SHOUTOUT DFW: Meet Katherine Elizabeth Long | Founder, Youth Advocate, Technologist, and Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katherine Elizabeth Long and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katherine Elizabeth, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Being near the water, time and activities with family and friends, the outdoors, and travel and exploration. However, most of all, and like everyone, purpose makes me happy. My purpose is around youth advocacy, empowerment, and education….

For the rest of the article visit: https://shoutoutdfw.com/meet-katherine-elizabeth-long-founder-youth-advocate-technologist-and-author/

A Community in the Hamptons

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much” - Helen Keller

Through the arts, all of these destinations bring together, foster, and celebrate the community in the Hamptons.  As the season winds down, there are several places to consider for both in-person and at-home options.

-- Guild Hall

Starting off with one of our favorite destinations, Guild Hall is always bustling with excitement and energy. Established in 1931, it was one of the country’s first multidisciplinary structures. It was a gathering place for the community and helped to enrich the Hamptons by encouraging civil engagement. Over 90 years later it continues to be a cornerstone for the community, engaging the public through art exhibitions, theatrical performances, and educational offerings. Housing a museum, theater, and educational space all under one roof you’re sure to have nothing short of a good time as you pick from its wide array of activities.

 

-- Children’s Museum of the East End

Image via CMEE

Image via CMEE

Started by 7 mothers around a dinner table, the birth of the Children’s Museum of the East End has become a beacon for children all over the Hamptons both year-round residents and those who visit.  It is known for the strength of educational exhibits that provide playful experiences for children of all backgrounds and abilities across all strata of the Hamptons and draws over 75,000 visitors each year.  From magic shows in collaboration with Guild Hall to NASA science programs for those interested in astronomy, CMEE has it all and is there for the community.

 

-- The Bridgehampton Museum

Deeply rooted in the history of the East End, the Bridgehampton Museum is a cultural and historical hub in the Hamptons. Located in the William Corwith house, it is known for its rich archives, which include historical photographs, intriguing documents, various artifacts, and charming works of art. Visitors can enjoy and celebrate the cultures and heritage of the area through the range of lectures, exhibits, concerts, tours, and special events that the museum holds. Standing with the desire to foster an appreciation for the traditions and cultures of the East End, visitors will leave with a deeper understanding and admiration for the community and world around them.

 

-- Southampton History Museum

Organized in 1898, the Southampton History Museum is the backbone of Southampton.  From ghost tours to scavenger hunts, from its thrift store to its 14 historic buildings, to its research center and its educational programs for youth and adults, this museum brings the vibrant history of Southampton to life and its community together. Whether you visit in-person or experience their virtual tours and experiences this museum is a great place to visit and a great way spend a weekend afternoon.

 

-- Second House

The oldest structure in Montauk houses the Second House Museum.  It was originally built in 1746 when Montauk was primarily used for pastureland.  The keeper of the Second House was responsible for tending the sheep to the west and the cattle to the east.   While it is currently going through renovations to bring it back to life, we encourage you to drive by and read up on the extensive history or Montauk that the Montauk Historical Society has provided online. 

-- Madoo Conservancy Botanical Gardens

Image via Madoo Conservancy

“It winked at me.” was the reason behind the purchase of the home and gardens of Robert Dash.  With the gardens established in 1967 and the hay barn from 1740, Madoo has become a place where art, poetry, and nature converge.   Dash himself a writer, artist and critic played host to many prize-winning poets of the ’50s and ’60s and through the 90’s’. His home, Madoo, was considered “one of the greatest literary salons of the late 20th century” by John Koethe and can still be visited today.  Step into the magical gardens, view the art of local artists on display in the newly renovated gallery, or visit the Red Room and Library and step back into another time.

-- East Hampton Historical Society

The East Hampton Historical Society brings to life the rich history of East Hampton. It’s extensive collection of artifacts, archives, on top of its seven properties, cemetery tours, online events, art and history programming, and educational classes and experiences make this organization a standout in East Hampton.  Consider visiting while still open or visit from home.  The East Hampton Historical Society is sure to please any history and art buff and provide insight into East Hampton’s past.

-- Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum

A favorite destination of Hampton-goers, Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum offers visitors an exhilarating look into whaling and village history of Sag Harbor. A certified national treasure and housed in a building part of the Save America’s Treasures program, the museum is rich with significance, importance, and things to explore. The exhibits give visitors a peek into the past through paintings, textiles, antique toys, whaling gear, scrimshaw, and more, while the more contemporary events and exhibits reflect on the present culture of Sag Harbor. Learn all about whaling and its significance in the area while perusing the largest collection of whaling equipment in the state of New York. 

A Hamptons Weekend Getaway!

Happy Labor Day Weekend! If you’re still looking for plans, we’ve got you covered! Just a short trip from New York City, the Hamptons is the perfect location for a weekend getaway. Swap out the crowded streets of the city for the fresh air and laid back vibe of the Hamptons. Here’s just a taste of what the East End has to offer and what an exciting weekend out in the Hamptons can look like.

Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum

Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum.JPG

A favorite destination of Hampton-goers, Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum offers visitors an exhilarating look into the whaling and village history of Sag Harbor. A certified national treasure and housed in a building part of the Save America’s Treasures program, the museum is rich with significance, importance, and things to explore. The exhibits give visitors a peek into the past through paintings, textiles, antique toys, whaling gear, scrimshaw, and more, while the more contemporary events and exhibits reflect on the present culture of Sag Harbor. Learn all about whaling and its relevance to the area while perusing the largest collection of whaling equipment in the state of New York. 

Parrish Art Museum

Image via Parrish Art Museum, photo by Jenny Gorman

Image via Parrish Art Museum, photo by Jenny Gorman

If art is more your forte, then the Parrish Art Museum is the perfect place for you. Focused on the creative legacy of the East End, the Parrish Art Museum highlights the work of many local artists in its impressive collection of over 3,000 works. In addition to its main exhibitions, the museum holds 15 temporary exhibitions each year and produces over 100 public programs on various topics including film and music, with classes and workshops open to the public. The gorgeous grounds are also well-loved by visitors, who can peruse the grounds on their own or take garden tours. Revel in the creativity and become inspired on your trip to the Parrish Art Museum. 

Montauk Lighthouse

Montauk Lighthouse 2.jpeg

Perched at the very tip of Montauk, if there’s one thing you have to do when out in the Hamptons, it’s visiting the Montauk Lighthouse. Sitting at the easternmost point of Long Island, the lighthouse offers visitors delightful views no matter where you look. Breathe in the fresh seaside air as you gaze out into the horizon, the sparkling blue ocean stretching as far as the eye can see before reaching up to meet with the sky. 

Visitors can also learn more about the lighthouse and its history at the Montauk Lighthouse Museum, which is located in the 1860s Keepers’ home at the foot of the lighthouse. Filled with documents, photographs, and artifacts, the rich past of the lighthouse is detailed on the walls of the old building. With so much to see and take in, your eyes won’t know where to look!

Main Beach

And what would be a trip to the Hamptons without stopping at one of its stunning beaches. Filled with things to do, at Main Beach you can enjoy surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding or, for a more laid back option, you can browse a book from the makeshift used book library on the beach as you soak up the warm summer sun. Close to downtown, the town’s restaurants and shops are just a short walk away from the water when you’re craving something more than the snacks and ice cream at the beach. Walk, take the shuttle, ride your bike, or drive to Main Beach to recharge and refresh with a much needed beach day!

For those seeking a brief change of scenery or a moment away from hectic city life, the Hamptons are the perfect place for you. Relax, refresh, and enjoy some time for yourself at one of the many great spots in the area and return home feeling recharged and rejuvenated. And if for some reason you can’t make the trip, bring the Hamptons to you with Exploring Paths’ many online options. 

