John F. Kennedy was born today in 1917. He became our youngest...

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John F. Kennedy was born today in 1917. He became our youngest President: http://go.usa.gov/3XakQ

From the Bureau of Land Management: This year marks an...

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Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah by Bob Wick


Sonoran Desert National Monument in Arizona by Bob Wick


Carrizo Plain National Monument in California by Bob Wick


Handies Peak Wilderness in Colorado by Bob Wick


California Coastal National Monument in California by Bob Wick


Canyons of the Ancients National Monument in Colorado by Bob Wick


Slinkard Wilderness by Bob Wick


Vermillion Cliffs-Paria Canyon Wilderness (the Wave) in Arizona by Bob Wick


Umpqua Wild and Scenic River in Oregon by Bob Wick

From the Bureau of Land Management:

This year marks an important milestone for the BLM’s National Conservation Lands – America’s newest conservation system turns 15! These lands include 30 million acres of National Monuments, National Conservation Areas, Wilderness Areas, Wilderness Study Areas, Wild and Scenic Rivers, National Scenic and Historic Trails, and Conservation Lands of the California Desert.

We invite you to celebrate with us, and VISIT, SHARE, and SUPPORT your National Conservation Lands throughout the year.

VISIT any of the anniversary events or some of the 874 sites in the system of the BLM’s National Conservation Lands. Find an event. 

SHARE your experiences on National Conservation Lands with hashtag #conservationlands15 on social media. View the Twitter conversation. 

SUPPORT National Conservation Lands through service opportunities and volunteer events. Learn about how you can get involved. 

From the National Archives: What happens to groceries at the...

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From the National Archives:

What happens to groceries at the White House in a Presidential transition?

The sudden death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt threw both the Truman and Roosevelt households into disarray. Eleanor Roosevelt had over 12 years of accumulated household goods to move from the White House to her home in Hyde Park, New York.

The White House Kitchen also contained enough food to feed the President, the First Lady, their staff, and any potential guests. Rather than move the food, Bess Truman bought most of it from Eleanor Roosevelt. 

In addition to this note from Eleanor, written on this day in 1945, the Truman Library has the check, signed by Bess and endorsed by Eleanor, for $100.26.

-from the Truman Library 

Simple Tips for Safe Boating

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Cabin Cruiser to Canoe, These Guides Apply

If you go out on a boat anytime soon, you won’t be alone. Memorial Day weekend kicked off the recreational boating season, and craft of every type will be out on the waterways this summer. Whether yours is a sailboat, a motorboat, a kayak or jet ski on a lake, river, bay or ocean, these few steps will help keep you safe:

• Wear your life jacket. 
  
• • If you fall overboard, or your boat sinks quickly, having one on board is not good enough.

• Prepare a float plan.—the who, what, when, and where of your outing. 
  
• • Leave a copy of your plan with a friend or family member to alert authorities if you don’t return as planned.

• Check the weather before you go.
  
• • If storms or high winds are in the marine forecast, postpone your trip.

• Don’t drink and boat. 
  
• • It’s as dangerous as drinking and driving. Even if you’re not operating the boat, it can impair your ability to escape safely if your boat capsizes or you fall overboard.

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the sacrifices...

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This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women.

Connect with Veterans this Mental Health Awareness Month

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This Mental Health Awareness Month, Harold Kudler, M.D., U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ chief consultant for mental health, discusses ways to support mental health recovery and improved quality of life for Veterans.

All too often, we hear or read about Veterans who are in distress or having difficulty adapting to life after military service. Although these stories are troubling, we also know that hundreds of thousands of Veterans are changing their personal headlines by taking steps to live healthy, productive lives with the help of resources that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Service Organizations, and community-based organizations provide.

It is our civic duty to be a support system for Veterans. We can serve those who have served us by sharing their stories of resilience and recovery and by dismantling perceptions of stigma that too often prevent Veterans from seeking support for mental health challenges. Our actions strengthen the already powerful movement of Veterans who are telling their stories of reaching out for help.

