#do NOT make us go to the biggest indoor mall in america ...

[luckyfeetlongbeach]

Things to do in Long Beach

Located southern of Los Angeles, Long Beach uses a variety of points to do and also see. The city boasts spectacular beaches, a selection of museums, and also an artistic power that makes it one of the most electrifying cities in Southern California. It is a fantastic location for an outing or a weekend escape.

One more Long Beach tourist attraction is the Long Beach Museum of Art. It features art from Southern California artists. It uses irreversible and also short-lived displays. There is likewise a present store as well as collection. It is cost-free to see.

For a much more special experience, go to Long Beach's East Village Arts District. This area is residence to an eclectic collection of store shops, murals, and restaurants. It's likewise residence to the Long Beach Art Walk, which includes real-time songs and performances.

Long Beach Waterfront

Located on the southwestern suggestion of the Long Beach Peninsula, Long Beach, CA is an ocean-facing city in Los Angeles County. With an oceanfront population of over 473,577 people, it is the second biggest city in the region as well as offers numerous attractions and also activities as well as calls for long strolls, that is the factor you should buy a comfy pair of shoes from Lucky Feet Shoes, a store that incorporates convenience and also design.

The city has a large number of Pacific Islanders. Most of these individuals are Samoans and also Tongaans. Long Beach is also residence to a number of indigenous wild animals types. The city has a number of initiatives to help protect these indigenous plant and also pet species. The Long Beach Greenbelt is one of the key focus areas of the city's repair efforts.

The midtown location of Long Beach is just one of the city's primary tourist centers. Along with being house to the Long Beach Convention as well as Entertainment Center, the location is house to a number of varied eating alternatives and also shops. The location additionally includes the Pike Outlets. This shopping mall includes a range of name brand shops.

Aquarium of the Pacific

Situated in Long Beach, California, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a lovely fish tank with a selection of sea life and tasks to take pleasure in. The aquarium has 50 various exhibits as well as presents a wide range of aquatic animals. Visitors can learn more about the pets and also the influence that they have on our sea. The aquarium likewise offers a number of. Some of the programs consist of pet encounters, dolphin-watching cruise ships, as well as dolphin-feeding.

The aquarium is open from 9am to 6pm each day of the year. If you are checking out the aquarium on a weekend, it is best to show up early. The Aquarium is very crowded on weekend breaks and also throughout the summer season. You can acquire an early access ticket, which allows you to enter to the aquarium without waiting in line. It is also possible to get price cut tickets on certain days of the week.

Visitors can additionally check out the Shark Lagoon and also June Keyes Penguin Habitat. The aquarium additionally has several touch pools where visitors can touch the animals. The aquarium is a fun and instructional location for any ages.

Visitors can visit the Lorikeet Forest, which is a walkthrough aviary full of loads of Australian lorikeets. They can buy a cup of nectar to feed the lorikeets. This is an optional fee. The lorikeets will come to you to get the nectar.

The Walter Pyramid

ocated on the school of California State University, Long Beach, the Walter Pyramid is a multi-purpose indoor center. The Pyramid has a capacity of more than 5,000 spectators and also is taken into consideration to be among the largest space-frame structures in North America. The Walter Pyramid has actually organized countless NCAA athletic events, consisting of volleyball matches, volley ball regionals, and basketball championships.

The Walter Pyramid is the residence of the Long Beach State University basketball and also volleyball groups. The Pyramid additionally has a state-of-the-art conference center, along with a strength and conditioning facility. The building was designed by Donald Gibbs. It is constructed from 18,000 steel tubes, which have 160,000 three-quarter inch screws. The structure's interior geometry is unique, making it a fascinating location for sports events.

The Pyramid is a great venue for shows and also household enjoyment. The Pyramid is additionally a famous collegiate athletic center, as well as has been a vital part of the Long Beach community for greater than two decades. It is currently in the final stage of a long-lasting renovation task. It has been made use of for volley ball matches, basketball games, and also concerts, as well as it has also end up being an attraction for television productions.

Museum of Latin American Art

Found in Long Beach, California, the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is an organization dedicated to the preservation, event, and study of Latin American art. As a multidisciplinary establishment, it is devoted to equity, diversity, and inclusiveness. Its permanent collection includes over 1,300 artworks. A variety of events and events are held throughout the year to advertise Latino art and also culture. The museum is likewise committed to giving education programs for pupils and also adults.

MOLAA's permanent collection was developed by the owner of the gallery, Dr. Robert Gumbiner. The museum's founder envisioned a company that would display the diverse collections of brand-new media and emerging musicians. In 2014, the board of directors broadened the museum's goal to consist of Latino art. The collection contains over a thousand works of art, with greater than two thousand objects from Mexico, Central as well as South America, and also the Caribbean.

Founded in 1996, the museum's mission is to protect the jobs of Latin American artists as well as to expand the understanding of Latino art. The museum hosts groundbreaking exhibitions and also offers educational programs for the neighborhood. A variety of traveling exhibits are additionally featured. The museum is also committed to promoting cross-cultural dialogue.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

Found on the university of California State University in Long Beach, Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a calm sanctuary for site visitors to take pleasure in. It is a prominent location for wedding events and other occasions. The garden is open to the public, although bookings should be made. The garden provides a variety of different areas for visitors to enjoy. It additionally features a tea residence and koi pond. The yard is surrounded by high trees as well as plant. For its 1.3 acres of land you will need backstrap shoes from Lucky Feet Shoes that will certainly bring wonderful comfort for your journey.

The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden includes a selection of various elements that are generally discovered in Japanese yards. These elements include a pond, a tea home, stone sculptures, and also koi. The yard additionally has a moon watching system that is usually used for the Autumn Moon Festival. The yard also includes a conventional Japanese light that is surrounded by pink japonicas. The light is particularly gorgeous at night.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden was developed by Edward R. Lovell, a landscape designer who was a lifelong good friend of Loraine Miller Collins. Lovell drew motivation from the Imperial Gardens in Tokyo. Lovell likewise checked out several yards in the United States and also Japan to gain more motivation. The yard was finished in 1981.

The garden features a koi-filled pond as well as a half-moon bridge. Site visitors can likewise stroll along a path that weaves past lights and waterfalls. Additionally, there are several areas for site visitors to take photos. Site visitors can also appreciate the yard's classy buffet eating, which is available throughout the year. The yard is open on Tuesday through Friday. The yard likewise uses a selection of events, consisting of the garden's glass gallery.

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Lucky Feet Shoes Long Beach 1811 Ximeno Ave, Long Beach, CA 90815 [phone] https://luckyfeetshoes.com/pages/long-beach

[ultratesterthings]

‘We Are All in Quarantine’: 100% of NY Work Force Must Stay Home, Cuomo Puts State on Pause – NBC New York

What to Know

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Friday that 100 percent of non-essential work forces are now required to stay home, calling it "the most drastic measure we can take" as he said the entire state of New York was "on pause."

Two days ago, that decree applied to 50 percent of the non-essential work force. A day ago, it rose to 75 percent. Now it's practically everyone; Cuomo said the escalation of the numbers gave him no choice but to further control density. The new order goes into effect as of 8 p.m. Sunday.

"This is not life as usual. Accept it. Realize it. And deal with it," Cuomo said. He asked the public to "remain indoors to the greatest extent possible to protect physical and mental health. Your actions can affect my health; that's where we are. We are all in quarantine."

By Friday evening, New York state's COVID-19 cases had surpassed 9,400, accounting for nearly half of all confirmed cases in the country. New York City had more than 5,600 cases, adding thousands more cases for the second time in as many days.

Right now, the five boroughs account for nearly a third of of all cases in America. More than 40 people in the city, and 68 across the tri-state, have died.

Effective immediately, non-essential gatherings of any size are banned and strict social distancing -- maintaining at least a 6-foot distance from others in public -- must be obeyed. Public transportation will keep running to get nurses, doctors, law enforcement officers, and other essential personnel where they need to go. Everyone else is asked to use mass transit only if absolutely necessary.

"I strongly support what he's doing," Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said at a White House news conference Friday. "I know what New Yorkers can do. We're tough."

Coping With the Crisis

Mayor Bill de Blasio said NYC— which he called "the epicenter of this crisis" — would be enforcing the governor's policies. As part of the new measures, the mayor said all field permits, events and team sports at city parks would be canceled so as to avoid people gathering or coming in close contact. De BLsaio said that the goal is not to kick people out of parks, but rather to maintain spacing between people.

Non-compliance by businesses may result in fines or summonses; at this point, there are no legal consequences for individuals but crowds violating the new orders will be broken up. NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said that while summonses and arrests are a last resort for uncooperative individuals, there have been very few instances where it has come up.

People older than 70 and those with compromised immune systems are told to take even more precautions, including pre-screening visitors' temperatures and making sure any visitors wear masks.

Cuomo acknowledged businesses will be forced to close; families will face severe financial strain -- and he announced a 90-day moratorium on all commercial and residential evictions to try and ease the immediate burden. But if all of these measures save just one life, the governor said, they are worth it.

Tracking Coronavirus in Tri-State

While Wuhan, China, announced two consecutive days of no new cases, floods more people in New York are requiring treatment for COVID-19 -- and Mayor Bill de Blasio says there are only a few weeks left before hospitals run out of critical supplies to help combat the respiratory disease.

"We now constitute 30 percent of the coronavirus cases in the United States of America, 70 percent of the cases in the state of New York," de Blasio said Friday. "We will run out of basic medical supplies because of the intense strain that's being put already on our hospitals by this crisis. We literally will not have the things we need to save people's lives."

He and Cuomo have called on the Trump administration to use U.S. military resources to funnel at least 3 million N95 masks, 50 million surgical masks, 15,000 ventilators, and 25 million each of surgical gowns, coveralls, gloves, and face masks to health care workers in the Empire State.

Coronavirus Latest

The president has invoked the Defense Production Act, which allows the federal government to order private companies to manufacture needed equipment. Late Friday, President Trump also approved a disaster declaration for New York, giving the state access to emergency aid and funding. But it's not clear when the help will come -- or if it'll be enough to fill the dizzying gaps in supply.

Cuomo projects peak infection is still 40-plus days out. By that point, New York state could need 110,000 hospital beds, more than double its current capacity, and more than 37,000 ICU beds. Right now, the state has 3,000 of the latter.

The governor also said that he has considered altering other, non-medical buildings to become places where more people could be treated — whether it be for COVID-19 or otherwise. Cuomo said in an interivew on CNN that he has explored using the Javits Center in Manhattan and college dorms on Long Island as temporary or pop-up hospitals, adding that those backup hospital beds will be necessary.

🚨NY has a critical need for PPE including gloves, gowns & masks🚨 We need companies to be creative to supply the crucial gear our healthcare workers need. NY will pay a premium and offer funding. Need Funding? 📞212-803-3100 Have Unused Supplies? 📞646-522-8477 SHARE widely.

— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo)

Statistically, about 80 percent of people who get the novel coronavirus self-resolve without needing further treatment; overall, the risk to the general public is low. New York has seen its percentage of cases requiring hospitalization hover around 18 to 24 percent, while New Jersey said Wednesday that a stunning 55 percent of its cases to date have required hospitalization.

There just aren't enough beds; Cuomo said Friday he was canceling non-critical elective surgeries statewide as of next week to help expand capacity. Ultimately, he said, beds aren't even the biggest concern.

