ben and Erin will help newlyweds find their first home after suffering a tragic loss. Some of the highlights they bring to the table include a play area with an upcycled, personalized toy box and a living room with a custom family tree painting. Ben and Erin’s goal was to weave the couple’s story into the small details of their new space.Given the success of Home Town, Discovery is also debuting a new original series based on Ben’s woodworking on its new streaming service. Home Town: Ben’s Workshop will premiere on Monday, Jan. 4 on Discovery Plus. The four-episode series will showcase Ben’s expertise in all things carpentry. In addition, there will be celebrity guests, including country star Chris Lane and comedian Loni Love.
It will be interesting to see what the New Year has in store for the Napiers. They have not only managed to find success on television, but beyond, with their thousands of followers on social media. Notably, they also run a general store called Laurel Mercantile where they curate and sell American-made goods to their fans. Will they follow in the footsteps of the Gaines and other home renovation experts who’ve come before them? Only time will tell, but given their existing success, it seems that the sky’s the limit.

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Can You Use Mascara if You Wear Contact Lenses?

As published on Glam.comWe all know that one person with long, lush lashes who could probably get away without wearing mascara to make their eyes pop. As for the rest of us, it can help to use a product like volume-enhancing mascara to complete our look. Whether you lean toward waterproof formulas or you’re all about lengthening mascara, eye makeup can be tricky if you happen to wear contact lenses.Contact lenses give those who are visually impaired the option to see without the need to wear glasses. However, proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining eye health, regardless of whether you wear makeup. As the American Optometric Association (AOA) explains, hygiene is critical — your hands should be thoroughly washed before you handle your contact lenses in any capacity. Tap water should also be avoided for cleaning and storing lenses, as it may contaminate them and lead to an eye infection. There are special solutions used for storing and cleaning contact lenses, and different varieties might require different solutions.Generally speaking, however, contact lenses can be worn regularly without any safety risks. So long as the lenses are used according to your optometrist’s instructions, you should be able to avoid eye health problems, such as infections — but what about your makeup? Is it safe to wear around your eyes? Here is what you need to know about wearing mascara with contact lenses.Can you wear mascara and contact lenses at the same time?In short, the answer is yes, you can safely wear mascara with your contact lenses in your eyes, according to the AOA. You’ll want to put your contact lenses into your eyes prior to applying any makeup, as long as they are soft lenses — rigid gas-permeable lenses should be put into your eyes after you apply makeup. If you are unsure of what type you have, contact your ophthalmologist for more information.In terms of mascara, the AOA recommends steering clear of lash-extending formulations and waterproof varieties, in particular. Lash-extending mascara typically contains fibers, which can cause eye irritation if you’re wearing contact lenses and those fibers go awry. Because waterproof formulas are more difficult to remove, there is also a greater chance of this type of mascara making its way into your eyes. In turn, you might experience irritation, especially if you’re wearing contact lenses.Before you remove any eye makeup, make sure you take out your contact lenses first to reduce the chances of running into any issues. If you notice symptoms, such as redness, pain, or blurred vision, don’t hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist. They can help diagnose and treat any underlying issues, such as an eye infection. Additionally, they’ll have all of the information you need on how to safely wear eye makeup while wearing your contact lenses.What to do if makeup makes its way into your eyesEven if you take all of the necessary precautions, there’s no guarantee that you won’t run into any problems if you wear contact lenses and apply eye makeup. Given the close contact between the eyes and the cosmetics, there is always a slight risk. However, getting something like mascara in your eye doesn’t have to result in full-blown panic.In the event that you get any makeup in your eyes while wearing contact lenses, Makeup.com recommends washing your hands, and then removing the lenses as soon as possible. To eliminate any irritation, rinse your eyes with a saline solution or preservative-free tears. After the incident, you should avoid putting contact lenses back in your eyes if you feel any lingering irritation. If you don’t have your glasses handy, however, replace the affected lenses with fresh ones during reinsertion.Keeping your eye makeup clean is essential to maintaining your eye health, regardless of whether you wear contact lenses. As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes, makeup wearers have been temporarily or permanently blinded in the past as a result of an infection stemming from a contaminated eye makeup product. To stay safe, discard of eye makeup — including mascara — two to four months after purchase. Dried-up mascara should always be thrown away, and makeup should never be shared to prevent the spread of bacteria.

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Fighting With a Friend: Reconciling Is Never Futile if You Approach It Well

