May / June 2021 Teen InFluential

Teen WWW.INFLUENTIAL-MAGAZINE.COM MAY / JUNE 2021

THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY IS HIRING - HERE’S WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN JOB SEARCHING

Young People-Friendly Ways to Learn About World History

The Waves of Fun: Swimming Safety Tips for Summer 7 TIPS TO AVOID DISTRACTED DRIVING

Be the Inspiration!

Teen

TABLE OF CONTENTS books

08 | Nya the Great and Her Visit

to the Firehouse

CELEBRATE YOUR ALL-STAR

Fashion & Style

30 | The Best Warm Weather Shoe

Styles for Maximum Comfort

Food & Beverage

46 | A Truly Memorable Summer Menu 50 | An Unforgettable Fruity Flavor 52 | Go Gluten-Free

with Family Favorites 12 | The Mommy Shower Trend

is the Perfect Way to Shower Moms-to-be with Love 14 | A Trendy, Edible Gift for Mom 18 | Celebrate All-Star Moms with a Simple, Delicious Meal 20 | A Memory-Making Mousse

CELEBRATE YOUR ROCK-STAR

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24 | 10 Tips on How

to Take Dad Fishing

feature

26 | Young People-Friendly Ways to Learn About World History 60 | The Waves of Fun: Swimming Safety Tips for Summer

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FASHION EDITORIAL 34 | A PERSON

OF INFLUENCE

Health & Wellness

56 | Great Ways to Encourage

Young People to Move More

58 | How Cleaning Your Physical

Space Improves Mental Health

Lifestyle

64 | Launch Your Boat into a New Season 66 | 7 Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving 68 | Lancôme Partners with the

National Museum of Natural History to Contribute to Protect Biodiversity by Preserving Endangered Plant Species 72 | New to Plant Parenting?

Here’s What You Need to Know 74 | First Steps in Retirement Planning - for all Americans 76 | The Hospitality Industry is Hiring: Here’s What to Look for When Job Searching 78| Featuring the Pottery Collection from Helen Levi x Prettypegs

Philanthropy

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82 | Entrepreneur Inspires Youth with Community Projects

InNetwork

84 | Lenore Skenazy 85 | Irshad Manji

Teen FOUNDER / CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA Round Rock, Texas

WRITING TEAM Contributing Writer Jaya Jaya Myra ART & PRODUCTION Creative Services What Taller Gráfico Argenis Gudino Jose Luis Venegas Quintero Contributing Photographer Hanna Grankvist www.fox19.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR shall be signed with a full name; please include a daytime phone number, full mailing address, or e-mail address. Letters shall be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Letters may not be edited, added to, or changed by the sender once we receive them.

COVER DIRECTED BY WILLIAM JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA.

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EDITORIAL CREDITS

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Our mailing address: Teen InFluential, P.O. Box 1811, Round Rock, Texas 78680.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Founder & Chief Business Officer.

All the rights of the artwork and photography belong to the Founder & Chief Business Officer.

Teen InFluential is Round Rock, Texas owned and operated.

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HELLO FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

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DEAR TEEN INFLUENTIAL FAMILY:

e’re thrilled to let you know our multi award-winning May / June edition is now available. Hopefully, these positive and informative articles will provide a diversion from the anxiety we’re all experiencing.

We launched Teen InFluential in September 2015 to celebrate the many amazing people, beautiful locations, and worthy organizations and businesses we had come to know. In the past nine years, aspects of our lives were moving at a normal pace.

Today our citizens and local businesses are struggling due to the limitations necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

On behalf of the InFluential Magazine, Spanish InFluential, and Teen InFluential teams, we’d like to thank all our contributors, advertisers, and supporters who’ve partnered with us in so many meaningful ways.

We have three small requests of you: 1. Please share this issue with your family and friends.

Our multi award-winning editions can be accessed and you can subscribe to receive notifications, at www.influential-magazine.com.

2. Tell an advertiser you saw their promotional ad and thank them for supporting this multi award-winning edition.

3. After reading the multi award-winning edition, please take a moment to let us know what you think via Twitter at @teeninfluential.

Fondly, The Teen InFluential Family P.O. Box 1811 Round Rock, Texas 78680 info@influential-magazine.com

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Teen

NyatheGreat AND HER VISIT TO THE FIREHOUSE

Pick up your copy of the inspirational children’s book Nya the Great and Her Visit to the Firehouse written by Cincinnati, Ohio Firefighter and Author Mario Jackson.

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BOOKS Cincinnati Firefighter and Author Mario Jackson.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.FOX19.COM.

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aya’s curiosity, wide-eyes wonder, and confidence and wisdom beyond her years inspire anyone to explore the unknown and take an amazing adventure.

Cherished, loved, protected, and supported by her family, she has a lot of drive, determination, bravery, and a little sass. Naya, with her hair in two large puffs, isn’t afraid to try new things and see where her next amazing journey will take her. Today, it’s a trip to the neighborhood firehouse to visit her aunt. Available on Amazon. l

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THE MOMMY

SHOWER

TREND IS THE PERFECT WAY TO SHOWER MOMS-TO-BE WITH LOVE Whether it’s a first child or she’s been pregnant before, expecting a baby is an exciting journey. As the due date nears, that anticipation grows, and friends and family enjoy sharing in the anticipation.

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aby showers are the most common tradition for celebrating motherhood, but unfortunately, the pandemic has put gatherings like these on hold. Now, you may be looking for new ways to celebrate baby and honor the mom-to-be so she feels loved.

newest trend in celebrating moms-to-be: the Mommy Shower. You may not be able to have a baby shower or throw one for a loved one, but you can transform the shower experience into a special retreat that celebrates Mom and makes her feel special and supported.

How to Create a Mommy Shower

Each Mommy Shower experience can be found on Schick Intuition’s Instagram Guides, and feature a variety of luxurious and indulgent products for a pampering shower moment, including a Schick Intuition Razor which helps lather and shave in one step, removing the need for shaving cream or gel - ideal for moms with a baby bump.

“Pregnancy has been really challenging right now. Between the stresses of trying to stay healthy and social isolation, moms deserve a little extra love and care,” said Lauren Burnham Luyendyk, mom to a 3-year-old and currently pregnant with twins. Sentiments like these have inspired the

“I co-created three specific Mommy Shower experiences inspired by three things moms look forward to during their pregnancy: fulfilling those crazy cravings, having a special escape with their significant other and enjoying a night out with friends,” Here’s how to bring these shower said Burnham Luyendyk. experiences to life:

The Babymoon Bath: While not

The Shower Soiree: Turn that last

the full vacation she’s missing out on, The Babymoon Bath will give her a taste of a tropical escape before the little one arrives. From the feeling of a bamboo bathmat and the delicious-smelling Schick Intuition Island Berry Razor to a tropical smoothie and an exfoliating sand scrub, she can enjoy a babymoon from the comfort of her own tub.

pre-baby night out into the perfect night in by giving her a reason to dim the lights and turn up the party. From a belly bumpin’ shower speaker to the soothing Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment Razor to a nutritious yet delicious mocktail, The Shower Soiree will empower mom to let loose and feel the good vibes before baby arrives.

The Craving Cure: This mouth-watering bath experience will satisfy all her pregnancy cravings, including a smooth, hassle-free shave with Schick Intuition’s Sensitive Care Razor. Include a cocktail-scented candle, a chocolate face mask and an ice cream bath bomb, and this experience will help mom get ready to indulge in much deserved selfcare. The pregnancy journey can be a tough time, but Mommy Shower experiences are the perfect way to help moms feel cared for during pregnancy and long after the baby is born. (BPT) l

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Teen A TRENDY, EDIBLE GIFT FOR

MOM

Every day is an opportunity to show your mom just how special she is and how grateful you are for all she does.

Make her day with a present that wraps the personal touch of a handmade craft and the novelty of a quirky trend into one unforgettable gift.

T

his year, upgrade your usual flower fare with an arrangement that’s beautiful and delicious: a California cheese bouquet. Customizable with ingredients tailored to fit your loved one’s tastes, these thoughtful gifts combine cheeses, berries, herbs, and more wrapped together for a perfect celebration centerpiece and gift with an artsy (and thoughtful) touch.

Created by cheesemonger Jessica Lawrenz, these easy-to-follow crafts for a Classic Cheese Bouquet or a California Bounty Cheese Bouquet call for wholesome cheese made with 100% sustainably sourced Real California Milk from dairy farm families. For best results, use medium-bodied cheeses that can be easily skewered without softening up at room temperature.

Find additional cheese bouquet inspiration and more recipes to celebrate mom by visiting realcaliforniamilk.com.