Ventilators are a national problem. In New York, Cuomo says there are 5,000 to 6,000 ventilators right now; the state is expected to need at least five times that.

"The ventilators are to this war what missiles were to World War II," he said.

New Yorkers are doing their part to answer the call. More than 2,000 retired medical personnel activated themselves in the last 48 hours, de Blasio said Friday morning. Designer Christian Siriano reached out to Cuomo, saying he had a team of sewing staff working from home to help make masks.

We're in contact with @CSiriano. Appreciate his help so much. Who's next? Let's do this together, NY! https://t.co/4B43SKguVO

— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo)

How to Slow the Spread?

To date, more than 9,400 people in the tri-state area have been infected with the novel coronavirus and at least 68 have died. New York state has more than 8,300 cases and 53 deaths alone; the five boroughs account for about two-thirds of both those totals.

City and state officials have said it's hard to ever have a firm grasp on the numbers because they change for the worse by the minute.

That grim reality is being evidenced in New York daily. New Jersey also saw its total skyrocket, with 155 new cases since the day before, bringing its total to 890 as of Friday. Gov. Phil Murphy added two new fatalities, including a man in his 30s; the state now has 11. Four of the fatalities involved members of the same family. And Murphy said he expected the number to surge even higher by the end of the day.

The situation was dire enough in New Jersey that a new drive-thru testing facility that opened in Paramus Friday morning had to close by lunchtime due to exceeding capacity. Gov. Phil Murphy said it will reopen Saturday morning and will go up until 350 tests. The state expects a new site -- the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel -- to be up and running by Monday.

Situation Grows Dire

Positive cases have been found in a half-dozen New Jersey nursing homes; admissions to those facilities have been suspended, health officials said. Murphy warned new social distancing requirements may come this weekend.

Connecticut has reported four deaths and 194 cases, according to Gov. Ned Lamont. Local health officials, though, fear thousands have been infected in the state and caution numbers will only rise exponentially as testing capacity expands. See the latest tri-state case count broken down by county here.

Lamont announced a new plan called "Stay Safe, Stay at Home," calling on non-essential retailers to close "for the foreseeable future" and offices to go work-from-home only. His plan effectively mirrors New York's.

Lamont also said an anonymous benefactor has donated millions of dollars to open 26 day care facilities, each holding 30 kids, near hospitals to support healthcare workers.

The three tri-state governors have already taken unprecedented joint action -- banning crowds over 50, restricting restaurants to take-out and delivery, closing schools, gyms, bars, casinos and indoor shopping malls to help slow the pandemic. Now they've added personal care businesses to the shutdown list, effective as of 8 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Pennsylvania has since joined the coalition. Cuomo says that all three states, in addition to Delaware, may join in the new rules on gatherings and closures he announced Friday morning.

The coalition of states has been working with the federal government on plans to get help -- and they need it. Murphy said Friday that the four states -- his, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania -- would need $100 billion in a block grant.

Coronavirus in the Tri-State Area

COVID-19 Mar 19

Where Do We Go From Here?

The depths of the outbreak -- and its impact -- are incomprehensible at this point but most definitely catastrophic: Billions upon billions of dollars have been lost and more will be lost; many have died, far more have been sickened. And the grim totals will rise.

As de Blasio said on HOT 97 Wednesday, "This is going to fundamentally change all of our lives for months, it's just a question of how many months."

The World Health Organization has declared the novel coronavirus a pandemic, the first coronavirus to ever earn the dubious distinction. It's novel -- that means it's new and no one has immunity to it.

Vaccines are in the works -- and a new clinical trial launched Monday.

Public health officials say it will take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine. Other medical options are in the works, including experimental drugs and antiviral therapies. One of the companies leading the experimental drug charge said it has five clinical trials worldwide, three of which have United States patients enrolled. But there's no proof yet that it's safe or effective.

More on Coronavirus

NBC News estimates the total number of U.S. cases has surpassed 18,000 and more than 200 people have died. The state with the highest number of deaths is Washington, where America's very first COVID-19 case was reported.

Every state in the U.S., as well as Washington D.C., has reported multiple COVID-19 cases. Globally, more than 230,000 have been infected and more than 9,000 people have died, according to multiple sources and health agencies.

The World Health Organization's daily situation report Thursday summed up the sobering reality in one sentence: "It took over three months to reach the first 100,00 confirmed cases, and only 12 days to reach the next 100,000."

This content was originally published here.

[papersandkeyboards]

4/11-17: The Spring Break Series; Part 3: Repentance in Sin City (aka ‘Taubatan Nasuha di Kota Dosa’)

WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY, APR 13-14, 2016.

We were on a schedule. We had to arrive in Las Vegas, exactly in this hotel Treasure Island, before 7 because Eric and Karen had booked three tickets to the most famous and the largest theatrical production in the world: Cirque du Soleil.

Cirque du Soleil is a theatrical production based in Quebec, Canada. The word ‘Cirque du Soleil’ itself means ‘Circus of the Sun’ in French. It is, well, I guess you can say a circus—a contemporary circus—but boy, it is much MUCH more than just a circus.

It’s the mega-ultimate shit of all circuses.

I, for one, had heard about Cirque du Soleil somewhere in an episode of America’s Next Top Model, and now knowing that I will be watching it live thrilled me. For another, I have no hatred for circus—in fact, I think I do like circus, but can’t say a lot about it because I’ve only watched a live circus show once back in elementary.

This particular show I was watching was called ‘Mystère’, which in French means mystery. I guess Cirque du Soleil have this odd, short, unfathomable titles to most of its shows.

The show, as many circuses are, was incredibly strange. Except that this one from Cirque du Soleil was probably fifty times more strange than a regular circus. In an awesome, amazing, out-of-this-world way.

The plot and perhaps the real meaning behind the whole show itself was a mystery indeed, at least to me. Before the real stage show started, there was this man in an odd Willy Wonka-ish costume (from which we all assumed he was part of the show) just mingled and grabbed buckets of popcorn from places, talked to the audience and dumped them with a bucket full of popcorn, got pushed away by ‘security’ but came back eventually, and basically causing laughs before the stage performers took over (he did come around once in a while on the stage during the show, being an important character, I guess).

I’m not gonna spoil you the whole plot, but I can assure you with all my heart that the entire show was a mix-up of men and women in loud-colored spandex (and some in fancy dresses), different kinds of gravity-defying stunts, uniquely arranged music, and a giant baby.

Overall, the extremely strange sequence had taken breaths and pleased the eyes. Bravo.

Aside from me being an amateur circus critic for the first part of this entry, we enjoyed the performance, then enjoyed a buffet dinner, classic all-you-can-eat Las Vegas style. I shit you not, just about everything was there. Meat, vegetarian food, pasta, Japanese, soups, dessert—the buffet really lived up the name of ‘all-you-can-eat’ to more than just a budget reference.

We stayed for two nights in this Sin City, in a hotel downtown (which was not solely the center of attraction and tourists). Though the hotel was much simpler than those humongous fancy hotels along The Strip, I assume just about every hotel in Las Vegas has a casino in it. I got into my room and was surprised to found a pair of earplugs on the bedside table. Suddenly I was much more conscious of the noise outside: faint yet blaring sound of rock music and faint crowd cheering once in a while. Judging from the earplugs, the noise ain’t gonna come down anytime soon.

As what tourists do in the city of Las Vegas, the next morning we hit the blackjack table took a tour of the city—no, cross that—we took a tour of the Strip, specifically.

Las Vegas Strip, is a—well—strip, a long street of hotels and casinos and malls and all sorts of big extravagant places, most of which you should’ve seen somewhere on TV. The big hotel with the huge fountain in front of it? That’s Bellagio. The one that partly looks like an old-school Cinderella castle? That’s Excalibur. The one that looks like a big black pyramid and a Sphinx? That’s called Luxor (the Vegas version of Luxor, by the way). The one that looks like the Lady Liberty? I swear you better not believe that the real Lady Liberty is in Las Vegas.

(I wonder what might trigger this particular rule)

The Strip was absolutely crazy. Crazier even than Times Square, with all the crowd and commute and everything. The Strip was this huge area of pure extravagance and glitter sitting right smack in the middle of The Desert, the District of Nowhere, State of Nevada. Meanwhile, downtown Las Vegas was only a little bit less crazy. Las Vegas is the only city where small neon-signed chapels are spread all over the place like sprinkles, through which you can drag a stranger you meet in some hotel or casino and marry them right away.

You see, some people prefer to have their whole wedding ceremony planned for years to make everything perfect with the right place, right time, right flowers, right music, right loved ones, and of course, the right spouse; and there are people who get married in a chapel in Las Vegas that claimed Elvis Presley got married there. (feat. yer favorite liqueur)

Anyway, we hopped in one of these hop-on-hop-off double-decker tour buses that takes you around the city, not just the Strip. We had a good overview of the Strip, seeing those big malls, a humongous ferris wheel, a mini Venice, and a large statue of an M&M, among others.

After the tour, we were dropped off by the hotel and casino Circus Circus, so we walked some distance to one of the malls to get lunch.

(ps: walking almost a mile on a hot dry desert weather wasn’t so fun. but then again, Karen and Eric were so used to walking long distance I seemed like a grandma)

Then we headed to a place called The Grand Canal Shoppes, which is just another big luxurious mall in the Strip, no biggie. I remembered of this banner I saw on this very mall that resembled Venice with all its fake blue water and huge fake Roman statues, and a story from my friend, Lili, whom I met in the New York Trip.

I was telling her how excited I was to go to Georgetown Cupcake store firsthand, and there was also this bakery I saw somewhere from the bus in New York, called Carlo’s Bakery, which, if you haven’t known, also has its own reality TV show.

So she told me she went to Las Vegas for her spring break and saw this same Carlo’s Bakery somewhere there. And so, when I told her I was gonna go to LV for my spring break, she told me to go there.

And damn right I did. I dragged Karen and Eric through the mall and put us in line with many people who are also there for the same purpose, while watching a baker making sugar fondant through the bakery window.

The delicacies they offer are of course different from that of Georgetown Cupcake. I ended up buying only one pastry, hahaha. It was great.

We originally walked to the Grand Canal Shoppes with intention to go to another place, though, that went by the name of Madame Tussauds.

Let me just say that I haven’t been to such an interactive wax museum... or maybe wax museum in general.

(gpp bermimpi itu boleh y)

We continued walking forward, specifically to New York-New York. I suppose it still was a hotel and casino, essentially, but it was packed with restaurants, stores, and games around the first floor, outdoor and indoor.

(now that I think about it, if you imagine the indoor Paris area of Museum Angkut Batu, Malang, then you pretty much get the idea of what I was seeing here) (either that, or this really cool family entertainment center called KidZania that lets  kids play grown-up jobs and basically living like adults)

I spiritually dragged my host parents here because I saw a structure of roller coaster snaking around the fake statue of Lady Liberty, and I did tell them at some point that I missed riding roller coaster. Eric was on board right away, but Karen hadn’t experienced a roller coaster ride before, but she decided to join in anyway.

Needless to say, it was the first and last roller coaster ride Karen had ever taken. At least her aftermath reaction said so. As for me, I enjoyed it. Hehe. Hehehe. Maaf buk. Maap.

