(NewsUSA) - Are all those stories about crippling student debt having an effect on college campuses? Just ask post-Millennials now trying - albeit not always successfully - to avoid being saddled with the same heavy burden of debt as their predecessors.<br /> <br /> According to Fidelity Investments' new "College Savings: Lessons Learned Study," not only did 83 percent of current college students surveyed consider what their total costs would be before matriculating - just 69 percent of recent graduates had such foresight - but 39 percent of them said the potential price tag was such "a huge factor" that they purposely limited their choice of schools to the most affordable. Only 32 percent of recent graduates, alas, had shown similar restraint.<br /> <br /> "It seems today's college students are perhaps more aware of the financial situation they entered into than those who graduated before them," said Melissa Ridolfi, Fidelity's vice president of retirement and college leadership. "That's a positive development."<br /> <br /> All told, student debt in the U.S. now totals more than $1.5 trillion - second only to mortgage debt, Forbes reported. And the 69 percent or so of the Class of 2018 who took out student loans graduated with an average debt balance of $29,800.<br /> <br /> So you can understand why recent graduates would be so stressed out over whether they'd ever be able to pay off their loans that they're now having second thoughts about their decisions:<br /> <br /> * 40 percent said that while they don't regret going to college, they would've made different choices in hindsight.<br /> <br /> * Only 14 percent felt the value of their education was worth more than the money they'd spent.<br /> <br /> Oh, and future college students should listen up for this sage advice from the more than 4,000 respondents surveyed - all recent graduates, current undergraduates, and parents of either or both - on what would've done wonders to ease their own stress levels.<br /> <br /> "When asked 'If you knew then what you know now when it comes to school selection, what would you do differently?' the number one answer for all respondents was 'I would've started saving earlier,'" Ridolfi said.<br /> <br /> Which logically brings us to another key finding of the study: Only 17 percent of current students and recent graduates had taken advantage, prior to college, of what's arguably one of the best ways to fund higher education: 529 savings plans.<br /> <br /> Unlike regular bank savings accounts, they provide a tax-advantaged way to save money to cover tuition, books and other education-related expenses at most accredited two- and four-year colleges, universities and vocational-technical schools.<br /> <br /> The key phrase being "tax-advantaged." Meaning, earnings grow federal income tax-deferred and withdrawals for qualified expenses are free from federal (and, in many places, state) income taxes - thus affording the opportunity to have even more saved for college.<br /> <br /> Significantly, Ridolfi said families using a 529 plan managed by Fidelity have been starting to sock money away earlier than ever before, with contributions beginning on average when the child is about age six and a half. Thirty-six percent of Fidelity 529s are even opened for beneficiaries under - yes - age 2.<br /> <br /> You say a child hasn't even uttered his or her first complete sentence before they're two? Probably not. But just so you're not bushwhacked when they suddenly hit their late teens, free online resources like Fidelity's College Savings Learning Center and College Savings Quick Check - a calculator that even shows you the impact of saving a few dollars more a month - can help prepare you for what lies ahead.<br /> <br /> Ref: Education - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Nurses remain an essential and trusted part of the health care system, and the nation faces an urgent need for nurses due to the COVID-19 outbreak.<br /> <br /> The World Health Organization is also celebrating the value of nursing by designating 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. In addition, 2020 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the 19th- century social reformer known as the founder of modern nursing.<br /> <br /> The demand for nurses, and therefore for nurse educators, is likely to remain high, according to the National League for Nursing (NLN), as nurse educators are on the front lines teaching new nurses who are filling the shortages in hospitals and other health care settings.<br /> <br /> Nurse educators will likely continue to be well paid. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate the median salary for nurse educators at $73,490. They may work in academic settings, but some expand their focus to teaching in schools, businesses, hospitals, and community agencies.<br /> <br /> The NLN shares some key advantages to becoming a nurse educator:<br /> <br /> - Intellectual stimulation. Nurse educators know the latest research in the field, and have the ability to share it with others.<br /> <br /> - Flexibility. Nurse education allows for more autonomy and a flexible schedule. Not to mention that technology allows educators to teach from anywhere in the world, at any time, from the beach to the ski slopes.<br /> <br /> - Research. Nurse educators have opportunities for research and publication in scholarly journals to advance the field of nursing and their own careers.<br /> <br /> - Meaning. The desire for a purpose-driven life steers many people to the nurse education field, where they can make a significant difference in a variety of ways.<br /> <br /> - Fulfillment. Nurse educators rejoice in encouraging young students, and take pride in their accomplishments.