#best leased line price

[realityinsuspense]

one step closer | chapter 1: i guess we're roommates now

--summary: "me and him? in one apartment? yeah, right. nothing is going to happen." ~~ two strangers living together. not talking and just going about each other’s lives. that was your plan. that’s how you’ve always done things, and you’ve gone far doing so. so when you have to suddenly move into a new apartment with your new roommate, you expect almost nothing. almost.

--pairing: mingi x fem!reader

--genre: strangers to lovers, fluff, a little angst, #mingi is cold and standoffish (? kinda), #eventual mutual pining

words: 2.9k

--

chapter 1: i guess we're roommates now

“I’m gonna miss you,” Your best friend Hongjoong, says through the phone. You could hear him fake a sniffle. “It’ll be so different without you.”

“Please,” you chuckle a little. “It’s only like an hour or so away from here. Crazy how much a difference that makes for the rent prices though…”

You’re doing your last minute checks in your (soon-to-be) old studio apartment, phone pressed to your ear. Everything for the most part seems to be packed up (minus the furniture of course) which made your once lively space turn into a barren landscape. It felt so unfamiliar to be in such a cold and empty environment that you once called home. So many memories were made here, but now it’s time to say goodbye. For good reason though.

“Yeah, who would’ve thought,” He heaves a sigh. “But I can’t believe you’re willing to move in with a stranger. A stranger that’s a man too? You’re crazy.”

“Hey,” you hold the phone now, sitting cross legged on the floor next to your packed boxes. “I know, I know! But he seems okay…based off of the listing he posted at least.”

“Just okay? y/n, you haven’t met him yet?!” Hongjoong sounded baffled.

“Not yet!” You defend. You were worried you sounded more desperate than you actually were. “I..I really had no time, you know? And the time I did tour the apartment, he wasn’t there. But we did talk on the phone once…so my gut tells me he’s okay!”

Hongjoong laughs at the other end of the line. “I guess it’s the real deal, but you still have to be careful. You know, just in case anything happens—and I hope not—you know you can call me right?”

“Of course I know that,” You try to assure yourself. It’s true, it was a crazy bold move to move into a new apartment, in a completely different area with a roommate that so happened to be a guy. But you really had no choice. This new apartment and new roommate was too good of an opportunity to pass up.

The bottomline was that your job was making you move company buildings. And in that small turnaround time you had, you quickly scrambled to find a new place—anything to assure you’d be able to make it to your new office building on time. Work is such a pain, you think to yourself. All of these life adjustments for what? But survival was essential. And you needed this job more than you know.

But in all honestly, the place was totally ideal. Not only was it was closer to your job, but the rent was way cheaper. I might be able to save more money to go on a vacation, you reasoned. It seemed like a pretty good deal, minus the fact that you’d be moving in with a total stranger. Whom you’ve never even met yet…

“Song Mingi” was his name. Based off his profile on the listing, you knew that he was around your age or so—which chipped off some uneasiness you had at first. You talked on the phone with him a while back, but it was mainly about the lease and rent and all that important stuff. You even went to tour the place yourself, but the landlord was there to give the tour in his place since he was “busy with personal matters”. I mean, it’s crazy to think that your new housemate is coming in. You’d expect him to want to meet his future housemate for the next year or so.

But he didn’t seem to be too interested in doing so. Maybe he’s really to himself, you think to yourself. I can work with that.

In fact that was even better maybe. Two strangers living together. Not talking and just going about each other’s lives. That could work, you thought. That’s how you’ve always done things, and you’ve gone far doing so. But the thought of living with someone new after a while made your stomach turn a little. You could handle it, sure—you had done so with your roommates back in college a few years ago—but nothing beats having your own place to yourself.

It’s just for a year, you think to yourself. You’ll have your own place again in no time.

“Just make sure you visit when you can please. I’ll even cook you dinner.” You say.

“Of course! I will soon.” You and Hongjoong wrap up your call. And just like that, as if in perfect timing, the moving truck calls.

It’s time.

-

Here you were. Your new home.

Before you, stood your new apartment complex. It was definitely much smaller than your old one, but you didn’t mind. It seemed a bit modern, but still had a homey feel to it. And the last time you visited, the neighborhood stole your heart. It seemed much more peaceful, with a bunch of small families around.

What a deal. But you couldn’t ignore your racing heart in that moment. You were about to move in with a total stranger. Maybe I am actually crazy. But there was no going back now.

You took your phone out and texted your new housemate that you arrived. Your fingers hovered over his contact name: Song Mingi.

“Just text me when you get here.” Mingi said through the phone the last time you spoke. Gosh. You were really going to live with this guy.

hey mingi, i’m here!! the moving guys will help bring my boxes up too!

And you waited for his response.

1 minute passed. 2 minutes. 3 minutes.

Nothing.

then 5 minutes…6…7…

Nothing. Would it seem impatient to text again? You were worried the moving company would have to leave soon. They were already unloading your boxes from the truck.

Should I text again?

hey, i’m outside!!

And you waited again.

Nothing.

“Hey, any way to get inside?” One of the staff members came up to you and said. “Not to pressure you, ma’am, but it’s almost 6 o’clock.”

“I don’t, I’m so sorry,” You can’t help but start to feel panicked. “Let me just get ahold of my housemate. It’ll be just a second.”

You knew texting would be inefficient. Who seriously replies right away these days? So you decided to bite the bullet and just call him. Would it really be so bad?

Ring. Ring. Ring.

No answer.

Seriously?! You felt horrible since the moving staff was growing impatient, and you knew they’d charge you extra for keeping them past the hour. It’s not too big of a deal, but you did have a lot of boxes. And you knew your new apartment was on the top floor. Plus, it was getting dark outside and you felt like a fool standing outside the apartment building doing nothing.

This wasn’t the ideal first impression you wanted to give your new housemate, but it was getting ridiculous. And at that point you couldn’t hold back: you went and called him again.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

And again.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

And again.

Ring. Ring. Ri-

“Hello?” His familiar deep voice croaked through the phone. FINALLY!

“Mingi? Hi! Yes it’s y/n… um, I’m here outside now!” You mask your slight impatience and worry with politeness. But by the sound of his low voice, you suspect he was probably asleep. A nap?!

“Ahh,” he sighed heavily on the other line. “I’ll be right down.”

You assured the mover that he was on his way down, and luckily they obliged to stay and help. The relief you felt suddenly turned into nerves. You were going to meet Song Mingi face to face for the first time. What a bold move indeed.

You head over towards the movers and try to help with your boxes when you suddenly hear the apartment building door open.

“y/n?”

You turn around to face him. Your new roommate.

You're not too sure why you're so surprised, but he was quite...good looking. Not that you were expecting anything, but it is catching you off guard just a tiny bit.

He was even taller than you thought he’d be: dressed in baggy grey sweatpants and an oversized t-shirt—his black hair tousled messily and his face framed with thick rimmed glasses. Mingi stepped forward.

“Hey,” He greeted. “I’m Mingi.”

“Hi,” You return the greeting, giving a small smile. “Nice to finally meet you.”

Mingi nods and glances past you. “Sorry about the delay. I accidentally fell asleep.”

“No, it’s okay,” You try to assure, suddenly feeling awkward. At least he’s being honest I guess? “I thought I was disturbing you by calling you so many times.”

He shook his head. “Don’t worry about it.”

Silence.

He clears his throat, his eyes still glancing past you. “Your boxes?”

“Right! Yes, thank you.”

-

“Well, this is it,” Mingi said after the movers left. He places one last box on the floor. For some reason, the words were barely reaching you—your move-in boxes piling high at the foot of the door. “I guess we’re roommates now.”

The apartment was just like you remembered it from the tour—well, except the pile of dishes and empty takeout on the kitchen counter. It wasn’t exactly like your old place, but it was different in a good, familiar way: cream coated walls, gentle ambient lighting, and modern furniture. The living room had a dark couch and a wooden coffee table. It had a basic kitchen design—white cabinets and tabletops, with an island counter and a small dining area. It was quite minimal, but still showed signs of living. Definitely cozy.

You open the door to your new room, which was opposite across Mingi’s. Similar to the rest of the apartment, it was quite minimal and held similar design styles. It was quite spacious, holding a luscious queen sized bed just for you. The best part was the wide, curtained windows on the left side of the room—natural lighting always brought your mood up so you were particularly excited about this. You turned the lights on, its soft yellow light glowing against your skin.

“You know, I can’t believe you’re actually taking this spot, but thanks.” You heard Mingi say from the kitchen. “I really needed a roommate asap…and, I don’t know if it was ideal for you to move in with a total stranger, much less a guy. But let me just say now, I’m not some sort of creep or something like that.”

You were quite surprised. If you weren’t so desperate, maybe you wouldn’t have been as blinded by this fact. A man alone with a single woman these days could be quite risky. But something in you felt like you trusted Mingi (after reading the listing and talking with him on the phone of course). And the fact that you were similar in age made it seem less scary—it was like moving in with a classmate or something.

“Oh yeah, of course. But no, I didn’t really think that at all.” You step out of your doorway and face him. “I really needed to find a new place in this area quickly as well.”

Mingi simply nods in response once again.

“Alright, well anyways…” he begins after a beat of awkward silence. He moves from the sink to lean onto the kitchen counter, and runs a hand through his hair. “To be brief, we’ll have a chores list to split up cleaning and all that. But I just want to make it clear that everything in this apartment should be split equally. The kitchen, the living room, and even the bathroom.”

For some reason, you were beginning to feel more intimidated. He had this aura, and you couldn’t put your finger on it. Maybe it was his looming height or his unwavering serious expression, but it was the way he spoke—short, direct, and his voice: husky and deep.

“And you know... we don't really know each other at all so..." Mingi finally looked directly at you. "Let’s just keep it simple and not get in each other’s way, okay?”

“Sure,” You say nonchalantly. “That’s fine by me too.”

And you honestly were. You felt pretty relieved because that’s also how you would go about things. I mean, you didn’t even know this guy. So what’s even the point? This was just your home. Nothing more, nothing less.

Yet, the way he seemed so cold about it bothered you just a little. It's kind of rude isn't it? But you shook your head internally and pushed that thought to the back of your mind.

Two strangers living together. Not talking and just going about each other’s lives. That’s how you’ve always done things, and you’ve gone far doing so.

That’s how it should be. This was better.

“Cool, well…I’m gonna wash up now. Night.” Mingi’s voice interrupted your thoughts.

“Night.”

Both of you go on your separate ways. You knew you had a lot to unpack and fix, but you took in a deep breath and exhaled heavily. Welcome to your new home.

next chapter

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[yatescountyhistorycenter]

Potter Swamp: From bird haven to farming center

By Jonathan Monfiletto

Throughout the 20th century, Potter Swamp was seen as either a haven for birds and other wildlife or a center for agriculture and industry or both, depending on one’s perspective. This 8-mile-long stretch of Flint Creek between Potter and Gorham – measuring one mile across at its widest and totaling 4,000 acres of land – has been known just as much for the diverse array of flora and fauna that could be found there as for the bountiful variety of vegetables and other crops that are grown there.

