Automation and welding stand as two significant pillars in modern engineering, profoundly shaping how we envision and execute complex projects. Their relevance cannot be overstated, as they bring efficiency, precision, and innovation to the forefront of construction and design. As these fields evolve, so do the pioneers who drive them forward. Jacob Bacho is a dynamic individual whose engineering journey is inspiring and illuminating. 

Beginning with his experiences in the National Guard and progressing to his role at Honeywell, his story is a testament to the interplay between personal ambition and the broader advances in engineering. His commitment to blending academics with real-world application showcases the profound impact one can have when passion aligns with the profession. 

A Multifaceted Journey: From National Guard to Honeywell

Jacob’s journey from the National Guard to Honeywell Smart Energy is a compelling tale of commitment, innovation, and growth. His enlistment in the National Guard fostered discipline and a deep passion for logistics, serving as a foundation for his subsequent professional endeavors. 

At Honeywell, he relentlessly pursued knowledge and excellence in automation and welding, which led to recognized contributions and innovative solutions, reinforcing his substantial impact in engineering. His experience reflects a continuous journey of learning, serving, and pushing boundaries in his professional and personal life.

The Art of Automation and Welding

Automation and welding are fundamental pillars in engineering, acting as the linchpin for industrial processes. Computerization, leveraging advanced technologies, streamlines operations, enhancing efficiency and precision. Concurrently, modern bridging, a fabrication process, is quintessential for joining materials, primarily metals, pivotal in manufacturing.

These techniques are integral to manufacturing processes, product development, and system optimizations. They’re the silent architects of modern marvels, from intricate electronic components to colossal structures, underscoring their ubiquity and versatility in their applications.

The extensive applications exemplify the versatility and indispensability of automatic bridging or attaching, substantiating their critical role in shaping industries and driving technological progress.

Jacob’s Insights and Experiences 

Bacho’s journey, interspersed with rich experiences in the National Guard and Honeywell Smart Energy, offers profound insights into the practical implications and transformative powers of automation and welding. His reflections represent the multifaceted impact of these technologies in professional industries.

His engagements with real-world applications and projects underscore the practical implications of both innovations, shedding light on their relevance and contribution to solving complex challenges. His experiences demonstrates the symbiotic relationship between theoretical knowledge and practical application in finding optimal solutions.

Moreover, his ongoing pursuit of a degree in Mechanical exemplifies his commitment to blending academics with practical experiences, aiming to create a balanced and enriched understanding. His experiences and insights, drawn from his professional journey, academic aspirations, and foundational learning in the National Guard, underscore the importance of adaptive learning and innovative thinking in mastering these mechanisms. 

Automation and Welding: Symbiosis and Integration

Automation and welding exist in a harmonious and reciprocal relationship, each magnifying the capabilities of the other. Computerization or robotics enhances the precision and efficiency of welding processes, while innovations in attaching expand the applicability and effectiveness of automation. This symbiotic interaction is crucial in achieving optimal results in different projects and advancing both fields.

Various real-world applications underscore the seamless integration of these two impactful subjects. In sectors like automotive and aerospace, the junction of both has enhanced productivity, reliability, and quality. Case studies from this industry illustrate the practical benefits and the transformative impact of integrating the two.

The evolving landscape of logistics points towards a future where the integration of these advancements becomes more intricate and indispensable. With emerging technologies and continuous innovations, the symbiosis between the domains is poised to reach new heights, opening avenues for unprecedented solutions and creating opportunities to address the engineers’ complex challenges.

The Evolution and Future Trends 

Both fields have traversed a long, transformative journey marked by pivotal innovations and milestones. The history of both innovations is rich with breakthroughs, each reshaping the landscape and paving the way for future advancements. 

Emerging Trends and Technologies

Incorporating Artificial Intelligence and robotics is revolutionizing both fields, promising unprecedented precision, efficiency, and capabilities. The exploration of the advancements unveils a world where they are becoming more integrated, intelligent, and innovative. The predictions and expectations for these areas are high, foretelling a future rife with transformative developments and groundbreaking applications in various logistic sectors.

The Future through Jacob’s Lens

Jacob’s vision for the future of both fields is seen as an endless possibility of breakthroughs. He anticipates that the advancements will reshape industrial landscapes and usher in a new era where these technologies become central to addressing complex logistical challenges and contributing to societal progress.

