Long credited for designing and sewing the first U.S. flag, Philadelphia upholsterer Betsy Ross probably didn’t have anything to do it, says Reader’s Digest. Grandson William Canby appears to have invented that account, presenting it to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania in 1870. That first official design included 13 stripes for the original 13 states, but when Vermont and Kentucky joined the Union, a new flag with 15 stars and 15 stripes debuted — and that’s the version that was immortalized in Francis Scott Key’s “Star-Spangled Banner.” Later designs returned to the original 13 stripes and added stars for new states. #FlagDay
Author: Jordank
Editorial Coordinator
Summer Travel That Won’t Break the Bank
Inflation was up about 5% between March 2022 and March 2023, according to Bankrate.com. And while that’s the smallest year-to-year increase seen in almost two years, the damage is done: Higher prices are making many consumers rethink their #summer #travel plans.
While more people are planning to take a #vacation this summer, a NerdWallet survey says that almost all (92%) are trying to save money by picking accommodations based on price instead of amenities (39%) or driving instead of flying (35%).
All is not lost, however. There are ways to economize and still change up the scenery.
For domestic travel, you can adjust your plans to save on hotels, flights and necessities. Check sites such as Kayak.com to compare prices if you have a destination in mind, or use Google Flights “Explore” function if you have dates in mind but are flexible about a destination.
Better still, use any airline miles you banked during COVID. You may be able to get a free flight to a preferred destination, and spend the money you saved on food and lodging once there. For tips on making the most of airline, hotel and credit card loyalty programs, visit The Points Guy.
One relatively inexpensive option is to take a road trip. Whether visiting friends or exploring a new destination, driving can be more economical than flying, especially if you plan on taking the whole family. If you really want to save, avoid hotel costs altogether by going camping for part or all of your time away.
For those whose wanderlust takes them further afield, there’s more good news: The dollar is currently strong against most currencies worldwide. There may never be a better time to visit the seven continents — even many destinations that are usually considered expensive such as London, Iceland and South Africa.
“Right now, everywhere is ‘discounted’ if you’re an American,” says blogger Nomadic Matt. “Your dollars will go much further than in years past, so you should really take advantage of that opportunity, because you don’t really know how long this will last.”
You can economize if you feel the need to get away this summer. Perhaps the worst news is that you won’t be alone — pent-up demand means that flights are crowded and hotels are filling up fast. Plan your #vacation now to keep things as #thrifty as possible!
Don’t Forget Living Veterans on Memorial Day
While Memorial Day honors those who have made the ultimate #sacrifice in #service to the nation, it never hurts to support living #veterans, too. Many know the sacrifice personally, and lived to tell the tale. Some need assitance such as health care, financial support or simple companionship. That’s where ClothingDonations.org comes in: By collecting and reselling #donations of lightly used clothing, small appliances, furniture and other household goods, we help fund valuable #veterans programs throughout the country, helping all who served access housing, health care and benefits claims, as well as offering fellowship. #MemorialDay
Keep Memories Alive for Memorial Day
Finding a parade or commemorative event is as simple as Googling “Memorial Day near me.” But if you’re more the type to host a #cookout, go on a hike or spend the long weekend in a hotel, you can still observe the #sacrifice those who gave their lives in service made. Fly the flag, donate flowers or shop a #veteran-owned business, Good Housekeeping suggests. Learn a #patriotic song, visit a cemetery or post a tribute to social media. Whatever you choose, any heartfelt observance is a great way to keep the memory of the nation’s fallen service members alive. #MemorialDay
Get Ready for Memorial Day Events Nationwide
Observances throughout the country will be staged over the long weekend to recognize the #sacrifice of those who perished defending the United States. One popular annual event is the National Memorial Day Concert, which is set to be broadcast on Sunday, May 28, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET live from the U.S. Capitol. A remembrance ceremony will take place on Monday, May 29, with a speech from President Biden. More than 130 Veterans Administration events are planned, as well as countless local parades and #memorial observances. “On Memorial Day, we #honor the service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation,” says VA Secretary Denis McDonough. #MemorialDay