Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-06-30T07:53:00

(BPT) – Summer brings fun in the sun and is often accompanied by packed schedules filled with travel, family gatherings and long days outdoors, making it easy to let wellness habits slip.

However, prioritizing self-care can make a big difference in how you feel and function so you can fully enjoy everything on your sunshine-filled schedule all season long. To help you out, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers the following pro tips.

1. Refresh your space

When life feels chaotic, a cluttered space can make it worse. But you don’t have to overhaul everything. Start small! Pick one spot each week to tidy, like your car, work bag or fridge.

As part of the refresh, Blatner suggests adding something small to your daily spaces that sparks joy. It could be color, music or a meaningful item that reminds you to take care of yourself, even during the busiest days.

2. Unplug

It can be easy to mindlessly scroll on your phone or other devices. You don’t have to give up your electronics, but setting digital boundaries can help reduce your screen time. Schedule time in your day for screen-free outdoor time to reduce stress and soak up mood-boosting vitamin D.

3. Eat what makes you feel good

Focus on eating foods that taste good and make you feel nourished and happy. Blatner recommends keeping a feel-good fridge zone with pre-chopped veggies, hard-boiled eggs for grab-and-go protein, antioxidant-packed snacks like seasonal berries and infused water jars with herbs and citrus.

4. Make movement fun

Does the thought of hitting the gym or going on a run fill you with dread? Don’t force yourself to do an exercise you don’t enjoy. Instead of traditional workouts, embrace playful movement outdoors like paddleboarding, bike riding, beach volleyball or even dance classes to keep fitness fun and consistent.

5. Make a sweet, protein-packed snack

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a homemade treat made from high-quality ingredients like Blatner’s recipe for Protein Cookie Bites. They’re a deliciously crave-worthy yet nourishing snack to tackle those sweet cravings throughout your day.

These protein bites are made with Eggland’s Best eggs, so you can savor every bite knowing that these eggs contain 10 times more Vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs. This powerful antioxidant helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which is especially helpful during the hotter months when sun exposure increases.

EB eggs also have six times more Vitamin D compared to ordinary eggs, which supports bone health, immune function and mood regulation.

Protein Cookie Bites

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 24

Ingredients

· 2 Eggland’s Best Eggs, large

· 1/2 cup natural peanut butter

· 4 tablespoons maple syrup

· 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder

· 1/2 cup rolled oats

· 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

· 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk Eggland’s Best eggs and stir in peanut butter and maple syrup.

3. Add in protein powder and oats and stir until fully mixed. Then, fold in chocolate chips.

4. Scoop the batter into 24 mounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and top each with a pinch of salt.

5. Bake about 8 minutes or until bottoms are golden. Let cool for 15 minutes and enjoy.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, in the fridge for up to seven days, or freeze for up to three months.

To find other recipes like this one, visit EgglandsBest.com.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself no matter how busy the summer gets! Using these five pro tips, you’ll be able to prioritize self-care, even with a packed schedule.

2025-06-27T13:49:00

(BPT) – By Kourtney Johnson, RD

If you’re constantly looking for ways to improve your health, you’re in good company. With summer at our doorsteps and allergies and colds all around, you might be concerned about getting sick, or maybe you’re focused on preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.

We’ve heard for a long time that exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep and eating a variety of healthy foods make a big difference in preventing illness, but it goes a bit deeper than that. It turns out that bacteria in the gut is the foundation of health.

Gut health has been a hot topic in recent years, and for good reason. Many studies have been done to better understand the role of intestinal microbiota — which is made up of over one thousand microbial species — on health and disease in humans.

A change in the microbiota influences organ-related diseases, though the mechanism between the gut and organs still isn’t completely understood.

The variety of microbes in the gut is impacted by environmental factors, lifestyle, age and the foods you eat, with diet being one of the biggest influences.

Learn more about how the foods you eat, including sprouted grains, can help you have better gut health so you can stay healthy this summer and beyond!

How sprouted grains benefit gut health

Sprouted grains contain the bran, germ and endosperm. They’re recognized as whole grains so long as the sprout isn’t longer than the kernel and nutrients haven’t been removed, according to the Cereals and Grains Association.

Grains are sprouted by soaking them in water until they start growing a sprout. The water temperature, air temperature and the amount of time grains are allowed to sprout are all controlled. Once sprouting occurs, they’re drained and mixed together before being ground up. During the sprouting process, enzymes are released, and they break down protein and carbohydrates. This is why sprouted grains have increased digestibility.

One of the most important components of sprouted grains is the fiber, because it isn’t digested and can increase the variety of bacteria in the gut.

