#Jacksonville Museum

[coasterqueencat]

Floyd On Vacation: Day 4!

Today we went to the Museum Of Science and History, aka, MOSH!

Cooper also tagged along today too!

[rabbitcruiser]

World Bicycle Day

The bicycle is one of the most beneficial inventions for your personal health and for the health of the environment. Get out and get some sustainable exercise.

The bicycle is one of the most important inventions in the history of the planet. It provides millions of people with a means of transport powered by nothing other than their bodies. It’s practical, reliable, and helps one to stay fit. Many find that it’s a fun and hassle-free way to get around and take care of daily tasks.

World Bicycle Day is the United Nation’s attempt to recognize the vital importance of the bicycle across the globe. The bike has helped many families across the world to get access to cheap and reliable transportation. It’s no wonder so many partake in the celebration and want to get the word out to others about this exciting and eventful day.

Cycling is an environmentally sound, safe, and healthy way to travel from point A to B. It’s something that we need to do more of if we want to protect the world against the ravages of unsustainable CO2 production. It can save lives, help improve the environment, and support poverty reduction, and for these reasons, it deserves far more attention than it currently receives.

History of World Bicycle Day

The United Nations launched World Bicycle Day for several reasons. The first was to recognize the sheer transformative impact of the bicycle on society. Pedal cycles give even the poorest people in the world access to transport services. Bikes allow them to visit friends, collect water, and buy groceries.

The bicycle is a long-serving mode of transportation, which has helped practically every human community worldwide. All cultures and people alike can partake in the celebration and show their love for cycling.

The third purpose is to highlight the fact that many cities ignore the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. Policymakers have a bias towards the motor vehicle, serving its needs instead of using environmentally-sound alternatives. World Bicycle Day, therefore, is a chance to raise awareness of the benefits of cycling and promote measures to ensure better sharing of the roads.

It’s a chance for people to demand improvements to road safety and cycling mobility through a change in policies and measurable activity that protects and promotes the safety of riders and pedestrians.

The fourth purpose is to help save lives and reduce poverty. Investing in pedestrian and cycle routes in cities can help cut the rate of deaths while also taking traffic off the roads and investing in safer modes of intra-city travel. Promoting cycling can also help to reduce poverty.

By giving the poorest members of the community access to transportation, they can more easily commute to places of work. It helps them to achieve greater health equity by reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, some cancers, diabetes, and even death.

How to Celebrate World Bicycle Day

There are many reasons why celebrating World Bicycle Day is essential to the health of individuals and the environment. It’s a sustainable means of transportation that’s simple to use, affordable, and is reliable for those who may not have access to a car. It provides access to education, health care, and physical activity for those who don’t have any other means of transportation.

It gives users an immediate awareness of the local environment and fosters creativity and social engagement among community members. The positive impact on the climate and one’s health simply can’t be overlooked. The bicycle offers a sustainable transportation solution and a way for people to show their support for creating a better environment and planet.

Anyone can do their part and partake in the day by celebrating in unique and fun ways. First, you can donate to a cycle scheme. Many nonprofits are looking for ways to increase the number of bicycles that people use in developing countries. Many view it as a cheap solution that makes transporting food and water around much more manageable.

Second, you can cycle to work, college or school, on your bicycle instead of using the car. One will be able to avoid traffic jams and the cost of gas. One will likely find this to be a more enjoyable and stress-free way to get around. There’s no gas money required, and the fresh air will feel wonderful. Using a bicycle will help cut down on CO2 emissions as well. It’s also an excellent way to get some exercise and stay healthy. There’s no denying the feeling one has after being out in nature and exerting some pent up energy.

Third, a person can encourage other people to use their bicycles to get around town by sharing World Cycle Day hashtags on social media. More and more people are engaging online and wanting to express themselves through these social media platforms. It’s possible that together individuals will be able to make this cause go viral and make impactful changes to the environment and wellness of each other. Someone can also encourage others to use this means of transportation by inviting a companion to ride a bike with them to a friend’s house or to run errands.

And finally, one can celebrate and participate in World Bicycle Day by lobbying to local government to improve cycle and pedestrian mobility in the city. Attend a meeting in the area to voice concerns and recommendations for making bicycling around town easier and more accessible to those in the community. All it takes is a few individuals who are willing to speak up and express viewpoints around this topic to inspire and motivate change.

