The history of New York’s St. Patrick’s Day parade

TThe history of New York?s St. Patrick?s Day parade


St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in many parts of the world. While St. Patrick may have ties to Ireland, the best-known and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade does not occur on the Emerald Isle.
For more than 200 years, the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has held the honor as the United States’ premier and oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade. March 17, 2016, will mark the 254th time celebrants have marched along the streets of New York. This proud Irish-American tradition is even older than the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The parade is held for St. Patrick and also in honor of the Archdiocese of New York.
New York’s parade is among the largest and most famous parades held in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, attracting celebrants from all over the world. The parade was originally held in Lower Manhattan, beginning at the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Greenwich Village. When the new cathedral opened in midtown along Fifth Avenue, the parade was moved and rerouted. It now begins at 44th Street and marches up Fifth Avenue, past St. Patrick’s Cathedral at 50th Street and culminates at 79th Street by the Irish Historical Society. The parade typically lasts between five and six hours.
Visitors to New York City can expect the parade to be held on March 17, except if St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday. Then it will be celebrated on Saturday, March 16, because of religious observances. Public transportation is the best means to getting around on parade day, due to many road closures and the sheer volume of tourists. 
Keep in mind that St. Patrick’s revelry will have to be G-rated along the route. Public consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Anyone found drinking can be ticketed or arrested. Drinking also may be forbidden on various public transportation providers. It’s a much better idea to enjoy the parade and then retire to one of the city’s many eateries or Irish pubs for further celebrating.
The parade typically includes between 150,000 and 250,000 marchers. Holding to its roots, floats, vehicles and other commercial aspects are not allowed during the parade. Many notable individuals have served as the Grand Marshal of the parade. In 2016, former U.S. Senator George Mitchell, who helped broker peace in Northern Ireland, will serve as Grand Marshal.
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a time-honored tradition. It can be an entertaining way to spend St. Patrick’s Day while celebrating the life of St. Patrick and Irish culture

Prevent bugs, sap and other substances from ruining a vehicle

Keep vehicles clean

Keeping vehicles looking pristine requires care and diligent cleaning. So many day-to-day activities and environmental materials have the potential to damage the finish on cars and trucks. While winter weather and chemicals used to keep roadways passable are often blamed for affecting the appearance of cars and trucks, winter is not the only time of year when substances can cause damage to vehicles.
Spring and summer are prime seasons for sap, birds and insects. These times of year tend to see an uptick in road work as well, and such projects can contribute to damage caused by loose asphalt, gravel and tar. Addressing problems resulting from tree sap, insect and bird droppings and tar may not be something to look forward to, but it is necessary to keep cars looking pristine.

Tree sap
According to Cars.com, an automotive information resource and vehicle sales website, although tree sap won’t cause immediate damage to vehicle paint, it should not be ignored. Over time, sap can become more difficult to remove, etch through the clear coat on the vehicle and cause discoloration. When the temperature is hot, damage from sap can accelerate. 
On windows and windshields, drivers may be able to gently remove dried sap with a razor blade. However, use cleaning products on more delicate paint. Automotive stores sell speciality sap and tar cleaners. Otherwise, you can try rubbing alcohol. It may take a few attempts to remove sap entirely.

Insects and bird droppings
Splattered bugs and avian surprises dropped from above can be a messy, unsightly nuisance. Their acidic composition also may cause them to damage paint over time. Bugs and droppings can be sticky, so you will need to work with something that will remove the splatter without removing the paint in the process. A product like WD-40 may help. This oily product is normally used on rust and hinges. When applied with a cloth and allowed to penetrate the stain, it can loosen difficult-to-remove sticky substances. Always test any product you use in an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t damage or discolor your the paint.
Insects or droppings that are fresh may come off relatively easily with a good washing or hosing off of the car. Retailers also sell specialty insect sponges to remove bugs and other debris.

Tar
Soap and water will do little to remove tar and other petroleum-based products from vehicles. Commercial tar removal products use a strong solvent or detergent to loosen the tar. This may include kerosene, mineral spirits or another item mixed with lubricants. Go slowly and use caution so that you remove the tar and not the paint.
Drivers who are hesitant to clean their vehicles of common residue can have their cars or trucks professionally detailed, leaving the work in the hands of experts.

Senior dating trends and tips

The first Baby Boomers will be turning 70 in 2016, and this generation remains one of the most influential in the country and around the world. Scores of products and services are now marketed to seniors, many of whom remain as active and socially aware as they were in their youth. 
One aspect of senior marketing that is booming is dating and relationship products. Singles age 50 and older are increasingly relying on online dating sites and other methods to find love and companionship. Dating is no longer kids’ play, and those who have been away from dating for some time may have to get reacquainted with the process in the modern age. 

