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Simple ideas for celebrating every day virtually
(BPT) - For most people, 2020 is a year of change. Remote work, social distancing and more have challenged people to find new ways to connect with each other. Fortunately, humans are resilient and their spirit for finding innovative ways to connect is alive and well. Even as the country reopens, many are still finding the ease of virtual connections to be appealing. In fact, there are many unique ways to connect with friends and family virtually. Here are some simple ways people are elevating every day and prioritizing relationships even from afar:
Recognize simple moments and celebrate little things Shift your mindset to focus on the little things that brighten the day. You can elevate every day by taking time to recognize the simple moments and special events that make life so wonderful. There's no need to wait for a big occasion to celebrate! Send your friend a text with your favorite memory of you two together. Write ecards to family just because. Decorate the house with streamers to celebrate TGIF and then send digital pictures to friends to inspire them to do the same. Be creative and find ways to make yourself and others smile.
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Think outside the box with video gatherings Your bond with friends and family can grow even stronger when you set up video meetings to celebrate and connect. Fortunately, there are many high-quality video apps to choose from. Maybe you want to set up a Skype date to play a board game together even in different locations? Propose a movie night and set up a Zoom meeting to watch the same movie at the same time. Many people use WhatsApp for international connection, so you can set up a family conference call from different sides of the world. Take the first step and research the plethora of free video chat options.
Host a virtual wine tasting party Cheers to any occasion or just everyday delights with a virtual wine tasting party with friends. This is a fun way to sample different varieties and connect in a meaningful way. Designed to enhance everyday occasions, Flat Top Hills is an ideal choice, meticulously crafted while offering approachable wines that satisfy the palate and inspire conversation. For a tasting party, select a variety of options, such as a fresh, crisp Sauvignon Blanc and tropical Chardonnay for whites. For reds, consider a rich Red Blend, and a Cabernet Sauvignon satisfies the craving for a full-bodied wine. Don't forget a ripe RosĂŠ, everyone's favorite summer wine!
Explore different video backgrounds Get creative with your setting for virtual gatherings. Yes, there are times when your living room or deck will do, but other times you may want to jazz things up a bit. For example, set up tropical decorations and pretend you are taking a trip to the islands, or, explore digital backgrounds that can be added to the technology of your choice. For example, visit to download a Virtual Zoom background that features the stunning setting of the Flat Top Hills vineyards in sunny California.
Utilize social media platforms Social media has been a way to connect with friends and family for years now, but recently with quarantines and social distancing, even more people are using it to connect to others. Share images and captions of whatever is meaningful to you and tag with related hashtags. Some popular options are #love, #family and #friends. You can even be more specific and use branded hashtags to connect with other brand fans, such as #FlatTopMoments when sipping your wines during your virtual wine tasting!
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Going digital is a powerful tool for small businesses in the new normal
(BPT) - If you own a small business, or frequently shop at one, you know that COVID-19 has instantly changed everything. As brick-and-mortar shops have had to temporarily close to customers, the need to adapt has never been greater. For small businesses willing to reinvent themselves, going digital or ramping up your digital operation if you already have one can help weather the storm. There are plenty of tools available to help your business survive and even thrive through the pandemic and beyond. “Helping small businesses find fast paths to recovery as they navigate an overnight move to digital commerce is a top priority at Visa, says Jack Forestell, Chief Product Officer, Visa. "Using our network, partners and products, we help sellers get online easily and maximize their digital experience to reach more customers." Forestell details six insights about today's current landscape including ways your business can pivot and master the strategies to move forward.
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Consumers are going digital in this remote world, you should too. Millions of new buyers are shopping online, some for the first time, and many more are shopping for items they never thought they would buy outside of their local businesses. To keep them shopping with your business should provide a convenient, easy-to-use online shopping experience, along with a marketing approach to boost your digital presence. Use your existing customer email/mailing list to let customers know they’ll be able to find your business online soon even if you’re not yet ready to launch. Reminding loyal customers of your business is key during this transition period, before their new shopping habits have solidified.
