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Unsure of what Nettle Tea is? If you’ve never heard of it, it’s simply the stinging nettle plant infused in hot water. I’ve had nettle tea but didn’t know of the potential benefits it provides! We’re living in a time where going to the doctor is something we want to do if it’s an emergency, but I don’t want to go for every little thing.
There are some benefits of the fresh nettle leaves and there are tons of potential health benefits when you make the actual tea. I recently wrote a post on Natural Remedies That Work in an Emergency and I listed nettle tea as an important item to have on hand!
So, if you’re not a tea person, you may just have to forget that and allow yourself to enjoy the numerous health benefits & uses of ingesting a yummy herbal tea now and again. You can also check out this post on how to make your own tea. Civilizations worldwide have been using one herb or another to deal with health issues for centuries. Here’s one you can try with confidence as you apply what’s discussed in this informative post. Like many tinctures, in its liquid form, this herb has been shown to help solve many daily health issues.
Please keep in mind I am not a doctor, nurse, or anyone in the medical field. I highly recommend you consult your medical professional before using any natural remedies. You don’t want them to adversely affect any medications you may be taking.
Most people are okay with drinking nettle tea but there are some people who shouldn’t. Those people that should NOT drink this tea include pregnant and breastfeeding women. Research shows that the older generation should be careful with drinking it because it can cause low blood pressure for some and high blood pressure for others. If you have diabetes please talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks of the tea raising or lowering blood sugar.
Every person is different, so you have to keep this in mind as you consider consuming nettle products. If you do decide to add this tea to your daily routine, you may experience digestion issues. Nettle leaf tea has more good side effects (amazing anti-inflammatory properties) than bad side effects, but it’s important to be aware of anything else!
Whether you’re dealing with gout or you’re trying to support your liver, nettle extract or a cup of nettle tea may be just what you need! I have personal experience with ingesting the leaves of the nettle plant and I’ve seemed to do okay with it, but please talk to your doctor. You may even try growing your very own nettle in your garden! I’d love to hear about any experience you’ve had with this tea. May God Bless this World, Linda
Copyright Images: Green Nettle Herbalism Depositphotos_154527934_S
The post Nettle Tea Benefits & Uses appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
]]>Unsure of what Nettle Tea is? If you’ve never heard of it, it’s simply the stinging nettle plant infused in hot water. I’ve had nettle tea but didn’t know of the potential benefits it provides! We’re living in a time where going to the doctor is something we want to do if it’s an emergency, but I don’t want to go for every little thing.
There are some benefits of the fresh nettle leaves and there are tons of potential health benefits when you make the actual tea. I recently wrote a post on Natural Remedies That Work in an Emergency and I listed nettle tea as an important item to have on hand!
So, if you’re not a tea person, you may just have to forget that and allow yourself to enjoy the numerous health benefits & uses of ingesting a yummy herbal tea now and again. You can also check out this post on how to make your own tea. Civilizations worldwide have been using one herb or another to deal with health issues for centuries. Here’s one you can try with confidence as you apply what’s discussed in this informative post. Like many tinctures, in its liquid form, this herb has been shown to help solve many daily health issues.
Please keep in mind I am not a doctor, nurse, or anyone in the medical field. I highly recommend you consult your medical professional before using any natural remedies. You don’t want them to adversely affect any medications you may be taking.
Most people are okay with drinking nettle tea but there are some people who shouldn’t. Those people that should NOT drink this tea include pregnant and breastfeeding women. Research shows that the older generation should be careful with drinking it because it can cause low blood pressure for some and high blood pressure for others. If you have diabetes please talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks of the tea raising or lowering blood sugar.
Every person is different, so you have to keep this in mind as you consider consuming nettle products. If you do decide to add this tea to your daily routine, you may experience digestion issues. Nettle leaf tea has more good side effects (amazing anti-inflammatory properties) than bad side effects, but it’s important to be aware of anything else!
Whether you’re dealing with gout or you’re trying to support your liver, nettle extract or a cup of nettle tea may be just what you need! I have personal experience with ingesting the leaves of the nettle plant and I’ve seemed to do okay with it, but please talk to your doctor. You may even try growing your very own nettle in your garden! I’d love to hear about any experience you’ve had with this tea. May God Bless this World, Linda
Copyright Images: Green Nettle Herbalism Depositphotos_154527934_S
The post Nettle Tea Benefits & Uses appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
]]>Whether your kids were born here or not, they won’t be true Chicagoans without understanding the anatomy of a classic Chicago-style hot dog. No better way to bone up on the subject than to visit some of the best hot dog stands in Chicagoland.
Love ’em or leave ’em, hot dogs are foot-long big in Chicago. The traditional delicacy includes an array of colorful condiments. (However, we’ll give kids a pass on not including them all or, worse yet, on committing sacrilege by using ketchup.)
We love the on-the-go ease (no silverware!) and relative affordability of a “red hot.” Of course, no size fits all, and hot dog stands around the city have developed their own personalities and expanded their menus to accommodate all different preferences.
Vienna Beef hot dogs made their debut in 1893 at the World’s Fair/Columbian Exposition and put the Chicago-style hot dog on the culinary map. The low cost made it an institution during the Great Depression, and the appeal never subsided. You’ll find the Vienna Beef hot dog at the core of most Chicago-style vendors around the area. In fact, Vienna Beef operates a Hot Dog University to teach aspiring hot dog vendors, exactly how to achieve a properly dressed Chicago style by “dragging it through the garden.” Taste a true original in the cafe, and if you want to give it a whirl yourself, there are DIY kits available at the factory store to bring home with you.
3847 S. Morgan St.
Beverly
2501 N. Damen Ave.
Bucktown (Returning bigger & better in spring 2024)
Online: viennabeef.com
One of the most revered, iconic hot dog destinations, not only in Chicago but in the country at large, is Superdawg. Recognizable for its statues of hot dog characters that stand on the roof of their Norwood Park location, this spot is Americana nostalgia at its best. Pull up in a car and park by one of the intercom stations. You place your order with a staffer and then indulge in your car. Just like the good old-fashioned drive-ins non-kids remember and cherish! It’s a bygone experience, made all the better by crinkle-cut fries, randomly square-shaped scoops of ice cream, and those dogs. Oh, those dogs. The signature Superdawg frankfurter arrives on a poppy seed bun with piccalilli, mustard, pickle, Spanish onions, and hot peppers. Another favorite is the adorably named Whoopskidawg, a char-broiled sausage basted in a “special” sauce with grilled onions and a pickle.
6363 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Norwood Park
333 S. Milwaukee Ave.
Wheeling
Online: superdawg.com
Since hot dogs and nostalgia go together like ketchup and judgment, enjoy them at old-school sensation Gene & Jude’s. The River Grove favorite has been around since 1946 and is often argued as having the best hot dogs in the country. The kitschy atmosphere feels preserved in time, maintaining the same rustic charm it probably possessed when it first opened. It’s rickety and frills-free, but in the most heartwarming of ways, with surly-but-lovable staffers and a bare-bones menu of hot dogs and fries. Rest assured these hot dogs and fries are exceptional.
2720 River Rd.
River Grove
Online: geneandjudes.com
The absolute legend, The Wiener’s Circle, is a must-visit but hot-dog-buyer beware: You NEVER know what’s going to be served on the side of your dog at The Wiener’s Circle. But, we can promise it will be filled with a heap of good-spirited sass. If you want a great dog and a hearty laugh, hit this spot for an unforgettable experience, one that will likely teach your kids some new words, but all in good fun. If this makes you a bit nervous, maybe save this one for an adult-only afternoon out.
The Wiener’s Circle reopened in October 2021 after an extended closure for renovations. They’re back and sassier than ever with a new patio, an updated menu (don’t worry, your favorites made the cut), and now serving cocktails. The good-natured banter we all love is still intact, but only order the ketchup if you have a death wish. Trust us!
2622 N. Clark St.
Lincoln Park
Online: wienerscirclechicago.com
In the shadow of Wrigley Field, this small hot dog stand might be missed, if not for its larger-than-life reputation. Byron’s has been celebrated by the Vienna Hot Dog Hall of Fame as well as at the 2010 Taste of the States White House picnic. Stop by for a quick bite before a game, after a game, or on non-game days. There’s always time for a hot dog at Byron’s.
1017 W. Irving Park Rd.
Wrigleyville
1701 W. Lawrence Ave.
Ravenswood
Online: byronschicago.com
In 1963, Dick Portillo opened a small trailer in Villa Park called The Dog House. Since then, Portillo’s has grown to include more than 70 locations across the U.S. Due to its nationwide notoriety, the Portillo’s hot dog has become synonymous with “Chicago Style” throughout the country. Portillo’s is also famous for its Italian Beef sandwiches, and its decadent chocolate cake.
Locations throughout Chicagoland and the United States
Online: portillos.com
They’re known for being one of the best dogs in the city, their sport peppers and milkshakes get rave reviews, but they also serve a vegan dog and a Beyond Burger for those that prefer to go the vegetarian route.
Locations in South Loop, Wicker Park, Lakeview & Gold Coast
Online: devildawgs.com
It doesn’t get any more family-friendly than The Dogfather, a haven of meaty decadence in far west suburban Bartlett. It’s clean and inviting inside and out, and employees radiate friendly vibes. Grab a seat and dig into hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and gyros. The menu is focused and delicious, featuring the classic Chicago-style dog along with a cheese dog, chili dog, chili cheese dog, and Polish sausage. There are kid-sized versions of the dogs, along with crispy sides such as fries, onion rings, tater tots, and mozzarella sticks.
957 Illinois Route 59
Bartlett
Online: dogfatherhotdogs.com
Continue the hot dog theme and spend a family day at the beautiful Impact Field watching The Chicago Dogs, an independent professional baseball team that pays homage to our favorite street food.
9850 Balmoral Ave.
Rosemont
Online: thechicagodogs.com
Additional reporting from Maria Chambers
Whether your kids were born here or not, they won’t be true Chicagoans without understanding the anatomy of a classic Chicago-style hot dog. No better way to bone up on the subject than to visit some of the best hot dog stands in Chicagoland.
Love ’em or leave ’em, hot dogs are foot-long big in Chicago. The traditional delicacy includes an array of colorful condiments. (However, we’ll give kids a pass on not including them all or, worse yet, on committing sacrilege by using ketchup.)
We love the on-the-go ease (no silverware!) and relative affordability of a “red hot.” Of course, no size fits all, and hot dog stands around the city have developed their own personalities and expanded their menus to accommodate all different preferences.
Vienna Beef hot dogs made their debut in 1893 at the World’s Fair/Columbian Exposition and put the Chicago-style hot dog on the culinary map. The low cost made it an institution during the Great Depression, and the appeal never subsided. You’ll find the Vienna Beef hot dog at the core of most Chicago-style vendors around the area. In fact, Vienna Beef operates a Hot Dog University to teach aspiring hot dog vendors, exactly how to achieve a properly dressed Chicago style by “dragging it through the garden.” Taste a true original in the cafe, and if you want to give it a whirl yourself, there are DIY kits available at the factory store to bring home with you.
3847 S. Morgan St.
Beverly
2501 N. Damen Ave.
Bucktown (Returning bigger & better in spring 2024)
Online: viennabeef.com
One of the most revered, iconic hot dog destinations, not only in Chicago but in the country at large, is Superdawg. Recognizable for its statues of hot dog characters that stand on the roof of their Norwood Park location, this spot is Americana nostalgia at its best. Pull up in a car and park by one of the intercom stations. You place your order with a staffer and then indulge in your car. Just like the good old-fashioned drive-ins non-kids remember and cherish! It’s a bygone experience, made all the better by crinkle-cut fries, randomly square-shaped scoops of ice cream, and those dogs. Oh, those dogs. The signature Superdawg frankfurter arrives on a poppy seed bun with piccalilli, mustard, pickle, Spanish onions, and hot peppers. Another favorite is the adorably named Whoopskidawg, a char-broiled sausage basted in a “special” sauce with grilled onions and a pickle.
6363 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Norwood Park
333 S. Milwaukee Ave.
Wheeling
Online: superdawg.com
Since hot dogs and nostalgia go together like ketchup and judgment, enjoy them at old-school sensation Gene & Jude’s. The River Grove favorite has been around since 1946 and is often argued as having the best hot dogs in the country. The kitschy atmosphere feels preserved in time, maintaining the same rustic charm it probably possessed when it first opened. It’s rickety and frills-free, but in the most heartwarming of ways, with surly-but-lovable staffers and a bare-bones menu of hot dogs and fries. Rest assured these hot dogs and fries are exceptional.
2720 River Rd.
River Grove
Online: geneandjudes.com
The absolute legend, The Wiener’s Circle, is a must-visit but hot-dog-buyer beware: You NEVER know what’s going to be served on the side of your dog at The Wiener’s Circle. But, we can promise it will be filled with a heap of good-spirited sass. If you want a great dog and a hearty laugh, hit this spot for an unforgettable experience, one that will likely teach your kids some new words, but all in good fun. If this makes you a bit nervous, maybe save this one for an adult-only afternoon out.
The Wiener’s Circle reopened in October 2021 after an extended closure for renovations. They’re back and sassier than ever with a new patio, an updated menu (don’t worry, your favorites made the cut), and now serving cocktails. The good-natured banter we all love is still intact, but only order the ketchup if you have a death wish. Trust us!
2622 N. Clark St.
Lincoln Park
Online: wienerscirclechicago.com
In the shadow of Wrigley Field, this small hot dog stand might be missed, if not for its larger-than-life reputation. Byron’s has been celebrated by the Vienna Hot Dog Hall of Fame as well as at the 2010 Taste of the States White House picnic. Stop by for a quick bite before a game, after a game, or on non-game days. There’s always time for a hot dog at Byron’s.
1017 W. Irving Park Rd.
Wrigleyville
1701 W. Lawrence Ave.
Ravenswood
Online: byronschicago.com
In 1963, Dick Portillo opened a small trailer in Villa Park called The Dog House. Since then, Portillo’s has grown to include more than 70 locations across the U.S. Due to its nationwide notoriety, the Portillo’s hot dog has become synonymous with “Chicago Style” throughout the country. Portillo’s is also famous for its Italian Beef sandwiches, and its decadent chocolate cake.
Locations throughout Chicagoland and the United States
Online: portillos.com
They’re known for being one of the best dogs in the city, their sport peppers and milkshakes get rave reviews, but they also serve a vegan dog and a Beyond Burger for those that prefer to go the vegetarian route.
Locations in South Loop, Wicker Park, Lakeview & Gold Coast
Online: devildawgs.com
It doesn’t get any more family-friendly than The Dogfather, a haven of meaty decadence in far west suburban Bartlett. It’s clean and inviting inside and out, and employees radiate friendly vibes. Grab a seat and dig into hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and gyros. The menu is focused and delicious, featuring the classic Chicago-style dog along with a cheese dog, chili dog, chili cheese dog, and Polish sausage. There are kid-sized versions of the dogs, along with crispy sides such as fries, onion rings, tater tots, and mozzarella sticks.
957 Illinois Route 59
Bartlett
Online: dogfatherhotdogs.com
Continue the hot dog theme and spend a family day at the beautiful Impact Field watching The Chicago Dogs, an independent professional baseball team that pays homage to our favorite street food.
9850 Balmoral Ave.
Rosemont
Online: thechicagodogs.com
Additional reporting from Maria Chambers
Traveling with kids can be a lot: long, cramped flights, rental cars in which you can barely fit your brood, airport delays you wish came with on-site babysitters, and on and on. SoCal fams, why not book a vacation that doesn’t require a plane ticket? Whether you want to make like a movie star in the Hollywood Hills or binge Netflix on the big screen inside this bonafide Batcave near Disneyland, these are the best Airbnbs in and around Los Angeles.
For your little knights and princesses, this meticulously restored 1920s castle is straight out of a storybook. Located near the top of Wonderland Avenue and Laurel Canyon Boulevard (an artsy enclave famous for being home to legendary rock stars from the 1960s and 1970s), the grounds are completely enclosed by stone walls, and offer a private courtyard off the master, a built-in fire pit and a spacious pool to play in. Original details like stone turrets, gothic arches, and exposed beams abound. It’s a splurge, but so worth it.
Sleeps: 6
Cost: $919/night
Online: Airbnb.com
This beautiful, open-concept loft overlooks the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by three acres of mature gardens. Bonus? The oranges and lemons are ready to pick upon your arrival. Besides the enviable outdoor dining with ocean views and access to the nearby “Billionaire’s Beach” (where celebrities like David Geffen, Dr. Dre, Rob Reiner, Larry Ellison, and the former Dodgers CEO Jamie McCourt have reportedly had seaside homes), this colorful and light-filled home has a quirky fun feel that makes us think staying here is practically guaranteed fun.
This tri-level home is just four blocks from Venice’s trendy Abbot Kinney Street (shops and restaurants galore!) and a 10-minute walk to the Venice Boardwalk. With plenty of room to spread out, this home has three bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms, with a spacious living room that’s got a stand-up arcade game and foosball table. But the real highlight of this spot (besides the killer urban location) is the rooftop, which has panoramic views of Venice, as well as a barbecue, fire pit, dining, and lounge area.
Note: Because of all the levels (and no gates on the stairs), we recommend this home for families with kids over 5.
Sleeps: 6
Cost: $582/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Located smack dab in the middle of the historic Venice Canals (the SoCal version; not the Italian one), this unassuming 1950s bungalow is tucked between large Chinese Maple and Eucalyptus trees and offers a quiet respite—despite being just a few blocks from the bustling Venice Beach. When you’re not enjoying the serene waterfront view, take a quick stroll to see myriad street performers, sidewalk artists, stores, coffee shops, and eateries around the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
The rental is the front unit of a duplex bungalow and offers 1 bedroom, 1 full bathroom, a full kitchen, a deck overlooking the canals, and 1 dedicated parking spot.
Note: Babies and kids are welcome at this Airbnb, but due to its proximity to the canal (the walkways don’t have fences to stop littles from falling in) and numerous stone steps, the host says it’s “not ideal” for smaller kids.
Sleeps: 3
Cost: $325/night
Online: Airbnb.com
This pristine hillside home looks like something out of a magazine. If you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation (Book your stay early!), the four-bedroom historic lake house won’t disappoint. Located within walking distance to the water, the home has 180-degree lake views from almost everywhere in the house—with three huge decks perfect for watching the boats go by as you soak in the hot tub or stay warm by the fire pit. It was built in 1935 but has been 100 percent remodeled with all the modern amenities and special touches—including leather couches, beaded chandeliers, and a “swing bar” on the first floor that features wooden playground swings instead of seats. There’s also a “kid loft” with three built-in twin beds and a toy shelf stocked with games, puzzles, and books.
The host, a mom of three, said that her goal was “to outfit the house with everything a parent would need so they don’t have to bring a single baby item.” That means you’ll have pack ‘n plays, noise machines in every room, high chairs, kids’ cutlery/dishes, and plenty of games to keep the kids busy.
Note: Don’t worry about those three levels and your little climbers! The host provides baby gates (located in the closets) to block off any areas or stairs that you want to be off-limits.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $700/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Vaulted wood ceilings? Check! Bunk beds? Check! Waterfront location with a dock to park your kayaks, canoes, or other water vehicles? Yes, yes, yes! This Big Bear cabin has everything you’d want in a summer getaway spot. Relax and take in the view through the floor-to-ceiling picture windows, or step onto the outside deck to enjoy unobstructed lake views while you barbecue beneath the starts (Hint: You’ve got a perfect view of the Fourth of July fireworks from here!). There’s also a grassy yard that leads to the waterfront, where there’s a dock free for guests’ use (boat/kayak rentals are available from shops throughout Big Bear, and these can be delivered to the home).
Note: The host offers 1 free (1-day) snowboard or ski rental in the winter months or 1 single kayak rental (for 2 hours) in the summer months.
Sleeps: 12
Cost: $843/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Related: Why Big Bear is a Favorite Family Vacation Destination
Nestled amid the Alpine forest of Idyllwild-Pine Cove, about 2 hours from Los Angeles, this mystical abode is a dream come true for anyone who is into fairies and magic. Designed as a creative space—and, by the looks of its Instagram page, popular with yogis and artists—the bohemian three-story cabin has enough enchanting nooks and crannies to keep kids endlessly exploring. The home has a movie room, a library, a yoga studio (renting this costs extra), and five colorful bedrooms. Decorative tree branches lace their way around spiral staircases, and cozy treetop-level window nooks will make a birdwatcher out of anyone who stops to sit. Outside, a network of wooden bridges and platforms crisscross the exterior, leading the way through the trees to three fire pits, a sauna, a jacuzzi, and numerous outdoor sitting areas.
Note: This place may not be suitable for children under 5, since the home contains several staircases (including a spiral one) and fragile “magical” items.
Sleeps: 16+
Cost: $372/night
Online: Airbnb.com or Faeriehouseidyllwild.com (to avoid Airbnb fees)
Perfect for all the superhero-loving kids (and kids-at-heart), this rental just 10 minutes from Disneyland has a full backyard playground, fantastically-themed superhero rooms (including a Superman bedroom with enough beds for six kids!), and a full arcade that gamers will love. But the real highlight of this place lurks behind a hidden door: Pull the right book on the bookshelf and you’ll find a Batcave so authentic you’ll wonder if the owner works in the movie biz (Hint: He doesn’t). The cave houses a life-size model of the caped crusader himself, a “control center” where heroes-in-training can pull up a chair and oversee Gotham; and a movie theater with luxury recliner seating for nine people and a large movie screen. It’s all so fun you won’t want to leave.
Sleeps: 9
Cost: $422/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Related: This Anaheim Airbnb Has a Secret Batcave
If stargazing is your thing, this one-of-a-kind desert home checks all the boxes. Besides being far from the light pollution of nearby cities, the three-bedroom home 20 minutes from Joshua Tree has a standalone dome observatory so you can get a closer look at our celestial neighbors. And don’t worry if you’re not a professional astronomer, the observatory uses software that lets you select a constellation on the computer for the telescope to automatically rotate accordingly. Besides that stellar experience (which, let’s be honest, is reason enough to visit), the rental also has two game rooms (with a pool table, ski ball, and shuffleboard table), an outdoor hot tub, and a fire pit. Perched on a hill in the middle of the rocky landscape, it also has 360-degree views of the surrounding area.
Sleeps: 8
Cost: $398/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Palm Springs with Kids
Enjoy a night on the farm inside your very own tipi at this Temecula-area farm stay where the animals are the real stars of the show. You’ll sleep on comfy floor mattresses inside an authentic teepee surrounded by farm animals, including a whole herd of goats (Pssst: Two new babies were just born in May!), chickens, miniature horses, pigs, and one lama. The tipi has a bathroom, hot shower, propane fire pit (the tent is ventilated enough so that it’s safe—we asked!), fridge, mini kitchen, Wifi, 2 twin beds, and a queen bed. When you’re not hanging in the tipi, your fam is free to roam the fruit orchards; pet, brush, or feed the animals; and play on the tree swing. You can even help milk the goats if that’s your thing.
Want to glamp out with a few friends? The ranch also has a 1963 pink Shasta trailer and 1962 Airstream available for rent.
Note: During the rainy season or in heavy rain, the host may need to cancel or change your accommodations.
