Quarter Miles Travel With Annita

Episode 35:  Bessie Coleman Photo - U.S. Mint March 30, 2023 Bessie Coleman, the first African American and Native American woman to earn her international pilot's license. Her story is one of determination and the tenacity to say, "yes, I can do it!" From an early age Bessie Coleman's mother taught her the importance of believing in herself and striving to "become somebody." Her mother could not read, however she borrow books from a traveling library, and helped Bessie learn to read.  It was a great success, because not only did Bessie learn to read, she became an avid reader and taught her siblings too. Her love of reading and ability to learn languages helped her achieve her greatest success:  learning French and attending pilot training in France. Bessie Coleman, became the first African -American  and Native American woman to receive her international pilot’s license in France on June 15, 1921. Bessie once said, "I guess it was the newspapers reporting on air war in Europe during World War I, that got me interested in flying. I was an avid reader, and searched the libraries looking for information on flying. I think all the articles I read finally convinced me I should be up there flying, and not just reading about it, so I started searching for a flying school. At first I thought it would be easy, just walk in and sign up. I didn't realize that I had two strikes against me. I remember hearing of a few women pilots before the war but I had never seen one. The other strike against me was my color. No one had ever heard of a black woman pilot in 1919. I refused to take no for an answer. My mother's words always gave me strength to overcome obstacles.” Bessie’s story is one filled with determination and the example of believing in yourself and taking action - that makes all the difference in the world.   On this podcast I share her story, along with Dorothy Cochrane with the National Air and Space Museum, Sarah Fisher with the International Women Air & Space museum and, Gigi Coleman the great niece of Bessie Coleman. We come together to share her story and inspire others to reach for the sky and achieve their dreams. I am Annita Thomas, host of Quarter Miles Travel, a podcast all about the U.S. Mint Quarters programs, where you’ll find not only an adventure on the back of a quarter, but history, iconic Americans, wildlife and so many ways to learn more about the United States.  A few facts about Bessie Coleman. Bessie Coleman was born in Atlanta, Texas on January 26, 1892. She was one of 13 children of Susan Coleman, a Black maid, and George Coleman, a sharecropper of mixed Native American and Black descent. Bessie grew up helping her mother wash laundry and pick cotton to earn money. By the time she was 18, Bessie had saved enough money to attend the Colored Agricultural and Normal University (now Langston University) in Langston, Oklahoma. She learned French at a Berlitz school in the Chicago She worked as a manicurist to earn money and save for her dream of becoming a pilot. She received additional financial support from Robert Abbott founder and editor of the Chicago Weekly Defender,  along with funds from another African American entrepreneurs, so she could set off for Paris from New York on November 20, 1920. Coleman was accepted at the Caudron Brothers’ School of Aviation in Le Crotoy, France. Coleman took Abbott's advice and went to night school, and in a few months had learned enough French and saved enough money to travel to Europe. She trained in France, Germany, Holland and Switzerland and studied with the famous WWI German ace pilot, Captain Keller. She test piloted airplanes in the Netherland forAnthony Fokker , the "Flying Dutchman" On September 3, 1922, in Garden City, Long Island, she performed the first public flight in the U.S. by a Black woman. Throughout her life she was encouraged by Robert Abbott, the owner of the Chicago Defender.

U.S. Mint State Quarters Inspire The Start of Quarter Miles Travel Photo - U.S. Mint U.S. Mint State Quarters are the inspiration! It all started with Travel With Annita back when we were Travel Bags With Annita.  Each year a new theme is selected for programing as a way to keep content interesting, fresh and new. Inspired by the U.S. Mint State Quarters, Quarter Miles Travel was born out of a desire to focus on travel around the US, inspired by the designs on the reverse side (back) of the U.S. Mint State Quarters.  Our first quarter was the Georgia design, featuring the peach. We were amazed from our research the information we found to feature about Georgia, our home state. Information that neither Olivia or myself was aware of. This energized us even more to find more information - about things we thought we already knew. From there, we started featuring a quarter or two each show. The fourth segment of the show became, the "fourth quarter" where the U.S. Mint State Quarters designs were researched for information to tell the stories of the designs and why each state would select them. Olivia Varnson was by my side researching and recording the show. We also sailed on the Victory Chimes sailboat which is featured on the reverse side of the Maine quarter. The U.S. Mint State Quarters feature historic places, people, wildlife all things you can travel to visit and learn more. Take a listen to the start of this fascinating podcast highlighting all the makes America a great place to visit and tour. The U.S. Mint State Quarters program was followed by The America The Beautiful Commemorative Quarters and the American Women Program, which is being released now. Here's a link to start listening and find your favorite. You'll see how a U.S. Mint State Quarter can inspire travel around this beautiful country. For more information about the U.S. Mint State and Commemorative Quarters, visit their website - USMint.gov

Photo- U.S. Mint Nina Otero-Warren American Women Quarters Program Nina Otero Warren - Women  Nina was a leader in New Mexico's suffrage movement, the first woman to be superintendent of Santa Fe public schools, Chairman of New Mexico’s Board of Health,  an executive board member of the American Red Cross and director of an adult literacy program in New Mexico for the Works Projects Administration. Nina has a long list of leadership accomplishments as an activists for Hispanic people.   And, today she is the fifth woman featured on a quarter in the American women quarter program On this podcast I tell her story.  Born María Adelina Isabel Emilia Otero on October 23, 1881 on her family’s hacienda, “La Constancia,” near Los Lunas, New Mexico.  She was born into a prominent political family where Her parents, Manuel B. Otero and Eloisa Luna could  trace their lineages to the early Spanish colonizers in the area.  At an early age she experienced the loss of her father who was killed by a squatter trying to settle on her family’s land.  The loss of her father had a great impact on her and the family. Her mother remarried in 1886.  And, Nina stepped in to help take care of her younger siblings  She attended  St. Vincent’s Academy in Albuquerque and Maryville College of the Sacred Heart (now Maryville University) in St. Louis.  However home was never far away…… always on her mind and in her heart. She returned to the family’s hacienda to help care for her younger siblings. She helped educate her siblings and contributed to the work on the family ranch -- later when she wrote her book …. These were the experiences she recorded in her book, Old Spain in Our Southwest. She became interested in activism In 1897, when her family moved to Santa Fe. It was there where her cousin, Miguel Otero II, became the governor of the New Mexico Territory and appointed her stepfather as a judicial clerk.  Now as an adult she was called Nina. Living in Santa Fe, she was around many people who inspired  her as she socialized among the political and cultural elite of Santa Fe. Nina met Rawson D. Warren, an officer in the Fifth U.S. Cavalry stationed at Fort Wingate. She married Warren on June 25, 1908 becoming….Nina Otero-Warren, the name she carries for the life and how we know her.  She was 26 years old.   After their Santa Fe wedding, Nina and Rawson moved to Fort Wingate. Unhappy in her marriage, Nina divorced her husband after only two years, and returned to Santa Fe. During that time, there were many attitudes prejudices against divorced women at the time, She decided to identify as a widow and continued to use her hyphenated name. In 1912 Nina moved to New York City to help and support her brother who was studying at Columbia University. While there, she worked in the settlement house movement. Another opportunity to strengthen her fight for her people.   When her mother passed  in 1914, and she  decided to move back to Santa Fe During her life Otero-Warren was very accomplished in many areas: Always emphasized the use of the Spanish language in the suffrage fight in order to reach Hispanic women.  She also spearheaded the lobbying effort to ratify the 19th Amendment in New Mexico. Otero-Warren believed in education and worked to improve education for all New Mexicans Advancing and preserving  bicultural education and cultural practices among the state’s Hispanic and Native American communities was very important to her.  In 1917, Otero-Warren was appointed superintendent of public schools in Santa Fe. She defeated a male opponent to win reelection to the position in 1918 and remained in the role until 1929.  Her focus as superintendent was to  promote adult education programs, setting up a county high school, raising teacher standards and their salaries, and improving the physical conditions of schools.  It was undeniable that she held a strong sense of  pride in her Spa...

