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Technology In The Arts - Emerging Science and Technology Trends > Blog > Technology > 9 perfect 'podcast games' built for multitaskers
9 perfect 'podcast games' built for multitaskers
Just because you play a lot of games doesn't mean you can't also enjoy and engage in other forms of media. There's a lot to do, see, watch, and listen to — especially in 2023, where virtually every form of media is saturated with more content than has ever existed before — so sometimes it's nice to sit back and watch a Twitch stream or catch up on an audiobook series while playing an equally relaxing game.
Plenty of games do want to capture the sum total of your attention, especially brain-twisters like 2022's fantastic Immortality and RPGs and strategy games that reward you for the brainpower you spend on the experience. Still, it's worth looking at the best games that allow you to sit back and disengage while your brain idles over a podcast or something similar. Here are our top picks for the best games to play while listening to podcasts in 2023.
Vampire Survivors makes the list for its remarkable approachability. It's a crossbreed between a shoot-'em-up and a roguelike, but you don't actually need to press any buttons other than the ones that move your character around on the screen. All the shooting is automated as you try to evade, outmaneuver, and fight your way through waves of enemies – which become more numerous as time wears on. Meanwhile, defeating foes and collecting their pickups gradually rewards you with an increasing arsenal of weapons and power-ups that make your character unstoppable by the end, so you only have to pay just enough attention to avoid getting swarmed.
Vampire Survivors is free to play on iOS and Android and is also part of Xbox Game Pass. PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Mac users can also buy Vampire Survivors for $5. All PC versions of Vampire Survivors run in a windowed format, meaning you can easily play it while multitasking.
Much like Vampire Survivors, Loop Hero is a partially idle game to play in the background while doing other things. In it, the player is a godlike figure who sets up the world for the heroes to autonomously explore and adventure in. The challenge of Loop Hero comes from creating a world that is both fair to the heroes, but is challenging enough to sufficiently make them more powerful as time goes on and monsters become more deadly. It's also a deck-building game, which means there's some level of randomization to each of the different cards you're able to allocate. Some decisions that seem to be fortuitous at first may present unforeseen challenges and vice versa.
This dynamic keeps Loop Hero interesting after a long session, and since your decisions play out in front of you in the form of loops rather than requiring you to directly control a protagonist, you can easily listen to a podcast or even watch a movie while playing Loop Hero in the background. It's available for $15 on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Nintendo Switch.
Playing a casual sport like golf or racquetball, or doing a low-intensity cardio workout like walking or jogging, can pair well with listening to a podcast. But if you own a Nintendo Switch, you might also want to check out Nintendo Switch Sports, which is the underappreciated sequel to Wii Sports. It includes many of the same games, like Golf and Bowling, but it also includes plenty of new games, like Volleyball, Soccer, Badminton, Tennis, and Chambara. Although it's incompatible with the Nintendo Switch Lite and requires a safe play space for physical activity, it's simple enough to complement listening to a podcast or audiobook.
Nintendo Switch Sports is currently available for $40 digitally, though you may want to splurge for the $50 physical edition if you also want the leg accessory that allows you to use your actual legs to kick the virtual ball in Soccer. It's a Nintendo Switch exclusive.
Tetris 99
Tetris is one of the most iconic video games ever created, and it's also a very good podcast game. This puzzle game where you align falling blocks of various shapes in neat rows, clearing them off the board before they can flow over the top of the screen, actually has positive neurological effects. According to the Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, Tetris may even be an effective preventative treatment for PTSD. Any form of Tetris could keep your mind stimulated while you're listening to something else, but Tetris 99 is special because it takes the classic formula online and pits you against 98 other anonymous players.
Tetris 99 is my personal go-to game when I'm watching a sitcom or a cheesy anime. It's a Nintendo Switch exclusive, but it's free to download and play for all Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. You can purchase the full version, which includes the single-player Marathon mode, for $10 from the Nintendo Switch eShop.
Minecraft lets you have your cake and eat it too, literally. It's arguably one of the most open-ended games ever created, plopping you in the middle of a procedurally generated world made up of blocks that are modeled after things like sand, water, lava, and so forth. There are now over 63 simulated biomes that can occur anywhere in the world, and each offers wildly different sights and experiences as you explore. You can collect and repurpose almost every block in the world, and what you choose to do with these blocks is ultimately up to you. To accompany this freedom, Minecraft offers a robust crafting system that allows you to experiment with different combinations of blocks to invent new items and tools. And yes, you can even bake a cake.
Whether you're playing Survival mode, building things in Creative, or going online with friends, Minecraft is a game that allows you the play, craft, and build infinitely at your own pace. As a result, it's a joy to play while listening to your favorite podcasts. Minecraft: Java Edition is the most up-to-date version of Minecraft, and you can grab it on Windows, macOS, and Linux for $30 Meanwhile, the similarly priced Minecraft: Bedrock Edition (also known as Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition) is available with cross-progression and multiplayer cross-compatibility on Windows, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android devices.
No Man's Sky is a space exploration game where you can do whatever you want, whenever you want, and with whomever you want. There are plenty of story-focused quests to do here, but No Man's Sky doesn't really pressure you into following its story after you get some of the early tutorials out of the way. Instead, it's more interested in letting you explore its seemingly endless universe – which is said to contain 18 quintillion planets, though they're all procedurally generated – at your own leisure. And there are a shocking number of ways to do this. Unlike other space sims, which require pristine attention to flight controls and other simulated factors, No Man's Sky handles most of the hard work for you
That means you can drift across the nebula while tuning in to the latest episode of your favorite podcast or even listening to an entire audiobook. But you don't have to stay in your spacecraft at all times. You can land on every single planet you see, and once you get there, you can build your own base, take a seat, and just chill out for a while. No Man's Sky is available for $60 on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. It features full crossplay for its multiplayer and is compatible with VR headsets like Meta Quest 2, Valve Index, and the upcoming PlayStation VR2.
At its core, Fallout 4 is a post-apocalyptic action RPG mixed with first-person shooting mechanics, but its pacing is surprisingly relaxed in comparison to other RPGs. Combat encounters are fewer and further between while you're exploring the desolate wasteland surrounding Boston and its outer regions. Each collectible item in the world doubles as a crafting resource, and Fallout 4 asks you to fill in the empty gaps between locations of interest via its settlement-building system. As such, it allows you to build up your own towns and keep your townsfolk happy through machinations that you craft and design yourself.
Those systems are what make it a surprisingly great game to play while listening to something else, despite it being an RPG. If you have a powerful enough PC to run Fallout 4 with the Sim Settlements mod, you can easily sink hundreds of hours into building up your own bases and populating them with residents, and this is a great activity to pair with auxiliary audio such as podcasts, audiobooks, TV shows, and so forth. It already features a set of in-game radio stations that turn off the soundtrack, so it's not like you're missing out on any key part of the experience if you choose to tune into something else.
Doom (1993)/Doom 2
Frankly, I'm shocked at the number of devices that can run Doom in 2023. That ability long ago wore out its welcome as a meme, but also means that this shooter should work on pretty much any gaming device in your household. Widely considered the godfather of first-person shooters, Doom holds up extremely well – though it is a bit more hectic than the other games on this list. In its favor, the gameplay is simplistic and apart from a few confusing puzzle sections here and there, it remains easy to follow while you have another source of audio playing in the background.
I find that Doom's soundtrack gets stale after a while and prefer Mick Gordon's work on the newer games, so I'm content with turning Doom's audio off, whichmakes it a good podcast game for me. I recently beat the entirety of Doom while listening to Nathaniel Branden's The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem, and there was something weirdly satisfying about shooting my way through a swarm of demons while having the value of self-efficacy explained to me. It just works.
In Stardew Valley, you inherit your grandfather's dilapidated old farm in a remote town and turn it into something of your own. It's a farming sim that's a lot like Harvest Moon, but it adds more depth across all of its interlocking systems. Gameplay is split across four distinct seasons, each containing 30 days. Every day is limited to a set number of hours, which pass as you complete different activities, meaning you'll need to carefully choose which pursuits interest you the most as you reconstruct your farm and develop your relationships with the townsfolk. But since Stardew Valley never really ends, the implied time constraints only truly serve to move you forward toward your own personal goals.
The moment-to-moment gameplay is slow-paced, whether you choose to focus on growing crops, foraging for wood, fishing, or fighting monsters in the mines. In this way, Stardew Valley keeps your mind busy without overwhelming you, making it a great game to accompany a nice podcast or audiobook. It also features plenty of mods available on the PC version, which extend its longevity, though it also plays great on the Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation consoles. If you don't own any gaming consoles, you can still play it on any iOS or Android device. Stardew Valley is widely available for $15.
Larry Covert January 15, 2023
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Kep (កែប) also romanized as Kaeb (Khmer: កែប) formally known as Kep Province (ខេត្តកែប) is the smallest province (khaet) of Cambodia covering 336 km2 with a population of 40,280. It is one of the newest Cambodian provinces, together with Pailin and Sihanoukville, created by Royal Decree on 22 December 2008, which separated Kep municipality from the province of Kampot, as well as adjusting several provincial borders. The provincial capital is Kep District and the province contains the Kep National Park.


