The Stories Collin County Forgot to Notice

Every time I drive through Princeton, I pass the same brown sign.

You probably know the kind. White lettering. An arrow pointing toward something that’s apparently very important. A quick reminder from the State of Texas that history of some sort happened here. Usually, I glance at it and keep driving. Life has a funny way of convincing us that whatever is at the end of the arrow can wait until another day.

A few weeks ago, another day finally arrived.

The sign pointed toward the Princeton POW camp, so I decided to follow it. After a few turns, I arrived at a familiar site: J.M. Caldwell Sr. Community Park. As most people in Princeton know, baseball diamonds and soccer pitches stretch across the property. 

When I arrived, parents sat in folding chairs watching youth baseball and soccer games while coaches barked instructions from dugouts. It looked like the type of scene that plays out every weekend in communities across Texas.

Then I remembered why I was there. I started my quest to find the prisoner-of-war camp. The problem was that there wasn’t much to find.

After wandering around the complex for a few minutes, I finally found the historical marker. It wasn’t standing prominently at the entrance or positioned where every visitor would naturally see it. Instead, it sat underneath a pavilion, tucked away from the baseball fields that draw hundreds of people to the park every weekend.

As I stood there reading about German prisoners of war who once lived on that property, the contrast was impossible to ignore. Life was happening all around the marker, yet not a single person except for me seemed to notice that it existed.

Whether they had seen it before, were focused on the game or simply didn’t notice it, life continued around this small piece of history without a second glance.

That’s not meant as a criticism. It’s human nature. Most of us don’t spend our weekends thinking about what happened on a patch of land 80 years ago. But standing there, watching hundreds of  people enjoy a beautiful afternoon while a World War II story sat quietly beneath a pavilion, I couldn’t help but wonder how many important stories throughout Collin County are hiding in plain sight.

The answer is probably more than we’d like to admit.

This isn’t because the stories aren’t important. It’s because Collin County has become one of the fastest-growing regions in America. New neighborhoods appear overnight, roads that once connected small farming communities now carry thousands of commuters and entire sections of the county are almost unrecognizable compared to a decade ago.

That’s why historical markers matter. They serve as reminders that the places we consider ordinary today weren’t always ordinary.

The Princeton POW Camp may be the best example of this phenomenon anywhere in Collin County. Long before baseball tournaments and community events filled the property, the site served as a migrant labor camp built in 1940 to house workers who traveled to Princeton to harvest cotton and onions. During 1945, the facility briefly became a prisoner-of-war camp for German soldiers captured during World War II. Today, one of the most visible remnants of that era is an old, rusted 30,000-gallon water tower that still stands nearby. Beyond that, there is little to suggest the role the site once played in both local agriculture and global conflict.

Eighty years ago, German prisoners spent their days on that property. Today, children play baseball and soccer while parents cheer from the stands. They represent different chapters of the same story. The challenge is ensuring earlier chapters aren’t forgotten because newer ones have become more visible. 

It’s a conversation that extends far beyond Princeton.

That concern has already caught the attention of Princeton leaders, who have discussed ways to better preserve and document local history before significant sites and artifacts are lost to growth.

Drive a few miles to the southwest to Wylie and you’ll find another example of history hiding in plain sight. Every day, thousands of drivers cross railroad tracks running through the heart of town. Most don’t think much about them. 

Yet the railroad is the whole reason Wylie exists.

Like many communities throughout North Texas and the United States, Wylie grew because of the railroad. The arrival of the tracks brought transportation, commerce and opportunity – the holy trinity of growth. Businesses and families followed the tracks, forming a town that more than a century later is one of the largest in the entire county. And although most of Wylie’s original landscape has changed, the tracks remain. The trains that interrupt traffic today are descendants of the very thing that made the community possible in the first place.

That’s what makes historical markers so fascinating. They force us to look at familiar places differently. The railroad tracks aren’t just railroad tracks anymore. They’re a reminder that cities don’t simply appear out of thin air. They are built, often by people whose names have long since disappeared from public memory.

The same idea becomes even more apparent when visiting Sugar Hill near Farmersville.

Unlike Princeton or Wylie, there isn’t much left to see. There are no baseball fields. There’s no bustling downtown with shops and restaurants. There’s no active railroad spurring commerce and transportation. In fact, if not for the historical marker sitting near the road, most people would have no reason to believe anything significant ever stood there.

Long before Farmersville became one of the most important communities in eastern Collin County, Sugar Hill was the area’s center of commerce. Established around 1849 near the intersection of two major roads, the community grew around a store owned by Captain John Yeary. 

Its location made it a natural gathering place for settlers moving into the region, and by 1857 Sugar Hill had become a thriving frontier community. If not for a tragic incident one Christmas Eve, perhaps Sugar Hill would still be on the map.

On Dec. 24, 1854, a fight broke out at a local saloon. By the time the dust settled, Yeary was dead and another one of his sons was also killed while pursuing the men responsible. Two other innocent bystanders also lost their lives.

In the aftermath, many of Sugar Hill’s merchants wanted to distance themselves from the town’s blood-stained reputation. Rather than rebuild in the same place, they moved away and established a new settlement: Farmersville.

Today, Farmersville – not Sugar Hill – has an established downtown, historic buildings and a population measured in the thousands. Yet the community’s origins can be traced back to a town that no longer exists. Now all that’s left is a historical marker.