Research shows that people who follow the Mediterranean Diet — which is high in fiber from foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds — have an increased number of bacterial species (biodiversity) in their guts compared to people who follow a Western diet, which is significantly lower in fiber.

You can easily increase your fiber intake by adding Food For Life bread, English muffins, cereal and tortillas to your eating pattern. We offer a variety of Ezekiel 4:9 sprouted grains products, including Cinnamon Raisin Whole Grain Bread, Flax Sprouted Whole Grain Cereal and Sprouted Whole Grain Bread.

Increased digestibility of sprouted grains

While the digestibility of sprouted grains is impacted by enzymes, phytate (AKA phytic acid) also plays a role. In grains, phytate is located in the bran with the majority of the phosphorus found in any one food bound to it. Iron and zinc absorption is impaired in the presence of phytate, which can increase your risk of being deficient in these minerals.

The sprouting process breaks down antinutrients like phytate while the amount of vitamins, antioxidants and fiber is higher, leading to better digestibility. This is just one of the benefits Food For Life products provide over other whole grains on the market.

Benefits of prebiotics on gut health

Sprouted grains, fruits and vegetables contain prebiotics, which benefit the gut microbiota by triggering the growth of healthy bacteria. They can also change the environment of the gut by making it less acidic, which alters the composition of the microbiota.

The impact of a healthy gut on your overall health

The gut microbiota ferments dietary fiber, which creates short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These SCFAs regulate immune cell function by helping to train the immune system to tell the difference between good and bad microorganisms.

Having a variety of bacteria in your gut is associated with better health. For example, conditions like diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease have been seen in people with low diversity in gut bacteria.

Having a higher amount of different types of bacteria is thought to better protect against environmental influences since it increases the chance of your gut being able to compensate for certain bacteria that aren’t present.

Foods to eat to improve your gut microbiota

In addition to sprouted grains, there are many foods that promote a healthy gut.

To consume probiotics, which benefit gut health, you might consider adding yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut or kefir to your eating pattern.

For prebiotics, garlic, onions, bananas and asparagus are good options.

Consider trying the following recipes, some of which would pair well with Food For Life products.

• Avocado toast on Sesame Sprouted Whole Grain Bread
• Breakfast sandwich on Sprouted Whole Grain English Muffin
• Chicken Caesar Salad wrap on Sprouted Whole Grain Tortillas
• Eggplant Parmesan sandwiches on Sprouted Whole Grain Burger Buns
• Spicy Chickpea stew
• Black Bean Quinoa bowl
• Mixed Berry smoothie

Where to find Food For Life’s sprouted grain products

Taking action to improve your gut health doesn’t need to be complicated. Adding fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains is an easy step to take while also increasing your chances of staying healthy.

If you’d like to add Food For Life’s products to your eating pattern so you can benefit from the improved digestibility of sprouted grains, use the store locator to find out where they’re available near you.

2025-06-27T13:37:00

(BPT) – By Kourtney Johnson, RD

If you’re like most people, you’re always open to new, healthy and quick lunch ideas for work. You might be looking for a more exciting, grown-up option than the same old PB and J every day, but you’re not sure which healthy lunch box ideas for adults are also easy to make and nutritious.

While there’s nothing wrong with a PB and J, it’s understandable if you don’t want to eat that every day. Continue reading to find out how to quickly pack a nutrient-dense, balanced meal using easy lunch box ideas!

What your lunch should include

While fruits and veggies are good for you, consuming a balanced meal goes beyond eating the rainbow.

It might be helpful to think of your lunch box as a plate. Using the MyPlate method, half should be filled with fruits and veggies, a fourth should have a protein source and the other quarter should have a carb-containing food. There are many choices you can add to each section of your plate.

Carb-containing options

Carbs are an important nutrient because they provide your body with the source of energy it prefers: glucose. Foods that contain carbs include Food For Life’s Sprouted Whole Grain bread, English muffins like the Sprouted Grain Flax variety and tortillas like these Sprouted Whole Grain ones. Fruit, starchy vegetables — potatoes, peas, corn and squash — milk, yogurt and dessert items also have carbs.

Complex vs. simple carbs

Carbohydrates come in different forms. Simple ones — also called simple sugars — have a different structure than complex carbs and are digested quickly. Complex carbs contain more nutrients such as fiber and take longer to digest. As a result, complex carbs keep you full for a longer amount of time and prevent blood sugar swings.

Sources of simple carbs include candy and baked goods. While they provide less nutrition than complex ones, you can still enjoy them in small amounts.

Complex carbs are found in foods like potatoes, apples, chickpeas, brown rice and whole grain bread products like those from Food For Life!