It’s clear that World Bicycle Day is something that anyone can get involved with, even if they don’t ride a bike. Communities will thrive, individuals will be in better health, and the environment will take a turn for the better when cycling becomes the focus. There are so many positive results that emerge from World Bicycle Day that it’s certainly worth celebrating. It’s an opportunity to spark more appreciation for this simple yet beneficial means of transportation and to get everyone thinking about all the good reasons cycling should receive acknowledgment and public attention.

Source

[der-kkrieger]

Significance of the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville stands as a testament to artistic and natural beauty, weaving together history, culture, and the splendor of the outdoors. Founded in 1961, the Cummer Museum has evolved into a beacon of artistic expression and a serene oasis, making it a cornerstone of Jacksonville's cultural landscape.

Preserving Artistic Heritage

At the heart of the Cummer Museum's significance lies its extensive art collection. Housing over 5,000 works of art spanning from 2100 BCE to the 21st century, the museum offers a diverse range of artistic styles, mediums, and cultures. Visitors can witness the evolution of art through various periods, including European, American, and Asian art, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Masterpieces and Noteworthy Collections

The museum boasts an impressive collection of renowned artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Thomas Moran, and Winslow Homer. Each piece tells a story, capturing moments in time, reflecting cultural shifts, and preserving the essence of artistic mastery.

Enchanting Gardens

Adjacent to the museum lies the enchanting Cummer Gardens, a picturesque haven that spans 2.5 acres along the St. Johns River. The gardens feature historic landscaping styles, including the Olmsted Italian Garden, the English Garden, and the Cummer Oak. Visitors are invited to stroll through lush pathways, admire the vibrant flora, and revel in the serenity offered by these meticulously curated grounds.

Community Engagement and Education

Beyond its captivating displays, the Cummer Museum actively engages with the community through educational programs, workshops, and events. These initiatives aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the arts and nature, catering to diverse audiences of all ages. From art classes to lectures and interactive exhibitions, the museum endeavors to inspire creativity and ignite curiosity in its visitors.

Cultural Hub and Legacy

Moreover, the Cummer Museum serves as a cultural hub, hosting events that celebrate local artists, cultural traditions, and historical legacies. By nurturing a space that honors both artistic expression and environmental beauty, the museum cements its role as a cultural steward, preserving heritage for future generations.

Impact on Jacksonville's Identity

The Cummer Museum isn't just a repository of art and nature; it's an integral part of Jacksonville's identity. Its presence enriches the city's cultural fabric, drawing in locals and tourists alike to appreciate the transformative power of art and the tranquility of nature.

Conclusion

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville stands as a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression and the captivating beauty of nature. Its significance lies not only in the art it preserves but also in the experiences it offers—inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world where creativity, history, and nature intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Jacksonville.

[ionlycareabouthhn]

Hanging out with a train from 1911 at the Jacksonville Beaches Museum. What can I say, I'm a sucker for vintage Florida stuff.

[dhyzenmedia]

The Sage of Harney County

[qektuekwos1]

When planning a visit to Jacksonville, Florida, you’ll find an array of exciting activities and attractions to explore. From beautiful beaches to a vibrant art scene and delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city. 

[thepaintedroom]

Richard Emile Miller (American, 1875 – 1943) • Café L’Avenue, Paris • c. 1906-1910 • Cummer Museum, Jacksonville, FL

[amnhnyc]

☀️⚫🔭The eclipse is coming! Come celebrate at the Museum. On Monday, April 8, a solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Here in New York City, we’ll be able to see the Moon cover up to 90 percent of the Sun! The eclipse will start at 2:10 pm, reach maximum coverage at 3:25 pm, and end at 4:36 pm. Join us at the Museum before the eclipse for family-friendly educational activities and to receive your eclipse glasses, with Museum admission and while supplies last.

This archival image, snapped outside the Hayden Planetarium, shows Museum staff preparing to document a solar eclipse in 1940. During an expedition to Jacksonville, Florida in April of that year, a plane carrying pilots, photographers, reporters, and a Museum curator soared 16,200 ft (4,938 m) into the air to photograph this celestial phenomenon from the sky.

Photo: Image no. 292466 / © AMNH Library

[lonestarflight]

Vought OS2U Kingfisher taxiing after making a water landing near Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida.

Date: March 1943

United States Navy National Museum of Naval Aviation: link, link

[todaysbat]

Zoos you can see bats at:

last updated: september 29, 2024

Have a zoo to add? Please send an ask, submissions in replies and reblogs get lost amid the numerous notes this blog gets.

-This blog is not affiliated with any zoos listed here

-A question mark next to information indicates missing or unverified information (and send an ask if you can fill in or verify information, please)

-Please send an ask if there are broken links.

