Travel

14 Skills Pennsylvania Boomers Learned in School That Are No Longer Needed

If you’re a Pennsylvania boomer—or any American boomer—you probably learned some skills in class that felt like a big deal at the time.

You sharpened pencils by hand, practiced perfect cursive, and hoped the filmstrip wouldn’t break halfway through science. There were no tablets or smartboards. Just chalk, rulers, and a whole lot of patience.

But flash-forward to now?

Many of those school lessons are long gone. Kids today don’t even know what a card catalog is.

Here are some of the old-school skills boomers learned in class that modern-day life no longer requires.

Table of Contents

Penmanship Class

Remember sitting for what felt like hours practicing perfect cursive?

Boomers learned how to loop their Ls and curve their Gs with military precision. Cursive was a big deal.

Teachers handed out worksheets with dotted lines. You’d trace over letters until your hand cramped and the paper ripped.

Some even got graded on how pretty their writing was. Seriously—neatness mattered.

But today? Most schools don’t even teach cursive anymore. Kids are typing before they can spell. And when they do write, it’s often in messy print or emojis.

Typing on a Typewriter

Learning to type was a rite of passage.

Boomers sat in long rows in typing class, fingers hovering over clunky keys, waiting for the bell. Every mistake meant starting over. There was no delete key—just whiteout and frustration.

Speed and accuracy were everything. You’d hear the clack-clack-clack of keys and the ding of the carriage return over and over.

Students even had to memorize where their fingers went—home row was gospel.

Now? Most people type on glass screens. Auto-correct fixes the typos, and voice-to-text does the rest. The rhythm of a typewriter is long gone.

Using a Card Catalog

Before Google, there was the library card catalog.

Rows of tiny drawers, each stuffed with index cards. You had to look up a book by title, author, or subject. It was like playing detective—with paper.

Boomers learned the Dewey Decimal System like it was a second language. Finding one book could take 15 minutes if you were lucky.

And when you finally found it? You had to write down the call number and then go searching for it on a dusty shelf.

These days, you just type the title in a search bar and click. Some kids have never even touched a library drawer.

Home Economics Class

Home ec was serious business.

Boomers learned how to sew on buttons, bake biscuits, and plan balanced meals. Some even had to carry around fake babies to learn about parenting.

It wasn’t just cooking and cleaning—it was life prep.

Girls were often expected to master these skills. Boys? Not so much. It reflected the gender roles of the time.

Today, many schools have dropped home ec or renamed it “life skills.” And while cooking’s still useful, you don’t need to make a perfect pie crust in gym shorts at 15.

Shop Class

If home ec was for the girls, shop class was for the boys.

Boomers learned how to use saws, drills, and sanders. They made birdhouses and bookends like mini-carpenters.

It was hands-on learning, and students took pride in building something from scratch.

But as schools shifted to tech-focused education, shop class started disappearing. Insurance costs, safety concerns, and budget cuts didn’t help either.

Now, most teens build things with coding, not wood. And fewer people know how to fix a chair than ever before.

Memorizing Phone Numbers

This might sound wild to anyone under 30, but boomers could rattle off a dozen phone numbers without blinking.

Your best friend’s house, your grandma’s landline, the pizza place down the street—you just knew them.

If you forgot one? You were out of luck. No one carried a contact list in their pocket.

Memorization was part of school too. You learned emergency numbers, area codes, and how to use a rotary phone.

Now, most people don’t even know their partner’s number. If it’s not in your phone, it might as well not exist.

Writing Checks and Balancing a Checkbook

Boomers didn’t have online banking. They had ledgers, pens, and a strong grip on math.

Schools taught students how to write checks properly—complete with the date, the amount in numbers and words, and a neat signature.

They also learned to balance a checkbook, which meant tracking every deposit and expense by hand. Miss one and you were in trouble.

While checks still exist, they’re fading fast. Most people use debit cards, apps, or online payments. And balancing a checkbook? That’s what your banking app does automatically now.

Diagramming Sentences

This one gave a lot of students nightmares.

Boomers had to break down every sentence into parts—subject, predicate, direct object, and so on.

You’d draw lines and angles like a tiny architect, trying to figure out where every word fit.