Foods that contain protein provide us with lasting energy, general good health and the ability to create new cells. You can find this nutrient in options like meat, fish, eggs, black beans, nut butters and legumes such as chickpeas.

Don’t forget about fiber

Plant-based foods like nuts, seeds, whole grains, fruits and vegetables provide you with fiber, which has many health benefits. It helps you feel more full for a longer period of time while adding bulk to your diet to improve digestion. Healthy lunch box ideas for adults include Food For Life’s Ezekiel Sprouted Whole Grain Bread, Ezekiel Sprouted Whole Grain English Muffins and Ezekiel Whole Grain Pocket Bread which all provide fiber.

Why it’s a good idea to pack your own lunch

Bringing your own lunch to work has a number of health benefits, but it doesn’t mean you need to do so every single day. Aiming to pack your lunch most days of the week is a good goal and allows you to:

• Decrease your salt intake (Food For Life offers low-sodium options like this bread)
• Eat reasonable portion sizes
• Consume healthy fats (found in foods like nuts, seeds and olive oil)
• Avoid excessive amounts of added sugars

In the long run, your body will thank you for eating food from home.

Healthy lunch box ideas for adults

The options for what to add to your midday meal are endless, but we’ve compiled a list of easy lunch box ideas you can enjoy using various Food For Life products.

Try the following sandwiches on Ezekiel Flax Sprouted Whole Grain Bread:

• Veggie and Hummus
• Avocado, Tomato and Chicken
• Cajun Turkey
• Green Goddess
• Pineapple Chicken Salad

Healthy and quick lunch ideas for work don’t necessarily need to be on regular bread! Pocket Bread, English Muffins and tortillas also make a great base.

Consider trying one of these recipes:

• Greek Salad Wrap
• Turkey Cobb Sandwich
• Vegan Veggie Wrap
• Healthy Breakfast Sandwich
• Spinach and Feta Scrambled Egg Pita

These easy lunch box ideas would pair well with:

• Fresh fruit
• Raw or cooked veggies
• Cottage cheese
• Popcorn
• Yogurt
• Baked chips
• A sweet treat, such as dark chocolate or dates with peanut butter

Tips for saving time on packing your lunch

Life gets busy, and nobody wants to spend too much time preparing lunch for the next day. Keep these tips in mind so you can avoid spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

Plan ahead by cutting and washing your fruits and vegetables all at once. Keep them in small containers so you can grab and go throughout the week. Similarly, choose quick recipe ideas that can be made in 15 minutes or less.

Bringing leftovers is also a quick option, as all you need to do is put them in a container and add it to your lunch box the next morning.

Have fun with it

Food is a source of joy, and it’s important to find healthy and quick lunch box ideas for work that you actually like. At the same time, consuming a variety of nutrients is important, and following the MyPlate method as a guide will make it easier to do so.

Consider trying different recipes using Food For Life’s various products, and add different sides and sweet treats to your meal to keep lunch exciting.

To avoid spending a lot of time packing your lunch, put fruits and vegetables into containers you can quickly grab, and choose recipes that will take you a max of 15 minutes to make.

As you consider different healthy lunch box ideas for adults, think about which Food For Life products you’d like to try using our store locator.

2025-06-26T13:01:00

(BPT) – Where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, travelers are greeted by the welcoming shores of Virginia Beach. While its iconic boardwalk and sun-drenched shores beckon millions every year, this vibrant coastal city continues to blossom into a sophisticated, diverse and utterly irresistible destination that’s tailor-made for every traveler’s wish list.

“Virginia Beach is truly a destination that surprises and delights,” says Nancy Helman, director of the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We’ve intentionally cultivated an experience where the thrill of the ocean is balanced with a rich tapestry of arts, history and family fun, ensuring every visitor finds their perfect adventure here, regardless of their passion.”

No Virginia Beach experience is complete without a leisurely stroll or invigorating bike ride along the three-mile boardwalk. Here, the rhythmic cadence of the ocean serves as a soothing soundtrack while the sun paints the sky in hues of tangerine and rose. Early mornings see dedicated joggers embracing the fresh ocean air while families glide by on surreys, soaking in the city’s infectious energy. Yet, beyond this bustling core, a world of discovery awaits including stunning public art, creative culinary delights, adventure-packed parks and serene pockets perfect for quiet contemplation.

A few blocks away from the beach in the ViBe District, a sanctuary of creativity awaits, thanks to a diverse community of artisans, musicians and entrepreneurs who have collectively enriched the city’s cultural landscape. With an impressive array of public artworks including murals, sculptures and creatively designed crosswalks, the area is a dynamic open-air canvas that captivates all who stroll the district and shop the handmade creations of local artisans. ViBe also has emerged as a culinary hotspot, offering an eclectic mix of more than two dozen dining experiences that reflect the area’s creative spirit. From farm-to-table to international flavors, the taste buds of visitors and locals are invited on a gastronomic journey that complements its artistic surroundings.