The Princeton POW Camp, Wylie’s railroad marker and Sugar Hill tell different stories, but they point toward the same reality: history rarely disappears all at once. It fades quietly as generations pass, landscapes change and memories give way to new chapters. That’s especially true in a place like Collin County, where growth has transformed communities at a remarkable pace. While progress isn’t the enemy of history, it can make it easier to overlook.

Maybe that’s the real purpose of a historical marker. It’s not to teach a history lesson or test somebody’s knowledge of local trivia – it’s simply a reminder to look a little closer. Because sometimes a baseball field is more than a baseball field. Sometimes a railroad track is more than a railroad track. Sometimes an empty patch of land is all that’s left of a town.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, perhaps there’s no better time to follow the arrow on the brown sign or pull over to that historical marker and discover the stories that have been hiding in plain sight all along. 

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Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Despite its wide recognition as an effective tool for skin cancer prevention, many Americans still say they aren’t sure how sunscreen works. In fact, confusion about its use and misinformation persist, especially on social media.

According to a national survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of the nonprofit Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), 53% of the 2,000 adult respondents said they’ve seen claims that sunscreen ingredients may be harmful while 59% reported they’re concerned about what’s in sunscreen and 38% don’t believe sunscreen is safe and effective.

Among the various types of skin cancer, 9 out of 10, including melanoma, are linked to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, according to the MRA. The survey found most Americans have a basic understanding of the risks of sun exposure, including the more than 8 in 10 who recognize spending long hours in the sun contributes to melanoma risk. However, roughly one-quarter said they rarely or never use sunscreen when outdoors.

This sunscreen confusion highlights a central challenge in preventing skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Reducing exposure to UV radiation lowers the risk of skin cancer, making sunscreen a key part of prevention, even during those everyday moments you may not immediately recognize as “risky,” like a short walk through a parking lot or an hour sitting in the bleachers at a sporting event.

To combat the confusion, it’s important to first understand how sunscreen works. It absorbs or blocks UV radiation from reaching the skin, preventing DNA damage that can cause cancer.

“Conflicting or incomplete information can make people less likely to wear sunscreen consistently,” said Dr. Joan Levy, chief science officer at the MRA, “but the science on sun protection is clear, and sunscreen is one of the most effective tools to prevent melanoma.”

Active ingredients in sunscreen in the U.S. undergo rigorous review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which evaluates them as over-the-counter drugs – a standard which requires extensive testing and contributes to a more limited set of approved UV filters compared to Europe, where sunscreens are regulated as cosmetics.

The FDA is evaluating additional methodologies for assessing sunscreen ingredients, a process that could, according to Levy, expand the number of approved UV filters available in the U.S.

While melanoma remains the deadliest form of skin cancer, real progress is being made in melanoma research. Recent advances are improving outcomes for many patients with the disease, though approximately 50% of patients do not respond to current treatments, according to the MRA, underscoring why prevention and early detection are critical.

“Treatments such as immunotherapy have significantly improved outcomes for many melanoma patients, but we should never need to treat what we could have prevented,” Levy said.

To learn more and find strategies to protect your skin, visit CureMelanoma.org.

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By Carrie Dunlea

Surrounded by mountain landscapes and natural beauty, mountain retreats in the United States offer an idyllic escape for those who seek solitude and a peaceful getaway. From the rolling hills of the Appalachians to the majestic Rockies, these destinations offer a blend of tranquility, adventure and relaxation.

One such destination that attracts travelers from across the world is Asheville, located in the western region of North Carolina. This charming town is surrounded by the lush Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a wide range of mountain retreats, including cozy cabins and luxurious lodges. Visitors can take a stroll through the town’s historic district and admire the architecture of the grand old homes, enjoy a leisurely hike on the nearby trails, or indulge in a spa treatment in the tranquil mountains.

One grand home you won’t want to miss on your tour of the area is the iconic Biltmore Estate, built in 1895. This 250-room home with its extensive grounds rivals many world-class hotels and can take up to two hours to tour. Once you leave the estate, make sure to stop at the nearby Biltmore Village, touted as a “destination for those who enjoy fine art, exceptional cuisine and a nice mix of boutique and nationally recognized shops.”

Even if you’re pressed for time on this trip, don’t miss the opportunity to drive at least a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway while visiting the area. It is considered “America’s Favorite Scenic Drive,” and near Asheville the Parkway offers access to hiking trails and stunning views. If you plan to drive the whole 469-mile route before or after your visit, the road winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more. 

Visit exploreasheville.com

Another popular mountain retreat is the charming town of Park City, Utah. It may be most well-known for winter sports, but this city nestled amid the stunning Wasatch Mountains offers an array of recreational activities, hiking mountain biking, fly fishing, river rafting and much more in other seasons as well. 

Park City is also home to several upscale resorts, which provide high-end amenities and expansive mountain views.

The Sundance Film Festival is held annually in January, but there are other art-related opportunities offered in the summer including the Deer Valley Music Festival and the Kimball Arts Festival. Family fun activities include the Utah Olympic Park where adventure-seeking visitors can try a bobsled, alpine or zipline ride or adventure courses designed to test your limits.

