Daily Archives: May 18, 2023

Pasadena City Hall believes in the Golden Rule: Those who have the gold make the rules.

Nowhere is this more apparent in the ludicrous approach that the current City Hall clique took in response to the state law that set a maximum of $4,900 in contributions but left it up to local cities to establish their own limits.

In Burbank its $500, in Glendale its $1,140. But oh no, not in Pasadena where, rightly, or wrongly, the public is left with the perception that in Pasadena we now have the best political representation that money can buy.

Thats right folks, in Pasadena there is no limit.

So now what we have in the Crown City is the equivalent of the political wild west. Pasadena City Hall has gone rogue when it comes to bringing back bare knuckled, no holds barred, campaigns for local political office. Political opportunists now run for a seat on the city council and before their first term is up announce their candidacy for higher office.

Incumbents announce their campaign for reelection and then proudly tout the endorsement of the partisan head of a local countywide political party.

And did I mention term limits? We have one current office holder that has is now approaching a quarter century in office, and another has been ensconced in city hall for over 26 years!

Is this really the political system that we want in our city? I dont think so and Im willing to bet that most voters in Pasadena dont want it either. We desperately need campaign reform and term limits so some sense of sanity can be restored to City Hall.

Do we really want to be known as Golden Rule Pasadena where those who have the gold make the rules.

Bill Paparaian is a former Mayor of Pasadena

Get all the latest Pasadena news, more than 10 fresh stories daily, 7 days a week at 7 a.m.

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Guest Opinion | Bill Paparian: Pasadena City Hall Believes in the ... - Pasadena Now

We have developed an empirical Golden-Ratio Partition model to interpret these preferred intervein angles in the dragonfly wings venation patterns. Our model is inspired by a method proposed by Takuya Okabe for the interpretation of phyllotaxis patterns in leaf growth in a variety of plants28. In Okabes work, a new adaptive mechanism was proposed based on the principle that optimization of the divergent angles between plant leave stems leads to minimization of the energy cost of the phyllotaxis transition. This model can explain not only the presence of the golden angle but also the occurrence of other angles such as the Fibonacci number ratios observed in nature.

Residuals from the Gaussian-peak fitting for the hindwing (a) and forewing (b). The angle positions of the strong residuals are indicated in the figures, and they appear to be identical for both forewing and hindwing. (c) Relative occurrence frequencies of the predicted preferred angles given by golden-rule partitions of the intervals between regular angle pairs (Eq.1) in perfectly shaped quadrilateral, pentagon, and hexagon venation cells (see inset). (d) Polygon shapes in the venation pattern of a dragonfly wing. It shows that hexagons, pentagons, and quadrilaterals are the most popular shapes in the pattern.

In our dragonfly wing case, the purpose of the venation pattern optimization is to use the least amount of support veins that support the very-thin membrane to minimize the weight of the wing, while still providing the biomechanical and aerodynamic functions that are required for a dragonfly to fly. This leads to the following considerations in our model.

First, for a given area in unconstrained space, the minimum line boundary length is a circle. However, it is impossible to pack circles in space efficiently. Thus, a circular shape can be approximated by polygons such as hexagons for honeycombs in beehives. The formation of the venation pattern on a dragonfly wing is very different, as their formation is constrained by the overall wing boundary that is shaped to be aerodynamically efficient. Therefore, the venation veins must be developed within this constraint, which means it would be impossible to have regular polygon patterns as in the case of the honeycombs.

Second, we hypothesize that it is this boundary constraint that forces the formation of irregular-shaped or distorted polygons in the venation vein patterns in the dragonfly wings. The distorted polygons follow the golden-ratio rule ((phi ) = 1.618) and low-order Fibonacci number series as rational approximates (1/2, 2/3, 3/5, , which approaches its limit (1/phi = 0.618)) to partition the angle intervals defined by ([alpha _i, alpha _j]), where ([alpha _i, alpha _j]) are two regular angles either within the same polygon group (e.g. 72(^{circ }) and 108(^{circ }) for pentagons) or from two different polygon groups (e.g. 72(^{circ }) and 120(^{circ }) between a pentagon and a hexagon). These regular angles are illustrated in Fig.4c inset.

Finally, a closer look at the venation patterns in dragonfly wings indicates that the most popular shapes by far are hexagons and pentagons, followed by quadrilaterals, as shown in Fig.4d. We argue that heptagons and higher-order polygons would mostly contribute to the broad peaks centered at 111.25(^{circ }) and 137.5(^{circ }) as they will contribute many angular intervals that eventually give rise to the broad distribution of the intervein angles discussed in the previous section. Therefore, in our analysis of the outliers, we will only consider the regular angles associated with the hexagon, pentagon, and quadrilateral shapes.

