#Local Contractor Networks

[olivia2672892]

Where to find painting jobs to bid in Des Moines, Lowa

How to Find and Bid on Painting Jobs in Des Moines, Iowa

If you're a painting contractor looking for job opportunities in Des Moines, Iowa, securing high-quality leads is crucial for growing your business. Whether you specialize in residential or commercial painting, finding the right projects can be challenging. This guide will help you discover the best ways to locate and bid on painting jobs in Des Moines.

1. Join Local Contractor Networks

One of the most effective ways to find painting jobs is by joining local contractor networks. Websites like Leadconnetcs, The Blue Book, and local builder associations regularly list available painting projects. Many professional painting companies use these platforms to connect with potential clients and secure contracts.

2. Use Lead Generation Services

Investing in lead generation services, such as Lead Connects, can provide you with exclusive access to residential and commercial painting leads. Instead of spending valuable time searching for jobs, you receive verified leads that are ready for bidding, allowing you to focus on delivering high-quality painting services.

Why Choose Lead Connects for Your Painting Leads?

At Lead Connects, we specialize in providing painting professionals with high-quality, exclusive leads. Our services offer:

Verified residential and commercial painting job leads in Des Moines, Iowa.

Real-time notifications for new bidding opportunities.

A streamlined process to connect with homeowners and businesses in need of painting services.

With Lead Connects, you no longer have to chase leads—we bring potential clients directly to you, helping you secure profitable contracts with ease.

3. Partner with Property Management Companies

Property management companies frequently need reliable painters to maintain and renovate their properties. Establishing long-term contracts with these businesses can provide a steady flow of work in both residential and commercial sectors.

4. Explore Government and Municipal Contracts

Many government and municipal projects require commercial painting services for schools, offices, and public buildings. Websites like the Iowa Department of Administrative Services and city bidding portals regularly post opportunities to submit bids for these high-value contracts.

5. Network with Builders and Contractors

Homebuilders, renovation companies, and general contractors consistently hire painters for ongoing projects. Attending local networking events, trade shows, and industry meetups can connect you with key decision-makers and help you secure more contracts.

6. Market Your Painting Business Online

To stay competitive, your painting business should have a strong online presence. Optimize your website for local SEO, invest in targeted ads, and engage actively on social media. Using location-based keywords like "painters in Des Moines" and "commercial painting services" can help attract more clients.

Conclusion

Finding painting jobs to bid on in Des Moines, Iowa requires a combination of networking, lead generation, and marketing strategies. Whether you specialize in residential or commercial projects, leveraging the right opportunities will ensure a steady flow of contracts. If you're looking for exclusive painting leads, Lead Connects can help. Our premium lead generation service connects you directly with potential clients, eliminating the hassle of finding bids. Sign up today and start winning more painting projects!

[ariadne-mouse]

For the "I wish you would write a fic where…" I don't know if this counts because it's not a new fic, but:

"Was? Essek? I thought you were out of town?"

Caleb wakes up with obsidian flakes of a'a in his hair and and no memory of the last few years. His very-new boyfriend has adopted his cat, there's a court case for his attemped murder, and he might have been a ghost?

A followup to The Fire Kept Closest, from Caleb's POV, filling in the timejump to the epilogue.

Thank you for the ask! It took me a minute to get to this ask game, but here we are. I am not writing exactly to the prompt, but I hope you like this 830-word slice of post-fic Volcaleb nonetheless!

-

"I would like to go, I think."

Essek paused where he had just gathered a scoop of cat kibble. The awaiting dish lay on the floor, empty. "Are you sure?"

"Ja," Caleb answered. He folded the local newspaper he had been reading in half, the headline visible: Corporate Clash: Cerberus takes the stand. "I know it's best my situation stays out of the spotlight, at least for now, but I want him to see me. To see my face, and know that I know." His expression darkened. "I want him to sweat."

At Essek's feet, Frumpkin yowled his impatience, unaware of corporations, or bureaucracy, or indeed the significance of newspapers beyond the fact that they were sometimes fun to sit on.

"Calm down, calm down," Essek tutted, and gave the beast his meal. He smoothed a hand down Frumpkin's back, thinking. "I'll go with you, if you really want to go."

Caleb smiled grimly. "Danke. I would like that. But I have an idea, also - you can help."

-

Vence Nuthaleus cleaned up well in a suit, and he knew it. It was unfortunate that the volcano on Rumblecusp had popped its top as soon as it had, but he was still safely ensconced in respectability - and more importantly, plausible deniability. Research was only as good as records available, and his land use recommendation report had been scientifically sound with the data from the island's active seismometer network.

It didn't even alarm him that he was playing a kind of mutually assured destruction game with Cerberus. They wanted to publicly shed him as a "bad actor", especially convenient given his contractor status - but if they did, he'd reveal they had been the ones to disconnect the last seismometer. He had enough leverage in writing to make the accusation compelling, and they knew it. The thing they might most want to pin on him... well, they didn't have any evidence of that. All told, it was in Cerberus's best interest to protect him. And so he wore his most approachable suit, and a polite smile, and answered questions as earnestly as he could when he was on the stand. Mardoon Estate only wanted money, after all, and Cerberus certainly had plenty of that. Vence didn't need to be scapegoat for it all to work out eventually.

The courtroom around him was full for the spectacle. The door creaked open every so often as the gawkers and media came and went, like bees buzzing on a hive. He sometimes saw familiar faces from the island: Dr. Vilya, Beauregard, Thelyss. Today the last of these was sitting in one of the back rows by himself, glaring at Vence like he always did when he was there. Too bad; being a stuck-up trust fund baby wouldn't help Thelyss here.

It was some minutes before Vence's attention was drawn by a spot in the standing room in the back that had not moved at all for some time. Even as his mouth answered the current question on autopilot, his eyes were drawn to look at the vacuum of stillness.

A dead man was looking back at him.

Vence's words curdled in his throat, choking his breath.

He was there. Caleb Widogast was there, standing among the throng.

"Mr. Nuthaleus?" prompted the examiner.

"I... I..."

The ghost - it could only be a ghost - stared at him with those eerie blue eyes, unblinking. He was dressed like he had been, for a hike on the mountain. There was even a lightweight heatsuit half-zipped and tied around his waist.

He looked exactly like he had when he had died. When--

Vence couldn't pull his gaze away. "Could- could you repeat the question?"

The examiner repeated it, and again Vence did not hear.

Nearby, Thelyss was standing up. He favored Vence with a last look of contempt before making for the double doors. The crowd parted to let him pass, but Widogast did not move. And Thelyss... walked right past him, like he wasn't there.

