Here's how to purchase a ~$24000 used EV as a Clark County Washington resident for $0 down and $0 - $100 / month after fuel savings.
I did a ton of research on this over the last few years and thought my experience might be useful to someone else. Please note, this is not a political discussion, and EVs aren't for everyone - especially if you tow >120 miles regularly, or don't have access to a residential charging station.
Clearing Up Misconceptions

1. Washington State is the 2nd cheapest state to purchase electricity in the US - costing ~$8 per 300 miles traveled if charging at your residence.
2. Driving from Vancouver WA to Vancouver British Columbia would require only a 20-minute stop if using the Supercharging network and cost under $26.
3. Many EVs get LESS range in the cold (newer models have a heat pump).
4. EVs are 29x LESS prone to fires than gas cars.
5. EVs are 87% LESS likely to fail in the cold than gas cars.
6. EVs are MORE safe in a crash than gas cars.
7. Gas stations fail when the power grid fails.
8. Solar can be purchased for home use.
9. Battery degradation is ~12% in 200,000 miles on older battery tech, and ~3% in modern LFP packs.
10. Tires need to be updated more frequently.
11. Technologies changing quickly and values depreciated quickly - but this is a pro if you are buying pre-owned.
12. Some utility providers limit chaging during peak hours.
13. Renewing your tags requires paying an additional $120 fee instead of the usual gas tax.

How to Get $6000 off a Used EV or Plug-In Hybrid

1. Make sure you qualify - You must not be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return or have claimed another used clean vehicle credit in the 3 years before the purchase date. In addition, your modified adjusted gross income (AGI) may not exceed: $150,000 for married filing jointly or a surviving spouse $112,500 for heads of households $75,000 for all other filers.
2. Make sure the vehicle qualifies - Have a sale price of $25,000 or less. Sale price includes all dealer-imposed costs or fees not required by law. It doesn't include costs or fees required by law, such as taxes or title and registration fees. Have a model year at least 2 years earlier than the calendar year when you buy it. For example, a vehicle purchased in 2023 would need a model year of 2021 or older.
3. Pick a vehicle from the IRS list.
4. When purchasing from a dealership, 30% of the cost of the vehicle will be deducted at the point of purchase - up to $4000.
5. Once the purchase is complete, you may apply for a Clark PUD rebate of $1000 or 10% - whichever is greater - up to $2000, provided the you and the vehicle qualify: the vehicle must have a sale price of $20000 or less, and your gross monthly income may not exceed 'limited income' requirements (Household of 1: $3,190 Household of 2: $4,310 Household of 3: $5,430 Household of 4: $6,550)
6. After completing the Clark PUD Used EV rebate form, you will receive a check via mail within 4-6 weeks.
7. You can also opt for $7500 off brand new purchases - but with different limitations.

How to Join USSFCU Normally only federal employees may join but there's a loophole. They offer some of the top rates in the country and a great resource to have an account with, even if you have mediocre credit.

1. Go to American Consumer Council
2. Click Join Now
3. Sign-Up and use code USSFCU to waive the fee
4. Wait for confirmation email
5. Sign up for a USSFCU account - https://ussfcu.org/applynow

I got curious and compared a used car loan for $20,000 ($24,000 - the federal rebate of $4000) from both USSFCU and Chase. At 72 months w/ a 650+ credit score, USSFCU was $333.72 / month and Chase was $359.42 / month - almost 10% more expensive. USSFCU also offers 84-month terms (pretty much no one else does), which is only $296.28 / month.
How to Get a Free $500 EV Charging Station

1. Purchase a qualifying charging station
2. Complete and submit the Clark PUD EV Level 2 Charger Rebate
3. After completing the rebate form, you will receive a check via mail within 4-6 weeks.
4. The rebate may be used up to 2 times, each time the rebate amount not to exceed $500.

How to Save $200-$300 a Month in Vehicle Expenses

1. Minimize paying for gasoline, oil changes, transmission maintenance.
2. In a year of ownership, driving an average of 50 miles a day resulted in a total cost $616 - a fuel savings of $2081 or $189 a month. Drive more save more.
3. Drivers that are compensated per mile net even more.

Other tips

1. Most manufacturers an 8+ year / 100,000+ mile warranty. Consider this, the age of the vehicle and the amount of time you expect to own it when purchasing.
2. A brand-new Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat can be purchased and transferred locally via Vancouver Ford for as little as $55k with the $7500 federal credit.
3. Many vehicles, such as the Cybertruck, F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1, can be used as a battery back-up for your home. Considering an equivalent PowerWall or similar device costs $12,000 to $15,000, this could be a huge cost-savings if you're a homeowner and plan to try and become energy independent.
4. 2018+ Nissan Leafs offer an amazing value in the $5,000 to $10,000 price range (FWD, 150 miles range) - but they use an outdated fast charger making them difficult to drive long distances. Still by far the best 'around town' value.
5. Teslas still offer the best all-around value, with a 2018 Model 3 Long-Range (AWD, 310 mile range, 4.4s 0 to 60mph) with 55,500 miles averaging $25,500 in the greater Portland / Vancouver area.
6. Model S and Model X older than 2017 are heavily discounted but are a very big risk due to the cost of repairs and soon-to-expire battery warranties.
7. The Prius Prime, Rav-4 Prime and Chrysler Pacifica are the undisputed plug-in hybrid sedan, crossover and mini-van winners.
8. 2 2023 Model Ys are insured through USAA for $305 a month including basically GAP coverage.

https://preview.redd.it/30kmk3r3vcsc1.png?width=668&format=png&auto=webp&s=941fb4aa18006eb068cf67632c1f62b8472b918f
Hope this helps someone else!

Millennial here - safe to say I’m not quite novice but certainly not an expert.
I’m trying to create a fillable document for an ‘lay person’ to complete whereby a person can be allocated to a chosen number. The information will then pull through a to registecalendar showing disruption of the numbers for individuals over a month - similar view to a gantt form.
I’ve tried to create a dynamic calendar type of disaster, and altering a calendaroster template but seem to not quite achieve my goal.
Would appreciate any advice including if this is a stupid idea and will never work.