It was getting late, and my legs were about to be more muscular than my whole muscleless body, so we took a bus back to the hotel.

Just next to our hotel was another big attraction of Las Vegas, the second biggest street in the city: Fremont Street. Fremont St. was no less than another crazy part of the city in which multiple famous casinos and numbers of gift shops lined up under a high canopy along the street itself. It was almost like an enclosed place by itself—with the canopy effect—and high up to the ceiling was a series of ziplines.

In the day, the street looked almost like a regular premium outlet. But at night, the buildings had come as alive as the humans, as diverse as the costumes worn every night, and as bright as everyone’s spirit. The ceiling lit up its millions of LEDs, making its own attraction above the activities on the ground, and the people flying down the ziplines, making the street itself a whole different set of Las Vegas night life.

Aside from the blaring sound of bass and people singing from one end of the street, and bunches of highly creative street attraction, and some almost-naked people here and there, I went there to find what I desired the most, my passion and ambition for this whole spring break trip: cheap souvenirs.

It’s arguable that the standards of ‘cheap souvenirs’ stand differently here than in Indonesia, but I still managed to buy some cheap keychains that fit above the ‘tacky’ line but under the ‘fancy’ line with a pretty reasonable price. In a way, Fremont Street resembled the legendary street of Malioboro in the city of Yogyakarta, but with a lot more bling and a lot less horse carts.

Around the same area of the Fremont Street was another section of entertainment district called Fremont East, which was a regular street lined up with big neon signs of different shapes. It also had a whole yard of neon signs, and a big neon sculpture of a grasshopper that occasionally breathed fire.

And, oh, I guess I forgot to tell you that before we hit the street, we had dinner in this pizza place across the street from the hotel, and the place has TV screens that plays old music videos, kind of like Hard Rock Cafe, and at one point the whole cafe got Rickrolled.

.

-continues

.

[a/n]

Having the fact that I own this blog to myself, without any association to any institutions that might affect my writing one way or another, I can’t help but pitch in a few personal comments on the Sin City, as the city has left quite a distinct impression to me. However, if you wish not to meddle into my rant through the following paragraphs, feel free not to scroll down and read.

Look, I’ve been growing up in a small town. My small town is quite bland, as I’m used to it, nothing new happening and to explore each day, unlike Seattle. Needless to say, I don’t have an experience on doing things that are out of this world, but I can vouch for the fact that Las Vegas is definitely the craziest place I’ve been in.

“I thought you like big cities!” Karen or Eric might say (and they did).

Sure, I like big cities, with tall towers and busy crowd crossing the street every now and then, I like the neatness of it and various things people might sell or do to support a living or simply have fun, but sorry for all who might want to say otherwise, but I don’t like the Las Vegas way of big city.

I woke up in the morning and went down to the lobby with Eric, trying to find a place to have breakfast, which means I had to automatically go through the hotel casino which devoured pretty much the entire lobby. I surely am the type of person who would love to wake up in the morning and enjoy my free morning leisurely with a cup of milk tea or something, but instead, the view I got was the bright flickering lights and various dings and dongs from dozens of slot machines. Some had people in front of them, fixing their eyes on the numbers displayed in bright colors and tempting value. People who were there, I assume, either woke up early to dig up the slot machines or had been there all night, doing the exact same thing. And I think that’s kind of depressing.

Even in the airports. Casinos and slot machines in Las Vegas are like the equivalent of Indonesian street food vendors: where there are empty space, they will be there. McCarran International Airport LV might be quiet in the middle of the night, where there are almost no people and all the stores are closed, but the occasional ding and the everlasting bright flickering neons and rolling number display will always be there. If you scout the whole airport, I doubt you will find less than one person sitting in front of one of the machines, any day, any time.

Las Vegas was, well, loud. New York might be as loud and bright, but NYC had a different vibe to it. Las Vegas was just not the place that I would want to spend my free time in. I don’t gamble, I don’t drink, I don’t strip, I don’t have the ability to flex my body in such a way that would make me hired for Cirque du Soleil. Las Vegas was hot and deserted, not much great view besides the distinct buildings. But even those are too much it seemed overwhelming.

But then again, it’s nice to have variations of big cities in this country, isn’t it? You have New York where people go to with hopeful hearts, which is a giant melting pot like no other cities can compare to. You have San Fransicso where most people are oriented to have fun with friends or family in a nice, joyous but also calming way. You have Seattle where most people eat organic food (haha), where people can hustle and bustle in the main mall shopping area and, at the same time, having family-ish kind of fun down below in the waterfront or up north in the calming and unique neighborhoods with their dozens of funny statues and farmers’ markets. Or probably Orlando, where you can have as much fun as an adult as you are a little kid. And of course, when your interests don’t coincide with what those cities offer you, you can always go to Las Vegas. Patung Liberty dan Menara Eiffel KW super.

What I’m trying to say is, each person have a different idea of having fun and spending their free time, and this country has offered a wide range of options to do so.

But seriously, guys, Seattle is like the best city you can have. My bias stands strong on this one.

#spring break #las vegas #langkahanakbangsa

[vsplusonline]

Global coronavirus death toll hits 200,000 as some lockdowns eased

New Post has been published on https://apzweb.com/global-coronavirus-death-toll-hits-200000-as-some-lockdowns-eased/

Global coronavirus death toll hits 200,000 as some lockdowns eased

As the global death toll from the coronavirus surpassed 200,000 on Saturday, countries took cautious steps toward easing lockdowns imposed amid the pandemic, but fears of a surge in infections made even some outbreak-wounded businesses reluctant to reopen.

The states of Georgia, Oklahoma and Alaska started loosening restrictions on businesses despite warnings from experts that such steps might be premature.

Shawn Gingrich, CEO and founder of Lion’s Den Fitness, decided after the Georgia governor’s announcement that his Atlanta gym would remain closed for now.

“We’ve sacrificed so much already,” Gingrich said. “I feel like if we do this too soon, we’ll see a spike in cases and we’re back to square one.”

Others were eager to get back to business, with precautions. Russ Anderson, who owns a tattoo studio in south Georgia, said he “couldn’t get up out of my chair quick enough” when restrictions were lifted. His main shop served 50 or 60 customers Friday when it reopened, with customers and tattoo artists wearing masks, he said.

The worldwide death toll was at 201,907 as of Saturday afternoon, according to a tally compiled by John Hopkins University from government figures. The actual death toll is believed to be far higher.

India reopened neighborhood stores that many of the country’s 1.3 billion people rely on for everything from beverages to mobile phone data cards. But the loosening didn’t apply to hundreds of quarantined towns and other places hit hardest by the outbreak that has killed at least 775 people in the country where many poor live in slums too crowded for social distancing.

Shopping malls also stayed closed nationwide. Still, owners of small stores, being allowed to open again brought relief.

“This is a good decision,” said Amit Sharma, an architect. “We have to open a few things and let the economy start moving. The poor people should have some source of income. This virus is going to be a long-term problem.”

India also allowed manufacturing and farming to resume in rural areas last week to ease the economic plight of millions left jobless by the March 24 lockdown. The restrictions have allowed people out of their homes only to buy food, medicine or other essentials.

Elsewhere in Asia, authorities reported no new deaths Saturday for the 10th straight day in China, where the virus originated. South Korea reported just 10 fresh cases, the eighth day in a row its daily increase was under 20. There were no new deaths for the second straight day.

Underscoring the unknowns about the virus, the World Health Organization said “there is currently no evidence” that people who have recovered from COVID-19 cannot fall sick again.

Some countries extended or tightened restrictions, confirming a pattern of caution.

Sri Lanka had partially lifted a monthlong daytime curfew in more than two thirds of the country. But it reimposed a 24-hour lockdown countrywide until Monday after a surge of 46 new infections, its highest increase in a day.

Norway extended until at least Sept. 1 its ban on events with more than 500 participants.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that Spaniards will be allowed to leave their homes for short walks and exercise starting May 2 after seven weeks of strict home confinement, though he said “maximum caution will be our guideline.”

“We must be very prudent because there is no manual, no roadmap to follow,” he said.

Kids in Spain will get their first fresh air in weeks when a ban on letting them outside is relaxed starting Sunday. After 44 days indoors, they’ll be allowed out for adult-supervised one-hour excursions no farther than 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from home. They will not be permitted to play with others, and some nervous parents shopped online for child-size masks for them.

“I really want to get outside, and Ema does as well,” said Madrid resident Eva Novilo, speaking of her 7-year-old daughter. But Novilo predicted “difficult situations” if they see her friends and have to stay apart. “I don’t know if we will be able to maintain control.”

Belgium sketched out plans for a progressive lockdown relaxation starting May 4 with the resumption of nonessential treatment in hospitals and the reopening of textile and sewing shops to make face masks.

In Italy, where restrictions also will be eased May 4, authorities warned against abandoning social distancing practices as millions return to work. Free masks will be distributed to nursing homes, police, public officials and transportation workers. Workers painted blue circles on Rome’s subway platforms to remind people to keep their distance when commuters return.

The country continues to have Europe’s highest death toll, with 26,384 deaths. The 415 deaths registered in the 24-hour period that ended Saturday evening was the lowest toll since Italy registered 345 on March 17, but only five fewer than Friday.

With gatherings banned, Italians celebrated the 75th anniversary of their liberation from occupation forces in World War II, emerging on balconies or rooftops at the same time to sing a folk song linked to resistance fighters.

Britain held off on changes to its lockdown as the virus-related death toll in hospitals topped 20,000. The figure doesn’t include deaths in nursing homes, likely to be in the thousands.

In France, the government prepared to ease one of Europe’s strictest lockdowns from May 11. The health minister detailed plans to scale up testing to help contain any new flare-ups.

Testing shortages also are a problem in Brazil, Latin America’s largest nation, which is veering closer to becoming a pandemic hot spot.

Officials in Rio de Janeiro and four other major cities warned that their hospital systems are on the verge of collapse or already overwhelmed. In Manaus, the biggest city in the Amazon, officials said they have been forced to dig mass graves in a cemetery. Workers have been burying 100 corpses a day – triple the pre-virus average.

Along with Georgia, Oklahoma allowed salons, spas and barbershops to reopen, while Alaska cleared the way for restaurants to resume dine-in service and retail shops and other businesses to open their doors, all with limitations. Some Alaska municipalities chose to keep stricter rules.

Though limited in scope, and subject to social-distancing restrictions, the reopenings marked a symbolic milestone in the debate raging in the United States and beyond as to how quickly political leaders should lift economically devastating lockdown orders.

On Friday, President Donald Trump spoke optimistically of the economy but also asked people to continue social distancing and using face coverings. He also signed a $484 billion bill to aid employers and hospitals. In the past five weeks, roughly 26 million people have filed for jobless aid, or about 1 in 6 U.S. workers.

Trump also said his widely criticized comments suggesting people can ingest or inject disinfectant to fight COVID-19 were an attempt at sarcasm.

In Texas, where retailers are allowed to sell items for curbside pickup, Allison Scott said most customers of her women’s clothing store in a Dallas shopping mall seem to feel more comfortable ordering online. Scott thinks it’s still too risky to allow people to shop in person, and she can’t see people wanting to.

“I want to be open more than anything but I don’t think that society is ready to come out either,” she said.

