Month: September 2021

Categories
Financial Government Grants Loans

Grants 101: What Are Federal Grants?

Grants 101: What Are Federal Grants?

You have likely heard of federal grants before. However, did you know what they are and why they work and who they are awarded to? Did you know that federal grants come in many shapes and sizes and for many different practical reasons?

What Are Federal Grants?

A federal grant is basically a monetary or economic award made by the US government. They are made from monies available in the general federal revenue. The funds might be in the form of a loan, a percentage of the cost of a project or organization, or a full funding of a project, research, or other endeavor. Although the government alone offers nearly 1,000 different grant programs to qualified companies and organizations, dispersed by 26 grant-specific agencies and divided into 21 separate categories, grants are available from both the government and outside sources including foundations, non-profit charities, and non-profit corporations.

The categories are diverse and serve a certain demand or direction of growth. Individuals or corporations seeking grants must choose the area that best suits their unique needs. Some of these specific needs include the arts, trade and commerce, disaster assistance, housing, the humanities, technology and science, and education.

Who Are They Awarded To?

All awards are separated into two categories when it comes to obtaining funds: direct grants and pass-through grants. First up is the direct grant. A direct grant is one in which the beneficiary receives funds directly from the federal government, with no middleman.

These funds are advantageous since they need no additional red tape. They only need a single application and subsequent agreement with the federal government. After that, the money is awarded and able to be spent as the parties see fit.

The second category of grants is called pass-through. The federal government awards a pass-through grant to the state, which then distributes the cash to local applicants. This essentially means that applicants have fewer grant competitors, only other organizations or potential recipients in their state, and that applicants only need to visit their state capital for in-person clarification, appearances, or any other communications that would benefit from personal contact.

What Are The Specific Guidelines?

But even within those two categories, there are more specific guidelines that determine how to qualify and describe a federal grant.

A Project Grant is a sum of money given by the government to a certain “project” or study topic. Members of the research, education, and technology communities are frequently awarded project funds, providing they qualify and satisfy a few basic criteria. Generally, an applicant must meet certain criteria or requirements prior to applying for a grant (which is specified in detail for the specific grant sought), and project awards usually have a deadline when financing ends. A project award usually lasts three years on average.

A Categorical Grant is a little more particular, and it may only be utilized for specified, stated objectives. Grant recipients are frequently required to “match” the cash granted by the government, or at the very least contribute a percentage of the total cost. Categorical grants are the most frequent type of award, accounting for approximately 90% of all grants issued by the US government.

Of course, there is much more to federal grants than just that but that is a good primer and basic summary of how – and why – federal grants work.

Categories
Media Tech & Media

The Best Streaming Services To Subscribe To

The Best Streaming Services To Subscribe To

It seems like every year there is a new streaming service that comes out. Some people love to sign up for new streaming services, while others like to stick to the ones they know. Either way, there are always new streaming services available. Some people might assume that Netflix is the best option available, but that has changed in recent times. Check out the newest list of all the streaming services available.

HBO Max

HBO has everything included with HBO, plus tons of new shows. You can pay for a version with ads or without depending on your needs and your budget. Friends are also on HBO Max along with tons of other shows that were removed from Netflix.

HBO also has some spinoffs of shows including The Peacemaker, a spinoff of Suicide Squad. HBO also has tons of original programming which are really well-made and have many famous celebrities that you will recognize from other TV shows.

Disney Plus

Disney Plus hasn’t been around for as many years as the other options, but it still has some solid options that make it a great choice for many reasons. Along with Disney shows and movies, Disney owns other properties that are all included with the Disney plus service.

This includes Marcel, Star Wars, and all 10 seasons of The Simpsons. It’s a few dollars cheaper than other streaming services, so it’s a great option if you want some streaming services at a cheaper price point without breaking the bank.

They are also testing the waters for a PPV service. This will include movies that have recently been in theaters.

Hulu

Hulu used to not be a tough competitor because it had significantly fewer shows and movies than Netflix. However, Hulu now has tons of current shows that come out the day after they are released on cable television. This is a great way to keep up with current shows without having to pay for cable.

Hulu also has tons of Hulu original shows which are some of the best shows currently out. Many people are turning to Hulu for interesting shows that aren’t available on Netflix. They have a no ad option that is a little more expensive or you can stick with the ads and save a few dollars every month.

Sling

Sling is one of the lesser-known options, but still a great choice if you are looking for shows currently on cable. They also have many ESPN channels, so it’s a great option if you are a sports fan.