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine facilitates healthcare by using telecommunication technologies, including smartphones, tablets and computers. Instead of driving to an urgent care clinic, patients can connect with a healthcare provider using virtual urgent care visits.

Six situations where virtual urgent care is appropriate

It is important to understand what telemedicine is and how it works as a telemedicine visit won’t be suitable for all ailments and illnesses. However, there are many situations where it is appropriate, including:

1.    You have a non-life-threatening condition

For many non-life-threatening conditions, a virtual urgent care appointment might make sense.  For instance, if you have a sprain, strain, or bruise, you can speak to a healthcare professional about your symptoms and possible treatments.

2.    You’re questioning if you should go to the emergency room

If you’re asking whether your medical issue warrants a trip to the ER, you can speak to a healthcare professional through a virtual urgent care visit to help you decide. If they suggest you don’t need emergency medical attention, you save yourself a trip to the ER.

3.    You’re concerned about communicable diseases

Are you worried about sitting in a clinic or ER waiting room, exposing yourself to infectious diseases? A virtual urgent care visit might help you feel safer and more comfortable. During a virtual appointment, you can speak to a medical professional from the comfort and safety of your home. 

4.    You need a COVID-19 test

Some clinics allow you to start your visit for a covid test using virtual care services. If you are experiencing non-life-threatening COVID-19 systems, you can begin your visit virtually and then head to the nearest center to perform the actual test.

5.    You live in a remote area

For those living in remote areas or experiencing mobility issues, a virtual urgent care visit can prevent an unnecessary trip to a clinic or ER. A virtual option can also reduce the expense of traveling to a clinic, including gas, taxi fare or accommodation.

6.    You need medical advice in the middle of the night

If you fall ill in the middle of the night and would like to speak to a medical professional, you can access virtual urgent care 24/7 from the comfort of your home. There’s no need to get out of bed, get dressed and drive to a clinic. All you have to do is call into urgent care.

Give virtual urgent care a try

Virtual urgent care appointments are available 24/7 and can provide patients with a lot of flexibility. If you find yourself in a situation where you want to avoid driving to a clinic or the emergency room, but you would like immediate medical advice, consider giving virtual urgent care a try and experience the numerous benefits of telehealth.

Prepare for your appointment

Always be prepared. The last thing you want to do is stare your dentist blankly in the face with no idea what you want to ask or talk about. List the specific issues or concerns you want to discuss with your dentist. Note any tooth pain, sensitivity, bite changes, jaw pain or discoloration. If you think you have a cavity, make a reminder to mention it. 

There is no shame in pulling the list up on your phone while in the office. Providing clear and concise information will help your dentist understand the nature of the problem and provide appropriate guidance or treatment. Your dentist may even be impressed with your preparation!

Be transparent

No issue is too little, no concern too trite. Remember, your dentist knows more about teeth than you do. Don’t avoid talking about a problem because you think it’s unimportant. For all you know, that minor issue could indicate a much more significant health problem. Additionally, a lack of transparency could unintentionally cause the dentist to make a recommendation that goes against the real issue.

A dentist is there to help you with your problems and answer your questions. You’re not wasting their time. It’s their job to listen to you. Don’t be afraid to bring up anything and everything regarding your oral health. Your dentist will appreciate the transparency. Attacking the issues early on may save you a lot of trouble later on.

Finally, if you feel like you can’t be open and transparent with your dentist, consider finding a new provider. Try to find a dentist with a reputation for friendly service. You should have a rapport with your dentist to the point where being open and transparent isn’t hard work.

Ask questions

You may have a pressing issue, or you may not. Questions are not limited to your current oral health issues. They could also cover basic queries, from proper brushing techniques to which oral care products can improve your oral health routine. Feel free to ask your dentist about anything that may be confusing, seek clarification on certain issues and learn more about oral health.

Discuss your goals

While they have plenty of time for your questions and concerns, dentists are busy people. They are there to look at your oral health and clean your teeth, but long-term goal planning may not be top of mind. It may fall to you to bring up any specific goals you have. Perhaps you’re interested in getting braces or want to know about the potential for clear aligners. 

If you’ve been going to your dentist for a long time and they haven’t brought up these options, it may be because there’s no huge addressable issue. Braces or aligners could be more elective than necessary. That doesn’t mean you can’t get them! Talk to your dentist about long-term goals, and they will help you develop a plan.