I purchased this Google Sheets calendar on Etsy, mostly because the fillable PDF I purchased didn't save correctly and kept blowing up the text. I am trying to customize the colors and can't get the conditional formatting to work - i.e. green spectrum instead of pink. What am I doing wrong??? I've tried to add an screenshot attachment as well but it keeps getting stripped when I post.

F	G
37	=countifs(G39:G42,"<>",F39:F42,true)
38	=IFERROR(COUNTIFS(F39:F42,TRUE,G39:G42,"<>")/COUNTA(G39:G42))
39	FALSE
40	TRUE
41	FALSE
42	FALSE

G	H	I	J
1
2	=iferror(M4/O4, "")
3
4	=iferror(sparkline(G2,{"charttype","BAR";"max",100%;"color1","f4cfd7"}))
5
6

I've been creating a daily planner for a few years now, pulling details from my calendar and reminders, and formatting it using HTML then creating a PDF that I then write on. I'd like to enhance this by creating it as a form-fillable PDF, making it easier to resize text fields when I have lots to add to sections. I'd type or use scribble instead of just writing on top of the PDF.
Does HTML to PDF permit form-fillable fields? If so, is there a good reference on how I need to craft the HTML? I'd use text areas and checkboxes mainly, but it will be useful to know what is available.

This is the first time I’m filing by myself in 20 something years, I’ve always had an accountant do it for my business however, I simply can’t afford them anymore… I have no problem, filling out the tax forms and doing the calculations and what not. I’m filing on Free Fillable Forms and have some questions.
I’m not finding a way to submit form 4562 Depreciation and Amortization. Is this actually required to be filed? It is always in the return my accountant has filed but it looks like not needed if no new assets placed into service in the calendar year?
Also my accountant always has included a “federal statement” including certain line items. Specifically explanation of other expenses for form 8829 and allowable depreciation on form 8829. But I don’t see a way to include statements? Are they required??
I completed 6251 for AMT however it does not get included when printing my return. Not sure if it will file either? Is it not needed if AMT is not applicable?
Lastly when printing my return from Free Fillable Forms for some reason my wife’s info isn’t included (even though it’s clearly entered!). Will it file with her on it?
I would have hoped FFF would make it simpler than mailing in paper returns but not sure that’s the case! (I don’t get a refund, I roll it over to next year, so not worried about timing).
Thanks y’all for any info you have!

Writing blog posts in bulk can be a daunting task, but with the right templates, you can streamline the process and make it more efficient. By utilizing pre-made structures and formats, you can save time on brainstorming and organizing your content, allowing you to focus more on the quality of your writing. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using templates for bulk blog post creation and provide you with some useful examples to get you started on your writing journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Use templates: Creating templates for your blog posts can streamline the writing process and ensure consistency across your content.
• Save time: Bulk blog post creation using templates can save you time by providing a structured framework to work with, allowing you to focus on the content itself.
• Improve efficiency: By simplifying the writing process with templates, you can improve your overall efficiency and productivity as a blogger.

Understanding The Basics of Blog Post Templates

What are Blog Post Templates?

The key to efficient bulk blog post creation lies in utilizing blog post templates. These templates serve as a structured framework that outlines the main points, sections, and flow of your blog post. By following a predefined template, you can streamline the writing process and ensure consistency across all your blog posts. If you’re new to creating templates, you can check out this Create a Blog Outline Template in Minutes guide for a step-by-step approach.

Benefits of Using Templates for Bulk Writing

Any seasoned blogger will attest to the numerous benefits of using templates for bulk writing. Templates help you save time by providing a ready-made structure for your content creation process. They also ensure that your blog posts are well-organized and cohesive, enhancing the overall readability and engagement of your audience. Moreover, templates can serve as a guide for maintaining brand voice and consistency throughout your blog.
Blog post templates simplify the writing process by breaking down complex ideas into manageable sections. This allows you to focus on generating quality content rather than getting lost in the formatting and structuring of your blog posts. By using templates, you can speed up the creation of multiple blog posts while maintaining a high standard of quality and coherence.

Designing Your Blog Post Template

Essential Elements of an Effective Blog Post

Post creating a template for your blog posts, it is important to include key elements that will make your content engaging and informative for your readers. These elements include a captivating headline, introduction that hooks the reader, well-organized body content, relevant images or multimedia, and a strong conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Customizing Templates to Fit Your Brand and Audience

For a successful blog post template, it is crucial to customize it according to your brand identity and target audience. Consider incorporating your brand colors, fonts, and tone of voice into the template to maintain consistency across all your blog posts. Tailoring the content to resonate with your specific audience will help you connect with them on a deeper level and drive engagement.
This customization will not only enhance your brand’s image but also establish a sense of trust and credibility with your readers. By aligning your blog post template with your brand values and audience’s preferences, you can create a cohesive and memorable experience that keeps your audience coming back for more.

Implementing Templates in Your Writing Process

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Templates

Step-by-Step, here’s how you can utilize templates in your writing process effectively:
Create TemplateCustomize ContentStart by designing a template for your blog posts that includes sections such as introduction, body, and conclusion.Modify the content of the template for each specific blog post by adding unique information and insights.

Time-Management Tips for Bulk Writing

One effective way to handle bulk writing tasks is to manage your time efficiently. Consider these tips:

• Set aside dedicated time slots for writing and stick to them religiously.
• Use tools like calendar or task managers to schedule your writing sessions and stay organized.
• Break down your writing tasks into smaller chunks to prevent overwhelm and maintain productivity.

Process. By following a structured schedule and breaking down your writing tasks, you can optimize your time and improve the quality of your blog posts. The key is to find a routine that works best for you and stick to it consistently.

