#Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce

[rabbitcruiser]

The Conch Republic was a micronation declared as a tongue-in-cheek secession of the city of Key West from the United States on April 23, 1982.

[ausetkmt]

Florida quietly removes LGBTQ+ travel info from state website

FILE - Hundreds of people line Central Avenue and cheer during the 10th Annual St. Pete Pride Street Festival & Promenade in St. Petersburg, Fla. on June 30, 2012.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Key West, Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors and St. Petersburg are among several Florida cities that have long been top U.S. destinations for LGBTQ+ tourists. So it came as a surprise this week when travelers learned that Florida's tourism marketing agency quietly removed the “LGBTQ Travel” section from its website sometime in the past few months.

Business owners who cater to Florida's LGBTQ+ tourists said Wednesday that it marked the latest attempt by officials in the state to erase the LGBTQ+ community. Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis previously championed a bill to forbid classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, and supported a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, as well as a law meant to keep children out of drag shows.

“It's just disgusting to see this,” said Keith Blackburn, who heads the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “They seem to want to erase us.”

The change to Visit Florida's website was first reported by NBC News, which noted a search query still pulls up some listings for LGBTQ+-friendly places despite the elimination of the section.

John Lai, who chairs Visit Florida's board, didn't respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. Dana Young, Visit Florida's CEO and president, didn't respond to a voicemail message Wednesday, and neither did the agency's public relations director.

Visit Florida is a public-private partnership between the state of Florida and the state's tourism industry. The state contributes about $50 million each year to the quasi-public agency from two tourism and economic development funds.

Florida is one of the most popular states in the U.S. for tourists, and tourism is one of its biggest industries. Nearly 141 million tourists visited Florida in 2023, with out-of-state visitors contributing more than $102 billion to Florida’s economy.

Before the change, the LGBTQ+ section on Visit Florida's website had read, “There’s a sense of freedom to Florida’s beaches, the warm weather and the myriad activities — a draw for people of all orientations, but especially appealing to a gay community looking for a sense of belonging and acceptance.”

Blackburn said the change and other anti-LGBTQ+ policies out of Tallahassee make it more difficult for him to promote South Florida tourism since he encounters prospective travelers or travel promoters who say they don't want to do business in the state.

Last year, for instance, several civil rights groups issued a travel advisory for Florida, saying that policies championed by DeSantis and Florida lawmakers are “openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals.”

But visitors should also understand that many Florida cities are extremely inclusive, with gay elected officials and LGBTQ+-owned businesses, and they don't reflect the policies coming from state government, Blackburn added.

“It’s difficult when these kinds of stories come out, and the state does these things, and we hear people calling for a boycott,” Blackburn said. “On one level, it’s embarrassing to have to explain why people should come to South Florida and our destination when the state is doing these things.”

[commiepinkofag]

Don't Say Florida

Business owners who cater to Florida’s LGBTQ+ tourists said Wednesday that it marked the latest attempt by officials in the state to erase the LGBTQ+ community. Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis previously championed a bill to forbid classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, and supported a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, as well as a law meant to keep children out of drag shows.

“It’s just disgusting to see this,” said Keith Blackburn, who heads the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “They seem to want to erase us.” The change to Visit Florida’s website was first reported by NBC News, which noted a search query still pulls up some listings for LGBTQ+-friendly places despite the elimination of the section.

[realtorjamier]

Things to do in July in the DMV!

July is hot – and we’re not just talking fireworks. Outdoor fun is abundant around here. Whether you believe that the U.S. is a melting pot or a salad bowl, our area is home to a delicious mix of cultures and experiences. Check out these activities to know where to go and what to expect.

July 1

Family Ice Cream Social at Heritage Frederick Heritage Frederick Garden Located behind the big white house/museum at 24 East Church Street Frederick, Md.

This FREE ice cream social from 1 to 4 p.m. is happening compliments of the volunteers of Heritage Frederick. Ice cream will be served and good old fashioned games 

July 1

DC Black Food and Wine Festival 2700 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE Washington, DC

Savor the samplings from Black-owned food and wine vendors and enjoy live performances at this event that brings together the best of African-American cuisine and culture.

July 1

A Taste of the DMV REPUBLIQ 2122 24th Place NE Washington, DC

This food and cultural festival is for ages 21 and older and features craft drinks, a beer garden, wine tastings, live art and music, contests, games and entertainment. Foods include Latin, French, African, Greek, Asian, Italian, and more.

July 2

The Biggest Cookout Ever

Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods 10431 Little Patuxent Parkway Columbia, Md.

The Biggest Cookout Ever is an outdoor food festival for guests 21 years or older. This ultimate cookout experience promotes inclusivity, diversity, and community.

July 7 – 9

Romanian Weekend at The Wharf 760 Maine Ave SW Washington, DC

Organized by the Romanian Embassy and the Romanian Cultural Institute, this weekend event highlights Romanian culture – old and new – and includes folk music and dancing, jazz and hip-hop, traditional crafts demonstrations, literary performances, culinary presentations, wine tasting, and more. 

July 8

USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration Oronoco Bay Park 100 Madison St. Alexandria, Va.

The City of Alexandria celebrates its 274th birthday and the USA’s 247th birthday on Sat., July 8, with a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and a grand finale fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. Enjoy the big birthday experience including cupcakes, local vendors, and live music.

July 15

Key West Fest Breaux Vineyards 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane Purcellville, Va.

Whether you feel like “lei”-ing out or dancing, the Key West Fest at Breaux’s has everything you need to cool off while enjoying fun in the sun. Food and craft vendors, live music, and of course, fine wine all add to the experience.

July 15

Archaeology Family Day George Washington’s Mount Vernon 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Va.

Meet a Mount Vernon archaeologist and explore how archaeology has shaped what we know about George and Martha Washington and the enslaved people who lived at Mount Vernon.

July 21

Don McLean American Pie 50th Anniversary Tour Birchmere Music Hall 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, Va.

Grammy-award honoree, Songwriters Hall of Fame member, and BBC Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Don McLean will bring his American Pie 50th Anniversary Tour to the Birchmere Music Hall. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of one of the most iconic songs and albums ever this year, McLean will entertain fans and prove that “Bye-bye, Miss American Pie” will forever remain a classic staple in music. 

July 22

The Raid: Minute-by-Minute at Harpers Ferry Allies for Freedom Room 801 Shenandoah St. Harpers Ferry, W.V.

Step back in time with this presentation that looks at the 36 hours of the raid, dissecting the movements of all 21 raiders and John Brown.

July 22

La Placita DMV Gateway Pavilion 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE Washington, DC

This vibrant celebration of Puerto Rican culture and community features live performances, food trucks, artisans and craft vendors, cabezudos (head puppets), and DOMINAZO, a domino tournament in partnership with the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Domino USA.

July 22

Purcellville Wine & Food Festival Dillon’s Woods Purcellville, Va.

Head to the heart of DC’s wine country for this event and enjoy food and snack vendors, live music, artists – and of course, fine wine.

July 22

Colombian Festival The Catholic University of America University Garage 3598 John McCormack Rd. NE Washington, DC

Dance, art, food and folklore galore, this festival celebrates Colombian culture, art, gastronomy, and music.

July 28

Outlaw Music Festival Merriweather Post Pavilion Columbia, Md.

The 2023 Outlaw tour celebrates Willie Nelson’s legendary life and legacy in his milestone 90th birthday year. The Maryland tour includes Willie Nelson & Family, Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats, Kurt Vile and The Violators, and more.

July 31 to Aug. 3

Twilight History for Youth Fredericksburg, Va.

Children ages 8 to 12 learn hands-on 18th-century skills, trades, and recipes during four nights, at four historic sites in Fredericksburg, Va. They’ll explore the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, the Rising Sun Tavern, the Mary Washington House, and the Mary Washington Monument.

[adalidda]

Illustration Photo: Village members taking care of the home garden and preparing the land. Ang Chork. Pantaly village. Moung District. Battambang, Cambodia (credits: Fani Llauradó for WorldFish Cambodia / Flickr Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0))

USAID - Co-Creating and Partnering for Impact via Global Development Alliances

For Afghanistan, Pakistan, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Gambia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, Burma, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pacific Islands, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Venezuela, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, West Bank and Gaza, Yemen

Consistent with USAID’s Private Sector Engagement Policy, the focus of this APS is proactive engagement of and collaboration with the private sector in the identification and definition of key business and development problems and opportunities; the development and co-creation of market-based and market-oriented approaches to solve those problems and seize those opportunities; and the facilitation and implementation of such approaches.

In order for a collaboration to be a GDA and eligible for pursuit under the GDA APS, it must involve a core working relationship with one or more of the private sector entities listed below. 8 In addition, the private sector leverage requirement under the GDA APS can only be met by entities from this same list. Eligible private sector entities are limited to:

• Private for-profit, commercial entities such as a business, corporation, small or medium enterprise or private firm;

• Private foundations affiliated with private for-profit, commercial entities;

• Private equity or private financial institutions, including banks, private investment firms, mutual funds, private equity funds and insurance companies;

• Private business or industry associations, including but not limited to chambers of commerce and related types of entities;

or

• Cooperatives.

