Is a battery or gas mower the best? Well, it depends

2025-06-11T12:01:01

(BPT) – Do you need to buy or replace your lawn mower? Because there are many different kinds of walk-behind lawnmowers to choose from, finding the right one for you can seem daunting.

For example, is a battery or gas mower best for your yard? The answer depends on the type of lawn you have. Read on to discover the top five considerations that can guide you on your journey to pick the mower type that suits your yard and needs.

1. Lawn size and terrain

The size of your lawn and the terrain are two key factors to consider when selecting a mower type. For a small yard that has fairly even terrain, a battery-powered mower is a great choice.

Illustration of neighbors mowing their lawns; One with a batttery opperated mower on a flat lawn and one with a gas powered mower on a lawn with more challenging terrain.

However, if you have a large lawn with tougher conditions — like uneven ground, hills or thicker grass — you’ll need the proven strength and performance of a gas-powered mower. A gas mower gives you the extra boost of power you’ll need to mow your yard quickly, efficiently and with great results.

2. Mowing conditions

In addition to size and terrain, mowing conditions can also have a significant impact on which mower you should choose. If you live in a fairly temperate or drier climate, a battery mower should suit your needs.

For homeowners living in wetter climes, gas is your best bet. A gas mower allows you to cut your lawn in a variety of conditions, whether wet or dry. Gas is also ideal for lawns with tall, thick grasses.

3. Mowing frequency

Sometimes, life happens and lawncare takes a back seat. Whether it’s a rainy weekend, a nice vacation or unexpected plans, mowing may not always stay on a schedule. Know that both battery and gas-powered mowers can work great when you mow regularly.

If you’re a fanatic about mowing every week — and your yard is small and drier — a battery mower is a great choice. However, if your mowing schedule gets interrupted, especially if you have a large yard and thicker grass, a gas mower will allow you to power through that longer grass without a struggle.

4. Maintenance

When you pull out your mower in the spring, before your first cut of the year, it’s best to perform basic maintenance. This may sound intimidating, but many mowers are designed with ease of use in mind. Plus, thanks to technological advancements, mower maintenance gets easier all the time!

First, regardless of which type of mower you have, check the blades. You can easily replace dull, worn-out blades with new, sharp ones so you can get the freshest cut right off the bat.

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Next, if you own a gas mower, make sure to fill the gas tank, check the oil level and top it off as needed, and replace the spark plug and air filter. For electric mower owners, simply ensure you have a charged or new battery.

5. Storage

When choosing a mower, you’ll need to consider where you’ll store it. For sheds and small garages, an electric mower may be easier to fit, as many electric mowers can fold up to save space. That said, some gas mowers are designed to tip up as well with no leaks or drips!

Illustration of a personified battery winking and give a thumbs up next to an battery powered lawn mow that is folded up for stogage.

Another storage consideration is your local climate. If you live in a colder climate, make sure to store your lithium batteries indoors, following safety guidelines, as extreme temperatures can shorten battery life.

Are you ready to have the best lawn on the block?

After considering these five factors, you’ll have all the information you need to pick the best mower for your lawn. To learn more about battery and gas mowers and make an informed decision, visit MowInTheKnow.com. Happy mowing!

Top myths you may have heard about induction cooking, busted

2025-06-11T08:01:00

(BPT) – Are you always seeking new ways to improve your culinary creations — as well as your process? If so, you may have heard about induction cooking. But if something is holding you back from trying the method, it’s probably one of the many myths that’s out there.

To help you get started, the experts at KitchenAid® brand will sort out myth from fact, so you can learn about this method of cooking that may not be familiar to you, but has actually been around for decades.

Myth #1: Induction cooktops are too expensive.

Fact: Consider the value of your purchase. While the initial cost for an induction cooktop may be higher than a gas cooktop, you may soon find that the overall quality of performance that you experience with an induction cooktop is well worth the investment.

Myth #2: You need to buy expensive, induction-compatible cookware options

Fact: You may already have the cookware you need for induction cooking. All you need are pans that have a flat base and a magnetic bottom. Induction cooktops work with most high-quality cookware such as multi-ply stainless steel, enameled steel or cast iron. Aluminum and copper cookware will not work unless it has a base made of iron or steel.

How can you tell if your pan is magnetic? It’s easy: Look for pans marked “Works with Induction” or test to see if a magnet sticks to the bottom.