Consider online dating
Data from Pew Research found one in two divorced or widowed seniors had remarried in 2013, and that trend figures to continue. Many seniors are using online dating sites to find their new matches. While websites geared to dating make it easier to get in touch with fellow singles, the relative anonymity of the process can make it challenging to separate the truth from some self-promoting hype on dating profiles. 
Begin by relying on dating sites that have been tested and recommended. One to try is the AARP dating site partnered with How About We. In addition to its simplicity and small financial commitment, the site caters to the over-50 crowd and is backed by the AARP name. It’s good for those looking for an activity partner as well as casual dating. Popular sites Match.com and eHarmony.com also boast high percentages of users age 50 and up.
Even after thorough consideration and conversation, online daters should exercise caution when meeting someone online and then in person. Profiles aren’t always what they seem, and it’s easier to fudge the facts when initiating contact over the Internet.

Keep an open mind
It’s easy to be preoccupied with the rigors of being an older adult and the responsibilities that still may rest on your shoulders. Part of the fun of dating when you were young likely had to do with throwing caution to the wind. But some of those same carefree aspects remain true whether you’re dating at 17 or at 57. Laughter, fun, spontaneity, and the chance for some adventure are still the keys to making memorable dates. 

Sometimes it’s who you know
The old adage of it’s “who you know” and not “what you know” is applicable to dating. If you are ready to jump into the dating world again, ask your close friends or family members if they know anyone who might be in a similar situation. 
Taking another stab at dating later in life can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but no matter how long it’s been since your last first date, some aspects of dating are the same as ever. Just remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Scrumptious stir-fry for the family

Stir-fry is a dish many people, adults and kids alike, seem to love. That popularity is perhaps because no two stir-fry dishes ever seem to be the same or because stir-fry dishes encourage cooks to take chances with ingredients.
Those who want to experiment with a tried and true stir-fry success might want to try Michelle Dudash’s recipe for “Orange Peel Beef & Broccoli Stir-Fry With Brown Rice” from her book, “Clean Eating for Busy Families” (Fair Winds Press).

Orange Peel Beef & Broccoli Stir-Fry With Brown Rice
Serves 4

For Sauce:
2    tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
1    tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1    tablespoon cornstarch
2    teaspoons honey
1⁄2    teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1⁄4    teaspoon Chinese 5-spice powder (or 1⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1⁄8 teaspoon each ground fennel and cloves)
1    tablespoon dark sesame oil

For Stir-Fry:
51⁄2    cups bite-size broccoli florets
1    tablespoon minced garlic
1    tablespoon minced ginger (or 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger)
1⁄8    teaspoon salt
1    pound flank or flat iron steak, or top sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain in 11⁄2-inch pieces
1    tablespoon expeller-pressed grapeseed or canola oil
1    orange, 2 teaspoons grated zest, inner segments sliced
2    teaspoons sesame seeds
3    cups cooked brown rice

To make the sauce: Stir together all of the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside. 
To make the stir-fry: Heat a large frying pan or wok over high heat, add 1 cup of water and bring to a boil. Add broccoli, reduce heat to a low boil and cover with a lid or piece of foil, leaving a gap for steam to escape. Steam for 5 minutes until almost fork-tender. Move broccoli to a plate, reserving cooking water in another container.
In a medium bowl, sprinkle garlic, ginger and salt evenly over the beef. Scrape the pan clean, place it on high heat and add the oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the beef in an even layer and cook for 2 minutes undisturbed until brown. Toss with a wooden spoon to break up the pieces, reducing heat to medium-high as needed. Add orange zest and sesame seeds and cook until beef is done, another 2 minutes. Swirl in the sauce, add broccoli and stir-fry to reheat. Add a splash of reserved broccoli water if mixture seems too dry. Serve hot and garnish with orange segments.

Celebrating Chinese New Year

Each year at the turn of the lunisolar Chinese calendar, celebrants gather for a festival that remains one of the most significant social and economic holidays for those of Chinese descent. According to History.com, Chinese New Year is a time to honor household and heavenly deities and ancestors. It’s also a spring festival in which people pray for a good harvest and spend time with family and friends.


It’s unclear when Chinese New Year celebrations originated in China, but some historians believe it evolved from the year-end religious ceremony during the Shang Dynasty (1766 to 1122 BCE). Others date it back even further. 


Legends also surround the origins of the celebration. According to tales passed on through generations, Chinese New Year started with a fight against a mythical beast that looked like an ox with a lion’s head. Called “The Year,” this beast would emerge from its watery abode to harm animals, people and properties, but feared fire, loud sounds and the color red. That is why the Chinese will post banners of duilian (couplets of poetry), participate in parades and shoot fireworks off in commemoration of the holiday.


According to the travel information group, China Highlights, the Spring Festival, known as Chinese New Year in the western hemisphere, is an official public holiday in China. Many Chinese people will have seven days off from work to celebrate.
In addition to fireworks, dragon dances and ancestor worship

are part of many celebrations. Temple fairs may offer traditional performances, representing such events as an emperor’s wedding. Snacks and other foods not typically consumed the rest of the year are offered.
Red, of course, is a primary color for decorating and celebrating as it’s considered to be a lucky color. Red lanterns are hung, and red images of prosperity are posted on official buildings.
This year will be the Year of the Monkey, according to the Chinese zodiac. Celebrations will begin on February 8, 2016, and the year will continue through January 27, 2017. The monkey is thought to be a clever animal, and those born under this sign are considered intelligent.

