Click here to register

*Travel scholarships available

June 3-7

New Orleans, LA

Click here to register

*Travel scholarships available

Also, registration opens February 21st for the next STMA Conference in Dayton, OH January 17-20, 2017

www.stma.org

And this week’s webinar:

STMA: What Is STMA?

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

10:00 am CST

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Latest Posts Latest

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1. Exploring the impact of climate change on Arctic regions
2. The effects of melting polar ice caps on Arctic wildlife
3. Traditional Inuit culture and its adaptation to modern society
4. Investigating the prevalence of whale sightings in the Arctic Ocean
5. The potential for renewable energy sources in the Arctic Circle
6. Challenges faced by indigenous communities living in remote Arctic regions
7. The role of Arctic research stations in studying climate change
8. The impact of tourism

The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, India is a magnificent architectural marvel that stands as a symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Built in memory of Queen Victoria, this white marble monument is a blend of British and Indian architectural styles, with influences from Italian Renaissance and Mughal elements.

Built in the early 20th century, the Victoria Memorial is surrounded by lush gardens and houses a grand collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that depict the colonial period in India. It also houses a library with a vast collection of books and journals.

The memorial is a major tourist attraction and a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The light and sound show, held every evening, is a visual treat that narrates the history of the monument and its significance.

Visiting the Victoria Memorial is like stepping back in time and experiencing the grandeur of the British Raj. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring Kolkata and a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Bengal, a state in eastern India, is known for its rich culture, vibrant festivals and most importantly, its mouth-watering cuisine. One of the highlights of Bengali cuisine is its tangy flavors which are a result of the use of various spices and ingredients.

The tangy taste of Bengal is a perfect blend of sweet, sour and spicy flavors. The use of mustard oil, panch phoron (a blend of five spices), tamarind, and raw mangoes gives the dishes a unique tanginess that is hard to resist. From the famous fish curries, such as maacher jhol and chingri malai curry, to the delicious chutneys like aam kasundi and tomato chutney, every dish in Bengal has a tangy twist to it.

Moreover, the street food of Bengal, like jhal muri and puchka, also have a tangy kick to them, making them a favorite among food lovers. So, if you want to experience the tangy tastes of Bengal, be sure to try out these delectable dishes that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.

The Howrah Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks of Kolkata, India. This magnificent steel bridge, built over the Hooghly River, connects the bustling city of Kolkata with its twin city, Howrah. It is not just a means of transportation but a symbol of the city's rich history and architectural marvel.

The bridge was built in 1943 and is one of the busiest bridges in the world, with an estimated 100,000 vehicles and countless pedestrians crossing it every day. Despite being more than 75 years old, it still stands strong and is a testimony to the engineering skills of that era.

The Howrah Bridge is not just a favorite spot for locals to cross the river but also a popular tourist attraction. The stunning view of the river, along with the bustling traffic and the bustling city on either side, is a sight to behold.

This iconic bridge is not just a structure but a part of the city's identity and will continue to be a source of pride for the people of Kolkata.

Bengal architecture is a unique fusion of various architectural styles that have evolved over centuries in the Bengal region, which includes parts of India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. It is a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences, creating a diverse and rich architectural landscape.

The most distinctive feature of Bengal architecture is the use of terracotta, a type of fired clay, in both religious and secular buildings. This is evident in the intricately designed terracotta temples, palaces, and mansions, which showcase exquisite detailing and craftsmanship.

Another prominent element of Bengal architecture is the emphasis on open spaces, natural light, and ventilation, making the buildings suitable for the region's hot and humid climate.

The architectural style also reflects the social and cultural influences of the time, with various motifs and designs depicting religious and mythological stories, as well as everyday life.

From the ancient structures of the Pala and Sena dynasties to the grand Mughal monuments, Bengal architecture has evolved and adapted to various rulers and influences, making it a unique and important part of the region's cultural heritage.

The East India culture is a rich and diverse blend of various traditions and customs. It is a fusion of the ancient and modern cultures that have influenced this region for centuries. The states of West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and the seven northeastern states come under the East India region, each having its unique cultural identity. The people of this region are known for their warm hospitality, artistic talents, and love for music and dance. The Bengali culture is famous for its elaborate festivals, mouthwatering cuisine, and literature, with Rabindranath Tagore being the first Nobel laureate from this region. Similarly, Odisha is known for its classical dance form, Odissi, and its vibrant silver filigree work. The tribal cultures prevalent in the northeastern states add to the colorful diversity of the East India culture. Overall, the East India culture is a vibrant and dynamic blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, making it a treasure trove of cultural heritage.

Biryani Bonanza is a celebration of the widely loved and delicious Indian dish, biryani. It is a one of a kind event where biryani enthusiasts can come together and indulge in various types of biryani from different regions of India and even some international adaptations. The event offers an array of aromatic and flavorful biryanis such as Hyderabadi biryani, Lucknowi biryani, Sindhi biryani, and even fusion biryanis like Thai biryani and Chinese biryani.

Biryani Bonanza is not just about food, but it is a cultural experience. The event also features live music and dance performances, showcasing the rich diversity of India. It is a perfect platform for foodies, families, and friends to come together, bond over their love for biryani, and create unforgettable memories.

With its mouth-watering biryanis and vibrant atmosphere, Biryani Bonanza is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the world of biryani and have a delightful gastronomical experience. So mark your calendars and get ready to indulge in a Biryani Bonanza like no other!