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National parks could be this summer’s go-to vacation spots

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National parks could be this summer’s go-to vacation spots

Hikers take pictures at the entrance of the famous Narrows hike, currently closed, along the North Fork of the Virgin River in Zion National Park on May 15, 2021 in Springdale, Utah.

Trip organizer Natural Habitat Adventures typically plans exciting excursions like African safaris, yacht cruises through the Galapagos and close-up encounters with pandas. These trips have been put on hold though as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to crush the travel industry ahead of the typically busy summer season.

However, Nat Hab President and founder Ben Bressler is confident that some of his company’s trips will still move forward this summer.

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“We do plan on, at the moment, running some trips to U.S. national parks in July,” Bressler said.

National parks across the country are in the process of reopening, with iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon and Old Faithful already accessible to visitors. The parks are usually popular vacation spots — in 2019, the National Park Service system received more than 327.5 million visits, according to the NPS. However, based on recent travel data, these parks could be even more ideal this summer as people look to get away after spending weeks under stay-at-home orders.

Travel-planning company Tripadvisor has seen small increases in domestic travel searches on its platform, and found that two out of three users surveyed by the company were willing to travel within two months, according to Tripadvisor spokesperson Elizabeth Monahan.

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“Across the board, we’re seeing that travelers are looking for open spaces,” Monahan added.

She said people are pivoting away from urban destinations to outdoor locations that they can road trip to and camp in. With national parks fitting this profile, they could be this summer’s travel hot spots.

Booking.com has also seen interest grow in nature trips and domestic travel, according to a company spokesperson. Destinations near national parks have recently trended on the travel-booking platform, including Flagstaff, Arizona, which is close to the Grand Canyon, and Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, which are located by Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

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Some travelers come to Utah in search of adventure and exercise.

Peter Unger

National parks are also anticipating that people will still want to visit despite the pandemic.

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“The way that we’re planning and preparing is for normal visitation,” said Peter Densmore, a spokesperson for Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, which had about 2.6 million visitors in 2019, according to the NPS.

Densmore said that visitors may be particularly drawn to places of natural beauty like Bryce Canyon because of the uncertainty and stress caused by the pandemic.

“People come here for restoration and to be inspired and to decompress from everything going on,” he said.

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Bryce Canyon began a phased reopening on May 6 after being closed on April 7. The last time the park closed was because of a partial government shutdown in October 2013, according to Densmore.

Currently, the most popular viewpoints in Bryce Canyon are accessible to visitors as are park bathrooms. Bryce Canyon is not limiting the number of people in the park nor at specific viewpoints. It also does not require visitors to wear masks, according to Densmore.

However, even with the park being open, adjustments have been made in light of the pandemic, which might make visits look a little different this summer.

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The visitor center has social-distancing guidelines in place and limits the number of people inside, and the park’s museum, food services and theater remain closed. More staff has been hired to increase restroom cleanings and park rangers are making more frequent rounds to ensure visitors are staying safe, according to Densmore.

While private vehicles can drive through parts of the park, the public shuttle service is still shut down. Camping and hiking in Bryce Canyon’s back country are not yet allowed.

“We’re held back with a kind of wait-and-see approach, not knowing what our visitation would be, what kinds of issues the park might run up against,” Densmore said.

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He added that Memorial Day Weekend, normally the park’s busiest time of year, will be a testing ground to see what visitation might look like this summer and if changes will have to be made within park operations.

For those planning to visit national parks this summer, Densmore said checking parks’ websites for updates, site closures and visitor policies can help make a trip go more safely and smoothly.

“A lot of it boils down to kind of just knowing before you go,” he said.

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A trail is marked with social distancing signs in Joshua Tree National Park one day after the park reopened after being closed for two months due to the coronavirus pandemic on May 18, 2021 in Joshua Tree National Park, California.

For its part, Natural Habitat Adventures is engaging in extensive planning prior to its national parks trips this summer and is making significant changes to how trips are run, according to Bressler.

Nat Hab uses a guided safari model in planning trips to national parks that include Bryce Canyon, Zion, Grand Teton, Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon as well as others. These tours typically involve small groups of seven to 14 guests, and often appeal to families and people in their late fifties, according to Bressler.

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The trips usually require only one or two vehicles for transportation. However, this year, Bressler said, the national parks tours will have extra vans so that people can be spaced apart.

“Normally, we’ll put seven guests in one, but now we’ll put three,” he said, adding that trip participants will be required to wear masks within the vehicles.