Visit parkcity.com

For those who prefer a more remote retreat, the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota offer a perfect escape. The Black Hills are home to several mountain retreats that provide an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation. From hiking along the mountain trails to enjoying a scenic drive through the winding roads, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty. The area is also home to iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, as well as many others, which offer a glimpse into the rich history and native culture of the region.

Stop first at the Black Hills Visitor Information Center in Rapid City where experienced travel advisors are on hand to help with trip planning, itineraries, and reservations, as well as maps and guides for the entire region. In addition, motorized trail permits for ATVs, UTVs and snowmobiles can be purchased at the center.

If you plan your trip in June or September, visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, and participate in the Volksmarch, an organized hike with up to 10,000 hikers, who hike the world’s largest mountain carving to view the 87-foot face of Crazy Horse up close.

The area also offers museums to fit a variety of interests such as Sioux Indian, geology, dinosaur museums, as well as the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame to name a few. If you prefer to explore beneath the earth, there are hundreds of miles of caves beneath the Black Hills including two that are national parks. Other adventures to explore include Chuckwagon shows, trail and wagon rides, fossils, gold mines and much more.

Blackhillsbadlands.com

One mountain retreat that offers a unique experience is the town of Sedona, located in the heart of Arizona’s Red Rock Country. The town is famous for its stunning red rock formations and offers a variety of lodging options ranging from rustic cabins to luxurious resorts. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, participate in a yoga retreat, meditate, explore the town’s vibrant art scene including 80 art galleries and shops, visit a winery, and dine at a variety of restaurants.

For those opting for a more spiritual vibe, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross with its Frank Lloyd Wright flair or book one of many Tripadvisor tours to sacred sites and vortexes which promise “a transformative reawakening of spirit and reconnection with the earth.” 

Sedona is surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest land, including two state parks so outdoor activity options are abundant. There are over 400 trails to hike and bike, along with opportunities to go rafting, horseback riding, yoga retreats, among the many activities available. If motorized movement suits you best, you can rent ATVs, Jeeps or motorcycles and then hit the trails. If a slower pace is more your thing, e-bike rentals or tours offer a unique way to experience all the area has to offer.

While visiting Sedona, plan to squeeze in a day trip to Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Drive on your own or book a bus tour for a memorable excursion.

Visit Sedona.com

Nestled amid the towering peaks of the Cascade Mountains, the town of Leavenworth, Washington, offers a unique mountain retreat experience. The town’s Bavarian architecture creates a cozy and charming atmosphere that perfectly complements the stunning natural surroundings. From the morning Alp Horn serenade, the Nutcracker Museum, 96-foot maypole in the town square, German restaurants, beer gardens and bratwurst eateries, shops that carry cuckoo clocks, beer steins and music boxes, the town’s website declares, “you’ll swear you’re in Bavaria.”

On the other hand, traveling to Leavenworth is not nearly as complex as traveling to Germany, and if you’re there for outdoor activities, there are four seasons of recreation to enjoy including hiking, skiing, river rafting, paddle boarding, climbing, mountain biking and more. 

While in Leavenworth, visitors can book spa treatments or explore the town’s many restaurants and attractions such as the Leavenworth Summer Theater, Icicle Creek Center for the Arts and Village Art in the Park. And if you visit in June, you might witness the Leavenworth National Accordion Celebration! 

Leavenworth.org

Mountain retreats offer an ideal escape for those seeking solitude, adventure, and relaxation. From the stunning red rocks of Sedona to the charming mountain towns of North Carolina, there’s no shortage of options for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the United States. Whether you opt to hit the trails or explore wondrous caves, these mountain retreats offer a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.

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The state’s natural beauty and its history are a treasure waiting to be discovered in any of the 52 parks and museums in the Arkansas State Parks system, with seven National Park Service sites and three national forests covering more than 2.9 million acres of Arkansas, plus more than 200 campsites and recreational areas.

Crater of Diamonds State Park

Who doesn’t love diamonds and digging in the dirt? This park is an exercise in fun, being in the outdoors, and a good way to bond as a couple or as a family. At the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, visitors can dig for diamonds in a 37.5-acre plowed field, which in reality is the eroded surface of an ancient volcanic crater. The park is the eighth largest, diamond-bearing deposit in surface area in the world.

When you enter through the park’s Diamond Discovery Center on your way to the diamond search area, you’ll want to take a while to listen and read about the area. The interpretive center is engaging and serves as the gateway to the search area by offering an in-depth introduction to the unique adventure of searching for diamonds. Tour the exhibits and visit with the park staff. In the Center you will learn to recognize diamonds in the rough and the three different search methods used at the Crater of Diamonds. You will also have the opportunity to view the diamond hunters’ Hall of Fame, featuring photographs of the faces of successful diamond prospectors at the Crater of Diamonds.

After you’re finished digging, the kids will love the park’s mining-themed aquatic playground. Relax in the cool waters of the 4,166-square-foot wading pool featuring spray geysers, sprayers, water jets, animated waterspouts, cascades, two water slides, and waterfall hideaways. There’s plenty of room to relax on the deck that surrounds the pool.

The Crater of Diamonds State Park includes a tree-shaded campground featuring 47 Class AAA campsites (with water/electric/sewer hookups) The site states that most of the sites have tent pads. There are also five walk-in tent sites. The campground includes two modern bathhouses with hot showers; one bathhouse includes a laundry.