Consider Arthur, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. When he came home from his deployment, he had a hard time adjusting to civilian life but didn’t know how to talk about it. Unable to cope, Arthur fell into a cycle of anger, drugs, and gambling. Eventually, his girlfriend encouraged him to visit a VA doctor who diagnosed Arthur with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Arthur was able to get treatment for his condition and joined a support group for Vietnam Veterans. By connecting with other Veterans, Arthur found the support he needed to change his life for the better.

Trista served 16 years in the Marines, Navy, and National Guard, and experienced military sexual trauma during her service. This resulted in feelings of isolation while she was in the military and outbursts toward her husband after she left the service. With her husband’s encouragement, Trista began seeing a psychologist at VA. That counsel helped her make progress in her recovery. Now, Trista is sharing her story through Make the Connection, and by doing so, she is encouraging fellow Veterans to access similar resources for recovery.

Arthur, Trista, and hundreds of other Veterans and their family members have generously shared their experiences, but reaching other Veterans depends on people like you. Visit http://ift.tt/1ekJ1ny, where every day during Mental Health Awareness Month you can find new strategies and actions to help make Veterans’ concerns about mental health stigma a thing of the past. This Web portal provides easy-to-share messages and tools that will help improve the lives of Veterans and their families.

The full website, MakeTheConnection.net, features videos of hundreds of Veterans, like Arthur and Trista, talking about the steps they took to lead happier, healthier lives. This unique resource gives a voice to Veterans talking openly and honestly about their life journeys and encourages their peers to do the same. That’s why Make the Connection is so effective — it’s by Veterans for Veterans.

Share http://ift.tt/1ekJ1ny with the Veterans you know to further their journey toward treatment and recovery.

What’s the Difference Between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?

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This weekend is Memorial Day weekend and sometimes we get asked what the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day is. According to the Veterans Administration:

Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty.

Check if your car is part of the Takata recall

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If your vehicle is manufactured by BMW, Chrysler, Daimler Trucks, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru or Toyota, you might be affected by a national recall on air bags. Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website using the VIN search tool to confirm whether your individual vehicle is affected by this recall, or by searching by VIN on a specific vehicle-maker’s site. Check back regularly as automakers confirm which vehicles are affected.

The recall found that the airbags are made with materials that can rupture over time and have been blamed for six deaths worldwide. This Takata inflator recall affects nearly 34 million vehicles.

As manufacturers supply a complete list of affected vehicles, NHTSA will include updates on its recalls page.

From the Department of Interior:‪Sunrise‬ from Mesa Arch at...

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From the Department of Interior:

‪Sunrise‬ from Mesa Arch at Canyonlands National Park in Utah. Kathryn Dannay captured this shot as the sun rose above the La Sal Mountains and caused the arch to glow. Photo from http://ift.tt/18oFfjl.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health: Share Your Story to Help Others

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How can choosing a healthy lifestyle help others? When others see friends or family making a positive change in their lives, they are often inspired to follow those examples.

On May 18, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) kicked off National Prevention Week. SAMHSA invites everyone to join the “I Choose Campaign” and submit photos and messages about why substance abuse prevention and mental health are important to you; and how you maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can include sports, hobbies, or other interests you have. You can participate by:

• Sharing your photos and messages on Twitter using the hashtag #ChoosePrevention.
• E-mailing your messages and photos to to NPW@samhsa.hhs.gov.
• Taking the prevention pledge on Facebook and inspiring others with your commitments to health and well-being for you and your community.

Submitted and shared photos will be showcased at the live kick-off event in Washington D.C., via social media, and on SAMHSA’s National Prevention Week website. You can also join the  discussions taking place on Twitter during this yearly observance by following or using the hashtag #NPW2015.

Sprint and Verizon Agree to Illegal Billing Pay-Backs

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Mobile Carriers Will Refund Current and Former Customers

Sprint and Verizon Wireless customers: You may be entitled to refunds for illegal charges “crammed” onto your bills over the past five years.

