Fear Over Facts: Why Joplin’s Deer Ordinance Misrepresents Lyme Disease

 

When the Joplin City Council passed its urban hunting ordinance, it claimed the move would help “reduce the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease” and “minimize tick-borne illness” within city limits. But the science doesn’t support that narrative and the fear being spread about Lyme disease is not just misleading, it’s dangerous.

 The Deer Tick Myth

Let’s be clear: deer do not carry Lyme disease. The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), often called the “deer tick,” is simply one of many hosts for the Lyme-causing bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

“Deer are a source of blood for ticks and important to tick survival and movement to new areas. However, deer are not infected with Lyme disease bacteria and do not infect ticks.”

Ticks become infected by feeding on small mammals, especially white-footed mice, which are the true reservoirs of Lyme disease. Removing deer from the landscape does not eliminate ticks and it does not stop Lyme disease.

 Every Animal Carries Ticks

Ticks are generalists. They feed on:

Mice, squirrels, raccoons, opossums

Coyotes, birds, and yes deer

Pets and humans

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services confirms that ticks in Missouri carry a range of diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and Heartland virus but Lyme disease is rare in this region. In fact, most confirmed Lyme cases in Missouri occur in northeastern counties, not in Joplin or the surrounding area.

 What the Joplin Ordinance Really Ignores

Poaching, not overpopulation, is thinning the herd in Joplin.

No signage warns drivers of deer crossings, despite collision risks.

No public education explains the real tick-host cycle or how to prevent bites.

This Harvesting of Deer in Joplin ordinance isn’t about science it’s about optics. It’s a scare tactic dressed up as wildlife management, and it risks further destabilizing an already vulnerable ecosystem. 

 Verified Resources

CDC: How Lyme Disease Spreads

Missouri DHSS: Tickborne Disease Overview

Joplin Urban Hunting Ordinance Summary

Missouri Counties Most Likely to Have Lyme Disease

Joplin City Council Ordinance Language

 

Other Joplin MO articles by author  

Urban Deer in Joplin: What’s Really Driving the City Bow Hunting Ordinance

The Ethics of Youth BowHunting in Urban Zones

The Hunters Left Behind:What Joplin’s Bow Hunting Ordinance Missed

Why Bots Target Commercial Creators Catalog Blogs

.If your catalog blog is suddenly flooded with traffic spikes, phantom referrers, or scraped product listings, it’s not a fluke it’s a warning. You’re witnessing the hidden cost of commercial visibility in a bot-saturated ecosystem.

Catalog blogs built for product sales and affiliate tracking aren’t just attractive—they’re vulnerable. Malicious bots don’t care about your styling, your sourcing, or your emotional cadence. They’re here to exploit metadata, hijack links, and mimic engagement. And no, it’s not just comment spam anymore.

What Makes Catalog Blogs Vulnerable

Financial incentive: Bots are drawn to monetized spaces. Your product listings, affiliate links, and checkout flows offer fraudsters a direct path to exploitation.

Fake reviews & accounts: Spambots can inflate user metrics, waste marketing resources, and even sabotage brand trust.

Web scraping risks: Competitors may deploy bots to steal product descriptions, pricing, and inventory data then undercut your storefront or mimic your designs.

Informational Blogs Still Targeted, But Differently

Backlink spam: Bots on info blogs often aim to boost SEO for shady sites by dropping comment links.

Easier to moderate: CAPTCHA, comment filters, and spam plugins can catch most of these attempts before they cause harm.

Why This Matters for POD Creators

Catalog blogs aren’t just vulnerable they’re valuable. That’s why bots target them.

When platforms dismiss bot traffic as harmless, they ignore the real cost: wasted ad spend, corrupted analytics, and stolen creative work.

Choosing the Right Platform: WordPress vs. Blogspot for Long-Term Blogging Success🧭

Exploring AI-powered paths to passive income, storytelling, and digital design—from Zazzle and Poshmark to blogs, caregiving systems, and beyond. Guest voices welcome.

