Interesting Things to Know
Woodrow Wilson: A Complex Legacy from Progressive Reforms to Controversial Policies
Exploring the Triumphs and Tribulations of the 28th U.S. President.
Born on December 28, 1856, in Staunton, Virginia, Thomas Woodrow Wilson, later known simply as Woodrow Wilson, rose to become the 28th president of the United States, serving from 1913 to 1921. His presidency, which encompassed the critical years of World War I, was marked by notable achievements and contentious policies that continue to provoke debate.
Woodrow Wilson
Wilson’s early life was shaped by the religious moralism of his father, a Presbyterian minister. This upbringing in the South during the Reconstruction era influenced his perspectives and policies later in life. After studying at Princeton University, the University of Virginia, and Johns Hopkins University, Wilson embarked on an academic career, teaching history, law, and political science, and becoming president of Princeton in 1902.
His foray into politics began with his election as governor of New Jersey in 1910, where he quickly dispelled any notions of political naivety by implementing progressive reforms. In 1912, he won the presidency, benefiting from a split in the Republican Party.
Wilson’s presidency was a time of significant change and challenge. Domestically, he championed progressive reforms, overhauling the nation’s tariff system, banking and currency laws, and antitrust policies. However, his administration also saw the introduction of racial segregation at the federal level, a move that drew criticism for its contradiction with his progressive stance.
The suffrage movement was another critical issue during his tenure. In March 1913, a suffrage parade in Washington, D.C., aligned with his inauguration, highlighting the growing demand for women’s voting rights. Although initially unsympathetic, Wilson’s administration ultimately saw the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, granting women the right to vote.
Internationally, Wilson’s leadership was severely tested by World War I. Initially a proponent of American neutrality, the sinking of U.S. ships by German submarines compelled him to enter the war in 1917. He famously declared that the war was being fought to “make the world safe for democracy.”
In his Fourteen Points address in 1918, Wilson outlined his vision for a post-war world, including the creation of the League of Nations. Though the League’s charter was incorporated into the Treaty of Versailles, the U.S. Senate ultimately rejected the treaty, and the U.S. never joined the League.
Wilson’s presidency ended on a somber note, with a stroke leaving him incapacitated. His wife, Edith Bolling Galt Wilson, controversially assumed many of his duties, a move that has been both criticized and seen as a testament to her devotion.
Wilson died on February 3, 1924, leaving behind a complex legacy of progressive reforms and controversial policies. His impact on American and world politics continues to be a subject of study and debate.
Interesting Things to Know
June Celebrity Birthdays!
Does a celebrity share a birthday with you?
June 30 – Mike Tyson, 58, former boxing champ, New York City, NY, 1966.By Super Festivals – https://www.flickr.com/photos/superfestivals/53161465181, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=136938246
1 – Tom Holland, 28, actor (Spider-Man), Kingston-upon-Thames, England, 1996.
2 – Jack Lowden, 34, actor (Dunkirk), Chelmsford, England, 1990.
3 – James Purefoy, 60, actor (Rome), Taunton, Somerset, England, 1958.
4 – Maria Bakalova, 28, actress (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm), Burgas, Bulgaria, 1996.
5 – Chad Allen, 50, actor (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman), Cerritos, CA, 1974.
6 – Paul Giamatti, 57, actor (Sideways), New York, NY, 1967.
7 – Michael Cera, 36, actor (Arrested Development), Brompton, Ontario, Canada, 1988.
8 – Kanye West, 46, singer, producer, Atlanta, GA, 1977.
9 – Johnny Depp, 61, actor (Pirates of the Caribbean), Owensboro, KY, 1963.
10 – Tara Lipinski, 41, figure skater, Philadelphia, PA, 1982.
11 – Adrienne Barbeau, 79, actress (Escape from New York), Sacramento, CA, 1945.
12 – Dave Franco, 39, actor (Day Shift), Palo Alto, CA, 1985.
13 – Malcolm McDowell, 81, actor (A Clockwork Orange, O Lucky Man!), Leeds, England, 1943.
14 – Traylor Howard, 58, actress (Monk), Orlando, FL, 1966.
15 – Helen Hunt, 59, actress (Mad About You), Los Angeles, CA, 1963.
16 – Abby Elliott, 37, comedienne, actress (Saturday Night Live), Wilton, CT, 1987.
17 – Venus Williams, 44, tennis player, Lynwood, CA, 1980.
18 – Richard Madden, 38, actor (Game of Thrones), Elderslie, Scotland, 1986.
19 – Kathleen Turner, 70, actress (Romancing the Stone), Springfield, MO, 1954.
20 – Lionel Richie, 75, singer, Tuskegee, AL, 1949.
21 – Meredith Baxter, 77, actress (Family Ties), Los Angeles, CA, 1947.
22 – Kris Kristofferson, 88, singer, actor (A Star is Born), Brownsville, TX, 1936.