**Guide to Accreditation Organization abbreviations**

AZA: Association of Zoos and Aquariums

APGA: American Public Gardens Association

WAZA: World Association of Zoos and Aquariums

IMATA: International Marine Animal Trainers Association

HC: Humane Conservation

ZAA: either the Zoological Association of America or the Australasian Zoo and Aquarium Association

BIAZA: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums

AMMPA: Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums

EAZA: European Association of Zoos and Aquaria

CAZA: Canadian Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (AZAC in French)

BGCI: Botanic Gardens Conservation International

AAM: American Alliance of Museums

**

**

Arizona (US)

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (AZA) - Tucson - Pallid Bat? - https://www.desertmuseum.org/

**

Colorado (US)

Denver Zoo (AZA, WAZA, HC) - Denver - Common Vampire Bat - https://denverzoo.org/

**

California (US)

San Diego Zoo (AZA) - San Diego - Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org/

Oakland Zoo (AZA) - Oakland - Island Flying Fox, Malayan Flying Fox - https://www.oaklandzoo.org/

**

Florida (US)

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens (WAZA, AZA) - Jacksonville - Seba's short-tailed bat, Straw-colored fruit bat, Common Vampire Bat - https://www.jacksonvillezoo.org/

Lubee Bat Conservancy (AZA) - Gainesville - Malayan Flying Fox, Variable Flying Fox, African Straw-colored Fruit Bat, Rodrigues Flying Fox, Evening Bat, Little Golden-mantled Flying Fox, Indian Flying Fox, Gray-headed Fruit Bat - https://www.lubee.org/

Animal Kingdom at Disney World (AZA) - Orlando - Malayan Flying Fox - https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/animal-kingdom/

Zoo Tampa/Lowry Park Zoo (AZA, WAZA) - Tampa - Malayan Flying Fox, Straw-colored fruit bat - https://zootampa.org/

**

Idaho (US)

Zoo Boise (AZA) - Boise - Indian Flying Fox, Ruwenzori Long-haired Fruit Bat - https://zooboise.org/

**

Illinois (US)

Brookfield Zoo (HC, AZA) - Brookfield - Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://www.czs.org/Brookfield-ZOO/Home.aspx

Lincoln Park Zoo (AZA) - Chicago - Egyptian Fruit Bat - https://www.lpzoo.org/

**

Kansas (US)

Sedgwick County Zoo (WAZA, AZA) - Wichita - Indian Flying Fox - https://scz.org/

Topeka Zoo (AZA, WAZA) - Topeka - Indian Flying Fox - https://topekazoo.org/

**

Kentucky (US)

Louisville Zoo (AZA) - Louisville - Common Vampire Bat, Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://louisvillezoo.org/

**

Louisiana (US)

Audubon Zoo (AZA) - New Orleans - Seba's short-tailed bat, Common vampire bat - https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo (AZA?) - Baton Rouge - Indian Flying Fox - Currently in the process of regaining AZA accrediation, expecting an update in Spring 2024 - https://brzoo.org/

**

Massachusetts (US)

Capron Park Zoo (AZA) - Attleboro - Rodrigues Fruit Bat, Indian Flying Fox - https://capronparkzoo.com/

Franklin Park Zoo (AZA) - Boston - Straw-colored Fruit Bat - https://www.zoonewengland.org/franklin-park-zoo/

Stone Zoo (AZA) - Stoneham - Seba's short-tailed bat - https://www.zoonewengland.org/stone-zoo/

**

Michigan (US)

Detroit Zoo (AZA, WAZA) - Royal Oak - Straw-colored fruit Bat - https://detroitzoo.org/

**

Maryland (US)

Maryland Zoo (AZA) - Baltimore - Seba's Short-tailed Bat - https://www.marylandzoo.org/

**

Minnesota (US)

Minnesota Zoo (AZA, WAZA, IMATA) - Apple Valley - Egyptian Fruit bat, Straw-colored fruit bat, Long-haired fruit bat - https://mnzoo.org/

**

Nebraska (US)

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (AZA, WAZA) - Omaha - Short-tailed Fruit Bat, Common Vampire Bat, Egyptian Flying Fox - https://www.omahazoo.com/

**

New York (US)

Bronx Zoo (AZA) - Bronx - Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://bronxzoo.com/

Prospect Park Zoo (AZA) - Brooklyn - Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://prospectparkzoo.com/

Central Park Zoo (AZA) - New York City - Short-tailed Fruit Bat, Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://centralparkzoo.com/