 

When you're building something that lasts—whether it's a mentorship hub, a contributor archive, or a blog that teaches through lived experience—the platform you choose matters. It’s not just about publishing. It’s about control, clarity, and the ability to grow without bottlenecks.

This post compares two common blogging platforms: WordPress (self-hosted) and Blogspot (Blogger). If you're starting with affiliate links and planning to layer in AdSense later, here's what you need to know.

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⚔️ Platform Comparison: WordPress vs. Blogspot

💡 Feature	🥇 WordPress (Self-Hosted)	🧢 Blogspot (Blogger)
Ownership & Control	Full control over site, hosting, and layout	Google-owned, limited customization
Design Flexibility	Thousands of themes, full CSS/HTML access	Basic templates, minimal layout options
Affiliate Optimization	Link cloaking, tracking, CTA formatting	Manual links only, limited tracking tools
AdSense Integration	Full control over ad placement and pacing	Easy setup, limited control
Ad Styling Control	Plugins allow precise in-post styling	Manual HTML or gadget-based placement only
SEO Tools	Plugins like Rank Math or Yoast	Basic SEO tools available, fewer options
Plugin Support	Extensive plugin ecosystem (55K+)	Limited gadgets and third-party widgets
Scalability	Can evolve into contributor portals, e-commerce	Static blog format, hard to scale
Data Portability	Easy to migrate, export, or archive	Limited export options
Community Support	Massive global user base, active forums	Smaller user base, fewer resources

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🧠 Why WordPress Wins for Long-Term Growth

• Formatting Freedom: You can build shaded charts, contributor cards, and swipe files that actually print cleanly.

• Affiliate-First Logic: Plugins allow you to pace links, track clicks, and format CTAs that speak directly to buyers.

• AdSense Rotation: If a contributor has an active AdSense account, you can rotate their ad blocks without revealing backend logic to readers.

• Ad Styling Control: Plugins like Ad Inserter let you place ads between paragraphs, inside shaded modules, or only on specific posts—without disrupting emotional flow.

• Mentorship Expansion: WordPress supports contributor portals, seasonal modules, and long-term archives—perfect for sustained growth.

📊 Readership Boost After Migration

Blogs that migrate from Blogspot to WordPress often see up to 40% more readership within months, thanks to better SEO tools, mobile responsiveness, and formatting flexibility that keeps readers engaged.

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🧢 Where Blogspot Still Fits

Blogspot is fine for beginners—especially if you're testing ideas, writing casually, or learning the basics of publishing. It’s free, simple, and fast to launch.

But once you need:

• Contributor-safe formatting

Affiliate pacing

• Ad placement control

• SEO depth

• Scalable modules

…it starts to throttle your growth. You’ll feel the limits in layout, tracking, and how much you can customize contributor-facing content.

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🧮 Cost vs. Return

📦 Item	💰 WordPress Cost (Annual)	💸 Blogspot Cost (Annual)
Hosting	$60–180	Free
Domain	$10–15	$10–15
Premium Plugins/Themes	$30–300	Not available
Total	~$150–$495	~$10–15

The upfront cost of WordPress is higher—but the return in traffic, contributor clarity, and monetization potential is exponentially greater.

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💬 Final Thought  

“If you're building a blog that teaches, adapts, and grows—choose the platform that supports your momentum without friction. WordPress isn’t just stronger. It’s built for longevity.”

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Down & Dirty Guide to Freelance Writing Income (2025 Edition)

Exploring AI-powered paths to passive income, storytelling, and digital design—from Zazzle and Poshmark to blogs, caregiving systems, and beyond. Guest voices welcome.

Looking for high-paying freelance writing gigs in 2025? Whether you're a beginner building your portfolio or a seasoned pro chasing premium clients, this guide breaks down the best platforms for writers, pay rates, and smart strategies to grow your income—fast. No fluff. No filler. Just the real deal with a chart, niche board gems, and a few spicy truths from someone who's been in the trenches.