Throw a sensational Super Bowl party

The culmination of the American football season is on the horizon. Millions of people will tune in to watch two teams battle for the title of champion. While the teams may be busy prepping their last-minute offensive and defensive strategies, sports fans across the country are doing their own strategizing by planning the perfect game-day party.
The first AFL-NFL World Championship Game in professional American football, later known as Super Bowl I, was played on January 15, 1967 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs. Since that day, ardent fans and novices alike have been celebrating football by hosting their own viewing parties at home. These parties present yet another way for friends to get together.
As the opening kickoff draws closer, here are some keys to Super Bowl party success.
* Know your playing field. Your home is only so big, and that means you will have to limit the number of people you can invite. Crowding too many people into the house can be uncomfortable and dangerous, never mind trying to talk and hear above the cacophony of too many people. Take inventory of how many you can seat comfortably. You may need to move out larger furniture and move in folding chairs if you plan to accommodate more guests. If you live in a warmer climate, you may be able to hook up the television outside and host an outdoor event in the yard. This will enable even more people to attend.
* Size up your competition. Super Bowl Sunday is a once-a-year event. There will be thousands of like-minded individuals planning their own parties and utilizing the same services in your local area. Those who need to rent tables and chairs and rely on a caterer (or the services of the nearest pizza joint) should plan early. If you would like to have a football gathering, start laying the groundwork a few months in advance. This way you can leave deposits for any vendors and be secure in knowing you will have what you need come gameday.
*Establish your play book. Will this be a chips-and-dips type of party or will you be offering more substantial fare? Is it adults-only or are guests able to bring their kids along? Make a list of questions that need to be answered and set up the party parameters. This way you will know what to stock up on in advance. Consider allocating a separate room in the house for kids' play or for adults who are there for the social aspect of the party and will not necessarily be glued to the television.
* Check your equipment. What is the Super Bowl without a means to watch the game? Retailers often offer the best deals on new televisions this time of year because they know sports fans want to upgrade their televisions for the big game. If yours is a TV that has seen better days or doesn't offer the high-definition picture guests have come to expect, this may be the time to cash in holiday gift cards for a new flat-screen. If buying new isn't a possibility at this time, there are centers that will rent electronics.
* Watch the clock. Hardcore fans will not want to miss any of the action. Therefore, refreshments and other components of the party will have to coordinate to the timing of the game. Do the bulk of food preparation before kickoff and allow guests to mingle and fuel up before the game starts. Save finger foods and other snacks that are easily accessible for when the game starts. Guests can take a break at halftime and grab food and beverages that are set up buffet-style in another room. Hosts and hostesses also may want to consider serving as food "butlers" and constantly come out with new finger foods on trays and go around the room to ensure everyone doesn't miss a moment of the game.
* Don't run interference. There's not much entertainment that needs to be scheduled on game day apart from the game itself. Ensure that the television is situated so nobody's view is obstructed and that people moving in and out of the room need not cross in front of the TV to get food or use the restroom. While it may be customary to decorate your home with a few decorations, ensure any decorations do not obstruct views of the game. To make things comfortable for the largest number of people, consider having two TVs tuned into the game running in separate rooms. This way, guests can mingle and not be tied to one area.
Super Bowl parties are fun ways to enjoy the last football game of the season and have a houseful of guests celebrate and socialize.

Groundhog Facts

Every February 2nd, people across the country anxiously await the groundhog's weather forecast. Should the groundhog see his shadow, it is six more weeks of winter. If the shadow goes unseen, spring will arrive ahead of schedule. For some, Groundhog Day is the only time a person actually lays eyes on the animal doing the prognosticating. But there's more to groundhogs than their ability to forecast the weather.

  1. Groundhogs do little in that burrow during their winter rest. They go into profound hibernation, where their metabolic rates and their body temperatures drop considerably. Many groundhogs begin to come out of hibernation naturally around early- to mid-February. The groundhogs that make it on television for Groundhog Day may get an earlier wake-up call.
  2. The scientific name of the groundhog is Marmota monax. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are closely related to squirrels and actually can climb trees and swim.
  3.  Groundhogs are herbivores, mostly feeding on whatever plant material they can find. Because they like crops, many farmers view them as pests. On occasion, groundhogs will scavenge for and eat insects.
  4. The burrows made by the animals have several chambers and different entrances and exits. It may be challenging to find a groundhog's entry point to your yard as a result.
  5.  On average, a groundhog will live between 3 to 6 years in the wild. In captivity, a groundhog can live to around age 10.
  6. A wildlife biologist once measured the inside volume of a typical woodchuck burrow. It was estimated that if the hole was filled with wood shavings instead of dirt, that woodchuck could chuck about 700 pounds' worth of wood.
  7. Groundhogs are often mistaken for other animals. In fact, the "gopher" that was seen in the film "Caddyshack" was actually a groundhog.
  8. A groundhog can produce a high-pierced whistle when frightened, which has earned it the nickname "whistlepig."
  9. Groundhog fur is not particularly thick or warm, so the animal has never really been prized for its coat for clothing.

