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Donald The President’s biggest donor has already pulled back from White House roleView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’ve been waiting for a chance to grab a MacBook without wrecking your budget, this refurbished 2020 M1 Apple MacBook Air deal is worth your time. It’s currently on sale for $499.99 on StackSocial, which is a huge drop from its original $1,499.99 price. Since it's a Grade "A" refurbished unit, it should arrive looking almost brand new, with little to no visible wear. You’re getting the 13.3-inch model in the Gold finish, with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD—pretty much the combo most people need for everyday work, casual creative projects, and lighter multitasking. The M1 chip is really what keeps this 2020 model relevant. Even though it's not the latest, it still handles tasks like browsing, document editing, and basic video or photo editing without breaking a sweat. Its battery life also holds up well, with about 15 to 18 hours on a single charge, depending on your usage. The fanless design means it's whisper-quiet even when you have a dozen tabs open or you’re running a marathon Zoom call. However, storage might feel a little tight if you’re into heavy media projects or like to hoard large files, and the 8GB RAM could start to show its limits if you run dozens of apps at once. One thing worth keeping in mind is that the port situation is basic—just two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports and a headphone jack. You’ll probably need a dongle or hub if you regularly plug in USB-A accessories or an SD card. But in return, you get that lightweight, durable aluminum body, a crisp Retina display, and the Magic Keyboard. If you’re not chasing after the latest M3 or M4 upgrades and just want a solid MacBook for everyday tasks, this refurbished MacBook Air is hard to beat at this price. And for those who care about looks, the Gold finish definitely stands out without being too flashy. View the full article

The difficulty is that, however unsatisfactory the hegemon might be, the alternatives look worseView the full article

On a windswept plateau high above the Arabian Sea, Sena Keybani cradles a sapling that barely reaches her ankle. The young plant, protected by a makeshift fence of wood and wire, is a kind of dragon’s blood tree—a species found only on the Yemeni island of Socotra that is now struggling to survive intensifying threats from climate change. “Seeing the trees die, it’s like losing one of your babies,” said Keybani, whose family runs a nursery dedicated to preserving the species. Known for their mushroom-shaped canopies and the blood-red sap that courses through their wood, the trees once stood in great numbers. But increasingly severe cyclones, grazing by invasive goats, and persistent turmoil in Yemen—which is one of the world’s poorest countries and beset by a decade-long civil war—have pushed the species, and the unique ecosystem it supports, toward collapse. Often compared to the Galapagos Islands, Socotra floats in splendid isolation some 240 kilometers (150 miles) off the Horn of Africa. Its biological riches—including 825 plant species, of which more than a third exist nowhere else on Earth—have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Among them are bottle trees, whose swollen trunks jut from rock like sculptures, and frankincense, their gnarled limbs twisting skywards. But it’s the dragon’s blood tree that has long captured imaginations, its otherworldly form seeming to belong more to the pages of Dr. Seuss than to any terrestrial forest. The island receives about 5,000 tourists annually, many drawn by the surreal sight of the dragon’s blood forests. Visitors are required to hire local guides and stay in campsites run by Socotran families to ensure tourist dollars are distributed locally. If the trees were to disappear, the industry that sustains many islanders could vanish with them. “With the income we receive from tourism, we live better than those on the mainland,” said Mubarak Kopi, Socotra’s head of tourism. But the tree is more than a botanical curiosity: It’s a pillar of Socotra’s ecosystem. The umbrella-like canopies capture fog and rain, which they channel into the soil below, allowing neighboring plants to thrive in the arid climate. “When you lose the trees, you lose everything—the soil, the water, the entire ecosystem,” said Kay Van Damme, a Belgian conservation biologist who has worked on Socotra since 1999. Without intervention, scientists like Van Damme warn these trees could disappear within a few centuries—and with them many other species. “We’ve succeeded, as humans, to destroy huge amounts of nature on most of the world’s islands,” he said. “Socotra is a place where we can actually really do something. But if we don’t, this one is on us.” Increasingly intense cyclones uproot trees Across the rugged expanse of Socotra’s Firmihin plateau, the largest remaining dragon’s blood forest unfolds against the backdrop of jagged mountains. Thousands of wide canopies balance atop slender trunks. Socotra starlings dart among the dense crowns while Egyptian vultures bank against the relentless gusts. Below, goats weave through the rocky undergrowth. The frequency of severe cyclones has increased dramatically across the Arabian Sea in recent decades, according to a 2017 study in the journal Nature Climate Change, and Socotra’s dragon’s blood trees are paying the price. In 2015, a devastating one-two punch of cyclones—unprecedented in their intensity—tore across the island. Centuries-old specimens, some over 500 years old, which had weathered countless previous storms, were uprooted by the thousands. The destruction continued in 2018 with yet another cyclone. As greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, so too will the intensity of the storms, warned Hiroyuki Murakami, a climate scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the study’s lead author. “Climate models all over the world robustly project more favorable conditions for tropical cyclones.” Invasive goats endanger young trees But storms aren’t the only threat. Unlike pine or oak trees, which grow 60 to 90 centimeters (25 to 35 inches) per year, dragon’s blood trees creep along at just 2 to 3 centimeters (about 1 inch) annually. By the time they reach maturity, many have already succumbed to an insidious danger: goats. An invasive species on Socotra, free-roaming goats devour saplings before they have a chance to grow. Outside of hard-to-reach cliffs, the only place young dragon’s blood trees can survive is within protected nurseries. “The majority of forests that have been surveyed are what we call over-mature—there are no young trees, there are no seedlings,” said Alan Forrest, a biodiversity scientist at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s Centre for Middle Eastern Plants. “So you’ve got old trees coming down and dying, and there’s not a lot of regeneration going on.” Keybani’s family’s nursery is one of several critical enclosures that keep out goats and allow saplings to grow undisturbed. “Within those nurseries and enclosures, the reproduction and age structure of the vegetation is much better,” Forrest said. “And therefore, it will be more resilient to climate change.” Conflict threatens conservation But such conservation efforts are complicated by Yemen’s stalemated civil war. As the Saudi Arabia-backed, internationally recognized government battles Houthi rebels—a Shiite group backed by Iran—the conflict has spilled beyond the country’s borders. Houthi attacks on Israel and commercial shipping in the Red Sea have drawn retaliation from Israeli and Western forces, further destabilizing the region. “The Yemeni government has 99 problems right now,” said Abdulrahman Al-Eryani, an advisor with Gulf State Analytics, a Washington-based risk consulting firm. “Policymakers are focused on stabilizing the country and ensuring essential services like electricity and water remain functional. Addressing climate issues would be a luxury.” With little national support, conservation efforts are left largely up to Socotrans. But local resources are scarce, said Sami Mubarak, an ecotourism guide on the island. Mubarak gestures toward the Keybani family nursery’s slanting fence posts, strung together with flimsy wire. The enclosures only last a few years before the wind and rain break them down. Funding for sturdier nurseries with cement fence posts would go a long way, he said. “Right now, there are only a few small environmental projects—it’s not enough,” he said. “We need the local authority and national government of Yemen to make conservation a priority.” ___ The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment —Annika Hammerschlag, Associated Press View the full article

Prime minister says move would ‘undo’ benefits from recent trade deals with India and USView the full article

After years in corporate roles, Samantha Hallburn created a firm where people come before profits—and business thrives because of it. The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

Imagine a firm where people come before profits—and business thrives because of it. The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If your current version of Office is starting to feel a little old, this might be the right time to upgrade without committing to a subscription. Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is down to $49.97 on StackSocial—marked down from its regular $219.99 price. It’s a one-time purchase with a lifetime license for one Windows PC. That means no monthly fees, no renewals, and no cloud dependency to use the core apps. You’ll get instant delivery of your license key after checkout, and setup is straightforward. Just note that the license ties to your device, not your Microsoft account, and must be redeemed within seven days. This version covers all the core apps: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams (free), OneNote, Publisher, and Access. If you use your PC for work, school, or anything remotely admin-related, that lineup covers most bases. Word and Excel are as capable as ever, and PowerPoint continues to be a reliable go-to for clean, no-fuss presentations. Access and Publisher may not be for everyone, but if your job calls for database management or simple layout design, they’re nice to have without paying extra. Everything runs locally, so you can keep working even if your wifi cuts out. And the system requirements are light—Windows 10 or 11, with at least 1 GB of RAM and 4 GB of disk space. The interface sticks to the familiar ribbon layout, so there’s not much of a learning curve if you’ve used Office before. You can still edit fonts, styles, margins, and layouts in a few clicks, and the apps load fast on modern machines. While it lacks some of the collaboration features baked into Microsoft 365, this is more of a traditional, standalone package for those who want full control over their software without recurring costs. At this price, and with instant access included, it’s one of the more affordable ways to lock in a full-featured, up-to-date Office suite—especially if you just need it on a single Windows machine. View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today...View the full article

