Arts & Culture

In the United States, small train displays are one of the most popular attractions during the holiday season. They used to be common in toy store windows. Now they are seen in many public places, such as at plant shows, exhibits and museums. One kind of display, however, is special. In these displays, the model structures are made from leaves, sticks and other dried plant … [Read more...] about Popular Seasonal Train Shows

Big Bird is a popular and beloved character from the children’s television show “Sesame Street.” Recently, Big Bird wrote on his official Twitter page that he had been vaccinated against COVID-19. Big Bird wrote, “My wing is feeling a little sore, but it’ll give my body an extra protective boost that keeps me and others healthy.” The COVID-19 shot just became available to … [Read more...] about Big Bird Facing Criticism over Vaccine Message

Japanese-style gardens first gained attention in the United States at the 1893 world exposition in Chicago, Illinois. Over 120 years later, they continue to be a great part of American garden design. Today, there are more than 200 Japanese-style public gardens in the country, the North American Japanese Garden Association reports. Japanese-style gardens bring together … [Read more...] about Japanese Gardens Bridge Indoor, Outdoor Space

The Thanksgiving holiday is when Americans try to spend time with family, eat a tasty meal and give thanks for the meaningful things in life. This year, the holiday falls on November 25. The historical facts of the holiday, however, have long been debated. Ramona Peters is a historic preservation officer of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in the state of Massachusetts. The … [Read more...] about Native Americans and the First Thanksgiving

Batik is a traditional Indonesian coloring method used to make designs and drawings, usually on cloth and finished textiles. Batik makers use dyes -- colors added to cloth and other materials – to create the colorful designs. In central Indonesia, many batik makers are using natural dyes instead of manufactured ones. The natural dyes used come from mangrove forests that grow … [Read more...] about Indonesian Natural Colors for Cloth Design Help Coastal Forests