Advanced Strategies for Template Efficiency

Unlike starting from scratch every time, utilizing templates can significantly speed up your blog post creation process. For more detailed guidance on how to optimize your template efficiency, check out How to Write Blog Posts for your Business 3x FASTER + Exact …

1. Utilize pre-defined headings and subheadings to organize your content
2. Include placeholder text for intros, conclusions, and key points
3. Use bullet points for lists and breakdowns
4. Insert relevant images or multimedia with placeholder locations

AdvantagesImplementation TipsTime-savingInclude fillable fields for specific detailsConsistent tone and styleUse a standard format for all templatesImproved organizationInclude clear instructions for each section

Automating the Writing Process with Tools and Software

The writing process can be streamlined even further with the help of various tools and software available in the market. From content generation tools to SEO analysis platforms, these resources can save time and optimize your template efficiency.

Measuring the Success of Your Templated Posts

The effectiveness of your templated posts can be assessed by analyzing key metrics such as engagement, traffic, and conversion rates. By tracking the performance of your templates, you can continually refine and improve your blogging strategy for better results.
Advanced tracking tools like Google Analytics and social media insights can provide valuable data on how your audience interacts with templated content. Use this information to make informed decisions and enhance the impact of your blog posts.

Final Words

On the whole, utilizing templates for bulk blog post creation can significantly simplify the writing process and enhance efficiency. By pre-defining the structure and content guidelines, writers can save time and maintain consistency across multiple posts. This approach also allows for easier brainstorming, organization, and editing, leading to a more streamlined content creation process. With the right templates in place, bloggers can focus more on creating high-quality, engaging content while ensuring that their posts adhere to their brand voice and style. Embracing templates for bulk blog post creation is a powerful strategy for boosting productivity and producing consistent, top-notch content.

FAQ

Q: What is bulk blog post creation?

A: Bulk blog post creation is the process of generating multiple blog posts in one go, typically using templates or predefined formats to streamline the writing process.

Q: How can templates help simplify the writing process for bulk blog post creation?

A: Templates provide a structured framework for organizing content, making it easier to generate blog posts quickly and efficiently. By using templates, writers can focus on creating content rather than formatting, saving time and ensuring consistency across multiple posts.

What are some tips for using templates effectively in bulk blog post creation?

A: To use templates effectively for bulk blog post creation, customize them to suit your brand’s tone and style, include key elements such as headings and subheadings, and leave room for creativity and flexibility. Additionally, ensure that the templates are easily accessible and editable for future use.

• TagsSimplify, Templates, Writing

Notion is an app used to simplify note-taking processes and task management. However, this blog post will focus on the best notion alternatives.
Notion is fantastic, but there are specific requirements that Notion doesn't fulfill. Check out these alternatives to take care of those notes and databases more effectively.

Best Notion Alternatives

Now let's discuss them in detail and see how they are different and more practical than Notion.

1. ClickUp

ClickUp is the first on our list of Notion alternatives. It is an incredible project management tool with features in task management, note-taking, and content organization.
You can use ClickUp for personal use or help your team manage and organize their work. Also, you can drag and drop creative and educative-based pages, easy collaboration with team members, and import projects.
Click Up is easier to navigate than Notion and has a better offline mode. Moreover, you can store documents on the platform, making it one of the best notion alternatives.
ClickUp allows third-party integrations, so you can connect to the other apps you use. The app also provides fantastic learning resources for new users to familiarize themselves with.

2. Nuclino

Nuclino is a free collaborative editor and one of the best notion alternatives. It is effortless, has an excellent user interface, and provides a satisfying experience in almost all areas.
Writing and editing in Nuclino are aided by the clean aesthetic and easily implemented editing tools. As a team, you can add knowledge, manage projects, and share ideas all in one place.
However, Nuclino isn't strictly a document-editing program if you're considering a pure editorial experience.
Nuclino offers multiple tools to organize your items in line with your workflows. One of Nuclino's key features is its third-party integration capability; you can integrate various other apps like YouTube.

3. Google Docs

Google Docs is among the most famous and free notion alternatives to use. So, if you are looking for an application with the same basic features as Notion, don't search further than Google Docs.
The app handles all your basic word processing requirements and is strongly connected with Google Drive and other services. So, you won't lose your work because everything is kept on Google's cloud.
GoogleDocs autosaves every single keystroke. So, if your device or computer shuts down, it's easy to continue from where you stopped.
It also supports Microsoft Word's .doc and .docx formats, so you shouldn't have any problems importing and editing those.
One of its notable features for business users is real-time collaboration. If you share a document with another Google user, you can be in the document simultaneously, see the other user's cursor position, watch what they're typing, and chat. It's an excellent collaboration tool that stands out among word processors.

4. Asana

Asana is another task management and collaboration tool that incorporates some project management elements and can be helpful when organizing lightweight projects.
This app is famous for its flexibility and customizability. Also, it provides templates for users who prefer a bit of structure.
This app lets you break work into tasks and subtasks and assign each task to specific team members. It also lets users view any list of tasks on a calendar to clearly understand what is due and when.
Furthermore, regarding privacy control, you can control who has access to sensitive information or even make private teams for personal projects.

5. Microsoft One-Note

Microsoft OneNote is an app for research, note-taking, and information storage. Similar to the best notion alternatives like Google Docs, it lets you store text and images in documents that you can keep private or share with others.
OneNote is a part of the Microsoft Office Suite and programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
This app lets you capture your thoughts and ideas, whether they come as text or sketches, and share them with other team members. It also has advanced drawing and design tools that make it perfect for capturing more visual ideas.
Furthermore, OneNote lets you organize notes into notebooks which are further subdivided into sections and pages.
You can also tag notes to identify or manage them quickly. Not to exaggerate, you can even embed audio and videos to notes and share notes with people everywhere.