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Classic Cheese Bouquet Craft courtesy of Jessica Lawrenz (@mongermoldandmilk) Real California White Cheddar Cheese Real California Brie Cheese Salumi or Salami (thinly sliced) Goldenberries Lemonquats Mini apples Mini artichokes Rosemary Bay leaves Wax flowers Tools: Knife Floral foam block Plastic wrap Vase or bouquet paper Flower cookie cutters (various sizes) U-shaped toothpicks Wooden skewers Toothpicks Floral tape Ribbon or twine

1. Using knife*, cut floral block into shape that fits inside vase. If using bouquet paper, use base at least 3 inches across and 4 inches high.

2. Wrap floral block in plastic wrap to keep from touching items in bouquet; place inside vase. If using bouquet paper, place wrapped floral block in mug to keep from falling over.

3. Use various cookie cutters to prepare cheeses as flowers.

4. To create salumi roses, lay out 4-5 slices salumi overlapping one another.

Fold row in half and roll into rose bud, securing with u-shaped toothpick. Place on skewer, add herb leaves and use floral tape to secure ends of toothpick to skewer. Repeat.

5. Skewer cheeses, salumi roses, goldenberries, lemonquats, mini apples and mini artichokes.

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6. To assemble, start in center with larger items. Use shorter skewers or toothpicks to secure smaller items closer to edges.

7. Use rosemary, bay leaves and wax flowers to fill gaps in back of bouquet.

8. To wrap: Once finished, gently lay block with skewers on top of paper, wrap, and secure with tape and ribbon.

California Bounty Cheese Bouquet Craft courtesy of Jessica Lawrenz (@mongermoldandmilk) Real California White Cheddar Real California Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Real California Brie Cheese Salumi or Salami (thinly sliced) Lemonquats Mini apples Fresh figs Green grapes Goldenberries Dried apricots Mini artichokes Rosemary Bay leaves Olive leaves Wax flowers

Tools: Knife Floral foam block Plastic wrap Vase or bouquet paper Flower cookie cutters (various sizes) U-shaped toothpicks Wooden skewers Toothpicks Floral tape Ribbon or twine 1. Using knife*, cut floral block into shape that fits inside vase. If using bouquet paper, use base at least 3 inches across and 4 inches high.

6. To assemble, start in center with larger items. Use shorter skewers or toothpicks to secure smaller items closer to edges.

2. Wrap floral block in plastic wrap to keep from touching items in bouquet; place inside vase. If using bouquet paper, place wrapped floral block in mug to keep from falling over.

7. Use rosemary, bay leaves, olive leaves, and wax flowers to fill gaps in back of bouquet.

3. Use various cookie cutters to prepare cheeses as flowers.

4. To create salumi roses, lay out 4-5 slices salumi overlapping one another.

Fold row in half and roll into rose bud, securing with u-shaped toothpick. Place on skewer, add herb leaves and use floral tape to secure ends of toothpick to skewer. Repeat.

8. To wrap: Once finished, gently lay block with skewers on top of paper, wrap and secure with tape and ribbon. (Family Features) *Always use sharp tools and objects with extreme care, and if necessary, with appropriate supervision. (Family Features) l

5. Skewer cheeses, salumi roses, lemonquats, mini apples, fresh figs, green grapes, goldenberries, dried apricots, and mini artichokes.

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CELEBRATE

ALL-STAR MOMS WITH A SIMPLE, DELICIOUS MEAL

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ne of the easiest ways to do something special for the allstar mom in your life is to make her a homemade meal and enjoy some quality time together around the dinner table. For those in need of inspiration, consider a delicious option like this Tuscan Chicken Pierogy Skillet for an easy, elevated, sure-to-impress dish that comes together in 45 minutes.

The key ingredient: Mrs. T’s Pierogies, which are pasta pockets stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness, and other big, bold flavors.

Found in the frozen food aisle and available in 13 flavors, in full and mini size varieties, they can be boiled, baked, sauteed, fried or grilled. They are easy to prepare, which means less time in the kitchen and more time together.

Visit mrstspierogies.com to find more recipe inspiration to celebrate mom.

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From big things like juggling a career and family priorities to little things like writing lunchtime love notes, there are so many ways moms lift their families and the people they love every day.

In today’s world, where multi-tasking has taken on a whole new meaning, it’s clear moms deserve to be celebrated.

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Tuscan Chicken Pierogy Skillet Prep time: 10 minutes Total time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 1 box Mrs. T’s Pierogies 4 Cheese Medley 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness kosher salt, to taste ground black pepper, to taste 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 bag (5 ounces) fresh baby spinach 2 cups diced tomatoes 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning 1/4 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup heavy cream 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional, for garnish 1 tablespoon cold water 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch fresh basil, for garnish crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

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CELEBRATE YOUR ALL-STAR 1. Boil pierogies according to package directions. Drain then toss pierogies with 1 tablespoon olive oil to keep from sticking.

2. In 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook 8-10 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Transfer to plate, cover and allow to rest 5-8 minutes. Slice thin.

3. While chicken rests, lower heat to medium-low and add remaining oil to same skillet. Add garlic, spinach and tomatoes; saute 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant. Season with Italian seasoning and salt and pepper, to taste.

4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream and 3/4 cup Parmesan. In small bowl, whisk cold water and cornstarch then stir into pan. Simmer 4-5 minutes until thickened and creamy.

5. Return chicken and pierogies to skillet and toss to combine. If desired, top with additional seasonings, to taste.

Garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes, if desired. (Family Features) l

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Teen Some of the best memories throughout life stick with you forever as you play them over and over in your head and smile, thinking fondly of those times.

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A

MEMORY-MAKING MOUSSE

A

lot of these good memories are centered around laughs, great conversation, and irresistible, mouthwatering food. Family events such as wedding showers, or the first day of spring after a bitter winter, can be reasons to celebrate and indulge in something out of the ordinary.

Fold half of the soft whipped cream mixture into the cooled chocolate. Once combined, add the rest of the whipped cream. Spoon the mousse into serving bowls or ramekins and refrigerate at least 2 hours. Once chilled, add toppings or reserved whipped cream and shaved chocolate, if desired.

This Dreamy Chocolate Mousse can make those special memories just a little bit sweeter. It’s rich, decadent and full of scrumptious chocolate flavor. Topped with whipped cream and shaved chocolate, it’s the perfect addition to almost any special occasion.

It’s easy and requires minimal ingredients, and the results are something smooth, rich and luscious.

Your sense of taste will take you right back to that happy place once you take a small bite. Memories are some of the greatest gifts you get to keep forever.

It works as a dessert after a meal or just a special treat. It can be served at a big event or simply a Sunday afternoon at home.

Find more sweet treat recipes at Culinary.net.

To start, add chocolate, marshmallows, and heavy cream to a mixing bowl.

Microwave until melted, about 2 minutes. Let cool for 1 hour.

Pour additional heavy cream into a mixer and whip until soft peaks form.

Take 1/2 cup of whipped cream and refrigerate for later.

Dreamy Chocolate Mousse

1. In large bowl, combine chopped chocolate, marshmallows and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Microwave 2 minutes on high, or until marshmallows are melted.

Let mixture cool 1 hour.

2. Using mixer, whip 1 3/4 cups heavy cream until soft peaks form. Reserve and refrigerate 1/2 cup whipped cream for topping.

3. In cooled chocolate mixture, fold in 2 cups whipped cream until combined.

Add remaining whipped cream and mix until combined.

4. Spoon mousse into ramekins.

Refrigerate at least 2 hours.

5. To serve, top with 1/2 cup reserved whipped cream and sprinkle with shaved chocolate, if desired. (Culinary.net) l

Serves: 4-8 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped, plus chocolate shavings (optional) 40 large marshmallows 2 1/4 cups heavy cream, divided

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0TIPS ON HOW TO

DAD FISHING What are two things that dads all over America would love to do the most this coming summer?

Spend time with their kids ... and catch fish.

S

o, if you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate your love for dear ol’ dad, how about inviting him to go fishing (instead of the other way around).

What should you do to prepare to take dad fishing? Here are some tips from the fishing folks at Rapala, which according to the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) is responsible for more world records than any other fishing lure in the world.

1

Ask dad to go fishing.

Dad may be unsure if you or the rest of the family wants to go fishing. That’s where you’ll surprise him - by you asking

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Give dad a proven fish catcher. him to fish. Grab a fishing rod, make a small card, and go up to dad and invite him to go fishing this summer. Get dad to commit to a date, and a back-up date, in case it rains. It’s a great way to bring a smile to his face.

2

Do your homework.

You can let dad suggest a favorite lake or river for your day out, or you can go online and find a nearby lake, pond, or river to fish. Two sources to try out: FishBrain or Fishidy. Remember, you don’t need a boat to go fishing. There are many places where you can fish from shore, rent a canoe or boat, or kayaks. Some parks even rent fishing rods and reels for those who don’t have them.