For the adventure seeker, Virginia Beach is a natural playground. Make those steps count and explore any of the city’s 293 parks and park facilities like First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park, or the 300 miles of bikeways and trails in the destination. And for an experience truly unlike any other, ascend the innovative 65-foot-high Nautilus Lookout Tower at Owl Creek Landing, an engineering marvel offering a unique spiral path to an open-air observation deck with panoramic views. Need more thrills? Soar high above the waves on an exhilarating parasailing excursion, test your balance paddleboarding through the tranquil Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or catch a wave like the pros and learn to hang ten in the birthplace of East Coast surfing. For guaranteed perfect surf breaks year-round, dive into the innovative Atlantic Park with the nation’s first Wavegarden Cove, offering customizable waves for every skill level.

The destination also boasts a rich history, inviting visitors to uncover the stories that shaped this coastal city. Immerse yourself in early Colonial life at the Adam Thoroughgood House, one of the oldest surviving brick homes in the country, or explore fascinating maritime heritage at the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum housed in an authentic 1903 U.S. lifesaving station. Climb the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first federal construction project authorized by the U.S. government, for panoramic views and a glimpse into the nation’s early navigation efforts. Delve into the lives of early settlers and the trials of the American Revolution at sites like the Ferry Plantation House and the Francis Land House, each offering a window into Virginia Beach’s vibrant and diverse past.

For a quick getaway with the kids, Virginia Beach offers myriad family-friendly activities that guarantee smiles all around. Spend a day exploring the wonders of marine life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, cool off at Ocean Breeze Waterpark with its exhilarating slides and lazy river, or unleash energy at Mount Trashmore Park with its vast open spaces and playgrounds. When it comes to lodging, Virginia Beach caters to every budget: You’ll find affordable and comfortable inns for great value, mid-range hotels offering reliable amenities and convenient access and even upscale family resorts complete with pools, kids’ clubs and diverse dining options for a truly memorable family escape.

Whether you’re an art lover, an outdoor adventurer, a history buff or a family creating new memories, Virginia Beach effortlessly delivers. It’s not just a coastal city; it’s a destination where every traveler’s wish list finds its perfect fulfillment. In Virginia Beach, the destination’s casual vibe makes it a shore thing for your next unforgettable escape. Ready to discover your Virginia Beach adventure? Start planning your visit at www.visitvirginiabeach.com.

2025-06-25T11:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re planning a big summer barbecue or just having friends over for burgers and a bonfire, summer entertaining should feel fun — not frantic. What’s the secret to keeping entertaining easier? Smart hosting is all about preparation. From savvy setups and quick clean-ups to thoughtful details guests will notice in between, a little planning goes a long way in creating a celebration that feels effortless — and totally memorable.

1. Set the mood

Choosing a fun theme for your party can instantly set the tone for a festive summer party — and it doesn’t have to be complicated! Keep it summery and easy. Whether you choose to go with tropical vibes, a garden party or an old-fashioned outdoor barbeque, all you need are a few on-theme decorations and a playlist to set the mood. You can also build your theme around a bold color like pink, using it in balloons, flowers or a pink lemonade stand to tie everything together in a fun and playful way.

2. Prep the food

Keep your party prep, serving and cleanup simple by creating a build-your-own bar with all the fixings for whatever you’re dishing out. You could set up a salad or taco bar, or a burger and sub sandwich station so guests can serve themselves and customize their meal. Just make sure to leave plenty of space on the table between the different fixings to avoid traffic jams!

3. Personalize it

Supply on-theme stickers or colorful food-safe markers at the flatware table with instructions for guests to label or decorate their dishes, cups and even cutlery to suit their personalities — helping everyone keep track of their cup and plate. This also makes cleanup a breeze, as you’re less likely to end up with abandoned plates and cups lying around everywhere.

4. Streamline cleanup

Set out clearly labeled containers for trash and recycling so guests can easily dispose of items. When it comes to stress-free hosting, Hefty has your back, with a range of sizes — including their new standout tall kitchen pink Ultra Strong with Fabuloso Watermelon Scent bags. With trusted strength, odor control and a playful pop of pink color, Hefty trash bags help you stay ready behind the scenes while keeping your space looking (and smelling) party ready.

