Bishop Hill, IL

The Independent

 Imagine living long enough to hear radio reports that the Titanic sunk, to see the end of both World War I and World War II and to later watch in living color as reality TV star Donald Trump became president.That is the reality for Elizabeth Francis, who turned 115 on Thursday and who holds the distinction of being the oldest living American. Francis became the oldest woman — and oldest person overall — in America in February, when the previous title holder, Edie Ceccarelli, died a few weeks after her 116th birthday. In April, Francis received a plaque recognizing...

She saw the Titanic sink and the end of World War I. Now, the oldest American just turned 115

Ever wondered what lurks behind the doors of haunted hotels? These eerie establishments have captivated the imaginations of thrill-seekers and ghost hunters alike. From ghostly apparitions to unexplained noises, haunted hotels offer a unique blend of history and mystery. Some of these places have been the sites of tragic events, while others have legends passed down through generations. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the stories behind these haunted hotels are sure to intrigue you. Ready to learn more about the spine-chilling tales and paranormal activities that make these hotels famous? Let's dive into 30 fascinating facts about haunted hotels that will leave you both spooked and curious.

30 Facts About Haunted Hotels

South Carolina State

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Colleton County, SC

Explore Beaufort SC

Some beachgoers were in for a surprise this week when a bizarre looking prehistoric fish washed ashore in Colleton County along Edisto Beach at Edisto Beach State Park. It turned out to be an atlantic sturgeon.

Rare Atlantic sturgeon washes ashore on South Carolina beach

Indy100

For almost 2,000 years, a once-bustling city in the desert of Saudi Arabia was left abandoned to the sands of time.Hegra, a thriving international trade hub in the first century AD, fell into a steady decline after it was annexed by the Roman empire in 106 AD.Then, in the centuries that followed, it was all but forgotten: occasionally mentioned by pilgrims on their way to Mecca, but left largely untouched.Yet languishing in the burning sun for nearly two millennia left the extraordinary site remarkably well-preserved.And now it has finally opened up to both tourists and experts who are hailing it...

Breathtaking ancient city discovered in the desert reveals secrets of a forgotten civilisation

ST. PAUL, MN – Mary Magdalene is one of history’s most enigmatic figures, often shrouded in myth and mystery. Was she a sinner, a saint, or perhaps something more scandalous? For centuries, her true story has been hidden beneath layers of misconception and intrigue. Buckle up as we...

Fascinating Facts About Mary Magdalene: The Untold Scandals and Mysteries Revealed!

Do ghosts exist? This question has puzzled humans for centuries. Some swear by their eerie encounters, while others dismiss them as mere figments of imagination. Ghost stories span cultures, from ancient Egyptian spirits to modern-day hauntings. Believers argue that ghosts are the souls of the departed, lingering due to unfinished business or strong emotional ties. Skeptics counter with scientific explanations, attributing ghostly experiences to psychological phenomena or environmental factors. Whether you’re a firm believer or a curious skeptic, the mystery of ghosts continues to captivate our minds. Let’s explore 13 intriguing facts about these elusive entities.

13 Facts About Do Ghosts Exist

Kansas State

Have you ever heard of Nicodemus National Historic Site in Kansas? This hidden gem tells the story of one of the last remaining African American settlements west of the Mississippi River. Founded by freed slaves in 1877, Nicodemus stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of its settlers. Visitors can explore historic buildings, learn about the community's rich history, and experience the spirit of a town that thrived against the odds. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about unique places, Nicodemus offers a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of American history.

Nicodemus National Historic Site – Kansas’ African American Settlement

Los Angeles County, CA

Herbie J Pilato

It's been 33 years since the handsome actor and Emmy award-winning TV game show host Bert Convy died of a brain tumor at 57 in 1991. This is his story. Bert Convy was born July 23, 1933, in St. Louis, Missouri. His father was in the shoe business, while his parents separated when he was just seven years old. His mother moved the family to California in the San Fernando Valley, where Convy attended North Hollywood High and was named the "class clown."

In Memory of Actor/Game Show Host Bert Convy: 33 Years After His Tragic Death From Brain Cancer

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J. Souza

According to cruise industry reports, the world's largest cruise ship is sailing well above 100% capacity, thanks to more beds being filled on recent sailings. Royal Caribbean’s newest flagship, the Icon of the Seas, is proving to be an unprecedented success, with occupancy rates far exceeding expectations.

The Largest Cruise Ship in the World is Sailing at 132% Capacity: How This is Even Possible

Jacksonville, FL

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Jacksonville Today

A historic marker could be erected to honor the victims of the racist mass shooting at the Dollar General store in Jacksonville’s New Town neighborhood nearly a year ago. If approved by the Jacksonville City Council, a marker would be installed at Kings Road and Canal Street on Aug. 25, a day before the first anniversary of the shooting, when a white gunman took the lives of three Black people.