3

Go to where the fish are.

All dads want to think that catching fish was their idea. So of course, to ensure that you have a great day on the water, you’ll want to go where the fish are biting. If you’re not sure, call up a local fishing tackle shop to find out where to go, or go online to a local fishing magazine website for their latest fishing reports.

Take a great picture.

You’re going to need fishing lures to catch fish, so make sure to give dad a proven fish catcher - either the Original Floating Rapala and the Shad Rap, or both, if you want to be really kind to dad. These lures are made from balsa and feature a wounded minnow action that is irresistible to fish everywhere. They’re among the most popular-selling fishing lures in the world.

5

Pack dad snacks.

Dads love their snacks every bit as much as their kids. So, don’t forget to pack a sandwich, some chips and a soft drink.

Meat sticks and homemade chocolate chip cookies will earn you hero status.

6

Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Make sure dad practices sun safety (or doesn’t get sunburned) - bring along the sunscreen and have Dad apply ample amounts on his face, ears and nose.

7

Build in some nap time.

A day out on the water can wear anyone out. Even dads. So make sure to allow some nap time for your dad after you get back from fishing.

Even when you catch the bigger fish, all will be forgiven if you get a couple of great photos of dad with his fish. If he wants to hold it a little closer to the camera, go ahead and let him.

9

Laugh at his dad jokes.

No doubt, you will get an earful of dad jokes during your time on the water.

Rather than wince, encourage him to tell you another and enjoy every moment of it. After all, it’s Take-A-Dad Fishing Day!

0

Just have fun.

The biggest mistake you could make is focusing just on fishing. Dads want to have fun, too. Maybe work in a stop at a local restaurant for breakfast. Take lots of photos and video - even if the fish aren’t cooperating. Encourage dad to share his favorite fishing stories.

Whatever you do, make sure you tell dad that the most important part of this day is just being together.

Want to learn more about how to help dad catch more and bigger fish? Visit www.Rapala.com. (BPT) l

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FEATURE

YOUNG PEOPLE-FRIENDLY WAYS TO LEARN ABOUT WORLD HISTORY Building an appreciation for history is one way to help young people understand and connect with the world around them. History not only shows how people lived long ago, but it also gives clues about how society evolved into what it is today.

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Teen Virtual Tours

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rom playing games and visiting museums to exploring cultural heritage sites virtually, there’s no shortage of ways to engage young people in fun history lessons.

Historical Literature From traditional bound books to digital formats, there’s a practically endless list of titles dedicated to historical people, places, and events. If your child has an interest in a particular topic, consider starting with an age-appropriate nonfiction book that gives a high-level perspective of the topic. Then delve deeper by looking into biographies about the people involved and even related fictional tales to build knowledge and a broader perspective.

Movies or Theater Like books, there are hundreds of options for historically themed movies and theatrical productions. All you need to do is pick a topic or era. It can also be fun to look at how different movies depict the same historical topic at different points in time. Watching different genres can help give a fuller picture of an event or topic. Informative documentaries and entertaining historical dramas are also options for looking into the past.

Another way to look at history is through visiting historical destinations with cultural significance. Travel isn’t always practical, but you can go nearly anywhere in the world with a virtual tour where you can move around sites and monuments to see the details up close. An option like Flyover Zone’s appbased tours even take you a step beyond seeing the monuments as they look today. You can see ruins as they are today and beautiful virtual reconstructions of how they originally looked.

Cultural Events Events that celebrate cultural heritage provide a unique look at history and the way it influences modern times.

These celebrations often include a wellrounded sampling of everything from traditions to culinary and artistic styles.

You can find lectures, demonstrations, performances, sampling and more as you explore the diverse aspects of almost any chosen culture.

One example is “Baalbek Reborn,” a tour of Baalbek, a World Heritage Site in Lebanon, that dates back thousands of years. With this free virtual tour, you can explore the ancient city of Heliopolis, meaning “City of the Sun,” in Roman times.

Experts from the German Archaeological Institute who explored the site guide you through the tour and show you treasures that have been compared to some of Rome’s most impressive landmarks.

Play is an important way young people learn, and historical games can provide insight to the past. While some are more historically accurate than others, games set in a historic time period can provide insight about the scenery, lifestyle, and customs of the era. Historic video and board games can even pique an interest in learning more about history through other methods.

Online Classes

Museum Exploration

Numerous organizations offer online classes that let you learn about a wide range of historical subjects. Some may offer credit toward a diploma or college degree, but many are simply for the joy of learning. Check with your local library and search the internet for options. Many classes are offered for free and, in most cases, available to do at your own pace in spare time.

Collections of actual artifacts (or replicas) in museums can bring history to life in a tangible way. Especially for younger children, understanding historical details can be difficult. However, seeing museum displays about the kinds of homes or dishes or utensils a historic family used lets young people connect a visual reference with stories they’ve heard, lending a greater sense of reality.

Historical Games

Find more opportunities to immerse your family in history at flyoverzone.org. (Family Features) l

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Teen THE BEST WARM WEATHER FOR MAXIMUM COMFORT

ShoeStyles

As comfort continues to reign supreme for clothing and accessories, it’s easier than ever to incorporate on-trend pieces into stylish yet casual outfits.

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FASHION & STYLE

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ven though we may not be dressing up as much, there are still plenty of ways to ensure your unique style preference shines through - and footwear can be a great place to start when updating the wardrobe!

From comfortable sandals and casual sneakers to slip-ons, these shoe pairings are ideal whether walking around the neighborhood, enjoying a socially distanced event, or leading a Zoom meeting.

To complement soft, loosefitting garments. With different colors, patterns, and profiles to choose from, Vans lace-up or slip-on styles can complete any casual-inspired outfit. Use the slim-silhouetted shoe to complement loose-fitting garments like tailored chinos, maxi dresses, or skirts with elastic waists.

slide option adorned with fur-like material for the ultimate in cozy comfort.

For all your family’s comfort footwear needs, visit www.rackroomshoes.com for online shopping or curbside pickup options.

“Though many of us are still spending the majority of the day working, exercising, and taking classes online from home, clothing and accessories still afford us the opportunity to enjoy current fashion trends that are easy on our feet,” says Alyson Stanley, buyer for national retailer, Rack Room Shoes. “These outfit and shoe pairings can maximize comfort while embracing the current fashion trends.” (StatePoint) l

For joggers and casual dresses.

Finding a sandal that works equally well with joggers and flowy dresses is no easy feat, but Teva’s original universal outdoor sandal for women checks all the boxes. It has a cushioned footbed, and the bottom includes a rubber sole for traction. The multi-colored straps work with an array of hues, but it also comes in several other color options to match casual attire.

To pair with jeans, a t-shirt, and an oversized cardigan. With the air conditioner on overload, it can be easy to long for that fuzzy slipper feeling. When the home or office starts to get chilly, Crocs has the perfect shoe to try. The brand offers a classic women’s clog that features a soft, fuzzy liner for feet. Additionally, a plethora of colors are available to coordinate with a jeans and t-shirt look. Xappeal also offers a

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.RACKROOMSHOES.COM. MAY / JUNE 2021 TEEN

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kCURATED BY WILLIAM JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY, MBA AND FOUNDER, CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER, AND PUBLISHER OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL

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Teen A TRULY MEMORABLE

SummerMenu Summer days Dip Up a Good Time are often spent Whether your summer days include with family planning extravagant meals or your on-thego lifestyle calls for quick and easy recipes, and friends, soaking simple snacks can fit a wide variety of menus. in the sun’s rays and Dips are a perfect solution for afternoon enjoying outdoor pick-me-ups or evening appetizers when the whole family comes together. living with warm-weather This Apple Guacamole can be made in activities. mere minutes, making it an ideal shareable Complement this among loved ones, by combining mashed avocados and seasonings with chopped year’s summertime Granny Smith apple pieces. excitement with food that matches Visit Culinary.net for more snack ideas. your enthusiasm Apple Guacamole for the season.

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our menu can start with a fruity dip and a salad before diving into steak for the main course and a kid-friendly treat to top it all off. These recipes make the most of what summer has to offer with fresh fruits and veggies, bright and refreshing greens, tender cuts of meat and frozen treats that celebrate those memorable moments together.

Find more summer recipe inspiration at Culinary.net.

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Recipe adapted from the Meredith Corporation Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 8-10 3 ripe avocados, halved and pitted 1/2 cup finely chopped Vidalia onion 1/2 cup snipped fresh cilantro 1 lime, juice only bottled hot pepper sauce, to taste 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped kosher salt, to taste tortilla chips

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FOOD & BEVERAGE 1. In bowl, use fork to mash avocados, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and hot pepper sauce to desired consistency. Stir in apple and season with salt, to taste.