Download the Exploring Paths here or get started on our website!

Safe travels!

Tour de Tokyo: 7 Must-see Spots in Tokyo, Japan!

Tour de Tokyo: 7 Must-see Spots in Tokyo, Japan!

Tokyo, Japan, home to the long awaited 2020 Olympic Games, is a bustling city rich with history and full of sites to explore. With a population of almost 14 million, every street of this busy capital is packed with things to do. From museums and art galleries to historical temples and shrines, Tokyo brilliantly fuses the ultramodern and futuristic with the traditional to create an incredible and unique atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. With endless possibilities for fun and unforgettable memories, here are just some of our must see spots in Tokyo, Japan!

Our Top 5 Urban Parks!

Our Top 5 Urban Parks!

Summer means fun in the sun, and where better to go than the park! Perfect places to spend your past times, you can take a lovely stroll, enjoy a scenic bike ride, or have a late afternoon picnic with friends – parks are great places to unwind, relax, and make the most of this beautiful weather. With that in mind, here are some of our favorite urban parks in the US.

Destination Spotlight: A Day in Key West, Florida

Destination Spotlight: A Day in Key West, Florida

Famous for its conch-style houses, coral reefs, and delicate pastel color palette, Key West is a favorite travel spot for many. Although just a short trip from Miami, it offers a much more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere as everyone lets loose and enjoys the beautiful sights and sounds of this island city. With turtle nesting beaches, fascinating museums, gorgeous parks, and much more, there is so much to see and do. Here’s just a glimpse into what a fun-filled day in Key West could look like.

Do Summer Travel Plans Have You Frazzled? We Have You Covered!

Do Summer Travel Plans Have You Frazzled? We Have You Covered!

Travel plans got you stressed? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! From New York to London to Tahannaout, Morocco & The Atlas Mountains, Exploring Paths has you covered. Enjoy tools like Vuka Tour Guide and Rewind Dubrovnik in Croatia or get shown around by local residents like Chafik in the Atlas Mountains. Find what works best for you on the Exploring Paths app!

Children's Museum of the East End and Exploring Paths!

Children's Museum of the East End and Exploring Paths!

Whether you choose to explore on your own, with family or friends, or even start your own version of our mentorship program in your community (we hope with cycling), exploration and moving beyond our four-block by four-block radius whether in-person or virtually to experience and learn about the world and cultures around us is key to our personal development, and imperative now more than ever for us as a society to build a future based in understanding, acceptance, access, and opportunity.

Scavenge NYC for the YMCA!

Stuck in the city this Memorial Day Weekend? Make the most of it by exploring New York while giving back to a cause dear to you through the Exploring Paths Scavenger Hunt! Pay a visit to beloved NYC spots like the Highline, Central Park, the Museum of Moving Image and more. Grab your friends and get ready to go have some fun!

Our East End Picks for Memorial Day Weekend!

Make the most of your Memorial Day Weekend by taking a trip to the East End! With beautiful beaches and plenty of sunshine, what better way to relax and recharge than exploring all that the Hamptons has to offer. Learn about great spots like Guild Hall, Bridge Gardens and the Montauk Lighthouse and Museum and start planning for an unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend in the East End!

What is Exploring Paths?

What is Exploring Paths?

Whether you choose to explore on your own, with family or friends, or even start your own version of our mentorship program in your community (we hope with cycling), exploration and moving beyond our four-block by four-block radius whether in-person or virtually to experience and learn about the world and cultures around us is key to our personal development, and imperative now more than ever for us as a society to build a future based in understanding, acceptance, access, and opportunity.

Getting Started and Honoring Our Roots

Getting Started and Honoring Our Roots

Whether you participated in Exploring Paths, want to start your Exploring Paths cycling group, if you're a teacher looking for help, a family looking to do more together, or a teen looking to explore...

You can now share the experiences we created during our program by visiting www.exploringpaths.com or downloading our application from the app store!