With the model outlined above, we can now estimate a set of preferred intervein angles (alpha ) in the venation pattern from the regular polygon angle intervals ([alpha _i, alpha _j]) and the partition ratio p/q, which equals the golden ratio (1/phi ) and the low-order Fibonacci rational approximates 1/2, 2/3, 3/5:

$$begin{aligned} alpha =[alpha _i, alpha _j] p/q = alpha _i + (alpha _j - alpha _i) p/q , end{aligned}$$

(1)

where (p/q = 1/2, 2/3, 3/5), , (1/phi ), and ([alpha _i, alpha _j]) equals to any two regular angles in perfect rectangles (0(^{circ }), 90(^{circ }), 180(^{circ })), pentagons (72(^{circ }), 108(^{circ }), 144(^{circ })), and hexagons (60(^{circ }), 120(^{circ })). Using this method, in Fig.4c we plot the calculated preferred angle locations from Eq.1, where each occurrence is labeled by a specific ([alpha _i, alpha _j] p/q) that produced that angle. In the calculation, we include two primary second-level partition ratios with the lowest orders ((1/phi ^2, 1/2phi )). Since our angle distribution histogram is sampled with an angular interval of (0.9^{circ }), we use the same set of angle values to position our calculated preferred angles. In addition, if an angle (alpha ) calculated by Eq.1 is within (1.4^{circ }) of the location of a residual peak in the measured histogram, then the angle (alpha ) is counted in the angle interval of that residual peak. This is because the histogram angular interval (0.9^{circ }) and the statistical uncertainty (pm 1^{circ }) in the least-squares regression fits add quadratically as the total statistical error on the angular positions.

As also shown in Fig.4c, our approach not only predicts the angular positions of all observed strong residuals in the intervein angle histograms, but also provides relative frequencies of their occurrences thus their peak heights. This is because the preferred angles defined by Eq.1 for different angle pairs may overlap for certain angles, making these angles more likely to occur than others with greater probability. As an example, (alpha {[90, 120]/phi ^2} = 90 +(120-90)/1.618^2 = 101.5^{circ }), and (alpha {[72, 120]/phi } = 72 +(120-72)/1.618 = 101.7^{circ }), both contribute to the residual peak at (101.7^{circ }), making it twice likely to occur compared to a residual to which only one (alpha {[alpha _i, alpha _j] p/q}) contributes. Summing up all possible occurrences, the peak height for each (alpha ) is shown in Fig.4c. As one can see, Fig.4c agrees reasonably well with the residuals plots in Fig.4a,b, in both the locations and the heights of the residual peaks, suggesting that our model is a good way to describe the key features in the venation patterns of dragonfly wings, and how these venation patterns should be formed in constrained space.

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Golden ratio in venation patterns of dragonfly wings | Scientific Reports - Nature.com

For The Drums deep dive into data, The New Data & Privacy Playbook, Lars Bjornbakk of agency Unrvld argues for a new data golden rule to collect only what youd be comfortable sharing yourself.

In a recent piece for the Financial Times, Camilla Cavendish wrote about her mothers collection of her own health data in a notebook, in case of a medical emergency where healthcare professionals needed to know her medical history. This was a response to the knowledge that the UKs National Health Service has a very siloed way of storing patient data. For Cavendishs mother, the consolidated data stored in her notebook could be a lifesaver. The value of data does not get much higher than that.

As marketing professionals, we seldom handle lifesaving data. The data we help clients manage holds value but we have to ask ourselves: value for whom?

Customers are increasingly expecting value in exchange for the data they share, so marketers must re-evaluate our approach to data collection. With mandatory cookie prompts on almost every website you visit, the expectation of data collection is more front-of-mind than ever, and it poses the question What are we offering in return for our customers data?.

The answer to that question has been nailed down perfectly by loyalty schemes like the Nectar card and Tescos club card. In the marketing world, not so much.

As Daniel Newman wrote back in 2021, there is no clear agreement on who is responsible for data privacy: the customer, government, or companies providing the service. What is clear is that the brands that take privacy seriously are winning the trust and loyalty of customers.

This has made privacy by design a core part of digital transformation efforts of companies over the last few years, reflecting new user behaviors and expectations about being informed about how apps and services use and protect personal data.