📊 The Chart That Tells It Like It Is

Platform	Best For	Pay Rates	Fees	Project Types	Ease of Use
Upwork	Long-term, high-value clients	$20–$200/hr	10–15% (freelancer), $0.99–$14.99 (client)	Ghostwriting, content, tech	Complex but worth it
Fiverr	Fast gigs, fast cash	$5–$1,000/project	20% (freelancer), 5.5% + $3.50 (client)	Blog posts, reels, scripts	Easy as pie - well maybe
Contena	Curated, high-paying jobs	$0.10–$1.00/word, $50–$200/hr	$99–$249/year	Blogging, journalism, strategy	Streamlined, pay-to-play
Niche Boards	Premium gigs with personality	$50–$10,000/project	Varies (free–$15/month)	Copywriting, memoir, strategy	Community vibes, mixed UX

🧭 Real Talk Recommendations

• Newbies: Start with Fiverr. It’s like speed dating for writers—quick, messy, but you’ll learn fast. Then upgrade to Upwork when you’re ready to charge what you’re worth.
• Seasoned Pros: Skip the circus. Head to Contena or niche boards like Writing Empires where the gigs are curated and the competition isn’t cutthroat.
• Niche Queens & Kings: If you’ve got a specialty—memoir, strategy, copy that converts—check out MakeWritingYourJob.com or ProBlogger. These platforms speak your language.
• Hybrid Hustlers: Use Upwork for anchor clients, Fiverr for side cash, and sprinkle in niche boards for those juicy, high-ticket projects.

🌐 Niche Boards That Actually Deliver

Platform	Vibe	Why It Slaps
WriterAccess	Enterprise polish	Matches you with big brands based on skill level
Skyword	Fortune 500 flex	Competitive, but worth it if you want name-drop clients
Writing Empires	Writer-first	Zero commission, curated gigs, built-in support
MakeWritingYourJob.com	Substack sass	Daily drops, niche-friendly, mentorship energy

Bonus: Some of these boards come with built-in community. Because let’s be honest—writing solo can feel like yelling into the void. Find your people.

💡 Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity

• Profile Like a Pro: Keywords, killer samples, and testimonials that scream “hire me.”
• Use the Bots: AI tools like Uma (Upwork) and Neo (Fiverr) can help you pitch smarter and faster.
• Platform Hop: Don’t get clingy. Mix general and niche boards to keep your options open.
• Charge What You’re Worth: On Upwork and niche boards, pitch high. On Fiverr, use custom offers to upsell like a boss.

💬 Final Word from Alrady

“Having less stress can be just as important as chasing the almighty dollar. You’ve got to figure out what works for you—and the only way to do that is to jump in, test the waters, and compare for yourself. No one-size-fits-all. Just smart moves and a little grit.”

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Gold Squad to the Rescue: Can Golden Retrievers Save Hertz’s Reputation?

It’s not every day a car rental company makes headlines for tail wags and airport cuddles but Hertz just did. In a bold (and undeniably adorable) move to soften its image, Hertz has introduced the Gold Squad: a team of golden retrievers trained to greet customers at select airports across the U.S.

Yes, really. These dogs aren’t just mascots they’re part of a full-blown emotional marketing campaign aimed at rebuilding trust, sparking joy, and maybe even distracting travelers from past frustrations.

Why Golden Retrievers? Because they’re the embodiment of loyalty, warmth, and uncomplicated happiness. They don’t care about hidden fees or long wait times they just want to say hi, lean into your leg, and make you smile. And for dog lovers, that’s more than a perk it’s a reason to pause and reconsider.

Where You’ll Find Them The Gold Squad debuted at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, with appearances now expanding to Chicago, San Diego, and Atlanta. Timed around peak travel weekends, these pups are strategically placed to intercept stress and replace it with serotonin.