A chill rolled down Vence's spine and his breathing came faster. He could hear a ringing noise, his vision was narrowing.

With effort, he turned a smile to the judge. "I'm sorry, I think I need a moment."

When he turned back, Caleb Widogast was gone.

-

Outside in the hallway, Essek leaned on the wall next to Caleb, who sat heavily on a bench. The heat suit was stuffed back into a bag.

"Feel any better?"

A muscle in Caleb's face twitched, and his hand balled in a fist. "A little. I don't know. Seeing him-" His breath left him in a gust. "It was harder than I expected."

Essek touched his shoulder and gave it a squeeze.  "Come, then. Let's go. We can learn what happened later. Frumpkin is waiting for you at home."

This last tactic was always a surefire way to bring a little smile back to Caleb's face, and it proved to be so now.

“Ja,” Caleb agreed, straightening up.  “Let’s go home.”

[portraitoftheoddity]

Trying to work my day job in marketing and also get my own design business up off the ground and do the work for that and also networking and meeting local business owners and also going to the gym four times a week and eating healthy and managing a house I own and keeping it clean and doing yardwork and paying bills and working with contractors and volunteering and also having a social life where I maintain my friendships and a relationship and checking up on my aging parents and meeting up for weekly family dinners and helping them out and being in multiple D&D campaigns and also DMing and also and also and also and also

[cyberstudious]

An Introduction to Cybersecurity

I created this post for the Studyblr Masterpost Jam, check out the tag for more cool masterposts from folks in the studyblr community!

What is cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is all about securing technology and processes - making sure that the software, hardware, and networks that run the world do exactly what they need to do and can't be abused by bad actors.

The CIA triad is a concept used to explain the three goals of cybersecurity. The pieces are:

Confidentiality: ensuring that information is kept secret, so it can only be viewed by the people who are allowed to do so. This involves encrypting data, requiring authentication before viewing data, and more.

Integrity: ensuring that information is trustworthy and cannot be tampered with. For example, this involves making sure that no one changes the contents of the file you're trying to download or intercepts your text messages.

Availability: ensuring that the services you need are there when you need them. Blocking every single person from accessing a piece of valuable information would be secure, but completely unusable, so we have to think about availability. This can also mean blocking DDoS attacks or fixing flaws in software that cause crashes or service issues.

What are some specializations within cybersecurity? What do cybersecurity professionals do?

incident response

digital forensics (often combined with incident response in the acronym DFIR)

reverse engineering

cryptography

governance/compliance/risk management

penetration testing/ethical hacking

vulnerability research/bug bounty

threat intelligence

cloud security

industrial/IoT security, often called Operational Technology (OT)

security engineering/writing code for cybersecurity tools (this is what I do!)

and more!

Where do cybersecurity professionals work?

I view the industry in three big chunks: vendors, everyday companies (for lack of a better term), and government. It's more complicated than that, but it helps.

Vendors make and sell security tools or services to other companies. Some examples are Crowdstrike, Cisco, Microsoft, Palo Alto, EY, etc. Vendors can be giant multinational corporations or small startups. Security tools can include software and hardware, while services can include consulting, technical support, or incident response or digital forensics services. Some companies are Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs), which means that they serve as the security team for many other (often small) businesses.

Everyday companies include everyone from giant companies like Coca-Cola to the mom and pop shop down the street. Every company is a tech company now, and someone has to be in charge of securing things. Some businesses will have their own internal security teams that respond to incidents. Many companies buy tools provided by vendors like the ones above, and someone has to manage them. Small companies with small tech departments might dump all cybersecurity responsibilities on the IT team (or outsource things to a MSSP), or larger ones may have a dedicated security staff.

Government cybersecurity work can involve a lot of things, from securing the local water supply to working for the big three letter agencies. In the U.S. at least, there are also a lot of government contractors, who are their own individual companies but the vast majority of what they do is for the government. MITRE is one example, and the federal research labs and some university-affiliated labs are an extension of this. Government work and military contractor work are where geopolitics and ethics come into play most clearly, so just… be mindful.

What do academics in cybersecurity research?

A wide variety of things! You can get a good idea by browsing the papers from the ACM's Computer and Communications Security Conference. Some of the big research areas that I'm aware of are:

cryptography & post-quantum cryptography

machine learning model security & alignment

formal proofs of a program & programming language security

security & privacy

security of network protocols

vulnerability research & developing new attack vectors

Cybersecurity seems niche at first, but it actually covers a huge range of topics all across technology and policy. It's vital to running the world today, and I'm obviously biased but I think it's a fascinating topic to learn about. I'll be posting a new cybersecurity masterpost each day this week as a part of the #StudyblrMasterpostJam, so keep an eye out for tomorrow's post! In the meantime, check out the tag and see what other folks are posting about :D

[theconstitutionisgayculture]

In a 2017 interview with Republika, a newspaper in Macedonia, former Macedonian Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski said Soros had "decisive influence" over his country's politics via "a monopoly in the NGO sector." "If they need a so-called colorful revolution, then they do it through NGOs with money," lamented Gruevski, then-leader of the country's conservative VMRO-DPMNE party until his resignation, which was brought about by the 2016 color revolution. "Soros has turned the NGOs in Macedonia into a modern army," Gruevski told Republika. In this culture war waged against the perceived enemy, the ex-PM explained, the "Soros-owned media" would malign their political opponents and brew "a myriad of alleged scandals to your name" as a way to sway public opinion. As Gruevski indicated, any pushback was met with contempt. Laura Silber, chief communications officer of the Open Society Foundations, reportedly condemned "illiberal governments" in the Balkans for opposing Soros NGOs. Under the guise of "democratic reform," these USAID-partnered cogs of the Soros cultural imperialism machine organized youth movements, created influential media outlets, and coordinated widespread, often violent, protests in the streets. According to grant records, in 2016, USAID awarded a $9.5 million contract to the East-West Management Institute (EWMI), a Soros-funded nonprofit that focuses on "restructuring" former Soviet states in central and eastern Europe. EWMI implemented this multi-million-dollar program, known as USAID's Civic Engagement Project (CEP), in partnership with the Foundation Open Society–Macedonia (FOSM), a local Skopje appendage of the sprawling Open Society Foundations network founded by Soros. Through the seven-year project, which centered on constructing a "multi-ethnic democracy rooted in the respect and protection of all," USAID North Macedonia sought to increase "youth engagement" in the political process. According to a USAID-sponsored EWMI newsletter documenting the Civil Engagement Project's progress, the program dispensed rapid response "voter education" grants ahead of the 2018 name-change referendum, which ultimately paved the path to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership. In order to reach "marginalized" voters, grant recipients included the Association for Promotion and Development of an Inclusive Society (INKLUZIVA) and the Union "National Council for Gender Equality." Macedonia resolving a longstanding dispute with Greece was a condition for admittance into NATO. Greece stood firm on blocking Macedonia's membership and the beginning of European Union accession talks unless Macedonia changed its name, seen on both sides as an issue of national identity. The name change and its implications were so unpopular that the Soros-funded Institute for Democracy Societas Civilis-Skopje, an Open Society Foundations policy research partner, commissioned conflicting polls, courtesy of USAID, claiming that only 33 percent of Macedonians were categorically against compromising with Greece over Macedonia's name. However, when a referendum was held on the matter, many Macedonians boycotted it and voter turnout failed to reach the 50 percent threshold required to validate the results. Conservatives proclaimed victory since the proposal should have been rejected by virtue of the low turnout. But because it was non-binding, the reigning liberal government declared that the turnout requirement was irrelevant and proceeded anyway to rename the ex-Yugoslav republic, now "North Macedonia." As for the USAID contractor East-West Management Institute, it is deeply intertwined with Soros finances. A now-deleted 2011 financial report said EWMI received "loans [...] of up to $1,000,000" from the Soros Economic Development Fund.