Memorial considered to honor Dollar General victims

Ever wondered about the mysterious world of witches? From ancient folklore to modern pop culture, witches have always sparked curiosity and intrigue. These magical beings, often depicted with pointy hats and broomsticks, have a rich history filled with fascinating facts. Did you know that witches were once revered as wise healers before being persecuted during the infamous witch hunts? Or that the iconic witch's broomstick has roots in ancient fertility rituals? Whether you're a fan of Harry Potter or just curious about the origins of witchcraft, this list of 40 facts will enchant and educate. Get ready to dive into the spellbinding world of witches!

40 Facts About Witches

Pull. BANG! Poof! The simple cycle of breaking a flying clay target with a shotgun. If you were watching the medal count from the recently completed Paris 2024 Olympics, you may have seen the United States claiming four of the 15 medals awarded in shotgun shooting. At the Olympics there were five disciplines of shotgun sports in which to compete: Men’s and Women’s Trap, Men’s and Women’s Skeet, and Mixed Skeet (team of a man and woman). The USA shooters claimed Gold and Silver in Men’s Skeet, Silver in Mixed Skeet, and Bronze in Women’s Skeet.

Shooting clinic planned at Johnson Park

Explore the eerie remnants of Civil War era ghost towns across the US, frozen in time and echoing the past war's haunting memories. From desolate streets to silent witnesses of ravaged structures, each holds the importance of history. Uncover personal artifacts revealing daily lives, weapons reflecting conflict, and letters shedding light on town life. Visit abandoned churches and cemeteries with weathered facades and worn tombstones, essential for historical preservation. Discover battlefields turned silent memorials, honoring valor and sacrifice. Preservation plays a crucial role in safeguarding these echoes of the past, ensuring future generations grasp the cost of freedom.

Remnants of Civil War Era Ghost Towns in US

Missouri State

Pilot Knob, MO

CJ Coombs

Fort Davidson is located near Pilot Knob, Missouri in what was known as Clark National Forest. It was the site of the Battle of Pilot Knob during the American Civil War that occurred on Septembrer 27, 1864. On February 26, 1970, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Pilot Knob is located in northeast Iron County.

Fort Davidson: Missouri's historic site of the Battle of Pilot Knob

A. Nicole

Nestled within the Cohutta Mountains, part of the southern Appalachian range, lies Fort Mountain. Its namesake, an 885-foot-long zigzagging stone wall, has mystified explorers and fueled countless legends for centuries. Built of local stones, the wall, up to 12 feet thick and 7 feet high, features scattered pits, cairns, stone rings, and what appears to be a ruined gateway. Its estimated construction date ranges from 400-500 AD, although some sources claim it remains undetermined.

Fort Mountain's Enigmatic Wall: Legends and Lore of an Ancient Mystery

SEGA and Two Point Studios just announced Two Point Museum, the latest entry in the critically acclaimed Two Point gaming series. Two Point Museum will have players step into the shoes of a museum curator managing and displaying exhibits, sending specialists on daring adventures to find new relics, showcasing your finds, earning donations, and working to keep guests happy and entertained. You can check out the trailer above and read below for more details:

Experience a night in the museum like never before in Two Point Museum

Newark, NJ

Morristown Minute

NEWARK, N.J. – Nygee Johnson, also known as “Gito,” a 25-year-old member of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips, has admitted his role in a racketeering conspiracy. The announcement was made today by U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. Johnson pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in Newark federal court on July 17, 2024, to a superseding indictment charging him with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy.

Rollin' 60s Crips Member Pleads Guilty to Racketeering

Quincy, MA

Dianna Carney

Get ready for an afternoon filled with live music, fun activities, and local vendors. The Friends of Ruth Gordon Amphitheater has invited the community to join them for the Friends Rock Music Festival on Sunday, August 11th from 2 PM until 8 PM. This free-to-attend festival promises a day filled with a diverse lineup of artists and bands, offering something for every music lover. Performances will include:

Live Music, Delicious Food & More: Don't Miss This Free Music Festival in Quincy

Denver, CO

David Heitz

No, pallet shelters for people experiencing homelessness don’t fold into caskets. It’s a question a reader posed one of the first times I wrote about pallet shelters. I find the pallet shelters to be more palatable than ice fishing tents. The Colorado Village Collaborative operates both micro-communities and the so-called Safe Outdoor Spaces with the tents. We all learned the tents are not safe when a fire roared through a CVC Safe Outdoor Space, destroying the compound quickly. Officials never disclosed a cause of the fire.

Opinion: No, pallet shelters for homeless in Denver, Aurora don’t fold into caskets

In addition to collecting more than 8,000 used needles in the past year from Denver drug users, the Harm Reduction Action Center passed out 10,000 meth pipes and “snort kits,” according to a newsletter sent to its supporters Thursday. They also connected about 1,700 people to medical, mental health and substance abuse treatment.

Denver group hands out 10K meth pipes, ‘snort kits,’ connects 1,700 to treatment annually

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NewsBreak

Cast of characters bring history to life during Bishop Hill Chautauqua

The 2024 Bishop Hill Chautauqua in Bishop Hill IL has an all-new line-up of colorful characters from America’s past. On August 24, in the village park...

Cast of characters bring history to life during Bishop Hill Chautauqua

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