Nowadays, much of the swamp has been drained to become muck fields for farming and growing root crops such as onions, potatoes, and carrots as well as corn. According to an April 2007 article in The Observer of Dundee, eight producers owned and operated 1,500 acres of the muck fields in Potter – the site of the only muck fields in Yates County, with Wayne County to the north and Orange County downstate listed as other major muck fields in in New York State. Potter is so proud of its muck fields and the crops they produce that Franjo Farms, a prominent onion producer in the town, sponsored the Potter Onion Festival for several years both to celebrate the vegetable and to raise funds for the town’s park.

To create the muck fields, a canal-like drainage system – with tiles placed three to four feet underground – moves the water from the swamp into main lines that connect to cisterns, which carry the water into a drainage ditch and eventually into Flint Creek, which flows into Lake Ontario. Left behind is muck – “loose, light, and wet, closer in composition to peat moss than conventionally used soil,” the Observer article states. This kind of ground is suitable for growing the root vegetables that Potter is now known for.

While the largest and perhaps best known drainage project in Potter Swamp took place in the late 1940s, just after the end of World War II, it wasn’t the first time drainage was undertaken or at least discussed in the swamp. In January 1905, the Penn Yan Express carried a report from the Geneva Daily Times that a company that had leased land around the swamp for timbering discovered a peat bog in the swamp. As a result, the company then planned to drain the swamp and harvest the peat to market it – black peat for fuel and red peat for florists.

Five years later, the Yates County Chronicle reported that a group from Boston sought to purchase land in the swamp to mine the large deposits of marl within the swamp. The clay-like marl could be used to make cement, and the Portland Cement Company set up shop in the area. According to another report from the Chronicle, once word got around about the men seeking to buy property in the swamp, the price for land rose from $5 an acre to $35 an acre.

Another time, in November 1915, the Penn Yan Democrat reported Yates County Sheriff Bates planned to experiment in growing cranberries in the swamp upon his retirement a few months later. The climate and soil of the swamp apparently seemed fit for raising the perennial crop. This endeavor aside, and despite previous reports that the swamp could not be used for agriculture, the first attempt to farm the muck land appears to have been Frank Wyman and Peter Lackner’s truck garden on 25 acres.

In November 1921, the Dundee Observer reported the two men planted celery, head lettuce, carrots, and other vegetables and harvested 1,000 crates of lettuce – with approximately two dozen heads per crate – and anticipated harvesting 1,000 crates of celery – with about 80 to 100 heads per crate. Four years later, Wyman Gardens Inc. – as the company came to be called – shipped 40 carloads of vegetables from 55 acres of land the truck garden then comprised.

Against the backdrop of these projects, newspapers over the years carried coverage of the wildlife that could be found throughout Potter Swamp in the first half of the 20th century. This coverage included articles written by Verdi Burtch, Yates County’s resident ornithologist, on the bird species that he and others spotted in the swamp. Professors and students from Hobart & William Smith Colleges in Geneva made an annual trek to the swamp to enumerate the bird species and examine the other fauna and flora found in the area. In May 1922, Burtch wrote that his group during the trek saw 73 species of birds, while a group led by Dr. Eaton and Dr. Burgess found an additional 30 species – for a total of 103 different types of birds located that day. The following year, the Rushville Chronicle & Gorham New Age and the Dundee Observer both reported on wildcat sightings – perhaps bobcats or lynxes or a similar species – in the area around the swamp, with residents concerned about the wellbeing of their children, their pets, and their farm animals.

A July 1919 article about Flint Creek in the Express states Potter Swamp “once abounded in beavers, muskrats, and minks” and was also home to rare plants not found elsewhere in the region. Several years later, in June 1926, A. Flag Robson wrote an article for The Chronicle-Express titled “Canoe Trip in Potter Swamp,” in which he described the different animals and plants he saw in the wilderness during a group canoe trip through the swamp.

The 1930s witnessed an effort to turn Potter Swamp into a bird refuge, as the federal government sought to locate such a sanctuary somewhere in western New York. Oak Orchard in Orleans County and Montezuma Swamp in Seneca County were two other sites the government eyed. The bird species that once frequented the swamp were then rarely seen because much of the timber had been cut down, so the thinking was a refuge would help the birds and other wildlife of the swamp to thrive and increase if the wilderness were protected and preserved. The Lake Keuka chapter of the Izaak Walton League, the Penn Yan Chamber of Commerce, and local American Legion posts were among the groups advocating for a bird refuge in Potter Swamp.

For whatever reason, Potter Swamp lost out on the contest for a bird refuge, as the federal government chose Montezuma Swamp and established the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge on the northern end of Cayuga Lake. Thus, in 1945, two Prattsburgh men – Barre C. Wood and E. Vincent DeZetter, described as a farm implement and produce dealer – purchased many acres of land in Potter Swamp and several properties, including Wyman Gardens. The men began working on a plan to develop the area by draining the swamp and converting it into muck land for agricultural purposes and expected to yield 2,500 acres of tillable land.

However, their plan met opposition from conservation-mind groups in the region – the Izaak Walton League as well as the Keuka Park Conservation Club, the Eaton Bird Club of Geneva, the Geneva Rod and Gun Club, and similar organizations, who still hoped to turn the swamp into a wildlife refuge to protect the birds and mammals that made habitats out of the land. On the other hand, the Yates County Board of Supervisors, the Town of Potter, and the Rushville Grange – representing residents of Potter and Gorham – were among the entities that voiced support for the drainage project because of the economic benefits to local agriculture and industry.

The work to drain Potter Swamp began in January 1946, with power equipment widening and deepening Flint Creek to draw water out of the muck. Previously, crews cut down trees in the swamp to make way for the equipment. Once the water drained enough for the ground to be firm enough to walk on, other crews began clearing the land to prepare it for cultivation. By that spring, 100 acres of muck had been planted with lettuce, onions, and carrots. Losing out on their attempt to stop the drainage project and protect Potter Swamp, the Yates County Federation of Conservation Clubs petitioned the New York State Conservation Department to declare an open season on beaver in the swamp so sportsmen could harvest the valuable hides that were otherwise being sacrificed during the clearing.

Four years after the drainage project began, 500 acres of the muck land DeVetter and Wood had developed was being cropped. On this land, Carl Hey remarked, he used to trap muskrats, and now he was raising onions. In fact, he was raising a bumper crop; Hey’s 10 acres of onions were producing 1,000 bushels to the acre. With his son, Kenneth, and Kenneth’s friend David Eames working after school, Hey farmed a total of between 35 and 40 acres of muck land and planted onions, potatoes, and carrots. They used such special equipment as a potato digger and an onion topper.

Three years later, and seven years after Potter Swamp was drained, muck farmer Wilson Damboise and contractor O’Neil Roy filled 31,000 50-pound bags of onions on 38 acres of muck land – a rate of 600 bushels to the acre. Fifty thousand crates of onions were to be stored in the 200-foot-long warehouse the men had built specifically to house their vegetables and those of neighboring farmers. In 1956, demand was down for the onions, potatoes, and carrots grown in the muck land, so the men decided to put up a warehouse to keep their abundance and await better prices.

According an article in the June 28, 1963 edition of The Chronicle-Express – information repeated verbatim in The Chronicle-Express of July 4, 1968 and again in the 1987 summer edition of The Chronicle-Express – Potter Swamp “is still a bird-watcher’s dream, despite the fact that about half of the some 4,000 acres of muckland have been drained and cleared for crop production,” and more than 200 species of birds had been found at one time. So, nearly 80 years after the Potter Swamp was drained for agriculture, it continues to be a paradise for both bird watchers and farmers.

[stlivingla]

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[meowmeow-motherfucker]

The Fox & The Squirrel- Chapter 12

Summary: Chasing yet another demon in a long line of hunts, the Winchesters get help from an unlikely source. But their new recruit isn’t exactly who she says she is. Savannah is used to looking over her shoulder. Life in hiding doesn’t leave much room for enjoyment, but traveling with the Winchesters just may give her a new lease on life.

Pairing: Dean Winchester/OFC Savannah Hart

Trigger warnings: elements of horror and witchcraft, references to past torture/trauma, Crowley is a dick, lies and deception, mutual pining, flirting, sex, typical Winchester shenanigans.

Read it on AO3 here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/16242644/chapters/37972217

Thanks to the lull in cases, they had the day off. Sam had gotten up early as usual, going for a run, while Dean and Savannah slept in to recover from their club adventure. 

     “Alright princess, what are we doin’ today?” Dean asked as Savannah stretched languidly beside him. 

     “Hmm?” Savannah asked sleepily, opening her eyes lazily to see him watching her. “I don’t know...I kinda feel like doing some shopping. Maybe painting my nails.” 

     “I’m gonna hate this, aren’t I?” 

     “I promise to make it as painless as possible.” Savannah giggled. 

     “You sure? Not gonna make me miserable?” 

     “I’m not gonna torture you, Dean. I might tease you or make you do something girly with me, but I’m not going to humiliate or demean you.” 

     “I appreciate that, princess,” Savannah smiled, meeting his warm gaze. They lay in silence for a few seconds, just drinking each other in. Savannah felt completely at ease with Dean, and she could tell by the calm look on his face that he shared the sentiment. “Alright, let’s get a move on.”

     “‘Kay,” Savannah yawned as Dean got up. “Dean?” she called after him.

     “Yeah?”

     “Can I wear one of your flannels?” 

     “Sure, princess. Wear whichever one you want.” 

~~~~

     “Dean, what do you think?” Savannah held up the bottle of nail polish for him to see. Dean turned to her and looked down at the bottle of mint green polish. 

     “Cute.” he remarked.

     “You’re hating this, aren’t you?” Savannah asked, pushing the stray hair out of her face. That damn hair was killing him. She'd opted for a French braid today, with tendrils of hair framing her face. It made him want to bury his hands in it and kiss her.

     “It’s not so bad. S’interesting to learn new things about you.” Seeing her in his red, gray and white flannel wasn’t so bad either. 

     “I’m gonna grab one more and then we’ll get out of here, okay?” 

     “Whatever you say, princess.” Dean grinned. Savannah smiled, turning back to the rows of nail polish. She picked up a clear polish with multi-colored confetti, turning the bottle upside down to check the price. 

     “Oh my god,” she snorted. “This one’s called Unicorn Farts!” she giggled as she showed the bottle to Dean. 

     “Sounds like a winner.” he snorted. 

     Still giggling, Savannah paid for her purchases and they left the store. 

     “Where to now, princess?” 

     “Um...I need to replace my favorite lipstick, and maybe get some drawing stuff.”