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[wikitopx]

Indiana embodies the quintessential essence of Midwestern America.

Home to bustling cities like Indianapolis and lovely little towns like Santa Claus (read more about this town below!), It's a balance between fine art and refreshing natural resting places. to attract tourists from around the world. Whether you are dying to break in your new hiking boots, head out into the prairie on horseback, or experience history face-to-face in their museums and historical towns, Indiana always has something to offer you. Discover the best to do in Indiana.

[toc]

1. Brown County State Park

Affectionately referred to as Indiana Playground, Brown County State Park is an ideal destination offering guaranteed activities to delight visitors of all ages. The park is located in the colonies of Indiana historical artist in the District of Columbia and offers many vacation options for different budgets and hobbies!

It’s conveniently located an hour away from Indianapolis, so you don’t even have to travel far outside the city for this peaceful nature retreat Stay in a romantic cabin or luxurious hotel suite.

The Lodge at the center of the park has an indoor aquatic center with waterslides and a whirlpool for those more inclined to put their feet up and relax. Or, you can rough it at their many campsites and reconnect with nature.

There are many hiking or biking trails through the gently rolling Indiana hills. You can also go fishing or take a horseback ride! You’ll never lack for ways to stay active to do here in Brown County.

2. Antique Alley

While many people are interested in seeing something new or browsing for different accessories, some consider making something “old” their “new”. For those who consider Antiquing a very serious hobby and are always looking for something classic instead of the latest fad, Indiana has the perfect paradise for you: Antique Alley in Richmond County!

Hop in the car and explore a 60 mile stretch of the Historic National Road that links Richmond to Knightstown (even that name seems antique, right?). Over a thousand antique dealers line the national road, their shops filled with treasures awaiting your discovery.

Browse thousands of antiques and experience the peaceful Indiana countryside. The hub of this popular route is located in historic Cambridge City – there are an antique mall and several dealers in a compact 3 block radius!

3. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children’s museum in the world, with 472,900 of square feet, 5 floors of exhibits and over 100,000 artifacts! There are 3 different sections to choose from the American Collection, World Cultural Collection, and Natural World Collection.

You can see a simulated dinosaur at the Dinosphere exhibit, or an old fashioned steam locomotive! The museum is also home to the world’s largest water clock. Sometimes, adults need to be children again, and parents need to connect with their children on the child’s level.

The interactive displays at this museum are educational and entertaining – everyone loves an old Carousel ride, right? Span that age gap and connect with the younger generation, and keep the Children’s Museum in mind for your next family vacation! You’ll learn something new and have fun while you do it.

4. Spirit of Jasper Train

Nowadays, people jump into their cars without second thoughts and slow down from a distance. We’ve forgotten how we lived before the automobile, such as the invention of the steam engine that revolutionized train travel, a formerly popular way to travel, but a blast for the past for us now.

Whether you're a train enthusiast or simply interested in history, visit the historic train route in Jasper, Indiana, the perfect way to travel back in time. The Spirit of Jasper departs from Jasper's Historic Warehouse and allows you to follow the style to French Lick, Indiana or any of their organized excursions.

We recommend booking your ticket in advance to save a seat on their comfortable, climate-controlled lounge cars. You can even take a romantic dinner train – the meals and drinks are locally catered and the train takes you on a relaxing ride through rural Indiana.

Leave your car in the parking lot and relax; let someone else take care of the transportation for once.

5. Parke County’s Covered Bridges

Parke County calls itself the world capital of covered bridges, and is home to over 30 covered bridges! One of the biggest tourist attractions in the county, people flock in for the self-guided driving tour of these bridges that span 9 counties.

Whether you manage to coincide with their fun-filled Covered Bridges Festival in October or not, the county is full of beautiful views and nature all year around. Bring your camera – Parke County proudly maintains their idyllic roads and covered bridges that harken back to simpler times.

Take your time, around each bend, is a new, quaint world waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss the oldest one, Portland Mills Covered Bridge. You’ll find your pictures come out like an old-fashioned postcard! And stop in at any one of the charming villages along the way – locals are friendly and the food is delicious.

6. Turkey Run State Park

Turkey Run State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. You’ll be in awe of the sandstone cliffs and deep ravines that dot the park, as well as the hemlock groves and old trees that have lived through more history than one could imagine.

Bring your camera and explore nature much like that seen and experienced by the Native Americans hundreds of years ago – it hasn’t changed much. Don’t be surprised if you see a lot of wildlife, deer and turkey vultures are just two of the animal species that call this place home.

Bring your walking shoes and hit the trails, or hop on a horse and go deep into the wilderness. You can camp and enjoy the outdoors, or stay at the Turkey Run Inn if you don’t want to rough it.

Take a canoe out on Sugar Creek or go fishing. Cool off in the summer at their swimming pool or take a dip in the river. Reconnect with Mother Nature when she’s at her finest and let the time here rejuvenate you.

7. Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park is located on the southern tip of Lake Michigan and boasts over 15 miles of coastline, 70 miles of hiking trails and more than 300 species of birds. It draws millions of visitors every year for a myriad of reasons – whether you’re a beach bum, hiker, or wildlife enthusiast, the dunes are filled with surprises sure to keep you busy.

Explore the Little Calumet Trail and hike high above, Mnoke Prairie. You can cool off at the Central Avenue Beach or schedule a tour of Mt. Baldy. Bring your fishing pole and rent a boat to see if the fish are biting on Lake Michigan – Latitudes Waterfront Dining will even clean and prepare your catch!

Whether you want a beach getaway or a natural paradise, your options abound here at Indiana Dunes State Park.

8. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

Many dreams it is a year-round holiday, and in Indiana, that dream became a reality. This theme park/water park combination is located in Santa Claus, Indiana, and if the name isn’t enough to convince you, its four sections devoted to Thanksgiving, Christmas, the 4th of July and Halloween will.

Initially conceived as a retirement community idea in the 1940s, it soon evolved into a theme park for people of all ages when the founder, Louis Koch, decided to make Christmas happen for the children who visited the town of Santa Claus, only to be disappointed that he wasn’t home.

Pick your favorite holiday and start in that section. Each offers rides, live entertainment, and games and attractions for children and adults of all ages. Take a ride on their famous wooden roller coasters, The Ravine, the Legend, and The Voyage.

It is also a perfect place to cool off in the summer – the water park has the world’s two longest roller coasters, the Wildebeest and the Mammoth, as well as slides and raft rides. You can see Santa Claus wandering in the park, or chatting with George the Eagle in the area on July 4!

9. Indy 500

Ask most people what comes to mind when they think of Indiana, and they’ll usually say NASCAR or the Indy 500. Founded in 1911, the 100th race was held on Memorial Day, 2016.

The race is held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway; the race car drivers complete 200 laps for a total of 500 miles driven. The Indy 500 is the world's largest one-day sporting event!

Whether you make it in May for the actual race or not, visit the stadium affectionately nicknamed the Yard of Bricks that holds up to 300,000 people on race day – enough space to fit all of Vatican City!

If you DO decide to brave it on race day, find a parking spot and participate in the world’s largest tailgate party: a quarter of a million people drinking beer and eating hamburgers at the epicenter of race car mania. You can even pay $500 and have a professional driver take you for a whirl around the track!

10. Falls of Ohio State Park

Located in Clarksville, Indiana, the Falls of Ohio State Park is right on the banks of the Ohio River and across from Louisville, Kentucky, and was the meeting point for Lewis and Clark before they embarked on their expedition. Keep your eyes peeled while you are here, the park is known for having strange wildlife visitors like alligators and crocodiles!

The most popular attraction at the park is their fossil beds at Jeffersonville Limestone that date back to the Devonian period. Bring your camera to capture the beautiful limestone formations along the Ohio River.

The park also features an interpretive center that takes you through the natural history of the fossil beds and the human pre-settlement and early settlement history of the surrounding areas.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Knoxville

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-indiana-703412.html

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After 15 Years, Dream Mall Finally Becomes a Reality

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — It has taken 15 years, three owners, two names and hundreds of millions of dollars worth of taxpayer incentives, but a giant mall built on a former swamp in the Meadowlands — and less than 10 miles away from the shopping haven of Manhattan — is finally opening on Friday.

Sort of.

The $5 billion development, formerly known as Xanadu and now called American Dream, will eventually feature roughly 3 million square feet of stores, water slides, a caviar bar and an indoor ski slope that promises man-made snow even in the height of a New Jersey summer. It is an attempt to lure crowds to a spot not easily accessible by public transportation and which most people know primarily from visits for National Football League games or concerts at MetLife Stadium.

But when the complex opens on Friday, visitors will not find anyplace to shop or much to eat. The property’s owner, the Canadian real estate firm Triple Five Group, is introducing American Dream in “chapters.” The first consists of an ice-skating rink and a Nickelodeon amusement park that claims to have one of the world’s steepest roller coasters and will offer regular “slime” shows.

Triple Five plans to unveil a DreamWorks-themed water park and the ski slope by the end of this year, and said that more than 300 stores, the essential retail part of the development, are slated to open in March. During a tour last week, few signs hung above dark, partially constructed stores and dust and orange cones littered boards protecting tiled flooring.

Still, even a partial opening of the mall — publicists said they preferred the term “style and entertainment destination” — is a milestone. The project broke ground in 2004 but construction halted with the recession. In 2011, Triple Five, which also owns the Mall of America outside Minneapolis, took over with big plans to make American Dream a globally recognized megamall. At the time, a 2013 opening date was announced. That was subsequently pushed back at least four times.

In that time, the retail landscape has shifted rapidly and major mall developments have dropped off. Some originally announced tenants of American Dream, like Toys ‘R’ Us and Barneys, are now bankrupt.

“Maybe pre-recession, there were some massive mall developments, but this is extremely unique,” said Vince Tibone, a retail analyst at Green Street Advisors.

American Dream is a huge, some say unrealistic, bet that tens of thousands of people will visit the Meadowlands each day to play, as well as shop in stores like H&M and Hermès that are readily available in Manhattan. Triple Five has said that it anticipates 40 million visitors a year — on par with Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. This despite the fact that Bergen County, the mall’s home, prohibits retail sales on Sundays.

Don Ghermezian, president of Triple Five and chief executive of American Dream, said that the development “absolutely” planned to compete with parks like Disney and would put northern New Jersey “on the map” as a global tourist destination.

“You don’t need to get in your plane to fly to Orlando anymore,” he said. “You can just come across the river.”

Mr. Ghermezian said he was confident that “the power of the center” would attract local and international visitors, pointing to his family’s success with the Mall of America and Canada’s West Edmonton Mall.

American Dream is planning to run a bus service that leaves Port Authority regularly and offer shuttles from a ferry. Triple Five has also purchased a helicopter company to bring visitors to three helipads on the property.

Skeptics, though, question whether East Rutherford can become a tourist mecca.

“Are tourists really going to say, ‘Let’s see a Yankee game and a Rockettes show and then take a bus from Port Authority to New Jersey to go to the mall?” said Jeff Tittel, director of the Sierra Club’s New Jersey chapter, who has been battling to prevent a development from opening on the site for all of his 22 years at the environmental group.

The financial risks to investors are significant. The development, which sits on state land, qualified for tax-free debt financing. But no local entities — not the state nor the borough of East Rutherford — arranged the financing. American Dream tapped a state agency in Wisconsin that was willing to borrow about $1.1 billion in bonds that allowed the complex to finally get built.