Myth #3: Induction doesn’t work as well as gas

Fact: Induction works quickly. This is because induction transfers heat directly to the cookware, and is very efficient at dispersing heat across the surface of the cookware.

For one example of a highly efficient induction cooktop, check out the new KitchenAid® Temp Cook™ Induction Cooktop with 5 Cooking Zones. Its advanced Temp Cook™ Induction Technology lets you set an exact temperature from 120-400°F for precise control beyond the standard high, medium and low settings. Best yet, this cooktop’s Even-Heat™ Zone provides the versatility to cook with large pans, like griddles, grill pans and braising pans — or even two pans at two different temperatures. Unlike traditional round bridge elements, the rectangular zone in this particular model heats evenly edge-to-edge, so the crepe in the back cooks just as beautifully as the one in the center.

Myth #4: Induction cooking is complicated

Fact: Induction is easier than it looks — and it offers greater control over your cooking. Induction cooking offers precise control that’s not reliant on visual cues like how a flame looks.

For instance, the KitchenAid® Temp Cook™ Induction Cooktop with 5 Cooking Zones makes cooking even easier, with Temp Cook™ Smart Presets that will set and hold the ideal temperature for popular cooking methods and alert you when to add ingredients, so you can perfectly sear salmon, gently simmer sauces and quickly boil water. You can also use the KitchenAid™ App to unlock specialized options like stir fry, melt, chicken cutlets and more.*

In addition, with the KitchenAid® Temp Cook™ Induction Cooktop with 5 Cooking Zones, you can even use Voice Control, which gives you hands-free control of the cooktop with your Google Assistant or an Alexa-enabled device,* so you can stay hands-on while prepping the rest of your meal or entertaining. Simple voice commands let you set cooking modes for each zone and adjust the heat as needed. And when you’re done cooking on this model, WipeClean™ Coating eliminates scraping, intense scrubbing and harsh cleaners, making this the easiest induction cooktop coating to clean.** Just wet the surface with water and wait five minutes to easily wipe up splatters and spills.

Myth #5: You can’t produce the same results on induction that you can on gas

Fact: Induction cooking can give you better results than gas — and here’s why. The KitchenAid® Temp Cook™ Induction Cooktop with 5 Cooking Zones, for example, offers precise temperature control and even cooking from side to side of your cookware.

“I’m sure you’ve already heard about the compelling advantages that induction technology offers over traditional gas or radiant electric,” said Annalisa Pacioni, Senior Analyst Food Technology Engineer – GPO cooking at Whirlpool. “But get ready for the KitchenAid Induction Cooktop with Temp Cook™. This new induction cooktop is equipped with dual sensor patented burners that allow you to set your pan to a specific temperature, giving you a much finer control of the cooking temperature compared to the standard Low-Med-High. We designed Temp Cook™ with six default temperature settings, which will enable you to precisely perform a broad range of cooking techniques, from a gentle melt to a quick sear. Feel empowered to get creative: The KitchenAid® App will unlock specialized options such as confit, slow cook and poach.*”

Make the most of your culinary efforts with Temp Cook™ culinary precision now at your fingertips! Learn more of the facts about how KitchenAid® induction cooktops can improve your cooking precision, control and mastery at KitchenAid.com.

*Wi-Fi & App required. Features subject to change. For details and privacy information, visit KitchenAid.com/Connect (U.S.) or KitchenAid.ca/Connect (Canada).

**When compared with cooktop with same heating technology at similar power output.

Expected and unexpected changes: How life insurance can help

2025-06-11T05:01:00

(BPT) – Life is full of changes — some that you can plan for and others that can’t be planned for. However, did you know you and your loved ones can be more prepared with life insurance?

Life insurance is an important part of good financial planning, and it can help provide you, and the ones you love, peace of mind. Beyond covering funeral costs, a life insurance policy can provide cash for other financial needs like bills or daily expenses after an unexpected loss, minimizing the stress for your family members.

If you’re not familiar with the different types of life insurance policies and how they work, a great place to start is to learn how the two most common types, whole life and term life insurance, can help you. They both offer different coverage options, depending on what you can afford and what you need.

What is whole life insurance?

Whole life insurance is also known as permanent life insurance. It provides protection for your entire life and offers financial support for your beneficiaries when you pass. It also builds cash value that you can use during your life. So, if you need to buy a vehicle, help pay your children’s college tuition or settle debts, a whole life insurance policy provides cash to deal with those needs, as long as you make your regular policy payments.