~~~~

     “Oh this is precious.” Sam cackled as he shut the door. Dean sat on the bed, Savannah's legs in his lap as he carefully painted her toenails with the mint green polish. Savannah lay propped up on a pillow, her head turned toward the TV.

     “Shut up.” Dean growled. 

     “Yeah Sam, shut up,” Savannah echoed, glancing away from the TV. “If you distract him he’ll mess up and have to start over.” 

     “Uh huh,” Sam replied. “What are you guys watching?” 

     “Chicago. Apparently the best musical ever.” Dean replied flatly. 

     “No bitching.” Savannah pointed her toes at Dean, squealing when he tickled the bottom of her foot. 

     “Quit moving, you’re gonna mess up my paint job.” 

     “Then don’t tickle me!” Savannah pelted him with a pillow, earning a sharp look from her nail artist. 

     “You done?”

     “Are you?” 

     The three of them ended up rewatching the movie because Savannah declared that Dean wasn’t taking it seriously enough. (It’s not my fault, the costumes are distracting! Shut up, Dean! ) Sam also found the costumes distracting, but kept it to himself. 

Monday 

     “You're kidding, right?” Savannah balked as Sam stripped off his plaid shirt and threw it in the washer with the rest of his clothes. They’d had a busy day- a new case dropped in their lap and wrapped up seven hours later. 

     “What?” Dean asked.

     “You guys just strip down in front of strangers?” 

     “Not all the way,” Dean said defensively. “Sam doesn't care.”

     “I'm not Sam,” Savannah folded her arms over her chest. “Well go on.” she challenged when Dean just stood there looking at her.

     “What?” he asked dumbly.

     “If it's so easy, you do it.”

     “You gonna stand there and watch?”

     “Yep.”

     “Sweetheart, if you wanted to get me naked all you had to do is ask.”

     “And now it's weird.” Sam grumbled, going to sit in one of the chairs along the wall. Dean rolled his eyes and started to unbutton his plaid shirt. 

     “You really gonna stand there the whole time?”

     “Yep.” 

     “Alright fine.” Dean growled, unbuttoning his shirt the rest of the way and pulling it off aggressively. He tossed it in the washer, and reached for the hem of his black undershirt, pulling it over his head.

     Oh fuck me, he's hot. Savannah was tempted to look away and blush, but she was determined to see this through. She would not give Dean Winchester the satisfaction of seeing her drool over him. Even if the tattoo on his chest did make her knees a little weak.

     The clanking of metal drew her eyes downward just as Dean was pulling his belt free and tossing it onto the chair next to Sam. Flicking her eyes up to Dean's face, she noticed he was resolutely not looking at her. She stifled a giggle and instead watched as he shoved his jeans down off his hips and into the washer.

     “There. Ya happy?” He asked sharply as he closed the machine, finally looking at her again. Savannah held back a laugh at the indignant look on his face. “What?” He asked doubtfully when she smiled.

     “I didn't say anything.” She turned to her own washer, unable to hold her laughter at bay any longer. 

     “Yeah okay chuckles, let's see you do it.” Dean said smugly. Savannah might have been embarrassed, but she was stubborn as a mule. There was no way in hell she was letting Dean Winchester beat her at this game.

     “Okay,” She shrugged, quickly shucking her jeans and tee shirt, leaving her in the black boy shorts and push up bra she'd put on that morning. “Piece of cake,” She said, smirking when she saw Dean's eyes glued to her chest. “Dean?”

     “Yeah?”

     “You wanna keep staring or buy me dinner first?” 

     “Shit, sorry! It uh...s’nice- I mean- good work.” The hunter stammered, flashing an awkward thumbs up to go with his red cheeks. 

     “You're a weirdo.” Savannah snorted. 

     “You’re a weirdo.” Dean shot back, leaving her by the washer to go sit by Sam. Savannah sighed. She hadn’t yet had an opportunity to wield her new found power over Dean, and it looked like it wasn’t happening today. She’d have to try harder tomorrow. 

Tuesday

     An opportunity struck as the three of them were returning from a day of interviews. 

     “Dean?” 

     “Yeah princess?” 

     “Will you braid my hair when I get out of the shower please?” 

     “...what makes you think I know how to braid hair?” Dean scoffed as he shrugged out of his suit jacket. 

     “There are tutorials on youtube. You’re a smart cookie, figure it out.” Savannah said as she walked away to shower. She heard Dean sigh and Sam protest as his older brother grabbed the laptop from him. 

     She emerged half an hour later to find Dean perched at the foot of the bed they shared, elbows resting on his spread knees and his chin cradled in his hands. Surprisingly, he hadn’t changed yet, still clad in the black slacks, white dress shirt, black vest and tie. He’d rolled his sleeves up, and Savannah bit her lip at the sight. She loved that suit. 

     “Ready?” He asked as he looked up from the television, nearly catching Savannah as she traced the veins in his arms with her eyes.

     “Yeah.”

     “Alright, come on.” Dean patted his thigh, instantly making Savannah feel like this was far more intimate than she’d meant it to be. Whether it was intentional on his part or not, Dean had to know what he was doing. Savannah's eyes darted from his hand on his thigh ( Do NOT look at his crotch.) to the carpet.

     “Am I...am I sitting on the floor or your lap?” She asked doubtfully. Dean's hand left his thigh as if he'd been burned, rubbing the back of his neck in a show of discomfort. 

     “Uh, the...floor.” he stammered. Savannah swore she saw the faintest shade of pink on his cheeks and grinned. So it wasn't intentional.

     Savannah planted herself on the floor between his knees, offering him the comb between her fingers and pointedly ignoring the way the scent of his cologne enveloped her. 

     Dean carefully gathered her hair in one hand, gently plucking the comb through the strands to get the tangles out. He worked from the ends up, getting through her hair with ease thanks to the detangling serum she'd used. The gentle strokes were in danger of lulling her to sleep, and Savannah forced herself to turn her attention to the television. She didn't need Dean teasing her about falling asleep between his legs. 

     Dean began parting her hair into three even sections, tossing the comb aside when he was satisfied. His fingers began to work, gently tugging her hair this way and that to make it cooperate. 

     “Hair tie?” He was almost to the end of her hair already? Color her impressed. She slipped the black scrunchy from her wrist and held it up for him to take, their fingers brushing as he did. Dean said nothing, but Savannah bit her lip. Did he feel that jolt of electricity too? “Alright, I think I'm done,” Dean said as he wrapped the scrunchy around the end of her braid. “You wanna take a look? Make sure it's not awful?”

     “Yeah, sure,” Savannah got to her feet and slipped into the bathroom, giving a quiet gasp when she saw Dean's handiwork. The French braid was perfect. Definitely good with his hands. “You sure you've never braided hair before?”

     “Positive. It look okay?”

     “It's perfect, Dean. Thank you.”

     “You're welcome.”

     “What about me? Will you braid my hair too Dean?” Sam asked teasingly, making Savannah laugh.

     “God no! Do it yourself you weirdo.” Dean protested. Sam gasped with fake hurt.

     “So rude! I didn't want you to braid my hair anyway.” Sam declared, giving his head a dramatic shake. 

     “Jesus Christ, what is my life.” Dean grumbled to himself. 

Wednesday

     “Will you stop picking at ‘em? They’re gonna chip.” Dean chastised, glaring pointedly at Savannah over his coffee cup. 

     “They’re already chipping,” she scowled, ignoring his glare in favor of eating her waffle. “They’re gonna need repainted.” 

     “Ugh, fine,” Dean stuffed the last of his bacon in his mouth as he rolled his eyes. Across the table he saw Sam hide a smirk behind his orange juice. “What?” 

     “Nothin’,” Sam shook his head. “I just can’t believe you of all people are voluntarily going to paint a girls nails.” 

     “Okay first of all, shut your face,” Dean growled, stabbing a piece of bacon toward Sam’s face. “Secondly, I’m contractually obligated, so get it right. Lemme see.” Savannah placed her hand in his, waiting patiently as he examined the damage. 

     “Will I live?” she teased, grinning when his eyes rose to meet hers. 

     “Yeah, you’ll be fine. When we get back I’ll repaint ‘em. I think we should put the glittery one over this color; maybe it’ll last longer.” 

     “You mean ‘Unicorn Farts’?” Savannah deadpanned, snickering when Sam choked on his juice.

     “I am not saying that out loud.” Dean said stubbornly, dropping her hand. 

     “Saying what? ‘Unicorn Farts’?” Savannah repeated loudly, getting stares from the next table over. “You’re being ridiculous.” 