2. Serve with tortilla chips.

Savor a Bite of Steak A hearty flavor profile and perfectly prepared, high-quality meat can make a

summer meal truly spectacular, especially when paired with fresh veggies in a protein-packed sandwich. Inspired by Vietnamese tradition, this Steak Banh Mi recipe – which features tender grassfed flat iron steak, pickled carrots, bright lettuce and crunchy cucumbers – is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next summer gathering. Take your taste buds to new

heights with Silver Fern Farms natural cuts of 100% grass-fed beef from New Zealand, which is minimally processed with no added growth hormones or antibiotics.

There, the animals roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures, resulting in lean, flavorful, nutritious meat that tastes just as nature intended. Visit silverfernfarms.com for more inspiration.

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Teen Steak Banh Mi Prep time: 2 hours Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 2 10 ounces Silver Fern Farms New Zealand grass-fed beef flat iron steak 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce 2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon, plus 1/2 cup, rice vinegar, 1/8 teaspoon five-spice powder 2 tablespoons sugar 1 pinch salt 1 small carrot, cut into matchsticks 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/4 cup water 2 Vietnamese baguettes or dinner rolls 1/4 cup mayonnaise 4 Batavia lettuce leaves 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped 1 Persian cucumber, sliced 1. Remove steak from packaging and set aside 10 minutes. Once steak reaches room temperature, place steak in deep plate or storage container. In small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, fish sauce, garlic, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and five-spice powder; pour over steak. Cover and marinate in fridge at least 2 hours, or overnight.

2. In small pot over medium heat, heat remaining rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.

Cook and stir until sugar and salt dissolve.

Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Place carrots in deep plate or storage container. Pour cooled pickling liquid over carrots. Set aside to marinate.

4. Remove steak from marinade and pat dry. Reserve marinade.

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5. Heat oven to 325 F. 6. Heat heavy-bottomed pan over high heat and add oil. Once oil begins to smoke, add steak. Sear both sides, about 1 minute per side. Lower heat to medium.

7. Add reserved marinade and water to pan. Cook, covered, 3 minutes, removing lid to flip meat occasionally. Remove lid and let sauce reduce 1 minute, or until slightly thickened.

8. Transfer steak and sauce to large plate and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

9. Toast baguettes in oven 5 minutes.

Let cool 5-10 minutes.

10. Slice baguettes along middle without cutting through.

11. Slice steak into thin pieces.

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12. Spread mayonnaise on baguettes and add 1-2 lettuce leaves to each. Layer steak on lettuce leaves followed by cilantro, cucumbers, and pickled carrots.

Slice baguette into two sandwiches.

Go for Satisfying Summer Greens Many summer meals start with a simple yet satisfying appetizer: salad. This year, make sure you set the table with a bright, delightful bowl of greens that sets the tone for an enjoyable and festive meal with loved ones. This Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad calls for an array of fruits, including a homemade blueberry dressing, paired with Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix for a fresh and flavorful base

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

with pecan halves to add crunch. The salads are thoroughly washed, rinsed and gently dried then sealed in Keep-Crisp bags to maintain freshness. Find more salad inspiration at freshexpress.com.

Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 6 Blueberry Dressing: 2 cups fresh blueberries 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 cup olive oil salt, to taste and pepper, to taste 2 large apples 2 packages (6 ounces each) Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix 1 pint strawberries, cut in half 1 pint blueberries 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted blueberry dressing 1. To make blueberry dressing: In blender, process blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth.

Set aside.

2. To prepare salad: Cut apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. Using 1-1/2-inch diameter star-shaped cutter, cut apple slices into stars.

3. Place lettuce mix in large bowl; add apples, strawberries and blueberries.

Sprinkle with pecans. Before serving, drizzle each salad with blueberry dressing.

Sweet, Summery Treats After some fun in the pool and time spent in the sun, a cooling treat is often the perfect way to cap off a summer day.

Fresh fruits make those sweet eats even tastier and easier by making dessert in the morning and letting it freeze while you enjoy the warmth outdoors.

Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops Servings: 8

These Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops make dessert about as simple as possible by blending watermelon, blueberries, raspberries, and honey before adding to ice pop molds and freezing throughout the day. With the addition of refreshing watermelon, you’re opting for a flavorful fruit that includes just 80 calories and no fat while providing an excellent source of vitamin C (25%) and higher levels of lycopene (12.7 milligrams per 2-cup serving) – an antioxidant being studied for its role in sun protection – than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. To find more summertime snacks, meals and treats, visit watermelon.org.

6 cups watermelon 1 cup blueberries, divided 1 cup raspberries, divided 3 tablespoons honey 1. In blender, blend watermelon, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup raspberries and honey until smooth. Press through fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and seeds.

2. Fill ice pop molds 3/4 full with liquid.

Add remaining whole blueberries and raspberries to molds. Insert sticks and freeze at least 4 hours, or until completely frozen. (Family Features) l

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FLUENTIAL 49

Teen

AN UNFORGETTABLE Fresh fruit is finally in season.

When the sun is out and families are hitting the pool, it’s also time to indulge in some sweet fruit flavors.

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atermelon, berries, bananas, and more can all be found near perfect ripeness at grocery stores or farmer’s markets during the warm summer months.

On a hot day, there is almost nothing better than trying something new that sounds delicious. Throw your apron on, prepare your kitchen, and get baking.

If you’re craving something sweet with no ideas where to start, try this sweet Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit. It’s tangy and rich and allows you to escape to the summer oasis of your dreams, at least for a few minutes.

Fruity

three eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract then pour it on top of the graham cracker mixture.

Bake for 50-55 minutes before cooling completely in the fridge and adding fruit and mint leaves.

The outcome is a fluffy cheesecake with a small hint of lemon topped with your favorite fresh fruits. It’s a delightful, sweet, and satisfying recipe your family can make again and again to enjoy during those warm summer months.

Find more recipes perfect for summer at Culinary.net.

It has the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake mixed with a hint of tart lemon juice. Topped with raspberries, mint, and oranges, the burst of fresh fruit enhances the cheesecake flavor. It’s the perfect sweet treat for summer for people of all ages with its bright colors and varying flavors.

Did you make the recipe? We would love to see it! Use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network and let us see your work! (Culinary.net)

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter then press into a springform pan. Beat cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk,

Servings: 6-8 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted

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Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit

2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 3 eggs 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 orange, peeled and separated 8 raspberries 3 mint leaves, for garnish Heat oven to 350 F. 1. In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.

2. In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

3. Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed.

4. Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves.

(Culinary.net) l

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Flavor

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51

Teen

GoGluten-Free

WITH FAMILY FAVORITES Time available to cook, your family’s preferred dishes, ingredients you have in the pantry – there are plenty of considerations that may limit your options for an at-home menu.

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dd in a gluten allergy, or simply a desire to avoid it, and it may feel impossible to appease everyone. However, all it takes is simple ingredient swaps to turn a family favorite into a gluten-free recipe. From pizza at dinnertime to a chocolatey dessert, these dishes offer easy, flavorful ways to make your menu gluten-free.

A Healthier Homemade Pizza Creating a gluten-free dinner can be as easy as tweaking some of your loved ones’ favorite meals. Even pizza can offer a gluten-free solution when you rethink the ingredients included.

Satisfy your family’s needs with an option like Toufayan Gluten-Free Wraps in place of traditional crust in this

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e

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

Gluten-Free Barbecue Skillet Pizza. Made from wholesome, all-natural ingredients with no cholesterol or trans fats, these easily foldable wraps are available in four flavors, making them perfect for homemade pizza.

Visit Toufayan.com to find more mealtime solutions.

Gluten-Free Barbecue Skillet Pizza 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided 1 Toufayan Gluten-Free Original Wrap 3 tablespoons gluten-free barbecue sauce 4 cooked sausage links, crumbled 2 cups diced Mozzarella cheese 2 tablespoons chopped green onion fresh Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional) fresh fennel fronds, for garnish (optional) crushed red pepper, for garnish (optional) salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1. Heat oven to broil.

2. Heat cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add 1-2 teaspoons olive oil; spread to cover bottom of skillet.

3. Place wrap in skillet, brush with barbecue sauce and add sausage, Mozzarella, and green onion.

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FLUENTIAL 53

Teen 4. Fry 2-3 minutes, or until bottom of wrap is golden and crispy.

5. Place skillet under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2 minutes.

6. Remove from broiler, place on cutting board and sprinkle with Parmesan, fennel fronds, and crushed red pepper, if desired.

7. Season with salt and pepper, to taste; drizzle with remaining olive oil, cut, and serve.

Dish Up a Dynamic Dessert Going gluten-free isn’t just for meals from breakfast to dinner – you can cut gluten from delicious desserts, too.

