Children of the Otoe-Missouria Head Start Daycare at Red Rock are ready to roll on a learning playground designed and built by a group with big projects like Gathering Place and Tulsa Botanical Gardens on its resume.
The Center offers a unique program for any Miami student who wishes to become certified as an environmental educator for very young children. Interested students must complete all requirements for the course BIO 320/377, Early Childhood Environmental Educator, which is offered each spring semester through the Hefner Museum of Natural History. While there is no additional cost for the certificate, students are asked to supply one 2 in. binder. All other class materials are provided.
BIO 320/377 was designed by Julia Robinson, Early Childhood Specialist and Environmental Educator at the Hefner Museum. Before coming to the Hefner, Ms. Robinson devoted most of her career to the education of young children as an elementary school teacher, teaching grades one through four, and as a preschool director. While this course is tailored to Early Childhood Education majors, she welcomes students from diverse disciplines. All that is required is a passion for helping young children develop a sense of place, an awareness of nature, and ultimately, a love of learning more about the Earth.
Young children are natural scientists. They possess an inherent curiosity about what they see, smell, hear, feel, and taste. Fostering that curiosity is the key to helping children develop a lifelong love of nature and a sound foundation for environmental literacy. Students will participate in inquiry activities stemming from major themes in Early Childhood Earth, Life, and Physical Science Standards, such as
- Animal and Plant Adaptations
- Sun, Moon, and Stars
- Seasons
- Rocks
- Fossils
- Animal Behavior
The goals of this class include:
- to provide background information to create meaningful inquiry activities necessary to teach early childhood environmental education
- to encourage ways to develop a sense of place and an awareness of nature for all ages
- to offer a certification opportunity and professional development that help students to become more marketable in their employment searches.
- to create Discovery Trunks, educational kits for early childhood classrooms, for use throughout the tri-state region
The first half of the course, students engage in inquiry activities daily that cover the above listed topics. During the second half of the course, students work in groups to create Ohio Environmental Education Fund (OEEF) Discovery Trunks. The OEEF Discovery Trunks are educational kits that will be disseminated throughout our area to local schools, home school groups, and early childhood centers, offering interdisciplinary inquiry lessons, manipulatives needed for the activities, and accompanying specimens at a low cost, centered around the themes of environmental education. Independently, students work on projects that allow for deeper exploration of environmental education concepts discussed in class. Projects are predetermined and assigned hour values. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 10 independent hours of projects. Due to the set-up of inquiry lessons and time commitment restraints, class attendance is imperative to complete the certification.
Finally, new this year and thanks to a grant we received through the OEEF, all Miami students enrolled in the course earning the certification will receive an Outdoor Area Kit (OAK) packed with a science library, magnifying glasses, posters, informational books, plant press, and so much more. This is something that hasn't been done before and we are excited to arm our Miami students with the tools to implement environmental education in their own classes.
If you are interested or have questions, please contact Julia Robinson at robins48@MiamiOH.edu or 513-529-4618.
Join the Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) staff this fall for some fun education programs! Connect with the outdoors and learn some new skills; from women’s outdoor workshops to library lectures, there’s something for everyone. Join DFW’s Aquatic Resource Education Program, Hunter Education Program, and Wildlife Outreach and Volunteer Program staff to learn, explore, and enjoy.
All of the programs being offered this season are free of charge and many are open to families. A list of programs and registration information are listed below. For a complete list of up-to-date programs, you can also visit http://www.dem.ri.gov/
Outdoor programs are family-friendly and great for everyone to learn new skills.
HUNTER EDUCATION PROGRAMS
WOW – Women’s Outdoor Workshops
Date: Multiple classes/dates in September
Cost: Free
Register here: Pre-registration is required for all courses. Follow this link to see a full listing of workshops and to register: https://forms.gle/
A series geared towards busy, modern-day women taught by women. Workshops are approximately two hours and are offered on weeknights through September. The series starts with a Women’s Hunter Education Certification Course then workshops are offered on various secondary education subjects such as map and compass, wilderness first-aid, and Introduction to Firearms.