Just look at your phone whenever installing a new app: the prompts to allow sharing, notifications, system access, and so on. On sites like Reddit, users often discuss whether to allow gaming apps to, for example, make and manage calls. Instinctively, users will balk at the suggestion, but what the app is really asking to do is to identify when a call is incoming to be able to pause the game. With an explanation, it sounds reasonable, but as a prompt, it sounds creepy and intrusive.

Herein lies the core of the challenge. How can we offer transparency for the usage of the data we collect? And how can we provide the right messaging to explain, in clear terms, the benefit to the customer? A good starting point is rethinking three integral parts of your data strategy:

So be transparent about what your context is.

Your data strategy tells you what to do with the data youre collecting and how its being managed. Embed a clear point of view on what data transparency means for your organization and users to make sure there is a well-thought-out context and purpose that is clear and understandable for customers.

Customers value being told what the benefits for them are.

Whether your data collection makes it easier for users to find the information they are looking for, complete the goals they have around your service, or get better offers on the things they care about, providing clear explanations around where we give them in return for their data helps to build trust and affinity to your brand, increasing the sense of the trustworthiness of your products and services.

Dont lock your users into a mandatory data collection funnel. Offer them control over what they share, with a clear description of what theyll get in return. Long gone are the days of one-way power paradigms of brands; were now in a two-way relationship with them, and our data collection approaches need to reflect that.

Although data collection is (and will remain) complex, the foundation remains the same: respect for and empathy with the user. The golden rule? Collect only what you would be comfortable sharing yourself. Intrusive and aggressive data collection will not be, in the long-term, sustainable; customers are increasingly expecting privacy by design.

Always consider risk and reward in the context of the purpose of the data you collect and serve. So, if youre collecting data because you may need it later, ask yourself what, really, might you need it later for?

To read more from The Drums latest Deep Dive, where well be demystifying data & privacy for marketers in 2023, head over to our dedicated hub.

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The Golden Rule Of Data Gathering And New Expectations Of Value ... - The Drum

Cahair O'Kane at St Tiernach's Park

14 May, 2023 20:13

IN all the annals of advice a penalty taker might find, one line will stand out in enlarged, bold text, underlined in red whatever else you do, dont change you mind.

Conor Glass changed his mind.

The best aesthetic penalty of the eight taken in Clones had millimetres to spare beneath Ethan Raffertys crossbar, with the Grange man looking back at it from the other side of his goal.

Hed seen Ethan Rafferty go to his left on the first two and banked that he wouldnt go there for a third.

I changed my mind in the run-up, literally a second before I kicked the ball. I seen Ethan Rafterty kept going across himself.

I would have gone to my left on the previous penalties and thats where I was going to go. So I said, I have to change my mind here. Thankfully it went in underneath the crossbar. I couldnt tell you what I was thinking.

You dont know what youre going to do until youre actually there. I was going to go the other side of the net. I dont know, my mind just froze and I said, Right, Ill go the other way. You dont actually know until the circumstance comes up.

We practice penalties messing about. Gareth McKinless probably thinks hes the best penalty taker in the country. Weve done it probably taking the piss more so.

Thats just the confidence we have in each other. It was always going to be 50-50 regardless. Youre just proud that we got there. The mental toughness saw it out for us.

Read more: How the Derry players rated

Glass was excellent again as Derry claimed back-to-back Ulster titles.

They looked gone having fallen two points down early in the second half of extra-time but Shane McGuigan strapped them up on his back and carried them towards the line.

The fact they had the legs left to get up and squeeze Armaghs kickout so as to force it long gave Conor Glass his own platform in that spell. He ruled the sky. Derry came back from the dead and won.

McGuigan is a considerably better forward now than he was 12 months ago. His was a display of pure leadership.

Hes the best forward in the country at the minute, between him and Clifford and Con OCallaghan, hailed his team-mate from just across the fields between Maghera and Slaughtneil.

"Theyre just freaks of nature. Shane is just full of confidence. He said at half-time, get the ball to me and we did and he came up with the big plays.

That just shows the mental toughness he has and the resilience he has. and just the leadership to say, Im going to grab the game by the balls, Im going to win it for us. Thats just Shane. He does that every night.

Clutching the Anglo Celt, he couldnt have cared less about Clare, Donegal and Monaghan coming down the road at them.

Ulster isnt dead yet.