To learn more, visit craterofdiamondsstatepark.com

Queen Wilhelmina State Park 

With panoramic vistas, this beautiful park located in the Ouachita Mountains is a must-see destination in Eastern Arkansas. While the park offers all types of activities, it is well-known for its beautiful lodge known as Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge. The original lodge was known as the “Castle in the Sky” resort over 100 years ago. The new lodge today is a 40-room establishment with a restaurant and a gift shop, known for its treasure trove of trinkets.

If you don’t want to stay in the lodge, relaxing in a campsite on Arkansas’s second highest mountain is truly unique. The campground at Queen Wilhelmina State Park offers home-away-from-home amenities where you’ll find peace and quiet, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable natural beauty on the 2,681-foot Rich Mountain. In the summer, cool mountain breezes keep the heat at bay. In autumn, it is ablaze with fall colors and in the winter the snowfall transforms the mountain to a winter wonderland. Visitors can go swimming, picnicking, canoeing, hiking, fishing, bicycling, museums, and art galleries all within a two-hour drive from the park. There are no rivers or streams in the park, but a short distance away there are opportunities at Cossatot River State Park.

A few upcoming activities include the Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run held at the Queen Wilhelmina State Park. It is an antique car show held the third weekend of August. An event called Hamfest is held the weekend following Labor Day Weekend and the Polk County Fair is the last week of August. For a full list of activities, information is available at visitmena.com or queenwilhelmina.com.

Cossatot River State Park Natural Area

Not far away from Queen Wilhelmina State Park is the Cossatot River State Park Natural Area. This scenic State Park and river is located in Wickes, AR. The park-natural area stretches for 12 miles along the Cossatot River. The river is a great place to experience Arkansas’s premier whitewater and it is renowned as the best whitewater float stream in mid-America. Located in southwest Arkansas south of Mena, the Cossatot River forms Cossatot Falls, a rugged and rocky canyon that challenges the most experienced canoeists and kayakers with its Class IV and V rapids. The river is a watershed basin with flow levels dependent on rainfall. When the water is high, it is a premium place for paddlers, however, much of the river’s whitewater is not recommended for casual canoeists.

The park’s information site states that the Brushy Creek Recreation Area at the Highway 246 bridge offers day-use facilities including picnic sites, a nature trail, restrooms, and river access. A walkway high above the river provides barrier-free access on the west side.

For those who want to camp, there are tent sites at the Cossatot Falls area, the Sandbar Area, and the Ed Banks Area (one site). All of the sites are self-pay and first come, first serve. Undeveloped camping space is available at the U.S. 278 Area. Primitive group camping (tents only) is available at the park’s River Ridge Group Camp. Call ahead to make a reservation. 

For hiking enthusiasts, the park features the 14-mile River Corridor Trail and the 3.5-mile Harris Creek Trail.

The park includes a 15,000-square-foot $2.7 million facility visitor information/education center on U.S. 278 east of Wickes where the highway crosses the Cossatot. There is a large exhibit gallery, two classroom/lab rooms, a wildlife viewing area, gift shop, and park administrative offices. Make sure you take the opportunity to explore the interpretive exhibits of the story of “The Cossatot: A River for All Seasons.” Want more information about the area? There are three information kiosks that provide information about the Cossatot River, the park-natural area, and other parks and museums in Arkansas’s state park system.
Interpretive programs and workshops are offered in the park, teaching visitors about geology, flora, and fauna in the remote and protected river corridor. Special interpretive programs include guided kayak tours and snorkeling tours. 

Want more recreation camping opportunities in the “Natural State?” Visit arkansasstateparks.com.

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By Carrie Dunlea

Backyards have evolved far beyond basic patios and grills. Today’s outdoor spaces are increasingly designed as extensions of the home — places where families can stream movies, host game-day gatherings or simply unwind outdoors without sacrificing modern comforts.

As homeowners continue investing in outdoor living areas, dedicated TV spaces have become especially popular. Whether it’s a Friday night movie under the stars, a playoff watch party or a spot to binge a favorite series while enjoying fresh air, an outdoor entertainment zone can quickly become one of the most-used areas of a home.

The investment can pay off in more ways than one. According to the National Association of Realtors®, outdoor improvements can deliver strong returns, with patio additions often recouping a significant portion of their cost at resale. But creating a space that works year-round takes more planning than simply carrying a television outdoors.

Protection should be among the first considerations. Standard indoor televisions are not designed to withstand fluctuating temperatures, humidity, wind or sudden weather changes. Homeowners can invest in weather-resistant outdoor televisions or choose a protective enclosure designed to shield a traditional television from the elements. Many enclosures are built to withstand moisture and impact damage while helping protect screens from flying debris during storms or strong winds.

Audio also deserves attention. Backyard spaces often absorb sound differently than indoor rooms, meaning television speakers alone may struggle to provide an enjoyable experience. A full surround-sound setup may be unnecessary, but a pair of weather-resistant speakers or an outdoor-rated soundbar can significantly improve viewing quality without requiring a major investment.

Lighting is another detail that can dramatically affect comfort. Once the sun sets, relying solely on the television screen for illumination can create an awkward viewing environment. Soft lighting integrated into pergolas, pavilions or landscaping can create ambiance while improving visibility. String lights, recessed fixtures and pathway lighting continue to grow in popularity because they provide both style and function.

