Juneteenth 2025: Is It a Federal Holiday? Uncover the History, Meaning & Best Ways to Celebrate
Juneteenth marks a pivotal moment in American history – the day when the last enslaved African Americans learned of their freedom. This celebration of liberation has grown from local Texas traditions to national recognition. As awareness of this significant day continues to expand, many wonder about its official status and how best to honor its meaning. Join us as we explore the rich history of Juneteenth, its federal holiday designation, and the meaningful ways Americans commemorate this day of freedom. What Is Juneteenth? Juneteenth, a combination of the words “June” and “nineteenth,” commemorates June 19, 1865 – the day when Major General Gordon Granger and approximately 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas. On this historic day, they delivered General Order No. 3, officially informing the last 250,000 enslaved African Americans in Texas that they were free. “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor.” General Order No. 3, delivered by Major General Gordon Granger, June 19, 1865 What makes this date particularly significant is that it came a full two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. While the proclamation technically freed slaves in Confederate states, enforcement relied on the advancement of Union troops. Texas, being the most remote Confederate state, was the last to receive this life-changing news. The first Juneteenth celebrations began the following year in 1866, with prayer meetings, singing of spirituals, and the wearing of new clothes to symbolize newfound freedom. These celebrations quickly spread as formerly enslaved Texans migrated to other states, carrying their traditions with them. Explore Juneteenth’s Historical Roots Discover primary historical documents, including the original General Order No. 3 and accounts from those who experienced the first Juneteenth. View Historical Documents Is Juneteenth a Federal Holiday? Yes, Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States. On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making Juneteenth the 11th federal holiday and the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983. The path to federal recognition was long and championed by many activists, most notably Opal Lee, often called the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” At 89 years old, Lee walked from her home in Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., to raise awareness about the importance of making Juneteenth a national holiday. Prior to federal recognition, Juneteenth had already been established as a state holiday or observance in many parts of the country: Texas became the first state to officially recognize Juneteenth in 1980 By 2021, 47 states and the District of Columbia recognized Juneteenth as a holiday or observance Federal employees now receive a paid day off on June 19 (or the nearest weekday if it falls on a weekend) Many businesses, universities, and organizations have also begun observing the holiday The official name is “Juneteenth National Independence Day” Also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, and Jubilee Day When signing the legislation, President Biden remarked: “Juneteenth marks both the long, hard night of slavery and subjugation, and a promise of a brighter morning to come… By making Juneteenth a federal holiday, all Americans can feel the power of this day, and learn from our history.” While Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, celebrations and observances vary widely across the country. Some states have additional commemorations on different dates that mark when emancipation was announced in their specific region. The Juneteenth Flag: Symbols of Freedom The Juneteenth flag, created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith and later revised in 2000 with illustrator Lisa Jeanne-Graf, has become an important symbol of the holiday. The flag’s design is rich with meaning: The Colors The red, white, and blue mirror the American flag, symbolizing that the formerly enslaved people were and are Americans. The Star The white star represents Texas (the Lone Star State) where the last enslaved people learned of their freedom, as well as the freedom of African Americans in all 50 states. The Burst The burst around the star represents a nova or “new star,” symbolizing a new beginning for African Americans. The flag also features an arc that divides the red and blue sections, representing a new horizon and the promising future that awaited newly freed slaves. In 2007, the date “June 19, 1865” was added to the flag to commemorate the specific day freedom finally reached Texas. Today, the Juneteenth flag is flown at homes, businesses, government buildings, and community centers across the country during Juneteenth celebrations as a symbol of freedom and remembrance. How Is Juneteenth Celebrated? Juneteenth celebrations combine commemoration, education, and joyful community gatherings. While traditions vary across the country, many celebrations include these common elements: Traditional Celebrations Community Gatherings Family reunions, community picnics, and barbecues bring people together to celebrate freedom and community bonds. Red Foods Red foods and drinks symbolize resilience and sacrifice. Traditional options include red velvet cake, watermelon, red soda, and barbecued meats. Music and Dance Performances often include spirituals, jazz, blues, and gospel music, with “Lift Every Voice and Sing” frequently performed. Educational Components Historical Readings Public readings of the Emancipation Proclamation, General Order No. 3, and works by Black authors honor the historical significance. Educational Events Lectures, exhibitions, and workshops explore African American history, culture, and the ongoing journey toward equality. Parades and Marches Many communities host parades celebrating African American culture and achievements while honoring the struggle for freedom. Find Juneteenth Celebrations Near You Discover local events, parades, educational programs, and community gatherings happening in your area to commemorate Juneteenth. Find Local Celebrations Why Juneteenth Matters Today Juneteenth has taken on renewed significance in recent years, particularly following the racial justice movements that gained momentum in 2020. The holiday serves
Mario Kart World Review & Gameplay: Features, Pros, and Cons
