4 . National Public Radio (NPR) Music’s Tiny Desk Contest is back. Artists can begin to submit an entry from this morning on Feb. 2nd. The submission will last 14 days. This isn’t just another regular year of the Contest-it’s the 10th anniversary.

The panel (小组) of judges has doubled in size compared to previous years. The panel has a group of industry experts who are eager to see what this year’s participants can share. And there’s a great team of NPR’s Music station hosts on the panel: Amelia Mason. Novena Carmel and Stas THEE Boss.

Also new this year: Not only will the 2024 winner play a Tiny Desk concert，be interviewed on All Things Considered and go on tour with NPR Music-they’ll also be paired with a tutor in the industry who will help them navigate their music journey. Our judges are determined to give this year’s winner the support they’ll need to take their music to the next level. The winner will also be featured at two festivals this summer: Celebrate Brooklyn and the Millennium Park Summer Music series in Chicago.

And for the first time this year, the Contest is introducing a fan favorite vote. Later this spring, Contest judges will share their favorite entries as part of the annual Tiny Desk-Contest Top Shelf series on YouTube — and then artists and fans will be able to vote for their favorite among those selections.

Here’s how to enter: Record a video of you playing one original song — behind a desk, upload your video to YouTube. and submit the video on our Tiny Desk Contest website.

5 . Recreational Sports Membership

Ohio State University has some of the best recreation facilities (设施) in the country. Our Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC) has opened in the past 10 years, whose facilities and programs are designed to fit all your needs and schedule.

RPAC Membership Rights

A membership is your ticket to take advantage of all the facilities and programs.

Classes and Programs

Group fitness, sport clubs and outdoor adventure programs are only available to current RPAC members. You can attend unlimited free group fitness classes as part of your membership. An extra payment will be required if you prefer personal training classes.

Guests and Family Participation

Members may sponsor up to two guests during a visit. A daily guest pass is required for each guest to enter RPAC, and members must be present at the time of buying a pass. The pass is accepted at all facilities for unlimited re-entries in a one-day period.

RPAC aims to offer a family-friendly environment. Members are able to enjoy quality time with their families free of charge in a variety of family-friendly accommodations, including family changing rooms, the Lounge game room, and the Leisure pool.

Locker and Towel Rental

RPAC offers full-service men’s and women’s locker rooms featuring large and medium size lockers, which can be rented either monthly or yearly. RPAC towel service is available in addition to day lockers at various locations throughout the facility.

RPAC Membership Responsibilities

In an effort to create a welcome and safe environment for all members, you have the responsibility to follow the following policies:

Filming and photography in the facilities must be approved in advance.

Cell phone photography and video are not permitted in locker rooms.

Fighting and rough play are not permitted in all facilities.

Shoes are required in all public areas of all indoor facilities, except for locker rooms and swimming pools.

All equipment checked-out from RPAC must be returned at the required check-in time. You may be charged for the equipment returned late or damaged.

Please contact member services if you have any other questions about your RPAC membership.

6 . Wanting to take a break from big city life? These hidden gems (宝石) provide a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and immerse oneself in the beauty of these lesser-known destinations.

These remote fishing villages are located in the Lofoten islands in northern Norway. Although reaching them may require some effort, the journey is worth it for the breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by grand mountains, Sakrisoy and Reine offer opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and even witnessing the charming Northern Lights.

This picturesque village is located in the Gifu Prefecture and is known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These unique buildings feature steep roofs that resemble hands in prayer, which is why Shirakawa-go was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. During wintertime, the village transforms into a winter wonderland, with the snow-covered roofs creating a magical atmosphere.

Situated on Brazil’s Costa Verde, Paraty is a charming bayside town that offers a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere. The town is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, which is beautifully complemented by palm trees and colorful boats in the harbor. Paraty is also a gateway to nearby deserted island beaches, making it a perfect destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

As the historic heart of Puerto Rico’s capital city, Old San Juan is a treasure of rich history and cultural heritage. The entire area is a National Heritage Site, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and Spanish colonial architecture adding to its charm. Visitors can explore historic forts, stroll along the city walls, and indulge in delicious Puerto Rican cuisine.