Bowhunter Safety Education (2-DAY Certification Course)
Date: Thursday, September 14, and Friday, September 15
Time: 6-9:30 PM (Both days)
Location: 1B Camp E Hun Tee Pl, Exeter RI
Register here: Must pre-register with link: https://forms.office.com/g/
In a classroom setting, you will learn about the basics of modern-day archery hunting and safe hunting practices in accordance with the International Hunter Education Association standards. Must attend both sessions.
Intro to Trapping Workshop
Date: Saturday, September 23
Time: 9 AM-2 PM
Location: 1B Camp E Hun Tee Pl. Exeter RI
Registration Form: https://forms.gle/
This non-certification course will cover various aspects of trapping to include the history of trapping, conservation and trapping regulations, biology of different target species in RI, best management practices in the field, types of traps, hands on demonstration of how to set traps, and uses for the animal and how to treat/tan hides. All participants should bring lunch, water, and snacks. Participants may also want to bring a pen and paper for notes. This workshop is offered free of charge but pre- registration is required.
Intro to Small Game Hunting Workshop
Date: Saturday, September 30
Time: 9 AM-1 PM
Location: 1B Camp E Hun Tee Pl, Exeter RI
Register here: Must pre-register with link: https://forms.gle/
Learn the basics of small game hunting in RI, from squirrel and rabbit to pheasant and more. In this workshop participants will learn tips and tricks on using dogs for small game hunting, and which breeds make the best hunting companions. Flushing and pointing as hunting tactics, gear, prepping, and field dressing harvested game will also be covered.
Intro to Deer Hunting Workshop
Date: Saturday, October 14
Time: 9 AM-3 PM
Location: Wallum Lake Rod and Gun Club, Harrisville RI
Register here: Must pre-register with link: https://forms.gle/
This class is geared toward the beginner deer hunter or used as a refresher for seasoned ones! Participants will learn basic biology and behavior of white-tailed deer, how to scout, where to best set up your hunt spot, the gear you will need and much more!
Hunter Safety Education (3 DAY Certification Course)
Date: Tuesday, October 17, Wednesday, October 18, and Friday, October 19
Time: 5-9 PM (All days)
Location: Foster Public Library – 184 Howard Hill Rd, Foster RI
Register here: Must pre-register with link: https://forms.gle/
A certification course following the curriculum set forth by the International Hunter Education Association as a national standard to produce safe, knowledgeable, and responsible hunters. This course is open to all ages and provides reciprocity in all 50 states. Must attend all sessions.
WILDLIFE OUTREACH PROGRAMS
Pollinator Party
Date: Saturday, September 30
Time: 10 AM-12 PM
Location: Davis Park Community Garden, Providence RI
Age group:All ages, families welcome
Cost:Free
Register here: Registration is not required, but we kindly encourage you to RSVP to help us estimate attendance. https://clpvd.org/event/
You’re invited to a Pollinator Party at the Davis Park Community Garden! Come connect with nature in the city and learn how to help pollinators at home. Explore the garden with URI Master Gardeners, learn how to grow native plants from seed, go on a wild bee walk with an insect scientist, and learn about honeybees with a beekeeper. There will also be pollinator storytime and activities for little ones! The Pollinator Party is a collaboration between URI Cooperative Extension, DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife, URI Master Gardeners, Davis Park Community Garden and Mount Pleasant Library.
Wildlife Solutions: Noisy Neighbors
Date: Monday, November 6
Time: 6-7:30 PM
Location: HYBRID – In-person at the Providence Public Library OR via Zoom
Age group: Adults
Cost: Free
Register here: https://forms.gle/
Learn how to prevent bats and squirrels from invading your home with the DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife. The pitter-patter of tiny feet is not so adorable when it’s coming from your attic. These small mammals may just be trying to find a warm home, but yours is taken. These tiny mammals are tricky to remove effectively and if exclusion is done improperly, it can lead to ineffective and unfortunate results. It is imperative that they are safely and properly excluded from homes. This session will cover the appropriate time and measures for removal of your noisy neighbors and how to prevent them from returning. Learn the big role these small mammals make in the ecosystem and the research underway in Rhode Island.