6. Zoho Writer

Zoho writer is also among the best Notion alternatives. It's a document creation app with real-time collaboration features built in. The application allows you to create, edit, collaborate on, and publish documents online.
The application uses a built-in Ai, Zia, for better quality content, fast grammar fixes, and insight into the document's readability for different audiences.
Zoho writer also has an e-signature tool where users can go from draft, approval, and signature in the same space.
Moreover, its Document Fillable tools put forms right in your documents, giving them a professional feel ready for embedding anywhere you need a form.
Zoho Writer also helps you to easily manage business communication and boost team productivity through powerful online word editor options, collaborative settings, and review options. ​

7. Craft

Craft is a project management and note-taking app with great visual design. It allows you to combine images, text, and other media to give your document the feel of a website. You can use Craft to organize your workflow, write reports and monitor multiple tasks.
Craft is super simple and fast; it's a native iOS and macOS note-taking app. With Craft, you can create nicely structured notes and link them with simple annotations. It's reliable, secure, and easy to use.
Furthermore, Craft allows you to style your content right from the keyboard. You could sync all your documents using iCloud, External third-party services, or their default sync service.
This app also provides the user an option to write documents using markdown. Craft comes with a daily calendar and notes integration. This daily note allows you to frictionlessly take quick notes, plan your day, add tasks or start a daily journal.

8. Anytype

Among the best Notion alternatives is Anytype. Anytype is a software that allows users to design their page, which their customers can subscribe to and get regular updates.
You might wonder how this app is one of the best notion alternatives; continue to read as I give you what this app is all about.
Anytype is a note-taking and task management app. Still, it's more different than Notion because the software can protect users' data from being hacked or breached by tech giants, governments, and hackers.
It allows its users to design their page, which their customers can subscribe to and get regular updates. Also, it helps users create a private hub where they can share their documents.
Anytype has a study dashboard that enables teams to manage all their projects and organize their knowledge, including resources like class notes, class directories, reading lists, digital syllabi, and more.

9. Evernote

If you need an app that lets you keep notes and access them when required, Evernote is a great choice. Evernote is also a collaborative document and note-taking app.
The first feature to notice is the ability to create notes. A text area and editor will appear when you click the 'create a message' button. You can also bold, make text italic, underline, change text color, change fonts, etc.
After creating a note, you can arrange them within the Evernote app. As a college student taking five different courses in a semester, you can create a separate notebook for each class.
You can also add unique tags to each note you make. These tags aid in the organization and retrieval of your messages. The program not only allows you to take notes but also allows you to save images, videos, and audio files.
Conclusion
These listed apps are the best notion alternatives to try. They are efficient and user-friendly. So, surf through them and choose the one that suits you best.

Is there a way to create an interactive and fillable workday only calendar on excel? I looked at videos, Microsoft community, other google searches and can’t find what I’m looking for. Excel templates don’t help either.
Essentially this is what I’m looking for: - a monthly calendar from Monday to Friday - fill the cells with work assignments, etc. - dates are automatically filled in - somehow show the next month (either in another sheet or scroll below, etc. - no preference)
I built this sort of trackeplanner on word but I’m getting tired of having to insert the dates all the time. I’m pretty sure I’ll have to find a way to build this myself in excel, but any help would be appreciated!

Hey, trying to do my holiday shopping without depending on Amazon and trying to keep things to local or Canadian businesses.
I’m looking for a place to buy empty advent calendars that I can fill up (with a selection of small surprises from other Toronto based companies I’ve already found).
Anyone know if there’s a Toronto/GTA business that sells empty/Fillable advent calendars?
Thanks!

Sorry, this is just a vent.
I’ve been working in an absolute hell hole for the last nine months. I’m the only designer in a small office for a random industry, where people barely even understand Google drive or how to link text in emails. I worked at an agency, took a bit of a pivot, and then this was just the best design job I could find in my location.
They had literally zero process and never had a professional designer before. To be fair they do have a Canva pro account, but you can imagine how everything looked. I rolled in super motivated to build a system from the ground up—social media strategy, with a social media calendar that I planned a month in advance and ran meetings for so that we could discuss everything we’re posting, started utilizing programs to create a monthly email newsletter, and a process for each department to submit information they’d like to share for the newsletter and our social media each month. I learned all this new shit to try to bring them into the 21st century. I started a “brief” system so that people can’t just pop into my office and ask for a flyer with literally zero information and expect it the next day. I handled EVERYTHING design- or marketing-related. I made fillable forms for people in Acrobat. I embedded linked images into emails and forwarded it to my boss so they can delete the top and send it out to the industry community because even though I’ve told them multiple times how to do it, they’d rather just be spoon-fed.
Well, everything I’ve ever done has only resulted in polite eye rolls. You’d think it was pulling teeth trying to get people involved in our social media calendar, or asking people to fill out a “brief” so that we don’t have go to back and forth 7 times over email to get all the information I need. Made a whole year-long social media campaign based off of my bosses telling me they like what another [industry peer] is doing. I presented it and all I got was a SUPER patronizing “you put a lot of work into this” and then, “we just want a hashtag we can put on posts here and there.” My bad.
I guess I came in a little too hot because at my evaluation (I had been there four months) they told me that my background in marketing and design prohibits me from seeing their vision (like WHAT???), that I’m replaceable, and that anyone in the office could do my job and I was only hired to take the work load off of someone else. Told me that we’re not going to be meeting halfway with anything, that I’m going to do what they say from now on. Also a lot of other super shitty things but those aren’t important to the story. I 100% believe they were intimidated by me because they don’t actually understand what I do and I was (admittedly) pretty strong-willed and defended my ideas and questioned theirs. Okay, sure, whatever. I will never lift a finger to do anything but the absolute bare minimum for as long as I work here.
Months and hundreds of job applications go by and by the grace of god I finally find a new job. I put in my two weeks and my bosses are in crisis mode because they’re trying to figure out who will take my responsibilities. I don’t think they intend to rehire for the role, instead I think they plan to push the responsibilities to other people who ARENT designers. I’ve done my due diligence building out the social media calendar (with posts and copy included) for October and November as well as the October and November newsletter. I created a document with all of my passwords, process, and tips and pointers for whoever ends up taking my job. But god, it feels SO good to see them scramble and stress after telling me that anyone in the office could do my job. Really now? Alright, let’s see it then. I wish I was petty enough to bring that statement up again, but instead I will watch from afar and relish in the collapse of everything I created because only designers can do the job of a designer. Fuck them.
Edit: thanks for support and kind words y’all. It sucks that so many people are in (or have been in) the same situation but it’s super validating to read your stories and know that I’m not alone. Hopefully we can all move past our shitty bosses and watch their downfall from afar one day!

