A mosquito bite can be more than just a nuisance. Some can carry dangerous diseases like the West Nile Virus and the Zika virus. Sometimes, insect repellent just isn't enough and more thorough control solutions are needed.

Why is mosquito control at outdoor events and recreational areas so important?

Whether you're attending a music festival, pickleball game, garden art show, pickup basketball game or an outdoor yoga session in a local park, the last thing you want to worry about is mosquitoes.

There is a reason why mosquitoes were ranked as the fourth most hated insect in a survey conducted by Today's Homeowner. You're sitting outside, enjoying a nice summer evening when all of the sudden you get bit by a mosquito … and then another mosquito. You spend the rest of the evening keeping an eye out for these nuisances, until eventually you've had enough and head back indoors.

While mosquitoes can cause itchy skin and general irritation in their presence, there are more important reasons to take mosquito control seriously. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a more dangerous effect of mosquito bites could be the spread of dangerous viruses and diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria.

Fortunately, there are preventative measures you can take to ensure your guests are off the menu for these blood-thirsty insects.

Ways to control mosquitoes at outdoor events:

• Eliminate standing water – Mosquitoes are drawn to standing water as they use it for breeding. Reducing the amount of standing water can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses for your guests.
• Use mosquito netting – Mosquito netting can be particularly useful for events where food is involved. Netting provides a physical barrier between guests and mosquitoes, allowing guests to not worry about potential bites or insects in their food.
• Light mosquito candles – Chemicals, including citronella oil, are present in mosquito candles, which helps repel these bothersome insects from disturbing guests. Candles can add to the ambience of the outdoor event, while serving the practical purpose of controlling mosquitoes.
• Provide mosquito repellent – Repellents are one of the more popular mosquito control strategies as they are easy to find in stores and effective in preventing mosquito bites. According to Scientific American, insect repellents with EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, PMD or icaridin are scientifically proven to deter mosquitoes.
• Schedule events when mosquitoes aren't as active – Mosquito activity is highest at dawn and dusk. Scheduling an event around those times may help prevent the highest chances of mosquito bites.
• Eliminate other attractants – Educate guests and include signs in recreational areas on how perfumes, lotions and dark-colored clothing attracts mosquitoes. Advise guests to wear light-colored clothing and refrain from using strongly scented products to reduce their attractiveness to mosquitoes.

Many event managers opt for physical controls for mosquitoes such as mosquito netting, screens and traps. These physical barriers are environmentally friendly when compared to their chemical counterparts and may be more preferable in less-casual settings where people don't want to spray mosquito repellant while dressed up for a wedding. However, setting up physical barriers in large, outdoor settings can be labor-intensive, expensive and perhaps not entirely effective at providing complete mosquito control in expansive areas.

Chemical controls for mosquitoes such as personal repellents or insecticide spraying offer immediate mosquito control and can be effective methods of containment for larger areas. Some groups may be concerned with how chemical controls can affect the environment, and instead opt for physical controls.

It may be most effective for event managers and recreational managers to implement a mix of both physical and chemical controls. Managing mosquito control in expansive, outdoor spaces can be difficult when trying to keep guests comfortable and safe. Using a physical barrier around food may make more sense than spraying chemicals around food, while spraying insecticide over a large area may make more sense when people are dressed nicely and don't want to use personal repellants. Finding a mix of both physical and chemical controls will keep guests from spending their entire outdoor time worrying about mosquitoes.

Get rid of unwanted guests to ensure the safety of wanted guests

Ensuring effective mosquito control at outdoor events is crucial for the comfort and safety of your guests. By combining both physical and chemical strategies, you can significantly reduce the presence of these annoying and potentially dangerous insects. With thoughtful planning and the right measures in place, your outdoor gatherings can be both enjoyable and safe for everyone.

No matter who comes to your establishment, you should seek to serve them appropriately and those with autism are no different. Simply put, the goal is to make your environment great by being inclusive and accommodating to all. Let's discuss how you can create an autism-friendly event or space for those that have unique sensory, communication and social needs.

Creating an autism-friendly business

According to LivingAutism, the key to establishing great environments for those living with autism is to be aware that those with autism 'experience life very differently than others.' In addition, they believe that an autism-friendly environment 'should reduce the negative effects and enhance the positivity of sensory differences.'

Sensory considerations

Did you know that setting color themes in spaces can help prevent overstimulation? For example, colors like red and yellow are very stimulating. While colors like light blue help with concentration and green can help key restful habits. Understanding how sensory sensitivity can affect people with autism is vital.

• Reduce Overstimulation: Limit loud noises, bright lights and strong smells. Use dimmable lighting and provide noise-canceling headphones.
• Quiet Zones: Designate quiet areas, or sensory-friendly spaces, where individuals can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. These spaces should be comfortable and free from sensory triggers.
• Sensory-Friendly Activities: Include activities that cater to various sensory needs, such as tactile play (sand, water, clay), visual aids (calming visuals, low-stimulation videos) and safe, physical activities. When possible, you could even implement sensory sensitive Sundays to create a dedicated day for sensory-friendly activities.