Warning signs of childhood vision troubles

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Adults know when they are beginning to experience trouble with their vision. In such instances, men and women will book appointments with their eye doctors to determine what’s causing their problems. But whether it’s a fear or eyeglasses or simply feeling their symptoms are normal, kids might be hesitant to tell their parents about any vision problems they’re having. As a result, parents must learn to recognize certain warning signs that indicate their children are experiencing vision problems. 
Vision problems in youngsters can be especially problematic, as many of the lessons kids learn in school still begin on a chalkboard. The following are some potential indicators that kids might be dealing with vision problems that require medical attention.
• Reading habits: Vision problems may be most noticeable when kids are reading. As youngsters learn to read, they might use their fingers to keep their place while they figure out the pronunciation of certain words. But kids eventually grow out of that habit. Kids who are still doing so long after they have learned to read may be having trouble seeing words on the page. In addition, kids who pull their reading materials very close to their eyes may be struggling to see the words.
• Viewing habits: Peculiar viewing habits may also be indicative of poor vision. Kids who sit too close to the television may be struggling to see what’s on as opposed to just being overexcited to see their favorite shows. Kids who prefer to watch programs on tablets they can hold as opposed to televisions may also make that choice because it’s easier for them to see on their tablets than on the television. In such instances, ask why they prefer tablets to television. When kids watch TV, ask them to move further away from the television. If they complain moving back makes it hard to see, book an appointment with an eye doctor.
• Eye rubbing: Many kids, and even adults, rub their eyes when they are feeling fatigued. But kids who seem to rub their eyes frequently and at times of the day when they should not be tired may be experiencing vision troubles and feeling frustrated that they cannot see very well.
• Eye activity: Some kids begin to close one eye when reading, watching television or attempting to read signs. That may be indicative of a refractive vision disorder, in which the eye struggles to focus, or refract, light correctly on the retina. Such problems can often be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses, but some refractive disorders may require surgery.
• Squinting: Kids who squint a lot may be finding it difficult to focus on words on a chalkboard or even television programs. Squinting may also be brought on by a corneal abrasion. Parents who notice their youngsters are squinting should consult the child’s eye doctor to determine the cause of the problem.
Vision problems can be especially harmful to children, who rely on their vision to perform their schoolwork. Parents who learn to recognize the various warning signs of vision troubles can nip problems in the bud before they have too great an impact on youngsters.

7 ways to be kind to restaurant food servers

The restaurant industry is booming, with new restaurants entering the challenging foodservice market every day. The National Restaurant Association says restaurants in the United States' generate roughly $2 billion in sales on a typical day. Media Edge, a Canadian trade resource, says the foodservice industry play a major role in Canada's economic growth by providing so many jobs.

Food servers are among some of the hardest working employees in the foodservice industry, but sometimes their efforts go unrecognized. The following are a handful of ways diners can show their appreciation to the men and women who work hard to ensure their customers enjoy their dining experiences.

1. Recognize that waiting tables is no easy task. Waiting tables is both physically and mentally demanding. Servers spend hours on their feet carrying and balancing plates of food during their shifts. Servers also must anticipate the needs of diners and do their best to accommodate them. Acknowledge that servers' jobs are not easy when dining out, and express your gratitude for their had work whenever possible.

2. Recognize that slow food often is not servers' faults. Very often a food server has no control over how fast the food comes out of the kitchen. A very busy meal service can stall an inexperienced kitchen. Don't blame the server because the food took longer than expected to arrive on your table. If you're in a hurry, let the server know in advance so he or she can work with you.

3. Look up at your server. Eye contact shows respect and it will help get your order across clearly - reducing the likelihood of a mixup regarding your order.

4. Put down your phone. Distracted diners are sometimes to blame for slow service. In 2014, a popular New York restaurant took matters into its own hands after constant complaints of slow service. After examining surveillance footage of the dining room from 2004 to 2014, the restaurant owner discovered the wait staff hadn't changed its techniques, but the customers' use of cell phones had slowed table turnover from one hour and five minutes to one hour and 55 minutes. Taking pictures of food, texting before ordering or asking a server to take a group photo can contribute to slower service, which puts added stress on servers.

5. Holidays can put a monkey wrench in restaurant flow. Certain times of the year are popular for dining out. Mother's Day and Father's Day, Valentine's Day, and winter holidays are busy times for the restaurant business. Diners should recognize this and exhibit extra patience when dining out during these busy times of year. If you aren't up for the crowds, abbreviated menus and other factors that come with holiday dining, choose another day to go out.

6. Tip with courtesy and respect. Tips are important to servers because their income may not be steady. Some restaurants do not pay servers minimum wage, expecting their salaries to be offset by tipping. Tip according to how the service was, not the taste of the food or beverages. A 15 percent tip is customary, but you may want to tip 20 percent for exceptional service. Don't dine out if you cannot afford or do not plan to tip.