If necessary, mention your orthodontic care

You may be getting orthodontic care at the same time as your next dental appointment. Your dentist will consider your needs while you’re in the office, but it may be wise to discuss specifics with them. If your orthodontist has made any recent changes or recommendations, bring them up with your dentist. This information could inform how the dentist cares for your teeth during this appointment and future appointments. If you have questions about how much invisible aligners cost, your dentist may be able to help there as well.

Bottom line

Effective communication with your dentist is crucial for addressing dental problems and achieving optimal oral health. By preparing in advance, being open and honest, asking questions, discussing concerns and goals, seeking clarification and considering long-term dental care, you can foster a productive and collaborative relationship with your dentist. Remember, your dentist is there to help you!

Wiley Malehorn Sirota & Raynes is a general practice law firm that first opened its doors in 1973. While the firm has seen many changes over the past fifty years, the one constant has been the firm’s focus on providing outstanding legal representation and giving back to the community it has called home for 50 years.

Wiley Malehorn, as most people call it, was founded by childhood friends and Morristown neighbors, Stephen B. Wiley and Donald M. Malehorn. Though the founders passed in 2015 and 2017 respectively, their passion for the law continues through their colleagues, the firm’s five partners, Fredric J. Sirota, Arthur L. Raynes, James M. McCreedy, Eugene Huang, and Kristin V. Hayes, who have each been with the firm for decades.

Steve Wiley had a commitment to community service and helped lead many of the non-profit and charitable endeavors in Morris County, including the Mayo Performing Arts Center, the Morristown Green, the Joint Free Library of Morristown and Morris Township, the County College of Morris, and the United Way. Don Malehorn was a dedicated member of the Morris Educational Foundation and was instrumental in the local Kiwanis. Steve and Don were a driving force behind a 1971 New Jersey Supreme Court decision that promoted integration through the merger of Morristown and Morris Township’s school districts. More than 50 years later Morristown remains a model for other communities both academically and culturally.

Following in the footsteps of Steve Wiley and Don Malehorn, the current partners are each devoted to community service, in addition to the practice of law. Rick Sirota has been instrumental in Operation Holiday, a summer camp program for underserved children. Art Raynes founded and for 32 years has run the Saturdays in Motion program, the largest and longest running non-public recreational program for children with autism and their families in the country. Jim McCreedy is on the Board of Directors for the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey and has been heavily involved in scouting and youth sports. Eugene Huang has also been involved in youth sports, and was on the Board of Preschool of Advantage, which provides free preschool services to disadvantaged children. Kristin Hayes served in her local school community with respect to various anti-bullying efforts, provides pro bono services through the Battered Women’s Legal Advocacy Project, and received the Pro Bono Service Award from the Morris County Bar Association for her years of pro bono legal advocacy work.

When asked about celebrating the 50 year milestone, Rick Sirota said, “We’re happy to celebrate 50 years. To reach 50 years in a competitive law firm field, we’ve needed to provide consistently excellent service, get along with one another, and maintain a work environment conducive to quality legal work. I’m proud that we’ve achieved those goals.”

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• Two restaurants earn a MICHELIN Star for the first time
• Toronto receives its first-ever MICHELIN Green Star
• 21 Bib Gourmand, plus four special awards, also unveiled
• 82 total restaurants, 28 cuisine types reflected in selection

TORONTO, Sept. 27, 2023 — Two restaurants, Kappo Sato and Restaurant 20 Victoria, joined the exclusive list of MICHELIN-Starred eateries in Canada, as the 2023 MICHELIN Guide Toronto was announced Wednesday night.

Overall, the anonymous MICHELIN Guide inspectors awarded Stars to 15 restaurants, with Sushi Masaki Saito remaining atop that list with two MICHELIN Stars. The 2023 selection comprises 82 restaurants and 28 types of cuisine. Chefs and restaurant teams were honored during a ceremony at HISTORY in Toronto.

Frilu, which retained its one MICHELIN Star, and White Lily Diner, which earned a 2023 Bib Gourmand, were awarded the city’s first MICHELIN Green Stars in recognition for their leadership in sustainable gastronomy.