Clear communication

People with autism may have difficulties with social skills and interpreting nonverbal cues, idioms and implied meanings. Clear and direct communication minimizes the risk of anxiety, misinterpretation and misunderstanding. Use clear, straightforward language in written and verbal communication.

• Visual Supports: Use visual schedules, signs and symbols to help navigate the event or space. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) cards can be helpful.
• Preparation Materials: Provide detailed information about what to expect beforehand, including pictures and descriptions of the environment, activities and potential sensory experiences.

Structured environment

Regardless of how long you have an event going, it is great to have a dialogue of what the expectations of the day or event is. Those with autism have a hard time adjusting to abrupt change for them to prepare.

• Predictability: Ensure the event or space has a predictable structure. Clearly outline the schedule and any changes that might occur.
• Routine and Consistency: Maintain consistent routines and procedures. Inform attendees in advance of any deviations from the norm.

Inclusive activities

Too much space is not a good thing, but not enough space is a bad thing. Allow space to rock, bend and swing as this is a way of grounding. Grounding for those with autism is to manage their sensory input, emotions and behavior by staying connected to the present moment and their immediate environment. Focus on not to over cluttering and crowding areas. Too much of the two can cause overstimulation.

• Variety of Choices: Offer a range of activities that cater to different interests and abilities. Include options for solo and group participation.
• Accommodate Different Needs: Ensure activities can be adapted to suit various levels of sensory input, motor skills and cognitive abilities.
• Mobility Considerations: Ensure spaces are accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. This includes ramps, wide aisles and accessible restrooms.
• Comfortable Seating: Provide seating options that allow for movement and comfort, such as bean bags or rocking chairs.

Great examples of autism-friendly adjustments

• Museums and Libraries: Offer sensory-friendly hours with adjusted lighting and reduced noise levels.
• Theaters and Cinemas: Provide sensory-friendly screenings with lower volume and dimmed lights, and allow for movement and noise within the audience.
• Playgrounds: Design playgrounds with sensory-friendly equipment, such as swings, tactile panels and quiet zones.

Develop autism-friendly initiative for your business

Autism manifests in a wide variety of ways, and individuals with autism can have a broad range of abilities, challenges and characteristics. Allow a space for chances of improvement by allowing feedback from your participants and always allowing room for adjustments. Give the proper training for your staff or helpers like Autism Awareness Training and Emergency Preparedness. Set your events and establishment apart by equipping your staff with tools to understand autism and how to best handle stressful situations with calming techniques.

Source: Living Autism

Airlines have rebooted as lockdowns have subsided, vaccine passport mandates were dropped, and people felt more comfortable flying once again. As the industry was forced to make up for lost time via rehiring staff, adding flights to their schedules, and meeting an ever-growing demand, the "return to normal" had arrived. Or had it? Some markets are still playing catch-up.

Cruel season ahead?

In April, Axios reported that industry executives were already warning of the summer challenges ahead. This time around, concerns about air traffic control staffing levels are at play – remnants of the rapid reopening/rehiring/retraining required for such roles. One key New York-area facility is only bolstered by about half of its target staffing levels. Nationwide, this number sits around 80%. Because New York is a major hub, any issues here run the risk of reverberating across the United States.

Additionally, airlines have taken to using larger planes, running fewer flights in the airspace. With less flights transporting travelers, smaller hubs risk getting left behind, as the demand shifts entirely towards the major airlines. Throw in hazardous weather delays, cancellations, and tech outages such as the FAA's that grounded passengers nationwide in January, passengers suddenly have a lot more to worry about than getting to their gate on time.

The runway towards compensation

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the airline industry had been in a finger-pointing scenario for months prior to Biden's announcement. Biden thanked American citizens for keeping the industry afloat in 2020 via $50 billion in taxes, and says now is the time "to get American air travelers a better deal."

Buttigieg, in a statement, said that for the first time in history, this new rule proposes to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking fees. The end goal is to provide timely customer service for passengers, and to avoid having them foot the bill if facing a delay or cancellation.

To further support this initiative, the U.S. Department of Transportation has set up a website – FlightRights.gov – which aims to demonstrate how each airline offers compensation, amenities, and vouchers during flight disruptions that are within the airline's control. The DOT encourages airlines to strengthen their commitments to customers, and will update the site with any new policies that are created, moving forward.

How soon is now?

While these new regulations paint a rosy picture of summer travel, there may still be a bumpy road ahead. The realities of hiring and training new staff, creating infrastructure for compensation, and implementing a plan takes time.

Consumer groups applauded the actions, but lawmakers and academics shared other perspectives. The Washington Post cited Christian McMullen, a spokesman for committee Republicans, in saying that this will re-regulate every facet of passenger travel, and increase costs for travelers.