This is just a small section of the article, which goes into a lot more detail about everything Soros did through USAID funding his NGOs. Anyone who thinks George Soros is a conspiracy theory is an idiot.

[lurkiestvoid]

Hey loves. I won't get into the doomy gloomy shit or anything, but there are growing calls for a general strike across the US and tbh if it's ever gonna finally happen, these times we're in would be ideal.

The #1 pushback is usually something along the lines of 'well it won't work without support and prep 🙄" but then folks don't... do the prep or support.

SO

Starting now would be a really good time to Prep as much as we can for a General Strike:

- PREP: As much as possible, even just one (1) water bottle or canned beans or peanut butter jar at a time, buy a couple extra things every time you go to the store and shove them under your bed and forget about them.

- PREP: As much as possible, even just one (1) dollar at a time, whenever possible, get cash/change and shove that in a jar under your bed too and also forget about it.

- SUPPORT: If you haven't already, look for and reach out to your local action organizations and groups, or if you can't find any try asking your local librarians. Even if you think you have nothing to offer them!! ALL kinds of labor will be needed, if you can help spread the word, bring your friends, interpret or mediate, phone bank, etc, it will help!

- SUPPORT: unions and mutual aid networks! If you aren't a Boss and even if you're an independent contractor you can still join the IWW for organizational training and strike support! Membership is on a sliding scale, etc etc, check them out!

- SUPPORT: food pantries! Organize small donation drives amongst your friend groups or neighborhood streets and become familiar with the people running the pantries and their needs and the growing public needs they face, and maybe even volunteer!

- PREP/SUPPORT: gardening and seed banks! Food stamps can be used to buy some starting things I think, I don't remember if it's seeds or seedlings or both and it might vary by location and may not last much longer, but it might be an option for you still now! Check libraries and food pantries for seed banks or other programs that might help with planters, planning, soil, etc, and try to coordinate with other community members if you can! Excess produce can go right to the pantry or each other!

- BONUS PREP IDEA: If you've got a good group of friends, talk to them. Make a plan. Consider pooling your loose change together a few dollars at a time to make yourselves a mini mutual aid fund; if a strike or other emergency happens, and you or one of your friends needs emergency help affording meds or other necessities, you'll have your mutual savings to help each other out. Coordinate for things like transportation, appointments, meals, etc, whatever would help you and yours.

Look, I know a strike is daunting especially now, especially for low-income.

Remember the initial COVID shutdowns. Remember that the entire business class was screeching bloody fucking murder after two fucking weeks, and forced reopenings, and that wasn't even a full strike and plenty of people were still working by need or necessity.

We can do two weeks, if we work together.

We might even be able to make it three. Or four.

It CAN be done, but only with mutual aid and community organizing. That stuff is already always happening. you just gotta go find it, and be ready.

[ms-demeanor]

hi okay sorry idk if it's okay to ask this or not so,,,, i am a bit hesitant.

here's the thing - i just finished my bachelor's and I'm looking for a job in cybersecurity. BUT i don't know how to get into the industry or get an entry level job and i am soooo overwhelmed. and here on tumblr some of your posts made me think it's a field you work in.. so, could you give me some tips?

again sorry if this was inappropriate i am very out of my depth rn skdhdkh

So I don't really work in cybersecurity, I'm an office admin at an MSP, I'm not even a tech, it's just that I've been hanging out with hackers for so long that I'm our default security guy because I know the *bare ass minimum* about okay security practices.

That said, I got my job because of a friend I met at a hacker meetup and I know a ton of people in the industry who got jobs in the industry exactly the same way so my advice is networking, and specifically networking with infosec nerds.

This is actually easier than it might sound because infosec nerds are fucking terrible at networking AND socializing so they've set up several easy ways to be in contact with one another regularly (though this does require seeing real human beings in person).

I'd say to start looking for hackerspaces that are local to you, nearby infosec conferences, and local infosec meetups. DC (Defcon) Groups are pretty widespread groups of people who do security stuff in geographical areas that you can find based on area code, for instance I used to go to DC 213 and I know a bunch of the people in DC 949. Check to see if there's a DC group in your area and when they have open meetups and see about getting involved with them. 2600 meetups are monthly infosec meetups that happen in large-ish cities. Search the largest nearby metro area + 2600 to see if there's a meetup that happens near you (so for instance Seattle 2600, Las Vegas 2600, Little Rock 2600).

Like. How to be "in cybersecurity" can cover a lot of ground, but one of the better ways to get into it is to go find people who work in the field. And if you're not up for a meeting at this point, find the socials of these local groups and see what they're doing and what they're talking about.

If you're looking for just any "foot in the door" basic experience in cybersecurity job, the one that is ubiquitous and kind of annoying but hey it'll get you in a building and building experience is Compliance as a Service - a lot of CaaS stuff is about the basics of incident response, access policies, and setting up secure environments. If you get started doing compliance it's a pretty easy jump to doing stuff like pentesting and that opens up more opportunities depending on where you want to go with it. But. Yeah. "cybersecurity" is so broad that I'm not sure whether you're looking to find work doing serious cryptographic math stuff or if you're interested in being a contractor for an insurance company handling cyber liability stuff. The latter is a lot easier to get into, and if you're brushing up on skills by doing the latter and going to infosec meetups and cons and stuff you're going to run into people doing the former who are going to be happy to point you at stuff you're looking for.