Global Development Alliances provide businesses with a number of opportunities to achieve core business interests. By participating in a GDA, businesses have been able to improve supply chain quality and reliability; increase sales; mobilize finance and investment; expand their customer base and access to new markets; develop new products and services; foster valuable policy reform; reduce operating costs; increase productivity; improve distribution systems; increase access to sufficiently qualified and skilled talent; improve relationships with key stakeholders; increase brand awareness; and mitigate key business risks.

By leveraging USAID capabilities and assets, businesses are able to have greater success:

• USAID supported technical assistance to small scale distributors in the mobile telecoms sector has helped our private sector partners grow sales to new markets and previously underserved customer groups;

• USAID-supported technical assistance to small-scale farmers and cooperatives has increased the reliability and quality of key agricultural commodity value chains;

• USAID’s support for workforce development and education programs in the ICT sector has provided businesses with the mix of human capital needed to improve productivity, reduce investment risk, and expand business operations;

• USAID’s expertise and programs in risk mitigation have helped financial institutions expand markets and improve returns;

• USAID’s support for HIV/AIDS, health and nutrition programs in the manufacturing, textiles, agricultural and extractive sectors has reduced absenteeism among employees or supply chain producers, thereby reducing costs and increasing labor productivity.

• USAID’s collaboration with private equity firms and financial intermediaries has fostered increased investment in clean energy technologies and enhanced business opportunities and job creation in the sector, while also enabling the private sector to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and address shareholder concerns.

• USAID-supported policy reforms may help reduce risk, limit regulatory uncertainty and promote a broader enabling environment supportive of business investment and success;

• USAID’s convening power, credibility and extensive networks and working relationships with national and local governments, local, regional, and global NGOs, civil society groups, and foundations may help companies expand their license to operate, enhance community relations, and strengthen stakeholder relationships.

Application Deadline: December 16, 2022

Check more https://adalidda.com/posts/GJai2r4B3kKNnC3AY/usaid-co-creating-and-partnering-for-impact-via-global

[rabbitcruiser]

The Conch Republic was a micronation declared as a tongue-in-cheek secession of the city of Key West from the United States on April 23, 1982  

[naturecoaster]

NatureCoaster.com wins Six Excellence-in-Craft Awards

The Florida Outdoor Writers’ Association held its 2021 Conference in Venice, Florida, and hosted its Excellence-in-Craft awards on August 21. Sponsored by Visit Sarasota County and Discover Crystal River and the Plantation Resort, Ascend Hotel Collection, the Florida Outdoor Writers Association 2021 Excellence in Craft awards recognize FOWA members who produced outstanding content in the form of broadcast, digital, and print media during 2020. NatureCoaster.com had six of its 2020 feature stories chosen for these coveted awards, making it the publication to receive the most awards received at the Conference! “We are so honored to have such talented writers working with NatureCoaster to connect readers to the best Florida’s Nature Coast has to offer,” said Publisher and Founder, Diane Bedard. You can read the stories that won below: Conservation Story, sponsored by West Volusia Tourism - Second Place: Diane Bedard - Saving Crystal River Family Participation in the Outdoors, sponsored by Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau - First Place: Sally White - Levy County's Best Kept Secret: the Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve - Third Place: Sally White - Hiking the Blue Run Historic Railway Trail Outdoor Travel & Destination Story, sponsored by Florida’s Adventure Coast - First Place: Sally White – Dunnellon’s Rainbow Springs Then and Now - Third Place: Paul Presson - Discovering Anclote’s Hidden Treasure Online Blog Post, sponsored by Misty Wells of Let's Take it Outside - Second Place: Diane Bedard - Bringing the Butterflies Back to Dade City About NatureCoaster.com's Award-Winning Writers Sally White is an avid kayaker and spring hunter. Sally won three awards for her feature stories in NatureCoaster.com, as well as Best of Conference! Image by Sydney White. Sally White is an avid kayaker and spring hunter. She is also an award-winning outdoor writer, photographer, and artist with 20+ years of experience. Sally’s contributions are found in publications world-wide. A member of Florida Outdoor Writers Association, she enjoys exploring the wilder side of Florida and believes introducing families to the wonders of the outdoors is key to saving these natural resources for future generations. Sally also publishes Adventures of Mom and Florida for Families. Paul Presson is an award-winning cartoonist and writer. He won third place in FOWA's Excellence in Craft Awards for his story, Discovering Anclote's Hidden Treasure on NatureCoaster.com. Image by Janice Presson. Paul Presson is an award-winning writer, cartoonist, and American Veteran. He is a passionate fisherman who takes vets on wade-fishing excursions and loves outdoor adventure. Paul is an artist. He created the map in Discovering Anclote’s Hidden Treasure from scratch and enjoys upcycling and gardening. Diane Bedard, founder of NatureCoaster.com proudly displays her two awards for stories published in 2020 on NatureCoaster.com. Image by Dennis Bedard. Diane Bedard is the creator of NatureCoaster.com and a passionate advocate for Florida’s Nature Coast and the small businesses and organizations that make it home. Diane formerly published the local edition of Travelhost magazine, and has won numerous Excellence-in-Craft awards for her stories about the area. “ I love to share my favorite places, and the stories behind them with NatureCoaster’s audience,” Diane said. About Florida Outdoor Writer's Association Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association is a statewide 501(c)3 paid membership organization of professional outdoor writers who seek to continuously increase their skills through education, maintaining the highest standards of journalistic excellence. Its membership is made up of the outdoor industry’s top communicators, conservationists, and industry-related companies. NatureCoaster.com has earned Several Awards NatureCoaster.com is an award-winning online magazine that began in 2014. Some of the magazine’s previous awards include • Best Local/Events Blog 2018 Sunshine Blog Award from Florida BlogCon• Top 3 Community/Events Blog 2019 Sunshine Blog Award from Florida BlogCon• First Place Outdoor Travel & Destination Story – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2019• First Place Conservation Story – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2020• First Place Outdoor Video category – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2017• Second Place Self-promotion category – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2017• Third Place – Family Participation in the Outdoors Story – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2020 NatureCoaster.com has won several awards since its inception in 2014. It was also featured in the book, Blog for Bucks by Jaqueline Bodnar. Additionally, NatureCoaster was featured in the book, Blog for Bucks by Jaqueline Bodnar, published in 2019. NatureCoaster.com has a Mission to Connect the World with the best of Florida's Nature Coast NatureCoaster.com’s mission is to connect readers with the best of Florida’s Nature Coast through feature stories, a directory of local businesses, and an extensive events calendar covering Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco Counties. Pat Manfredo, an award-winning local photographer, contributes a nature photo daily to the site. Interested visitors can sign up for the weekly e-zine on the homepage. The White Heron Tea & Gifts attracts visitors from throughout the Nature Coast and Tampa Bay. Image by Dawne. Our Partners Make the Publication Possible Businesses and organizations who are interested in partnering with NatureCoaster.com to get the word out about their offerings can find more information on our demographics here. Our current partners include: - Florida's Adventure Coast - Discover Crystal River - Southwest Water Management District - City of New Port Richey - Cavallo Farm and Market - Chinsegut Hill Retreat - The White Heron Tea & Gifts - The Red Brick Place - Shamrock Restoration & Painting - Chop Block Grill - Heartwood Preserve - Citrus County Chamber of Commerce - Just Amuse Me - Whittel and Melton - Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters - The Kumquat Festival/Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce - The Tampa Bay History Center/Chinsegut Hill Historic Property - Jason Biggs, Realtor, Century21 Alliance Realty And many events and organizations that promote their offerings with us. We couldn't do this without you! Please contact us about how we can best work together to get your information out to our readers. Read the full article

[sparkyslanding]

TACO & TEQUILA TUESDAY!!! Come see us for lunch, happy hour or dinner. Open 11am-10pm Live Music w/ Roger Jokela FEED THE SOUL #tacotuesday #coconutmargarita #besthappyhour #bestfishtacos #feedthesoul #livemusic #tacos #tequila #tacosandtequila #whatshappeninginmarathon #whatshappeningkeycolonybeach #happyhour #floridakeys #keywest #islamoradaflorida #hawkscay #islabella #mastequila #margaritas #coronacerveza #openairdining #rogerjokela @rogerjokela Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce Great Locations - Florida Keys/Key West Miami Living Magazine The Black Keys Key West, Florida Visit Islamorada Fairfield Inn & Suites Marathon Florida Keys Marathon Florida Keys Courtyard by Marriott Marathon Florida Keys Hawks Cay Resort Captain Hook's Dive Shop, Marathon Key What's Happening Florida Travel Channel Jolly Roger RV Resort, Grassy Key, FL (at Marathon, Florida) https://www.instagram.com/p/CNDHUoDD859/?igshid=2ek33f2cyjtq

[thedeskside]

11 Resilience-Building Habits for Stressed Healthcare Workers

The pandemic has pushed healthcare workers to their limits. Burnout was already a serious problem in the industry, but after a year-long front row view of COVID’s devastation, burnout levels are on the rise and traumatic stress is taking a toll. And yet, healthcare workers must find a way to keep showing up and doing one of the toughest jobs around. The big question is, how?