This Cookie Brownie Supreme calls for layers of cookie dough, cookies, and brownies for a taste bud tempting way to round out a meal with those you love. One of the key ingredients is Goodie Girl Chocolate Creme Sandwich Cookies, made with real cocoa and a sweet cream filling between two chocolate wafers. They’re made without artificial flavors, colors or preservatives for a gluten-free, vegan, and peanut-free treat.

Find more varieties and dessert ideas at goodiegirl.com.

Cookie Brownie Supreme Recipe courtesy of glutenfreewith3.com Cookie Dough Layer: 1 stick softened butter 1/2 cup brown sugar

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

1/4 cup sugar 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/4 cups gluten-free flour 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Cookie Layer: 25 Goodie Girl Chocolate Creme Sandwich Cookies Brownie Layer: 1 stick butter 1 1/2 cups sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 cup cocoa powder 3 eggs 3/4 cup gluten-free flour 1 teaspoon baking powder

6 Goodie Girl Chocolate Creme Sandwich Cookies, crushed 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips vanilla ice cream (optional) chocolate syrup (optional) 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare 9-by9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.

2. To make cookie dough layer: In large bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, sugar, and vanilla. Mix with handheld mixer until combined and creamy. Add egg and beat until combined.

3. In small bowl, combine baking soda, salt, and flour. Beat flour mixture gradually into sugar mixture. Once completely combined, fold in chocolate chips. Add cookie dough layer to bottom of prepared pan and spread evenly.

4. To make cookie layer: Layer cookies on top of cookie dough layer.

5. To make brownie layer: In saucepan, melt butter, sugar, and salt until completely combined. Remove from heat and transfer to large bowl. Add vanilla, cocoa, and eggs; mix. Slowly add flour and baking powder.

Mix until completely combined.

6. Pour brownie mixture over cookie layer. Spread evenly.

7. Top with crushed cookies and chocolate chips.

8. Bake 50 minutes. Let cool completely before removing from pan. Slice and top with vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup, if desired. (Family Features) l

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Teen GREAT WAYS TO

YoungPeopleto

Young peoples’ tech comes with cool features that encourage movement.

Want to encourage young people to move more?

The latest technology, gear and apps are helping make movement and exercise fun.

Here’s how: 56 TEEN

Learn online: From dance to yoga to yet durable KidiZoom Smartwatch martial arts, there are a range of online classes available that are designed just for young people. These are perfect for a time when many extracurricular activities are not meeting in person.

Get up and go: New wearable tech options for young people are packed with features that invite young people to get up and go. Check out the sleek,

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DX2. This multi-function smartwatch is just like Mom and Dad’s but designed just for young people! Whether young people are biking, skateboarding, or playing sports, the watch’s two cameras allow them to capture on-the-go action videos. Plus, it includes an assortment of games, such as Monster Detector, which uses the camera and augmented reality to help young people find and capture

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

ENCOURAGE

o MoveMore monsters in the real world. They can also use the watch’s motion sensor for active play challenges.

Catch me if you can: Young people can create awesome videos with the KidiZoom Creator Cam, a high-definition video camera kit that includes a tripod and selfie stick, as well as a built-in microphone and editing tools. The included green screen comes with over 20 animated backgrounds -- like getting chased by a T-Rex and going to outer space -- for cool trick shots and timelapse videos that not only hone young peoples’ creativity and technical skills, but also encourage them to move.

Adventure time: Whether on a Move and do good: With the free

camping excursion or a backyard safari, young people can add excitement to any adventure by using walkie-talkies.

The kid-safe KidiGo Walkie Talkies have a 650-foot range and feature a digital connection that is clear and keeps young peoples’ conversations secure. Young adventurers can also send messages back and forth by choosing from preset animated messages or use the devices for real-time gaming.

UNICEF Kid Power app, young people will be inspired to do good while moving. Using the app, playful movement is transformed into lifesaving nutrition delivered to children in need around the world.

By looking to new games, apps, and devices, encourage young people to move more and have more on-the-go fun. (StatePoint) l

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Teen HOW CLEANING YOUR PHYSICAL SPACE IMPROVES

J

aya Jaya Myra, former immunologist turned mind-body wellness expert and bestselling author, highlights the importance of decluttering your physical space in order to improve your overall health and wellbeing.

“Physical clutter equals mental clutter: it’s impossible to have a clear head when your space is dirty or unorganized.

When someone comes to me to learn meditation or mindfulness, one of the first things I have people do is clean their house and keep their primary

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When your physical and mental space is cluttered, stress takes over. May 10th was National Clean Your Room Day; so, it was the perfect time to declutter that messy room of yours! But wait, did you know cleaning your physical space can also improve your overall mind-body wellness as well? living space organized and clutterfree. Eliminating external clutter makes it much easier to meditate and be mindful, and it will also improve your

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mood, reduce stress and anxiety and more.” says Jaya Jaya Myra. Here’s Jaya Jaya Myra’s four tips to help reduce stress and anxiety brought on by clutter:

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

MentalHealth Tip #1: Start Small

Pick the room you spend the most time in. Commit to keeping your it clean and clutter free. Once you do this it will become easier to tackle those other places that need more work.

Tip #2: Identify How Stuff Makes You Feel Take time to feel how things in your space make you feel. If something you have doesn’t make you feel good, for any reason, get rid of it to make space for something that does. This could be a piece or art, furniture, clothes, dishes, or just about anything. The stuff we have becomes a trigger for different emotional states, so when you choose to only have things around that evoke happiness or contentment, you create that in your life.

Tip #3: Breathe Even cleaning your space can be daunting, so take a moment to breathe deeply and focus on the space you want to create for yourself. Breathing is connected to good mental health and

lowering stress levels, so take a deep breath or ten before you start. It will help you focus and get motivated.

Tip #4: Create Beauty Committing to creating beauty in your space is a powerful way to ensure you focus on feeling good and keeping your mood up. Maybe this is a bouquet of flowers or potted plants, a beautiful piece of art, or something handmade.

Whatever you find beautiful, add it to your space. This will help you create what you want and be willing to let go of things no longer serving you.

If you are interested in learning more from Jaya Jaya Myra about how cleaning your physical space can help reduce stress and anxiety, while improving mood and mental wellbeing, visit www.jayajayamyra.com. l

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Teen

THE WAVES OF FUN: SWIMMING SAFETY TIPS FOR SUMMER 60 TEEN

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FEATURE

Playing in or around water is one of the joys of summer, but this treasured seasonal pastime comes with some serious risks.

Drowning is the second-leading cause of accidental death for children under the age of 14 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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s COVID-19 restrictions ease, many families will have more informal gatherings and take trips to the beach, increasing the potential for children to have unsupervised access to water sources.

Because of this, it’s important for children to take swimming lessons to learn water safety skills and create safer habits in

and around water. As swimming lessons begin across the country, many are being conducted safely with COVID-19 precautions in place.

Protect your family’s safety around water this summer with these tips from the Make a Splash Tour, presented by Phillips 66 and the USA Swimming Foundation.

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Teen Designate a Water Watcher and Closely Monitor Children.

Designate a water watcher when you are in, on or around water. Watch all children and adolescents swimming or playing in or around water, even if they know how to swim. Keeping young children or inexperienced swimmers within arm’s length at all times can help ensure you’re able to provide assistance if and when it’s needed.

Wear a Life Jacket. Anyone participating in any boating, paddling, or towed water sports, regardless of swimming ability in pool or open water situations, should wear a Coast Guardapproved life jacket. Preschool-aged children (5 years old and younger), who are not protected by touch supervision, in particular, should always wear a life jacket.

Swimming aids and water toys – such as water wings, inflatable water wings and rings – are not intended to be life-saving devices. They may provide some buoyancy in the water but do not prevent drowning.

Swim with a Buddy. When possible, choose swimming locations where a trained lifeguard is watching for dangerous conditions and helping keep an eye on swimmers. Also make it a practice to always have at least two people swimming together. That way, if someone has a problem, the other can get help.

Learn to Swim. Research has shown formal swimming lessons reduce the risk of childhood drowning by 88%. Through the annual Make a Splash Tour, the USA Swimming Foundation, with the support of Phillips 66, encourages children’s swim lessons. By equipping your child with the skill of swimming, you’ll open doors to

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a lifetime of safety, fun, fitness and even employment opportunities.

While lessons progressively teach a variety of swimming strokes, some of the most important things swimmers learn – even in beginner classes – are breath control and how to float. These basic skills are essential for staying above water should someone find himself or herself unable to touch or too tired to swim to safety. Children can participate in swimming lessons before they can walk, and parent-child swim lessons provide bonding opportunities along with water safety education.