Robert Mann, of R.W. Mann & Co., an aviation consulting firm, says that travelers might be misled into thinking that they would be eligible for compensation this summer, rather than months and years from now.

What lies ahead

How will the next few months play out for the airline industry? The implementation of these customer service measures will tell. It's possible that staffing levels will eventually catch up to pre-COVID levels, but airlines are unable to control every aspect of travel, especially in regards to hazardous weather. That may be the next frontier for the DOT and Biden administration.

Flight delays and the future of travel

The "future of travel" is often written about, and this time, it's regarding an area of focus that should have existed long before a global pandemic took hold. The impacts felt by the airline industry over the last three years have been largely publicized – cancellations, layoffs, reduced flight schedules and a massive loss in revenues. As both the airline and hospitality industries attempt to rebuild during a time of increased demand for travel, a renewed focus on customer service and compensation represents an opportunity for a more seamless airline experience, even if there are several steps to be taken.

However on May 9, 2023, Airbnb Inc. shares posted their biggest-ever decline after the vacation home-rental company gave a cautious outlook for revenue, suggesting that rising prices and a shaky economy are beginning to impact consumer's appetites for trips.

Airbnb Bust?

Hosts are also complaining of low bookings as Airbnb occupancy rates fell in 31 of the top 50 largest U.S. short-term rental markets from July through September of 2022, according to AirDNA. In August of 2022, AirDNA reported that markets where supply had grown by more than 50% had an average occupancy decline of over 10% and saw revenues drop by 8%.

Customers still consider rentals while traveling, but not without complaints. Rising cleaning and service fees, along with growing lists of "chores" for guests to complete before they leave the property, are causing individuals to reconsider if a rental is really worth it, or if they should go back to staying in hotels.

In a viral tweet garnering over 50,000 likes, Amy Dixon claimed that the "Airbnbust is upon us," with users echoing her claim by detailing a significant increase in prices.

Include Fees in Your Travel Budget

It's common for a listing to appear like the cheaper option while searching for a stay, but most properties won't mention the $200 cleaning fee, $250 service fee and $200 taxes and fees on top of the $300-a-night stay until the customer gets to the checkout page.

On top of the extra fees, guests are typically asked to take out the trash, strip the linens on their bed and wipe down kitchen counters before they leave—something they don't have to worry about while staying in a hotel. Guests have also mentioned being paranoid that hosts are watching them from cameras posted outside the property and have to deal with the looming possibility that the host will cancel on them leading up to their stay.

In October of 2022, Buzzfeed News, asked its community members to share all the reasons why they've stepped away from booking Airbnbs. Commenters flooded the replies with gripes and concerns about the rental service. "Airbnb hosts have gotten so ridiculous with their pricing and expectations, we may as well stay home," commented @morganleslay. "The last one we went to wanted an additional $5 per person for hot tub use and they had cameras in the back."

Some Hope For Vacationers

It appears Airbnb has gotten wind of these growing complaints, as they released over 50 new features to their site at the beginning of May, including the "Airbnb Rooms" feature, discounts on stays longer than three months and the option to opt-in to a payment plan, paying interest-free installments over the course of six weeks.

"With Airbnb Rooms, we're getting back to the idea that started it all – back to our founding ethos of sharing," said Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder and CEO in a press release. "Airbnb Rooms are often more affordable than hotels and they're the most authentic way to experience a city. This is the soul of Airbnb."

With the busy summer travel season approaching, only time will tell if this revamp helps sway travelers to book a rental property, or if hotels will continue to make up ground against them.

Airbnb Rental or Hotel?

A lot goes into a traveler's choice of lodging. Beyond location and price, the duration of a stay will help determine whether they opt for a short-term rental or a long-term commitment. While contemplating your next vacation, here are some pros and cons to consider for your next accommodations:

Organizations continually face obstacles such as employee turnover, recruitment and training costs, all while continuing to support current employees, and attempting to grow their business. If an organization’s end goals are misaligned from the start, clients will be able to pinpoint these discrepancies. However, employees that are well-trained, knowledgeable about the topics and policies at hand, and are continually invested in by their companies serve as an important part of the customer experience journey.

It's not a one-sided situation. Clients are also wising up to with whom they are doing business. They too want to work with companies that match their values, will help them grow, and provide them with an excellent customer experience.

Current and future considerations

Customers can be fickle. Think of the last negative experience you had and ask if that has changed your consumer behavior in any way. Poor experiences drive customers away, and not everyone will remain to offer another chance.

Big brands are already taking action. This was a hot topic at the recent X4 Summit in Salt Lake City, and Reworked tells how Coca-Cola and KFC have started their transformations. Facing disruptions during the pandemic, Coca-Cola found this to be the perfect time for a reset, while KFC recognized the need to change its operations for guests in light of the pandemic and beyond – with click-and-collect and delivery options proliferating quickly.