Practicing healthy habits are the key to building up your resilience skills, say Drs. Hendel and Goulston, and with greater resiliency you can thrive despite the long-term challenges of the pandemic.

Do frequent self “check-ins” to recognize when your stress levels are rising. When you’re busy and under pressure to perform, it’s easy to go on “autopilot.” Therefore, periodically pause and do a quick self-assessment throughout the day. Consider your emotional state (Do I feel friendly and engaged, or edgy and aggressive?) as well as your physical state (Is my body calm and at ease, or is it holding onto tension?). “Take 20 or 30 seconds to scan your body and identify areas that may be holding onto tension or stress,” says Dr. Goulston. “For example, you might be carrying tension in your jaw or shoulders. When you notice an area that is tense, gently release the tension. Over time it should become easier to recognize when stress begins to take hold—and to do something about it.” Ground yourself when you start feeling overwhelmed. Grounding is a great way to reduce anxiety and arrive in the here and now. Dr. Hendel advises that you use it anytime you feel carried away by anxious thoughts or feelings, or triggered by upsetting memories and flashbacks.

Find a comfortable place to sit (or stand). If sitting, rest your hands on your legs. Feel the fabric of your clothing. Notice its color and texture.

Next, bring your awareness to your body. Stretch your neck from side to side. Relax your shoulders. Tense and relax your calves. Stomp your feet.

Look around and notice the sights, sounds, and scents around you for a few moments.

Name 15-20 things you can see. For example, the floor, a light, a desk, a sink.

As you keep looking around, remind yourself that “The flashback or emotion I felt is in the past. Right now, in this moment, I’m safe.”

Pause and take a few deep breaths. We tend to hold our breath whenever we are stressed, but this only exacerbates feelings of anxiety and panic. Instead, use “box breathing” to calm yourself and heighten your concentration. Box breathing is the technique of taking slow, deep, full breaths. Here’s a tutorial for when you’re feeling triggered. Slowly exhale your breath through your mouth. Consciously focus on clearing all the oxygen from your lungs. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose for four slow counts. Hold your breath for four more slow counts. On the next four counts, exhale again through your mouth until your lungs are empty. Hold your breath again for a final slow count of four beats. Try the 12 words exercise to process traumatic stress. This powerful tool helps you tap into your feelings when you feel “stuck” due to trauma by gently visiting key words one at a time. Paradoxically, naming a feeling that you’re having and letting yourself fully experience it actually lessens tension more than it increases it. As Drs. Goulston and Hendel say, “If you can name it, you can tame it.” You can do the 12 words exercise on your own, in therapy, or as part of a group exercise. If doing it on your own, imagine a trusted friend or loved one gently and empathetically guiding you through the exercise. If you are in a group, the moderator can lead the exercise by speaking each word to the group, or to a single person in the group. You don’t have to cover all the words at once. You can focus on just one or two words, take a break, and start on a new word later.

STEP 1: Read the following words out loud: Anxious, Afraid, Overwhelmed, Fragile, Depressed, Frustrated, Angry, Ashamed, Alone, Lonely, Exhausted, Numb. STEP 2: Pick one of these words that most captures what you’re feeling when you’re greatly stressed and then focus on it. STEP 3: Imagine feeling this feeling at its worst. STEP 4: What does this feeling make you want to impulsively do? STEP 5: Imagine saying what you want to do to a person who loves you, and picture them smiling with love and compassion and saying back to you, “I understand.” STEP 6: Imagine feeling their love taking some of the pain away. STEP 7: Imagine them asking you, “What would be a better thing to do?”

Reach for something that anchors you in the present moment. Carry a small reminder of what you love about your life and focus on it if you feel triggered and need to center yourself. It might be a photo of your kids or pet, a small rock you picked up on a scenic nature hike, or a special necklace. Think of the gratitude you feel for your life whenever you look at this token. Keep something that makes you laugh nearby. Humor is a great way to alleviate stress. Tape a clip of a funny cartoon to your work area or carry a small notebook with jokes that make you laugh every time you read them. Use calming affirmations to give you strength and peace. Written positive statements can give you a lift when you feel yourself sinking. If self-talk is not for you, imagine a supportive other saying these to you in your mind’s eye. A few examples:

I am great at my job, and my training and skills are empowering.

I feel energized and ready for anything the day has in store for me.

I accept myself as I am. I am enough.

I am safe in this moment.

Let your feelings out (when possible). At times you may find you need to step away from your duties for a few minutes and give those intense emotions some “breathing room.” Try to move to a different room so you can cry or discreetly express your feelings. Sometimes you need to release the stress that’s built up in your body, and finding a private place to let the tears fall or vent for a few minutes can lighten your stress and enable you to get back to work.

Play a mind game. “If there is no way to speak to someone else and you need comfort in the moment, imagine talking to someone who loves you,” says Dr. Goulston. “Imagine that they are listening and lovingly holding and encouraging you. As you hear them talking and walking you through it, you will feel their love and belief in you. This kind of mental pep talk can be a bridge until you are able to speak your feelings to somebody in person.” Head outdoors for a few minutes. If at all possible, try to get outside for a few minutes of fresh air during your shift. Take deep breaths, stretch your arms and legs, and take in the gifts of nature around you. And if possible, find someone else who is on a break and invite them for a 10-minute walk so the two of you can blow off steam.

Rediscover the simple pleasures around you. Traumatic stress can make the world appear and feel dangerous, with threats lurking around every corner. That’s why it is important to stay immersed in the joys of life. Focusing on simple pleasures promotes healing and helps you enjoy your life in the process. For example:

Get lost in a good book. Don’t just read a few pages before bedtime. Really allow yourself to indulge. Set aside 30 minutes after work or in the morning before starting your day to escape into a captivating story.

Take a walk. Even if it is only five minutes long, commit to taking a walk every day. Chances are, by the time those five minutes are up, you will want to keep going.

Find a creative outlet. Think gardening, playing a musical instrument, putting together a puzzle, or even coloring in an adult coloring book.

          Don’t just turn to these strategies when you feel stress or anxiety rising in your mind or body. Intentionally practice them daily—even if you are feeling calm and in control. Over time they will become second nature.

          “Resilience isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have,’ it’s a ‘must-have,’” concludes Dr. Hendel. “And it will continue serving you long after the pandemic is over.”

Diana Hendel, PharmD Dr. Diana Hendel is the coauthor of Why Cope When You Can Heal?: How Healthcare Heroes of COVID-19 Can Recover from PTSD (Harper Horizon, December 2020) and Trauma to Triumph: A Roadmap for Leading Through Disruption and Thriving on the Other Side (HarperCollins Leadership, Spring 2021). She is an executive coach and leadership consultant, former hospital CEO, and author of Responsible: A Memoir, a riveting and deeply personal account of leading during and through the aftermath of a deadly workplace trauma. As the CEO of Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital, Hendel led one of the largest acute care, trauma, and teaching hospital complexes on the West Coast. She has served in leadership roles in numerous community organizations and professional associations, including chair of the California Children’s Hospital Association, executive committee member of the Hospital Association of Southern California, vice chair of the Southern California Leadership Council, chair of the Greater Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, board member of the California Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and leader-in-residence of the Ukleja Center for Ethical Leadership at California State University Long Beach.

Mark Goulston, MD, FAPA Dr. Mark Goulston is the coauthor of Why Cope When You Can Heal?: How Healthcare Heroes of COVID-19 Can Recover from PTSD (Harper Horizon, December 2020) and Trauma to Triumph: A Roadmap for Leading Through Disruption and Thriving on the Other Side (HarperCollins Leadership, Spring 2021). He is a board-certified psychiatrist, fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, former assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA NPI, and a former FBI and police hostage negotiation trainer. He is the creator of Theory Y Executive Coaching—which he provides to CEOs, presidents, founders, and entrepreneurs—and is a TEDx and international keynote speaker.

This is a guest post.

[endeavorsreward]

Excerpt (Bk. I, Ch. 3)

1996 OV / 1233 ZA

Month of Scorpio

The Grand Hall of Lesalia Castle was filled with but a tenth of the court—at absolute best—but in Louveria’s eyes it was far too crowded.

Behind the head seats was a frieze depicting the Hero-King Mesa leading his people from the sky to Lesalia; it was designed in the age of Devanne I so that parts could be seen-through into the hall unnoticed. She stood there now, watching the men converse each with an eye towards the door from which she’d enter.

Zalbaag Beoulve was offering a bow to Duke Druksmald Goltanna, though he looked peevish. “I admit to surprise,” he was saying, “As I thought Baron Grimms would be in attendance. I’d thought to discuss the connections between these bandit groups, else I’d be still with my own men in pursuit.”

“The commander of the Blackram Knights pursues an urgent lead in Zeltennia, I’m told.” Goltanna scratched at his belly, which strained against his doublet. Goltanna was still solidly built even at fifty-six years of age, but he was keg-shaped beneath the layers of finery, and his mustache, which dropped below his chin, was always uncomfortably damp. His were the only eyes in the room that kept glancing towards the frieze, unapologetically. The Black Lion was a man of secrets—if the Northern Sky had its numbers, the Southern surely had its subtler arts—and he wanted her to know that he was full aware of her intent. “I shall have one of my attendants convey any message you’d like. Communication and cooperation are surely key in unearthing these rats before they nibble anything more of value.”