Comfortable seating remains one of the biggest factors in whether a space gets used frequently. Dining chairs pulled over from the patio table may work occasionally, but cushioned outdoor sectionals, loungers and modular furniture pieces create a more inviting environment. Flexible seating arrangements also make it easier to transition from movie nights to casual gatherings.

Shade and cooling features can make a significant difference, particularly in Texas summers. Ceiling fans installed beneath covered structures help circulate air and discourage insects. Retractable shades, privacy screens and pergolas with adjustable louvers can also help reduce glare and keep spaces cooler during daytime viewing.

Many homeowners are also incorporating smart technology into outdoor areas. Weather-resistant outlets, hidden charging stations and integrated streaming capabilities can simplify setup and eliminate tangled cords.

Designers also note that outdoor TV rooms are increasingly being planned as multipurpose spaces rather than single-use viewing areas. Homeowners are combining entertainment areas with outdoor kitchens, dining spaces and fire pit gathering spots to maximize functionality. That flexibility can help justify the investment, allowing the space to serve as a destination for everything from weekend football games to family celebrations and quiet evenings outdoors.

Outdoor TV rooms continue to gain popularity because they create a comfortable place to gather. With a few thoughtful additions, a backyard can become more than a place to sit outside — it can become a favorite destination for entertainment and relaxation.

5 upgrades that take an outdoor TV space to the next level

Not every backyard entertainment area requires a major renovation. A few smaller additions can improve comfort and functionality.

Weatherproof storage: Keep remotes, blankets, outdoor games and accessories protected and within reach with deck boxes or storage benches.

Portable fire features: Fire tables or compact fire pits can extend the use of outdoor spaces into cooler months and create a cozy atmosphere for movie nights.

Outdoor rugs: Rugs can define a seating area and make outdoor rooms feel more like indoor living spaces while adding color and texture.

Cooling touches: Misting fans, shade sails and cooling curtains can make outdoor spaces more enjoyable during the hottest parts of summer.

Snack station: A rolling cart, mini beverage cooler or built-in serving area can help guests avoid repeated trips indoors during gatherings.

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Longer days and lighter schedules make summer perfect for relaxing, having fun outdoors and spending time with loved ones. However, more physical activity and time spent in the sun can also translate to increased health and safety risks.

As you and your family enjoy the warmth and sunshine while swimming, biking, grilling, playing on the playground and more this summer, remember these precautions from the experts at the American Heart Association.

Watch for signs of heat stress

On hot summer days, be alert for signs of heat illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Even when it doesn’t seem extreme, heat and humidity can take a toll. Some signs of heat-related illness include muscle pain, cramps or spasms, heavy sweating, paleness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, confusion, fainting or unconsciousness, high body temperature (greater than 100 F) with dry skin and rapid pulse.

If you experience any of these symptoms, take a break, drink some water and find shade or air conditioning to cool off. If symptoms worsen or vomiting occurs, seek medical attention.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for optimal body functioning, especially during the hot and humid months. If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, frequently consuming water and foods with high water content — melons, lettuce and cucumbers, for example — can help replace fluids lost through sweat.

Be aware of the signs and symptoms of mild dehydration, including a dry or sticky mouth, dry cool skin, headache or muscle cramps. More severe symptoms may include dry, shriveled skin, irritability or confusion, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, fatigue and unconsciousness.

Learn CPR

As summertime activities expose people of all ages to risks, it’s important to be trained in CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, an emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart stops beating.

If performed immediately, CPR can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival, according to the American Heart Association. However, only about 40% of people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive help before professionals arrive.

Because about 74% of adult and 87.5% of child out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes, you will likely be trying to save the life of someone you love — a child, spouse, parent or friend — if called upon to perform CPR.

Hands-Only CPR is recommended for members of the general public who see someone suddenly collapse. Call 9-1-1, or send someone to do so, then push hard and fast in the center of the person’s chest until medical assistance arrives. Use an AED, if available, following the prompts.

Protect skin from the sun

While it’s easy to get caught up enjoying activities outdoors, remember to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Limit your time in the sun, especially during midday hours when rays are strongest, and wear sunscreen to help reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer and premature skin aging.

Experts recommend sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Wearing sunglasses, a hat and cool, long-sleeved clothing can further limit exposure when outdoors for long periods of time.

Play safe

Each year, emergency departments treat more than 200,000 children under age 14 for playground-related injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Choose age-appropriate parks and playgrounds and keep precautions like these in mind: teach children to take turns, discourage pushing or roughhousing, check metal slides before use to prevent burns, remind children to be careful near moving swings and encourage one child at a time on slides.

Also use proper protective gear for activities like biking or watersports and keep a first-aid kit on hand with bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes or spray and aspirin.

Swim safely

Whether enjoying a pool, beach, lake or river, bodies of water can be dangerous if precautions aren’t taken. Drowning is among the top five causes of unintentional injury death in the United States, according to the CDC.

Avoid swimming alone, especially in natural bodies of water that may present strong currents or underwater obstacles, and don’t overestimate your swimming ability.

Designating an undistracted “water watcher,” wearing life jackets, ensuring someone in your group knows CPR and avoiding alcohol consumption are also safe practices.

Be smart with fire

Firing up the grill and lighting fireworks are often synonymous with summertime, but open flames pose safety hazards.