As Shigeru Miyamoto once said, “The most important thing in a game is the fun.” I’ve certainly found that to be true with the latest installment in the iconic racing series – Mario Kart World. With over 35 hours spent playing since its launch, I’m still eager to dive back in. This new open-world format brings a fresh twist to the classic Mario Kart formula, combining the thrill of racing with exploration. The game’s ability to balance traditional racing elements with new features is a testament to its quality. As I navigated through the various courses and modes, I was impressed by the seamless integration of exploration and competition. Key Takeaways An open-world format brings a new level of excitement to the classic Mario Kart gameplay. The game successfully balances racing and exploration elements. Multiple game modes, including Grand Prix and Knockout Tour, offer varied experiences. Visual presentation and gameplay mechanics are engaging and responsive. The game’s design impacts the overall experience, making it a worthy successor to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. A New Era for Mario Kart: First Impressions The moment I started playing Mario Kart World, I was impressed by its stunning graphics and seamless performance. As a main launch game for the Nintendo Switch2, there was significant pressure on Mario Kart World to deliver a top-notch experience, and it certainly does. The game’s visual presentation is truly impressive, with a rock-solid 60fps framerate in single-player mode, whether you’re docked or handheld. The slightly exaggerated art style looks great on both 4K TVs and the 1080p Switch2 screen. One of the standout features is the entirely interconnected map, which runs smoothly without any loading screens. Visual and Audio Presentation The visual details in Mario Kart World are noteworthy, with great water effects, character animations, and environmental design that make it the most visually impressive Mario Kart game to date. The audio design is equally impressive, featuring over 200 brand-new arrangements that pay homage to Mario’s history, with nods to classic scores from games like Donkey Kong Country and Yoshi’s Island. The soundtrack enhances the racing experience, although it’s surprising that there’s no music player to choose specific tracks. Overall, Mario Kart World looks, sounds, and feels like a premium game, making the most of the Nintendo Switch2’s capabilities. In terms of performance, the game holds up well over time, maintaining its high quality whether you’re playing casually or competitively. With its engaging gameplay and beautiful presentation, Mario Kart World is a great addition to the Mario Kart series, and a compelling reason to own a Nintendo Switch. Open World Innovation: Exploring the Map Mario Kart World revolutionizes the traditional racing experience with its innovative open-world design. This new approach allows players to explore an interconnected continent at their leisure, discovering secrets and accessing races from multiple entry points. The open-world design in Mario Kart World represents Nintendo’s ambitious vision for the series, creating a playground where players can collect items and enjoy the scenery. As you navigate through the world, you’ll encounter various activities, including collecting coins to unlock new vehicles and finding mysterious Peach Medallions to earn stickers. Free Roam Mode In Mario Kart World, the free roam mode is a significant feature that allows players to explore the world without the constraints of traditional racing. You can speed around the open world, enjoying the scenery and unlocking new outfits by consuming different snacks. The free roam mode is not just about exploration; it’s also about experiencing the thrill of Mario Kart in a more relaxed environment. However, it’s worth noting that aside from exploring and taking in the sights, there isn’t a lot to do in free roam mode. The activities, while enjoyable, are somewhat limited, with the main focus being on collection challenges and unlocking items. Explore an expansive open world, discovering new locations and secrets. Collect coins and Peach Medallions to unlock new vehicles and earn rewards. Participate in time-based challenges to test your driving skills. While the free roam mode offers a fresh way to experience Mario Kart, it could benefit from more substantial activities beyond basic collection challenges. Nonetheless, the seamless transitions between different biomes and environments showcase Nintendo’s attention to detail and technical prowess. Racing Mechanics and New Features Mario Kart World has revolutionized the series with its innovative racing mechanics and new features. The core gameplay has been reworked, expanding its functionality and introducing numerous new “tricks” that players can perform alongside the traditional boost slide. This enhancement makes the game feel like a skateboarding experience at times, as players chain tricks together to gain multiple boosts. The addition of rail grinding and wall riding has significantly impacted the gameplay. Players can now grind on rails found on the ground, buildings, and even the side of the road. These slick moves can be chained together to perform tricks, earn speed boosts, and discover shortcuts that were previously inaccessible. This new dimension adds a layer of complexity and strategy to the game, making it more engaging for players. Rail Grinding and Wall Riding The rail grinding and wall riding mechanics in Mario Kart World are game-changers. They add a vertical dimension to the races, allowing players to explore new paths and strategies. By mastering these mechanics, skilled players can chain tricks together for speed boosts and uncover hidden shortcuts. The learning curve for these new features is moderate, but the payoff is substantial, as they dramatically change the approach to familiar track designs. The implementation of rail grinding and wall riding feels natural, demonstrating Nintendo’s careful approach to evolving the core Mario Kart formula. These features create a higher skill ceiling for competitive play while maintaining the approachable nature that has made Mario Kart a beloved series. As a result, players of all skill levels can enjoy the game, with challenging opportunities for both casual and competitive players. Track Analysis: The Best and Worst Courses The track lineup in Mario Kart World is a testament to Nintendo’s creativity and commitment
Thunder Roar to Victory: Epic Game 5 Win That Shook the NBA!