The trips will also encourage social distancing during meals by seating guests at separate tables or staggering meals in shifts. Extra sanitizing measures will be taken by staff to clean the vans, according to Bressler. He also said Nat Hab may potentially screen guests for Covid-19.

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“We’re working on a testing program where people can be tested before they participate in the trip,” he said.

Even though the pandemic has currently put a damper on travel, Bressler said customers are still approaching Nat Hab about booking trips in the future.

“People are drawn to being outside,” he said. “Now, more than ever, people need nature.”
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(Note: This is an Article Automatically Generated Through Syndication, Here is The Original Source

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Net Worth

Caterina Fake Net Worth 2024: How Much is the American entrepreneur and businesswoman Worth?

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Caterina Fake Net Worth 2024: How Much is the American entrepreneur and businesswoman Worth?

Who is Caterina Fake?

Caterina Fake is a renowned American entrepreneur and co-founder of several groundbreaking ventures, including Flickr and Hunch. Born on June 13, 1969, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Fake has been a driving force in reshaping the digital landscape through her innovative ideas and entrepreneurial acumen.

Caterina Fake Career

From her early days in Pittsburgh to her rise in Silicon Valley, Caterina Fake’s career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Co-founding platforms like Flickr and Hunch, she has revolutionized how we connect and share information online. Her visionary leadership and creative brilliance have cemented her status as a trailblazer in the tech industry.

Caterina Fake Net Worth

As of 2024, according to TheRichest, Caterina Fake’s net worth stands at an impressive $25 million. Her entrepreneurial ventures, including Flickr and Hunch, have contributed significantly to her financial success. With a keen eye for emerging trends and a knack for innovation, Fake continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs around the world.

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Caterina Fake Age

Currently 54 years old, Caterina Fake was born on June 13, 1969. Despite her age, she remains a dynamic force in the business world, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in technology and entrepreneurship.

Caterina Fake Family: Husband and Children

Caterina Fake was previously married to Stewart Butterfield, with whom she co-founded Flickr. They tied the knot in 2001 but announced their split in 2007. They share one child, Mint Butterfield, who has recently been reported missing. Caterina Fake is currently in a relationship with Jaiku co-founder Jyri Engeström.

Caterina Fake Height and Weight

While specific details about Caterina Fake’s height and weight are not readily available, her stature in the tech industry is undeniable. Standing tall as a visionary leader and innovator, Fake’s impact transcends physical measurements, leaving an enduring legacy in the digital sphere.

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Also Read: Ethan Payne Net Worth 2024: How Much is the English YouTuber, Streamer, and Internet Personality Worth?

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Choosing the Right Shipping Label for Your Needs

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In the realm of e-commerce and product distribution, the importance of choosing the right shipping label cannot be overstated. A shipping label is not merely a piece of paper with an address; it serves as a vital communication tool between the sender, carrier, and recipient. From ensuring package security to complying with regulations, the right shipping label can streamline your shipping process and enhance customer satisfaction. However, with various options available, selecting the appropriate shipping label for your specific needs can be daunting. This comprehensive guide aims to navigate you through the maze of choices, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Understanding Shipping Label Basics

Before delving into the specifics, let’s start with the fundamentals. A shipping label typically contains crucial information such as the sender’s and recipient’s addresses, package weight, tracking number, and barcodes. It serves as a passport for your package, facilitating its journey from sender to receiver. Additionally, shipping labels often include information about the contents of the package, handling instructions, and compliance markings for hazardous materials.

Factors to Consider

When choosing the right shipping label, several factors come into play, including:

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  • Package Type: Different packages require different types of labels. Whether you’re shipping small parcels, envelopes, or large boxes, selecting the appropriate label size and format is crucial.
  • Shipping Method: Consider the shipping method you’ll be using. Labels for domestic shipments may differ from those for international deliveries. Moreover, carriers such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL may have specific label requirements.
  • Durability: If your package is exposed to harsh conditions or requires long-distance travel, opt for durable labels that can withstand moisture, abrasion, and other environmental factors.
  • Barcode Compatibility: Barcodes play a vital role in tracking and sorting packages. Ensure that your shipping label is compatible with the barcode systems used by your chosen carrier.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Depending on the nature of your shipment, you may need to adhere to regulatory standards and include specific markings or warnings on your shipping label. This is particularly important for hazardous materials, perishable goods, and international shipments.