Never leave a grill unattended, always grill outdoors and keep children and pets away from the grilling area.

When using fireworks, keep a safe distance once lit, don’t point fireworks toward anyone’s face or body, never allow young children to play with them, avoid relighting fireworks that do not function properly and keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.

For more tips on CPR and first aid, visit cpr.heart.org or download the Knowledge Booster app.

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By Carrie Dunlea

A good night’s sleep can make all the difference between starting the day energized and focused or dragging through it feeling irritable, distracted and exhausted. Yet for many people, quality sleep has become harder to achieve.

Between packed schedules, stress, late-night scrolling and endless screen time, modern life often works against healthy sleep habits. Even people who technically spend enough hours in bed may still wake up feeling tired if their sleep is interrupted or inconsistent.

That growing struggle with sleep is one reason the topic has become such a major focus in health and wellness conversations. Sleep trackers, white-noise machines, blackout curtains and “sleepmaxxing” trends have all gained popularity as people search for ways to improve rest and recovery.

And health experts say the attention is warranted.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke notes that sleep is as important to survival as food and water. While the body rests, the brain remains active, performing critical tasks that support both physical and mental health.

Researchers have found that sleep affects how nerve cells communicate with one another and may even help clear toxins that accumulate in the brain during waking hours. That behind-the-scenes work helps explain why people often feel sharper, calmer and more productive after a good night’s rest.

Sleep also plays a major role in memory, mood and concentration. A lack of quality sleep can make it harder to focus, solve problems and regulate emotions. Over time, chronic sleep deprivation has also been linked to more serious health concerns, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and depression.

Even the immune system can suffer when sleep is consistently poor, leaving people more vulnerable to illness.

Despite understanding how important sleep is, many people unknowingly sabotage their rest through daily habits.

One of the biggest culprits is screen time. Phones, tablets and televisions have become nightly companions for countless adults and teenagers alike. Whether scrolling social media, answering emails or binge-watching shows, many people remain mentally stimulated long after they climb into bed.

Experts say the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle by suppressing melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. Some people also turn to blue light-filtering glasses or device settings designed to reduce blue light exposure in the evening. The goal is to help signal to the brain that bedtime is approaching instead of tricking it into thinking it is still daytime.

At the same time, stressful news, work messages or emotionally charged social media content can make it difficult for the brain to fully relax.

Irregular schedules can create problems as well. Staying up late on weekends and trying to “catch up” on sleep may sound harmless, but constantly shifting bedtime and wake-up schedules can disrupt the body’s internal clock.

Fortunately, improving sleep often starts with relatively small lifestyle adjustments.

Health experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day, including weekends. Consistency helps train the body to recognize when it is time to wind down and when it is time to wake up.

Regular physical activity can help as well. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week, though intense workouts should generally be avoided too close to bedtime.

Creating a calming bedtime routine may also improve sleep quality. Reading a book, taking a warm bath, stretching or listening to calming music can help signal to the body that it is time to rest.

Experts also advise limiting caffeine and nicotine later in the day and avoiding alcohol before bed. While alcohol may initially make people feel sleepy, it can interrupt sleep later in the night and make it harder to stay asleep.

The sleep environment itself matters, too. A cool, dark and quiet bedroom without televisions, smartphones or other electronic distractions can make falling asleep easier.

And if sleep simply will not come, experts suggest avoiding the temptation to lie awake staring at the ceiling. Instead, getting up briefly to do something relaxing — such as reading or listening to calming music — may help the body naturally become sleepy again.

In a culture that often celebrates staying busy, sleep is sometimes treated like a luxury instead of a necessity. But health professionals continue to stress that quality rest is one of the most important foundations of overall well-being.

A consistent bedtime routine and a few intentional changes may be enough to help people sleep better, feel better and function at their best each day.

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By Carrie Dunlea

May sits in a sweet spot on the travel calendar — that fleeting window when spring is still in full bloom, temperatures are comfortable across much of the country and summer crowds haven’t yet arrived in force. For travelers willing to move before school lets out and peak season pricing kicks in, late spring offers the chance to experience some of the nation’s most sought-after destinations at their most enjoyable.

From coastal cities gearing up for festival season to desert landscapes at their most accessible, May rewards those who plan ahead. Whether the goal is outdoor adventure, cultural immersion or simply a relaxing change of scenery, these destinations deliver ideal conditions and plenty to see and do — without the rush.

Late spring in Charleston blends warm coastal breezes with the city’s signature Southern charm, making May one of the most inviting times to visit. Temperatures are comfortably warm, and the city’s gardens and historic squares remain lush before the heavier humidity of summer sets in.

The season also coincides with one of the country’s premier cultural events, Spoleto Festival USA, which begins around Memorial Day weekend and runs into early June. For more than two weeks, the city fills with performances ranging from opera and theater to jazz and chamber music, drawing artists and audiences from around the world.

Between performances, visitors can explore landmarks such as Fort Sumter National Monument, stroll through the Historic Charleston City Market or relax along The Battery overlooking the harbor. Nearby natural escapes like the Angel Oak Tree and Francis Marion National Forest offer a quieter counterbalance to the city’s energy.

Accommodations range from boutique inns tucked into historic homes to waterfront hotels, many offering slightly more availability before the summer surge. Plan ahead at www.charlestoncvb.com.