As basketball legend Michael Jordan once said, “Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” The Oklahoma City squad embodied this spirit in their latest showdown, delivering a performance that left fans electrified. With a dominant 120-109 score, the Thunder took a crucial step toward ending their 46-year championship drought. Their relentless defense forced 23 turnovers, turning mistakes into 32 critical points. Now, they stand just one win away from hoisting the trophy. History favors them—teams winning Game 5 in a tied finals series clinch the title 74% of the time. After a stellar 68-win season, this team is proving they’re built for greatness. The next clash in Indianapolis could cement their legacy. Key Takeaways Oklahoma City’s 120-109 victory puts them ahead 3-2 in the series. Teams winning Game 5 in a 2-2 finals scenario secure the championship 74% of the time. Forced turnovers (23) and points off them (32) were decisive. This season marks their best chance to end a decades-long title drought. Game 6 could be the culmination of their historic run. Thunder’s Game 5 Triumph: A Pivotal Moment in the NBA Finals History was made when the Pacers faced their first series deficit this postseason. Oklahoma City’s relentless defense forced 23 turnovers, converting them into 32 points—a stat that sealed Indiana’s fate. Let’s break it down. The Pacers had been 5-0 when trailing by 15+ points in the playoffs. But in Game 5, the script flipped. Eight fourth-quarter turnovers led to 13 quick points for OKC, crushing Indiana’s comeback hopes. Three factors defined this clash: Shooting efficiency: A 43% three-point rate (14/32) kept the Pacers’ defense scrambling. Ball movement: Ten more first-half assists than in Game 4 created open looks. Star power: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams combined for 70+ points—their 10th such playoff win as a duo. For the first time all postseason, Indiana now faces elimination pressure. Can they respond? Game 6 will test their resilience in a way never seen before. Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Dynamic Duo Delivers When the spotlight shone brightest, two stars delivered like never before. Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander combined for 71 points, turning Game 5 into their personal highlight reel. Their synergy wasn’t just impressive—it was historic. Jalen Williams’ Career Night: 40 Points and Clutch Plays Williams didn’t just score—he dominated. Dropping 40 points on 56% shooting, he attacked the rim relentlessly. Nine free throw attempts? That’s aggression. His fourth-quarter dagger three sealed the deal. We clocked it: 11 points in the final 12 minutes. Clutch doesn’t begin to cover it. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-Caliber Leadership SGA was a maestro. 31 points, 10 assists, and a near-perfect 13/14 from the line. His four blocks? Just proof he’s a two-way force. Downhill attacks left defenders scrambling. Indiana had no answer for his pace and precision. Stat Jalen Williams Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Points 40 31 Assists 4 10 Free Throws 9/10 13/14 Field Goal % 56% 48% This wasn’t luck. It was their 10th 70+ playoff performance as a duo—an NBA record. Next stop: a championship. Turning Points: How the Thunder Sealed the Win Tyrese Haliburton’s limp told a story—one that changed Indiana’s fate. The Pacers’ star, usually a maestro on court, went 0-6 from the field, his wrapped right calf clearly limiting his explosiveness. It was his first scoreless half in 36 playoff games. T.J. McConnell’s Third-Quarter Surge and the Pacers’ Rally Just when hope seemed lost, T.J. McConnell ignited Indiana. His 13-point third quarter—including six straight points on flawless drives—cut OKC’s lead to 95-93. The crowd roared, sensing a comeback. But momentum is fickle. Oklahoma City responded with a 25-14 run, fueled by four consecutive steals. Eight unanswered points in 90 seconds? That’s how you silence a rally. Haliburton’s Injury: A Critical Blow to Indiana’s Hopes Haliburton’s injury wasn’t just a footnote. His calf strain turned him into a non-factor, and Indiana’s offense sputtered without its engine. The Pacers’ 16-4 collapse in the final 5:35? That’s what happens when your leader can’t lead. We’ve seen teams overcome adversity, but this time, the turnovers were too costly. Oklahoma City’s defense smelled blood—and pounced. Pacers’ Struggles: Turnovers and Missed Opportunities Missed opportunities haunted Indiana as their playoff run took a devastating hit. The Indiana Pacers coughed up 23 turnovers—their