     “You’re being...shut up.” 

~~~~

     Back at the motel, Dean immediately set to work fixing Savannah’s nails. He’d already stripped her nails of the chipping paint and let them dry, and was hard at work painting them anew while Savannah watched TV over his shoulder. 

     “Alright, these are dry. Hand me the other one.” Dean replaced the cap on the mint polish and blew on her nails gently.

     “What one?” Savannah asked. 

     “I’m not saying it, now hand it over.”

     “But if I don’t know what you’re asking for, how can I give it to you?” Savannah giggled. 

     “You know damn well what I’m asking for, you little brat.”

     “No I don’t,” Savannah shook her head. “What’s it called?” she asked, lifting up the bottle of polish. Dean shook his head, licking his lips as he tried to fight back a smile. 

     “Nope, not saying it.” 

     “Come on, tell me what it’s called,” Savannah snickered. “Mythical horse flatulence?” she pretended to guess. Dean broke, bursting into an adorable fit of giggles and dropping his head onto her knee. 

     “Why?” he asked, his shoulders still shaking with laughter. 

     “Because I can,” Savannah smiled proudly. Dean collected himself and straightened, reaching for the polish to complete his task. “Go on, say it.” Savannah urged, holding the polish out of his reach. Dean rolled his eyes and sighed heavily. 

     “Unicorn Farts.” He grumbled, his eyes trained on the bedspread as she cackled. “Alright, I said it, now give it here.” Dean snatched the polish from her hand and Savannah gave a gasp of shock.

     “How rude!” 

     “Yep, that’s me. I’m a jerk, and you’re a brat.” 

     “Only for you, Dean.” Savannah quipped, offering a tight lipped smile when his eyes darted up to her face. 

     “‘You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means’.” Savannah peered at him in confusion.

     “Has the definition changed?” 

     “Never mind. I keep forgetting how innocent you are,” Dean shook his head, uncapping the glittery polish to finish his task. “And I can’t believe you’re just gonna ignore my awesome Princess Bride reference. Hold still.” Savannah rolled her eyes and did as he asked. 

     “Well then what does it mean?” she asked impatiently when he didn’t elaborate. 

     “I’ll tell you when you’re older.” 

     “Oh shut up!” 

Saturday

     “Dean?” Savannah whispered in the dark. She was still struggling with the emotional toll their latest case had taken on her. The difficult hunt had spanned several days, and resulted in Savannah facing her first werewolf and five people losing their lives. 

     “Hmm?” the sleepy grumble was slightly muffled by the pillow.

     “Can I...um…” Savannah bit her lip. She couldn’t possibly ask Dean to cuddle with her. It was too embarrassing. “Never mind.” 

     “What is it, sweetheart?” Dean rumbled tiredly, lifting his head to look at her. He was unfairly adorable with his sleep mussed hair and squinted eyes. 

     “Well, I uh...at home, I had a whole bunch of pillows on my bed. And whenever I felt upset or lonely, I’d cuddle them and pretend it was a person.” 

     “That’s...kind of depressing.”

     “Yeah, well.” Savannah said dejectedly. Dean said nothing for a few seconds before turning onto his back.

     “C’mere.” he murmured.

     “Really?” 

     “Wouldn’t offer if I didn’t want to.” Savannah hesitated, knowing they were crossing a line they hadn’t before. She scooted closer to him, resting her head on his chest and pressing the length of her body against his. He was so warm. She threw an arm across his stomach and snuggled closer, letting her eyes slip closed.

     “Thank you Dean.” 

     “Any time, princess.” She felt him press a kiss to her hair and sighed contentedly.

[alphacrone]

Angst Week Day 2 - @lco-angst-week

miscommunication | betrayal | arguments

X-posted on AO3

TW: minor internalized misogyny, low self esteem

Book Spoilers up to Book 4

Lucy had done her best to avoid Lockwood & Co. for months, but today the universe was not on her side. 

First she’d woken up to no electricity. The entire neighborhood was blacked out, their landlord citing some mess Bunchurch agents had made tackling a haunting. Power lines were damaged, at least one agent was in the hospital for severe electrical burns, and Lucy was stuck showering in the dark. 

Since her only real appliance was an electric hotplate, Lucy took this as a great excuse to buy her breakfast at the Thai restaurant down the block. Of course, she realized belatedly, they also had lost power and were closed. So she found herself hiking out of the area until she found unaffected businesses and bought herself a couple sausage rolls and a coffee…

…which was then spilled all over her front by a harried man in a suit who was careening down the pavement without a care for anyone in his way. He offered no help, no apologies, leaving Lucy wet, stained, and very, very unhappy. 

By the time she’d replaced her coffee and eaten her rolls, Lucy had managed to wander into the area between Streatham and Lambeth Cemeteries. Both had been cleared out ages ago and posed no real danger anymore, but most of the locals had never quite returned to those few streets, leaving them mostly empty and run-down. One of the buildings there had been converted to an outlet for Satchell’s overstock, cheap but poorer quality than the full-price items. It was the only reason to come to this part of town really, unless you were one of the unlucky souls who dared to live here. Lucy had considered leasing a flat along Smallwood Road when she’d moved out, but the landlord’s wandering eyes had given her pause. 

That was when she heard familiar laughter—a bright, tinkling, feminine sound. Lucy’s heart skipped a beat and she ducked behind a cluster of trees. The last person she wanted to see while coffee-stained and in her ugliest joggers was Holly Munro . 

A boy’s voice joined Holly’s and Lucy’s blood ran cold. Scratch that—Holly was the second-to-last person she wanted to see right now. 

Anthony Lockwood was the first. 

Lucy peeked around a tree trunk to catch a glimpse of the duo. They had clearly just come from the surplus store, arms laden with bags. Holly looked as pretty and perfect as ever, dressed in a floral romper and baby pink cardigan. Her dark hair bounced in a tidy ponytail, pulled back with a yellow ribbon. She was laughing at whatever Lockwood was saying, hand covering her mouth in such a delicate, polite way it made Lucy feel sick. 

And Lockwood—he looked thinner and paler than he had those months ago, but was just as handsome as ever. He was smiling, bright and genuine, and talking animatedly. Lucy thought he might be telling Holly the story of how he uncovered Harold Crisp, the mass-murderer. It was one of his favorites, despite it sounding to be 90% exaggeration. 

Though, Lucy thought bitterly, Holly wasn’t the type to laugh at such a gruesome story. Lucy herself was, and she had found the story amusing when it wasn’t horrific. But she supposed that was something boys liked about Holly. Girls weren’t supposed to laugh at gross things. 

Girls also weren’t supposed to walk around in stained shirts or hide behind trees to avoid awkward encounters. Lucy had never been good at being a girl. 

“-so then George thought he’d found the bones the goose’s spirit had been attached to, but they turned out to belong to a badger!” Lockwood was saying as he and Holly drew closer. Lucy bit back a smile; she fondly remembered the case with the goose spirit that chased them into the pond, especially the way George screamed when a living goose appeared. “I would’ve been ghost-touched by a dead bird if it hadn’t been for- well. It would’ve been an embarrassing way to go.” 

A lump formed in the back of Lucy’s throat. She’d been the one to cut off the goose’s warpath towards Lockwood, barely getting her rapier through its head before it could touch him. He’d given her such a bright, excited smile then, she could still remember the way his eyes had glinted in the light of the ghost-lamps that littered the park. 

Holly’s laughter faded and Lucy heard her say, “You can talk about her, you know.” 

Lucy’s heart thudded in her chest. Lockwood sighed. “I’d rather not.” 

“She was your friend, Lockwood,” Holly said. “You’re allowed to miss her.” 

“Friends don’t just leave in the middle of the night. Clearly she was never my friend.” 

Lucy swallowed roughly. She knew he was angry but this…

“You know that’s not true.” Holly’s voice had gone soft, almost too quiet for Lucy to hear. 

“Whatever,” Lockwood said brusquely. “She made her choice. With you and George at my side, we don’t need her.” 

Tears welled in Lucy’s eyes. Leaving had been for the best, had been the only way to protect Lockwood, but realizing how irreparably she’d damaged her only remaining friendships was more painful than she could have ever imagined. Lockwood hated her. 

Lucy understood. She hated herself, too. 

With one last glance at Holly and Lockwood, Lucy slipped from behind the tree and silently turned down a side street. As soon as she was out of sight, she broke into a sprint, and didn’t stop until she got home. It was only then that she allowed herself to cry.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t until Lucy was gone that Holly spoke again. 

“I know you’re angry about what Kipps told you,” she said more sternly. “About Lucy taking solo jobs. She shouldn’t be working alone, I agree, but you either have to accept it and move on or go talk to her .” 

Lockwood glanced to the side, where someone had just turned the corner onto the next street over. He could have sworn he’d seen Lucy, but there were plenty of girls in London with short hair and blue jackets. He saw her everywhere he went these days, on every busy street, in every crowded station. Holly gave him tired, worried looks every time he lingered too long at the furnaces, just hoping to run into Lucy, or at least catch a glimpse of her from a distance. The only news he ever heard of her came from Kipps, who seemed to be at the center of Fittes’ web of gossip. Even he hadn’t seen or spoken to Lucy in months and the lack of first-hand information drove Lockwood mad. 

“Do you really think she’s going to take advice from me? ” He asked with a frown. “What am I supposed to say, ‘Hey, Luce, haven’t heard a word from you since you snuck out in the middle of the night, but I’ve been keeping tabs on you like some horrible stalker and I think you shouldn’t be taking solo jobs because you’re far too reckless—why yes, I am a hypocrite, thanks for asking.’” 

Holly sighed. “Well something has to change. You were downright mean to George yesterday when he made that joke about Listeners losing their minds.” 

“It wasn’t funny,” Lockwood snapped. Holly raised an eyebrow. 

“Let’s get these bags home,” she said, understanding this was a losing battle. “My feet are killing me.” 

Lockwood let her lead the way, lost in thought. George’s joke hadn’t really been a joke ; it had been a cruel truth disguised by a poor attempt at humor. George was angrier at Lucy than Lockwood was for leaving, and angry at Lockwood for letting her go. But more than anything, George was worried about Lucy and her growing, uncontrollable powers. They all were. 

Holly was right. Lockwood either had to give up on Lucy entirely and move on with his life or talk to her. Both were heinous, painful options, but the answer was clear. 

There was no universe in which Anthony Lockwood gave up on Lucy Carlyle. 

[newstfionline]

Friday, December 15, 2023

Few US adults would be satisfied with a possible Biden-Trump rematch in 2024, AP-NORC poll shows (AP) It’s the presidential election no one is really jazzed about. Relatively few Americans are excited about a potential rematch of the 2020 election between President Joe Biden and Donald Trump, although more Republicans would be satisfied to have Trump as their nominee than Democrats would be with Biden as their standard-bearer, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. “Probably the best way to put it is, I find it sad for our country that that’s our best choices,” said Randy Johnson, 64, from Monett, Missouri. Johnson, who is a Republican, said he wishes there were a third legitimate option for president but that the political system does not make that viable and added: “We’re down to the lesser of two evils.”

House votes to formalize Biden impeachment inquiry (CNN) The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to formalize its impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Lawmakers voted along party lines to back a resolution that Republicans say will give them more power to gather evidence and enforce legal demands. Three Republican-led House committees allege bribery and corruption during Biden's time as vice-president.

Prisoners Sue Alabama, Calling Prison Labor System a ‘Form of Slavery’ (NYT) A group of current and former prisoners sued Alabama on Tuesday, saying that the state’s system of prison labor is a “modern-day form of slavery” that forces them to work, often for little or no money, for the benefit of government agencies and private businesses. In the lawsuit, the 10 plaintiffs, who are all Black, say the state regularly denies incarcerated people parole so that they can be “leased” out to produce hundreds of millions of dollars in profits for local and state agencies and businesses every year. According to the lawsuit, the system effectively resurrects Alabama’s notorious practice of “convict leasing,” in which Black laborers, from 1875 until 1928, were forced to work for private companies, who in turn paid substantial fees to state and county governments. Since 2018, about 575 companies and more than 100 public agencies in Alabama have used incarcerated people as landscapers, janitors, drivers, metal fabricators and fast-food workers, the lawsuit states, reaping an annual benefit of $450 million.

YouTube tops teens’ social-media diet, with roughly a sixth using it almost constantly (AP) Teen usage of social media hasn’t dropped much, despite rising concerns about its effects on the mental health of adolescents, a survey from the Pew Research Institute found. But the data also found that roughly one in six teens describe their use of two platforms—YouTube and TikTok—as “almost constant.” Seventy-one percent of teens said they visit YouTube at least daily; 16% described their usage as “almost constant” according to the survey. A slightly larger group—17%—said they used TikTok almost constantly. Those figures for Snapchat and Instagram came in at 14% and 8% respectively.