Photo - U.S. Mint Episode 32: Anna May Wong Quarter American Women Series Anna May Wong is on the U.S. Mint Women Series quarter. In the early 1920’s acting roles for Asian Americans were limited.  Hollywood  was yet to have roles with leading ladies who looked like Anna May Wong.  But, that didn’t stop her….. There is a story of a courages woman, who advocated for representation for multi-dimensional roles for Asian Americans.   Anna May Wong would not stop… it would be her life’s journey and it is also her story…. And today I share her story with you.  Anna May Wong was an American actress, the first Chinese American movie star, and the first Asian American to become an international star. Her long and varied career spanned both silent and sound film, television, stage, and radio. Her life and love of film began early…. She always loved film. Anna May Wong was a third generation immigrant, born on January 3rd, 1905. Her grandfather emigrated to the US in the 1850s to find work and raise his family.  It was at Anna May’s parent’s laundromat where she learned Chinese after school …. but even at an early age, learning a language wasn’t what was mostly on her mind. She felt her time was best spent skipping school for film.  As early as nine years old, she was fascinated with movies and film. Visiting sets often to look and take it all in, she dreamed of her day as a movie star as the actors, producers and directors would go about their routines.  Anna May once said “I would worm my way through the crowd and get close to the cameras.” Wong said. “I’d stare at these glamorous individuals and then I would rush home and do the scenes I had witnessed before a mirror.” The curiosity and learning from being close up to the action, gave the young 14 year old Anna May,  the opportunity for her first role in 1919 as an extra in Red Lantern, a story of family drama, of loss and deceit, the film gave her a chance to share her talent and experience working in film.   Her early films were silent, but her talent would shine through for all to see. Her style, elegance and expression of emotions showed her acting and performance strengths and skills. Wanting to put all of her efforts into an acting career, Anna May left high school in 1921 at the age of 16 to pursue a career in film.  She would devote her time and effort full time to becoming an actress.   She was successful in finding a role in Bits of Life where she played Toy Ling’s wife and when she was 17 she was the leading  lady in the silent film The Toll of the Sea in 1922.   Sadly, even with all of this success, America and Hollywood was not   Her drive to become a recognizable and successful leading actress Wong auditioned for countless lead roles but found herself landing only supporting character or the typical Asian character many times in a stereotypical character.   Times were very racially segregated in more areas than just film and theatre.  During this time in America there was discrimination and lack of opportunities in many parts of everyday life.  And, The mindset toward Asian migration at the time was negative in every way. Seeking of leading roles in a field so highly sought after by all races, it was no wonder she had difficulty finding leading roles. Laws at the time not only prevented interracial marriages, but it also forbade the kissing of interracial actors on screen. Because the majority of actors, especially leading ones, were white, Wong could never get into a leading romantic role either.  “There seems little for me in Hollywood,” Wong once said l. “because rather than real Chinese, producers prefer Hungarians for Chinese roles. Pathetic dying seemed to be the best thing I did.”  Her will and dedication to achieving her dream and goal was not stopped by lack of opportunities.  She decided to move to Europe and try her chances there. Prior to moving there she created her own production company.

Photo - U.S. Mint Episode 31 - West Virginia State Quarter Today it's West Virginia State Quarter. It was released in 2005. The design on the reverse side of the quarter or the tail side, shows the New River and the New River Gorge Bridge which showcases the state’s natural beauty and the scenic views of the gorge located a few miles. north of Fayetteville, West Virginia.  The bridge was build in 1977 to span across the New River Gorge. Before the bridge was constructed, people in the area had to make their way along winding curves on a forty-minute drive down and back up again. October draws thousands of visitors to the area for Bridge Day.  On the third Saturday in October travelers and visitors to the Fayetteville area have a chance to go on and leap off the bridge. This only happens during this time.  The bridge has become so popular it is a destination in its own right. The West Virginia state quarter is the 35th coin released in the 50 State Quarters Programs. And the 5th released in 2005.  The state of West Virginia was admitted into the Union on June 20, 1863. The quarter is featured on this episode in our Two Bits segment.  Did you know that the quarter is also called two bits?  Well, that’s based on the division of the Spanish peso. A bit back in time.  But, quarters are still sometimes called two bits.  There’s a lot of history in coins and trivia too. Quarter Miles was first introduced on the radio show, Travel With Annita, Annita Thomas and Olivia Varnson shared trivia information about the state quarters and their designs. They featured the quarters and all the information inspiring  listeners to plan and organize trips based on the quarter designs.   Here’s a bit of trivia and facts on how you can visit West Virginia and experience this state’s natural beauty.    To plan a trip to places mentioned go to: State Park -nps.gov/neri For more information on the U.s. Mint State and Comemoriatve quarters visit the website USMint.gov Don’t forget to hit the subscribe button… it only take a second.  And, you’ll be first in line for new episodes. Here's another Two Bits episode about the great state of Hawaii.

