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THE LEGAL NAVIGATOR AUGUST 2024
As the end of summer approaches and the promise of cooler days beckons, there’s no better time to squeeze in one last adventure with a family road trip. Having traveled extensively with my lively crew, I’ve picked up several hacks to make the journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Let me share some of my favorites, from keeping the kids entertained to ensuring everything stays organized. First, keeping the car organized can be a game-changer, especially when dealing with limited space and multiple people. One of my favorite hacks is using a shoe organizer over the back of the front seats. It’s perfect for holding snacks, water bottles, small toys, coloring books, and electronics. Every pocket is easily accessible, which means less time searching for items and more time enjoying the journey. Keeping the kids entertained is arguably one of the biggest challenges on long road trips. One simple and inexpensive solution is to use whiteboard markers on the car windows. Yes, you read that right! Kids can draw, write, and create their masterpieces right on the glass, and it all wipes off easily. It’s a fantastic way for them to express their creativity and keep the “Are we there yet?” questions at bay. Another lifesaver has been creating surprise bags for the kids to open at various intervals. I typically prepare these bags to be opened every 30 minutes or so, each containing something new, like a small toy, a book, or their favorite candy. This helps pass the time and keeps the excitement going throughout the trip. For snacks, I can’t stress enough the importance of variety and accessibility. Pre-pack healthy snacks in individual portions to avoid arguments and keep everyone’s energy up without the sugar Hit the Road! PLAN YOUR FAMILY ROAD TRIP WITH THESE CREATIVE IDEAS
crashes. Think granola bars, pre-cut fruit, or string cheese — easy to distribute and less messy. Equip everyone with a reusable water bottle for hydration. This is environmentally friendly and minimizes spills and mix-ups. Plus, it’s easier to track how much everyone is drinking and ensure hydration stays a priority. A little planning can also go a long way in keeping the peace. Before you set out, have a family meeting to discuss the route, schedule, and exciting things you’ll see. Including the kids in the planning process can make them feel more involved and excited about the upcoming trip. Lastly, remember to plan for breaks. Everyone needs to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and get fresh air. Stop at scenic points, exciting landmarks, or a nice rest area. They break up the drive and help everyone reset their energy levels. As you prepare for your end-of-summer road trip, remember that the journey is as important as the destination. With a bit of
preparation and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can ensure your family road trip is filled with happy memories rather than stressful moments. Here’s to one last summer adventure on the open road — may it be one for the books!
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As you buckle up and hit the road across the U.S., you might want to brush up on more than just your driving skills — some local traffic laws are as quirky as the attractions dotting the country. From the bizarre to the downright hilarious, cruise through four of the weirdest traffic laws that could have you scratching your head or chuckling all the way to your next stop. Whether born from safety concerns or legislative sessions that got wildly out of hand, these rules add a dose of humor to road-tripping across the U.S. Remember these oddities as you navigate the highways and byways — they’re not just funny anecdotes but actual laws that could impact your journey! AMERICA’S WACKIEST TRAFFIC LAWS Steer Clear of These Oddities on Your Next Road Trip for your Sunday drive. You’d better pick a different color for a leisurely weekend cruise. Oklahoma’s Driving Distractions Finally, put down the comic books if you’re driving through Oklahoma. It’s illegal to
read them while driving, which sounds reasonable enough considering the focus required to operate a vehicle safely. Save Spider-Man and Superman for later, and keep your eyes on the road! Drunk Driving … by Association? Strangely enough, in Texas, any driver who is within arm’s reach of alcohol while driving is breaking the law, and this includes a passenger’s bloodstream! So, Texas drivers must think twice before offering their tipsy buddies a ride home. As for Virginia, drunk passengers can also receive a DUI if they’re riding with an intoxicated driver! So, always call an Uber if you and your buddy have had a drink or two.
California’s Speedy Ghost Cars Head to California, where no vehicle without a driver may exceed 60 mph. Yes, even those futuristic self-driving cars have to obey the speed limits. It’s an interesting precaution against our potential AI driver’s need for speed and flipping into joyride mode. Denver’s Color Coordinated Sundays In Denver, Colorado, black cars are banned on Sundays. The origin of this law is murky, but it adds an extra layer of consideration
DISCOVER 2024’S TOP TROPICAL GETAWAYS Jet-Set to Paradise explore the jungle and view native animals by visiting one of the country’s volcanoes, nature preserves, or the Térraba-Sierpe Wetland, Costa Rica’s largest mangrove swamps. If you want the most luxurious experience possible, the Nayara Tented Camp is one of the newest hot spots for a glamping trip. The resort is made up of private tents at a spot with incredible views and offers five-star amenities. Panama If you want a mix of old-world charm and modern splendor, Panama has established itself as one of the “it” destinations for travelers. This country offers a little bit of everything, from rainforests and beaches to vibrant cities. Whether you want to stroll down the historic neighborhood of Casco Viejo and marvel at the architecture or visit one of its museums, Panama gives guests a mix of activities and chances to spoil themselves. Saint Kitts The island of Saint Kitts is a nature-lovers paradise in the West Indies. With rainforests, mountains, and serene shores, you can explore by land or relax on the beach. Catch a glimpse of elusive green vervet monkeys at Mount Liamuiga or step back in time by visiting the Brimstone Hill National Fortress. Snorkeling and golf are popular pastimes in this growing hot spot of the Caribbean. As you plan for your next great tropical escape, set sail for one of 2024’s hottest destinations. Whether you want to traverse nature or lounge on immaculate beaches all day, your seaside oasis awaits you!
Palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and intimate jungle views — if you’re ready to fly off to a tropical paradise in 2024, this year’s trend is small beach resorts and private retreats. If you want to book a tropical trip, you should check out these destinations that travel experts can’t stop talking about. Grab your sunscreen and a sense of adventure because these three destinations are sailing atop the charts! Costa Rica There’s a reason Travel + Leisure named Costa Rica the best destination in 2024. Known worldwide for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and unique biodiversity, this peaceful nation is a haven for nature lovers. You can
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BRAND MASCOTS THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME
Brand mascots can make a surprisingly deep cultural impression. Some, such as GEICO’s famous talking gecko, have become almost universally recognizable. Others, such as the M&M spokescandies, evoke a backlash that banishes them to oblivion. Those with warmth and personality tend to last because they spark pleasant emotions, according to a survey of 1,630 people by Crestline Promotions. The most enduring brand mascots, such as the iconic Betty Crocker, manage to evolve with the cultural zeitgeist. The mythical homemaker was invented in 1921 by the predecessor company to General Mills. In the Flapper Era, she became a radio personality, then evolved into a World War II-era heroine creating recipes for homemakers beset by food rationing. From the 1950s through the 1990s, she morphed from a friendly, curly-coiffed homemaker to a stylish Jackie Kennedy lookalike and then to an increasingly confident career woman. The 2022 publication of the 13th edition of Betty Crocker’s famous cookbook attests to her astonishing longevity. Another enduring mascot, the Quaker Oats Man, originated in 1877. His pleasant visage, which leaves nothing to dislike, is one reason he has served as the Quaker brand image for over a century. Most people say the Quaker Man was adopted because of the denomination’s values of integrity, honesty, purity, and strength. Today, he endures as a slimmed-down version
of his former portly self, with a more genial smile.
Other mascots have been sidelined after colliding head- on with cultural trends. Ronald McDonald debuted in national TV ads in 1965, and Generation X grew up with him. By 2016, however, Ronald was under fire for persuading small children to eat unhealthy food. After reports of creepy clown sightings further darkened his
image, McDonald’s benched him. Today, Ronald is mainly confined to promoting Ronald McDonald House Charities, the nonprofit that provides housing for families with seriously ill children. Other once-popular mascots have ended up on the ash heap. Aunt Jemima, the figure who adorned millions of boxes of pancake mix, was abandoned as a caricature from the era of slavery. The same fate befell Uncle Ben of Uncle Ben’s Rice. The company tried to salvage Uncle Ben by promoting him to chairman of the board, but they eventually deemed his image beyond repair.
TAKE A BREAK
NOT YOUR AVERAGE CHOCOLATE CAKE Dive into this decadent chocolate cake recipe for a rich, moist treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 tsp baking soda • 1/2 tsp salt • 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup butter, softened • 2 cups granulated sugar • 3 large eggs • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. 2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside. 3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until blended; then add vanilla extract. 5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients; mix until blended. 6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. 7. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 8. Cool in pans, then invert onto a plate. If desired, frost and stack the cakes for a double layer!
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Go on a Road Trip With These Family- Friendly Tips
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Brand Mascots in the Shifting Sands of Culture Not Your Average Chocolate Cake Bizarre Traffic Laws You Won’t Believe Exist! The Ultimate Beach Retreats to Visit This Year
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Meet Moose, the Great Pyrenees With a Hero’s Heart A FLUFFY GUARDIAN ANGEL How a Dog Saved Its Foster Family From Disaster 4
When a Virginia family of five decided to temporarily foster a dog in 2023, they weren’t expecting it to be a life-changing event. But they might not be here today if it weren’t for the Great Pyrenees named Moose that they took home for the weekend. Christopher Cushna and his partner, Sheila Janes, were looking for something fun and unique to do with their three children when they learned about the Paws Around Portsmouth program.
not bring him home that day. As everyone slept, Moose suddenly woke Christopher and one of their daughters, Anya. Though everyone figured the energetic dog wanted to go outside, he was persistent, and they quickly noticed a neighboring houseboat engulfed in flames. As the fire began to spread, the family evacuated safely just minutes before the fire reached their boat. “If Moose hadn’t gotten Anya and Chris up, we would not be here, as we were all sound asleep, and the fire spread very quickly,” Sheila said. The family lost their houseboat and everything inside, but thanks to Moose’s heroic act, they are alive and grateful today. “What I like to think about is that we saved Moose from the situation Moose was in, and Moose saved us on the boat,” Christopher said. Moose’s life-saving actions made big news, and a local woman adopted him. Now, the hero dog is living his best life on a 5-acre farm, complete with a swimming pool. For this family, who had no idea just how transformative a doggy day out could be, Moose will always be their knight in fluffy armor.
This program allows people to foster dogs from the local Humane Society for a short time. They fell in love with big, fluffy Moose and decided to take him on a field trip around town. The family visited their own music shop, where Moose met potential adopters at an event sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard. The friendly dog later accompanied them to a farmers market, a community band concert, and a flea market, where they met a woman who wanted to adopt him.
Moose returned to the family’s houseboat for the evening since the adopter could
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