Some of the tax-exempt bonds are owned by funds managed by firms like Vanguard and Putnam, according to an analysis by Morningstar Direct. The bond documents include 30 pages of potential risks, including that attendance “may be depressed from desired levels” if tourists in New York are not willing to travel to the Meadowlands.

“I am skeptical,’’ said Lisa Washburn, chief credit officer for Municipal Market Analytics. “But there may be something about the combination of retail and entertainment at this level that will work.”

Mr. Ghermezian declined to discuss details around the financing.

New Jersey taxpayers have already sunk hundreds of millions of dollars on improving the roads leading to American Dream and have provided its owners with generous breaks like allowing sales tax revenue from the mall to be set aside to pay down debt.

Goldman Sachs is part of a group of lenders that have agreed to lend the project an additional $1.6 billion, but if American Dream defaults, the banks are entitled to an ownership stake in the Mall of America, which is Triple Five’s crown jewel.

Environmentalists have raised concerns about the emissions from the thousands of cars expected at the American Dream each day. Certain requirements were waived, Mr. Tittel said, that would have made the property energy efficient. The mall is expected to consume vast amounts of energy to support its entertainment attractions — including the cavernous ski hill facility that will be maintained at a temperature below freezing year round.

Flooding could be another problem. The Meadowlands, where wetlands have been filled in over the years to give rise to development, were battered with storm surge during Hurricane Sandy.

Discussions for a giant development on the site date to the mid 1990s. The proposal that finally got off the ground was a giant mall named Xanadu, an “idealized place of great magnificence and beauty,” and also the title of a 1980 film, a musical fantasy starring Olivia Newton-John.

The Mills Corporation, a real estate developer, started building the mall in 2004 and nearly completed it. There was even merchandise stocked in many of the stores, but the mall never opened because Mills ran into financial trouble. Xanadu then found a new backer, a joint venture that included a firm founded by Steve Mnuchin, now the treasury secretary, and another owned by Thomas J. Barrack Jr., a billionaire who planned President Trump’s inauguration.

The timing was less than ideal. The 2008 financial crisis hit, bank lending seized up and Xanadu was postponed. The huge structure, which former Governor Chris Christie once called the “ugliest” building in New Jersey, sat empty and visible to the hordes of New Jersey commuters who passed it every day.

Triple Five entered in 2011, promising a fresh start and a new design that would include more entertainment and more thrills.

Triple Five said that the complex would house the world’s biggest wave pool and its largest candy store. The New Jersey Hall of Fame, which honors native luminaries like Jon Bon Jovi, is also planning to lease space.

The constant delays are a sensitive issue. Caudalie, a skin-care company that signed a lease for a store at the American Dream in 2016, filed a lawsuit against the mall operator last year, saying that it was misled about the project’s opening date, its occupancy and funding.

The brand sought to end its lease citing breach of its terms and to retrieve its security deposit, which it said American Dream initially resisted. The case was settled shortly thereafter. A lawyer for Caudalie declined to comment.

Last week, workers were installing moss in an indoor garden at one end of the complex, while other contractors were bundled against blowing snow inside the ski hill.

Mr. Ghermezian said it would be a “great injustice” to the Nickelodeon park to open it as part of a broader unveil of American Dream. He dismissed questions about why the theme park was opening when its main concession stands were not yet ready.

“If you want to be a nit-picker, I can’t stop you from doing that,” he said.

Mr. Ghermezian said anyone who doubted the project’s viability should remember that his family used its other mall properties as collateral and invested “substantial amounts of our own personal money into this project.”

“We believe we are visionaries,” he said. “And sometimes to be a visionary, to step outside of the norm, you have to think big.”

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Biggest and Best Trade Days in and around DFW

DFW is a great area to get your thriftin’ and junkin’ on. Some of the oldest, biggest and best Trade Days events can be found within the metroplex or just a relatively short drive away. Most urban centers and larger suburbs don’t have trade days, so don’t feel bad if you don’t know what they are. Here's our list of best trade days in DFW. 

Canton shoppers' tools and equipment

History of First Monday

So why are they called "First Mondays"? Trade Days are a mostly southern tradition that started sometime in the 1800s (or possibly earlier). In those days, many towns were too small to have their own court and judge. State judges often made a circuit of the county seats to deal with all of the legal business in the county. Apparently, court dates were often on Mondays (whose idea was that?!?) and that’s why modern-day trade days are often labeled “First Monday.”

Everyone who had business with the judge (or wanted to follow the legal activity and catch up with their neighbors) came to town for First Monday. Since this was before cars existed, folks loaded up their wagons and used the town square gathering as a means to barter any excess goods their household produced for other things they might need. It wasn’t all that rare for folks to trade a pig or a chicken for repairs to their wagon or farm equipment.

Don’t let the names confuse you—none of our area trade days in Dallas are actually on Monday. What they mean by first (and second, and third) can be confusing too, so be sure to check the websites and have your dates down before heading to one of these magical shopping fests.

Funny, It Doesn’t Feel Like Monday

Oldest in the Area, Frequently Named the Biggest and/or Best in America

Canton’s First Monday Trade Days

Canton First Monday

Canton’s First Monday Trade Days got started in 1850. Over the years, the trading event outgrew the town square (by a lot!) In the 1960s, Canton’s Trade Days moved to a permanent home in a city-owned, six-acre event park.

Shoppers in Canton will find shopping of all stripes in indoor and outdoor booths plus a Civic Center building filled with collectible and antique vendors.

Event Dates: The Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of every month

→ Website

Where’s Canton?: Canton is about 60 miles east of downtown Dallas.

→ Map

On the Tarrant County Side

Weatherford’s First Monday Trade Days

Weatherford’s trade days event is one of the largest outdoor markets, part of what they used to call "Stray Days." It’s still held on the courthouse square. Offerings include traditional trade days items (vintage knick-knacks, art, craft items, clothing and accessories) this market also features livestock, plants and farm/ranch equipment. They also have food trucks, yum!

Event Dates: The Friday through Sunday before the first Monday of every month.

→ Website

Where’s Weatherford?: Weatherford is about 30 miles west of Fort Worth.

→ Map

A Little Further Out

Bonham’s Trade Days

Bonham’s Trade Days are pretty convenient because if you didn’t make it to Canton (or did but didn’t find the treasure you were after) you can head to Bonham the next weekend. The town claims their trade days are among the longest-running in North Texas. Vendor booths carry traditional vintage and antique finds plus tools and small livestock. Food vendors offer goodies like corn dogs and lemonade.

Event Dates: The weekend after the first Monday of every month.

→ Website

Where’s Bonham?: Bonham is about 53 miles northeast of Plano.

→ Map

Bowie’s Second Monday Trade Days

Also established in 1890, Bowie’s Second Monday is one of the largest flea markets in North Texas. The five-acre lot houses over 450 vendor booths. In addition to traditional vintage and antique finds, Bowie’s market offers modern-day items like video games and cell phone accessories.

Event Dates: The Saturday and Sunday before the second Monday of every month. (Some vendors open Friday evening as well.)

→ Website

Where’s Bowie?: Bowie is about 56 miles northwest of Denton.

→ Map

Another Long-Time Tradition

McKinney’s Third Monday Trade Days

McKinney claims to have the oldest and largest flea market in North Texas – theirs did get its start in 1870. With food booths like you’d find at a carnival (or the State Fair of Texas), the monthly event is as much a town social as it is about selling. The market offers a mix of antique and modern items as well as a large selection of home and garden décor. You’ll also find clothing, accessories, and health and beauty items.

Event Dates: The Friday through Sunday before the third Monday of every month.

→ Website

→ Map

Smaller Market, Bigger City

Garland's Urban Flea 

While not called Trade Days, this flea market qualifies as a trade days event since it’s only held once a month. This one, however is only held on Saturdays from 9AM to 4:30 PM. Check the dates on their calendar to see which Saturday it’ held and get ready for a fun day in historic downtown Garland. In addition to shopping handmade and antique items at vendor booths, you can check out small, locally owned shops and restaurants in the area too.

Event Dates: One Saturday a month, most months of the year. Check the website for specific event dates.

→ Website

→ Map

Every Weekend Flea Market

Since I didn’t find any Fourth Monday events and some of these are a ways away, I’m throwing in a giant flea market. Flea Markets and Trade Days are very similar, with the main difference being that Trade Days typically happen only one weekend a month. Trader’s Village is open every weekend.

Traders Village in Grand Prairie

Traders Village, Grand Prairie, Texas

In addition to flea market finds, you’ll find all manner of carnival-style retail and food offerings here. They have carnival rides too, and it’s not unusual to see events on the calendar for all kinds of festivals and special days. Parking is $4.

→ Website

→ Map

This is only the beginning of antiquing and junking options in DFW. There are countless antique malls, bazaars, and thrift stores where you can find trade day-worthy treasures every day of the week. We’ll look into a post about some of the best ones, but for now, make your way to the trade days nearest you.

They say everything’s bigger in Texas and these great community sales events make that point well. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Many but not all vendors accept cards, and parking is sometimes extra.

Did we miss any of your favorite local Trade Days? Do you prefer to go antiquing and junking in permanent stores? Sound off in the comments or on our Facebook page.

The post Biggest and Best Trade Days in and around DFW appeared first on FunCity Stuff DFW.

source https://funcitystuff.com/biggest-and-best-trade-days-in-and-around-dfw/

[thoughtsofunited-blog]

The Delights of Living in Minnesota

One of the underlying things that I wanted to write about with this blog are all of the places I have been blessed to live. Starting with my one true home in Woodbury, Mn. I grew up in the same home in Woodbury for a little over 18 years. In that time I grew up with all those Minnesota ideals that you hear about. Yes, my parents obviously taught me a lot, however there are some things that you pick up just being around the people of Minnesota. Everyone there is nice, to a ridiculous extent. The first thing that I remember about being there was how open people were to conversations at the time. If we disagreed, we would talk about it, where our beliefs came from, and even if we agreed to fundamentally disagreed we could better understand people as individuals. I still hear mainly two things when people learn that I am from the great white north. Either, “Isn’t it like really cold there?” or “That explains a lot.” The second phrase is normally in relation to how I truly try and be helpful or better understand the people around me. Again, I was blessed with great parents, but I also think that the culture that I was raised in had a lot to do with that aspect of myself.

Now for those of you who still believe that Minnesota winters are unlivable, I can’t express how wrong you are. Yes, it is cold, there are days where you walk outside and your face hurts and you feel like you can’t breath. I can admit that those days suck. However no where else that I have been (no not even Colorado) has as many opportunities to capitalize on fun things to do in that cold weather. I grew up within two miles of FIVE different hockey rinks. There were probably four ski areas within an hour or so. Cross country ski paths are littered throughout the state, and for those of you who can’t imagine actually going outside to do things when it’s that cold, we still had plenty of indoor facilities for all the other sports like soccer, football, lacrosse, golf, and basketball. Another aspect of this is that most people had the equipment to participate. Finding a group to go play three on three hockey was as easy as finding a basketball team to run with. This aspect brings me back to the niceness of the cities. I skied and played soccer as organized sports, but whenever you tried something new there’s always one person trying to help you get better.

