[contingencies]

The discussion was regarding periodic updates. I think you are mis-reading it. I am pointing out periodic execution logic does not need to be in your request handling or app logic, you are well advised to leave it as a separate task and schedule it. cron is the traditional way. You can do it another way. But you know, use a small piece of code with no dependencies and a clearly defined scope and purpose. Use the filesystem. Use a file. Dates come free. Readable in all environments. Very manageable. Simple is best. Maybe you haven't had that epiphany yet? It's a good one.