Sleeps: 4
Cost: $185/night
Online: Airbnb.com
If you’ve got a large group looking to vacation like royalty, this luxurious 8-bedroom mansion just north of Temecula will have you feeling like the rich and famous. Sprawled across 5 acres, the vineyard estate (it’s an operating winery!) has a resort-style pool, hot tub, tennis court, basketball court, bocce ball a custom 9-hole mini golf course. Sure, you could explore the area—the nearby wineries, hot air balloon rides, or the local town—but why go anywhere? This place has enough to do that you’ll be hard-pressed to leave. Besides the bevy of outdoor offerings to keep your group busy, the interior of this lavish home offers a billiards room, arcade, home theater, three fireplaces, a bar that’ll have you feeling like you’re in a hotel, and plenty of space to spread out.
Sleeps: 16+
Cost: $921/night
Online: Airbnb.com
All aboard! This little red trolley is the coziest sleepover spot around. Designed as a labor of love by a dedicated father-son team, the converted trolley car comes fully equipped with a queen-sized bed, 40″ TV, stovetop, fridge, microwave, air fryer, dishes, silverware, tile shower, games, heating & air conditioning. There’s also a large deck with recliner chairs and a barbecue if you want to cook under the stars before heading out to explore the area; the trolley is about 30 minutes from Vasquez Rocks, 10 minutes to Six Flags Magic Mountain, and 50 minutes to downtown Los Angeles.
Note: While children aren’t prohibited, the trolley only has one bed, and isn’t child-proofed. If you don’t mind ditching your partner for your a little, the host is fine with children, but this quirky spot may be best left to the grown-ups.
Sleeps: 2
Cost: $198/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Additional reporting by Jenifer Scott
*All rates are accurate as of this publication, though prices may change based on demand, day, and season. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
]]>Traveling with kids can be a lot: long, cramped flights, rental cars in which you can barely fit your brood, airport delays you wish came with on-site babysitters, and on and on. SoCal fams, why not book a vacation that doesn’t require a plane ticket? Whether you want to make like a movie star in the Hollywood Hills or binge Netflix on the big screen inside this bonafide Batcave near Disneyland, these are the best Airbnbs in and around Los Angeles.
For your little knights and princesses, this meticulously restored 1920s castle is straight out of a storybook. Located near the top of Wonderland Avenue and Laurel Canyon Boulevard (an artsy enclave famous for being home to legendary rock stars from the 1960s and 1970s), the grounds are completely enclosed by stone walls, and offer a private courtyard off the master, a built-in fire pit and a spacious pool to play in. Original details like stone turrets, gothic arches, and exposed beams abound. It’s a splurge, but so worth it.
Sleeps: 6
Cost: $919/night
Online: Airbnb.com
This beautiful, open-concept loft overlooks the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by three acres of mature gardens. Bonus? The oranges and lemons are ready to pick upon your arrival. Besides the enviable outdoor dining with ocean views and access to the nearby “Billionaire’s Beach” (where celebrities like David Geffen, Dr. Dre, Rob Reiner, Larry Ellison, and the former Dodgers CEO Jamie McCourt have reportedly had seaside homes), this colorful and light-filled home has a quirky fun feel that makes us think staying here is practically guaranteed fun.
This tri-level home is just four blocks from Venice’s trendy Abbot Kinney Street (shops and restaurants galore!) and a 10-minute walk to the Venice Boardwalk. With plenty of room to spread out, this home has three bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms, with a spacious living room that’s got a stand-up arcade game and foosball table. But the real highlight of this spot (besides the killer urban location) is the rooftop, which has panoramic views of Venice, as well as a barbecue, fire pit, dining, and lounge area.
Note: Because of all the levels (and no gates on the stairs), we recommend this home for families with kids over 5.
Sleeps: 6
Cost: $582/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Located smack dab in the middle of the historic Venice Canals (the SoCal version; not the Italian one), this unassuming 1950s bungalow is tucked between large Chinese Maple and Eucalyptus trees and offers a quiet respite—despite being just a few blocks from the bustling Venice Beach. When you’re not enjoying the serene waterfront view, take a quick stroll to see myriad street performers, sidewalk artists, stores, coffee shops, and eateries around the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
The rental is the front unit of a duplex bungalow and offers 1 bedroom, 1 full bathroom, a full kitchen, a deck overlooking the canals, and 1 dedicated parking spot.
Note: Babies and kids are welcome at this Airbnb, but due to its proximity to the canal (the walkways don’t have fences to stop littles from falling in) and numerous stone steps, the host says it’s “not ideal” for smaller kids.
Sleeps: 3
Cost: $325/night
Online: Airbnb.com
This pristine hillside home looks like something out of a magazine. If you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation (Book your stay early!), the four-bedroom historic lake house won’t disappoint. Located within walking distance to the water, the home has 180-degree lake views from almost everywhere in the house—with three huge decks perfect for watching the boats go by as you soak in the hot tub or stay warm by the fire pit. It was built in 1935 but has been 100 percent remodeled with all the modern amenities and special touches—including leather couches, beaded chandeliers, and a “swing bar” on the first floor that features wooden playground swings instead of seats. There’s also a “kid loft” with three built-in twin beds and a toy shelf stocked with games, puzzles, and books.
The host, a mom of three, said that her goal was “to outfit the house with everything a parent would need so they don’t have to bring a single baby item.” That means you’ll have pack ‘n plays, noise machines in every room, high chairs, kids’ cutlery/dishes, and plenty of games to keep the kids busy.
Note: Don’t worry about those three levels and your little climbers! The host provides baby gates (located in the closets) to block off any areas or stairs that you want to be off-limits.
Sleeps: 10
Cost: $700/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Vaulted wood ceilings? Check! Bunk beds? Check! Waterfront location with a dock to park your kayaks, canoes, or other water vehicles? Yes, yes, yes! This Big Bear cabin has everything you’d want in a summer getaway spot. Relax and take in the view through the floor-to-ceiling picture windows, or step onto the outside deck to enjoy unobstructed lake views while you barbecue beneath the starts (Hint: You’ve got a perfect view of the Fourth of July fireworks from here!). There’s also a grassy yard that leads to the waterfront, where there’s a dock free for guests’ use (boat/kayak rentals are available from shops throughout Big Bear, and these can be delivered to the home).
Note: The host offers 1 free (1-day) snowboard or ski rental in the winter months or 1 single kayak rental (for 2 hours) in the summer months.
Sleeps: 12
Cost: $843/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Related: Why Big Bear is a Favorite Family Vacation Destination
Nestled amid the Alpine forest of Idyllwild-Pine Cove, about 2 hours from Los Angeles, this mystical abode is a dream come true for anyone who is into fairies and magic. Designed as a creative space—and, by the looks of its Instagram page, popular with yogis and artists—the bohemian three-story cabin has enough enchanting nooks and crannies to keep kids endlessly exploring. The home has a movie room, a library, a yoga studio (renting this costs extra), and five colorful bedrooms. Decorative tree branches lace their way around spiral staircases, and cozy treetop-level window nooks will make a birdwatcher out of anyone who stops to sit. Outside, a network of wooden bridges and platforms crisscross the exterior, leading the way through the trees to three fire pits, a sauna, a jacuzzi, and numerous outdoor sitting areas.
Note: This place may not be suitable for children under 5, since the home contains several staircases (including a spiral one) and fragile “magical” items.
Sleeps: 16+
Cost: $372/night
Online: Airbnb.com or Faeriehouseidyllwild.com (to avoid Airbnb fees)
Perfect for all the superhero-loving kids (and kids-at-heart), this rental just 10 minutes from Disneyland has a full backyard playground, fantastically-themed superhero rooms (including a Superman bedroom with enough beds for six kids!), and a full arcade that gamers will love. But the real highlight of this place lurks behind a hidden door: Pull the right book on the bookshelf and you’ll find a Batcave so authentic you’ll wonder if the owner works in the movie biz (Hint: He doesn’t). The cave houses a life-size model of the caped crusader himself, a “control center” where heroes-in-training can pull up a chair and oversee Gotham; and a movie theater with luxury recliner seating for nine people and a large movie screen. It’s all so fun you won’t want to leave.
Sleeps: 9
Cost: $422/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Related: This Anaheim Airbnb Has a Secret Batcave
If stargazing is your thing, this one-of-a-kind desert home checks all the boxes. Besides being far from the light pollution of nearby cities, the three-bedroom home 20 minutes from Joshua Tree has a standalone dome observatory so you can get a closer look at our celestial neighbors. And don’t worry if you’re not a professional astronomer, the observatory uses software that lets you select a constellation on the computer for the telescope to automatically rotate accordingly. Besides that stellar experience (which, let’s be honest, is reason enough to visit), the rental also has two game rooms (with a pool table, ski ball, and shuffleboard table), an outdoor hot tub, and a fire pit. Perched on a hill in the middle of the rocky landscape, it also has 360-degree views of the surrounding area.
Sleeps: 8
Cost: $398/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Palm Springs with Kids
Enjoy a night on the farm inside your very own tipi at this Temecula-area farm stay where the animals are the real stars of the show. You’ll sleep on comfy floor mattresses inside an authentic teepee surrounded by farm animals, including a whole herd of goats (Pssst: Two new babies were just born in May!), chickens, miniature horses, pigs, and one lama. The tipi has a bathroom, hot shower, propane fire pit (the tent is ventilated enough so that it’s safe—we asked!), fridge, mini kitchen, Wifi, 2 twin beds, and a queen bed. When you’re not hanging in the tipi, your fam is free to roam the fruit orchards; pet, brush, or feed the animals; and play on the tree swing. You can even help milk the goats if that’s your thing.
Want to glamp out with a few friends? The ranch also has a 1963 pink Shasta trailer and 1962 Airstream available for rent.
Note: During the rainy season or in heavy rain, the host may need to cancel or change your accommodations.
Sleeps: 4
Cost: $185/night
Online: Airbnb.com
If you’ve got a large group looking to vacation like royalty, this luxurious 8-bedroom mansion just north of Temecula will have you feeling like the rich and famous. Sprawled across 5 acres, the vineyard estate (it’s an operating winery!) has a resort-style pool, hot tub, tennis court, basketball court, bocce ball a custom 9-hole mini golf course. Sure, you could explore the area—the nearby wineries, hot air balloon rides, or the local town—but why go anywhere? This place has enough to do that you’ll be hard-pressed to leave. Besides the bevy of outdoor offerings to keep your group busy, the interior of this lavish home offers a billiards room, arcade, home theater, three fireplaces, a bar that’ll have you feeling like you’re in a hotel, and plenty of space to spread out.
Sleeps: 16+
Cost: $921/night
Online: Airbnb.com
All aboard! This little red trolley is the coziest sleepover spot around. Designed as a labor of love by a dedicated father-son team, the converted trolley car comes fully equipped with a queen-sized bed, 40″ TV, stovetop, fridge, microwave, air fryer, dishes, silverware, tile shower, games, heating & air conditioning. There’s also a large deck with recliner chairs and a barbecue if you want to cook under the stars before heading out to explore the area; the trolley is about 30 minutes from Vasquez Rocks, 10 minutes to Six Flags Magic Mountain, and 50 minutes to downtown Los Angeles.
Note: While children aren’t prohibited, the trolley only has one bed, and isn’t child-proofed. If you don’t mind ditching your partner for your a little, the host is fine with children, but this quirky spot may be best left to the grown-ups.
Sleeps: 2
Cost: $198/night
Online: Airbnb.com
Additional reporting by Jenifer Scott
*All rates are accurate as of this publication, though prices may change based on demand, day, and season. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
]]>After writing about cruising for nearly 30 years, I can tell you this is far from the truth. Quality dining has always been a big part of the cruising experience, and cruise ship restaurant offerings only have improved over the years.
You’ll now find standalone restaurants on high-end cruise ships created and overseen by some of the world’s most famous chefs, including Thomas Keller and Jacques Pepin.
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But even on the largest mass-market cruise ships, the food is getting ever more elaborate and diverse. Norwegian Cruise Line brags that its biggest vessel, Norwegian Encore, has more than 20 different food venues — everything from a casual barbecue restaurant (with live country music) to a high-end Italian spot from the creators of New York City’s Scarpetta.
Some mainstream lines, such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises, even have called in chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants to help them design entire culinary programs.
Over the years, as part of testing and reviewing nearly 200 vessels operated by 41 different lines, I’ve eaten at pretty much every cruise ship restaurant.
Just like at resorts on land, there’s incredible diversity out there. Some are great. Some aren’t. Some are too pricey for what they are. Others are bargains.
But the bottom line is there are a lot of wonderful restaurants on cruise ships. Below are my picks for the very best cruise ship restaurants at sea. As you might expect, many of my favorites are on higher-end ships, but several of the top restaurants can be found on the bigger, more affordable cruise ships.
Where you’ll find it: All Viking ocean and expedition ships.
Found on every Viking ocean and expedition ship, Manfredi’s is our hands-down pick for the best Italian restaurant at sea. It serves up authentic and hearty Tuscan and Northern Italian specialties such as bistecca fiorentina and osso buco alla Milanese. Appetizers range from hand-cut beef tartare to — our favorite — a chilled asparagus and polenta dish that’s served with a perfectly poached egg, Parmigiano Reggiano and truffle dressing.
Here’s a bit of trivia: Manfredi’s was named after Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, who once owned one of Viking’s rivals, Silversea Cruises. Viking chairman Torstein Hagen and Lefebvre are friends. If you’re a cruising aficionado, be sure to hunt among the photos on the wall for the images of Lefebvre and Hagen experimenting with recipes during the restaurant’s creation. The Italy-born Lefebvre supposedly shared some of his favorite childhood recipes for the venue.
Cost: There’s no extra charge to dine at Manfredi’s, but reservations are required. Passengers are entitled to one visit per voyage (those staying in top suites can go twice).
Where you’ll find it: Oceania Cruises’ Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Vista.
Red Ginger may be the most gorgeous restaurant you’ll ever see on a cruise ship. With a nod to feng shui, it radiates harmony and tranquility with ebony woods, a soothing waterfall wall and striking, modern Asian artworks. But it’s not just a pretty place: It’s a den of yumminess, too.
Found on four Oceania Cruises ships — Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Vista — Red Ginger offers classic Asian dishes with a contemporary twist, all dreamed up by Oceania’s well-regarded, in-house culinary team with input from famed chef Jacques Pepin. We’re talking about miso-glazed sea bass wrapped in a hoba leaf, and sole tempura with an orange ponzu sauce and spicy daikon. For dessert, don’t miss the lemongrass creme brulee.
Cost: There is no extra charge to dine at Red Ginger, but reservations are required. Passengers are entitled to one visit per voyage (those staying in top suites can go twice).
Where you’ll find it: All Seabourn ships except Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit.
Getting a table at one of Thomas Keller’s restaurants on land isn’t easy; if you manage to snag one, you’ll pay for the privilege. For instance, the price of a dinner at Keller’s flagship in New York, Per Se, is fixed at $390 per person for a nine-course tasting menu, not including drinks or tax (the latter alone adds another $35 per person to the tab).
But you can avoid the hassle of snagging a reservation for a Keller meal — and the cost — by booking a Seabourn cruise. Every passenger on Seabourn’s ships can sample Keller’s cuisine throughout the main restaurants.
Most Seabourn vessels also have a dedicated restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller, which offers Keller’s take on classic American chophouse fare with New York Strip steak, lobster thermidor and Dover sole meuniere. For dessert, there are ice cream sundaes and a seven-layer coconut cake.
In my view, Keller’s extraordinary talents are wasted a bit on such traditional fare (his creativity comes through much more with the dishes he created for Seabourn’s main restaurants), but the dishes at The Grill by Thomas Keller are done superbly.
Cost: There’s no extra charge to dine at The Grill by Thomas Keller, but reservations are recommended. Passengers can make reservations in advance of their sailings online on a first-come, first-served basis, up until 15 days before departure. Reservations also can be made on board.
Where you’ll find it: Carnival’s Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Breeze, Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Radiance.
One of the great paradoxes of the cruise world is that one of the lowest-cost operators — Carnival Cruise Line — has one of the best steakhouses at sea. At a fixed price of $48 per person, Fahrenheit 555 also is a relative bargain compared to similar steakhouses on land.
Found on Carnival’s six most recently built ships plus a few others, Fahrenheit 555 offers all the steakhouse staples, from a 14-ounce New York strip to a nine-ounce filet mignon (both USDA Prime, aged 28 days). Other entree choices include an appropriately marbled hunk of Australian Wagyu beef, grilled lamb chops and Dover sole. Starters include Heritage Berkshire pork belly, bone marrow and hand-cut beef tartare, and — of course — jumbo shrimp cocktail.
Carnival has a long tradition of offering high-end steakhouses on its ships. The line began rolling out steakhouses in 2001 with the debut of its Spirit-class ships (where, in one of the great quirks of cruise ship design, the steakhouses are located in red domes that form the forward portions of the ships’ funnels). There now are steakhouses on 23 of Carnival’s 25 vessels, with varying names and decor. When it comes to culinary offerings, they’re all similar to Fahrenheit 555.
Cost: $48 per person.
Where you’ll find it: All Silversea ships except Silver Explorer and Silver Origin
The premier restaurant on Silversea Cruises ships is a temple to high-end French cuisine. Named after La Dame de Paris, aka the Eiffel Tower, it serves such classic dishes as filet of Limousin beef, grilled rack of lamb and pan-fried Dover sole. The menu includes two different styles of foie gras, as well as caviar.
As you might expect for a fancy French venue, the service is all white-glove elegance in a refined but contemporary setting. As you might not expect on an upscale all-inclusive cruise line, the restaurant does have a hefty cover charge.
Cost: $60 per person.
Where you’ll find it: Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor. It’ll also be on Seven Seas Grandeur, which debuts in late 2023.
Another one of my favorite cruise ship restaurants is Pacific Rim, found on the two largest Regent Seven Seas Cruises vessels. Serving pan-Asian cuisine, it’s elegant and upscale — as you would expect from one of the world’s leading luxury lines — and has a mouthwatering menu. Signature dishes include grilled Korean barbecue lamb chops (served with wok-fried Brussels sprouts and gochujang sauce) and a miso black cod wrapped in a hoba leaf. Signature appetizers include a crispy soft-shell crab served with a kizami wasabi mayo.
For dessert, don’t miss the chili chocolate mousse. True to its name, it’s infused with chile and wonderfully spicy. For something more neutral, my pick is the green tea panna cotta, served with mango and a lychee ragout.
Cost: There’s no extra charge to dine at Pacific Rim, but reservations are required.
Related: Peek at the over-the-top luxury of Regent’s new Seven Seas Splendor
Where you’ll find it: Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond. It’ll also be on Celebrity Ascent, which debuts in December 2023.
Celebrity Cruises has created a temple to gastronomy with Eden Restaurant, found on its new Edge-class ships. Located at the back of each vessel in a whimsical glass-walled and plant-filled dining and entertainment space called Eden, it offers a recently revamped, fixed-price menu with a choice of three appetizers, three entrees and two desserts.
In a sharp departure from Eden Restaurant’s original concept of mesmerizingly imaginative dishes with fanciful names and often exotic ingredients, the new menu offers such classic dishes as filet mignon and mini short rib Wellington with mashed potatoes, vegetables, mushrooms and bordelaise sauce, and slow-cooked halibut — all cooked perfectly.
Cost: $65.
Where you’ll find it: Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.
For the most part, the food on Disney Cruise Line ships is just so-so (in my opinion, at least). It’s a line you book for its great family entertainment, not cuisine. But Remy is the great exception — a dining experience that is among the finest at sea.
Created by two renowned chefs (Arnaud Lallement of France’s three-Michelin-starred l’Assiette Champenoise and Scott Hunnel of Disney World’s high-end Victoria & Albert’s), it offers exquisitely presented, French-inspired cuisine of the highest quality in an elegant setting at one of the highest prices of any cruise ship eatery.
Like pretty much all venues on Disney ships, Remy has some whimsical Disney touches. Named after the rat hero in the Disney animated film Ratatouille, it has his stylized likeness worked into the art nouveau design. But there’s nothing Mickey Mouse about the restaurant’s sophisticated decor and finishings, which include high-end Frette linens, Riedel glassware, Christofle silverware and gold-cushioned stools to hold ladies’ purses. This is a fine dining establishment where you wear a jacket or cocktail dress to dinner while savoring mouth-watering small plates of duck, quail, Wagyu beef, king crab and the like.
Cost: Tasting menus for $125 per person, not including wine; $230 per person including wine pairings with each course. A brunch service also is available for $75 per person.
Where you’ll find it: All Cunard Line ships
Steakhouse lovers will find another great option in Steakhouse at The Verandah, located on all Cunard vessels. It’s a shrine to the most indulgent, marbled and mouth-watering cuts of beef, from 35-day dry-aged Scotch grass-fed Black Angus to Australian grass-fed Wagyu beef (the latter for an $30 upcharge). It also serves up seafood options such as grilled whole Dover sole and Maine lobster. Appetizers include clam chowder and lobster cocktail.
At a price of just $45 per person if booked in advance of sailing (with a few supplemental charges for premium items), it’s a great bargain in my book — at least compared to fine steakhouses on land.
Cost: $45 per person if booked in advance of sailing; $50 per person if booked on board. A few premium dinner items come with extra “supplemental” charges. The steakhouse also is open for lunch at a cost of $25 per person if booked in advance of sailing; $30 per person if booked on board.
Good food is plentiful on cruise ships, where you will even find a few truly world-class restaurants. Some of the same chefs behind the best-known restaurants on land have turned their attention to restaurants at sea in recent years, making it easier than ever to have a knockout meal during your cruise.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
Is your neighborhood prepared for survival? Do you know what paper supplies if any, your family can use at the local school(s) nearby your home after a disaster? Or what paper products are available at the local church(s) located near your neighborhood or at least a distance you could walk to?
Mark and I decided to make several phone calls to get opinions from a school luncheon person and several members from a number of different churches representing different faiths (I promised I would not disclose any names). Here’s the deal, we have all been glued to the television to stay updated about Hurricane Matthew (yes, I am updating this post). It seems we have even more tornadoes and hurricanes these days, right?
I have heard some have stayed in their homes to ride out the storm and millions have left to drive or fly to safer locations. I heard from a close friend that her daughter bought a home about a year ago in South Carolina and in their garage they store the boards used to cover the windows during storms, so they really are ready to use for any hurricane. They are ready to cover all the windows and doors in the house. Okay, this is new to me.
When we lived in Southern Utah, we thought about what we we do if we have an earthquake, fire, or flooding. In the last flood we had, Home Depot provided sandbags and sand to protect our homes from the raging rains. I realize if the roads crumble we will have to survive with what we have in our own homes. If our homes are still standing, that is.
I realize some people are very prepared for survival and a lot of people believe the government will swoop in and save them. Or maybe the American Red Cross will save them. Well, listen up friends, that’s not going to happen. At least not right away. We must be prepared to take care of ourselves if the stores become empty, which they will after an unforeseen emergency.
Let me share my findings with you after the many phone calls and visits I made here in the state of Utah only. Here’s the deal, most everyone has water and food to share with the neighborhood if the need comes up. But we need to be able to serve that food to share with each other. Oh, I realize some will not share anything they have stored. I get it, that’s their right.
I must admit I was very impressed with the supplies they keep on hand for our children in the schools. Please note, as the school year comes to an end the excess products are shipped back to the local school district warehouse. In other words, in the summer we would have very little paper products for the neighborhood if the school was opened for survivors after a disaster.
Please take a few minutes and assess how many paper products you may have stored. I’m wondering if people on my street have more than 25 or 30 plates. That’s good, for their own family if they can reuse them for a week. That’s not enough for 2 weeks, a month or more. I will not waste any water on washing plates, cups, and utensils. Let me know if you live in a neighborhood prepared in a few ways.
