Travel

4 Distasteful Tipping Names That Have Become Ingrained in New Mexican’s Vocabulary

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New Mexico residents used to feel good about rounding up their bill by a few dollars, helping the person serving them. Now, these same people are viewed as stingy.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a New Mexican who doesn’t work in the service industry and who’s happy with the current tipping trend in the United States.

There’s so much frustration that dictionaries might soon have to carve out space to accommodate the new, unflattering terms around tipping.

We pulled terms from news headlines to put together this list of the newest and oh-so-true names and phrases about current U.S. tipping practices.

We don’t know about you, but we’d like to go back to when “tipping” and “gratuity” were the only words people used.

Table of Contents

1: Tipflation

Inflation has caused a double whammy hit to the average American’s wallet when it comes to eating out.

Not only is the standard to tip higher ever since the pandemic, but the cost of dining out due to inflation spiked 5.1% between January 2023 and January 2024 alone.

That means hard-working Americans are paying a higher tip percentage on more expensive food for the same meal and service. The result has been dubbed “tipflation.”

“Tipflation” has become so common in mainstream news that we’re surprised Grammarly still sees it as a misspelled word.

2: Tipping Guilt

We often think of guilt in the context of feeling bad for something we did. But psychologists point out that it’s human nature for guilt to arise in us when we fail to do something we feel we should have done.

We’re not psychologists, but we’ll go out on a limb and hypothesize that people can also feel guilt for partially doing something.

Case in point?

Leaving a 10% tip instead of the 20% or more tip you believe to be socially acceptable.

You might choose to leave that relatively low tip because of poor service — something one shouldn’t objectively feel guilty about. And yet, so many of us feel guilty nonetheless.

Hence, the term “tipping guilt” has risen in popularity.

Unless you’ve always tipped 20% or more in every circumstance you’ve ever been prompted to, including when someone hands you a coffee that you ordered and waited for at the counter, you’ve likely felt tipping guilt.

3: Tip Creep

Most of us have heard of lifestyle creep, a self-sabotaging act of gradually purchasing higher-priced, unnecessary items as our income increases.

Tip creep follows a similar idea with one major difference: Society normalizes the gradual increase of tipping percentages.

One could argue that consumers can prevent tip creep by refusing to pay such high tips. After all, no one forces us to spend money outside our bill.

However, refusing to give in to the societal pressure of paying higher and higher tipping percentages leads to tipping guilt for many of us.

Guilt of any kind is far from what we want to feel after an otherwise pleasant meal out.

4: Tipping Fatigue

If you’re sick and tired of tipflation, which has caused tipping guilt because you can’t stand to give in to tip creep, then you’re probably feeling tipping fatigue.

According to a Bankrate survey, approximately two out of every three Americans hold negative views about tipping.

Such negativity can lead to tipping fatigue, the feeling of exhaustion around leaving a gratuity.

Tipping fatigue can come in several forms, such as being asked to tip in places where one never used to, being expected to tip in exorbitant amounts, and the emotional toll that comes with not leaving as much money as one feels they should.

Taking a Step Back

Despite many Americans feeling understandably frustrated around our culture’s current tipping practices, not tipping at all isn’t the answer — unless the government steps in and makes laws to protect service-based employees.

As it currently stands, the federal minimum wage for a tipped-based employee is $2.13 per hour. This number varies by state, with states like California and Washington having more friendly policies for tipped employees.

That said, the way the law currently stands, taking a stance against tipflation by not tipping at all financially harms service workers.

Furthermore, many experts warn that by reducing or eliminating tips for service-based employees, the cost of a meal or service will increase, as business owners need to recoup their money.

The bottom line?

There’s no easy solution to tipflation, but many Americans are ready for a change from how things currently operate.

9 Times in History When Gas Prices Spiked to Crazy High Levels

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The frustration you feel when pulling up to the pump and seeing a higher price is nothing new. Gas prices have had peaks and valleys since World War II, and they’ve disrupted Americans’ lives many times.

9 Times in History When Gas Prices Spiked to Crazy High Levels

34 Cities With Sky-High Rent Prices

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Apartment finder platform Zumper ranked the top 35 cities with high rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment. If you’re curious how much money fellow Americans pay to rent a one-bedroom apartment, or if you’re thinking of moving soon, you need to see the results.

34 Cities With Sky-High Rent Prices for 1 Bedroom Apartments

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)

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.

4 Distasteful Tipping Names That Have Become Ingrained in New Mexican’s Vocabulary

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A blog which focuses on business, Networth, Technology, Entrepreneurship, Self Improvement, Celebrities, Top Lists, Travelling, Health, and lifestyle. A source that provides you with each and every top piece of information about the world. We cover various different topics.

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

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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

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)