Anxiety and resignation in Argentina after Milei’s economic shock measures (AP) Julia González wonders how she will afford the three bus rides and train trip to her job in downtown Buenos Aires. Lucía Pergolesi regrets her best friend has been fired from her job in a government ministry. Hilario Laffite admits he will have to increase prices in the shop where he works. These are some of the faces of anxiety that Argentines are dealing with after President Javier Milei’s administration announced economic shock measures aimed at tackling the country severe crisis, including a sharp devaluation of the peso by 50%, cuts to subsidies and the closure of some ministries. Milei himself has warned people that these steps will cause some pain, but he insists they are needed to curb triple-digit inflation and have sustainable economic growth in the future.

As Russia Gains Confidence, a New Urgency Grips Ukraine (NYT) Ukraine faces dwindling reserves of ammunition, personnel and Western support. The counteroffensive it launched six months ago has failed. Moscow, once awash in recriminations over a disastrous invasion, is celebrating its capacity to sustain a drawn-out war. The war in Ukraine has reached a critical moment, as months of brutal fighting have left Moscow more confident and Kyiv unsure of its prospects. The dynamic was palpable last week, as Vladimir V. Putin announced plans to run for six more years as president of Russia. He declared that Ukraine had no future, given its reliance on external help. That air of self-assurance contrasted with the sense of urgency in this week’s trip to Washington by President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, who pressed Congress to pass a stalled spending bill that includes $50 billion more in security aid for Ukraine.

The E.U. agreed to discuss membership with Ukraine (Foreign Policy) European Union leaders gathered in Brussels on Thursday agreed to open talks on Ukraine’s EU membership bid. Opening accession talks has long been one of Kyiv’s top priorities, especially as it prepares for another harsh winter of fighting against Russia. Although Ukraine’s accession to the EU is realistically still many years away, the decision to begin talks represents a major step forward and a big win for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Japan Wants a Stronger Military. Can It Find Enough Troops? (NYT) After 75 years of peace, Japan is facing immense challenges in its rush to build a more formidable military. To understand why, consider the Noshiro, a newly commissioned navy frigate equipped with anti-ship missiles and submarine-tracking sonar. The vessel was designed with an understaffed force in mind: It can function with about two-thirds of the crew needed to operate a predecessor model. Right now, it puts out to sea with even fewer sailors than that. On the ship’s bridge, tasks that previously occupied seven or eight crew members have been consolidated into using three or four. The ship’s nurse doubles as dishwasher and cook. Extra sprinklers were installed to compensate for the smaller staff onboard to fight fires at sea. The slimmed-down crew on the Noshiro nods to the stark demographic reality in Japan as it confronts its gravest security threats in decades from China’s increasingly provocative military actions and North Korea’s growing nuclear arsenal. As the population rapidly ages and shrinks—nearly a third of Japanese people are over 65, and births fell to a record low last year—experts worry that the military simply won’t be able to staff traditional fleets and squadrons.

Torrential rains in Gaza bring flooding and disease to displaced population (Washington Post) Heavy rains pummeled southern Gaza on Wednesday, bringing mud, flooding and in some cases disease to the thousands of displaced Palestinians living in makeshift tents in this corner of the besieged enclave. “We didn’t get our winter clothes from Gaza City when we left more than a month ago,” Ramzi Mohammed, 31, told The Washington Post in a phone call. Mohammed is staying in Rafah with his wife and three children. “The only thing we do during the night, we cuddle each other to warm up,” he said. Roughly 1.9 million people in Gaza—or 90 percent of the territory’s population, per United Nations data—have been displaced. Many now live in tents draped with whatever blankets or clothes they can find. “Blankets are not available in the market to buy,” Mohammed said. “But [even] when it’s available, I can’t afford the price.”

Images of stripped and humiliated Palestinians draw condemnation (Washington Post) The images of the Palestinian men, stripped to their underwear, forced to kneel, some bound, some blindfolded in the custody of Israeli soldiers, were certain to provoke extreme emotions. As photos and video spread on X, Facebook and other platforms last week, they were picked up by Israeli media. “Images circulate of dozens of Hamas terrorists surrendering in Gaza,” the Jerusalem Post trumpeted in a typical headline. Israel’s military, which censors the Israeli media, did not object to the characterization or prevent the images’ spread. Many in Israel viewed the images as evidence of victory over the militants who rampaged through Israeli communities on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people. Or righteous vengeance. Quickly, though, claims that the detainees were Hamas militants were challenged. Palestinians in Gaza identified relatives who they said were not fighters. Some of them were released. The images, rights activists say, began to convey something different, and darker: an attempt to humiliate and dehumanize Palestinians. This week, the United States, Israel’s closest ally, called the images “deeply disturbing.” Now they are an enduring cause for rage among Palestinians and anger in the region. For some, they stir echoes of the tableaus of torture that emerged during the Iraq War from the U.S.-run detention center at Abu Ghraib prison.

Support for Hamas grows among Palestinians in West Bank (BBC) Since the war in Gaza began, Israel’s military operations in the occupied West Bank have become more frequent, and more forceful. Here in the West Bank, 271 Palestinians, including 69 children, have been killed since the attacks—more than half the total number for the year. Almost all of them have been killed by Israeli forces, according to the United Nations. An opinion poll carried out between 22 November and 2 December by a respected Palestinian think-tank, the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PSR), found that support for Hamas had more than tripled in the West Bank compared to three months ago. Supporters of Hamas were still in a minority, but 70% of the respondents said armed struggle was the best means of ending the Israeli occupation. By contrast, support for President Abbas had dropped sharply following the Hamas attacks, the survey found, with more than 90% of Palestinians in the West Bank calling for his resignation. Raed Debiy, a political scientist and youth leader for the West Bank’s ruling party, Fatah, said the attacks were “a turning point” for Palestinians, just as they were a shocking turning point for Israelis. “The people, especially the new generation, are backing Hamas now, more than at any other moment,” he told me. Even his 11-year-old nephew, he said, had little respect for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, but idolises Hamas military spokesman Abu Obeida “because he protects us”.

The World’s Poorest Countries Buckle Under $3.5 Trillion in Debt (Bloomberg) At Manhattan’s luxe Pierre hotel on a late September morning, Adebayo Olawale Edun, the finance minister of Nigeria, tried to soothe the jitters of Wall Street bankers, pledging that his country would cut spending and collect more in taxes to make the crushing debt payments owed to foreign investors. But new documents show that Nigeria’s 2022 debt payments, the equivalent of $7.5 billion, surpassed its revenue by $900 million. In other words, it had been borrowing more just to keep paying what it already owed. A debt crisis is brewing across the developing world as a decade of borrowing catches up with the world’s poorest countries. In 2024 these nations, known to rich-world investors as “frontier markets,” will have to repay about $200 billion in bonds and other loans. The bonds issued by Bolivia, Ethiopia, Tunisia and a dozen other countries are either already in default or are trading at levels that suggest investors are bracing for them to miss payments.

[propertymanagementllc]

Qualities of a Great Property Management Firm

When it comes to managing properties, whether it's residential or commercial, property owners often seek the assistance of property management firms to ensure smooth operations and maximize their investments. A great property management firm can make a significant difference in the success of a property, providing valuable expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind to property owners. In this blog post, we will explore the qualities that distinguish a great property management firm from the rest, highlighting their importance in delivering exceptional services and fostering long-term success.

Expertise and Knowledge One of the key qualities of a great property management firm is its depth of expertise and knowledge in the field. A reputable firm will have a team of professionals who possess a thorough understanding of the local real estate market, property laws, regulations, and best practices. This knowledge allows them to provide valuable advice and guidance to property owners, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and optimizing property performance.

Effective Communication Clear and efficient communication is vital for a property management firm to excel in its operations. A great firm establishes open lines of communication with property owners, tenants, and other stakeholders involved in the property management process. They promptly respond to queries, concerns, and maintenance requests, ensuring that all parties are well-informed and satisfied. Regular and transparent communication fosters trust and a positive working relationship, leading to long-term tenant retention and owner satisfaction.

Proactive Maintenance and Repairs Maintaining and preserving the value of a property is crucial for property owners. A great property management firm takes a proactive approach to maintenance and repairs, conducting regular inspections and addressing issues promptly. They have a network of reliable contractors and vendors who can provide quality services at competitive prices. By staying on top of maintenance needs, a property management firm minimizes the risk of costly repairs, ensures tenant satisfaction, and enhances property value.

Effective Marketing and Tenant Acquisition A successful property management firm understands the importance of effective marketing strategies to attract quality tenants. They employ various marketing channels, such as online listings, social media, and local advertising, to reach potential renters. A great firm also conducts thorough tenant screening processes, including background checks and verification of references, to ensure that only reliable and responsible tenants are selected. By employing effective marketing and tenant acquisition strategies, a property management firm minimizes vacancies and maximizes rental income for property owners.

Financial Expertise and Transparency A great property management firm demonstrates strong financial expertise and transparency. They handle financial matters, such as rent collection, accounting, and budgeting, with precision and accuracy. A reputable firm provides detailed financial reports to property owners on a regular basis, outlining income, expenses, and any repairs or maintenance costs. Transparent financial practices foster trust between the firm and property owners, allowing for informed decision-making and effective financial planning.

Legal Compliance and Risk Management Adhering to legal requirements and effectively managing risks are critical responsibilities of a property management firm. A great firm stays up-to-date with local, state, and federal laws regarding property management, ensuring that all properties under their care are compliant. They handle lease agreements, eviction processes, and tenant disputes in a professional and lawful manner. Furthermore, a great property management firm implements risk management strategies to minimize liability for property owners, such as adequate insurance coverage and preventive measures.

Commitment to Customer Service Providing exceptional customer service is a hallmark of a great property management firm. They prioritize the needs and satisfaction of both property owners and tenants. The firm promptly addresses concerns, handles maintenance requests efficiently, and ensures that all parties are treated with respect and professionalism. By prioritizing customer service, a property management firm enhances tenant satisfaction, which leads to increased tenant retention and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Additionally, a great property management firm understands that property owners are entrusting them with their valuable assets, and they strive to exceed expectations by delivering personalized service and going the extra mile to meet their needs.

Embracing Technology and Innovation In today's digital age, technology plays a vital role in streamlining property management processes and enhancing efficiency. A great property management firm embraces technological advancements and innovative solutions to optimize operations. They utilize property management software for tasks like rent collection, financial reporting, and maintenance tracking. Furthermore, they may employ online portals or mobile apps to facilitate communication between property owners, tenants, and the management firm. By leveraging technology, a property management firm can provide faster and more convenient services, improving the overall experience for all parties involved.

Flexibility and Adaptability The real estate industry is dynamic, and property management firms must be flexible and adaptable to navigate changing market conditions and emerging trends. A great property management firm stays ahead of the curve by continuously learning and evolving. They adapt their strategies to meet the unique needs of each property and adjust their approach based on market demands. Whether it's implementing new marketing techniques or adopting eco-friendly practices, a flexible and adaptable firm can effectively respond to challenges and seize opportunities to maximize property performance.