Therefore, if you’re reading this and starting to wonder about that partner who didn’t renew their contract, it might be time to evaluate what went wrong, and how your company can re-route moving forward.

Where might any gaps exist? How well-equipped are employees to work with and respond to clients? Do workers have a sense of agency? Having some self-awareness about company processes will go a long way. It can be counterproductive to assume that things are fine because no one has complained, without asking those employees themselves.

Taking action

Perhaps certain processes are outdated, or could use a revamp. What struggles do employees continually face with customers, and is there a way to straighten them out? Get their feedback, map their journey, and show that improving their daily processes is paramount.

At the same time, it’s important to see where customers stand, if they are satisfied with the business partnership, or ready to leave when the contract ends.

Customer feedback surveys are just one way to touch base with clients, but establishing an ongoing dialogue with them will show that your company truly values them as a business partner. Whether it’s monthly check-ins, updates about your product lines, or other new offerings, additional reach-outs will open the lines of communication, and further the likelihood of meeting their business goals.

Strong communication between management and employees will not only show that their experiences are valued, but that they have input in shaping company procedures moving forward. Gaps and inconsistencies cannot be ignored, as business is truly on the line! One does not want the attitudes of their staff negatively impacted because they don’t feel heard or supported. This will end up impacting customers too, if they already haven’t started to see any cracks themselves.

Once the steps toward improvement have begun, keep evaluating the experiences at hand. This is not a “set it and forget it” task, as both the employee and customer journey continue to evolve. Just look at how different the working experience looked in 2019, and then in 2020.

Integrating the employee and customer experience will allow management teams to identify where current processes stand, how they should evolve and which obstacles should be eliminated. Clients will benefit from working with a company whose teams are on the same page and are fully aware of all aspects of the working relationship. In turn, employees will feel appreciated, and be less likely to leave for another opportunity.

A better understanding of where both employees and customers stand will help put a plan into action. What can be fixed now, next week, this quarter, or within the year?

Who's getting revenge, exactly? Tourists aren't tagging #revengetravel when they post highlights from their vacations, but the travel industry has certainly taken note of this concept's impact on their daily operations. Longer, more luxurious trips are being taken, with the rationale that life is short, and who can predict what unprecedented events may impact the future? Travelers are flexing their newfound freedom by "seeking vengeance" against COVID after being confined to their homes during lockdowns and splurging on amenities more than they would have pre-pandemic.

The origin of revenge travel

The first hint of a pandemic-era travel boom began with the introduction of COVID vaccines in 2021, which lead to lighter travel restrictions and fewer lockdowns. Tourists soon cautiously dipped their toes back into the travel pool. Americans largely stuck with domestic travel by returning to their favorite spots or small and rural towns where they could socially distance themselves, according to Forbes.

Amusement parks and a desire for new scenery were the largest draws for those looking for a vacation, reinforcing the notion that travelers were eager to escape their homes for a new adventure — and it was only the beginning.

Where revenge travel stands today

Despite the looming presence of the Omicron variant, summer 2022 travel built upon the previous year's growth, this time trending towards lengthier vacations and increased demand for international travel.

In June 2022, TIME reported that 65% of Americans were planning to travel for leisure in the next six months, and that passport searches were up 300% in the first quarter of 2022. But with bookings higher than ever, is the travel industry able to sustain the demand?

The impact of revenge travel

The hits taken by the hospitality industry throughout have pandemic have been largely publicized — resulting in cancellations, layoffs, reduced housekeeping services and a massive loss in revenue. As the industry attempts to rebuild, the realities of vacationing in a pandemic are more reliant on availability rather than the idea of a dream vacation.

In the early days of the pandemic, gas prices sank to a new low as mandated quarantines became a part of our daily routines. The present demand for oil skyrocketed again as restrictions loosened, lockdowns ended and travel ramped up, quickly outpacing American crude oil refineries' fuel production abilities. End consumers soon shouldered the financial burden while jet fuel and gasoline prices went for a joyride.

According to NPR, airline tickets are 35% higher than they were in July 2019. And it doesn't end there — many domestic airlines were forced to remove flight routes and reduce staff. These changes slowed the pace of flyer processing and subjected both travelers and staff to less-than-pleasant airport experiences such as long lines, flight delays and baggage complications.

Taking into consideration these complications, operators spanning several industries faced the task of reopening, hiring and training new employees at an unprecedented pace. Travelers may be enthusiastically clicking "Book Now" but should manage their expectations, as there may be some hiccups along the way as society adjusts to our "new" normal.

Moving forward: Revenge travel's next trip

How will the next few months, or even the next year, play out for the travel industry? Time, and the trajectory of any new variants and additional vaccine efforts, will tell. It's possible that the wave of travel bookings will "self-regulate" as tourists satisfy their travel bug. But that wave may grow increasingly persistent, putting the responsibility on the travel industry to become even more resilient, despite continuing to operate through a pandemic.