**

North Carolina (US)

North Carolina Zoo (AZA) - Asheboro - Common Vampire Bat - https://www.nczoo.org/

**

Ohio (US)

Akron Zoo (AZA, APGA) - Akron - Rodrigues Fruit Bat, Seba's Short-tailed Bat, Straw-colored fruit bat - https://www.akronzoo.org/

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden (AZA, BGCI) - Cincinnati - Indian Flying Fox, Common Vampire Bat - https://cincinnatizoo.org/

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (AZA, ZAA, AMMPA) - Powell - Large Flying Fox - https://www.columbuszoo.org/

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (AZA) - Cleveland - Straw-colored Fruit bat, Egyptian Fruit Bat - https://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo

**

Oklahoma (US)

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens (AZA, BGCI, AAM) - Oklahoma City - Seba’s Short-tailed Bat - https://www.okczoo.org/

**

Oregon (US)

Oregon Zoo (AZA, WAZA) - Portland - Rodrigues Fruit Bat, Straw-colored Fruit bat - https://www.oregonzoo.org/

**

Pennsylvania (US)

National Aviary (AZA) - Pittsburgh - Malayan Flying Fox - https://www.aviary.org/

Philadelphia Zoo (AZA) - Philadelphia - Rodrigues Fruit Bat, Common Vampire Bat - https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/

Pittsburgh Zoo (ZAA, HC, AMMPA) - Pittsburgh - Jamaican Fruit Bat - https://www.pittsburghzoo.org/

**

Texas (US)

Cameron Park Zoo (AZA) - Waco - Jamaican Fruit Bat - https://www.cameronparkzoo.com/

Dallas World Aquarium (AZA, WAZA) - Dallas - Common Vampire bat, Seba's Short-tailed bat - https://dwazoo.com/

Houston Zoo (AZA) - Houston - Seba's Short-tailed Bat - https://www.houstonzoo.org/

San Antonio Zoo (AZA, ZAA) - San Antonio - Large Flying Fox, Seba's Short-tailed Bat - https://sazoo.org/

**

Tennessee (US)

Memphis Zoo (AZA, WAZA) - Memphis - Common Vampire Bat, Seba's Short-tailed Bat, Egyptian Fruit Bat, Bulldog Bat - https://www.memphiszoo.org/

**

Utah (US)

Hogle Zoo (WAZA, AZA) - Salt Lake City - Species? - https://www.hoglezoo.org/

**

Virginia (US)

Metro Richmond Zoo (ZAA) - Moseley - Straw-colored Fruit bat, Indian flying fox - https://metrorichmondzoo.com/

**

Wisconsin (US)

Henry Vilas Zoo (AZA, WAZA) - Madison - Seba's Short tailed bat - https://www.henryvilaszoo.gov/

Milwaukee County Zoo (AZA) - Milwaukee - Common Vampire Bat, Straw-colored Fruit Bat - https://milwaukeezoo.org/

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary - Green Bay - Not a zoo, included here because they are open to the public; it is the largest park in the Green Bay Park System and the home of the second largest wildlife rehabilitation program in the state; Accreditation unclear, Sanctuary is run by the city government - Various species native to the area - https://greenbaywi.gov/1418/Bay-Beach-Wildlife-Sanctuary

**

Washington (US)

NO LONGER ANY BATS ON EXHIBIT IN ANY ZOOS IN THIS STATE

**

United Kingdom

Northumberland Zoo (BIAZA) - Morpeth, Northumberland - Livingstone’s Fruit Bat - https://www.northumberlandzoo.co.uk/

Chester Zoo (BIAZA, WAZA, EAZA) - Upton-by-Chester, Cheshire - Rodrigues Fruit Bat - https://www.chesterzoo.org/

West Midland Safari and Leisure Park (BIAZA, EAZA) - Bewdley, Worchestershire - Rodrigues fruit bat, Seba's short-tailed bat - https://www.wmsp.co.uk/

Jersey Zoo (BIAZA) - Jersey - Livingstone's Fruit Bat - https://www.durrell.org/visit-jersey-zoo/

ZSL London Zoo (EAZA, BIAZA) - London, England - Rodrigues fruit bat - https://www.londonzoo.org/

**

Australia

Taronga Zoo (ZAA) - Sydney, New South Wales - Ghost Bat - https://taronga.org.au/sydney-zoo

Perth Zoo (ZAA, WAZA) - Perth, Western Australia - Ghost Bat - https://perthzoo.wa.gov.au/