What is term life insurance?

Just like whole life insurance, you have protection and financial support with term life insurance. But unlike whole life insurance, a term life insurance policy does not build cash value and covers a set period of time. This also means that your term life insurance premiums may be lower than those of a whole life insurance policy.

The benefits of having both

Whole and term life insurance are actually better together. Bundling these two types of life insurance coverage helps you maximize your benefits and provides for different financial needs and goals throughout the different stages of life, including those that are planned (such as getting married) and unplanned (like a serious accident).

Here’s another way to think about it: As a young single adult, you purchase whole and term life insurance, especially since, in many cases, you may have a lower price at a younger age. Then, if you get married and have kids, because you have term life insurance you’d know they would have cash right away for bills and other financial needs after an unexpected loss. Meanwhile, your whole life insurance policy would be able to pay for unexpected costs or contribute to longer-term expenses such as saving for your kids’ college education.

As you get older, your term life insurance may end, but you’ll still retain your whole life insurance policy, providing a safety net for you and your family for a lifetime.

Rest easy knowing you’re covered

By layering whole and term life insurance, you and your family can rest easy and enjoy life with the knowledge that no matter what happens, there will be cash available to help cover bills and expenses.

Keep in mind that life insurance needs differ for everyone. What type you get and how much you need will depend on your age, family situation, budget and future plans. Thankfully, there are several flexible options that can help you tackle all of life’s changes. There are even whole and term life insurance bundles to make layering life insurance incredibly simple. To make an informed decision, talk with a local insurance professional.

To learn more about whole life and term life insurance, as well as other insurance products that may be a good fit for your budget and financial needs, visit BostonMutual.com.


END-95(ESO)(20/21) Policy Series GRTP 04/99

335-5344 6/25

How one foundation’s $1 million pledge is changing children’s lives

2025-06-10T23:01:01

(BPT) – Every child deserves the chance to play, dream and just be a kid — no matter what their circumstances. That’s why the Unleashed Brands Foundation — the charitable affiliate of the leading youth enrichment platform Unleashed Brands — has pledged $1 million over the next five years to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). This significant commitment will support LLS’s mission to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. With this commitment, the Unleashed Brands Foundation becomes a key supporter of the Dare to Dream Project, LLS’s flagship initiative focused on transforming treatment and care for children with blood cancer.

You might not recognize the Foundation by name, but you’ve likely encountered one of the eight Unleashed Brands youth enrichment companies: Urban Air, The Little Gym, Premier Martial Arts, Snapology, Sylvan Learning, Water Wings Swim School, XP League and Class 101. These brands serve millions of families nationwide, helping kids learn, play, and grow from infancy through adolescence. Through this pledge, the Foundation is turning the everyday moments families already know — birthday parties, play dates, after-school programs — into meaningful action.

Every Guest Can Make a Difference

Beginning this June, families will have a new, simple way to support children battling blood cancers. A new “round-up” feature will be activated across all Unleashed Brands companies, giving guests the opportunity to round up purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout. With 20 million visits expected across the platform this year, these small contributions can add up to big impact — funding research, advancing safer treatments, and supporting families when they need it most.

Sock It to Cancer Returns This Fall

This September, in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, all Unleashed Brands locations will join together in the annual Sock It to Cancer campaign by selling limited-edition socks, with proceeds benefiting the LLS Dare to Dream Project.

A history of care and support

The Unleashed Brands Foundation supports national and regional nonprofit partners that provide opportunities to at-risk youth. Together, they are focused on creating the ultimate comeback kids.

While this $1 million pledge is new, the heart behind it isn’t. The Foundation was created to help kids thrive — and across the country, franchisees are bringing that mission to life every day.

While each franchise is its own entity, Unleashed Brands has a culture of care that inspires franchisees to make a meaningful impact. Below are just a few examples of how that commitment is making a difference in communities across the country.

  • Urban Air Brockton, MA, stuffed 1,000 teddy bears to deliver to local hospitals and nonprofits, bringing comfort and joy to children across the city.
  • The Little Gym of Keller, Texas, teamed up with Toys for Tots to collect gifts for families in need. Their generosity filled donation boxes with toys, ensuring that more children had something to unwrap — and smile about — during the holidays.
  • Urban Air of Southlake, Texas, help underserved kids gear up for the school year. Hundreds of kids walked away with backpacks, supplies, food, fun and confidence, all thanks to their community stepping up.
  • In Sterling Heights, MI, Urban Air hosted a blood drive, bringing in donors and collecting enough to save dozens of lives.
  • In Dayton, OH, Class 101 rallied around Ava, a young woman diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma. By providing scholarship support and encouragement, the local Class 101 team showed her and her family that she was not alone.
  • In Jersey City, New Jersey, The Little Gym hosted its Third Annual Diaper Derby. This joyful, hilarious and meaningful event supports diaper banks and families in need.