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Select your language English Cymraeg
Sacred Wales
The sacred landscape of Wales is a secret known only to a few.
This living work of art, entwined with history, culture and mythology has the power to inspire the mind and soothe the soul.
Our amazing ancient churches and chapels have sat quietly in the background for centuries; their stories hidden deep within, their features and fittings understood only by a few, their immense age, their power to excite the mind, buried deep.
Discover remarkable sacred spaces; decode their art and architecture, reveal their hidden histories and take inspiring journeys of discovery around the new Wales Way.
Find and explore the churches with us, enjoy bookable experiences and meaningful tours to excite the mind and stir the soul, around the forgotten corners of this ancient land.
Join us on our exploration of sacred Wales.
©HelenHotson
The Coastal Way
The breath taking coastal landscape of Wales has held allure for pilgrims, poets and travellers for millennia. Hundreds of ancient atmospheric Welsh churches are sited within a stones throw from, and even occasionally on, the beach, promontory or headland. Your journey will lead you through some of the most awe inspiring landscapes in the world.
The North Wales Way
Taking you to some of the finest sacred places in Wales, where impressive medieval churches with rich art and architecture abound. But, in some of the remotest spots you'll be transported to another place entirely. From the mountainous wilds to a church cut off by the high tide. Stunning landscapes and little known pilgrim churches brimming with atmosphere.
The Cambrian Way
From Cardiff to the Great Orme; take the back roads down the mountainous spine of Wales. Timeless simple out of the way chapels and picturesque town churches with a warm welcome, travel to the oldest unaltered non conformist place of worship in Wales, admire medieval glass and angel roofs, and be wowed by Arts & Crafts splendour and bold modern art.
Discover more from us
Caru dy gymydog
Wales is said to be the castle capital of the world, with more castles per square mile than any other country. But what many people don't know is that our churches are even older than our castles.
Edge of the world
There is always something magical about visiting a tidal island church. The incredible rhythm, the ebb and flow of the sea, means these shape shifting islands are other worldly, mysterious.
Tirweddau hudol
What is it about the wild and mysterious landscape of Wales; and the ancient churches you stumble across, every few miles, which seem so intimately connected with it?
From the rugged wilds of the Cairngorms in Scotland and the ancient woodlands of the New Forest in southern England to the golden shores of the Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales, all of our National Parks are truly special places.
Mountain churches
Ten of our favourite mountain churches. Sheltered in hidden valleys underneath our highest mountains, offering places of comfort after a day exploring the surrounding fells.
Dewi Sant
It is the most important day in the Welsh calendar to celebrate our culture and heritage, but who was Dewi Sant?
©CrownCopyright2020
Discover trails and rides
If feeling the earth beneath your boots or bike is your thing, you are in for a treat!
Wales Coast Path
The Wales Coast Path is the first path in the world to follow a nation's entire coastline. Some rare souls may choose to walk the whole 870 miles but we have created 9 new short walks, all visiting sacred places along the path.
Great Welsh Church Walks
Looking for ideas for some amazing walks this year? If you like atmospheric places off the beaten track, Wales churches are a great place to start. We asked our friends to recommend their favourites.
Penrhys Pilgrimage Way
Discover a 20 mile medieval pilgrimage route, split into six sections, rich in history as you travel through the ever changing and gorgeous landscapes of South Wales.
Cistercian Way
A 672 mile walk into the heart of Wales. The Cistercian Way is a project to create a round Wales walking route linking iconic Cistercian abbeys with other sites of historic interest.
Welsh churches on our map
St Cwyfan, Llangwyfan
It may seem an odd and perilous place to build a church, but St Cwyfan's originally stood at the end of a peninsula between two bays.
St Davids Cathedral
A sacred place of pilgrimage upon the site of an earlier 6th century monastery built by St David, the patron saint of Wales.
Soar y Mynydd, Tregaron
Soar y Mynydd, Tregaron Soar y mynydd is the remotest chapel in Wales, its name is Welsh for 'Zour of the mountain'.
St Tysilio, Church Island
It is known that the present church on the island dates back to the 1400s but it is not known who built the church and why.
Plough Chapel, Brecon
The first chapel on this site was a meeting room in a building also used as a pub called the Plough, which stood here in the 17th century.
SarahCrossland
St Dwynwen, Llanddwyn Island
Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn) is a magical place.
St Patrick, Llanbadrig
Situated on a windswept headland, St Patrick's is a place of deep peace and prayer.
St Hywyn, Aberdaron
This medieval pilgrim church stands above the shore of the Irish Sea, at the end of the Llyn Peninsula, nestled in the old fishing village of Aberdaron.
Church of the Holy Cross, Mwnt
This remote 13th century church has a complete medieval roof. Originally a sailor's chapel of ease, it has stunning sea views.
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St Margaret of Antioch, Bodelwyddan
Known as the Marble Church, the church tower at 62 metres high, is a landmark visible from miles around.
DavidSkinner
St Govan Chapel, Bosherston
This is a place to connect with the ancients and the elemental; a medieval pilgrimage chapel in a dramatic setting, perched on a cliff face above the Atlantic sea, approached down a flight of worn stone steps.
Maesyronnen Chapel, Glasbury on Wye
You can't get a chapel much older than Maesyronnen, it is considered one of the most important buildings in Wales.
Visit Wales
Welcome to the Year of Discovery.
https://www.visitwales.com/
The Wales Way
Exploring the family of touring routes that lead you through the heart of Wales.
https://www.visitwales.com/inspire-me/wales-way
Friends of Friendless Churches
Welcome everybody, many of our churches are remote and full of atmosphere.
http://friendsoffriendlesschurches.org.uk/
Addoldai Cymru
Telling the story of Welsh chapels.
http://www.welshchapels.org/

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Proud of his NFL Running Back Son
Erin Hallissy
When the Kansas City Chiefs arrived in Oakland on Oct. 23 to play the Raiders at the Coliseum, Shell Martinez inspector Jack Battle was in the stands cheering on the visiting team.
It's not that he has anything against the Raiders, it's just that his son, Jackie Battle, is a Chiefs running back who was coming off a 119-yard rushing game two weeks ago. The funny thing is, he prefers watching games on TV.
"I don't like live football or live sports. It's a hassle driving some place, and the walking and everything," Battle said with a laugh. "I like it on the DVR, so you can pause and rewind and fast forward."
He made an exception last month, however, so he and his daughter Briana could watch the game and then mingle with the players after the game in the family area. Battle is low-key about having a son who plays in the NFL, saying, "I'm proud of him, but I don't think any of the males in my family get particularly excited about anything."
That includes Jackie, now in his fifth season as a pro running back.
"He's not a super big football fan," Battle said. "He's a good athlete and somebody wants to pay him to do this. He doesn't live and breathe to play the game. It's a job."
It's a good job, but one with risks like injuries that could end careers and a lack of security for non-starters. It wasn't until just three months ago that he bought a house (in Houston), where he lives with his wife, who is expecting their first baby in May.
"We never had to worry about him making the right decisions," Battle said. "He didn't go buy anything (with his NFL paychecks). He drives a 2005 vehicle. He doesn't own any jewelry outside his wedding ring. He gets watches (from competitions like bowl games) and gives them to me."
But Jackie Battle, who has been a running back mostly on special teams for the Chiefs, had a terrific performance in the Chiefs' Oct. 9 over the Indianapolis Colts, gaining a career-high 119 yards. He's 250 pounds and can run a 40-yard dash in 4.40 seconds, which his father describes as "flying."
Here's what a story on the Chiefs' website had to say last month about Jackie: "Unlike his first four seasons in the NFL, Battle's breakout performance against the Colts was impossible to miss. The measuring stick of national recognition comes in fantasy football leagues where Battle is the hottest waiver wire addition of the week despite the Chiefs not playing again until October 23."
Since then, he's had good games against the Raiders and the San Diego Chargers on Oct. 31, where he had 70 yards on 19 carries, and scored a touchdown in a Chiefs win that put them in a tie for the AFC West lead.
Jack Battle said his son grabbed the opportunity to get more playing time than his special teams' role in the win against the Colts. Battle enjoyed celebrating that victory, along with celebrating a milestone of his own in October – his 21st anniversary at Shell Martinez on Oct. 8. Battle began working in as an operator in the Operation Central control facility in 1990. The unit is responsible for monitoring and running a large part of the refinery.
Battle hadn't thought about pursuing a job specifically in the oil industry. He had been in the Navy, working at the Concord Naval Weapons Station, where he was a signal mate and was in charge of the gymnasium and the auto hobby shop. When his enlistment was expiring, he looked in the classifieds and found jobs at Shell, Chevron, the Contra Costa County sheriff's and fire departments, and decided to apply at Shell.
"When I was hired in here, 1,500 people showed up for the application process," Battle recalled. "It was a good job, even back then."
Even though he didn't initially didn't know anything about working in a refinery, he learned, and in 1998 he was promoted to shift team leader. In 2000, he became an inspector, and has been in the same role ever since, now working on the second floor of the main office building on Pacheco Boulevard.
His cubicle shows little sign of his connection to the NFL except for a photo of Jackie carrying the ball in a recent football game on his computer monitor.
Battle enjoys watching football, but he played basketball himself. He was point guard on the Crenshaw High School basketball team in Los Angeles, which is a perennial powerhouse. He also played on the Los Angeles City College team. Unlike his son, he didn't think about going pro.
"I was small," he said. "When I graduated from high school I was 5-7. I'm 6-1 now. In nine months I grew 7 inches."
Battle's three brothers also played sports – baseball, basketball and football (his sister did not). "My parents didn't drive it, but they made it available," Battle said. "I just liked to compete and the camaraderie of being on a team. For me, the biggest part was competing against different players on a daily basis."
As a father, he also made playing sports available to his children. Jackie played football from a young age. He grew up in Houston after Battle and his first wife divorced, but during the summers he would come to the Bay Area. Jackie participated in summer football camps at St. Mary's College in Moraga. In his first, he was only 13, but they put him on the high school team because of his speed. He won the camp MVP award.
Jackie played on the Humble High team in Texas, and was ranked No. 38 in the nation for running backs. He was a five-star blue chip recruit who went to the University of Houston on a football scholarship. Battle was his representative, dealing with all the coaches during recruiting.
"I was the guy, because he didn't feel comfortable talking to these people, everybody had to go through me to decide what to do," he said.
After his freshman year, the coach was fired and the new coach changed from a running game to a passing game, so Jackie didn't get as many opportunities, but he still set the school record for rushing in a season and rushing in a career. His college quarterback, Kevin Kolb, is now the Arizona Cardinals quarterback.
Battle went to a lot of Jackie's games during college, and experienced the intensity of Texas football.
"You go to a game out here and people are sitting down. There, people are standing up the whole game and hollering." Jackie graduated in 2007 with a degree in sports administration (he hopes to be a college athletic director some day). He was not drafted, but right after the draft about 15 teams called Battle and his agent asking about signing him.
He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys in 2007, and then by Kansas City, where he has played ever since.
Battle has another son, Elliott, 18, and a daughter, Briana, who is in eighth grade. He said his biggest hobby is to "hang out with my kids."
"When Elliot in high school, I spent a lot of time on the road between basketball and football," he said. "Briana wants to be a chef, so I spend a lot of time in the kitchen watching her cook. She likes to bake. I have to clean it up. That's the part I haven't been able to get in her mind, that you have to clean up."
His person hobby is fixing computers. He says he's probably worked on about 100 people's computers.
"I don't charge anything. I just like the challenge," he said.


