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Buying a new TV takes some real preparation, time and of course, some money. But you don’t need to buy just any TV; it needs to be a “smart” TV, which means that it has apps and works with all of the traditional devices out righ tnow.
The best big-screen TVs can be found, but it takes strategy to get a good price.
This article will cover how to shop for a smart TV.
How To Shop Smartly For a Smart TV
Shopping for a TV can be an exciting but overwhelming experience due to the variety of options available. Here are some tips to help you shop for a TV:
Set a Budget
You don’t want to walk into an electronics store on go on Amazon with an open wallet searching for a TV. That’s how you overspend.
Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a TV. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on TVs that are within your price range.
Read Up On Reviews
Before making a purchase, read reviews of the TV model you’re interested in. Look for reviews that discuss picture quality, sound, reliability, and any issues other users may have encountered.
Where do you go to read reviews? Try Google as well as Best Buy and even Walmart. All of them have reader ratings and reviews with their products.
Consider the Size
How big do you want your TV? And does your wall and room work with a large TV?
Think about the size of the TV that will best fit your space and viewing distance. Consider factors such as the room’s layout and how far you’ll be sitting from the TV to determine the ideal screen size.
Choose the Right Features
There are several types of display technologies available, including LED/LCD, OLED, and QLED. Each has its pros and cons in terms of picture quality, brightness, and cost. Research these technologies to decide which one suits your needs best.
Look for a TV with good picture quality, including factors like resolution (HD, Full HD, 4K, or 8K), color accuracy, contrast ratio, and refresh rate. These factors contribute to a TV’s overall viewing experience.
Assess Smart Features
Many modern TVs come with smart features that allow you to stream content from apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Consider whether you want these features and how important they are to you.
Compare Sound Quality
TV speakers often don’t provide the best audio quality. If sound quality is important to you, consider investing in a soundbar or a TV with built-in high-quality speakers.
Check Warranty and Return Policy
Make sure to check the warranty and return policy of the TV you’re considering. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, and a flexible return policy can be helpful if you’re not satisfied with your purchase.
By considering these factors and doing some research, you can find a TV that meets your needs and provides an enjoyable viewing experience.
Once you read up on the return policy, you need to make sure it has the features and functionalities you need. Here are some of the most popular things you may want in a TV:
Internet Connectivity and App Support
Smart TVs can connect to the internet, enabling you to browse the web, stream videos from websites, and access online content easily.
Smart TVs come with app stores where you can download and install various apps, including games, news, weather, and more, expanding the functionality of your TV.
Voice Control and Screen Mirroring
Many smart TVs offer voice control features, allowing you to control your TV, search for content, and even interact with smart home devices using voice commands.
Smart TVs often support screen mirroring, allowing you to mirror the screen of your smartphone, tablet, or computer to your TV wirelessly, making it easy to share photos, videos, and presentations.
Final Word
It can be time-consuming when shopping, but it’s worth your while when you think about the amount of money you can save.
Some smart TVs can integrate with smart home devices, allowing you to control your lights, thermostats, and other smart home devices directly from your TV.
By considering these factors and doing some research, you can find a TV that meets your needs and provides an enjoyable viewing experience.
Taking care of yourself financially is the #1 way to live better later in life. If you do so, you can save money on travel, what you pay at the grocery store and other expenses.
Read how to get out of debt right now.
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Netflix changed the game by becoming a streaming juggernaut for movies and TV shows. Now, the company is positioning itself to raise its monthly fee once again.
That’s according to Variety, which reports that the streaming service is circling its wagons in pursuit of profits. Netflix last raised its prices in October 2023, when the service jumped to $11.99 for its basic plan.
Variety cites Netflix’s Q$ 2023 earnings call, in which Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters posited that the U.S. audience may not be averse to a price increase with more offerings.
“We will continue to monitor other countries and try and assess,” Peters said on the call, “when we’ve delivered enough additional entertainment value” to “ask [customers] to pay a bit more to keep that positive flywheel going and we can invest in more great films, series and games for those members. So, you know, the summary statement might be, ‘Back to business as usual.’”
Netflix remains #1 in market share when it comes to streaming services in the United States. Among the reasons why include:
Original Content and Variety
Netflix offers a wide range of content, including movies, TV shows, documentaries, and original series, catering to a broad audience with diverse interests.