Types of Shipping Labels

Now, let’s explore some common types of shipping labels and their features:

  • Integrated Labels: Integrated labels combine the shipping label with other essential documents, such as packing slips or invoices. This streamlined approach simplifies the packing process and reduces the risk of document misplacement.
  • Thermal Labels: Thermal labels utilize heat-sensitive paper to create high-quality, smudge-free prints. They are ideal for high-volume shipping operations and do not require ink or toner cartridges.
  • Peel-and-Stick Labels: Peel-and-stick labels feature a self-adhesive backing, allowing for quick and easy application to packages. They are available in various sizes and can be customized with branding elements or additional information.
  • Waterproof Labels: Waterproof labels are designed to withstand exposure to moisture, making them suitable for shipments that may encounter rain, snow, or humidity during transit.
  • Custom Labels: Custom labels offer a unique opportunity to enhance brand visibility and convey specific messages to recipients. They can be tailored to include logos, slogans, promotional offers, and special handling instructions.

Label Printing Options

Once you’ve selected the appropriate label type and size, you’ll need to decide how to print your labels. Common printing options include:

  • Direct Thermal Printing: Direct thermal printers use heat-sensitive paper to produce high-quality prints without the need for ink or toner. They are cost-effective and ideal for printing shipping label on demand.
  • Thermal Transfer Printing: Thermal transfer printers utilize a ribbon to transfer ink onto the label, resulting in durable, long-lasting prints. While slightly more expensive than direct thermal printing, thermal transfer printers are suitable for applications requiring enhanced durability and longevity.
  • Desktop Printers vs. Industrial Printers: Desktop printers are compact and affordable, making them suitable for small businesses and low-volume shipping operations. Industrial printers are designed for high-volume printing and offer advanced features such as faster printing speeds and larger label capacities.
  • Cloud-based Printing Solutions: Cloud-based printing solutions allow you to print shipping labels from any location with internet access. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with multiple shipping locations or remote employees.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shipping label is a critical step in ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of your products. By considering factors such as package type, shipping method, durability, barcode compatibility, and regulatory compliance, you can select the label that best meets your needs. Whether you opt for integrated labels, thermal labels, peel-and-stick labels, waterproof labels, or custom labels, investing in the right shipping label solution will streamline your shipping process, enhance package security, and ultimately improve customer satisfaction.

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New Class-Action Lawsuit Accuses Rivian of Making Materially False and Misleading Statements

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New Class-Action Lawsuit Accuses Rivian of Making Materially False and Misleading Statements

Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has been slapped with a lawsuit which alleged that the company misled the investors with false claims regarding its business, operations and prospects.

The class-action lawsuit made a number of allegations which included overstating the demand of its Electric vehicles and also not making it clear how it will handle the negative and near-term macroeconomic impacts.

The lawsuit also revealed that Rivian’s business was experiencing reduced demands as well as increased customer cancellations precipitated by inter alia, high interest rates.

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The orders had significantly reduced and this has significantly reduced the profits and the manufacturing of vehicles in 2024.

Rivian Faces New Class-Action Lawsuit Alleging Deceptive Statements

The lawsuit also alleged that the Company’s public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

Rivian’s stock, like all other EV startups, has been tanking and this has angered the investors who saw a major portion of their investments eroded and a number of law firms like Bernstein Liebhard LLP announced this week that it has filed a securities class action lawsuit on investors’ behalf.

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The lawsuit stated that the EV manufacturer had violated the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and has asked investors who had bought shares of Rivian Automotive, Inc. between March 1, 2023, and February 21, 2024, to join its suit.

The company’s stocks have fallen and one of the primary reasons was the high interest rates. Rivian’s products are beyond the reach of an average income household.

Also Read: Prime Hydration Faces Lawsuits Claiming Its Sports Drink, Prime Energy, Contains PFAS and Excessive Caffeine

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The Rivian’s Electric vehicles target customers were wealthier clients and the spurt in order cancellations means this class is walking away from Rivian’s product.

The stocks of the company were popular for the investors but the reduced demands caused by higher borrowing cost have hit its stock prices badly.

The price war has also affected the EV sector and the company also with its competitors like Tesla has been uniformly affected.

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The EV sector marked value has tanked by more than 57% year-to-date.

The chance of a fall in interest rates is not expected since the Federal Reserve will not lower the benchmark interest rate since it could lead to a bout of hyperinflation.

Also another factor which will discourage the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates is the soaring energy prices caused by the war in Ukraine and the Middle East.

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Also Read: Lawsuit Claims Kennywood Concealed Steel Curtain Closure to Boost Sales

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