As published on Glam.comThe feeling that comes after a big blowout with a friend can be one of the worst you’ll ever experience. A rift with a loved one can leave you feeling drained, depressed, and angry, just to name a few negative emotions. The situation can seem even worse if you think a bridge has been burned and there’s no hope of reconciliation.However, it might help to know that getting into conflicts with close friends is far from uncommon. "In any close friendship, feelings of envy, competition, disappointment, anger — the entire range of emotions that make us human — are going to rear their head,” psychologist Harriet Lerner told the Chicago Tribune. “Friendship doesn't suffer from anger or conflict, it suffers from the denial of it.”That being said, you might not be excited to pick up where you left off with your friend if insults were thrown around, for example. It may also feel impossible if you still feel like the fight is ongoing and there was no resolution. However, reconciling isn’t necessarily futile if you know how to approach it appropriately. There are many ways you can rehab a relationship with a friend, assuming you’re willing to put in the time and effort.The importance of allowing time to passOne of the worst things you can do after a fight with a friend is add fuel to the fire, especially if there wasn’t a definitive end to the argument. For instance, bringing up the matter shortly after the conflict occurred may only irritate your friend further. Additionally, you or your loved one may suffer from more hurt feelings. Psychologist Harriet Lerner told the Chicago Tribune that one way to begin the recovery process is to allow some time to pass."Strike when the iron is cold," Lerner told the Tribune. "When you let time go by, you may realize that it's not that big a deal. You may say to yourself, ‘Josephine was under a lot of stress at the party. She didn't mean to be rude.’ Not everything has to be talked about. You don't have to address every little thing that irritates you about your friends."If you do feel that one of the causes of your conflict needs to be addressed, try to be as specific as possible about why you felt hurt. Lerner also recommends maintaining a calm, loving demeanor, and avoiding over-talking — doing so might put your friend in a more defensive position.Approaching obstacles with forgiveness and patienceIf this is not the first conflict you’ve had with your friend, you might feel more inclined to end the relationship altogether. However, the ongoing issue might actually be rooted in a lack of forgiveness and patience. As Reader’s Digest explains, any relationship is bound to come with its fair share of misunderstandings. The key to overcoming these obstacles and helping friendships thrive is to recognize mistakes and miscommunication. “Take responsibility for your own failures and learn from them, express gratitude for the good and bad times — both are teachers and blessings — and show patience and forgiveness,” author and contemporary family expert Susan Kuczmarski told the publication.If possible, try to identify the reason for the fight with your friend. Then, take the time to understand why it happened and acknowledge any feelings that were hurt along the way. From here, you and your friend can work on forgiveness and exchange apologies, if necessary. “Brainstorm to come up with an action plan,” Kuczmarski added while speaking to Reader’s Digest. “Say, ‘Let’s try to come up with some ideas for how to prevent this from happening again.’” In the end, your friendship will grow from resolving your mistakes.Identifying behaviors that trigger conflictNo one is perfect, and the same sentiment applies to your best friend. That being said, identifying and understanding their personality — as well as their triggers — can help you nurture your friendship. Additionally, knowing your own triggers can be beneficial, and it might help you resolve an existing conflict.A 2011 study published in Psychological Science looked at how closely people understood their friends’ triggers — behaviors that someone might consider to be “annoying,” such as skepticism or gullibility. The researchers found that those who could identify their friends’ triggers had better relationships than their counterparts, per ScienceDaily. This was because they understood and accepted their friends’ traits, leading to less frustration.If your current fight with a friend began because of a trigger, you may have been unaware that their behavior provoked a reaction in you — even if it had happened many times in the past. Identifying behaviors that irk you can help you get to the bottom of the conflict with your friend. You can also use it as a launching point to open up a discussion about how it makes you feel. Together, you and your friend can nail down your triggers and look for ways to avoid them in the future. This can result in less fighting, fewer apologies, and no hurt feelings.Finding a safe space to talk it outIn terms of the basics of reconciliation, there are some technicalities that need to be in place in order for it to go as smoothly as possible. This applies to relationships of all types, as much can be lost in translation, depending on how and where you are attempting to reconcile with a person. Stylist notes that if you’re feuding with a friend, one of the worst approaches to take is texting. “Texting someone is an immediate invitation for misinterpretation and fuel for conflict,” life coach Grace McMahon told the source.Alternatively, the best approach to talking it out is to do it in person, if possible. A phone call will suffice if distance is a barrier between you and your friend. When selecting a place to reconcile, you’ll want to choose a space where both people feel safe and comfortable — the idea is to be vulnerable enough to discuss your emotions while on a level playing field with your friend. A coffee shop or public park are two examples to consider.If you’re afraid that one of you may cause a scene, you might need to consider meeting at one of your residences. “In public, you’ll try not to cause a scene but sometimes an outburst of emotions is just what you need in order to be heard and understood,” McMahon told Stylist.Being willing to ask the tough questionsIn the middle of a fight with a friend, the last thing on your mind is likely conflict resolution, especially if you’re still fuming. However, continuing the conversation with a series of questions for your friend might lead you down a path toward reconciliation, according to HelloGiggles.Therapist Dr. Tammy Nelson told the publication that there are a few key questions you can ask after a fight to speed up the recovery process. First, check in with your friend to see if they need space before attempting to reconcile. If they’re willing to keep talking, take the time to listen to their side without invalidating their emotions.In the end, it’s important to understand that your friend may still need to process the situation and emotions at hand. For this reason, you shouldn’t assume that everything is back to the way it was before the conflict. Give your loved one time and space, especially if you haven’t agreed on a plan to move forward just yet. When the time comes, ask your friend if there is anything you can do differently to prevent this type of conflict in the future. In time, you can begin to discuss the potential for forgiveness on both of your parts.Learning to pick your battlesAt the end of the day, a fight between you and your friend just might not be worth the time, energy, or ending of the relationship. As PsychCentral points out, it’s important to recognize that not all arguments stack up the same. With that in mind, it might be best to let things go, if only for the sake of your friendship.Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should sweep the situation under the rug. It’s still important to acknowledge any hurt feelings, whether you or your friend is the one who could benefit from validation. To make it easier, try to put yourself in the shoes of your friend — how would you feel if you were on the receiving end of your comments? It may also help to accept the fact that in some situations, you’ll have to agree to disagree with your friend. While it might not feel like a solution, it can allow you to continue your friendship without hostility or hard feelings.

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4 Secrets for Selecting the Perfect Wall Color

As seen in KukunSelecting a wall color for a newly renovated space can be challenging, especially if there are multiple factors to consider. Depending on who uses the space, you may have three or four household members voicing their opinions. Then, you also need to take your existing furnishings into account.Before you begin splurging on buckets of paint, there are a few ways you can narrow down your color options. Here are four secrets for selecting the perfect hue for the walls of your living space.1. Use sample boards.Sample boards are simply small boards that you can paint various colors on to use for comparison. One board may be painted eggshell, while another might be sky blue. The goal is to give you an idea of what a color may look like in your space before you buy gallons of paint. You can hold dry sample boards up to existing furniture and fabrics in your space to help you envision a hue in your room, according to HGTV.2. Be inspired.Perhaps you love all of the colors you’ve come across in the paint aisle. Understandably, this can make it difficult to narrow down our options.Using your inspiration can help at a time like this, according to Benjamin Moore. Think of your last memorable vacation and the hues it bought. For example, a tropical trip might bring to mind colors like ocean blue or sunset orange. Inspiration can help you select wall colors that you know you already love.3. Think about mood.It’s critical to think about how you want to feel in your living space once the color is on the walls. For instance, red may bring out energy, which is not exactly what you want in a child’s bedroom where you want little ones to get some sleep. Save the stimulating colors for recreational areas of the house. Opt for soothing pastels, such as mellow yellow or pale pink, in rooms like the master suite.4. Understand the impact of lighting.A color may pop out more on your walls depending on the type of lighting you use, as well as the amount of illumination in a room, according to HGTV. Here are some key points to know while selecting your paint:• Natural daylight is ideal for viewing the paint’s true hue.
• Incandescent lighting casts a warm, yellow tone onto walls.
• Fluorescent lighting creates a sharp blue tone.As you narrow down your wall paint options, consider how much natural and artificial light you have in the space. This will give you an idea of how the hue will be reflected in the room on a daily basis.Whether you’re painting a child’s bedroom or your kitchen, the right color can make all of the difference. These four secrets to selecting a paint hue can ensure you’re satisfied with the end result.

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5 Ways to Maintain Your Wooden Deck Over Time

As published in KukunYou and your family have likely made many memories on your wooden deck. This area is a place for gathering, eating and celebrating in the great outdoors. However, a wooden deck that’s regularly exposed to the elements can show its age over time. That being said, how do you keep it looking beautiful over the years? Whether your deck is still new or it has a history, here are five tips you can use to maintain it.1. Wash itAs soon as spring rolls around, it’s time for you to give your deck a good wash. Failing to do so can allow mold and mildew to grow between the boards, which will eventually turn into rot. To begin, sweep all of the debris off of the surface of the deck. Then, use a cleaner specifically designed for wooden decks to wash it down efficiently.2. Seal and stain itSealers and stains can help maintain the look of your deck over time. With a sealant, you can protect the wood from the elements during all four seasons. By staining it, you’ll help the wood maintain its natural color.First, you want to sand down the deck to get a smooth surface. Then, you’ll need to replace any missing nails or screws from the boards themselves. Finally, apply the sealer and stain when you know you’ll have clear, dry weather for it to dry – two-to-three days is best.3. Keep an eye on your ledgerYour ledger is the piece of framing that keeps your deck attached to your home. It is under the deck itself, meaning it can be tricky to see, but it’s important to keep an eye on it over time. A damaged ledger can lead to the entire deck collapsing without any warning. Signs of damage may include rusted screws or nails.4. Inspect beams, posts and railingsYour beams, posts and railings should never be loose on your deck – everything should be firmly secure. Addressing a loose post or rail sooner rather than later can prevent expensive deck repair costs in the future.5. Keep it cleanIf your deck happens to be located near shrubs or under trees, you’re likely going to find foliage on its surface at some point. It’s critical to remove leaves and other debris from your deck as soon as possible.Leaves, for instance, can trap moisture and allow it to seep into the wood. In turn, you’ll increase the potential for mold, mildew and rot.
If you are unsure of the stability of your wooden deck, call in a professional contractor. He or she can let you know if you need to make any repairs to extend the life of the deck. Additionally, a professional can give you advice on finding the right sealant and stain for your deck.