Photo credit - U.S. Mint Episode 30:  Wilma Mankiller US Mint Women's Quarter Series Notable Facts: First female Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation. First female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.  First woman elected as chief of a major Native tribe. Early Life: Wilma was born on November 18, 1945, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, also known as the capital of the Cherokee Nation. She was the sixth of eleven children born to Charley Mankiller and Clara Irene Sitton. Her father was full blood Cherokee and her mother was of Dutch and Irish descent. In the Cherokee language, the surname "Mankiller," refers to a traditional high military ranking that would have been achieved by one of her ancestors. In the 1830s, Wilma’s ancestors were forced to leave their homeland in Tennessee and traveled via the Trail of Tears into Indian Territory. Her family settled in what is now modern day Oklahoma.  It is here that Wilma grew up, spending her earliest years on her grandfather’s farm, on land that was granted to her family as part of a government settlement. In this rural area, resources were limited. Wilma’s family home had no electricity, indoor plumbing, or telephones. In the mid-1950s, when Wilma was about 10-11 years old, her family’s land was devastated by a drought. As a result of this, the family was moved to San Francisco, California as part of a Bureau of Indian Affairs’ relocation policy. This policy aimed to move Indians off of federally subsidized lands with the promise of jobs in the city. Wilma referred to this move as her “own little trail of tears,” as it took her away from her family’s tribe and her childhood home.  Following this move, she experienced culture shock, poverty, and racism. At the same time she also became exposed to the powerful impacts of social activism. In 1969, she watched a group of American Indians take over the federal penitentiary on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay. During this 19-month long protest, the Native Americans laid claim to the island by ‘right of discovery’ in an effort to expose the suffering of American Indians.  Wilma later recalled this event stating, “When Alcatraz occurred, I became aware of what needed to be done to let the rest of the world know that Indians had rights, too.”  Following this event, Wilma began her work, striving to empower Native communities and improve their lives. Native Work: In 1977, Wilma returned to the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma and founded the Community Development Department for the Cherokee Nation. This organization focused on improving access to water and housing.  Her first and most famous project under this organization took place in Bell, Oklahoma, a small Cherokee community with no running water. Her efforts here led to the construction of a 16-mile waterline. This project is documented in the film, The Cherokee Word for Water (which was directed by her husband and community development partner of 30 years, Charlie Soap). In 1983, Wilma was named running mate to Principal Chief Ross Swimmer during his bid for reelection as Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Despite rampant sexism, including death threats, they won the election, making Wilma the first woman elected deputy chief.  Two years later, in 1985, Chief Swimmer resigned to lead the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, leaving Wilma in charge as principal chief, the first woman to ever hold the position. She would go on to be reelected as chief in 1987 and, again, in 1991 (winning by a landslide with over 80% of votes).  During this time, she tripled her tribe’s enrollment, doubled employment, and built new housing, health centers, and children’s programs in northeast Oklahoma. Under her leadership, infant mortality declined and educational levels rose.  In 1990, she signed a historic self-determination agreement in which the Bureau of Indian Affairs surrendered direct control over millions of dollars in federal fu...

U.S. Mint Photo Sally Ride Quarter American Women Series Sally Ride Quarter American Women Series is here! She was the first American woman in space. She was the first female CAPCOm - capsule communicator at NASA She was the first astronaut to acknowledge that she was Gay The excitement around her accomplishments and firsts as an American Woman Astronaut created a lively saying as she prepared for her first orbit in space -  all of America was saying “Ride, Sally, Ride… Sally Ride’s life is an inspiration to not only young girls wanting to follow in her footsteps, but she is an American legend - who has made our country proud, and on this episode of Quarter Miles Travel,  I tell her story.   America knows her as our beloved first female astronaut.  Her love of science was a life long. She was always interested in science, which was supported and encouraged by her parents. As a child she would ask for science-related gifts - telescopes, chemistry sets, and a subscription to the Scientific American magazine. It’s no wonder that she would grow up to make such significant achievements in science and stand out as an American icon. On the second quarter of the American Women’s Series of the U.S. Mint Commemorative quarters Sally Ride She is on the reverse side or tails side of the quarter.  Her bright smile and enthusiastic spirit shines through in the design. The reverse  or (tails side of the quarter) depicts Dr. Sally Ride next to a window on the space shuttle with a diagram of earth.  The design is an inspiration of a quote by her, “But when I wasn’t working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.” How much do you know about the woman who looked out her window, dreaming of being in space and one day there she was walking to the shuttle, ready to board and ride, sally, ride. Life & Hobbies: Sally was born on May 26, 1951. She grew up in Encino, California with her parents (Dale & Joyce Ride) .  She had a younger sister, Karen  whose nicknamed was Bear.  At the age of 9 she began collecting stamps and was particularly interested in stamps that featured astronauts.  She would continue collecting them for the rest of her life.  And, not so coincidentally - In  2018 USPS released a Forever Stamp that featured Sally Ride. One could most likely guess that She would be a huge fan of the Star Trek TV series. Watching and first dreaming, but later, having her own real life experiences in space.  She loved to run and also enjoyed playing tennis, volleyball, and softball.  She even won the Eastern Collegiate Tennis Tournament during her first year of college. While attending Stanford, Sally taught tennis at a summer camp in Lake Tahoe. And, played an exhibition doubles game against tennis champion Billie Jean King when she visited the camp in 1972.  King told Sally that if she worked hard, she could become a pro player. Of course Sally had other things on her mind.   She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Physics and English, her Master’s degree in Physics, and her Ph.D. in Physics - all from Stanford University. When she was young, she was an avid fan of the LA Dodgers baseball team and dreamed of one day becoming their shortstop. Love Life: Sally was the first acknowledged gay astronaut, however, she didn’t come out until after her death in 2012. She wrote in her obituary that her business partner and friend, Tam O'Shaughnessy, was also her life partner. This was later confirmed by Tam and by Sally’s family. Sally met Tam when they were preteens playing tennis together. They initially became friends and eventually life partners, spending 27 years together in total. Prior to this, Sally had a short (approximately five year) marriage with fellow astronaut Steven Hawley.  NASA Career: Before flying in space, Sally became the first female CAPCOM (capsule communicator). In this role, she was responsible for talking to the astronauts who were ...