“Since the inaugural selection in Toronto last year, we have seen and felt the momentum grow in this culinary community,” said Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the MICHELIN Guides. “The passion, encouragement and determination has been evident, and we see the fruit of that labor today. We are very pleased to welcome Kappo Sato and Restaurant 20 Victoria into the family of MICHELIN-Starred restaurants. The famously anonymous Guide inspectors were also inspired by the commitment to sustainable gastronomy at Frilu and White Lily Diner.”

Here are the new one-MICHELIN-Star restaurants, with inspector notes from each (inspectors’ comments in full on the MICHELIN Guide website and mobile app):

One MICHELIN Star

Kappo Sato (Japanese cuisine)

Unlike the quiet ceremony of a sushi omakase or the formal structure of a kaiseki, this freewheeling tasting is driven solely by Chef Takeshi Sato, who swims in familiar culinary waters on his own terms. The room is a constant blur of motion thanks to a young team that hurries about preparing multiple courses at once. Sato is their seasoned guide, as he moves with intention, ever masterful with a knife, and works with an impressive bounty of ingredients, most of which are flown in from Japan. Soulful dashi broths weave in and out of view alongside clever courses like tempura fried mackerel with shiso or seared toro nigiri with Japanese green onions.

Restaurant 20 Victoria (Contemporary cuisine)

On a quiet stretch of downtown Toronto, Chef Julie Hyde is making her talents known in this tiny-but-mighty restaurant that captured the city’s heart the day it opened. Top-notch local produce, pristine seafood and refined sauce work make for a delicious trifecta on a seasonal tasting menu that boasts originality in spades. Recent highlights included smoked beets with oyster cream as well as grilled fish with beurre blanc and eel crumble. The dimly lit dining room is elegantly easy-going, as Hyde and her small team work with laser-like focus from a kitchen that’s simultaneously always in use and always pristine.

MICHELIN Green Star

Frilu (Contemporary cuisine)

Owner-established Willowolf Farm uses no-till methods to grow fruits and vegetables for Frilu to use throughout the seasons. Chef John-Vincent Troiano hand-picks produce every morning to ensure a truly sustainable farm-to-table experience. A composting program uses all kitchen waste to enrichen the farm’s soil. Canadian ingredients, bought from local markets and farmers, are used throughout the year.

White Lily Diner (Creative cuisine)

Their organic, no-till farm and greenhouses supply the diner (and more than 15 other restaurants) with produce. They raise chickens to supply the diner with eggs. Only hand tools are used on the farm. Insect netting and greenhouses mitigate insects and disease. An orchard was recently planted and is being cultivated.

Bib Gourmand

The MICHELIN Guide inspectors added four restaurants to the Bib Gourmand list, which recognizes eateries for great food at a great value: BB’s, Sunnys Chinese, Tiflisi and White Lily Diner.

Special Awards

In addition to the Bib Gourmand and Stars, the Guide announced four special awards:

The MICHELIN Guide Ceremony is presented with the support of Capital One.

Hotels

The restaurants join the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay in Toronto and throughout the world. Each hotel has been chosen by MICHELIN Guide experts for its extraordinary style, service and personality — with options for all budgets — and each can be booked directly through the MICHELIN Guide website and app. The selection for Toronto features the city’s most spectacular hotels, including sustainability pioneers like 1 Hotel Toronto, standouts from the “Plus” collection like the Hazelton and the SoHo, cutting-edge boutiques like Ace Hotel and the Drake, and dependable luxury stalwarts like the Ritz-Carlton.

The MICHELIN Guide is a benchmark in gastronomy. Now it’s setting a new standard for hotels. Visit the MICHELIN Guide website, or download the free app for iOS and Android, to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an unforgettable hotel.

The 2023 MICHELIN Guide Toronto selection:

About Michelin North America, Inc.

Michelin, the leading mobility company, is working with tires, around tires and beyond tires to enable Motion for Life. Dedicated to enhancing its clients’ mobility and sustainability, Michelin designs and distributes the most suitable tires, services and solutions for its customers’ needs. Michelin provides digital services, maps and guides to help enrich travel and make them unique experiences. Bringing its expertise to new markets, the company is investing in high-technology materials, 3D printing and hydrogen, to serve a wide variety of industries — from aerospace to biotech. Headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, Michelin North America has approximately 23,000 employees and operates 34 production facilities in the United States and Canada. (michelinman.com)

About Capital One

At Capital One we’re on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they’re passionate about, including dining, music and sports. Learn more at capitalone.com/dining and capitalone.com/entertainment.