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Kansas, Latest News
Medicaid Expansion Moves Forward in Kansas
Gov. Laura Kelly Making Progress On A Major Legislative Priority
Gov. Laura Kelly is now one step closer to expanding Medicaid in Kansas, one of her top legislative priorities. Today, legislators in the House finally got a chance to vote on Kelly's proposal and passed the legislation out of the chamber. Last year, Gov. Kelly campaigned hard on expanding Medicaid and is now travelling the state to raise support for her proposal. Most notably, Kelly has focused on showcasing the existing support from the business community and even some Republicans in the state. As many as 150,000 Kansans would gain access to affordable health care if the legislation passes.
Kelly released the following statement after the vote:
"Today a bipartisan coalition in the Kansas House put politics aside and came together to pass Medicaid expansion. I'm proud of their work – and the work of so many advocates and citizens who worked tirelessly to make their voices heard on this issue.
"Medicaid expansion is one of the most critical issues impacting our state's future. It will allow up to 150,000 more Kansans access to affordable healthcare, support local hospitals and clinics, and impact our economy for the better.
"Over 70 percent of Kansans support Medicaid expansion. I encourage the Kansas Senate to join me, this bipartisan coalition, business leaders and the overwhelming majority of Kansans in support of Medicaid expansion. The time for blocking progress has long since passed. Now is the time to expand Medicaid."
Read more about the bills progress HERE and below:
Topeka Capitol Journal: 'Rare demonstration of political bravery': Kansas House advances Medicaid expansion plan
Lawmakers in the Kansas House broke a stranglehold on Medicaid expansion movement and gave first-round approval Wednesday to a plan to extend health care coverage to 130,000 low-income Kansans.
Rep. Kathy Wolfe Moore, D-Kansas City, put the plan in play by gutting legislation crafted by House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican and outspoken opponent of Medicaid expansion, and securing enough bipartisan support to overcome a rules objection.
GOP leadership throughout the session has blocked a Medicaid expansion bill from getting a hearing, and Wolfe Moore said her amendment on the floor was the only way to secure a debate on the issue.
"Today is most definitely the day to stand with the people of Kansas," Wolfe Moore said.
The Kansas Health Institute estimates expansion would have a $47.4 million impact on the state budget in 2020. The federal government would assume 90 percent of the costs for those served by KanCare, as Medicaid is known in Kansas, including the 416,000 seniors, children of low-income families, disabled adults and pregnant women already in the system.
The House advanced the expansion package on a 70-54 vote. A final action vote will be needed to pass the bill and send it to the Senate.
"This was a rare demonstration of political bravery in the House," said Rep. Brett Parker, D-Overland Park. "Kansans are better off for the bipartisan coalition that cast aside partisan obstruction to deliver a desperately needed policy."
Republicans succeeded in modifying Wolfe Moore's plan to ban coverage of abortion procedures and require monthly fees for those who sign up.
Rep. John Eplee, R-Atchison, proposed a $25 per month service cost, with a $100 cap for a single household, as an alternative to work requirements favored by some Republicans. Eplee said the fees could produce enough revenue to fully offset the state's financial obligation.
"I think this is a reasonable compromise," Eplee said.
The prohibition on abortion services, introduced by Rep. Susan Humphries, R-Wichita, doesn't provide exceptions for rape, incest or saving the life of a mother, as federal law does.
The long-anticipated debate over Medicaid expansion unfolded after Hawkins objected to the obliteration of his bill, which dealt with nursing qualifications. A majority vote allowed the debate to proceed.
Rep. Steve Huebert, R-Valley Center, cautioned lawmakers about the "huge impact" Medicaid expansion is sure to have on the state budget. He said there was no question the federal government eventually will dial back its financial support for the program.
"When you see me in five years," Huebert said, "I'll wish you the best on whatever cuts you're making."
Wolfe Moore's plan includes a "poison pill" provision that authorizes the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to back out of expansion if the federal match rate drops below 90 percent.
Rep. Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, said the "poison pill" provision won't have an effect because it would be politically untenable for the Legislature to take away health care coverage after the plan passes.
As chairwoman of the health committee, Landwehr hasn't held a hearing on Medicaid expansion legislation. Instead, Landwehr held three days of roundtable discussions on the issue.
Landwehr questioned Wolfe Moore on the details of the plan for 40 minutes and urged lawmakers not to rush when unanswered questions remain.
"We're not done this week," Landwehr said. "There are discussions going on. This isn't the last vehicle out of there."
Rep. Jim Kelly, R-Independence, said he found it hard to believe the magic answer will appear next week. He said he supports Medicaid expansion after seeing the chaos in his town when its hospital closed.
Kelly said elderly residents struggled to figure out what to do while they watched doctors leave town.
"Let's move forward and try to put something positive in place for Kansas, and in particular for those of us who live in rural Kansas," Kelly said.
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Listen up, companies. It pays to invest in great customer service. How do we know? Using SurveyMonkey Audience, we asked more than 400 Americans if a company's reputation for excellent customer service affects whether or not they'll buy from them.
And it turns out a whopping 72% of customers say they're "very" or "extremely" likely to shop at a company or particular location because of their reputation for outstanding customer service.
We also discovered that 97% of customers are likely to tell their friends, family, or coworkers about a "very good" or "excellent" customer service experience. Yep, that's right. Whether it's a quick email, a Facebook post, a call to a friend, or a good old-fashioned in-person chat, customers are ready to sing your praises when you deliver great customer service.
So what can you do to make sure your customer service is at its best? Read on to learn what customers say they value most when it comes to customer support. And find out the companies with the best customer service, according to customers.
The ability of a Customer Service Representative to resolve a customer's issue is #1 at 71%. But it looks like it's time to train up your team and sharpen their customer service skills. Because timeliness (43%), access to support (35%), personality and friendliness of the Representative (43%), and authentic communication (33%) also ranked highly.
Not sure if your customers would prefer to chat over the phone or over email? Send a customer satisfaction survey to see whether or not you're meeting customer expectations when it comes to how you run your business.
Which industries are dominating the competition?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, only 9% of customers say the government is known for excellent customer service, while hospitality–an industry geared towards making people comfortable–won for outstanding customer service (49%), with food service coming in at a close second (40%).
Companies with the best customer service: Who's leading the pack?
And the winner is: Amazon!
Despite its recent security breach, Target is still recognized as having "very good" or "excellent" customer service by 1 out of 5 people surveyed. In addition to asking people to rate the brands above, we also captured data on brands that didn't do so well. And here are some contenders for the worst customer service award: Only 6% rated Samsung, McDonald's, and Safeway as having "very good" or "excellent" customer service. And Comcast didn't fare so well either at 5%.
Well, you tell us. Since 72% of Americans are very or extremely like to shop at a company or particular location because of their reputation for strong customer service, investing in excellent customer service seems to make sense. So there you have it, folks. If you give your customers an excellent customer service experience, they're more likely to recommend your brand to others.
View the original post or see more ways you can do market research with surveys.
Our powerful survey platform makes it easy to get valuable feedback.


What an AMAZING DAY for My Family!
On Friday September 25th my son and former Brentwood School student, Timothy Steeves, was awarded the 1871 Vuillaume Violin to play for 3 years in the Canada Council Musical Instrument Bank Competition in Toronto! Such an incredible honour, our family is over the moon!! WOW!!!
Here is some information on the competition. Every 3 years, talented Canadian classical musicians compete for the chance to borrow fine stringed instruments from the Canada Council's Musical Instrument Bank (MIB). The competition is intense and is decided by a jury of professional musicians and peers. Musicians who win the competition are often invited to perform with their instruments on some of the world's most celebrated stages. The MIB includes close to 22 magnificent instruments worth a total of over $41 million. These historically-significant violins, cellos and bows, ranging in age from the late 1600s to the early 1900s, were crafted by the world's finest luthiers.