I hope you enjoyed this post I updated from 2016, the information is critical for people to be prepared for the unexpected. It’s interesting how expensive paper products have gone up. We have enough for our lifetime, I’m glad we purchased them many years ago. Yes, they are packed in boxes in our storage unit waiting for our home to be built.
The post Is Your Neighborhood Prepared? appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
]]>Is your neighborhood prepared for survival? Do you know what paper supplies if any, your family can use at the local school(s) nearby your home after a disaster? Or what paper products are available at the local church(s) located near your neighborhood or at least a distance you could walk to?
Mark and I decided to make several phone calls to get opinions from a school luncheon person and several members from a number of different churches representing different faiths (I promised I would not disclose any names). Here’s the deal, we have all been glued to the television to stay updated about Hurricane Matthew (yes, I am updating this post). It seems we have even more tornadoes and hurricanes these days, right?
I have heard some have stayed in their homes to ride out the storm and millions have left to drive or fly to safer locations. I heard from a close friend that her daughter bought a home about a year ago in South Carolina and in their garage they store the boards used to cover the windows during storms, so they really are ready to use for any hurricane. They are ready to cover all the windows and doors in the house. Okay, this is new to me.
When we lived in Southern Utah, we thought about what we we do if we have an earthquake, fire, or flooding. In the last flood we had, Home Depot provided sandbags and sand to protect our homes from the raging rains. I realize if the roads crumble we will have to survive with what we have in our own homes. If our homes are still standing, that is.
I realize some people are very prepared for survival and a lot of people believe the government will swoop in and save them. Or maybe the American Red Cross will save them. Well, listen up friends, that’s not going to happen. At least not right away. We must be prepared to take care of ourselves if the stores become empty, which they will after an unforeseen emergency.
Let me share my findings with you after the many phone calls and visits I made here in the state of Utah only. Here’s the deal, most everyone has water and food to share with the neighborhood if the need comes up. But we need to be able to serve that food to share with each other. Oh, I realize some will not share anything they have stored. I get it, that’s their right.
I must admit I was very impressed with the supplies they keep on hand for our children in the schools. Please note, as the school year comes to an end the excess products are shipped back to the local school district warehouse. In other words, in the summer we would have very little paper products for the neighborhood if the school was opened for survivors after a disaster.
Please take a few minutes and assess how many paper products you may have stored. I’m wondering if people on my street have more than 25 or 30 plates. That’s good, for their own family if they can reuse them for a week. That’s not enough for 2 weeks, a month or more. I will not waste any water on washing plates, cups, and utensils. Let me know if you live in a neighborhood prepared in a few ways.
I hope you enjoyed this post I updated from 2016, the information is critical for people to be prepared for the unexpected. It’s interesting how expensive paper products have gone up. We have enough for our lifetime, I’m glad we purchased them many years ago. Yes, they are packed in boxes in our storage unit waiting for our home to be built.
The post Is Your Neighborhood Prepared? appeared first on Food Storage Moms.
]]>As a bookish child in the Pennsylvania suburbs, I won the school spelling bee without quite meaning to, startled and delighted to hear an adult with a microphone intoning aloud words I’d only read in books—it’s mis-led, not mizzled?—as though seeing in color for the first time. For my pains I was given a copy of Paideia, the workbook that formerly accompanied the Scripps National Spelling Bee, and told to start studying for regionals. (For the record, I never made it further than the state bee.)
Until recently, I assumed a paideia meant a vocabulary book, but in fact it refers to the ancient Greek approach to raising a (male, unenslaved) citizen: creating a “broad, enlightened, mature outlook, harmoniously combined with maximum cultural development.” A lot to saddle spelling with. I don’t believe that orthography and maturity run on parallel tracks, but I’m drawn to the idea that words populate a verbal landscape in the way that citizens (and other guests and residents) populate a country, and that mingling among words in their motley variety is one mode of becoming an adult participant in society.
In New York City, where I now live, half of all city dwellers speak a language other than English at home, and nearly a quarter are designated as having “limited English proficiency,” according to the Department of City Planning Language Access Plan from 2021. The city’s lexical wealth is often felt precisely where the seepage of spillover capital from downtown Manhattan’s financial sector finally starts to ebb and sputter out. By some counts, around eight hundred languages survive here, making it arguably the most linguistically diverse city in the world.
Because of this, I often find myself wheeling an iPad on a telescoping stand to and from patient rooms as I make my way around the hospital ward where I work. Like most hospitals, ours decided that keeping a full-time staff of interpreters made poor financial sense, so almost all the work is done through a third-party company that connects me by video chat to a fleet of interpreters wearing matching polos and sitting in front of bright-blue backgrounds. Cycling through all these two-dimensional strangers, their faces and voices sometimes decoupled by connection delays, sounds depressing—and sometimes it is.
Other times, though, I’ve worked with the same interpreter so often that I recognize her particular bashfulness when asking me to rephrase something I’ve said in overly slangy English, or his infuriating way of crinkling what sounds like a king-size candy-bar wrapper somewhere off-screen—a nervous habit, I imagine, though I also have no idea what time it is where he lives, or when was the last time he was liberated from his headset to stretch and make himself a snack. Some interpreters introduce themselves by both their name in their native language and a phonetically similar name they use in English. At times, the latter is a name rarely given to anglophone babies, like Eros or Symphony. I like it that someone who has to wear a logoed company polo all day can still introduce herself as Eros if she feels like it. I like it, grudgingly, that Symphony sneaks cacophonic snacks to his desk in violation of corporate policy.
I park the iPad stand as close to the patient’s head as possible and the interpreter explains to the patient what’s about to happen. Sometimes delirious or very elderly patients don’t understand that the figure on the screen is talking to them, instead treating the interpreter’s burble as another sociable form of white noise, like the cable news murmuring on the room’s mounted television. Other times, patients seem to assume that the tiny on-screen figure is the real doctor, stranded far from the hospital or perhaps even stuck inside a digital box, while I, the white-coated figure physically present, am more like a ferryman or a stagehand, wheeling the helpless minuscule doctor around.
But most times, we can get down to work. Even at its best and smoothest, built into the function of translation is a massive amount of waiting. A patient says several sentences to me in Russian, and until the interpreter begins, I still have no idea what’s going on, yet I know my face is already being read. While the interpreter translates my own words back to the patient, I reflexively nod and smile, as though to imply that what the interpreter—that is, what the doctor—that is, what I—have been saying is infinitely important and true. It’s too hard merely to wait, though that, of course, is precisely what we ought to do, letting the translation carry us across—the literal meaning of the term’s etymological origin, translātiō—without too much fuss and rocking from the cargo bay.
Less a melting pot than an arcade’s claw crane, with heaps of distinct, bright visions that too easily elude capture, the American-art scene reproduces on its own terms the linguistic busyness, the interpretation, the slippage, that marks a nation full of translation and mistranslation. While I feel small and overly confined by my mostly monolingual life—unlike many or even most people on Earth, I face little economic or political penalty for carrying on in just the one language I learned as a baby—a voyage through what I might call the interpretive style in American art can set me aright. Like Melville’s Ishmael getting on the first ship that’ll take him, “it is a way I have of driving off the spleen and regulating the circulation.”
By interpretive style, I mean the practice of making art that’s inextricable from the artist’s awareness of carrying something over from a different idiom, medium, or place. Chance and the unconscious may figure in to how a piece actually turns out, but the artist knows very well that she’s stepping between worlds. I think Winslow Homer must have felt this carrying over when he first started painting seascapes and realized that the way he’d caught the landlocked world before—people hip-deep or shoulder-high in grain as they reap, or buried in trees to evade detection in the Civil War—could be transported onto the sea, giving it solidity and fertility, where more-conventional painters had treated it as a simple horizon mark, or as just a very large quantity of water.
I think Trisha Brown must have felt this carrying over when, toward the end of her career as a choreographer and dancer, she began creating large works on paper made by dancing, rolling, and skidding over sheets while holding pastels or graphite between her toes and fingers. What had been implicit or figurative about the dancing quality of visual artmaking—resonant in iconic cultural artifacts like Hans Namuth’s famous film of Jackson Pollock’s “action painting”—became explicitly a work of bilingual mélange. Brown was a dancer, dancing; she was a draftsperson, drawing—each language had its syntactical peculiarities, but could be made to meet.
Walking away from the hospital at shift’s end, my rolling iPad and its interpreters set aside for the day, I went to see Tiona Nekkia McClodden’s exhibition Mask / Conceal / Carry at the 52 Walker gallery in Manhattan. McClodden, a forty-one-year-old interdisciplinary artist in Philadelphia, created the pieces in Mask / Conceal / Carry as part of a reckoning with her own attraction to, and growing proficiency in, the use and ownership of guns. As she has written and spoken about elsewhere, McClodden first gravitated toward guns when violence within Philadelphia—and, more broadly, growing awareness of anti-Black violence by police and others around the country—made her fear for her own safety. Then, as someone on the autism spectrum, she found that target practice and the rituals of the shooting range provided ways to work through sensory overload. Slowly, these practices percolated into the paintings, video installations, and sculptures that became the show now on view.
The most arresting element of the show is a series of paintings derived from “dry firing,” that is, shooting a firearm without ammunition. The laser sights guiding McClodden’s aim produce corresponding jagged loops of paint on canvas. The results look not unlike the scribbled passages in a Cy Twombly mural, riffing on the fall of ancient empires and indeed resemble some of the aforementioned Trisha Brown dance paintings in which the body in motion has been turned into a projectile brush. Here, as in Brown’s work, a full-bodied practice in an entirely other discipline—dancing, shooting—has been translated into something that painting can accommodate and visual-art galleries can assimilate.
These dry-firing paintings on black canvases yield quite beautiful abstractions: dramatic, kinetic lines that home in on something the viewer cannot see or ethically evaluate. Who or what was the target that the shooter/painter was looking at or imagining? Impossible to judge, so we are able—just barely—to settle into a level of purely aesthetic pleasure, watching how the painter’s line creates little corrals and eddies of attention and stillness before darting again into motion.
By contrast, another corner of the exhibition is a video installation that uses the same dry-firing technique—lines and squiggles in bright colors that trace where a gun was aimed—but instead of an austere canvas, the backdrop now is a cycle of various stock images actually used in target practice at gun ranges. We see a blond-haired woman in a snug floral-decaled T-shirt and acid-washed jeans, her expression somewhere between a grimace and a jeer as she points a handgun at the viewer. The X suggests her mid-forehead as the ideal target. Then there’s a balding middle-aged white man at what appears to be a liquor store aiming his gun at us, while a terrified sales clerk gapes wide-eyed behind him. The white X is placed just beside his sternum. A dog, possibly a Doberman, menaces the viewer with jaws open while ears and lips strain backward. An X targets the heart side of his chest, a few inches below its chain collar. A man with features difficult to stereotype racially, immediately—perhaps he is Asian, perhaps he is Hispanic—stands with his back to us. In a white T-shirt and close-fitting jeans, he looks a bit like Bruce Springsteen on the album cover of Born in the U.S.A., except that a handgun peeps out from behind his torso. The X directs the shooter to aim at the top of his thoracic spine.
Superimposed on each of these images and many more, we see the bright contrails of McClodden’s efforts to hit the target. Over time, we recognize characteristic opening strokes, fierce diagonals, tighter loops of revision—the draftsmanship of the shooter—perhaps as uniquely traceable in their mannerisms as Bronzino’s way of articulating fingers or Philip Guston’s way of painting shoes.
I don’t feel comfortable in the exhibition. I think vastly fewer guns, fewer gun owners, and fewer images of and related to guns would be an excellent restoration of sanity to the country that I live in, and I don’t think that people who also happen to be artists are necessarily more likely to be more prudent or appropriate gun owners than anyone else. On some level, I would like McClodden’s guns to be taken away from her, and from just about everyone else as well.
But my comfort is not the point, nor is whether I “agree” with the artist about her practices in or outside the studio. (Funny, when I look at, say, a Helen Frankenthaler painting, I don’t generally think to myself whether I “agree” with the shade of coral she chose, but somehow when the materials, methodology, and subject matter of a painting all converge around one of the most heated topics in American politics, it feels as though attending a gallery is to be handed a ballot and asked to register one’s consent or dissent.) I’m glad to see work that calls to mind one of the major drivers of death and harm in the United States while still managing to dodge didacticism and pedantry, and while positioning the artist not as virtuous guide but as unreliable narrator. The deliberate amorality of these “blanks”—gunshots that lack projectiles, exhibitions that decline to impose a specific interpretive lens—calls to mind the amorality of both skill and beauty in themselves, which acquire good or evil properties through use and context.
I continue my walk uptown, thinking about the text that McClodden wrote for Mask / Conceal / Carry, “I Don’t Believe in Trigger Warnings Anymore.” “The trigger warning has become a fetish based on the desire to disturb and be disturbed simultaneously,” she begins. That McClodden uses work generated by and with guns and their paraphernalia forces us to reverse engineer the dead metaphor inside the idea of the trigger warning, to reliteralize it to the concrete world. By telling someone that they may be “triggered” by what’s to come, such warnings are, in essence, saying that the addressee is at risk of becoming an object or instrument—a gun—rather than a subject who thinks and decides.
Whether we accept this conception of the individual—as someone who might, upon encountering traumatic material, become acted-on rather than agent, become thinglike—might predict whether we feel at ease around art that translates freely from one oral or visual or cultural language to another. When we welcome translation, when we allow or even seek out art that brings tidings from other floors in the Tower of Babel, from idioms we would not normally hear or understand without the aid of an interpreter, we put ourselves at risk. At risk of taking pleasure in what is “bad,” of feeling shame about the insufficient pleasure we receive from what is “good,” of feeling bored or delighted by things we think ought to provoke the opposite response. At risk of being intrigued by something we’re not supposed to, such as art that shoots in the back.
At first glance, my arrival at the Morgan Library’s exhibition of drawings by Rick Barton, Writing a Chrysanthemum, appears to land me lightyears from McClodden’s work. Where the prior gallery had been dimly lit and brooding, explicitly interested in naming and perhaps provoking menace, the retrospective show by California-based Barton (1928–92) shows a life concerned with the hedonism of documentation, a ravenous and sensual appetite for jotting down who and what’s around.
Barton, a somewhat reclusive figure known mostly to his small circle of friends and admirers in the queer and independent-publication scene of midcentury San Francisco, is believed to have adopted his characteristic style of lyrical, sinuous, perspective-defying works in ink when he encountered East Asian art as a merchant marine in China in the 1940s.
In between and sometimes during bouts of incarceration—opium, another acquired practice from the merchant marines and time abroad, brought him into frequent collision with the law and perhaps contributed to his isolation—Barton made hundreds of works on ink and paper. These often depict bedrooms, apartment interiors, and cafés; the beautiful or striking people inside them; and the vast array of quotidian objects that keeps these worlds afloat and their inhabitants comfortable. Beds need mattresses; mattresses need springs and ticking and buttons; people in cafés need coats, hats, watches, and seem to require a fleet of cups, saucers, silverware, and salt and pepper shakers at all times.
His world is a busier and more gregarious place than the one we know, though not because the people in it interact—they rarely seem to, except in silent display, like peacocks—but because each object has so many parts, seams, folds, zips, hinges, or buttons, all of which blink out at the viewer and toward each other like the flashing signals of an airport at night. This is most apparent in Barton’s incredible leporello-style drawings. A leporello is one long work of visual art separated by accordion folds so that a café scene, for example, takes place over many feet of paper, making us linger over one bit at a time with no fixed center governing the compositional whole.
Barton’s technique of giving every kind of solid surface equal weight and consideration with his brush means that startling and unexpected visual rhymes occur. Because he accords them parallel importance, the nails on a window frame and the flash of a man’s nipples and umbilicus talk to each other, imitate and play with each other. The wrinkle on someone’s unclenched knuckle and the folds on another person’s jacket are like a facing-translation edition of a poem about lassitude.
This handling of ink—a matter of metacarpal steadiness first, which then becomes a matter of philosophy—points the way toward how translation relates to civic virtues like justice and equality. Depicting two things with evenly meted saturation and rhythm renders them eligible for the same level of attention in the viewer’s eye. We might gravitate to one section of the piece, but this is of our own free will, not because the artist has treated another section as mere backdrop or scaffolding.
This is the opposite of, say, the Baroque art of Europe, in which any number of theatrical nudging techniques accelerate and then brake our gaze like a game of Simon Says. Contemporary American art borrowing from that tradition—any number of painters come to mind, from Alex Katz to Cindy Sherman, not to mention all of Hollywood film—are often locked in a loving hatred, or a hateful love, with the erosive antidemocratic potential of plutocracy. Less-conscious borrowers on the American scene include many so-called “outsider” artists, whose primary form of informal training often derives from the graphic design of advertisements and mass-produced goods. Art of this kind favors > and < over = and prefers the aspirations of alchemy, which moves away from what is “base” toward what is “precious,” over the aspirations of the translator, who moves back and forth between idioms without abandoning or effacing either one.
I am, of course, on the side of the translators over the alchemists. I want more art that ferries us between seemingly indecipherable codes, finding cognates and points of recognition. A recent crop of novels shows how this same impulse manifests in literature as well as in visual art. A couple years ago I read in Italian Claudia Durastanti’s La Straniera (2019), an autobiographically influenced novel that follows a young woman—Italian, hearing—whose family circumstances dictate much of her life in the United States and among deaf people, her ear a permanent alien in both. The nearly untranslatable title literally means the foreigner in English, though opting for that would have lost the wry nod to Camus’s L’Étranger, generally rendered in English as The Stranger. Durastanti and her translator, Elizabeth Harris, went with Strangers I Know, a comical oxymoron, a sign before the book’s even opened that the text within is going to be a pushmi-pullyu negotiation between these affectionately adversarial parties, Italian and English, deaf and hearing. Translation as couples therapy, a tussle in a partnership of equals.
At one point in Strangers I Know, the protagonist remembers how much she loved her first youthful encounters with Kerouac and Fitzgerald through Italian translations that were “careless and riddled with errors.” Later in life people will make fun of those gaffes, she says, but for her there’s something right and true about the imperfections of those texts: The bruises they display show how language “suffers in the migration between different countries, bleeding the same way astronauts bleed when they’ve spent too much time in space and come home to constant nosebleeds in the light of day, back on earth.” This honesty-in-error, like McClodden’s candid translations of violence, or Barton’s egalitarian style of drawing bedsprings like they’re bodies and human faces like they’re furniture, has a rattletrap sincerity I too hold dear.
Similarly, Lisa Hsiao Chen’s novel, Activities of Daily Living (2022), follows one woman’s obsession with the work made by the Taiwanese-American performance artist Tehching Hsieh, whose stunts run along the ragged edge between art and “real” life, knitting the two together through the translating medium of his body. Chen’s protagonist abhors a world made too smooth, too seamless, even in notoriously rough-hewn and checkered places such as New York City. In both Chen’s novel and in fact, Hsieh’s longest and possibly most arduous projects have been cessations of artmaking itself: the “No Art Piece” of 1985–86, during which he pledged to “not do art, not talk art, not see art, not read art, not go to art gallery and art museum for one year,” and the “13 Years’ Plan,” which consisted of a vow to withdraw all of his art from public life. Tsieh’s other performance pieces (such as locking himself in a cage for a year and leaving himself at the mercy of his friends for food and water, or tying himself to fellow artist Linda Montano for a year), for all their terrifying gusto, pale in comparison with the task of making a perfect translation between art and life, a correspondence so absolute that we no longer perceive ourselves to be switching languages.
Wandering around the city, Chen’s heroine finds herself poring over braille diner menus, running “her fingers across the bumps to feel her illiteracy,” knowing the menus will soon be thrown out when blind patrons come to prefer the smooth voice of a smartphone app. She encounters the spread of whole swaths of urban life that look more like theme-park versions of themselves, too shiny, too concealing of their antecedents, whatever conversation they might have had with the strata of history below their foundations frozen in a rictus of new consumption. What will happen to the American city when we can no longer feel the friction between its competing dialects, when we no longer have cause to stumble over hitches in translation, feeling the subtle changes in terrain where multiple ways of knowing and speaking dapple the texture of daily life?
In galleries and museums, on city blocks and in the semiprivate spaces where people gather (be they the artist’s café or the firing range), the richest and most interesting places in American art and life seem to me to be those where we see the interpreter’s work on candid display, showing us the effort, error, and play that come from plumbing the depths of one idiom and remaking it in a new key.
I think of a patient I once had who spoke a Central Asian language for which no virtual or in-person interpreter was, at the moment, available. While we obeyed the chipper voice on the interpreter hotline entreating us to “please stay on the line,” the patient took my hand in her left hand and ran the tips of my fingers down the length of her torso from clavicle to hipbone. At the same time, with her right hand, she ran a pen over a piece of paper, making a smooth line in time with our movements across her body. When my hand hovered over one of the places where she felt pain, she squeezed it, and made an angry furrowed mark on the page.
By the time we completed—I can’t quite call it an exam, as it was really she who was conducting it, with my hand as just an artist’s tool—the piece of paper was constellated with bristling messages, the smooth arc of health derailed by divots and burrs meant, I think, to map for me the sites and the magnitude of her sickness. All this without a sound.
I wasn’t equal to it—I still, of course, needed the usual cheats of my trade, blood tests and CT scans and a stethoscope in place of a bare hand. But I stood in awe of the visual lexicon she’d made, an improvised work of drawing and dance for two players. And I mourned my inability to interpret it just yet, and I thanked her for bringing me to the brink of a glimmering meaning I could almost see. Even in my incomprehension, the sense of a meaning about to slide into my own language felt like watching some fantastic and freighted ship nosing its way into harbor.
As a bookish child in the Pennsylvania suburbs, I won the school spelling bee without quite meaning to, startled and delighted to hear an adult with a microphone intoning aloud words I’d only read in books—it’s mis-led, not mizzled?—as though seeing in color for the first time. For my pains I was given a copy of Paideia, the workbook that formerly accompanied the Scripps National Spelling Bee, and told to start studying for regionals. (For the record, I never made it further than the state bee.)
Until recently, I assumed a paideia meant a vocabulary book, but in fact it refers to the ancient Greek approach to raising a (male, unenslaved) citizen: creating a “broad, enlightened, mature outlook, harmoniously combined with maximum cultural development.” A lot to saddle spelling with. I don’t believe that orthography and maturity run on parallel tracks, but I’m drawn to the idea that words populate a verbal landscape in the way that citizens (and other guests and residents) populate a country, and that mingling among words in their motley variety is one mode of becoming an adult participant in society.
In New York City, where I now live, half of all city dwellers speak a language other than English at home, and nearly a quarter are designated as having “limited English proficiency,” according to the Department of City Planning Language Access Plan from 2021. The city’s lexical wealth is often felt precisely where the seepage of spillover capital from downtown Manhattan’s financial sector finally starts to ebb and sputter out. By some counts, around eight hundred languages survive here, making it arguably the most linguistically diverse city in the world.
Because of this, I often find myself wheeling an iPad on a telescoping stand to and from patient rooms as I make my way around the hospital ward where I work. Like most hospitals, ours decided that keeping a full-time staff of interpreters made poor financial sense, so almost all the work is done through a third-party company that connects me by video chat to a fleet of interpreters wearing matching polos and sitting in front of bright-blue backgrounds. Cycling through all these two-dimensional strangers, their faces and voices sometimes decoupled by connection delays, sounds depressing—and sometimes it is.