Enter Water Feet First. Diving in a pool that is too shallow or into water where you’re not certain what’s below the surface, like a lake, can have dire consequences. Teach children to dive only in designated diving areas and to always enter water of unknown or nonvisible depth feet first.

Swim in Designated Areas and Obey Posted Signs and Flags.

Ropes, buoys, and flags in larger bodies of water like lakes or oceans are commonly used to mark off safe swimming areas and provide visual cues about changes in depth, underwater surfaces and currents.

Teach children what these signs and markers mean and that they’re in place as safety tools, not toys to play with or float on.

Learn CPR. If the unthinkable does happen, knowing how to perform CPR allows you to take immediate action, which has been shown to significantly better the outcome for children with submersion injuries. In the time it takes for paramedics

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FEATURE to arrive, you could save someone’s life.

Seconds count; the more quickly lifesaving CPR is started, the better the chances of recovery. There are many places that offer CPR training, including community organizations and nonprofit groups.

Remember to keep your certification current once you have completed the initial requirements.

Make safety a priority for your summer water fun. Find more information, including swim lesson providers in your area, by visiting usaswimming.org/ makeasplash.

Finding a Swim Lesson Provider If you’re unsure where to take your child for swim lessons in your community, these tips can help:

•

Ask other parents in your area where they take their children. You can ask people you know and use social media and neighborhood boards to get tips. If your school has a swimming team, the coach may also be able to give you some ideas.

•

Another resource is online search tools, such as usaswimming.org/ makeasplash, which allows you to search for swim lesson providers near you. Many of these programs also offer options for free or reduced-cost swim lessons.

•

Once you identify a program, visit the facility with your child to see how swim lessons are run.

•

Find out who your child’s teacher will be and whether it’s possible to meet him or her in advance.

•

Learn the program expectations for you as a parent or guardian.

• Inquire about the provider’s approach and learn-to-swim philosophy.

While researching programs, some industry best practices to look for include: Ask about the facility’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols. Swim lessons can be safely administered with proper protective equipment and procedures.

• •

A nationally recognized learn-toswim curriculum or an independently developed learn-to-swim curriculum that follows a similar model.

• Trained and certified instructors, with on-deck lifeguards holding current CPR and first aid certifications.

•

A maximum 6-to-1 student-toinstructor ratio for group lessons.

•

Minimum of 30 minutes per week of in-water instruction with a minimum total in-water instruction time of four hours.

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Written and practiced emergency action plans.

•

Regulation of the facility and water by the Department of Health or similar governing agency.

•

Established and practiced childprotection policies.

•

Screening and background checks on all staff members. (Family Features) l

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Teen

LaunchYourBoat INTO A NEW SEASON

System Check Your boat’s fuel and electric systems need an experienced eye to determine potential problems. Cracked or damaged hoses and connections need to be replaced, and all fittings and clamps should be checked to ensure they’re tight and secure. Test exhaust and ventilation systems, and replace worn or lose belts and cables, giving special attention to the steering and throttle cables. If you didn’t change the oil and filter before putting your boat in storage, do so before the season begins. Also be sure to check oil, power steering fluid, and coolant levels as well as running lights and emergency features such as horns.

Battery Function A reliable power source is essential for powering your trolling motor and operating accessories like fish finders when your engine isn’t running. You’ll need to test your battery before heading out on the water. If it’s time for a replacement, look for a powerful and cost-efficient option like Interstate Batteries’ Enhanced Flooded Deep-Cycle Marine Battery. The battery features a durable design with extended battery life and includes a two-year, free replacement warranty.

Visual Inspection After several months in storage, it’s a good idea to give your boat a thorough inspection so you can identify any holes, cracks, or dings that may impact its performance or safety. Scan the hull closely to for any abnormalities and check the propeller, as even minor dings and scratches can affect its operation.

Careful Cleaning Depending on the security of your storage space and how you covered your boat, you may not have much heavy

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cleaning to do. However, it’s a good idea to start the season fresh by giving everything a thorough wipe down. This can help illuminate any problems you may have overlooked during your visual inspection. In addition, using UV protectant on exposed surfaces can help prevent damage such as cracks and fading caused by harsh sunlight.

Safety Supplies Before you hitch the trailer, take inventory of your on-board safety supplies. Be sure your life jackets are in good condition and you have options to appropriately fit all passengers. Check fire extinguishers to ensure they’re in good working order and test the carbon monoxide detector (or add one if there’s not already a detector installed). Also scan your safety kit; update any expired items and replenish your supply of bandages or other items that may be running low.

Find more information to get your summer on the water underway at interstatebatteries.com.

Finding the Best Battery for Your Boat No matter how you spend your time on the water, a durable and reliable battery is a must. Learn what kind of battery is best for your boating needs from the experts at Interstate Batteries:

• Starting: Whether you’re sailing the ocean or ripping it up in a motorboat, starting batteries are built to withstand most marine conditions.

• Deep-Cycle: These batteries are the most popular line of marine batteries and offer strong, reliable power. This type of battery is used to start your trolling motor and power other accessories like fish finders whether your engine is running or not.

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LIFESTYLE Whether you’re racing against the waves or quietly floating with a pole in hand, a day on the water is hard to beat. However, before you can enjoy the excitement of a new season, there are several steps you need to take to make sure your boat is ready for the ride.

•

Dual-Purpose: Originally developed for military tanks and submarines, this type of battery has the staying power of a deep-cycle battery coupled with high-cranking performance.

•

Powersport: When you’re trying to catch every wave, the last thing you want is a weak battery. These top-quality batteries are built to withstand the most rugged conditions on the water. (Family Features) l

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Teen TIPS TO AVOID

7 DistractedDriv It is estimated that 81% of drivers read and type text messages while driving, 70% use social media while driving and 50% say their smartphone is essential for getting around, according to AT&T It Can Wait.

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ving

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W

hat can you do to keep the roads safe by limiting distractions?

1) Use your phone’s built-in tools: Set your phone to Do Not

driving with a passenger, enlist them to perform navigation and other tasks like climate control and audio selection.

5) Hands on the wheel: Resist

Disturb and avoid phone calls even if they are hands free. Preset your navigation and any preferences.

personal grooming, eating and drinking while driving.

2) Don’t cut corners: Avoid texting or using your phone in stop-and-go traffic or at lights.

3) If it’s an emergency, pull over: No call is worth jeopardizing the safety of you and your passengers.

4) Recruit a navigator: If you’re

6) Leave pets at home: If you must travel with your pet, don’t let them roam freely in the car.

7) Utilize technology when it makes sense: Telematics programs like the USAA SafePilot App can bring undesirable driving behaviors like phone handling to light and encourage safer driving by offering auto insurance savings.

For additional information on the USAA SafePilot App, visit usaa.com/safepilot.

(BPT) l

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Teen

Lancôme PARTNERS WITH THE NationalMus ofNaturalHistory TO CONTRIBUTE TO PROTECT BIODIVERSITY

BY PRESERVING ENDANGERED PLANT SPECIES

F

rançoise Lehmann, Lancôme Global Brand President say, “We are proud to participate in the conservation of endangered plant species like the Rose of France (Rosa gallica), as part of a global partnership with the National Museum of Natural History, whose international influence is recognized. The Museum is a leading organization when it comes to research and expertise in the field of biodiversity

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protection and we are proud to take part in this important mission which meets France’s commitments for the Convention on Biological Diversity. Protecting biodiversity is major component of Lancôme’s sustainability program. The brand is already spearheading this mission in Grasse and Valensole, in the South of France, where we are growing roses and other plant species in an organic and sustainable way across 25 acres of land”.

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Lancôme partners with the National Museum of Natural History (France)with the aim of preserving endangered plant species, as part of its global sustainability program Caring Together for a Happier Tomorrow.

Lancôme is committed to contribute to protecting biodiversity for generations to come and will support the Museum in a conservation project that aims at the conservation of plant biodiversity.

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The conservation of endangered plant species project, which is supported by the Museum and implemented by the National Botanical Conservatory of the Paris Basin (hereafter CBNBP), consists in the reintroduction of endangered plant species, supported by prior expeditions of seed collections and seed banking of endangered species within the geographical remits of the CBNBP (Center-Loire Valley, Ile-de-France, regions of Burgundy and ex-ChampagneArdenne). This project enables to reinforce or reintroduce the plant species into the natural environment, thanks to seeds collected and placed in seedbanks, to the multiplication of plants in experimental gardens, as well as manage and restore habitats that welcome them. The objective, which is part of the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation’s objective 8, will help compensate eventual collapses or disappearances of populations, and intervene in the natural environment by reinforcing or reintroducing populations.