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Is Azurite Blue So You Don’t Have to Be: Inside the Crystal’s Healing Powers

As published in Glam.comIf you’ve been feeling down and seeking a holistic approach to easing the blues, you might have heard about the healing potential of crystals. While they are certainly not a substitute for professional medical treatment, they may be worth examining as a way to self-soothe, especially in moments of stress or sadness.Many people use crystals in practices, such as Reiki, for their supposed healing properties. The belief is that crystals can assist with energy healing. While some swear by their metaphysical properties, not everyone is convinced. As Popular Mechanics reports, scientists have tried to definitively prove the cited benefits of crystals for years, to no avail. That being said, this doesn’t mean you should rule them out completely — especially if you believe they may have the potential to help during a difficult time.“Crystals absorb energy from pressure and movement and convert it into an electronic frequency,” Jude Polack, who sells crystal-infused water bottles, told Healthline. “It’s this frequency, unique to each type of crystal, that users are relying on when working with crystals, and given that many pain and anxiety relief devices work on similar principles, we do believe they can help in these areas.”If you’re interested in relieving feelings of sadness, in particular, you may have already heard of azurite — but how can this crystal help? Here is what some believe to be true about this blue beauty.What are the metaphysical properties of azurite?Azurite is renowned for its rich blue color, as well as its healing properties within the spiritual community. As Moonrise Crystals points out, it has been used by people for thousands of years, specifically for its supposed healing abilities. However, azurite is thought to be a multifaceted crystal with the potential to do more than just ease heartache and other emotional pain.On a metaphysical level, azurite is believed to be able to help you connect to your inner self, per Tiny Rituals. In turn, this supposedly provides the ability to tap into the power of the Third Eye. Throughout history, many people have used azurite with the belief that it helped them connect to the spirit world. As a result, azurite also became associated with receiving messages from the universe and heavens above.In a more basic sense, azurite is thought to be a clearing crystal. This means that much of its healing comes from its assumed potential to rid the body of negative energy, as well as energy blockages. By allowing energy to flow more freely through the body, many think azurite gives you the ability to step into your higher self. From here, you can supposedly do everything from communicate with your spirit guides to gain inner vision.Is azurite thought to provide emotional or physical benefits?Aside from its metaphysical properties, azurite is believed to have actual physical and emotional healing powers as well. Moonrise Crystals explains that some think this stone has the ability to ease conditions that affect the head and brain, such as migraines and vertigo. Additionally, those who work with the crystal for its reputed healing abilities associate it with liver detoxification.Some believe that azurite can be beneficial for those looking to revitalize their body, according to My Crystals. This is because the stone is believed to help with cell healing on the most basic level, combatting ailments linked to degeneration. As you detoxify with azurite, you might also see a boost in vitality, according to those who believe in the crystal’s properties. This may be of particular interest if you’re seeking a stone with properties that can supposedly help when you’re feeling down.In terms of emotional healing, azurite is renowned for its calming properties among those who turn to it. It is also thought to relieve distress, whether you are grieving or experiencing an unexpected bout of depression. Tiny Rituals cites its supposed ability to wash away anxiety, too. This might pique your curiosity if you’ve been feeling scatterbrained as a result of stress. Once you can calm your mind, you may find it easier to regain your focus.How to find azurite to add to your crystal collectionWhether you’re interested in starting a crystal collection or just want a piece of azurite for yourself, it may not be too difficult to get your hands on this stone. The International Gem Society notes that although a faceted version of it can be challenging to find, it’s not uncommon to see it in its deep blue state. Additionally, many people use azurite naturally mixed with green malachite in jewelry and other decorative objects.This crystal primarily receives its prized hue from copper, similar to malachite. The differences in these stones’ appearances arise when they are mixed with copper. In some cases, azurite appears with eye-catching bands of other unexpected colors, such as rust. If you’re shopping around for your own azurite, it’s worth noting that vendors don’t always identify the crystal appropriately. For example, some people sell “reconstructed” forms of the stone to imitate the look of azurmalachite — a crystal composed of both azurite and malachite. Many are starting to sell the stone with artificial veins of copper as well.Other azurite sellers simply mislabel the crystal. Some common mistaken names you might come across include “copper lapis” or “arctic opal.” Always be sure to ask the vendor if you’re interested in learning more about the crystal you want to buy before purchasing it. The seller should be willing to provide you with more information on everything from its origin to physical properties.Azurite and its association with astrologyThose who work with crystals often believe that they can benefit people born under specific zodiac sun signs. When it comes to azurite, in particular, many link the crystal to Sagittariuses. If you were born between November 22 and December 21, this is your sun sign, and azurite might be a perfect fit for you.Astrologer Desiree Roby Antila explained to TODAY that Sagittariuses are known for “shooting arrows of truth from their mouths.” In short, they may not always think before they act or speak. While this doesn’t mean they’re ill-willed, Sagittariuses might find themselves needing to apologize more often than not. When paired with azurite, a Sagittarius may find it easier to manage their fiery energy and stay calm, per Tiny Rituals.Another sun sign that can potentially benefit from this crystal is Aquarius. People born between January 20 and February 18 fall under this zodiac sign. While Aquarians are often viewed as intellectual and creative, they can sometimes get in their own way, per USA Today. Aquarians are prone to resisting instructions and directions, as they’re always coming up with their own new ideas. Azurite is thought to help them establish more balance, move tough emotions out of the way, and make room for clearer thinking. This crystal is believed to help enhance their sense of peace and calm as well.How to incorporate azurite into your daily lifeIf you’re interested in seeing if azurite has any positive benefits for you, there are many ways you can incorporate it into your daily life. My Crystals notes that those who believe in its metaphysical properties often use azurite around their home and work spaces to boost creativity. Because of its supposed ability to open up the Third Eye, some also think that the crystal can help access spiritual guidance.If you’re looking to alleviate stress or other negative emotions, azurite is thought to be beneficial during meditation as well. In addition to providing a sense of calm, the crystal is believed to be able to eliminate energy blockages and cleanse the aura.However, it’s important to keep in mind that crystals should never be used as a form of treatment for physical or mental health symptoms. If you continuously experience anxiety or depression as a result of stress, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. They can help you find the appropriate form of treatment for any underlying health conditions.

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BB Cream vs. CC Cream: What’s the Real Difference?