Use the vibrant pink colored bags to help guests identify the correct containers by supplying a matching pink “Trash” sign to go with the new Hefty bags, and a green or blue “Recycling” sign for the recycling bin, so it’s clear where empty soda cans and bottles should go. Large yard? Set up two trash and recycling stations at opposite sides so guests can easily find them.

5. Leave everyone smiling

Gather a few fun on-theme party favors or treats in small bags for guests to take home with them as a souvenir of the occasion. Make them even more memorable by including something personal, like an instant photo you took when they arrived, or a handwritten note thanking them for their presence. A little thoughtful touch goes a long way!

Check out Hefty’s new fresh and fruity Fabuloso Watermelon scent in bold pink for a fun, stylish way to bring personality to everything from everyday cleaning needs to summer gatherings. The Hefty Ultra Strong with Fabuloso Watermelon Scent line is available in-store and online at major retailers nationwide. Be sure to check your nearest Walmart and at Walmart.com to try it out yourself!

2025-06-25T03:01:00

(BPT) – LG’s New Campaign Leverages Music — the Universal Language — to Foster Deeper Connections and Expand the Life’s Good Promise in Digital Spaces

LG Electronics (LG) today launched a new brand campaign, “Radio Optimism,” designed to help strengthen meaningful human connections and spread optimism through shared musical experiences. This initiative aligns with LG’s brand promise, “Life’s Good,” and addresses the growing challenge of forming genuine relationships in a technology-driven world.

The Radio Optimism campaign seeks to counteract the disconnection often felt in an era dominated by superficial interactions, such as likes and comments on social media. By harnessing the power of music, LG aims to foster deeper bonds among individuals, promoting a more fulfilling life.

“As technology advances, meaningful human connections become increasingly vital to enrich our lives. LG continues its commitment to bringing optimism into customers’ daily lives, staying true to our enduring brand promise of ‘Life’s Good,'” said Kim Hyo-eun, head of LG’s Brand Management Division.

This campaign reinforces LG’s commitment to creating enriching experiences in digital spaces where today’s consumers spend significant time. Building on this mission, LG has continuously engaged with younger audiences through participatory campaigns that bring the Life’s Good philosophy to life. Last year’s “Optimism your feed” campaign leveraged social algorithms to foster positivity on social media. This new initiative specifically seeks to address the paradoxical disconnection in an era of hyper-connectivity.

“One of the most reliable predictors of happiness is having deep and meaningful relationships,” said Jean M. Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University. “Yet today, many people are spending more time online and less time connecting in person. Social media in particular tends to create shallow relationships rather than the deep connections people need. It’s common for people to have hundreds of followers but no one to talk to in real life if they need support. We need to build more meaningful connections with those around us. That might turn around the pronounced decline in happiness that’s occurred over the last decade.”

A new global study^* from LG on social connection reveals that 68 percent of people find it harder to make real friends, and a third reported having one or fewer meaningful connections in the past month, with 8 percent experiencing none at all. Inspired by traditional radio’s unique way of connecting people through music and storytelling, the Radio Optimism campaign transforms this concept into an interactive platform where participants can create and send personalized songs to their loved ones. Users can easily create new songs using AI-powered tools, which are thoroughly trained on a curated music dataset. These tools interpret user prompts to produce unique musical pieces and generate matching album art, providing an engaging and personalized experience. Once generated, these songs can be sent to recipients to deepen their connection and made available for others to discover worldwide.

According to the survey, nearly 9 in 10 respondents believe that meaningful connections lead to a more optimistic outlook on life. By providing a platform for individuals to express their feelings, this campaign aims to foster deeper connections and help individuals enrich their lives while spreading optimism in their own ways.

The campaign website is available in English and Spanish, with plans to support additional languages in the coming months to enable broader participation. The official website can be found at RadioOptimism.lg.com. More details can be found on www.lg.com/lifesgood/.

^* Survey Methodology

Timings: Fieldwork conducted from 29th April – 1st May 2025, via Focaldata

Countries: 5 – US, UK, Australia, India and Canada

Age: 18-45

Sample Size: 5,000 participants across US, UK, Australia, India and Canada, with 1,000 participants in each market, and nationally representative splits by age, gender and region.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics is a global innovator in technology and consumer electronics with a presence in almost every country and an international workforce of more than 74,000. LG’s four Companies – Home Appliance Solution, Media Entertainment Solution, Vehicle Solution and the Eco Solution – combined for global revenue of over KRW 88 trillion in 2024. LG is a leading manufacturer of consumer and commercial products ranging from TVs, home appliances, air solutions, monitors, automotive components and solutions, and its premium LG SIGNATURE and intelligent LG ThinQ brands are familiar names world over. Visit www.LGnewsroom.com for the latest news.