See more here:

Glass gets away with breaking the golden rule - The Irish News

JACKSONVILLE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Fla. --

Master Sgt. Bryan Fletcher, a 202nd RED HORSE recruiter, was named one of the U.S. Air Forces best recruiters at the annual Operation Blue Suit Arrival Ceremony held March 2023 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. Fletcher earned the 2022 Air National Guard Top Geographically Separated Unit Advanced Recruiter by achieving a new enlistment contract rate of 164% of his annual goal.

Operation Blue Suit winners are the elite top 0.85% of all Air Force recruiters, or the best 18 recruiters out of the over 2,100 recruiters in the U.S., Germany, Italy, Japan, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. These recruiters are honored for surpassing recruitment goals and displaying the highest leadership qualities, said Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas, Air Force Recruiting Service commander.

Bryan is a go-getter who sets goals and doesnt let anything get in his way of achieving those goals, said Chief Master Sgt. LaTisha Conte-Murrill, Florida Air National Guard (FLANG) Recruiting and Retention senior enlisted leader. He has been the top FLANG recruiter for the past five years and has significantly contributed to our end strength being above 100% for all of those years.

Fletchers award-winning success stems from a deeply rooted connection to the 202nd RHS and its surrounding communities. The units headquarters is nestled in rural Bradford County, Florida, his lifelong homestead. Fletchers proximity and strong propensity to serve led him to join the unit as a part-time drill status guardsman (DSG) while he sorted out his post-graduation plans. What eventually fell into place was a full-time opportunity as a power production technician while he completed his associate and bachelors degrees. Sixteen years later, he entered the active guard reserve (AGR) program to act on his desire to recruit the best and brightest from the community, he said.

I grew up in a rural farm town and I think thats why I relate so much to those who were raised in small towns as well, he said. I can offer an opportunity they might not have elsewhere. Some of these folks have limited options, and I try to give them an opportunity to look at the Guard. Ive been able to share my own experiences, and I think theres a lot of people that respect that because I come from that rural background.

Beyond bringing a palpable sense of hometown pride to his strategy, Fletcher said he credits his success to his genuine passion for sharing his Guard story and its impact on his career and family.

When you are passionate about something, you want to tell others, he said. Ive experienced what the [Florida Air National Guard] has done for me and all the opportunities Ive had since I began my career. From educational opportunities to financial stability, I really enjoy being in a position to help others with all the opportunities afforded by the Guard.

Fletcher also credits his success to networking with other recruiters to exchange best practices and keep pace with the ever-evolving nature of recruiting.

I was doing some school presentations, and I wasnt getting a lot of good feedback from them. I talked to a recruiter in Montana, and he gave me some tips like wearing a soft uniform, which is instead wearing a polo shirt and khakis to represent the citizen-Airman aspect. I think that really helps me to connect with students, he said.

Another key component to connecting with applicants is following the golden rule of treating others as one would like to be treated, he said.

Treating them as a human and not a number has been my biggest success story, he said. Its important to get to know the individual and their interests and passions because it informs how I serve them, and it also gives them the right first impression. I also always ask my airmen after enlistment what I could have done to make their experience better. I have taken this feedback and incorporated it into my recruiting strategy. Both positive and negative feedback play a vital part in my recruiting strategy.

The white glove service he offers throughout the enlistment process helps him to maintain a healthy pipeline of new applicants through referrals. Its been a winning strategy in the challenging recruitment environment for recruiters in every service component, he said.

Id say that about 80% of my applicants are referred to me from someone that Ive already recruited, he said. I was also in the operational Air Force for 16 years before becoming a recruiter. Im a three-time deployer of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Ive seen how life is as a DSG, technician, and AGR. So, I think being able to share those experiences gives me a little more credibility.

Fletcher adds his latest award to a long line of recognition hes amassed over the past eight years. This includes winning FLANG Production Recruiter of the Year, FLANG Advanced Recruiter of the Year, FLANG NCO of the Year, FLANG JFHQ SNCO of the Year, and Region II GSU Advanced Recruiter of the Year.

The sum of these parts is a recruiter who brings an unrelenting commitment to transforming the communitys finest into citizen-Airmen for the FLANG.

Continued here:

Red Horse Recruiter Ranks First in Class - 125fw.ang.af.mil

Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, yall. Whether youre spending it out on the lake, at the pool or at home on your back porch no holiday weekend is complete without some good old fashioned Southern barbecue.

Keep reading for all the best spots around the Birmingham area to get the best BBQ in town.

Thisguidewas originally created in December 2021 and was lastupdated in May 2023.

Formerly Golden Rule, this Hoover location changed its name in 2020 to become Archies Bar-B-Q & Burgers. Still under the same management, the food is just as tasty as always.