Can You Pass The Exam Using Cheap And Free PMP Study Material?
/ Can You Pass The Exam Using Cheap And Free PMP Study Material?
You will realize that free PMP study material is not useful after reading this post. You can pass the certification test by studying from cheap exam prep material instead of free sources.
You have to be careful while choosing the study material. PMP credential exam is an expensive test. Free sources can be costly and detrimental for passing the exam.
In this post have shared story of a Reddit user. He has shared is preparation strategy and provided suggestions for the study material. His main advice is to schedule the exam and then follow it up with the preparation.
Let's jump straight into his PMP story.
Did I Use Free PMP Study Material?
Quick and easy, I have project records so I know the dates of them and a lot of the projects were similar in scope so my descriptions for each were similar. I had a Construction Management class in college (engineering) a while back that fill the education requirement. I got my application approved DEC 3, 2017.
I put the PMP on the back burner for a while since I had other commitments. Come September I realize I will need to resubmit the application if I don't take the test soon. I skimming some books and looking at some videos at this point but not really studying.
I scheduled the test for Nov, 5th, this would allow me another 4 weeks of study to take the test again without the application expired. This was the #1 motivator to study.
($11) Joseph Phillips Udemy Course – I watched this first- Good baseline course, gives you a great overview of everything in the PMBOK, is easy to watch, and you can watch at faster speeds (though sometimes this makes the audio horrible) The handouts and summary sheets are good too. No need to memorize every ITTO, that will be a waste of time. Went back and re-watched a few videos in areas where I had bad practice exam results.
($68) PMTraining practice Exams– The bulk of my studying was just doing practice questions, this was well worth the $68. I probably did around 2000 questions. PMTraining also tells you what areas you need improvement in. When I would miss a question I would reference the area of the PMBOK for the answer.
($Free) PMBOK Guide – A PDF version is free with your membership, I was able to borrow a friend's hard-copy though which I prefer. I didn't really read this. I used it as more of reference for the questions I missed on pm training practice exams. I read through the glossary the day before the test just to see if there were any terms I may have overlooked.
Overall I had probably about 45 hours of studying over 5 weeks. I watched a few youtube videos as well but nothing that I felt wasn't covered elsewhere.
I kept an eye on the timer and made sure I kept an appropriate pace. (50 questions/hour Minimum if not better). I ended up not taking any breaks and finished with 10 minutes left. I used the 10 minutes to go back through the marked questions I probably changed 30% of them. With 3 minutes left I was so burned out I just clicked end exam and got my score, which to be honest was a bit surprising. I figured closing would have been my strongest Process Group as closing projects was a major duty for me when I was an Assistant PM.
My take on the questions is similar to a lot of other peoples here. A lot of Change Control, Risk and what do you do first/next questions. Another important thing is to know the difference between manage/control quality as there were a lot of questions on those processes.
Thought the test seemed harder than I expected, I did much better than I expected. I was getting around 80% consistent scores on PMTraining.
As far as best advice for studying- Do as many practice questions you can, then review the ones you got incorrect in the PMBOK and understand why. No need for $1500 boot camps, my company would have paid for one but it would have never worked with my schedule.
How are you planning to get the PMP certificate? What study sources have you used or are using? Which free source did you find useful?
Please put in your comment below.


text:
Well Hello There, Perimenopause!
We came across this poignant blog post about perimenopause, or the transition to menopause, when one of our members shared it on her Facebook feed. We laughed. We cried. Then we grabbed some chocolate animal crackers and got real.
We salute the author, Jen (of jennlefforge.com), who describes herself as a "40-something wife, working mom and runner…" Jen makes the point that we need to normalize the conversation about this less-talked-about stage in a woman's life. The time when our ovaries gradually begin to make less estrogen. It usually starts in a woman's 40s, but can start in her 30s or even earlier.
According to WebMD, the average length of perimenopause is 4 years. "But for some women, this stage may last only a few months or continue for 10 years." WebMD defines the end of perimenopause as going 12 months without having your period.
So we bring you, Jen's blog post, "A Middle-Age Girl's Guide to Perimenopause."
And we're curious, have you been able to have these conversations in your inner circles, running groups or other communities of support? We hope so. We know that talking always makes the miles go by faster.
Meet Lisa, Our February 2017 Most Inspiring Member
Lisa took part in the 2016 MOTR Healthy Holiday Challenge with her sons, William and Noah, and finished as the top scorer with 277 healthy lifestyle points.
Our January 2017 Most Inspiring member is Lisa with Eau Claire (WI) Moms on the Run, the top scorer in our recent Healthy Holiday Challenge.
As part of the challenge, Lisa racked up points in December for prioritizing healthy lifestyle activities, such as logging cardio and strength training workouts, getting 7 or more hours of sleep, and avoiding sweets (no easy task that time of year!). She even invited her two sons, William and Noah, to join her in the challenge.
"I really thrive with accountability and tracking what I'm doing, so I knew the challenge would keep me active," she says. "I feel best when I exercise most days of the week, and it really keeps me happy and helps keep the stress levels down."
Lisa joined the Eau Claire location in 2013, at the suggestion of her friends. Many had joined the year before, and she kept hearing good things. Since then, she's come love the fact that Moms on the Run provides a scheduled time to take a break from family responsibilities and focus on herself and her fitness goals.
"I'm always coordinating sports schedules for my kids, and it seems right to schedule some time for me to exercise and have fun, too," Lisa says. "I love that I come home each night feeling positive, relaxed, and energized.
"I also love that the coaches are so positive, interested in each member and encouraging. Coach Shelly has helped me improve my running form and has taught me to sprint without hurting myself. Coach Sarah is always there with an encouraging word or a quick introduction to a teammate I haven't met yet."
Lisa's primary fitness goals are to remain strong and healthy, and continue to take part in different activities with her family and friends, including hiking, backpacking, canoeing, charity runs and skiing.
"MOTR keeps me active and strong, and is a very enjoyable piece of my fitness puzzle," she says.
Lisa with her niece and son after the Leader-Telegram Buckshot Run to benefit Wisconsin Special Olympics. She enjoys taking part in charity races with friends and family as part of her regular fitness regimen.
New Mother's Day Weekend Race on MOTR Docket
MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL-- Moms on the Run, LLC, and Anderson Race Management are joining efforts to put on a Mother's Day weekend event in St. Paul, the two companies announced today.
The "Run Like A Mother 5K, presented by Moms on the Run" is scheduled for Saturday, May 13, 2017, at Lake Phalen. Final details, including the registration site, are forthcoming. Each entry includes a finisher's medal, tote bag and technical shirt.
This marks the first partnership for the two women-owned, Twin Cities-based companies.
Mary Anderson formed Anderson Race Management in 1996. Today, ARM puts on more than 200 national and local events each year, ranging from 50 to 10,000 participants.
Karissa Johnson founded Moms on the Run, a training program for beginning women runners, in 2008. The company began franchising in 2012, and has grown to 44 locations in six states.
For details on the race when they are finalized, stay tuned to momsontherun.com/partners or follow Twin Cities Moms on the Run on Facebook.


George W. Bush waves goodbye as he leaves for the Summit of the Americas in Quebec, Canada.
HMX-1 was established in December 1947 as an experimental unit to test and evaluate helicopters and tactics.
HMX-1 provides all helicopter transportation for the President both overseas and within the continental United States.
In addition, HMX-1 provides helicopter transportation for the Vice President, members of the President's Cabinet, and foreign dignitaries as directed by the White House Military Office.
HMX-1 also provides helicopter emergency evacuation and other support as directed by the Commandant of the Marine Corps.
Marine One is the call sign used when the President is on board one of the HMX-1 Marine helicopters. The primary presidential helicopter is the Sikorsky VH-3D (Sea King).
HMX-1 is tasked with the Operational Test and Evaluation of US Marine Corps assault helicopters and related equipment.


Need a New Washing Machine? The Trump Tax Is Gonna Cost You.
After the Trump administration announced new tariffs on imported washing machines in January, Marc Bitzer, the chief executive of Whirlpool Corp., celebrated his win over South Korean competitors LG Electronics Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. "This is, without any doubt, a positive catalyst for Whirlpool," he said on an investor conference call.
Nearly six months later, the company's share price is down 15%. One factor is a separate set of tariffs on steel and aluminum, imposed by the U.S. in March and later expanded, that helped drive up Whirlpool's raw-materials costs. Net income, even with the added benefit of a lower tax bill, was down $64 million in the first quarter compared with a year earlier.
Bill Anders, 61 years old, a retired educator in Churubusco, Ind., decided in April to use his tax refund money to replace some appliances. The price for the washer and dryer combo he preferred, manufactured by LG and sold by Sears, was about $2,478 including installation. It was so much he decided to forgo buying other appliances. "We looked at stoves and dishwashers, too, but with the money we had in hand, so to speak, we just decided to do the washer and dryer," he said.
Ryan Smith, of Smith's Appliances outside of Kansas City, an appliance repair business, said higher prices have helped his business of keeping old machines churning. In the past, when washing machine repairs cost more than $200 people skipped repairs and bought new machines. "Now we are doing more expensive repairs such as tub bearings, gear cases and control boards, pushing $300 to $500," he said.
Washer shipments, a proxy for sales, to U.S. dealers dropped 18% in May compared with the previous year, the steepest monthly decline since March 2012, according to data compiled by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, a trade group.
Basically, the whole industry is now in the doldrums and everyone is losing money. It's yet another victory for targeted trade tariffs.


text:
/**
 *
 */
package info.guardianproject.otr;

import net.java.otr4j.session.SessionID;
import android.os.RemoteException;
import info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager.Stub;
import info.guardianproject.otr.app.im.engine.ChatSession;

/**
 * @author n8fr8
 *
 */
public class OtrKeyManagerAdapter extends IOtrKeyManager.Stub {

	private OtrAndroidKeyManagerImpl _keyManager;

	private SessionID _sessionId;

	private String _accountId;

	public OtrKeyManagerAdapter (OtrAndroidKeyManagerImpl keyManager, SessionID sessionId, String accountId)
	{