Other times, though, I’ve worked with the same interpreter so often that I recognize her particular bashfulness when asking me to rephrase something I’ve said in overly slangy English, or his infuriating way of crinkling what sounds like a king-size candy-bar wrapper somewhere off-screen—a nervous habit, I imagine, though I also have no idea what time it is where he lives, or when was the last time he was liberated from his headset to stretch and make himself a snack. Some interpreters introduce themselves by both their name in their native language and a phonetically similar name they use in English. At times, the latter is a name rarely given to anglophone babies, like Eros or Symphony. I like it that someone who has to wear a logoed company polo all day can still introduce herself as Eros if she feels like it. I like it, grudgingly, that Symphony sneaks cacophonic snacks to his desk in violation of corporate policy.
I park the iPad stand as close to the patient’s head as possible and the interpreter explains to the patient what’s about to happen. Sometimes delirious or very elderly patients don’t understand that the figure on the screen is talking to them, instead treating the interpreter’s burble as another sociable form of white noise, like the cable news murmuring on the room’s mounted television. Other times, patients seem to assume that the tiny on-screen figure is the real doctor, stranded far from the hospital or perhaps even stuck inside a digital box, while I, the white-coated figure physically present, am more like a ferryman or a stagehand, wheeling the helpless minuscule doctor around.
But most times, we can get down to work. Even at its best and smoothest, built into the function of translation is a massive amount of waiting. A patient says several sentences to me in Russian, and until the interpreter begins, I still have no idea what’s going on, yet I know my face is already being read. While the interpreter translates my own words back to the patient, I reflexively nod and smile, as though to imply that what the interpreter—that is, what the doctor—that is, what I—have been saying is infinitely important and true. It’s too hard merely to wait, though that, of course, is precisely what we ought to do, letting the translation carry us across—the literal meaning of the term’s etymological origin, translātiō—without too much fuss and rocking from the cargo bay.
Less a melting pot than an arcade’s claw crane, with heaps of distinct, bright visions that too easily elude capture, the American-art scene reproduces on its own terms the linguistic busyness, the interpretation, the slippage, that marks a nation full of translation and mistranslation. While I feel small and overly confined by my mostly monolingual life—unlike many or even most people on Earth, I face little economic or political penalty for carrying on in just the one language I learned as a baby—a voyage through what I might call the interpretive style in American art can set me aright. Like Melville’s Ishmael getting on the first ship that’ll take him, “it is a way I have of driving off the spleen and regulating the circulation.”
By interpretive style, I mean the practice of making art that’s inextricable from the artist’s awareness of carrying something over from a different idiom, medium, or place. Chance and the unconscious may figure in to how a piece actually turns out, but the artist knows very well that she’s stepping between worlds. I think Winslow Homer must have felt this carrying over when he first started painting seascapes and realized that the way he’d caught the landlocked world before—people hip-deep or shoulder-high in grain as they reap, or buried in trees to evade detection in the Civil War—could be transported onto the sea, giving it solidity and fertility, where more-conventional painters had treated it as a simple horizon mark, or as just a very large quantity of water.
I think Trisha Brown must have felt this carrying over when, toward the end of her career as a choreographer and dancer, she began creating large works on paper made by dancing, rolling, and skidding over sheets while holding pastels or graphite between her toes and fingers. What had been implicit or figurative about the dancing quality of visual artmaking—resonant in iconic cultural artifacts like Hans Namuth’s famous film of Jackson Pollock’s “action painting”—became explicitly a work of bilingual mélange. Brown was a dancer, dancing; she was a draftsperson, drawing—each language had its syntactical peculiarities, but could be made to meet.
Walking away from the hospital at shift’s end, my rolling iPad and its interpreters set aside for the day, I went to see Tiona Nekkia McClodden’s exhibition Mask / Conceal / Carry at the 52 Walker gallery in Manhattan. McClodden, a forty-one-year-old interdisciplinary artist in Philadelphia, created the pieces in Mask / Conceal / Carry as part of a reckoning with her own attraction to, and growing proficiency in, the use and ownership of guns. As she has written and spoken about elsewhere, McClodden first gravitated toward guns when violence within Philadelphia—and, more broadly, growing awareness of anti-Black violence by police and others around the country—made her fear for her own safety. Then, as someone on the autism spectrum, she found that target practice and the rituals of the shooting range provided ways to work through sensory overload. Slowly, these practices percolated into the paintings, video installations, and sculptures that became the show now on view.
The most arresting element of the show is a series of paintings derived from “dry firing,” that is, shooting a firearm without ammunition. The laser sights guiding McClodden’s aim produce corresponding jagged loops of paint on canvas. The results look not unlike the scribbled passages in a Cy Twombly mural, riffing on the fall of ancient empires and indeed resemble some of the aforementioned Trisha Brown dance paintings in which the body in motion has been turned into a projectile brush. Here, as in Brown’s work, a full-bodied practice in an entirely other discipline—dancing, shooting—has been translated into something that painting can accommodate and visual-art galleries can assimilate.
These dry-firing paintings on black canvases yield quite beautiful abstractions: dramatic, kinetic lines that home in on something the viewer cannot see or ethically evaluate. Who or what was the target that the shooter/painter was looking at or imagining? Impossible to judge, so we are able—just barely—to settle into a level of purely aesthetic pleasure, watching how the painter’s line creates little corrals and eddies of attention and stillness before darting again into motion.
By contrast, another corner of the exhibition is a video installation that uses the same dry-firing technique—lines and squiggles in bright colors that trace where a gun was aimed—but instead of an austere canvas, the backdrop now is a cycle of various stock images actually used in target practice at gun ranges. We see a blond-haired woman in a snug floral-decaled T-shirt and acid-washed jeans, her expression somewhere between a grimace and a jeer as she points a handgun at the viewer. The X suggests her mid-forehead as the ideal target. Then there’s a balding middle-aged white man at what appears to be a liquor store aiming his gun at us, while a terrified sales clerk gapes wide-eyed behind him. The white X is placed just beside his sternum. A dog, possibly a Doberman, menaces the viewer with jaws open while ears and lips strain backward. An X targets the heart side of his chest, a few inches below its chain collar. A man with features difficult to stereotype racially, immediately—perhaps he is Asian, perhaps he is Hispanic—stands with his back to us. In a white T-shirt and close-fitting jeans, he looks a bit like Bruce Springsteen on the album cover of Born in the U.S.A., except that a handgun peeps out from behind his torso. The X directs the shooter to aim at the top of his thoracic spine.
Superimposed on each of these images and many more, we see the bright contrails of McClodden’s efforts to hit the target. Over time, we recognize characteristic opening strokes, fierce diagonals, tighter loops of revision—the draftsmanship of the shooter—perhaps as uniquely traceable in their mannerisms as Bronzino’s way of articulating fingers or Philip Guston’s way of painting shoes.
I don’t feel comfortable in the exhibition. I think vastly fewer guns, fewer gun owners, and fewer images of and related to guns would be an excellent restoration of sanity to the country that I live in, and I don’t think that people who also happen to be artists are necessarily more likely to be more prudent or appropriate gun owners than anyone else. On some level, I would like McClodden’s guns to be taken away from her, and from just about everyone else as well.
But my comfort is not the point, nor is whether I “agree” with the artist about her practices in or outside the studio. (Funny, when I look at, say, a Helen Frankenthaler painting, I don’t generally think to myself whether I “agree” with the shade of coral she chose, but somehow when the materials, methodology, and subject matter of a painting all converge around one of the most heated topics in American politics, it feels as though attending a gallery is to be handed a ballot and asked to register one’s consent or dissent.) I’m glad to see work that calls to mind one of the major drivers of death and harm in the United States while still managing to dodge didacticism and pedantry, and while positioning the artist not as virtuous guide but as unreliable narrator. The deliberate amorality of these “blanks”—gunshots that lack projectiles, exhibitions that decline to impose a specific interpretive lens—calls to mind the amorality of both skill and beauty in themselves, which acquire good or evil properties through use and context.
I continue my walk uptown, thinking about the text that McClodden wrote for Mask / Conceal / Carry, “I Don’t Believe in Trigger Warnings Anymore.” “The trigger warning has become a fetish based on the desire to disturb and be disturbed simultaneously,” she begins. That McClodden uses work generated by and with guns and their paraphernalia forces us to reverse engineer the dead metaphor inside the idea of the trigger warning, to reliteralize it to the concrete world. By telling someone that they may be “triggered” by what’s to come, such warnings are, in essence, saying that the addressee is at risk of becoming an object or instrument—a gun—rather than a subject who thinks and decides.
Whether we accept this conception of the individual—as someone who might, upon encountering traumatic material, become acted-on rather than agent, become thinglike—might predict whether we feel at ease around art that translates freely from one oral or visual or cultural language to another. When we welcome translation, when we allow or even seek out art that brings tidings from other floors in the Tower of Babel, from idioms we would not normally hear or understand without the aid of an interpreter, we put ourselves at risk. At risk of taking pleasure in what is “bad,” of feeling shame about the insufficient pleasure we receive from what is “good,” of feeling bored or delighted by things we think ought to provoke the opposite response. At risk of being intrigued by something we’re not supposed to, such as art that shoots in the back.
At first glance, my arrival at the Morgan Library’s exhibition of drawings by Rick Barton, Writing a Chrysanthemum, appears to land me lightyears from McClodden’s work. Where the prior gallery had been dimly lit and brooding, explicitly interested in naming and perhaps provoking menace, the retrospective show by California-based Barton (1928–92) shows a life concerned with the hedonism of documentation, a ravenous and sensual appetite for jotting down who and what’s around.
Barton, a somewhat reclusive figure known mostly to his small circle of friends and admirers in the queer and independent-publication scene of midcentury San Francisco, is believed to have adopted his characteristic style of lyrical, sinuous, perspective-defying works in ink when he encountered East Asian art as a merchant marine in China in the 1940s.
In between and sometimes during bouts of incarceration—opium, another acquired practice from the merchant marines and time abroad, brought him into frequent collision with the law and perhaps contributed to his isolation—Barton made hundreds of works on ink and paper. These often depict bedrooms, apartment interiors, and cafés; the beautiful or striking people inside them; and the vast array of quotidian objects that keeps these worlds afloat and their inhabitants comfortable. Beds need mattresses; mattresses need springs and ticking and buttons; people in cafés need coats, hats, watches, and seem to require a fleet of cups, saucers, silverware, and salt and pepper shakers at all times.
His world is a busier and more gregarious place than the one we know, though not because the people in it interact—they rarely seem to, except in silent display, like peacocks—but because each object has so many parts, seams, folds, zips, hinges, or buttons, all of which blink out at the viewer and toward each other like the flashing signals of an airport at night. This is most apparent in Barton’s incredible leporello-style drawings. A leporello is one long work of visual art separated by accordion folds so that a café scene, for example, takes place over many feet of paper, making us linger over one bit at a time with no fixed center governing the compositional whole.
Barton’s technique of giving every kind of solid surface equal weight and consideration with his brush means that startling and unexpected visual rhymes occur. Because he accords them parallel importance, the nails on a window frame and the flash of a man’s nipples and umbilicus talk to each other, imitate and play with each other. The wrinkle on someone’s unclenched knuckle and the folds on another person’s jacket are like a facing-translation edition of a poem about lassitude.
This handling of ink—a matter of metacarpal steadiness first, which then becomes a matter of philosophy—points the way toward how translation relates to civic virtues like justice and equality. Depicting two things with evenly meted saturation and rhythm renders them eligible for the same level of attention in the viewer’s eye. We might gravitate to one section of the piece, but this is of our own free will, not because the artist has treated another section as mere backdrop or scaffolding.
This is the opposite of, say, the Baroque art of Europe, in which any number of theatrical nudging techniques accelerate and then brake our gaze like a game of Simon Says. Contemporary American art borrowing from that tradition—any number of painters come to mind, from Alex Katz to Cindy Sherman, not to mention all of Hollywood film—are often locked in a loving hatred, or a hateful love, with the erosive antidemocratic potential of plutocracy. Less-conscious borrowers on the American scene include many so-called “outsider” artists, whose primary form of informal training often derives from the graphic design of advertisements and mass-produced goods. Art of this kind favors > and < over = and prefers the aspirations of alchemy, which moves away from what is “base” toward what is “precious,” over the aspirations of the translator, who moves back and forth between idioms without abandoning or effacing either one.
I am, of course, on the side of the translators over the alchemists. I want more art that ferries us between seemingly indecipherable codes, finding cognates and points of recognition. A recent crop of novels shows how this same impulse manifests in literature as well as in visual art. A couple years ago I read in Italian Claudia Durastanti’s La Straniera (2019), an autobiographically influenced novel that follows a young woman—Italian, hearing—whose family circumstances dictate much of her life in the United States and among deaf people, her ear a permanent alien in both. The nearly untranslatable title literally means the foreigner in English, though opting for that would have lost the wry nod to Camus’s L’Étranger, generally rendered in English as The Stranger. Durastanti and her translator, Elizabeth Harris, went with Strangers I Know, a comical oxymoron, a sign before the book’s even opened that the text within is going to be a pushmi-pullyu negotiation between these affectionately adversarial parties, Italian and English, deaf and hearing. Translation as couples therapy, a tussle in a partnership of equals.
At one point in Strangers I Know, the protagonist remembers how much she loved her first youthful encounters with Kerouac and Fitzgerald through Italian translations that were “careless and riddled with errors.” Later in life people will make fun of those gaffes, she says, but for her there’s something right and true about the imperfections of those texts: The bruises they display show how language “suffers in the migration between different countries, bleeding the same way astronauts bleed when they’ve spent too much time in space and come home to constant nosebleeds in the light of day, back on earth.” This honesty-in-error, like McClodden’s candid translations of violence, or Barton’s egalitarian style of drawing bedsprings like they’re bodies and human faces like they’re furniture, has a rattletrap sincerity I too hold dear.
Similarly, Lisa Hsiao Chen’s novel, Activities of Daily Living (2022), follows one woman’s obsession with the work made by the Taiwanese-American performance artist Tehching Hsieh, whose stunts run along the ragged edge between art and “real” life, knitting the two together through the translating medium of his body. Chen’s protagonist abhors a world made too smooth, too seamless, even in notoriously rough-hewn and checkered places such as New York City. In both Chen’s novel and in fact, Hsieh’s longest and possibly most arduous projects have been cessations of artmaking itself: the “No Art Piece” of 1985–86, during which he pledged to “not do art, not talk art, not see art, not read art, not go to art gallery and art museum for one year,” and the “13 Years’ Plan,” which consisted of a vow to withdraw all of his art from public life. Tsieh’s other performance pieces (such as locking himself in a cage for a year and leaving himself at the mercy of his friends for food and water, or tying himself to fellow artist Linda Montano for a year), for all their terrifying gusto, pale in comparison with the task of making a perfect translation between art and life, a correspondence so absolute that we no longer perceive ourselves to be switching languages.
Wandering around the city, Chen’s heroine finds herself poring over braille diner menus, running “her fingers across the bumps to feel her illiteracy,” knowing the menus will soon be thrown out when blind patrons come to prefer the smooth voice of a smartphone app. She encounters the spread of whole swaths of urban life that look more like theme-park versions of themselves, too shiny, too concealing of their antecedents, whatever conversation they might have had with the strata of history below their foundations frozen in a rictus of new consumption. What will happen to the American city when we can no longer feel the friction between its competing dialects, when we no longer have cause to stumble over hitches in translation, feeling the subtle changes in terrain where multiple ways of knowing and speaking dapple the texture of daily life?
In galleries and museums, on city blocks and in the semiprivate spaces where people gather (be they the artist’s café or the firing range), the richest and most interesting places in American art and life seem to me to be those where we see the interpreter’s work on candid display, showing us the effort, error, and play that come from plumbing the depths of one idiom and remaking it in a new key.
I think of a patient I once had who spoke a Central Asian language for which no virtual or in-person interpreter was, at the moment, available. While we obeyed the chipper voice on the interpreter hotline entreating us to “please stay on the line,” the patient took my hand in her left hand and ran the tips of my fingers down the length of her torso from clavicle to hipbone. At the same time, with her right hand, she ran a pen over a piece of paper, making a smooth line in time with our movements across her body. When my hand hovered over one of the places where she felt pain, she squeezed it, and made an angry furrowed mark on the page.
By the time we completed—I can’t quite call it an exam, as it was really she who was conducting it, with my hand as just an artist’s tool—the piece of paper was constellated with bristling messages, the smooth arc of health derailed by divots and burrs meant, I think, to map for me the sites and the magnitude of her sickness. All this without a sound.
I wasn’t equal to it—I still, of course, needed the usual cheats of my trade, blood tests and CT scans and a stethoscope in place of a bare hand. But I stood in awe of the visual lexicon she’d made, an improvised work of drawing and dance for two players. And I mourned my inability to interpret it just yet, and I thanked her for bringing me to the brink of a glimmering meaning I could almost see. Even in my incomprehension, the sense of a meaning about to slide into my own language felt like watching some fantastic and freighted ship nosing its way into harbor.
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!doctype>]]>We ❤️ Amazon deals!
Cooking and gathering in your kitchen is so much more enjoyable when everything has a perfect place. If you’re on the hunt for some easy solutions to tidy up those drawers and make things easier to find, you’ve got to check out these Joseph Joseph drawer organizers from Amazon! Even better, you can get them at a great deal when you clip the digital coupons!
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Clip the $2.16 off digital coupon
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Clip the $1.19 off digital coupon
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Clip the 10% off digital coupon
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“I have the silverware one it works great. Saves a lot of space in my tiny drawers. You may need to purchase two depending on how much silverware you own. Each slot holds about 8-10 pieces depending on the thickness of your pieces.“ – Hip2Save Reader, Denise
“I have this and I love it. It really added so much more space to such an important drawer. I also use another one as a makeup brush organizer, one to store chopsticks, reusable plastic straws, and larger silicone straws and it works great!” – Hip2Save Reader, Katie
Looking for more organizational inspiration? Check out these ideas…
!doctype>]]>Unless you’ve been living under a rock, there’s a new name in the world of golf that you should have heard of by now – Wyndham Clark. However, before we deep dive into Wyndham Clark’s net worth and career highlights, let’s take a closer look at how this relatively unknown athlete has suddenly become the talk of the town.
Over the years, the world of sports has witnessed several David vs Goliath battles. For instance, the foxes of Leicester City, with Claudio Ranieri at the helm, lifted the coveted Premier League title in 2015-16, just a season after their return to England’s top-tier football league. Again, a stroll down memory lane takes us to a Sunday afternoon in Minnesota 14 years back, where a certain Y.E. Yang, with just one win on the PGA tour, outclassed the legendary Tiger Woods to win the PGA Championship. The debate on the greatest rags to riches lore is never-ending, and it is one relished by fans and pundits alike.
On Sunday, the Hollywood hills served as the mise-en-scène for yet another underdog story. The hero-esque Rory McIlroy was denied the US Golf Open title by Wyndham Clark― a golfer with just one mainstream tour victory under his belt― at the Los Angeles Country Club. With this defeat, McIlrory’s nine-year drought for a major win was extended yet again. However, for Clark, it was a day to remember, one which undeniably has shot him to fame.
The 29-year-old American golfer had tears of joy as he celebrated his first US Golf Open title, a competition in which his previous best finish was not even within the top 50. However, not only did he earn the glittering trophy, but he also won a substantial monetary prize.
As we celebrate Wyndham Clark’s incredible triumph over the Irish stalwart, here is a look at his net worth, including his career earnings, brand deals and more.
Born on December 9, 1993, Wyndham Clark spent his childhood in Denver, Colorado, where he attended Valor Christian High School. Notably, he was classmates with National Football League player Christian McCaffrey. While in high school, he won the Colorado State Golf Championship twice in 2009 and 2011 and was even named Player of the Year in the latter edition.
Clark later went to study at Oklahoma State University where he joined the Oklahoma State Cowboys, an intercollegiate athletic team. At the 2013 US Amateur Championship, he was tied for ninth place in stroke play. He later enrolled at the University of Oregon and played as part of the Oregon Ducks in 2016, with whom he actually won the Pac-12 Championship in 2017. He was also recognised as GolfWeek’s 2016 Player of the Year and eventually graduated from the university with a business degree.
In 2017, Clark decided to go professional and earned his card for the 2018 season after finishing the 2017 Web.com Tour qualifying in a tie for the 23rd spot. He made 24 starts in the following season and his impressive performance, studded with four top-10 finishes, won him a place in the PGA Tour for the 2018-19 season.
In 2020, Clark came tantalisingly close to winning his first silverware at the Bermuda Championship where he finished second after losing a playoff to PGA Tour veteran Brian Gay.
Summer of ’23― The ‘best days’ of his life
To quote Bryan Adams, the summer of 2023 has, indeed, given Clark some of ‘the best days’ of his life. While he continued drawing the attention of several pundits in the past few years with 14 top-10 finishes in the PGA tour, it was in 2023 that he finally laid hands on the first silverware of his professional career. In May, Clark triumphed over fellow American golfer Xander Schauffele, winner of a 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medal, to win the coveted Wells Fargo Championship at the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.
A month later, Clark prevailed over Rory McIlroy, a former world number one who has spent over 100 weeks at the summit, by a single stroke to win the US Golf Open, one of the four major championships in professional golf. Interestingly, his previous best finish at the US Golf Open was a tie for the 75th spot.
“I have dreamed about this moment for so long,” an elated Clark said after his win at the Los Angeles Country Club on Sunday. “I have worked so hard to be here, I have visualised winning this championship. I just feel like it was my time,” he added.
The win saw Wyndham Clark leap 19 spots in the Official World Golf Ranking on the PGA Tour to reach his career-best ranking of 13th. Overall, Clark’s position on the leaderboard has improved by leaps and bounds in the past couple of months as at the start of May, he occupied the 80th spot.
As per a report by Celebrity Net Worth, Wyndham Clark’s net worth stands at USD 6 million. The 29-year-old professional golfer has made most of his fortune from regularly participating in the PGA Tour. Additionally, a few brands he endorses have also contributed to his overall wealth.
Focusing on his earnings from professional golf alone, the data from his PGA Tour bio suggests that Wyndham Clark has made USD 15.02 million in his professional career so far.
In his first season, he earned USD 17,000 (approximately) from five events. Even though he played a lesser number of events, he earned more than four times the amount in his next season― around USD 68,000 – as it marked a considerable improvement in his performance.
Clark’s earnings touched the USD 1 million mark for the first time in the 2018-19 season when he made his debut in the PGA Tour. He made nearly USD 1.3 million as he took part in 27 events.
For the next three seasons, Clark maintained a rather steady income. He earned USD 815,000, USD 1.2 million and USD 1.5 million (all figures are approximations) in the 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons respectively. He participated in over 20 events in each of the seasons.
How much prize money did Wyndham Clark win at the US Golf Open 2023?
View this post on Instagram
Clark has made a lion’s share of his income in the ongoing 2022-23 season, having taken home over USD 10 million (so far) in winnings from 22 events. Of this, he has made USD 3.6 million by just winning the US Golf Open on Sunday. The amount matched his winnings from the Wells Fargo Championship earlier this year.
In 2022, American actor, producer and two-time Academy Award nominee Mark Wahlberg, alongside award-winning American film and television producer Stephen Levinson, partnered with Harry Arnett, the former Callaway Golf executive, to launch MUNICIPAL, an apparel and sport utility gear manufacturing brand. The same year, they roped in Wyndham Clark as a brand ambassador prior to the launch of their golf capsule in March.