[anamericangirl]

Just watched a documentary from before Trump was elected about the damage trump did to a small Scottish seaside town. He cut off an old woman's well service to build a road to a gold course and for the following years she had to go to town to buy water for drinking, bathing, washing dishes, watering plants, etc

Spending the twilight of her life bathing wither water bottles because of Trump.

You see, their well was connected right to a local spring on Trumps property. Hundreds of years of Scottish law dictates that trump maintain the spring and ensures the water is safe, but Trump had his workers demolish the pipe leading to their well. But don't worry, Trump promised to replace their system with a better one, but the water grew dirty, contaminated, and dried up completely.

Mind you, Trump said this Scottish woman reminded him very much of his own mother, and that he thought his mother would be proud of what he had done.

When the residents complained, trump said that the people of Aberdeen and the people of Scotland should be embarrassed by how dirty their barn is after painting "Trump Lies" on the side of the barn, years before Trump ran for office.

Don't believe everything you hear in documentaries.

We published an article “You’ve Been Trumped: Scots Gran, 92, ‘forced to get water with a wheelbarrow’ in dispute over Donald Trump’s golf course” on 26th October 2016 which followed a report online elsewhere. Trump International Golf Links Scot-land (“Trump International”) has since assured us the headline and related article are incorrect in various respects. Trump International states that: the water supply pipe concerned runs under land owned by Trump International, to a well; that supply pipe was not shown on plans and was inadvertently breached by contractors in 2010; the contractors repaired the pipe immediately; further work took place around the well in 2014 and 2015; this work was neither instructed by nor approved by Trump International and was not carried out by Trump International contractors. While the supply of water to neighbouring properties is not the responsibility of Trump Inter-national, it offered in November 2015 to connect the relevant properties to its mains network and this offer has never been taken up by the Forbes family. We are happy to make this clear.

[mariacallous]

Connecticut’s attorney general has sent his second warning in a month to the low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines, telling the startup it has jeopardized tax breaks and other local support by agreeing to conduct deportation flights for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Democrats in the Connecticut legislature, meanwhile, are working to expand the state’s sanctuary law to penalize companies like Avelo for working with federal immigration authorities.

The backlash comes after Texas-based Avelo signed an agreement early this month to dedicate three of its 20 planes to carrying out deportation flights as part of the charter network known as ICE Air. It also follows a report by ProPublica, which Connecticut Attorney General William Tong cited in an April 8 letter to Avelo, revealing flight attendants’ unease over the treatment and safety of detainees on such flights. The concerns airline staffers raised included how difficult it could be to evacuate people wearing wrist and ankle shackles.

“Can Avelo confirm that it will never operate flights while non-violent passengers are in shackles, handcuffs, waist chains and/or leg irons?” Tong’s April 8 letter asks. “Can Avelo confirm that it will never operate a flight without a safe and timely evacuation strategy for all passengers?”

Tong then issued a public statement on April 15 reiterating his concerns.

[realtyguide]

MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon: Redefining Commercial Grandeur on Dwarka Expressway

MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon is poised to become a landmark in the commercial real estate landscape of New Gurugram, setting a new standard for excellence along the vibrant Dwarka Expressway. Developed by the esteemed MVN Group, this expansive mixed-use development integrates luxury retail, modern office spaces, world-class entertainment, and premium hospitality, creating a dynamic ecosystem that caters to diverse needs. With its innovative design, strategic location, and unparalleled amenities, MVN Mall is not just a commercial hub but a lifestyle destination that promises to transform the way people shop, work, and unwind in the National Capital Region (NCR).

This 2000-word article delves into the distinctive features of MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon, its prime location advantages, cutting-edge facilities, investment potential, and why it stands as a game-changer in Gurugram’s rapidly evolving commercial market.

Project Snapshot: MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon

Project Name: MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon

Type: Mixed-Use Commercial Development

Location: Sector 37D, Dwarka Expressway, Gurgaon

Configurations: Retail Shops, Food Courts, Office Spaces, Multiplex, 5-Star Hotel

Status: Under Development

RERA No.: GRG 17292024

Spanning an impressive 20 acres with a prominent 5-acre frontage, MVN Mall is envisioned as the largest fully air-conditioned mall in NCR. Designed by the globally celebrated architect Hafeez Contractor, the project draws inspiration from iconic international retail destinations, blending sophistication with functionality. The mall offers retail spaces starting at 150 sq. ft., with prices beginning at approximately ₹54 lakhs, making it accessible to a wide range of investors, from boutique retailers to global brands.

The project’s meticulously planned layout includes dedicated zones for fashion, lifestyle, dining, and entertainment, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for visitors. Beyond its commercial offerings, MVN Mall integrates a 5-star hotel, a state-of-the-art multiplex, and flexible office spaces, creating a holistic environment that caters to businesses, families, and leisure-seekers alike.

Strategic Location: A Gateway to Opportunity

The location of MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon along the Dwarka Expressway is a key driver of its commercial potential. Positioned at the 22 KM mark, the mall benefits from the only drop-off point on the elevated corridor, ensuring unmatched visibility and accessibility. This strategic placement positions MVN Mall as a focal point for both local residents and regional visitors, amplifying its appeal as a commercial and lifestyle destination.

Key Location Highlights

Dwarka Expressway Advantage: The Dwarka Expressway, also known as the Northern Peripheral Road, is a critical infrastructure artery connecting Gurugram with Delhi. MVN Mall’s prime position on this corridor ensures it captures the attention of commuters, making it a high-traffic destination for retail and business activities.

Seamless Connectivity: The mall enjoys excellent connectivity to major roads, including NH-8, Southern Peripheral Road, and Golf Course Extension Road. Its proximity to the Delhi Metro network further enhances accessibility, attracting visitors from across NCR.

Close to IGI Airport: Located just a short drive from Indira Gandhi International Airport, MVN Mall is ideally positioned to serve business travelers, tourists, and international shoppers, boosting its appeal as a premium retail and hospitality hub.

Thriving Residential Catchment: Sector 37D is surrounded by upscale residential communities, top-tier educational institutions, and advanced healthcare facilities. This creates a steady stream of affluent customers, ensuring consistent footfall for retailers and service providers.