		_keyManager = keyManager;

		_sessionId = sessionId;

		_accountId = accountId;
	}

	public OtrKeyManagerAdapter (OtrAndroidKeyManagerImpl keyManager)
	{

		_keyManager = keyManager;

	}

	public void setSessionId(SessionID _sessionId) {
		this._sessionId = _sessionId;
	}

	public void setAccountId(String _accountId) {
		this._accountId = _accountId;
	}

	/* (non-Javadoc)
	 * @see info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager#verifyKey(java.lang.String)
	 */
	@Override
	public void verifyKey(String address) throws RemoteException {

		_keyManager.verifyUser(address);

	}

	/* (non-Javadoc)
	 * @see info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager#unverifyKey(java.lang.String)
	 */
	@Override
	public void unverifyKey(String address) throws RemoteException {

		_keyManager.unverifyUser(address);

	}

	/* (non-Javadoc)
	 * @see info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager#isKeyVerified(java.lang.String)
	 */
	@Override
	public boolean isKeyVerified(String address) throws RemoteException {
		return _keyManager.isVerifiedUser(address);
	}

	/* (non-Javadoc)
	 * @see info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager#getLocalFingerprint(java.lang.String)
	 */
	@Override
	public String getLocalFingerprint() throws RemoteException {

		if (_sessionId != null)
			return _keyManager.getLocalFingerprint(_sessionId);
		else if (_accountId != null)
			return _keyManager.getLocalFingerprint(_accountId);
		else
			return null;
	}

	/* (non-Javadoc)
	 * @see info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager#getRemoteFingerprint(java.lang.String)
	 */
	@Override
	public String getRemoteFingerprint() throws RemoteException {

		return _keyManager.getRemoteFingerprint(_sessionId);
	}

	/* (non-Javadoc)
	 * @see info.guardianproject.otr.IOtrKeyManager#generateLocalKeyPair(java.lang.String)
	 */
	@Override
	public void generateLocalKeyPair() throws RemoteException {

		if (_sessionId != null)
			_keyManager.generateLocalKeyPair(_sessionId);
		else if (_accountId != null)
			_keyManager.generateLocalKeyPair(_accountId);
	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


This 6 month experience includes bi-weekly 1-1 sessions with me, utilizing the highest echelons of my training.
We'll begin with a full-day Ignite Intensive, to immerse ourselves in your current state, and the future your soul is calling out for. This is our opportunity to craft a roadmap for what you truly desire. I'll be beside you for the next 6 months, as your pillar of support, your guide, and your coach throughout your beautiful transformation process.
Over the 6 months, we'll meet for an hour every week, to explore your progress, refine your strategies, and keep you moving toward your biggest goals. You'll be able to ask me any questions on your mind, work on developing and mastering your craft, and get the honest feedback you need to make decisions from a place of authentic awareness.
We'll also come together for a half-day intensive, halfway through your program. This is our opportunity to further explore the momentum you've created, perfect your systems, and create a container for your continued success.
My goal is to help you become your most productive, powerful, and present self, free from your past struggles and challenges, and courageously prepared for what's next. At the end of our 6 months, you'll become a clear channel for your clients and readers to soak in your brilliance, and begin their own transformations in kind.
It's time to show up as you are, and in your power.
It's time to feel spacious in your experience of yourself and your work - instead of cluttered and trapped.
It's time to stop hiding behind the overwhelm, and the worry "What if nobody likes me?" and stand up for your truth in a way that's beautiful, unmistakable, and elevates you to the higher levels of experience you desire.
Every day, every moment, you will discover that you can create, build, and change more lives than you ever thought possible.
You have one life. Make it amazing - for yourself, and everyone you meet.
This is the journey I'm inviting you on. Will you join me?
Alive, as your message and philosophies take flight and reach a bigger and bigger audience, every. single. freakin'. day.
Like you're moving forward with a new, sparkling white page, no longer held back by fear or past obstacles.
All Expand Mentorship participants must step into a 30-minute session with me.


While my personal biography does not enter into the storyline of True East, my philosophies, however, do . . .
Water plays a central role in True East, seeping into almost every passage.
In my first novel Drive, I included a playlist, which gave the reader a musical perspective into each chapter. In True East I didn't, but that doesn't mean I didn't hear music as I was writing the novel.
Possibly the most frequently asked question of any author is: Is your book autobiographical? Different authors will answer this question differently . . .
A novel is similar to a layer cake; it is not mouth-watering until the frosting. The core of a novel is the cake and here True East can be thought of as a retelling of Joseph Conrad's great novella Heart of Darkness. But it takes time to write a novel and with that time the storyline swells as the frosting is applied between the layers of cake.
True East strives to find a common ground between anthropology and fiction.
Wanting to write and writing well are separate issues. Author Ray Ahrens discusses his path to becoming a published author.
Copyright © 2013–2018 Ray Ahrens. All rights reserved.


text:
Stourbridge News Column, 18th April 2019
Stourbridge News Column – Thursday 18th April
This week the people of France watched as the majestic Notre Dame cathedral was severely damaged by a huge fire. Seeing the awful sight of such an important symbol of French heritage ablaze was deeply saddening, but I am heartened that most of the main structure of the cathedral appears to be standing this morning. No doubt credit should be given to the courageous firefighters of Paris for this endeavour. At the beginning of the holy week, it is this bravery that we look to in times of tragedy. Notre Dame will be rebuilt and restored as it has been over the past seven centuries. My thoughts are with the people of France this week.
Back in the UK, the Prime Minister has just agreed a new extension to the Article 50 process, which delays the date by which we must agree a deal to October 31st. I am disappointed that MPs have been unable to support the Withdrawal Agreement, which would have seen us leave the European Union last month. I am afraid that in Parliament, there are MPs in all parties who are still committed to pursuing their own ideal version of the Brexit process, or indeed to not leaving at all.
Over the last few months as I and likeminded colleagues have tried to break the impasse, my approach has been to try to agree a compromise that means we can leave with a good deal that protects security and the wider economy. I still believe the Withdrawal Agreement is the deal which best respects our manifesto and the result of the 2016 referendum. At the same time, I have sought to prevent both leaving without a deal and remaining in the EU. Through the coming months, my approach will be the same. It is high time we focussed our country's resources elsewhere.
In Stourbridge, there is positive news about the establishment of a new police presence in the town centre. When the Home Secretary, Sajid Javid, came to the town last month, we took him to the old Citizens Advice bureau on Market Street where the police base may be located. Negotiations are ongoing between West Midlands Police and Dudley Council to try to finalise the move. Thank you to Wollaston and Stourbridge Town Councillor Steve Clark, who has been working tirelessly to make this a reality.
Last week in Westminster I met the Chair of NHS England, Lord Prior, to discuss Russells Hall hospital. Recently, a summary report was released by law firm Capsticks, who had been asked to investigate reports of bullying at the hospital. 42 hospital consultants signed a letter detailing serious problems with the leadership of Russells Hall, as well as their concerns around patient safety. The report, however, leaves much unanswered and I discussed my concerns in detail with Lord Prior. We await the full report, which is due to be published early next month.
I hope you all have a very happy and restful Easter. My office will be closed on Thursday 18th April until Tuesday 23rd April. My team and I will still be able to help with urgent enquiries, so please do continue to contact me in the meantime at margot.james.mp@parliament.uk


See current average solar panel cost in Nevada below or enter your zip code and power spend to calculate a system size and see live current solar prices in Nevada on that size system.
What is the current average solar panel cost in Nevada based on current offers?
As of April 2019, the average cost of solar panels per watt in Nevada is $2.73/watt. A typical 5000 watt (5 kW) solar system is $13,640 before the federal solar credit and $9,548 after claiming the federal solar tax credit.
How much do solar panels cost in Nevada?
Will residential solar power system cost fall in Nevada in 2019?
Solar installers in Nevada will be run off their feet in 2019 as we enter the last year of the federal tax credit for solar panels for homes. The average payback period for solar panels is now so short that using solar electricity to power a home in Nevada is now an amazing way to save money. Even without a state tax credit a home solar pv system will still have enough of an effect on shrinking your electric bill that it will be hard to ignore.


FOR SALE: Forget-Me-Not Fairies Sticker Collection/Activity Book - NEW. Never used, all stickers are still in the book, no marks or tears. See photos for more details. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
FOR SALE: One Direction Activity & Sticker Book - NEW. Never used, all stickers are still in the book, no marks or tears. See photos for more details. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
Awesome Facts Book is about everyting! Great pictures and many facts. Excellent condition.
Excellent used condition: Disney Children's Activity Books x 2 Frozen Sticker/Activity Book - This has maybe 12 stickers used in the book (out of more than 500 stickers). The Hunchback of Notre Dame; Look and Find Book - There are some texta and crayon lines on the inside front and back covers and only 1 items has been found on 1 of the puzzles. Lots more to discover! See photos for more details. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
Excellent used condition: 5 Disney Storybooks. The Wild Bambi Dumbo Brother Bear Winnie the Pooh These much loved storybooks were my daughter's favourites for many years. Now it's time to pass on the magic. See photos for more details. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
FOR SALE: 3 books First on the Moon by Barbara Herner (soft cover - good used condition) Space - Level 5 Kingfisher Reader (soft cover - great used condition) Ancient Egyptians - Level 5 Kingfisher Reader (soft cover - great used condition) See photos for more details. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
FOR SALE: 2 books Stories for 8 Year Olds (good used condition) Stories for 8 Year Olds (great used condition) See photos for more details. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
FOR SALE: 2 books Go Girl "Flip It" Series - Little Lies by Chrissie Perry. Read Bonnie & Casey's sides of the the story. Rainbow Magic by Daisy Meadows - India the Moonshine Fairy. See photos for more details. Both books are in good used condition. Pick up Lockleys (most days) or city (Mon-Fri business hours).
Our kids loved this collection. Nicely written and lovely illustrations. And gets them off electronics ! Published in London 1992.
Various children's books If $5 is too much, a gold coin donation.
- Brand New - 2 Books - The Secret Playhouse - Who's in the Kitchen?


