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Top 5 smartphone features you just can’t live without

StatePoint Smartphones are our lifeline — we use them to connect us to just about everything and everyone in our world. Americans check their phones an average of 344 times a day — once every four minutes — according to a 2022 Review.org survey. But when was the last time you upgraded your phone? If it’s been more than two years, you may be missing out on some of the latest tech upgrades. Here are five must-have features to consider when shopping for a new smartphone: • Battery Life: When it comes to battery life, you may not realize what you’ve been missing out on until ...

Create an oasis

Dreaming of summer in the backyard or on the patio? By KIM COOK The Associated Press A relaxing retreat just steps from the back door? Count us all in. Outdoor home spaces serve a lot of functions, but Soothing Refuge is one that designers say is in high demand. Aromatic plantings. Romantic arbors. A meandering path. A yoga platform. Pergola daybeds. Prefab saunas. Plunge Pools. An outdoor shower. And comfortable furniture that can stand up to the weather. “The outdoor living trend has been building for the last decade, but it got a major bump during the pandemic, “ said Dan ...

New exhibit explores Mexica lunar goddess’s significance

By MARÍA TERESA HERNÁNDEZ The Associated Press MEXICO CITY — A new exhibit hosted by Museum of Templo Mayor in Mexico City marks the 45th anniversary of the discovery of a monolith depicting Coyolxauhqui, the Mexica lunar goddess. The finding was a milestone for Mexican archaeology, as it shed light on Mexica civilization before the Spanish conquest. “Coyolxauhqui: The star, the goddess, the discovery” displays more than 150 archaeological objects focused on the mythology, symbolism and scientific research around this deity (whose name is pronounced Koy-ol-shauw-kee). The ...

Hawaii mulls fees for ecotourism crush

HONOLULU (AP) — Repairing coral reefs after boats run aground. Shielding native forest trees from a killer fungus outbreak. Patrolling waters for swimmers harassing dolphins and turtles. Taking care of Hawaii’s unique natural environment takes time, people and money. Now Hawaii wants tourists to help pay for it, especially because growing numbers are traveling to the islands to enjoy the beauty of its outdoors — including some lured by dramatic vistas they’ve seen on social media. “All I want to do, honestly, is to make travelers accountable and have the capacity to help ...

Warmer weather means picnicking … with pizza?

Good day to you from the kitchen! Warmer weather calls for picnic foods made easy. Today let’s make pizza! Not all pizza is served hot so I’m sharing 3 appetizers for your summer picnicking. Roasted Veggie Pizzas (Makes 2) 3 (8oz pkgs crescent rolls 1 1/2 cups sour cream 12 oz cream cheese 1.5 tsp dried dill 1/2 tsp garlic salt 1.5 pkgs dry ranch dressing Pint of cherry tomatoes cut in half Cubed butternut squash 1.5-2 cups crumbled feta cheese Press crescent rolls onto 2 jelly roll pans or round pizza pans. Bake according to pkg directions. Cool. Slice ...

A beautifully baked beef family dinner for weekdays

Culinary.net Many families crave savory and delicious weeknight meals. After a long day of work and school, it’s time to gather around the table to share a mouthwatering meal and memories together. For something truly wholesome, try this Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Cauliflower and Spinach Salad. It’s a full meal the whole family can enjoy, and you’ll be surprised at how easy it makes it to feed all the smiling faces. This meal has layers of flavor and sneaks in a few vegetables like spinach and cauliflower, but even picky eaters can’t resist trying it. Start with a ...