As published on Glam.comToday, the makeup product market is widely saturated, making it difficult for consumers to identify the must-haves for their personal collections. Some items have become mainstays, such as foundation and concealer. Other products, such as glitter and liquid eyeliner, might be kept in your makeup collection for special occasions. BB cream and CC cream have both grown in popularity, so much so that many now consider them to be makeup staples as well.Although it might seem like BB cream is new to the scene, dermatologist Dr. Christine Schrammek is often credited with developing the first BB cream back in the 1950s. “BB” is an abbreviation for “blemish balm,” and anyone who’s used the product can tell you it does just that — it covers up unsightly blemishes. That being said, BB creams can go beyond hiding imperfections, depending on the formula. Many people use this product for sun protection, skin hydration, and as a replacement for primer as well.CC cream, on the other hand, is a more recent creation, according to Healthline. “CC” stands for “color correcting” in most cases, but in general, much of CC cream’s development is founded on marketing. Similar to BB cream, CC cream can also help hide blemishes, offer sun protection, and create the appearance of smoother skin. That being said, what is the real difference between the two products? Is it necessary to have both in your makeup collection?What are the real differences between BB and CC cream?Aside from the times in which they each entered the makeup market, there are a few key differences between BB cream and CC cream worth noting. The main difference lies in how intensely they cover skin imperfections, according to TODAY. As previously mentioned, BB cream is ideal for hiding blemishes, which may make it a go-to for those who deal with acne flare-ups. CC cream is formulated to provide color correction, which makes it beneficial if you struggle with an uneven skin tone.However, the differences don’t end there — the actual textures of BB and CC cream typically vary as well. For instance, CC creams tend to be more lightweight and provide a matte appearance, which can help those looking to combat oily skin. BB creams are often slightly thicker, but more hydrating, making them useful to people with dry skin. Generally speaking, though, both BB and CC cream can be used with other makeup products, such as concealer. In fact, doing so can create a more flawless appearance.Also, don’t be afraid to wear BB and CC cream at the same time. Makeup.com by L’Oréal explains that applying BB cream first and following it up with CC cream can even out your skin tone. Additionally, you’ll hide blemishes, eliminate redness, and create a glowing appearance.Understanding the real benefits of BB and CC creamsAfter learning about the benefits of using BB and CC cream, you might be eager to add both to your makeup collection. That being said, it’s worth tempering your expectations by educating yourself on what these products can really do for your skin and appearance.Many BB creams contain ingredients, such as peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants, according to MedicalNewsToday. These can be beneficial for keeping your skin hydrated and protected from environmental pollutants, but every formula is different. Additionally, it’s worth seeking out the SPF protection offered by the BB cream you choose. Ideally, an SPF level needs to be 30 or higher to provide sufficient sun protection, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.Similarly, CC cream often provides SPF protection, but it also needs to be SPF 30 or higher for adequate shielding from ultraviolet rays. While many CC creams also claim to help with issues, such as signs of aging and dryness, Healthline reminds consumers to be aware of the marketing hype surrounding these products. Although several formulations do include beneficial ingredients, many CC creams can be simply categorized as tinted moisturizers. When shopping for a CC cream, look for ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which can protect and hydrate your skin.It can be tempting to purchase the trendiest makeup products as soon as they hit the market. However, doing your research beforehand can prevent buyer remorse.

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Writing Samples: Interviews & Reporting

Below, you will find a collection of interviews conducted for various publications, as specified in each piece.

100 Hours in the Black Monk House

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Optimism Reigns Supreme at BioPharm America 2014

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Unlocking the Potential of B2B Brand Marketing Initiatives

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The Hazards of Mixing Up Your Pet’s Flea and Tick Medication

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Tarot without a Visit From The Boogeyman

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How the State of Pipeline Marketing is Changing in 2015

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100 Hours in the Black Monk House

