Thanks to Karyn Parsons creation of the Sweet Blackberry Foundation, Black History will no longer be hidden from anyone who wants to know and participate in learning about the rich and diverse contributions of African Americans to our country’s history and culture. By providing educational resources, engaging programs, and community outreach initiatives, the foundation strives to illuminate the many achievements and stories that have often been overlooked or marginalized. This vital work allows for a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs faced by African Americans throughout history. Learn more about the foundation and its ambitious goals at the links below, and consider joining the movement to celebrate and honor this significant aspect of our shared heritage.
Today we celebrate the beginning of Kwanzaa! As the followers of Tech4Boomers already are aware, I am a Climate Advocate, and I am happy to share the quote about sustainability at this website https://knotzland.com/ourstory
“Just as Kwanzaa encourages unity within communities, Knotzland has unity with material resources. May the interconnectedness of all living beings foster a sense of responsibility for preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems in the New Year.“
In addition to exploring themes of unity, Kwanzaa serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and community resilience, both of which are vital in our collective mission to combat climate change. You will be delighted with what you find on the blog as it also focuses on Black Sustainability in the Arts, weaving together the threads of culture, creativity, and environmental stewardship. Click the link below to immerse yourself in diverse perspectives that highlight the innovative ways artists and activists are promoting sustainable practices within the Black community: https://knotzland.com/blog/2024/2/1/celebrating-black-sustainability-in-the-arts
Learn more at the links below:
Learn about Professor Maulana-Karenga the Creator of Kwanzaa:
I am happy to share with you that there are FREE parental control apps available. As we watch our budget, we still may want to monitor the activities our young people returning to school are engaging in on their phones, particularly in this digital age where smartphones have become such a dominant part of our lives. In addition to this, monitoring how much time they spend on their devices can help foster a healthier balance between their online and offline activities. Setting daily device time limits not only aids in managing their screen time but can also positively influence our own device usage as adults.
These parental control apps can provide peace of mind by allowing you to oversee app usage, track screen time, and even filter inappropriate content. This is essential, especially as children navigate the vast and sometimes risky online environments. Furthermore, the availability of these resources at no cost means that budget constraints do not have to compromise the safety and well-being of our young people.
To assist you in making an informed choice, I have compiled a list of some effective and user-friendly free parental control apps. Below are some useful links, which will give you a detailed description of the features available, how to set them up, and what options are best suited for your family’s needs. Feel free to explore these resources to find the perfect solution for monitoring device usage and ensuring a safe digital experience for your children.
Google Family Link is simple to set up and use. Parents can manage their child’s devices, check privacy settings, block apps, track their location, set daily time limits, monitor usage, lock devices from afar, and filter web content on Google Chrome.
Over the years I have often checked PC Magazine for technical advice and best deals. I was happy to see that they remain a useful resource. This post includes a link to an article featuring several free parental control apps from PC Magazine. As your kids go back to school, these options can help them use their phones safely. https://www.pcmag.com/picks/apple-vs-google-vs-microsoft-who-has-the-best-free-parental-controls Mashable has some suggestions and describes parental control apps, some of which are free. No worries, these are listed as a convenient compromise. Read the link below about parental control apps for the iPhone. https://mashable.com/roundup/best-parental-control-apps-for-iphone
It doesn’t matter what age your kid is: Whether it’s their very first phone or their fifth, parents are going to worry about what’s behind that scrolling and tapping. Parental control apps have come to be a convenient compromise between kids who really don’t want to hand over their phone and parents who really don’t want to have to confiscate it.
“Knowing who you are starts with the Mind”, Bebe Moore Campbell
Each July, we honor the legacy of author, advocate, and trailblazer Bebe Moore Campbell by recognizing Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month (also referred to as BIPOC Mental Health Month). Bebe Moore Campbell’s ability to tell impactful stories highlighting themes of racism, mental health, and family left a lasting mark on this world and is a foundation for much of the work that continues in support of Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC) mental health. FYI –Source: https://mhanational.org/bipoc-mental-health/bipoc-mental-health-month/
MHA’s 2025 BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit was designed to help individuals and organizations in communities of color turn awareness into action. The Toolkit has Printables that you can download and print for your personal use. You will also find pdf worksheets, Reading and Resource lists. Click this link to download the 2025 Toolkit by submitting your email address. https://mhanational.org/bipoc-mental-health/bipoc-mental-health-month/
News You Can Use 🙂 The National Museum of African American History & Culture website has a Digital Toolkit designed to celebrate and learn about the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and contributions of African Americans throughout history. This comprehensive resource not only highlights significant milestones but also provides tools and materials for educators, students, and community members interested in fostering a deeper understanding of African American history and culture. Explore the invaluable insights and resources available at the link below to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of this vital aspect of our society.
On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas with the news that the more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free.
If you haven’t already signed up for the How-To Geek Newsletter, my advice is that you should. It’s a fantastic resource that provides insightful updates and valuable tips on technology that can enhance your daily life.
I recently received my Newsletter and learned about two apps that you may find exceptionally useful. The first is a remarkable weather application, as reported by How-To Geek. You can explore it further at this link: AccuWeather. This app offers detailed weather forecasts, real-time alerts, and interactive maps, making it easier for you to plan your day based on the latest weather conditions. Whether you’re planning a trip, going for a run, or just want to stay informed about any changes in the weather, this app can help keep you prepared.
Staying updated with weather changes is crucial, and having a reliable tool at your disposal can make a significant difference in how you manage your activities. So, if you haven’t checked out AccuWeather yet, I highly recommend that you take a look!
Then there is the UV Lens app. Why is UV Index Important?
Understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays are a leading cause of skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Overexposure can also harm your eyes, leading to conditions like cataracts or photokeratitis. Source: https://www.secondmedic.com/blogs/understanding-uv-index-and-skin-protection-a-complete-guide
The unusual weather patterns we are experiencing today are indeed a manifestation of climate change, as reported by numerous scientists and observers globally. It’s an issue we can engage with by educating ourselves and taking action to lessen our impact. Undoubtedly, climate change affects us all, from rising home insurance premiums to water scarcity, among other issues. For more information on climate change, please refer to this video link. Click the link – https://cdn.jwplayer.com/previews/1UsnOhzg
1. “Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are. It’s a celebration of progress. It’s an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible—and there is still so much work to do.” — Barack Obama
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