Strong Ethical Standards Integrity and ethical conduct are fundamental qualities of a great property management firm. They prioritize honesty, transparency, and fairness in all their dealings. A reputable firm follows ethical guidelines, treating all parties with respect and conducting business in an ethical and responsible manner. They maintain a high level of professionalism and adhere to ethical standards set by industry associations and regulatory bodies. Property owners can trust that their assets are being managed with integrity, and tenants can rely on fair treatment and ethical practices.

Conclusion

Choosing a property management firm is a crucial decision for property owners seeking to maximize their investments and minimize their involvement in day-to-day operations. A great property management firm possesses a combination of qualities that set them apart from the rest. From expertise and effective communication to proactive maintenance, marketing proficiency, financial transparency, legal compliance, exceptional customer service, technological integration, adaptability, and strong ethical standards, these qualities contribute to their overall success. By partnering with a great property management firm, property owners can have peace of mind, knowing that their properties are in capable hands and their investment is being managed to its full potential.

[pavspatch]

Selling to the "real fans" would be my Utopia — Gorski

ALL those fans who wanted owner Rob Gorski to leave Bower Fold have got their way. He has resigned as chairman and Stalybridge Celtic is up for sale.

The question now, is who will buy? Is anyone able to put their money where their mouth is?

In the midst of an unprecedented cost-of-living crisis, who has the funds to buy the controlling interest in a Northern Premier League club that is bound to come with an expensive price tag?

Will it prove possible to put together a supporters' co-operative? As you'll see below, that would be Rob Gorski's preferred option, but could it happen. My own experience suggests that while many people might be prepared to buy a single share for £10 or £20, far fewer would be willing to invest the kind of much sums needed for a realistic bid.

So what does the future hold? What are Rob Gorski's plans? What does he think of Celtic's current situation? Below, is a series of questions I asked him and the replies I received.

If someone wants to buy Stalybridge Celtic, how do they register an interest?

I haven't started to officially market the club externally, yet I’ve already had three parties showing an interest. I'll be asking all parties to submit their formal bids via the club’s accountants, David Lever at Warr and Co of Denton*. If they can't find his details they can also contact me directly.

In the past you've said you were prepared to consider selling Stalybridge Celtic but only to someone with the club's best interests at heart. Do you have some sort of fit-and-proper persons test lined up?

I'll perform my own due diligence on each interested party.

Most fans won't be aware of this, but I had a potential buyer from Singapore express interest about a year ago. For Rob Gorski personally, it was potentially a very tempting financial option. However, my research uncovered someone who had his own pure financial gain as his motive and he had taken over two other football clubs before only for him to close them both and capitalise on the land.

As a Celtic fan, notwithstanding potential large sums of money, I simply could not have lived with myself and so I closed that particular door.

I'll be vetting all potential new buyers to ascertain what they can bring to the club and what their motives and goals are. I'll then balance that with their financial proposal.

Do you have a price in mind? Are you looking to recoup what you've put in over the last 20 years or just a "serious" amount?

I do have figures in mind. However, I’ve already alluded to the fact that it will be an overall “package" and the intentions of the buyer that will also play a major role.

With national government changing housing legislation on building developments, I need to ensure that a potential buyer is not just going to take a 970-year lease on land worth maybe £7 to 8 million, and leave the club hoping to ground share with a Tameside neighbour.

I'll ensure there are some guarantees with regard to Celtic’s future. That will be written in to any legal document. 

While you look for a buyer, will you remain in charge or day-to-day affairs or have you stepped down and passed on the baton? If so to whom? A person, the board as a whole?

I have stepped down due to ill health. I need to have more tests and then maybe medical procedures, and that's why I stepped down, with immediate effect, a fortnight ago.

In fact, I have not been at a game for over two months now. I miss it terribly, but I have to look after myself.

Keith Smart has been taking care of everything in my absence and will continue to drive the club forward. Keith is simply an outstanding man. Professional, diligent and utterly honest.

Fans have no idea how difficult it is to run, (practically as well as financially), a non-league, part-time, football club. People like Keith and Gordon Greenwood are worth their weight in gold. I hope that other directors, who have been "less visible" step up to help them and others.

Has there been any sign of the much-talked-about fans' co-operative?

Not a word. Conceptually, that would be my Utopia — that the fans, the real fans, own Stalybridge Celtic. However, back on planet earth, Stalybridge, the town I love, is truthfully a town entering a depression that would be socially graded as D or E. Sadly, I suspect  I won’t be hearing much back on that.

In your time as chairman/owner you put a lot of blood and treasure into the club and appointed a string of managers who came with an impressive pedigree. Why do think you were never able to achieve any success?

That's a question I've asked myself many times.

Jim Harvey’s kids were technically outstanding, but sadly lacking in physicality. Liam Watson was a major disappointment — his football was 20 years out of date — and Simon Haworth was shockingly negative.

So really, only Steve Burr brought good times the first time he was at Bower Fold in 2007-2011. The quality of football was a real joy with Dave Hankin burning down one wing and Steve Torpey down the other, with a really strong 16-man squad. It very nearly got us back up punching above our weight in National League North.

However, we’ve seen more and more clubs come through the pyramid with money I simply couldn't compete with. Not just Salford, Harrogate, Fylde and Fleetwood, but ones that came and went like Shaw Lane Aquaforce. All paying simply stupid money.

Stalybridge Celtic does not have an asset like Ashton United’s Cross Bar Club, which is effectively one of Hurst's pubs, or Hyde United’s 3G pitch, so the club relied on directors putting their hand in their pocket or an ever diminishing fanbase that was no longer attending due to Premier League lunchtime/early evening screenings.

Then there was covid, and of course the lack of a challenging team, which brings us back to the fact we simply couldn’t compete financially.  

Will you remain a fan or are you stepping away from football for good?

I will always remain a Stalybridge Celtic fan. I was a fan in the Seventies, I was when I lived in London and abroad, and I shall be until I die.

I remember telling Pete Dennerly, my predecessor as chairman, that I had some bad news for him back around 2007 when Ken Bates had invited me to join the Leeds United board. Pete fell silent, only for me to tell him the bad news was that I would only ever be a Celtic director and that he was stuck with me.

I respect other people who have been a director at different clubs. However, personally, I could never relate to that. It was Celtic or nobody for me. I need to look after my health first and foremost, but nothing will give me greater pleasure than buying Chris Willcock (a top man by the way) or Keith Smart, a beer after a great win on a Saturday afternoon next year.

Will Celtic avoid relegation?

I desperately hope so. When you see or hear about wages up and down the Northern Premier League, it makes you wonder how clubs stay afloat.

Without an asset to milk, or hugely disproportionate fan bases, clubs rely on directors and fans to cover ever-increasing costs and because Celtic have struggled financially off the field, it makes achieving success on it, much more difficult.

I think Chris Willcock has now got a much better quality squad than he had early doors. He effectively had to build it from scratch and he quickly realised he’d have to make a number of changes to ensure we could compete.

I’ve not been well enough to attend of late, so I've missed recent performances. However, I gather they are much improved and I sincerely hope and believe the lads can continue to improve and that they'll get that little rub of the green that will see them start to climb the table. 

*Warr and Co, 76 Manchester Road, Denton, M34 3PS — 0161 336 2222 — https://warr.co.uk

[medicalsupplierz]

Best Dental Equipment Suppliers: What to Look For

When it comes to setting up or upgrading a dental practice, choosing the right dental equipment suppliers is one of the most crucial decisions you'll make. The quality of the equipment you use directly impacts both the care you provide to your patients and the efficiency of your practice. With so many options available in the market, how do you know which suppliers can provide the best products? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the Best Dental Equipment Suppliers for your practice.

1. Quality and Durability of Products

The cornerstone of any great dental practice is high-quality, reliable equipment. Dental procedures require precision and the use of tools that can withstand the pressures of daily use. From dental chairs to sterilization units, all your equipment must be durable, safe, and built to last. When considering dental equipment suppliers, always look for those who offer reputable, high-quality brands that meet industry standards.

A good supplier will have certifications for the equipment they provide and will be transparent about the manufacturers and the materials used. Ideally, they will also offer warranties and after-sales support in case you encounter any issues with the products.

2. Range of Products and Services

The Best Dental Equipment Suppliers typically offer a comprehensive range of products to meet the diverse needs of dental practices. This includes everything from diagnostic tools (like X-rays and imaging systems) to surgical instruments, sterilization units, and even furniture like dental chairs and cabinets.

A supplier with a broad product range gives you the flexibility to source all of your equipment from one place, saving time and potentially reducing costs. Additionally, consider whether they offer bundled packages, which can provide great value if you are setting up a new practice or replacing several pieces of equipment at once.

3. Customer Service and Support

Exceptional customer service is an essential factor when choosing dental equipment suppliers. As a dental professional, your time is valuable, and any downtime due to malfunctioning equipment can disrupt your workflow. Look for suppliers who offer excellent after-sales support, including installation, training, and troubleshooting services.

A supplier that is responsive and available for technical support can make all the difference. You should feel confident that they will assist you promptly in the event of an equipment issue or concern.

4. Reputation and Reviews

Before committing to a supplier, take the time to research their reputation. Look for reviews and testimonials from other dental professionals who have used their services. Online reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and industry-specific forums can provide valuable insights into the reliability, customer service, and product quality of a supplier.

The Best Dental Equipment Suppliers often have a long-standing presence in the dental community, and they pride themselves on maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction. A supplier with positive feedback and a strong reputation in the dental industry is more likely to deliver products and services that meet your needs.

5. Pricing and Payment Flexibility

While quality should always be a priority, it's also important to consider the cost of the equipment and any associated fees. The Best Dental Equipment Suppliers should offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Compare prices from different suppliers to ensure you're getting a good deal, but remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best in terms of long-term value.

Additionally, look for suppliers who offer flexible payment options such as financing plans, leasing, or payment plans. This can be especially helpful if you're working with a tight budget but still need top-of-the-line equipment to run your practice.

6. Innovative Technology

The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging regularly. Whether it’s the latest in digital X-ray systems, 3D imaging, or laser technology, you want a supplier who stays ahead of the curve. The Best Dental Equipment Suppliers will offer innovative solutions that help you improve patient care and increase your practice's efficiency.

Make sure to ask potential suppliers about their offerings of the latest technology and how these products can benefit your practice in terms of both patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

7. Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

As sustainability becomes more important in every industry, consider how the dental equipment suppliers you choose handle environmental issues. Look for suppliers who provide eco-friendly products, recyclable packaging, and take measures to reduce their carbon footprint.

By working with sustainable suppliers, not only do you contribute to the global effort to protect the environment, but you also position your practice as one that values responsible business practices.

