Yes, you can see them in Copper Harbor, Michigan. The northern parts of Keweenaw Peninsula are some of the best areas in the state to see the Northern Lights (aurora borealis). The peninsula's location on Lake Superior provides dark, light-pollution free skies and unobstructed views of the northern horizon, which are ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights.
The best time to see the northern lights in Copper Harbor is during the equinoxes (around September 22 and March 22) and the months leading up to and following the solar maximum, which occurs every 11 years. However, the northern lights can be seen in Copper Harbor throughout most of the year.
Here are a few ways you can increase your experience and chances of seeing the northern lights in Copper Harbor and on the Keweenaw Peninsula:
Check the solar activity forecast: The Kp index is a measure of solar activity, and it's a good indicator of how likely it is that the northern lights will be visible. You can check the Kp index online or on a smartphone app.
Find a dark sky location: The darker the sky, the better your chances of seeing the northern lights. Avoid light pollution from cities and towns, and look for a location with unobstructed views of the northern horizon.
Be patient: The northern lights aren't always visible, even when the conditions are right. If you're patient and keep your eyes peeled, you may just be rewarded with a spectacular light show.
Here are some specific places in Copper Harbor where you can try to see the northern lights:
Brockway Mountain Drive: This scenic drive offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area.
Esrey Park: This park has a dark sky designation and offers unobstructed views of the northern horizon.
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge: This lodge is located in the heart of the Keweenaw Peninsula and offers great views of the northern lights.
Great Sand Bay: This beach is located between Eagle Harbor and Eagle River and offers stunning views of Lake Superior.
Walter Lantz, as you probably know, was an American cartoonist. In addition to that, he was an animator, a producer, and a director. He also founded Walter Lantz Productions (1928 - 1972) and was well-known for creating the cartoon character Woody Woodpecker.
Walter Lantz started his career in animating in the 1920s, Over the span of his career, he produced well over 700 cartoons. His cartoons have been enjoyed by numerous generations due to, among other reasons, the humor, catchy music, and his unique, enjoyable characters.
Some of the most popular cartoons made by Walter Lantz include
Woody Woodpecker: Woody Woodpecker is a wisecracking woodpecker who is always getting into trouble. He is one of the most popular cartoon characters of all time, and he has been featured in over 200 cartoons.
Woody Woodpecker and Friends - Episode: Well Oiled
Andy Panda: Andy Panda is a gentle bear who is always getting into trouble. He is a kind and caring character, and he is always willing to help others.
Andy Panda - Episode: Playful Pelican
Chilly Willy: Chilly Willy is an Antarctic penguin who is always cold. He is a mischievous character who loves to play pranks on others.
Chilly Willy 🐧The Legend of Rockabye Point
The Beary Family: The Beary Family is a family of bears who live in the woods. They are a kind and loving family, and they always help each other out.
The Beary Family Clips
In addition to these characters, Walter Lantz also created a number of other memorable characters that includes:
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit: Oswald the Lucky Rabbit was Lantz's first major character. He was a popular character, but he was eventually lost to Disney in a contract dispute.
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit - The Egg Cracker Suite
Gabby Gator: Gabby Gator is an alligator who loves to eat people. He is a cunning and dangerous character, and he is always looking for his next meal.
Woody Woodpecker - Everglade Raid
Professor Dingledong: Professor Dingledong is a mad scientist who is always trying to build a new invention. He is a bumbling and incompetent character, but he is always good for a laugh.
Woody Woodpecker in Woodpecker in the Moon
Walter Lantz's cartoons held a notable place in entertainment for over 50 years. Walter Lantz's cartoons helped to guide and inspire U.S. animation and they are still enjoyed by audiences of all ages to this day.
What were some of the challenges Walter Lantz faced in his career?
As with anyone in competitive industries, Walter Lantz faced a number of challenges in his career. One of the biggest challenges was the competition that came from Walt Disney and their works. Disney, being a major force in animation entertainment, made it somewhat difficult for Lantz to compete with Disney's and Disney characters' popularity.
Another challenge that Lantz faced was the changing tastes of the audience and changes in culture. In the early days, audiences were more interested in slapstick humor. However, as time went on, some began to prefer more sophisticated humor. Which, in my opinion, is less fact and the negative effect that adult critic writers in mass media had on what is supposed to be simply children's entertainment. Due to these critics, Walter Lantz made changes to his cartoons to appeal to the changing tastes of the audience. He was a very creative guy with a great legacy of the most entertaining cartoons and cartoon characters
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Shrubby cinquefoil, also known as Potentilla fruticosa, is a beautiful and resilient plant that's native to North America, Europe, and Asia. This hardy perennial shrub is popular for its bright yellow or white flowers, its ability to grow in a wide range of soils and climates, and its low maintenance requirements. In this blog post, we will explore some of the characteristics and benefits of this fascinating plant.