This will be a HYBRID program in partnership with the Providence Public Library. Join us in-person at the library or tune in from the comfort of your own home! This program is FREE, but registration is required so that we can prepare materials and send Zoom links for those attending online.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Summer Deer Survey
DEM biologists are collecting reports of does (females), bucks (males) and fawns (young) across Rhode Island until the end of September! Observations can be submitted through the Survey123 app on your smartphone or home computer. Data from this survey provides information, such as fawn to doe ratios and reproductive success, which will help guide management decisions that support a healthy deer herd in the state. Photos are optional but recommended where possible.
Dates: August 1-September 30
Report Wildlife Sightings: www.dem.ri.gov/reportwildlife
Herp Observer
Securely submit your sightings of frogs, toads, salamanders, snakes and turtles to RI’s State Herpetologist (reptile and amphibian biologist) through our easy-to-use smartphone app, Herp Observer. Observations of species both common and rare are welcome. Your reports will help biologists identify where these animals are in the state, and in turn, where to focus conservation efforts for RI’s scaly and slimy critters! This is a great volunteer opportunity for families! Learn more at www.dem.ri.gov/herpobserver.
RI Wild Bee Observer
Want to help us protect the bees of Rhode Island? Join DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife as a community scientist by contributing to our RI Wild Bee Observer project through the free iNaturalist app! It’s an easy way to document bee species anywhere in RI, from your neighborhood to your favorite hiking spot. This is a great volunteer opportunity for families! For project instructions, including tips for taking photos of bees, follow this link: https://dem.ri.gov/media/
For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates. Follow DFW on Facebook and Instagram (@ri.fishandwildlife) to stay up to date on news, events and volunteer opportunities. You can also subscribe to DFW’s monthly newsletter here.
Recently, Northbrook has become the first park district in Illinois to earn cooperative sanctuary program certification from Audubon International.
Northbrook, with a total of 23 parks, totaling just over 200 acres, has become a leader in environmental stewardship, with two of their parks earning this prestigious certification this summer, Park District officials say.
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Bill Meyer, superintendent of grounds and golf maintenance of the Northbrook Park District, says their two largest parks — Techny Prairie Park and Fields and Wood Oaks Green Park — met the rigorous standards required for certification by Audubon International.
“Site visits began in 2021, under the leadership of then Superintendent Mark Kosbab, and I carried on the initiative from there,” Meyer said.
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The two-year process included evaluations of existing park conditions, setting goals for how to Strengthen and develop park areas, and setting time frames for project completion.
“In my opinion the standards were attainable, but required diligence in developing and implementing a deliberate environmental management plan and carefully documenting its results,” Meyer said.
According to Meyer, the plan included increasing biodiversity through native plantings and bird-friendly environments; water and energy conservation, waste reduction; environmental education for staff and visitors; wildlife and habitat assessment to guide conservation efforts; chemical use reduction and community engagement through volunteer activities and collaboration.
Further, the proximity of Wood Oaks Junior High School to Wood Oaks Green Park can encourage future opportunities for community educational outreach with students and the creation of an outdoor classroom, Meyer says.
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Each case study in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program is different, and created with a focus on environmental resource management and natural plant selection.
At Techny Prairie Park and Fields, for example, the park’s pond is used as an irrigation reservoir for Anetsberger Golf Course and the Techny Prairie natural turf ball fields and has a system that employs a rain shut-off sensor.
At Wood Oaks Green Park, the Park District engaged in a two-year shoreline restoration project which included a substantial increase in native plantings, representing 90% of the park’s flora, and creating additional buffer zones to limit erosion, Meyer said.
These two parks are among only three locations in Illinois to meet this standard, the third location is Cantigny Park in Wheaton, which is funded by the nonprofit Robert R. McCormick Foundation. Across the entire United States only 27 non-golf course locations have earned this designation, according to a Park District news release.
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The Northbrook Park District offers 36 holes of golf at two golf courses — Heritage Oaks Golf Club with 27 holes and Anetsberger Golf Course with a 9-hole course.
Park District Executive Director Molly Hamer said Heritage Oaks Golf Club earned the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf certification in 2015, with recertification achieved in 2022, and is among 713 golf courses on that list across the country.
“Our vision statement speaks to being a national leader in parks and recreation, only achieved due to the expertise and passion of our committed staff,” Hamer said.