Both companies have agreed to pay back customers for letting third-party vendors charge them for unauthorized services like premium SMS or text messaging.

If you don’t know whether you were billed for these services or not, you can view summaries of your charges on the claim submissions websites starting in July. Former customers may apply. See this Consumer Financial Protection Bureau blog post for the details.

Public Service + 10 Years of Payments May = Student Loan Relief

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Learn How to Qualify to Have Your Federal Loans Balance Forgiven

Interested in shedding some federal student loan debt? If you plan things just right, there’s a strategy that may work for you. It’s called the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Here are the requirements:

• You must work full-time for a public service employer—a government agency or a non-profit organization. (Not all non-profits qualify.)
• You must have a qualifying loan and a qualifying repayment plan. (You can restructure both so they meet the requirements.)
• You must make 120 qualifying payments, all while meeting the points above.

Learn more in this Department of Education blog post. You’ll find a step-by-step explanation of how to qualify for each requirement.

National Prevention Week 2015: Your Voice Matters!

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By the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

May 17 – 23 is National Prevention Week, a national health observance supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).  National Prevention Week is a time to focus attention on important behavioral health issues affecting young people and adults: tobacco use, underage drinking, excessive alcohol use, prescription drug misuse, illicit drug use and youth marijuana use, and suicide.  

This year’s National Prevention Week theme—The Voice of One, the Power of All—recognizes that individually, each of us plays an important role in helping others lead healthy and productive lives, and together, we have the power to make a difference in our communities.

There are many ways to get involved in National Prevention Week.  Here are just a few:

1. Watch this year’s National Prevention Week video, and see how young people and adults are using their voices to support prevention in their communities.  

2. Help inspire others by adding a brick to the Prevention Pledge wall and sharing your prevention story.  

3. Participate in the National Prevention Week digital activity—take a photo of yourself or with a group of friends that reflects how you stay healthy and post it to Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter using the hashtag #ChoosePrevention.

4. Participate in a National Prevention Week event.  Check out the events that are going on around the country and participate in one near you.

SAMHSA’s National Prevention Week brings individuals as well as federal, national, and local organizations and coalitions together in support of a common goal—to better educate young people and their families about substance abuse and mental health issues.  The words and actions of one person can make a positive difference in the lives of many.  No matter who you are or where you live, there are endless ways to join your peers in support of National Prevention Week 2015—together, we can make a positive difference in our nation’s behavioral health.

From the Bureau of Land Management:Starry night sky over the...

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From the Bureau of Land Management:

Starry night sky over the Amargosa Wild and Scenic River River, located at the south end of California’s Tecopa Valley. The area has a harsh climate, unobstructed views of desert mountains, and few human settlements.

The narrow Amargosa Canyon is known for its dense greenery and the shallow Amargosa River, complete with “"hanging gardens”“ and a small waterfall. Amargosa Canyon, with its wide open spaces, is a perfect place to seek tranquility.

Photo: Bob Wick, BLM

New Consumer Action Handbook: Tips on Trending Purchases

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The new edition of the Consumer Action Handbook discusses lots of current trends and technologies to help you enjoy their benefits and avoid their pitfalls. The Handbook is our popular guide to buying common goods and services, avoiding problems, and resolving complaints.

New topics include:

• Privacy aspects of car computer (infotainment, alert) systems
• Car sharing services—fees and liabilities
• Private student loans—what happens if your cosigner dies or files bankruptcy
• The fine print of medical credit cards
• Pay-as-you-go car insurance—what to know about the new devices car insurers offer that monitor your driving habits
• Investing in virtual currencies and crowdfunding campaigns
• Limitations, clauses, and privacy aspects of smart TVs

Order or download your copy now!

Moving This Summer? Protect Your Move

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Moving out-of-state is a big job. Hiring a reputable moving company, and understanding your rights and responsibilities, is critical to making sure your possessions arrive safely and you don’t get caught in moving fraud.

Download the booklets on Publications.USA.gov’s Moving page for help guiding you with the task. Or visit ProtectYourMove.gov to find information and to view movers’ complaint histories before choosing one.

