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Once you get behind on your bills, it can be very difficult to catch up on your payments. Debt can cause you to spend more money on interest as well — but if doesn’t have to be that way.
There are some time-tested strategies that you can do to get you out of debt in a calendar year. It’s going to take time, patience and an overall focus like never before on your part. But you can do it.
Yes, You Can Get Out Of Debt This Year
This article is going to tell you some steps to get out of debt.
We’re going to cut straight to the chase so that you can understand how to keep more of the money you make and not spend it immediately.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always have to pay money to get out of debt.
Here’s How To Get Out Of Debt Without Paying
One way to get out of debt is to ask for a pay increase at your job. Today’s job market is such that you may be able to get more money if you ask for a raise.
Do you have a laptop? Then you can make extra cash. Here are some other ways you can achieve your goal:
What Is The Fastest Way To Get Out Of Debt?
Aside from winning the lottery, which is not something we play, there are not any get-rich quick schemes that can work in real time. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make some serious inroads on your finances.
Here are the fastest ways to get out of debt.
Stop Spending
The first thing you need to do is put the credit card down. Obviously, there are things you need to buy, but you also need to slow down or stop spending on unnecessary things.
You might want to write a list of items you need to buy and stick to it. It’s called creating a budget. Once you have that, you will know what kind of money is going into your account and what’s going out.
Keep Your Credit Cards Open
One thing people in debt usually do is close their credit card accounts once they get out of debt. This is a mistake. Keep your credit card accounts open so that you can retain purchasing power.
Pay Off Your Most Expensive Debt First
Once your budget is set, then it’s time to pay off the most expensive debt first. The rationale behind this is to pay off the highest interest rate, which is taking the majority of your money.
If you have a credit card with $800 and one with $400, don’t be tempted to pay off the $400 first. Take care of the $800 because that’s the one you’re paying the higher interest rate on.
Take a look at your expenses and circle the smallest balance. That’s the one you pay first. Not only will this eradicate that particular bill, but it will give you some much-needed momentum to start attacking your other debt.
Pay More Than The Minimum Balance
You’ll never catch up if you only pay the minimum balance on your credit card balance. To make some progress, you always need to pay more than your minimum due.
It doesn’t have to be a large sum of money attached to each payment, but it needs to be extra i.e. more than the amount.
Final Word
Nobody likes to owe someone for a long time, no matter if it’s a credit card company or a person. That’s why credit card debt is so depressing. The good news is that you can get out of debt.
Tired of being saddled with credit card debt? It’s time for you get lighten your burdens and get out of financial trouble.
After you make some headway and get out of debt, it’s important that you stay out of debt. Stay within your means by sticking to your budget.
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The unemployment rate in Louisiana is 3.3%, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which tracks the nation’s top economic indicators.
The numbers come as the Biden Administration released its October Jobs report, which indicates that U.S. hiring slowed to 150,000 jobs for the last month. The unemployment rate rose to 3.9%.
U.S. Jobs Report Just Released
For October, the United States saw nonfarm payrolls jump by 150,000 — less than was expected.
“We just learned our economy created 150,000 jobs in October – bringing the total since I took office to 14 million,” President Biden said in a statement online. “That’s on top of an unemployment rate that has stayed under 4% for 21 months straight, the longest stretch in over 50 years. Bidenomics is working.”
Others see the October jobs report numbers as a clear sign that of “stagflation,” where both unemployment and prices are on the rise – a not-so-fun twist in the game. There seems to be an odd “yolo” vibe about equities this week while our economy is signaling darkness.
While it’s easy to harp on the unemployment numbers, for perspective, we must remember that on average, the current administration has the highest real hourly wage and second-lowest unemployment rate among presidents back to Lyndon B. Johnson.
What Jobs Are In Demand In Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the state’s oil, fisheries and hospitality sectors account for plenty of jobs that are needed. As for those in demand, LinkedIn has a list of such employment opportunities that are hot in Louisiana. Here are some job titles:
- Manager, Unit Forecasting
- VP/GM
- Director of Advanced Manufacturing
- Dynamic Presenter – Virtual and In-Person Test Prep Instructor..
- Materials Specialist
- Vice President of Supply Chain – Construction / Energy Solutions
- Logistics Coordinator
Final Word
Jobs are hard to come by no matter if you’re seeking full-time work, part-time or looking to land gigs as a contract freelancer.
Need some help? Read up on websites that help you find high-paying remote jobs.
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Finally, a neighborhood eatery that gives you a hearty meal without all the pretentiousness: Plates is open in New Orleans.
Plates is located in the Warehouse District and specializes in shareable dishes inspired by the best of New Orleans cuisine.
Owned by Louisiana native Chef Farrell Harrison and partner Brian Weisnicht, Plates is open the following hours:
- Monday 5pm – 10pm
- Tuesday 5pm – 10pm
- Wed 5pm – 10pm
- Thursday 5pm – 10pm
- Friday 11am – 10pm
- Saturday 11am – 10pm
- Sunday 11am – 10pm
What’s On The Menu at Plates?
The Plates menu includes an eclectic mix of Old World and New World cuisine encompassing signature dishes from France, Spain, Africa and influences around the Mediterranean.