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Revenue Properties Company Limited, RPC, is a Toronto based corporation that develops, owns and manages retail and residential income-producing properties.
Property Management Services throughout Canada; Based in GTA.
Upper Canada Property Management manages all types of properties on behalf of property owners and realty investors. We may have apartments or houses available for rent in your area.


Res Rep Urol. 2015 Jul 9;7:107-11. doi: 10.2147/RRU.S85708. eCollection 2015.
Paulis G1, Cavallini G2, Barletta D3, Turchi P4, Vitarelli A5, Fabiani A6.
1 Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Andrology Center, Rome, Italy ; Castelfidardo Medical Team, Peyronie's Disease Care Center, Rome, Italy.
2 Andrological Section, Gynepro Medical Team, Bologna, Italy.
3 Department of Urology, Andrology Center, San Matteo Hospital, Pavia, Italy.
4 Azienda ASL 4 Prato - Andrology Service, Prato, Italy.
5 Department of Urology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
6 Department of surgery, Section of Urology and Andrology, ASUR Marche 9, Macerata, Italy.


A Little Birdie brings to you a very delicate situation.
This family wants to tell you about their son, brother, dad, husband: a 40 year old man that has been broken from experiencing multiple traumatic situations in his life. He has forgotten his worth and it is up to us to help him learn to embrace his value!
Two years ago this past February George sat on his dining room floor holding his lifeless 9 week old baby boy while the First Responders worked on him for one hour and forty-five minutes - only to hear there was nothing else that could be done. George's drinking spiraled out of control. He has had 3 jobs in the last 2.5 yrs and is currently unable to work due to physical illness.
That should be enough grief to last a lifetime, but for George the loss of his son is compounded by losses earlier in his life that he has never grieved through.
You see, George was five when his mother could no longer continue the 6 yr abusive relationship with his father. George's parents divorced. It became apparent that his father did not want a relationship with him and in time his mother remarried. His step-father would later legally adopt him and life was good for awhile. His adoptive father became a pastor of a small church. He got another brother and yes, a sister :-). George was living a pretty normal life. Then his maternal grandfather, who he was close to, experienced one final dance with depression and violently took his own life Easter weekend. George was left with more brokeness and didn't know how to process it. He had just turned 19. What George was learning – pretty well actually was how to stuff the rejection, abandonment and worthlessness he felt deep inside.
When the Gulf war started, PTSD surfaced in his adopted dad's life (Al). For two years the family never knew what to expect as Al returned to drug use (years before from Viet Nam he had become addicted and later had been delivered). They had to move and were almost homeless when Al was eventually murdered in Youngstown, Ohio. Al's funeral was exactly five months to the day that George's grandpa shot himself. George was visiting his biological father the weekend Al was killed leaving him to fly home alone – after receiving the news on the phone from his mom about his dad. And once again, he was rejected by his biological father. And his anger and bitterness towards God grew.
As George tried to go on with life, drinking began to be a way for him to drown out the pain he couldn't bare. He was in a steady relationship and they had a beautiful son together. They bought a home and four years later they had another beautiful son. But eventually his drinking began to cause problems and they split up. He saw his biological father one more time to only be rejected yet again. He was now a functioning alcoholic. Most people didn't even know he drank.
Later, he found himself in a new relationship. And life continued on. Life that had hurt him deeply and wounds that remained wide open. They had a beautiful, perfect son together - For 9 weeks.
Five days after being vaccinated the baby was found unresponsive in his crib and 911 was called. These gaping wounds that have been wide open for years have now become infected!! Once they got through the blur of the funeral they went home. Home? Now how do you process the rest of the story that has already been stated in the beginning?
It put George over the edge. Currently, he is unable to work and desperately needs medical intervention for cirrhosis with inpatient treatment for a minimum of 90 days. Only such intense programming can help George deal with the lifelong trauma and grief work that needs to be done.
The flat fee for however long George needs to stay in treatment is approximately $25,000 –variables depend on how and what it takes to initially get him into the program. Please help this family raise the money to send George for the treatment he needs to live so this family does not have to lose another family member.
Please pray with the family that George will also have complete healing in his relationship with God.
He no longer has the fight within him, yet he wants help. So we, as family, friends, and fellow human beings who desire to connect with each other, have this beautiful opportunity to carry George and his family, when they can no longer carry themselves.
For anyone that would need more clarification please feel free to email his mother Cindy at cwkiepper@yahoo.com. She will respond as timely as possible to each one.
God Bless Each One of You from All of George's Family.
Make a donation in care of George. Totals are updated on the "Who are we helping" page.


text:
Q: How in JPA I can make save but after another save is already done? How can I make a save B for entity B but under the condition that another save A is done and data is saved on table A (entity A )
Is it possible to make a "check" that B is done before saving A ?
is it enoght to do :
    personService.save(currentPerson);
    studentService.save(currentPerson);

I first need to have a Person (with personID as primary key) before saving a student (as that contains PersonID as foreign key)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
PALE HORSEMAN enter studio to record new album
by NorthWar 01/11/2020 8:06 01/11/2020 8:06 032
"Something that has always gotten me about doom and sludge metal is that moment on the record when the initial heavy riff first kicks in. That moment when […] all you can think is 'Oh fuck, shit just got real.' […] I think what really fascinates me about Pale Horseman is their ability to inject their music with groove, but never make it feel like they are trying to overtly ape the New Orleans sludge scene. Instead, their brand of crushing riffs and bone splitting rhythms comes from a distinctly Chicago aesthetic."
— Matt Bacon, Metal Injection
Chicago's Pale Horseman is set to take 2020 by storm with a new batch of songs currently in the recording process. The four-piece sludge metal band was formed in 2011 and features dual guitarists/vocalists and a pummeling rhythm section; they've been described as a mix of Crowbar, Godflesh, and Sepultura.
Pale Horseman has released four albums and one EP thus far, with a new full length in the works. They've been working with Sanford Parker (Yob, Voivod, Eyehategod, Darkthrone) to record and mix the album at various Chicago studios.
The band says, " We've written ten new songs since the release of our last album about two years ago. Of those ten songs, we recorded the eight best ones. Since we want to do a single vinyl for this release, we will end up having to drop two more because a single vinyl will only have enough room for six of the songs — so basically, this one will be the best of the best of everything we've written since our last release. This is the longest we've ever spent writing, demoing, and recording."
Title, cover art, and more format possibilities are yet to be revealed, but the band expects to release during the spring.
Andre Almaraz — guitar/vocals
Eric Ondo – guitar/vocals
Rich Cygan – bass
Jason Schryver – drums
Connect with Pale Horseman:
Witherfall Interview
Destruction Interview


Purty Little Thing: Seriously, need to get caught up here - 52 Weeks of Color Challenge!
Seriously, need to get caught up here - 52 Weeks of Color Challenge!
Bit of a picture dump as I'm getting caught up on Luna Jubilee's 52 Weeks of Color Challenge here. Enjoy! Credits at the bottom of post.
AND I AM CAUGHT UP! YEAH!!!!
Truly, The Sea Hole has been a blessing to me while doing this challenge. Feeling extremely elegent in this dress, I can say!
Just hanging out in my bikini from Miel! FUN!
Went simple with this picture and decided to highlight these Aquamarine eyes from SHAPE ME and this cute Cupcake dress I got from Bitter Bunnies Design as a hunt gift.
Something cute and froofy from Schadenfreude! This lovely dress and stockings just rock, especially with pda's Gangplank Oddment poser from Collabor88 in the background! This was one of the harder colors to find, btw!