I know many of us use technology in the classroom to keep track of our students, meetings, and the never-ending list of things we need to do as teachers; however, sometimes, I look forward to unplugging a bit and going analog.
Companies like Moleskine and Baronfig have discipline-specific notebooks, though none are really geared toward us. So I have a question: If one of these companies were to make a teacher notebook, what would you like to see in it? I'll start:
Weekly goals for me
Weekly objectives for planning
Monthly calendar
Cornell-style keyword tab
Participation tracker with fillable key
Daily or Weekly reflection
Maybe a system to rate how a particular week went (something like stars, etc.)

So I want to start doing a little bit of consulting work on the side. I don’t know how much business it will drum up (and still working full time) so I’m trying to minimize any costs until I get an idea of whether people want my services. I still work full time so this isn’t primary income.
Can any savvy business owners give some advice regarding CRM software - it will only need one seat for me. Ideally I’d like something free/low cost that has a fillable form that automatically builds a CRM customer line. I’d then like to integrate with Zoom (or whatever) if they book a consultation (hopefully with a live calendar like Calendly). Also, if they attach something to the fillable form, it’d be nice to automatically pull that into Drive etc. I’d like something within that platform to generate a quote, and also an integration for some form of signing software to allow for easy acceptance of a quote. Bonus points if it can also integrate/generate an invoice! (I’m well aware that this may be too much for free…)
I expect to be working with homeowners who may not be tech savvy so I want a workflow that is “one click” - I don’t really want them to have to download any additional apps to work with me. So one click to join a conference call, and one click to sign a quote.

So I want to start doing a little bit of consulting work on the side and honestly, I don’t know where to start so looking for some guidance from those that may have tread before me!
How did you set yourself up? Are you operating as your name Vs as a business name. I don’t know how much business it will drum up (and still working full time) so I’m trying to minimize any costs until I get a sense. I also don’t have a website, domain email or anything - and am trying to figure out how to do this low cost until I know if there’s any demand or not.
What’s the technical definition of “operating under a business name”. Can I have a branded website and a branded email (let’s say @throwingitaway.com) and then an invoice just showing my name (Oscar the Grouch) and that’s operating under my name? Or does this constitute operating under a business name and therefore should be registered?
Can any savvy business owners give some advice regarding CRM software? Ideally I’d like something free/low cost that has a fillable form that automatically builds a CRM customer line. I’d then like to integrate with Zoom (or whatever conference call platform) if they book a consultation (hopefully with a live calendar like Calendly so people can see when I’m available). Also, if they attach something to the fillable form, it’d be nice to automatically pull that into Drive etc. I’d like something within that platform to generate a quote, and also an integration for some form of signing software to allow for easy acceptance of a quote. Bonus points if it can also integrate/generate an invoice! (I’m well aware that this may be too much for free…). Mainly I want to try keep it in one platform, but the big thing is I don’t want clients to need to download any apps to join a call, or sign a contract or view an invoice. I know I find these processes annoying and want to make things fairly simple for people to interact with me - but I want to step up a little more than having a Facebook page as the way to interact with me.
Any pointers to help me get started would be a godsend!

So I want to start doing a little bit of consulting work on the side. I don’t know how much business it will drum up (and still working full time) so I’m trying to minimize any costs until I get an idea of whether people want my services. I still work full time so this isn’t primary income.
Can any savvy business owners give some advice regarding CRM software - it will only need one seat for me. Ideally I’d like something free/low cost that has a fillable form that automatically builds a CRM customer line. I’d then like to integrate with Zoom (or whatever) if they book a consultation (hopefully with a live calendar like Calendly). Also, if they attach something to the fillable form, it’d be nice to automatically pull that into Drive etc. I’d like something within that platform to generate a quote, and also an integration for some form of signing software to allow for easy acceptance of a quote. Bonus points if it can also integrate/generate an invoice! (I’m well aware that this may be too much for free…)
I expect to be working with homeowners who may not be tech savvy so I want a workflow that is “one click” - I don’t really want them to have to download any additional apps to work with me. So one click to join a conference call, and one click to sign a quote.

So I want to start doing a little bit of consulting work on the side. I have seen the sole prop prompts in this thread from the bot, but I’m more asking some questions about operating as your name Vs as a business name. I don’t know how much business it will drum up (and still working full time) so I’m trying to minimize any costs until I get a sense.
What’s the technical definition of “operating under a business name”. Can I have a branded website and a branded email and then an invoice just showing my name and that’s operating under my name? Or does this constitute operating under a business name and therefore should be registered?
Can any savvy business owners give some advice regarding CRM software? Ideally I’d like something free/low cost that has a fillable form that automatically builds a CRM customer line. I’d then like to integrate with Zoom (or whatever) if they book a consultation (hopefully with a live calendar like Calendly). Also, if they attach something to the fillable form, it’d be nice to automatically pull that into Drive etc. I’d like something within that platform to generate a quote, and also an integration for some form of signing software to allow for easy acceptance of a quote. Bonus points if it can also integrate/generate an invoice! (I’m well aware that this may be too much for free…)