7. Ask ahead of time if you need a split bill. Multiple checks can prove time-consuming. Address this need early on and pay as punctually as possible.

The restaurant business is fast-paced and challenging. Customers can do their part by being patient and pleasant patrons and showing their servers the respect they deserve.

KO Senior Named student hero by state board of education

On Saturdays you won’t find Klein Oak alum Katherine Dodgen relaxing or taking in a sports event. You can find her hosting strings camps for students at Klein Intermediate.

During her junior year, Dodgen began organizing and conducting classes for orchestra students and providing them free of charge. This endeavor has earned her the Student Hero Award from the State Board of Education. This inaugural award recognizes students, in all regions of Texas, who do kind acts that benefit their classmates or other students in their school district. Only one student per each of the 15 districts can be recognized.

“My love of music began the first day of my fifth grade strings class,” said Dodgen. “I chose to play the cello because it is the stringed instrument that sounds most like the human voice.”

It was this love and passion, as well as Dodgen’s involvement with Girl Scouts that led her to the idea of providing a beginner strings instruction camp for low-income students who could not otherwise afford music lessons. Her vision quickly turned in to the Super Strings Saturday workshops which combined three of her passions: working with music, orchestra and students.

Dodgen enlisted the help of her friends and family as well as 50 student volunteers from the four high school orchestras. In its first year, the workshop had a total of 93 students. Currently the Klein Intermediate School orchestra has the highest retention rate and the largest orchestra in the school’s history, thanks to this program.

“Several parents whose child attended my workshops came up to personally thank me for what I did. I was pleasantly surprised to hear how much I positively affected many different students’ lives,” said Dodgen.

In its second year, the program increased by 20 students and the program will continue this fall with the help of students in the Klein Chapter of the Texas Future Music Educators Club. Most of the students that participated in the Super Strings Saturday have continued to play in their school’s orchestras and there has been an overall increase of students in the orchestra program.

“I could not have done this without all of the students who volunteered, the support of the orchestra community and the Klein ISD administration,” she said. “My biggest thanks and appreciation goes to Mrs. Fishburn, Mrs. Arnold and Mr. Gist who were there to help and guide me along the way.”

Dodgen graduated from Klein Oak High School this year and will be attending the University of Texas at Arlington to pursue a degree in music education. She plans to be an orchestra director and hopes to find a teaching position at home, in Klein ISD.

“It’s hard to describe what an amazing feeling you get when you put your heart into doing something for others,” Dodgen said. “I would encourage everyone to share their passion with others because that is what made a difference in my life.”

11 Historic American Places That Could soon be gone

The Grand Canyon, New York's South Street Seaport and Miami's Little Havana may seem like very different places, but they all have one thing in common: They're at risk of neglect or development that could change their character forever.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation included 11 locations on its annual list of America's most endangered historic places. 

The annual list, now in its 28th year, aims to bring attention to architectural, cultural or natural heritage sites that face an uncertain future.

A.G. Gaston Motel — Birmingham, Alabama

The motel, which served as a "war room" for civil rights leaders, is now vacant.

Alabama businessman Arthur George Gaston built the motel in 1954 to serve blacks traveling through the south during segregation.

Carrollton Courthouse — New Orleans, Louisiana

The trust calls the Carrollton Courthouse one of the area's "most significant landmarks outside of the French Quarter."

Chautauqua Amphitheater — Chautauqua, New York

 There are plans to demolish and rebuild this aging amphitheater, which preservationists oppose. The trust says it was the first multi-use retreat in the U.S. "that is an arts colony, music festival, village square and summer encampment all in one."

East Point Historic Civic Block — East Point, Georgia

This neglected downtown block includes East Point City Hall, City Auditorium, City Library and Victory Park.

The trust says the various buildings are in danger of disrepair and/or demolition.

Fort Worth Stockyards — Fort Worth, Texas

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 A multimillion dollar development is planned at the stockyards, which have been important to Texas' livestock industry since the late 1800s.

The Grand Canyon — Arizona

 This national park is threatened by "proposals ranging from tourist resorts to mining," according to the trust.

South Street Seaport — New York, New York

The National Trust says the neighborhood would be altered by development proposals.

Little Havana — Miami, Florida

Little Havana, west of downtown Miami, could be threatened by zoning changes and a lack of protection for historic buildings, according to the trust.

In 1959, the revolution drove many Cubans to the area, and the neighborhood has a rich cultural history because of it. Now, gentrification and the potential of new high rises is creating tension between the old and the new.

"The war is going to begin," longtime resident Yvonne Bayona told the Miami New Times.

Oak Flats — Superior, Arizona

 This is a sacred tribal site, potentially threatened by mining.

The Factory — West Hollywood, California

A hotel and retail project is proposed for the site of the former gay nightclub that was considered Los Angeles' version of New York's Studio 54.

Old U.S. Mint — San Francisco, California

 The trust describes the Mint as neglected, and the website for the San Francisco Museum at the Mint says plans for a museum are "currently on hold," as a funding proposal is worked out.