Revenge travel provides an opportunity for the industry, that pre-COVID, was unheard of. But for all the think pieces constantly speculating about the "future of travel," we may finally be at that point. Travel operators must evolve in light of global events and consumer demands while scaling their growth in a sustainable manner.

At first, it was all fun in games. That was until reality set in, and I began to feel I was getting too comfortable in my routine. It started with an unhealthy sleeping schedule and feeling disengaged from my peers. Soon, the lines blurred between my work life and home life as I found myself unable to disconnect from work even though my responsibilities hadn't changed. The simple fact that my home was my workplace made it difficult to set boundaries.

Eventually, I had to accept that my social life and work performance would continue to suffer if I didn't create a routine to balance both parts of my life. I began to reflect on my current habits and what boundaries I needed in my life to help regain that balance. Here are seven things I learned throughout my journey to reset my work-life balance and set my own routine while working remotely.

Learn your work style

Learning what's best for your work performance is critical. Each employee has their own combination of systems, skills and tools that work best for them. Some stay organized with handwritten notes and check off their tasks as they complete them. Others have adapted technology into their workflows and work best with a digital planner.

At home, you also now have the ability to listen to music out loud. Whether it's your Spotify On Repeat playlist or an eight-hour-long YouTube Binaural beat video, listen to something that will keep you focused and motivated. As you reflect on your work style, take your time learning what helps you thrive. And don't forget to share it with your peers and listen to their recommendations — you might benefit from something in each other's individual work styles.


Socialize with your peers

Participate in staff outings and take the time to get to know your peers. These are people who are there to help and support you in your professional growth journey. Even if you decide to take your career elsewhere, put effort into making a connection. Don't be afraid to check on your coworkers. Getting off topic before a team meeting isn't a crime. Sharing adorable photos of your dog as a puppy or the latest trending meme can help your team bond.

You might ask, "What if our company employees are scattered throughout the globe?" Well, it's 2022, and there are plenty of virtual activities out there for remote teams that will help you socialize and support your teammates.

Use your paid time off

Don't guilt-trip yourself when using those well-deserved vacation days. Working from home is rewarding, and you have more time to yourself, but weekends and holidays shouldn't be the only time you take off work. When working from home, you might find that you need a break from your daily environment, too.

44% of Americans regret not traveling or taking trips more often. Taking advantage of your PTO by going somewhere new is a great way to distance yourself from a daily work-from-home routine. The excitement of new places and experiences might just be what you need to relax and step away from the daily grind. Your travels or time off might even motivate you to be more productive during working hours so you can take your next vacation faster.


Be mindful of your meals

Almost every healthcare professional will tell you that taking care of your body is essential. There are many different approaches to physical health, but eating food that benefits you is a great step in the right direction. With the kitchen only steps away, it's easy to take multiple trips to your fridge or pantry throughout the work day – especially if you're procrastinating on that email to your team lead. Keeping healthy snacks on hand is a great way to give your body the nutrients it needs, so try adding some veggies and hummus to your pizza rolls for your mid-morning snack.

A heavy workload can also make it more difficult for you to eat well. If you don't have the time or energy to get groceries or cook meals during the week, your workload will have you ordering take-out for lunch and dinner. Planning out your meals, ordering curbside pickup for groceries, and picking one day of the week to meal prep can help you save that precious weeknight downtime and take care of your body.


Prioritize your mental health

Mental health awareness is on the rise as younger generations continue to address the less-accepted side of personal health. Today, we're constantly reminded of mental health's importance by references on social media, videos and more. Remote work can have a positive impact on your mental health, but it can also do the opposite.

Neglecting your mental health can have many long-term impacts on your life and your performance at work. Don't be a stranger to the signs of an unhealthy mentality in yourself. Even if nothing "major" is affecting your life, the practice of positivity and gratitude goes a long way. There's always room for healthy self-improvement. Keep in mind that mental health is a part of everyone's overall health, so reaching out to another person might make your day better.


Shut off your screens

Between computers, cell phones, TVs, thermostats and more, we often get tired of looking at screens throughout the day. Pulling out your phone during breaks and personal time won't give your brain the breather it needs from processing information on a screen.

Focus on clearing your mind: Try going for a walk outdoors and take some time to appreciate the nature around you. Reading a book or picking up a hobby can benefit you in many ways. Don't forget to let yourself mentally clock out as well: Avoid things that remind you of work outside of business hours to keep yourself from late-night logins.

Celebrate your own wins

Even when you're working your hardest, you might not always receive a raise or a pat on the back from others. Don't be so hard on yourself that you forget to celebrate your own achievements. We are our own worst enemies when the little voice in our head keeps saying, "You could've done better. This could have been different." Take the time to reward yourself for your accomplishments and celebrate your wins, big and small.