Home Depot’s revenue climbed in the first quarter as customers spent slightly more as they tackled smaller projects. A number of U.S. companies have lowered or pulled financial guidance for investors as tariffs launched by the the The President administration scramble world trade but on Tuesday, Home Depot stuck by earlier projections of sales growth at around 2.8%. Shares of the Atlanta company rose more than 3% before the opening bell on Tuesday. Revenue rose to $39.86 billion from $36.42 billion a year earlier, beating the $39.3 billion that analysts polled by FactSet expected. Sales at stores open at least a year, a key gauge of a retailer’s health, edged down 0.3%. In the U.S., comparable store sales climbed 0.2%. Wall Street anticipated a 0.1% decline in same-store sales. Customer transactions rose 2.1% in the quarter. The amount shoppers spent climbed to $90.71 per average ticket from $90.68 in the prior-year period. “Our first quarter results were in line with our expectations as we saw continued customer engagement across smaller projects and in our spring events,” Home Depot Chair and CEO Ted Decker said in a statement on Tuesday. Home improvement retailers like Home Depot have been dealing with homeowners putting off bigger projects because of increased borrowing costs and lingering concerns about inflation. The U.S. housing market has been in a sales slump dating back to 2022, when mortgage rates began to climb from pandemic-era lows. Sales of previously occupied homes dropped last month as elevated mortgage rates and rising prices discouraged home shoppers. Existing home sales fell 5.9% in March from February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.02 million units, the National Association of Realtors said. The March sales decline was the largest monthly drop since November 2022, when sales slid 6.7% from the previous month, and marks the slowest sales pace for the month of March going back to 2009. Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell last year to their lowest level in nearly 30 years. “One of the central problems for Home Depot is the skittish housing market,” Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData, said in a statement. “While last quarter was robust, home sales declined by 3.1% year-over-year this quarter as consumers were deterred from moving by continued high interest rates and growing economic uncertainty. This lack of recovery makes it difficult to drive home improvement spending.” For the three months ended May 4, Home Depot Inc. earned $3.43 billion, or $3.45 per share. A year earlier the Atlanta-based company earned $3.6 billion, or $3.63 per share. Stripping out certain items, earnings were $3.56 per share. Wall Street was calling for earnings of $3.60 per share. —Michelle Chapman, AP Business Writer View the full article

Advertiser Disclosure Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Over the past nineteen years as a business owner, I’ve used countless business cards. Some have been amazing and elevated both my travel and my business. Others have been…well, lackluster. One of the best? The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. It comes with a lot of world-class perks and benefits, quality customer care, and a solid rewards structure (especially on large purchases). While the annual fee is pretty high ($695, pay over time available. See Rates and Fees), for me, the travel benefits, along with all the statement credits, make the card worth carrying. I think it’s a great choice for business owners who travel frequently. In this breakdown, I’ll detail the card, what you get, and why I like it. What is the Business Platinum Card® from American Express? The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a travel rewards card geared towards business owners. (Remember: even side hustles and freelancing count as businesses so you can get this card even without being an LLC.) First, let’s go over some of the best things you get when you sign up, which make it a no brainer to get for the first year: Limited Time Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn a $500 statement credit after you spend $2,500 on qualifying flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel with your Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. You can earn one or both of these offers. Offer ends 6/30/25. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals and prepaid flight + hotel packages booked at AmexTravel.com. 1x points on other eligible purchases. 1.5x points per dollar on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus. Complimentary access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection®, featuring more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries. Access is limited to eligible Card Members. Up to $120 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA Pre-check every 4 years. Up to $199 yearly CLEAR® Plus credit (subject to auto-renewal) Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline. Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties. (Distributed in up to $50 increments per quarter. Hilton for Business program membership is required.) $150 credit with Adobe on eligible annual prepaid business plan purchases of Adobe Creative Cloud for teams or Adobe Acrobat Pro for teams on the Business Platinum Card through 6/30/25. Up to $120 per calendar year in statement credits for purchases made directly from any U.S. wireless telephone provider (up to $10 back per month). Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite status (enrollment required) Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required) No foreign transaction fees Using Your Membership Rewards Points You’ll earn Membership Rewards points with The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Since Amex has a well-rounded suite of travel partners, Membership Rewards points are some of the most valuable points out there. These are Amex’s current travel partners: Aer Lingus AerClub (1:1 ratio) Aeromexico Rewards (1:1.6 ratio) Air Canada Aeroplan (1:1 ratio) Air France-KLM Flying Blue (1:1 ratio) ANA Mileage Club (1:1 ratio) Avianca LifeMiles (1:1 ratio) British Airways Club (1:1 ratio) Cathay Pacific Asia Miles (1:1 ratio) Choice Privileges (1:1 ratio) Delta SkyMiles (1:1 ratio) Emirates Skywards (1:1 ratio) Etihad Guest (1:1 ratio) HawaiianMiles (1:1 ratio) Hilton Honors (1:2 ratio) Iberia Plus (1:1 ratio) JetBlue TrueBlue (250:200 ratio) Marriott Bonvoy (1:1 ratio) Qantas Frequent Flyer (1:1 ratio) Qatar Airways Privilege Club (1:1 ratio) Singapore KrisFlyer (1:1 ratio) Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (1:1 ratio) Most transfers are instant, though some can take up to 48 hours. You can also use your Membership Rewards points to book flights and hotels in the Amex Travel portal. I generally wouldn’t do this though as it’s not the best use of your points. It’s always better to transfer them out to one of their partners. However, you can get 35% points back when you do book via their portal so just compare the points costs between both before making a decision. Breaking Down the Business Platinum’s Credits and Benefits Amex cards are well-known for their plethora of perks and benefits. They’re a big reason I love their cards. And, if you can take advantage of all that it has to offer, the Business Platinum boasts over $1,700 worth of value. But, with so many categories and so much fine print, it can be hard to keep track of whether a benefit is actually useful for your spending habits. So, to help you decide if the card is right for you, I want to break down some of the major categories of benefits: Airport Experience Credits (Lounge Access, CLEAR Plus, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck) One of the best things about this card — and what makes it a standout for frequent travelers — is the unbeatable airport lounge access. You’ll get into some of the top lounges worldwide, including the excellent Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (when you’re flying Delta, with up to 10 visits per year). On top of that, you’ll get complimentary access to the huge Priority Pass network. If having a quiet space to relax, grab a drink, or get some work done is a priority when you travel, this card has you covered pretty much anywhere. I also appreciate that the Business Platinum helps you get through the airport faster. It offers up to $199 in statement credits each year for a CLEAR® Plus membership, which speeds you through security lines. You’ll also get a credit for Global Entry (up to $100 every 4 years) or TSA PreCheck (up to $85 every 4.5 years), depending on which one you choose. I personally recommend going for Global Entry. It takes a little more effort (there’s an interview), but it includes TSA PreCheck too. It’ll save you a ton of time if you travel internationally. Airline and Hotel Credits Another travel-related benefit is the up to $200 airline credit. Unfortunately, it comes with a fair number of restrictions, making this credit a bit more annoying to use. It can only be used on one (pre-selected) airline, and you can only use it for incidentals, not airfare. But if you don’t have an airline credit card that offers free baggage, it can be useful to have. You can also use the credit for airline expenses like paid seat selection or on-board food and drink. The Business Platinum also offers a few Hilton-related benefits. First, you can receive up to $200 in statement credits at Hilton properties when booked directly. Since these credits are distributed in quarterly $50 increments, you’d have to stay in a Hilton property at least four times a year to get the full value of this credit. But if you’re on the road a lot, that can be easy to do. Second, the