In the past 28 years, the trust has identified more than 250 endangered places. The attention raised by the list can have a strong effect on preservation efforts — so much so that the trust prides itself on preventing the loss of most of the named sites.

 

 

http://mashable.com/2015/06/24/historic-american-places/

Lost 'Calvin and Hobbes' tiger goes on adventure

One stuffed tiger had the adventure of a lifetime, thanks to the staff at Tampa International Airport.

On Saturday morning, Owen was traveling with his parents to Houston from Tampa, with the 6-year-old carrying his cherished stuffed tiger from the Calvin and Hobbes comic strip series. But Owen realized he had accidentally left the tiger behind, and was distraught that he might have lost his stuffed-friend forever.

The 6-year-old's mom placed a call to Tampa International Airport's Lost and Found, which was then able to locate the animal. But instead of just having Hobbes wait in boredom for Owen's return, staff decided to take the tiger on an airport-wide adventure.

"I pitched this idea a couple of months ago after I saw a similar idea where someone took a stuffed lion around a museum," said Tony D'Aiuto, Manager at Tampa's Airport Operations Center (AOC). "This seemed like the perfect opportunity."

D'Aiuto then introduced the tiger to various staff members and captured photos of the stuffed animal's behind-the-scenes airport journey. After Hobbes' VIP tour was complete, D'Aiuto printed out a photo book of the tiger's fun time, along with a storyline to give back to Owen and his family when they returned from their trip.

When the family landed back in Tampa, AOC Manager James Parker presented Owen with the photo book of Hobbes' adventure at the airport. The family was touched by the gesture.

"It was very, very sweet," said Amanda Lake, Owen's mother. "We already told him over and over that Hobbes was on an adventure so it was nice to get back and show him that Hobbes really had been on an adventure."

 

 

http://7online.com/travel/boys-lost-stuffed-tiger-goes-on-airport-adventure-/788050/

A Texas Hero, and Spring Resident, riding for the deaf

Texas has a hero in it and his name is Erik Richenberger.

For 13 years the Spring resident has helped saved lives as a paramedic and now he is racing to help others hear. He is particpating in the Tour Divide Race in efforts of raising awareness and funds so deaf people without insurance can receive cochlear implants.

“I learned about the race through a documentary called, “Ride the Divide.” A race of this proportion naturally touches the desire to seek adventure and do something grand with your life even if it is just once,” he said.

The Tour Divide Race, also known as “Riding the Roof,” is a mountain bike ride from Bannff, B.C. to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. After completion, Richenberger will have traveled down the spine of the Rocky Mountains, totaling 2,743 miles. He will have also climbed 220,000 feet of elevation.

“That’s like climbing Mount Everest seven times,” he said. “All in all, I will have touched three countries, five states and cross over the continental divide more than 30 times.”

He will begin his journey in Banff on June 15th and ride for three weeks. Out of curiosity, people usually ask the inspiring cyclist why he is taking upon such a great challenge. Richenberger admits he is doing this for a few selfish reasons.

“I like learning to push my limits, test my mind and body against the elements, and to see if it can be done,” he said. “But the primary reason I am doing this is to raise awareness of the resources available to families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing.”

With a goal of $25,000.00, all proceeds of the race will be donated to The Gift of Hearing Foundation. The organization provides resources and financial assistance to families with deaf or hard of hearing children. Funds can help through financial relief for cochlear implants, which can cost up to $100,000. According to Richenberger, TGHF negotiates the cost down to $8,000 to $10,000, and in some cases cover all expenses.

Richenberger was also inspired by his wife Marianne, who is a school teacher specializing in the same field with an emphasis on oral education.

“Marianne is the most committed teacher and person I've ever come across. She's literally one of those teachers who truly inspire her students to do great things in lift,” he said. “She is very passionate about her job, and I am truly passionate about supporting her.”

The Tour Divide is an avenue Richenberger said where tons of positive energy can be generated. Wanting everyone to take the 27/45 challenge, he is asking others to donate $0.01 a mile, totaling $27.25.

“If a thousand people donate, then we will have reached our goal and if they can donate more, that is awesome.”


http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/spring/news/spring-resident-a-texas-hero-riding-for-the-deaf/article_d88d2c95-b95d-5ddf-90bd-1a73e7c882f9.html

District Receives Award from American Heart Association

Klein ISD has been named a Gold Fit-Friendly Worksite by the American Heart Association. This group of elite awardees is recognized for a strong commitment to providing a healthy workplace for employees.

Specifically, this recognition is awarded to employers who champion the health of their employees and work to create a culture of physical activity and health in the workplace.

In 2008, Klein ISD introduced Kleinwell, a wellness program designed to provide employees with valuable resources, programs and incentives to help improve their overall health and well-being. This program is free and is available to all Klein ISD employees, whether or not they are insured through the district medical plans.

Headed to College and with so many questions: MAC, pc, or tablet??

In this day and age, any PC, Mac, or tablet will be good enough to bring with you to college. There is no clear winner in the debate between PCs and Apples products, so it all comes down to what you’re looking for and personal preference. Here’s an in-depth look at the different kinds of laptops, also comparing them to having a tablet for school.