Top choice: Jumbo pork sandwich with sweet & sour coleslaw. Dont forget the sweet tea!

*Golden Rule is still in business in Trussville and Irondale. Scroll to #9 for the details.

Where: 1571 Montgomery Hwy, Hoover, AL 35216Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:30AM-8PM | Sunday 11AM-8PM Website

From pit to plate, Bob Sykes is a Bessemer staple cooking up delicious barbecue and homemade sides. Enjoy combos like the Big Bob Special with large barbecue sandwich, choice of two sides and a drink.

Top choice: Smoked turkey sandwich

Where: 1724 9th Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 10:30AM-8PM | Friday-Saturday 10:30AM-9PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

A convenience store may not seem like the ideal place to order barbecue, but when it comes to Buc-ees in Leeds, we all know rules dont apply.

Top choice: Brisket sandwich

Where: 6900 Buc-ees Blvd, Leeds, AL 35094Hours: Open 24 hoursWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Where every butt counts. If Carliles slogan doesnt draw you in, their menu definitely will. Filled with favorites like smoked brisket, fried pickles and ribs, this downtown Birmingham staple has been around for over 70 years and they know a thing or two about barbecue.

Top choice: BBQ chicken sandwich with Carliles sauce

Where: 3511 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222Hours: Monday-Friday 10:30AM-3PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Located at Oak Mountain in Pelham, this spot offers a variety of smoked meats, such as Alabama-style chicken, North Carolina pork and Memphis-kissed ribs. Throw in chef-inspired sides, soulful music and good vibes and Creekside will be your new favorite barbecue pitstop.

Top choice: Pork plate with a side of feta potato salad

Where: 1020 Oak Mountain Park Rd, Pelham, AL 35124Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11AM-8PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Demetris BBQ has been serving up all things delicious in Birmingham for over 50 years. With daily specials and incredible flavors, people come from all over to experience what makes this restaurant a beloved spot.

Top choice: Pork plate with a side of coconut cream pie

Where: 1901 28th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209Hours: Monday-Saturday 6AM-4:30PM | Sunday 9:30AM-2PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Youll love whatever you order from this well-known barbecue joint. From ribs to Southern sides and their famous sauce, Dreamland has it all. Our favorites? You cant miss the fried green tomatoes and banana pudding.

Top choice: Hickory-smoked ribs

Where: LocationsHours: Varies by locationWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Full Moon BBQ is known for their delicious Southern-style eats. With Hickory wood-fired pits and fresh ingredients, Full Moon is a one-stop-shop for BBQ lovers. Dont skip their famous chow-chow and homemade chocolate, coconut or key lime pies.

Top choice: The Big Baker its huge and youll devour every bite

Where: LocationsHours: Varies by locationWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

One of the oldest barbecue restaurants in Alabama, Golden Rule has been in business since 1891. While theyre under new ownership as of 2023, the menu still has the same old classics. What are they known for? Their delicious pit-cooked barbecue and banana pudding.

Top choice: Hickory chicken sandwich

Where: 2504 Crestwood Blvd, Irondale, AL 35210Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:30AM-8PM | Sunday 11AM-7PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Fresh, flavorful and Southernwhat more could you ask for in a barbecue joint? Start off with some porky fries or corn nuggets and finish with a little banana pudding.

Top choice: Jumbo wings + porky fries

Where: 16634 US-280, Chelsea, AL 35043Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:30AM-8PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Thanks to their mind-blowing cheese biscuits, I will always be a Jim N Nicks fan. While I could make a meal of just these delectable biscuits, there are plenty more delicious classics on the menu to try like Beef Brisket and Classic Spare Ribs.

Top choice: Bar-B-Q Chicken with white sauce + side of BBQ corn on the cob

Where: LocationsHours: Varies by locationWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Barbecue pork, chicken, smoked sausage and more can be found at Kens Hickory Pit Barbecue. This neighborhood nook is a great place to grab a quick bite and satisfy your cravings for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Top choice: BBQ chicken plate

Where: 4817 Pinson Valley Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35215Hours: Monday-Wednesday 5:30AM-6PM | Thursday-Friday 5:30AM-7PM | Saturday 6AM-5:30PMFacebook

Fresh barbecue made daily, check out Martins menu full of classics like brisket, smoked bologna and fried catfish. Want to switch it up? Try the redneck taco a cornbread hoecake with your choice of smoked meat and topped with slaw and Jacks Creek sauce.