Strengthen your digital toolkit to meet customers in new ways. A study conducted by Visa in 2018 found that less than half (46%) of U.S. small businesses had an online presence of any kind. If your business doesn’t yet have a website, or if you don't have an eCommerce platform, your first priority will be setting that up. Using an eCommerce platform like Shopify can help you pivot to an online business quickly. If your business does have a website, find out if your web hosting service has an eCommerce plugin you can add. You could also research using an eCommerce plugin that connects to your point of sale (POS) system, if you have one. Other tasks on your to-do list may involve figuring out how to manage your inventory and product pickup and/or shipping. Once you’re ready to launch your online business, reach out to customers and make use of social media to get the word out that you're open for business.
Offer contactless payments avoiding contact while buying is better for health and safety for your employees and customers. With many businesses eager to welcome customers back into stores, their return also will bring new protocols and procedures. Offering contactless payment options in-store means customers can tap and go, avoiding the need for them to touch the checkout terminal. Not only is tapping to pay a reliable solution, contactless transactions are secured with dynamic EMV Chip security technology that has already shown to drastically reduce counterfeit fraud. Using an established leader in contactless transacting, like Visa, helps you and your customers have a seamless experience. Visa works with partners worldwide to support secure transactions, with capabilities that are constantly updated to help meet today’s challenges.
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Send money digitally instead of using checks. Build your business and pay employees securely by partnering with an experienced financial network. As circumstances quickly change, employees and customers need and expect quick and secure access to their money digitally. For example, Visa offers fast and secure money movement options. Through Visa Direct companies can pay employees or gig workers quickly by moving money to Visa debit cards in real time. It can also make transactions easier for small business owners who need funds for their business.
Access data to drive real time business decisions. Partnering with Visa can help provide businesses of any size with useful data and analytics to inform critical business decisions as you deal with the new influx of online activity. Insights from that data can help you assess purchase risks and understand the wider marketplace as your business adapts to the “new normal.�
Protect your business and your customers. Due to the many disruptions caused by the pandemic, there has been a significant increase in disputes between buyers and sellers. The need for transparency — plus protections for both buyers and sellers has never been more crucial. Through Verifi, Visa offers services to help prevent and resolve disputes before they become chargebacks. Whether a business is new to online, experiencing an influx of customers and/or rapidly revamping an online presence, our new normal is causing businesses to pivot and prioritize digital. Visa can help businesses shift to an online-led selling strategy that works wherever you are in the world. To help your small business adapt, visit Partner.Visa.com
Visa Digital Transformation of SMBs, 2018 https://usa.visa.com/dam/VCOM/global/run-yourbusiness/documents/digital-transformation-of-smbs.pdf Actual fund availability depends on receiving financial institution and region.
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Make the Most of Your Bathroom Renovation
(Family Features) Adding additional bathroom space to your home or renovating an outdated lavatory can improve your home's usability and increase its value, too. To get the most practical benefits and value out of your new space, there are several factors to consider. Before you get started, take into account these considerations about the design and function of your new bathroom from the remodeling experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
Space A primary consideration is the available footprint to create your new bath. This is often a concern as children reach their teen years and also with expanding families. If there aren't enough bathrooms in the house, you may want to add another, or it may be that you simply need to improve the layout and features to make better use of the existing space. For example, if the bath will be shared by multiple members of the family, a separation of the sinks from the rest of the room may be helpful.
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Features Determining how you will use your bathroom dictates the features you'll want to include. A guest or hall bath is likely to have far fewer features than a master bath but may share some similarities with a kids' bathroom. First, you'll need to make decisions about basics like lighting, the number of sinks and amount of counter space you'll need. If you like baths, you'll need to decide between a tub and shower combination unit or separate facilities. With a separate tub, the style you prefer may guide your overall design. The aesthetic for a bathroom with a focal point like a claw-foot tub is likely different from a jetted tub. Storage Storage is one of the biggest concerns in any design, particularly in rooms as small as typical bathrooms. Carefully consider this aspect of the room during your pre-planning phase. To help determine how much space you need, make a list of all the items you need to store in the bathroom, including cleaning agents, toiletries, linens, first aid items and medications. It's a good idea to also think about where in the room you would like to store each of these items. You may want some of the toiletries in the shower area, while others will be used near the sink or dressing area.
