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Mattel introduces first Barbie with Down syndrome

WASHINGTON (AP) — Toy company Mattel revealed its first Barbie doll representing a person with Down syndrome on Tuesday. Mattel collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society to create the Barbie and “ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome,” the company said. Design features of the new Barbie were made under guidance from NDSS, Mattel said. In addition to portraying some physical characteristics of a person with Down syndrome, the Barbie’s clothing and accessories carry special meaning. The blue and yellow on the doll’s dress, accompanied ...

Stories told in stitchery at Folk Art Museum’s quilt exhibit

By KIM COOK The Associated Press NEW YORK — From simple geometric shapes to the intricately wrought details of daily life, the quilt designs in a show now running at the American Folk Art Museum show how powerfully this art form has told stories for centuries and been a vehicle for creativity. “What That Quilt Knows About Me” comprises 35 quilts and related works in an intimate gallery space. Some tell stories about the maker’s life or process. Others explore quilting technique, using different materials. One quilt estimated to be from the early 1800s bursts with ...

Get away without going away

eLivingtoday.com Family vacations are a great way to bond and take a step back from the hectic schedules that accompany everyday life, but sometimes time or money (or both) make planning an elaborate trip a non-starter. However, a staycation — a vacation you take right in your hometown (or nearby) — can be much less expensive and fit into nearly any amount of available time with the added bonus of skipping out on potentially stressful travel. Consider these staycation ideas to take advantage of your local area’s attractions and prove you don’t have to go far to spend quality ...

5 best places to visit in spring on a budget

Wealth of Geeks While Summer is the go-to season when people think of vacations, a surprising 96% of the general population is planning a mini-vacay between March and May. You can blame it on spring break in April or a desperate desire to see a peek of sunshine after the cold winter. But it’s also cheaper and less crowded when you take a break in the springtime. You might be looking for cheap airlines and places to go for your own trips, but which U.S. destinations are the best for a quick short trip in the spring? Combining the elements of food, sights, weather, and budget, here ...

Tips for selecting the perfect home

Family Features For those beginning the process of home buying, there are many factors to consider. Keep these ideas in mind as you conduct your search - whether it’s online or at a series of open houses. Consider future needs Because life is always evolving, it’s important to move into a home that has enough space for your family’s anticipated changes. While features and space are always prime considerations, don’t forget to, look into the area schools, day care options, parks and other kid-friendly amenities if you plan to grow your family in your next home. Look for ...

A profitable doctor’s visit back to Juniata

From staff reports REEDSVILLE — Four years had passed since Dr. Lori Verderame had last appraised an item in Mifflin County. But her return to the area on April 22 yielded some of the highest appraisals she had ever given when visiting the Juniata Valley Home and Garden Show. The owners of a 19th century clock, some rock and roll memorabilia and a framed movie poster all left the event with high appraisals. Which one would be the top appraisal of the day? Read on to find out. Dr. Lori, as she’s commonly known, made her sixth appearance during the home show in Reedsville at the ...