Curious to learn more about Unleashed Brands Foundation? Visit InvestInKids.org to learn how you can support children and families affected by blood cancers.

How You Can Help Protect Your Baby Against Rotavirus

2025-06-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you are a parent, you may have heard about rotavirus — an easily spread disease that can pose a serious risk to infants and young children. Symptoms can include mild to severe diarrhea, vomiting and fever. In rare, severe cases, children can experience up to 20 episodes of diarrhea a day, potentially leading to dehydration that may require hospitalization and can be life-threatening. Rotavirus usually spreads through the fecal-oral route, which means it can be passed from one person to another by touching contaminated hands or objects. The virus can survive on surfaces for a considerable amount of time, sometimes even for weeks or months.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine vaccination of infants with rotavirus vaccine. However, about 1 out of 4 children have not been vaccinated. This potentially leaves them at an increased risk of contracting this highly contagious disease. Before the introduction of the rotavirus vaccine, the virus was responsible for more than 400,000 doctor visits, more than 200,000 emergency room visits and up to 70,000 hospitalizations each year among children under five in the United States.

Woman holding a baby while doctor listens to baby's heart with a stethoscope.

Sue, a mother of three whose children are now grown, remembers when her youngest was hospitalized with rotavirus as a young child. “As a mom, it was hard and concerning to go through this experience with my daughter. Now that we have more options to help with prevention, I urge parents to have open conversations with their pediatricians about how to help protect their children from potentially serious infectious diseases, such as rotavirus,” she said.

Dr. Edwyn Carter, a seasoned pediatrician with over 30 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of discussing vaccination with health care providers. “I’ve seen firsthand the difference that vaccines can make in helping to protect children. I ensure parents are aware that all rotavirus vaccines are oral vaccines, not a shot, and can be given at the same time as other vaccines, according to the recommended CDC vaccination schedule,” he explained. “I strongly encourage parents to consult with their pediatrician to ensure their children are up to date on routine vaccines.”

It is important to speak with your child’s health care provider to learn more about options that may be appropriate for them.

For more information about rotavirus and other common infectious diseases, visit Merck.com.

This information is provided by Merck.

Copyright © 2025 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved. US-ROT-00851 05/25

When belief outweighs doubt: A commencement to remember

2025-06-09T14:01:00

(BPT) – On Sunday, June 8, more than 2,000 graduates from DeVry University and its Keller Graduate School of Management crossed the stage, marking the culmination of a journey defined not just by coursework and credentials but by belief — in their goals, their future and what’s possible when determination outweighs doubt.

From military veterans and working parents to adult learners and first-generation students, the Class of 2025 represented a powerful spectrum of perseverance and purpose. The theme of the day — “when belief outweighs doubt” — came to life through the voices of those who stood at the podium and the stories of those seated in caps and gowns.

A student’s journey, a message of resolve

For Keller graduate and student speaker Deven Williams, who addressed fellow graduates during the ceremony, the moment was about more than academic achievement — it was the fulfillment of a personal promise. A U.S. military veteran and Bronze Star recipient, Williams graduated with a master’s degree in information systems management, maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout his program.

“Achieving anything at an elevated level demands sacrifice,” Williams said. “After stepping away from academia for over a decade, I returned with enthusiasm and a clear goal: to become the best student I knew I was capable of being.”

Williams credited his experience at Keller for reinforcing the importance of accountability, community and showing up — not just for himself but for others.

“The university’s strong emphasis on participation reinforced the importance of active engagement in the learning process as a key driver of success,” he added. “Much like the pursuit of any dream, achievement does not happen by chance; it requires intentional effort and a willingness to show up, take initiative and fully commit.”

A keynote that moved the room

The ceremony’s keynote speaker, Keller MBA alum and Team USA gold medal-winning Paralympian Jorge Sanchez, moved the audience with a message that was powerful and deeply personal. After sharing his journey through childhood cancer, amputation and the pursuit of athletic excellence, Sanchez closed his address with a deliberate and powerful gesture: He stood, offering graduates a symbol of strength and belief in what’s next.