Emerging Business Hub: The area around Sector 37D is rapidly evolving into a commercial powerhouse, with tech parks, corporate offices, and business centers in close proximity. MVN Mall is well-positioned to cater to the region’s growing corporate workforce, making it an ideal location for offices and retail.

Public Transport Integration: With easy access to Gurgaon Railway Station, upcoming metro stations, and city bus routes, MVN Mall ensures convenience for visitors without personal vehicles, further driving footfall.

These location advantages make MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon a high-growth commercial property, offering significant potential for rental yields, capital appreciation, and long-term investment returns.

Unrivaled Amenities: A Blueprint for Modern Comfort

MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon is designed to deliver a comprehensive experience that transcends traditional commercial spaces. By incorporating world-class amenities, the project caters to the diverse needs of businesses, shoppers, and families, setting a new benchmark for urban convenience and luxury.

Signature Amenities

Largest Air-Conditioned Mall in NCR: The entire complex is centrally air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable environment for visitors throughout the year.

Multi-Level Parking: Spacious parking facilities accommodate thousands of vehicles, minimizing congestion and enhancing convenience.

Family-Centric Features: Dedicated kids’ play zones, clean restrooms, and baby care areas make MVN Mall a welcoming destination for families.

Inclusive Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps and accessible entry/exit points ensure the mall is inclusive for all visitors.

Efficient Mobility: High-speed elevators and escalators facilitate smooth navigation across multiple floors, improving the visitor experience.

Advanced Security: 24/7 CCTV surveillance, RFID barriers, trained security personnel, and fire safety systems create a secure environment.

Sustainable Design: Eco-friendly features like LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and waste management systems reflect the project’s commitment to sustainability.

Culinary Diversity: A vibrant food court and upscale restaurants offer a wide range of global cuisines, catering to varied tastes.

Entertainment Excellence: A cutting-edge multiplex, gaming arcades, and an indoor sports academy provide endless entertainment options.

Flexible Workspaces: Customizable office spaces cater to businesses of all sizes, from startups to multinational corporations.

Luxury Hospitality: The integrated 5-star hotel attracts high-end visitors, creating synergies with retail and dining businesses.

Tech-Driven Infrastructure: High-speed Wi-Fi and uninterrupted power backup ensure seamless operations and connectivity.

Architectural Splendor: A 100-ft man-made waterfall and lush landscaping create a visually stunning ambiance, elevating the mall’s aesthetic appeal.

These amenities create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters business growth, enhances customer satisfaction, and builds a sense of community, positioning MVN Mall as a true lifestyle destination.

Investment Potential: Why MVN Mall Stands Out

MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon presents a compelling opportunity for investors, retailers, and entrepreneurs seeking high-growth commercial real estate. Here’s why it’s a top choice for investment:

Prime Location: The mall’s strategic position on Dwarka Expressway ensures high visibility and footfall, driving business success.

Strong ROI Prospects: As a RERA-compliant project (RERA No. GRG 17292024), MVN Mall offers investor confidence and significant potential for rental income and capital appreciation.

Versatile Revenue Streams: The mixed-use model—combining retail, dining, entertainment, offices, and hospitality—creates multiple income opportunities.

Premium Infrastructure: World-class facilities and finishes ensure the property remains competitive and future-ready.

Diverse Customer Base: The mall appeals to families, professionals, tourists, and shoppers, ensuring consistent demand.

Trusted Developer: MVN Group’s 38-year legacy of quality and innovation reduces investment risks.

Eco-Conscious Design: Sustainable features future-proof the property against evolving environmental standards.

All-in-One Destination: By integrating shopping, dining, entertainment, and hospitality, MVN Mall maximizes business potential through synergies.

For investors seeking a high-return commercial property in a thriving market, MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon offers a unique combination of location, infrastructure, and opportunity.

MVN Group: A Legacy of Trust and Innovation

Since its inception in 1983, MVN Group has been a pioneer in real estate and education, delivering successful projects across NCR and Bengaluru. With a portfolio that includes Athens Gurugram, Athens Faridabad, and MVN AeroOne Bengaluru, the group has earned a reputation for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon, designed by Hafeez Contractor, reflects the group’s vision of creating iconic spaces that blend aesthetics with functionality.

The project’s RERA compliance and customer-centric approach underscore MVN Group’s commitment to transparency and excellence, making it a trusted choice for investors and businesses.

The Vision Driving MVN Mall

MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon embodies MVN Group’s vision of creating transformative spaces that inspire and empower. By integrating cutting-edge architecture, sustainable design, and diverse offerings, the project aims to redefine commercial real estate in NCR. The inclusion of a luxury hotel, a multiplex, and customizable workspaces reflects MVN Group’s understanding of the evolving needs of modern consumers and businesses.

Gurugram’s Commercial Boom: A Market Ripe for Investment

Gurugram has solidified its position as one of India’s most dynamic real estate markets, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure growth, and a thriving corporate ecosystem. The Dwarka Expressway has emerged as a hotspot for commercial and residential developments, thanks to its strategic connectivity and proximity to Delhi. MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this growth, offering investors a chance to tap into a high-potential market.

The rising demand for premium commercial spaces in Gurugram, fueled by an expanding population and increasing disposable incomes, makes MVN Mall a strategic investment. Its eco-conscious features and modern infrastructure ensure it remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Conclusion: A Commercial Landmark in the Making

MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon Dwarka Expressway is more than a commercial development—it’s a visionary destination that redefines urban living and business in NCR. With its prime location, world-class amenities, and innovative design, it offers unparalleled opportunities for retailers, entrepreneurs, and investors. Whether you’re looking to establish a flagship store, set up a modern office, or invest in a high-growth property, MVN Mall Sector 37D Gurgaon is the ideal platform to achieve your aspirations.