Choosing the Best Dental Equipment Suppliers requires careful consideration of a variety of factors, including product quality, range, customer service, and price. By focusing on these key elements, you can ensure that your dental practice is well-equipped to offer the highest standard of care to your patients while also running efficiently. Remember to take the time to evaluate different suppliers, check reviews, and compare offerings to find the best fit for your specific needs. With the right supplier, you’ll be well on your way to creating a thriving, high-quality dental practice.

[internetdelhi]

high-speed broadband provider in India

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[eandi]

The Importance of Category Management in Procurement

Category management refers to the organization of similar areas of spend, based on the functions of the goods and services procured. This approach creates opportunities to combine a business’s spend with related products and services for efficient procurement. Some common categories of spending for business include professional services, office management, medical expenses, industrial products and services, IT, human resources, security, entertainment, and transport. Let’s look at the benefits of category management in procurement.

The Benefits of Category Management in Procurement

Incorporating category management in procurement is a great way to boost revenue, build relationships with suppliers, and reduce risk. Let’s take a closer look at the various benefits of category management in procurement.

Cost-Saving Opportunities

Category management gives clear insights into various categories of business purchases. This helps procurement teams work toward generating value from purchases. The information and insights obtained can guide purchasing decisions and indicate whether or not leasing certain products would be more economical.

 

Spend Data Consolidation

Integrating the organization’s spending data allows for easier spending analysis. This enables smooth tracking and reporting of business expenditures. A thorough spend analysis will show areas where procurement outsourcing is more economical.

Get More Value from Vendors

A well-functioning procurement category strategy helps understand vendors better and ensures that businesses work with vendors and suppliers in the most efficient way. It also helps refine contacts in a way that can help extract the most value possible from the suppliers.

Accurate Accounting

A comprehensive category management plan provides detailed and accurate insights into pricing and spending, thus helping in effective spend management. Procurement teams are better informed and well-equipped to negotiate prices. This ensures the economical use of resources when making a purchase. A well-planned category management approach can offer a clear picture of business expenditure as well as a better understanding of current and future contracts.

Increased Customer Satisfaction

While the category manager deals with negotiating supplier contracts, sourcing, and taking bids, the core team can focus more on revenue-generating activities. This ensures that businesses receive undivided attention so the best possible experience is delivered without distractions.

Better Spend Visibility

Compiling a report of spending across various categories provides a clear picture of how money is spent and with which suppliers. This gives insights into which suppliers are offering the most value, thus increasing the bottom line.

Developing Category Management Procurement Strategy

An organization’s approach to category management will depend on the industry, business structure, and specific organizational goals. Here are a few pointers that should be kept in mind when developing a category management framework:

Clearly define categories and subcategories and conduct a spend analysis to evaluate expenses for each of them.

Consider insights gained from the market analysis in order to modify requirements or discover new suppliers.

Conduct market analysis to evaluate the supply market for each category

Draw insights into strategic sourcing activities from lessons learned in order to boost procurement efficiency.

Bottom Line

A strong category management strategy can help streamline and refine procurement decisions and improve the bottom line of the business. It is a major aspect of an efficient procurement strategy.

[onegrouprealtyy]

How Commercial Real Estate Agents Can Elevate Your Business

In today’s competitive market, having the right commercial real estate agent by your side can make a difference. They do more than just find a space; they elevate your business strategy, ensuring you find the perfect location that aligns with your vision and goals. With their expertise, Mernda Real Estate Agents can help you navigate the complexities of commercial properties, turning challenges into opportunities.

Understanding Your Business Needs

Every business is unique, and so are its requirements for space. Whether you're looking for a retail storefront, office space, or warehouse, working with agents who understand your specific needs is crucial. Mernda Real Estate Agents, take the time to learn about your business model and goals. They ask the right questions, such as:

What is your budget?

How much space do you need?

What location best serves your target market?

By understanding your business, they can narrow options and present you with properties that fit your criteria, saving you valuable time and resources.

Market Insights That Matter

The commercial real estate market can be tricky, especially without insider knowledge. This is where Mernda Real Estate Agents shine. They have their fingers on the pulse of the local market, which means they can provide you with invaluable insights into pricing trends, upcoming developments, and potential investment opportunities.

As real estate expert John Paulson once said, “Investing in real estate is not just about the properties; it’s about the information behind the properties.” You can make more informed decisions that positively impact your business’s bottom line with the correct information.

Negotiation Expertise

Negotiating a commercial lease or purchase can be daunting, especially if you need experience in real estate transactions. Fortunately, Mernda Real Estate Agents are skilled negotiators who can advocate on your behalf. They understand the nuances of commercial leases and can help you secure the best possible terms.

Their negotiation strategies often include the following:

Identifying your non-negotiables

Understanding market conditions

Leveraging competing offers

With their expertise, you can feel confident that you're getting a deal that aligns with your business interests, allowing you to focus on what you do best.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Real estate isn’t just a one-off transaction; it’s a relationship-building process. By working with Mernda Real Estate Agents, you're not just gaining a transaction partner but forging a long-term relationship. Good agents stay connected, offering ongoing support and advice even after closing the deal.

This support can include:

Regular market updates

Insights on property management

Guidance on potential expansions or relocations

Having a trusted partner means you can make informed decisions as your business evolves and grows.

A Comprehensive Network

Another advantage of working with Mernda Real Estate Agents is their extensive network. These agents have established relationships with property owners, investors, and other industry professionals. This network can open doors to exclusive listings and opportunities that might not be available through traditional channels.

Moreover, if you need recommendations for contractors, interior designers, or other service providers, your agent can provide trusted referrals to ensure your space meets your standards.

Streamlined Processes

Commercial real estate transactions involve many moving parts, from legal documentation to financing options. Mernda Real Estate Agents streamline this process, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. They coordinate all the necessary steps, helping you avoid pitfalls and delays.

Their comprehensive approach includes:

Conducting due diligence

Managing paperwork

Ensuring compliance with local regulations

With their assistance, you can focus on your core business activities while knowing that the details are taken care of.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial real estate agent is crucial to your business's success. With the expertise, insights, and network that Mernda Real Estate Agents provide, you can elevate your business to new heights. Their commitment to understanding your needs, negotiation skills, and ongoing support ensure you’re making informed decisions every step of the way. So why wait? Partner with the experts today and watch your business thrive!

[ackrodche]

How To Make Best Possible Use Of Airport Taxi Wien?

No matter whether you're on business or pleasure, viennaairport-taxi promises a safe and enjoyable journey from beginning to end. Our experienced drivers are trained as well as experienced. They will ensure they get you there on time and at a comfortable pace. Our vehicles have the latest technology and the most comfortable seats for groups of various sizes!

Vienna International Airport, known through its IATA or ICAO codes, VIE/LOWW is situated just 18 km to the west of Schwechat and caters to both domestic as well as European long-haul travel destinations as and budget airlines like Wizz Air and Ryanair. There are a range of public transport options that serve Vienna Airport. Postbus and Flixbus line buses provide transportation directly into the airport while there is a City Airport Train that City Airport Train connects directly with Wien Mitte - Landstrasse station at which you can walk through the city's main streets in 15 minutes. Additionally, S7 Schnellbahn runs regular shuttle services between central Vienna and Vienna Airport (and reverse).

Other options for transportation include hiring an Airport Taxi Wien . There are several booths on the opposite towards the left when you exit customs Ask your hotel if they have pre-booked it on your behalf. Taxis will be more expensive but can be an ideal solution for people with a number of bags.

Vienna Airport Cab is by one of the most efficient and easy method to get around a city. There are many rental places at terminal that can provide cars for lease. Simply follow the instructions in the direction of town and you'll never be lost! Vienna Airport Taxi are safe reliable, economical and effective transport choices that provide quick travel times to anywhere in the world. The drivers are highly experienced and that are armed with all types of traffic-control abilities who work ensure that passengers get to where they're traveling as fast and smooth that they can. The prices can be billed in line with a rate system that is based on a.

Viennaairport-Taxi offers premium chauffeured car transfers to and back from the airport at reasonable distance-based rates which will be waiting outside the terminal with an inviting sign so that you can unwind during your journey to your destination without worry of delays or waiting times for the departure gate. The information about your flight will be transmitted directly to your driver to eliminate any waiting time at the airport.

If you take an Vienna Airport Taxi, you are able to be headed to the city within no time. Been traveling with your loved ones and colleagues from work? Do not worry: our broad assortment of limousines, vans and minibuses is able to fit everyone easily. Let us know any special requests when making the reservation. We will attempt to make sure we meet their needs!

In the event that you choose to book the Airport Vienna Transfer, your driver must arrive at your destination with a personalized boarding pass and assist you in transferring your baggage. The driver should be pleasant competent, skilled, and knowledgeable of their surroundings and provide an enjoyable, secure, trustworthy journey to and from the airport to where you would like to go. Changes and cancellations can be made free of charge up to one half hour prior to departure so that you are completely secure.

Have your travels run easily and feel relaxed and ready to explore the city when you reach Vienna on a trip for business or pleasure via Blacklane Vienna Airport Transfer. A variety of payment options can make things so much simpler. Choose to purchase in advance or on arriving, while the driver oversees your flight to ensure you're in the right place at the time. or just relax and let your chauffeur take right to your destination in Vienna, Austria's capital. Get your tickets now!

[aiplproperty]

Key Factors to Consider Before Investing in Omaxe Dwarka’s Commercial Spaces

Investing in commercial real estate is a big decision that needs proper thinking. Sector 19B, Delhi is one of the top choices for investors looking forward to North India's booming commercial market. Omaxe Dwarka offers pulsating high-street retail space, airy offices, and ultra-modern entertainment zones. All this makes Omaxe Dwarka savouring for experienced investors and new entrants. The choice of investing in Omaxe Dwarka should consider the following key factors that tend to maximize investments.

Strategic Location and Connectivity Omaxe Dwarka enjoys a strategic location in Sector 19B, with easy connectivity to Delhi and the broader NCR. Its proximity to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Dwarka Expressway, and Metro lines makes access smooth, which can improve visibility and foot traffic for businesses. Accessibility also brings high-profile tenants, which can increase your returns on investment.

Flexible Payment Arrangements

Omaxe Dwarka presents flexible payment plans that make investment easy for the buyer. The two plans presented are 50:50-which requires a 50% down payment as advance and the remaining 50% payment at the time of receiving the Occupancy Certificate and 90:10 payment plan requiring 90% advance and a balance 10% payment at the time of possession. In both options, assured returns until the handing over of the property facilitate easy management of finances and a constant flow of income during the period of development.

Developer Reputation