Since setting my own routine, I've learned that there's no perfect balance on the work-life scale. Sometimes your personal life requires more attention, or you begin to put more energy into your career because you want to advance. One side of the scale will almost always be higher than the other, but the weight distribution doesn't need to be the same each day. Things change, and so should your work-life balance. Take a few minutes from time to time to reflect on how your current balance fits into your priorities and adjust the scales and you might find the work-life balance that's right for you along the way.

As the Chickasaw dancers demonstrated their stomp dance, a Cherokee storyteller related a creation tale, a Kaw Nation contingent shared its tribe's history and visitors followed teachers' directions for weaving baskets and making cornhusk dolls.

Established to promote the history, cultures, contributions and resilience of the First American Nations in Oklahoma, the museum has finally become a reality after more than three decades of planning, funding problems and construction delays.

Welcoming visitors to the gala ceremony, James Pepper Henry, executive director of the museum and vice-chairman of the Kaw Nation, noted, "We have accomplished something that has never been done on this scale, to take full authority over the content, development and interpretation of our First American histories and cultural materials."

Complicating the planning, says Henry, "was how to devise a way to show the collective histories of 39 tribes and the common circumstances that brought those tribes here to Oklahoma."

Making things even more challenging is the fact that only a few tribal nations were indigenous to the region. Most came as a result of the Indian Removal Act of 1830, when more than 100,000 Native Americans were forced from their ancestral homelands to Indian Territory – or what is now Oklahoma. The state's name comes from two Choctaw words – "Okla" and "Homma," meaning "Red People."

During this migration, called the Trail of Tears, more than 15,000 men, women and children perished of disease, starvation and exposure to the elements. By the time Oklahoma entered the union in 1907, it was home to a patchwork of native peoples from across the country.

"Oklahoma, or Indian Territory, was originally meant to be a giant internment camp," said Henry. "It's a brutal history and we haven't shied away from telling those stories. But it also is a story of perseverance – a story of survival. We've overcome a lot of those challenges, and now we're reclaiming our cultural life ways. We are not relics of the past. We are still here and we're moving forward into the future. This museum celebrates that."

The museum opens with two inaugural exhibits. OKLA HOMMA (those Choctaw words that later became the state's name) is an original, mixed media interactive exhibition that highlights the stories of tribal peoples who lived in the area now known as Oklahoma. The second exhibit, WINIKO: Life of an Object – a captivating collection of objects on a 10-year loan from the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC – showcases 144 everyday cultural objects collected in the late19th century from tribes in Oklahoma.

"There are a total of 29 short films between both exhibitions, and there are lots of interactive exhibits too," says Shoshana Wasserman, deputy director of the museum, and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, "It's not just walking through and seeing a bunch of cultural material in cases."

The two buildings making up the museum campus – the 4,000-square-foot FAM Center that serves as an educational resource center, and the 175,000-square-foot museum – are nearly as much a part of the story as what's inside them.

Viewed from above, the buildings are organized around a theme of concentric circles: the buildings appear as arcs, all parts making up the whole. A circular courtyard occupies the center and there's a 90-foot-tall arched glass half-circle (or dome) known as the Hall of the People that takes its inspiration from grass houses typical of the Caddo and Wichita peoples. Beyond a massive plaza sits a man-made mound that pays homage to the pre-Columbian Mound Builder cultures common to the Lower Mississippi Valley.

The First Americans Museum is prominently situated on a 40-acre tract along the southern bank of the Oklahoma River near the intersection of Interstates 40 and 35.

Visitor amenities include a full-service restaurant and a café/coffee shop that offer menu items inspired by authentic Native recipes and tribe-specific dishes. And, of course, there's a Museum Store, offering handmade jewelry, basketry, ceramics, weavings, clothing and artworks created by Oklahoma Native artists.

Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The museum is closed on Tuesday. Adult admission is $15; $10 for tribal members, seniors (62 and older), military members and students (13 and older) and $5 for youngsters (4-12). Children 3 and younger are admitted free.

Notably, the hospitality and tourism industry is unlikely to recover any time soon. On the one hand, there is no real sense of recovery until people are traveling for business again. Yet, more companies have postponed the return-to-office plan and let employees continue working from home. On the other hand, the industry is facing an extreme labor shortage that slows down its recovery.

A restaurant shut down after the entire staff quit

Last week, a burrito chain restaurant in Georgia was forced to shut down because its entire staff quit. The staff put a sign in the front of the restaurant, saying that they had worked seven days a week for a month. They barely had any time off. Eventually, they quit due to being underpaid and a lack of appreciation.

Most likely, the restaurant was short-staffed and overworked the associates. When workers felt burnout at work but received no recognition or appreciation, they fired the employer. Having the staff work overtime is not the solution to the labor shortage issue.

How big is the labor-shortage gap?