Media Contacts:

LG Electronics, Inc.

Lea Lee

+82 2 3777 3981

lea.lee@lge.com

www.LGnewsroom.com

LG Electronics, Inc.

Jenny Shin

jungin.shin@lge.com

+82 2 3777 3692

www.LGnewsroom.com

2025-06-24T05:01:00

(BPT) – Bursting with energy, creativity and character, the Richmond Region is where history meets innovation, and culture collides with thrill. Whether you’re into timeless art or adrenaline-pumping adventures, this thriving hub in central Virginia offers something for every kind of traveler. This bold and vibrant destination is ready to impress, and it’s closer than you think.

Here are 10 unforgettable only-in-Richmond experiences that showcase why the Richmond Region deserves a top spot on your travel list:

1. Explore the heart of seven unique destinations

The Richmond Region isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s a dynamic mix of seven distinct localities (two cities, four counties and one town), each with its own personality. Whether you’re drawn to downtown energy, small-town charm or outdoor beauty, you’ll find your perfect vibe here. Even better? It’s within a day’s drive for half the U.S. population, and for many it’s only a tank of gas or less to get there.

2. Witness history where it happened

Stand in the very spot where Patrick Henry delivered his fiery “Give me liberty or give me death” speech at St. John’s Church in 1775. This iconic site still echoes with the spirit of the American Revolution, with dramatic reenactments every Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day — just in time for the speech’s 250th anniversary. The Richmond Region is filled with other American Independence-inspired experiences and exhibits, too, including the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Scotchtown, St. Peter’s Church and more.

3. Immerse yourself in world-class art — admission-free

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is one of the country’s top art museums, and it’s open 365 days a year with free general admission. Explore everything from American and European masterpieces to decorative arts and the largest public collection of Fabergé eggs outside of Russia. Their blockbuster special exhibition this summer is Frida Kahlo: Beyond the Myth (ticket purchase required).

4. Step into nostalgia at the world’s largest tractor museum

Rev up your curiosity at the Keystone Truck & Tractor Museum where you can take a trip down the memory lane of America’s rich agricultural heritage. With its massive collection of antique trucks, tractors, cars, motorcycles and Americana, it’s an unexpected delight for gearheads, history buffs and wide-eyed children alike.

5. Celebrate 50 years of amusement park thrills

From coasters to kiddie rides, Kings Dominion has been serving up fun for five decades. Don’t miss the debut of Rapterra — the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster — plus classic attractions like the soaring one-third-scale Eiffel Tower and a summer of anniversary festivities.

6. Conquer whitewater rapids — downtown

There’s nowhere else in the country where you can raft Class III and IV rapids in the middle of a city. The James River in downtown Richmond offers urban whitewater adventures as well as tranquil and scenic flatwater, making it a must for thrill-seekers and paddlers alike. And along the river, you can now see hot music acts and other performances at the new 7,500-seat Allianz Amphitheatre at Riverfront.

7. Rev your engines for a night of NASCAR

Catch the excitement of an exhilarating NASCAR night race at America’s premier short track. With its unique three-quarter-mile layout and D shape, Richmond Raceway has been a favorite for drivers and fans since 1958. The August evening showdown? Unmissable.

8. Saddle up for pure horsepower

For more life in the fast lane, trade the roar of engines for the thunder of hooves at Colonial Downs, home to live horse racing all summer long and host to its first-ever Kentucky Derby qualifier this past spring. Their turf course is the widest grass racing surface in North America, and the dirt track is the country’s second largest.

9. Pay tribute to a racing legend

Keep following Virginia’s equestrian legacy to the stunning bronze statue of Secretariat, the Virginia-born Triple Crown champion who captured hearts around the world. “Secretariat Racing into History” is more than a monument — it’s a moving tribute to the Commonwealth’s most famous four-legged athlete. Every horse that raced in this year’s Kentucky Derby is one of his descendants!

10. Meet the zoo’s social media sensation

Say hello to Poppy, the pygmy hippo! She may not win any races, but she’s been stealing hearts (and headlines) since her December 2024 debut at the Metro Richmond Zoo. Poppy is part of a family of endangered pygmy hippos at the zoo and just one of many amazing animals you’ll encounter — from giraffes you can hand-feed to monkeys, cheetahs and more. For adventure seekers, there’s a zipline and adventure park too.

Ready for an unforgettable escape?

Discover even more amazing things to do, see and savor in the Richmond Region at VisitRichmondVA.com/things-to-do.

2025-06-18T11:03:00

(BPT) – There’s no end to the number of kitchen gadgets you can buy, but in terms of versatility, the blender cannot be matched. If you only use your blender for making smoothies, you’re missing out! The right blender can tackle a wide range of hot and cold recipes for any meal, snack or beverage.