Clark also has a sponsorship deal with Titleist, a Massachusetts-based brand of golf equipment by the Acushnet Company. He uses 12 of Titleist’s clubs including a Titleist TSi3 driver with an Accra TZ Six ST 60 M5 shaft and a Titleist T200 3-iron with a Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw White 100HY X shaft, among others. He also uses a Titleist Pro V1x ball.
Clark can be seen endorsing both MUNICIPAL and Titleist products on Instagram from time to time.
Previously, Wyndham Clark was a brand ambassador for Parsons Xtreme Golf, a global sports equipment manufacturing company founded by Bob Parsons, who is also the founder of the web hosting service GoDaddy. Clark signed an endorsement deal with PXG in 2017 when he turned into a professional golfer, and the manufacturer’s name used to be on the front of his cap until recently when it was replaced by Titleist.
At the onset of his professional golf career, Clark used to be represented by Wasserman golf agent Terry Reilly, who also secured Clark an endorsement deal in 2017 with Nike. Clark used to sport apparel and shoes made by Nike before becoming the brand ambassador for MUNICIPAL.
Where does Wyndham Clark reside?
Clark lives in Scottsdale, Arizona along with his wife Julia Kemmling. He also has a residence in Las Vegas, Nevada, as per a Celebrity Net Worth report.
A quick look at Clark’s Instagram profile suggests that he enjoys fishing and hiking in his leisure time, apart from spending time with his friends.
Over the years, Wyndham Clark has been involved with a number of charitable organisations. The most prominent of them is the First Tee― Colorado Rocky Mountains, a non-profit organisation. As per their official website, they aim to ‘Educate and inspire youth academically, socially and physically through the game of golf.’
Clark has previously expressed his desire to open a breast cancer foundation in memory of his mother, who passed away in 2013 after suffering from the same.
(Main and feature image credits: Courtesy DAVID CANNON/David Cannon Collection/Getty Images via AFP)
This article first appeared here.
The post Wyndham Clark’s net worth: His career earnings, brand deals and more appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong.
]]>Unless you’ve been living under a rock, there’s a new name in the world of golf that you should have heard of by now – Wyndham Clark. However, before we deep dive into Wyndham Clark’s net worth and career highlights, let’s take a closer look at how this relatively unknown athlete has suddenly become the talk of the town.
Over the years, the world of sports has witnessed several David vs Goliath battles. For instance, the foxes of Leicester City, with Claudio Ranieri at the helm, lifted the coveted Premier League title in 2015-16, just a season after their return to England’s top-tier football league. Again, a stroll down memory lane takes us to a Sunday afternoon in Minnesota 14 years back, where a certain Y.E. Yang, with just one win on the PGA tour, outclassed the legendary Tiger Woods to win the PGA Championship. The debate on the greatest rags to riches lore is never-ending, and it is one relished by fans and pundits alike.
On Sunday, the Hollywood hills served as the mise-en-scène for yet another underdog story. The hero-esque Rory McIlroy was denied the US Golf Open title by Wyndham Clark― a golfer with just one mainstream tour victory under his belt― at the Los Angeles Country Club. With this defeat, McIlrory’s nine-year drought for a major win was extended yet again. However, for Clark, it was a day to remember, one which undeniably has shot him to fame.
The 29-year-old American golfer had tears of joy as he celebrated his first US Golf Open title, a competition in which his previous best finish was not even within the top 50. However, not only did he earn the glittering trophy, but he also won a substantial monetary prize.
As we celebrate Wyndham Clark’s incredible triumph over the Irish stalwart, here is a look at his net worth, including his career earnings, brand deals and more.
Born on December 9, 1993, Wyndham Clark spent his childhood in Denver, Colorado, where he attended Valor Christian High School. Notably, he was classmates with National Football League player Christian McCaffrey. While in high school, he won the Colorado State Golf Championship twice in 2009 and 2011 and was even named Player of the Year in the latter edition.
Clark later went to study at Oklahoma State University where he joined the Oklahoma State Cowboys, an intercollegiate athletic team. At the 2013 US Amateur Championship, he was tied for ninth place in stroke play. He later enrolled at the University of Oregon and played as part of the Oregon Ducks in 2016, with whom he actually won the Pac-12 Championship in 2017. He was also recognised as GolfWeek’s 2016 Player of the Year and eventually graduated from the university with a business degree.
In 2017, Clark decided to go professional and earned his card for the 2018 season after finishing the 2017 Web.com Tour qualifying in a tie for the 23rd spot. He made 24 starts in the following season and his impressive performance, studded with four top-10 finishes, won him a place in the PGA Tour for the 2018-19 season.
In 2020, Clark came tantalisingly close to winning his first silverware at the Bermuda Championship where he finished second after losing a playoff to PGA Tour veteran Brian Gay.
Summer of ’23― The ‘best days’ of his life
To quote Bryan Adams, the summer of 2023 has, indeed, given Clark some of ‘the best days’ of his life. While he continued drawing the attention of several pundits in the past few years with 14 top-10 finishes in the PGA tour, it was in 2023 that he finally laid hands on the first silverware of his professional career. In May, Clark triumphed over fellow American golfer Xander Schauffele, winner of a 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medal, to win the coveted Wells Fargo Championship at the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.
A month later, Clark prevailed over Rory McIlroy, a former world number one who has spent over 100 weeks at the summit, by a single stroke to win the US Golf Open, one of the four major championships in professional golf. Interestingly, his previous best finish at the US Golf Open was a tie for the 75th spot.
“I have dreamed about this moment for so long,” an elated Clark said after his win at the Los Angeles Country Club on Sunday. “I have worked so hard to be here, I have visualised winning this championship. I just feel like it was my time,” he added.
The win saw Wyndham Clark leap 19 spots in the Official World Golf Ranking on the PGA Tour to reach his career-best ranking of 13th. Overall, Clark’s position on the leaderboard has improved by leaps and bounds in the past couple of months as at the start of May, he occupied the 80th spot.
As per a report by Celebrity Net Worth, Wyndham Clark’s net worth stands at USD 6 million. The 29-year-old professional golfer has made most of his fortune from regularly participating in the PGA Tour. Additionally, a few brands he endorses have also contributed to his overall wealth.
Focusing on his earnings from professional golf alone, the data from his PGA Tour bio suggests that Wyndham Clark has made USD 15.02 million in his professional career so far.
In his first season, he earned USD 17,000 (approximately) from five events. Even though he played a lesser number of events, he earned more than four times the amount in his next season― around USD 68,000 – as it marked a considerable improvement in his performance.
Clark’s earnings touched the USD 1 million mark for the first time in the 2018-19 season when he made his debut in the PGA Tour. He made nearly USD 1.3 million as he took part in 27 events.
For the next three seasons, Clark maintained a rather steady income. He earned USD 815,000, USD 1.2 million and USD 1.5 million (all figures are approximations) in the 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons respectively. He participated in over 20 events in each of the seasons.
How much prize money did Wyndham Clark win at the US Golf Open 2023?
View this post on Instagram
Clark has made a lion’s share of his income in the ongoing 2022-23 season, having taken home over USD 10 million (so far) in winnings from 22 events. Of this, he has made USD 3.6 million by just winning the US Golf Open on Sunday. The amount matched his winnings from the Wells Fargo Championship earlier this year.
In 2022, American actor, producer and two-time Academy Award nominee Mark Wahlberg, alongside award-winning American film and television producer Stephen Levinson, partnered with Harry Arnett, the former Callaway Golf executive, to launch MUNICIPAL, an apparel and sport utility gear manufacturing brand. The same year, they roped in Wyndham Clark as a brand ambassador prior to the launch of their golf capsule in March.
Clark also has a sponsorship deal with Titleist, a Massachusetts-based brand of golf equipment by the Acushnet Company. He uses 12 of Titleist’s clubs including a Titleist TSi3 driver with an Accra TZ Six ST 60 M5 shaft and a Titleist T200 3-iron with a Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw White 100HY X shaft, among others. He also uses a Titleist Pro V1x ball.
Clark can be seen endorsing both MUNICIPAL and Titleist products on Instagram from time to time.
Previously, Wyndham Clark was a brand ambassador for Parsons Xtreme Golf, a global sports equipment manufacturing company founded by Bob Parsons, who is also the founder of the web hosting service GoDaddy. Clark signed an endorsement deal with PXG in 2017 when he turned into a professional golfer, and the manufacturer’s name used to be on the front of his cap until recently when it was replaced by Titleist.
At the onset of his professional golf career, Clark used to be represented by Wasserman golf agent Terry Reilly, who also secured Clark an endorsement deal in 2017 with Nike. Clark used to sport apparel and shoes made by Nike before becoming the brand ambassador for MUNICIPAL.
Where does Wyndham Clark reside?
Clark lives in Scottsdale, Arizona along with his wife Julia Kemmling. He also has a residence in Las Vegas, Nevada, as per a Celebrity Net Worth report.
A quick look at Clark’s Instagram profile suggests that he enjoys fishing and hiking in his leisure time, apart from spending time with his friends.
Over the years, Wyndham Clark has been involved with a number of charitable organisations. The most prominent of them is the First Tee― Colorado Rocky Mountains, a non-profit organisation. As per their official website, they aim to ‘Educate and inspire youth academically, socially and physically through the game of golf.’
Clark has previously expressed his desire to open a breast cancer foundation in memory of his mother, who passed away in 2013 after suffering from the same.
(Main and feature image credits: Courtesy DAVID CANNON/David Cannon Collection/Getty Images via AFP)
This article first appeared here.
The post Wyndham Clark’s net worth: His career earnings, brand deals and more appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong.
]]>For most of us, the lives of the ultra wealthy are shrouded in mystery, as it can be hard to relate to them when we think splurging is buying organic bananas once in a while. But some people have had a glimpse into the fascinating lives of the super wealthy, through working for them, and they've recently been sharing the wildest things they’ve seen on Reddit. So enjoy this peek into how the rich spend their money, and be sure to upvote the stories that you find most shocking!
Image credits: kingJoffi
Image credits: Interesting-Step-654
Image credits: UncleGrako
Image credits: kl_dudey
Image credits: TruthYeller54
Image credits: TheMysticalPlatypus
Image credits: UstasMom
Image credits: Chiaseedmess
Image credits: nevercursd
Image credits: Blueshockeylover
Image credits: CindeeSlickbooty
Image credits: DrGrizzley
Image credits: Duranis
Image credits: Inequitom
Image credits: Rarnah
Image credits: robertcboe
Image credits: GabrielOmarCY
Image credits: Bombxing
Image credits: Lousyfer
Image credits: Nuxul006
For most of us, the lives of the ultra wealthy are shrouded in mystery, as it can be hard to relate to them when we think splurging is buying organic bananas once in a while. But some people have had a glimpse into the fascinating lives of the super wealthy, through working for them, and they've recently been sharing the wildest things they’ve seen on Reddit. So enjoy this peek into how the rich spend their money, and be sure to upvote the stories that you find most shocking!
Image credits: kingJoffi
Image credits: Interesting-Step-654
Image credits: UncleGrako
Image credits: kl_dudey
Image credits: TruthYeller54
Image credits: TheMysticalPlatypus
Image credits: UstasMom
Image credits: Chiaseedmess
Image credits: nevercursd
Image credits: Blueshockeylover
Image credits: CindeeSlickbooty
Image credits: DrGrizzley
Image credits: Duranis
Image credits: Inequitom
Image credits: Rarnah
Image credits: robertcboe
Image credits: GabrielOmarCY
Image credits: Bombxing
Image credits: Lousyfer
Image credits: Nuxul006
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“Predictability is achingly boring,” says Kimberly Von Koontz. “If something is left undone or lying against the wall, it gives the room a sense of impending evolution.” The California-raised landscape designer, who helped create the rooftop garden at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, abides by her word. Nothing in her spacious two-bedroom apartment—which she shares with her son, Romeo—is what you’d expect to find in the heart of Manhattan’s Financial District.
With her wavy butter-blonde hair and streamlined personal style, Von Koontz looks every bit the successful New York designer. But as with much of her life, the path was hardly predictable. As a junior studying architecture at the University of Colorado and visiting Florence, Italy, on a study-abroad program, she became so entranced with the culture she decided to leave school and stay. “It was massively influential,” she says of the time spent in the city. Later, she moved to Milan to earn a master’s degree in fashion brand management at the Istituto Marangoni and then to Hong Kong to handle marketing events for Lane Crawford, a luxury retailer.
A thrilling highlight was assisting Italian architect Roberto Baciocchi, who established the look of hundreds of Prada boutiques globally, with trend research for in-store displays. In 2012, when she arrived in New York—“The most sophisticated place I could dream up”—she quit the fashion world to devote herself to landscape design, which she had been studying in her spare time. Today her eponymous firm tackles everything from creating a meditative green roof for a renovated firehouse in Manhattan to studding a horse farm in upstate New York with scores of crab apple trees.
Like her landscapes, Von Koontz’s home has a sense of wildness to it that defies easy categorization. “I wasn’t trying to capture a mood,” she says nonchalantly of the living and dining areas. “This is literally a collection of my things.” The through-line here is the fact that every item is something she wants to own forever. Of course, with Italian mid-century collectibles, including a 1950s wood bar cart and Superleggera chair, it’s not hard to see why. A pair of low-slung Gae Aulenti chairs, placed around a glass table with a cantilevered steel base, play well with the “sexy” black lacquered floors, while an array of Italian sculptures, some by Giorgio de Chirico and Marino di Teana, hint at Von Koontz’s love of old-world refinement. The “menacing” aluminum blinds are a recent addition.
As one would hope, her home is a showcase for Von Koontz’s enviable green thumb. Rex begonias, with their splashy displays of color and love of indirect light, are perennial standbys, as is Strelizia nicolai, the white bird of paradise with a hauntingly beautiful flower. (Romeo’s pick: the escargot, whose snail-like foliage makes him gasp, “Oh, wow, Mama!”) Much like the hallway, which dazzles with an enormous abstract tapestry by French painter Edgard Pillet and a pair of Carl Fagerlund mirrors scored from Von Koontz’s friends at Maison Gerard in Greenwich Village, Romeo’s bedroom is a study in contrasts. A banner of slick bubblegum pink fabric Baciocchi made for Prada hangs from the wall by the bed, a cheeky rebuff to the vignette of neutrals—a chocolate-and-cream checkerboard rug, an industrial table, and a resin and papier-mâché chair. “It has this speed to it,” Von Koontz says fondly of the cloth. “And that little yellow mirror worked out perfectly, too.”
Still, she doesn’t like her apartment to feel too crowded, so she stores many things, including treasured ones, in a warehouse. Culling and editing Romeo’s toys has become a pastime, and she isn’t afraid to give things away. “I think having 10 inspiring toys is far more useful for a young mind than thousands,” she notes. Coming from someone who has owned the same plates for 25 years, this makes sense. “Never buy anything that you don’t totally love,” Von Koontz states adamantly. “Go without the dishes until you can get the ones you want.” This strict sensibility informs how she lives. She likes a set table—preferably with 18th-century Chinese plates, silverware inlaid with Swarovski crystal, and prized Venetian glasses plucked at a street market. “All these temporary baby things go against my creed of purchasing something you’ll keep forever,” she says. Not that Romeo isn’t making his mark. He has his own idea of keepsake possessions, and if you look closely, you’ll see toy animals lining his windowsill. Says Von Koontz, “The house has never been given over to kids, but I’m increasingly seeing how he’s spreading his wings.”
This story was originally published in our Spring 2019 issue with the headline “In Pursuit of Beauty.”
The post Like a Good Fabric, Houseplants Add Texture in This Landscape Designer’s NYC Apartment appeared first on domino.
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“Predictability is achingly boring,” says Kimberly Von Koontz. “If something is left undone or lying against the wall, it gives the room a sense of impending evolution.” The California-raised landscape designer, who helped create the rooftop garden at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, abides by her word. Nothing in her spacious two-bedroom apartment—which she shares with her son, Romeo—is what you’d expect to find in the heart of Manhattan’s Financial District.
With her wavy butter-blonde hair and streamlined personal style, Von Koontz looks every bit the successful New York designer. But as with much of her life, the path was hardly predictable. As a junior studying architecture at the University of Colorado and visiting Florence, Italy, on a study-abroad program, she became so entranced with the culture she decided to leave school and stay. “It was massively influential,” she says of the time spent in the city. Later, she moved to Milan to earn a master’s degree in fashion brand management at the Istituto Marangoni and then to Hong Kong to handle marketing events for Lane Crawford, a luxury retailer.
A thrilling highlight was assisting Italian architect Roberto Baciocchi, who established the look of hundreds of Prada boutiques globally, with trend research for in-store displays. In 2012, when she arrived in New York—“The most sophisticated place I could dream up”—she quit the fashion world to devote herself to landscape design, which she had been studying in her spare time. Today her eponymous firm tackles everything from creating a meditative green roof for a renovated firehouse in Manhattan to studding a horse farm in upstate New York with scores of crab apple trees.
Like her landscapes, Von Koontz’s home has a sense of wildness to it that defies easy categorization. “I wasn’t trying to capture a mood,” she says nonchalantly of the living and dining areas. “This is literally a collection of my things.” The through-line here is the fact that every item is something she wants to own forever. Of course, with Italian mid-century collectibles, including a 1950s wood bar cart and Superleggera chair, it’s not hard to see why. A pair of low-slung Gae Aulenti chairs, placed around a glass table with a cantilevered steel base, play well with the “sexy” black lacquered floors, while an array of Italian sculptures, some by Giorgio de Chirico and Marino di Teana, hint at Von Koontz’s love of old-world refinement. The “menacing” aluminum blinds are a recent addition.
As one would hope, her home is a showcase for Von Koontz’s enviable green thumb. Rex begonias, with their splashy displays of color and love of indirect light, are perennial standbys, as is Strelizia nicolai, the white bird of paradise with a hauntingly beautiful flower. (Romeo’s pick: the escargot, whose snail-like foliage makes him gasp, “Oh, wow, Mama!”) Much like the hallway, which dazzles with an enormous abstract tapestry by French painter Edgard Pillet and a pair of Carl Fagerlund mirrors scored from Von Koontz’s friends at Maison Gerard in Greenwich Village, Romeo’s bedroom is a study in contrasts. A banner of slick bubblegum pink fabric Baciocchi made for Prada hangs from the wall by the bed, a cheeky rebuff to the vignette of neutrals—a chocolate-and-cream checkerboard rug, an industrial table, and a resin and papier-mâché chair. “It has this speed to it,” Von Koontz says fondly of the cloth. “And that little yellow mirror worked out perfectly, too.”
Still, she doesn’t like her apartment to feel too crowded, so she stores many things, including treasured ones, in a warehouse. Culling and editing Romeo’s toys has become a pastime, and she isn’t afraid to give things away. “I think having 10 inspiring toys is far more useful for a young mind than thousands,” she notes. Coming from someone who has owned the same plates for 25 years, this makes sense. “Never buy anything that you don’t totally love,” Von Koontz states adamantly. “Go without the dishes until you can get the ones you want.” This strict sensibility informs how she lives. She likes a set table—preferably with 18th-century Chinese plates, silverware inlaid with Swarovski crystal, and prized Venetian glasses plucked at a street market. “All these temporary baby things go against my creed of purchasing something you’ll keep forever,” she says. Not that Romeo isn’t making his mark. He has his own idea of keepsake possessions, and if you look closely, you’ll see toy animals lining his windowsill. Says Von Koontz, “The house has never been given over to kids, but I’m increasingly seeing how he’s spreading his wings.”
This story was originally published in our Spring 2019 issue with the headline “In Pursuit of Beauty.”
The post Like a Good Fabric, Houseplants Add Texture in This Landscape Designer’s NYC Apartment appeared first on domino.
]]>If you're short on space, an 18-inch dishwasher might be worth considering—but there are caveats.
By Molly Bradley
Additional reporting by Daniel Bortz
If you want to free yourself of the Sisyphean task of hand-washing dishes day in and day out but you don’t have a ton of room in your kitchen, an 18-inch dishwasher may be the way to go.
Standard dishwashers measure 24 inches in width, and they fit 10 to 12 place settings (a place setting typically includes a plate, bowl, coffee cup and saucer, glass, and assorted flatware). These machines dominate the market and make up the bulk of the dishwashers Consumer Reports tests.
But you might also come across 18-inch dishwashers as you shop. These slim designs fit about eight place settings. With a little less room for dishes but a lot of the same offerings as standard dishwashers, they can be a great option for small households short on square footage in the kitchen. If you’re considering whether an 18-inch dishwasher is right for you, here’s what you need to know.
The good news about 18-inch dishwashers: They’ll save you half a foot of space compared with a 24-inch dishwasher, but they’re still quite flush with features. You’ll find similar options to larger machines in terms of hardware flexibility, like adjustable upper racks, tines that fold down, and removable silverware baskets. You can also find 18-inch dishwashers with stainless steel tubs, which resist stains better than plastic tubs do.
As with 24-inch dishwashers, 18-inch models come in a range of exterior styles. Some models have hidden controls and pocket handles, and some offer a choice of a stainless steel, black, or white finish.
In terms of technology, though, it’s hard to beat standard-sized models. Standard-sized models tend to have the bigger range of cycle options, as well as premium perks like targeted jets, interior lighting, a door that automatically opens at the end of a cycle, and WiFi connectivity. But 18-inch dishwashers still have plenty to offer. Some actually pack a good variety of cycle options into their slim build: quick wash, high-temperature wash, specific settings for china and crystal, and rinse-and-hold cycles. Many also have features like soil sensors and delayed start.
If you want a dishwasher in your kitchen fast, however, you might think twice about an 18-inch model. Each manufacturer might offer only a couple of versions, and they’re not always kept in stock. As a result, if you see one you like in a showroom, you may have to order it and wait for delivery, which can take about a week or more. In contrast, standard-sized machines, which are more in demand, tend to be readily available.
Despite their reduced capacity, the price of an 18-inch dishwasher is comparable to that of a standard-sized dishwasher. That’s because their features are similar. "You don’t buy an 18-inch dishwasher to save money or efficiency. You buy it to save space," says Dirk Sappok, director of category management at Miele. The 18-inch dishwashers in our ratings vary from around roughly $500 to just over $1,000; most of the standard-sized dishwashers cost around the same, though a few models land slightly below and considerably above that range.
You won’t necessarily save money on your water bill either. Larry Ciufo, CR’s senior test project leader for dishwashers, explains that water standards are based on how many place settings can fit into the dishwasher as opposed to the dishwasher’s dimensions. If your 18-inch dishwasher can fit eight or more place settings (the majority, in fact, can, says Nish Suvarnakar, CR’s senior market analyst for dishwashers), then it uses the same energy standard as a 24-inch model. That’s 3.5 gallons of water per cycle, as opposed to the 3.10 gallons per cycle for those that hold less than eight flatware place settings.
We test 18-inch models the same way we test standard 24-inch dishwashers—just with fewer dishes. Our testers soil each dish with baked-on food and load them according to the manual’s recommendations. They then scan the washed items with a photo-imaging machine to determine how clean they are.
To gauge drying performance, we zero in on how dry plastic sippy cups turn out after a cycle, because plastic is the material that’s toughest to get fully dry.
Our testers also sit through the entire dishwashing cycle to evaluate noise levels.
In terms of performance, the 18-inch dishwashers we evaluated weren’t all that bad—much to the surprise of our testers.