Shrubby cinquefoilis a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet and a spread of 2 to 5 feet. It has an upright, dense habit and produces many thin, woody stems that are covered in small, green leaves with a silver underside. The leaves are divided into five to seven toothed leaves that give the plant its common name of cinquefoil, which means "five-leaved." The stunning blossoms bloom in late spring or early summer, depending on the temperature. They are typically yellow, but can also be white or pink, and have five petals arranged in a star shape. The fruit is a small, dry achene that contains several seeds.
Growing Conditions for Shrubby Cinquefoil
Shrubby cinquefoil is a versatile plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soils that are neutral to slightly acidic but can also tolerate poor soils and drought. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate cold temperatures down to -40°F. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardens and landscapes.
Benefits of Growing Shrubby Cinquefoil
Shrubby cinquefoil has many benefits for both humans and wildlife. Its bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens. The seeds and foliage are also consumed by birds and small mammals, providing food and shelter for wildlife. Traditional medicine has used the roots and leaves of the plant, used in the treatment of a range of ailments, including inflammation. The plant also contains tannins, which have astringent properties that can treat skin conditions such as burns and cuts.
Varieties of Shrubby Cinquefoil
There are several cultivars of shrubby cinquefoil available that offer different flower colors and foliage variations. 'Goldfinger' has bright yellow flowers and silver-gray leaves, while 'Pink Beauty' has pink flowers. 'Abbotswood' has white flowers, and 'Daydawn' has pale yellow apricot colored flowers and green leaves. These cultivars can add variety and interest to gardens and landscapes.
Should I prune Shrubby Cinquefoil?
Pruning Shrubby Cinquefoil can help to maintain its shape, promote blooming, and prevent it from becoming overgrown. Here are some tips on how to prune this plant:
Timing: Prune Shrubby Cinquefoil in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Avoid pruning during the growing season as this can reduce flowering.
Tools: Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts without damaging the plant.
Technique: Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood by cutting it back to healthy growth. Cut back any old wood to promote new growth and remove any crossing or rubbing branches. If you want to reduce the size of the plant or shape it, cut back the tips of the branches to the desired height, but avoid cutting into old wood as this can reduce flowering.
Maintenance: After pruning, apply a slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and water the plant well.
Is Shrubby Cinquefoil a perennial?
Yes, Shrubby Cinquefoil is a perennial shrub. This means that it is a plant that lives for more than two years and returns each year from its roots. Unlike annual plants that complete their life cycle in one season and die, perennials like Shrubby Cinquefoil can live for several years and continue to grow and bloom each year. However, like all plants, the lifespan of Shrubby Cinquefoil can be influenced by various factors such as climate, soil conditions, pests, and diseases. In general, Shrubby Cinquefoil is a relatively long-lived shrub that can provide many years of enjoyment in the garden with proper care and maintenance.
Shrubby cinquefoil is a beautiful and versatile plant that benefits humans and wildlife. Its showy flowers, low maintenance requirements, and ability to grow in a variety of conditions make it a great choice for gardens and landscapes. Whether you are looking to attract pollinators, provide food and shelter for wildlife, or add color and interest to your garden, shrubby cinquefoil is a plant worth considering.
Lighthouses have long been structures that functioned as symbols of hope. Of course, above all, they are structures that provide for safety, useful for providing a marker for ships as they approach land.
These towering beacons not only offer a glimpse into maritime history but also showcase stunning examples of architectural craftsmanship. Many of these lighthouses stand against breathtaking coastal landscapes, making them ideal destinations for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and outdoors people alike. Whether you're drawn by their historical significance, striking designs, or scenic settings, visiting these iconic lighthouses is an adventure that should be on every traveler's must visit list.
Location: Outer Banks, North Carolina Height: 198 feet First Lit: 1870
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a remarkable landmark located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Standing at 198 feet, it is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. Constructed in 1870, this iconic structure was built to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Graveyard of the Atlantic, an area notorious for its dangerous shoals and numerous shipwrecks.
Unique Features
Distinctive Design: The lighthouse is renowned for its striking black and white spiral pattern, making it easily identifiable to sailors during the day.
Fresnel Lens: It is equipped with a powerful first-order Fresnel lens, which projects a beam of light visible up to 20 miles out to sea, ensuring safe navigation for vessels.