Tolga Bat Hospital - Atherton, Queensland - Not a zoo, they are included here because they do tours of their facilities; They are accredited by different organizations than zoos. - Various species native to Australia - https://tolgabathospital.org/

**

Czechia

Prague Zoo (EAZA) - Prague, Czechia - Straw colored fruit bat - https://www.zoopraha.cz/en

**

Canada

Toronto Zoo (AZA) - Toronto, Ontario - Straw-colored fruit bat - https://www.torontozoo.com/

Biodôme (CAZA, WAZA, AZA) - Montreal, Quebec - Jamaican Fruit bat, Seba's Short-tailed bat, Pallas's Long-tongued bat - https://espacepourlavie.ca/en/biodome

Vancouver Aquarium (AZA, CAZA, AMMPA, HC) - Vancouver, British Columbia - Jamaican Fruit Bat - https://www.vanaqua.org/

Assiniboine Park Zoo (AZA, WAZA, CAZA) - Winnipeg, Manitoba - Seba's Short-tailed Bat, Indian Flying Fox - https://www.assiniboinepark.ca/zoo/visit/hours-and-rates

**

Croatia

Zoo Zagreb (EAZA?) - Zagreb - Egyptian Fruit Bat - https://zoo.hr/english/

**

[britishchick09]

facts about josefina, kirsten, addy, kit and julie! :D

(from their new pages!)

✿ To learn more about what Josefina’s life would have been like, author Valerie Tripp spent two summers in New Mexico. She visited living history museums and interviewed elderly New Mexican women about the daily lives of Hispanic families and children in rural New Mexico.

The models for Josefina’s home were la El Rancho de las Golondrinas near Santa Fe and Hacienda de los Martinez near Taos, NM. Both are former ranchos from Josefina’s time and now living history museums that you can visit today.

Josefina’s first and last names are drawn from the New Mexican censuses of 1790 and 1823.

American Girl worked closely with the advisory board to decide what Josefina would look like. Board member Felipe Mirabal even cut off a lock of his own hair and sent it to AG to ensure that the Josefina doll’s hair color was just right!

Although Josefina is actually a Mexican citizen, the advisory board felt comfortable calling her an “American girl” because her story presents a history and heritage that’s an integral part of America today.

By the end of her series, Josefina has a new mother. This plot element symbolizes the change for the Spanish settlers of New Mexico and the Southwest, who lost their mother country of Mexico when they became citizens of the United States, their new mother country. ✿

✿ Kirsten was one of the first three characters in The American Girls Collection, along with Samantha and Molly, when Pleasant Company debuted.

The Kirsten doll and accessories were “archived” in 2010 and have only been rereleased once in 2021 and once in 2024 since then.

One of the outfits that was sold for Kirsten was a housecoat and sockor, or wool slippers. The sockor for the Kirsten doll were handmade by a woman in Sweden beginning in 1987 for twenty years.

The original family portrait in Kirsten’s books is made to look like a daguerreotype, which is a type of photograph from the time. Later, the portraits of Kirsten’s family and friends were done individually to match the other American Girl books.

In Pleasant Rowland’s original business plan, Kirsten was named Rebecca, and was a Norwegian immigrant in 1865.

The team who created Kirsten did a lot of research with the Minnesota and Wisconsin Historical Societies, who had a lot of information about the Swedish settlers who came to these states in the 1800s.

Kirsten’s Swedish dirndl and kerchief outfit were first released in 1989. ✿

✿ Addy was the first American Girl doll that came with pierced ears.

The cowrie shell necklace that Addy wears is special, as the cowrie has ritual significance for some West African cultures.

The Addy doll and books debuted in September 1993. She was the fifth historical character and the first Black character.

Pleasant Rowland, the founder of American Girl, reached out to author Connie Porter to write the Addy book series after reading her adult novel All-Bright Court.

To promote the Addy book series, American Girl took author Connie Porter on a 10-city author tour to bookstores, libraries, and schools, reaching an audience of more than 15,000 people.

Researchers on Addy confirmed when the full moon would have been during Addy and her mother’s escape from enslavement in 1864 to ensure historical accuracy in the timing.

The museum program, Addy at Ohio Village, debuted in 1998.

The dialect used in the Addy books was created by author Connie Porter to be a balance between what speech of the time would’ve sounded like and what is accessible for young readers and was reviewed by two dialect experts at Jacksonville State University in Alabama.

Addy was the first American Girl character to have an advisory board. Addy’s advisory board was made up of Black historians, educators, and museum curators who ensured the depiction of Addy’s life and times was historically accurate.