Business Platinum offers complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status (as well as Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite status), which offer extra perks and benefits when staying at these properties. Business-Related Statement Credits The Business Platinum card comes with some great perks to help lighten the financial load of running a business. Expenses can really add up if you’re managing a business while traveling, so I appreciate that the Business Platinum helps offset these costs. You can get up to $400 in statement credits on U.S. Dell purchases (through June 30, 2025, split into $200 chunks every six months). There’s also up to $360 back per year on Indeed ads (up to $90 each quarter), which is great if you’re hiring as your business grows. If you use Adobe tools, there’s a $150 credit available when you prepay annually for eligible Adobe Creative Cloud or Acrobat Pro plans for teams. And to keep you connected on the go, you’ll get up to $120 a year for purchases made directly with U.S. wireless providers — that’s $10 back each month. Amex Offers On top of all those valuable statement credits, the Business Platinum gives you access to Amex Offers, an easy way to save some cash or rack up extra points with a wide range of retailers. These deals rotate regularly and are personalized, so what shows up for you might be totally different from what another cardholder sees. Most of the time, it’s a simple setup like “spend X, get Y back.” I always check Amex Offers before I purchase. (The personal card offers this too.) The Business Platinum’s Travel Insurance The Business Platinum also comes with great travel insurance. While I still recommend buying a standalone policy for medical, this card includes strong built-in coverage like trip delay, trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and medical transport. It also includes cell phone protection for damage or theft, a rare but valuable perk. For a maximum of $800 per claim, with a limit of two approved claims per 12-month period, when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month’s wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim. So, while you could get away with the card’s insurance if you book the trip on the card, I wouldn’t rely on it completely. But it’s better than most! Should you get this card? The Business Platinum is ideal for frequent travelers who can make the most of perks like smoother airport experiences and hotel elite status. If you can take advantage of a few of the business-related statement credits, the statement credits alone make the high annual fee worth it. I get a lot of value from the card through the statement credits that make carrying the card after the first year really worth it. While it’s true you only get 1x point per dollar spent on anything under $5,000 (which isn’t as good as many other cards), the points back on redemptions and the tons of statement credits, elite status, Amex offers, and partners you don’t find anywhere else make this card essential for any business owner. Click here to learn more and sign up! Stop paying full price for travel! Download my free guide to points and miles and learn how to use points and miles for free travel! It's how all the pros travel so much! In this guide, I'll show you: How to Pick a Credit Card How to Earn Up to 10x Miles on Your Spending How to Redeem Your Points And a Ton of Other Money Saving Tips! Get the guide Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned. Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are: SafetyWing (best for budget travelers) World Nomads (best for mid-range travelers) InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over) Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage) Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals. Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip! Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more. Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip. The post The Business Platinum Card® from American Express Review appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site. View the full article

Key Takeaways Significance of a Strong Name: The right name is crucial for a food business as it creates the first impression and reflects your brand identity, helping you stand out in a competitive market.Simplicity and Memorability: Choosing a simple and easy-to-pronounce name enhances memorability, making it easier for customers to recall and share your business.Relevance to Cuisine: Your business name should reflect the type of cuisine you offer, ensuring potential customers immediately understand what to expect.Avoid Common Mistakes: Steer clear of unpleasant, complicated, or culturally insensitive names, and ensure you consider legal implications to protect your brand.Keywords for SEO: Incorporating relevant keywords in your name can boost your digital marketing efforts and improve your search engine visibility.Research and Feedback: Utilize brainstorming, market research, and customer feedback to generate name ideas that resonate with your target audience and enhance your brand strategy. Choosing the right name for your food business can make all the difference. It’s not just a label; it’s the first impression you’ll make on potential customers. A catchy name can spark curiosity and create a connection, setting the stage for your culinary journey. In a crowded market, standing out is essential. Your food business name should reflect your unique offerings and resonate with your target audience. Whether you’re launching a trendy café or a gourmet food truck, the perfect name can capture the essence of your brand and leave a lasting impact. Let’s explore how to craft a memorable name that not only attracts attention but also tells your story. Importance Of Choosing The Right Food Business Name Choosing the right name for your food business can significantly impact your brand identity and market position. A name serves as the first impression for potential customers; it’s essential that it captures attention and reflects your offerings clearly. A memorable name helps your business stand out in a competitive landscape, facilitating customer acquisition. A unique name can be a powerful marketing tool that resonates with your target audience. When you effectively communicate your brand story through your name, it enhances your business plan and aligns with your overall growth strategy. Additionally, legal considerations come into play. You’re likely to want a name that’s distinctive enough to secure a trademark or to ensure you’re not infringing on existing intellectual property. Check with legal resources to understand the implications of your chosen name, which will help in business registration. Through effective branding, a good name lends itself well to digital marketing efforts. It can enhance your SEO and social media presence, attracting more customers online. Incorporating the right keywords related to your products can improve visibility, complementing your marketing strategy. Ultimately, investing time into naming your food business lays the groundwork for future success. A well-chosen name promotes professionalism and credibility, important elements in building trust with customers and investors alike. Elements Of A Great Food Business Name Choosing an effective name for your food business involves several key elements that enhance its appeal and visibility. Prioritizing simplicity and relevance can drive customer engagement and support growth strategies. Simplicity And Memorability Focus on a name that’s simple, easy to pronounce, and easy to spell. Simplicity enhances memorability, making it easier for potential customers to recall your business and share it with others. For example, names like “The Cozy Cookhouse,” “Home Cook Legacy,” and “Fresh From Home” are straightforward and evoke comfort. This approach can improve word-of-mouth marketing and bolster your digital marketing efforts through SEO, allowing new customers to discover your business online. Relevance To The Cuisine Ensure the name aligns with the type of cuisine or the atmosphere of your establishment. A relevant name helps potential customers quickly grasp what to expect. If your restaurant serves Italian food, consider incorporating Italian language or themes into the name, such as “Trattoria Bella Notte.” This alignment strengthens brand identity and can enhance customer acquisition by setting clear expectations regarding your offerings. Additionally, a relevant name can aid in your overall marketing strategy, reinforcing messaging and visuals across platforms. Tips For Generating Food Business Names Choosing the right name for your food business plays a crucial role in establishing your brand identity. A strong name can attract your target audience, enhance customer acquisition, and support your overall growth strategy. Brainstorming Techniques Utilize brainstorming techniques to create unique food business names. Gather a diverse group of people to generate ideas. Encourage free thinking; write down everything that comes to mind, even unconventional suggestions. Use categories related to your cuisine, atmosphere, or target audience to filter ideas. Conduct market research to identify trends and successful competitors’ names. Utilizing Online Name Generators Leverage online name generators to spark inspiration. These tools allow you to input keywords relevant to your food concept and generate a list of potential names. Explore variations until you find one that resonates with your brand identity. Check domain and trademark availability alongside these names to ensure you’re not infringing on someone else’s intellectual property. Emphasizing this aspect supports your future marketing efforts and fosters customer trust. Analyzing Successful Food Business Names Successful food business names reflect your brand identity and the type of cuisine you offer. Names like Eataly combine “Eatery” and “Italy,” clearly conveying a focus on Italian cuisine. Similarly, Taco Bell indicates its Mexican-style menu, making it easy for customers to know what to expect. These factors enhance customer acquisition, as they provide instant recognition. Simplicity enhances memorability. Names that are easy to pronounce and spell stick in potential customers’ minds. Whole Foods exemplifies this concept with a straightforward approach that reflects a commitment to natural foods. Names such as Savor Society and Flavor Fusion Kitchen maintain simplicity while evoking