Roughly 90 million people in the U.S. snore while sleeping each night (roughly 27% of the population). According to a report by Mattress Next Day, Florida ranks in the country's top 15 states for heavy snoring. In fact, it placed 13th among the list.
There are many reasons why people snore. Johns Hopkins Medicine describes it as, "Snoring is the sound of obstructed breathing, which can be caused by some basic factors, such as poor muscle tone, bulky throat tissue, or a long soft palate or uvula."
Sleep apnea, sleep deprivation, and heavy congestion can also be lead causes of snoring. Often those who are snoring do not realize they are doing so. Their partner or other people in the room certainly do, however. While snoring can certainly cause a disruptive night's sleep for those who do it, the noise also creates sleepless nights for the roommates.
Johns Hopkins Medicine also suggests that snoring should be discussed with your doctor if you are one of the millions of Americans who do so. Some remedies can help depending on your situation. Certain devices, medications, and healthier lifestyle adjustments can help for a sounder and quieter sleep.
Florida The 13th Most Snore-Heavy State
As for Florida specifically, Mattress Next Day's statistics show - 14.9% of adults snore. That equates to approximately 3,376,575 people.
Mattress Next Day was able to take its research a step further. They analyzed Google Keyword Data on how to stop snoring and the overall term of "snoring." In doing this they explain how they were "able to reveal the states seeking home remedies, and those with the highest ‘embarrassment levels’ regarding snoring." It appears Florida snorers were comfortable because the state did not rank in the top 15 of those researching or googling snoring.
Methodology
To determine that Florida ranks in the top 15 states of heavy snoring, Mattress Next Day studied Statista and Google Search data. From there, they then "conducted an analysis to determine the number of people."
2 Florida Skateparks Recognized As Best In The Country
What makes a great skatepark? Essential requirements revolve around safety conditions, open space, and overall atmosphere. In Florida, two skateparks were recently listed among the best in the country.
In SkateboardHQ's feature, "13 Skateparks in the U.S. You Need To Visit," they take you on a tour through some of the greatest bowls in the continental United States. From the Northwest corner of Oregon to the Southeast corner of Florida, this list rolls through a lot of ground.
"You’ll find some of the most epic street courses alongside iconic locations and facilities designed for skaters and by skaters, including the largest full-concrete pipe and one of the oldest-running skateparks in America," SkateboardHQ expxlains.
The largest full-concrete pipe they mention belongs to Lake Cunningham Regional Sports Park, in San Jose, CA. At 68,000-square-feet, it's the largest skatepark in California. As for the "oldest," we'll get to that shortly.
Skatepark Culture
Whether they are built into the recreational facilities of a suburban town, or between buildings on city streets, skateparks can serve a great purpose. Under safe conditions, such parks provide a place for youth and skate enthusiasts alike to support each other while they work on their craft. There is a true artistic and creative component to skateboarding. Furthermore, the sport takes a great deal of discipline. To master a trick (or even to get a feel for riding) you have to go through rounds of repetition. Often, you fall, get up, try again, and then fall again.
Skateboarding is an activity that also can have very little cost affiliated with it. After the price of a board and the necessary safety equipment (such as a helmet and padding), most community parks are free admission.
There are some great organizations (mostly West Coast-based) that thrive off building and restoring skateparks in various communities. Evergreen based out of Portland, focuses on structuring parks for all skill levels. Montana Pool Service, a non-profit organization, aims to connect youth communities with their generous work installing parks across the country.
So let's grab a board and take stroll through the two Florida skateparks that were named among the best in the country.
Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT)
Skatepark of Tampa, commonly known as SPoT, is located at 4215 E. Columbus Dr. They offer indoor and outdoor facilities. They also sell many skate products, further inspiring the all-encompassing skate experience. Furthermore, SPoT provides various programs, including camps, birthday parties, and a session they call "Girls Meetup."
Kona Skatepark - Jacksonville
Here we have the oldest running public skatepark in America. It's been open since 1977. Like the sport, this park has fallen flat, but then bounced back up when many thought it would stay down. Kona Skatepark is located at 8739 Kona Ave. The grounds offer a clubhouse as well given the Kona experience is all about community. They host events, and they will occasionally have live music or competitions at their park.