On the menu you’ll find:
- Gulf Fish
- Pork Porthouse: weet potato gratin, creole mustard bordelaise (gf)
- Garlic Shrimp: Black garlic soubise, chili oil (gf)
- Braised Beef Croquettes: Pimenton aioli, pickled chilies
- Grilled Lamb Skewer: Rosemary yogurt, crushed herbs (gf)
- Saffron Pork Ragu: Fresh pasta, cherry tomatoes, fennel
Where Is Plates Located In New Orleans?
Plates is located at the 1051 Annunciation St. New Orleans, LA 70130. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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Researchers at Stanford University say they have created a “super melanin” cream that repairs skin tissue.
The groundbreaking discovery is published in Nature, a scientific publication on the latest research. According to the science, the man-made melanin rejuvenates the skin and even accelerates wound healing.
There’s no word on whether the cosmetic industry will co-opt the research, but you can bet that it will be available on Amazon soon enough. In the meantime, these skin-care products have been tried and tested by millions of happy customers. These skin care products are pretty super if you ask me.
6. Light Face Moisturizer with SPF 25 by Olay Regenerist Whip – $28.36
7. L’Oreal Paris Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum Skin Care I Revitalift Derm Intensives – $21.93
Here’s what one reviewer says about this L’Oreal product: “I’m a fair skinned young at heart woman in my early 50s. You know those unisightly, definitely in-freckle blotches can come up? This product erases them. I have found my new holy Grail and couldn’t be happier – after just a week. I’m already ordering a new bottle to have on hand. I do use it on my décolletage and hands as well. Thank you, L’Oréal!”
8. Reform Skincare Retinol 1% Crème – $59.99
9. Resurface by Shani Darden Retinol Reform Peel,1 oz (30ml) – $74.97
Here’s what one reviewer says about Shani Darden Retinol: “I started using this product mid-February and have significantly reduced my scarring in 10-weeks. During this time I used one full bottle and have just purchased my second. The price is steep, but I can’t find an alternative. The hope is to fade the remaining dark spots.”
10. Sublimage La Creme Yeux Ultimate Regeneration Eye Cream – Travel Size – $60
Here’s what one reviewer says about Sublimage La Crème Ultimate Skin: “This a.m., after 3 months of fighting puffiness and fine lines on my left eye, it now matches my right eye. I am quite amazed. Given I never tried Chanel & did not know the active ingredient of vanilla extract but recognized Squalane, which is at the top off the List, I am very pleased! Will buy after deluxe sample is gone. Costly, but works which is a lot better than trying hundreds of dollars of products that don’t work.”
Final Word
These products have got a lot of people that care about their skin care routine excited. So that’s why we’ve listed these particular products.
We pride ourselves on finding items that you can use at a cost that works. Hopefully, the price points are affordable for your budget.
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Who’s down for some culture with their cuisine?
Black Restaurant Week wraps up in New Orleans this weekend.That means it’s the perfect time to experience some of the city’s food businesses owned by African-Americans.
Black Restaurant Week is all about spotlighting and promoting the Gulf Coast and New Orleans’ African American-owned restaurants, food businesses.
The annual food event also considers its mission as one that educates and raises awareness of the black culinary industry in the United States and its plights and delights.
When Is Black Restaurant Week In New Orleans?
In New Orleans, Black Restaurant Week runs from Oct. 20-Oct. 29, 2023.
Black Restaurant Week sees its role ans one that helps create experiences that will cater to a diverse culture of tastemakers, professionals and area foodies seriously. Gone this year are the panels and food workshops, it’s all about support. That’s why the goal is just to eat at participating restaurants and spread the word.
What began in Houston seven years ago has expanded in major U.S. markets like Atlanta, New York, Washington D.C. and Chicago.
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The TV streaming services are doing their best Superman imitation by going up, up and away!
Apple TV+ is hiking its monthly subscription from $6.99 to $9.99 a month, the company said recently.
Just last year, Apple TV+ cost just $4.99 a month. Following Netflix’s lead, many streaming platforms are starting to raise their rates.
Why Are Streaming Services Getting More Expensive?
Competition from not just the movie studios, but the tech industry has made the streaming business a war of attrition.
Hollywood, which had been working with Netflix for over 20 years, has increasingly sought to gain market share in the streaming business in recent years.
Faced with actors and writers strikes, the movie studios are seeking to raise more capital by increasing their streaming rates for movies and TV series.
You may choose to stick with Apple TV+ or search for some alternatives. That’s what I would do.
Streaming Alternatives To Apple TV+, Anyone?
One way to watch TV for cheap is to invest in a streaming device that has plenty of free apps. I Depending on which app you choose, you could get access to all types of free movies, TV series and more.
Read up on the best streaming devices for your TV.
Final Word
With the right TV, it matters little what kind of streaming platform you subscribe to.
If you already have a smart TV, you may just need a streaming device. Here are the best add-on streaming devices for your TV.
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Cold weather is not a friend to us in the Deep South, but that doesn’t mean we have to shiver through the night. We can actually heat our homes and save money at the same time.