Need enough to serve a crowd? Martins is kicking off summer with catering feasts that serve any size crowd. Including a variety of smoked meats such as ribs, turkey and brisket, as well as classic Southern sides, and sweet treats,view the full menu here. Pick up your Memorial Day weekend orders anytime between Friday, May 26 and Monday, May 29.

Top choice: Smoked chicken wings

Where: 3029 Pump House Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243Hours: Daily, 11AM-9PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Located in the heart of Cahaba Heights, youll find Miss Myras Pit Bar-B-Q. Since 1984, Miss Myras been serving up some of Birminghams best pit barbecue and homemade dessertsincluding their signature white sauce.

Top choice: Pork sandwich with deviled eggs + banana pudding for dessert.

Where: 3278 Cahaba Heights Rd, Birmingham, AL 35243Hours: Monday-Saturday 11AM-7PMWebsite | Facebook

Love wings? Moes offers crispy smoked wings in mild or make-you-sweat spicy. Dont skip the cornbreadits delicious. Our favorite? The redneck nachos BBQ chips topped with pork, jalapeos, onions, scallions, BBQ sauce and queso.

Top choice: Redneck nachos

Where: LocationsHours: Sunday-Wednesday 11AM-9:30PM | Thursday-Saturday 11AM-10:30PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

Its nearly impossible to have a barbecue guide without mentioning Rodney Scotts. Here youll find South Carolina-style vinegar-based barbecue that will have you craving more.

Top choice: Smoked chicken wings

Where: LocationsHours: Daily, 11AM-8PMWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

If you find yourself in Hueytown, make a pitstop at Uncle Sams BBQ. Smoking meats is their specialty stop by for daily specials featuring everything from rib plates to pork or chicken sandwich plates.

Top choice: Rib & chicken plate

Where: 3043 Allison-Bonnett Memorial Dr, Hueytown, AL 35023Hours: Monday-Saturday 10AM-8PM | Sunday 10AM-7PMWebsite

Whether you choose to eat at Saws BB, Soul Kitchen or Saws Juke Joint, youll be glad you paid them a visit. Enjoy all the barbecue essentials like pulled pork sandwiches, smoked chicken plates and all the sides.

Top choice: Smoked chicken with white sauce

Where: LocationsWebsite | Facebook | Instagram

This BBQ joint is the real deal. If youre ever traveling down 1st Avenue North through East Lake looking for lunch, stop by Roadside. Serving up fan favorites like St. Louis style ribs and hickory smoked wings with Alabama white sauce, youll clean the plate at Roadside.

Top choice: Smoked chicken with white sauce

Where: 7303 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35206

Website

Contributors to this story include Patience Itson and Grace Howard.

Did we miss one of your favorites barbecue spots? Let us know who you love by tagging us on social @BhamNow.

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These 19 Birmingham BBQ joints are the ultimate Memorial Day ... - Bham Now

Recently it was announced that Mountain West Technologies had won the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce Member of the Year award.

This announcement was made at the Casper Area Chamber of Commerces annual awards banquet, which acknowledges many of the individuals and businesses that continue to positively impact Casper and surrounding areas throughout the year.

Mountain West Technologies is a local internet service provider that also offers phone and TV streaming options. It was founded in 2004 and, in the almost 20 years of its existence, has provided internet accessibility to numerous service areas throughout Central Wyoming, including Casper, Cheyenne, Wheatland, Chugwater, Saratoga and more.

Most importantly, Mountain West Technologies is a Wyoming-based internet provider.

Were headquartered out of Casper, said Lesha Thorvaldson, the Director of Business Development for Mountain West Technologies. Were a 307-first company, which means that we work hard to do right by the state of Wyoming and its consumers.

As a 307 First company, Mountain West Technologies chooses to do everything in-house, meaning that the construction crew, the installation crew, the customer support specialists, the sales people and more are all hired locally.

Mountain West Technologies understands the importance of local, and its biggest goal is to provide excellent customer service, the way the West was won.

We dont outsource our labor or support staff, Thorvaldson stated. Its all under our roof, across the state. Mountain West operates by its value system, which is doing right by our customers and doing whats right for our customers. Were your neighbors. We live and work next door to you and we want to make sure that were taking care of people, and treating people the way we would want to be treated.

Theres power in the Golden Rule, and theres also power in local.

The Casper Area Chamber of Commerce knows this as well and applies it to the criteria needed for a company to actually win the Member of the Year award.

Those criteria are as follows:

Mountain West Technologies does all of the above, and then some.