Endangered plant species Lancôme will help preserve include the Rose of France (Rosa gallica). As a brand whose emblem is the rose since its creation over 85 years ago, it was only natural to contribute to protecting this precious and subtle flower of a unique variety and exceptional scent.

In addition to the Rose of France, a wealth of other species of plant are included in this conservation project, such as: Arnica montana, campanula cervicaria, inula hirta, ranunculus hederaceus or viscaria vulgaris. Thanks to the program, we will collect an average of fifteen species per year in each territory, meaning 45 species over the entire 3-year program for each region, and 180 seed lots in total.

This partnership with the national Museum of natural History is a fundamental component of Lancôme’s sustainability program Caring Together for a Happier Tomorrow, launched on March 22nd 2021, through which the brand is accelerating its global transformation in matters of sustainability and social inclusion. l

View of the Grand Gallery of Evolution seen from the Garden of Plants © MNHN - F.-G. Grandin Rosa Gallica © MNHN - Agnès Iatzoura

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NewtoPlant Parenting?HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED

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TO KNOW

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hy the sudden interest? pet-friendly houseplants include Curly Plant parenthood Houseplants are grounding, Spiders, Baby Rubber Plants, Echeveria, among Millennials keep you connected to the Gasteria, Haworthia, Peperomia, Nerve and Gen Z has been Earth and even help reduce stress. Their Plants, Fluffy Ruffles Ferns, Rabbit’s Foot on the rise care also provides an excuse to take a Ferns, and Staghorn Ferns. When in in recent years, much-needed break in the day. Plants doubt, foliage and succulents brand Wild make your world a happier place and Interiors helps potential plant and current and time spent at add immeasurable value to everyday life. pet parents by offering a handy online home throughout Whether you’re preparing to purchase guide and paw print icons indicating petthe pandemic your first-ever houseplant or you’re friendly options. has inspired even expanding an ever-growing collection, learn how you can return the favor by Not-So-Green Thumb more people to being the best possible plant parent.

Finally, as you embark on your plant start houseplant parenthood journey, avoid common collections. In fact, Understand Your Plant’s Needs houseplant mistakes. When it comes to While plant purchases tend to be spur- indoor plant care, many problems stem over the past year, of-the-moment, there are plenty of steps from loving and caring for your plants too searches including you can take once you get home to much. Overwatering, over fertilizing, and “indoor plants,” ensure a great life for your plants. Explore over adjusting the plant’s location or pot “buy plants” and the wealth of care instructions and situation can all do more harm than good, guides online outlining recommended despite your best intentions. Also keep in “plant delivery” watering schedules and other necessary mind many plants require less care and spiked, as many considerations. For busy plant parents or attention during fall and winter months. set out to create those looking to build collections in their office spaces, low-maintenance plants Ready to test your green thumb and beautiful, calming are the way to go. If your space is short take the leap into plant parenthood? sanctuaries at home on windows, seek out adaptable low- Visit www.wildinteriors.com to explore and spruce up their light plants that thrive outside of direct more plant care tips and keep an eye out for its collection of succulent and foliage Zoom backgrounds. sunlight, such as ivy or spider plants. plants at a retailer near you.

Don’t Forget Furry Friends If you’re already a pet parent too, don’t worry. Many houseplants won’t pose any threats to the fur babies in your home. Top

And if you ever find yourself wondering if you need another plant, just remember: plants are self-care. (StatePoint) l

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.WILDINTERIORS.COM. MAY / JUNE 2021 TEEN

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Teen FIRST STEPS IN RETIREMENT PLANNING - FOR ALL Even if you’re young, newly employed or haven’t yet started to save for retirement, many financial professionals agree planning is key to achieving a sense of security for your future. But a new survey shows if you’re a first- or second-generation American, a woman, African American, or Hispanic employee, you may feel disconnected from the financial services industry and its benefits.

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ne reason is you may be less likely to have opportunities to save for retirement through your workplace - or you may feel the financial services industry is not geared toward serving the needs of you or your community.

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Americans

The good news? The financial services industry and many employers are working to offer greater accessibility for all employees trying to save for retirement - even with a moderate income - and are trying to make it easier for all their employees to be proactive about financial planning, no matter when or where they begin.

a secure retirement. Consulting a licensed financial professional can be one way to be sure the advice you receive is based on knowledge and expertise about the best ways to save for retirement. Fortunately, access to financial professionals with specialized certifications is much more accessible than you may think.

The new survey conducted by Harris Poll for Empower Retirement shows women and people of color feel underrepresented when it comes to retirement saving. In fact, 70% of all respondents said they agreed with the statement: “Retirement planning is a luxury not afforded to all types of Americans.” But the truth is retirement planning is possible, no matter where or when you start. And it can make a huge difference for your financial situation down the road.

Here are tips and resources to help you get started on your retirement planning journey.

Another issue is over half (52%) felt they would not be taken seriously as a client by a financial services company. People who feel financial professionals will not take them seriously instead turn to family (44%) or friends (25%) for advice. While the people you know may have your best interests at heart, they may lack the financial know-how to advise you on how to save effectively for

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•

Start now. No matter where you

are in your career, starting with small savings now can make a huge difference down the road - and those savings can accumulate and grow over time.

• Contact your HR department.

Especially if you’re unsure what your employer offers for retirement planning, asking questions is a great place to start.

Don’t be afraid to ask for explanations of unclear terms or services.

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Match those funds. Some employers will match your 401(k) contributions up to a certain percentage point, so you’ll get the full benefit of those funds by making sure you contribute at least that amount.

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•

Consult a financial planner.

Ask if your employee benefits include the services of a financial planner. Many employers offer consultations with a financial professional free of charge, to help with your planning efforts.

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Personalize your savings options. Ask about opting into a

managed account for your 401(k). This will provide you with a personalized strategy for your funds based on factors including your age, amount saved, timeline and savings goals - even if you’re starting with a small amount.

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Use digital tools. Online tools can be a great way to track your savings.

Retirement planning calculators and other features can help you set and reach your unique long-term goals.

• Explore government resources.

To understand how and when you can most benefit from applying for Social Security, visit the retirement planning sections on the Social Security website, SSA.gov.

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Boost your knowledge. Blogs like Empower Insights offer free information and tips to help you understand

employee benefits planning strategies.

and

retirement

“Anyone can benefit from professional financial advice,” said Edmund F. Murphy, president and CEO, Empower Retirement.

“And even if you’re just beginning to save for retirement, you may reap the benefits years later. Taking full advantage of all your workplace benefits is a great place to start.”

Retirement planning and saving can now benefit everyone, and can help improve your future financial outlook, no matter where you’re starting from today. (BPT) l

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TheHospitality Industryis Hiring:

HERE’S WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN JOB SEARCHING As vacation destinations reopen across the country and the busy summer travel season approaches, the hospitality industry is poised for significant growth.

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ccording to the latest jobs report, there were 280,000 new hires in the leisure and hospitality industry in March alone.

Many experts expect this momentum to continue to grow as travelers resume their typical vacation habits.

Whether you have experience in the hospitality field or not, heightened demand could mean big opportunities

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for job seekers. This is especially true for people interested in working in the vacation rental industry. According to a recent Skift Research survey of vacation rental users, 52% of guests plan to stay in a vacation rental more often in a postpandemic environment.

“To meet growing demand, we’re hiring for seasonal and full-time positions in top vacation destinations from the Carolina beaches to New England and the Oregon Coast,” said Aurora Moore, a talent acquisition manager at Vacasa, the leading vacation rental management platform in North America. “Vacation rentals have rebounded quicker than any other segment of the travel industry, and we’re in a position to offer good jobs and competitive pay to people who have lost work or had their hours reduced during the pandemic.”

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LIFESTYLE The current need for employees - and seasonal hiring incentives - is great news for people on the job hunt. If the hospitality industry sounds like a good fit for you, there are a few things to keep in mind when you’re searching and applying for new job opportunities:

Apply now: Hiring is hot right now and will continue into peak travel months as necessary. To find the ideal job for your schedule and skill set, explore opportunities early before others scoop them up, as hiring is happening fast.

Ask about bonuses: With demand for hospitality staffing so high, some companies are offering incentives if you accept a job

offer and stay in the role for a certain amount of time. For example, Vacasa is offering up to $500 hiring bonuses in select markets.

Consider safety: While safety protocols are common for guests, it’s important companies are taking additional steps to keep hospitality employees safe as well. Make sure you ask about and are comfortable with current COVID protocols.

Know application necessities: Some companies will require an official resume while others may have a simplified application process. For example, candidates can simply text “Vacasa” to 97211 to start their application process.

Explore job fairs: Look at different companies’ career pages and social media sites to learn about job fairs. Whether in person or virtual, these events provide the opportunity to meet with companies about multiple positions at once.