23 – Clarence Thomas, 76, Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Pinpoint, GA, 1948.
24 – Lotte Verbeek, 42, actress (The Borgias), Venlo, Limburg, Netherlands, 1982.
25 – Jimmie Walker, 76, comedian, actor (Good Times), New York City, NY, 1948.
26 – Chris Isaak, 68, singer, Stockton, CA, 1956.
27 – Chandler Riggs, 25, actor (The Walking Dead), Atlanta, GA, 1999.
28 – John Cusack, 58, actor (High Fidelity), Chicago, IL, 1966.
29 – Gary Busey, 80, actor (The Buddy Holly Story), Goose Creek, TX, 1944.
30 – Mike Tyson, 58, former boxing champ, New York City, NY, 1966.
Interesting Things to Know
How to Find the Perfect Campsite: Read On for a Successful Stay!
Have you found the perfect campsite for your vacation? That’s great! However, if you want your time off to meet your expectations, one crucial step is choosing where to pitch your tent or park your RV. Generally, you can select the site you want when you make your reservation or arrive. Try booking ahead!
Study the campsite map, read the site descriptions, and look at photos to get an idea. You must consider several criteria to make an informed decision. Here’s an overview.
Equipment
Not all sites are designed for an eight-person tent or a large RV. Ensure that your chosen site accommodates your equipment and has enough free space to set up your outdoor kitchen or children’s play area.
- Tent Size: Check the site dimensions to ensure it can fit your tent. If you want to pitch two tents, find out beforehand if it’s allowed.
- RV Size: Make sure the site can accommodate the length and width of your RV, including any slide-outs or awnings.
Accessibility
Isolated campsites are great if you want peace and quiet. However, sometimes you must walk anywhere from a hundred yards to a few miles to reach them. Some establishments provide wagons to carry your equipment. Make sure you know what you’re signing up for to avoid unpleasant surprises.
- Proximity to Amenities: If you prefer to be close to restrooms, showers, or communal areas, choose a site near these facilities. If you’re meeting friends, ensure enough parking space for all vehicles or discover visitor parking options.
Terrain
The terrain can significantly affect your camping experience, especially if you’re using a tent.
- Grass Sites: Best for tents as they are less likely to damage the material and are more comfortable.
- Dirt Sites: These can become muddy when it rains, which might be inconvenient.
- Sand Sites: Avoid if you dislike dragging sand everywhere, and remember that areas near water can be humid and mosquito-prone.
- Open Areas: It can be very windy; consider the wind tolerance of your tent and the temperature. If it’s hot, a site with shade trees is preferable.
Services
Ensure the site has essential services, such as water, electricity, and internet.
- Full Hook-Up Sites: Ideal for RVs needing water, electricity, and sewage connections.
- Partial Hook-Up Sites: Might offer water and electricity but no sewage.
- Primitive Sites: These often have no services but can offer beautiful views or solitude.
Location
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, avoid busy or noisy campsites near reception areas, toilets, swimming pools, and community halls.
- Families with Children: Being close to the toilets or play area can be very convenient.
- Quiet Seekers: Look for sites away from communal areas and high-traffic spots.
Final Tips
- Use Booking Platform Filters: Many booking platforms have filters that allow you to refine your search based on your preferences.
- Consult Reviews: Read reviews from previous campers to get a sense of the site’s actual conditions and amenities.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to contact the campsite directly to clarify any doubts or get more detailed information about specific sites.
Happy camping!
Interesting Things to Know
If You Like the Sun, Clap Your Hands — and Use SPF 30!
After a long, harsh winter, many people eagerly await the arrival of summer. And for good reason! With patios and golf courses opening, birds chirping, and flowers blooming, it’s hard not to feel invigorated by the warmth and sunshine. However, while the sun has many benefits, you must be mindful of how you interact. Here’s why.
Dangers of Sun Exposure
It’s important to remember that the sun emits powerful UV rays that can affect your health and appearance:
- Increased Cancer Risk: Sun exposure increases the risk of developing melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, as well as eye and lip cancer.
- Sunstroke: Staying in direct sunlight for any time can cause your body temperature to rise. Also known as sunstroke, this phenomenon can be very dangerous, causing convulsions and unconsciousness.
- Premature Aging: Sun damage is the leading cause of premature skin aging, resulting in wrinkles, sagging, and dark spots.
Tips for Protecting Yourself
Several habits, products, and accessories help you enjoy the sun without compromising your well-being. Here are a few examples:
- Sunscreen: Apply a chemical or mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when you go out in the sun. Reapply every two hours or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Sunglasses: Buy high-quality sunglasses that provide both UVA and UVB protection. Choose a style that also protects the sides of your eyes to ensure maximum coverage.
- Protective Clothing: Choose tightly woven clothing and wear a cap or wide-brimmed hat to shield your skin and face from direct sunlight.