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Sport News, Basketball
Michael Jordan's Kids: Who are They and What are They Doing Today?
Everything about Michael Jordan is enticing enough for the media to reveal and the general public to consume. He is not just an NBA legend, but the poster boy of sports and its marketing around the globe. One cannot discuss the most historic sporting scenes and not mention Michael in that conversation. Such is his stardom!
Still, when all is written, said, and shown about him, Michael Jordan's children have been well away from the limelight. The six-time NBA championship winner has five children: Jeffrey, Marcus, Jasmine, Victoria, and Ysabel. But there is more to them than just their iconic last name.
Michael Jordan has three kids with first wife Juanita Vanoy
MJ married Juanita in 1989, well before he lifted his first NBA championship and well after she gave birth to his first child, Jeffrey Jordan. The eldest son of MJ, Jeffrey took birth in November 1988. Juanita reportedly took legal assistance to seek Michael's agreement that it was his son. They got married after his birth and stayed together for 17 years before separating.
Jeffrey picked basketball as a hobby and continued playing at the college level, representing the University of Illinois for three seasons and later the University of Central Florida in 2010 as a 22-year-old. MJ would occasionally watch his play and the father-son duo would stretch their duel at home. On one such occasion, Jeffrey got 30 odd stitches while playing with his father.
Only last year, Jeffrey got married to Radina Aneva, a Bulgarian who works as a Financial Analyst at Disney Studios. He himself works for the Jordan brand at Nike, where he is handling the brand's digital innovation. He's also the co-founder of Heir Jordan and is very certainly making his father proud. His cameo in The Last Dance E10 had him sharing the memories of that iconic 1998 finals.
Marcus Jordan
Marcus took birth just a year after their marriage, in 1990. He celebrates his birthday a day before Christmas Day and like his elder brother, played basketball as a kid.
Michael being Michael, he used to play very hardcore basketball with both his sons. On one occasion, Marcus went to his university game wearing Air Jordans, and that cost his school millions in fine because they were under an Adidas contract.
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Today, a 29-year-old Marcus is heading a startup called Trophy Room, an e-commerce website that sells Jordan Brand products.
Jasmine recently celebrated her 28th birthday on December 7. She was just a 5-year-old when her father won his 6th title for the Chicago Bulls. Naturally, she did not know much about basketball back then and learned of many facts when the Netflix Documentary released this summer. She had to literally do secondary research on the internet to figure out why her father had so much hype around him. She revealed in an interview, "It definitely took a minute for it to hit me, but no joke, I Googled him and was like, 'OK, now I get it.'"
Jasmine pursued Sports Management at Syracuse University, where she met her life partner Rakeem Christmas. He is a 29-year-old basketball player who plays for the New Zealand Breakers as a forward. Together, the couple gave MJ his first grandchild. Jasmine too works with Marcus at Jordan Brand.
Michael Jordan has two kids with wife Yvette Prieto
Michael married American model Yvette in 2013. She is 16 years younger than MJ, unlike Juanita, who was four years older than Michael. The two gave birth to twin daughters Victoria and Ysabel Jordan in February 2014. The couple first met at a Miami Nightclub in 2007. Later, they tied the knot in 2013 in a lavish $10 million wedding that attracted enormous media attention.
The twins are still just 6-year-olds and hence nothing much is public about them.
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Read More: Michael Jordan's Kids: Who are They and What are They Doing Today?
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Brenda has been writing since the third grade when she won a trophy for a short story about white unicorns and pink pansies. She has been writing ever since...short stories, poems, and volumes of memoirs. In recent years, she has turned her focus to writing novels. Her latest novel, Blemished Beauty, won the Silver Quill Award from the League of Utah Writers! Grab a copy of it here.
Brenda also has a passion for music. She has performed in an Idaho State Yamaha Piano Competition as well as with the professional Los Angeles Master Chorale in the Disney Concert Hall. She has a bachelor's degree in music education from California State University, Northridge.
She lives in Wyoming with her husband and two children.
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The truth is, copywriting is a pretty easy business to get into, as long as you know what you're doing and you have some self-esteem.
People are DYING to hire good writers. Since Google pays close attention to who is putting out good writing on their website and giving them premium rankings, everyone needs a full-time writer to get that good content out. Whether you start with a content mill or in a freelance market like Odesk, you can jump right into money-making today, as long as you understand the benefits and drawbacks to each platform.
NOTE: Never, NEVER pay anyone to get a copywriting job. That is what we call a scam.
Overview: This organization owns a number of online magazines like LiveStrong.org and eHow.org. These guys don't take just anyone. In order to be hired, you must complete a pretty detailed bio and also submit a writing sample based on a randomized test question. Once you're in the system, the pay is pretty good: between $30 and $50 per 300-word article. Still, they have pretty stringent writing requirements and you will be assigned an editor to make sure that your writing is up to snuff. You are also required to incorporate images, researched links while maintaining the standards of whatever online magazine you're writing for.
Pros: A very professional organization with an extensive training process and personalized editors. Also, the pay is competitive.
Cons: You have to be a pretty good writer and pass through their application hurdles. Also, if your article isn't good enough, they will reject it and won't pay you for your time.
Overview: This is an online network that connects workers and employers. It is really easy to set up and has a great review system. On the other hand, you must complete your profile and a couple of quizzes to have access to applying for more than 5 jobs at a time. Also, they take 10% of your total wages to cover their expenses.
Pros: Easy to set up, free, you set your own hours and wages. They also have an easy way to get your taxes done, and your W-9 form and bank account information is not accessible by anyone else.
Cons: If you get a fixed-price job, you aren't guaranteed payment unless you ask for it up front. You are competing with people who charge $1 per article.
Overview: Elance has an interesting system. You sign up and are awarded "cents" on their website. After you get your profile up and running (yes, do the whole thing!), then you can bid on jobs. Every bid takes money from your virtual stash and you can pay to be pushed to the top of the list. As with Odesk, you can withdraw your earnings from your account directly into your bank account.
Pros: Relatively easy to set up and free. You can pay extra to be at the top of the list. The reviewing system is good and lots of new jobs are posted there regularly.
Cons: Watch out for low rates. Since this is another freelance site, you are competing with writers from all over the world. Although there is a benefit being an English-speaking American, you'll have to filter out all the jobs that pay $1 per 100 words.
Overview: I have worked with these guys too. They always are changing things up, probably because they have so much turnover. The problem with Zerys is that they pay terribly. When you set up your account, you choose specialty areas that you can write about. HINT: Technical specialties make the most money and get the best return clients. Then, you do a writing sample and they give you a rating to start out with. This rating can change depending on how your clients review your work. It is also affected by whether or not you've missed deadlines or had bad customer feedback. Almost anyone can write for Zerys, so there is a lot of competition, especially for the rare jobs that pay more than 3 cents per word. Doesn't sound like a lot, does it. That's cuz it's not.
Pros: Anyone can work here. You can have an unending stream of work, as long as you pick the right specialties and have enough time and patience to deal with the pay.
Cons: Pay is awful, usually below 2 cents per word. That's only about 800 words for $16. Also, it is very competitive for higher-paying articles and you can only take one job at a time, unless it is in the editing stage with the article initiator.
Overview: I have worked with these guys before, and I don't really like them very much. You start out schlepping articles for free. After you have had enough jobs, your reviews improve your rating score. The types of jobs you get are directly affected by this score. So, if you are brand new, a "blogger," none of what you write is paid for. As soon as you become a "journalist" (rating above 6), you will be writing around 800 words for $20. Depending on how long that article takes you (and whether or not you have to do a bunch of research on the subject) you can be making between $5 and $20 per hour.
Pros: Anyone can get in and start writing. Right now, even! You actually DO get paid once you have passed all their little benchmarks. It is relatively easy to move up to a better rating once you've done a couple jobs.
Cons: Never write anything for free unless you KNOW it's going to pay off. This is only a good platform if you are a very fast, thorough writer who doesn't mind doing it for free the first couple weeks.
Overview: This is a cool site that is really easy to navigate. It is easy to set up and you can login from Facebook so that is good for making contacting new business even easier. It has a lot of great ways to find jobs, like by dollar amount or hourly wage, and it is also easy to find work that needs to be done today. On the other hand, it's one of the spammiest freelance sites online.
Pros: Very easy to navigate and understand. Perfect for finding the jobs that pay what you need them to pay.
Overview: Although I haven't worked for this site before, I think it is intriguing. Unlike Odesk and Elance, the website does not take a commission off of your jobs. Instead, they charge an up-front fee of between $50 and $100 dollars. That being said, the site generally gets good reviews on its communication between employers and employees, and bids on jobs are kept secret, so no one can undercut you by a buck.
Pros: Silent bids on projects, good communication and no commission on jobs.
Cons: Upfront fee can be hard for a freelancer just starting out.
Overview: Relatively easy to maneuver, this is another site that doesn't cost up front. The great thing about this is that it will upload info from your LinkedIn profile, so it cuts down on the startup time. There are two types of jobs: Ones that have specified dollar amounts, and ones that don't.
Pros: No cost up front, easy to complete the profile.
Cons: Pays to a credit card account only, portfolio section is only images (but can be linked to audio and visual storage on places like SoundCloud), I have no idea how many employers actually use it.
Overview: From what I can tell, Donanza is a freelancing site like Michael Jackson was a Jehovah's Witness: people tell you it's true, but there's so much other weird stuff going on that it doesn't even matter. You can either sign up for the free or the paid version of this site. The free version is total crap. Basically, it is a bunch of links from individual jobs on Craigslist and Indeed.com. If you pay, you might get better jobs, but seriously. Who is even using this?
Cons: It basically has no real businesses on the other line, it supports content-mill writing for almost no pay and it costs you money up front for any real chance at a job.
Overview: This is another site that requires an application before they'll let you work for them. They have a number of writing positions that are always open, and they consistently need writers to complete them. Once you've been hired, you are basically "on-call" to complete assignments as needed. Some reviewers say that they are very demanding with your time, although you have a regular and steady job.
Pros: Regular job where you can determine your rate of pay.
Cons: Can be very time-consuming.
Thanks for all of your tips. I just joined Zerys and have been able to write a small handful of articles but need more to make a living. Do you have any tips for getting added to client's favorites lists or getting more work? I have read their advice but it wasn't that helpful. I appreciate any advice you can offer.
I have found that many of these sites are questionable.
I mean, the writer works hard and receives low pay!
Well, the good thing about sites like Odesk and Elance is that you can set your own wage. That being said, you do need to have a valuable skill set and a decent portfolio. I still think that places like Zerys can be an okay place to start. You get a chance to learn the ropes and get a little pay. It's also a good way to build your portfolio.
I have been freelancing for about 5 months and I have done really well with Zerys. It might help that I am rated 4.75 stars (5 stars from all clients I have written for, plus my initial 4 star rating) and am on the favorite writers list of many. You have to be diligent about watching the boards. I started out writing 2 pieces for less than a penny a word, but then I was able to access pieces that paid 1.4 to 3.9 cents a word. I try to only write pieces that will pay me over $10, but if it is slow, I might take one that pays peanuts just to keep my profile active. I have tried Guru, and I don't like the fact that they have a bidding and pay for better services system. I haven't taken the time to bid on more than a few jobs with them, but when you have 19 people bidding for the same job who will work for next to nothing, its hard to compete.
I have also tried elance and textbroker. Elance works on a bid system, and there are plenty of non-native English speaking writers who are willing to undercut you. Textbroker makes you write for nothing at first, then you slowly move up the ranks. Demand studios is great to work for, and I like how they understand that talent isn't cheap. They respect writers and give us a fair shot. The application process is a bit tedious, but it is worth it. iWriter is great too and they only work with writers from the USA, Canada and the UK I believe, which cuts down on low ball offers beating out quality writers.
This is really scattered and off the top of my head, so sorry. 🙂 I am looking for a few new clients on the job boards to today, but they have been hit and miss. Wish me luck!
Best of luck to you, Mellissa. I encourage you to increase your rate. Zerys might be giving you volume, but the pay is not nearly what you're worth. Assuming that it takes you two hours to research and write a good 1000-word article, you are only making $40. And, I know Zerys. Those 3.9 cent jobs don't come along all the time. You can be making 2X to 3X more than you are currently making, you just have to recognize the value of your own time. Thanks for the suggestion of iWriter. I'll have to check them out!
These were pretty interesting. I read them even though I'm not in the market for a freelance job. I wonder if doing writing of this sort helps move you up the list of writers? What I've always told my own kids, and friends and now that I'm a boss, the people I hire, is that oftentimes your first job is just there to get you in the door. That's certainly true for lawyers (my job) and others; I don't know if it works that way for writers, but I expect it does, to a degree: if you are a writer for a decent organization, then that probably helps open up doors for other quality organizations — either to do more freelance work for more prestigious places, if that's your thing, or to get people to take a look at your fiction/screenplay, etc.
But you'd know more than me. Is that how it works?
I'm always interested to see what people make as writers, whether it be freelance articles like this or new writers in traditional publishing, so this was fun to read.
Thanks for reading, Briane. Seriously, though. If you can write AT ALL, you can make money doing this job. If I had known 5 years ago that I could be doing it, I would've quit teaching so that I could stay home with my daughter a lot earlier.
As far as getting good jobs from theses, it's really hit and miss. I have had some real success with Odesk, especially finding really reliable employers who want long-term relationships.
Where you can make good connections is working as a paid blogger where your employer will link out to your personal blog or portfolio. Then, you can get more people to your blog and show readers how versatile you can be.
Great questions! Thanks again for reading!