<br /> <br /> - Impact. Nurse educators, by shaping and developing the next generation of nurses and by working in their communities, will continue to impact the shape of healthcare for future generations.<br /> <br /> - Inspiration. Everyone remembers the teacher or teachers who made a difference for them by giving them that extra encouragement, or helping them explore paths they might not have seen.<br /> <br /> But quite possibly the number- one reason to become a nurse educator, according to the NLN, is the unique chance to "teach what you love."<br /> <br /> Many career tracks exist for potential nurse educators. Teaching requires at least a master's degree in either education or nursing, but these degrees may be earned through a traditional college setting or through the variety of fully accredited programs now available online.<br /> <br /> For more information about careers in nursing education, visit NLN.org.<br /> <br /> Ref: Health - in Blogs

<br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Photography - in Blogs</span>

Beyond Ordinary Beaches: Solo Camping at Bukit Pengilon, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta<br /><br />Have you ever found yourself sitting idle, wondering where to go for your next adventure? The beach sounds appealing, but you want something different from the typical coastal experience. If this resonates with you, then you're in the same boat as I was, and I have the perfect solution to share.<br />Currently staying in Yogyakarta, I decided to explore one of the region's coastal gems. Yogyakarta is renowned for its stunning beaches, particularly in the Gunung Kidul area, which has undergone massive road infrastructure development in recent years. Access to Gunung Kidul from Yogyakarta city has become remarkably convenient and relatively quick. Among the coastal destinations in Gunung Kidul, my choice this time was Bukit Pengilon Beach.<br /><br />A Beach Unlike Any Other<br />Bukit Pengilon isn't your typical Gunung Kidul beach with pristine white sand perfect for water activities. Instead, it offers a breathtaking panorama of ocean views, coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs. The seascape from this vantage point is absolutely captivating, and I can confidently say that Bukit Pengilon ranks as the most beautiful beach in Yogyakarta. If you're visiting Yogya, you must experience this destination at least once.<br /><br />My Solo Camping Adventure<br />My beach getaway took place on May 30, 2025, and I planned an overnight camping trip to fully immerse myself in Bukit Pengilon's stunning scenery. This was a solo camping adventure, as none of my friends were available to join me at the time. I frequently embark on solo outdoor activities like camping because I genuinely enjoy the tranquility and peace that nature provides.<br /><br />Getting There<br />My journey began from Kaliurang, Sleman, Yogyakarta at 5:30 AM, arriving at Bukit Pengilon by 8:00 AM. The 2.5-hour drive passed smoothly despite moderate traffic conditions.<br /><br />Bukit Pengilon is accessible by both motorcycle and car, though cars cannot reach the main entrance directly. Car travelers must park at the designated area before the tourist site and either walk or hire local ojek (motorcycle taxi) services provided by village residents. The route from the parking area to the tourist site is quite challenging and steep, so motorcyclists should exercise caution.<br />Cost breakdown:<br /><br />Beach area entrance: IDR 8,000<br />Overnight motorcycle parking: IDR 10,000<br />Tourist site entry: IDR 2,000<br />Camping fee: IDR 20,000<br /><br />Optimal Visiting Times<br />The best times to visit Bukit Pengilon are during morning or late afternoon hours. Morning visits offer cooler sunlight and optimal lighting conditions for photography enthusiasts. As the sun climbs higher, temperatures can become uncomfortably hot for some visitors. Midday photography isn't ideal due to harsh lighting that diminishes the coastal panorama's visual impact.<br />If you have ample free time, consider staying until sunset, as the evening panorama is truly enchanting, especially by Yogyakarta standards.<br /><br />The Magic of Overnight Camping<br />For those with extended leisure time, I highly recommend experiencing this beach through overnight camping. Spending a full night at the coast proved surprisingly delightful and beautiful. You can enjoy your time while gazing at billions of stars overhead, accompanied by the rhythmic symphony of crashing waves.<br /><br />Stargazing Paradise<br />Astrophotography enthusiasts will find Bukit Pengilon an excellent choice for pursuing their passion. The starry panorama at Bukit Pengilon is absolutely magnificent. You can observe various stellar constellations including Scorpion, Ursa Major, and many others. Such pristine starry views are increasingly rare in Yogyakarta, particularly in urban areas where light pollution obscures celestial visibility.<br /><br />Why Bukit Pengilon Should Be Your Next Destination<br />After reading this account, I'm confident you'll be inspired to make this beach your next travel destination in Yogyakarta. Bukit Pengilon offers a unique coastal experience that transcends ordinary beach visits, combining natural beauty with adventure and tranquility.<br /><br />Whether you're seeking stunning photography opportunities, peaceful solitude, or an unforgettable stargazing experience, Bukit Pengilon delivers an extraordinary coastal adventure that will leave lasting memories.<br />Have you had similar experiences or questions about visiting Bukit Pengilon? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