“I was told ‘no’ so many times,” Sanchez said. “I was told I wouldn’t survive cancer. I was told that I wasn’t good enough for the team, and yet I kept going because I had people who believed in me. It’s not about having it all figured out. It’s about believing in the possibility of what’s next and being bold enough to take that first step.”

Sanchez, who earned his MBA from Keller while playing professional basketball in Spain, reminded the Class of 2025 that the road ahead may be unpredictable — but belief can carry you forward.

A community rooted in belief

The graduates’ stories reflect DeVry’s commitment to supporting learners at every stage of their academic journey and prepare them to succeed in careers shaped by technology.

“The Class of 2025 has shown what it truly means to persevere,” said Elise Awwad, president and CEO of DeVry University. “Their stories reflect the power of belief in action — belief in themselves, in their future and in the communities that helped them rise. We are proud to have walked beside them, and we look ahead with confidence as they begin the next chapter of their journey.

As the cheers echoed through the ceremony hall and graduates turned their tassels, one thing was clear: belief — not doubt — defined the day. And for the DeVry and Keller Class of 2025, it will continue to shape their path forward.

Photo: Deven Williams, Keller Graduate School of Management graduate, speaks to fellow graduates during the 2025 commencement ceremony.

6 gifts that will have the dads and grads in your life feeling the love

2025-06-09T15:55:00

(BPT) – June is a busy month! Whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day, graduation or both, you’ll want to make sure that the dads and grads in your life know how much you love and appreciate them.

Stumped on what to get? Check out this handy gift guide that can inspire you to find just the right present for the fathers and newly graduated students in your life.

1. Help a grad succeed with a steam closet

For new college graduates entering the workforce, making a good first impression is crucial. Help them look their best every day and get noticed in the office with an LG Styler® Steam Closet (S5WBC). Thanks to its chemical-free TrueSteam® technology, your favorite grad can easily sanitize, deodorize and gently dry suits, uniforms and hard-to-wash items.

The steam closet also features five moving hangers that shake off allergens, dust and odors, so grads can keep their button-ups and blazers fresh the entire work week. Plus, the built-in pants press restores sharp creases and eliminates wrinkles, so they can always look their best with zero effort.

2. Gift Dad a refrigerator fit for a regular entertainer

Do you have a dad who loves to entertain? Help him level up his backyard BBQs and game nights with the LG 29 cu. ft. Smart InstaView® Door-in-Door® Standard-Depth MAX™ 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with MyColor™ (LF29S8365S).

Dad won’t have to worry about space for his leftovers. He can max out the cool factor with the largest-capacity Zero Clearance™ fridge. Plus, the Versatile Full-Convert™ Drawer switches between fridge and freezer mode, so Dad can organize his drinks, snacks and BBQ meats with ease. Plus, it comes with app-enabled controls via ThinQ®, making it the perfect gift for the dad who loves gadgets.

For the dad who’s concerned with efficiency, make sure he knows about the InstaView® Door-in-Door® knock features. If he’s wondering if he has enough condiments for the cookout, all Dad has to do is knock twice to see inside without opening the fridge. That means less cold air loss, more efficiency, and a happier dad.

Best of all? The Custom Lighting with MyColor™ lets Dad match the InstaView® window’s light to his mood or game day colors with five bold hues!

3. Level up Dad’s laundry game with a smart washer-dryer

Laundry doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether it’s the space-saving LG WashTower™ (WKEX200HBA) or the ultra-convenient LG WashCombo™ All-in-One (WM6998HVA), Dad can quickly and efficiently get laundry done so he can get back to doing what he loves, which includes spending time with you! Both laundry solutions feature built-in intelligence. With the ThinQ® app control and ThinQ Care™ alerts, Dad gets the perfect clean every time without the guesswork.

4. Make movie night an event with a smart TV

Is your dad a movie buff, an avid sports fan or a gamer? Make sure he can see every moment in crystal clarity with the LG OLED evo G5 (OLED65G5WUA). Thanks to Dolby Vision®, Dolby Atmos®and FILMMAKER MODE™, Dad can enjoy true cinematic immersion. And with a blazing 165Hz refresh rate and near-instant response time, his gaming sessions will be better than ever before.