For more information, contact:

Andrew Festa
Michelin North America
andrew.festa@michelin.com

Devon Gunn Capital One
devon.gunn@capitalone.com
Phone: 571-308-4762

Tags: Michelin Stars, Michelin Guide, MICHELIN, restaurants, Food, Travel, fine dining, toronto dining, toronto food, michelin stars toronto, green star, michelin green star, michelin restaurants toronto, michelin restaurants, dining, Michelin Guide Toronto, Bib Gourmand

There are several medical procedures available in Rochester that might be cost-effective and yet no less beneficial. From facial rejuvenation to a chemical peel to teeth whitening at the dentist in Rochester—this coastal Great Lakes town has the right treatment for everyone. 

Injectable fillers 

Injectable fillers are commonly used to restore volume to areas like the cheeks, lips, and under-eye—they’re also used to smooth wrinkles and fine lines. 

These fillers generally have minimal side effects since they’re often made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in the body’s skin and joints. Best of all, the results of injectable fillers usually last several months to a year.

Mini Facelift 

The mini facelift is an innovative and affordable non-invasive alternative to traditional facelifts. This procedure can be done under local anesthesia, so it’s generally much cheaper than conventional facelifts performed under general anesthesia. 

The procedure involves making small incisions around the skin’s natural lines, like the ear area, and then tightening the underlying muscles and tissues. A mini facelift may be perfect for those who want to rejuvenate their appearance without the downtime and cost of traditional facelifts.

Facial Rejuvenation with a Fat Transfer

A fat transfer is an all-natural approach to facial rejuvenation that could be affordable and lasting. This treatment involves removing fat from an area of the body with excess and injecting it into depleted areas of the face. 

A fat transfer is often a perfect alternative to facial injectables and fillers, as it uses the body’s natural tissue to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and provide a more youthful look.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels are another effective way to improve the appearance of skin at an affordable cost. 

Chemical peels remove the top layer of skin to remove dead cells. This gentle exfoliation reveals brighter, smoother, and less wrinkled skin underneath. Chemical peels can address issues like acne scars, fine lines, and age spots. 

With a range of intensities available, there might be a chemical peel that’s right for every skin type.

Dental Care 

Dental care is vital to every individual’s health, but it can be expensive. Luckily, Rochester residents have access to a range of dental procedures that are not only affordable but also effective in enhancing their dental health. 

From spa treatments to dental crowns, Rochester dental clinics offer a range of services that could cater to everyone’s needs. Teeth whitening, for example, is often a low-cost, simple and safe procedure that enhances a person’s smile in just one visit. 

Meanwhile, dental crowns can protect damaged teeth from further deterioration and restore the shape and size of the tooth.

While cosmetic procedures tend to come with a high price tag, those who want them may not need to sacrifice their looks or dental health for the sake of affordability. Dental care options like teeth whitenings, facial rejuvenation procedures like fat transfers, injectable fillers, and chemical peels could all be available at reasonable prices. 

This city has a wide range of services catering to the growing demand for cosmetic treatments among the young and old. Cosmetic dentistry, injectable cosmetic treatments, cryoslimming, dermaplaning, and chemical peels are among the services that have increased in popularity. From aestheticians and cosmetologists to the local dentist in Rochester, there are professionals that cater to the needs—and beautification—of many.

Injectable Cosmetic Treatments

Injectable cosmetic treatments like Botox and dermal fillers are becoming more common, making them less costly. The primary purpose of injectable treatments is to enhance the skin and face’s youthfulness and smooth out wrinkles. 

During the consultation, the skincare provider should work with the patient to review the range of treatment options and advise on the best suitable treatment specifically for their needs and condition.

Cryoslimming

Cryoslimming is a procedure that freezes fat cells using a handheld device, which could reduce the number of fat cells in an area. The technology used for this procedure reaches a very low temperature to freeze the targeted cells effectively on various parts of the body, like the stomach, thighs, hips, arms, and more.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses a blade to resurface the skin’s top layer, revealing brighter, more youthful-looking skin. 

This procedure helps to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and other debris from the skin’s surface, unclogging pores and allowing more efficient absorption of skincare products. The best part about dermaplaning is that anyone can undergo the procedure, regardless of skin type or age.

Chemical Peel

An excellent treatment option for overall facial skin rejuvenation is the chemical peel. It’s a non-surgical procedure to remove dead skin cells and help improve the skin’s overall appearance. 