Sustainability Many contemporary bathroom fixtures are designed with sustainability in mind, so you can manage your water usage while still enjoying a water-rich environment. You can find water-saving features on everything from toilets to shower heads to even sink faucets. Accessibility Applying universal design principles to your project can promote safety and increase your home's appeal to a wider range of buyers in the future. In the bathroom, you can improve safety by incorporating non-slip flooring surfaces and ensuring the space is well-lit. Other ideas include adjusting counter and toilet heights to make bathrooms more accessible (wallhung toilets should be approximately two inches higher). You could incorporate structural bracing around the tub, shower and toilet for grab bars. You might also consider a walk-in tub or stand-up shower with no threshold, levered handles for faucets and an adjustable showerhead. Find more ideas and inspiration for your bathroom design at remodelingdoneright.com. Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry
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7 Steps to Prepare for a Home Remodel
(Family Features) A homeowner's motivation for taking on a remodeling project can vary greatly, but there's one universal rule of thumb: home upgrades should add value, function or both. This step-bystep guide can help ensure you get the maximum return on your investment and make the most of your remodel. Step 1: Identify Reasons for Remodeling Deciding whether to undertake simple aesthetic changes or a full remodel can be difficult. One of the best ways to decide is to figure out why you are remodeling in the first place, whether it's to make your new house feel more like home or to update an outdated kitchen. Step 2: Consider Timing Many variables can impact the timing of your project, including the climate and exact nature of the job. For example, foundation work is easier when the ground is cold during winter. Spring tends to be busy for the construction industry, so you might pay premium rates for labor and materials, but it's also the perfect time to get a project done that you can enjoy throughout the summer. Summer months are ideal for indoor projects out of the heat. Also consider factors such as personal or professional obligations, or even an event for which you need the project completed. 10
Step 3: Set Your Budget Every home is unique in structure, age, quality and craftsmanship, which all impact the price of a remodel. Since no one can see through walls before demolition, the quote you receive may not be 100% accurate. However, a qualified remodeling company will be forthcoming about potential challenges. Account for these adjustments by planning for a 10% cushion, just in case. Step 4: Hire the Right Team To help ensure you find the right company for the job, do your research. Referrals from friends and family are one way to find a remodeler. Resources like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry provide unbiased information that can help you find qualified, certified remodelers in your area. With more than 5,000 member companies, the organization represents professional remodelers who adhere to a strict code of ethics. Many hold certifications in remodeling, kitchen and bath design and lead carpentry. Step 5: Establish a Written Agreement Most companies insist on a contract to protect their own interests, but if they don't, you should. In addition to defining the scope of work and budget, a contract ensures all parties are on the same page with expectations about factors like timing, liability in the event of an accident and other practical matters. Contractors also often provide guarantees of workmanship, so find out what they cover for how long and include this information in your work agreement. Step 6: Understand the Plan Keep the lines of communication open between you, the remodeling contractor and the work crew. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Let them know your family's schedule and circumstances that may affect their work, such as pets. Make sure to specify the best way to reach you and how often you wish to communicate about your project. Step 7: Complete the Project When the remodel is almost finished, walk through the area and note any adjustments that need made while the contractor is still on site. You should also take another look at the contract and confirm you have signed permits, receipts, change orders, lien waivers, warranties and manufacturers' guides at your disposal. Find more remodeling advice and contractors in your area at remodelingdoneright.com Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry
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Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space
(Family Features) Home improvement projects aren't limited to indoors. In fact, not only can upgrades to areas outside the house expand your livable space, they can also increase your home's value. Outdoor living projects account for almost one-third of renovation projects, according to a survey conducted by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. The findings echo trends reported by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, which found 43% of respondents said they designed outdoor kitchens in the past year and 41% expected an increase in outdoor projects in the coming year. "Our clients are asking for entertaining areas, which can be anything from a fully engineered cabana or a new paver patio with a pergola," said Dave Garcia, owner of DPG Pavers and Design. "We love being creative with materials in our designs and installations. One of my personal favorites is an outdoor kitchen we wrapped in hardwood with a granite countertop. It has clean lines and a unique custom look." Custom-built and prefabricated kitchens are also in high demand, Garcia said, along with recreation features like putting greens, bocce ball and basketball courts. Hardscape features that add function and ambiance top many homeowners' lists, as well. Examples include fire pits and fire tables, as well as water features like fountains, waterfalls, basalt columns and bubbling urns.
