It’s a Journey Through Ancient History! 🌄 Hidden in the remote canyonlands of northwestern New Mexico lies Chaco Culture National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects one of the most remarkable ancient communities in North America. Between A.D. 850 and 1250, the Ancestral Puebloans built enormous stone cities, ceremonial structures, and intricate road systems that became the cultural, trade, and ceremonial centers of the entire region. 🏺 The engineering and astronomical...
11 days ago • 1 min read
Missouri tourism offers much to see and do. From the Mississippi River and the Great River Road, to Route 66 from St. Louis to Kansas, National Park units like Gateway Arch National Park and Wilson Creek National Battlefield, the Harry S. Truman Museum and Library, and much more. Here's a new post about road trips in Missouri! Check out this link. Thanks for reading. Until next time.. Stan
16 days ago • 1 min read
Vicksburg, Mississippi, holds a pivotal place in American history. Known as the "Gibraltar of the Confederacy," this hallowed ground was the site of a major turning point in the Civil War. The park preserves the legacy of the Battle of Vicksburg and the grueling 47-day Siege of Vicksburg. In 1863, General Ulysses S. Grant’s relentless campaign here eventually split the South in two, giving the Union total control of the mighty Mississippi River. 🌊 While the infantry fought in the trenches,...
18 days ago • 1 min read
The wait is almost over! In just a few months, the creative world will descend upon Austin, Texas, for SXSW 2026. Are you ready for the ultimate convergence of technology, film, and music? 🤠✨ This year’s Interactive track is shaping up to be the most futuristic yet, with deep dives into decentralized AI and the next evolution of spatial computing. 🤖💻 Meanwhile, the Film & TV and Music festivals will showcase the world’s most innovative storytellers and groundbreaking new sounds. 🎬🎤 Who should...
25 days ago • 1 min read
You may recall a newsletter a couple of weeks ago where I presented a "fantastic" road trip to Christmas-Themed places in the US. I used that information to publish a post, so it's there for all posterity! Here's the link to the new post. If you have ideas for other "fantastic trips" like this, please reply here and let me know what you would like to see! Thanks all, Stan
30 days ago • 1 min read
Welcome to Cheyenne, the proud capital of Wyoming! Known as the "Magic City of the Plains," Cheyenne’s story began in 1867 when the Union Pacific Railroad first arrived. 🛤️ It grew so rapidly that it seemed to appear like magic overnight, quickly becoming a bustling hub of the Old West. When Wyoming achieved statehood in 1890, Cheyenne was the natural choice to serve as the state's capital. 🏛️ Today, Cheyenne is a beautiful blend of historic charm and modern energy. The centerpiece of the...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Ever since 1849, one landmark has stood the test of time in the heart of San Francisco. The Tadich Grill isn't just a place to eat; it’s a living piece of California history. 🌉 Founded during the height of the Gold Rush as a humble coffee stand on the waterfront, it proudly holds the title of the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the Golden State. Walking through the doors on California Street feels like entering a golden-era time capsule. With its iconic long wooden bar, private...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
I’m working on a post about a US Road Trip to places that bear Christmas names or display Christmas lights and themes. However, first, let me wish you and yours a Merry Christmas! Now, on with the mythical trip. Since I live in Minnesota, I’ll start here. The first stop (and the last stop) is at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Most of its grounds feature a central Christmas light display. And from there, let’s head into Wisconsin. (I included a stop in Fargo, ND, and Duluth,...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
When you think of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge probably comes to mind instantly—its bold, vibrant color making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world! But did you know its signature hue, called “International Orange,” wasn’t just chosen for beauty? 🟥✨ The steel used to build the bridge arrived already coated with a red-orange primer to protect it from rust. The bridge’s consulting architect, Irving Morrow, loved this color and convinced officials to keep it as the...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read