You can also watch NBC, BBC America, CNN, and Cartoon Network. TBS and the Food Network are also included.

Netflix

Of course, Netflix has to be included because it’s one of the most popular choices and stable in most American households. Netflix has tons of original shows from a variety of countries. They also have older movies and shows if you are looking for a certain genre or era of films.

Categories
Tech & Media Technology

How To Preorder The iPhone 13

How to Preorder the iPhone 13

Preorders on the iPhone 13 started on September 17. The preorders are still open, so you will want to make sure you place your order soon to avoid missing out. There are 4 different iPhone 13 options including the iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, and the iPhone 13 Pro Max.

In this article, we will discuss all the different preorder options. We will also help you decide which one might be the best choice for you.

One of the easiest ways to preorder any of the iPhones is to purchase through one of the carriers. You can do this on Apple’s website. This is the best choice if you don’t have an open plan with a phone company. Some phone companies, like T-Mobile, offer preorder plans that can be checked through their websites or in one of their stores.

You can also purchase any of the iPhones directly from Apple. However, they will usually be $30-$50 more expensive through this option. You can also trade in your current phone if you won’t use it anymore and get some money off the price of the iPhone 13.

Preordering the iPhone 13 Mini

This is the smallest of the options and is the best choice if you want a small phone with good battery life. Unlike the iPhone 12 Mini, Apple says they have improved the battery life and battery functions. With the better improvements, you can be sure you will have a phone that can take you through the entire day without needing a recharge.

The iPhone 13 Mini has a 5.1-inch OLED screen and starts at $729 for 128GB.

How to Preorder the iPhone 13

The standard iPhone has a 6.1-inch OLED screen display. It’s the same size as last year’s model. So if you like your iPhone 12 and just want to upgrade, this might be the best choice for you. The internal chipset has been upgraded to the A15 Bionic.

Buying them unlocked from Apple will cost you $30 more of every model. They start at $829 for the 128GB version.

How to Preorder

These models are the heaviest duty and largest. They are a great option if you are looking for more storage options, prefer to have a larger phone, or plan to take photos with your phone often.

The iPhone 13 Pro has a 6.1-inch OLED display with an A15 Bionic chipset. The Pro Max is bigger with a 6.7-inch OLED display. They both support up to 120 Hz refresh rate, which is a huge deal because Apple has said they will do this for years and now they’ve finally done it.

These models cost quite a bit more than the iPhone 13 model. The 128 version is $999 for the pro model and $1,0999 for the pro max model. The storage options go up all the way to 1 TB costing $1,499 for the pro and $1,199 for the pro max.

Categories
Health & Home Recreation & Leisure

7 Serving Trays For Summer Entertaining

7 Serving Trays For Summer Entertaining

While summer is coming to an end, this is the right time to get the most of this balmy weather. To enjoy the extra hours of daylight, you can move your couch on the alfresco space such as a back deck, back deck, or rooftop perch. Since you would spend more time on your patio or porch, you would need a serving tray to carry along beverages and snacks. If you are a person who admires aesthetic and beautiful items around the house, you should carefully pick a serving tray that suits your taste. So, if you are with us, let’s explore some trendy tray options and fill the remaining summer days with entertainment:

1.     Deco Handle Tray

This Art Deco-inspired tray crafted with sturdy mango wood is a great pick when you want to enjoy your sweet tea on the Veranda. Want to invite your friend over and have a picnic type of vibe out on the porch? Include this stylish tray in your collection and add a new thrill to your gossip-driven sipping sessions.

2.     Doily Serving Tray

This tray serves as a wonderful ride for your tarts and cookies. Inspired by urban gentility, this tray is made with black-glazed stoneware. If you want to enjoy the post-nape sweets on the porch, this paper doily is the option you should get.

3.     Decker Galvanized Tray

Having a backyard BBQ before the summer ends? Get this galvanized sheet metal tray with cutout handles. By its appearance, this tray looks perfect for filling beers and steamed shrimp in a basket. Undeniably, it is an unpretentious and timeless option.

4.     Harper + Oldham Cactus Serving Tray

This square-shaped tray is a custom-designed multi-colored option suitable to add prickly pear margaritas. Having a fun time with your friends on the patio? Surprise them with this whimsical illustration featured tray inspired by Charlie Harper.

5.     Melamine Rectangular Serving Tray

The size of this beautiful tray can accommodate anything such as frozen treats. The pop of color on the tray compliments your vibrant foods. Utilize these durable, vibrant, and affordable trays for any occasion and make the moments special.