Nick Groff and Katrina Weidman of ‘Paranormal Lockdown’ take us behind the scenes of their upcoming Halloween special on Destination AmericaAs published in Paranormal Underground MagazineInvestigators Nick Groff and Katrina Weidman have seen their fair share of otherworldly activity around the world, but they say it’s hard to compare to what they’ve witnessed filming the upcoming season of Destination America’s hit show, “Paranormal Lockdown.”As a Halloween treat, a two-hour “Paranormal Lockdown” special will be airing on Oct. 31 at 9 p.m. ET on Destination America. We caught up with Nick and Katrina to get the scoop on the Halloween special, as well as what’s in store for the next season of “Paranormal Lockdown.”The Halloween lockdown you filmed was 100 hours. Did it require any type of special preparation, in comparison to your typical 72-hour lockdowns?Katrina Weidman: “A lot more showering before I left. Plus a lot more sleeping before I left for England. I don’t really do any rituals or anything like that before I go to a place, but I needed to get into a mental mindset for it.”Nick Groff: “We were having a ton of stuff happening at our houses after one investigation, and we kind of figured out that there was a bigger picture of things happening. We knew we didn’t want to do a ‘typical 72 hours’ at the Black Monk House, we felt like we had to push ourselves to really get to the bottom of it. We wanted to separate fact from folklore and see what was truly drawing us to the location, and what can possibly be haunting it. It’s just one of those things – it was a different type of location. We felt like going 100 hours, which is kind of crazy, but I guess that’s us – a little crazy sometimes. We’re willing to take the risks and the dangers. We’re willing to confine ourselves to locations to justify our investigations.”How did the Black Monk House strike you when you first arrived?KW: “We noticed it right away in the atmosphere, and we both felt similar and different things. For me, the minute I walked in, it felt like walking through quicksand. It was a very heavy atmosphere where your body just felt like it was heavy, like you were carrying cement blocks. That was a challenge. It was hard to concentrate in there, and I felt extremely tired. I remember there was one point where I sat on the couch on our first night after a break, and I dozed off for 15 minutes. I didn’t even remember dozing off. It wasn’t that I was tired, we were five hours ahead, so I should’ve been totally fine. But I remember being constantly tired in that place. I think overall these negative places have their own kind of special feel to them, and once you’ve felt it, you always know it whenever you walk into another place that has it.”NG: “We were having some sort of telepathic-like nightmares that were drawing us to this location, that’s truly why we picked it, to be honest. This location was actually off of our list for a long time, then it slowly came back on our list to research and investigate. It’s weird how it all worked out. The first 24 hours was like a roller coaster ride, it really was emotionally like a wreck. It was somewhat spontaneous – how we were reacting to things emotionally, and energy being lifted off of our bodies. We couldn’t function anymore, I felt super ill at one point where I was going to throw up. That’s when we were like, ‘Maybe we’re up against something we don’t fully understand yet.’”As you look back on the Halloween Special, do you have any reflections?NG: “The Halloween Special is really, really personal to us. There’s stuff that affects Katrina that I didn’t see coming, and it really shook us. We’re still recovering.”KW: “Out of all of the investigations I’ve done – and I’ve done over 100 – this is the one that has affected me the most. It shook my core, very much so.”What do you think is actually at the Black Monk House? Is it evil? Is it a ghost?NG: “It’s hard to say without giving it away, but I can say we felt the wrath of it. We didn’t see it coming. There are so many legends about this Black Monk at the location, but I think there is something bigger happening here. Not just with this location, but multiple locations. I will say that there is a bigger thing happening that we don’t fully understand yet. I really felt like the location got under my skin before we even step foot on the property.”Did you use any new investigation techniques or equipment during the Halloween lockdown?NG: “Yeah, we used a whole arsenal of equipment. Number one, we always say our body is the best tool for paranormal research, but we always want to validate our experiences. We’re always pushing ourselves to work with engineers and research, and looking for different outlets to try to validate claims. We have teamed up with a couple of different people who allowed us to use gear they’ve been developing, and it’s been absolutely amazing – some of the stuff we have captured. I can’t wait for people to see it because we’re finally moving in the right direction in the paranormal field instead of typical redundancy.”Can you tell us what goes on behind the scenes of a typical lockdown? What doesn’t make it on the air?KW: “A lot of these places don’t have running water. I’m such a routine person in the morning, and when I don’t do it, I don’t feel focused. I also have a routine I do before I go to bed. It’s really hard to do that stuff at some of these locations. I’ve literally had to take bottles of water to wash my face out in the yard on-location. Baby wipes are my best friend. I can maybe wash the front pieces of my hair, if I’m lucky – the pieces that touch my face so I don’t break out. And these places are so disgusting. In one place, I got a bloody nose, that’s how bad it was. We’re living there, we’re sleeping there, so some of these places really take a toll on you. I think maybe some of the stuff you don’t see is how much it wears on our bodies. It’s also not all serious 24/7, we do joke around and have a good time. There’s just a lot of goofy moments. In Season 2, there was a colony of bats at one location, and we didn’t realize that before we started our investigation. It was scary, but it was fun dodging these things swooping at our faces.”NG: “I was like ‘Turn off your infrared light on your camera!’ I thought the bats were attracted to infrared! And Katrina looks it up online on her phone, and she says, ‘Actually, the bats are attracted to the insects that are attracted to the infrared, which is why they’re dive-bombing us.’ The weird thing about it is, the location Katrina’s describing is a massive hospital, and it’s pretty creepy. I had to sleep in a hallway where we had just seen a bat with a wingspan of about three feet. I remember putting my sleeping bag in the middle of the hallway, and I kept feeling the bat hit my sleeping bag and bouncing off. I was like ‘Please make the sun come up.’ And then we talked to the woman who runs the place, and she said she saw 200 of them come out of the building a month ago. We were like, ‘This is information that would’ve been useful yesterday.’”Can you tell us any specifics about Season 2?NG: “Honestly, the last couple of investigations and locations have been really intense, like probably the most intense I’ve ever done in my life. When we’ve been in these locations, there has been no real down time – we’re exhausting every avenue, physically and mentally. We’re super vulnerable at times, when we’re sleeping for an hour, maybe two. We just left another location and we’ve got this head cold now, we got sick from it. But, I’ve gotta say, the passion that drives us is the evidence that we get. That’s why we do it. And I think that’s the ultimate goal for both of us is to discover something new in the paranormal field. We’re getting super close to gathering incredible evidence, it’s blowing me away.”KW: “Since we’ve teamed up, it has been the best evidence I’ve not only been a part of, but that I’ve flat-out ever seen.”How has your relationship progressed since Season 1?KW: “We never worked with each other before this show. Nick hit me up out of the blue and said ‘let’s talk.’ We just felt like long-lost brother and sister. We both have a dark sense of humor, so immediately we got along. I think it’s like how you work with anybody. The longer you work with anybody, the more comfort and trust you build, and we absolutely have to trust each other when we’re doing this stuff. Like Nick said, there’s a lot of times when we’re putting our lives in some kind of danger, whether it’s because a building isn’t safe or little things, like a really dusty place and getting sick. We have to be able to rely on each other.”NG: “We’ll say off-the-wall stuff that you say around your friends. You’re together for 24 hours straight, you haven’t slept, and you have moments where you just say wild things.”Are you tackling specific types of locations in Season 2?NG: “We have everything – jails, and one of the oldest houses in the country; massive hospitals where we are the first ones to investigate. We discovered something in one location that will probably make national press. We have stuff that is pretty much groundbreaking in reality and in the paranormal field. All of the locations are pretty much new, except for one that we’re returning to for a certain reason. We have great guests coming on, too, to help us at the same time. This season is probably the most extreme, grittiest, and downright crazy.”

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Optimism Reigns Supreme at BioPharm America 2014

As published in BioSpace.comThe biotechnology industry is booming, and investors are turning to these companies with the notion that there is a bright future ahead, but what is all the fanfare about? More importantly, will the excitement surrounding the biotech and biopharmaceutical industries be short-lived?The seventh annual BioPharm America conference kicked off in Boston, Mass., on Sept. 22 and gave biotech and biopharmaceutical professionals a place to come together for the sake of life sciences. For three days, executives from around the world attended panel discussions and networking sessions, and their level of excitement toward the future of the industry was palpable.Life Sciences: Prepare for LaunchThere were approximately 7,970 active biotechnology firms in the U.S. as of 2013, according to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development. By 2015, MarketResearch notes that the biotech industry will be worth $398 billion. If there was ever a time to be involved in this line of work, it’s now.
“It’s always been an exciting field,” said Peter Barrett, partner at Atlas Venture, during a panel discussion at BioPharm America. “How many people can say they work in a field that does social good? And if you do it well, you make money at it.”
As biotechnology companies boom, investors are starting to take notice.Consider the case of Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, which soared 200 percent from its IPO price during its first day of trading in late January of this year. Look at the Standard and Poor’s biotechnology index, which has increased 13.6 percent since the beginning of 2014.“We’re in the midst of a record setting year with IPOs with 16 companies having filed already in 2014,” noted Robert Coughlin, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council, during the BioPharm America keynote address.Buoyed by the industry's promising growth potential, investors are taking a keen eye to firms of all sizes, meaning even smaller companies are earning opportunities for funding.“There’s always been a lot of innovation coming out of early technologies, but with the liquidity that has occurred within the last couple of years, a lot of firms have been able to raise funds,” said Brian Gallagher, partner at SR One, during a panel discussion at BioPharm America. “I think there is a lot more influx of capital into the system, which is good for everyone.”Optimism for the FutureJohn Hallinan, Chief Business Officer of the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council, spoke to BioSpace about recent advancements in life sciences and how the potential for more breakthroughs is driving overall optimism and interest in the industry.“We have gene therapy, it has returned to the forefront,” Hallinan told BioSpace. “Gilead is one example, releasing Sovaldi for hepatitis C. There’s a lot of promise and potential. I think people finally have come to understand that the life sciences -- biotech, in particular -- has a lot of potential.”However, it’s not surprising to many that the biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries are booming. With steady scientific advancements and growing interest in life sciences, this success is no coincidence.“I think it’s part of the algorithm behind the investment,” Hallinan continued. “I think a lot of it is being driven by the fact that there is a lot of unmet medical need. I think that after the global economic meltdown, there was sort of a slowdown and re-calibration and now it’s come back. Partly, big data, healthcare IT, technology being applied to life sciences has led us into the next generation of drug development, targeted therapies, and there’s a lot of excitement around the space -- not about developing only treatments, but cures.”