Finally, the best part of Minnesota is the plethora of activities available to tourists and locals alike. Cliff diving up along the St. Croix River, 11,842 lakes (duh), hiking, and not to mention the food and museums downtown. The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, are currently only ranked behind LA and New York City for best food in the USA. Our executive chefs kill it no matter what your pallet desires. We have many theaters to watch your favorite plays or musicals that are right in the heart of downtown as well as outdoor parks/art centers and museums which are perfect for date night.

I tell everyone that they have to visit the cities. Every time I go back, no matter for how long I miss out on something that I miss from living there. It is truly a great state and therefor in the interest of not making this the longest post ever I will only list out things I was not able to specifically mention.

1. Black Sheep Pizza

2. Downtown Greenway

3. THE JUICY LUCY

4. Mall of America (only for tourists)

5. Lake Calhoun

6. Mickey’s Diner

7. Target Field

8. Allianz Field

9. Minnesota Wild Hockey

10. Surley Brewery

11. Summit Brewing

12. Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream

13. Shwan’s Cup (Used to be the biggest youth soccer tournament in the world)

14. Dinkeytown

15. Gopher Hockey

16. Minnesota State High School Hockey Tourament (youtube the all hair team)

17. Golf (everyone from Florida comes here for the summer)

18. Walker Art Center

19. Minnesota State Fair (if you’re not from Texas don’t even try and compare)

20. The painful loyalty of our sports fans who don’t win much but still support our teams.

21. Downtown Stillwater

#minnesota #travel #fun things to do #food

[allyweng]

Sitting at our rental loft located in downtown Edmonton, Canada, I cannot believe we already stayed here for 1-month long, soon we have to go back to London our home, even I so want to stay here a bit longer, I actually also don’t mind coming back home, because we gonna come back to London, our sweet home, another great city I love very much : )

I remember I went abroad the very first time in my life on my 20th, also the very first time traveled abroad by myself, I cheated my parents I joined sort of scholarship kind of activity with a group of college classmates, only God knows I did several part-time jobs ahead to earn enough of my international flight tickets and other travel costs, I indeed had several jobs at my college-hood, so busy I didn’t have extra time to focus on either studying or dating, I still remember how excited to go to wind city Chicago, everything is bigger than I expected, everything is better than I could imagine, 5-week traveling in Chicago & LA, I never wanted to come back home in Taipei, while the flight almost approached at Tao-yuan Airport… I cried, I cried a lot, like non-stop tears dropping on my face, so scared, so sad…not because the Goddamn homesick but I would be immediately back to reality, to pay my credit card bills…

I felt so NOT belong to Taiwan then, I wish I could just stay outside as long as possible, in US, or somewhere else…

I guess I did try anyway to prepare my big “going out” again, I worked in foreign company, went business trips as many as possible, as far as possible, made colleagues friends who grew up and educated in the States, to learn their ways of talking, dressing and style; I dated boys who live in North America, I did many things to reconnect outside Taiwan….

And now, as my plan, I am living in London, Alex and I average spent 5-6 months or so annually traveling outside UK, it’s kind of a privileged life to me, I never regret I gave up my career in Taipei, and I cherish every single moment living outside my home country. The home country probably would be slowly no more “home” to me…

Travel is one of the greatest ways to explore, to learn about different cultures, different perspectives in terms of lifestyle. I appreciate my hubby’s efforts to make my dream come true, without him I wouldn’t be able to enjoy my life this much. just as Jeff Bezos’ famous quote: we are our choices.

Edmonton, Alberta is an awesome city, so nearby many national parks with big sky and full wildlife, bison and elk safari at Elk Island National Park; hiking in Jasper National Park, Waterton National Park, Glacier National Park in Montana and many many more you name it; World Water Park at West Mall Edmonton offers the biggest complex shopping centre in North America, as well as the world biggest indoor water park to enjoy artificial non-stop waves and several other water activities; Buffalo Jump in Alberta is another fantastic UNESCO site for bison & Indian culture and history display and leaning; Alberta Craft Centre offers local artists’ art pieces to purchase…  so little time but so many to do!

We’ll enjoy our stay till the very last minute and, we’ll surely be back again, just like Carol, the pie lady at Waterton Village told us: why you live in London? Move and enjoy fully Alberta again soon!!

Edmonton, Canada 5-week stay Sitting at our rental loft located in downtown Edmonton, Canada, I cannot believe we already stayed here for 1-month long, soon we have to go back to London our home, even I so want to stay here a bit longer, I actually also don't mind coming back home, because we gonna come back to London, our sweet home, another great city I love very much : )

[rajnilbf-blog]

Indoor Water Parks around the World

Since our childhood, water parks have always had a soft corner in our heart and no matter how old we grow, the blood pumping every time we see a ride won't go away. Since the season such as summers and winters forbid us to go to such places thanks to different conditions, we often find ourselves on the mercy of the weather and season to feed the craving of the adventure. However, if you are willing to travel for such experiences, then you will surely find ample of places that can offer you the same fantastic delight regardless of the season, forecast or the temperature. So without any further ado, we are giving you the list of best indoor water parks around the world that are absolutely perfect for such pleasure:

1. Kalahari Resorts, Sandusky

If you are craving for some quality water park and seeking some adventure in your life during the hot summers or in the cold winters, then you must plan a trip to the gorgeous lands of Sandusky. Sandusky is the home to the famous Kalahari Resort which is known to be the largest indoor water park in the entire United States. A park that homes dozens of wonderful rides and emits the natural sunlight from the unique roof system is something that will give you everything you may require. From tanning to the shining bright waters with loads of activities to do, this place is truly a mesmerizing experience you can have. In addition, the variety of activities available here is just mind-blowing.

2. World Waterpark, Edmonton

If the largest indoor water park in the USA is not big enough for you, then you must consider visiting the Edmonton which has this gorgeous water park named as the World Waterpark. Located in the prime location of Edmonton Mall, this waterpark is truly one of its own kind. With the capacity to accommodate over 40,000 guests at one time, this place surely is something that will lure your attention. Edmonton Mall itself holds the legacy of being one of the largest malls in the world, and with such water park within its premises, there is no way you will find yourself bored here. In addition, the array of slides, wave pools and more will leave you spellbound.

3. Tropical Islands Resort, Krausnick, Germany

If you still think you need a bigger indoor water park than the largest in the entire North America, then you have to fly all the way to the Germany where you will find the largest indoor water park named under Tropical Islands Resort. The resort is known to be extensively massive and feature some of the largest water slides ever. The roof is over 100-meter-high and is known to be the world's largest hall without any supporting pillar inside the premises. Primarily built to give shelter to the airships, this massive complex is now serving the purpose of giving people a joyful delight in the harsh and odd environment conditions. Here, you can find rainforests, beaches, artificial sun roof and much more.

4. Kalahari Resorts, Wisconsin Dells

standing alone without a competition and outshining in the group of knights are totally different things and if you are looking for the best of the best, then you must fly your way to the Wisconsin Dells where you will be exploring this massive complex filled with theme parks based on the African safari. A great name in the waterpark capital of the world in Wisconsin Dells, this park is truly a fantastic place to go and enjoy endless fun and adventure. To give you a bonus, here you can go and enjoy go-karting, golfing and bowling that are also available in a small theme park inside the main water park. So, if you are looking for something different and special, then fly your way to the Wisconsin Dells.

5. Seagaia Ocean Dome, Miyazaki, Japan

For those who are willing to run an extra mile to feed their hunger for adventure and looking for a dazzling indoor water park, the Seagaia Ocean Dome will be a nice choice. Located in the blissful and picturesque city of Miyazaki, Japan, this splendid water park is truly a majestic experience for both kids and adults. With the size that can cover more than three football fields, this massive complex is the home to many fantastic rides and water slides. The biggest attraction here has always been the fake volcano which has given tourists an adventure they seek in the fantasy world. The water park also holds the title for the largest retractable roof in the world.

In the era of modernization when all the information in the world is now in your pocket, constructing water park inside the walls might not be as difficult as you think. However, the cutting-edge technology and expensive resources made it quite limited as compared to other water parks and theme parks that are in outdoors. So, if you often crave for visiting the water parks but can't because of the weather or rain, then here are a few of the chances you can have to make sure to enjoy a wonderful day filled with loads of happiness. All you need now is to get your flight tickets booked at cheap airfares and get going on a fantastic trip leading to your dream.

[thebestintoronto]

ONE DAY IN TORONTO ITINERARY – TOP THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO

BEST TIME TO VISIT TORONTO

Toronto can be an all year round destination. From Christmas markets in the winter to one of the world’s biggest Pride parades in the summer. However, winter temperatures can drop  to  -30. On the contrary, summers go up to 50 degrees! The best time to go is in September and October when the city puts on it’s colourful fall coat but still sits in the 20 degree weather sweet spot or April and May – when you can catch the cherry blossom season and the city takes on a pink aura! Fall and spring allow you to sightsee while the city is still not overcrowded with tourists, traffic and extreme weather conditions.

A FEW FACTS ABOUT TORONTO

Toronto is Canada’s most populated city with 25 % of the entire country’s population settling in or around the city. You will find over 8000 restaurants with more opening daily, making Toronto to be every foodie’s dream destination. If you consider yourself a food lover, Food and Sightseeing tour is exactly what you should look for by coming to this marvelous city!

Toronto holds the Guinness world record for the longest street in the world, Yonge Street, that stretches for 1896 km!

The city is also known as an “artist mecca”, with over 20 000 artists residing in it as well as 25% of all Hollywood movies filmed in it. Toronto’s film industry brings in approx. 1.5B USD each year.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO

With so many restaurants, museums, sights and sounds it can be overwhelming to try and see everything. Follow this guide and you’ll get the best of Toronto in one day!

Start your day at Union Station

Pearson airport express train will take you straight to Toronto’s busiest subway station – Union. This station has around 300,000 people passing on a standard business day and it’s the perfect start to experience the vibrant lifestyle of the city.

Have breakfast at St. Lawrence Market

A short 10 min walk on Front Street will take you to the St. Lawrence Market, named World’s Best Food Market by National Geographic in 2012.

With over 100 vendors, you can find anything from traditional Jewish “bagels” to Ukrainian perogies, local cheeses, or the Canadian peameal bacon sandwich. After you have breakfast have a coffee or a drink in the Great Hall and complete your visit with a walking tour to hear about the Markets 200-year-old history.

Explore the Distillery District

Continue walking on Front Street for 15 minutes and reach the historical Distillery District. The area is the best-preserved collection of Victorian Architecture in North America. It is the home to over 40 heritage buildings and courtyards, boutiques and artisan shops and a popular walking destination. You can shop, eat, explore or wake up your inner photographer here and meet people from all over the world.

Live on The Edge on CN Tower

Take the bus on Front Street or walk up to King Street and take the 504 streetcar that will get you near the CN (Canadian National) tower, before the night crowds. Built in 1976 as a satellite tower, it held the record for the World’s Tallest Building and Freestanding Structure until 2007.

You can choose to take the glass elevator to the observation deck, lie down on the glass floor or test your limits and walk outside on the towers edge around the circumference of the roof! The first of its kind in North America, The Edge Walk makes for a once-in-a-lifetime thrilling experience!