The models below are the top-performing 18-inch choices in our tests. For more options in both small and standard sizes, explore our full dishwasher ratings. To learn more about dishwasher features and what might work best for you, see our comprehensive dishwasher buying guide.
Whirlpool WDF518SAHM
CR’s take: The top-performing Whirlpool WDF518SAHM receives solid ratings in our tests for washing and drying. The machine’s run time clocks in at 130 minutes, which isn’t bad for a dishwasher with such strong energy efficiency. This model features a soil sensor, a delayed-start function, and a stainless steel tub. Its exterior finishes come in stainless steel, black, and white. Whirlpool dishwashers garner high marks for reliability in our member surveys; owner satisfaction is average.
Danby DDW1804EB
CR’s take: If you’re looking for a more affordable 18-inch dishwasher that still delivers strong performance, check out the Danby DDW1804EB. This low-frills model performs well in both our washing and drying tests. It’s also especially energy-efficient, earning a Green Choice designation based on our test results. It also has a stainless steel interior, but you have to clean the filter manually and the machine is a bit noisy. CR hasn’t collected enough survey data yet to rate Danby dishwashers for owner satisfaction and reliability.
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2023, Consumer Reports, Inc.
]]>From glasses to furniture and everything in between, the list of commercial bar supplies can be a very long one. The wholesale bar accessories and supplies on the list are commercial-grade supplies to carry out essential tasks in your bar. And remember, buying quality equipment will deliver many benefits in the long run.
The right bar equipment and bar accessories are key for your beverage service business, and purchasing good bar tools and equipment will allow you to provide the best service for your customers. We have curated a list of bar equipment and bar supplies for beverage service businesses to help you get your new bar started or upgrade your established place:
Top Pick: Any beverage service business knows thirsty patrons like their drinks cold. Having a top-tier ice machine can help achieve that. The ADT commercial ice machine will make up to 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours and 120 clear ice cubes for one cycle in just 12 to 20 minutes. It comes with a 55-pound capacity storage bin, and it makes standard-size ice cubes. And you can use in-line or gallon-bottled water to make the ice.
You can adjust the ice-making time and thickness of the ice cubes on the LCD panel along with the different operations of the machine. It has a stainless steel body with energy-saving features, foamed insulation, blue light, and self-cleaning features.
This ice machine is 35.5 x 20.4 x 18.7 inches and weighs 74 Pounds.
ADT Stainless Steel Under Counter Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker Machine
Runner Up: Glasswashers give bar service workers the ability to keep clean glasses available all the time. And the less time a customer has to wait for their drink, the better. The Bar Maid glasswasher has five spinning brushes powered by a 1/3 HP motor running on 110 volts.
Each spinning brush cleans glasses faster with a unique splash guard system designed to keep the user and counter dry. The design also allows it to be installed in any sink. The washer is made from 11-gauge stainless steel and is UL, CSA, and NSF Approved and meets ETL standards.
This glasswasher is 16 x 11.1 x 19.6 inches and weighs 25.95 Pounds.
Bar Maid Upright 5-Brush Electric Glass Washer
Best Value: Kegerators keep your beer or other carbonated beverage cool while making it easy to dispense. If you serve beer at your bar, you’ll need one. The EdgeStar kegerator can store a full-sized half-shell Sankey standard keg or two sixth kegs with temperatures of low 30s to mid-40s degrees. It comes with rolling casters, a protective floor plate, reversible doors, and a 5 lb. CO2 cylinder (supplied empty) with external or internal mounting capabilities.
This kegerator is 50-7/16? H (includes tap and casters) x 20-3/16? W x 20-1/16? D (Depth w/ external tank mounted: 30-1/2?), weighs 81.6 pounds, and comes with 90-day labor and 1-year parts warranty. This unit does not support Coors, Miller rubberized, or oversized kegs.
EdgeStar Full Size Stainless Steel Dual Tap Kegerator & Draft Beer Dispenser
Most bars and bar service businesses serve cocktails that require blending something. The Hamilton Beach Fury Blender is durable and powerful – a 3H motor blends even thick ingredients in a short amount of time.
The blending mechanism uses the Wave Action System with a unique container and blade design for super-creamy results. Other features include a break-resistant polycarbonate jar, an all-metal drive clutch, and a timer with auto-shutoff.
This blender is 17.99 x 7.01 x 7.99 inches and weighs 10.95 Pounds.
Hamilton Beach Commercial The Fury Blender
Made from premium 18-gauge, 304 commercial grade stainless steel, the DuraSteel bar sink has an anti-rust and anti-corrosive finish. The Integrated design has three sinks with draining boards for soaking, washing, and draining. Additionally, it comes with four different draining board configurations and a high backsplash guard.
The compartments are 10? L x 14? W x 10? D, a 4.9-gallon compartment, a 13” drainboard length, and a 1.9” drainage opening. The leg bracing has adjustable plastic feet to protect your floor from scratches, and it includes a wall-mount faucet, a drainer, a strainer, and installation kits.
This sink is 60 x 18.75 x 30 inches and weighs 78 Pounds.
DuraSteel 3 Compartment Stainless Steel Bar Sink NSF Certified Double Drainboard
At 1 cm thick, this bar mat is made from heavy-duty and flexible rubber. And the thick elliptical prongs not only stabilize drinks but also contain spills within the mat. This stops liquid from spreading all over your bar when making drinks.
The mat is dishwasher safe, has a non-slip bottom, and is also non-toxic.
This bar mat is 17.63 x 11.77 x 0.63 inches and weighs 2.18 pounds.
A premium bartending kit is essential for making a variety of drinks and cocktails. The G2S kit is made from 304 stainless steel that is corrosion-proof with laser precision seal points.
The kit of bar tools comes with a 25 oz. party-sized Bar Shaker, fine mesh strainer, cocktail muddler, double jigger 2 oz 1 oz, tongs, reamer for extracting fresh citrus juice, citrus zester with a peeler, Hawthorne strainer with tight coils, 2 wine stops, 4 liquor pourers plus 4 dust caps, and a bar spoon for layered drinks. And it all fits in the included bamboo stand.
G2S Bartending Kit, 17 pcs Professional Bartender Accessories Cocktail Shakers Set
Speed rails provide quick access to your most often used bar products, so having them can be a time saver. The double-speed rails by Winco are 8″D x 32″W x 6.25″H and can accommodate most standard-sized bottles.
Winco Double Speed Rails 32-Inch
Another must-have piece of bar equipment is a back bar cooler. They not only display your beverages but also keep them cool and organized. This back bar cooler features a spacious interior with removable shelves, LED lighting, and a digital temperature display. Sliding doors provide easy access and the auto defrost function prevents freezing.
The shelves are adjustable to accommodate different-sized beer and wine bottles. This unit is 35.4” L x 20.5” W x 35.4” H and is ETL listed and NSF compliant.
KoolMore Three Door Back Bar Cooler Counter Height Beverage Refrigerator
Another important piece of underbar equipment is a drop-in ice chest. Having one allows bartenders to fill a glass with ice in one quick motion.
This drop-in ice bin is brushed 304 stainless steel material for long-lasting durability and is double-walled for better insulation.
Happybuy Drop in Ice Chest 23”L x 17”W x 12”H with Cover
This portable garnish center has 9 compartments and a domed lid to prevent garnishes from getting crushed. It accommodates EZ chill ice packs and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The unit is 22 x 7.25 x 8.5 inches and weighs 4.38 lbs.
San Jamar BD4023S 9 Piece The Dome Garnish Center 4.5qt Capacity
A beverage tub is a must-have for bars – it puts your products on display and allows easy access to beverage service. This large model by Real Deal Steel is double insulated to keep drinks cold for longer and save on ice. At 6 gallons, it can hold about a case of beer or 12 bottles of wine with room to spare for ice. Or, it can hold about 40 lbs of ice alone.
Stainless Steel Insulated Beverage Tub 6 Gallon Round Double Walled Party Tub
Bottle openers are one of the most important bar tools you’ll need if you own a drinking establishment. This pack of 2 wall-mounted bottle openers is made from durable stainless steel to withstand heavy usage. Hanging your bottle openers on the wall can free up counter space and won’t get lost like handheld openers.
Stainless Steel Beer Bottle Opener Wall Mounted with Cap Catcher 2 pk
A portable bar is a life-saver when an unexpected rush stops in. Just a few set-up steps and you’ve got an additional workspace! This high-top portable bar from GoBar is 3″ D x 39″W x 15″H and comes with three interchangeable skirt designs and a carrying case. This portable high-top bar is made from sturdy but lightweight aluminum and has a waterproof MDF worktop.
GoBar Portable High Top Bar with 3 Front Skirts and Carrying Case
Product Name | Description |
---|---|
ADT Stainless Steel Commercial Ice Maker | Top-tier ice machine with a 55-pound capacity storage bin. Makes 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours and 120 clear ice cubes for one cycle in 12-20 minutes. Comes with self-cleaning features and an LCD panel for adjusting ice-making time and ice thickness. |
Bar Maid Electric Glass Washer | Has five spinning brushes powered by a 1/3 HP motor. Features a splash guard system and a design for easy installation in any sink. |
EdgeStar Full Size Dual Tap Kegerator | Can store a full-sized half-shell Sankey standard keg or two sixth kegs with temperatures of low 30s to mid-40s degrees. Comes with a 5 lb. CO2 cylinder (supplied empty) and has external or internal mounting capabilities. |
Hamilton Beach Commercial Blender | Durable blender with a 3H motor, the Wave Action System for super-creamy results, and a timer with auto-shutoff. |
DuraSteel 3 Compartment Stainless Steel Bar Sink | Comes with three sinks for soaking, washing, and draining, and four different draining board configurations. Made from premium 18-gauge, 304 commercial grade stainless steel. |
Highball & Chaser Premium Bar Mats | Heavy-duty and flexible rubber mat with elliptical prongs to stabilize drinks and contain spills. Dishwasher safe and non-toxic. |
G2S Bartending Kit | Includes a variety of bartending tools such as a 25 oz. Bar Shaker, fine mesh strainer, cocktail muddler, double jigger 2 oz 1 oz, tongs, and more. Comes with a bamboo stand. |
Winco Double Speed Rail | Accommodates most standard-sized bottles for quick access. |
Three Door Back Bar Cooler Counter | Features a spacious interior with removable shelves, LED lighting, and a digital temperature display. ETL listed and NSF compliant. |
Stainless Steel Drop in Ice Chest | Made from durable 304 stainless steel and is double-walled for better insulation. |
9 Piece Garnish Center | Portable garnish center with 9 compartments and a domed lid to prevent garnishes from getting crushed. Accommodates EZ chill ice packs and is dishwasher safe. |
Stainless Steel Insulated Beverage Tub | Double insulated beverage tub capable of holding about a case of beer or 12 bottles of wine. |
Wall Mounted Beer Bottle Opener with Cap Catcher | Pack of 2 wall-mounted bottle openers made from durable stainless steel. |
High Top Portable Bar | Portable bar made from sturdy but lightweight aluminum and has a waterproof MDF worktop. Comes with three interchangeable skirt designs and a carrying case. |
Equipping your bar with the right supplies and equipment can be a complex task, especially given the wide range of tools needed to operate effectively. Beyond the essentials mentioned above, here are a few other considerations to keep in mind:
Sound System and Lighting: Atmosphere is a critical part of any bar experience. Choose a high-quality sound system and diverse lighting options that can adapt to your bar’s mood and theme, whether it’s a lively sports bar or a more relaxed wine bar.
POS System: A reliable Point of Sale (POS) system is essential to track orders, manage tabs, and process payments. Modern POS systems also offer inventory tracking, providing valuable data on best-selling items and helping to manage stock levels.
Seating: Depending on your bar’s layout, you may require stools, chairs, benches, or booths. Ensure your seating arrangement is both comfortable and functional, facilitating easy movement for staff and patrons alike.
Your list of bar supplies should include:
Remember, quality should be a priority when purchasing bar equipment and supplies. While saving money is important, cheaper items can sometimes cost more in the long run due to frequent replacements or maintenance. Aim for durable and reliable products that will withstand the demands of your busy bar environment. The right equipment not only improves your bar’s functionality and efficiency but also enhances the customer experience.
It is worth mentioning again that good quality equipment will pay dividends in the long run. It will mean fewer repairs and better warranties from the manufacturers. This, in turn, can help keep your expenses down and your customers happy.
Whether you are looking to open a bar or have an established business, having the right bar tools and accessories will help ensure your success as a beverage service business.
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This article, "Commercial Bar Equipment: Quality Picks For Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends
]]>From glasses to furniture and everything in between, the list of commercial bar supplies can be a very long one. The wholesale bar accessories and supplies on the list are commercial-grade supplies to carry out essential tasks in your bar. And remember, buying quality equipment will deliver many benefits in the long run.
The right bar equipment and bar accessories are key for your beverage service business, and purchasing good bar tools and equipment will allow you to provide the best service for your customers. We have curated a list of bar equipment and bar supplies for beverage service businesses to help you get your new bar started or upgrade your established place:
Top Pick: Any beverage service business knows thirsty patrons like their drinks cold. Having a top-tier ice machine can help achieve that. The ADT commercial ice machine will make up to 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours and 120 clear ice cubes for one cycle in just 12 to 20 minutes. It comes with a 55-pound capacity storage bin, and it makes standard-size ice cubes. And you can use in-line or gallon-bottled water to make the ice.
You can adjust the ice-making time and thickness of the ice cubes on the LCD panel along with the different operations of the machine. It has a stainless steel body with energy-saving features, foamed insulation, blue light, and self-cleaning features.
This ice machine is 35.5 x 20.4 x 18.7 inches and weighs 74 Pounds.
ADT Stainless Steel Under Counter Freestanding Commercial Ice Maker Machine
Runner Up: Glasswashers give bar service workers the ability to keep clean glasses available all the time. And the less time a customer has to wait for their drink, the better. The Bar Maid glasswasher has five spinning brushes powered by a 1/3 HP motor running on 110 volts.
Each spinning brush cleans glasses faster with a unique splash guard system designed to keep the user and counter dry. The design also allows it to be installed in any sink. The washer is made from 11-gauge stainless steel and is UL, CSA, and NSF Approved and meets ETL standards.
This glasswasher is 16 x 11.1 x 19.6 inches and weighs 25.95 Pounds.
Bar Maid Upright 5-Brush Electric Glass Washer
Best Value: Kegerators keep your beer or other carbonated beverage cool while making it easy to dispense. If you serve beer at your bar, you’ll need one. The EdgeStar kegerator can store a full-sized half-shell Sankey standard keg or two sixth kegs with temperatures of low 30s to mid-40s degrees. It comes with rolling casters, a protective floor plate, reversible doors, and a 5 lb. CO2 cylinder (supplied empty) with external or internal mounting capabilities.
This kegerator is 50-7/16? H (includes tap and casters) x 20-3/16? W x 20-1/16? D (Depth w/ external tank mounted: 30-1/2?), weighs 81.6 pounds, and comes with 90-day labor and 1-year parts warranty. This unit does not support Coors, Miller rubberized, or oversized kegs.
EdgeStar Full Size Stainless Steel Dual Tap Kegerator & Draft Beer Dispenser
Most bars and bar service businesses serve cocktails that require blending something. The Hamilton Beach Fury Blender is durable and powerful – a 3H motor blends even thick ingredients in a short amount of time.
The blending mechanism uses the Wave Action System with a unique container and blade design for super-creamy results. Other features include a break-resistant polycarbonate jar, an all-metal drive clutch, and a timer with auto-shutoff.
This blender is 17.99 x 7.01 x 7.99 inches and weighs 10.95 Pounds.
Hamilton Beach Commercial The Fury Blender
Made from premium 18-gauge, 304 commercial grade stainless steel, the DuraSteel bar sink has an anti-rust and anti-corrosive finish. The Integrated design has three sinks with draining boards for soaking, washing, and draining. Additionally, it comes with four different draining board configurations and a high backsplash guard.
The compartments are 10? L x 14? W x 10? D, a 4.9-gallon compartment, a 13” drainboard length, and a 1.9” drainage opening. The leg bracing has adjustable plastic feet to protect your floor from scratches, and it includes a wall-mount faucet, a drainer, a strainer, and installation kits.
This sink is 60 x 18.75 x 30 inches and weighs 78 Pounds.
DuraSteel 3 Compartment Stainless Steel Bar Sink NSF Certified Double Drainboard
At 1 cm thick, this bar mat is made from heavy-duty and flexible rubber. And the thick elliptical prongs not only stabilize drinks but also contain spills within the mat. This stops liquid from spreading all over your bar when making drinks.
The mat is dishwasher safe, has a non-slip bottom, and is also non-toxic.
This bar mat is 17.63 x 11.77 x 0.63 inches and weighs 2.18 pounds.
A premium bartending kit is essential for making a variety of drinks and cocktails. The G2S kit is made from 304 stainless steel that is corrosion-proof with laser precision seal points.
The kit of bar tools comes with a 25 oz. party-sized Bar Shaker, fine mesh strainer, cocktail muddler, double jigger 2 oz 1 oz, tongs, reamer for extracting fresh citrus juice, citrus zester with a peeler, Hawthorne strainer with tight coils, 2 wine stops, 4 liquor pourers plus 4 dust caps, and a bar spoon for layered drinks. And it all fits in the included bamboo stand.
G2S Bartending Kit, 17 pcs Professional Bartender Accessories Cocktail Shakers Set
Speed rails provide quick access to your most often used bar products, so having them can be a time saver. The double-speed rails by Winco are 8″D x 32″W x 6.25″H and can accommodate most standard-sized bottles.
Winco Double Speed Rails 32-Inch
Another must-have piece of bar equipment is a back bar cooler. They not only display your beverages but also keep them cool and organized. This back bar cooler features a spacious interior with removable shelves, LED lighting, and a digital temperature display. Sliding doors provide easy access and the auto defrost function prevents freezing.
The shelves are adjustable to accommodate different-sized beer and wine bottles. This unit is 35.4” L x 20.5” W x 35.4” H and is ETL listed and NSF compliant.
KoolMore Three Door Back Bar Cooler Counter Height Beverage Refrigerator
Another important piece of underbar equipment is a drop-in ice chest. Having one allows bartenders to fill a glass with ice in one quick motion.
This drop-in ice bin is brushed 304 stainless steel material for long-lasting durability and is double-walled for better insulation.
Happybuy Drop in Ice Chest 23”L x 17”W x 12”H with Cover
This portable garnish center has 9 compartments and a domed lid to prevent garnishes from getting crushed. It accommodates EZ chill ice packs and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The unit is 22 x 7.25 x 8.5 inches and weighs 4.38 lbs.
San Jamar BD4023S 9 Piece The Dome Garnish Center 4.5qt Capacity
A beverage tub is a must-have for bars – it puts your products on display and allows easy access to beverage service. This large model by Real Deal Steel is double insulated to keep drinks cold for longer and save on ice. At 6 gallons, it can hold about a case of beer or 12 bottles of wine with room to spare for ice. Or, it can hold about 40 lbs of ice alone.
Stainless Steel Insulated Beverage Tub 6 Gallon Round Double Walled Party Tub
Bottle openers are one of the most important bar tools you’ll need if you own a drinking establishment. This pack of 2 wall-mounted bottle openers is made from durable stainless steel to withstand heavy usage. Hanging your bottle openers on the wall can free up counter space and won’t get lost like handheld openers.
Stainless Steel Beer Bottle Opener Wall Mounted with Cap Catcher 2 pk
A portable bar is a life-saver when an unexpected rush stops in. Just a few set-up steps and you’ve got an additional workspace! This high-top portable bar from GoBar is 3″ D x 39″W x 15″H and comes with three interchangeable skirt designs and a carrying case. This portable high-top bar is made from sturdy but lightweight aluminum and has a waterproof MDF worktop.
GoBar Portable High Top Bar with 3 Front Skirts and Carrying Case
Product Name | Description |
---|---|
ADT Stainless Steel Commercial Ice Maker | Top-tier ice machine with a 55-pound capacity storage bin. Makes 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours and 120 clear ice cubes for one cycle in 12-20 minutes. Comes with self-cleaning features and an LCD panel for adjusting ice-making time and ice thickness. |
Bar Maid Electric Glass Washer | Has five spinning brushes powered by a 1/3 HP motor. Features a splash guard system and a design for easy installation in any sink. |
EdgeStar Full Size Dual Tap Kegerator | Can store a full-sized half-shell Sankey standard keg or two sixth kegs with temperatures of low 30s to mid-40s degrees. Comes with a 5 lb. CO2 cylinder (supplied empty) and has external or internal mounting capabilities. |
Hamilton Beach Commercial Blender | Durable blender with a 3H motor, the Wave Action System for super-creamy results, and a timer with auto-shutoff. |
DuraSteel 3 Compartment Stainless Steel Bar Sink | Comes with three sinks for soaking, washing, and draining, and four different draining board configurations. Made from premium 18-gauge, 304 commercial grade stainless steel. |
Highball & Chaser Premium Bar Mats | Heavy-duty and flexible rubber mat with elliptical prongs to stabilize drinks and contain spills. Dishwasher safe and non-toxic. |
G2S Bartending Kit | Includes a variety of bartending tools such as a 25 oz. Bar Shaker, fine mesh strainer, cocktail muddler, double jigger 2 oz 1 oz, tongs, and more. Comes with a bamboo stand. |
Winco Double Speed Rail | Accommodates most standard-sized bottles for quick access. |
Three Door Back Bar Cooler Counter | Features a spacious interior with removable shelves, LED lighting, and a digital temperature display. ETL listed and NSF compliant. |
Stainless Steel Drop in Ice Chest | Made from durable 304 stainless steel and is double-walled for better insulation. |
9 Piece Garnish Center | Portable garnish center with 9 compartments and a domed lid to prevent garnishes from getting crushed. Accommodates EZ chill ice packs and is dishwasher safe. |
Stainless Steel Insulated Beverage Tub | Double insulated beverage tub capable of holding about a case of beer or 12 bottles of wine. |
Wall Mounted Beer Bottle Opener with Cap Catcher | Pack of 2 wall-mounted bottle openers made from durable stainless steel. |
High Top Portable Bar | Portable bar made from sturdy but lightweight aluminum and has a waterproof MDF worktop. Comes with three interchangeable skirt designs and a carrying case. |
Equipping your bar with the right supplies and equipment can be a complex task, especially given the wide range of tools needed to operate effectively. Beyond the essentials mentioned above, here are a few other considerations to keep in mind:
Sound System and Lighting: Atmosphere is a critical part of any bar experience. Choose a high-quality sound system and diverse lighting options that can adapt to your bar’s mood and theme, whether it’s a lively sports bar or a more relaxed wine bar.
POS System: A reliable Point of Sale (POS) system is essential to track orders, manage tabs, and process payments. Modern POS systems also offer inventory tracking, providing valuable data on best-selling items and helping to manage stock levels.
Seating: Depending on your bar’s layout, you may require stools, chairs, benches, or booths. Ensure your seating arrangement is both comfortable and functional, facilitating easy movement for staff and patrons alike.
Your list of bar supplies should include:
Remember, quality should be a priority when purchasing bar equipment and supplies. While saving money is important, cheaper items can sometimes cost more in the long run due to frequent replacements or maintenance. Aim for durable and reliable products that will withstand the demands of your busy bar environment. The right equipment not only improves your bar’s functionality and efficiency but also enhances the customer experience.