The criteria of the award its just who we are, Thorvaldson said matter-of-factly. Its all in our value systems. The positive impact on Casper, the successful business practices that promote employee self growth and development, all of it. And because that criteria is so specific to what our own goals are, and our own company values, it really is meaningful to know that were being recognized for doing what we set out to do. Its nice to know were achieving that.

Even more than being recognized for adhering to the aforementioned criteria, the most important aspect of this award to the men and women of Mountain West Technologies is that it was the community who voted for them.

We recognize the very high class of businesses that were in our category, and we look up to a lot of those businesses, Thorvaldson said. We work with some of those businesses, so its a real honor to have been selected. And it was an even bigger honor that it was voted on by the people in our community. Thats pretty meaningful.

The Casper Area Chamber of Commerce, per its website, exists to actively create business opportunities by connecting, informing, leveraging, and collaborating with [its] members. Its goal is to shine a light on businesses that, quite simply, make the community better. Mountain West Technologies does that. It does that with what it provides but, even more importantly, it does that with how it provides. From the top down, Mountain West Technologies is committed to providing the best possible customer service for its internet, phone and television streaming plans.

Its ironic, then, that the purpose of Mountain West Technologies is to connect people, because connection is the most important part of the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce as well. And this award proves that that Mountain West Technologies is a valued, integral, connection-seeking business in Casper and beyond.

We at Mountain West Technologies are thrilled to have won the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce 20222023 Member of the Year award, said Kyle Ridgeway, the President of Mountain West Technologies. It is a stunning achievement for everyone at the company. We cannot thank our customers and the Chamber enough for supporting our commitment to local business and local entrepreneurship, and our focus on high standards for customer satisfaction and community benefit. It says a lot about everyone at the company that we are being recognized for these efforts. But we couldnt do it without our customers and other local businesses that support our efforts to keep our technology solutions local, and to continue to work to diversify our local economy. We all at Mountain West are committed to continue to improve every day, and to continue to bring the best internet, phones, and technology solutions to all of us in Central and Southeastern Wyoming all brought by people who live and work right here!

For more information, or to sign up for services with Mountain West Technologies, visit its website.

For more information on the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce, visit its website or Facebook page.PAID FOR BY MOUNTAIN WEST TECHNOLOGIESThis article is a promoted post. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the organization that paid for the article, and do not necessarily reflect the views, thoughts or opinions of Cap City News, its employees or its publisher.Please fill outthis form if you would like to speak to our sales department about advertising opportunities on Cap City News

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MIAMI, FL - (NewMediaWire) - May 16, 2023 - In today's fast-paced world, it's not uncommon for families, couples, and individuals alike to seek solace in the beauty of the tropics, basking in the sun on Florida's pristine beaches. In 2022, Florida welcomed a record-breaking 137.6 million visitors, and the vacation rental market has been thriving as a result. However, behind the scenes of this bustling industry, vacation property owners often find themselves overwhelmed by the myriad responsibilities that come with managing their rental homes. This is where Estaga comes in.

The Birth of a Game-Changing Solution: Estaga's Story

In the heart of South Florida, a group of friends - vacation property owners themselves - grappled with the challenges of running their rental businesses. They sought a comprehensive solution, a company that could handle the many tasks associated with managing vacation rentals. When their search proved fruitless, they took matters into their own hands and created Estaga - a vacation rental management company designed to simplify the lives of property owners and maximize their profits.

A Decade of Dedication and Innovation

Estaga's founders have firsthand experience with the struggles vacation property owners face. This deep understanding has driven their commitment to offering a range of support services, combining artificial intelligence with a team of professionals to handle property care, marketing, pricing optimization, and guest support.

Their innovative approach has not gone unnoticed. Estaga's stellar reputation is evident through their positive reviews on Google and major travel booking websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and Vrbo. This is a testament to the company's 10+ years of consistent, high-quality service.

Why Choose Estaga?

At the core of Estaga's philosophy is the golden rule: "treat others how you want to be treated." This principle guides their team of professionals as they manage clients' properties and ensure guest satisfaction.

Here's an in-depth look at the unparalleled services Estaga offers:

The Benefits of Choosing Estaga

While it's possible for property owners to manage their vacation rentals independently, partnering with a company like Estaga offers numerous advantages:

Unlock Your Vacation Rental's Full Potential with Estaga

If you're a vacation property owner in South Florida feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of managing your rental, Estaga is the solution you've been searching for. With no upfront cost to join and low management fees, you have little to lose and everything to gain.