In July, the U.S. recorded 10.9 million openings, but there were only 8.7 million unemployed workers in the market. In other words, the market will still have 2.1 million unfillable vacancies even after all 8.7 million unemployed workers have taken a job offer. Moreover, every industry reported more job openings in July 2021 than at the pre-pandemic level in February 2020.

A labor shortage does not seem to be a short-term threat to the hospitality and tourism industry

Jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry are demanding and typically known for irregular and long working hours. Still, workers in this sector usually earn minimum wages. Moreover, the frontline employees are expected to provide exceptional customer service even when they find themselves exposed to an abusive situation by “uncivilized” consumers. It is not surprising to see that some hospitality workers who were laid off or furloughed during the pandemic would have moved to other sectors. Plus, people might have formed different perspectives of family, life, and work after the pandemic.

Now that almost every industry is facing a challenge to fill the vacancies, businesses across the board have increased wages and offer sign-on bonuses to lure workers. A local bus company in Connecticut, for example, is now offering a $7,000 signing bonus for school bus drivers. Because the customer service skills built up in hotels or restaurants are highly transferable, why wouldn’t the hospitality workers consider the ample attractive opportunities in the market?

Hospitality workers are leaving the industry

A recent survey with about 13,000 job seekers by Joblist, an employment-search engine, reveals a few alarming challenges facing the hospitality and tourism industry. For example:

• Over 50% of U.S. hospitality workers would not go back to their old jobs.
• Above 1/3 would not even consider returning to the industry.

When they were asked the reasons why they were switching to other industries, they cited the following:

• Different work setting (52%)
• Higher pay (45%)
• Better benefits (29%)
• More schedule flexibility (19%)
• Remote work opportunities (16%)

What can be done in the hospitality and tourism industry to address the labor shortage?

First and foremost, companies should listen to the workers and see what they want and dislike about their jobs. Referring to the above Joblist survey results as an example, it is good that many hospitality companies have already increased wages and benefits for their employees.

Then, it is unrealistic to expect hospitality companies to let all frontline employees provide customer service remotely while staying at home. Yet, companies may consider redesigning the existing job functions by creating a “fun” work environment and offering flexible schedules.

Lastly, it is essential to restructure the service process with as much automatic service as possible. The time has come when automatic self-service is more acceptable among consumers. Plus, machines might just be an excellent solution to the labor shortage and soaring labor costs.

Are people in luck if they are looking for a career opportunity in the hospitality and tourism industry?

Probably. The work-from-home and flexible work schedule have made it easier for workers to arrange a job interview. Job candidates might also be in a better position now when negotiating the terms with a prospective employer.

Meanwhile, it is crucial to acquire the skills needed in the future work environment. People are expected to work side-by-side with machines to deliver exceptional outputs at work.

In the end, I recommend that people who want to quit their jobs right now consider if they have already secured a better or equivalent offer from another employer. It is wise to have a job while looking for a job, in my opinion.

Do you believe labor shortage is a short-term issue or a long-term threat to the hospitality and tourism industry? Why? What suggestions will you make for businesses to cope with such a challenge?

A stunned nation watched on September 14, 2001 as President Bush stood somberly atop the still-smoldering ruins of Ground Zero – with that very bullhorn in hand – to address a cheering throng of gritty rescue workers, responding famously, "I can hear you…the rest of the world hears you!"

Thus a common bullhorn became a powerful and symbolic reminder of an epic moment in our nation's history – while at the same time serving as an example of the important role presidential libraries and museums play in preserving the tangible elements of that history.

America's presidential library system includes 14 libraries administered and operated by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). These repositories preserve and make available to the public the papers, letters, records, collections and historical artifacts of every president since Herbert Hoover, whose term ended in 1933.

Libraries have been established for presidents who preceded the official start of NARA's administration, dating back to George Washington, but they're owned and operated by private foundations, historical societies or universities.

When Congress passed the Presidential Libraries Act of 1955, it established a system of privately erected but federally maintained libraries. In essence, the act mandated that future libraries be built with funds from private and non-federal public sources and turned over to NARA to operate and maintain.

In a moment, you'll learn what's on offer at 5 of the 14 NARA presidential libraries – but before visiting there are a few things you should know. These are not libraries in the traditional sense. In fact, they're way more museum than library. Most letters, books and documents are archived behind the scenes where they are available for researchers. During your visit, you'll view a collection of the most important and visual artifacts connected to the subject presidency. Newer libraries have taken a page from Disney by adding high-tech exhibits, touch-panel interactive displays and even limousines and aircraft that once served our presidents.

Each of the libraries is open year-round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day and admission fees are nominal, generally $20 or less for adults. Be advised, however, that temporary COVID-related closures may be in effect – so it is strongly recommended that you call or check the website of any library you plan to visit (and purchase tickets in advance).