It is worth mentioning again that good quality equipment will pay dividends in the long run. It will mean fewer repairs and better warranties from the manufacturers. This, in turn, can help keep your expenses down and your customers happy.
Whether you are looking to open a bar or have an established business, having the right bar tools and accessories will help ensure your success as a beverage service business.
Qualify for discounts, special offers and more with a Business Prime account from Amazon. You can create a FREE account to get started today.
Image: amazon
This article, "Commercial Bar Equipment: Quality Picks For Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends
]]>Happy Sunday and Happy Father’s Day! Did y’all see the front porch reveal (and the wild process to get there)?? What we would give to have a wonderful porch swing to hang out on with two adorable pups right now:) If you have one, we hope you are enjoying it right now and if you don’t, we hope you are in your own cozy spot to enjoy this week’s links.
This week’s house tour is the home of Courtney Act, an iconic drag queen, who through a friendly Instagram comment got to have her apartment designed by the one and only Sarah Ellison team. You’ll recognize the furniture in a heartbeat. Loving called the “Periwinkle Palace,” this home is both full of personality and yet feels like a warm bath as you look at it. We also really love the wall treatment. Go check it out here!
From Emily: Two years going strong with this face highlighter (mostly for summer) because the glow is so good, natural, and smooth. It looks like a dumb Instagram filter! I mix it with my foundation (Armani Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Oil-Free in shade #5 forever and ever) and put it on my cheeks and a bit in my nose. I am not one of those content creators who knows how to do my own makeup really well, so I rely on a few really good products to make my skin look good, no filters (fine, rarely) and this highlighter is excellent.
From Jess: Y’all, I did it. I did that one project that I’d been avoiding since I, ugh, moved in 2.5 years ago…my silverware drawer. Wanna guess how long start to finish took?? Maybe 45 mins. In my mind, I had two big issues that made it “harder” – first I had sooooo much silverware (mostly thanks to Emily’s LA prop garage shopping spree:)) and second, this drawer is a BIG BOY. Both of these issues negated getting a standard expandable organizer like this one. Heaven forbid I get out my measuring tape and do a little research. SMH. Then about two weeks ago I decided it was finally time and got two of these silverware organizers, one knife block for my beloved hand-me-down wood-handled knives, and two of these stackable large boxes for everyday cooking tools. I just made sure everything could fit in the drawer and that everything I was keeping had a place. Oh, and since the drawer is a few inches deeper than the compartments I bought a grayish-blue grippy drawer liner. The last thing I want is for all of my beautifully organized things to be flying all over the inside of the drawer. I hope if you’ve also been putting a project like this off that you are inspired to do it! Every time I want to smile I go and take a peek. Sad? Maybe. Affective? Absolutely!
From Mallory: You guys I am the gal with comfy sandal recs galore this summer and I’m happy to report I have found another pair that I will be wearing every day. FEAST YOUR EYES. I said this before when I recommended these sandals last year (which I also still wear all the time), but I cannot be bothered with buckles on the day-to-day so I have to have at least one cute pair of sandals that has what I like to call “secret velcro.” These shoes are so comfortable (I got them in the brown leather and went a half-size up and they’re perfect). They come in a billion different colors and they’re all so good. I highly recommend snagging them because between the Madewell sandals I recommended last year, the Dr. Scholls fisherman sandals I recommended a few weeks ago, and now these Nisolo sandals your sandal game will be on lock this summer!!!
Wiggle Rope Bath Mat | Begonia Shower Curtain | Wicker Tray
We just came across SUCH a cute collaboration between West Elm and RHODE! It’s such a sweet and patterned filled collection. Look at that shower curtain?! Highly recommend going to take a look:)
From Arlyn: Every now and then, something comes along that is *actually* life-changing. My friend (a mom of two active boys) told me about the Tineco wet/dry vac mop a while back after I bent her ear excessively talking about how I feel like I spend my whole days on my hands and knees picking up food my toddler throws, sweeping or vacuuming and then moping. This thing takes care of all of it in one step! It feels like vacuuming, but it cleans up splattered yogurt, lentil soup, smashed banana…it’s amazing! Maintenance just involves pouring the tank of dirty water/gunk out (it’s pretty gross, tbh), letting the brush dry overnight, and boom, ready for cleaning action the next day. You do have to buy their proprietary solution but it’s fairly affordable and lasts for months. I LOVE this thing. My husband LOVES this thing. It doesn’t replace a really good elbow-grease-fueled mop job once a week or so but for everyday mess, it’s, well, life-changing.
From Caitlin: HI, I’M DUMB. For the last 4 years, I’ve been VERY zen about the awful wifi connection in the back half of my apartment. “The universe just doesn’t want me to watch Netflix before bed,” I’d think. Or like, “oh, uh, well, I guess I would have bungled this recipe, so losing connection in the kitchen was probably for the best!” The irony: fixing this problem permanently only took 10 minutes of my time and a $17 gadget (and four years of procrastinating, too…isn’t that the way it always goes?). The installation was mind-numbingly simple and the directions were so clear and easy – I plugged it in next to my router, signed into my wifi network, moved the device to an outlet in my dead zone, and it totally extends the reach of my internet. MY ENTIRE APARTMENT HAS STRONG WIFI NOW. And it was so easy and painless to fix!!! I feel so foolish for not trying to address the problem sooner – it’s so silly, but having a great, fast internet connection in every room feels so luxurious. A must-have solution for any person with dead zones in their home! (This size is perfect for my apartment, but they also make versions that are just as simple for folks who need to extend their wifi over a larger surface area. Tech can be VERY intimidating, but this brand makes the process so easy – no anxiety during installation, I promise!)
From Ryann: Folks, I don’t know how this happened but I have become that person that goes to the gym every day and ENJOYS it. This is coming from the girl who has said (on many occasions) “working out is mind-numbingly boring”. I don’t know what got into me. So since I randomly work out six days a week now, I figured out pretty quickly that I need a fair amount of leggings and workout clothes. For my birthday, I got some great sets that I love including this sports bra top (that is long enough that you don’t need to wear a shirt over it) and these flared leggings. It’s SO cute. I love that this is my most affordable set and it’s the one I find myself wanting to wear every day.
Ok, that’s it from us! Again, Happy Father’s Day to everyone celebrating and see y’all tomorrow. xx
Opening Image Credits: Design by Emily Henderson and ARCIFORM | Photos by Kaitlin Green | From: Farmhouse Curb Appeal Complete! Our Very Cute Front Porch Makeover
The post The Link Up: Em’s Go-To Highlighter, The Wet/Dry Vac Mop That Changed Arlyn’s Life, And The $17 Internet Extender We All Have In Our Carts appeared first on Emily Henderson.
]]>
Reviewed on:
PlayStation 5
Platform:
PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Publisher:
Focus Entertainment
Developer:
UN JE NE SAIS QUOI, Umanimation
Release:
Rating:
Everyone
Despite the protests of her father, a determined Mimi travels to the scenic French countryside of Dordogne to find a missing piece of herself. Awaiting her is the quaint home belonging to her recently departed grandmother, soon to be sold, as well as a summer’s worth of precious childhood memories Mimi inexplicably has no recollection of. How could she forget something so valuable, as well as the circumstances behind the rocky relationship between her father and grandparents? These are the hooks that propelled me through this pleasant and beautifully animated adventure game. While not mechanically dense or anywhere close to challenging, I enjoyed this relaxing French getaway.
As Mimi inspects her grandmother Nora’s home and the surrounding grounds for clues, I engage in quirky interactions that add a flair of playfulness to otherwise mundane actions. Instead of pointing and clicking objects, I insert and rotate keys to open doors, tilt a box to pour cereal into a bowl (and all over the kitchen table), and hover my marionette-like hands over silverware to collect them from a riverbed. One of the most creative sequences involved slingshotting word bubble greetings over a cliff to convey shouting at a distant friend. I like that Dordogne regularly finds small but fresh spins on how you engage with its world. Using the small mouse-style cursor to perform these actions naturally feels more awkward with a controller, and it gets easily lost among the colorful, busy backdrops, but it gets the job done.
Nearly all of these unique interactions are performed by a 12-year-old Mimi, who players control during numerous flashback sequences weaving the story of her summer vacation with Nora. She documents her stay by taking photos, capturing sound effects using a tape recorder, and collecting stickers, cassette tapes, and giant dreamlike words scattered across levels. The endgame for performing these tasks is filling pages of a scrapbook by forming simple poems from collected words and arranging photos and stickers. Outside of satisfying an innate desire to clean chapters of their allotted collectibles (and, unfortunately, you can’t replay chapters to find any missed ones), making these scrap pages offers no tangible reward other than the small pleasure of expressing myself in a limited way.
Playing Dordogne is nice, but looking at it is even better. Thanks to a beautiful watercolor art direction, every scene feels like an interactive tour of an artist's gallery; you can actually see the brush strokes. The framing of certain scenes makes them look great as static images, but odd angles occasionally make it tricky to discern walkable paths; expect to bump up against some bushes and staircases until you find the way forward. Character models sport a similar visual appeal, and combined with the lovely soundtrack, Dordogne is like a charming French indie art film come to life.
As a coming-of-age story primarily set in the early ‘80s (the adult Mimi sequences occur in 2002), Dordogne hits the right notes of being whimsical enough for kids but having enough dark overtones and mature discussions to give it some teeth for grown-ups. I felt warm and fuzzy watching Mimi and Nora bond over simple pleasures such as repairing a broken kayak or having a riverside picnic. The edges of the darker backstory involving Mimi’s family add intrigue that feels decently paid off by the end. However, more clarification on vague topics, such as the cause of Mimi’s father’s lifelong resentment towards his parents, would have been nice. The story also relies a fair bit on players locating easy-to-miss collectible letters that provide crucial context and backstory to critical events.
As someone who derives real pleasure in admiring beautiful paintings, Dordogne ups the ante by letting me creatively interact with its gorgeous art. Even better, it layers a largely enjoyable tale on top of it. Like Mimi and Nora’s relationship, there are some bumps to overcome, but good times await those willing to work through them.
Reviewed on:
PlayStation 5
Platform:
PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Publisher:
Focus Entertainment
Developer:
UN JE NE SAIS QUOI, Umanimation
Release:
Rating:
Everyone
Despite the protests of her father, a determined Mimi travels to the scenic French countryside of Dordogne to find a missing piece of herself. Awaiting her is the quaint home belonging to her recently departed grandmother, soon to be sold, as well as a summer’s worth of precious childhood memories Mimi inexplicably has no recollection of. How could she forget something so valuable, as well as the circumstances behind the rocky relationship between her father and grandparents? These are the hooks that propelled me through this pleasant and beautifully animated adventure game. While not mechanically dense or anywhere close to challenging, I enjoyed this relaxing French getaway.
As Mimi inspects her grandmother Nora’s home and the surrounding grounds for clues, I engage in quirky interactions that add a flair of playfulness to otherwise mundane actions. Instead of pointing and clicking objects, I insert and rotate keys to open doors, tilt a box to pour cereal into a bowl (and all over the kitchen table), and hover my marionette-like hands over silverware to collect them from a riverbed. One of the most creative sequences involved slingshotting word bubble greetings over a cliff to convey shouting at a distant friend. I like that Dordogne regularly finds small but fresh spins on how you engage with its world. Using the small mouse-style cursor to perform these actions naturally feels more awkward with a controller, and it gets easily lost among the colorful, busy backdrops, but it gets the job done.
Nearly all of these unique interactions are performed by a 12-year-old Mimi, who players control during numerous flashback sequences weaving the story of her summer vacation with Nora. She documents her stay by taking photos, capturing sound effects using a tape recorder, and collecting stickers, cassette tapes, and giant dreamlike words scattered across levels. The endgame for performing these tasks is filling pages of a scrapbook by forming simple poems from collected words and arranging photos and stickers. Outside of satisfying an innate desire to clean chapters of their allotted collectibles (and, unfortunately, you can’t replay chapters to find any missed ones), making these scrap pages offers no tangible reward other than the small pleasure of expressing myself in a limited way.
Playing Dordogne is nice, but looking at it is even better. Thanks to a beautiful watercolor art direction, every scene feels like an interactive tour of an artist's gallery; you can actually see the brush strokes. The framing of certain scenes makes them look great as static images, but odd angles occasionally make it tricky to discern walkable paths; expect to bump up against some bushes and staircases until you find the way forward. Character models sport a similar visual appeal, and combined with the lovely soundtrack, Dordogne is like a charming French indie art film come to life.
As a coming-of-age story primarily set in the early ‘80s (the adult Mimi sequences occur in 2002), Dordogne hits the right notes of being whimsical enough for kids but having enough dark overtones and mature discussions to give it some teeth for grown-ups. I felt warm and fuzzy watching Mimi and Nora bond over simple pleasures such as repairing a broken kayak or having a riverside picnic. The edges of the darker backstory involving Mimi’s family add intrigue that feels decently paid off by the end. However, more clarification on vague topics, such as the cause of Mimi’s father’s lifelong resentment towards his parents, would have been nice. The story also relies a fair bit on players locating easy-to-miss collectible letters that provide crucial context and backstory to critical events.
As someone who derives real pleasure in admiring beautiful paintings, Dordogne ups the ante by letting me creatively interact with its gorgeous art. Even better, it layers a largely enjoyable tale on top of it. Like Mimi and Nora’s relationship, there are some bumps to overcome, but good times await those willing to work through them.
Shop clearance deals on Hobby Lobby Home Decor!
Hurry into your local Hobby Lobby where they are clearing out their home decor section to make room for a new season! While supplies last, you may be able to score a whopping 75% off clearance items with orange stickers – in-store only! Prices are as marked.
The selection will vary by store, so if you have more than one Hobby Lobby in your area, it may be worth checking them out to see what treasures you can find.
Note that select items are available online, but the prices aren’t anywhere near as low as what you could find in-store.
We spotted some HOT 75% off Hobby Lobby home decor deals…
Butterfly Shelf
Only $7.49 (regularly $24.99)
Wall Hanging Decor
Only $3.49 (regularly $13.99)
Geometric Terrariums
As low as $5.49 (regularly $21.99)
Market Fresh Flowers Planter
Only $3.99 (regularly $15.99)
Knot Ball Decor
Only $3.99 (regularly $15.99)
Flower Wall Decor
Only $4.99 (regularly $19.99)
Wall Hanging Planter
Only $5.24 (regularly $20.99)
Blessed Box
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Home Sweet Home Wall Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
House Painting Wall Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Gold Leaf and Flowers Wall Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Round Decorative White Mirror
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Lettered Silverware Box Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Adhesive Wall Decor Lettering
As low as $6.49 (regularly $25.99)
Thankful Wall Decor
Only $7.49 (regularly $29.99)
Clear Vase
Only $7.49 (regularly $29.99)
White Candle Holders
As low as $7.99 (regularly $31.99)
White Vase
Only $8.24 (regularly $32.99)
Black Vase
Only $9.99 (regularly $39.99)
Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Confident, Be You Wall Decor
Only $9.99 (regularly $39.99)
Tabletop Lamp
Only $9.99 (regularly $39.99)
Moose Wall Decor
Only $14.99 (regularly $49.99)
Circle Shelf
Only $16.49 (regularly $59.99)
Floral Circle Shelf
Only $16.49 (regularly $59.99)
“Where you go, I’ll go, Where you Stay, I’ll Stay” Wall Decor
Only $19.99 (regularly $79.99)
Shop clearance deals on Hobby Lobby Home Decor!
Hurry into your local Hobby Lobby where they are clearing out their home decor section to make room for a new season! While supplies last, you may be able to score a whopping 75% off clearance items with orange stickers – in-store only! Prices are as marked.
The selection will vary by store, so if you have more than one Hobby Lobby in your area, it may be worth checking them out to see what treasures you can find.
Note that select items are available online, but the prices aren’t anywhere near as low as what you could find in-store.
We spotted some HOT 75% off Hobby Lobby home decor deals…
Butterfly Shelf
Only $7.49 (regularly $24.99)
Wall Hanging Decor
Only $3.49 (regularly $13.99)
Geometric Terrariums
As low as $5.49 (regularly $21.99)
Market Fresh Flowers Planter
Only $3.99 (regularly $15.99)
Knot Ball Decor
Only $3.99 (regularly $15.99)
Flower Wall Decor
Only $4.99 (regularly $19.99)
Wall Hanging Planter
Only $5.24 (regularly $20.99)
Blessed Box
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Home Sweet Home Wall Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
House Painting Wall Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Gold Leaf and Flowers Wall Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Round Decorative White Mirror
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Lettered Silverware Box Decor
Only $6.24 (regularly $25.99)
Adhesive Wall Decor Lettering
As low as $6.49 (regularly $25.99)
Thankful Wall Decor
Only $7.49 (regularly $29.99)
Clear Vase
Only $7.49 (regularly $29.99)
White Candle Holders
As low as $7.99 (regularly $31.99)
White Vase
Only $8.24 (regularly $32.99)
Black Vase
Only $9.99 (regularly $39.99)
Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Confident, Be You Wall Decor
Only $9.99 (regularly $39.99)
Tabletop Lamp
Only $9.99 (regularly $39.99)
Moose Wall Decor
Only $14.99 (regularly $49.99)
Circle Shelf
Only $16.49 (regularly $59.99)
Floral Circle Shelf
Only $16.49 (regularly $59.99)
“Where you go, I’ll go, Where you Stay, I’ll Stay” Wall Decor
Only $19.99 (regularly $79.99)
I’m not a fancy flyer. I’ve got Premier Platinum status with United’s MileagePlus program, largely thanks to all the trips I’ve taken for work over the past year, but I only ever book economy seats. One of the perks of my status is a complimentary upgrade to an Economy Plus seat with extra legroom at the time of booking. With that in mind, I never saw a need to pay for more.
However, I needed a round-trip flight from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Athens International Airport (ATH) in Greece for a new cruise ship debut, and it turned out the be the perfect opportunity to review United Premium Plus.
Because of the demand for premium economy tickets this spring and summer, I was only able to book it on a nonstop route from Athens to Newark for my return trip. On the outbound journey to Athens, I booked Premium Plus from Newark to London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR). The final leg, from London to Athens with Aegean Airlines, was in economy.
So, what did this budget traveler think of United’s Premium Plus product after two long-haul flights between the U.S. and Europe? Check out my thoughts below, along with information on how to book United Premium Plus, what you can expect to pay and more.
Passengers wishing to book Premium Plus seats with United can purchase them using money or redeem MileagePlus miles for them, or they can put in for upgrades from economy using PlusPoints.
Depending on departure times, routing and airline partners involved, I’ve seen Premium Plus fares between Newark and Athens range from about $1,900 to $4,800 round-trip. For my round-trip flights, TPG paid $3,441 ($2,603 plus $837.65 in taxes and fees), including the economy leg with Aegean from London to Athens.
The booking earned me 7,344 MileagePlus miles (4,080 base miles plus 3,264 bonus miles), 1 Premier qualifying flight and 816 Premier qualifying points for my outbound flight, and 19,296 miles (10,720 base miles plus 8,576 bonus miles), 1 PQF and 2,144 PQPs for my return flight based on the fare classes of my tickets.
In my flight research for this trip, I discovered that Premium Plus seats sell out quickly due to high demand. If you’re set on snagging one, book early. Pricing seems to have no rhyme or reason, either. Sometimes seats in United premium economy are available for less than the cost of a regular economy seat.
When Premium Plus does cost more than economy — which is most of the time — the price difference varies widely, ranging from just $50 to $2,400 more.
As far as miles go, I found Premium Plus awards between Newark and Athens range anywhere from 300,000 to 360,000 miles round-trip. Based on TPG’s valuations at the time of publication (following a major devaluation by United), those miles are worth between $3,300 and $3,960. That makes booking Premium Plus with miles, rather than cash, a better option for some of the airline’s more expensive routes.
Here’s how the highest and lowest United premium economy fares I was able to find between Newark and Athens compared to the highest and lowest economy- and business-class fares, both in terms of cash and miles over the next several months.
Economy | Premium Plus | Business class | |
Cash price (round-trip) | $1,274-$4,041. | $1,942-$4,828. | $3,986-$16,010. |
United MileagePlus miles (round-trip) | 43,900-120,000 plus $5.60-$34.30 in taxes and fees. | 120,000-180,000 plus $5.60-$32.20 in taxes and fees. | 175,000-395,000 plus $5.60-$41.50 in taxes and fees. |
My own ticket’s taxes and fees were much higher, likely due to my stop through London.
When I arrived at the airport in Newark, I made my way to the Premier Access check-in area on the third level at Terminal C, which Premium Plus tickets allow passengers to access. I had already checked in via the airline’s app, but a United agent quickly tagged my bag (Premium Plus confers two free checked bags of up to 50 pounds each) and sent me on my way to my gate. My flight was set to depart at 11 p.m., so there were no lines either at the economy counters or at the security checkpoints, meaning that the priority check-in really didn’t do much for me. However, it would absolutely be useful to someone who’s checking in at a peak time.
After security, I headed to the United Club Lounge at Newark’s Terminal C, where I grabbed a snack and some coffee. Unfortunately, Premium Plus bookings offer only discounted — not free — access to United Clubs on select routes when purchased at booking or before travel. However, I was able to enter for free as a perk of my Chase United Club Infinite Card.
After a 90-minute delay, the flight began boarding. Although Premium Plus entitles travelers to board with Group 2, I boarded with Group 1 because of my Premier Platinum elite status. I was also in Group 1 for my return flight, but I didn’t board until the end of Group 3 because I wound up with the dreaded “SSSS” on my boarding pass (following a one-day visit to Turkey during my cruise) and was forced to undergo an extensive check of all my belongings at the gate.
The Newark-London leg of my trip was on a Boeing 767-300ER with Premium Plus seats in a 2-2-2 configuration, with four rows of six seats across for a total of 24. Here’s how they stack up against the economy- and business-class cabins on the aircraft.
Economy | Premium Plus | Polaris business class | |
Layout | 2-3-2. | 2-2-2. | 1-1-1. |
Seat pitch | 31-34 inches. | 38 inches. | 77 inches. |
Seat recline | 3-4 inches. | 6 inches. | Fully flat. |
Seat width | 18-18.5 inches. | 19 inches. | 20.4-22.7 inches. |
Screen size | 9 inches. | 13.3 inches. | 16 inches. |
The Athens-Newark flight was on a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, where the 21 seats were arranged in a 2-3-2 layout in three rows. Here’s how they compare to seats in the other sections.
Economy | Premium Plus | Polaris business class | |
Layout | 3-3-3. | 2-3-2. | 1-2-1. |
Seat pitch | 31-34 inches. | 38 inches. | 78 inches. |
Seat recline | 3-4 inches. | 6 inches. | Fully flat. |
Seat width | 17.3 inches. | 19 inches. | 20.5 inches. |
Screen size | 10 inches. | 13.3 inches. | 16 inches. |
On both flights, as on all flights that have Premium Plus seating, the Premium Plus section is located between Polaris business class and economy.
On the first flight, aboard the 767-300, I was in an aisle seat (22K) along the side of the cabin. The first thing I noticed after stowing my carry-on in the overhead bin was that the footrest made it impossible for me to fit my personal item — a backpack — under the seat in front of me. That meant I was forced to take up two overhead spots. To make it worse, I found the footrest to be useless, as the clearance between it and the seat was so small that it squished the tops of my feet.
It was also at an uncomfortable height and not very maneuverable.