6.     Splash Tray by Hisham  Bhatoocha

Apartment residents can’t throw a summer pool party, but they can access the rooftop and invite friends for a fun time. This Swedish melamine tray can easily hold few glasses of drinks to enhance your imagination. So, grab a bunch of rose water and make your daytime rooftop party even entertaining with these square-shaped trays.

7.     Marimekko Karuselli Round Tray

Done with the square and rectangular trays? Try this floral eye-popping to carry pu pu platter or Mai Tais and serve it with your friends. It includes a retro-tropical effect that gives a blend of Hawaii and Finland.

Conclusion

Have you yet decided which one you would choose? These options will enhance the aesthetics of your food and reflect the vibrant celebration. So, if you picked an option, invite your friends over and surprise them with these eye-catching options.

Categories
Health & Home Home Improvement

The Amazon Decor That Has Us Excited For Fall

The Amazon Decor That Has Us Excited For Fall

As the weather grows colder and you see the leaves change color, you’ll realize that fall is on the way. Plus, the strong, cold winds mean that it’s time to pull out your favorite sweater and keep yourself cozy. But it’ not just you who should dress up for fall- your home’s décor needs a refresher too. So if you are the type of person who loves to update their home décor for the fall, you are at the right place.

We understand how people find it difficult to pick the best products according to the trend and decorate their homes for the fall season. Thus, we listed some astonishing home décor products on Amazon that will brighten up your mood. So, are you ready to stack up some cool items in your Amazon cart? Then check out these lists. We hope you will find something special after reading this article:

1.     Pumpkin Neon Light

When someone talks about the fall season, the first thing that pops in mind is Halloween time. So, if you find Halloween exciting, you can order this USB-charged pumpkin neon light. Imagine how fascinating it would look when you place it on your study table. It will certainly spruce up your home for the fall season. Because of its warm light, you can use it as a night light. (Shop Now)

2.     ‘BOO’ sign

BOO! It’s time to bring out your Halloween spirit by placing this boo sign on your kitchen, dorm, and bedroom door. This is a budget-friendly option to get some spooky décor without digging a hole in your pockets. These signs come in numerous designs, patterns, and colors. Hanging these plastic signs on your front door this fall will show your neighborhood just how much you love Halloween. (Shop Now)

3.     Black and White Throw Blankets

Throw blankets are comfy and easy to carry around, making them perfect for fall. Use this blanket as a sofa blanket, bed blanket, throw blanket, or bed blanket. This multi-purpose black and white throw blanket is a good choice for fashion freaks. This pilling, fade, and wrinkle-resistant blanket is suitable for all seasons. Imagine sipping your coffee in cold and dry weather and reading a book near the fireplace covered up in this lightweight blanket from Amazon. (Shop Now)

4.     Candle Lantern with Timer

Are you fond of collecting candles and lamps? Check out this lantern shape metal candle holder with multiple features. Choose between flickering or constantly glowing light options. Surprisingly, these options come to consist of an auto timer that automatically shut off the light during the daytime. This feature helps conserve battery life. With such a versatile design, you can place this vintage-designed candle holder on the porch, fireplace mantle, table, or bedroom. (Shop Now)

Conclusion

So, if you want to make your inner-fall enthusiast and your mom proud, fill in your home space and summon the spirits of the season. Order these fall-themed home décor options so that you can say “pumpkin, spice, and everything nice.”

Categories
Health & Home Wellness

How To Brew The Healthiest Cup Of Coffee

How To Brew The Healthiest Cup Of Coffee

There’s nothing like jumpstarting your morning with a good cup of coffee. Not only does this caffeinated beverage give you an energy boost, but it also has the potential to come with a variety of other health benefits too. Who would’ve thought?

There’s a caveat, though. In order to maximize the health benefits, you need to choose the right roast, brewing style, and temperature. Each of these requirements plays a major role in the composition of nutrients your body intakes when you drink them.

In this article, we’ll explain how to maximize the health benefits of your morning cup of joe by using the right beans, grounding them yourself, and what you should and shouldn’t add to the drink.

Brew With Healthy Coffee Beans

The type of bean and roast you brew with is the most important factor in making a healthy cup of coffee. Depending on your choice, you have the possibility of reducing your risk of liver or colon cancer, type 2 diabetes or stroke, and even death.