It was all about structure. Teachers believed it helped you understand grammar better.

But today, hardly anyone teaches this anymore. Language arts classes are more focused on writing style and reading comprehension.

Plus, most adults can’t diagram a sentence now—and they’re doing just fine.

Using Slide Rules and Long Division

Before calculators were allowed, boomers had slide rules.

They used them to figure out math problems, especially in science class. It took patience—and good eyesight.

Even basic math meant doing it the long way. Long division, multiplication tables, and solving by hand were part of daily life.

Some teachers wouldn’t even let you use a calculator until high school.

Now? Kids can solve equations with a phone or laptop. And most won’t ever see a slide rule unless they find one in a grandparent’s attic.

Filmstrip Projectors and Overheads

If you were a boomer, you remember the excitement of a filmstrip day.

The lights went out, the reel clicked to life, and the narrator droned on about frogs or ancient Rome.

Teachers used overhead projectors too—transparent sheets, dry-erase markers, and a lot of smudging.

Boomers sometimes had to operate these machines for class presentations. It felt high-tech back then.

Now, everything’s digital. Projectors are smart, lessons are on PowerPoint, and students are more likely to use iPads than push reels.

Making Flashcards by Hand

Studying meant scissors, index cards, and a stack of flashcards taller than a soda can.

Boomers made them by hand—writing the question on one side and the answer on the other.

You’d flip through them before a quiz, hoping some of it would stick. It was time-consuming but effective.

Today, students can use apps like Quizlet to make digital flashcards in seconds. They can even add images, audio, and share them with friends.

No paper cuts. No lost cards. Just study and swipe.

Learning Cursive Signatures

Cursive wasn’t just for penmanship—it was for your identity.

Boomers were taught to develop their own unique signature, and you practiced it over and over. Signing your name was a milestone.

Teachers said it was important for checks, documents, and being an adult.

But now, a lot of forms don’t even need handwritten signatures. People sign with their finger on a screen or click a button online.

Some young adults don’t have a signature at all. And that once-prized skill? Kind of optional.

Taking Notes With Shorthand

Shorthand was the text messaging of the past.

Boomers learned special symbols and squiggles that helped them take notes super fast—especially in business or journalism classes.

It was its own secret code. You’d hear something in class and jot it down in what looked like hieroglyphics.

Stenography machines even used it in courtrooms and meetings.

Now, most students just type everything or use speech-to-text tools. Shorthand is rarely taught, and unless you’re a court reporter, it’s pretty much obsolete.

Learning To Read Analog Clocks

Boomers grew up with analog clocks on every wall. You had to know how to read them—no digital displays or smartwatch faces.

Learning meant understanding the hour hand, minute hand, and how to count by fives.

Some kids even took tests on telling time. And being five minutes late? That was on you.

Today, digital clocks are everywhere. Some kids struggle to read analog faces because they rarely see them.

And if you want to know the time, just ask your phone.

What’s Your True Classroom Era?

Whether you loved the tidy order of the 1950s or the groovy classroom vibes of the 1970s, our Decade DNA Quiz will help you find your perfect academic match.

Find out which decade best reflects your inner student.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

Vertical image with bold red and blue text that reads “Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA! TAKE THE QUIZ.” The design features retro illustrations, including two disco balls, colorful flower graphics, a guy with a boombox, a couple swing dancing in silhouette, and a woman in bell-bottoms with a flower in her afro, all against a cream background.

Best and Worst States to Retire in 2025

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Are you hoping to settle down in a cheaper state with a better quality of life during retirement? These are the states to consider and, equally important, those you’re better off avoiding.

Best and Worst States to Retire in 2025

40 Most Confusing Acronyms

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With many people wanting to send and receive information quickly, new acronyms seem to appear by the minute. The problem? Many Americans are left in the dust about what they mean.

40 Most Confusing Acronyms

14 Skills Pennsylvania Boomers Learned in School That Are No Longer Needed

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Travel

9 Funny New York Town Names That’ll Make You Do a Double Take

Exploring New York State can be an adventure not just for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, but also for its uniquely funny town names.

From quirky spellings to names that sound like they belong in a comedy show, New York is home to some of the most hilarious town names that are sure to make you laugh out loud.