Visitor Experience
Climbing Adventure: Visitors can ascend the 257 steps to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and ocean.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: The lighthouse is situated within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, a protected area featuring miles of sandy beaches, picturesque dunes, and lush maritime forests, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
Location: Cape Elizabeth, Maine Height: 80 feet First Lit: 1791
The Portland Head Light is one of the most iconic lighthouses in the United States, standing majestically on a rocky bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Since its first illumination in 1791, it has been a vital navigational aid for ships navigating the rugged Maine coast.
Unique Features
Architectural Highlights: The lighthouse features a classic white tower complemented by a distinctive black lantern room, making it a striking sight against the coastal landscape.
Scenic Location: Perched on a dramatic rocky bluff, Portland Head Light offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding coastline.
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours: Visitors can explore the lighthouse through guided tours, where they can learn about its rich history and the stories of its keepers.
Fort Williams Park: Adjacent to the lighthouse, Fort Williams Park provides scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning vistas of the Atlantic, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a peaceful retreat.
Location: St. Augustine, Florida Height: 165 feet First Lit: 1874
Overview
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a historic landmark that has been guiding ships through the Atlantic Ocean since 1874. Standing at 165 feet tall, this iconic lighthouse features a classic white tower with a striking red lantern room, making it a must-visit attraction in Florida.
Unique Features
Historical Artifacts: The lighthouse boasts an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight its rich history and the maritime heritage of the surrounding area.
Breathtaking Views: Visitors can climb the 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque landscape below.
Visitor Experience
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: The lighthouse is part of the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits focused on maritime history, shipwrecks, and coastal ecology.
Educational Programs: The museum provides engaging educational programs, including hands-on exhibits for children and interactive workshops for adults, making it a perfect destination for families.
Location: Central Oregon Coast Height: 56 feet First Lit: 1894
The Heceta Head Lighthouse is renowned as one of the most picturesque lighthouses in the United States. Perched atop a rocky cliff, it overlooks the stunning Pacific Ocean and offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline below. Its classic white tower, adorned with red trim, stands at 56 feet tall, making it a striking landmark along Oregon’s coast.
Unique Features
Fresnel Lens: One of the lighthouse's standout features is its Fresnel lens, crafted in Paris. This powerful lens weighs over 2,000 pounds and contains 256 glass prisms, projecting the lighthouse beam up to 21 miles out to sea, ensuring safe passage for vessels navigating the waters.
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours: Visitors can explore the lighthouse through guided tours, which provide insights into its history and the lives of its keepers.
Heceta Head Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast: For a unique experience, consider staying overnight at the Heceta Head Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast. This charming accommodation is located in the former lighthouse keeper's house, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the history and beauty of this iconic landmark.
Location: Point Reyes National Seashore, California Height: 37 feet First Lit: 1870
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Point Reyes National Seashore, the Point Reyes Lighthouse is a historic landmark that has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the California coast since 1870. The lighthouse stands 37 feet tall, featuring a classic white tower topped with a distinctive red roof, making it a captivating sight against the rugged landscape.
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours: Visitors can participate in guided tours of the lighthouse, which allow them to climb down 308 steps to the base of the cliff for a closer look at this iconic structure and its stunning surroundings.
Breathtaking Views: From the lighthouse, guests are treated to panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline, creating perfect opportunities for photography and exploration.
Unique Features
Fog Signal: One of the lighthouse's remarkable features is its fog signal, installed in 1905 and still operational today. This system uses compressed air to blast a loud horn every 30 seconds during periods of low visibility, alerting ships to the nearby dangerous rocks and cliffs.
Location: Assateague Island, Maryland Height: 142 feet First Lit: 1867
The Assateague Lighthouse is a historic landmark that has been guiding ships through the Atlantic Ocean since 1867. Standing at 142 feet tall, this iconic lighthouse features a classic white tower adorned with distinctive red striping, making it a striking sight against the backdrop of the island’s natural beauty.
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of the lighthouse, climbing 175 steps to the top for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding island and ocean.
Educational Museum: The lighthouse also houses a small museum that showcases the rich history of the lighthouse and the unique heritage of Assateague Island.
Unique Features
Biodiversity: The Assateague Lighthouse is situated on a remote barrier island, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including wild horses, migratory birds, and sea turtles. This makes it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Outdoor Activities: Visitors can explore the sandy beaches, hike scenic trails, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this unique coastal ecosystem.
Exploring the coastal lighthouses of the USA is a must for anyone who appreciates history, architecture, or breathtaking views. Each lighthouse offers a unique glimpse into maritime heritage and stunning landscapes, making them perfect destinations for travelers. With so many remarkable lighthouses to choose from, it’s no wonder these iconic beacons continue to captivate the hearts and imaginations of visitors from around the globe.