Will It Work? That’s the million-dollar question. Hertz has faced its share of reputation hurdles, from customer service complaints to pandemic-era downsizing. But this campaign isn’t about logistics it’s about feelings. And in a world where brand loyalty is increasingly emotional, golden retrievers might just be the soft reset Hertz needs.

For Dog Lovers, It’s a Win Even if you’re not renting a car, the sight of a golden retriever in a branded vest trotting toward you at baggage claim is enough to shift your mood. It’s a reminder that kindness can be strategic, and that sometimes the best way to rebuild trust is with a wagging tail.

This article published by Susan Golis, Freelance Writer, blogger, and Content Creator.  AI images created by Susan Golis 

Best Client-Based Freelance Writing Platforms in 2025: Where to Find Paying Clients

Exploring AI-powered paths to passive income, storytelling, and digital design—from Zazzle and Poshmark to blogs, caregiving systems, and beyond. Guest voices welcome.

Quick Platform Comparison

Which platform is right for you?

Upwork is best for writers seeking long-term, high-paying client relationships and complex projects. Expect higher competition but better rates.

Fiverr works well for writers who prefer standardized services, quick turnarounds, and building multiple income streams through various gig offerings.

Specialty platforms like Contenta and ProBlogger offer higher-quality opportunities but may require more experience or have stricter application processes.

Job boards provide direct client contact without platform fees, but require more proactive outreach and proposal writing.# Best Client-Based Freelance Writing Platforms in 2025: Where to Find Paying Clients

   

The freelance writing landscape has evolved dramatically in recent years, with new client-matching platforms emerging and established ones adapting to changing market demands. Whether you're a seasoned writer looking to diversify your client base or a newcomer ready to find your first paying clients, choosing the right platform can make or break your freelance career.

I've analyzed the top client-based freelance writing platforms of 2025—diving deep into success stories, platform statistics, and community feedback—to save you the research time. These are the platforms where real businesses and individuals hire writers for specific projects, and I'll break down their strengths, weaknesses, and earning potential to help you decide where to invest your energy in building client relationships.

The Big Players: Upwork vs. Fiverr

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Upwork: The Professional's Choice (upwork.com)

Upwork remains the heavyweight champion of freelance platforms, particularly for writers seeking long-term, high-value clients. With over 18 million freelancers competing for projects, it's both an opportunity and a challenge.

Pros:

• Higher-paying clients seeking quality over bargain pricing
• Long-term project opportunities that can lead to ongoing relationships
• Built-in time tracking and payment protection
• Advanced search filters for finding relevant projects
• Opportunity to charge premium rates once you establish credibility

Cons:

• Steep competition makes it difficult for newcomers to stand out
• Variable platform fees range from 0-15% depending on contract demand and market factors
• Requires significant time investment to build a strong profile and portfolio
• Algorithm changes can affect visibility and proposal success rates

Earning Potential: $25-$150+ per hour for experienced writers, with top performers commanding even higher rates.

Fiverr: Quick Wins and Volume Play (fiverr.com)

Fiverr operates on a gig-based model where writers create service packages at set prices, making it ideal for standardized offerings and quick turnarounds.

Pros:

• Easier entry point for new freelancers
• Buyers come to you rather than competing for every project
• Clear pricing structure helps set client expectations
• Strong SEO means your gigs can rank in search results
• Multiple pricing tiers allow for upselling

Cons:

• Race-to-the-bottom pricing mentality among many buyers
• You're committing to low price points to start and dependent on upselling or quantity to make significant money
• Limited ability to build long-term client relationships
• Platform takes 20% commission on all transactions
• Difficult to charge premium rates without extensive reviews and ratings

Earning Potential: $5-$500+ per project, with successful sellers creating multiple income streams through various gig offerings.

Pro tip: I've personally used Fiverr as a buyer for book covers, editing, and web design over the years—the platform works well from both sides, and there's definitely demand for writing services alongside these creative offerings.