The LG OLED evo G5 also features a next-gen Alpha 11 AI processor and over 8.3 million self-lit pixels for perfect blacks and vibrant color. Dad can now enjoy crystal-clear picture quality with reduced glare even in the brightest, sunlit rooms, with the G5’s Bright Room Ready features powered by Brightness Booster Ultimate.

5. Gift a grad a Bluetooth speaker they can take on all their adventures

Friends eat dinner around a coffee table with an xboom speaker sitting on it.

For the grad who wants to celebrate their accomplishments loud and proud, give them an LG xboom Bounce (BOUNCE.AUSALBK). Tuned in collaboration with will.i.am, this Bluetooth speaker blends next-level sound with a standout style. With up to 30 hours of playtime, IP67 water and dust resistance and enhanced durability, your grad can take the party anywhere this summer and beyond.

Made for bold, adaptive sound on the go, the speaker’s smart tech adjusts to the music and the moment. Combined with vibrant ambient lighting that adds a glow to every jam session, the vibes are always right. Plus, easy pairing with LG devices and Auracast™ makes group listening an effortless endeavor.

6. Help your grad succeed with an ultraportable laptop

For the grads who need reliable tech for work, school and their passion projects, gift them the LG gram Book (15U50T-G.AAS3U1). This ultra-light, ultra-ready 15.6-inch laptop weighs just 3.7 pounds, but don’t let that fool you. The thin, sleek design is built for big dreams.

Powered by AI and installed with Windows 11 Copilot and an Intel® Core™ i5 processor, your grad will be able to handle whatever comes next. From streaming to creating, the brilliant Full HD IPS display and immersive Dolby Atmos® sound make every task more inspiring. And thanks to the 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD and LG gram Link, grads have all the speed, storage and seamless device connectivity they need to thrive.

Are you ready to impress the loved ones in your life? Visit LG.com to learn more about these and other products that will wow the dads and grads near and far.

Elevate your summer evenings: How to light up outdoor family moments

2025-06-09T02:01:00

(BPT) – There’s something magical about summer evenings, with warm breezes and moonlit skies inviting everyone to linger outdoors, savoring moments together. To fully enjoy your outdoor space, the right lighting makes all the difference — allowing you to transform ordinary decks, patios or yards into vibrant gathering spots, festive dance floors, cozy family havens or romantic settings. Any ambiance you desire is possible, whether you want warm white light or colored lighting, along with the added comfort, security and functionality you can achieve with lighting options from Govee Outdoor Lights.

Here are some possibilities to help you make the most of your outdoor space, all season long.

Create a warm, inviting atmosphere

If you’re looking to elevate your dining, party and leisure areas during summer barbecues and get-togethers, Govee Outdoor Clear Bulb String Lights are a great option. They’re easy to hang around your patio, deck, gazebo or pergola, creating a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere that all your friends and family will love so you can make the most of your evening gatherings. With 111 preset scene modes, an AI assistant for crafting custom effects and full personalization via the Govee Home app, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for your space has never been easier or more tailored to you.

Pergala, featuring custom lighting, over a dinning area in the backyard.

Highlight your home’s features

Want to shine a light on your home’s unique architectural features? Use accent lighting like Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Pro to showcase distinctive elements like the eaves and roof contours of your home. These waterproof outdoor lights are also ideal to enhance any special occasion, including Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Halloween. The enhanced warm and cool white options will add more style to your home with a one-of-a-kind triangular effect. You can even pair DIY permanent lights with Matter, Alexa and Google Assistant for smart voice control.

Brighten up the night

Evening birthday party in the backyard with custom lighing

Planning a big event like a backyard dinner, birthday party or family reunion? For more wide-range, high-intensity lighting to illuminate larger spaces such as courtyards, driveways or activity areas, consider setting up rugged and durable Govee Outdoor Lamp Post Lights. These lights can also serve as an effective security measure. Their Integrated Double Sensors support safety alerts and monitoring, while the brightness sensor perceives illumination changes for additional security. These lights also support smart voice control via Govee Home App, Matter, Alexa and Google Assistant.

Transform your space into a magical oasis

Imagine illuminating your garden with 16 million colors, infusing every moment with the magic of nature and intelligent lighting. With Govee Outdoor Garden Lights, full-spectrum white lamp beads simulate sunlight with a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 94 and 1100 lumens, enhancing the true, vivid colors of your beloved plants and flowers.