- Timing: Avoid going out in the sun when it’s at its strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Visit your local shops to find high-quality sun protection products and accessories to keep you safe while enjoying the summer sun.
Interesting Things to Know
Jeff Bezos Awards $50 Million to Admiral Bill McRaven for Veteran and Leadership Programs
In a remarkable act of philanthropy, Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has awarded $50 million to Admiral Bill McRaven as part of the Bezos Courage and Civility Award. This substantial sum is earmarked for initiatives close to McRaven’s heart, specifically focusing on supporting the children of deceased veterans, enhancing mental health services for veterans, and funding educational programs to develop future military leaders.
Admiral McRaven, a revered figure in the military, served as a Navy SEAL and was the ninth commander of the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM). Following his military career, he became the chancellor of the University of Texas System, continuing his dedication to leadership and education.
The Bezos Courage and Civility Award, which started in 2021, recognizes leaders who actively contribute meaningfully to their communities. McRaven’s commitment to the veteran community and leadership development highlights the core values the award seeks to promote. In addition to McRaven, actress and entrepreneur Eva Longoria also received this year’s award for supporting the Latino community in the United States through scholarships and resources for Latino entrepreneurs.
Last year’s recipient, Dolly Parton, utilized the award to advance causes such as education, animal preservation, and disease research, embodying the spirit of the award by putting her “money where her heart is.”
This generous initiative by Bezos underscores the potential of private wealth to drive significant social change, particularly when aligned with the expertise and passion of individuals like McRaven, who are deeply committed to their causes.
Health
Mosquito Season: Staying Safe with the Right Repellent
With mosquito season in full swing, the buzz isn’t just about the annoyance of itchy bites—there’s a serious side to these pests. Mosquitoes are notorious carriers of dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, malaria, and dengue fever, making effective repellents crucial for comfort and health.
DEET, developed by the U.S. Army in the 1940s and available commercially since the 1950s, remains one of the most effective ingredients in mosquito repellents. Despite early concerns about its safety, public opinion has largely shifted, favoring DEET’s effectiveness over potential risks, especially in areas prone to mosquito-borne illnesses.
How does DEET work? It doesn’t repel mosquitoes in the traditional sense. Instead, it confuses them. DEET interferes with the receptors on mosquitoes’ antennae, effectively dulling their ability to detect and feed on human blood. This makes DEET-based products a top choice for preventing mosquito bites.
The research underscores the superiority of DEET in prolonging the time until the first mosquito bite. A New England Journal of Medicine study found that DEET products were significantly more effective than other repellents. For instance, a product with just 6.65% DEET can protect for about 112.4 minutes, while options with higher concentrations, like OFF! Deep Woods, with 23.8% DEET, offers up to 301 minutes of protection. In contrast, citronella-based products lag behind, providing only 10 to 20 minutes of relief.
However, when it comes to children, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises caution, recommending that repellents for young users contain no more than 10% DEET. The debate continues among experts regarding the safety of DEET products for children, but the consensus is clear on one point: DEET is effective.
For those looking for more information on choosing the right mosquito repellent and understanding the safe use of DEET, resources such as health.harvard.edu provide valuable insights.
Staying informed and prepared is key as we navigate through peak mosquito season. Whether camping, hiking, or just enjoying an evening in your backyard, a good repellent can make all the difference between a pleasant outdoor experience and an uncomfortable, risky one.
Interesting Things to Know
The Great Dishwasher Debate: Silverware Up or Down?
In kitchen quandaries, the debate on how to load silverware in the dishwasher might seem trivial, yet it sparks widespread discussion. The core of the controversy? Whether to place handles up or down in the dishwasher basket.
Both camps have their adherents, and surprisingly, the consensus across both is that knives should be placed handles up for safety reasons—nobody wants a nasty poke when unloading. However, opinions diverge when it comes to forks and spoons. While some argue that placing handles up is safer and more sanitary, allowing users to grab the handle instead of the part in their mouth, others suggest a different approach to optimize cleanliness.
Dishwasher manufacturers generally advise placing handles up. This configuration is not just about safety; it’s also a matter of hygiene. Handling only the part of the utensil you hold rather than the part that touches food maintains cleanliness from the dishwasher to the dining table.
However, an interesting twist in the debate comes from culinary advice shared by sources like Reader’s Digest, which suggests an additional tactic: mixing up the cutlery in the basket. This method prevents utensils like spoons from nesting together, which can impede water flow and detergent access during the wash cycle, resulting in spoons that aren’t thoroughly cleaned.
For knives, there’s also a side discussion on maintenance. Some culinary experts advocate for hand washing sharp knives, not just for safety but to preserve their sharpness, arguing that the abrasive environment of a dishwasher can dull the blades over time.
Thus, while the debate may continue in kitchens worldwide, the best practice seems to involve a combination of safety, hygiene, and strategic loading techniques. Whether you’re a handle-up or handle-down proponent, the ultimate goal remains clean and safe cutlery for your next meal.
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