1. Second still sucks
While COVID-19 takes the health spotlight, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. February 4 is World Cancer Day, a day to raise awareness, bring attention, and inspire action for a cancer-free future. American Cancer Society offers insight on ways to stay healthy as well as advice and assistance whenever you may need it.
2. Weather? Or not?
Will it be six more weeks of winter woolies or is warm weather waiting in the wings? Only the groundhog knows. Check the official forecast on February 2 when Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous marmot, is celebrated during Groundhog Day.
3. Shaken or stirred?
If ever there were times that required a good cocktail, these would be it! Quarantine has been the mother of reinvention for many, including actress/author Quinn Cummings who started crafting cocktails as a fundraiser and then evolved the effort into instruction. You can learn a lot of libation lessons during her free weekly mixology demos via Zoom. She'll also connect one-on-one for special group sessions (they make for unique birthday gifts, by the way). Letting the cat out of the bag: a portion of funds from those classes benefit her favorite charity.
4. Beat burnout
The novelty of commuting only to the kitchen and wearing pajama pants during meetings is long gone for many people working at home. Surveys show that more than 50% of respondents admit to burnout and 38% are dealing with video fatigue. Take steps to reinvigorate yourself and help your team of co-workers.
5. Because Black Lives Matter
After all that has occurred during this last year, it seems particularly important that Black History Month 2021 be one of action as well as celebration. While a little change can change the world, a few dollars also make good sense. Consider donating to the Say Their Names Project, Black Lives Matter, or the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund.
6. Saving the small silver screens
According to the National Association of Theater Owners, 70% of small to midsize movie theaters are at risk of shutting down. The Save Our Stages Act provides some assistance, but until it's safe to grab a seat on the aisle, head to Kino Marquee. This "virtual cinema" for temporarily closed independent theaters shows newly released movies, award-winning international films, acclaimed documentaries, and restored classics you cannot view anywhere else.
7. Traverse the family tree
During the pandemic, many people have started to think more about distant relatives they haven't been able to see or talk to in person. As we take stock of our lives, family folklore has become a priority for many. Here is some of the best genealogy software for putting together your family tree. Don't know how to find info or what to ask relatives? Here are some tips.