Enhance the romance

Hang Govee Curtain lights vertically to form a stunning light curtain effect to decorate walls, windows or gazebos for a romantic and dreamy backdrop. Even better, you can really get creative with these 520 LED light curtains to design dynamic lighting effects and even customize your own DIY light show for any holiday or special occasion. With DreamView and Music Mode, you can interconnect these curtain lights with multiple Govee smart lights for better immersive lighting — and remotely control them via the Govee Home App.

Whether you want to plan special family moments, enjoy quality “date night” vibes or create a festive party atmosphere, Govee Outdoor Lights can help you make it happen. Check out all your outdoor entertaining lighting options at Govee.com or find them on Amazon.

[Executive Corner] Smart Factory: Ushering in a New Era of Manufacturing

2025-06-06T10:59:00

(BPT) – By Song Si-yong, head of Smart Factory Business Division, Production Engineering Research Institute, LG Electronics

Manufacturing has been a cornerstone of global economic growth since the Industrial Revolution. Today, however, the landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Societal and structural shifts — including aging populations, shrinking labor forces, evolving trade policies and overhauled supply chains — are pushing the industry to rethink how products are made.

This isn’t merely a phase of incremental improvement. It’s a turning point, one where the traditional manufacturing model is being reimagined. Forward-thinking companies are embracing next-generation production systems such as gigafactories — vast, automated operations — and dark factories, which can function with minimal or no human intervention.

The momentum is already visible in the numbers. According to Precedence Research, the global smart factory market, valued at USD 155.6 billion in 2024, is expected to more than double to USD 386.4 billion by 2034. With a projected CAGR of 9.5 percent, the smart factory is fast becoming the new foundation of industrial competitiveness.

LG’s Vision for Smart Factories

With over 60 manufacturing sites across more than 40 countries, LG has a long and storied history in global production. Building on nearly 70 years of expertise, we launched our smart factory solution business in 2024 to lead this new industrial revolution.

Our approach is rooted in intelligent manufacturing optimization. We go beyond delivering machinery — we form strategic partnerships. Our solutions are built around the specific needs and goals of each client, ensuring a tailored, customer-first approach.

A Strategic Partner in Manufacturing Transformation

In today’s dynamic manufacturing environment, smart factory solutions are no longer optional — they’re essential. LG offers end-to-end support, from factory design and process audits to ROI analysis and phased implementation roadmaps.

We serve a diverse range of customers, from small manufacturers starting their digital journey to large enterprises modernizing complex operations. Every engagement begins with a deep analysis of industry requirements, production volumes and existing infrastructure — enabling us to craft highly customized solutions.

AI-Powered, Data-Driven Manufacturing

At the core of LG’s smart factory capabilities is a robust platform powered by approximately 770 terabytes of production data. Leveraging AI and big data analytics, our systems transform conventional operations into intelligent, adaptive ecosystems.

Through digital twin technology, we simulate factory layouts and processes before physical implementation, reducing risk and eliminating guesswork. Generative AI monitors equipment in real time, identifying issues like unusual vibrations and recommending corrective actions. Vision AI further enhances operational safety and product quality by detecting defects and safety hazards instantly.

Consider this scenario: a simple voice command — “7 AM: vibration detected on equipment A” — triggers an immediate system diagnosis, referencing historical data and suggesting next steps. Vision AI can then assist the operator in resolving the issue on-site. This real-time, data-driven decision-making is the hallmark of a true smart factory.

Proven Results, Real-World Impact

The results speak for themselves. At LG Smart Park in Changwon, South Korea, automation has reached 65 percent, resulting in a 22 percent increase in productivity and a 30 percent reduction in defects. In the United States, our Tennessee facility achieved a 17 percent boost in productivity and a 30 percent gain in energy efficiency.

Both sites have been recognized as “Lighthouse Factories” by the World Economic Forum — a prestigious acknowledgment of excellence in advanced manufacturing.

Scaling Success Across Industries

Building on these successes, we’re expanding our smart factory solutions into new sectors — from batteries and automotive components to semiconductors and heavy machinery. We’re also entering high-potential industries like pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Across the U.S. and Southeast Asia, LG is managing full-scale, turnkey projects designed to enhance efficiency, improve quality and increase competitiveness. We expect orders for our smart factory solutions to reach KRW 400 billion this year, with projections exceeding KRW 1 trillion by 2030.