The advisory board for Addy included: Lonnie Bunch, Cheryl Chisholm, Spencer Crew, Violet Harris, Wilma King, June Powell, and Janet Sims-Wood.

Addy’s first three books sold more than a million copies in the year they were released.

Some of the original time periods discussed for American Girl’s first Black character included the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights era, which were used later for Claudie Wells and Melody Ellison, respectively. ✿

✿ Kit Kittredge is the seventh historical character that American Girl created.

When she wrote the Kit books, author Valerie Tripp was inspired by her mother, who was Kit’s age in 1932.

The movie Kit Kittredge: An American Girl was released in 2008 and starred Abigail Breslin as Kit—plus actors Chris O’Donnell, Julia Ormond, Joan Cusack, and Stanley Tucci.

Illustrator Walter Rane used himself as a model for the grumpy grocery store owner in Kit’s stories.

When Kit launched, American Girl held events called Kit’s Share and Care Party where girls were invited to donate canned goods for a food drive.

Like Kit’s dad, author Valerie Tripp’s grandfather paid his staff out of his own pocket as long as he could, but eventually had to close his hotel during the Great Depression.

Kit was the first American Girl character doll with freckles and the first with short hair.

Development on Kit was started before Mattel purchased Pleasant Company (American Girl’s original company name) but she was launched after the purchase.

After the launch of the Kit doll and books, Valerie Tripp received a letter from a woman named Kit Kittredge who had grown up in Cincinnati during the Depression and was very excited about the coincidence!

American Girl’s Claudie Wells, whose stories are set in the 1920s, could have faced the challenges of the Great Depression in her teens and twenties. ✿

✿ When Julie launched, in 2007, American Girl historical characters’ years had always ended in 4, so Julie’s year was set as 1974—even though her stories begin in 1975.

Julie’s stories are set in San Francisco to express the open-minded, progressive spirit of her time. At the forefront of the hippie counterculture, San Francisco’s colorful, creative, free-wheeling vibe strongly influenced the music, fashion, and art of the 1970s.

When Julie debuted, some customers felt American Girl should not depict a girl with divorced parents. But since about 50% of kids today live with divorced parents, the creators of Julie felt it was important to have a character and doll who represented their experience.

Author Megan McDonald has four sisters who inspire many of her stories. Quite a few of the scenes between Julie and her teenage sister Tracy were inspired by Megan’s experience growing up with her sisters.

When she’s running for election to student body president, Julie debates her opponent, a popular sixth-grade boy. The 1976 Ford-Carter election debates inspired author Megan McDonald to come up with this plotline.

When author Megan McDonald was ten, her first published story appeared in her school newspaper. Her story was about a pencil sharpener! ✿

[eretzyisrael]

by Dion J. Pierre

The State University System of Florida has at least two institutions with active National SJP chapters, according to Rodrigues. Citing state law that deems the knowing provision of material support to a terrorist group as a felony, he said that the two chapters cannot continue operating.

“These chapters exist under the headship of the National Students for Justice in Palestine, who distributed a toolkit identifying themselves as part of the Operation Al-Aqsa Flood,” the memo stated. “Based on the National SJP’s support of terrorism, in consultation with Governor DeSantis, the student chapters must be deactivated. These two student chapters may form another organization that complies with Florida state statutes and university policies. The two institutions should grant these two chapters a waiver for the fall deadlines, should reapplication take place.”

The measure will affect SJP chapters at the University of North Florida, located in Jacksonville, and Florida State University, located in Tallahassee.

Support for terrorism against Israeli civilians among SJP chapters is not new. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), for example, reported that SJP expressed on at least 10 occasions last year admiration for Leila Khaled, a member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a US-designated terror group. She is known for previously hijacking two planes.

Other SJP chapters at the University of Texas, Dallas, New York University Law School, and the University of Massachusetts posted violent images containing PLFP’s logo and guns. In January, the University of Chicago’s SJP chapter honored Khairy Alqam — who murdered seven Israeli civilians exiting a synagogue in Jerusalem — in a collage titled “Honoring the Martyrs.”

DeSantis has taken previous steps to crack down on anti-Israel activity in Florida.

[rabbitcruiser]

World Bicycle Day

The bicycle is one of the most beneficial inventions for your personal health and for the health of the environment. Get out and get some sustainable exercise.

The bicycle is one of the most important inventions in the history of the planet. It provides millions of people with a means of transport powered by nothing other than their bodies. It’s practical, reliable, and helps one to stay fit. Many find that it’s a fun and hassle-free way to get around and take care of daily tasks.