KitchenAid, the maker of the iconic stand mixer, has recently launched the KitchenAid^® Pure Power Blender. This handy kitchen appliance will help you turn everyday ingredients into delicious dishes to feed yourself or others. Thanks to its smooth variable speed control, asymmetric blade and three presets, what you can make is only limited by your imagination and your budget.

Not sure where to start? Check out these five recipes and see which is your favorite!

1. Smoky Chipotle Salsa

Making fresh salsa at home is simple with the right ingredients and tools. Take this smoky chipotle salsa recipe, for example. After roasting Roma tomatoes, onion, garlic and serrano peppers in the oven, you’ll toss them straight from the pan to the blender to mix with smoky chipotle peppers and other tasty ingredients.

No need to wait for the oven-roasted veggies to cool down. Thanks to a fitted vented lid, the Pure Power Blender can take care of hot ingredients like freshly roasted tomatoes just as well as it can frozen food straight from the freezer. In no time at all, you’ll have a perfectly textured salsa ready to scoop with your choice of chips or to spoon on top of tacos and other main dishes.

2. Peanut Butter

Have you ever made peanut butter at home? All you need is dry-roasted, salted peanuts, a neutral oil and a blender to make the magic happen.

An advantage to making your own peanut butter is that you control the texture. Whether your perfect spread is smooth and creamy or crunchy and chunky, you can make it happen with the right blender settings. Using the Pure Power Blender’s precision speed control knob and asymmetric blade design, you’ll be able to create the perfectly textured peanut butter that suits your taste and needs.

Pro tip: Add honey or maple syrup for a sweeter spread.

3. Roasted Corn, Potato and Zucchini Chowder

A hearty chowder is a delicious meal to share or eat on your own and save the leftovers. Using this recipe for roasted corn, potato and zucchini chowder, you’ll have a fresh batch ready to serve in under 1 1/2 hours.

Much like the salsa recipe above, you’ll roast the veggies in the oven before tossing them into the blender. However, you’ll still be putting the blender to work while the veggies are roasting by making a smooth basil oil for drizzle.

Don’t worry about cleaning up in between tasks. With the Pure Power Blender’s Clean cycle, you’ll have a clean blender jar ready in no time, so you can finish creating your veggie chowder.

Pro tip: For a smooth chowder, blend ingredients on speed 6 for one minute. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, blend on speed 2 for 5-10 seconds.

4. Citrus Cake

Can you make cake in a blender? You sure can! This recipe for citrus cake allows you to quickly mix all the necessary ingredients while you wait for dinner to finish cooking.

Using the precision speed control knob, you’ll set the blender speed to 7 or 8 to finely chop unpeeled clementines and lemons that give the cake its flavor, as well as blend other essential ingredients like sugar, oil, vanilla and almond extract. When you’re ready to add flours, baking powder and salt, simply glide the knob to speed 1 to incorporate these dry ingredients.

Once mixed, all you need to do is pour, bake, cool and top with simple sugar clementine glaze. Whether you serve this cake for brunch, tea time or dessert, your friends and family will be begging you for the recipe.

5. Acai & Berry Smoothie Bowls

No blender recipe list would be complete without a smoothie recipe! Gather frozen acai, blueberries, raspberries and bananas and get ready to mix it with delicious Greek yogurt, your choice of milk or milk alternative and your favorite toppings.

You won’t have to worry about which blender setting to use for this recipe. Simply push the Pure Power Blender’s Smoothie cycle button and watch your smoothie come to life.

Pro tip: You can use any berries you like, and don’t forget that you can sneak in vegetables like riced cauliflower, baby spinach and carrots. Vanilla protein powder is also a sweet and nutritious addition to your smoothie bowls.

Are you ready to blend the rules? Try one or all five of these recipes and see for yourself how indispensable a blender can be. To learn more about the Pure Power Blender, visit KitchenAid.com.

2025-06-18T13:15:00

(BPT) – Texas tops the safety charts, the Pacific Northwest makes big gains, and Boston returns as America’s riskiest driving city in Allstate’s 17th annual report.

The 2025 Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report reveals that Texas leads the nation in safe driving, with four cities in the top 20, including Brownsville, which reclaims its title as the safest driving city in America. Meanwhile, Boston is once again the most collision-prone city in the nation, where drivers are nearly 3.5 times as likely to be in a collision compared to the national average.

First launched in 2005, this year’s Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report revisits collision data published a decade ago to reveal surprising shifts in driving safety across the country, just as Americans prepare for another busy summer on the roads.