Whether you’re planning a road trip or just love a good chuckle, these towns offer a mix of history and humor that we’re sure will brighten your day.

Table of Contents

Catskill

Located in the Hudson Valley, Catskill has a name that conjures images of playful felines to non-New Yorkers. No one is exactly sure how Catskill got its name, but one theory is that it derived from the Dutch word “Kaaterskill,” meaning “wildcat creek.”

It makes sense, given that mountain lions and bobcats live there.

Today, Catskill is known for its vibrant arts community, historic architecture, and beautiful river views.

The town hosts numerous festivals and events, including the Catskill International Film Festival.

Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake is a picturesque town in the Adirondack Mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The name might sound like it’s straight out of a kitchen utensil catalog, but it actually honors Ansel Tupper, a European man who played a significant role in the area’s development.

The lake itself is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, attracting nature lovers from all around.

Binghamton

Binghamton might sound like a character from a cartoon, but it’s a real city located in the Southern Tier of New York. Founded in the early 1800s, the name comes from William Bingham, a Pennsylvania businessman who invested in the area.

Despite its serious origins, the name Binghamton can bring a smile to your face because of its rhythmic and playful sound.

Visitors to Binghamton can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the Roberson Museum and Science Center and the beautiful Chenango River.

The city also has a strong educational presence with Binghamton University, attracting students from all over.

Schenectady

Schenectady might be a mouthful, but once you get the hang of saying it, it’s a city with a name that has a fun and unique ring to it.

Located near Albany, Schenectady has a rich history in the railroad and manufacturing industries. The name originates from the Mohawk word “skahnéhtati,” which means “beyond the pines,” highlighting the area’s natural beauty.

Despite its long name, Schenectady is a bustling city with plenty to offer. It boasts a thriving downtown area with shops, restaurants, and theaters, as well as beautiful parks and historic sites.

The name Schenectady adds an element of intrigue and amusement, making it a memorable destination for visitors.

Quaker Hill

Quaker Hill sounds like a place where peaceful gatherings and friendly neighbors abound, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this charming town.

Located in the southeastern part of New York, Quaker Hill has a name that reflects the area’s early settlers, who were Quakers known for their simple and harmonious way of life.

The town is surrounded by scenic landscapes, making it a great spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.

Quaker Hill also has a close-knit community with local events and traditions that bring residents together.

Quogue

Quogue is a quaint village on Long Island with a name that’s as unique as its seaside charm. The name “Quogue” is derived from a Native American word that describes its coastal location.

This small community is known for its beautiful beaches, elegant homes, and relaxed vibe, making it a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Visitors to Quogue can enjoy boating, fishing, and exploring the local shops and restaurants.

Blenheim

Blenheim might not sound funny at first, but its pronunciation and spelling often catch people off guard.

Located in Schoharie County, Blenheim has a name that can be tricky to pronounce, leading to some amusing moments. The name is derived from the Blenheim Patent, which King George III gave to forty men.

So, how do you pronounce Blenheim? “Blen + I’m.” Blenheim offers a quiet, rural setting with plenty of opportunities for farming, hiking, and enjoying nature.

Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is a larger city in the Hudson Valley with a name that’s fun to say and even more fun to hear. The name comes from a Native American word meaning “the reed-covered lodge by the little water,” which describes the area’s original landscape.

The city is home to Vassar College and has a vibrant arts scene, including theaters and museums.

Poughkeepsie also hosts various events, such as the Poughkeepsie Regatta, which brings the community together for fun and festivities.

Wappinger

Wappinger is a town in Dutchess County with a name that sounds like it could belong to a whimsical fairy tale.

The name comes from the Wappinger people, a Native American tribe that originally inhabited the area. Wappinger is known for its beautiful parks, historic sites, and friendly community.

The town offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the scenic Hudson River.

Wappinger’s unique name adds to its charm, making it a memorable destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of New York State.

9 Hilarious New York Town Names That’ll Make You LOL

From quirky spellings to names that sound like they belong in a comedy show, New York is home to some of the most hilarious town names that are sure to make you chuckle.

9 Hilarious New York Town Names That’ll Make You LOL

10 New York City Facts Outsiders Would Never Guess Are True

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There’s more to the Big Apple than meets the average tourist’s eye. From quirky historical tidbits to mind-boggling statistics, these are surprising facts about New York City that non-locals can’t wrap their heads around.