Visit Estaga's website today to learn more about the services available to you and take the first step towards maximizing your revenue while minimizing your stress. Discover the benefits of partnering with a dedicated, innovative, and customer-focused vacation rental management company like Estaga, and watch as your business thrives in South Florida's booming vacation rental market.

With Estaga's Commitment to Excellence, Your Rental Property is in Good Hands

The vacation rental market in South Florida is fiercely competitive, with an ever-growing number of property owners vying for the attention of discerning travelers. In such an environment, it's crucial to have a dedicated, professional team working tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that your property stands out from the crowd.

Estaga's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their service offerings. From their cutting-edge use of artificial intelligence in pricing optimization to their customized marketing strategies, Estaga goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional results for their clients.

A Strong Emphasis on Customer Support and Satisfaction

A key component of Estaga's success is their unwavering focus on customer support and satisfaction. Their team of experienced professionals is available around the clock to address any concerns or issues that may arise during a guest's stay. This ensures that your guests enjoy a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish, leading to positive reviews and repeat business.

In addition, Estaga's stringent screening process for potential guests helps to protect your property and ensure that only responsible, reliable individuals are granted access to your home. This attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction sets Estaga apart from the competition and fosters long-lasting relationships with property owners.

A Partner You Can Trust

When you entrust your vacation rental property to Estaga, you're not just hiring a management company; you're gaining a partner who is genuinely invested in your success. Estaga's team of experts works closely with each property owner to understand their unique needs and goals, developing tailored strategies to maximize revenue and ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience for both the owner and their guests.

In Conclusion

Managing a vacation rental property in South Florida can be a daunting and time-consuming endeavor, but with Estaga by your side, the process becomes significantly more manageable. By leveraging their expertise, technology, and customer-focused approach, Estaga helps property owners unlock the full potential of their vacation rentals and achieve their financial goals.

If you're ready to take your vacation rental business to new heights, it's time to explore the benefits of partnering with Estaga. Visit their website to learn more about their services and take the first step towards a more profitable, stress-free future in the vacation rental industry.

Full-Service Vacation Rental Management

Estaga LLC

Irina Dyagleva

irina@estaga.com

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Most Competitive Service: Estaga offers competitive service packages and fees, with a fee schedule ranging from 10%-18% of clients' earnings and tailored for each property individually.

24/7 Support and Maintenance: A dedicated team is available around the clock to handle customer care, maintenance, and pricing management. This includes screening guests, restocking supplies, and cleaning the property to maintain impeccable conditions for every guest's arrival.

Expert Property Care: Estaga's support services extend to a skilled team of cleaners, maintenance personnel, and handypersons, all committed to treating your property as if it were their own. From routine cleaning to emergency repairs, they ensure your property remains beautiful and comfortable for each guest.

Data-Driven Pricing Strategies: Estaga's innovative approach utilizes AI algorithms and market knowledge to determine optimal pricing for your property. By considering factors such as market value, season, day of the week, current demand, and available units, Estaga ensures your listing remains competitive and profitable.

Prompt Booking Management: Estaga's dedication to swift booking responses keeps your business flowing, maintaining a high occupancy rate and ensuring consistent revenue.

Competitive Service Packages: With a fee schedule ranging from 10%-18% of clients' earnings, Estaga offers competitive and accessible service packages tailored for each property. This affordability makes it a smart choice for property owners looking to outsource their rental management tasks.

Customized Marketing Solutions: Estaga's team crafts unique marketing strategies for each property, including professional photography and SEO-optimized listing descriptions. By partnering with major booking platforms, they ensure your property is seen by the right guests.

Time Savings: By allowing Estaga to handle the heavy lifting, you can focus on what truly matters - enjoying time with lovedones and pursuing your passions.

Stress Reduction: Estaga's expert services alleviate the burden of marketing and pricing, allowing you to breathe easy knowing your property is in capable hands.

Revenue Maximization: Optimized marketing, advertisements, and guest services translate to increased revenue. With Estaga's tech-driven pricing strategies and SEO-optimized listings, your property is bound to attract more attention.

Business Growth: Estaga's top-notch property management services open the door for two avenues of growth. First, improved customer ratings and occupancy rates will result in more business for your property. Second, as your profits increase, you may find opportunities to expand your portfolio and acquire additional rental properties. By outsourcing day-to-day tasks to Estaga, you can focus on exploring these growth opportunities.

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The Unseen Engine of South Florida's Booming Vacation Rental Market: Estaga - Yahoo Finance