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING

Council heard a presentation on flavored and menthol tobacco from Ms. Amanda Turner with the Coalition to End Tobacco Targeting organization. She argued that the tobacco industry is intentionally targeting children to use flavored e-cigarettes which contain addictive nicotine and other harmful chemicals. She noted that Columbus has passed an ordinance that would ban the sale of menthol cigarettes and vaping products in the city, which will take effect in 2024. She praised Hilliard for having a Tobacco Retail License (TRL) structure in place to help monitor and enforce the sale of tobacco products.
A memo to council was sent by City Manager Crandall that outlined recommended changes to city law that would ban the sale of flavored tobacco products from being sold in the City.
Vice President Vermillion asked about online sales of these products. Councilwoman Hale agreed that children should not be using these products but also noted that some former smokers have had success quitting by using flavored e-cigarette products. Council President Tarazi expressed concern that a ban of sale within the city limits would be ineffective if people could easily order supplies and flavored cartridges online. He also mentioned that the proposed change would also ban sale to adults and not just children. Councilman Carrier asked who was sponsoring the legislation being put forward. Crandall said that staff presented a potential change to city law as a topic of interest for the council, but that there was no official sponsor. Carrier questioned why the proposed change only bans sale and not possession of flavored tobacco products. He also questioned why we wouldn't propose a similar change for marijuana. Turner explained that she specifically works for an organization that targets tobacco products and that marijuana is a separate issue. Carrier said that if this proposed legislation is brought to the floor, he would be seeking support for an amendment to add a marijuana sale and possession ban. Vermillion agreed with Turner that tobacco and marijuana "are their own thing" and expressed support for protecting children. Councilman Marsh expressed concern that adults would not be able to decide to purchase the product for themselves, and that these products would be banned only because of a specific characteristic (the flavors). Tarazi asked how this proposed change would affect re-fillable e-cigarette flavor cartridges, or the sale of flavoring that could be added to cartridges separately. Hale cited a study from the Journal of the American Medical Association that found that a similar ban in San Francisco was associated with an increase in youth smoking. Turner explained she was aware of the study and said that it had been debunked, and that she would follow up with Hale about it soon. Carrier asked how Turner's foundation was funded. Turner said that works for Dr. Rob Crane, who is a local philanthropist that worked with Smoke-Free Columbus and Tobacco 21. She partners with the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, the American Cancer Society, and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. After a quick Google search, Tarazi returned to the topic of DIY flavoring and expressed concern that such a ban would be ineffective.
Tarazi asked whether council was interested in some official legislation on this issue. Councilman Teater was in favor of bringing some legislation to the floor. Vermillion agreed. Crandall said that something was already prepared and that they could put it on the agenda for a future council meeting. Carrier asked if they had any information about how their school program was working, and whether parents were engaged in that process. Tarazi asked Dawn Steele, City staff attorney and prosecutor, if the proposed legislation in the memo would also ban the types of refillable cartridges he was talking about, and she mentioned that it would.
Ms. Turner returned to mention that the study cited by Hale was flawed because it was based on data before the law was implemented, and that the author asked that the study by removed from the Journal. Hale asked if Turner has seen the recent data coming from Massachusetts.
Carrier moved to adjourn, seconded by Teater. Motion passed by voice vote.

REGULAR MEETING

COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS

• Board of Zoning Appeals (Hale): No report
• Destination Hilliard (Vermillion): Reminder to go to destinationhilliard.org to get a list of city events.
• Environmental Sustainability (Marsh): Meeting soon with Brown township
• MORPC (City Manager Crandall): Invites sent for the State of the Region event on March 31st
• Planning and Zoning (Hale): No report
• Public Arts (Tarazi): No report
• Recreation and Parks (Carrier): No report
• Shade Tree Commission (Teater): Meeting Tuesday, March 7th.
• Aging in Place Committee (Cottone): No report

RECOGNITION AND SPECIAL GUESTS

• Dr. Fred Tabung: Being recognized by council on his nomination to President Biden's Cancer Advisory Board. Picture here. Dr. Tabung said that he was honored to receive this proclamation. He spoke a little about his story and how he came to work at the James at Ohio State. He expressed gratitude for his family and neighbors.

CONSENT AGENDA

The following consent agenda items were passed in bulk without objection.
Resolution 23-R-08: APPROVING RE-APPOINTMENTS TO THE RECREATION AND PARKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

• Summary: This legislation approves appointments to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee (“RPAC”).
• Background: Michael Lentz and Brian Gara were appointed to initial two-year terms, expiring February 21, 2023. Both desire to be re-appointed to another two-year term. Additionally, the Hilliard City School District desires to have Mike McDonough continue to be its representative on the RPAC.
• Status: Passed without objection

Resolution 23-R-09: RE-APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE ALTON PLACE COMMUNITY AUTHORITY

• Summary: This Resolution reappoints members to the Board of Trustee of the Alton Place Community Authority
• Background: The board members are comprised of 3 developer appointments, 3 citizen members appointed by City Council, and one local government representative. Letty Schamp was appointed as a citizen member and Kelly Clodfelder was appointed as the one local government representative for an initial two-year term.
• Status: Passed without objection

Resolution 23-R-10: ACCEPTING THE PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE TARLTON MEADOWS WEST SUBDIVISION, SECTION 4, PHASE 1

• Summary: This legislation accepts the public streets, water lines, sanitary and storm sewer lines, street lights, and multi-use paths associated with Section 4, Phase 1 of the Tarlton Meadows West subdivision (the Tarlton Meadows PUD).
• Background: Council previously accepted public improvements for this development in 2016 and 2022. The specific street associated with the public improvements in this legislation is Orangeberry Circle.
• Status: Passed without objection

Resolution 23-R-11: ACCEPTING SANITARY SEWER PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE COURTYARDS AT CARR FARMS, SECTIONS 2 AND 5 SUBDIVISION

• Summary: This legislation accepts the public sanitary sewer lines for Courtyards at Carr Farms subdivision, Sections 2 and Section 5.
• Background: Council previously accepted public improvements for this development in 2022.
• Status: Passed without objection

PUBLIC COMMENTS

• Jeff Gergal, 5038 Mengel Lane: Wanted to address the financial loss from the phishing scam. Asked whether the city has a malfeasance problem, and sought accountability and transparency from city officials. Noted that this has happened in the past with Recreation and Parks Department. Wished council peace and a good evening.