This article will show you you some money-saving ways to heat your house when it’s cold outside.
How To Heat Your Home Without Electricity
In addition to wearing warmer clothing, you can heat your home without electricity by taking advantage of several amenities you may have in your home.
Fire Up the Chimney
Many homes have a chimney, or fireplace, that can significantly heat up the immediate room and those near it.
Before you light your fireplace, make sure that your air vents are open. Once you add some logs on the bottom of the fireplace, you’re ready to light a match and start the heating process.
Replace Your Windows
Now, I know you may be thinking that replacing your windows will cost you some cash, but you’ll save a lot of money — and heat – if you do. The Department of Energy website Energy.gov, says you can save up to 30% by replacing old, drafty windows.
Use Kerosene Heater
Kerosene heaters don’t take up nearly as much space as an air conditioning unit and they put out some great heat for their size.
When using a kerosene heater, make sure you familiarize yourself with safety tips and protocols so that you don’t endanger you and your family’s lives as well as threaten the structure of your home.
Note: If you choose to use such a heater indoors, use it sparingly so as not to increase your risk of causing fires or carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Final Word
Keeping warm in the winter can be a challenge if you don’t have a plan. But if you have one, your life can be a lot easier — and you’ll be a lot warmer.
Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.
Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.
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- What To See And Do In New Orleans
- Where To Buy Nice Suits In New Orleans
- Here Are The Latest Casting Calls In New Orleans
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Do you love free food? We know we do! Till the end of the year, McDonald’s is making Friday your “free fry” day.
The eatery is offering customers free Medium Fries every Friday for those who download and order from the McDonald’s app, making a minimum purchase of $1.
How Long Can I Get Free Fries At McDonald’s?
You can get free fries at McDonald’s until Dec. 31, which is when the deal expires.
Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in New Orleans, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Greater New Orleans’ retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
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It wasn’t pretty and was in doubt until only seconds were left, but LSU beat an undefeated Missouri on the road, 49-39, on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023.
The game was a tale of two halves for the LSU defense, who gave up 9 catches and 110 yards to receiver Luther Burden in the first half. In the second, he only snagged 2 catches for 39 yards.
Missouri led by 15 points, 22-7, midway through the second quarter and led 32-27 at the start of the fourth.
LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels took some big shots, and briefly left the game due to a rib injury. When he returned, he put the Bayou Bengal offense on his back. One standout play was his electrifying 35-yard run in the fourth quarter.
“That LSU quarterback is pretty good,” LSU coach Brian Kelly said after the game. Kelly seemed to take umbrage at the fact that Missouri scheduled LSU for homecoming.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook equaled his career high with 395 yards and two touchdowns but had two costly interceptions, with one of them being a pick six by LSU linebacker Major Burns.
Now let’s watch some LSU-Missouri highlights:
Final Play
If you watch an LSU game, you see the same mistakes and miscues by what should be a seasoned squad. We’ll see if the team can reach expectations in the tough SEC West.
LSU has another Tiger team up next: Auburn.
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The LSU Tigers had to keep the ball away from the Arkansas Razorbacks to win 34-31 on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in Tiger Stadium. The game was a see-saw experience for both Tiger and Hogs fans.
Arkansas opened with a 13-3 lead in the first quarter as the Tigers had no answer for the fleet-footed and sturdy play of Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jefferson.
Here are three takeaways from the Tigers’ victory:
1. LSU Continues To Start Slow
For the second time out of four games, the Bayou Bengals played a lackluster opening stanza. All the way back to the Florida State game, LSU has not opened strong out of the gate and has had to come from behind to win.
LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels looked out of sync in the first half, but he turned it around in a big way in the second half.
“Everyone before that was just kind of out of whack,” Daniels told reporters after the game. “I’m the leader of this offense and once I find my rhythm, everybody is in a good rhythm and we put up points.”
Daniels finished with four touchdowns. Early on, his favorite target was receiver Brian Thomas, who caught two 49-yard touchdowns.
2. LSU’s Defense Struggles With Running Quarterbacks
It’s not a secret but LSU’s fast defensive linemen and linebackers continue to have trouble with quarterbacks that are mobile.
Jefferson wouldn’t let the Razorbacks roll over though. The quarterback had a number of stellar scrambles for first downs. He finished with 289 yards and three touchdowns, with many of them being last-second heaves under heavy rushes.
3. Brian Kelly Has Common Sense
Sometimes, you’ll run into a coach that goes against the obvious because he believes his team is bigger and stronger. Or he thinks the crowd will affect the opposing team.
LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly isn’t like that. He sees what we see and against the Razorbacks he saw that his defense couldn’t stop Jefferson. He defended his clock management late in the game, saying that he was just trying to win the game.
“It’s just the nature of two teams in proximity, playing for a rivalry trophy and a team we knew was going to play their very best — and they did,” Kelly said in post-game comments. “We were the last one to have the football and I wasn’t interested in letting Arkansas have another chance.”
Watch the highlights of the LSU-Arkansas game.
Now the LSU schedule toughens considerably as the SEC West beckons. Will the wins continue?
Follow LSU’s football schedule week in and week out.
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