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Understanding Landscaping Elements Creating the ideal outdoor living space requires thoughtful planning and a holistic approach to landscaping. Typically, when people consider landscaping, they think of plants and flowers. However, landscaping includes a wide range of elements in an outdoor design that can generally be grouped into two main categories: hardscape and softscape. Understanding the components and options within each category can help you create a cohesive design for maximum enjoyment. The hardscape encompasses the man-made elements that bring function and aesthetic appeal to the design. Examples include concrete pavers, natural stone features, seating and retaining walls, wood and composite decks, pergolas, fencing and synthetic lawns. Softscape elements are the living components that add beauty and character to your outdoor space. These include the grass, shrubs, trees, flowers and plants. Your softscape may also include enhancements like mulch and an irrigation system to help care for the vegetation. Although the hardscape and softscape elements are distinct, an effective landscape design integrates both to create the look and feel you want for your outdoor living space. Getting Started Once you've considered the landscaping features necessary to bring your vision to life, it's time to get your project in motion. Set a budget and consider whether you will need professional support to make your design ideas a reality. A remodeling expert can guide you on how to achieve the look you desire with your home's unique characteristics in mind, while helping manage your timeline and expenses. Find more remodeling advice and contractors in your community at remodelingdoneright.com. Content courtesy of DPG Pavers and Design Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry
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It's OK to be a sharp dressed man Sometime between 1987 and 1991 it became a Bad Thing to be smart. Men went from red braces and chunkily striped shirts to sloganed T-shirts, sloppy jeans and oversized skate trainers. Even a couple of flirtations with mod-style, first led by Blur in the mid-90s then again more recently thanks to the Arctic Monkeys and co, got very few men out of the dreaded cropped trouser/white trainer combo. But in 2009, it took just one television show to make both women and men think about the way they dress. While the ladies of Britain are embracing the killer heels and slinky hips of Joan Holloway or the Grace Kelly sweetness of Betty, in many ways men have taken even more from the cast of BBC Three's Mad Men Don Draper, the ultimate old-fashioned man's man - smoking in the office, knocking back a whisky every so often and never, EVER talking about his feelings - is a fashion icon for a new generation of men who are waving au revoir to David Beckham metrosexuality and again embracing the straight-laced look of their fathers. H&M offshoot COS knows that Draper styling is the 'in thing' hence a range of affordable suits in the loveliest light grey, ideal with a plain white shirt and black tie for those who need to dress up for the office or, for that matter, a wedding. Elsewhere shiny, shiny shoes are everywhere, complete with extra long, extra pointy toe, if you can bear to be parted from your trainers (if not white lace-up plimsolls are a very acceptable alternative). This season the gingham shirt (try Topman) takes over from its more grungy brother plaid, which paired with smart cotton shorts or khakis for the 1980s preppy look pioneered by bands like Vampire Weekend. Slavish followers of fashion may wish to channel Kanye West with a pastel coloured Lyle and Scott v necked sweater. In these days of changeable weather there's no harm in keeping a light jacket to hand at all times. Ditch the anorak in favour of the woman's jacket of choice over the last two or three years - a trench. Don't run in the opposite direction screaming 'Columbo!' a short, thigh-length trench, such as those found in Uniqlo are ideal for a light cover up when the sun can't quite force its way through. Men, even more so than women, should buy clothes to last. It's so rare to find a fashion that will drag any man out of his style uniform that it is far less likely that items will end up relegated to the back of the wardrobe after two wears. So, invest in good quality, wearable pieces in classic cuts - they're very this season but will work year after year. A worthwhile investment for any sharp-dressed man. Picture caption: Classic items are a worthwhile investment. Free Features
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Hard times = fabulous fashion! Take a good hard look at this season's fashion and it becomes apparent that two eras, more than any others, have influenced the way designers are thinking. And it's probably not surprising to discover that those two eras - the early 1980s and the wartime 1940s - reflect the tough financial climate that we're experiencing now. That's right, the double Cs have made it into fashion. Not, of course, Chanel but the Credit Crunch. The biggest economic story of recent years has filtered through to the way we dress, not by eliminating our passion for fashion but by fueling creativity with a make do and mend ethic and by encouraging designers and fashionistas to hark back to the times which were hard for our parents and their parents before them. In the 1980s Britain was pulling itself out of a harsh recession, a tough government was coming down hard on our money and employment was at an all-time low. Yet the fashion world was bright in more ways than one. Whether it was a denial of the bleak outlook or a reaction to a lack of cash fashion had a homespun feel yet was brighter than it had ever been before. Neon