(NewsUSA) - Joanne C. was 74 when she had a stroke two years ago that left her paralyzed on the entire right side of her body. She refused to accept that she'd end up in a wheelchair and began rehabilitation, determined to get her life and body back to where it was before her stroke.<br /> <br /> Joanne's hard work paid off. She has regained much of her strength and movement and can walk again. In large part, she credits her SilverSneakers exercise classes - offered through her HumanaChoice® PPO, a Medicare Advantage preferred provider organization (PPO) health plan - as key to her successful recovery.<br /> <br /> Being a SilverSneakers member helped keep Joanne in good physical condition before her stroke. "SilverSneakers helped me be familiar with many of the exercises they had me do in physical therapy and gave me the confidence and strength to persevere through a difficult rehab process," Joanne says.<br /> <br /> Numerous studies, including Tivity Health's SilverSneakers Annual Member Survey of 2016, confirm that exercising, especially with others, improves older adults' physical and mental health.1,2, 3<br /> <br /> However, there are challenges that prevent many Medicare beneficiaries from joining gyms and fitness classes.<br /> <br /> By offering SilverSneakers through its Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, Humana is working to overcome those barriers so more people with Medicare can benefit from exercising.<br /> <br /> For those on a fixed income, joining a gym can be expensive. SilverSneakers provides gym access at no additional cost to many of Humana's MA members across the country, including those in Florida and Texas. SilverSneakers has partnered with almost 14,000 fitness and wellness centers around the U.S. and, with national reciprocity, SilverSneakers members can go to any one of those facilities.<br /> <br /> The program is designed with the Medicare population in mind and taught by certified instructors who offer classes and modifications for all fitness levels. These instructors are specifically trained to help members avoid stress-related injuries to muscles and joints.<br /> <br /> There's also a wide variety of classes offered, including circuit training, yoga, Latin dance and even an outdoor boot camp. SilverSneakers members also have access to all of a facility's amenities, which can include a range of exercise equipment, weight rooms and swimming pools.<br /> <br /> "According to Tivity Health's annual survey, SilverSneakers has made a significant difference in the lives of many of our Medicare Advantage members, not only in their physical health, but also in their social life," says Lauri Kalanges, M.D., Humana's Medical Director of Medicare Products for the Mid-Atlantic Region.<br /> <br /> Tivity Health's Annual Member Survey of 2016 found that 91 percent of SilverSneakers participants reported an improved quality of life. SilverSneakers has had a substantial impact on the health of its participants, reducing hospitalizations and the risk of depression.3<br /> <br /> For more information about SilverSneakers, go to www.silversneakers.com.<br /> <br /> Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare Contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits may change each year. SilverSneakers is not offered on all Humana MA plans in all areas.<br /> <br /> 1. Nguyen Q, Ackermann RT, Maciejewski M, Berke E, Patrick M, Williams B and LoGerfo JP. Managed-Medicare Health Club Benefit and Reduced Health Care Costs Among Older Adults. Prev Chronic Dis 2008;5(1).<br /> <br /> 2. Nguyen HQ, Maciejewski M, Gao S, Lin E, William, B, LoGerfo JP. Health Care Use and Costs Associated with Use of a Health Club Membership Benefit in Older Adults with Diabetes. Diabetes Care 2008; 31:1562-1567<br /> <br /> 3. Nguyen, Koepsell, Unutzer, Larson and LoGerfo. Depression and Use of a Health Plan-Sponsored Physical Activity Program by Older Adults. Am J Prev Med 2008;35(2):111-117<br /> <br /> Ref: Dance - in Blogs

When discussing Indonesia's most internationally recognized tourist destinations, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan in Bedugul, Bali, stands as an unparalleled landmark. This magnificent temple represents far more than a conventional tourist attraction—it embodies the perfect harmony between Bali's traditional architecture and the breathtaking natural beauty of the island's mountainous regions, captivating millions of visitors from around the globe.<br /><br />Primary Attractions of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan serves as one of Bali's most renowned icons, demonstrating the seamless integration of traditional Balinese architecture with stunning mountain landscapes. Bali's deeply rooted cultural heritage and spiritual traditions make this temple an extraordinary magnet for both domestic and international tourists.<br />Located in Candikuning Village, Baturiti District, Tabanan Regency, the temple stands gracefully on the northwestern shore of Lake Beratan. Its strategic position on the lake, surrounded by verdant hills, creates panoramic views that are both spectacular and highly photogenic.<br /><br />Rich History and Profound Philosophy<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan possesses an extensive history, constructed in 1556 Caka or 1634 CE by I Gusti Agung Putu, the King of Mengwi during that period. Archaeological artifacts discovered within the temple complex are estimated to be approximately 500 years older than the Common Era, indicating that this area has served as a sacred site for the Balinese community for centuries.