With average highs in the low 80s and cool evenings dipping into the upper 40s, May offers near-perfect conditions to experience Sedona’s iconic red rock landscape. By June, temperatures begin to climb, making late spring one of the best windows for outdoor exploration.

Adventure takes center stage here. Hiking and backpacking trails wind through dramatic sandstone formations, while mountain biking routes offer everything from beginner paths to technical rides. Guided Jeep tours remain a popular way to cover more rugged terrain, with routes weaving through canyons and past ancient Sinagua ruins.

The city also hosts seasonal events, including Cinco de Mayo celebrations and the Red Rock Rumble trail run later in the month, adding a festive element to the outdoor focus.

Travelers will find a mix of upscale resorts, spa retreats and scenic vacation rentals, many designed to maximize views of the surrounding landscape. Go to visitsedona.com for trip planning.

Few destinations offer the consistency of San Diego in May. Mild temperatures, coastal breezes and sunny skies create an ideal setting for exploring both city attractions and natural landscapes before summer tourism peaks.

Visitors can spend days wandering Balboa Park, home to museums and gardens, or head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for scenic hikes overlooking the Pacific. Historic areas like Old Town and lesser-known spots such as the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge provide additional layers of discovery.

The city’s event calendar also ramps up in May, including the lively Gator by the Bay, which brings music, food and culture to the waterfront.

Beachfront resorts, family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals are widely available, often at more favorable rates than peak summer months. More information is available at sandiego.org.

In May, Napa Valley shifts into one of its most visually striking seasons. Vineyards turn a vibrant green, temperatures are mild and the pace remains more relaxed compared to the busy harvest months of fall.

Wine tastings and scenic drives are the main draw, but late spring also brings marquee events such as BottleRock Napa Valley, which combines live music with culinary and wine experiences.

Beyond the vineyards, visitors can explore small towns, enjoy farm-to-table dining or simply take in the rolling countryside. Accommodations range from luxury resorts and vineyard estates to charming bed-and-breakfasts.

Travel planning resources can be found at visitnapavalley.com.

Santa Fe in May strikes a near-perfect balance between warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable evenings, making it one of the most pleasant times to explore the high desert. Before the intense summer sun and peak tourism season arrive, the city offers a relaxed pace ideal for soaking in its distinctive blend of art, history and Southwestern culture.

Canyon Road becomes a focal point for visitors, with its concentration of galleries showcasing everything from traditional Native American art to contemporary works. The historic Plaza also comes alive with outdoor dining, local vendors and live music. May often brings cultural events and performances, along with seasonal markets that highlight regional crafts and cuisine.

Outdoor enthusiasts can venture just beyond the city for hiking trails with sweeping desert views, while food lovers can take advantage of patio dining at some of Santa Fe’s renowned restaurants, where New Mexican flavors take center stage.

Accommodations range from adobe-style boutique hotels and luxury resorts to cozy casitas that reflect the region’s architectural character. For trip planning, visit www.santafe.org.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a blend of outdoor adventure and creative culture that shines in May. With average highs in the 70s and cool evenings, the climate is ideal for hiking, scenic drives and exploring the region’s natural beauty.

The highlight of the season is Biltmore Blooms at the Biltmore Estate, where more than 100,000 flowers come into bloom across the expansive gardens. In the surrounding mountains, rhododendrons and mountain laurel add bursts of color along hiking trails.

Downtown Asheville offers a vibrant arts scene, local dining and a well-known craft brewery culture, providing plenty to do after a day outdoors.

Lodging options include mountain cabins, boutique hotels and historic inns. For more details, visit exploreasheville.com.

For travelers willing to embrace shoulder season, Park City offers a quieter, more relaxed experience in May. Snow has largely melted; trails begin to reopen and the town settles into a slower rhythm between winter ski season and summer tourism.

Temperatures are cool but comfortable, making it an ideal time for hiking, early-season mountain biking and strolling historic Main Street without the usual crowds.

While some peak-season activities are still ramping up, that lull often translates into better lodging availability and lower rates. Visitors can choose from slope-side resorts, boutique hotels or private rentals with mountain views.

Trip planning details are available at visitparkcity.com.

For travelers looking to maximize both experience and value, May offers a compelling case. Destinations across the country are in transition — blooming, warming and coming to life — but not yet overwhelmed.

By June, many of these same places will see rising temperatures, increased demand and higher prices. In May, however, they remain accessible, vibrant and, in many ways, at their best.

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“Our industry has long been known for innovation, but what’s most compelling now is how that scale is being leveraged to invest in more immersive entertainment, wellness experiences and purpose-driven exploration at destinations around the world,” said Chiara Giorgi, global event and brand director for Seatrade Cruise Global, the largest and longest-running annual event of its kind serving every sector of the international cruise industry, including cruise lines, suppliers, travel agents and partners.

To take advantage of the evolution of the industry when planning your next vacation at sea, consider these emerging trends identified at the conference.

The Rise of Floating Wellness Retreats

Once upon a time, wellness meant spas, saunas and massages. Wellness in 2026 is much more luxurious and is deeply embedded into the cruise experience. For example, Cunard’s “Wellness at Sea” voyages integrate expert-led fitness, nutrition, mindfulness and recovery programming, turning wellness into a structured, goal-driven experience and elevating wellness as a core pillar of the onboard experience. Additional cruise lines, including Virgin Voyages and Celebrity Cruises, are also helping raise the bar on floating wellness. Think thermal suites, meditation spaces and sleep-focused programming, along with wellness excursions and destination-inspired spa rituals that extend the experience to the shore.