colours, sequins, frothy lace and over-exaggerated proportions were the trademarks, not only of designers such as Leigh Bowery, Judy Blame, Bodymap and Vivienne Westwood (who had weathered the punk storm and went from strength to strength, inspiring New Romantics in their love of theatricality) but of the fashion-hungry people on the streets who indulged in escapism through outfits inspired by pirates, music by pop stars dressed like Prince Charming and hedonistic nights out which helped them forget their troubles. Now a new generation of designers - Henry Holland, Christopher Kane, Gareth Pugh, all too young to remember the 1980s - are making their mark on fashion in much the same way. Their bright, imaginative take on dressing is more than a little reminiscent of those pre-yuppy days. And speaking of yuppies it probably isn't that shocking to find power dressing creeping back into not only high end designer fashion but the High Street too. Indeed there's no bigger story than oversized shoulders on the catwalk just now while boldly coloured cocktail dresses for women and pastel sweaters and brogues for men are making an unexpected Dallas-themed comeback. Perhaps designers are encouraging buyers to flaunt their wealth, just as the yuppies did in the 1980s with their Armani suits and gold jewelry, or maybe these designs are simply hopeful, looking forward to a new age of wealth when we've pulled ourselves out of this deep depression. It's interesting that during the 1990s and early 2000s dressing up was all about dressing down; boho skirts, chinowearing dotcom entrepreneurs, jeans as evening wear, baggy and grunge, much like the 1970s saw women embrace denim, men let their hair grow long, punks turn safety pins in to jewelry and even the glam disco crowd swap skirts for hot pants. But now that the going has got tough the tough have started dressing up again.
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Give your underwear drawer a makeover
There are those women out there for whom underwear is a passion. There's nothing they love more than a little frothy pair of knickers or a sheer, embroidered bra, their drawers (pardon the pun) are immaculate in every sense - matching pairs are in abundance, colour coded, stockings layered in paper to keep from snagging, nothing greying or faded. But for most of us our underwear drawers are bursting with discoloured boy pants, scraggy old bras, underwires poking through fabric and balled up pairs of laddered tights. Give your underwear drawers a makeover and getting dressed in the morning will become a joy and you'll have the foundations of a perfect, easy to use wardrobe: Turn out every item of underwear you own and ruthlessly separate it in to two piles: good stuff you still wear and that which is too small, stretched out, broken or which you just haven't worn in the past year. This second pile should head straight to the bin while the first needs further splitting: Day to day basic black, white and nude underwear (cotton knickers, seamless bras etc) Sports underwear Fancy, special occasion underwear Coloured or patterned underwear Basic tights and stockings (black, grey, nude, navy) Fancy tights and stockings (coloured, patterned or fishnets) Basques, teddies and suspender belts Now try on every single item, including tights. Move about in them, try nude bras under white shirts, tights under pencil skirts, stockings with suspenders. Be honest and chuck out anything which no longer looks right, causes bulges, digs in or just looks bad under clothing - you'll be surprised how much underwear isn't made with getting dressed in mind. Only keep the items which make you look and feel good, which support your figure and match your clothing. Don't fear if your collection of undergarments is looking a little sad. Now's the time to shop. Make a list of every item of underwear you need. If you regularly wear a skirt suit to work do you have enough nude or opaque tights to see you through the week? If you're a jeans genius do your g-strings ride up over the waist band? If so you'll need a good collection of boy shorts or French knickers. When buying matching sets - which will make you feel so much more put together - always buy two bottoms for each bra bearing in mind that bras last much longer. Get yourself fitted, few of us keep the same bra size forever, and take advice on the type of bra (balconette, plunge, padded, underwired) which suits the shape of your breasts. And buy the very best basics you can afford - Marks and Spencers is always a good bet. Within your underwear drawer or drawers create separate sections with specially made organizers. Keep sets of underwear together and separate the seven types of underwear you identified previously to allow each to be easily found. And voila! You're on your way to wardrobe perfection. Free Features 16
Great Ways to Make the Most of Your Time Spent Outdoors
(StatePoint) It’s the perfect time of year to get outdoors. Whether you stick close to home or go on an adventure, here are some tips to make the most of your time: • Get Tech Support: While fitness equipment that simulates an outdoor run or bike ride is all the rage these days, there is no substitution for the actual sights and sounds of nature, and new wearable tech can support any outdoor activity, from hiking and biking to water sports. Casio Pro Trek watches include features like an altimeter, barometer, thermometer and compass to help guide you and inform you of the conditions you’re dealing with out on the trail or lake. Additionally, the PRTB50 has a step counter and Bluetooth connectivity, all of which can be interfaced with your smartphone by downloading the Pro Trek app, available for free through Google Play or the App Store. There’s even a dedicated button to sync the watch, making setup surprisingly easy.