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Unlocking the Potential of B2B Brand Marketing Initiatives

As published by Walker Sands (formerly KoMarketing Associates)B2B marketers are becoming more interested in the potential benefits of implementing a brand strategy, but why? “The B2B Brand Strategy” white paper from Spencer Brenneman found that B2B executives are seeing ROI from their brand initiatives, and 81.3 percent intend to boost their investments in the next five years. We spoke to Douglas Spencer, president of Spencer Brenneman Strategic Branding, for more insight into why B2B organizations are focusing on this type of marketing.How are B2B organizations, in particular, benefiting from more investment in brand initiatives?“I have this theory that B2B companies need a brand strategy for a very different reason than B2C companies: Years ago, B2B companies were able to rely on the relationship their salespeople had with their clients. People change jobs far more frequently than our parents did and the actual sales are more complicated, requiring more people in the decision-making process. This shift means that companies can no longer rely solely on the relationships their sales teams have with clients. The brand helps create connections beyond just two people initiating a transaction.”Is there anything B2B marketers could learn from B2C marketers in terms of enhancing their brand strategies?“Commitment! One of the elements that surprised me in the data was the frequency with which firms expected to update their strategies. A well thought-out strategy should last more than one year and only require a tweak now and then. Successful brands commit to their strategies.”Which resources/technology are proving most useful to marketers looking to improve their branding initiatives?“Digital asset management systems lead the pack in investments and that makes sense. Inconsistency is enemy number one of a strong brand so giving an enterprise the tools to bring it to life consistently is money well spent.”Would you say B2B organizations are behind B2C companies in terms of brand marketing? Why or why not?“Based on our research, one could argue that B2B companies are catching up! For example, I remember just a few years ago having a difficult time explaining what a verbal identity was and why it was necessary. Apparently, that’s no longer such a mystery!”In your opinion, what was the most surprising or interesting finding in the report?“For those of us who have spent a lot of time in B2B branding, it was surprising and refreshing that companies are focusing on brand marketing at all, let alone with such enthusiasm. However, the most surprising finding to me is that companies are paying so much attention to their verbal identities. I’m thrilled! Verbal identities are powerful tools, which our research demonstrates.”

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The Hazards of Mixing Up Your Pet’s Flea and Tick Medication

As published in Pet360If you have a dog, cat, or several pets at home that require flea and tick medication, you likely have various treatments on hand to maintain their health. However, there are serious dangers that come with potentially mixing up these products, regardless of whether they are prescription or over-the-counter.“Dog products should never be applied to a cat and owners need to make sure they use the correct weight for their pet,” says D.D. Clark, DVM, Companion Animal Technical Services Manager at Merck Animal Health. “Under dosing can lead to lack of efficacy.”But aside from reducing the effectiveness of flea and tick treatments, there are other health concerns that can stem from the misuse of medication.Mixing Dangers and CatsSeveral experts agree that there are dangers associated for both cats and dogs in the event that treatments are mixed. However, most of the issues are prone to heavily impacting cats.“Cats are more sensitive to most of the active ingredient in flea control products,” says Dr. Jeff Werber, a practicing veterinarian and veterinary medical journalist. “Many flea and tick control products contain pyrethrins, which are derived from the chrysanthemum flower. Natural pyrethrins are generally not toxic to cats if used in the proper amounts.Synthetic pyrethrins on the other hand can be deadly, especially permethrine and resermethrine. Cats are also sensitive to chlorinated hydrocarbon and petroleum distilates, ingredients used in older insecticides. In large quantities, these can also be toxic to dogs, but cats are more sensitive.”In extreme conditions, Dr. Duffy Jones of the Peachtree Hills Animal Hospital in Georgia says that a mix-up can be potentially fatal.“The most common danger is overdose,” says Dr. Jones. “Many times the packages can look the same and you might not notice that one if for large dogs and one is for cats. We do see this commonly where the owner accidently mixes up the dosage. Sometimes these overdoses or using a product with pyretherins or organophosphates on a cat can be lethal.”It’s also worth noting that cats generally have more sensitive metabolisms, according to Dr. John Clark of the Community Veterinary Clinic.“Owners should be aware of this and ‘always read the label,” says Dr. Clark.Prevention and Proper TreatmentThe risks involved with having both cat and dog flea and tick treatments around the house does not mean pet owners need to stop using these products. There are ways that they can safely administer these items to their animals without causing harm.“Know your products and stick to them; don’t keep changing products each month,” said Dr. Clark. “Getting advice from a veterinary office can help you choose a reasonably priced flea medication that works well in your region. The technical staff will be more than willing to give you advice over the phone or in person about effective products for both cats and dogs.”Clark adds that it might be worth scheduling routine pet medication treatments on different days for different animals to avoid a mix-up.“If [a product] contains a pyretherin or organophosphate, you should probably avoid using them, even on your dog if you have a cat,” says Dr. Jones. “It does not take much for them to become toxic.”It may also help pet owners to know the signs and symptoms of poisoning as a result of a medication mix-up.Toxic ingestion might present itself as profuse salivation, muscle twitching, weakness, and vomiting, according to Dr. Werber. Pet owners should rinse their animal immediately and seek professional medical attention in the event that any treatment mix-up has occurred.“Read the labels,” stresses Dr. Judy Morgan, veterinary practitioner and author. “Keep cats away from dogs treated with organophosphates or permethrins until products are dried on pet. Do not allow pets in areas that have been treated until chemicals have dried.”

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Tarot without a Visit From The Boogeyman

As published in Paranormal Underground MagazineIn my last article, I examined “Portals to Another World,” including tarot cards and the all-too-famous Ouija board, which has been used as a spirit communication tool for centuries. But now part of me is questioning the 78 cards of wisdom that can give you the opportunity to step into the spirit world – are they really as scary as Hollywood makes them out to be?Are any of these tools really too dangerous to use?In an effort to find out if the tarot could really do any “harm,” I’ve been on my own spiritual quest to discover the answer to this question, as well as others pertaining to otherworldly portals.To Reopen the DoorI had been “tarot-less” for about seven years before I decided to shuffle my deck once again just a few weeks ago. There were a number of reasons for this: I had gotten married to a man who was fearful of needlessly opening spiritual doors, I was busy with my career, and I didn’t necessarily feel the same old pull that had drawn me to the cards in the first place.After much conversation with my spouse and a newfound desire for answers (specifically pertaining to my career), I made the decision to turn to my cards once again. It had been far too long. However, I could feel the mysticism surrounding the cards as soon as I inched closer.My deck is housed in a cartoonish-looking box that illustrates the “Tarot of the Moon Garden” on the cover. The cards are beautifully illustrated and more elaborate than what you would see in the traditional Rider deck. Despite the fact that I had found them in a fairly comical magic shop, I still had faith in the 78 little cards.Now the question was how far my faith would get me. Without an answer to this, I did what I do best: hit the books.Educate and AppreciateI’m a firm believer that when you aren’t sure what to do, take action. Read, read, read. Research until you feel like you’ve exhausted all of your resources. Knowledge is power, and it can be the type of power you need to master something as strong as the tarot.Through my research, I came across an insightful book by Paul Quinn titled, “Tarot for Life.” This book examined the 78 cards of the deck, along with Quinn’s perspective on how tarot can serve as more than just a divination tool – it can give you a chance to tap into your own soul.It was then that I began to understand that the tarot doesn’t send out an invite to the Boogeyman, but rather puts you in a better position to listen to your higher self.Following the finding of this book, I began to explore the depths of the Internet to talk firsthand to people who use tarot in their everyday lives. Just as I had started to learn through my research, people – those who have been using tarot cards for years -- were reaffirming my newfound beliefs that tarot could be a good thing.And so, I was ready to take on the “Tarot of a Moon Garden.”Testing 1, 2, 3To say I took a few precautions with my first tarot reading in years would be an understatement. I removed the cards from their old box, placed the deck in direct sunlight, and left a piece of clear quartz on top to “cleanse” them of negative energy.Coincidentally, my husband decided he wanted to be the first to receive a reading. After learning about all of the research I had been doing, he had become more accepting of the idea of tarot – and more specifically, connecting with his true self. After leaving the cards alone for about two days, I sat down with them in a quiet room alongside my spouse.I decided to do a quick three-card reading in which each card representing one of the following: the past, present and future. My husband, who was in the middle of changing careers, was desperate for answers. To protect his privacy, I will not reveal the cards that were drawn, but we were able to make the following conclusion: they were accurate.What does accurate mean? In tarot, it’s all about your interpretation – not what you read or research. It’s not about what other people say. It’s what your soul screams at you through the cards. It’s what your subconscious mind is repeating in your head.Since that initial reading and “breaking of the streak,” I’ve done a handful of readings, and my thirst for more knowledge is still strong. I’ve been cleansing my cards after every reading, and there haven’t been any signs of the paranormal in my household since I “opened the door.”Do I recommend that you take this approach? Absolutely not, but there’s nothing wrong with broadening your horizons and educating yourself on tarot, Ouija, and any other otherworldly portal out there. After all, you can never be too prepared for the unknown.