Coffee beans contain plant-based compounds called polyphenols. Polyphenols are vital for your health because they lower blood pressure and keep blood vessels healthy and flexible. Coffee experts recommend using beans from the Huila region of Columbia, or beans from Peru, Bolivia, Costa Rica, or Ethiopia.

When it comes to roasting the beans, a light roast is the better option. Roasting deepens the bean’s flavor and using a light roast prevents the polyphenols and other nutrients in the bean from breaking down too much. To achieve a light roast, brew your coffee with water that is hot, but not boiling.

Ground The Coffee Beans Yourself and Use While Fresh

Buying pre-ground coffee or grounding it and storing it for another time won’t compromise the health benefits of your coffee. However, the longer ground coffee sits, the more it oxidizes and loses its flavor. Coffee experts say that grinding your coffee right before you plan to brew will maximize the taste.

The best part about grinding your coffee yourself is having the ability to grind it as finely as you choose. The general rule for grinding is to try to get it as fine as possible. The longer you grind and the finer it gets, the polyphenols from each bean are released more. This means that finer grinds give you more benefits.

Use Minimal Add-Ons

Ideally, the healthiest cup of joe would be straight black. However, that shouldn’t keep you from customizing your drink to your preference. If you don’t care for black coffee, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Avoid using sugar.
  • Use low-fat or plant-based milk.
  • Steer away from sugary and high-fat coffee creamers.

Parting Thoughts

Coffee is an essential part of so many mornings. While you may think it isn’t a healthy way to start a day, there are certain beans and blends that offer major health benefits. Using high-quality beans and finely blended grounds will ensure you’re getting necessary polyphenols for your body.

Categories
Credit Financial

How to Book a Hotel Without a Credit Card

How to Book a Hotel Without a Credit Card

A vital part of any vacation or out-of-town trip is your sleeping arrangements. Hotels, motels, lodges and the like commonly require credit cards in order to book or at check-in. This can prove to be troublesome if you prefer to carry cash or don’t have a credit card.

It’s certainly possible to book a hotel room without a credit card. However, it’ll require a little bit of extra work to get done. In this article, we’ll explain why credit cards are commonplace among lodging facilities. We’ll also give you tips on how to find a cash-friendly hotel and other important tips.

Why Do Many Hotels Require a Credit Card?

Prior to the 1950s, cash was king in just about every establishment. However, credit cards and the idea of personal credit took the market by storm. So, lodging establishments have adopted a card policy ever since.

While this seems like a hassle to a non-card-wielding person, the policies are put in place to protect the establishment and cover any arising fees. Most commonly, the card will be charged a deposit when you check in and if you cause any damage to the property, they have a card on file to charge you with. If the hotel only dealt in cash, this opens them up to potentially having to cover expenses that were the cash-wielding person’s fault.

Finding a Cash-Friendly Hotel

Although most establishments require a credit card, it’s possible some will accept cash too. Many chain hotels will accept cash for payment including Hampton Inn, Quality Inn, Days Inn, and Holiday Inn. This may vary by location though, so it’s important to call ahead and make sure before trekking there.

If you prefer to book online, using a website like booking.com is helpful because you can filter your results to only show places that accept cash. Local establishments that aren’t affiliated with any chain may also be accommodating to cash payers too.

Booking Tips

Once you’ve nailed down where you’d like to stay, there are a few different ways you may choose to book:

  • Book online using your bank debit card: This will ensure you have a room reserved when you get to the hotel. In most cases, you won’t be charged until checkout, so you can always switch payment methods when you get there.
  • Use a travel agency to help you: Travel agencies are equipped to help accommodate all of your needs. If you don’t feel comfortable calling a hotel, a travel agent will go through the entire process for you up until you leave for your trip.
  • Use a prepaid card to book your hotel: if you don’t want your bank account information connected to the hotel in any way, you could purchase a prepaid card at any major grocery store and book using the prepaid/gift card.

Parting Thoughts

Whether you don’t have credit available or you simply just prefer cash, you can absolutely book a hotel room without a card. Booking a hotel without a card requires a few extra steps, but it isn’t impossible.

Categories
Dating Health & Home

6 Date Ideas That Don’t Involve Drinking

6 Date Ideas That Don’t Involve Drinking

Have you ever heard of a sober date night? Well, these are surprisingly quite common. Not to mention, they’re quite fun as well. While it’s not necessary that a couple has drinks, a common perception is that fun date nights always have sparkling champagne or expensive wines.