Northbrook Park District Director of Parks and Properties Chris Leiner said this remarkable achievement showcases the district’s unwavering commitment to the national standards for the ecological management of public lands.
“With Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program status as a symbol of our dedication, we continue to invest wholeheartedly in preserving and enhancing our precious natural heritage for the benefit of present and future generations,” Leiner said.
Gina Grillo is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
“They are excited to go out and roll down the hills,” said Katy Hudson, director of the school that cares for roughly 85 children ages from a few months to 12 years old in the north-central Oklahoma town of just about 300 residents.
Current plans have the school ready to reopen as a remodeled and re-envisioned learning center with new life breathed into its education program thanks to an outdoor learning area and playground. The change follows a string of plain bad luck at the school, adheres to a growing nationwide trend for schools, and marks what may be a service expanding statewide and beyond for the Tulsa-based firm.
The goals include cultural enrichment and a more robust learning environment, and Hudson said the teams at Good Fieldwork and JonesPlan designed just what the school needed.
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Pulled up, pushed off, and piled to the side are the bright red steel posts and blue plastic remnants of a well-worn “play system.” Play-and-learn gravel, wood, water, grass, and even mud areas are in their place.
Architect Mary Jones surveyed the site early this summer with a smile she couldn’t help, a critical eye, and what only could be described as joy over how the JonesPlan team turned her artwork of a beaver dam, eagles nest, traditional homes, and a bear cave into earthy, functional, and, frankly, fun-looking wooden and stone structures. Burned into the wooden features are shapes and traditional names of owls, bears, elk and eagles.
“I sketch these things out, but they make it come to life,” she said.
Materials sometimes include logs or scrap wood gathered from local landowners, but Jones said a certified playground inspector inspects everything.
“As much as we want natural wood and rocks, there are things like sharp edges that need to be taken off, and there are things like here we have a trike path with a bridge, and that will have a rail before it’s complete,” she said.
Already a growing trend, the COVID-19 pandemic boosted the idea of creating learning areas in the fresh air. Outdoor and nature-based classrooms have been the subject of numerous studies and initiatives to expand them nationwide, including a push for support from Congress. Research shows the spaces benefit children’s mental health and academic performance and that students are better able to focus and generally exhibit better behavior and social interactions.
Jones said that the Good Fieldwork team has created outdoor learning spaces with several Tulsa Educare schools and is expanding its reach statewide and beyond. The change could not have come at a better time for Red Rock.
Severe weather conditions and bad luck have exacted a toll over the past eight months. Last Christmas break, a water line in the school ceiling froze in sub-zero temperatures and ruptured.
“I had been there twice to make sure things looked OK, and we left faucets dripping,” Hudson said. “They said it was probably frozen, but the leak wasn’t apparent. So, when it broke, it leaked into the building for three days. There were 6 inches of water in the building. It was a mess.”
Monday, she said a faulty chimney exacerbated conditions during this summer’s heat wave.
“I’ve started to think we’re cursed,” she said. “We don’t use the fireplace, but the chimney the way it is. They had to flag off the playground area because it wasn’t safe out there anymore. I am really proud of our staff. It’s just been ‘challenge accepted,’ and they’ve done great.”
As the school season approaches, the rejuvenated school building with new floors, walls, and new heating and cooling systems will be a treat, but what’s outdoors will be the game-changer, she said.
The water feature and the mud kitchen await. The ancestral log-pole home will provide a welcomed respite. The bear cave, the eagle’s nest, and the “tumble hills” will come alive.
“We walked the kids through a few weeks ago so they could see it,” she said. “Most of them are excited to roll down the hills; once they can be in it and realize everything that’s there, they will be even more excited.”
She said she will not miss the plastic and steel playground’s gross-motor-skills atmosphere. It’s better to have a place of caterpillars, flowers, trees, and natural learning.
“Now they can use their imagination and play. They will be able to plant something, learn to care for it, and watch it grow,” Hudson said.
The bear cave, an arched wooden cubby hole nestled into a tumble hill and anchored between two boulders, is her favorite spot, she said. Burned into the arch is the drawing of a bear and its Otoe name, Múnje.