Netflix has invested heavily in producing original content, which has received critical acclaim and attracted a large viewership. Shows like “Stranger Things,” “The Crown,” and “Narcos” have become hugely popular worldwide.
User Experience and Convenience
Netflix allows users to stream content anytime, anywhere, on a variety of devices, making it convenient for people to watch their favorite shows and movies without having to adhere to a traditional TV schedule.
Netflix provides a user-friendly interface that recommends content based on a user’s viewing history, making it easier for viewers to discover new shows and movies they might enjoy.
No Commercials and Accessibility
Unlike traditional TV, Netflix does not interrupt its programming with commercials, offering a more seamless viewing experience.
Netflix is available in over 190 countries, making it accessible to a large international audience.
Final Word
Netflix isn’t the only streaming service raising its prices. Apple TV+ recently did it as well.
One way to stream the right way is to save money on Netflix.
Read how to get out of debt right now.
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Some of the most heart-healthy food you can eat is Mediterranean fare. In New Orleans, we have more than gumbo; we eat healthy, too.
Mediterranean cuisine emphasis on fish, olive oil, and nuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, may help protect against age-related cognitive decline. But where can you find Mediterranean food in New Orleans?
This article will show you where you can get the best Mediterranean food in New Orleans.
Saj
4126 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 766-0049
Here’s what one reviewer says about Saj. “One of the top restaurants in NOLA. I have spent time in Lebanon, Syria and Egypt and lived in London for years where you can find the best in Middle Eastern cuisine. Saj is up there with the best. There bread ‘Saj’ is authentic “mothers bread”. The food is excellent and the presentation too. Great service and all round I love it here.”
Pyramids Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine
3149 Calhoun St, New Orleans, LA 70125 | (504) 861-9602
Here’s what one customer says about Pyramids Cafe. “They have the best prices in the city and the quality of the ingredients is always amazing! I’ve never experienced a restaurant that consistently has such bright red, fresh tomatoes in their wraps. Their falafels are some of the best I’ve had and their labneh tastes fresh and herby. Some of the mediterranean places around here are so greasy but pyramid’s food isn’t greasy at all! I don’t think there’s any other restaurant that provides such delicious and nourishing meals for the prices they do. Their lebanese tea is really good as well.”
Olive
339 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 766-9271
Check out what one diner says about Olive. “Some of the best Mediterranean I’ve ever had! Grape leaves, salad, humus, kufta, and beef all had their own unique flavors and they give you more than enough pita. If you’re feeling med tonight, go! Quick service too.”
Cleo’s
117 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 766-1853
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cleo’s. “Best fish dish I have ever had. The trout in green curry was mind blowing. Great portions. Tons of flavor. The green curry… the olives. To die for. I will think of this dish for the rest of my life.”
Mona’s Cafe
3901 Banks St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 482-7743
Here’s what one customer says about Mona’s Cafe. “Been here countless times cuz I live around the block. Never fails to disappoint. I’ve had most of the appetizers and the spinach pie is my favorite. Hummus is one of the best in town. Always fresh and delicious. I’ll surely be back.”
Lebanon’s Cafe
1500 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 862-6200
Here’s what one reviewer says about Lebanon’s Cafe. “I really enjoyed my experience at Lebanon’s Cafe. The food was delicious, the portions were generous, the decor was lovely, and the service was great. The gyros were the best we had ever had. The baklava was also delicious. 10/10 recommend.”
Eating a Mediterranean-type diet can also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke due to its emphasis on olive oil, whole grains, fish, and nuts, which are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
Final Word
Healthy eating can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke due to its emphasis on olive oil, whole grains, fish, and nuts, which are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
Overall, the Mediterranean diet is praised for its focus on whole, minimally processed foods, and its potential to promote overall health and well-being.
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New Orleans is a city that needs little reason to celebrate and Easter is no different. You can enjoy a great meal in the Crescent City for Easter. Don’t know where to go? Keep reading.
Easter 2024: Where To Eat In New Orleans
This article will show you some of the best places to visit and the top restaurants to eat at during your visit to New Orleans for Easter.