appetizing imagery, aiding in brand recognition. Understanding your target audience is essential. Tailoring your food business name to their tastes, lifestyles, and preferences sharpens your branding strategy. For instance, names reflecting health-oriented values may attract a health-conscious demographic, while playful names could appeal to families and children. Conducting market research provides valuable insights into trends and successful competitors. Identifying common themes in effective names informs your own strategy. Using brainstorm sessions with diverse groups can generate innovative ideas, while online name generators may spark inspiration related to your food offerings. Incorporating relevant keywords in your business name enhances digital marketing efforts. A strong name supports SEO, helping your business rank higher in search results. This digital presence connects customers to your website and e-commerce platforms, driving sales. Choosing a distinctive name is crucial for securing trademarks and complying with intellectual property laws. This proactive legal approach protects your brand while positioning you for future growth strategies. A well-crafted name not only promotes professionalism but also builds customer trust, which is vital for your small business’s success. Common Mistakes To Avoid Navigating the naming process for your food business involves avoiding several key mistakes to enhance your brand’s appeal and memorability. Unpleasant or Easily Misinterpreted Names Select names that resonate positively with your target audience. Names like “Hitler’s Chicken” create immediate aversion. Such associations can drive customers to competitors. Ensuring your name carries a pleasant connotation is vital for effective customer acquisition. Extremely Long or Complicated Names Choose names that remain simple and easy to pronounce. Long, complicated names confuse potential customers and hinder recall. Opt for names like “Jollibee” or “Burger King” instead. If a longer name is necessary, abbreviations like “KFC” or “TCBY” can help simplify the branding process. Bizarre Translations Be aware of how your name translates globally. Names with strange or offensive meanings in other languages can harm your brand’s reputation. Conduct market research to ensure your name avoids unintended cultural missteps. Names should maintain global friendliness to attract a wider customer base effectively. Neglecting Legal Considerations Address intellectual property concerns when naming your business. Register your name as a trademark to protect your brand and prevent legal issues. Conducting a trademark search helps avoid infringement on existing rights. Securing legal advice ensures compliance with regulations, protecting your investment in branding. Ignoring Target Audience Preferences Research your target audience before finalizing a name. Names resonate more when they reflect the preferences and characteristics of your potential customers. Conduct surveys or focus groups to gauge reactions to different naming options. Tailoring your name strengthens branding and marketing strategies. Conclusion Choosing the right name for your food business is a vital step toward building a strong brand identity. A memorable and relevant name not only attracts customers but also enhances your marketing efforts and sets the tone for your culinary offerings. As you embark on this naming journey remember to keep it simple and aligned with your target audience’s preferences. Utilizing brainstorming techniques and conducting thorough market research can spark creative ideas that resonate. Don’t forget to check for trademark availability to safeguard your brand. With the right name in place you’ll lay a solid foundation for success and growth in the competitive food industry. Frequently Asked Questions Why is a catchy name important for a food business? A catchy name creates a strong first impression and helps your business stand out in a crowded market. It reflects your offerings and resonates with your target audience, facilitating customer acquisition and acting as a powerful marketing tool. How can a food business name enhance SEO? Incorporating relevant keywords into your food business name can improve SEO, making it easier for potential customers to find you online. A memorable name also supports digital marketing efforts across social media platforms, boosting your online presence. What are key elements of a great food business name? A great food business name should be simple, memorable, and relevant to your cuisine or atmosphere. It should be easy to pronounce and spell, allowing customers to recall and share it effortlessly. How can I generate ideas for my food business name? Brainstorming sessions with a diverse group can spark creative ideas. Consider using categories related to your cuisine or target audience. Online name generators can also be helpful for inspiration, and market research can identify successful naming trends. What mistakes should I avoid when naming my food business? Avoid using long, complicated, or unpleasant names that are hard to remember. Steer clear of bizarre translations that may confuse customers and be sure to conduct market research to ensure your name resonates with your target audience. How do I check for trademark availability for a food business name? Before finalizing your business name, conduct a trademark search through databases like the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This ensures that your chosen name is available and can be legally protected. Image Via Envato This article, "Choosing the Perfect Food Business Names to Boost Your Brand Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Significance of a Strong Name: The right name is crucial for a food business as it creates the first impression and reflects your brand identity, helping you stand out in a competitive market.Simplicity and Memorability: Choosing a simple and easy-to-pronounce name enhances memorability, making it easier for customers to recall and share your business.Relevance to Cuisine: Your business name should reflect the type of cuisine you offer, ensuring potential customers immediately understand what to expect.Avoid Common Mistakes: Steer clear of unpleasant, complicated, or culturally insensitive names, and ensure you consider legal implications to protect your brand.Keywords for SEO: Incorporating relevant keywords in your name can boost your digital marketing efforts and improve your search engine visibility.Research and Feedback: Utilize brainstorming, market research, and customer feedback to generate name ideas that resonate with your target audience and enhance your brand strategy. Choosing the right name for your food business can make all the difference. It’s not just a label; it’s the first impression you’ll make on potential customers. A catchy name can spark curiosity and create a connection, setting the stage for your culinary journey. In a crowded market, standing out is essential. Your food business name should reflect your unique offerings and resonate with your target audience. Whether you’re launching a trendy café or a gourmet food truck, the perfect name can capture the essence of your brand and leave a lasting impact. Let’s explore how to craft a memorable name that not only attracts attention but also tells your story. Importance Of Choosing The Right Food Business Name Choosing the right name for your food business can significantly impact your brand identity and market position. A name serves as the first impression for potential customers; it’s essential that it captures attention and reflects your offerings clearly. A memorable name helps your business stand out in a competitive landscape, facilitating customer acquisition. A unique name can be a powerful marketing tool that resonates with your target audience. When you effectively communicate your brand story through your name, it enhances your business plan and aligns with your overall growth strategy. Additionally, legal considerations come into play. You’re likely to want a name that’s distinctive enough to secure a trademark or to ensure you’re not infringing on existing intellectual property. Check with legal resources to understand the implications of your chosen name, which will help in business registration. Through effective branding, a good name lends itself well to digital marketing efforts. It can enhance your SEO and social media presence, attracting more customers online. Incorporating the right keywords related to your products can improve visibility, complementing your marketing strategy. Ultimately, investing time into naming your food business lays the groundwork for future success. A well-chosen name promotes professionalism and credibility, important elements in building trust with customers and investors alike. Elements Of A Great Food Business Name Choosing an effective name for your food business involves several key elements that enhance its appeal and visibility. Prioritizing simplicity and relevance can drive customer engagement and support growth strategies. Simplicity And Memorability Focus on a name that’s simple, easy to pronounce, and easy to spell. Simplicity enhances memorability, making it easier for potential customers to recall your business and share it with others. For example, names like “The Cozy Cookhouse,” “Home Cook Legacy,” and “Fresh From Home” are straightforward and evoke comfort. This approach can improve word-of-mouth marketing and bolster your digital marketing efforts through SEO, allowing new customers to discover your business online. Relevance To The Cuisine Ensure the name aligns with the type of cuisine or the atmosphere of your establishment. A relevant name helps potential customers quickly grasp what to expect. If your restaurant serves Italian food, consider incorporating Italian language or themes into the name, such as “Trattoria Bella Notte.” This alignment strengthens brand identity and can enhance customer acquisition by setting clear expectations regarding your offerings. Additionally, a relevant name can aid in your overall marketing strategy, reinforcing messaging and visuals across platforms. Tips For Generating Food Business Names Choosing the right name for your food business plays a crucial role in establishing your brand identity. A strong name can attract your target audience, enhance customer acquisition, and support your overall growth strategy. Brainstorming Techniques Utilize brainstorming techniques to create unique food business names. Gather