“I just know my kids are going to love it. They’re going to love being inside of it; they’re going to love jumping off of it; they’re going to love rolling down it. And the story of the bear cave is the story of how the Otoe came into existence. It’s the most awesome thing,” she said.
A beautiful backyard and front yard are extensions of your home and, by association, your personal style. You probably wouldn't think twice about hiring a professional to help you get the look you want inside your house, but you might not feel the same way about your outdoor space. Many of us see the yard as something we can DIY. After all, the landscaping on most home renovation shows seems to take a few hours max. But landscape designers exist for a reason—and there are plenty of good reasons to hire a landscape designer.
For additional advice and expert guidance, we've tapped professional landscape designer John Gidding. "As a landscape designer," Gidding says. "My goal is not only to help homeowners elevate their yard but ensure they are creating environmentally conscious spaces by including native plants that support water conservation and benefit native biodiversity."
The outdoor version of an interior designer, landscape designers have the right expertise and experience to plan a yard that has all the features you want and is reasonable to maintain. They can transform your backyard into the oasis you've dreamed of, but they also have practical benefits. A garden designer can tell you exactly which walkway designs will make snow shoveling easier, which native plants will grow best in your yard, and what to do with that gazebo the previous owners put in. Whether you want to revamp a few flower beds or do a full backyard overhaul, a landscape designer can help you get it right on the first try—and even increase your home's value.
But do you really need one? Ahead, we highlight what you need to know about landscape designers, what they do, and whether they're worth the expense.
What Is a Landscape Designer?
According to the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD), a landscape designer "works closely with each client to create a personal and customized design that is best suited to their home, lifestyle, and unique set of wants and needs. He or she provides guidance, an artistic touch, and a comprehensive plan of action while keeping your best interests at heart."
Landscape designers consider the color, texture, smell, and growing seasons of various plants in order to curate and design a functional and beautiful outdoor space for their clients. They might consider a project as small as refreshing the flower beds around your mailbox or as big as a full backyard excavation and renovation.
Is There a Difference Between a Landscape Architect and a Landscape Designer?
Yes, they are different. The key difference is that landscape architects must be licensed by the state. Similar to the relationship between an architect and an interior designer, landscape architects typically have a higher level of technical knowledge and experience in structural design, while a designer focuses on aesthetics and plants.
Gidding explains, "while both share the goal of enhancing outdoor areas, the methods and scope differ. A landscape architect's projects frequently involve complex site planning, grading, drainage, and infrastructure considerations. On the other hand, my expertise lies in curating plant palettes, understanding the interactions of colors and textures over time, and creating atmospheres by bringing them all together."
Both can design hardscaping, such as a patio, terrace, or swimming pool, though that tends to be more of a landscape architect's domain. In either case, a landscaping contractor is the one who'll do the real digging.
Where Can I Find and Hire One?
The best ways to hire a landscape designer are similar to the ones you'd use to find any other solid tradesperson—although aesthetics matter in this case, of course.
Word of Mouth
Neighbors tend to use the same lawn maintenance companies. You know their work—after all, you see it every day! When you run into a neighbor whose yard you admire, ask them if they'd recommend their landscape designer. You can also keep an eye out for professional landscaping advertisements. When you see a garden that's getting refreshed, look for a sign and snap a picture! You can mine local family and friends for ideas too. Be sure to ask if they've ever used anyone (or know anyone who has) to find a landscape designer who's been vetted by people you trust.
Trade Organizations
Like architects, landscape designers must have a certain level of professional experience and education in order to be certified even though they're not required to be licensed by the state. Both the APLD and the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) have search tools that can help you find experts in your area.
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Google and Instagram are great places to start when you're looking to connect with professionals and vet their work, but it's important to go one step further before you set up a meeting. Websites like Home Advisor and Angi have cost predictors and reviews of local design firms; they can also connect you directly to the designers.
How to Have a Productive Consultation
If you're hiring a landscape designer, you probably have a project in mind. When you meet with a potential landscape designer for an initial consultation, bring photos or videos of your real outdoor space and inspiration photos. It can also be helpful to come up with questions about the designer's style, communication preferences, rates, revision process, and maintenance planning. It's also smart to ask whether they or someone from their firm work on-site to direct landscapers or other tradespeople and ensure their plan gets executed correctly. Should you decide to move forward, you'll want to know specifics about the project timeline.