New Catalog, Lots of New Financial Advice

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Latest Consumer Information Catalog is Packed with Money Booklets

Find useful booklets for life’s everyday challenges at Publications.USA.gov. You can read, download, or print the new Summer Consumer Information Catalog too! The Catalog lists 150 free and low-cost publications on money, health, jobs, housing, and more from the federal government.

New Booklets on Managing Credit, Debt, Home Ownership, and College Costs

The Summer Catalog has a host of new publications on common financial concerns. All are available in print and online, and most are available in Spanish too. Check them out:

Owning a Home:

• Ready to Buy a Home?
• Shopping for a Mortgage
• Should I Refinance?

Paying for College:

• Choosing Your Student Loan
• Manage Your College Money

Credit and Debt:

• Understand Your Credit Score
• How to Fix Mistakes in Your Credit Card Bill
• Know Your Rights When a Debt Collector Calls

Managing Your Finances:

• SAVED: Five Steps for Making Financial Decisions
• Is It Time for Your Financial Checkup?
• Watch Accounts Closely When Card Data is Hacked

From the National Archives:Happy 100th, Orson Welles! (5/6/1915...

From the National Archives: “I remember thinking as I ran that...

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From the National Archives:

“I remember thinking as I ran that they probably were shooting blanks.  I remember in the split second after being hit they aren't shooting blanks.”

Affidavit of Donald S. Mackenzie, 9/15/1970
From the series:  Records of the Kent State University Investigative Team, 1970 - 1970

Forty-five years ago on May 4th, 1970, Ohio National Guard troops opened fire on unarmed students at Kent State University who were protesting the American invasion of Cambodia.  In a period of 13 seconds, the National Guard troops wounded nine and killed four. 

Among the wounded was Donald Mackenzie, who wrote this affidavit describing his experience during the shooting.  (Mackenzie’s position during the incident is noted on this map, showing his location in the upper right corner, by the second parking lot.)

Donald Mackenzie’s affidavit is available to be transcribed in the National Archives Catalog:

• How to get started transcribing
• Transcribe Donald Mackenzie’s affidavit

New Label To Help You Find Safer Cleaning Products

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Ingredients Must Meet Strict Safety Standards

There’s a new label hitting store shelves this spring and summer that will make it easier to find cleaning products that are safer for everyone, including our pets and the environment.

To display the new Safer Choice label, a product must first be reviewed by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scientists to ensure every ingredient it contains meets strict human health and environmental standards. Products are also tested to confirm they work well.

There are already 2,000 cleaning products that meet the requirements. You should start seeing them carry the new label soon. In the meantime, you can search online for products that meet the Safer Choice Standard.

Six Tips for Keeping Teens Safe on Social Media

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As the end of the school year approaches, children and teenagers might turn more to social media channels to stay connected with their classmates and friends during their vacations. This season also gives them the opportunity to make new friends through summer activities or camps, making social media sites like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter important tools to stay in touch. 

More than 60 percent of teens in the United States have at least one social media account, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. And while being online is a good way to keep in touch with friends, it’s important for parents to be proactive about Internet safety.

Unfortunately, there are people who can use your child’s personal information to steal identities, bully them or begin an inappropriate relationship. Help protect students from online dangers by following these safety tips:

1. Keep your child’s profile private so that only family and people you know see photos, important dates and other information.

2. Make sure they’re not posting personal details, including phone numbers, home address, and the name of their school or Social Security number.

3. Only allow them to publish photos and videos that don’t jeopardize their safety or their integrity.

4. Make sure they choose a strong password that can’t be guessed, and that it gets changed every three months.

5. Never allow them to accept friend requests from people they don’t know.

6. Keep an open dialogue with your children. Ask them to let you know if they’ve received private messages from a stranger, or from someone at school who is teasing, harassing or threatening them. Those could be signs of cyber-bullying or even a sexual predator.

Get additional online safety tips, and other relevant information on OnGuardOnline.gov, a great government resource for parents and teens.