[sourcreammachine]

so the party manifestos won’t be published for a few weeks prolly, but the Labour Party policymaking system means they have an internal “policy platform” agreed by the partisan structure that kinda dictates what goes in the manifesto, and a similar partisan structure has the final say on the manifesto itself. the platform is private and internal, but it’s been “seen and summarised”. so heres a couple of interesting bits:

nationalise the rail; allow greater municipal ownership of bus networks; more ev charging stations and increased ev subsidies

“fundamentally reform our system of energy supply, generation and transmission” via public ownership, but without stating whether or not this includes consumer services or if the private wholesale system will continue

abolish the Lords; votes at 16; NO commitment to abolishing FPTP

“support the recognition of” palestine (note wording, and note the fact this was written before 7 october)

ban conversion therapy including for trans people; “modernise the process of gender recognition to remove indignities for trans people, while upholding the Equality Act, its protected characteristics and its provision for single-sex exemptions” (obviously using terf dogwhistles to get out of meaningfully reforming the law, without clarifying their plans)

sewage monitoring and fines for sewage leaks by water companies – water remains private

“land-use framework” to organise farmland with the goal of biodiversity, close hunting loopholes

intellectual property reform, maybe? they’re very vague about that one

one-month waiting time for mental health services

“reform broken tuition fees system” – NO commitment to abolition and debt forgiveness, only this squirmy line

“robust regulation to protect people from online harms” – basically equivocating to allow any possible passage of a bad internet bill :/

£28B green energy investment; double onshore wind, quadruple offshore wind; reinstate fracking ban and stop new oil/gas; “green energy by 2030”, whatever that means. weirdly fetishistic about hydrogen power

VERY, VERY little mention of City oversight and reform. City to remain extremely independent, capital to continue flowing

abolish leaseholds; end ‘arcane’ land laws; end no-fault evictions

football regulator; reform gambling laws

end fire-rehire; more regulation for two-tier employee/contractor workplace inequalities; more statutory workers’ rights; ban zerohours with more than 12h/week, “right to a contract”; change the minimum wage quango to account for cost of living, potentially hiking the minimum wage by several pounds

repeal a number of union-busting acts; regulate gig economies to statutorily allow the right to unionise; increase rights for unions to organise and manage themselves

ethics quango to enforce the ministerial code for the first time in its history; ban second jobs for MPs with very limited exceptions for professionals; ban former ministers from lobbying for five years; political finance reforms to restrict financing by shell companies

certain devolutionary powers for english local authorities on request; shrink whitehall, let the civil service go elsewhere

“respect orders”, ASBOs 2; domestic abuse register; misogyny as a hatecrime; ‘protect the right to protest’, explicitly opposing the public order bill without committing to overturn it

but yeah, the starmer leadership may leave some things on the cutting room floor, and the starmer government may act totally different when it doesn’t have the partisan oversight. in the end, we have to wait until the proper manifesto releases to make real judgements, but looking through this list can set the tone of our expectations: third-way, boring and pathetic

[deathlygristly]

I really need to stop checking other platforms for news. Yes, they can be more local. Yes, they can be more diverse with groups I've never really interacted with so I learn more about others.

On the other hand I am starting to feel how social media can stress people out and make them more cynical and negative, the upper middle classness of the local reddit is downright depressing, and I am not always able to stop myself from replying when I shouldn't.

Anyway I just saw someone claiming that the military helicopters delivering supplies to the mountains and the official emergency workers and help from FEMA in our mountains must be recent since it's not what they've heard about, and I don't even know what to do with that.

I linked a small easy to understand local story talking about the Swannanoa fire chief begging people to stop spreading misinformation and I said you're getting Russian propaganda from whoever told you the government isn't here helping. Maybe that will help, I don't know.

It's just...man.

And they were talking about the concert and saying at least those musicians would help when the government wouldn't. The concert where the governor held a press conference beforehand!

Also how could they have not seen all the videos like this one?

But that's what I mean about other social media being more diverse and showing me groups I don't interact with so I can learn more about them. I have no connections to people whose media diet consists solely of propaganda, so I tend to assume that people know what they're talking about and that they have good information and they're just trolling because they're from a troll farm or they just like fascism.

So I guess this experience is good for learning about people who may not be fascist at heart but who only listen to media run by fascists.

It's just...if no one in the government was in the mountains helping, there'd be so many more dead people. People would have starved or died of dehydration. People would have died from diseases caused by whatever water or food they could find being extremely contaminated. The entire region would still be closed off, because the state department of transportation wouldn't have done any work on the roads.

The N.C. Department of Transportation crews and contractors have reopened more than 600 North Carolina roads, mostly in the western part of the state, since Hurricane Helene. Transportation crews were nearly done cutting and moving debris to the shoulders to reopen roads, NCDOT officials said Monday. They created over 4,100 debris sites on roadsides. "Damage estimates from what we have been able to assess to this point are up to several billion dollars and we’re not done,” said state Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins in a news release. “The damage to our roads and bridges is like nothing we’ve ever seen after any storm, and this will be a long-term recovery operation. But we will be here until western North Carolina can get back on its feet.”

Also if the government wasn't helping no one would be able to communicate that they were all there dying of starvation and lack of clean safe water.

In the catastrophic aftermath of Helene, “disaster roaming” has been enabled in North Carolina to help connect residents who may be otherwise offline. Disaster roaming allows any phone on any cellular network to access any available network to connect to, regardless of provider. Service providers are required to activate disaster roaming during the following situations: When the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Emergency Support Function (ESF-2) is activated When the FCC’s Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) is activated When the Chief of the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau issues an activation Public Notice upon request of a state When a state has activated its Emergency Operations, activated mutual aid, or proclaimed a local state of emergency

The government had to act to get disaster roaming enabled.

I just....god. What do you even do about this level of propaganda?

[beardedmrbean]

Finland's parliament will vote on a controversial healthcare bill on Tuesday, with five government party MPs already stating they won't support it.

The controversy is mostly over the reduced services at several regional hospitals, but Helsingin Sanomat looks at another aspect of the new law.

It changes the rules around how public bodies commission surgical operations, to allow them to buy surgery from sub contractors in the private sector.

At present the law states that any surgeon in the public sector operating with patients under anaesthetic must do so in a facility that has an emergency department.

That is, the facility itself should be able to handle anything that might go wrong.

This rules out the plentiful private sector operating theatres in Finland, which are unable to directly sell their services to public sector providers.

Some wellbeing services counties do work around this by offering vouchers to patients in an effort to reduce waiting lists, but the new law will allow the private sector to take a bigger chunk of the market.

Lapland tourism

Iltalehti reports on a series of stories that have hit the international press in recent weeks on over-tourism in Finnish Lapland.

The region has styled itself as a winter wonderland, the home of Santa Claus, and it welcomes thousands of visitors every year. But the side effects of that mass tourism are now raising questions.

The tabloid reports that locals have started to protest about the effect on the housing market, with short-term rentals now taking up a bigger proportion of the housing stock in Rovaniemi.

"We are worried about the overgrowth of tourism. Tourism has grown so rapidly, it’s not under control any more," 43-year-old Rovaniemi resident Antti Pakkanen told Associated Press.

Pakkannen is part of a housing network that organised a protest match on the issue in September.

Locals say they want better regulation to prevent tourism distorting the housing market.