Photo - U.S. Mint  Episode 28 - Quarter Miles Travel Hawaii State Quarter - Two Bits Quarter Miles Travel Hawaii State Quarter is all about the monarch history of the state.  We capture it all in our Two Bits segment of Quarter Miles Travel Show Transcript Did you know that the quarter is also called two bits?  Well, that’s based on the division of the Spanish peso…. A bit back in time.  But, quarters are still sometimes called two bits.  There’s a lot of history in coins… and trivia too. Quarter Miles was first introduced on my radio show Travel With Annita, along with Olivia Varnson we shared information about the state quarters in the 4th quarter or last segment of the show.  Over the next couple of Quarter Miles - Two Bits I’ll share some of the segments from our first shows featuring the quarters and all the information inspiring you to plan and organize trips based on the quarter designs.  After all -  when you check your pockets or your sofa cushions you may just find a quarter  Waiting for you. Flip it over and Quarter Miles Travel Will take it from there Here’s two bits of trivia about the Hawaii quarter which was first produced and issued in 2008. Hawaii is our 50th state, which joined the Union on August 21, 1959. Replacing the eagle on the reverse side of the quarter is a design which Depicts revered monarch King Kamehameha who unified Hawaii and led social and economic change   Nicknamed "the Aloha State," the Hawaii state quarter was the last coin honoring one of the 50 states.  During our discussion of Hawaii’s state quarter, Doc Bill joins Olivia and I and shared some of his personal experiences visiting Hawaii. We also shared several options for learning more about Hawaii’s history and places to travel, explore and have an adventure filled with sunshine, great surfs and picturist landscapes.  Here’s the segment where Olivia, Doc Bill and I talk about Hawaii’s state quarter, it’s dynamic history and things you can see and do The U.S. Mint State and commemorative quarters are our national pride, highlighting all what makes American the beautiful.  From national parks to historic sites, to hometown heroes, plants and wildlife…. You’ll find it all ready for you to explore on the back of a quarter. To plan a trip to places mentioned during this Quarter Miles - Two Bits, visitgohawaii.com or for tours Robertshawaii.com For more information on the U.S. Mint State and Commemorative quarters Vist U.S.Mint. gov Don’t forget to subscribe so you’ll be first in line to receive new episodes.  And, while you’re waiting for the next episode, reach in your pocket and pull out and quarter… flip it over and quarter miles travel will take it from there.  We’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.   Hawaii State Quarter Info and Adventure inspired by the design on the quarter. Released November 3, 2008 Designed by Don Everhart Features Hawaiian monarch King Kamehameha I and the eight major Hawaiian islands as well as an inscription of the state motto which is translated to “The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness” King Kamehameha unified the governance of the Hawaiian Islands into one kingdom in the early 1800s and led Hawaii through great change while also maintaining native practices and traditions His “Law of the Splintered Paddle” guaranteed the protection of citizens from harm during war and became a renowned humanitarian law There are several statues honoring King Kamehameha  The most recognized statue is in front of Ali’iolani Hale (home to Hawaii State Supreme Court). It is an eighteen feet bronze statue. The statue was dedicated in 1883 and the original statue was lost at sea on its way from Europe.  Every June 11th, on Kamehameha Day, the statue is ceremoniously draped with flower lei. Nearby Iolani Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian kingdom’s last two monarchs and the only official state residence of...

Sweetgrass Baskets South Carolina State Quarter Photo - U.S. Mint   Sweetgrass Baskets - South Carolina Quarter have something in common. Both carry the legacy of a people and their culture; from the West Coast of Africa to the South Carolina Low Country. Each Palmetto frond woven into a row of a Sweetgrass baskets holds the culture, traditions, values and strength of the Gullah people of South Carolina. There are traditions and cultural norms passed down from generation to generation. We often call it their legacy. The definition of a legacy according to Britannica is "something that happened in the past or that comes from someone in the past." Well the word legacy is used very often to acknowledge ways of life, traditions, and significant things people did that are carried on and honored by people living their lives today.  I often use the word legacy to acknowledge the long-lasting impact and influence of events, actions or traditions passed from generation to generation; those things that help define a culture.   And, what is a culture? I’ve always loved the definition of my professor of International studies’ Dr. Milton Bennett- “the learned and shared values, beliefs, and behaviors of a community of interacting people”  Culture includes language, food, dress, music, arts, literature, and the group's customs, beliefs, attitudes, and the values of the interacting people. Culture and traditions can be passed on as a legacy not only from generation to generation, but also from country to country. Corey Alston holds sweetgrass and a basket he is sewing. On this podcast I feature the sweetgrass baskets - from West Africa to South Carolina - I tell their story with the help and knowledge from Corey Alston, a speaker, Sweetgrass Basket Weaver, Gullah historian and culture representative. Corey shares his story, the story of his family, and the history of Gullah Basket Weavers. The story of a basket is not always what we think of as having a strong legacy; one that binds cultures, struggles, triumphs, traditions in work done by a people, as well as their cultural art. A simplicity of beauty that reaches far beyond the beautiful craft, to a people who have sustained some of the hardest conditions placed on men and women -to be enslaved. To be taken from their homeland, their country and family, but what could not be taken is a tradition that has lived on from generation to generation, passed from family member to family member - the Sweetgrass basket is a testament to that strength and legacy.      U.S. Mint Photo   On the reverse or tail side of the South Carolina State Quarter released in 2000, you’ll find an outline of the state which is also called  "The Palmetto State" with four symbols, a star representing Columbia, the state's capital, a Palmetto tree, the Carolina Wren - the state bird, and the Yellow Jessamine. It is a story of the Palmetto tree that we will share on this episode. The Palmetto State, is known for it’s Palmetto trees. And, that tree is part of the tradition of Sweetgrass baskets.   But let’s start at the beginning because the baskets are not called Palmetto baskets, they are called Sweetgrass baskets. I had a long and educational conversation with Corey Alston where he shares information about the history of sweetgrass baskets, the traditions and the legacy.   Listen to our conversation - Sweetgrass Baskets and South Carolina Quarter Contact Corey for one of his Sweetgrass baskets  After listening I'm sure you will be ready to plan a trip to Charleston and meet Corey. To start planning your trip to Charleston visit the website - explorecharleston.com When visiting Charleston, make sure to visit the historic plantations, where the skilled and knowledgable enslaved Africans worked and passed on the traditions that you can still find in the Charleston City Market and along Highway 17 in Mount Pleasant.  To learn more about the U.S.