a diverse group of people to generate ideas. Encourage free thinking; write down everything that comes to mind, even unconventional suggestions. Use categories related to your cuisine, atmosphere, or target audience to filter ideas. Conduct market research to identify trends and successful competitors’ names. Utilizing Online Name Generators Leverage online name generators to spark inspiration. These tools allow you to input keywords relevant to your food concept and generate a list of potential names. Explore variations until you find one that resonates with your brand identity. Check domain and trademark availability alongside these names to ensure you’re not infringing on someone else’s intellectual property. Emphasizing this aspect supports your future marketing efforts and fosters customer trust. Analyzing Successful Food Business Names Successful food business names reflect your brand identity and the type of cuisine you offer. Names like Eataly combine “Eatery” and “Italy,” clearly conveying a focus on Italian cuisine. Similarly, Taco Bell indicates its Mexican-style menu, making it easy for customers to know what to expect. These factors enhance customer acquisition, as they provide instant recognition. Simplicity enhances memorability. Names that are easy to pronounce and spell stick in potential customers’ minds. Whole Foods exemplifies this concept with a straightforward approach that reflects a commitment to natural foods. Names such as Savor Society and Flavor Fusion Kitchen maintain simplicity while evoking appetizing imagery, aiding in brand recognition. Understanding your target audience is essential. Tailoring your food business name to their tastes, lifestyles, and preferences sharpens your branding strategy. For instance, names reflecting health-oriented values may attract a health-conscious demographic, while playful names could appeal to families and children. Conducting market research provides valuable insights into trends and successful competitors. Identifying common themes in effective names informs your own strategy. Using brainstorm sessions with diverse groups can generate innovative ideas, while online name generators may spark inspiration related to your food offerings. Incorporating relevant keywords in your business name enhances digital marketing efforts. A strong name supports SEO, helping your business rank higher in search results. This digital presence connects customers to your website and e-commerce platforms, driving sales. Choosing a distinctive name is crucial for securing trademarks and complying with intellectual property laws. This proactive legal approach protects your brand while positioning you for future growth strategies. A well-crafted name not only promotes professionalism but also builds customer trust, which is vital for your small business’s success. Common Mistakes To Avoid Navigating the naming process for your food business involves avoiding several key mistakes to enhance your brand’s appeal and memorability. Unpleasant or Easily Misinterpreted Names Select names that resonate positively with your target audience. Names like “Hitler’s Chicken” create immediate aversion. Such associations can drive customers to competitors. Ensuring your name carries a pleasant connotation is vital for effective customer acquisition. Extremely Long or Complicated Names Choose names that remain simple and easy to pronounce. Long, complicated names confuse potential customers and hinder recall. Opt for names like “Jollibee” or “Burger King” instead. If a longer name is necessary, abbreviations like “KFC” or “TCBY” can help simplify the branding process. Bizarre Translations Be aware of how your name translates globally. Names with strange or offensive meanings in other languages can harm your brand’s reputation. Conduct market research to ensure your name avoids unintended cultural missteps. Names should maintain global friendliness to attract a wider customer base effectively. Neglecting Legal Considerations Address intellectual property concerns when naming your business. Register your name as a trademark to protect your brand and prevent legal issues. Conducting a trademark search helps avoid infringement on existing rights. Securing legal advice ensures compliance with regulations, protecting your investment in branding. Ignoring Target Audience Preferences Research your target audience before finalizing a name. Names resonate more when they reflect the preferences and characteristics of your potential customers. Conduct surveys or focus groups to gauge reactions to different naming options. Tailoring your name strengthens branding and marketing strategies. Conclusion Choosing the right name for your food business is a vital step toward building a strong brand identity. A memorable and relevant name not only attracts customers but also enhances your marketing efforts and sets the tone for your culinary offerings. As you embark on this naming journey remember to keep it simple and aligned with your target audience’s preferences. Utilizing brainstorming techniques and conducting thorough market research can spark creative ideas that resonate. Don’t forget to check for trademark availability to safeguard your brand. With the right name in place you’ll lay a solid foundation for success and growth in the competitive food industry. Frequently Asked Questions Why is a catchy name important for a food business? A catchy name creates a strong first impression and helps your business stand out in a crowded market. It reflects your offerings and resonates with your target audience, facilitating customer acquisition and acting as a powerful marketing tool. How can a food business name enhance SEO? Incorporating relevant keywords into your food business name can improve SEO, making it easier for potential customers to find you online. A memorable name also supports digital marketing efforts across social media platforms, boosting your online presence. What are key elements of a great food business name? A great food business name should be simple, memorable, and relevant to your cuisine or atmosphere. It should be easy to pronounce and spell, allowing customers to recall and share it effortlessly. How can I generate ideas for my food business name? Brainstorming sessions with a diverse group can spark creative ideas. Consider using categories related to your cuisine or target audience. Online name generators can also be helpful for inspiration, and market research can identify successful naming trends. What mistakes should I avoid when naming my food business? Avoid using long, complicated, or unpleasant names that are hard to remember. Steer clear of bizarre translations that may confuse customers and be sure to conduct market research to ensure your name resonates with your target audience. How do I check for trademark availability for a food business name? Before finalizing your business name, conduct a trademark search through databases like the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This ensures that your chosen name is available and can be legally protected. Image Via Envato This article, "Choosing the Perfect Food Business Names to Boost Your Brand Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

App notifications need careful balancing across Android, iOS, Windows, and of course macOS. Too many of them and you're in a state of constant distraction; too few of them, and you risk missing out on something important that one of your programs is trying to tell you. macOS has you covered when it comes to finding the right balance for you, providing a full suite of controls for managing interruptions and staying up to date with your notifications. It doesn't take long to set up these notification options, and then once they're configured, you can use Focus modes for specific scenarios (like working or watching movies). Note that some individual apps come with their own notification settings, in addition to the options macOS offers you (and the tricks you can do with third-party tools). Discord, for example, gives you a bunch of options for choosing what you get notified about. App notification settingsEvery macOS app should ask for permission to show notifications when you first install it. However you respond to this first request, you can configure notifications for all your installed programs at any time by opening the Apple menu from the macOS menu bar (top left), then choosing System Settings and Notifications. First, you get the chance to set the notification settings for the operating system as a whole: You can choose whether or not pop-ups appear when your Mac is locked, and when the display is asleep, and when you're mirroring or sharing the screen. You're able to control whether previews are shown with notifications by default, and you can also give Apple Intelligence permission to summarize your notifications. Setting individual app notifications. Credit: Lifehacker Next, you can control notifications for individual apps. As with iOS, you get a bit of nuance here: As well as turning notifications on or off completely for each of your apps, you can also change the type of alert that gets shown (temporary banner or permanent pop-up), and set an app's notification to come with a sound, or not. There's also a toggle switch for showing this app's alerts in the macOS Notification Center, which appears when you click the time and date (top right). There are also settings for notification previews and notification grouping for each individual app. The idea is that you can give your most important programs plenty of prominence, while keeping alerts from more minor apps hidden away in the background (or turned off altogether). If you set notifications as Alerts, they'll stay in the top right corner of the display until you dismiss them. Focus modesWhen you've got your individual app notification settings configured the way you want them, you can use Focus modes to override these settings. When it comes to macOS, this is most likely going to involve the traditional Do Not Disturb mode, which will block out any alerts for a set period of time. Switch from Notifications to Focus in System Settings on macOS to see the modes available: You can make use of these preset ones, or click Add Focus to create your own. There's also a Share across devices toggle switch just underneath the Focus modes list, which you can turn off if you don't want all your iPhone modes showing up on macOS as well (and vice versa). Choosing a Focus mode on a Mac. Credit: Lifehacker The settings