If you’re trying to plan your romantic date night without alcohol, mentioned below are a few fun ideas that would be perfect. Whether you want to avoid drinking because you have work tomorrow or just for your health, you and your other half will have a great time with these ideas.

1.    Go for a Date Walk

Long walks are quite therapeutic, especially with your significant other. Instead of sitting for hours at the table, trying to finish your drink, you can plan a walk date or a daytime hike. This allows you to catch up on so much, and you get a lot of muscle moving as well, which is good health-wise. Pick out a nice isolated place for your date walk, and treasure the nature and small details around you.

2.    Attend a Local Food Festival

If you and your partner are foodies, then a date at a  food festival would be ideal. Imagine a million types of food you get to explore and munch on together. This is a good way to bond and enjoy food together.

3.    Explore a Museum Together

You would be surprised at the number of art galleries and museums around you. This is another place perfect for a date. You could explore different pieces together and bond in a unique way.  It is always attractive when both partners treasure art and history and share a love to learn.

4.    Coffee Date

If you want to go on a non-alcoholic drink date, how about going to a coffee house? They are a classic and allow you to catch up on a lot. If you pick up a trendy coffee house, it’s a great chance for you and the other to get lost in conversation. Coffee always brings two lovebirds together, and this is the best idea!

5.    Engage in Your Favorite Hobby

Before the meeting, discuss each other’s hobbies and select one that could be a part of your first date. Whether it’s swimming, visiting a library, or even dancing, a hobby as a first date is the best idea. This way, you get to know what the person is interested in and bond in a unique way.

6.    Go for A Dessert Date

Dessert dates are so much more fun and exciting because who doesn’t love a chocolate sundae? A dessert date is also another fun idea. The sweetness will definitely bring you both together and make you savor every minute spent together.

Final Words

Now that you have these fun date ideas in front of you, you should start planning. These ideas are completely effortless and will make you realize that you can also have fun without alcohol.

Categories
Credit Financial

Can You Use PayPal on Amazon?

Can You Use PayPal on Amazon?

In the world of online shopping, PayPal has become one of the most popular and most convenient payment options. But can you use PayPal to shop on Amazon? The short answer to this is no. There isn’t an option to pay for your Amazon cart directly through PayPal.

However, you can use PayPal indirectly to make Amazon purchases by using the different debit and credit cards PayPal offers. Read on to learn more about how to use your PayPal account to shop on Amazon.

PayPal Card Types

PayPal offers four different cards that connect to your balance: PayPal Cash Card, PayPal Business Debit Mastercard, PayPal Key, or PayPal Credit. Each of these come with there own benefits and drawbacks, all of which will cater to your specific needs and intentions of use. Here’s a quick overview of each card type:

PayPal Cash Card

The PayPal cash card is a debit card that can be used once you set up a PayPal Cash Plus account. The account is free to set up and essentially functions as a bank account. Once you receive your debit card, you can use it anywhere and the balance immediately gets taken from your account balance.

Because it’s a debit card, there are no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. You can also withdraw money at any ATM without being charged a withdrawal fee. When you set up a PayPal cash plus account, you also receive a routing and account number to facilitate direct deposits.

PayPal Business Debit Mastercard

This card works similarly to the PayPal cash card but gives you the opportunity to earn cashback. Unlike the cash card, you have to apply for the business MasterCard and if you’re approved, you’ll receive the card within 7-10 days.

PayPal Key

PayPal Key is a virtual debit card that functions similarly to the other two options mentioned above. When using this option to online shop, you receive a virtual card number expiration date and security code.

PayPal Key is also free to use and doesn’t require a credit check or a complicated application process.

PayPal Credit

PayPal Credit is a revolving credit line that gives you a reusable credit line to make online purchases. Because it’s connected to your PayPal account, you have the option to pay your credit balance right away or over time and it’s easy to apply for too. This option is subject to credit approval through Synchrony Bank.

How to Use PayPal to Shop on Amazon

While you can’t pay for your Amazon cart with PayPal directly, you can use the options we mentioned previously to complete your purchase. You have the ability to use a PayPal cash card, the business counterpart, or PayPal Key to purchase right away. However, Amazon doesn’t allow you to use PayPal credit to directly pay for your cart.

There is a way around this, though. If you only have PayPal Credit, you can visit any major retailer that offers Amazon gift cards and purchase one there. You’ll then be able to use the gift card to purchase your cart.

Despite the inability to directly use PayPal on Amazon, you can certainly cheat your way around the restrictions.