Let's begin with a closer look at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Housed in a monumental 226,560 sq. ft. neoclassical structure wrapped in red brick and cream-colored limestone, it was designed to fit in with the surrounding SMU campus in Dallas.

Visitors enter the complex through a courtyard, greeted by larger-than-life statues of both Bush presidents – the only father and son chief executives since John and John Quincy Adams in the early 1800s. Just inside is a towering 67-foot-high entryway called Freedom Hall, featuring a 360-degree HD video wall screening a montage of American presidents.

Permanent exhibits include a full-scale replica of the Oval Office and the Decision Points Theater. That exhibit's interactive features take visitors “inside” the decision-making processes – they can even join in on the action using touch screens – as President Bush and his aides dealt with critical events and crises including wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and Hurricane Katrina.

When it opened in 2004 in a park-like setting on the banks of the Arkansas River in Little Rock, AR, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum created quite a stir as the largest (158,000 sq. ft.) and most expensive ($165 million) of presidential libraries -- milestones later eclipsed by the George W. Bush complex described above. It is nonetheless an extraordinary facility – a sleek, futuristic steel and glass edifice that cantilevers over the river -- replacing a rundown industrial site.

Its design, Clinton says, was inspired by the theme of his presidency, "Building a bridge to the 21^st century." The library is Little Rock's most popular tourist attraction, logging nearly a half-million visitors a year.

What draws the public is an amazing array of exhibits and more than 100,000 artifacts, including Clinton's "Cadillac One" limousine, full-size replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room and a second floor gallery revealing a 110-foot timeline of the Clinton years as president.

Gracing a hilltop in Simi Valley, CA, about 40 miles north of Los Angeles, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum honors the life and accomplishments of one of the most popular chief executives in modern American history.

The complex also serves as President Reagan's final resting place following his interment there in 2004. Visitors are invited to pay respects at the family tomb and memorial on the library grounds.

Beyond its relatively modest entrance lies the most spectacular element of the library – the 90,000 sq. ft. Air Force One Pavilion that features the actual Boeing 707 utilized during Reagan’s administration.

Permanent exhibits begin with Reagan's childhood and follow his life through his film career, marriage to Nancy Davis Reagan and his political career, including two terms as Governor of California.

The museum was thoroughly renovated in 2011 with the addition of 18 galleries, including the GE Theater, which shows excerpts from Reagan’s eight-year stint as host of the popular TV series sponsored by General Electric.

No matter how you view it – from inside or out – the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum is defined by its striking architecture as embodied in one of the most brilliant designs ever created by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei. Soaring nine stories above Columbia Point facing Boston’s waterfront, the angular modernistic complex belies its age of nearly 42 years, appearing as if it might have been built only yesterday.

Overlooking the sea that he loved and the city that launched his political career, the library and museum stand as a vibrant tribute to the life and times of President Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

Visitors are introduced to the exhibit area with a film about Kennedy's early life, leading to his nomination at the 1960 Democratic National Convention. Next comes a linked series of exhibition areas beginning with Kennedy’s campaign against Richard Nixon – the first to feature live television debates – and his election as the 35^th president of the United States.

Subsequent exhibits highlight important events during the Kennedy presidency including the "space race" with the Soviets and the Cuban missile crisis – all laced with video and audio recordings that remind us of this president’s extraordinary oratory skills.

As visitors round a corner, they are suddenly confronted with a stark corridor, its walls painted black, labeled simply "November 22,1993," where a series of TV screens loop through the tragic news of that day.

Yes, Toto, we are definitely in Kansas for this one – Abilene to be exact – a city on the plains best known as the original “cow town” of the American West and also as home to the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum.

Eisenhower grew up in Abilene where he was a high school football and baseball star. Soon thereafter he received an appointment to West Point where he graduated at the top of his class, setting the stage for a brilliant military career, gaining distinction as Supreme Commander of Allied Expeditionary Forces in World War II.

Upon his retirement, "Ike" returned to Abilene in 1952 to claim the Republican Party nomination for the presidency, winning in a landslide to become the nation's 34^th chief executive. He was re-elected by an even wider margin in 1956.

A visit to Ike's library begins with a brief film reviewing the president's life and introducing the various components of the complex that spread over a peaceful park-like setting. They include a library building open only to researchers, a low-slung limestone museum building containing 30,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, the Eisenhower Boyhood Home and the Place of Meditation. The latter is chapel that serves as the final resting place of the president and First Lady Mamie.

The museum is divided into five major galleries, the Introductory Gallery, Changing Exhibits Gallery, First Lady's Gallery, Military Gallery and the President's Gallery.

The Military Gallery attracts the most interest, featuring a variety of strategic wartime maps, documents and photographs. One particularly fascinating artifact here is the Order of Victory medallion– a five-pointed platinum star surrounded by 16-carat array of diamonds – presented to Ike by the Soviets following World War II. It’s the USSR's highest military decoration, having been handed out to only four other foreigners up to that time.