screen for each mode comes with specific settings for which notifications are allowed to show up. Click Allowed People to pick contacts who can trigger notifications when the mode is enabled, and Allowed Apps to do the same for programs. There's also an Intelligent Breakthrough and Silencing toggle switch you can enable to give macOS permission to show notifications it thinks are important. Easy access to your modes is provided via the Control Center on the menu bar, in the top-right corner of the screen (the icon that looks like two toggle switches), as well as from the System Settings panel. Click this icon, then Focus, and you can pick from your list of modes or head to the Focus Settings screen again. Syncing with iPhones and iPadsThanks to Apple's suite of Continuity features, you can sync call and message notifications across iPhones, iPads, and Macs, if they're all signed into the same Apple account. This is handy if you want to be able to pick up iPhone calls on your laptop, but not so helpful if you're trying to get some work done on macOS without interruption. You've got a few options for extricating yourself from this—including just turning off Messages and FaceTime notifications on macOS. On your iPhone, open Settings then choose Cellular, and you get a Calls on Other Devices menu, where you can turn the toggle switches off for any Macs you've got connected. There's a similar setting for text messages, which you can find from iOS Settings by tapping Apps > Messages > Text Message Forwarding. Turning off Mac access to iPhone calls. Credit: Lifehacker That will stop cellular phone calls, and SMS/RCS messages from showing up on your Mac—though because of the way Apple Continuity works, you're still going to see FaceTime calls and iMessage updates on macOS. To change this, you need to head into FaceTime > Settings and Messages > Settings on your Mac. In both cases, you get the option to disable connections via your cell number, or to sign out of your Apple account completely, for these specific apps. You can pick and choose the options you want, depending on how much connectivity you want on your Mac (including the ability to send messages and initiate calls from the desktop). View the full article

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Many leaders are struggling right now with how to lead their teams to be productive with so much financial and regulatory uncertainty. Few would blame them. After three years of pouring their hearts and souls into developing vehicle safety technology, Jacob’s team suddenly found itself wondering if it was all for nothing. Grants they had already received suddenly had new requirements that were challenging to meet, budgets they’d allocated were frozen by their parent organization fearing a coming recession, and costs for parts were rising so rapidly that profits on existing deals were evaporating. In short, everyone on Jacob’s team had reason to worry each time one of these changes came. They also understood that more major changes could be coming—and without much notice. These employees knew that it was possible that their projects or current roles might not even continue. Every team member showed signs of being distracted and worried. Jacob recognized that if they took their eye off the ball, they could be even worse off. Work still needed to get done—failing to do so could harm their careers (and the health of the company). Jacob was in a bind: he needed to keep the team productive. But he knew that any project he asked them to focus on could be cut, and any efforts could turn out to be wasted time. He couldn’t look into a crystal ball and know his guidance would be right. In my work training and coaching leaders in Fortune 500 organizations and beyond, regardless of the industry, I’ve seen leaders often take the wrong steps in highly uncertain times—and end up demotivating the team. What doesn’t work is: Optimism Great arguments Big picture vision and purpose There’s a time for those approaches, but leaning on them at the wrong time makes the leader seem out of touch. Imagine a house sitting on a fault line: then comes an earthquake. After the shaking stops, the house is still standing—but the foundation has visible cracks, and the ground beneath has clearly shifted. Would you trust someone who charged in optimistically and with a cheery tone told you the house will be just fine and to head back in? Or would you trust someone who acknowledges that there could be aftershocks, and who agrees that it makes sense to test the structure of the house before going back? Most people would trust the second person more. They’ve acknowledged your reality. They stand a chance of finding out if the house is safe, and if not, what steps are needed to make it so. In highly uncertain times at work, there are psychological earthquakes and aftershocks coming regularly. Each time, no matter how much trust you had built up in the past, because reality has shifted, you need to show you understand the new reality to gain trust again. Motivating teams through tough times I’ve also seen leaders get people to perform in tough times. They start by meeting the people on the team where they are mentally and emotionally before trying to coach them. They’ll acknowledge that it’s stressful—and perhaps even heartbreaking—to give so much to your work and then learn it could end up in the trash. It’s distracting to believe that your job, or at least your current project or function, might become obsolete. It’s natural to wonder whether you’ll still be valued in the same way. Those leaders ask questions to ensure they really hear the concerns, perspectives, beliefs, and feelings of people on the team. That’s what Jacob did with his team, too, to help them perform and keep adapting as needed. “I’m here, and I hear you” Here’s why it matters to do so. When people can’t control a situation, they care deeply about whether they can trust the process by which their future will be determined. Research has shown that even when the outcome is outside their control (whether it be a performance review or budget upheaval), if people felt the process was fair, they’re more able to set the past aside and do what needs to be done. A major part of believing they can trust the process is whether they feel the leaders or authorities have heard and seen them. They want to know if the leaders understand their reality. They want to know the leaders get it. Then the process seems more fair. Neuroscience has found that peoples’ perception of fairness changes when they focus on a process versus an outcome—say, how leadership took a listening tour before making project cuts, rather than the outcome of the cuts themselves. There’s a big difference in how the brain reacts when we evaluate between the two. When we focus on an outcome seeming fair, we primarily use the areas of the brain that correspond to emotions. But when we focus on the process, we use the regions of the brain that relate to social cognition. That means people are thinking about other people involved—and good leaders meet them there. Psychological research has also tested the importance of making people feel heard specifically in times of great uncertainty. In the pandemic, leaders were better able to get emergency personnel to embrace new ways of operating when they took this step. Feeling heard and seen leads people to be ready to accept hardships and move forward. Unconsciously, at least, the team members are trying to answer the questions “can I trust the process?” and “can I trust this person?” Zooming out After you meet your employees where they are emotionally by letting them know you hear and see them, your team can begin to trust you and your process more. At that point, it can be very helpful to show your optimism, or give your great arguments, or remind them of the big-picture vision. What leaders need to remember is that in times of great uncertainty, we need to earn the right to lead, coach, and influence every time the ground shifts. Some months that means we need to do it in every conversation or meeting we have with our team members. Let them know you get it. Then they will be more likely to let you lead them in whatever ways you need to. In uncertain times, people are understandably worried, so leaders need to demonstrate each time anew. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. If your kitchen counter is currently housing a Vitamix blender, you know that you can whip up some serious soups, sauces, and nut butters in that thing. In fact, my Vitamix's hot soup function is one of my favorite ways to use it. But it is almost summer, and I am no longer in the mood for soup. Now I crave chilled treats. Can my favorite blender, the Vitamix Ascent X5 go from hot soup to sorbet? Yes, and surprisingly well. Here’s how to make yourself a frozen dessert in this amazing blender. The Vitamix is not an ice cream machineIt’s important to note that the Vitamix is a blender, and not an ice cream machine. Most ice cream machines have some sort of cooling mechanism (whether coolant, a compressor, or a frozen bowl) to chill the mixture while a dasher or auger incorporates air—the smaller the air bubbles, the creamier the texture. The Vitamix doesn’t have a cooling system. The blades create heat, so instead it uses them, and speed, to its advantage. This means you need to work in reverse—add already frozen food to the blender and it will whip air into the mixture as it chops up the ingredients. Then all you have to do is freeze the resulting soft-serve texture into a more solid state. As much as I enjoy a specialty appliance like the Ninja Slushi (it’s pretty badass), the multipurpose Vitamix Ascent X5 blender truly caters to my tiny kitchen's space limitations. I need to do a lot of different things with a select few appliances, and the Vitamix's frozen dessert capabilities add a whole new category to my home menus. (While the Ascent X5 makes things easier, you can use any Vitamix—I'll add those instructions at the end of this article.) Vitamix Ascent X5 Blender $749.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $749.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg How to use the frozen dessert function on the Vitamix Ascent X5 1. Consider the ingredientsThe most important thing to consider is the ratio of your frozen to liquid ingredients. Since this blender doesn’t have a cooling system to make frozen desserts, you need to add the coldest stuff you can, while still providing enough liquid to move the frozen stuff around so the blades can catch it. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann The Vitamix website gives the guideline of 1 cup frozen to ¼ cup liquid. This amount of liquid, along with some vigorous tamping with the plastic tamper bat, will result in a thick, soft serve-like consistency that you can enjoy immediately, or freeze to a more solid, ice cream-like state. To experiment, I used two cups of frozen banana slices, and a half-cup of a sweetened vegan cream. (Forgive me, but I have a lactose intolerant Italian-American partner who would be furious if I used regular heavy cream.) Add everything to the blender container and secure the lid. 2. Pick your presetTurn the power on. Press the three line “burger” button and you’ll see an array of food icons appear on the digital display. Use the rotating dial to select the one that looks like a tall stemmed glass with a pompadour and a little spoon handle. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Have your plastic tamper ready—this part only takes 50 seconds. 3. Blend and tampPress the start button. Take out the lid’s central plug and start tamping the ingredients with the tamper. The machine will start at a slower speed and ramp up pretty quickly. Your only job is to force frozen objects down into the blender blades. Once they all finally disappear into the mixture you can end your tamping session. 4. Look for the “quadrants”Remember when I mentioned making hot soup in this thing? Well, the reason the soup gets hot is because of the heat that builds from the friction of blades running at high speeds. You want that heat to happen as little as possible for your frozen dessert. This setting only runs for 50 seconds but if you see four humps, or quadrants, forming in the mix, then that’s the tell-tale sign that your dessert is completely smooth and finished blending. It should look like this: Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Once you see the quadrants, stop the preset, even if there’s time left. My mixture was finished after 40 seconds, so I stopped the machine and worked quickly to decant it into a metal loaf pan that I had chilled in the freezer earlier. I sprinkled some chopped chocolate on top and popped it into the freezer for a couple hours to set. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Not only does this frozen dessert scoop like a dream, but the texture and flavor are incredible. While it's technically not true ice cream, it eats like ice cream. I was afraid after freezing it solid that it would be rock solid, but no—the mixture is nicely aerated and the consistency is creamy and smooth. How to use a Vitamix without a cold treat presetIf you don’t have the Ascent X 5 model, you can still use any Vitamix blender the same way, you just have to control the speed with the dial yourself. Start on a low speed so the blades can catch the ingredients and then ramp up to the top speed within the next 10 to 15 seconds. Look for the same quadrants to form, and then turn off the blender. Get ready to spend the summer exploring any frozen dessert flavor combination you can dream up. View the full article

Shares in major quantum computer companies were on the rise again in premarket trading on Tuesday, highlighting what has been a volatile couple of weeks for a nascent industry that continues to captivate. Here’s what’s driving the latest news: D-Wave announces Advantage2 By far, Palo Alto-based D-Wave Quantum Inc (NYSE: QBTS) is seeing the biggest boost in premarket trading, with its stock up more than 12% as of this writing. This boost follows a 7% increase in D-Wave shares on Monday. Investors are likely excited by news on Tuesday morning in which D-Wave announced the general availability of its sixth-generation Advantage2 quantum computing system, which the company says has a demonstrated ability to solve deeply complex problems that classical computers can’t. “It’s what everybody aspired to achieve, and we’re quite excited about it,” CEO Alan Baratz told Fast Company in March, when the company announced that it had achieved “quantum supremacy” using the Advantage2. Although some researchers have challenged D-Wave’s claims, investors appear to be on board for now. Shares in D-Wave are up 36.84% year to date. Quantum Computing Inc rises, falls, and rises again Hoboken-based Quantum Computing Inc. (Nasdaq: QUBT) has seen some volatility since it released its first-quarter 2025 earnings report last Thursday. The company swung to a profit, reporting net income of $17 million, versus a net loss of $6.4 million last year. Shares surged double digits on Friday after the report, but then fell more than 8% on Monday, possibly due to some profit taking from investors who wanted to lock in their gains. Now, in premarket trading on Tuesday, QUBT is back on the rise again, with the stock up almost 9% as of this writing. Who can keep up? Rigetti Computing Inc: Along for the ride? Shares in Rigetti Computing (Nasdaq: RGTI) were also on the rise in premarket trading Tuesday, up nearly 6% as of this writing. The Berkeley-based company has not announced any news this morning that would impact the share price, so it’s possible that investors are just showing a bit more excitement for the quantum computing space. Experts believe the space has the potential to transform computing as we know it, although debates persist about how far we are from widespread practical uses for quantum computing. It’s worth noting that while all three of the above quantum computing companies are enjoying a rally this week, shares in Quantum Computing Inc. and Rigetti are both down significantly year to date: 36.94% and 39.75% respectively. Only time will tell if these three stocks will continue on their upward path this week and into the future. For now, enjoy the quantum leap. View the full article

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The The President administration is allowing work on a major offshore wind project for New York to resume. The developer, the Norwegian energy company Equinor, said Monday it was told by the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management that a stop-work order has been lifted for the Empire Wind project, allowing construction to resume. Work has been paused since Interior Secretary Doug Burgum last month directed the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to halt construction and review the permits. Burgum said at the time that it appeared former President Joe Biden’s administration had “rushed through” the approvals. Equinor spent seven years obtaining permits and has spent more than $2.5 billion so far on a project that is one-third complete. Equinor President and CEO Anders Opedal thanked President Donald The President for allowing the project to move forward, saving about 1,500 construction jobs and investments in U.S. energy infrastructure. He also expressed appreciation to New York’s governor, New York City’s mayor, members of Congress and labor groups, as well as Norwegian officials who worked to save the project. The Norwegian government owns a majority stake in Equinor. “We appreciate the fact that construction can now resume on Empire Wind, a project which underscores our commitment to deliver energy while supporting local economies and creating jobs,” Opedal said in a statement. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said it took countless conversations with Equinor and White House officials, and the involvement of labor and business interests, to emphasize the project’s importance and get Empire Wind back on track. Equinor is building Empire Wind south of Long Island, New York, to provide power in 2026 for more than 500,000 New York homes. “New York’s economic future is going to be powered by abundant, clean energy that helps our homes and businesses thrive. I fought to save clean energy jobs in New York—and we got it done,” Hochul said in a statement Monday. The Interior Department did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment Monday. Large offshore wind farms have been making electricity for three decades in Europe and, more recently, in Asia. But the industry has struggled to grow in the U.S. due to high costs, difficulties growing a supply chain for materials and the lengthy permitting process. The President has prioritized fossil fuels and moved against renewable energy since returning to the White House. One of his first acts was ordering a pause of offshore wind lease sales in federal waters and the issuance of approvals, permits and loans for all wind projects. But the administration’s targeting of Empire Wind, a project already underway, took that a step further. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said in a statement Friday that while unleashing America’s energy dominance, The President “paused certain wind projects that are detrimental to our beloved wildlife including birds and whales.” There are no known links between large whale deaths and ongoing offshore wind activities, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. While wind turbines can pose a risk to birds, wildlife conservation organizations say they support the responsible development of offshore wind because climate change is a bigger threat. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said Monday that lifting the stop-work order is welcome news. Empire Wind will greatly benefit the economy on Long Island and the environment for all New Yorkers, he said in a statement. Offshore wind advocates also celebrated the decision. It’s a win for workers, the industry and companies in places like Louisiana, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania, helping to build projects in the Northeast, the Oceantic Network said in a statement. Equinor said on May 9 it would be forced to abandon Empire Wind within days unless the administration relented on its order that stopped construction. Equinor was spending up to $50 million per week and had 11 vessels on standby. Equinor finalized the federal lease in March 2017, during The President’s first term. The federal government approved the construction and operations plan in February 2024. New York aims to obtain 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and 9 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2035. New York is getting some wind power from the nation’s first commercial-scale offshore wind farm, a 12-turbine wind farm called South Fork that opened a year ago, operated by different companies east of Montauk Point, New York. The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. —Jennifer McDermott, Associated Press View the full article