Co-Creating the Future of Manufacturing

At LG, a smart factory isn’t just about high-tech tools — it’s about smart strategies built around our customers. We believe success isn’t defined by how automated a factory is, but by how agile, resilient and future-ready it becomes.

We’re proud to collaborate with our partners to build operations that are not only more efficient, but also more competitive and sustainable. As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, LG is committed to leading the way — co-creating the future of intelligent production.

How to upgrade Dad’s grooming game for Father’s Day

2025-06-05T16:43:00

(BPT) – Content sponsored and provided by Walgreens.

Personal care products for men are booming, both in terms of interest and in sales, now worth over $1 billion nationwide and forecasted to grow to nearly $2 billion by 2028.* To help meet demand, Walgreens is rolling out a “Men’s Zone” in nearly 8,000 stores across the country — a dedicated space for this growing category, featuring an assortment of trendy and new men’s grooming and skin care products.

This is good news for anyone searching for the perfect gift this Father’s Day, as this tailored section makes it easier to find what you need for the father figure in your life.

Trendy can also be practical

The new Men’s Zone at Walgreens will help you find gifts that are personal, practical — and on-trend — for the dads in your life, including popular men’s care brands like Harry’s, Dr. Squatch, Cremo and new to Walgreens, Mando. You can find all these products in-store and online. Last-minute shopping? Walgreens 1-Hour Delivery offers even more convenience. **

Dads deserve pampering

Dads don’t always give themselves the time and attention they deserve. Show Dad how much he means to you by gifting him quality options for skin and beard care, body wash, fragrances and more – all available at most neighborhood Walgreens, for affordable prices and in one convenient stop.

Here’s a quick gift guide to help you find just the right products to treat your dad this year:

Transform his shower experience

  • Harry’s Body Wash Wildlands — Sandalwood & Cypress lathers richly and cleans deeply, without feeling harsh on skin. The serene scent of Wildlands is the perfect way for Dad to kick-start (or wash off) his day and includes captivating notes of eucalyptus, cypress and white birch.
  • With Cremo Body Wash, Italian Bergamot, dads can enjoy an astonishingly rich, moisturizing and fragrant lather. This perfectly balanced, premium formula helps clean and thoroughly moisturize.
  • For a great-smelling body wash that’s three times thicker than common body washes, your hard-working dad can make the most of shower time with Duke Cannon Thick Body Wash Bourbon — Oak Barrels + Aged Spirits. The higher viscosity and unique fragrance are bound to put this item at the top of his Father’s Day wish list for years to come.

Freshen up his style

  • Dr. Squatch Deodorant Coconut Castaway is a natural men’s deodorant to keep him fresh so he can go about his day with confidence. Dr. Squatch’s “Odor-Squatching” system contains powerful natural deodorizers like charcoal powder to block odor, postbiotics for microbiome support and arrowroot powder to absorb moisture.
  • Dad may enjoy the long-lasting odor protection and aromatic, woodsy scent of Every Man Jack Aluminum Free Deodorant Cedarwood. Made with no aluminum or other harsh chemicals, this deodorant uses many naturally derived ingredients like lichen and cotton to help fight odor-causing bacteria and absorb moisture.
  • For dads seeking clinical strength, 72-hour sweat and odor protection, Harry’s Extra Strength Antiperspirant, Wildlands is formulated with dual-odor blocking technology that simultaneously neutralizes and blocks odor, while still being suitable for sensitive skin types.

Perfect soaps for outdoorsy dads

  • If your dad is all about the outdoors, he’ll love the fresh, woody scent of Dr. Squatch Bar Soap, Wood Barrel Bourbon. Fortified with Birch Bark and Pumice Powder, this bar soap has a medium-intensity scrub that’s gentle but thorough, to leave him feeling smooth and revitalized.
  • Three times larger than common bar soaps and made with natural oils, Duke Cannon Bar Soap Bourbon smells like the crisp water of a lake up north. Even better? Duke Cannon Supply Company donates a portion of the proceeds to veterans’ causes.

Get your dad the gift of self-care. Find these and many more personal care products to help your dad feel pampered at your local neighborhood Walgreens or online at Walgreens Men’s Zone.

* Mintel’s 2024 Grooming Report: https://clients.mintel.com/content/report/men-s-grooming-us-2024#workspace_SpacesStore_f24a5247-b519-4ddc-bd40-3374f732ca2c.

** Terms and restrictions apply. Visit walgreens.com/samedaydelivery.