World Bicycle Day is the United Nation’s attempt to recognize the vital importance of the bicycle across the globe. The bike has helped many families across the world to get access to cheap and reliable transportation. It’s no wonder so many partake in the celebration and want to get the word out to others about this exciting and eventful day.

Cycling is an environmentally sound, safe, and healthy way to travel from point A to B. It’s something that we need to do more of if we want to protect the world against the ravages of unsustainable CO2 production. It can save lives, help improve the environment, and support poverty reduction, and for these reasons, it deserves far more attention than it currently receives.

History of World Bicycle Day

The United Nations launched World Bicycle Day for several reasons. The first was to recognize the sheer transformative impact of the bicycle on society. Pedal cycles give even the poorest people in the world access to transport services. Bikes allow them to visit friends, collect water, and buy groceries.

The bicycle is a long-serving mode of transportation, which has helped practically every human community worldwide. All cultures and people alike can partake in the celebration and show their love for cycling.

The third purpose is to highlight the fact that many cities ignore the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. Policymakers have a bias towards the motor vehicle, serving its needs instead of using environmentally-sound alternatives. World Bicycle Day, therefore, is a chance to raise awareness of the benefits of cycling and promote measures to ensure better sharing of the roads.

It’s a chance for people to demand improvements to road safety and cycling mobility through a change in policies and measurable activity that protects and promotes the safety of riders and pedestrians.

The fourth purpose is to help save lives and reduce poverty. Investing in pedestrian and cycle routes in cities can help cut the rate of deaths while also taking traffic off the roads and investing in safer modes of intra-city travel. Promoting cycling can also help to reduce poverty.

By giving the poorest members of the community access to transportation, they can more easily commute to places of work. It helps them to achieve greater health equity by reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, some cancers, diabetes, and even death.

How to Celebrate World Bicycle Day

There are many reasons why celebrating World Bicycle Day is essential to the health of individuals and the environment. It’s a sustainable means of transportation that’s simple to use, affordable, and is reliable for those who may not have access to a car. It provides access to education, health care, and physical activity for those who don’t have any other means of transportation.

It gives users an immediate awareness of the local environment and fosters creativity and social engagement among community members. The positive impact on the climate and one’s health simply can’t be overlooked. The bicycle offers a sustainable transportation solution and a way for people to show their support for creating a better environment and planet.

Anyone can do their part and partake in the day by celebrating in unique and fun ways. First, you can donate to a cycle scheme. Many nonprofits are looking for ways to increase the number of bicycles that people use in developing countries. Many view it as a cheap solution that makes transporting food and water around much more manageable.

Second, you can cycle to work, college or school, on your bicycle instead of using the car. One will be able to avoid traffic jams and the cost of gas. One will likely find this to be a more enjoyable and stress-free way to get around. There’s no gas money required, and the fresh air will feel wonderful. Using a bicycle will help cut down on CO2 emissions as well. It’s also an excellent way to get some exercise and stay healthy. There’s no denying the feeling one has after being out in nature and exerting some pent up energy.

Third, a person can encourage other people to use their bicycles to get around town by sharing World Cycle Day hashtags on social media. More and more people are engaging online and wanting to express themselves through these social media platforms. It’s possible that together individuals will be able to make this cause go viral and make impactful changes to the environment and wellness of each other. Someone can also encourage others to use this means of transportation by inviting a companion to ride a bike with them to a friend’s house or to run errands.

And finally, one can celebrate and participate in World Bicycle Day by lobbying to local government to improve cycle and pedestrian mobility in the city. Attend a meeting in the area to voice concerns and recommendations for making bicycling around town easier and more accessible to those in the community. All it takes is a few individuals who are willing to speak up and express viewpoints around this topic to inspire and motivate change.

It’s clear that World Bicycle Day is something that anyone can get involved with, even if they don’t ride a bike. Communities will thrive, individuals will be in better health, and the environment will take a turn for the better when cycling becomes the focus. There are so many positive results that emerge from World Bicycle Day that it’s certainly worth celebrating. It’s an opportunity to spark more appreciation for this simple yet beneficial means of transportation and to get everyone thinking about all the good reasons cycling should receive acknowledgment and public attention.