A chemical peel treatment involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which removes damaged layers of skin from the treated area. The result should be smoother, brighter skin, which could improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

Dental Cosmetics

One of the most popular cosmetic treatments is dental cosmetics, including services like teeth whitening, orthodontic treatment, or dental implants if they’ve undergone a tooth extraction procedure. 

Most cosmetic dentists in Rochester use advanced technology and techniques to improve a patient’s oral health and rejuvenate their oral appearance. Several dental practices offer free consultations to help patients understand the specific services they need and the cost of the treatments.

Cosmetic treatments are increasingly becoming more accessible in Rochester, making it easier for those who want to undergo them and feel more confident with their appearance. 

Consult with professionals who offer these treatments and get to know the different types of treatments, how each one works, and which one can provide the best results. With the proper treatment, anyone can achieve their desired aesthetic and feel great about themselves!

Washington, D.C. – The reach and creativity of afterschool programs will be on display in October when programs across the country join the 24^th annual Lights On Afterschool. Some 8,000 events will be held on and around October 26^th to shine a light on the innovative ways afterschool programs support the success and well-being of young people. Organized by the Afterschool Alliance, Lights On Afterschool is the only national rally for afterschool programs, which keep kids safe and healthy, inspire them to learn, and give working parents peace of mind.

“From helping students catch up academically, to helping them connect with mentors and peers, to engaging them with STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), to serving healthy snacks and meals, to inspiring them to get fit, and much more, afterschool programs are providing essential support for our children and youth,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “We are thrilled that so many Lights On Afterschool events this year are showcasing the many ways afterschool programs boost students and support their families.”

The 24^th annual Lights On Afterschool will include events at schools, 4-Hs, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, parks, museums, community centers, town halls, state capitols, and other sites. Among the thousands of Lights On Afterschool events being planned around the country:

Laurel, Delaware: For Lights On Afterschool, the Laurel Boys & Girls Club will hold a Harvest Party in the Park on October 23. The event will include activities such as inflatable water slides, sack races, limbo, and more, as well as a petting zoo, corn hole, face painting, a DJ, a photo station, pumpkin tic tac toe, fall-themed book Bingo, and a cake walk. More than 300 students, parents and community members are expected, and Laurel Mayor John Shwed may attend. Students will deliver remarks about the importance of the Club’s afterschool programs in their lives and communities.

Honolulu, Hawaii: For Lights On Afterschool, the Hawaii Afterschool Alliance will hold a rally at the Hawaii State Capitol Rotunda on October 25. Students will tour the State Capitol building and wave signs with messages about the importance of afterschool programs. The event will also include student performances and testimonies about the impact their afterschool programs have had on their lives. Community leaders will deliver remarks. As many as 300 people may attend.

Poteau, Oklahoma: The Poteau Pirate Quest afterschool program will mark Lights On Afterschool with a literacy-themed event in partnership with the Patrick Lynch Public Library on October 23. The event will include read-alouds from Good Time Theatre performers in costume, sign-ups for library cards and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a literacy class for parents, and literacy-themed Bingo with prizes including grocery and gas cards. The program will give away 500 free books to children and conduct a drawing for free Kindle e-readers. As many as 500 people may attend.

Columbia, South Carolina: On October 12th, the South Carolina Afterschool Alliance will host a STEM Extravaganza for more than 500 students from kindergarten to 12th grade for Lights On Afterschool. The event will take place at Segra Park. Stations along the stadium’s concourse will offer hands-on, interactive STEM-based activities for students. The event will celebrate the important role of afterschool programs in keeping South Carolina’s youth safe, engaged, and prepared to be successful adults.

Nashville, Tennessee: On October 26, Why We Can’t Wait will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with an open house and rally at Cleveland Street Baptist Church, featuring remarks from Tennessee State Senator Heidi Campbell. The nonpartisan event will highlight the importance of youth voices. Students will collaborate on bills to address community issues such as homelessness, violence prevention, gun safety, and more. In addition, Dr. Catherine K. Armwood-Gordon, Associate Professor of Civil and Architectural Engineering at Tennessee State University, will present on drones and career paths in STEM. The event will include spoken word and musical performances. More than 150 people are expected.