Gidding advises that all clients should bring a comprehensive Site Survey or Site Plan, ideally measured and including the location, type, and health of all trees onsite. "This can be a tall order but eventually will be needed," he says. "For most suburban homes, all you need is some graph paper and a large tape measure. Photos also help, along with a list of existing plants and features."
Be prepared to have answers to their questions as well. The landscape designer may ask you about your desired outcome, budget, and any nonstarters (such as plants you're allergic to or ones you must have).
How Much Do Landscape Designers Cost?
The national average cost of a professional landscaping project is $3,496 with a wider range of $1,271 for tree removal or light border work while a full backyard remodel can cost more than $6,006, according to Angi. Depending on the extent of the work, landscaping costs generally range between $4.50 and $12 per square foot. However, if you're tackling a tear out and major remodel, plan to budget up to $40 per square foot.
Are Landscape Designers Worth it?
Ultimately, yes, landscaping designers are worth it. While you can handle minor renovations like installing a vegetable patch or replanting annuals by yourself, landscape designers have the know-how and vision to create a cohesive outdoor space that is practical and beautiful. They know which plants grow well next to each other, and how to scatter bloom times to have a stunning garden from April to December. They can plan a garden that will fill out beautifully over time without becoming crowded. Plus, your local nurseries may not have the best quality plants; landscape designers can pull from their network and get you the best quality blooms for the best price.
Gidding says, "I recommend finding someone with experience working on water-conscious lawns. Those who don't prioritize drought-resistant and native plants might not align with your eco-friendly goals for a sustainable outdoor space. Tomorrow's most valued properties will be the ones who took steps to wean away from intensive irrigation today."
And, perhaps most important, a landscape designer can help you plan a yard that's sustainable for you to maintain so you don't waste your money.
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COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — Collier County Public School District is monitoring the weather forecast following a heat-related advisory.
All outdoor recess and physical education activities during the school day and at CCPS-run after-school programs will be held indoors until Friday.
National Weather update has indicated that the heat index will remain extremely high throughout the week.
In a post, they said that high school athletic programs and marching bands will continue to follow the professional advice of certified athletic trainers in regard to modifying outdoor practices and workouts.
More record heat in the forecast across the South, Southeast, and Northwest portions of the country.
Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) has joined Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) alongside 17 other Republican colleagues to confront President Joe Biden (D) surrounding his decision to block funding for hunting and archery programs.
According to Sen. Scott’s press release, the Biden administration has “purposely misinterpreted” last year’s gun control legislation to block funding for outdoor recreation programs – including hunter education courses – that more than 500,000 students participate in and become certified in.
These programs help the younger generation “learn how to handle firearms safely – in turn, decreasing firearm-related injuries and accidents.”
“While the administration claims to be eliminating dangerous activities, this guidance will, in fact, have the opposite effect. These programs provided thousands of students with the opportunity to learn proper instruction for firearm and archery safety,” Sen. Scott and his colleagues wrote. “By including hunter education in schools, students are given the tools to be safe and responsible hunters. It is now clearer than ever that the Biden Administration will use the bill to attack the constitutional rights of Americans.”
They would go on to mention that President Biden and his administration are using the accurate legislation to “attack the constitutional rights,” calling it an “outrageous overreach.”
We voted against the gun control legislation. It is now clearer than ever that the Biden Administration will use the bill to attack the constitutional rights of Americans. Hunting and archery are strongly connected to the traditions and heritage of America. This outrageous overreach is an attack on hunters and outdoor recreation that must be addressed,” the senators wrote.
At the end of the letter, they called on the Biden administration to change course and support the outdoor recreational programs.
Similarly, Scott chastised Biden for the accurate economic figures that were released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Sen. Scott believes that the White House’s approach to the economy – “Bidenomics” – is hurting Floridians and their businesses.
“The Biden administration continues to hurt Florida families and businesses with its backward ‘Bidenomics’ policies without any plan to fix it. This week, I have been traveling Florida to hear what issues families are facing, and in each big city or small town I stop in one thing keeps getting mentioned—inflation,” said Sen. Scott. “Folks all over Florida are struggling thanks to President Biden’s reckless tax-and-spend agenda. I continue to hear from parents who are having to make tough choices between gas and groceries, or our seniors having to come out of retirement to get another job—that is a scary reality for Floridians and it is unacceptable Biden has let it go this far.”
