Vanessa Orr Ink.

11/07/2025

What would you do with $47 million? The state of Alaska is planning some major infrastructure work...if it doesn't get delayed by the federal government. Check out what's in the works for the 49th state, at least for now. Alaska Business

From the depths of the Great Recession in 2009, a conduit of federal funding has plugged municipalities and tribes into a pot of money for transportation infrastructure.

10/07/2025

Alaska loves its local bands, and this year three groups were named to Alaska Business Monthly's "Best of" list. Check out what they have to say about making music on the Last Frontier! Alaska Business
https://digital.akbizmag.com/issue/july-2025/that-alaska-sound/

09/07/2025

I've often bypassed Chicago on my way to other places, but I got the chance to enjoy a weekend in town this past April, and I can't believe what I was missing! This cool midwestern city has so much cool art and architecture...and I barely scratched the surface. Can't wait to visit again! Visit Chicago The Bean Millennium Park

There is so much to see in this welcoming Midwestern metropolis that it’s impossible to spend just a weekend wandering the sights. While I tried to fit in as much as I could, I was left wanting more.

08/07/2025

Once a haven for movie stars and celebrities—including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Debbie Reynolds, Elvis Presley, Sonny Bono, and more—Palm Springs, CA, remains a welcoming retreat for those seeking an elegant yet down-to-earth getaway. Check out my recent visit to this mid-century modern mecca! Visit Palm Springs Visit California North Hills Monthly Magazine North American Travel Journalists Association

Greater Palm Springs (GPS) encompasses nine cities within the Coachella Valley: Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella.

15/06/2025

Did you know that birding tourism is a big thing? Especially in Alaska, where certain "bucket-list" birds can only be found. Check our my latest in Alaska Business to find out just how economically powerful these birders can be! Birdwatching Alaska Travel Industry Association

Alaska is a prime location for birdwatchers. Local guides help avian observers check bristle-thighed curlews off their bucket list.

15/06/2025

You know I love to write about the human/animal bond, and what better way than to do that than with a story on taking your animals to work? A number of Alaska businesses let employees bring their pets to the office, but you've got to know the rules...or you both could be in the doghouse. Alaska Business

As a perk for humans, some workplaces invite emotional support animals and pets. Learn the best way to integrate four-legged visitors.

15/06/2025

Obviously late in posting this, but love that I got the chance to write about WorldPride! Millions of people from around the world were welcomed to DC for this international event, and huge kudos to the organizers for keeping it safe, fun and fabulous! WorldPride World Footprints MSN

PRIDE has always been an important event for the LGBTQ+ community, providing an opportunity to advocate for acceptance and equal rights, celebrate solidarity, and raise awareness of issues that affect the community. While thousands of events are held annually in the United States, it is rare that th...

15/06/2025

Charleston, SC is such a charming city, brimming with history and art...and some amazing food. Loved my visit there this past March! Visit Charleston, SC

From its stately historic mansions to its colorful, rainbow-hued homes to its horse-drawn carriages and cobblestone streets, Charleston, SC, is a city brimming with charm.

15/06/2025

I've driven by Chicago a lot, but never actually spent any time there. I got to change that this May, and now I know what I missed! Absolutely wowed by the Windy City! Choose Chicago

There is so much to see in this welcoming Midwestern metropolis that it’s impossible to spend just a weekend wandering the sights. While I tried to fit in as much as I could, I was left wanting more.

10/02/2025

Building a home in remote Alaska can be difficult, but 3D printing could revolutionize the process. Check out how a pilot project in the Arctic is helping researchers learn better ways to build! Alaska Business

In summer 2024, a prototype structure was built in Fairbanks using 3D printing to test whether this technology might work in Alaska. A second project, a 1,200-square-foot home, will be built this summer in Nome...

10/02/2025

You know how I love a good libations trail! Check out the Laurel Highlands Pour Tour in my latest on Woodshed: An Appalachian Joint! GO Laurel Highlands

The Pour Tour connects 64 distillaries and related stops, including Tall Pines Distillery and the James B. Beam Pennsylvania Whiskey Heritage Center, which holds the largest, publicly-displayed collection of Pa. whiskeys.

10/02/2025

Thrilled to have my first article on World Footprints! Also picked up by MSN! https://worldfootprints.com/cultural-heritage/national-civil-rights-museum-adds-bayard-rustin-exhibit/
National Civil Rights Museum

On April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated as he stood on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, TN. Now the home of the National Civil Rights Museum, this historic structure not only immortalizes this unforgettable moment in time but showcases more than 400 years of Afric...