Certificación Básica y Avanzada- at your Institution!
HETS is constantly looking for newer and fresher ideas in its field of expertise to bring its members the best of all services, and maximize the knowledge and experiences of member themselves, as they get together to collaborate with each other and contribute to one another. This is why one of the HETS Consortium priorities involves the development and offering the series of basic and advanced workshops to either achieve Certificación Básica or Certificación Avanzada at your campus for groups of 15 or more participants.
development and delivery of an online course; analyze the development process of a virtual course; discuss the phases in the instructional development of this type of modules; and practice the steps towards the development of a virtual instructional module.
If you would like to have more information on these events, or propose areas you would like us to cover, don´t hesitate to let us know. You can email us to: info@hets.org or call the HETS office at 1-(787)-250-1912 exts. 2372 or 2373.


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'Long Time Coming' for Cheap Trick to play Bethlehem
Cheap Trick will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center, 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem.
The rock band, formed in 1973 in Rockford, Illinois, consists of: Robin Zander, lead vocals and guitar; Tom Petersson, bass and vocals; Rick Nielsen, lead guitar and vocals; and Daxx Nielsen, drums.
Cheap Trick released its self-titled debut album in 1977, with 18 studio sets following. Eight of the band's 16 Billboard Hot 100 singles cracked the top 40, with three hitting the top 10: "I Want You to Want Me," No. 1 "The Flame" and a cover of Elvis Presley's "Don't Be Cruel." Cheap Trick's two most recent studio albums, "We're Alright!" and "Christmas Christmas," arrived in 2017. The former included the single "Long Time Coming," which reached the top 40 at mainstream rock radio.
In 2016, Cheap Trick — Zander, Petersson and Nielsen, along with original drummer Bun E. Carlos — were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Tickets range from $49.50 to $69.50. For information, call 610-297-7414 or visit sandseventcenter.com.


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Brachythecium austrostramineum är en bladmossart som först beskrevs av C. Müller in Neumayer, och fick sitt nu gällande namn av Ochyra in Ochyra, Vitt och D. G. Horton 1986. Brachythecium austrostramineum ingår i släktet gräsmossor, och familjen Brachytheciaceae. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.

Källor

Gräsmossor
austrostramineum

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Whether a person has traveled to one or 50, the outcome remains the same. National parks have become sanctuaries—a reminder that we need to conserve the planet's evolving beauties and a place that can evoke strong lessons of the human soul. And now you want to hop in your car and see them all, don't you? Easier said than done, I know, but have no fear! After scouring the highlights of all, I have narrowed it down to a simple top national parks for each region. If you can't see them all or have no idea where to begin, start here.
Sure, nearly five million people visit the Grand Canyon each year, but if you've got the time and a good pair of hiking boots, you can experience three incredible parks for the price of one! Starting at the top, have a camera ready to capture deep gorges that seem to stretch for hundreds of miles.
Next, enjoy the sites at the mid-way point. Looking around you, the lush greenery and noises of wildlife make you feel like you are in a completely different national park. The Grand Canyon offers diverse routes to the bottom, from mule rides to strenuous hikes.
Once at the bottom, you are face-to-face with the Colorado River. Surrounded on all sides by breathtaking geology, it will soon hit that you are witnessing rock over a billion years old.
President Theodore Roosevelt preserved the first national park and even dubbed a 52-mile stretch as the most scenic in the U.S. He was right.
Yellowstone is simply America's most iconic park. Its most famous landmark, Old Faithful, is a sight to behold but the park offers much more than its popular identity of hot springs and geysers.
Much of the land is covered with rocks and lava flows, yet it spans miles of lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges, making it one of the earth's largest ecosystems. Visitors are at the center of a wildlife sanctuary containing hundreds of species of popular and endangered animals. Whether you are hoping for picturesque views of bison grazing the land or unbelievable thermal features, Yellowstone is a must-see.
Although Acadia is one of the smallest national parks, it boasts some of the largest attractions. Whale watching along the coast is undeniably memorable. As is summitting Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak of the park. And while hiking along the jagged coastline is appealing, relaxing on Maine's sandy beach can be just as rewarding. Those who visit are also encouraged to step outside the park walls. Quaint towns full of seaside folk can charm even the grumpiest of tourists. Spend an afternoon shopping for lobster ice cream or nautical antiques, and finish the day with a hike picking fresh blueberries.
Acadia makes the list by taking the grandeur of western national parks and mixing in the serenity of the eastern coastline.
At almost 800,000 acres, visitors could spend a lifetime exploring Yosemite. But no matter what you do within the park, it may be one of the greatest moments of your life.
Rock climbers have found their mecca at Yosemite: El Capitan, a granite formation towering over 3,500 feet. And easy-going travelers will enjoy Mariposa Grove, a cherished feature containing over 200 sequoia trees.
Much of the park's most popular destinations are its most grandiose. Yosemite is home to the highest measured waterfall in North America. And Half Dome, a massive block of granite seemingly cut in half by glacier activity, is awed by all who visit.
Though you may never get to see it all, Yosemite offers tranquility and adventure rolled into one destination.
Defined as "the great one," Denali actually refers to Mount McKinley, the tallest mountain in North America and the centerpiece of the park. Towering over 20,000 feet, snow-covered McKinley can be seen 70 miles away on a clear day.
Past its colossal mountain, Denali's diverse animals are visible like in no other park. Grizzlies can be seen feeding on berries, eagles soar above, and the world's only species of white sheep graze the slopes. Popular hiking areas even come into direct contact with herds of giant caribou, red foxes, and prairie dogs.
Visitors have endless options of exploration, from snowshoeing or dog mushing to climbing or kayoing. If Denali has one negative, it's that visitors will wish they had more time to spend there.
Picture the Grand Canyon. Now put a roof over it. Now you have Carlsbad Caverns! This New Mexico national park is an underground wonderland lying below the Guadalupe Mountains and is one of the deepest, largest, and most ornate caverns ever discovered.
If you've ever read The Magic School Bus stories and are familiar with the one where the class travels inside the earth, you can start to imagine what a trip to Carlsbad Caverns feels like. Exploring deep caverns of stalagmites, stalactites, and other rock formations it's impossible not to be blown away at this underground world. Visitors can view 1,000-year-old red and black pictographs high on the walls, a 200,000-ton boulder that crashed down from the ceiling thousands of years ago, and can explore numerous nooks and crannies deep in the earth.
This park is a blast for kids who will have so much fun exploring the world below and is a great idea for a family getaway. Consider taking a trip in the spring when the bat population is at its peak. You will have the opportunity to see them emerge from caves in groups, flying up and counter-clockwise for 3 hours. It's an incredible site!
If you have ever seen a photo of Mt. Shucksan, you know how jaw-droppingly beautiful this region is. North Cascades is adorned with jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and over 300 glaciers. Three park units in this region are managed as one and include North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. That means there is ample opportunity for adventure.
This park has something for everyone. Activities like camping, hiking, climbing, boating, fishing,birding, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and educational programs are suitable for the whole family. And while it is highly popular in the summer, if you want to experience a little solitude, visit in the winter for a truly tranquil getaway.
The park is a favorite of hikers and backpackers, as its rugged terrain offers sights of mountain goats, black bears, and sometimes the occasional mountain lion. The Cascade Range, named for its numerous waterfalls, extends from British Columbia all the way to California creating a dramatic landscape to be awed by all who visit.