According to the BLS, over the year, prices of household items have risen significantly, including flour (+8.5 percent), bread (+9.5 percent), pet food (+10.6 percent), rent (+8 percent), sugar (+8.9 percent), and margarine (+11.3 percent).
Myrtle Beach is adding a wine bar concept to its emerging arts and innovation district, with city leaders recently approving a long-term lease agreement for space inside a 9th Avenue North building.
The Tasting Room on 9th is slated to open in the spring at 505 9th Avene N., adding to the area’s growing number of locally owned art galleries and businesses and just a short distance from a planned multimillion performing arts center.
A pair of well-known names are behind the project. Jamie Daskalis, co-owner of Johnny D’s Waffles, is pairing up with area sommelier Lisa Lee, who runs the Traveling Uncorked website and is certified through the Wine and Education Spirit Trust.
“Myrtle Beach has brought me so much love and happiness. To be participating in the redevelopment of the downtown area is not something I take lightly,” Daskalis said in a Facebook post Aug. 18 announcing the venture.
According to terms of the lease agreement approved by the city council on Aug. 8, The Tasting Room will occupy its space rent free for the first three months, then pay $800 for months four through six and $1,200 a month for the remainder of its five-year deal.
Meanwhile, the city will pay up to $178,000 to upfit the building and prepare it for commercial use.
In a press release announcing The Tasting Bar, Daskalis and Lee said it will feature bar and lounge seating, an outdoor patio and private dining room. Rotating wine lists will be complimented by seasonal cocktails and a food menu to include curated pairings.
The Tasting Room will also have a neighbor, as city leaders approved a similar lease deal with Dolly Llama.
The custom waffle and ice cream boutique, also opening in the 505 9th Avenue space, will pay slightly higher rents after its three-month grace period while getting up to $100,000 in city-backed upfits.
According to city budget documents, more than a dozen projects planned for the arts and innovation district could be financed through more than $370 million in long term debt through 2028, although the figure may come down significantly as grants and private sector partnerships develop.
In the 2023-24 fiscal year that starts July 1, $17.4 million worth of activity is slated within the district — most notably redevelopment of the Main Street Mates store and two other connected buildings to open a 300-seat theater run in collaboration with Coastal Carolina University. Historic tax credits will cover some of the costs, but it has $12.7 million price tag.
NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- La Roche-Posay is continuing its partnership as the exclusive Official Sunscreen Partner of the US Open for the 2nd year in a row. Individuals who play outdoor sports experience substantially higher ultraviolet radiation exposure and therefore increased risk of skin cancer.i
This is why La Roche-Posay started its partnership with the US Open in 2022 to help raise awareness of sun safe behaviors, including daily sunscreen use on and off the tennis courts to help reduce the risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer in America.ii
At the 2022 US Open, La Roche-Posay provided access to board-certified dermatologists to educate on sun safety and distributed 300,000 free sunscreen samples to help US Open attendees protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
The 2023 partnership will expand upon last year's success by delivering sun safety education and complimentary sunscreen samples in new channels, including Arthur Ashe Kids' Day, USTA National Campus in Orlando, and partnerships with professional tennis stars Frances Tiafoe and Madison Keys.
La Roche-Posay will be back with a sun safety education booth in the South Plaza of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at the 2023 US Open. In addition to providing complimentary sunscreen at the booth, La Roche-Posay will also be offering access to free, dermatological advice from New York State board-certified Dermatologists. You can also find La Roche-Posay sunscreen samples at product-sampling kiosks on the grounds and full-sized sunscreens for sale at the US Open Collection stores.
On Saturday, August 26th, La Roche-Posay will also be the Official Sunscreen Sponsor of Arthur Ashe Kids' Day, focused on promoting sun safety habits at a young age. They will be providing complimentary full sized Anthelios SPF 50 Kids Gentle Lotion Sunscreen and over one thousand giveaway items to fans. To continue establishing sun safety habits towards adulthood, La Roche-Posay is also teaming up with the USTA as the official sunscreen of the USTA National Campus in Orlando, Fla., to provide sunscreen samples year-round.