Source

[fiercynn]

palestinian poets: george abraham

george abraham (they/he/هو) is a palestinian american poet, performance arist, and writer who was born and raised on unceded timucuan lands (jacksonville, FL). their debut poetry collection birthright (button poetry) won the arab american book award and the big other book award, and was a lambda literary award finalist. he is also the author of the chapbooks al youm and the specimen's apology. their collaborations include co-editing a palestinian poetry anthology with noor hindi (haymarket books, 2025), and a performance art project titled EVE with fargo nissim tbakhi. 

they are a recipient of fellowships from kundiman, the arab american national museum, the boston foundation, the national performance network, and the MAP fund, and more. their writing has appeared in poetry magazine, the nation, the american poetry review, guernica, the baffler, the paris review, mizna, and many other journals and anthologies. a graduate of swarthmore college and harvard university, they have taught at emerson college, and are currently a litowitz MFA+MA candidate in poetry at northwestern university. he is also currently executive editor of the whiting award-winning journal mizna.

you can follow them on twitter @IntifadaBatata.

IF YOU READ JUST ONE POEM BY GEORGE ABRAHAM, MAKE IT THIS ONE

OTHER POEMS ONLINE THAT I LOVE BY GEORGE ABRAHAM

Field Notes on Terror & Beginnings at poetry daily

Love Letter to the Eve of the End of the World at the margins

Of Nation, at rusted radishes: beirut literary and art journal

Searching for a Palestinian After at the nation

Stage Directions for a Representation in which Eve and Adam travel through their first checkpoint at mosaic theatre company

the ghosts of the dead sea are rising at the drift

ars poetica in which every pronoun is FREE PALESTINE at the margins

“from UNIVERSAL THEORY IN WHICH EVERY FAILED ATTEMPT AT LOVE IS A SOULMATE FROM AN ALTERNATE TIMELINE” at fiyah literary magazine

Ode to My Swollen, Mono-Infected Spleen at brooklyn poets

The Olive Tree Speaks of Deforestation to my body at crabfat magazine

arab/queer vs. Imaginary at shade literary arts

self-portrait with second-degree sunburn at

[ summer / winter ] is the worst time to lose a [ country / lover ] at wildness

maqam of moonlight, for the wandering at the rumpus

against perturbation at the scores

apology, at cordite poetry review

i also adore this 2021 essay of abraham's at guernica magazine called teaching poetry in the palestinian apocalypse: towards a collective, lyric "i".

[ice-and-lightning]

Today, it's been 10 years since I visited my friend in (northern) Florida. It was a gift from her. Her mum sold their house, and she used part of the money for tickets for me to visit for two weeks. Me and that friend don't talk much anymore, but I'm glad we could meet.

I had a lot of fun, even though getting there meant 6h in Boston for overlay to Philly and from there to Jacksonville.

I had my first bagel, pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin pie, pecan pie and a lot of other first food things of mixed liking. I don't like fried ockra, as example.

Walmart is an alternate reality and creepy.

People talk to you. Strangers just walks up and talk. They ask about your family and other private things. Not used to that and it freaked me out. Nothing wrong with doing that, just not how Sweden works.

I hugged a palm tree. I had never seen one irl before. I counted those tiny lizards that were everywhere and befriended a few of them. I swam in an outdoor pool in November! Everyone was dressed for midwinter and I walked around in shorts.

We went on ghost hunting, museums, the spring of life, alligator farm, wine tour and Christmas town decoration tour.

Next time (yes, I'm saying next even though idk if it will ever happen) I go to the US, I hope to visit northern CA, since one of my closest friends of over 15 years live there. What I really wish, though, is to do a US roadtrip and visit all friends who want to see me, either for a short stay or just coffee or a meal.

Anyway, Florida, and meeting Liz, was fun.

[lesbiandisastermonk]

Northern Florida people?

Hi everyone who still follows this blog! I apologize for not being active on this one anymore (I still watch CR, I just don't have the drive to use this sideblog at the moment).

Still, I thought I'd give this a shot and be vulnerable for a moment:

Hi! I'm Mani, 31, biologist and environmental educator wrapping up my degree, nerd for fantasy and norse stuff, love video and board games. I moved to the US this summer to live with my partner for the next couple of years till we jump (back) over to Europe together. The thing is, I don't know anyone here, and my partner can't be my only social interaction and crutch all the time. I want to start building my own life here too, and I'd love to perhaps make some friends? As a treat? Without doxxing myself too much, but I'm somewhere in that northern part of Florida - both Jacksonville and Gainesville are within a doable drive.

Anyone having some DnD groups (or wanna build one)? Game nights? Nature walks? Museums? Anything fun to do somewhere?

My ask box and DMs are open, feel free to reach out! 🙏❤️