Gloomy snowless Christmas

Ilta-Sanomat looks at weather forecasts in a bid to predict whether or not we'll see a white Christmas.

The paper says Finland is in for a mild festive season, with parts of the country set to see current snow cover melt before Santa comes to town.

Southwest Finland and Uusimaa are most at risk of a gloomy, snowless Christmas, with Christmas Eve showers falling as rain in those regions.

[michael-turley]

Engineering Resilience: The Role of Army Engineers in Modern Peacekeeping

Army engineers have long been a vital component of military operations, with their skills and expertise essential to ensuring the success of both combat and peacekeeping missions. As modern warfare evolves and peacekeeping efforts become more complex, the role of Army engineers in fostering resilience in conflict zones has become increasingly important. These engineers support military objectives and play a pivotal role in rebuilding war-torn communities, providing humanitarian aid, and establishing the infrastructure necessary for long-term peace and stability.

The Evolving Role of Army Engineers in Peacekeeping

In the past, Army engineers were primarily known for their combat engineering work, including fortifying defensive positions, constructing bridges, and clearing obstacles. However, the nature of modern military engagements has shifted, with peacekeeping operations now accounting for a significant portion of Army engineering efforts. These operations often occur in volatile environments where maintaining security, restoring essential services, and promoting stability are critical to peace.

Army engineers in peacekeeping missions often support infrastructure, from rebuilding transportation networks to establishing essential utilities like water and electricity. Their work directly impacts the lives of civilians recovering from the aftermath of war or political upheaval. By addressing immediate needs and laying the groundwork for long-term development, Army engineers contribute to the overall success of peacekeeping missions.

Key Areas of Contribution: Infrastructure and Reconstruction

One of the most significant contributions of Army engineers in peacekeeping operations is their role in infrastructure and reconstruction. After conflicts, many countries face widespread damage to their infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and power grids. Army engineers possess the technical knowledge and equipment needed to repair and rebuild these critical systems, helping to restore normalcy to affected communities.

In many cases, Army engineers work alongside civilian contractors and local authorities to rebuild vital infrastructure. They bring expertise in structural engineering, construction management, and logistics, essential for completing large-scale projects in challenging environments. The engineers' ability to design, build, and maintain infrastructure in post-conflict areas makes them a key component in stabilizing regions and promoting economic recovery.

Beyond physical reconstruction, Army engineers also assist in providing humanitarian aid. This can include setting up temporary shelters, providing clean drinking water, or facilitating the delivery of medical supplies. The resilience of communities in post-conflict zones depends on reconstructing physical infrastructure and restoring essential services that support daily life.

Civil-Military Cooperation: Building Trust with Local Populations

A crucial aspect of peacekeeping is the need for Army engineers to work closely with local populations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This civil-military cooperation is essential for building trust and fostering positive relationships with the communities they are helping to rebuild. Engineers often serve as a bridge between military forces and civilians, offering a more tangible and less confrontational presence in areas of unrest.

Through collaborative efforts, Army engineers assist in developing public infrastructure projects that benefit both military and civilian populations. These projects include rebuilding schools, health clinics, and public buildings, which can create a sense of stability and progress. The visible contributions of Army engineers, such as providing access to clean water and electricity, help generate goodwill and promote a sense of security in regions that have endured conflict.

Moreover, Army engineers often train local workers and transfer knowledge and skills to local communities. This ensures that reconstruction efforts are sustainable and that local populations are empowered to maintain and improve the infrastructure once the peacekeeping mission concludes.

Engineering Resilience in the Face of Disaster

Another vital role of Army engineers in modern peacekeeping is their ability to respond to natural disasters and other emergencies that often arise in conflict zones. These events can complicate peacekeeping operations, as they exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and pose new challenges to the safety and stability of the region. Army engineers are trained to respond quickly and effectively to such emergencies, providing immediate relief and ensuring that disaster recovery efforts are integrated into broader peacekeeping objectives.

For example, Army engineers are often called upon to build temporary shelters for displaced populations following natural disasters or to assist in clearing debris and restoring access to critical infrastructure. Their logistics, construction, and resource management expertise allows them to operate efficiently in high-pressure situations, ensuring that affected communities receive the support they need.

In some cases, Army engineers are also involved in designing and implementing long-term disaster risk reduction measures. These can include reinforcing buildings to withstand earthquakes, constructing flood barriers, or developing early warning systems for natural hazards. By enhancing the resilience of communities to future disasters, Army engineers contribute to the overall stability and security of the region.

The Role of Technology in Modern Peacekeeping

Army engineers increasingly rely on cutting-edge tools and equipment as technology advances for peacekeeping missions. Drones, advanced surveying equipment, and 3D printing are just a few technologies that have revolutionized how Army engineers operate.

Drones, for instance, are used for surveillance, mapping, and surveying damaged areas, allowing engineers to gather valuable information before undertaking large-scale reconstruction projects. This technology enables engineers to assess damage more accurately and develop targeted solutions to repair infrastructure. Additionally, drones can deliver supplies to hard-to-reach areas, providing immediate aid to needy populations.

3D printing has also emerged as a powerful tool in military engineering. Engineers can use 3D printers to quickly create parts and components needed for reconstruction, reducing the time and cost of traditional manufacturing processes. This technology allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in the field, ensuring that engineers can address urgent needs.

The integration of these technologies into peacekeeping efforts has enhanced the ability of Army engineers to respond to crises and contribute to the rebuilding process in a more effective and timely manner.

A Lasting Impact on Peace and Stability

The role of Army engineers in modern peacekeeping is multifaceted and essential to ensuring long-term peace and stability in conflict zones. From infrastructure reconstruction to disaster response, these engineers provide critical support that helps restore order and rebuild communities. Army engineers promote sustainable peace and development by fostering civil-military cooperation, enhancing resilience, and utilizing advanced technologies.

As peacekeeping operations continue to evolve in complexity, the skills and expertise of Army engineers will remain indispensable. Their work ensures that the immediate needs of affected populations are met and lays the foundation for a more stable and resilient future. Through their contributions, Army engineers help create the conditions necessary for lasting peace and recovery in regions torn apart by conflict.

[stlivingla]

Why You Need a Property Manager in Los Angeles by Stlivingla

Los Angeles is a dynamic and competitive real estate market, making property management a valuable asset for anyone owning rental properties in the area. With its unique blend of urban and suburban properties, Los Angeles offers a diverse range of opportunities but also requires professional oversight to maximize rental income and tenant satisfaction. Stlivingla stands out as a reliable partner, providing comprehensive property management services for those who need a trustworthy property manager in Los Angeles. Here’s how Stlivingla can help make property ownership in LA hassle-free and profitable.