Have lunch in Kensington Market

Hop on the Spadina Streetcar that will take you through the hectic Chinatown all the way to Toronto’s most vibrant neighborhood – Kensington Market. It’s a bohemian neighbourhood populated with artists and packed with affordable cafes and restaurants. Since Canada’s Marijuana legalisation in 2018, you can find a variety of dispensaries and indulge in the local past time before choosing one of the restaurants. You can find Chinese, Portuguese or Colombian cuisine here. Looking to try something different? Try Rasta Pasta – a Jamaican Italian fusion!

Check out Queen Street West

Voted one of the coolest neighbourhoods by Vogue magazine and just a 5 min walk down from Kensington is the trendy Queen Street. The street stretches throughout the city but walk east from Bathurst Street and check out the cool shops like The Condom Shack or have a photo session in the Graffiti Alley. You can shop on the local “TSOQ” (The Store On Queen) for a fresh new look or have a drink at “Bowine Sex Club” (not an actual sex club) – the alternative live music haven downstairs and a relaxing tiki rooftop patio upstairs!

Shop at Eaton Centre and Bloor Street

Take the 501 East to Queen and Yonge and explore the largest Toronto mall on the longest street in the world. You can find clothes, shoes, jewelry at all price ranges here but if you want to indulge in some luxury shopping take the Yonge street and walk over Yonge-Dundas square for some street entertainment all the way up to Bloor Street and check out the stores like Holt Renfrew, Davids, Tiffany, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes for some luxury items.

Watch the sunset at the Harbourfront

Use your last hours to treat all your senses. Hop on the Yonge-University subway back to Union station and walk down to Harbourfront. It is the lakefront neighbourhood overlooking Toronto Islands and Lake Ontario. The views are spectacular and the air is fresh! You can try a local craft beer at Amsterdam Brewery, have a nice dinner or just hang out at Sugar Beach – an urban park beach with live music and festivals. Interested in a planned tour? Try one of the many boat tours. For an added romantic touch take the sunset cruise!

Party in the Fashion District

Still have time left? Take the 510 streetcar up to Fashion District and enjoy a night out. The name derives from the early 20th century when the area was a textile centre. Today, the old factories and warehouses house a variety of clubs and bars. Want to laugh the night away? Try Second City – a comedy club that gave the world comedians like Mike Myers and Martin Short. Feeling like a drink with a twist? Have one at SpiN nightclub – a martini bar with ping pong tables. Still not enough? Walk out on King St W and just close your eyes, wherever you point you will find a lounge, bar or club to go to!

WHERE TO STAY IN TORONTO

The Omni King Edward Hotel The original luxury hotel, built in 1903, this establishment has a royal feel to every moment of your stay. While consolidating present day solace and polish, The Omni King Edward Hotel still has the castle like loftiness. Marble washrooms and custom vintage sheets combined with its central location by St. Lawrence market make for a extraordinary stay in Toronto!

The Beverley Hotel Encompassed by shops and eateries, The Beverley Hostel is set on stylish Queen Street West in Toronto. This boutique lodging offers rooms with a moderate stylistic theme and free WiFi. A bar, eatery, rooftop bar, and retail shop are on site so you can relax and enjoy views of the city at any time.

The Novotel Toronto Centre Including an indoor pool, hot tub and spa, Novotel Toronto Center is situated inside a 10-minute stroll of Toronto Union Station and Air Canada Center. Visitors can appreciate the on-location eatery and free WiFi accessible all through the property. The Toronto Center Novotel is a 4-minute stroll from the Hockey Hall of Fame. The CN Tower is under 1.5 km away

HI Toronto Hostel Situated in Central Toronto and just strides from the neighborhood metro stops HI Toronto Hostel offers roomy shared and private rooms. The on location bar, The Cavern, includes live bands most evenings of the week make for a fun filled stay in downtown Toronto.

DAY TRIPS FROM TORONTO

Niagara Falls Desert the Toronto noise for the striking magnificence of Niagara Falls.  Begin with a drive through Niagara’s wine district on the way to the falls. Journey up Niagara River for a spectacular view of the great Horseshoe Falls and afterward head down to the Whirlpool Rapids perception deck. After a long day of sightseeing you’ll want a glass of wine. Luckily, one of the many Niagara wineries is there to quench your thirst.

Elora George National Park Take an hour bus ride up to The Elora Gorge. A prominent vacation spot situated at the western edge of Elora, Ontario, Canada. As the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, it is one of the numerous preservation regions claimed by the Grand River Conservation Authority. Spend the day hiking, swimming, tubing or just enjoying the sights and sounds of untouched nature.

Toronto Islands Take the ferry or a taxi boat from Harbourfront to the Centre Toronto Island and spend the day at the Island Zoo, at the beach or sipping beer in one of the many restaurants located around the island. If you’re feeling like going down to your birthday suit take the ferry or a water taxi to Hanlan’s Point drop off and then bike or walk to the beach. (about a 20 min walk). The South end of Hanlan’s Beach is clothing optional!

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING TORONTO

Buy a TTC Day Pass – instead of spending 3.25 CAD per trip, buy a day pass that allows you to travel all through the city on buses, streetcars and the subway. There are group and family options available as well. You can buy the pass at every Subway Station within the City of Toronto.

Plan your visit around one of the city’s festivals – September brings Toronto Film Festival and the hottest Hollywood stars flood the city for a week. You can check out one of the films as well. The same month has Nuit Blanche – an all night art installation and performance festival. Bars are open later and the city is packed until early morning the next day.

Use the bike share program – Toronto loves cyclists! There are public bikes you will find docked all around the city. You can rent them by hour, day or even a week. Just pick one up and drop it off wherever you see another station.

The post “ ONE DAY IN TORONTO ITINERARY – TOP THINGS TO DO IN TORONTO “ was seen first on onedayitinerary.com by Romi R.

Naturopathic Toronto Doctor - Dr. Amauri Caversan

[vdmeganlawsontei]

Introducing Blockchain World Conference – North America’s Largest Crypto Conference

Introducing Blockchain World Conference – North America’s Largest Crypto Conference

Calling all Blockchain entrepreneurs and enthusiasts. If you’ve ever fantasized about attending a weekend long blockchain conference that focuses on every aspect of the Blockchain world and is the biggest and best event of the season, look no further.

Announcing the Blockchain World Conference, the largest ever crypto conference in North America, boasting 50,000 sq. feet of exhibit space, 120 plus exhibitors, dozens of top speakers, a live stream to more than 25,000 people all over the world, and at least 5,000 attendees.

Unlike any other Blockchain conferences which were previously held in hotel lobbies, mid-size, catering facilities, or school gymnasiums, this revolutionary Blockchain World Conference (BWC) pushes the boundaries even further by creating three days of Blockchain seminars, bitcoin and crypto events, networking, and Blockchain education.

As our growing industry enters a new era of professionalism that demands a higher level of education, communication, and networking, mediocre or ad-hoc “industry events” will no longer suffice.

This is the dawning of the age of crypto-relevancy and legitimization and we are here to invite you to be a part of the movement.

This crypto currency event promises to be one of the most informing, interesting, invigorating, and infamous crypto conference ever seen or heard of on the planet Earth! Unlike any previous event in history, this three-and-a-half-day long extravaganza will be held at the luxurious Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, which houses a Casino, Spa, Convention Center, and Nite-Life complex all under one roof.

Gordon Ramsay’s world renowned steakhouse and Marteranno’s Italian Restaurant are just a few of the tantalizing places to eat which are conveniently located on-site within Harrah’s Casino Resort. There is even an indoor shopping mall within the complex for those who wish to bring home a few gifts and goodies for friends and family.

The conference will take place on July 11-13, 2018. Although, this is “High Season” in Atlantic City, event producers negotiated historically low room rates of only $90 per night for all conference attendees who register through the BWCevent.com website, which allows attendees and exhibitors to extend an invitation to their families, making this truly an epic family event as well as a major crypto currency event.

From the time you arrive until the moment you leave, the staff of Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City will take care of absolutely everything you need, allowing you to plunge in, headfirst, into the Blockchain world. We feel that, by keeping everything under one roof, you are GUARANTEED more effective and impactful networking opportunities by ensuring multiple touch points throughout the entire Blockchain World Conference.

What does this mean for you? Quite simply, it means that your entire weekend will be filled with conferences, lectures, keynote speakers, workshops, networking, inspiration, and incredible amounts of fun.

For the first time ever, the Blockchain World Conference brings together, all under one roof, ALL of the titans of Blockchain and Fintech for what promises to be the single-most transformational Blockchain industry event held to date.

The fun begins on Wednesday night with the BWC VIP Kickoff party, held in the world famous Harrah’s Pool Nightclub, the largest indoor nightclub in the eastern half of the Unites States. Attendees will meet and greet, schmoozing it up and dancing the night away by fresh beats spun by DJ Khaled.

With all of this, plus an open bar provided by our sponsors at Tzero, this party is destined to go down in history as the biggest Blockchain bash ever held!

The fun continues deep into the evening at the BWC when guests are invited to enjoy sponsored VIP theme parties held in opulent entertainment suites just upstairs from the entrance to the main exhibit hall.

The gatherings will offer even more opportunity to network with your industry friends and colleagues, old and new, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and craft cocktails. While you do that, our sponsors will showcase their exciting products and services, which gives them an opportunity to meet and greet the industry members they serve.

And that’s just the first day!

Looking for even more fun? Attendees and vendors alike can enjoy the industry’s first ever “Investor Speed Dating Forum”, which allows up to 60 pre-registered ICOs to present a three-minute elevator pitch in front of up to 60 pre-approved, active, and accredited investors. Please note, this event is very popular and participation is limited, so register early.

Technology will be on tap at the Blockchain World Conference as we kick off the first ever Blockchain Hackathon held in conjunction with a major industry event. “BlockHack 2018” will include more than two thousand of the world’s brightest male and female coders. Full and partial scholarships will be offered, so if you are interested, register early. BlockHack 2018 will certainly invigorate and energize the technology narrative as well as promote innovation.

The BWC will be launching many other exciting industry firsts, including the unveiling of the “Blockchain MBA Program,” a cutting edge, interactive, and accredited program with courses being delivered by the biggest and brightest in Blockchain that, once completed, will offer certifications to all who complete the course.

For Blockchain newbies and new investors, there will be an intensive introductory course called “Blockchain 101”, to further promote our goal of building the reach of Blockchain through better education and the dissemination of accurate information in order to foster long-term health and prosperity within the industry.

To cap off the event, our closing keynote speech will be delivered by none other than John McAfee, the well-loved and highly regarded “Bad Boy of Blockchain.” Mr. McAfee’s speech will cap off three and a half days of jam packed presentations, panel discussions, educational seminars, industry addresses, networking events, dance parties, golf outings, VIP suite parties, exhibits, and much more!

The Blockchain World Conference is strategically located within a 3.5 hour driving distance from more than 65% of all accredited investors within the Unites States. IN addition to this, Atlantic City’s International airport is conveniently located between NYC, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia, making it easy for international investors to attend.

To make this deal even sweeter, all Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, bitcoin, and investing associations receive special discounts and incentives in order to assist them in building membership participation. If interested, please contact us at [email protected] for further information.