10 New York City Facts Outsiders Would Never Guess Are True

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful Decade DNA Quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

9 Funny New York Town Names That’ll Make You Do a Double Take

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Travel

Book Ban Spread: Michigan Schools Join a Growing National Trend

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The growing trend of banning books in schools across the United States is prompting important questions, making us reflect on the balance between safeguarding students and preserving intellectual freedom.

According to Pen America, ten states are at the forefront of the debate, banning significantly more book titles than the rest.

Do you know where Michigan falls?

Table of Contents

Methodology

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Data collected by Pen America reveals book bans initiated between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, at the school district level. The information snapshot provides key insights into where and why districts are choosing to ban books.

Pen America’s experts believe school districts have quietly banned more books than the data accounts for.

1: Florida

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Schools have banned 1,406 books in the Sunshine State, more than double that of any other state.

Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed the Curriculum Transparency Act, which requires school districts to digitally chronicle all books available to students.

Parent groups have used the lists to promote bans on a number of books, including titles like Flower for Algernon and My Sister’s Keeper.

2: Texas

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Seven school districts in Texas initiated bans on 625 different books. Texas recently enacted a book rating law requiring booksellers to rate public library books for depictions and references to sex.

Books must have a rating for schools to acquire them, and books rated “sexually explicit” are not allowed on school shelves.

3: Missouri

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Over three hundred books are banned from certain districts in Missouri. The Show-Me State recently passed a law that bans visual depictions of sexually explicit material in school books.

Some of the books removed from St. Louis area shelves include works by William Shakespeare and Mark Twain.

4: Utah

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Utah school districts have banned 281 books from school shelves. A 2022 law in the Beehive State bans any title containing “indecent content.”

The vague wording of the law has led to the removal of several esteemed works, including Nobel Prize Winner Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye.

5: Pennsylvania

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One hundred and eighty-six books are gone from Pennsylvania school library shelves. However, the Keystone State is seeing pushback on the bans.

State Senator Amanda Cappelletti recently introduced a bill to stop book bans in the state.

6: South Carolina

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South Carolina school districts have banned 127 books.

The divide over banning books in the Palmetto State led the South Carolina Department of Education to request an end to its partnership with the South Carolina Association of Librarians, which noted concern about the bans.

7: Virginia

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Seventy-five books disappeared from school library shelves after districts chose to ban them.

Recently implemented Virginia law requires parent notification of any sexually explicit content involved in learning materials.

Lawmakers say they never intended for the legislation to become a pretext for book bans.

8: North Carolina

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North Carolina banned 58 books during the last school year.

Recently passed State Senate Bill 49, known as “The Parent’s Bill of Rights,” gives parents the ability to review and challenge learning materials, including books.

9: Wisconsin

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Books by authors Margaret Atwood and Kurt Vonnegut made the list of school book bans in Wisconsin.

Select districts in the Badger State nixed 43 titles, most of which were written for high school audiences.

10: Michigan

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Thirty-nine titles made the banned book list in Michigan school districts last year.

Librarians across the state launched a “Right to Read” campaign to help combat the ban.

Topics Schools Are Banning Most

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Most of the books to make banned lists include themes or instances of violence, sexual abuse, racism, or LGBTQ characters.

Transgender characters are in 8% of all banned titles, and 19% of the banned books include an instance of sexual assault.

Outspoken Minority

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Many of the parent challenges that lead to book bans stem from a small number of outspoken individuals.

A Washington Post analysis cited by Pen America noted that 66% of the 1,000 challenges examined came from only 11 parents. Often, these individuals are connected to larger national advocacy groups.

Several book bans are directly related to recently passed state laws. Some of these laws directly prohibit certain content, while others create rules about cataloging titles or informing parents.

Vague Legislation

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Many of the laws have vague wording, which seems to give decision-makers an incentive to lean towards censorship. Some of the laws threaten to punish school administrators or teachers who violate the legislation.

Parent advocacy groups say many of the banned books include explicit content that they don’t want to be taught in schools.

They note that these books are still available in local public libraries and through booksellers, meaning students can access them off campus.