• Be Creative: Let your next walk around the neighborhood or session spent in the backyard serve a creative purpose: take a photo series of your neighborhood or write a journal entry about the sights and sounds of your walk. Whether painting, song-writing, photography or poetry is your medium, there are many ways you can use the outdoors as a source of creative inspiration.
• Extended Movie Night: The days are longer but you don’t need to wait until after sunset to begin outdoor movie night. Casio projectors can take you from daylight viewing to nighttime easily. The XJ-S400UN offers brightness up to 4000 lumens and full HD resolution with crisp images and vibrant colors, as well as a dust-resistant design that helps prevent the deterioration of brightness. • Participate in a Virtual 5K: A virtual 5k is a great way to get the adrenaline rush of participating in a foot race while continuing to practice social distancing. There are many races to choose from and unlike their traditional counterparts, they offer runners the flexibility of where and when to toe the starting line.
Nice weather? Long days? These are your cues to get outside to enjoy it.
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Great Ways to Take the Fun to the Backyard
(StatePoint) If you’ve been spending a lot of time indoors lately, you may be ready to get outside for some fresh air. Here’s how to make your backyard the center of family fun.
• Set up an outdoor theater: There’s no need to spend the day indoors, even if your family wants to binge watch favorite shows. Whether you’re viewing a movie, video chatting with friends or looking at a slideshow of old family photos, a portable projector can quickly transform the backyard into a home theater. Those from Casio are particularly versatile, offering speedy set-up and the ability to transition from daytime to nighttime viewing.
• Be sure to get comfy: Your home theater will get more use if it offers the same amenities as the living room. Luckily, these days, it’s easy to find weather-resistant furniture as comfortable as your favorite couch.
• Make music: Host a socially distanced block party with your neighbors and offer to provide the music. All you need is a portable keyboard to set the tone. Not only do Casio keyboards have the ability to hook up to a laptop or tablet so you can play any song from your library, if you put the keyboard on Dance Music Mode, you can add beats, sounds or filters to anything you want.
• Get ready, get set, go: Keep everyone busy and active with a decathlon. Feature all-age friendly events like a potato sack race, Frisbee toss, long jump and more. Whether you keep score or play just for the fun of the game, you can make a day of it -- and add a little gravitas -- by including opening and closing ceremonies.
With the right tools and ideas, the backyard can become your go-to destination for relaxation, entertainment, competition and fun.
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Great Online Content Can Let You ‘Visit’ a Museum This Summer
(StatePoint) If you are looking for new things to this summer do while staying home or social distancing, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian has you covered. The museum has lots of free content available for both adults and kids, including digital learning tools for students of all ages and online versions of many of its most popular exhibitions. Access to this content is through the museum’s website: AmericanIndian.si.edu.
For Students Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°) is the museum’s national education initiative to inspire and promote improvement of teaching and learning about American Indians. NK360° provides educational materials and teacher training that incorporate Native narratives, more comprehensive histories and accurate information to enlighten and inform teaching and learning about Native America. The initiative’s website has digital lessons for K-12 students, teacher guides, videos and websites. Several lessons are also available in Spanish.
Online Exhibitions Many of the museum’s most popular exhibitions are available to explore online. “Americans“ shows how American Indians have been part of the nation’s identity since before the country began. Visitors can click on some familiar images and learn why images of American Indians are everywhere in our country. The bilingual exhibition “The Great Inka Road: Engineering an Empire” examines why the Inka Road was built more than 500 years ago, and how its construction—without the use of metal or iron, the wheel or stock animals to pull heavy loads—stands as one of the greatest engineering feats. 19
The exhibition “Infinity of Nations: Art and History in the Collections of the National Museum of the American Indian,” which features some 700 works of Native art from throughout North, Central and South America, demonstrates the breadth of the museum's collection and highlights the historic importance of many of these iconic objects. “Developing Stories: Native Photographers in the Field“ is the museum’s newest exhibition. It features the work of two Native photojournalists who are using photography to break down stereotypes and portray stories that show the diversity and complexity of their contemporary lives.
