If you’re planning a trip to Pennsylvania, Trip Advisor recommends these must-see places!
Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts. Tours today include the cellblocks, solitary punishment cells, Al Capone’s Cell, and Death Row.
Longwood Gardens
In 1906, industrialist Pierre du Pont (1870-1954) purchased a small farm near Kennett Square, PA, to save a collection of historic trees from being sold for lumber. Today, Longwood Gardens is one of the world’s great horticultural displays, encompassing 1,077 acres of dazzling gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains, 10,010-pipe Aeolian organ and 4.5-acre conservatory. Longwood continues the mission set forth by Mr. du Pont to inspire people through excellence in garden design, horticulture, education and the performing arts, through programming that includes exhibitions, musical performances by leading artists, renowned horticulture education programs, horticulture research, environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Independence Hall
Both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed in this historic building.
Sight and Sound Theaters
Sight & Sound® is a ministry on a mission to bring the Bible to life through live theater in Lancaster County, PA. What started 45 years ago as a traveling multimedia show has today become a destination for over 25 million people. This inspiring family experience includes a majestic 2000-seat theatre, a massive 300-foot wrap-around stage, a professional cast, spectacular sets up to 40 feet high and a variety of live animals. Go back in time and witness the greatest stories of the Bible as they come to life right before your eyes!
Gettysburg National Military Park
The Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the Civil War, was the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee’s second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Often referred to as the “High Water Mark of the Rebellion,” Gettysburg was the Civil War’s bloodiest battle and was also the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln’s immortal “Gettysburg Address.”
The Indiana state motto was adopted in 1937. The Indiana Department of Administration explains the meaning behind the Indiana motto as such:
“‘The Crossroads of America’ signifies the importance of waterways, railroads, highways and other transportation facilities in the state, viewed by many as some of the finest in the nation.”
The importance Indiana puts on paths of transportation has roots all the way back to the early 1800s when the major cross state Cumberland Road (today US Route 40) was built.
Mounds Bars are one of my favorite candies and this recipe, Mounds Cookie Bars, is supposed to taste just like them! I have not tried them yet, but I will update this if I do before it posts.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl; mix to combine and pat into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Keep the oven on.
Combine condensed milk and flaked coconut; spread over the crust and continue to bake for 15 minutes.
Spread melted chocolate over coconut layer. Set aside to cool and let chocolate harden, about 1 hour. Cut into squares.
It is prohibited to change the “Star Spangled Banner” in Massachusetts, thanks to an excessively patriotic 1917 law. The statute reads that playing the national anthem as anything “other than as a whole and separate composition or number” or “as dance music, as an exit march or as a part of a medley of any kind,” comes with a fine of up to $100. Sorry, DJs!
Michigan: No seduction allowed
Sorry, singles. Michigan has a law on the books that states “any man who shall seduce and debauch any unmarried woman shall be guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison not more than 5 years or by fine of not more than 2,500 dollars.” Luckily, this is one that’s never enforced, so swoon away!
Minnesota: No pig greasing
Winter in Minnesota can be long, but that’s no good reason to hold a greased pig contest in your parlor. Since 1971, it has been considered a misdemeanor in the state to operate, run or participate in any activity where a pig is oiled up and released with the object of being recaptured—and the same goes for “turkey scrambles.” Violation of this rule is considered a misdemeanor and may result in a small fine.
Mississippi: No limits on Big Gulp size
Mississippi believes in a person’s inalienable right to consume a Big Gulp. Following former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s contentious attempt to restrict the size of soft drinks sold throughout the city, Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant signed a law preventing his state’s lawmakers from enacting rules that limit portion sizes. Though this is a law, it isn’t enforceable, and patrons can only consume the sizes available at each establishment.
Missouri: Tarzans are not welcome
Prankish Tarzans, be warned: In University City, Missouri, it is illegal to “swing upon” another person’s motor vehicle and honk their horn for them.
Montana: No unauthorized “folfing”
Anyone who’s driven through Montana has inevitably wondered, “How far could I throw a Frisbee over the plains?” Those who seek answers should avoid Helena, where it is illegal to play “folf” (that’s “Frisbee golf”) anywhere not deemed a sanctioned “folf course.” Curiosity could cost you $500 or six months jail time.
Nebraska: No marriage if you have an STD
Technically, no person afflicted with a venereal disease is allowed to get married in Nebraska.
Nevada: Be selective with X-rays
Say what you will about the vice and commercialism of Las Vegas—at least they’re looking out for your feet. In Nevada, it is illegal to use an X-ray device to determine someone’s shoe size. Those who don’t comply may be looking at up to six months in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine. You could use that money to hit the casino instead!
New Hampshire: No moonlight seaweed collecting
In New Hampshire, it is forbidden to collect seaweed from the beach at night, with the law stating: “If any person shall carry away or collect for the purpose of carrying away any seaweed or rockweed from the seashore below high-water mark, between daylight in the evening and daylight in the morning, he shall be guilty of a violation.” Yes, it’s unfair, but you should’ve thought about that before becoming a nocturnal sushi chef. Fortunately, it appears that breaking this rule won’t get you more than a warning.