Where To Eat In New Orleans For Easter
Now let’s get into some great places to eat in New Orleans right now.
Brennan’s
417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 525-9711
Here’s what one reviewer says about Brennan’s: “Design of the restaurant is really good. Service was decent. However I did not like the food. Whether that was my fried rabbit particularly or the oil they use, I just stayed hungry.”
Cochon Restaurant
930 Tchoupitoulas St suite a, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 588-2123
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cochon: “Our experience at Cochon was pleasant. Service was quick and food was delicious. Drinks are also well crafted. The oysters on garlic chili oil was a winner. The alligator was different. If you don’t mind eating alligator then it’s probably good. Just not for me.”
Commander’s Palace
1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 899-8221
Here’s what one customer says about Commander’s Palace: “Commander’s Palace was a lovely dining experience- the ambiance was great, our waiter had a dynamite personality, and we had fun having an excuse to dress up! I forget the details but I believe the sourcing of the meat was local/organic if they possibly could which I thought was nice. Also, the bread pudding was delicious!”
Doris Metropolitan New Orleans
620 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | : (504) 267-3500
Here’s what one customer says about Doris: “This place was incredible. The service was excellent. The food was… I swear I died and am presently a ghost. The desert was so so so rich, but so incredibly good.
Absolutely hit this place up if you are looking to dine high quality.”Final Word
New Orleans is known as a party city, but a celebratory city is a much more accurate word. Easter and other holidays are great excuses to do what we do best in the Big Easy: Party hearty,
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On average, you can save anywhere from 15% to 30% or more by choosing generic brands over brand-name foods.
This can add up to significant savings over time, especially if you regularly purchase a variety of grocery items and are serious about saving money at the grocery store.
This article will show you the best generic brands to buy at the grocery store and why it’s beneficial to save.
Want To Save On Food Costs? Buy Generic
Buying generic labels can save you money because they are typically less expensive than brand-name labels.
Generic labels often offer similar quality and functionality as brand-name labels, but at a lower cost because they do not carry the same brand recognition or marketing expenses.
By opting for generic labels, you can reduce your expenses, especially when buying in bulk.
Popular Generic Brands To Buy
At the grocery store, some popular generic label brands, also known as store brands or private labels, include:
- Kirkland Signature (Costco)
- Great Value (Walmart)
- Market Pantry (Target)
- 365 Everyday Value (Whole Foods)
- Up & Up (Target)
- Trader Joe’s (Trader Joe’s)
These brands offer a wide range of products, including food items, household goods, and personal care products, often at lower prices compared to national brands.
Final Word
Generic brands often offer similar nutritional value to brand-name foods but at a lower cost. By saving on food costs, you may be able to afford healthier options, such as fresh produce or lean proteins.
Taking care of yourself financially is the #1 way to live better later in life. If you do so, you can save money on travel, what you pay at the grocery store and other expenses.
Read how to get out of debt right now.
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A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a great way to put your money away for medical bills and other health-related expenses.
In this article, I will show you how an HSA can help you save money.
What Is an HSA?
An HSA is a savings account that you can fund through tax-deductible contributions. These contributions reduce your taxable income.
Another good thing about an HSA is that anu withdrawals used for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.
How Can an HSA Help You To Save Money
The money in an HSA can be invested, allowing it to grow over time. This growth is tax-free as long as the funds are used for qualified medical expenses.
Another way an HSA allows you to save money is that unlike flexible spending accounts (FSAs), funds in an HSA roll over from year to year, so you don’t lose any unused money at the end of the year.
Portability
HSAs are portable, meaning you can keep the account and use the funds even if you change jobs or health insurance plans.
Covering Medical Expenses
Using an HSA to pay for medical expenses can help you avoid using high-interest credit cards or dipping into your emergency savings.
Retirement Savings
Once you turn 65, you can withdraw funds from an HSA for non-medical expenses without penalty (though you’ll pay income tax on the withdrawal). This can make an HSA a useful retirement savings tool.
Final Word
An HSA is a type of savings account that can help you ward off medical expenses.
Your contributions are tax-free and if you wait until retirement age, your withdrawals are too. What’s not to love?
Read more in our Money Section.