As an industry leader promoting sun safe behaviors on and off the tennis court, La Roche-Posay is proud to partner with U.S. tennis professionals Frances Tiafoe and Madison Keys ahead of the 2023 US Open. The goal of the partnerships is to raise awareness of sun protection as a matter of public health. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70 making early detection and daily sun protection key.iii
"Sun protection is a key public health issue. As a leading brand in suncare globally, we are committed to developing safe & effective broad-spectrum sunscreens and raising awareness on the importance of sun protection and skin cancer prevention for all skin types and tones. We are proud to partner with Frances Tiafoe and Madison Keys to help our sun safety mission reach millions of fans and athletes who spend countless hours outside in the sun being exposed to harmful UV rays." – Guillaume Monsel, Vice President of Marketing & Digital, La Roche-Posay USA.
Frances Tiafoe, ATP world ranked #10, and Madison Keys, WTA world ranked #15, will support La Roche-Posay in educating the public on the importance of wearing broad spectrum SPF 30 or above daily, regardless of your skin tone, and visiting a dermatologist for an annual skin cancer screening.
"This partnership with La Roche-Posay means a lot to me because I'm constantly outdoors in the sun and it's extremely important for me to protect my skin. I always try to stay in the shade during my breaks and apply sunscreen before my matches. I'm excited to help educate on the importance of sun protection, regardless of your skin tone." – Frances Tiafoe, Professional Tennis Player.
"I have used and loved La Roche-Posay for years and am thrilled to officially partner to further their sun safety and skin cancer prevention mission. As someone who spends countless hours outside every day, protecting my skin from the harmful effects of the sun with superior sunscreen like La Roche-Posay is a top priority." – Madison Keys, Professional Tennis Player.
The 2023 US Open begins with Fan Week on August 22. Arthur Ashe Kids' Day will take place on August 26. The main draw runs August 28 - September 10.
About LA ROCHE-POSAY
Recommended by 90,000 dermatologists worldwide, La Roche-Posay's mission is to offer life-changing dermatological skincare. Created by a French pharmacist in 1975, the brand is now available in over 60 countries. It offers a unique range of daily skincare developed for every skin type to address various skin concerns and complement prescription treatments. At the center of the brand is the exclusive selenium-rich La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, a core ingredient in its skincare formulas known for its soothing and antioxidant properties that is sourced from its Thermal Center in France, the first Dermatology Center in Europe. The products are developed using a strict safety and formulation charter with a minimal number of ingredients and are formulated at optimal concentrations. Additionally, La Roche-Posay products undergo stringent clinical testing for efficacy and safety with over 750+ studies and 25 years of extensive research, even on sensitive skin. The key La Roche-Posay product ranges are: Lipikar (dry skin), Anthelios (photoprotection), Effaclar (acne) and Toleriane (sensitive skin). For additional information about La Roche-Posay, visit www.laroche-posay.us and follow La Roche-Posay USA on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @LaRochePosayUSA, and Tik Tok @LaRochePosayUS.
The USTA is the national governing body for the sport of tennis in the U.S. and the leader in promoting and developing the growth of tennis at every level -- from local communities to the highest level of the professional game. A not-for-profit organization, it invests 100% of its proceeds in growing the game. It owns and operates the US Open, one of the highest-attended annual sporting events in the world, and launched the US Open Series, linking summer WTA and ATP World Tour tournaments to the US Open. In addition, it owns approximately 120 Pro Circuit events throughout the U.S. and selects the teams for the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, Olympic and Paralympic Games. The USTA's philanthropic entity, the USTA Foundation, provides grants and scholarships in addition to supporting tennis and education programs nationwide to benefit under-resourced youth through the National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) network. For more information about the USTA, go to USTA.com or follow the official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X) and TikTok.
i Solar Ultraviolet Exposure in Individuals Who Perform Outdoor Sport Activities - PMC (nih.gov)
iiSolar Ultraviolet Exposure in Individuals Who Perform Outdoor Sport Activities - PMC (nih.gov)
iiihttps://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/
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SOURCE La Roche-Posay