Explore the Collections Through its online search, visitors to the museum’s website can learn more about the history of the museum’s holdings, which have their foundation in the collection largely assembled by George Gustav Heye, beginning in 1897. The collection currently contains more than 800,000 items from across the entire Western Hemisphere. And for more from the collections, visit the museum’s new Google Arts & Culture website.
Blog For in-depth stories about objects in the museum’s collection, insights into new exhibitions, or news from Indian Country, visit the museum’s page on the Smithsonian Voices blog.
Shop The museum’s online store offers an array of books for adults and kids, cards, CDs and DVDs. The best part? Your purchase helps to continue the museum’s important work.
You can also get more content from the museum by following it on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Thanks to great online exhibitions, educational materials, and yes, even shopping, you can spend this summer “visiting” an amazing museum from wherever you are.
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Top Ways to Take a Safe Vacation
(StatePoint) After months spent indoors at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s clear that many people are itching to get back out there and take a vacation. This is with good reason. Staying isolated for too long can take a substantial toll on one’s mental health and well-being, according to the American Psychological Association.
If you still feel uncomfortable with going far from your home for a travel experience however, traveling domestically can be a step in the right direction. There are lots of great places to visit a few hours’ drive from your home that you probably didn’t think of! Whether you’re looking for a beach stay, or some nature, exploring options close to home can allow for an escape you and your family want, and in a safe environment, such as an apartment or home vacation rental. And it’s an increasingly popular choice. According to trivago, a global accommodation metasearch provider, the share of users clicking on deals for such vacation rentals increased by 5 percent from February to June 2020, both in the U.S. and internationally.
As you book and plan your travel, here are a few tips to consider to help ensure you have a healthy and safe experience:
• DIY Cleaning: If you are worried about cleaning standards, consider seeking out accommodations where you don’t have to worry about someone else coming into your space during your stay. Bring your own wipes, anti-bacterial soap and other supplies and wipe down surfaces when you arrive, and as often as needed. Of course, you should always check with your accommodation provider about their hygiene standards to make sure they meet your expectations. Major hotel chains have announced special cleaning protocols in light of the coronavirus.
• Beating the Crowds: From beach houses to mountain cabins, try to look for a vacation experience away from densely populated city destinations, which is a good choice for those wanting to beat the crowds.
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• Staying Active: Getting away doesn’t have to mean staying indoors somewhere new. Take a leisurely stroll on a beach. Go on a hike in the mountains. Explore a national park you’ve always wanted to see. Brunch at a small local café. There are plenty of ways to stay active and have fun, all while following social distance guidelines.
• Choosing Your Destination: So where is everybody going? The current most popular U.S travel destinations by click share according to trivago are:
1. Las Vegas
2. Myrtle Beach, S.C.
3. Panama City Beach, Fla.
4. Virginia Beach, Va.
5. Destin, Fla.
6. Miami Beach, Fla.
7. Ocean City, Md.
8. Galveston, Texas
9. South Padre Island, Texas
10. Orlando, Fla.
11. Key West, Fla.
For more travel tips and ideas, visit trivago.com, and trivago.com/corona for the most up-to-date travel restrictions.
Whether you hit up a popular destination or head somewhere remote, make sure you adhere to local health guidelines when traveling. And above all, stay safe and healthy.
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Prom Designer Finalists Face off for $20,000 in Scholarships
(StatePoint) As the price tag on a college education continues to rise, students are seeking out a variety of financial aid options to relieve the burden.
There are several unique scholarships out there, but one sticks out year after year for giving creative teens an outlet to showcase their design talents for a shot at big scholarship dollars. While many teens missed out on the opportunity to attend prom in person this year, that didn’t stop them from crafting one-of-a-kind prom-wear masterpieces to enter the annual Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest.
Read on to learn more about the designers facing off for $20,000 in prizes, then head over to www.stuckatprom.com to vote for your favorites!