Her eyes slid to one side, where Confessor Rousseau was meeting with one of Goltanna’s sizable entourage, whose absurd hat of station marked him easily for Bishop Haimirich Canne-Beurich, who was the highest church representative in Zeltennia and also fully in Goltanna’s pocket. He was older even than the Duke, and clutched at his crook like it held him up as he nodded at some report that Rousseau gave. She scowled.

And further back were two of that wretched Council of Nobles themselves, talking to Goltanna’s Galgastani pet. The one pointedly not looking at the dark-skinned Baron of Bolmina was the Earl Carston Sovlique, who was of little consequence—he was there only to give the benefit of numbers to Baron Etgar Minadette, who was laughing at some jest, standing with the posture of a man for whom all the world turned.

Her fists crushed into her gown. She stood up straight, checked herself and her crown and marched towards the door that would admit her. She heard Ser Garland’s spear tamp the floor twice. “Her royal majesty, Queen Louveria Atkascha.” And she entered with all the imperiousness at her disposal, looking at none of them, sweeping in like a thundercloud. She commanded all of their attention, which was as it should be, as the sun would wilting flowers.

Or perhaps, she thought darkly, as meat would hungry sharks.

She gave them a moment’s pause to judge the degrees to which they bowed. Rousseau offered a perfunctory bowed head, but Canne-Beurich did not even bother with that. The rest, however, showed the proper deference. “You may rise, gentlemen. We would see as always good works performed here in the name of all our lands, Ivalice.” She’d rather hold meetings such as these in the throne room. In that space, the differences in their stations would stand in relief. But this was how things were done, and to suggest the move would raise ire, would suggest she... well, that she was making a statement of power, which is exactly what she wanted to do. But she was only acting as proxy for the ailing king, and to push too hard would not secure her position, but rather the opposite. Some of these men were hungry. But she did not sit, so that they could not sit either. “We thank especially our cousin for making the long journey from Zeltennia.” She afforded Goltanna a nod. “We hear that the roads are less safe these days, explaining his decision as always to come bearing larger entourage.”

Goltanna’s look was dry, save for that wet-wick mustache of his. “Your majesty’s compassion is endless, and so I speak with pride in informing you that the roads grow safer daily—indeed, both Skies fall upon the bandits who have been ungrateful in the face of your largess.”

“Oh? We are gratified to hear that these traitors to the crown are put to rout, as we’d heard quite the opposite.” She looked to the Knight Devout. “Is your success greater than my hearing?”

Honest, honest Zalbaag Beoulve shifted his weight from one foot to the other, looking uncomfortable. “It would ne’er be my place to correct Your Majesty in any matter.” Goltanna glared at him.

“As always, Ser Zalbaag, you do your family’s honor proud in the realm of loyalty, though perhaps less so of late in that of results.” She waved her hand, casting the matter aside. “Surely, Lord Goltanna wishes only to reassure us of your mutual further endeavors. But we would remind you both that it is the leaders of such rebellions who most concern us, for examples must be made. My husband our king has saintly patience for much, even in his illness, but little for the act of treason. Folles and his ilk must be made corpses for true for the safety of our citizenry. We’ve a mind to let them swing from ropes at Golgollada itself for high- and low-born alike to witness.”

“As in the tale of Balias and the demon Leviathan,” offered Rousseau with a grin, “to fell a serpent, the head must be removed.”

Her nostrils flared. Zalbaag coughed. Goltanna’s eyebrow raised. Canne-Beurich looked like he was asleep.

“Mayhap the Confessor has dealt for too long with heretics and not with people of Quality,” offered Etgar. “Else he’d consider that speaking in those terms to a ‘head’ of state might be considered... inappropriate.”

Chastened���or faux-chastened—Rousseau looked down. “I assure you, ‘twas only mine intent to affirm Her Majesty’s edict. Indeed, the site of Ajora’s own death by hanging might be too good for bandits of their sort.”

“We shall take your... advisement into consideration, Confessor Rousseau.” Louveria’s lips thinned. “To return to matters of import, we understand that the Marquis de Limberry meets with our brother to the west.” She did not know why, but she did not say such. To admit that she and Larg were not communicating would be a sign of weakness.

“He did separate from our caravan at Dorter and continued on west,” Goltanna admitted. “He bid me pay Your Majesty all respects, but hoped that you’d find it no insult, as he was not himself the party summoned to this chamber.”

“The Marquis is a never-ending font of humility,” Louveria said. “One suspects it comes from being ground under Ordallian boot-heel.” Goltanna took the comment in stride, but behind him, the Baron of Bolmina tensed. She couldn’t remember his name, and didn’t care to re-learn it. At the Baron’s side, a dark-skinned scribe with his hair pulled back scribbled notes on the meeting without ever looking up. Likely the man’s spawn.

“I’m likely to blame for the Marquis, Your Majesty.” Etgar Minadette bowed. He was frustratingly handsome, young features under a mop of brown hair and possessing a rogue’s eyes. He held a majority stake in Zeltennian trade and he had the charisma to leverage that coin into a significant seat on the Council. He had a reputation for being noble in more than title, but that reputation didn’t stop him from raising his star higher by the day. “Duke Larg did offer me of late some measure of support in matters commercial, and the Marquis hopes to finalize some agreements of trade, that he might increase the coffers for rebuilding Limberry.”

She raised her chin. “It is often that “matters commercial’ are beneath the crown, when they do not pertain to taxies levied.” She tried to look thoughtful and curious, despite knowing the answer to her inquiries before she asked them. “But we hear the whisper of rumors in the halls of Lesalia, that it is your hope to open a corridor of trade to the east where there yet is none.”

Etgar’s face fell.

“We hold the Council’s enterprising nature in esteem,” she continued, “For it keeps our kingdom not only solvent, but thriving, a hub of commerce and culture that does past generations and present proud. But though Ivalice has ceased hostilities with Ordallia, we shall not open trade at this time. For with the king’s ill health, we cannot allow the possibility of open borders, that spies might enter in the guise of merchants in a time of weakness. And indeed, these uprisings trouble us, that they divert our knights away from the borders, where they might serve as a source of security and properly investigate traders of that sort. As ever, the safety of Ivalice must be our prime concern.”

Etgar’s mouth opened and closed a few times before he managed a “Yes, of course, Your Majesty.”

She faked a yawn. “Mayhap mon cousin could lower the tax by... hm, no, one percent is enough. You shall recoup some cost, and the people will see that Lesalia does not forget them.”

“As Your Majesty wishes,” grumbled Goltanna, “Though I’d point out that this will slow the rebuilding effort. Sal Ghidos is in much the same state it was the day the war ceased, and Limberry...”

“Bishop Canne-Beurich.” She rolled her eyes as Rousseau prodded the old man. “Could not the Church of Glabados send some aid to those poor souls of Sal Ghidos? The good Duke has left them to poverty and ruin.”

“Hm? Oh, well...” He dabbed at his forehead with a handkerchief. “Your majesty, Mullonde is leery of sending its agents to close to the border when matters are so fraught...”

“Come now, Bishop.” She clucked her tongue. “We speak not of Templars and Confessors, but rather some charitable abunas with a mind to feed and clothe the less fortunate, as blessed Ajora himself would have done. Unless you suggest that the Duke has let the town fall to inquity?”

Goltanna was turning purple.

“I commend Your Majesty in turning to the church.” Zalbaag said without irony. “Those only recently liberated from the Ordallian heathens could use the return of the light of Ajora.” It was refreshing to have Ser Zalbaag there, a man with virtually no guile. She should make greater effort to point his sword-tip in directions to her benefit.

The Baron of Bolmina leaned forward, whispered in Goltanna’s ear. Louveria’s eyes fell again upon the little scribe, no more than sixteen, who continued to scribble at a pace possessed... even when none were speaking that he could hear. Curious. Goltanna, for his part, seemed to find himself and cleared his throat.

“Since Your Majesty is “shining the light” of your own compassion at present, I wonder if we yet might appeal to your more beneficent instincts in another, not wholly unrelated matter.” He rubbed his belly through the straining clothes. “A matter of housing.”

“Do you not let the Baron sleep indoors, then?” She jested, but other than a wan smile from Zalbaag and a muffled chuckle from Sovlique, nobody seemed much amused. “Very well. We shall hear your proposal.”

“Mm.” Goltanna puffed up a bit. “Your Majesty is well-familiar with the stated grievances of the banditry, regarding owed funds. And all assembled here agree with the crown’s assertion that such grievances are falsehoods, truly.” She glanced at Zalbaag, but he was merely listening intently. It had been the Council’s assertion, in fact, but when she had agreed, it had become royal decree. “We do allow, however, that some of our loyal soldiery did suffer hardship upon war’s end, returning home to lands that had suffered Ordallian looting and destruction.”