New Jersey: No pumping your own gas
The Garden State has barred pumping your own gas since 1949 under the Retail Gasoline Dispensing Safety Act. To this day, it’s the only state in the U.S. that strictly prohibits non-gasoline operators from pumping gas. It may be considered one of the dumbest laws in America, but at least you can relax behind the wheel or pick up snacks while someone fuels up for you. And if you do manage to somehow handle the pump yourself, it’s the gas station that’ll be fined—not you.
On July 15 we recognize the love of one magnificent creature on National I Love Horses Day! With over 200 breeds, these spirited animals give humans much to love. Their loyalty and devotion throughout history may only be a fraction of the reasons to love them.
#NationalILoveHorsesDay
Horses are not just a means of transportation, horses cleared fields, fought wars, and moved cattle. They are also companions on indispensable on long lonely trails, including the trail of life. Cattlemen, pioneers, and more recognize horses as cornerstones of survival in a burgeoning nation. We recognize horses as a majestic animal that brings joy to horse lovers.
Horse Breeds
The tallest horse breed is the Shire. The stallions of this draft horse breed tower at 17 hands above the tiny Falabella, which grows to only eight hands and is the smallest breed of horse.
The phrase “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth,” is a reminder to be grateful for the gifts, opportunities or kind gestures that come our way. The phrase comes from inspecting a horse’s teeth to determine its health and value. If the horse was a gift, such an inspection would be considered an insult.
The quarter horse, named for its speed on a short track, is one the of three fastest breeds of horses. Thoroughbreds follow quarter horses for longer distance, but Arabians outlast both breeds for endurance on the longest races.
Horse Facts
A horse can see almost 360° at once. Because of this, it’s difficult to sneak up on a horse. Their only blind spots are directly behind them and in front. However, don’t approach a horse from behind; their powerful hind legs can do serious damage if they decide to defend themselves with a kick. Because horses have such an excellent range of vision, they can be easily distracted or startled. Trainers will place blinders or blinkers on their harness to block the horse’s view from the side. The small piece of leather helps the horse to focus their vision forward.
Just like human hair and fingernails, a horse’s hooves are made of the same protein – keratin. Farriers specialize in caring for horses’ hooves. They not only fit horses with shoes, but they trim their hooves and make recommendations for hoof care and foot health. Since horses spend an enormous amount of time on their feet, the care a farrier provides is instrumental to their overall health.
The official state motto of Illinois is “State Sovereignty, National Union.”
This motto was controversial after the Civil War when national unity was of prime importance. However, the Illinois legislature commanded that the motto remain the same, but the new design for the state seal and flag positioned the scroll so that “National Unity” is at the top. It remains unchanged and appears on the Illinois state seal and state flag.
If you’re planning on visiting Delaware, Trip Advisor recommends these following places.
Nemours Estate
Explore the elegance of a 77-room Mansion, a Chauffeur’s Garage with vintage automobiles, and 200-acres of French-inspired formal gardens, grounds, and woodlands.
Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
A Very Pleasant stroll
What a wonderful stroll with beach access, restaurants, shops and benches to sit and enjoy the view.
Funland
A family owned and operated business since 1962, Funland provides family fun at reasonable prices for those who visit us each summer. The park offers great entertainment for the whole family, featuring 19 rides, 14 midway games, a redemption center, Skeeball, and an arcade. Our season begins Mother’s Day Weekend and runs through Labor Day.
Rehoboth Beach (Public)
A sandy public beach that offers various organized sports activities every evening during the summer plus special designated areas for surfing and surf fishing.
Bethany Beach
Great Beach
The waves are awesome, the beach spotless and uncrowded.
This recipe, for Louisiana Crunch Cake, looks daunting but it’s not. It’s just incredibly detailed.
Ingredients
Cake:
Cooking spray
2 cups, plus 1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut, toasted and divided
3 cups bleached cake flour (such as Swans Down)
2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup whole buttermilk
Glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3 to 4 Tbsp. heavy whipping cream, divided
Directions
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat oven to 325°F. Gather ingredients.
Heavily grease a 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the sugar into greased Bundt pan; tilt and rotate pan until sugar fully coats all sides and bottom of pan.
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the coconut around bottom of sugar-coated Bundt pan. Set aside.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until no lumps remain.
Beat butter and remaining 2 cups sugar with a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating on medium speed until just combined, about 1 minute, stopping to scrape down sides of bowl as needed.
Add sour cream and vanilla to mixer; beat on medium speed until combined, about 30 seconds.
With mixer running on low speed, alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk in 3 additions, beating until combined, starting and ending with flour mixture.
Gently transfer Cake batter to prepared Bundt pan, making sure not to disturb sugar coating on bottom and sides of pan; spread evenly into pan.
Bake Cake in preheated oven until a wooden pick inserted in center of Cake comes out clean and top of Cake is a deep golden brown, 1 hour to 1 hour, 5 minutes. Cool Cake in Bundt pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
Invert Cake onto wire rack, and let cool completely, 1 to 2 hours.
Vigorously whisk together powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and 3 tablespoons of the heavy cream in a medium bowl until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add remaining cream, 1/2 tablespoon at a time, until glaze reaches desired consistency.
Immediately drizzle Glaze over cooled Cake. Top evenly with the remaining 1/4 cup coconut. Store Cake at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days.