Why Hire a Property Manager in Los Angeles? Managing a property on your own can quickly become overwhelming, especially in a city as large as Los Angeles. With the right property manager, however, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that every aspect of your property is being handled professionally. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a property manager in Los Angeles:

Tenant Screening and Selection Finding quality tenants is essential for ensuring timely payments and minimizing potential issues. Stlivingla provides thorough tenant screening, including background checks, credit reviews, and employment verification, to help landlords select reliable tenants.

Optimized Rental Pricing Understanding the rental market in Los Angeles is key to setting the right price. Stlivingla’s property managers are experts in analyzing local market trends and setting competitive rental rates, helping you to maximize occupancy rates while maximizing rental income.

Efficient Maintenance and Repairs Los Angeles properties require consistent maintenance to keep them in top condition. Stlivingla has a dedicated network of reliable contractors and service providers who can handle everything from emergency repairs to routine maintenance, ensuring your property remains in prime condition without delay.

Rent Collection and Financial Reporting Timely rent collection and transparent financial reporting are crucial for any property owner. Stlivingla handles all rent collection processes, making it convenient for both tenants and property owners. With detailed monthly financial reports, you’ll always know how your property is performing.

Legal Compliance and Documentation The property management landscape in Los Angeles is subject to various regulations and legal requirements, from rent control laws to property inspections. Stlivingla’s experienced property managers stay updated on the latest regulations, ensuring full compliance and handling all necessary documentation for your peace of mind.

How Stlivingla Stands Out as a Property Manager in Los Angeles Stlivingla goes beyond traditional property management by offering personalized services tailored to the unique demands of Los Angeles real estate. Here’s how we stand out:

Local Market Expertise: Our team has extensive experience in the Los Angeles area, allowing us to provide insights and advice based on real-time market trends. 24/7 Support: Our property managers are available around the clock, addressing tenant concerns and emergencies promptly. Comprehensive Marketing: We use targeted marketing strategies to attract the right tenants quickly, minimizing vacancy periods and maximizing rental income. The Benefits of Working with Stlivingla Working with Stlivingla allows property owners to enjoy the benefits of owning rental properties without the stress of managing them. From tenant communication to ensuring your property is always compliant with local laws, we cover every aspect of property management to help you maximize your investment.

Services Offered by Stlivingla for Property Management in Los Angeles Stlivingla provides a full suite of property management services in Los Angeles, designed to enhance your property’s value and make ownership hassle-free. Our services include:

Tenant Relations and Lease Management: We manage all tenant relations, handle lease renewals, and coordinate move-ins and move-outs. Rental Rate Analysis and Adjustments: We conduct regular rental market analyses to ensure your rates remain competitive. Maintenance Coordination and Inspections: We coordinate regular property inspections and handle any necessary repairs or updates. Eviction Assistance: In the rare event of tenant issues, we manage the eviction process in compliance with California law. Why Choose Stlivingla as Your Property Manager in Los Angeles? Stlivingla is committed to providing excellent property management services in Los Angeles, helping property owners like you get the best returns on their investments. We combine market expertise, exceptional tenant management, and streamlined processes to offer a seamless experience for property owners.

[hotforharrison]

Life has been kind of crazy in the worst possible way this month.

It feels like so much more than 3 weeks since the day I filed for divorce on July 1, which was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do.

I meant every word of my vows on that Thursday afternoon in September 2010 when my marriage began. I thought we were going to be each other's person for the rest of our lives, not for that to slip through my fingers because I was careless with his heart, and I can't put into words how deeply I regret it.

I never expected his embrace to hurt the way it does now, and the worst part of it is that he's the only one here to hug. He was the biggest source of my comfort for so many years, and even if he was here to hold me right now, it wouldn't be the same. What we had is completely gone.

It still kill me that I don't remember the last time we had sex, the last time we shared the bed we slept in together every night, and I woke up to him like I did so many times over the years.

He told me that we could have sex again on a friends with benefits basis, but I don't want to. It would destroy me.

Anyway, the power has been back on for a full week now after 8 days without in the godawful Texas summer heat, with only a few brief interruptions, mostly tonight when we had a thunderstorm.

We've spent the last week and a half, starting before the power even came back on, getting quotes from contractors for repairs for the extensive damages. The hurricane damages to the house I live in are in the tens of thousands of dollars.

(The house was downgraded from what was my home before my marriage ended because it feels like I'm surrounded by the devastating loss and ghosts of him and the love and life we shared for so long. It's agonizing just being here a lot of the time.)

We're not sure what the homeowners' insurance is going to cover for the repairs, which is terrifying, and we need to figure out how to work with FEMA if the insurance isn't helpful.

I'm also worried the HOA we're in will start giving us problems if we can't get the repairs done very quickly.

This month has been such shit in so many ways.

I desperately need my weekly counseling sessions, and my counselor cancelled this week. I've had only one of my weekly appointments this month due to cancellations and the hurricane, which is taking its toll on me.

In more positive and hopeful news, I had an appointment last Thursday with my job counselor at the state run employment program I was accepted into.

They'll pay fully for my schooling, textbooks, and supplies to get a degree or certificate from a local community college and offer job placement services after graduation.

I need a job I can do remotely, and I originally intended to pursue a year long certificate program in medical billing and coding. However, all of the local programs required on campus courses and capstones, which I cannot do.

I looked into every single fully online degree or certificate program that the local community colleges offered that aren't any longer than two years (my ex-husband agreed to let me stay here rent free for a few years while I get myself sorted) and settled on an Associate degree program in mobile/web application development.

I applied for the program today.

I wanted something with a decent level of job security, and I don't think phones are going anywhere. There's the possibility of freelance work on the side as well.

Considering and pursuing a career in technology is nothing new to me.

I went to a public university for an information technology program for 2 years after I graduated from high school, followed by a technical school for computer network operations for a year.

I never ended up working in the industry because it was saturated at my time of graduation, and they wanted me to have experience for an entry level position, which I found endlessly ironic.

I was told more than once by potential employers that I should have done an internship before I graduated to gain experience, which would have been fantastic to know while I was still in school and not with the days ticking down until I had to start repaying my student loans.

I desperately hope that I can transfer some of the roughly 20 year old credits over from the university I went to to cover the general education portion of the degree and maybe trim off a semester. (While technology absolutely has changed since the 2000s, some things haven't changed, like an introductory English or history course.)