“Our heart bleeds as ever for the loyal knights of Ivalice,” she offered, “though to suffer loss in war is inevitable, tragic though we may find it. How are you proposing to redress this ill, that does not draw from coffers we know to be less than full?” For in truth, there was next to nothing left. Reducing the tax a single percent was a symbolic gesture she made in compromise, but the war had left the kingdom with nothing but the unburnt fields west of the Algost and the private stores that men like Minadette and Sovlique were sitting upon. And she could not afford to take a loan and fall into the Council’s debt.

“I have met with the Council upon this matter. The Marquis, as well, was most insistent that we provide for the welfare of his land’s liberators.” He gave a nod to the Knight Devout. “Begging pardon, those liberators of our own territories.”

“They fought no less bravely,” said Ser Zalbaag, and bowed.

“Just so! And so we think to offer them not coin, but opportunity.” Goltanna’s mustache twitched. The Camp Groffovia established just east of Bervenia, in order to protect that holy land, now lies all but empty with the border secure. But it need not lie in waste, as ‘tis all but settled land. We think to offer the land as the site of a new village, under my provenance and responsibility, for the families of knights who seek a fresh start at war’s close.”

“We have never halted the movement of our citizenry,” she said dourly, already suspecting where this was going.

“The land will need new leadership. We, the Council and I both, think to ennoble—or further ennoble, that the land can be governed justly.”

“Mullonde views this proposition favorably,” said Canne-Beurich unnecessarily. “For those who defended the place of Ajora’s birth to find new, honest lives at its borders is a path that walks in line with the faith.”

So: enrich the Council of Nobles with further numbers, and allow Goltanna to amass knights at Lesalia’s border. Else, denounce a plan whose details would and will filter out to the commoners, and raise further rebellion, embolden the Order of the Ebon Eye and the Grounded Doves—and make a further enemy of the Church of Glabados, to say nothing of the Marquis, who was a loyalist at his core. It was no decision at all.

She gazed over to the Council members in attendance, and saw Etgar whispering fiercely in Carston’s direction. Which meant that Etgar had no idea, that he’d only been brought before the court as a patsy, a voice she could shout down so that Goltanna’s actual plan would be a compromise.

...Which meant Rousseau had known all along. She did not look in his direction.

The people of Lesalia already spoke of her in hushed tones as a tyrant. They already spoke of hoping the illness of the king would spread to his son.

She closed her eyes. Goltanna had the grace not to smile. When she opened them, she looked at last upon the Baron of Bolmina’s stoic expression.

“Baron, forgive us, as our memory is oft-distracted by worry for our husband of late, that we forget your name.”

He bowed low. “Ulric Navarre of Bolmina, Your Majesty.”

“You are modest indeed, to only whisper your idea to your lord the Duke.” She nodded to him. “Your proposal is accepted. We shall receive a list of names to consider the addition of further peerage to the realm.”

Sovlique gasped. Goltanna flinched.

Whether it was his idea or not, let all of Ivalice know it was the Baron’s idea. Some would not care for matters of race, but some would. And Goltanna would not be the hero of the people for his maneuver. It was no victory, but it was the only play she had remaining.

She favored the Earl with a look. “Lord Sovlique.” A rat-faced man with a thin mustache, his earldom included the aforementioned Sal Ghidos, and yet he’d not seen fit to speak up regarding its fate. “In the matter of our Southern Sky and its valiant knights, we rely often upon the wisdom of Count Orlandeau, yet he could not appear before us this day.”

“Er...” He looked to Goltanna for aid.

“With Baron Grimms on the hunt for banditry, the Count stands watch over Besselat, as ever in service to the crown,” the Duke mumbled.

“We suspected as much.” Did he even know of this plan? Or had he approved it? “We task you, Lord Sovlique, with relaying to the Count what has occurred here.”

Puzzled: “I serve your will, Your Majesty.”

“Indeed.” Her hand found the arm of the chair by her side. Let them puzzle over that decision. “We grow weary, and must relay this news to the king, that he may affirm that we speak his intentions.” She stood, and everyone bowed. “Ser Zalbaag, you’ve no doubt matters martial to consider, but at your earliest opportunity, we bid you relay the decision to your brother and mine, that the Northern Sky knows the movements of the Southern.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Let Larg and Dycedarg decide how best to deal with Goltanna’s brazenness. No doubt their wheels already turned. She nodded to her oh-so-loyal subjects and left, Ser Garland at her side.

[mortgagebrokerplanotx]

Mortgage Broker Santa Cruz Texas

Contents

Mortgage industry knowledge

Animal control. houston serenity place child

Animal control. houston serenity

Preferred stocks primer. harry

Mortgage Broker Spring Garden-Terra Verde Texas Mortgage Broker Silsbee Texas Elite Financing Group has grown into one of the Top Rated Mortgage Companies rated by the Austin Business Journal 5 of the last 6 years and has funded over $1,100,000,000 in its 13 year existence. The Elite Team has a combined 50 years of valuable mortgage industry knowledge and a vast collection.Mortgage Broker Wharton Texas Hancock Mortgage Partners. Friends of Wharton TX animal control. houston serenity place child Placement & Adoption Agy. Tickets are $8 per ticket. Get your tickets at the Wharton Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture 225 N. Richmond Rd. Wharton, Texas 77488.Mortgage Broker Rowlett Texas 2 reviews of Rowlett Mortgage Landing "Full Disclosure- My husband and I were approved and closed our loan with Rowlett Mortgage, our experience throughout the process is the basis of my review. Applying was easy, things seemed to be going fine at.It pays to shop around for mortgage rates in Spring Garden-Terra Verde, TX. Get free mortgage quotes from multiple lenders to find a competitive rate for your home loan.

Other cities to make the top 10 were McAllen, Texas; Columbia. 276 pleasant days per year. Santa Barbara, Salinas, Los.

The median price for a home in Santa Clara County decreased 4.6 percent from a high of $1.4 to the current $1,335,000. On the other hand, Santa Cruz County’s median. an increase in mortgage rates.

broker/owner of Bailey Properties in Santa Cruz, Calif. “The key to success is our ability to create relationships of trust using technology as a resource, not a replacement for human contact.”.

And so, they made a bold decision to sell everything and move to Texas, believing as many. Their monthly mortgage is just.

She recently refinanced her home loan through a mortgage broker to 4.5% fixed for 30 years. Peter Ogilvie, president of First Residential Mortgage Corp. in Santa Cruz, Calif., says that.

The report determined affordability for average wage earners by calculating the amount of income needed to make monthly house payments – including mortgage. (Manhattan), New York (115.0 percent);.

Interest rates on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage that have held around 4% haven’t. Alameda (64.3% to buy, 39.4% to rent), San Mateo (94.1%, 44.7%), Santa Clara (66.7%, 35.4%), Santa Cruz (74.1%,

It’s not good for a region and for the state, so we oppose it tremendously," Guillermo Valencia, president of broker Valencia International and chairman of the Greater Nogales and Santa Cruz County.

Mortgage. broker’s symbol lookup function. For more on preferreds, download my free preferred stocks primer. harry Domash of Aptos publishes the Winning Investing and the Dividend Detective.

In 2001, I met another mortgage broker. He thought he could help us with a loan. We are forever grateful to Kathy for helping us remain in Santa Cruz.

Attom determined “affordability” by calculating the amount of income needed to make monthly house payments – including mortgage, property taxes and. on housing, followed by Santa Cruz County,

Unlike the limitations on mortgage-interest deductions for owner-occupied properties. In markets like San Francisco, Santa Cruz and Honolulu, where homes are expensive relative to the rent that.

Mortgage Broker West Lake Hills Texas Plaza’s Non-QM programs were designed to help you qualify more non-traditional buyers and stress less over the small stuff. With our bank statement income calculation program, simply upload the documents and we’ll take care of the rest!Mortgage Broker Roma Creek Texas Senior center Aubrey Schulz, All-SWC and All-America, is head football coach at Clear Creek High School (District. sophomore punter bill Moore is a real estate broker and lives in Sugar Land, Texas.

Robert Bailey, Broker/Owner, Bailey Properties, Santa Cruz, Calif. Matt Deuitch. Joan Docktor: Well, we’ve been at it for a long time, Jim, providing mortgage, title and insurance services for our.

The post Mortgage Broker Santa Cruz Texas appeared first on Mortgage Broker Plano Texas.

https://ift.tt/2m2PEER

[dallastexas3]

Things to Do in Dallas

John F. Kennedy Memorial and Dealey Plaza

The John F. Kennedy Memorial was made by designer Philip Johnson and devoted in 1970. The “open tomb” fashion signifies the liberty of JFK’s mindset and offers website visitors an area for remembrance and reflection. Inside wandering extended distance is Dealey Plaza, the website of John F. Kennedy’s assassination on Nov. 22, 1963. A new memorial debuted during the 50th-anniversary ceremony in 2013 that is a quote etched in stone from a speech he was set to give that fateful day, though the Plaza has changed very little since then. Dealey Plaza: 411 Elm Saint., John F. Kennedy Memorial: 646 Major Saint.

Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players

The quest of your DFACP would be to enhance and enrich the grade of existence for North Texas location inhabitants, especially households, and youngsters, by way of Cost-free concert events of conventional tunes and academic pursuits. A variety of areas.

Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive

Offering 70 bronze steers and 3 bronze path riders by designer Robert Summer months, this greater-than-lifestyle cattle push sculpture is found about the genuine Shawnee Path push in the 1850s, found before the Kay Bailey Hutchison Conference Middle. The downtown area, Fresh And Griffin roads.

Thanks-Giving Square

Website visitors can area this sq quickly in the downtown area from the gorgeous, bright white spiral Chapel that splits within the angular collections of your offices about it. Getting a large number of site visitors each and every year, the Many thanks-Supplying Base stimulates the unifying mindset of supplying due to areas in close proximity to and significantly and embraces men and women of most religions, nations and cultures. 1627 Pacific Ave.

City Hall

Dallas City Hall is among the most exclusive and renowned constructions in the city. Developed by Pritzker Winning prize-successful designer I.M. Pei, the inverted wedge form is really a view to discovering as well as incorporates a 7-acre plaza with sculptures by Henry Moore. 1500 Marilla Saint.

Acceptable Park your car

Historical past buffs will enjoy the greater than 3 mil historical paperwork and 3-dimensional physical objects presented in the Hallway of Express positioned at Reasonable Playground – house to the biggest assortment of 1930s artwork deco exposition fashion design in Canada And America.

Deep Ellum

Of Dallas’ a variety of local neighborhoods, not any can be as exciting as Deep Ellum, the city’s songs epicenter. Over a hundred years in the past, this place was exactly where jazz music and blues music artists and bands reduce they’re the teeth, and had been rabble and gamblers-rousers danced the evening aside and joined minstrel demonstrates. Now, it houses most of the city’s avant-garde traditions, in which artwork exhibits, songs places, theaters and restaurants collection the roadways, equally as they do during the early 1900s. Involving Excellent-Latimer and Exposition Ave., Elm, Commerce and Main roadways

Founder’s Plaza

This wide-open playground place in the heart of town center near the Aged Reddish colored Courthouse residences the fake of John Neely Bryan’s sign cabin-the house of the city’s creator. The website also may include a water fountain, terrazzo chart of Dallas Area from the 19th century and also the John F. Kennedy Memorial. 600 Elm Saint.

McKinney Avenue Trolley (M-Line Trolley)

Jump on the cost-free M-Range Trolley-renewed, antique trolleys running by way of Uptown and Downtown. The trolleys end at a number of details appealing, such as To the west Town, Motel Zaza, Retailers with the Crescent, Dallas Arts District and a lot more.

D-Link

Yet another free of charge travel services supplied by Dallas Region Quick Transportation, the D-Link is really a shuttle that operates during most of the downtown area and in the Bishop Artistry Region in Oak Cliff. Halts consist of Kay Bailey Hutchison Gathering Middle, Omni Dallas Resort, The To the West Conclusion, The 6th Ground Art gallery, Principal Streets Backyard garden, Dallas Arts District, Deep Ellum, Triumph Park your car as well as the Bishop Artistry Region in Oak Cliff.

Free Admission Museums

Who affirms you need cash to acquire cultured? The Dallas Gallery of Artwork is provided for free featuring a lot more than 22,000 performs of artwork spanning all sources and time-intervals, from historic society to modern-day artwork. Other have to-see museums and galleries are the Samurai Assortment at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum, Crow Assortment of Oriental Craft, African United states Art gallery and also the Gallery of Geometric and MADI Artwork. The Meadows Gallery of Artwork, using one of the greatest Spanish language craft choices away from Spain, at The southern area of Methodist University or college is provided for free on Thursdays soon after 5 p.m.

Dallas Arts District

Spanning 68 acres and 19 contiguous disables, the Dallas Arts District will be the most significant city artistry region in the nation. The spot exhibits over a dozens various world and attractions-well-known sites, including the ATAndT Undertaking Artistry Centre along with the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Centre, Dallas Art gallery of Artwork (cost-free entrance), Nasher Sculpture Centre, Crow Selection of Oriental Artwork (cost-free entry), Klyde Warren Recreation area plus much more. 214-744-6642, 2301 Ross Ave. (Glowing blue Carport for region vehicle parking)

The Sculpture Garden

At the base flooring in the totally free Crow Variety of Oriental Craft from the Disciplines Region is situated a shaded sculpture back garden by using peaceful surroundings, presenting 15 traditional and modern-day Oriental sculptures along with plants, manicured trees and shrubs and a lot more. 2001 Ross Ave.

The Samurai Assortment at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

Situated within a distinctive place about the 2nd flooring of your Saint Ann bar and restaurant, this series involves Japanese armor, artwork, masks and helmets horse armor, accessories and weaponry. It is one of several most significant selections of the enter the planet. Then after, pullup for the pub downstairs for creating dark beer and charcuterie. 2501 Northern Harwood Saint.

Southern Methodist University campus

Tour of Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

Dallas’ initially general public local library opened up in 1901 with the aid of Andrew Carnegie. The present locale referred to as after having a previous mayor, established in 1982. Site visitors can look at not merely the comprehensive reserve series, but unique produce of your Proclamation of Freedom (July 4, 1776), and William Shakespeare’s initially folio collected in 1623. 1515 Fresh Saint.

Found in the Artistry Area, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Centre was built by Pritzker Reward-succeeding designer, I. M. Pei, and features remarkable structural functions, wide-open spots, unsurpassed acoustics and it is in the middle of gorgeous works and sculptures of craft. It’s creatively breathtaking, to see it with your personal two eyeballs is not going to need a live performance admission. 2301 Flora

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

This nationwide rated individual college is located inside the coronary heart of key Dallas. Opened up in 1915, the institution is abundant in Dallas past and structure, along with the university is beautiful. Walk the plant-lined boulevard and superbly manicured scenery, and look at the school’s libraries or perhaps the traditional Dallas Hallway-built in 1915 having an about three-scenario rotunda. 6425 Boaz Ln.

From https://theductcleaningguide.blogspot.com/2019/08/things-to-do-in-dallas.html

from https://theductcleaningguide0.wordpress.com/2019/08/21/things-to-do-in-dallas/

From https://airductcleaning24.blogspot.com/2019/08/things-to-do-in-dallas.html

from https://airductcleaning24.wordpress.com/2019/08/21/things-to-do-in-dallas/ from https://dallastexas3.blogspot.com/2019/08/things-to-do-in-dallas.html

[ductcleaning6]

Things to Do in Dallas

John F. Kennedy Memorial and Dealey Plaza

The John F. Kennedy Memorial was made by designer Philip Johnson and devoted in 1970. The “open tomb” fashion signifies the liberty of JFK’s mindset and offers website visitors an area for remembrance and reflection. Inside wandering extended distance is Dealey Plaza, the website of John F. Kennedy’s assassination on Nov. 22, 1963. A new memorial debuted during the 50th-anniversary ceremony in 2013 that is a quote etched in stone from a speech he was set to give that fateful day, though the Plaza has changed very little since then. Dealey Plaza: 411 Elm Saint., John F. Kennedy Memorial: 646 Major Saint.

Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players

The quest of your DFACP would be to enhance and enrich the grade of existence for North Texas location inhabitants, especially households, and youngsters, by way of Cost-free concert events of conventional tunes and academic pursuits. A variety of areas.

Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive

Offering 70 bronze steers and 3 bronze path riders by designer Robert Summer months, this greater-than-lifestyle cattle push sculpture is found about the genuine Shawnee Path push in the 1850s, found before the Kay Bailey Hutchison Conference Middle. The downtown area, Fresh And Griffin roads.

Thanks-Giving Square

Website visitors can area this sq quickly in the downtown area from the gorgeous, bright white spiral Chapel that splits within the angular collections of your offices about it. Getting a large number of site visitors each and every year, the Many thanks-Supplying Base stimulates the unifying mindset of supplying due to areas in close proximity to and significantly and embraces men and women of most religions, nations and cultures. 1627 Pacific Ave.

City Hall

Dallas City Hall is among the most exclusive and renowned constructions in the city. Developed by Pritzker Winning prize-successful designer I.M. Pei, the inverted wedge form is really a view to discovering as well as incorporates a 7-acre plaza with sculptures by Henry Moore. 1500 Marilla Saint.

Acceptable Park your car

Historical past buffs will enjoy the greater than 3 mil historical paperwork and 3-dimensional physical objects presented in the Hallway of Express positioned at Reasonable Playground – house to the biggest assortment of 1930s artwork deco exposition fashion design in Canada And America.

Deep Ellum

Of Dallas’ a variety of local neighborhoods, not any can be as exciting as Deep Ellum, the city’s songs epicenter. Over a hundred years in the past, this place was exactly where jazz music and blues music artists and bands reduce they’re the teeth, and had been rabble and gamblers-rousers danced the evening aside and joined minstrel demonstrates. Now, it houses most of the city’s avant-garde traditions, in which artwork exhibits, songs places, theaters and restaurants collection the roadways, equally as they do during the early 1900s. Involving Excellent-Latimer and Exposition Ave., Elm, Commerce and Main roadways

Founder’s Plaza

This wide-open playground place in the heart of town center near the Aged Reddish colored Courthouse residences the fake of John Neely Bryan’s sign cabin-the house of the city’s creator. The website also may include a water fountain, terrazzo chart of Dallas Area from the 19th century and also the John F. Kennedy Memorial. 600 Elm Saint.