ORDINANCES

Ordinance 23-02: AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO ENTER INTO A COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE, CAPITAL CITY LODGE NO. 9; AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS

• Summary: This three-year contract would give police a 3.5% pay increase in 2023, 2024, and 2025. It would also make changes to holiday and time-off calendars. Also asking for $285,511.98 in funding for operating budget.
• Background: The city and the FOP agreed to these terms on January 19th.
• Votes: Seven in favor (Cottone, Tarazi, Carrier, Hale, Marsh, Vermillion, Teater), none against.
• Status: Passed 7-0

Ordinance 23-03: AMENDING THE CITY’S CODIFIED ORDINANCES REGARDING OVERWEIGHT/OVERSIZE VEHICLES

• Summary: This would update language in the city code to increase the fees and add an insurance requirement for overweight/oversize vehicle permits to cover the costs of reviewing the applications and for police escort of vehicles.
• Background: There has been an increase in questions and applications for these types of vehicles. This process change was started after reviewing Franklin County requirements and it seeks to align enforcement and penalty with Ohio law.
• Votes: Seven in favor (Teater, Hale, Carrier, Tarazi, Cottone, Marsh, Vermillion), none against.
• Status: Passed 7-0

RESOLUTIONS

Resolution 23-R-12: APPROVING GMP #2 FOR THE RECREATION AND WELLNESS CAMPUS AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE DOCUMENTS TO APPROVE GMP #2

• Summary: This would set a Guaranteed Maximum Price of $3,056,950 for the earthwork and site utilities for the Recreation and Wellness Center Project, specifically the north side of the site where the new building itself will sit. Work on this portion of the project would begin in March.
• Background: This GMP is $36,094 under the budget set by the Control Estimate completed in November 2022. The monies would represent 11.95% of the total construction work for the new Recreation and Wellness Campus. In January, Council approved a GMP #1 (Resolution 23-R-04) of $6,747,793 specifically for the earthwork and utilities for the ball fields that will be located just south of the new community center building.
• Votes: Motion to adopt by Teater, seconded by Marsh. Seven in favor (Teater, Marsh, Cottone, Carrier, Vermillion, Hale, Tarazi), none against.
• Status: Passed 7-0

Resolution 23-R-13: APPROVING CHANGES TO THE ANSMIL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT ("PUD") PLAN AND TEXT TO AMEND THE NUMBER AND TYPE OF RESIDENTIAL UNITS AND TO MODIFY EXTERIOR BUILDING MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR SUBAREA E1

• Summary: The developer is requesting to shift 288 residential units permitted within the PUD text from continuum-of-care to non-age restricted units.
• Background: In February, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of text modifications to Subarea E1 that would correspond to housing options not contemplated in the original zoning.
• Votes: Motion to adopt by Cottone, seconded by Vermillion. Seven in favor (Hale, Vermillion, Cottone, Teater, Marsh, Tarazi), one against (Carrier).
• Status: Passed 6-1

Resolution 23-R-14: ACCEPTING A CONSERVATION EASEMENT FROM CLOP HILLIARD OH LLC

• Summary: CLOP Hilliard OH LLC is required to dedicate a permanent conservation easement on its property along Smith Ditch for purposes of limiting development and activity in this easement area. The protections in the conservation easement will allow this stream bank area to function as it normally would for erosion protection, flood storage, and water quality protection.
• Background: Last fall, the Hilliard Planning and Zoning Commission approved a Lot Split for this property. CLOP Hilliard OH LLC wants to build a data center on one of these lots, and they have agreed to a conservation easement along a ditch running through the lot for the protection of that waterway.
• Votes: Motion to adopt by Teater, seconded by Vermillion. Seven in favor (Teater, Vermillion, Marsh, Hale, Carrier, Tarazi, Cottone), none against.
• Status: Passed 7-0

Resolution 23-R-15: AUTHORIZING A LEASE-PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS, INC AND AUTHORIZING AN EXPENDITURE

• Summary: This legislation identifies the purchase of replacement police portable radios. The 5-year lease-purchase option reduces the overall purchase price by $55,000. This would authorize spending up to $85,000 for the first year of the lease process.
• Background: Motorola no longer supports about 65 portable radios in HPD inventory.
• Votes: Motion to adopt by Cottone, seconded by Teater. Seven in favor (Hale, Teater, Carrier, Tarazi, Vermillion, Cottone, Marsh), none against.
• Status: Passed 7-0

Resolution 23-R-16: AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF POLICE VEHICLES AND AUTHORIZING AN EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS

• Summary: This legislation authorizes the purchase of 4 marked and 2 unmarked police vehicles. This expenditure will utilize $186,696.00 previously approved in the 2023 Capital Budget. Tarazi asked whether the new vehicles will look cooler than Dublin's. Police Chief Woods said that our vehicles already looked cooler than Dublin's and that the new designs have been well-received.
• Background: The City of Columbus competitively bid for the purchase of police vehicles and received a price that is $269 below the price offered in the state term contract. Pursuant to state law, Columbus is permitting Hilliard to participate in the contract to receive the discounted price. The appropriate replacement vehicles will be traded-in and removed from the City’s asset inventory.
• Votes: Motion to adopt by Vermillion, seconded by Hale. Seven in favor (Vermillion, Hale, Cottone, Marsh, Teater, Tarazi, Carrier), none against.
• Status: Passed 7-0

STAFF REPORTS

None

OTHER NOTES AND COMMENTS

Tarazi questioned how it was possible that nobody came to speak about "the turkey thing".
Teater moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Vermillion. Motion passed by voice vote.
The next regular City Council meeting will take place on March 13th.