Ohio State Quarter Photo - U.S. Mint Ohio State Quarter, released in 2002 features an antique model airplane and astronauts highlighting the state is a celebration of aviation and space travel. This podcast shares the stories of Ohio's native sons and their exploration of aviation and space travel. On this episode we have two bits of trivia about the Ohio quarter which was first produced and issued in 2002 on March 11. It was the second quarter released in 2002 and released in the order Ohio was admitted into the Union; which was in 1803.  Take a look - Replacing the eagle on the reverse side of the quarter is a design of an early model airplane with the inscription - Birthplace of Aviation Pioneers, highlighting the state’s contribution to the history of aviation.  Also featured is an astronaut superimposed as a group outlining the state.   During our discussion of Ohio’s state quarter, we shared several options for learning more about Ohio’s native sons and places to travel, explore and have an adventure.  Adventure can be found on the reverse of a quarter. A diagram can take you to places you may not have thought of visiting and Quarter Miles is ready to take you there. After listening to the podcast you'll be ready to plan a visit to the Ohio sites mentioned in the podcast. Visit the website - Ohio.org  To learn more about the U.S. Mint Commemorative and state quarters visit the website - USMint.gov Don’t forget to subscribe so you’ll be first in line to receive new episodes.  And, while you’re waiting for the next episode, reach in your pocket and pull out and quarter,  flip it over and quarter miles travel will take it from there.  We’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.   Listen to more Quarter Miles - Two Bits - Utah State Quarter

Photo - U.S. Mint Maya Angelou Quarter U.S. Mint American Women Quarters Maya Angelou Quarter - Yes, quarters from U.S. Mint American Women series are here! The long awaited quarter series has started with Dr. Maya Angelou.  The image of Dr. Angelou captures her spirit with her arms reaching toward a sunrise spanning the sky.  Her love of dance and writing clearly comes through. The obverse side of the quarter featured on the American Women series The U.S. Mint has also change the obverse side of the quarter for the American Women series, featuring a portrait of George Washington facing right. You'll notice that quarters usually have Washington facing left.  This change is in honor of Laura Gardin Fraser who composed and sculpted the design in 1932 to mark Washington's 200th birthday. What an honor to feature Laura Gardin Fraser's design on the American Women  series. Laura Gardin Fraser was one of the most prolific female sculptors of the early 1900's and became the first woman to design a U.S. coin when she designed the Alabama Centennial Half Dollar  in 1921.  Her George Washington design was used on a 1999 gold commemorative coin marking the 200th anniversary of Pres. Washington's death. It is fitting that her Washington design would be on the obverse side of the American Women's  series of quarters, her name along with the list of distinguished women who will grace the reverse side of the quarter over the five year period of the series, puts her in her rightful place in history. The left-facing Pres. Washington design we see on quarters in circulation today, was chosen by The Treasury Secretary Mellon.   Left facing design of Pres. Washington by John Flanagan is featured on quarters in circulation.    Dr. Maya Angelou starts the series with much excitement and recognition of her place in history as the first black woman with her own coin. How much do you know about the phenomenal woman - Maya Angelou? In this episode of Quarter Miles Travel, I tell her story.     Dr. Angelou was also featured on a U.S. Postal stamp.   Maya Angelou delivers her poem "On The Pulse of Morning", at Pres. Bill Clinton's Inauguration,  January 20, 1993 in Washington, DC.   Here's an article and  video of Oprah's joy holding the quarters of her dear friend and mentor. Check out the article, but make sure and scroll down to the video.  Pride and joy!     Transcription: A phenomenal woman…. We define her by her character, her demeanor, the way she carries herself even when she thinks no one is watching.  It’s an individual grace, her inner beauty that shines through to her outer beauty.   Maya Angelou, a phenomenal woman in all definitions of the words….. she exuded phenomenal and it’s her story I share on this podcast.  There are words and there are actions. Maya Angelou was a women of both. Her elegant words inspired us and her actions changed lives and push a movement forward.   On the first American Women’s Series of the U.S. Mint Commemorative quarters is Dr. Maya Angelou. She is on the reverse side or tails side of the quarter.  With her arm reaching up to the rising sun behind her and there is a bird in flight inspired by her poetry and symbolic of the way she lived.    This is the image design on the first of this series of quarters, starting with a phenomenal woman who has inspired the world.   A poet, author, motivational speaker, Civil Rights activist, songwriter, dance, singer, playwright, stage & producer, director, historian and mentor to many. How much do you know about this phenomenal woman who in her 86 years of life accomplished so many extraordinary things.   Dr. Angelou was born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 4, 1928. Her parents divorced when she was three, and she and her brother Bailey went to live with their grandmother in Stamps, Arkansas.    where she speaks of being terribly hurt, yet vastly loved.

United States Mint Image Utah State Quarter Two Bits Trivia Utah State Quarter is featured! Did you know that the quarter is also called two bits?  Well, that’s based on the division of the Spanish peso.  A bit back in time.  But, quarters are still sometimes called two bits.  There’s a lot of history in coins and trivia too. Quarter Miles was first introduced on my radio show Travel With Annita, along with Olivia Varnson we shared information about the state quarters in the 4th quarter or last segment of the show.  Over the next couple of Quarter Miles - Two Bits I’ll share some of the segments from our first shows featuring the quarters and all the information inspiring you to plan and organize trips based on the quarter designs.  After all -  when you check your pockets or your sofa cushions you may just find a quarter  Waiting for you. Flip it over and Quarter Miles Travel Will take it from there Here’s two bits of trivia about the Utah State Quarter which was first produced and issued in 2007. Replacing the eagle on the reverse side of the quarter is two locomotives moving toward the golden spike that joined the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads, linking East to West; with the inscription “Crossroads of the West” In May 1869 there was a ceremony in Promontory, Utah to mark the joining of the railroads and celebrate the completion of the transcontinental route; this union made cross-country travel much easier and allowed for more widespread western expansion especially after the mining boom. Information about Utah State Quarter Released in 2007, engraved by Joseph Menna Features two locomotives moving toward the golden spike that joined the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads, linking East to West; with the inscription “Crossroads of the West” Places to visit in Utah related to the quarter Golden Spike National Historic Site Home to two replica locomotives - Jupiter and No. 119 - they operate daily in the spring and summer months and are also used for demonstrations There are reenactments of the driving of the last spike ceremony also in the spring and summer months There are two auto tours of the site There is a hiking trail Visitors can also tour the engine house where the replicas are taken care of during the offseason Nearby attractions include: The Spiral Jetty (Robert Smithson’s monumental earthwork on the Great Salt Lake - he used black basalt rocks to create 1500-foot long coil that stretches out onto the water); Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge (protects freshwater marshes that provide an interesting picture amidst a desert backdrop); Transcontinental Railroad Backcountry Byway (this portion of the transcontinental railroad was abandoned in 1938 and was converted into a road where you can take in beautiful landscape) Western Mining & Railroad Museum in Helper Helper was ranked the #1 True West Town of the Year by True West magazine in 2007 This museum tells the story of how Helper began as a coal town and how it quickly became a central hub for mining camps in the surrounding area It includes a simulated coal mine that shows visitors early mining methods; tools and equipment used in mining; a blacksmith shop; a display of a robbery by the Butch Cassidy gang; photographs; a typical mining camp kitchen and much more to showcase life in mining camps Four Corners Monument Marks the quadripoint where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah meet Managed by the Navajo Nation as the marker is located in Native American territory Visitors can learn more about Native Americans in the area at the visitor center and by checking out the booths belonging to local craftspeople Nearby is Monument Valley where Navajo guides can lead tours starting at the Monument Valley Visitor Center; these can be horseback rides, hikes or Jeep excursions Other places nearby: Hovenweep National Monument (known for six groups of A...