19 Historical U.S. Myths That Annoy History Buffs to the Core

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If your teacher taught it in history class, it’s normal to assume it’s true. Ask any historian, though, and you might be surprised to learn the stuff of school history lessons is often riddled with inaccuracies.

19 Historical U.S. Myths That Annoy History Buffs to the Core

15 Final Jeopardy! Questions That All Contestants Got Wrong

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Over the years, the Final Jeopardy! round has stumped many contestants. These are some of the Final Jeopardy questions that none of the contestants got right. See how many leave you guessing, “What is…hmm?”

15 Final “Jeopardy!” Questions That All Contestants Got Wrong

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful Decade DNA Quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

Book Ban Spread: Michigan Schools Join a Growing National Trend

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Travel

South Carolina Ranks High for Military Retiree Care—Where Does Your State Stand?

Those currently in the military can face obstacles they may not be ready for when they retire. They have to consider whether the state they decide to spend their time as a retiree in is right for them.

Housing, taxes, and overall quality of life play a huge role in veterans’ decisions.

The step back into civilian life can be daunting, especially considering economic shifts and potential changes to retiree benefits that vary from state to state.

So, where does South Carolina stand in all of this?

WalletHub ran a study ranking all 50 states based on the best and worst choices for military retirees. If you or someone in your family is a military retiree or is planning to retire soon, we recommend taking a peek at this list.

Table of Contents

Measuring Military Retiree Data

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The study assembled by WalletHub looks at data related to military retirees across all 50 states.

They gathered a variety of data, breaking it down into three categories:

Economic standings
Quality of life
Health care

WalletHub ranked the articles based on total score, with a higher score indicating a state is better for military retirees.

In contrast, lower scores for the three category ranks (economic environment, quality of life and health care) indicate better conditions for retirement.

In those cases, “1” means a state is the best in its category, and “51” means it’s the worst. The reason why some of the rankings have “51” instead of “50” is that WalletHub included Washington, D.C., in its rankings.

These are the best and worst states for military retirees, starting with the states that are the friendliest toward veteran retirees.

Flip through the slideshow to find out where your state stands.

States’ Military Numbers

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South Carolina is the best state for military retirees. One factor helping a state’s ranking is how many veterans reside within its borders.

When it comes to which state has the highest number of veterans, South Carolina comes in at number six. Texas is first on that list, with approximately 1.4 million veterans.

With 15 total military bases, South Carolina has a large active military population. The Palmetto State comes in eighth on a list of states with the most active duty personnel.

Hawaii comes in first with approximately 42,000 personnel across 49 military bases.

Which States Tax More

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Military retirees receive monthly benefits that certain states tax.

The states of California, Montana, Rhode Island, Utah, and Vermont are where military retirement pay is taxed to its fullest, which is understandably a hurdle for many retirees.

Eight states have no state income tax and don’t tax military benefits, while 26 states have state income tax but don’t fully tax those benefits.

The number one state for military retirees, South Carolina, is one of 11 states where military benefits are only partially taxed.

A Divergence

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One factor that potentially plays a key role in military retirees’ lives is access to veteran medical facilities.

Access to healthcare tied to their military benefits makes a huge impact on retirees’ health.

Reportedly, California has the most VA hospitals in the U.S., with 103 facilities. However, California ranked the tenth-worst in the nation for military retirees to reside in.

Northern State Ranks Lowest

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Oregon has the unfortunate distinction of being the worst state for military retirees. In determining the ranking, the quality of veteran affairs facilities and hospitals makes a difference.

Reportedly, one of Oregon’s largest VA hospitals ranks low in terms of quality.

The Portland VA hospital received a score of 2 out of 5, according to the U.S. Veterans Affairs system.

18 Things You Never Knew About the Military

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With a budget that exceeds all other militaries, America’s military is nothing short of prolific. These are some facts few Americans know about our military but should.

18 Things Americans Never, Ever Knew About the Military

Best and Worst States to Retire in 2025

Are you hoping to settle down in a cheaper state with a better quality of life during retirement? These are the states to consider and, equally important, those you’re better off avoiding.

Best and Worst States to Retire in 2025

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful Decade DNA Quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)