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How the State of Pipeline Marketing is Changing in 2015

As published by Walker Sands (formerly KoMarketing Associates)The “2015 State of Pipeline Marketing” report from Bizible shed light on exactly how B2B marketers are aligning with sales to drive revenue. We had an opportunity to discuss the findings of the piece with Dave Rigotti, the director of marketing at Bizible.What Was the Key Purpose of Your Research?Dave Rigotti: “The full report is about the state of content marketing. It’s about focusing less on lead generation and more on the outcome of the marketing, which is business and revenue. The more revenue-focused you are as a marketer, the more aligned you are with sales. It makes a lot of sense when you say it out loud, but it’s surprising that there are still people who feel like they aren’t aligned at all with sales.”Just 30 Percent of Marketers Are Familiar With Pipeline Marketing. Why Do You Think This Is the Case?DR: “It’s a newer term and concept for many B2B marketers. I think the fact that 30 percent of marketers are familiar with it is a great start. The 30 percent will be much higher next year.”What Do You See As the Biggest Challenge for Marketers, Including Those Who Are Aligned With Sales?DR: “I think most people feel like CRM is a sales tool. However, B2B marketers are realizing that it holds all of the deals, revenue and customers that they need to make the best marketing decisions. Marketers are waking up to the data in CRM.”DR: “I think the biggest challenge is marketing attribution. You can’t be a revenue-focused B2B marketer if you don’t have attribution. Without attribution, you are unable to understand the outcomes of your marketing. One of the questions we asked in the survey was ‘What attribution models are you using?’ Surprisingly, most people (24 percent) said they aren’t using any attribution models instead of citing the models we gave them. The fact that 24 percent of marketers don’t have an attribution model is kind of scary. I was most shocked by this statistic in the report. The three most popular attribution models that companies were using were single-touch attribution models. I think it’s great for B2C companies with relatively short sales and marketing processes, but it’s not great for B2B companies with sales cycles that span many months and involve several decision makers. When you’re using a single-touch attribution model, you’re only looking at one of those people involved in the deal. You’re taking a pretty narrow sliver of understanding and tracking your marketing revenue.”Just 7.4 Percent of Marketers Are Focused on Determining ROI Do You See This Changing?DR: “One of the biggest things that B2B marketers need to do is believe in their attribution models. You have a significant chunk of B2B marketers who don’t think they’re using the right attribution model or are only using one because it’s simple. When you’re optimizing for “simple” and not what’s right, you’re going to get mixed results and probably not make the best decisions. B2B marketers really need to look at how they’re measuring their efforts and attributing it to revenue. Once they’re confident in that, they’ll become more confident in measuring ROI.”Nearly 43 Percent of Marketers Are Using Some Type of Automation Tool. Why Do You Think Not Everyone Has Caught On Yet?DR: We did not specifically research this question in our report. If I had to guess, I would say that maybe they’re too small of a company to see the impact of automation, or they haven’t decided it’s the right investment for them yet.What Is the Biggest Takeaway for B2B Marketers?DR: “I was excited to see that inbound marketing channels are having a significant impact on revenue. The takeaway I had there was that tried-and-true channels – SEO, email, paid search -- are still driving revenue for companies.”

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Report: Marketers Feeling More Pressure to Improve the Customer Experience

As marketers look for new ways to make an impact on their target audience, new research suggests that they need to continue to focus on improving the customer experience (CX).Broadridge recently published its “2023 CX and Communications Consumer Insights Report,” and statistics indicated that the majority of customers (63%) now believe that most of the companies they work with need to improve the customer experience. This is compared to the 35% who said the same back in 2019.Despite this increase and mounting pressure on marketers, there may be potential to improve by shifting to personalization. Overall, 54% of customers said they stopped doing business with a company due to a poorly personalized experience. “Assess where your CX is falling short – across the customer journey – and implement a ‘get well’ plan,” recommended the authors behind the report.Previous research has indicated that marketing leaders have been able to find success by focusing on personalizing the customer experience.Forrester released its “Personalization At Scale: Bring Forth The Customer And Business Benefits of Experience Excellence” report, which examined how “Experience Leaders” — those who consistently deliver value to customers through personalization — achieve success. Compared to their counterparts, these leaders make improving the customer experience the number one driver of their personalization strategy.Additionally, nearly 71% of “Experience Leaders” claim they have real-time access to omnichannel customer data. In turn, they have a more complete picture of each customer as they look to develop more memorable, personalized experiences.

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62% of B2B Marketers Cite Content Marketing for Producing Valuable Leads

As B2B marketers look for more efficient ways to engage prospects, new research suggests that content marketing is growing in importance to them.Chief Marketer recently published its “2023 B2B Marketing Outlook Survey,” and statistics indicated that most B2B marketers (62%) claim content marketing produces leads with the highest return-on-investment (ROI). In terms of the types of content that effectively move prospects through the funnel, the majority of respondents (59%) cited articles/blogs. This was followed by video (52%), reviews/testimonials (48%), and events (41%).Despite the ROI of content marketing, however, many B2B marketers are still lagging when it comes to integrating personalization tactics. Approximately 46% of respondents stated that they have not implemented personalization in combination with content marketing tactics.Many B2B marketers have yet to unlock the full potential of content marketing through means, such as personalization. However, previous research indicates that they have continued to find new avenues of success with content in general.The Content Marketing Institute released the 13th edition of its “B2B Content Marketing: Benchmarks, Budgets, and Trends” report, and data suggested that most B2B marketers believe their organization has been at least “moderately successful” with content marketing over the past 12 months. Approximately 25% claim that their business has been “very successful,” and 4% say they’ve been “extremely successful” with content marketing. Over the past year, most B2B marketers (71%) say that content marketing has become “more important.”“If one theme emerged from this year’s annual research it was this: It’s time for organizations to finally give content marketing the investment it deserves, staff it accordingly, and reap the rewards,” wrote the authors behind the report.