Specialized Platforms for Serious Writers

Contenta: The Content Marketing Specialist (contenta.io)

For writers focused on content marketing, Contenta offers a more curated approach with higher-quality clients and projects.

Key Features:

• Rigorous vetting process ensures quality clients and writers
• Focus on long-form content and content marketing strategies
• Direct client matching reduces time spent on proposals
• Higher average project values compared to general platforms

Best For: Experienced writers with content marketing expertise looking for premium clients.

ProBlogger Job Board: Quality Over Quantity (jobs.problogger.net)

The ProBlogger Job Board has been connecting serious writers with legitimate opportunities for over a decade.

Advantages:

• Pre-screened job postings eliminate most low-quality opportunities
• Direct contact with employers without platform intermediaries
• No commission fees on earnings
• Strong reputation attracts established businesses

Considerations: Requires more proactive outreach and proposal writing compared to platform-based approaches.

Maximizing Success Across Platforms

Profile Optimization Strategies

Your profile is your digital storefront. Here's how to make it shine:

1. Professional Headshot: Invest in a quality photo that conveys professionalism and approachability
2. Compelling Headline: Clearly state what you do and the value you provide
3. Results-Driven Portfolio: Showcase your best work with measurable outcomes when possible
4. Strategic Keywords: Include relevant terms that clients search for, but avoid keyword stuffing

Leveraging AI Tools for Efficiency

Smart writers are using AI to enhance their productivity without compromising quality:

• Research Acceleration: Use AI to quickly gather background information and statistics
• Outline Generation: Let AI help structure your content before you start writing
• Grammar and Style Checking: Tools like Grammarly can catch errors and improve readability
• SEO Optimization: AI-powered tools can suggest keyword placement and content optimization

Building Long-Term Client Relationships

The real money in freelance writing comes from repeat clients and referrals:

1. Exceed Expectations: Deliver more value than promised
2. Communicate Proactively: Keep clients informed about progress and potential issues
3. Meet Deadlines Consistently: Reliability is often more valuable than perfect prose
4. Ask for Feedback: Show you're committed to continuous improvement
5. Request Referrals: Satisfied clients are often willing to recommend you to others

Platform-Specific Success Tips

Upwork Success Formula

• Start with competitive rates to build reviews, then gradually increase pricing
• Send personalized proposals that address the client's specific needs
• Use Upwork's messaging system to build rapport before and after projects
• Invest in relevant skill tests to boost credibility

Fiverr Growth Strategy

• Research successful gigs in your niche and identify gaps you can fill
• Use all available gig images and videos to showcase your services
• Encourage satisfied buyers to leave detailed reviews
• Create gig packages that encourage buyers to choose higher-priced options

Income Diversification: Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

Here's the hard truth: I've been there, and maybe you have too. Hours and hours of writing time, a few hundred dollars built up and ready to withdraw, then BAM—the site goes down overnight. I still sting from the memory of two platforms that collectively owed me $100 disappearing practically simultaneously. (I withdraw frequently now for good reason!) I've also written for sites that simply stopped performing after algorithm changes tanked my income overnight.

The lesson? Never rely on a single income stream, no matter how stable it seems.

Successful freelance writers typically use multiple platforms and income streams:

• Primary Platform: Choose one platform for your main focus (usually Upwork or a niche board)
• Secondary Platforms: Maintain profiles on 2-3 other platforms for additional opportunities
• Direct Clients: Gradually build a roster of clients who work with you outside of platforms (as platform rules allow)
• Passive Income: Create courses, templates, or other products that generate ongoing revenue and provide financial stability during vacations, moving, emergencies, or other life interruptions

Keep other revenue streams open and active, even when one platform is performing well. Diversification isn't just smart—it's essential for long-term freelance survival.