United States Mint Image The Live Oak Tree! It's is part of nature that surrounds us with beauty, and inspires us with its uniqueness. Their importance and value is undeniable.  They are an important part of our lives providing a natural elements for us to enjoy outdoors and a habitat for wildlife, animals and insects large and small. In Georgia the Live Oak stands tall and strong and her beauty is one of the attractions that leaves visitors from around the world in awe of their size, character and a certain healthy amount of mystery. How much do you know about this grand tree?  Here on Quarter Miles - The Live Oak tree shares her story.  On the reverse side of the Georgia State Quarter there are sprigs surrounding the embossed state outline which has a peach in the center along with sprigs from the Live Oak. The sprigs circle the design highlighting the outline of the state. This magnificent tree can be seen all around the Georgia coastal area.  The moss draped tree has inspired many poems and also tall tales. It is elegant in its grandeur and mysterious with its many gnarly limbs reaching out like an old hand, gently touching the wind - stretching from the ground and reaching to the sky.   A symbol of the south yesterday and today,  it is still the tree which brings value to not only property, but also people’s lives. Mike, Pails with  Ossabaw Consulting is an arborist who loves, loves, loves trees and can tell us all about the Live Oak. He joins me for a conversation we talk about the Georgia Live Oak from top to bottom. For more information - USMint.gov  OssabawConsulting.com Wormsloe State Historic site - https://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe VisitSavannah.com CityofDarienGA.com Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) https://gadnr.org JekyllIsland.com Photos Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island. Large trees, many of them Live Oaks lay resting on the shoreline.   Wormsloe, a Georgia Historic Site has an avenue of beautiful Live Oak trees. A very popular spot for photographs. Spanish Moss grows on this Live Oak Tree on Jekyll Island. Although not located in Georgia, the Angel Oak grows outside of Charleston and not far from the South Carolina - Georgia state line.

United States Mint image New Mexico State Quarter Two Bits Trivia   Here's New Mexico State Quarter with Two Bits of information.  Did you know that the quarter is also called two bits?  Well, that’s based on the division of the Spanish peso. Quarters are still sometimes called two bits.  You will find there is a lot of history in coins and trivia too. Quarter Miles Travel loves to find trivia, little known information and human interest stories based on the reverse side of the U.S. Mint State and Commemorative quarters. Quarter Miles has been around for a long time. I first introduced this unique way of exploring the US on my radio show Travel With Annita.  Along with Olivia Varnson we shared information about the state quarter s in the last segment of the show which we always called our 4th quarter.  Pulling in a little sport jargon and always wanting to get the word quarter mentioned.  We produced several shows featuring information about the quarter, including when each quarter was issued, the artist and how travelers can have an adventure when visiting the state.  You’ll see why we say when you check your pockets or your sofa cushions you may just find a quarter waiting for you to explore things you may not know or even things you think you know, and we help you find so much more. The New Mexico quarter which was first produced and issued in 2008 is featured in episode 22 of Quarter Miles Travel. Replacing the eagle on the reverse side of the quarter is the Zia Sun symbol over a topographical outline of the State.  While this symbol can be seen all around New Mexico, it’s meanings have deep roots in Native American culture and history. Inscribed on the quarter is - Land of Enchantment and this is certainly true all around the state. During our discussion of New Mexico’s state quarter, we share several options for learning more about Native American history and places to travel, explore and have an adventure. To plan a trip to places mentioned during this Quarter Miles – Two Bits, visit www.newmexico.org For more information on the U.S. Mint State and Commemorative quarters Vist U.S.Mint. gov Don’t forget to subscribe Reach in your pocket and pull out and quarter… flip it over and quarter miles travel will take it from there.  We’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.

United States Mint image Cumberland Island - Snowy Egrets are featured on the U.S. Mint Commemorative Quarter for Georgia. The island is a gem of an island, located on the coast of Georgia. It is home to many birds, however one has the elegance and beauty to capture a spot on a U.S. Mint Quarter. Basking in the sunshine along the Georgia coast and grazing along the water’s edge, their long necks and graceful legs help them to be "spot on" with their aim, landing perfectly upon what they’ve been searching for.  Grazing the salt marsh and plugging along with its bright yellow feet and shaggy plumes and white fluffy feathers, Snowy Egrets are a delight to see.  On this episode I tell the story of the Snowy Egret along with Pauline Wentworth an interpreter with the Cumberland Island National Park - National Seashore.  Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest barrier island is 18 miles long and 3 miles at its widest; and just miles from the Florida state line. It’s no wonder, the U.S. Mint would feature this magnificent bird on the quarter.  The design shows  he snowy egret walking along the salt marsh which can be found on Cumberland Island.   On this episode I tell the story of the snowy Egret. To learn more about the U.S. Mint Quarter series visit their website - www.usmint.gov To plan a trip to Cumberland Island visit the website - www.nps.gov/cuis There are tours offered on the island and also a ferry ride is the mode of transportation to travel over to Cumberland.  To find more information and book a ferry, visit the website - www.cumberlandislandferry.com Protect your trips, both short and long with travel insurance.  Our travel buddy here on Quarter Miles Travel is Allianz Travel Insurance.  There is an option for every trip.  Visit their website - www.allianztravelinsurance.com Photos of Snowy Egrets on Cumberland Photos - Pauline Wentworth A Snowy Egret searches the Cumberland shoreline for a bite to eat. Or more like a stab to eat. They stab their food with their pointed bill.   Yellow feet identify the Snowy Egret from other Egrets.   Mushy mud is perfect for finding food and nutrients to keep the Snowy Egrets healthy.   On guard keeping watch high in a tree where the nest is located. (Nest is seen in photo below) Snowy Egrets make their nests from twigs and sticks. Both parents watch over the baby chicks and the nest. And, parents know each other by how they look sitting on the nest.   Photo of a Snowy Egret plunges through the water.  (not on Cumberland Island) Cumberland Commemorative Quarter Reveal Ceremony Donna Weaver, the artist for the Cumberland Island quarter. Look closely and you'll see my face peeping around the lady with the light colored shirt. We're waiting to get a signature from Donna and speak with her. Photo - US Mint.   I attended the unveiling program of the Cumberland Quarter.   David Croft talks with me about the Commemorative Quarter Series   Signage for the Cumberland Island National Seashore visitor center   Camden High School was the host of the unveiling program.   Signage inside the high school auditorium   The unveiling program highlighted other quarters which are part of the commemorative series.   David Croft and I stop for a photo after the engaging and energetic unveiling program at Camden County High School   Donna Weaver and I pose for a photo as she signs my program.  She is the artist for the Cumberland Island quarter.   Cumberland National Park Service  Director Gary Ingram talks with young students   Artist Donna Weaver signs rolls of quarter Cumberland Island Photos When visiting the island to see Snowy Egrets, take in some of the other sites around the island.  Here are a few photos of other attractions, after you check out the Egrets. Another main attraction on the island are the wild horses which are descendants of horses brought over when the C...