Apple/Mac

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  • Macs are simple and straightforward; user-friendly, which is a plus for most of us!
  • Macs are a bit more efficient in running multiple operating systems than PCs, including a Mac + PC operating environment.
  • Macs are also made to work with other Apple products, so adding music to your iPod or iPhone or uploading images is a breeze!
  • There are less viruses circulating for Macs than there are for PCs, and they are less likely to crash or lose all of their data. 
  • Macs are more innovative in design and features, and tend to be  more visually appealing to buyers.With the many creative abilities that PCs don’t have, Macs are a great choice for those studying Graphic Design, Music, Photography, English or Journalism, or programs needing Adobe.
  • Excellent customer support is available from Apple, including exclusive Apple stores for all repairs. Apple computers have one of the highest customer satisfaction rates in the industry according to OnlineTechTips.com. I recently brought my Macbook into an Apple Store and was very pleased with the customer service!
  • Newer versions of Apple software also allow you to answer calls and respond to iMessages from your Macbook!

PC

  • PCs are generally less expensive than Macs (as most of you probably already know) with a much wider selection of manufacturers to choose from.
  • Because so many software developers make products that are Windows compatible, there’s much more software available for PCs. With companies like Windows, HP, and Dell all working on products for Windows, there’s lots to choose from.
  • Windows is the most widely used operating system, so being familiar with it is key both in college and after graduating!
  • PCs  have about 2 to 8 GBs of RAM, more than Macs, which is about 1 to 4 GBs.
  • PCs have more compatible accessories than Macs
  • If you’re a gamer, PCs are the right choice for you! With a PC, you can build a custom gaming machine – something Macs are not necessarily known for.
  • PCs are meant to work well with other Microsoft products, like the Xbox for example

Tablets

In terms of deciding whether or not you want a tablet to replace a laptop, there are many things to consider…

  • Tablets tend to have a better battery life, lasting around 8 hours, compared to laptops which usually last 2 – 3 hours (depending on usage, of course).
  • Tablets are smaller, lighter and more portable than laptops, which is great when you’re lugging it around campus from dusk till dawn.
  • Tablets are ready for instant use! They don’t need time to reboot or load up like a laptop would, and even in standby mode, you can still hear alerts for emails and other notifications.
  • Tablets are great if you’re considering purchasing eBooks for class. No more heavy textbooks to and from campus! However, professors may not be very keen on allowing you to use a Tablet in class compared to an actual textbook (you normally can’t surf the Internet or play with apps in a textbook.) If an eBook version is available, it’s a smart idea talk with your professor before making any final purchases!
  • Tablets usually have less compatibility when it comes to downloading different files and programs.
  • Unless you have an attachable keyboard, taking notes and writing papers on tablets can become a bit tricky!

Each product has their ups and downs, but they are will be efficient enough to use at college. Based on what you like and what you are planning on studying, you can choose the laptop or tablet that will be perfect for you.


http://www.srtrends.com/picking-the-right-laptop-for-college-mac-vs-pc-vs-tablet/

New Way to enjoy summer's best fruit!

Watermelon may be a summer staple, but we’ve clearly been missing out on some of what it has to offer. What if you could both enjoy the juicy flesh and make a practical party centerpiece all at once? Read on to find out how a watermelon can get a second life as a keg!

There’s more than one way to slice a watermelon, and more than one thing to do with it once you do! Sure, you can snack on juicy cuts any sticky summer day, but why leave it at that when you can also use the fruit to pour yourself a cool, refreshing drink? Jaime of Pretty Prudent teaches us a thing or two about using every part of the summertime staple by turning her rind into a festive drink dispenser. To re-create this fun, party-ready DIY, you’ll need nothing more than the summer essentials: a ripe watermelon, kitchen knife, ice cream scoop, spigot, and apple corer. 

Start by slicing a small portion off the bottom to make a flat base so the watermelon stands up tall. Now, cut another, larger chunk off the top—remember, a large opening will make it easier to hollow out the inside. Once you’ve scooped out as much of the pink melon innards as you can, use an apple corer to create a hole for your spigot. Then, screw the spigot into place.

Just fill the fruit turned beverage dispenser with the drink of your choice, and you’re done! No matter what you pour in your watermelon keg, it’s sure to be enjoyed by all.


For more information: https://www.yahoo.com/makers/genius-turn-your-watermelon-into-a-drink-119294326595.html

KISD Teachers Honored By Local Organization

Two Klein ISD teachers were surprised by the KHOU Channel 11 Surprise Squad’s Darby Douglas and Chita Johnson when they were named recipients of the Elizabeth Brand Teacher Excellence Award by the Houston Association of Professional Landmen. The organization teamed up with the Surprise Squad to make the announcements. 

Hassler Elementary’s Natalie Gibson and Klein Intermediate’s Kerry Boost were both taken by surprise when they received the news. They are two of only five Houston area teachers to receive this honor.  