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Key Takeaways Exciting New Features: BookTok has introduced new features to enhance user engagement and improve the book discovery process for readers.Enhanced Discovery: Users can now access improved visibility for their book-related content through user-generated videos and trending hashtags, increasing exposure to new readers.Improved User Interaction: Upgraded capabilities for comments, likes, and shares allow deeper connections and community engagement among book enthusiasts.Impact on Publishing: BookTok significantly influences sales and marketing strategies in the book publishing industry, showcasing the correlation between platform engagement and book sales.Content Creation and Strategy: Simplified content creation tools and structured content calendars promote consistent engagement and storytelling, benefiting small businesses in showcasing their titles.Influencer Collaborations: Partnering with BookTok influencers can amplify your reach, enhance brand credibility, and connect with audiences effectively through authentic recommendations. If you’re a fan of BookTok, you’re in for an exciting surprise. The platform just rolled out a brand-new feature that’s set to enhance your reading experience and connect you even more with fellow book lovers. This change is designed to make discovering your next favorite read easier and more interactive than ever. With this update, you’ll find new ways to engage with content and share your thoughts on the books that have captured your heart. Whether you’re a casual reader or a dedicated bibliophile, this feature promises to add a fresh twist to your BookTok journey. Get ready to dive deeper into the world of literature and connect with a vibrant community that shares your passion. Overview of BookTok BookTok, a vibrant community on TikTok, connects readers through engaging video content. This platform enables users to share book recommendations, reviews, and reading experiences, fostering a sense of community among book lovers. Small businesses in the publishing and retail sectors can leverage BookTok’s influence to enhance brand awareness and engage with passionate readers. By creating user-generated content that showcases your products or services, you can tap into this growing audience. Utilize trending hashtags related to books and reading to boost organic reach. Paid social ads targeting specific demographics can further enhance your visibility within the BookTok community. Incorporate storytelling in your social media strategy to resonate with potential customers. Videos featuring book hauls, reading challenges, or discussions on popular titles can significantly improve social media engagement. As TikTok encourages creativity, your audience’s interaction with your content can transform into loyal followers and increased sales. Monitor social media analytics to assess the effectiveness of your campaigns. Adjusting your content calendar based on audience feedback ensures your posts stay relevant and engaging. By partnering with influencers on BookTok, you can expand your reach and tap into their follower base, ultimately boosting your brand’s online presence. New Features Unveiled New features on BookTok enhance your reading experience and boost connectivity among book enthusiasts. These updates aim to improve discovery and foster community interaction, making it easier for you to engage with your audience and promote your brand. Feature One: Enhanced Discovery Enhanced discovery features on BookTok amplify the visibility of your book-related content. You can leverage user-generated content to showcase your titles through engaging videos. This community-driven approach increases the likelihood of new readers finding your books, particularly within trending genres like young adult fiction and adult fiction. Utilizing trending hashtags can further optimize your posts for greater organic reach. By effectively using a content calendar for regular posting, you keep your audience informed and connected to your brand, resulting in improved engagement rates. Feature Two: User Interaction Upgrades User interaction upgrades foster deeper connections with your audience on BookTok. Enhanced capabilities for comments, likes, and shares empower you to engage directly with viewers. You can encourage customer feedback through interactive content, allowing your followers to share their thoughts and recommendations. This not only boosts your social media engagement but also helps in building brand loyalty. Collaborating with influencers for content creation ensures your videos resonate with a larger audience, increasing your credibility and brand presence within the community. These interactions reinforce your brand voice and create a dedicated following for your business. Impact on Users New features on BookTok significantly enhance user experiences, fostering deeper connections among readers and boosting community engagement. Community Engagement Enhanced features encourage user interaction, creating a more vibrant community. BookTok allows you to engage with your audience meaningfully through comments, likes, and shares. These features boost your brand visibility and encourage customer interaction. Utilizing trending hashtags effectively increases your organic reach in a competitive market. Your community can thrive when you promote user-generated content, which amplifies brand awareness and strengthens your online presence. Content Creation Simplified content creation tools lead to improved video content sharing. Your small business benefits from easy-to-use editing features, allowing for creative storytelling that resonates with your audience. Upgraded search functionalities make it simpler for users to find your social media posts. Structured content calendars can enhance your social media strategy, ensuring consistent engagement across platforms. Adopting this approach not only captures attention but also improves the engagement rate of your posts, maximizing your social media marketing efforts. Wider Implications for Book Publishing BookTok’s rise significantly impacts book publishing, influencing both sales and marketing strategies. You can see a direct correlation between BookTok engagement and increased book sales. Lesser-known titles like Colleen Hoover’s “It Ends With Us” and Adam Silvera’s “They Both Die At The End” became bestsellers after gaining traction on the platform. This trend highlights the importance of utilizing trending hashtags and engaging video content to enhance your visibility. You should also adapt your social media marketing strategies to tap into BookTok’s audience. Emphasize user-generated content to build authentic connections and increase brand awareness. Encourage readers to share their experiences with your books through creative storytelling and engaging social media posts. Implementing a content calendar can help you schedule posts consistently, maximizing engagement rates across platforms. Leveraging influencer partnerships is crucial in this new landscape. Influencers with a strong following on TikTok can amplify your book’s reach and impact through authentic recommendations. Focus on effective audience targeting by collaborating with creators whose brand voice aligns with yours. Utilize social media analytics to monitor engagement and adjust your strategies accordingly. Tracking performance helps you understand which content resonates with your audience, leading to better-informed decisions about future social media campaigns. You can enhance your organic reach by optimizing content through strategic use of hashtags and leveraging popular trends within the BookTok community. Incorporating these strategies enables your small business to thrive in the evolving book publishing landscape, enhancing customer interaction and solidifying your online presence. Conclusion The new features on BookTok are set to transform your reading journey. By enhancing discovery and user interaction, you’ll find it easier to connect with fellow book lovers and share your thoughts. These updates not only enrich your experience but also empower small businesses to thrive in the literary market. As you dive into this vibrant community, take advantage of the tools available to maximize your engagement. Whether you’re a casual reader or a dedicated bibliophile, these innovations promise to deepen your connections and elevate your BookTok experience. Embrace the changes and watch as your passion for reading grows alongside the community. Frequently Asked Questions What is the new feature introduced on BookTok? The new feature on BookTok enhances user interaction and discovery of books, making it easier for readers to find recommendations and connect with one another. It aims to enrich the overall reading experience and deepen community engagement. How does BookTok support small businesses? BookTok provides small businesses in publishing and retail with opportunities to increase brand awareness through user-generated content and trending hashtags. By leveraging these tools, businesses can reach more readers and improve sales. How can users interact more on BookTok? Users can enjoy improved commenting, liking, and sharing capabilities on BookTok, fostering deeper connections and encouraging collaboration. This interaction allows for valuable feedback and strengthens community bonds among readers. What impact does BookTok have on book sales? There is a direct correlation between BookTok engagement and increased book sales. Lesser-known titles often become bestsellers after gaining visibility on the platform, showcasing the influence of trending hashtags and engaging video content. What strategies can businesses use to enhance engagement on BookTok? Businesses can boost engagement by incorporating storytelling in their content, monitoring social media analytics, and partnering with influencers. These strategies help improve visibility and build a loyal following within the BookTok community. How can the new features on BookTok benefit readers? The new features on BookTok facilitate enhanced content discovery and user interaction, allowing readers to engage more meaningfully with book-related content. This leads to a richer community experience and better recommendations for their next reads. Image Via Envato This article, "Exciting Changes: BookTok Gets New Feature to Enhance Your Reading Experience" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article