McKinney Avenue Trolley (M-Line Trolley)

Jump on the cost-free M-Range Trolley-renewed, antique trolleys running by way of Uptown and Downtown. The trolleys end at a number of details appealing, such as To the west Town, Motel Zaza, Retailers with the Crescent, Dallas Arts District and a lot more.

D-Link

Yet another free of charge travel services supplied by Dallas Region Quick Transportation, the D-Link is really a shuttle that operates during most of the downtown area and in the Bishop Artistry Region in Oak Cliff. Halts consist of Kay Bailey Hutchison Gathering Middle, Omni Dallas Resort, The To the West Conclusion, The 6th Ground Art gallery, Principal Streets Backyard garden, Dallas Arts District, Deep Ellum, Triumph Park your car as well as the Bishop Artistry Region in Oak Cliff.

Free Admission Museums

Who affirms you need cash to acquire cultured? The Dallas Gallery of Artwork is provided for free featuring a lot more than 22,000 performs of artwork spanning all sources and time-intervals, from historic society to modern-day artwork. Other have to-see museums and galleries are the Samurai Assortment at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum, Crow Assortment of Oriental Craft, African United states Art gallery and also the Gallery of Geometric and MADI Artwork. The Meadows Gallery of Artwork, using one of the greatest Spanish language craft choices away from Spain, at The southern area of Methodist University or college is provided for free on Thursdays soon after 5 p.m.

Dallas Arts District

Spanning 68 acres and 19 contiguous disables, the Dallas Arts District will be the most significant city artistry region in the nation. The spot exhibits over a dozens various world and attractions-well-known sites, including the ATAndT Undertaking Artistry Centre along with the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Centre, Dallas Art gallery of Artwork (cost-free entrance), Nasher Sculpture Centre, Crow Selection of Oriental Artwork (cost-free entry), Klyde Warren Recreation area plus much more. 214-744-6642, 2301 Ross Ave. (Glowing blue Carport for region vehicle parking)

The Sculpture Garden

At the base flooring in the totally free Crow Variety of Oriental Craft from the Disciplines Region is situated a shaded sculpture back garden by using peaceful surroundings, presenting 15 traditional and modern-day Oriental sculptures along with plants, manicured trees and shrubs and a lot more. 2001 Ross Ave.

The Samurai Assortment at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

Situated within a distinctive place about the 2nd flooring of your Saint Ann bar and restaurant, this series involves Japanese armor, artwork, masks and helmets horse armor, accessories and weaponry. It is one of several most significant selections of the enter the planet. Then after, pullup for the pub downstairs for creating dark beer and charcuterie. 2501 Northern Harwood Saint.

Southern Methodist University campus

Tour of Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

Dallas’ initially general public local library opened up in 1901 with the aid of Andrew Carnegie. The present locale referred to as after having a previous mayor, established in 1982. Site visitors can look at not merely the comprehensive reserve series, but unique produce of your Proclamation of Freedom (July 4, 1776), and William Shakespeare’s initially folio collected in 1623. 1515 Fresh Saint.

Found in the Artistry Area, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Centre was built by Pritzker Reward-succeeding designer, I. M. Pei, and features remarkable structural functions, wide-open spots, unsurpassed acoustics and it is in the middle of gorgeous works and sculptures of craft. It’s creatively breathtaking, to see it with your personal two eyeballs is not going to need a live performance admission. 2301 Flora

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

This nationwide rated individual college is located inside the coronary heart of key Dallas. Opened up in 1915, the institution is abundant in Dallas past and structure, along with the university is beautiful. Walk the plant-lined boulevard and superbly manicured scenery, and look at the school’s libraries or perhaps the traditional Dallas Hallway-built in 1915 having an about three-scenario rotunda. 6425 Boaz Ln.

From https://theductcleaningguide.blogspot.com/2019/08/things-to-do-in-dallas.html

from https://theductcleaningguide0.wordpress.com/2019/08/21/things-to-do-in-dallas/ from https://ductcleaning2.blogspot.com/2019/08/things-to-do-in-dallas.html

[rabbitcruiser]

The Conch Republic was a micronation declared as a tongue-in-cheek secession of the city of Key West from the United States on April 23, 1982.

[naturecoaster]

NatureCoaster.com wins Six Excellence-in-Craft Awards

The Florida Outdoor Writers’ Association held its 2021 Conference in Venice, Florida, and hosted its Excellence-in-Craft awards on August 21. Sponsored by Visit Sarasota County and Discover Crystal River and the Plantation Resort, Ascend Hotel Collection, the Florida Outdoor Writers Association 2021 Excellence in Craft awards recognize FOWA members who produced outstanding content in the form of broadcast, digital, and print media during 2020. NatureCoaster.com had six of its 2020 feature stories chosen for these coveted awards, making it the publication to receive the most awards received at the Conference! “We are so honored to have such talented writers working with NatureCoaster to connect readers to the best Florida’s Nature Coast has to offer,” said Publisher and Founder, Diane Bedard. You can read the stories that won below: Conservation Story, sponsored by West Volusia Tourism - Second Place: Diane Bedard - Saving Crystal River Family Participation in the Outdoors, sponsored by Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau - First Place: Sally White - Levy County's Best Kept Secret: the Withlacoochee Gulf Preserve - Third Place: Sally White - Hiking the Blue Run Historic Railway Trail Outdoor Travel & Destination Story, sponsored by Florida’s Adventure Coast - First Place: Sally White – Dunnellon’s Rainbow Springs Then and Now - Third Place: Paul Presson - Discovering Anclote’s Hidden Treasure Online Blog Post, sponsored by Misty Wells of Let's Take it Outside - Second Place: Diane Bedard - Bringing the Butterflies Back to Dade City About NatureCoaster.com's Award-Winning Writers Sally White is an avid kayaker and spring hunter. Sally won three awards for her feature stories in NatureCoaster.com, as well as Best of Conference! Image by Sydney White. Sally White is an avid kayaker and spring hunter. She is also an award-winning outdoor writer, photographer, and artist with 20+ years of experience. Sally’s contributions are found in publications world-wide. A member of Florida Outdoor Writers Association, she enjoys exploring the wilder side of Florida and believes introducing families to the wonders of the outdoors is key to saving these natural resources for future generations. Sally also publishes Adventures of Mom and Florida for Families. Paul Presson is an award-winning cartoonist and writer. He won third place in FOWA's Excellence in Craft Awards for his story, Discovering Anclote's Hidden Treasure on NatureCoaster.com. Image by Janice Presson. Paul Presson is an award-winning writer, cartoonist, and American Veteran. He is a passionate fisherman who takes vets on wade-fishing excursions and loves outdoor adventure. Paul is an artist. He created the map in Discovering Anclote’s Hidden Treasure from scratch and enjoys upcycling and gardening. Diane Bedard, founder of NatureCoaster.com proudly displays her two awards for stories published in 2020 on NatureCoaster.com. Image by Dennis Bedard. Diane Bedard is the creator of NatureCoaster.com and a passionate advocate for Florida’s Nature Coast and the small businesses and organizations that make it home. Diane formerly published the local edition of Travelhost magazine, and has won numerous Excellence-in-Craft awards for her stories about the area. “ I love to share my favorite places, and the stories behind them with NatureCoaster’s audience,” Diane said. About Florida Outdoor Writer's Association Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association is a statewide 501(c)3 paid membership organization of professional outdoor writers who seek to continuously increase their skills through education, maintaining the highest standards of journalistic excellence. Its membership is made up of the outdoor industry’s top communicators, conservationists, and industry-related companies. NatureCoaster.com has earned Several Awards NatureCoaster.com is an award-winning online magazine that began in 2014. Some of the magazine’s previous awards include • Best Local/Events Blog 2018 Sunshine Blog Award from Florida BlogCon• Top 3 Community/Events Blog 2019 Sunshine Blog Award from Florida BlogCon• First Place Outdoor Travel & Destination Story – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2019• First Place Conservation Story – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2020• First Place Outdoor Video category – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2017• Second Place Self-promotion category – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2017• Third Place – Family Participation in the Outdoors Story – Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association Excellence-in-Craft Award 2020 NatureCoaster.com has won several awards since its inception in 2014. It was also featured in the book, Blog for Bucks by Jaqueline Bodnar. Additionally, NatureCoaster was featured in the book, Blog for Bucks by Jaqueline Bodnar, published in 2019. NatureCoaster.com has a Mission to Connect the World with the best of Florida's Nature Coast NatureCoaster.com’s mission is to connect readers with the best of Florida’s Nature Coast through feature stories, a directory of local businesses, and an extensive events calendar covering Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco Counties. Pat Manfredo, an award-winning local photographer, contributes a nature photo daily to the site. Interested visitors can sign up for the weekly e-zine on the homepage. Our Partners Make the Publication Possible Businesses and organizations who are interested in partnering with NatureCoaster.com to get the word out about their offerings can find more information on our demographics here. Our current partners include: - Florida's Adventure Coast - Discover Crystal River - Southwest Water Management District - City of New Port Richey - Cavallo Farm and Market - Chinsegut Hill Retreat - The White Heron Tea & Gifts - The Red Brick Place - Shamrock Restoration & Painting - Chop Block Grill - Heartwood Preserve - Citrus County Chamber of Commerce - Just Amuse Me - Whittel and Melton - Cattle Dog Coffee Roasters - The Kumquat Festival/Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce - The Tampa Bay History Center/Chinsegut Hill Historic Property - Jason Biggs, Realtor, Century21 Alliance Realty And many events and organizations that promote their offerings with us. We couldn't do this without you! Please contact us about how we can best work together to get your information out to our readers. Read the full article

[goldeagleprice]

Iowa’s “key” to bank architecture

by Mark Hotz

Some years back I had a chance to drive through central Iowa, and I was told by several people to be sure to visit Grinnell, a town that was chock full of wonderful historic structures.

