Photos by Cheryl Landes The first Cape Hatteras Lighthouse was built of sandstone with a lamp powered by whale oil. The 90-foot-tall lighthouse started service in 1803. It could not effectively guide ships along the dangerous cape because it was too short, the sandy color blended into the environment, and the signal wasn't strong enough … Continue reading Armchair photo tours: Cape Hatteras Light Station on the Outer Banks of North Carolina

The starting line at a previous Boston Marathon (photo credit: Boston Marathon) When COVID-19 spread to the United States and shelter-in-place rules took effect in Massachusetts, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh postponed the Boston Marathon until September 14. When he later announced that the event would be cancelled this year because of the continued risk to … Continue reading The Boston Marathon, the world’s largest marathon, going virtual for 2020

The 2020 Rip City Race for the Roses went virtual this year because of COVID-19. Although the event started on May 15, it's not too late to participate. Here's how it works: Register for a half marathon, 10K, 5K, or Nike Kids Made to Play 1K. Run, walk, or roll your distance for during the … Continue reading Virtual Rip City Race for the Roses continues through June 30

Cows enjoying hay at a previous Fryeburg Fair in Fryeburg, Maine. The fair was founded in 1851. (photo by Ellen Guilford) The 2020 Fryeburg Fair, which was scheduled for October 4-11, will not be held this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers plan to resume the fair October 3-10, 2021. "We wish to express … Continue reading Fryeburg Fair postponed until 2021

The City of Ridgefield, Washington, is hosting a 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge this summer. Walk, run, hike, paddle, or bike 100 miles from National Trails Day, which is Saturday, June 6, through Monday, September 14. Everyone who finishes within the timeframe will receive a finisher's prize and be entered into a grand prize … Continue reading Take the 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge

An early evening view of the Navy Pier from Chicago 360 (photo by Cheryl Landes) On Wednesday, June 10, Navy Pier in Chicago will reopen for limited and outdoor operations. These places will be open: Navy Pier parking garages, with free access Polk Bros Park Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion North and South Dock Select outdoor … Continue reading Navy Pier in Chicago reopens June 10 at limited capacity

Usually, the Essentially Ellington Festival is held live at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. But this year is far from usual. Due to COVID-19, the festival has moved online to celebrate its 25th anniversary, with a series of 12 events during the week of June 8-12. The festival recognizes jazz students who … Continue reading 25th annual Essential Ellington Festival goes virtual June 8-12