Author: John Norwood

A resident of Quincy, Illinois, Garth Baecker has held a variety of leadership roles throughout his life, ranging from his work as an English and journalism instructor at the Roosevelt Military Academy in Aledo to his career as an award-winning sales professional in the insurance and mutual fund industries. Garth Baecker has also spent more than a decade in leadership roles with the United Church of Christ. For 13 years, he has been a board president off and on for a 1,100-member congregation, The United Church of Christ (UCC) was established as a socially liberal Protestant Christian denomination in 1957…

Led by James Scotney, Town and Country Law’s fully regulated legal team provides specialist estate planning advice, working closely with clients to safeguard their assets and ensure their wishes are heard and adhered with. Having served more than 100,000 clients to date, Town and Country Law helps clients to plan responsibly for the future through a range of instruments including wills, trusts and LPAs, providing peace of mind through tax efficient estate planning services. This article will look at protective property trusts and how establishing one can help to avoid estates being drastically diminished due to care fees. Protective property…

Back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by poor posture, an injury, or a chronic condition like sciatica or arthritis – regardless of the reason, back pain can significantly impact your quality of life. One of the most overlooked factors contributing to back pain is your mattress. If you’re waking up with stiffness, soreness, or discomfort, it might be time to evaluate whether your mattress is doing more harm than good. Choosing the best mattress for back pain relief is crucial for improving sleep quality and overall well-being. But with so…

Higher education can open doors to countless opportunities, but the rising cost of tuition often presents a challenge for students and families. A comprehensive guide to scholarships provides a practical solution by offering financial assistance that does not require repayment. Understanding how to find, apply for, and secure scholarships can make a significant difference in funding an education and reducing financial burdens. Understanding Different Types of Scholarships Scholarships come in various forms, each designed to support students with different backgrounds, achievements, and financial needs. Merit-based scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, or artistic talent. These opportunities are often provided by universities,…

Running a construction business is no small feat. From managing teams and juggling multiple projects to staying on top of budgets and deadlines, the demands can quickly become overwhelming. In this high-stakes industry, inefficiency can lead to costly delays, frustrated clients, and missed opportunities for growth. That’s why finding ways to streamline operations is essential for long-term success. The construction industry is rapidly evolving. Clients expect faster turnaround times, better communication, and greater transparency. Labor shortages and supply chain issues challenge even the most experienced contractors. With so many moving parts, streamlining your business can feel like trying to fix…

Have you ever thought about trying out slot games and experiencing the cheerful excitement they bring? In this guide, you will find a clear and friendly explanation of what slot games are, how their features and payouts work, and the many types available for you to enjoy. This guide is written in a warm and simple style, much like a chat with a friend over a cup of tea, where every word is chosen to add a smile to your day. What Are Slot Games? Slot games are fun digital games that involve spinning reels with colorful symbols and interesting…

Understanding Your Security Needs: What to Consider The Importance of Risk Assessment in Security Planning Before embarking on the journey of securing your assets, whether they be personal property, corporate buildings, or sensitive data, it is imperative to conduct a thorough risk assessment. A precise understanding of your security needs begins with identifying vulnerabilities that inherently exist within your environment. Risk assessment is a systematic process that evaluates the potential risks your organization might encounter, including theft, vandalism, insider threats, cyberattacks, and natural disasters. It is more than just an assessment; it’s a strategic initiative that involves evaluating existing security…

Let’s be honest—nothing triggers a user’s rage faster than a sluggish app. If your users are tapping buttons like they’re ringing a broken doorbell and staring at a spinning loader longer than they stare into their partner’s eyes, something’s wrong. I’ve seen this more times than I care to count. And I’ve spent the last 15+ years helping teams from the U.S. to Europe—and, of course, right here in Columbia, South Carolina—figure out what exactly is slowing things down in their shiny new mobile apps. Spoiler alert: it’s not always your fault. Sometimes, it’s the frameworks themselves. At Web Design…

Health is still a priority even for gamers. Playing with optimal posture, height and position is just as important as you winning a ranked match. Here are some ergonomic tips for you gamers to reduce the risk of any health problems down the line. Sit on a Good Chair Choose the chair for your gaming setup at the Upperhouse based on your preferences. Make sure you are comfortable. Get one that offers support to your spine, reclines, has armrests and adjustable height so you can have an optimal sitting position while you play your game for hours. Make sure it…