I hadn’t forgotten this advice, and so on a bright, sunny day I headed to the western edge of Poweshiek County to see historic Grinnell, Iowa. Grinnell is due east of Des Moines and is easily reached off Interstate 80 at the exit for State Route 146. Grinnell sits at the junction of Route 146 and U.S. Highway 6.

Grinnell’s founding seems like a historic fable. The town was founded by and named for Josiah Bushnell Grinnell, an abolitionist pastor at the First Congregational Church in Washington, D.C.

After Grinnell lost his pastorate in 1853 for giving an anti-slavery sermon, he headed to New York, and it was to Grinnell that famed abolitionist Horace Greeley tendered his infamous advice “Go West, young man, go West!” Grinnell took the advice and settled in Iowa in 1854, founding the town that bears his name and later giving land and buildings to Iowa College, later renamed Grinnell College in his honor.

Modern Grinnell certainly does not disappoint. It is one of the most attractive towns in Iowa; virtually the entire downtown area has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearly all of the historic buildings have been beautifully maintained and are in use as businesses today. The college, which is located just off the downtown area, is a thriving liberal arts institution, and the influx of young blood into the Grinnell area keeps it vibrant. Grinnell had been home to no less than four national banks, and I was delighted to locate each of them.

Grinnell’s first national bank was, no surprise, the First National Bank of Grinnell, charter #1629, organized in 1866 and closed by the receiver in 1904, ostensibly for “incompetent management”. Although this bank had a long life, it issued very few notes, having a total circulation over nearly 40 years of just $319,000. Virtually all of its issue was First Charter notes; it did issue some Brown Back notes from 1886 until the close, but this consisted entirely of 800 sheets of $50-$100 notes, none of which are known today. The existing notes from this bank are all $1 First Charter Aces, making this a very rare bank to add to any collection.

The bank was housed in the Spencer Block, wonderfully preserved on the corner of 4th and Main Streets. This gorgeous red brick building features fantastic crenelated dormers, and is accented by marble accoutrements and entranceways painted in green and gold. It serves today as the offices of Allen Financial, an investment consultant, as well as residences.

The First National Bank of Grinnell, Iowa, was founded in 1866 and was housed in this beautifully preserved building, now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Grinnell’s Merchants’ National Bank received charter #2953 in 1883 and was closed by the receiver in 1924. This was Grinnell’s largest national bank, with a total circulation of almost $750,000. Oddly, this bank elected to issue just $50 and $100 notes during its entire life.

The Merchant’s National Bank of Grinnell elected to issue nothing but $50 and $100 notes during its lifetime. Here is a Series of 1902 $50 note issued by the bank.(Photo courtesy Heritage Auctions)

Six of the Third Charter $50 notes are currently reported. It was located in the 1889 Cass & Works block still standing in Grinnell (see accompanying period postcard and current photo.)

The original Merchant’s National Bank building still stands in Grinnell, as can be seen in this current photo. By 1910, the bank had outgrown this space and commissioned a new building to be designed by famed architect Louis H. Sullivan.

Grinnell’s Merchant’s National Bank was organized in 1883 and closed in 1924. Originally it was a corner block structure and can be seen here in a postcard view circa 1910.

                              This building proved too small by 1910, and the bank commissioned a new structure which has become one of the most famous banks in all of Iowa and one of the jewels of small-town bank architecture to be found anywhere in the nation. It was designed and constructed in 1914 by Louis H. Sullivan, one of the most renowned American architects and a founder, along with Frank Lloyd Wright, of the style known as the Prairie School of Architecture.

Sullivan was famous for designing Chicago skyscrapers, but toward the end of his career concentrated on small-town commercial structures. His small-town banks include the Merchants National Bank at Grinnell and the National Farmers Bank at Owatonna, Minnesota.

The Merchants’ National Bank building designed by Sullivan is one of the gems of Grinnell. It is known as Sullivan’s “jewel box” for its square shape and the keyhole motif of its entrance. It is truly an architectural masterpiece and well worth the visit to Grinnell. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and is owned by the Brenton Bank of Poweshiek County today. The unique structure has been restored and currently houses the Chamber of Commerce, Grinnell Convention and Visitors Bureau, Greater Poweshiek Foundation, and the Imagine Grinnell foundation. It is a very interesting building and the façade truly is magnificent.

The original Merchant’s National Bank building still stands in Grinnell, as can be seen in this current photo. By 1910, the bank had outgrown this space and commissioned a new building to be designed by famed architect Louis H. Sullivan. Right: Here is a close up of the keyhole motif on the facade of the Sullivan-designed Merchant’s National Bank building. It is a must see in Grinnell.

Grinnell’s last two national banks were actually one and the same. The Citizens National Bank of Grinnell, charter #7439, was chartered in 1904 and was placed in voluntary liquidation on July 31, 1930. It was then immediately absorbed by the newly created Poweshiek County National Bank, charter #13473, which had been chartered the previous month. The Citizens National Bank issued Third Charter notes and a handful of small size notes before it closed in 1930; its total issue $448,000 over 26 years and all of its notes are rather scarce, the small size especially so. The Poweshiek County National Bank issued small notes only and quite a few are reported.

Grinnell’s third national bank, the Citizen’s National, opened in 1904 and liquidated in 1930. It operated from this very attractive corner building with an intriguing copper-sheated dormer attached to it.

The Citizens National Bank building is a most attractive corner bank block situated next to the old I.O.O.F. Hall in Grinnell’s downtown business district. Its salient feature is a large copper-sheathed cupola-topped dormer that overhangs the original corner entrance. The building has been face lifted with the original corner entrance and street-level side windows bricked up and a new, simpler storefront added. It is now in use as “Bill’s Jewelry Shop,” but is still a most attractive architectural anomaly. The Poweshiek County National Bank continued to use this structure after the Citizens National Bank closed.

From Grinnell, I headed north to explore the area south of Waterloo/Cedar Falls. At the junction of U.S. Route 63 and State 8, in Tama County, I came across Traer, Iowa, a neat little town undergoing a considerable rejuvenation. Traer was founded in 1873 as farming and commercial center on the Wolf River about 20 miles south of Waterloo, and its proximity to that city has made it an attractive bedroom community.

The First National Bank of Traer, charter #5135, opened in 1898 and succeeded the Banking House of Brooks & Moore. Reflecting the financial health of the region, it was a large and active bank with a total circulation of $1.05 million over its 35-year life. It was placed in voluntary liquidation in July of 1934 with just over $99,000 outstanding at the close. This large amount is reflected by the combined census of nearly 50 large and small notes known today.

Here is a lovely Series of 1882 $10 Brown Back note issued by the First National Bank of Traer. Although in general notes, both large and small size, are available from this bank, early notes such as Brown Backs are very scarce. (Photo courtesy Heritage Auctions)

  Traer’s Main Street is one of the most attractive that I saw in Iowa; both sides of the several block long street were replete with period structures adorned by fancy crenelated pediments. Many of the structures (as well as quite a few homes) had gingerbread woodwork. Virtually all of the commercial structures were in use and many were being lovingly restored. On the corner of Main and 2nd Streets, I spotted the old First National Bank of Traer building.

It is an attractive corner block situated next to the 1885 O.T. Bower Block and the 1895 Thomas & Sons Block. The bank building was undergoing restoration when I visited and was not in commercial use; the new owner has spent considerable time and effort restoring the fancy finial-topped façade and painting the entire brick structure beige with brown highlights. I have located a 1913 photo postcard of Traer’s Main Street that shows the bank and the Thomas & Sons Block next door. Compare this to the modern photo of the bank and you will easily see the careful restoration that has been done. The town is most attractive and is easily accessible. Main Street alone is well worth the visit.

Left: Here is the First National Bank of Traer, Iowa, building as it appears today in town. It has changed very little from the 1900 photo. Right: The First National Bank of Traer, Iowa, can be seen at the corner foreground in this 1900 photo postcard view of the town’s Main Street. The building has been lovingly restored and looks very much the same today.

    Readers may address questions or comments about this article to Mark Hotz directly by email at markbhotz@aol.com.

  This article was originally printed in Bank Note Reporter. >> Subscribe today.

The post Iowa’s “key” to bank architecture appeared first on Numismatic News.