United States Mint image Iowa State Quarter Two Bits of Trivia Iowa State Quarter with Two Bits of information.  Did you know that the quarter is also called two bits?  Well, that’s based on the division of the Spanish peso. Quarters are still sometimes called two bits.  You will find that there is a lot of history in coins and trivia too. Quarter Miles Travel loves to find trivia, little known information and human interest stories based on the reverse side of the quarter. Quarter Miles was first introduced on my radio show Travel With Annita; along with Olivia Varnson we shared information about the state quarter in the last segment of the show which we always called our 4th quarter.  Pulling in a little sport jargon and always wanting to get the word quarter mentioned.  We produced several shows featuring information about the quarter, including when each quarter was issued, the artist and how travelers can have an adventure when visiting the state.  You'll see why we say when you check your pockets or your sofa cushions you may just find a quarter waiting for you to explore things you may not know or even things you think you know, and we help you find so much more. The Iowa quarter which was first produced and issued in 2004 is featured in episode 20 of Quarter Miles Travel.  For the Iowa quarter, the design replaces the eagle on the reverse side of the quarter with the diagram of a one-room schoolhouse with a teacher and students planting a tree.  The inscriptions reads “Foundation in Eduction” and “Grand Wood.”  The design is based on a painting by artist Grant Wood who was born near Anamosa, Iowa. To plan a trip to places mentioned during this Quarter Miles - Two Bits, visit traveliowa.com and For more information on the U.S. Mint State and Commemorative quarters Vist U.S.Mint. gov Don’t forget to subscribe Reach in your pocket and pull out and quarter… flip it over and quarter miles travel will take it from there.  We’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.

Episode 19 Fort Moultrie National Park United States Mint image   Fort Moultrie National Park has seen many courageous men and women stand on its grounds. Yet, every once in a while, there is one person who comes along, so courageous, brave and fearless their heroic spirit spans the years.  That one valiant act can change the world around us and make a monumental difference; we are inspired to step forward and make a difference too. On this episode of Quarter Miles Travel we tell the story of one man whose bravery, over 200 years ago, set in motion, experiences we continue to hold as courageous today.  Sergeant William Jasper gathered his fallen regiment flag and rushed forward in the face of firing guns and cannons.  He didn't stop to think but acted on the desire to make sure his fellow soldiers kept fighting to save the island and port of Charleston. History has many stories to tell and heroes to honor. And, while I love to find stories that tell us more about things we thought we already knew, I also love a stories of the human spirit to fight on for what you believe, to pull yourself up when you think you can't go any further.  To step forward when the situation may tell you to stay still.  It is that spirit that my guest Nathan Betcher, National Park Service Historian at Fort Moultrie shares with you.    On the South Carolina Commemorative Quarter, issued in 2016 by the U.S. Mint, the reverse side features Sergeant William Jasper, racing forward with the slightly tattered but still in tact, regiment flag.  His bravery and courageous act is a story for the ages.  I ask Nathan Betcher, how William Jasper's actions paved the way for a fort on Sullivan’s Island in South Carolina to become Fort Moultrie and part of many U.S. military operations.  As you listen to the podcast, you'll see how General Moultrie becomes endeared to the local people. The star of the U.S. Mint Commemorative Quarter is George William Jasper, who enlisted in the 2nd South Carolina Regiment on July 7, 1775.  His valiant act of rallying his fellow soldiers happens during the battle on Sullivans Island on June 28, 1776.  As British ships are moving into Charleston, the action taking place around Sullivan’s Island is heavy.  When enemy shots from the British Royal Navy bring down the fort’s flag, Jasper did not hesitate,  He grabs the flag, attaches it to an artillery Spong staff signaling to the regiment, to fight on….. this battle is not over.  They fought on and were successful in defending Sullivan's Island and Charleston Harbor.   His commitment was revered and his legacy continues to stand today.  Cities and counties around the country bear his name.   He is buried in Savannah, GA and a stature to honor him is located in Madison Square.   But, you have to listen to see how the Fort on Sullivan’s Island…. became Fort Moultrie, honoring the colonel!   During my conversation with Nathan, we talk about the Pest houses on Sullivan's Island which were used to house ill human cargo before moving to Charleston markets to be auctioned and sold into slavery.  Sick and diseased people both enslaved and sailors arriving from the voyage, were housed on Sullivan’s island  to be separated from healthy people.   The enslaved Africans remained there until they were considered fit and healthy enough for auction.  This was around 10 days many would be auctioned at eh Slave Mart on Chalmers St.  When visiting the island you will find a placemarker and a black iron bench, placed there by the Toni Morrison Society on July 26, 2008 as part of her Bench by the Road project.     The "Bench By The Road" project initiated by Toni Morrison. Fort Moultrie Photos Palmetto Trees growing along the shore of Sullivan's Island.   Overlooing the ground around Fort Moultrie Sullivan's Island was the first port of entry for enslaved Africans entering the colonies.   Nathan Betcher