Know your availability: Know when you’ll be able to start, what hours you can work and if you want a seasonal position or would prefer permanent employment. Look for companies that offer the flexibility to meet your needs.

Research training: The hospitality industry is ideal for entry-level roles and for those who want to build their skills.

To ensure you’re successful, ask about a company’s training program during the interview process.

Factor in growth opportunity: Your “right now” job could turn into the right opportunity with advancement to grow. Ask about career paths and opportunities for moving up in the organization.

Check your gut: If you feel like the company you’re applying for is reputable and betters the community where it is located, you can feel good about working hard for them and supporting their mission.

“We’re looking for dedicated, reliable, and passionate team members who want to grow their careers in hospitality,” said Moore. “You can start at an entry-level position and, with hard work and teamfirst mentality, there’s no limit to the longterm opportunity. It’s a fun industry and an exciting time to be a part of it.” (BPT) l

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Teen FEATURING THE POTTERY COLLECTION FROM

Helen Levi X

Prettypegs Together with NYC-based potter Helen Levi, Swedish company Prettypegs is now launching a limited collection of ceramic knobs to give your IKEA furniture a one-of-a-kind look. In just minutes, your outdated IKEA cabinet such as Besta, Metod, or Ivar will transform into a modern, high end piece. kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HANNA GRANKVIST.

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andmade from tinted clay, these ribbed and unglazed knobs have a super tactile texture and were inspired by one of Helen’s previous designs which she calls “Corduroy” where clay pieces are made using an extruder, - basically a giant pasta maker - that pushes clay through a shaped die.

“Like most people, I have purchased many IKEA pieces over the years. In the past I’ve bought vintage knobs to make them more special because I didn’t know about Prettypegs - I love that people can make an affordable upgrade to their furniture to

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have more design in their home”, says Helen Levi and continues, “Making knobs felt like a natural extension of my work since I love creating something that is part of people’s everyday life.”

The Pottery Collection is limited and consists of two knobs; Corduroy Pin and Corduroy Knob, as well as a longer handle called the Corduroy Bar. They all come in the colors Terracotta, Sand, Dove Blue, and Sage Green, and you can either choose to go for a more subtle look with knobs in the same model and color - or mix and match models and colors all together for a more personal look.

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“We’re always looking for new inspiring ways for people to personalize IKEA furniture. I had admired Helen’s work on Instagram for a while and since we were interested in adding ceramics to our offer, I simply reached out asking if she wanted to design some ceramic knobs together with us, which I’m super happy she did!”, says Jana Cagin, founder and of Prettypegs.

Helen Levi: “Making knobs felt like a natural extension of my work since I love creating something that is part of people’s everyday life.”

The Pottery Collection is available on www.prettypegs.com. l

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Entrepreneur INSPIRES YOUTH WITH Community Projects

Young people in underserved communities in the United States have been especially hardhit by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, with many support systems and activities unavailable.

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owever, as the situation begins to improve, an up-and-coming organization seeks to support youth with a combination of skillbuilding and support.

Jump Ahead L3C, a hybrid for-profit/ nonprofit organization, is the brainchild of Deandre Jones, an entrepreneur in Grand Rapids, Michigan who is

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PHILANTHROPY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.JUMPEDAHEAD.COM.

committed to keeping young people off the streets and helping them develop valuable skills.

Jones founded Jump Ahead L3C in 2018 and won a $10,000 grant from the city of Grand Rapids SAFE Task Force Pitch Night to create a pilot program that would engage at-risk youth in the community.

This pilot project involved giving each member of a group of ten youth participants a $450 stipend to complete service-learning projects and attend a variety of skill-building workshops, events, and activity days. After the completion of the pilot project in August 2018, Jones began developing plans for a community center that will offer programs including arts and crafts, screen printing, e-sports, workshops, construction classes, yoga, music, basketball, and other activities.

“One of my goals in this is to inspire young entrepreneurs and people from all walks of life that if you work extremely hard and you believe in yourself, you can achieve anything and do it in a positive way,” he says.

Jones further describes his ultimate goal of establishing a community center to help improve local infrastructure, especially for underserved populations.

The center is in progress, and once completed, will be open 7 days a week to provide a place for members of the community to gather.

In addition, “We will also hire youth and pay them for service learning or community-based work as we did previously with the $10,000 grant,” he says.

Of course, raising money remains a challenge.

Jump Ahead L3C is currently selling baseball hats and seeking interested investors.

“Covid-19 has made it tougher for us to receive merchandise and to raise capital to purchase a building to operate our organization structure. We did apply for a PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) loan, but we were not approved,” he says in a recent interview in Forbes magazine.

Visit www.jumpedahead.com to learn more about Jump Ahead and for details about supporting the organization through donations or volunteering. (NewsUSA) l

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Teen (Google it!) A popular keynote speaker, Lenore has given talks everywhere from Microsoft to DreamWorks, as well as at K-12 schools and colleges across the country, including her alma mater, Yale. Prior to this, Lenore was a reporter and columnist at the New York Daily News and the New York Sun. She is also host of the reality TV show, “World’s Worst Mom.”

Free-Range Kids: After her newspaper column “Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone” landed her on The Today Show, NPR, Fox News and everywhere in between, Lenore was inspired to write Free-Range Kids. At its core, Free-Range parenting means giving kids more freedom and less supervision, boosting kids’ confidence – and parental confidence, too.

Let Grow: When adults step back, kids step up. Led by this motto, Lenore teamed up with research psychologist Dr. Peter Gray, former chairman of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education Daniel Shuchman, and NYU Prof. Jonathan Haidt, co-author of The Coddling of the American Mind to found Let Grow. Promoting childhood independence as the key to social-emotional growth, Let Grow offers two free Pre-K-8 programs: The Let Grow Project and Let Grow Play Club. Lenore is especially passionate about The Let Grow Project, which gives students a simple yet life-changing homework assignment: “Go home and do something new, on your own. Climb a tree, run an errand or make a meal…”

– the choices are endless, and the impact: immediate.

LENORE

SKENAZY

President, Co-Founder Let Grow New York

Who She Is: Lenore Skenazy is President and Co-Founder at Let Grow, a national nonprofit promoting childhood independence. She’s also author of Free-Range Kids, the book-turned-parenting-movement that garnered her the nickname, “America’s Worst Mom.”

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Turning The Tide: In many states, neglect laws are so broad and open to interpretation that parents can be investigated for something as simple as letting their children play outside on their own. That’s why, in addition to its school programs, Let Grow provides legislative resources to help narrow these laws, guaranteeing that parents who let their kids do things like walk to school, or stay home alone for a bit, will not run afoul of the authorities. Most recently, Lenore’s work in Oklahoma and Texas helped those legislatures pass “Reasonable Childhood Independence” bills, inspired by Utah’s 2018 “Free-Range Kids” bill. Lenore is nationally recognized as leader of the movement to make kids more capable, confident and curious by giving them some old-fashioned independence.

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INNETWORK Who She Is: Irshad Manji is an internationally bestselling author, Oprah award-winner, Oxford professor, and renowned public speaker. She recently founded Moral Courage ED, the national nonprofit that empowers students to hear, not fear, different perspectives. Known for advocating brave positions on polarizing issues — and in a way that gets all sides listening — Irshad is currently focused on helping schools achieve “diversity without division.” Her latest book, Don’t Label Me, has been called “genius” by Chris Rock because it reconciles free speech with social justice.

A Life-Long Journey: Irshad is driven by a hunger to teach people worldwide how to do the right thing in the face of our fears — otherwise known as Moral Courage Her mission has been a life-long journey. Growing up in a violent household, Irshad committed as a young woman to challenge all dogmas that divide society into Us and Them. She stands for the responsibility to ask questions, and the right to do so free from fear.

IRSHAD

MANJI

Founder Moral Courage ED New York, New York

Diversity Without Division: According to Irshad’s research, we humans are terrified of being judged negatively by our peers. That’s why we’ll easily conform, even to bad ideas.

And a bad idea sweeping through education today is the myth that we can honor diversity through divisive tactics.

False, says Irshad. Depicting certain groups of people as inherently oppressive and others as uniformly victimized strips all people of our common humanity. It also drains you and me of our unique individuality. In both cases, diversity loses. To practice diversity without division, Irshad has innovated the Moral Courage Method.

The Moral Courage Method: Informed by neuroscience and psychology, the Moral Courage Method equips students to communicate effectively across differences and disagreements. At its core is a basic law of human behavior: We usually open our hearts to those who give us a fair hearing first. In other words, if you want to move the needle on an issue that you’re passionate about — from racism to climate change to abortion to animal welfare — listen before speaking. This skillset is crucial to reaching durable solutions for the world’s biggest problems. Teaching it is the passion that propels Irshad Manji and Moral Courage ED.

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