worst since Game 1—letting OKC convert mistakes into 32 points. We watched Siakam become a turnover machine, committing six giveaways under relentless double-teams. Their offense hit another snag: 11/30 from three-point range. That’s 36.7%, their second-worst finals performance. Even open attempts clanked off the rim, deflating their comeback hopes. Here’s what sealed their fate: Starters’ miscues: Combined 15 turnovers vs. OKC’s 11 as a team. Transition fails: 17 missed fast-break chances—their second-lowest output all postseason. Nesmith’s blunder: A fourth-quarter travel violation ignited OKC’s 8-0 run, crushing Indiana’s momentum. In the playoffs, margins are razor-thin. Indiana’s errors? They were a chasm too wide to cross. Defensive Dominance: Thunder’s Formula for Success Defense wins championships—and Oklahoma City proved it with a masterclass. Their 14 steals and 32 points off turnovers weren’t just numbers; they were a statement. Indiana’s Haliburton? Held to zero field goals. That’s lockdown. Let’s talk about Cason Wallace. Four steals in 18 minutes—the most by a reserve in finals history. His anticipation was unreal, turning Pacers’ passes into fast-break opportunities. We clocked three of those steals leading directly to dunks. The defense didn’t stop there. OKC contested 63% of Indiana’s shots, 12% above the league average. Every drive met a wall. Every jumper had a hand in the face. Even their deflections (19.3 per game) fueled 17 fast-break points. Chet Holmgren anchored the paint with three blocks, despite foul trouble. His 7-foot-4 wingspan erased layups like they were practice drills. Pair that with Lu Dort hounding Pacers guards into 9/25 shooting, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster—for Indiana. Stat Impact Steals 14 (4 by Wallace) Blocks 5 (3 by Holmgren) Deflections 19.3 (league-best) Contested shots 63% (Pacers’ avg: 51%) This wasn’t
CROWD GOES ABSOLUTELY INSANE! Most BRUTAL Spinning Back Kick Ever Caught on Camera 🤯
Real talk – I’ve seen thousands of kicks in my time covering combat sports, but THIS spinning back kick had the entire crowd losing their minds! The technique, the timing, the POWER behind this strike… it’s absolutely unreal. Watch how the crowd erupts the moment it connects – you can literally feel the energy through the screen!
Best Portable OLED Monitors 2025: Top 5 Amazon Picks & Buyer’s Guide
Portable OLED monitors have revolutionized how we work and play on the go. With their perfect blacks, vibrant colors, and ultra-thin profiles, these displays offer a premium visual experience that LCD alternatives simply can’t match. Whether you’re a digital nomad needing extra screen space, a creative professional requiring color accuracy, or a gamer seeking immersive visuals, a portable OLED monitor can be a game-changer for your mobile setup. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 5 portable OLED monitors currently available on Amazon. We’ll break down their key specifications, analyze real user feedback, and help you determine which model best suits your needs and budget. From connectivity options to display quality, we’ve tested these monitors to bring you the most accurate recommendations possible. Portable OLED monitors offer exceptional color accuracy and contrast for work and entertainment on the go Portable OLED Monitor Comparison: At a Glance Before diving into detailed reviews, let’s compare the key specifications of our top 5 portable OLED monitors on Amazon. This table highlights the most important features to consider when making your purchase decision. Monitor Model Screen Size Resolution Refresh Rate Weight Connectivity Price VILVA OLED Portable Monitor 13.3″ 1920×1080 (FHD) 60Hz 2.81 lbs USB-C, Mini HDMI $109.99 ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED 15.6″ 3840×2160 (4K) 60Hz 1.5 lbs USB-C, Mini HDMI $516 KEEPTIME 4K OLED Monitor 13.3″ 3840×2160 (4K) 60Hz 1.7 lbs USB-C, HDMI $159.99 UPERFECT A17 OLED 15.6″ 3840×2160 (4K) 60Hz 1.9 lbs USB-C, HDMI $190 Arzopa Z1FC OLED 16.1″ 1920×1080 (FHD) 144Hz 1.8 lbs USB-C, Mini HDMI $150 Editor’s Choice: ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED Editor’s Choice ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED: Premium Portable OLED Experience 4.3 Based on 1,845 Amazon reviews Display Quality 4.8/5 Build Quality 4.5/5 Connectivity 4.4/5 Value for Money 3.8/5 Key Specifications: 15.6-inch OLED display with 4K (3840×2160) resolution 500 nits peak brightness with HDR support 1ms response time for smooth motion Near-infinite contrast ratio (OLED technology) 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage Two USB-C ports with 60W pass-through charging Mini HDMI port for broader compatibility Built-in kickstand for portrait and landscape modes Ultra-lightweight at just 1.5 pounds “The ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED has a vibrant, sharp OLED display that offers the best contrast of any portable monitor we’ve tested. Colors looked full and saturated, skin tones appeared natural, and text rendered sharply on screen.” — Wirecutter Review Pros Exceptional OLED display quality with perfect blacks Sharp 4K resolution ideal for detailed work Extremely lightweight and portable design Versatile connectivity options Elegant kickstand that hides ports 60W pass-through charging Cons Premium price point Kickstand works best in landscape mode Glossy screen can be reflective in bright environments No built-in battery The ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED earns our Editor’s Choice award for delivering the ultimate portable OLED experience. While it commands a premium price, the combination of a stunning 4K OLED panel, versatile connectivity, and ultra-portable design makes it the gold standard for professionals who demand the best visual quality on the go. This monitor excels for creative professionals who need color accuracy, business travelers who want a premium second screen, and anyone who appreciates exceptional visual quality. The near-infinite contrast ratio and perfect blacks make it ideal for photo editing, video production, and content consumption. Experience Premium Portable OLED Get the ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED delivered to your door with Amazon Prime shipping Buy Now on Amazon Best Budget Option: VILVA OLED Portable Monitor Best Value VILVA OLED Portable Monitor: Affordable OLED Excellence 4.3 Based on 1,845 Amazon reviews Display Quality 4.3/5 Build Quality 3.8/5 Connectivity 4.2/5 Value for Money 4.6/5 Key Specifications: 13.3-inch OLED display with FHD (1920×1080) resolution 178° full viewing angle with matte screen finish 60Hz refresh rate USB-C and Mini HDMI connectivity Built-in dual stereo speakers Magnetic smart cover that doubles as a stand 5V power requirement Complete accessory package included “After a very careful unboxing, there it was: a beautiful, very lightweight, thin and portable 13.3″ OLED with an edge-to-edge design! I mean, it is a top-notch, well-thought-out display quality, including port placement. What a gorgeous, true-to-spec OLED display in all its glory! Colors popped, blacks are true, and alignment is perfect.” — Amazon Customer Review Pros Exceptional value for an OLED display Vibrant colors and true blacks Matte screen reduces glare Complete accessory package included Built-in speakers for audio Versatile connectivity options Cons Lower resolution than premium options Slightly heavier than competitors at 2.81 lbs Stand functionality could be improved Some users report quality control issues The VILVA OLED Portable Monitor offers an incredible entry point into the world of portable OLED displays. At just $109.99, it delivers the core benefits of OLED technology—perfect blacks, vibrant colors, and wide viewing angles—at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. This monitor is ideal for budget-conscious users who want to experience OLED quality without breaking the bank. It’s particularly well-suited for general productivity tasks, casual gaming, and media consumption. The included accessories make it ready to use right out of the box with virtually any device. Affordable OLED Excellence Get the VILVA OLED Portable Monitor with all accessories included Buy Now on Amazon Best for Gaming: Arzopa Z1FC OLED Best for Gaming Arzopa Z1FC OLED: High Refresh Rate Gaming Monitor 4.4 Based on 2,560 Amazon reviews Gaming Performance 4.7/5 Display Quality 4.4/5 Build Quality 4.1/5 Value for Money 4.5/5 Key Specifications: 16.1-inch OLED display with FHD (1920×1080) resolution 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming 1ms response time 106% sRGB color gamut coverage HDR support for enhanced contrast USB-C and Mini HDMI connectivity Built-in kickstand for portrait and landscape modes Ultra-slim profile for maximum portability “The Z1FC can reach a 144 Hz refresh rate, so if your computer or game console is fast enough, this monitor can change its pixels to new colors more than twice as fast as non-gaming displays, producing smoother motion.” — Tech Reviewer Pros High 144Hz refresh rate ideal for gaming Larger 16.1″ screen size Excellent color accuracy (106% sRGB) Versatile kickstand works in portrait and landscape Great value