United States Mint image Bicentennial Quarter Colonial Drummer Here’s two bits of trivia about the Bicentennial quarter which was first produced and released into circulation  in 1975.  This quarter was created to celebrate our 200th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.   The Quarter features a Colonial drummer facing left and a victory torch encircled by thirteen stars at the upper left. Replacing the eagle on the reverse side of the quarter.  On the obverse side, Georgia Washington diagram is on the obverse (heads) side of the quarter along with the dates 1776-1976, representing our 200 years of independence. Although this quarter was first issued in 1975 it is still in circulation and if you check your pockets or your sofa cushions you may just find one there.  Waiting for you to explore. On this episode of Quarter Miles Travel we explore Two Bits of travel trivia when you flip  that quarter over and Quarter Miles Travel takes it from there with a little trivia about the bicentennial quarter and the drummers who marched along with the soldiers in the Revolutionary War and Civil War. Who were the drummer boys?  On Episode 18, Quarter Miles Travel tells the story of the most famous drummer boy, Johnny Lincoln Clem. Many of the youngest boys who served in the revolutionary and civil war were drummers.  They weren’t supposed to be fighters.  They walk along side the marching soldiers, beating their drums to help keep everyone in step and together.  Johnny became known for his bravery and persistence.  Here's the story of little Johnny, at only 30 inches tall and weighing only 60+ pounds.   A young Johnny Clem Resources - research - www.learncivilwarhistory.com U.S. Mint Quarters - USmint.gov This episode is sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance www.allianztravelinsurance.com Check out more Quarter Miles Travel Episode 14 Maryland State Quarter the Old Line State

United States Mint image Arizona State Quarter Grand Canyon   Arizona State Quarter Grand Canyon design has a prominent display of one of the grandest sites in the U.S.A.  Of the National Park Services sites, the Grand Canyon is one of the top ten most visited National Parks. It should be no surprise that it ranks very high.  Over four million people per year come to hike, kayak, camp and just admire, the canyons. The canyon has a long history; one which includes Native Americans and Europeans. The Havasupai Tribe is one of 11 Native American tribes affiliated with the Grand Canyon.  Today, they are the only tribe which continues to live below the rim of the canyon. There are eleven contemporary tribes which have cultural connections to the area, and their oral histories are rich with references to the creation of that great chasm, torrential river and life in the Grand Canyon. They are: Havasupai Tribe - AZ Hopi Tribe - AZ Hualapai Tribe - AZ Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians - AZ Las Vegas Band of Paiute Indians - NV Moapa Band of Paiute Indians - NV Navajo Nation - AZ Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah - UT San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe - AZ The Pueblo of Zuni - NM Yavapai-Apache Nation - AZ European and American settlers explored the Grand Canyon and Colorado River taking great risk to learn more about what was then called "The Great Unknown."  They were willing to "go all in" and risk  their lives to learn all they could about the mysterious canyon. They wanted to know more about the great power of the Colorado River and discover, and evaluate the  size of Grand Canyon. Lucky for us they also had a strong desire to  share its beauty and also its danger with the world. We are still inspired today by their adventurous spirit and millions of visitors come each year to explore the Grand Canyon, seeking to find and experience the Great Unknown. The Arizona quarter also has the diagram of the Saguaro cactus.  While this well recognized cactus is not found in the Grand Canyon, Arizona does have many that grow in the desert areas. The saguaro cactus is a large tree-like cacti that develops branches or arms as they get older.  You may see some that have never grown arms or branches.  They are one of the most recognized cacti and have become a symbol of the west.  You'll find them in the desert area where they need the right amount of temperature and water to grow.  You won't find them at high altitudes where the weather is cold.  And, you might imagine, many of the desert animals love them for a delicious meals. Learn more about the Arizona State Quarter and use the websites below to plan a trip that is sure to be "A Trip of A Lifetime!" www.visitarizona.com NPS.gov/GRCA Museum of Northern Arizona - www.musnaz.org Wupatki National Monument NPS.gov/wupa USMint.gov Thank you to our sponsor This episode is sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance.  Visit their website for travel insurance options for all of your  upcoming trips. www.allianztravelinsurance.com Photos Saguaro Cacti Saguaro Cacti   Snow on the Grand Canyon Check out other Quarter Miles Episodes How much do you know about our National Parks - check out this National Park trivia

United States Mint images Correction - National Parks Service Website - www.nps.gov National Parks - America The Beautiful National Parks - America The Beautiful Quarters express all the pride and joy we can find around our nation.  Did you know that the quarter is also called two bits?  Well, that’s based on the division of the Spanish peso. Two bits from a peso would be 25cents. That all took place a bit back in time.  But, quarters are still sometimes called two bits.  There’s a lot of history in coins and trivia too. The U.S. Mint - America The Beautiful Quarter Series featured many of our national parks, historic sites and national shore lines.   Here’s a bit of trivia about several of our national parks featured on  America the beautiful quarters.  Did you know Our National Park Service protects over 84 million acres of wild landscapes and historic sites. Offering us many options to explore our beautiful country for a grand adventure.   Our national parks are home and habitat to more than 400 endangered or threatened plant and animal species.  When visiting one of our national parks, keep a keen eye-out to see wildlife in their natural habitat.   Yellowstone National Park, is a super volcano that is responsible for three of the world’s six biggest volcano eruptions.  Yellowstone National Park (in Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana) is the oldest U.S. national park, founded in 1872.   Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is home of the Grand Canyon one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.   Another national park which has a name that gives away exactly what the park is all about…. It is Arches National Park famous for having the largest concentration of stone arches in the world.   Three of the 10 highest waterfalls in the world are located in Yosemite National Park in California. And, Ribbon Falls in Yosemite is nine times taller than Niagara Falls. Now that's spectacular!   Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park with more than 9 million guests per year, followed by Grand Canyon National Park, which gets more than 4 million visits per year.   More than 25% of Florida’s orginal subtropical wetlands also known as the Everglades is protected by Everglades National Park   Denali National Park has the widest range of elevations, from 200 feet in Yentna River to 20,302 feet at the summit of Mount McKinley.   Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, which connects Grand Lake and Estes Park, is the highest continuously paved road in the U.S., with breathtaking views and vistas you’ll want to travel along its entire 48 miles. Teddy Roosevelt has many the most sites named for him including  Theodore Roosevelt National Park in (North Dakota). The U.S. Mint America The Beautiful quarter series is our national pride - highlighting not only National parks, but national monuments, national seashore, historical military sites, forest and river ways. After all - the quarters are all about what makes our country a magnificent place to visit.  For more information on our national parks, visit the website - nps.org and search from there… where you’ll find this and more information about areas preserved for us to visit and enjoy.  Don’t forget to subscribe so you get the most up to date information on what’s next with Quarter miles travel….. In the mean while - reach in your pocket and pull out a quarter.  Flip it Over and quarter miles travel will take it from there.   We’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.  Quarter Miles Travel is sponsored to you by Allianz Travel Insurance.  Visit their website to insure your travel investment. www.allianztravelinsurance.com Want to hear more Quarter Miles Travel episodes?  You'll find them all right here, in one place.  Click this link - Quarter Miles Travel