The Bottom Line: Choosing Your Path

Your ideal platform depends on several factors:

• Experience Level: New writers might start with Fiverr for quick wins, then move to Upwork for better rates
• Niche Expertise: Specialized knowledge opens doors to premium platforms like Contenta or WriterAccess
• Time Investment: Consider how much time you can dedicate to proposal writing and client acquisition
• Income Goals: Higher rates typically require more time investment in building credibility

 Explore More: AI Writing Strategies & Personal Insights 

From “Wait, What?” to Wonder: How I Discovered AI for Content Crafting & Marketing 

AI Writer, Cozy Vibes: Smarter Selling from My Happy Desk

 

Built for Writers, Not for Comfort: My Journey with Copilot AI

These posts offer real-world lessons, cozy workflow tips, and strategic insights for writers navigating AI and freelance life. I hope you enjoy them. 

Ready to Start Your Freelance Writing Journey?

The freelance writing market offers tremendous opportunities for those willing to invest the time and effort to succeed. Whether you choose the broad appeal of Upwork, the accessibility of Fiverr, or the specialization of niche platforms, success comes from consistent quality, professional communication, and strategic platform optimization.

Take Action Today:

1. Choose your primary platform based on your experience level and goals
2. Create a compelling profile that showcases your unique value proposition
3. Apply to your first 5-10 projects or create your initial gig offerings
4. Set up systems for tracking your success and optimizing your approach

Remember, the best platform is the one where you can consistently find clients who value quality writing and are willing to pay fair rates for your expertise. Start with one platform, master it, then expand your presence strategically.

Ready to take your freelance writing career to the next level? Sign up for [Platform Name] today and start building your path to writing success.

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Flag Burning and Free Speech: What Happened on August 25th

 

“On August 25th, a protest outside the White House reignited the debate over flag burning and free speech. Here’s what happened and what it means for America.”

On Monday, August 25, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Prosecuting Burning of the American Flag”, directing federal agencies to pursue criminal charges against individuals who desecrate the U.S. flag. Within hours, a combat veteran burned a flag outside the White House in protest. He was arrested.

This act wasn’t just symbolic it was a direct challenge to the executive order and a flashpoint in the long-standing debate over patriotism, protest, and the limits of free speech.

Back in 1989, the Supreme Court ruled in Texas v. Johnson that burning the American flag as a form of political protest is protected under the First Amendment. The decision overturned flag desecration laws in 48 states and remains one of the most controversial rulings in modern constitutional history. Justice Scalia, who joined the majority, famously said:

“If it were up to me, I would put in jail every sandal-wearing, scruffy-bearded weirdo who burns the American flag. But I am not king.”

Now, with Trump’s order urging prosecution under existing statutes such as property damage, incitement, or hate crimes the legal ground is shifting again. The order also calls for revoking visas and immigration benefits for foreign nationals who burn the flag.

 

 Global Context

In countries like Germany, France, and South Korea, flag desecration is illegal and often punishable by fines or imprisonment. The U.S. remains one of the few nations where political flag burning is constitutionally protected at least for now.

There are respectful ways to retire a flag: folded, burned ceremonially, buried with honor. But burning in protest or celebration of its destruction? That’s a different ritual entirely.

 

 Call to Action: What Do YOU Think?

1. Should flag burning be criminalized again?
2. Is it possible to love your country and still burn its flag in protest?
3. Do you believe those who reject American values should seek citizenship elsewhere?
4. What does the flag mean to you and how do you respond when others desecrate it?

Drop your thoughts in the comments. Share your opinions. Let’s talk about what patriotism, protest, and freedom really mean in 2025.

 

Author Disclaimer

This post was written by Susan Golis, a voice-centered writer, responsible designer, and wildlife avocate. Susan documents local ordinances, seasonal rituals, and creative entrepreneurship with emotional clarity and practical wisdom. All opinions expressed are her own and reflect a commitment to responsible sourcing, civic dialogue, and community empowerment. This post includes verified public links and contextual references for educational and advocacy purposes.