On my return flight aboard the 787-10, I was in the front row (20A), against the bulkhead, which meant I had no footrest but, again, had to put two items in the overhead bin. On the plus side, when I found myself accidentally stuck in a window seat (I prefer aisle seats), I still had enough legroom to walk right out of the row to use the restroom without having to step over or otherwise bother the person sitting next to me.
On both flights, the seats’ cushioning was comfortable, and the extra room and wider space between armrests were great. There was also a window dimmer instead of a shade to control the amount of daylight. The recline was more generous than in standard economy, but the seats still don’t go back far enough to allow me to get quality rest (I need a lie-flat for that). The recline is enough, however, that when the person in front of you reclines, it becomes difficult to get out to use the bathroom.
Additionally, the seats’ leg rests didn’t fully extend, holding legs at a strange angle that, for me, cut off circulation. I found it more comfortable to simply position my legs as if I were in a standard economy seat.
The extra legroom, additional seat width and larger tray table, which made it much easier for me to work, were definitely an improvement over economy. However, I still wasn’t convinced that those things alone made Premium Plus worth the much higher price than economy.
As for restrooms, Premium Plus shares bathrooms with the standard economy cabin. There were four of them at the back of the 767-300, while on the 787-10, there were three between the two sections of the economy cabin and another two at the very aft of the plane. However, I was able to use the ones in business class on both flights with no problem at all.
All Premium Plus seats on both my flights were stocked with a Saks Fifth Avenue pillow and lightweight blanket. There were also Away amenity kits, including Sunday Riley hand lotion and lip balm (score!), an eye mask, socks, earplugs, a toothbrush with toothpaste and a cloth Away bag with a zip closure. Passengers also received headphones to use with the entertainment systems.
Premium Plus seats have entertainment screens that are about 3-4 inches larger than in economy, and which you can control with a retractable remote (though retracting it was difficult on both flights). The United-branded headphones for inflight use worked fine but did not have great sound quality.
The seats’ wonderfully oversized tray tables were difficult for a newbie like me to locate initially, but I found mine in my aisle-side armrest and figured out how to deploy it with the press of a button with utensils on it. It measured 17 inches wide and 10.5 inches long, and it folded in half in case I didn’t need the full amount of space.
On my outbound flight, my TV screen was on the back of the seat in front of me. Entertainment selections included a list of movies — both newer releases and older favorites — TV shows, music and games, as well as a real-time flight tracker.
On the return flight, when I was in the front row behind the bulkhead, my seatmate and I had to ask the flight attendant how to pop the screens out from below the seats, where they were located in a center console between us.
Each seat had its own USB port and universal electrical outlet. However, you practically have to be a contortionist to plug anything in, as the ports are located near passengers’ elbows and semi-enclosed by the armrest console. Plus, the power to both was nonfunctional on my outbound flight. A kind flight attendant allowed me to borrow her charging brick, which was a lifesaver.
On the return flight, the seatback pocket space — or, in my case, the wall-mounted pocket — was minuscule. I was barely able to fit a bottle of water and my book, let alone all of the other stuff I usually cram in there.
My United Club Infinite Card earns me 4 miles per dollar on United purchases, including inflight Wi-Fi. Additionally, I get 25% back as a statement credit for inflight Wi-Fi purchases made with my card. So, instead of costing me $18.99, it cost me $14.25, and I scored 76 miles.
I found the connection to be strong for the duration of the flight. Although speeds understandably weren’t quite as fast as on land, there wasn’t much lag — impressive, compared with other international flights I’ve taken recently.
Premium Plus is supposed to include elevated meal options compared to coach, but the only thing that seemed higher-end was the fact that food was served on actual plates with metal silverware, as opposed to the flimsy trays with plastic cutlery found in economy.
The food itself was edible but unmemorable. I didn’t receive a menu on either flight. Instead, passengers were verbally told what was available, but it wasn’t always clear what, exactly, the options were.
On my outbound flight, there were two meals. For the first, which began shortly after takeoff and ended about half an hour later, I was offered a choice of beef or vegetarian entree. I went with the latter, and it featured couscous and chickpeas in a savory red sauce. There was a side of cold noodles with peppers, a roll with butter and a small birthday cake-flavored cookie for dessert.
An hour or two after our first meal, a snack was offered; I chose a small bag of almonds.
For the second meal, which was served about an hour before landing, I had a choice of eggs with some sort of red sauce or waffles with berry syrup. I went with the waffles, which were the tastiest thing I ate on any of my flights on this trip. Included were a croissant with butter and jelly, orange juice and plain yogurt with oranges and grapes.
On the return trip, roughly over an hour in, flight attendants began meal service, offering passengers a choice of chicken or a vegetarian option for the first meal. I avoided meat again, but the joke was on me, as the airline served some sort of faux mystery meat with vegetables.
When I asked what it was, the answer was, “I’m not sure. There was no description.” I suspect it was some sort of undercooked white root vegetable. The flavor was surprisingly good, with a consistency like pineapple but less stringy. It came with carrots, mashed potatoes, a side salad, a roll with butter and some of the most delicious chocolate truffles I’ve ever tasted, from Mathez’s The French Taste snack line.
For the subsequent snack and lighter meal, which was served shortly before landing, I chose a bag of chips and a cucumber-and-cheese sandwich on a roll with a side of fruit — orange and pineapple slices with some grapes. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the sandwich, despite its simplicity.
In premium economy, beer, wine and spirits are free, while only beer and wine are free for passengers in standard economy on long-haul international flights with United. The flight attendants handling meal service on the outbound flight asked if I wanted wine (red or white). I declined. However, I never saw a regular drinks cart come by to ask if I’d like something else. I brought a bottle of water with me, so I didn’t bother to ask for anything else. Drinks were served twice on the return flight.
There’s no question that United’s premium economy product is better than the experience in economy. However, for me, the minor upgrades in terms of space and slightly more polished meal service aren’t worth the extra amount United charges for Premium Plus. Although I enjoyed the larger tray table and the extra legroom, I’m fine with the extra few inches I get in Economy Plus, which I can select for free with my elite status when flying in coach.
My answer would be different if it were one of the rare, but not unheard of, situations where the Premium Plus seat was less expensive than or negligibly more expensive than regular economy. But in this case, the additional cost wasn’t worth the extra recline, the cumbersome footrest, the uncomfortable leg rest and the unwieldy swivel entertainment screen on my return flight.
Although I enjoy free checked bags, priority boarding and United Club access thanks to my blend of elite status and a United credit card, if you’re just an occasional United passenger, the perks conferred by flying in Premium Plus — Group 2 boarding, free checked bags and discounted lounge access — could materially improve your experience. You’ll just have to decide for yourself how much more you’re willing to pay over economy for those perks.
Related reading:
I’m not a fancy flyer. I’ve got Premier Platinum status with United’s MileagePlus program, largely thanks to all the trips I’ve taken for work over the past year, but I only ever book economy seats. One of the perks of my status is a complimentary upgrade to an Economy Plus seat with extra legroom at the time of booking. With that in mind, I never saw a need to pay for more.
However, I needed a round-trip flight from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Athens International Airport (ATH) in Greece for a new cruise ship debut, and it turned out the be the perfect opportunity to review United Premium Plus.
Because of the demand for premium economy tickets this spring and summer, I was only able to book it on a nonstop route from Athens to Newark for my return trip. On the outbound journey to Athens, I booked Premium Plus from Newark to London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR). The final leg, from London to Athens with Aegean Airlines, was in economy.
So, what did this budget traveler think of United’s Premium Plus product after two long-haul flights between the U.S. and Europe? Check out my thoughts below, along with information on how to book United Premium Plus, what you can expect to pay and more.
Passengers wishing to book Premium Plus seats with United can purchase them using money or redeem MileagePlus miles for them, or they can put in for upgrades from economy using PlusPoints.
Depending on departure times, routing and airline partners involved, I’ve seen Premium Plus fares between Newark and Athens range from about $1,900 to $4,800 round-trip. For my round-trip flights, TPG paid $3,441 ($2,603 plus $837.65 in taxes and fees), including the economy leg with Aegean from London to Athens.
The booking earned me 7,344 MileagePlus miles (4,080 base miles plus 3,264 bonus miles), 1 Premier qualifying flight and 816 Premier qualifying points for my outbound flight, and 19,296 miles (10,720 base miles plus 8,576 bonus miles), 1 PQF and 2,144 PQPs for my return flight based on the fare classes of my tickets.
In my flight research for this trip, I discovered that Premium Plus seats sell out quickly due to high demand. If you’re set on snagging one, book early. Pricing seems to have no rhyme or reason, either. Sometimes seats in United premium economy are available for less than the cost of a regular economy seat.
When Premium Plus does cost more than economy — which is most of the time — the price difference varies widely, ranging from just $50 to $2,400 more.
As far as miles go, I found Premium Plus awards between Newark and Athens range anywhere from 300,000 to 360,000 miles round-trip. Based on TPG’s valuations at the time of publication (following a major devaluation by United), those miles are worth between $3,300 and $3,960. That makes booking Premium Plus with miles, rather than cash, a better option for some of the airline’s more expensive routes.
Here’s how the highest and lowest United premium economy fares I was able to find between Newark and Athens compared to the highest and lowest economy- and business-class fares, both in terms of cash and miles over the next several months.
Economy | Premium Plus | Business class | |
Cash price (round-trip) | $1,274-$4,041. | $1,942-$4,828. | $3,986-$16,010. |
United MileagePlus miles (round-trip) | 43,900-120,000 plus $5.60-$34.30 in taxes and fees. | 120,000-180,000 plus $5.60-$32.20 in taxes and fees. | 175,000-395,000 plus $5.60-$41.50 in taxes and fees. |
My own ticket’s taxes and fees were much higher, likely due to my stop through London.
When I arrived at the airport in Newark, I made my way to the Premier Access check-in area on the third level at Terminal C, which Premium Plus tickets allow passengers to access. I had already checked in via the airline’s app, but a United agent quickly tagged my bag (Premium Plus confers two free checked bags of up to 50 pounds each) and sent me on my way to my gate. My flight was set to depart at 11 p.m., so there were no lines either at the economy counters or at the security checkpoints, meaning that the priority check-in really didn’t do much for me. However, it would absolutely be useful to someone who’s checking in at a peak time.
After security, I headed to the United Club Lounge at Newark’s Terminal C, where I grabbed a snack and some coffee. Unfortunately, Premium Plus bookings offer only discounted — not free — access to United Clubs on select routes when purchased at booking or before travel. However, I was able to enter for free as a perk of my Chase United Club Infinite Card.
After a 90-minute delay, the flight began boarding. Although Premium Plus entitles travelers to board with Group 2, I boarded with Group 1 because of my Premier Platinum elite status. I was also in Group 1 for my return flight, but I didn’t board until the end of Group 3 because I wound up with the dreaded “SSSS” on my boarding pass (following a one-day visit to Turkey during my cruise) and was forced to undergo an extensive check of all my belongings at the gate.
The Newark-London leg of my trip was on a Boeing 767-300ER with Premium Plus seats in a 2-2-2 configuration, with four rows of six seats across for a total of 24. Here’s how they stack up against the economy- and business-class cabins on the aircraft.
Economy | Premium Plus | Polaris business class | |
Layout | 2-3-2. | 2-2-2. | 1-1-1. |
Seat pitch | 31-34 inches. | 38 inches. | 77 inches. |
Seat recline | 3-4 inches. | 6 inches. | Fully flat. |
Seat width | 18-18.5 inches. | 19 inches. | 20.4-22.7 inches. |
Screen size | 9 inches. | 13.3 inches. | 16 inches. |
The Athens-Newark flight was on a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, where the 21 seats were arranged in a 2-3-2 layout in three rows. Here’s how they compare to seats in the other sections.
Economy | Premium Plus | Polaris business class | |
Layout | 3-3-3. | 2-3-2. | 1-2-1. |
Seat pitch | 31-34 inches. | 38 inches. | 78 inches. |
Seat recline | 3-4 inches. | 6 inches. | Fully flat. |
Seat width | 17.3 inches. | 19 inches. | 20.5 inches. |
Screen size | 10 inches. | 13.3 inches. | 16 inches. |
On both flights, as on all flights that have Premium Plus seating, the Premium Plus section is located between Polaris business class and economy.
On the first flight, aboard the 767-300, I was in an aisle seat (22K) along the side of the cabin. The first thing I noticed after stowing my carry-on in the overhead bin was that the footrest made it impossible for me to fit my personal item — a backpack — under the seat in front of me. That meant I was forced to take up two overhead spots. To make it worse, I found the footrest to be useless, as the clearance between it and the seat was so small that it squished the tops of my feet.
It was also at an uncomfortable height and not very maneuverable.
On my return flight aboard the 787-10, I was in the front row (20A), against the bulkhead, which meant I had no footrest but, again, had to put two items in the overhead bin. On the plus side, when I found myself accidentally stuck in a window seat (I prefer aisle seats), I still had enough legroom to walk right out of the row to use the restroom without having to step over or otherwise bother the person sitting next to me.
On both flights, the seats’ cushioning was comfortable, and the extra room and wider space between armrests were great. There was also a window dimmer instead of a shade to control the amount of daylight. The recline was more generous than in standard economy, but the seats still don’t go back far enough to allow me to get quality rest (I need a lie-flat for that). The recline is enough, however, that when the person in front of you reclines, it becomes difficult to get out to use the bathroom.
Additionally, the seats’ leg rests didn’t fully extend, holding legs at a strange angle that, for me, cut off circulation. I found it more comfortable to simply position my legs as if I were in a standard economy seat.
The extra legroom, additional seat width and larger tray table, which made it much easier for me to work, were definitely an improvement over economy. However, I still wasn’t convinced that those things alone made Premium Plus worth the much higher price than economy.
As for restrooms, Premium Plus shares bathrooms with the standard economy cabin. There were four of them at the back of the 767-300, while on the 787-10, there were three between the two sections of the economy cabin and another two at the very aft of the plane. However, I was able to use the ones in business class on both flights with no problem at all.
All Premium Plus seats on both my flights were stocked with a Saks Fifth Avenue pillow and lightweight blanket. There were also Away amenity kits, including Sunday Riley hand lotion and lip balm (score!), an eye mask, socks, earplugs, a toothbrush with toothpaste and a cloth Away bag with a zip closure. Passengers also received headphones to use with the entertainment systems.
Premium Plus seats have entertainment screens that are about 3-4 inches larger than in economy, and which you can control with a retractable remote (though retracting it was difficult on both flights). The United-branded headphones for inflight use worked fine but did not have great sound quality.
The seats’ wonderfully oversized tray tables were difficult for a newbie like me to locate initially, but I found mine in my aisle-side armrest and figured out how to deploy it with the press of a button with utensils on it. It measured 17 inches wide and 10.5 inches long, and it folded in half in case I didn’t need the full amount of space.
On my outbound flight, my TV screen was on the back of the seat in front of me. Entertainment selections included a list of movies — both newer releases and older favorites — TV shows, music and games, as well as a real-time flight tracker.
On the return flight, when I was in the front row behind the bulkhead, my seatmate and I had to ask the flight attendant how to pop the screens out from below the seats, where they were located in a center console between us.
Each seat had its own USB port and universal electrical outlet. However, you practically have to be a contortionist to plug anything in, as the ports are located near passengers’ elbows and semi-enclosed by the armrest console. Plus, the power to both was nonfunctional on my outbound flight. A kind flight attendant allowed me to borrow her charging brick, which was a lifesaver.
On the return flight, the seatback pocket space — or, in my case, the wall-mounted pocket — was minuscule. I was barely able to fit a bottle of water and my book, let alone all of the other stuff I usually cram in there.
My United Club Infinite Card earns me 4 miles per dollar on United purchases, including inflight Wi-Fi. Additionally, I get 25% back as a statement credit for inflight Wi-Fi purchases made with my card. So, instead of costing me $18.99, it cost me $14.25, and I scored 76 miles.
I found the connection to be strong for the duration of the flight. Although speeds understandably weren’t quite as fast as on land, there wasn’t much lag — impressive, compared with other international flights I’ve taken recently.
Premium Plus is supposed to include elevated meal options compared to coach, but the only thing that seemed higher-end was the fact that food was served on actual plates with metal silverware, as opposed to the flimsy trays with plastic cutlery found in economy.
The food itself was edible but unmemorable. I didn’t receive a menu on either flight. Instead, passengers were verbally told what was available, but it wasn’t always clear what, exactly, the options were.
On my outbound flight, there were two meals. For the first, which began shortly after takeoff and ended about half an hour later, I was offered a choice of beef or vegetarian entree. I went with the latter, and it featured couscous and chickpeas in a savory red sauce. There was a side of cold noodles with peppers, a roll with butter and a small birthday cake-flavored cookie for dessert.
An hour or two after our first meal, a snack was offered; I chose a small bag of almonds.
For the second meal, which was served about an hour before landing, I had a choice of eggs with some sort of red sauce or waffles with berry syrup. I went with the waffles, which were the tastiest thing I ate on any of my flights on this trip. Included were a croissant with butter and jelly, orange juice and plain yogurt with oranges and grapes.
On the return trip, roughly over an hour in, flight attendants began meal service, offering passengers a choice of chicken or a vegetarian option for the first meal. I avoided meat again, but the joke was on me, as the airline served some sort of faux mystery meat with vegetables.
When I asked what it was, the answer was, “I’m not sure. There was no description.” I suspect it was some sort of undercooked white root vegetable. The flavor was surprisingly good, with a consistency like pineapple but less stringy. It came with carrots, mashed potatoes, a side salad, a roll with butter and some of the most delicious chocolate truffles I’ve ever tasted, from Mathez’s The French Taste snack line.
For the subsequent snack and lighter meal, which was served shortly before landing, I chose a bag of chips and a cucumber-and-cheese sandwich on a roll with a side of fruit — orange and pineapple slices with some grapes. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the sandwich, despite its simplicity.
In premium economy, beer, wine and spirits are free, while only beer and wine are free for passengers in standard economy on long-haul international flights with United. The flight attendants handling meal service on the outbound flight asked if I wanted wine (red or white). I declined. However, I never saw a regular drinks cart come by to ask if I’d like something else. I brought a bottle of water with me, so I didn’t bother to ask for anything else. Drinks were served twice on the return flight.
There’s no question that United’s premium economy product is better than the experience in economy. However, for me, the minor upgrades in terms of space and slightly more polished meal service aren’t worth the extra amount United charges for Premium Plus. Although I enjoyed the larger tray table and the extra legroom, I’m fine with the extra few inches I get in Economy Plus, which I can select for free with my elite status when flying in coach.
My answer would be different if it were one of the rare, but not unheard of, situations where the Premium Plus seat was less expensive than or negligibly more expensive than regular economy. But in this case, the additional cost wasn’t worth the extra recline, the cumbersome footrest, the uncomfortable leg rest and the unwieldy swivel entertainment screen on my return flight.
Although I enjoy free checked bags, priority boarding and United Club access thanks to my blend of elite status and a United credit card, if you’re just an occasional United passenger, the perks conferred by flying in Premium Plus — Group 2 boarding, free checked bags and discounted lounge access — could materially improve your experience. You’ll just have to decide for yourself how much more you’re willing to pay over economy for those perks.
Related reading:
Hosting a gathering at home can be a lot of fun, but it can also be stressful. Enter The Bar’s ultimate at-home hosting guide. With a little planning and a few tips and tricks, all outlined below, you can relax and enjoy the festivities — just like your guests.
Creating a mood board is a great way to visualize the overall look and feel of your party. Gather visual inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, Instagram, or blogs, grouping images by color and theme. Whether you’re using a physical board or a virtual one, step back and review the mood board along the way, nixing any images that don’t fit your intended vibe. Once it’s picture-perfect, you’ll have a handy visual reference guide as you make decisions about décor, drinks, food, and other facets of your event.
Create the vibe:
Beyond just décor, think about all the extras that make an event memorable: Playlists, cocktail napkins and accessories, printed menus, party favors. These fun additions add depth and texture to your evening and can provide a tangible, take-home element for your guests. Plus, you’ll want to think practically, too. Clean and polish any glass and silverware you’ll be using for the event in advance, and rearrange the furniture in common areas to create an easier flow. Empty the dishwasher and have empty trash and recycle bins ready to go so that as the glasses and bottles pile up, you can party on.
Create the vibe:
In the weeks leading up to your event, think about what you can purchase ahead of time (supplies, décor, certain drinks) versus what you’ll need to get in the days before, or even the day of (food, ice, etc.). Your shopping list will depend on your event’s theme and size, but in general, you’ll need items like the following:
When to buy perishables:
Create the vibe:
Estimate how much you’ll need to keep your guests sated. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about one alcoholic drink per hour per guest. For non-alcoholic drinks, plan for two per guest for the first hour, then an additional drink per hour after that. For food, there’s no perfect formula, but we always recommend overestimating (Bonus: Buy some affordable plastic food storage bins so you can send any leftovers home with them). Make sure you have lots of ice on hand, too. We recommend planning for about one pound of ice per guest. There are even handy ice calculators available online that factor in the type of event and whether you’re holding it indoors or out, so you always pick up the perfect amount.
Now that you know roughly how many drinks you’ll need, you might choose to make it easy — and special — with a signature cocktail. A signature drink can add a fun, personal touch to your gathering with an added bonus: You’ll only need to think about one kind of drink compared with a full roster of alcoholic beverages. To make it even easier, choose an easily batched cocktail, such as a whiskey punch, sangria, Moscow mule punch, or rum punch. The night before the party, make sure you put your ingredients in the fridge/freezer for optimal coldness. High-proof spirits won’t ice over in the freezer but definitely keep mixers in the fridge.
Create the vibe:
Start by offering your guests a pre-prepped signature cocktail when they arrive. Even if they decline, it’s a nice touch that sends a warm welcome. Then, whether you opt for a batched cocktail or a full bar, set up your home bar area (be it a bar cart, a table, or a countertop) so that guests can serve their own subsequent drinks. Set out all the spirits, glasses, and utensils they might need, plus garnishes that accompany the theme, season, or beverage. Keep extras stowed away in a low-traffic area and restock when needed. To create a truly impressive DIY bar, check out our guide below!
Create the vibe:
Whether putting together simple snacks or a chef-worthy spread, you definitely don’t want your guests to go hungry. Think about the timing of your event for starters. For happy hour, you might be able to get away with light snacks and appetizers, such as a cheese and charcuterie board, mini quiches, or a crudité platter. An event that spans a typical dinner time, even if it’s technically only a cocktail hour, should include a mix of appetizers, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and some sweet options. If it’s a morning event, consider hearty brunch finger foods like mini cinnamon rolls and scrambled egg bites, or setting up a bagel bar with all the toppings. Channel a French bistro at your next dinner party by serving a simple yet show-stopping roast chicken. For any desserts, you might opt for cakes, pies, chocolates, and other confections that can be served at room temperature versus ice cream or frozen desserts — less mess and more room in your freezer for ice.
Create the vibe:
If a guest offers to help, let them! Maybe they can bring a dish, or maybe they can help clean up after the party is over. Show your appreciation by sending helpful guests home with extra food or a floral arrangement.
The most important part of your event is to enjoy your guests’ company. As the host, you set the tone for the evening, and if you’re enjoying yourself, guests will follow suit. Greet everyone as they arrive, introduce people to one another, and make sure everyone feels comfortable. Then, toast to a fun, stress-free fête.
When planning your next event, use the tips in this guide to help the day go off without a hitch. Put on some music, pour yourself a drink, and get the party started.
This article is sponsored by The Bar.
The article The Ultimate Host’s Guide to Entertaining at Home appeared first on VinePair.
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