Dress Finalists:
Ainsley Dunning. Dunning of Bristol, Va. spent 81 hours crafting her entry using 14 rolls of Duck Tape. Her look was inspired by the night sky. The beautiful aura that surrounds the moon on cloudy nights is reflected on the skirt, and delicate constellations shine through star mesh sleeves and tape jewelry.
Anna Knall. Knall of Palm Desert, Calif., spent 40 hours crafting her entry using 10 rolls of Duck Tape. The idea behind her vibrant design was sparked by her late grandmother’s favorite flower, the peony, and her school’s “Rose Garden” prom theme, illustrating beauty, optimism and serenity.
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Lena Hart. Hart of Ayr in Ontario, Canada, spent 146 hours crafting her entry using 12 rolls of Duck Tape. Combining two prom-inspired designs she created for a fashion class, the resulting classic princess pink dress with popping white roses and shiny gold details evolved into a regal, yet fun look.
Peyton Manker. Manker of Sparta, Ill., spent 395 hours crafting her entry out of 41 rolls of Duck Tape. From doctors and grocery workers to classmates experiencing a virtual graduation, Manker’s ball gown pays tribute to those whose lives have been affected by the pandemic.
Zipporah Wills. Wills of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. spent 120 hours crafting her entry using 20 rolls of Duck Tape. Her “Quaran’teen’ Queen!” masterpiece, inspired by the historical events impacting the class of 2020, exhibits the importance of following pandemic protocols while remembering to stop and smell the roses.
Tux Finalists:
Ashton Cordisco. Cordisco of Marietta, Ga. spent 80 hours crafting his entry using 27 rolls of Duck Tape. He set out to create his own piece of wearable modern art incorporating as many colors as possible, and paid his respects to late masterpiece artists in this classy, fun and unique design.
Courtney Barber. Barber of Rolling Hills Estates, Calif. spent 90 hours crafting her entry using nine rolls of Duck Tape. She was inspired to make a tux by Marlene Dietrich, a famous actress who broke norms by wearing suits and tuxedos in the 1930s. The pattern, theme and macramé rope were styled after her late grandmother’s quilting patchwork.
Erick Friend. Friend of Missouri City, Texas spent 105 hours crafting his entry using 25 rolls of Duck Tape. Inspired by his Asian heritage, all the details, including culturally symbolic dragons and roses, were hand drawn and hand cut, and he put the finishing touch on his design by writing the word “prom” in Chinese with tape.
Joshua O’Halla. O’Halla of Rocky River, Ohio spent 96 hours crafting his entry using 20 rolls of Duck Tape. Wanting to pay homage to his best moments and the beauty of summer, its details celebrate memories made growing up near Lake Erie, including the Cleveland skyline on the lake, watching fireworks and spotting wildlife.
Larry Inniss III. Inniss III of Freeport, N.Y, spent 43 hours crafting his entry using 25 rolls of Duck Tape. He was inspired by his school’s knight mascot and the strength the world has shown in the fight against coronavirus. Using school colors, maroon and blue, details include shoulder and knee armor, a shield, gauntlet and a face mask.
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JASON RAYMAKER Actor
JASON RAYMAKER – ACTING REEL
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KENDALL DEVIN BELL Acting Reel Connect on Social Media TIK TOK @Boyonfyre IG @KendallDevinBell .
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Go Simple with Salmon
Make your next family meal quick and tasty with a recipe that calls for common ingredients and simple preparation. These Southwest Salmon Patties are ideal for putting on the table on those busy weeknights, bringing the family together despite hectic schedules. Find more family meal inspiration at Culinary.net Southwest Salmon Patties ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup sour cream 1 teaspoon grated lime zest 4 teaspoons lime juice 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, divided pound skinless, boneless salmon filets, chopped 4 ounces whole green chiles, drained and chopped 2 scallions, thinly sliced ½ cup vegetable oil
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In medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, lime juice and cilantro. In large bowl, combine salt, pepper, 3/4 cup breadcrumbs, salmon, chiles, scallions and 3 tablespoons mayonnaise mixture. Form salmon mixture into four patties. Cover patties with remaining breadcrumbs. In skillet, heat oil. Add breaded patties and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Serve with remaining mayonnaise mixture.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!
http://www.culinary.net
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