The biggest factor to be considered while investing is the reputation of the Omaxe Group. Omaxe has decades of experience in delivering nearly fault-free commercial and residential projects across all parts of India. This quality is majorly dominated by timeliness, customer satisfaction, and environment-friendly practices. As such, with Omaxe's involvement in a project possibility of delay or compromise in quality would be nearly wiped out, thereby giving the investor quite a sigh of relief.

One of the most prominent commercial developments in Delhi, Omaxe Dwarka has invariably been recognized for building a perfect blend of prime location, modern infrastructure, and attractive financial incentives. Whether one is an expansionist business owner or an investor who seeks returns over the long term, it satisfies every requirement of yours. From the inception itself, it has received immense interest for investment purposes, considering its strategic location along with future infrastructure developments here, high return potential, and diversified commercial offerings.

The demand for premium commercial spaces in Delhi NCR is at an all-time high. It's the right time to invest in Omaxe Dwarka and seize all the opportunities it has in store.

Omaxe Dwarka could be a very well-end used tool for different needs of business because of product differentiation for various potential investors. A complex array of products such as retail spaces, food courts, office spaces, and a multiplex is available, and you can choose space according to your objective of investment. With its high-class retail shops, they offer their customers the luxury of a shopping experience by attracting world-class brands. Entertainment facilities in the form of multiplexes make it a family destination, thereby ensuring a steady flow of customers.

High Returns on Investment Omaxe Dwarka is the investment that will have high returns. Not only will it ensure 12 percent return till possession but also ensures 7 percent lease guarantee for three years post occupation that pegs down most of the risks associated with the investment. Another added advantage is price appreciation potential, by rising infrastructure around it, like the Dwarka Expressway, thus adding to long-term benefits, making Omaxe Dwarka one of the best options in commercial ventures, considering other commercial works.

Professional Level Amenities and Infrastructures retail shops at Omaxe Dwarka is supported with the finest infrastructure and advanced amenities, such as:

24*7 Power back up

CCTV and dedicated security

Enough parking

High-speed elevators

Well-designed fire safety systems

All these help businesses run in a streamlined manner and the development attractive to the would-be tenants or buyers, keeping it abreast with the market.

Dwarka is rapidly growing, with an ordinary demand for commercial space emerging. One of the biggest planned hubs in Delhi, Dwarka attracts professionals, businesses, and organisations, making retail, office, and entertainment spaces very high in demand. Luxury residential projects , educational institutions, and corporate offices nearby create demand for commercial spaces, making this investment by Omaxe Dwarka timely and strategic.

Future infrastructures with multiple infrastructural upgrades and developments in Omaxe Dwarka shall be followed by one of the most noted new infrastructural developments of the biggest multi-sporting stadia. The constructions will host cricket and footballing events and surely attract more footfalls in retail and hospitality businesses and possibly increase the value of the property and be noticed also by foreign and local brands.

[miqenergy]

How to Get the Best Solar Deal

Despite the industry’s do-good image, solar companies are for-profit businesses. That means homeowners should always shop around and get at least two to three different quotes.

First Solar deal executives and lobbyists cultivated close ties to Democrats during the Obama administration, which subsidized the company through billions in lucrative tax credits meant to help domestic clean energy manufacturers compete with China. But that business model is broken.

Cash

Cash is a great option for homeowners who have enough liquid assets to cover the upfront cost of a solar energy system. This way, you truly own your power and are able to take advantage of financial incentives and rebates.

If you can't afford the full amount up front, a solar loan is an excellent option. You pay off the loan with your energy savings, and you benefit from all of the solar tax credits, rebates, and incentives available in your area.

Solar loans typically have lower interest rates than other financing options, so they may provide better terms for your long-term financial goals. It's also important to remember that the solar industry is a for-profit business, just like any other, so you should shop around to find the best terms for your specific situation. You might be able to get better financing through your bank or credit union, which can offer more appealing loan terms than a private lender.

Financing

Many homeowners choose to purchase their solar energy system with a loan. These loans can be secured or unsecured, and often have terms up to 20 years. They work much like personal loans or home equity loans, with the key difference being that these are specifically geared towards residential solar systems and typically require a higher credit score than other lending products.

Unlike PPAs and leases, loans give you the option of dictating when your bill savings begin (based on electricity rate) and how big your long-term savings will be. Most solar loan borrowers go with an 8- or 20-year term in order to achieve the right balance of immediate and long-term savings. Another option is a reamortizing loan, which is essentially two loans in one—a primary loan for the contract price of your solar system before the 30% federal tax credit is applied, and a bridge loan for the value of the tax credit.

Leases

Solar leases, also known as solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), allow you to go solar at a lower upfront cost by delegating financing, installation and maintenance responsibilities to the company that provides your lease. In return, you’ll pay a predetermined monthly fee for the duration of your contract. At the end of your lease, you can choose to renew or purchase the system or have it removed from your home.

Your solar lease payments typically include an escalator, which increases your payment by a certain percentage each year to reflect rising electric rates. This helps protect you against the risk of increasing utility rates and helps ensure that your lease payments will remain below local electricity prices.

If you’re considering selling your home before your solar PPA or lease agreement expires, most companies will let you buy out the contract and incorporate the buyout cost into your house’s sale price. However, this isn’t a guarantee and depends on your solar deal nsw company.

Home equity

Home equity loans or lines of credit (HELOCs) can be used to finance solar panels if homeowners have sufficient equity in their property and believe that solar will boost its value. As a secured loan, using your home's equity requires less of a financial risk for the lender, which can result in lower interest rates than credit card or personal loans.

HELOCs can also provide financial flexibility, allowing you to access funds as needed over time while only paying interest on what you borrow. Additionally, some HELOC interest may be tax-deductible. Consult your trusted tax professional for more information.

Many solar installation companies offer financing themselves or through a thirdparty financial institution. If you choose this option, note that the application process often entails a hard credit check and may affect your score. Also, a contractorfinanced loan may come with higher rates than other loans. However, some homeowners prefer a streamlined one-stop shopping experience and find the financing terms of a contractor-financed loan to be acceptable.

[flexible-student-accommodation]

Student Accommodation Near Lingo Flamingo Glasgow

Lingo Flamingo is a language school in Glasgow. It aims to promote the well-being of society and improve the cognitive health of its students. It wants to enable lifelong learning by providing accessible language-learning services.

Their mission is to be the largest and the most easily accessible provider of interactive language learning in the UK. The teachers here provide their students with the best learning experience and know how to work with adults as well. They regularly work with local communities, care providers, and research institutions.

If you are moving to Glasgow to study at Lingo Flamingo, you will need a place to stay. Your student accommodation near Lingo Flamingo should have some basic amenities and fulfill your preferences. More importantly, it should have flexible lease terms. Let's discuss this in more detail down the line, first, let's discuss why Lingo Flamingo is the best choice for improving language skills.

In 2022, Lingo Flamingo became an approved center for SQA. This allows the institute to award National Level 2 qualifications to their older learners when they complete their Lingo course. This is the first institution of its kind as it offers formal qualifications to older adults dealing with dementia.

The oldest student at Lingo Flamingo to achieve their SQA qualification is 99 years old! This proves that it is never too late to start learning. This empowers the students by reminding them of their capabilities and achievements.

10 Reasons to Join Lingo Flamingo

The school teaches six languages at various levels of proficiency. The classes are held in person as well as online. Offline classes are held at Shawlands hub. It provides support and online tools that can make learning an interactive experience for all students.

1. Immersive Teaching:

It is the school’s purpose to make very engaging, highly immersive, and multisensory classes for seniors and those who live with dementia. This has led it to develop unique teaching methodologies that encourage brain development and create a fun accessible relaxed atmosphere for all age groups.

2. Accessible:

Regardless of your age, physical condition, mental well-being, financial status, or geographical location, you can benefit from learning languages. It places great emphasis on accessibility at the heart of everything it does; from teaching techniques to the materials the school generates.

3. Affordable:

Language learning must be cheap in order to be accessible. Therefore, Lingo Flamingo maintains the lowest possible prices for all its classes and includes everything like materials, textbooks, etc. in the overall price.

4. Relaxed Atmosphere:

Language learning in the UK is often associated with rather dull rigidity aimless purpose or agonizing awkwardness for many reasons. The school wants to put these misconceptions to sleep once and for all. To this end, it does things like offer you tea or coffee when you arrive, and give you an easy-going comfortable environment in which you learn and build valuable connections.

5. Not-for-Profit:

It is a charity that was established to enhance and exploit the use of languages as a way of improving health. As such, every penny of profit from its Language Nest courses is plowed back into free or subsidized language projects specifically designed for care homes and older adult community groups anywhere in Scotland.

6. Good for the Brain:

If you are not having fun or enjoying yourself, you may learn little. The classes consist of teaching through the senses and playing enjoyable games with new activities using unique materials. With these elements added and their experienced tutors, the classes are interactive, where time flies and your lessons will stay with you forever.

7. Small Classes:

Smaller groups mean more time can be devoted to helping eliminate any learning barriers that you might have at an individual level. It also means that this setting gives you a higher chance of bonding with your colleagues thereby making learning even better. This is why Lingo Flamingo created a living-room-like classroom environment, which only accommodates twelve students who can just sit back and start studying!

8. Research-Based:

Its academic base is very solid and has worked with several well-known research partners to strengthen the argument for language learning as a health benefit. This is firstly, to support non-pharmaceutical therapies in treating dementia patients. Moreover, this also shows that there are more benefits to studying language than just those all of us know.

9. Unique Materials:

A series of textbooks has been created for elderly people and those diagnosed with dementia. These texts are unprecedented and therefore include selected colors, large text sizes, readable fonts as well and captivating content that caters to various levels of ability and requirement. It also uses many different props and games besides the textbook-based classroom activities that probably don’t take place in your regular classes.

10. Confidence-Building:

It is not easy to learn languages. However, the school will help you get through these classes which provide a worthwhile experience where you will see marked development in your skill level every time you attend one. Its programs make students more self-assured, thereby improving their overall sense of well-being.

Properties Offered by Uninist in Glasgow

Boyce House at 47 Kyle Street is flexible student accommodation provided by Uninist in Glasgow. This accommodation includes comfortable beds, a study area, a gym, a cinema room, a games room, and a laundry room.

Uninist knows that students enroll in courses of different lengths. Plans and schedules can change while studying in Glasgow, affecting how long you need to stay. That’s why having flexible lease terms is important.

Uninist

Uninist helps you find the perfect place to stay while studying in Glasgow. You can choose Student Residence for stays ranging from 2 weeks to 52 weeks. Uninist understands the need for flexible tenancy options. All their properties are in great locations, close to schools, and easy to reach by public transport.

Uninist offers customized solutions for international students with varying lease terms. You can choose from different lease options, and the best part is you can select short-term student accommodation based on the length of your course.