The Elizabeth Brand Teacher Excellence Award is presented in memory of former Spring Branch ISD teacher Elizabeth Brand. The annual award, initiated by Brand’s Husband, honors teachers who display outstanding performance and all-around personal development. 

Congratulations to these teachers!

Free June Events!

Summer is finally here! Listed below are some fun things to do to get out of the house!

Maravilloso! The Water Festival
June 5-6 @ Discovery Green (8 pm, 8:30 pm & 9 pm both days)

The two-day contemporary circus and dance event features talent from all over the world — and Houston. Maravilloso! The Water Festival is a graceful performance on Kinder Lake created by a Belgium artistic company. Make paper origami flowers in the evening this week, as well! Bring the kids to the special Saturday, 4 pm performance, for an up-close view!

Hairspray
June 12-13 @ Miller Outdoor Theatre (8 pm)

Step back into the 1960s with TUTS' Humphrey School performance of Hairspray. Or head to the 60-minute, kid-friendly version earlier in the week, Hairspray Jr. — June 10-12 at 11 am at Miller Outdoor Theatre.

Yoga in the Park
June 13 @ Hermann Park (8:30 am)

A new summer series, Savasana into Summer, continues each Saturday through September 1 at Hermann Park, thanks to Namitzi Yoga. The free weekly yoga class is open to everyone, no matter the skill level. Meditation is 8:15 am – 8:25 am with yoga from 8:30 am – 9:30 am.

Jurassic Extreme
June 13 @ CityCentre (11 am – 1 pm)

Get ready for the premiere of Jurassic World by visiting Jurassic Extreme prehistoric program at CityCentre! The free event will introduce you to 7ft- and 12ft-long walking dinosaurs: Rocket, the Baby Tyrannosaurus Rex, and Razor, the Velociraptor. They have blinking eyes and authentic roaring sound! Located at 800 Town and Country Blvd. near I-10 & Beltway 8.

Exxon-Mobil Summer Symphony Night
June 20 @ Miller Outdoor Theatre (8:30 pm)

Enjoy this free summer concert series produced by the Houston Symphony and ExxonMobil, one of many around the city this summer. This summer concert series, a Houston tradition, features guest artists and conductors. Other free nights at Miller include June 16, June 26, and June 27.

 

For more free events: http://www.houstononthecheap.com

Local Baseball Teams Going to State

Two local teams are taking the next step towards taking the State Championship for baseball in the Class 6A Region III and Class 5A!

Cypress Ranch makes a return trip after knocking off Clear Creek in the Regional Finals in three games on the campus of Rice University. The Mustangs had a tremendous pitching performance by Tyler Bielanowicz, who pitched a four-hit shutout leading the Mustangs hope for a repeat performance. They will face “red-hot” Dallas Jesuit, who beat Oak Ridge to advance to the State Semis.

 

In Class 5A, the Tomball Cougars beat rival Tomball Memorial in its 3-game series to reach state for the second time in three years. The Cougars won the state title in 2013. Tomball Memorial made history reaching the regional finals but could not contain Tomball’s stars Stephen Bonnain, Robbie Gillen and Shane Daughety. Tomball will face Prosper in the state semis.

 

For more information: http://vype.com/houston/2015/06/08/cy-ranch-tomball-headed-to-state/

Grand Parkway

State Highway 99 (SH 99, the Grand Parkway) is a proposed 180+ mile circumferential scenic highway traversing seven counties and encircling the Greater Houston region. The project has been shown on governmental planning documents since the early 1960's.

Active planning and design of the highway began in the early 1980's with the designation of SH99 from US59S near Sugar Land to US290 near Cypress in 1983 and the creation of the Grand Parkway Association and designation of the entire loop from SH146 in Galveston County near San Leon, around the south, west, north and east sides of metropolitan Houston to SH146 in Harris County near Baytown. The current existing and proposed route can be viewed in Google Maps by clicking this link.

The first portion constructed was a 19.5-mile from US59S near Sugar Land to north of IH10W near Katy. These portions of Segment D, US59S to IH10W, and Segment E, IH10W to US290, were open to traffic in August 1994.

The next segment constructed was Phase I of Segment I-2, from IH10E to FM1405 in Chambers County. This 8.8 mile section of the highway was opened to traffic on March 25, 2008 and is a toll facility operated by TxDOT. Please refer to TxTag Web Page for information regarding this segment. Phase 2 of Segment I-2, FM1405 to SH 146 near the east end of the Fred Hartman Bridge in Baytown, is currently under design.

TxDOT awarded contracts for Segments D and E, from south of IH10W, near Katy, to US290, near Cypress, in 2011. This project is scheduled to be open to traffic in December 2013.

TxDOT awarded a single Design-Build contract to Zachry Odebrecht Parkway Builders for Segments F-1, F-2 and G, from US290 to SH249 to IH45N to US59N, thru northern Harris and southern Montgomery Counties in 2013. This project is scheduled to be open to traffic in late 2015 and has an information website at www.grandparkway99.com.

Other segments are in various stages of project development. For detailed segment information, please click on the segment's tab to the left.