Angleton, Texas: Communities In Schools of Southeast Harris County will celebrate Lights On Afterschool with hands-on science experiments at the Young Elementary “fall crawl” festival. The afterschool program will showcase a glowing water science experiment, homemade “ooblek,” and other hands-on “mad scientist” STEM activities. The event will take place on October 26 and more than 200 people are expected.

For the 17^th consecutive year, the New York skyline will shine for afterschool on October 26^th when the iconic Empire State Building is lit in yellow and blue to celebrate.

Some 24.7 million U.S. children not in an afterschool program would be enrolled, if a program were available to them, according to a survey of 1,500 parents commissioned by the Afterschool Alliance and conducted by Edge Research in 2022. That is the highest number ever recorded. Unmet demand for afterschool programs is significantly higher among Latino and Black children (at 60% and 54% respectively) than among children overall (49%). Cost is the top barrier to enrollment, cited by 57% of parents as a reason for not enrolling their child. Ninety percent of parents rate the quality of the afterschool program their child attends as excellent (51%) or very good (39%).

Capital One and Clear Channel Outdoor are generous sponsors of Lights On Afterschool this year.

The Afterschool Alliance is a nonprofit public awareness and advocacy organization working to ensure that all children and youth have access to quality afterschool programs. More information is available at www.afterschoolalliance.org. 

Understanding Mileage Runs

Mileage runs originated from the desire to accrue frequent flyer miles, which can be redeemed for free flights, seat upgrades, and other travel perks. With many different types of credit card rewards programs and loyalty schemes available today, earning miles is more accessible than ever before. However, even with these options, travelers often find themselves just shy of the mileage threshold required for elite status or a coveted award ticket. This is where mileage runs come into play.

A mileage run is essentially a strategic flight booking designed to help travelers reach their mileage or elite status goals. Typically, this involves booking flights with the intention of accumulating as many miles as possible for the least amount of money. These flights are often planned with specific routes, airlines, or fare classes in mind, all aimed at optimizing mileage accrual.

Why Do People Engage in Mileage Runs?

• Elite Status: One of the primary motivations for mileage runs is achieving elite status with an airline or alliance. Elite status offers a range of benefits, such as priority boarding, lounge access, complimentary upgrades, and waived fees. Airlines usually require a certain number of miles flown or segments completed within a calendar year to qualify for elite status. Mileage runs help travelers reach these thresholds without breaking the bank.
• Mileage Redemption: Another reason to embark on a mileage run is to secure enough miles for a dream vacation. Frequent flyer miles can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and more. Mileage runs are an excellent way to stockpile miles quickly, making that dream trip more attainable.
• Maximizing Credit Card Benefits: Many travelers leverage credit card rewards to earn miles. Credit card issuers often offer generous sign-up bonuses and rewards for spending, which can help travelers accumulate miles faster. Mileage runs can complement these efforts by providing an extra boost to your miles balance.
• Status Match Opportunities: Some airlines offer status match programs, allowing travelers with elite status on one airline to receive a similar status level on another. Mileage runs can help you secure the necessary elite status on one airline to then apply for a status match on a different carrier, expanding your travel benefits.

Planning a Successful Mileage Run

Before you embark on a mileage run, there are several factors to consider:

• Cost vs. Benefit: Evaluate the cost of the flights versus the rewards you’ll receive. Ensure that the miles earned and the potential elite status benefits outweigh the expenses, including airfare, taxes, and additional costs.
• Routing and Connections: Plan your route strategically to maximize mileage accrual. This may involve layovers and connections, so be prepared for longer travel times.
• Fare Class and Ticket Rules: Different fare classes offer different mileage earning rates. Check the fare class of your ticket and the airline’s mileage earning chart to understand how many miles you’ll receive.
• Timing: Pay attention to when you book your mileage run. Airlines often run promotions and fare sales that can significantly impact the cost-effectiveness of your trip.
• Elite Status Goals: Know your elite status goals and how close you are to achieving them. Mileage runs should be targeted to help you reach these goals.

Bottom line

Mileage runs may not be for everyone, but for those passionate about travel and eager to maximize the benefits of frequent flyer programs, they can be a valuable strategy. By understanding the basics of mileage runs and carefully planning your trips, you can unlock elite status perks, accumulate miles for future adventures, and make the most of your credit card rewards. Just remember to weigh the costs and benefits, so you’re not only flying for the miles but also for the experiences that await at your destination.