<br />The temple's construction originated from the story of I Gusti Agung Putu's defeat against I Gusti Ngurah Batu Tumpeng. Following his loss, the king performed meditation and spiritual retreat at the peak of Mount Mangu, seeking enlightenment and divine power. After receiving blessings, he arose and began constructing this temple as an expression of gratitude and a plea for protection.<br />The temple is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water, lakes, and rivers in Balinese Hindu beliefs, recognizing the critical importance of Lake Beratan as the primary irrigation source for central Bali. The temple's construction also represents a petition for agricultural fertility, prosperity, welfare, and environmental preservation of the surrounding area.<br /><br />Magnificent Architecture and Temple Complex<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan comprises four temple complexes and one stupa: Pura Lingga Petak as the place of worship for Lord Shiva, Pura Dalem Purwa for worshipping Dewi Danu, and a Buddhist Stupa symbolizing harmony and unity among religious communities.<br />The eleven-tiered meru building, which serves as the primary spiritual center of the complex, showcases captivating traditional Balinese architecture. Every detail of carving and ornamentation on the temple buildings reflects the exceptional artistic and spiritual values of Balinese society.<br /><br />Refreshing Mountain Natural Beauty<br /><br />One of the primary advantages of visiting Pura Ulun Danu Beratan is the remarkably cool and refreshing mountain atmosphere. Located in the Bedugul highlands at approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, this area offers clean air and cool temperatures, providing a stark contrast to Bali's typically hot and humid coastal regions.<br />The presence of the expansive and pristine Lake Beratan enhances the natural coolness of the area. Visitors can enjoy views of the tranquil lake with stunning temple reflections, particularly during morning hours when thin mist still envelops the water surface.<br /><br />Current Ticket Prices and Facilities Information<br /><br />For 2025, entrance ticket prices for Pura Ulun Danu Beratan have been adjusted. Domestic tourists are charged IDR 40,000 for regular days and IDR 50,000 for weekends and national holidays. International tourists pay IDR 75,000 for adults and IDR 50,000 for children.<br />In addition to entrance tickets, visitors must pay parking fees of IDR 3,000 for motorcycles, IDR 5,000 for cars, and IDR 10,000 for buses. Supporting facilities available in the area are quite comprehensive, including adequate parking areas, restrooms, food stalls, and rest areas.<br /><br />International Recognition and Iconic Status<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan enjoys widespread international recognition. One of the highest honors achieved by this temple was when its image was immortalized as the design on Indonesia's former 50,000 rupiah banknotes. This distinction established the temple as one of Indonesia's most globally recognized landmarks.<br />The beauty and architectural uniqueness of the temple standing above the lake waters have made it an extremely popular photography subject on international social media platforms. Professional photographers and tourists from various countries travel specifically to capture the temple's extraordinary beauty.<br /><br />Tourist Activities and Experiences<br /><br />The Pura Ulun Danu Beratan complex covers a substantial area, allowing tourists to explore freely, enjoy various perspectives, and spend quality time at this location. Visitors can engage in numerous activities including exploring the temple complex while learning about the history and philosophy of each building. The well-maintained temple area, featuring colorful flower gardens, provides highly enjoyable visual experiences.<br />Photography represents the primary activity undertaken by visitors. Every corner of the temple offers compelling photographic angles, from temple reflections on the lake surface to silhouettes of towering meru structures against mountain backdrops.<br />Visitors frequently experience the spiritual atmosphere and tranquility emanating from the temple complex. Many guests report feelings of inner peace and spiritual inspiration during their visits to this sacred site.<br /><br />Optimal Visiting Times<br /><br />To achieve the best experience, visiting during morning hours between 06:00-09:00 WIB is recommended. During this period, the air remains exceptionally cool, sunlight provides optimal conditions for photography, and visitor numbers remain manageable. Additionally, morning hours often feature thin mist phenomena enveloping the lake, creating highly mystical and photogenic atmospheres.<br /><br />Conclusion<br /><br />Pura Ulun Danu Beratan transcends conventional tourist destinations—it serves as a window showcasing Indonesia's cultural wealth, spirituality, and natural beauty. The perfect combination of magnificent traditional architecture, refreshing mountain natural beauty, and profound historical significance establishes this temple as an essential destination when visiting Bali.<br />For those seeking travel experiences beyond ordinary recreation, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan offers a blend of education, spirituality, and visual beauty that creates lasting impressions. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this internationally renowned Indonesian icon and personally experience its unforgettable charm.<br />Have you visited Pura Ulun Danu Beratan? Share your experiences and impressions in the comments section. If this article proves beneficial, please share it with friends planning vacations to Bali.