Hey guys, I’ve been working on a travel list for the US for a bit now and thought I’d share it. Obviously laws/rules change constantly, the information I’ve listed is what I was able to find by reading laws and statues for each place.
Although I think I got the most updated versions of laws, there’s definitely room for error so I will always advise checking it out yourself first.
Please feel free to let me know if you find any errors or laws that change(d) and I’ll attempt to keep this list updated.
I hope it’s helpful!
Alabama - their laws don’t specifically address traveling there or specify what “residency” means, it would be best to call and inquire before visiting. I know that you have to get permission to travel outside your county if you live there - so I expect it to be strict, but I’m not comfortable stating any specifics because it’s so very vague.
Alaska - must notify within 1 business day, do not have to register unless there for 30 days. Do not have to notify in person, may use this form:
https://dps.alaska.gov/getmedia/f5c5453b-0507-4548-9ea8-11e844cbdc02/Temporary_Presence_in_Alaska_Form_12-299-70_Fillable;.aspx
Arizona - 72 hours ($250 fee)
Arkansas - if there more than 5 days in a calendar year.
California - 5 working days
Colorado - Must register if visiting Colorado for more than 14 consecutive business days for an aggregate period of more than 30 days in a calendar year.
Connecticut - Any person not a resident of this state who is registered as a sexual offender under the laws of any other state and who travels in this state on a recurring basis for periods of less than five days shall notify the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection of such person's temporary residence in this state and of a telephone number at which such person may be contacted.
Delaware - 7 days or 30 days total in a year
Washington DC - Offenders are allowed to visit DC for less than 30 days without having to register with DC. Anything over 30 days requires notification to the DC SOR.
Florida - Yes, if an offender or predator is visiting Florida from another state, he or she must report in person to the sheriff's office within 48 hours of establishing a temporary residence in Florida. He or she is required to report within 48 hours from the time of his or her registration with the sheriff's office to report in person to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) with a copy of the completed sexual offendepredator registration form to obtain a valid Florida identification card or driver's license. Failure to comply with these registration requirements as provided by Florida Statute is a felony of the 3rd degree.
Georgia - After 14 consecutive days or 30 days within a calendar year.
Hawaii - Ten days in a row or more than 30 days in a calendar year.
Idaho - immediately notify if staying 7 days or more.
Illinois - more than 3 days per calendar year
Indiana - if present more than 7 days per 180 days or if owns property there
Iowa - 5 days
Kansas - 3 or more consecutive days or parts of days, or for 10 or more nonconsecutive days in a period of 30 consecutive days
Kentucky - you have 5 days to register after arrival if you plan to stay more than 14 consecutive days or for more than 30 non-consecutive days within a year.
Louisiana - 7 days
Maine - 14 consecutive days or 30 days aggregate
Maryland - 3 days
Massachusetts 4 consecutive days or 14 or aggregate days in a calendar year.
Michigan - 7 days
Minnesota - 14 days
Mississippi - 6 days without registering, if you intend to stay for 7 or more days you must register within three days of entry into the state.
Missouri - if there more than 7 days in a year.
Montana - must register after 3 days if planning to stay 10 consecutive days or more or 30 days in a calendar year.
Nebraska - register after 3 days if planning to stay 14 days or more.
Nevada - within 48 hours
New Hampshire - I can’t find any information in their laws or statutes and have essentially searched to the point where my brain may explode. I may call and ask, for now this is all I’ve got - https://www.manchesternh.gov/Departments/Police/Legal-and-Professional-Standards/Sex-Offender-Compliance
New Jersey - 10 days
New Mexico - within 5 days if you will be in the state 14 or more days or aggregate of 30 in a one year period.
New York - does not specifically address visiting, but appears that up to 10 days is safe.
North Carolina - 15 days
North Dakota - 10 consecutive or 30 aggregate days
Ohio - 3 days
Oklahoma - within 2 days if staying 5 or more days
Oregon - no specific travel rules - residency rule is 10 days, employment rule is 14 days so I’m guessing staying 9 days without registering is safe.
Pennsylvania - talk about a headache - one set of rules/laws says 48 hours, one says 3 days, one says 7 days. I say call and ask.
Rhode Island - also slightly complex/confusing. Most of what I read says “immediately” but only for certain crimes. http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE11/11-37.1/11-37.1-3.htm
South Carolina - after 10 consecutive days
South Dakota - within 3 days
Tennessee - 48 hours
Texas - 7 consecutive days or 3 48 hour periods. (Basically you can’t leave and come back without having to register)
Utah - more than 10 days in one year (365 days, not calendar year)
Vermont - 10 consecutive days or 30 days in a calendar year
Virginia - register within 3 days if working or attending school for 14 or more days or staying for an extended visit (which they define as 30 days). You do have to follow their SOR rules.
Washington (state) - within 3 days if there for 10 or more days
West Virginia - more than 15 consecutive days
Wisconsin - If you are not on active supervision, please contact the WI Sex Offender Registry and inform them you are registered in another state and plan to visit Wisconsin. You will need to provide your planned arrival and departure dates as well as the address where you will be staying during your visit. Depending on the length of your visit, you may need to register with the State of Wisconsin and meet with a Registration Specialist upon arrival to complete paperwork and have your photograph taken. Your offense history will be reviewed as Wisconsin State Statutes require a Special Bulletin Notification and GPS Tracking for certain registered sex offenders.
Wyoming - within 3 working days
Territories -
American Samoa - contact before you go. Despite being a US territory they do require a passport for entry.
Guam - must register immediately on arrival (and from what I’ve read they will 100% throw your ass in jail if you do not.)
Mariana Islands - 3 days
Puerto Rico - 3 days
Virgin Islands - All visitors and individuals who are required to register and who will be present in the territory for less than 30 days in any given year, must contact the Department of Justice in order to notify the Department of his or her presence in the territory as well as all arrival and departure information.