Sunspot dwarf sunflowers are beautiful, yellow flowers that can brighten up any garden or landscape. They are easy to grow and low maintenance, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about sunspot dwarf sunflowers, including how to grow them, the benefits of planting them, and how to care for them.
How to Grow Sunspot Dwarf Sunflowers
Sunspot dwarf sunflowers can be grown in a variety of ways, including in containers, raised beds, or directly in the ground. Here are some tips on how to grow sunspot dwarf sunflowers successfully:
1. Choose the right location: Sunspot dwarf sunflowers need full sun to thrive, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
2. Prepare the soil: Sunspot dwarf sunflowers prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
3. Plant the seeds: Plant sunspot dwarf sunflower seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. If planting in rows, space the rows 2-3 feet apart.
4. Water regularly: Water sunspot dwarf sunflowers regularly, but be careful not to overwater. They are drought-tolerant, but still need consistent moisture to grow healthy and strong.
5. Fertilize sparingly: Sunspot dwarf sunflowers don't require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) can help encourage healthy growth.
Companion Plants for Sunspot Dwarf Sunflowers in Shade
Sunspot dwarf sunflowers love full sun, but they can also be grown in partial shade. Here are some companion plants that can thrive in the same conditions:
• Impatiens: These colorful flowers can add some variety to your garden and thrive in shady conditions.
• Hostas: These leafy plants are known for their hardiness and can add some texture to your garden.
• Begonias: These flowers come in a variety of colors and can thrive in partial shade.
When to Plant Sunspot Dwarf Sunflowers in Northern Climates
Sunspot dwarf sunflowers are hardy annuals that can tolerate a range of temperatures. If you live in a northern climate, here are some tips on when to plant them:
• Start seeds indoors: If you want to get a head start on the growing season, start sunspot dwarf sunflower seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
• Direct sow: Sunspot dwarf sunflowers can also be sown directly in the ground once the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed.
Harvesting and Roasting Sunspot Dwarf Sunflower Seeds
Sunspot dwarf sunflowers produce edible seeds that can be harvested and roasted for a tasty snack. Here are some tips on how to harvest and roast sunspot dwarf sunflower seeds:
1. Harvest the seeds: Wait until the sunflower heads have dried out and turned brown, then cut the flower head off the stem with pruning shears.
2. Remove the seeds: Place the sunflower head upside down in a paper bag and shake it gently to remove the seeds. You can also use your hands to remove the seeds.
3. Rinse and dry the seeds: Rinse the seeds in a colander to remove any debris, then spread them out on a baking sheet to dry for a day or two.
4. Roast the seeds: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the dried seeds out on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and salt, then bake for 15-20 minutes until the seeds are golden brown and crispy.
Benefits of Sunspot Dwarf Sunflowers
Sunspot dwarf sunflowers offer many benefits beyond just their beauty. Here are some of the benefits of planting sunspot dwarf sunflowers:
1. Pollinator attractors: Sunspot dwarf sunflowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden, which can help pollinate other plants and increase their yield.
2. Cut flowers: Sunspot dwarf sunflowers make great cut flowers for bouquets and arrangements.
3. Edible seeds: The seeds of sunspot dwarf sunflowers are edible and can be roasted for a healthy snack.
During the 19th century, Chief Billy Bowlegs was a prominent Seminole chief who resided in Florida. His real name, Holata Micco, means "Alligator Chief," in the Seminole language. Due to his bow-legged appearance, he earned the name "Billy Bowlegs" in English.
Billy Bowlegs (Holata Micco, "Alligator Chief"), Seminole chieftain
Chief Billy Bowlegs led a band of Seminole warriors who battled the US Army's attempts to drive the Seminoles from their ancestral grounds during the Second Seminole War (1835–1842). Bowlegs and his men escaped capture for several years despite being confronted by an overwhelming military force thanks to their understanding of the region's swampy terrain.
The Treaty of Payne's Landing, which mandated that the Seminoles be moved to reservations west of the Mississippi River, was signed in 1832, and Bowlegs was one of the signatories. Bowlegs and numerous other Seminoles, however, kept up their resistance to the US government's attempts to forcibly remove them from their land and refused to follow the terms of the treaty.
Although Chief Billy Bowlegs had a number of wives and children, little more is known about his personal life. The precise details of his passing are also unknown and it is thought that he passed away around 1864, likely from pneumonia. He was laid to rest in an unmarked grave in the vicinity of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.
Chief Billy Bowlegs is remembered today as a hero who bravely defended the way of life and ancestral lands of his people. Present-day Seminoles and those who work to protect indigenous cultures and traditions continue to be inspired through his legacy.
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