Dining Becomes the Experience

Dining has long been a key component of many cruises, but now, food and drink are evolving from a cruise staple to a central form of entertainment and cultural discovery. Cruise lines are investing in immersive dining environments, destination-inspired menus and beverage programs that connect guests more directly with the places they visit.

From location-specific cuisine to interactive dining concepts and destination-driven cocktail programs, F&B@Sea, Seatrade Cruise Global’s companion show, found culinary experiences are increasingly designed to be memorable punctuation points of the journey itself. Across the industry, cruise lines are investing heavily in culinary programs that blur the line between dining and entertainment. Tapping into the supper club trend, Royal Caribbean introduced the Empire Supper Club to turn dinner into a night out at sea, combining multi-course menus, craft cocktails and live music for a full evening experience.

Exploring Expeditions with Purpose

Expedition travel is having more than a moment. It continues to grow as travelers seek deeper engagement with the natural world. Leading the shift toward purpose-driven explorations, operators such as National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, long recognized for pioneering modern expedition travel, helped define this category through a model rooted in education, conservation and hands-on exploration. Built on the belief that exploring the world can inspire people to care more deeply for it, expert-led expeditions, such as kayaking among glaciers, participating in citizen science programs studying seabirds and learning directly from naturalists and scientists, place a strong emphasis on stewardship and real-world learning.

Ships as Cultural Hubs
Entertainment at sea is expanding beyond traditional stage shows to include immersive productions, music residencies and partnerships with leading performing arts brands. For example, Holland America Line joined forces with The Verdon Fosse Legacy to debut “Fosse and Verdon, The Duet That Changed Broadway,” a live musical and multimedia tribute celebrating the revolutionary work of Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon by bringing it to an international stage at sea for the first time.

As cruises continue to expand their global footprint, the Seatrade Cruise Global event positions itself not simply as a trade gathering, but as the central forum where trends are explored and defined. To learn more, visit seatradecruiseevents.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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By Carrie Dunlea

Earth Day may have passed by the time this hits your doorstep, but its message shouldn’t be confined to a single date on the calendar. Since its launch in 1970, when millions of Americans rallied around environmental concerns, Earth Day has served as both a wake-up call and a benchmark for progress. More than five decades later, the urgency has only intensified — and so has the opportunity for everyday action.

If there’s a unifying thread running through today’s environmental challenges, it’s waste — particularly the kind we don’t think twice about. Single-use plastics, packaging, and everyday trash have become so embedded in modern life that their long-term impact can feel abstract. It isn’t.

Globally, an estimated two billion metric tons of municipal waste are generated each year, much of it ending up in landfills or the natural environment. That waste doesn’t just disappear. It breaks down, releases gases, leaches chemicals and, increasingly, finds its way into waterways and ecosystems that sustain both wildlife and human life.

Plastic is perhaps the most visible symbol of that problem. Designed for convenience, it lingers for centuries. As noted in earlier reporting and commentary, plastic can take more than 400 years to decompose, all while fragmenting into microplastics that infiltrate oceans, soil and even the food chain. The result is a slow accumulation that scientists and environmental advocates say is outpacing our ability to manage it.

The consequences extend beyond aesthetics or environmental ideals. Researchers are increasingly linking waste — particularly landfill byproducts — to broader climate concerns. Methane emissions from landfills, for example, are now believed to be significantly higher than previously estimated, contributing to a potent greenhouse effect that accelerates climate change. At the same time, chemicals used in everyday products can seep into the environment, raising concerns about long-term health impacts.

And yet, despite the scale of the issue, the solution isn’t solely in sweeping policy changes or technological breakthroughs. It’s also in the quieter, cumulative effect of individual behavior.

That idea isn’t new. It’s been a consistent theme of Earth Day since its inception — the belief that awareness can drive action. While global participation has grown into the hundreds of millions, the core message remains grounded in personal responsibility.

Small changes, when adopted widely, have measurable impact. Reducing food waste, for instance, addresses a problem that sees roughly 40 percent of edible food in the United States discarded each year. Adjusting household energy use — from switching to LED lighting to modest thermostat changes — can significantly cut emissions over time. Even simple decisions like buying secondhand goods or choosing locally sourced products can reduce the environmental footprint tied to manufacturing and transportation.

But plastic remains a particularly stubborn challenge, in part because it’s so pervasive. Grocery bags, water bottles, takeout containers — they’re easy to use and easier to discard. Recycling, while helpful, has not kept pace. In the United States, only a small percentage of plastic is actually recycled, leaving the majority to accumulate in landfills or the environment.

That reality underscores a shift in thinking: recycling alone isn’t enough. Reducing consumption — especially of single-use items — has become a more effective strategy. Reusable bags, refillable water bottles and conscious purchasing decisions may seem minor in isolation, but collectively they represent a meaningful shift away from a disposable culture.

There’s also a generational component to consider. The habits formed today — and the values passed along — will shape how future communities respond to environmental challenges. Teaching younger generations that stewardship isn’t a once-a-year concept, but a daily practice may be one of the most lasting impacts of Earth Day.

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