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From the Boot to the Big Apple. Former Louisiana State University (LSU) star and WNBA draftee, Alexis Morris has signed with the Harlem Globetrotters, the team recently announced.
Morris becomes the seventh woman to join the Globetrotters, the most in the organization’s storied history, as they will prepare to celebrate their centennial in 2026.
Morris, a dynamic point guard and a top scorer on LSU’s 2023 National Championship team, brings a stellar blend of skill, athleticism, and showmanship to the iconic Harlem Globetrotters.
“I’m excited to join the Harlem Globetrotters and want to thank the leadership team for giving me an opportunity to grow my personal and professional career while playing the game I love,” said Morris. “There is a lot to learn from my coaches and teammates and I’m excited to highlight the level of basketball and entertainment of the organization. ‘The Show’ is now a part of the growing legacy of Harlem Globetrotters basketball.”
Morris, who has begun her Harlem Globetrotters training and will be joining the domestic arm of the 2024 Tour, will take to the court for the first time as a Harlem Globetrotter on Friday, February 9, 2024 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, the birthplace of basketball and The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Her extensive and rigorous schedule will also include stops at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY, on Sunday, February 18 and Madison Square Garden, Manhattan, NY, on Saturday, February 24.
“The Harlem Globetrotters have a storied history of signing some of the world’s most accomplished and coveted talent; Wilt Chamberlain, Connie Hawkins, ‘Curley’ Neal, Lou Dunbar, Lynette Woodard and now, Alexis Morris,” said Keith Dawkins, President of Harlem Globetrotters. “As the global basketball landscape continues to evolve, the Globetrotters are well positioned to offer unparalleled opportunities for professional basketball players looking to develop, and showcase, their amazing skills, make a positive impact in the community, while also benefitting from the plethora of business opportunities that our brand has to offer them. It’s an opportunity unlike any in sports. Signing Alexis reflects our commitment to pursuing the best ballers from around the world.”
Morris, known for her exceptional ball-handling and court vision, will take the court with her self-titled moniker, Alexis “The Show” Morris alongside her elite teammates. The Texas native was selected in the second round of the 2023 WNBA Draft by the Connecticut Sun and is currently a free agent. She returned to North America after starting the current season in Turkey with Ilkem Yapi Tarsus of the Turkish women’s Super League. Alexis is believed to be the first athlete to join the Harlem Globetrotters while also entertaining elite professional offers since Connie Hawkins, who played for the team and went on to a Hall of Fame Career with the Phoenix Suns.
Shewill join the six women athletes who make up the Harlem Globetrotters and the Washington Generals this winter, including Fatima, ‘TNT’ Lister, Cherelle ‘Torch’ George, Arysia ‘Ace’ Porter, Kaylin ‘Sunshine’ West, Eryka ‘Spice’ Sidney, and Kayla Gabor. She joins nine other rookies who joined the 2024 World Tour this season. Fans can expect exclusive content of her time with the team through “My Rookie Season” on Harlem Globetrotters Youtube channel.
Final Word
Morris no doubt still has plans to join the WNBA, but the Globetrotters is a great way to increase her brand and continue to play ball, which she enjoys doing. We wish her much success.
Sports is a part of New Orleans’ culture as well, but so is being active, from going to jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.
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Grocery prices are sky-high right now and there’s not much we can do about them. However, when it comes to our spending habits, there are quite a few things we can do to tighten our financial belts while grocery shopping.
Overall, food prices have jumped nearly 10% over the past year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How To Save On Your Groceries
Here are some of ways you can cut down on your grocery bill.
Eat Inside More
Along with your groceries going up, restaurants are raising their prices as well. Instead of going out to eat as much, see if you can cut down and eat at home more often.
My girlfriend who is a graduate student at Xavier University in New Orleans actually cut down on dining out by relegating one weekend night for restaurant food. Over a two-month span, she saved $300! It can change your life!
Learn some recipes so that you can save more of your cash. Follow this delicious gumbo recipe.
Sign Up For Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime costs $139 a year, but it can save you money on food items that you love. If you have a Whole Foods in your area, you can get a discount on quality items if you’re a Prime member.
You can also save on bulk items that can be shipped to you in two days or less in some cases.