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Report: Marketers to Spend Less on Customer Initiatives as Budgets Fall

Although marketers have shifted their focus to initiatives, such as the customer experience and customer relationship management (CRM), new research suggests that they will invest less in these areas in the coming months. This comes as they look toward maintaining their present success, rather than forecasting future outcomes.The results of The CMO Survey for March 2023 were recently published by Deloitte, Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, and the American Marketing Association. Statistics derived from the survey indicated that marketing spend on brand building, the customer experience, and CRM is projected to fall by about 50%, compared to data from last year’s report. This comes as marketing budgets as a percent of company budgets falls to 12.3%, on average, from 11.8% in February 2022.The majority of marketers (69.9%) now spend most of their time managing the present, rather than just 30.1% who claim they are focused on the future. This is an increase from the 64.3% who stated that they were focused on managing the present back in February 2022.Marketers are now spending less on initiatives, such as CRM, but previous research indicates that they are still dedicated to investing in other areas, such as automation.Ascend2 released “The State of Marketing Automation” report, and data suggested that most marketers (51%) are now geared toward moderately increasing their marketing automation budget within the next year. Approximately 30% stated that their investment in this area will at least remain the same, and 8% claim it will rise significantly over the next 12 months.Most respondents claim that they use marketing automation tools for social media management (29%), paid advertising (29%), and email marketing (28%).

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Study: B2B Tech Buyers Explore Multiple Content Assets Prior to Purchase

According to a recent study by Eccolo Media, nearly 64 percent of B2B technology buyers said that they read between 2 to 5 pieces of content before making a purchase.About 30 percent of respondents said that white papers influenced their purchasing decisions. Additionally, 15 percent of people said that emails were influential to their consumption, while 57 percent cited product brochures and data sheets.However, content is not only important during the buying process, but after the purchase is made as well, according to Eccolo. About 80 percent of survey respondents said that it’s “important” or “very important” to receive content after they have bought a product. To collect this data, the “2015 Eccolo Media B2B Technology Content Survey” asked B2B technology professionals about their consumption of content, such as white papers, brochures and case studies.The data indicates that B2B decision-makers are interested in a wide range of content throughout the purchasing process, but how does the quality of marketing content impact them?A survey conducted by IDG Enterprises recently looked at IT decision-makers and their views on marketing content. About 8 in 10 respondents said that it is “somewhat challenging” or “extremely challenging” to find high-quality, trusted information on major enterprise products in their industry.Within this realm, decision-makers download an average of 7 informational assets as they look through their purchasing options. Enterprise organizations tend to use 8 assets, while small businesses utilize an average of 6 pieces of content.“Trusted information is hard to come by due to lack of truly independent unbiased information, overuse of marketing buzzwords, and fear of unwanted sales follow up,” wrote the authors of the report. “Strategic content marketing tactics and strategies and an educated lead nurturing and sales follow up strategy are critical.”Nearly 54 percent of respondents said that access to research-based content drives their interest. About 48 percent said that their interest is driven by content that can help them make more informed buying decisions.

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Documentation and Communication Lead to B2B Content Marketing Success

As more B2B marketers embrace content marketing, they are learning what makes it a successful component of their overall strategies. About 44 percent of B2B marketers claim that they are gaining a better understanding of what content marketing effectiveness looks like.This was just one of many findings in the annual “B2B Content Marketing Benchmarks, Budgets and Trends” report released by the Content Marketing Institute and MarketingProfs this week.Communication appears to be a big player in the success and effectiveness of content marketing within a company. Sixty-one percent of organizations that said their strategies were “effective” stated that they met daily or weekly to discuss their content marketing progression.Nearly 79 percent of effective B2B content marketers said that they also have clarity into their program, making it a key component of their success. In contrast, 77 percent of the least effective content marketers surveyed said a lack of clarity hindered their efficiency.These statistics indicate that it helps to fully grasp a content marketing strategy before executing it, but how many B2B marketers have a documented plan?Fifty-three percent of the most effective B2B content marketers claim they have a documented strategy in place, compared to 40 percent of the least effective marketers who said they do not have one at all.“B2B marketers who have a documented content marketing strategy get better results from their content marketing tactics, social media platforms, and paid methods of content distribution (i.e., they rate them as more effective when compared with their peers who don’t have a documented strategy),” wrote the authors of the report.Although there are many factors that contribute to success and effectiveness, there are several that make content marketing a challenge for B2B marketers as well.While 44 percent of B2B marketers claim that they are clear on what content marketing effectiveness looks like, the majority (55 percent) say they are unsure. This indicates that B2B marketers are still learning what goes into creating a worthwhile strategy.Thirty percent stated that their organizations are effective at content marketing, which is a drop from 38 percent recorded in last year’s “B2B Content Marketing Benchmarks, Budgets and Trends” report. Additionally, only 32 percent said that their content marketing maturity level is “sophisticated or mature.”“In general, effectiveness levels are greater among marketers with higher levels of content marketing maturity,” the authors of the report concluded.With this in mind, identifying the key pitfalls associated with developing a successful content marketing plan can be done through observing whereineffective marketers are lacking.As previously stated, 40 percent of the least effective marketers do not have a defined content strategy. Additional research indicates that they typically lack editorial guidance as well. Thirty-five percent of B2B marketers do not have a documented editorial mission statement.In contrast, 56 percent of effective marketers with a documented content strategy have a defined mission statement.Less than half (49 percent) of B2B marketers who only meet bi-weekly or monthly about their content marketing strategies do not find these meetings helpful. This is a smaller number than the 54 percent of effective content marketers who view meetings as beneficial.Keeping the entire marketing team on the same page and documenting a content strategy appear to be critical to content marketing success.About 88 percent of B2B marketers claim that their organizations are using content marketing, but what other resources are they tapping into to achieve their goals?On average, B2B marketers use 13 different content marketing tactics, according to the report. Ninety-three percent say they are utilizing social media to reach out to their target audience, while 82 percent use case studies. Blogs (81 percent), eNewsletters (81 percent) and in-person events (81 percent) are also popular strategies used by marketing teams.However, in-person events have been the most effective tactic utilized by B2B marketers, with 75 percent naming this their top strategy. It may also be worth nothing that for the past six years, in-person events have been rated the most effective tactic by marketers.As content marketing strategies evolve, 85 percent of respondents claimed that lead generation will be their main goal over the next year. To reach their objectives, 51 percent said they will increase their content marketing spend within the next 12 months, and 76 percent intend to create more content in 2016.“It’s great that organizations want to create more content, but they need to be braver and bolder with that content,” said Ann Handley, chief content officer of MarketingProfs. “They can no longer afford to play it safe. Organizations must focus on telling more authentic stories targeting the specific challenges of their audience.”

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