With the promise of three and a half days filled with information, education, life changing networking, what are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a monumental moment in Blockchain history.

https://ift.tt/2rqrWAJ

[lewisgabriel84z31]

Introducing Blockchain World Conference – North America’s Largest Crypto Conference

Introducing Blockchain World Conference – North America’s Largest Crypto Conference

Calling all Blockchain entrepreneurs and enthusiasts. If you’ve ever fantasized about attending a weekend long blockchain conference that focuses on every aspect of the Blockchain world and is the biggest and best event of the season, look no further.

Announcing the Blockchain World Conference, the largest ever crypto conference in North America, boasting 50,000 sq. feet of exhibit space, 120 plus exhibitors, dozens of top speakers, a live stream to more than 25,000 people all over the world, and at least 5,000 attendees.

Unlike any other Blockchain conferences which were previously held in hotel lobbies, mid-size, catering facilities, or school gymnasiums, this revolutionary Blockchain World Conference (BWC) pushes the boundaries even further by creating three days of Blockchain seminars, bitcoin and crypto events, networking, and Blockchain education.

As our growing industry enters a new era of professionalism that demands a higher level of education, communication, and networking, mediocre or ad-hoc “industry events” will no longer suffice.

This is the dawning of the age of crypto-relevancy and legitimization and we are here to invite you to be a part of the movement.

This crypto currency event promises to be one of the most informing, interesting, invigorating, and infamous crypto conference ever seen or heard of on the planet Earth! Unlike any previous event in history, this three-and-a-half-day long extravaganza will be held at the luxurious Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, which houses a Casino, Spa, Convention Center, and Nite-Life complex all under one roof.

Gordon Ramsay’s world renowned steakhouse and Marteranno’s Italian Restaurant are just a few of the tantalizing places to eat which are conveniently located on-site within Harrah’s Casino Resort. There is even an indoor shopping mall within the complex for those who wish to bring home a few gifts and goodies for friends and family.

The conference will take place on July 11-13, 2018. Although, this is “High Season” in Atlantic City, event producers negotiated historically low room rates of only $90 per night for all conference attendees who register through the BWCevent.com website, which allows attendees and exhibitors to extend an invitation to their families, making this truly an epic family event as well as a major crypto currency event.

From the time you arrive until the moment you leave, the staff of Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City will take care of absolutely everything you need, allowing you to plunge in, headfirst, into the Blockchain world. We feel that, by keeping everything under one roof, you are GUARANTEED more effective and impactful networking opportunities by ensuring multiple touch points throughout the entire Blockchain World Conference.

What does this mean for you? Quite simply, it means that your entire weekend will be filled with conferences, lectures, keynote speakers, workshops, networking, inspiration, and incredible amounts of fun.

For the first time ever, the Blockchain World Conference brings together, all under one roof, ALL of the titans of Blockchain and Fintech for what promises to be the single-most transformational Blockchain industry event held to date.

The fun begins on Wednesday night with the BWC VIP Kickoff party, held in the world famous Harrah’s Pool Nightclub, the largest indoor nightclub in the eastern half of the Unites States. Attendees will meet and greet, schmoozing it up and dancing the night away by fresh beats spun by DJ Khaled.

With all of this, plus an open bar provided by our sponsors at Tzero, this party is destined to go down in history as the biggest Blockchain bash ever held!

The fun continues deep into the evening at the BWC when guests are invited to enjoy sponsored VIP theme parties held in opulent entertainment suites just upstairs from the entrance to the main exhibit hall.

The gatherings will offer even more opportunity to network with your industry friends and colleagues, old and new, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and craft cocktails. While you do that, our sponsors will showcase their exciting products and services, which gives them an opportunity to meet and greet the industry members they serve.

And that’s just the first day!

Looking for even more fun? Attendees and vendors alike can enjoy the industry’s first ever “Investor Speed Dating Forum”, which allows up to 60 pre-registered ICOs to present a three-minute elevator pitch in front of up to 60 pre-approved, active, and accredited investors. Please note, this event is very popular and participation is limited, so register early.

Technology will be on tap at the Blockchain World Conference as we kick off the first ever Blockchain Hackathon held in conjunction with a major industry event. “BlockHack 2018” will include more than two thousand of the world’s brightest male and female coders. Full and partial scholarships will be offered, so if you are interested, register early. BlockHack 2018 will certainly invigorate and energize the technology narrative as well as promote innovation.

The BWC will be launching many other exciting industry firsts, including the unveiling of the “Blockchain MBA Program,” a cutting edge, interactive, and accredited program with courses being delivered by the biggest and brightest in Blockchain that, once completed, will offer certifications to all who complete the course.

For Blockchain newbies and new investors, there will be an intensive introductory course called “Blockchain 101”, to further promote our goal of building the reach of Blockchain through better education and the dissemination of accurate information in order to foster long-term health and prosperity within the industry.

To cap off the event, our closing keynote speech will be delivered by none other than John McAfee, the well-loved and highly regarded “Bad Boy of Blockchain.” Mr. McAfee’s speech will cap off three and a half days of jam packed presentations, panel discussions, educational seminars, industry addresses, networking events, dance parties, golf outings, VIP suite parties, exhibits, and much more!

The Blockchain World Conference is strategically located within a 3.5 hour driving distance from more than 65% of all accredited investors within the Unites States. IN addition to this, Atlantic City’s International airport is conveniently located between NYC, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia, making it easy for international investors to attend.

To make this deal even sweeter, all Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, bitcoin, and investing associations receive special discounts and incentives in order to assist them in building membership participation. If interested, please contact us at [email protected] for further information.

With the promise of three and a half days filled with information, education, life changing networking, what are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a monumental moment in Blockchain history.

https://ift.tt/2rqrWAJ

[ntrending]

Coming to a mall near you in 2018: Craft brewers, children's theaters and gyms

New Post has been published on https://nexcraft.co/coming-to-a-mall-near-you-in-2018-craft-brewers-childrens-theaters-and-gyms/

Coming to a mall near you in 2018: Craft brewers, children's theaters and gyms

Malls are getting makeovers — so much so they might not be called malls anymore, or you might do a double take next time you stroll through one.

U.S. retail landlords including Simon Property Group, General Growth Properties, Macerich and Taubman, which own some of the most profitable malls in America, are focused on redeveloping their properties and ditching antiquated occupants in the coming months.

To be sure, many of these property owners don’t exactly have a choice. As department stores including Sears, Macy’s and J.C. Penney fire off store closure announcements and as countless specialty apparel retailers file for bankruptcy with plans to shrink their physical footprints, real estate investment trusts have to find replacements elsewhere, and quick.

“We’ve weathered lots of storms one way or another,” Simon CEO David Simon said on a recent conference call with analysts and investors, discussing retail’s rough ride in 2017.

“We’d certainly love a better natural retail environment,” Simon added. But in the meantime, the company is working on “diversifying away from the have-nots to the haves.”

Take a look at Simon’s King of Prussia mall outside Philadelphia, which the company likes to call its “Hudson Yards” (a major development being done in New York) for suburban America. This is also notably one of the top-performing malls in the country, according to Green Street Advisors.

There, the REIT is planning to fill a vacated Penney store with mixed uses such as hotels, apartments and office spaces, which could ultimately hike the asset’s value by more than $1 billion, according to Simon. The specific incoming occupants have yet to be formally announced.

Nowadays, Simon said, it spends about $1 billion annually to renovate its malls. In signing new leases, the REIT has reduced its exposure to apparel tenants — the biggest headache on many company’s directories — by about 20 percent and has added 20 percent more food and entertainment businesses.

“I think, as things have changed, we now consider ourselves as a — we’re going to have more mixed use opportunities,” Simon told investors. “But we’re not running away from the mall business.”

Since 2014, 90 regional malls have spent more than $8 billion on property renovations, according to investment management company Jones Lang LaSalle. Meantime, 16 percent of mall landlords have admitted to spending money on “de-malling,” JLL found, opting to call their refreshed assets “shoppes,” “villages” and “towne centers.”

In 2018, that spending and those modifications are only expected to climb.

Starwood Retail Partners, a Chicago-based, privately held landlord with 30 properties, is in the midst of a $125 million renovation project in Plano, Texas, which will open in phases next year. Once completed, The Shops at Willow Bend will include a children’s theater, an Equinox gym and one of only four Crayola Experience locations in the country.

Starwood is also bringing in more local and celebrity chefs, which CEO Michael Glimcher told CNBC is what more and more consumers want — something more exclusive than a traditional Cheesecake Factory or Shake Shack.

In Salinas, California, Starwood is also making changes to Northridge Mall in the space of a former Penney store, which was relocated to another part of the property. The new complex will include a bowling alley, karaoke booths, arcade games and billiards, and will offer alcoholic beverages. It’s something kids and adults can get excited about.

“Next year, everyone will be looking for newness,” Dana Telsey, Telsey Advisory Group CEO, told CNBC. “Online retailers are testing physical in small ways, … [and] I think you’re going to see more services coming to shopping centers, and we’ll see how that progresses.”

Recent replacements she’s noticed include a massive Wegmans grocery store taking over a vacated mall spot in Boston, ride-hailing service Uber opening waiting lounges at Westfield’s Century City shopping center near Los Angeles’ Santa Monica Boulevard, and walk-in medical clinics (even doctor’s offices) taking over empty mall space.

“The immediacy of how [mall landlords] do this is key,” Telsey added.

In a push to lure more shoppers indoor, retail REIT Washington Prime Group just last month opened its first craft brew pub, Redemption Alewerks, at Munice Mall in Indiana, and expects to open more such locations next year.

“A little common sense and regression analysis will tell you we need more home, food and beverage, and entertainment options,” WPG CEO Lou Conforti told CNBC in a recent interview.

WPG also recently launched at some of its malls a rotating pop-up hub for online retailers, known as Tangible, its own candy store (Shelby’s Sugar Shop) to replace lackluster vendors, and music listening lounges in a partnership with Interscope Records. Like some of the other major retail REITs, WPG has growing partnerships with the likes of Amazon and Tesla to open lockers and supercharging stations at its malls.

“We have to do a reality check on what we want,” Conforti said. “It’s incumbent that we just do this stuff … to redefine physical retailing.”

Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust (or PREIT), a smaller landlord than the likes of GGP and even CBL Properties, is making changes that include swapping Sears for Burlington, HomeGoods and Five Below stores at Magnolia Mall in Florence, South Carolina. A Whole Foods will replace a shuttered Kmart at Exton Square near Philadelphia. And a Tilt Studio (an arcade attraction for kids), along with a gym, will soon replace Macy’s at Valley Mall in Hagerstown, Maryland.

“We talk about diversifying our tenant base. … We’re referring to reducing our reliance on traditional mall retailers, including department stores, apparel and accessories,” PREIT CEO Joe Coradino told analysts and investors last month.

“Malls in particular are undergoing the renaissance” in a “new age of retail,” he added.

According to commercial real estate tracker CoStar, the share of space occupied by nonretail tenants at regional shopping malls climbed to about 13 percent in 2016, up from 10.5 percent in 2012. With more projects like Simon’s King of Prussia redevelopment underway, that percentage should continue to climb.

Meantime, mall owners can only hope their stocks might climb in tandem after being beaten down for most of the year.

A recent (but not complete) bid for GGP by Brookfield Property Partners, a takeover of Australian-based Westfield and increased activist activity in Taubman and Macerich have boosted the industry’s shares slightly on all the chatter, but there are still ample losses to be regained.

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