Have you tried it? If not, you can sign up for Amazon Prime at Amazon.com/Prime.
Clip Coupons
I know what you’re thinking: Clipping coupons is so 1990s, but they continue to be a way you can save on foods you love.
Grab the weekly ads from your favorite grocery store and cut out all the food items that you like that are on sale. You can also use online coupons from Coupons.com.
Shop At Discount Stores
Stay away from the Whole Foods grocery aisles if you’re not an Amazon Prime member! Shop instead at discount grocery stores like Save-A-Lot, Aldi and Lidl, where you can find cheaper items.
Buy Generic Brands
One way you can keep more money in your pocket is to buy generic brands rather than the big name brands that are well known.
Make a list of the name-brand items you love then do a Google search for “[name-brand item] alternatives” and see what comes up. You might find a new favorite brand!
Final Word
Although we see the increases in certain foods, we know that our paychecks aren’t increasing at the same rate. That’s why it makes sense to see how we can cut down on our grocery bills.
Not only will our budgets be healthier, but we could actually lose some pounds.
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Serving seafood both raw and cooked, Porgy’s Seafood Market recently opened its doors in New Orleans.
The fresh fish is straight off the boat and the staff all know about the seafood being served, so if you’re in the mood for some delicious food from the sea, Porgy’s is best.
Porgy’s Seafood Market Opens Its Doors
Porgy’s specializes in wild seafood, which you can get cooked to order or raw directly from the sea. Customers can order an assortment of:
- Fish sandwiches
- po-boys (oyster, shrimp, catfish)
- soups and salads
- raw bar (swordfish ceviche, clam ceviche)
Here’s what one customer said about Porgy’s Seafood Market. “Amazing produce and really great cooking. Everything is local and cooked very well. We had a blackened pampano (highly recommended), fried fish collars and fresh oysters (huge!), out of this world! So down to earth and well worth a drive to visit.”
Where Is Porgy’s Seafood Market Located?
Porgy’s is located at 235 Corrollton Ave., New Orleans, La. 70119. Here’s 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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The next Super Bowl is scheduled to take place in New Orleans, Louisiana, home of the Saints. It’s also the childhood home of Dwayne Carter, aka Lil Wayne.
While it will be several months before the halftime performer is announced, Lil Wayne wants it known that he’ll be ready should his name be called.
“I have not gotten a call,” he said recently on camera. Wayne said that he and his team are gearing up for the honor if the opportunity presents itself. “We’re all praying.”
When is Super Bowl LIX?
Super Bowl LIX will be played on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Here’s Lil Wayne’s comments about performing at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans.
Who Has Performed At The Super Bowl Halftime Show?
Here is a list of those who have performed at the halftime show of the Super Bowl in recent years:
- 2024: Usher.
- 2023: Rihanna.
- 2022: Eminem, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent
- 2021: The Weeknd
- 2020: Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Emme Muniz
- 2019: Maroon 5, Travis Scott, Big Boi
- 2018: Justin Timberlake, The Tennessee Kids
- 2017: Lady Gaga
- 2016: Coldplay, Beyonce, Bruno Mars
- 2015: Katy Perry, Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott
- 2014: Bruno Mars, Red Hot Chili Peppers
- 2013: Beyonce
- 2012: Madonna
- 2011: The Black Eyed Peas, Usher, Slash
- 2010: The Who
- 2009: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band
- 2008: Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
- 2007: Prince and the Florida A&M marching band
- 2006: The Rolling Stones
- 2005: Paul McCartney
- 2004: Janet Jackson, Kid Rock, P. Diddy, Nelly and Justin Timberlake
- 2003: Shania Twain, No Doubt and Sting
- 2002: U2
- 2001: “The Kings of Rock and Pop” featuring Aerosmith, ‘N’Sync, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige and Nelly
He said that he’s making a new album that he’s working hard on to make a “killer” album. “I want to just make it hard for them to not holla at the boy.”
Final Word
While performers don’t get paid for the Super Bowl, the gig is very lucrative as artists typically see a major boost in streaming sales and bookings.
Time will tell if Lil Wayne will be selected, but as a native son, it sure makes sense.
Looking to visit the Crescent City? Here’s the cheapest time to travel to New Orleans.
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