“No matter where you drive, the best way to protect yourself and others is simple: buckle up, stay focused and slow down,” said Sandee Lindorfer, vice president of auto claims at Allstate. “These are three of the most effective ways to prevent crashes, and they cost nothing but attention.”

Driving by the numbers: What the data reveals

East Coast or West Coast: Which is riskier?

• Seven of the 10 cities with the highest collision rates are located in the Northeast, including Boston, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia.
• But don’t count out the West Coast: Los Angeles, Glendale and Oakland, California, round out the 10 riskiest cities for drivers.

Everything’s bigger – and safer – in Texas

• Brownsville, Texas, is the safest driving city in America, with Laredo, McAllen and Corpus Christi also landing in the top 20.
• Across the state, 21 cities, including major metros such as Austin, Fort Worth, Houston and Dallas, have climbed the ranks over the past decade.

The Pacific Northwest gets a glow-up

• Drivers in Washington, Oregon and Alaska are safer behind the wheel than they were a decade ago, with some of the largest reductions in collisions nationwide.
• Bellevue, Washington, leads the way, climbing 133 spots since 2015 to earn the title of most improved city. Other Northwest cities making significant strides include Anchorage, Alaska, and Portland, Oregon.

Midwest “nice” hits a speed bump

• Several Midwestern cities have experienced significant declines in safe driving since 2015.
• St. Louis saw the steepest drop, falling 90 spots to No. 175. Des Moines, Iowa, dropped 89 places to No. 108, and Kansas City, Missouri, slid 84 spots to No. 101.
• Other cities following this downward trend include Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Minneapolis; Cleveland; Omaha, Nebraska; and Indianapolis.

Collision rates climb in America’s riskiest cities

• While the average city has seen a modest decline in collisions since 2015, the gap between the safest and riskiest cities is widening.
• Several cities among the 50 most collision-prone cities have seen more than a 25% increase in crash rates since 2015, underscoring a growing divide in road safety.

How to stay safe and save on the road this summer

No matter where your city ranks, Allstate offers smart ways to stay protected and cut costs wherever you go.

• Stick to the speed limit and drive safely. It sounds simple, but it pays off. Avoiding violations and accidents for several months can earn safe driving discounts.
• Use a safe driving app. Programs like Allstate’s Drivewise, available in the Allstate mobile app, reward smooth driving habits like safe speeds, gentle braking and staying off your phone. It personalizes your rate based on real-time behavior, and people who use Drivewise are 25% less likely to have a severe collision compared to those who do not.
• Consider cars with strong safety features. Cars with airbags, anti-lock brakes, advanced driver aids and factory-installed anti-theft systems offer greater protection and reduce the risk of accidents and theft — benefits that may also translate into insurance savings.
• Set young drivers up for success. Young drivers under 25 can save by completing an approved driver ed program or maintaining good grades — proof that preparation and responsibility pay off.

Find more safety tips and ways to save before hitting the road this summer at Allstate.com/Best-Drivers. Curious how your city ranked? Check out the full list in Allstate’s 2025 America’s Best Drivers Report below.

Methodology

The Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report is the result of an in-depth examination of company auto claims data to determine the likelihood drivers in America’s 200 most populous cities will experience a vehicle collision compared to the national average. According to Allstate claims data, the average driver in the U.S will experience a collision once every 10.56 years. This year, Allstate researchers analyzed property and collision damage claims reported during the two-year period of January 2022 to December 2023. The report defines a collision as any auto crash resulting in a property or collision damage claim and uses U.S. Census Bureau data to determine America’s 200 largest cities. Allstate’s auto policies represent approximately 10% of all U.S. auto policies, making this report a realistic snapshot of what is happening on America’s roadways. The Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report is produced solely to boost the country’s discussion about safe driving and to increase awareness of the importance of being safe and attentive behind the wheel. The report is not used to determine auto insurance rates.

About Allstate

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) protects people from life’s uncertainties with a wide array of protection for autos, homes, electronic devices, and identities. Products are available through a broad distribution network including Allstate agents, independent agents, major retailers, online, and at the workplace. Allstate is widely known for the slogan “You’re in Good Hands with Allstate.” For more information, visit www.allstate.com.

2025-06-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is made for play — but when the temperatures rise, outdoor fun can turn into indoor boredom fast. If your kids are bouncing off the walls, take the energy somewhere it belongs — like Urban Air Adventure Park.

One pass, unlimited summer fun

After the strong success of last summer’s Summersational Play Pass, Urban Air — the nation’s leading indoor adventure park and part of Unleashed Brands — is offering families with kids an easy way to turn up the fun this summer. Its newly launched “Unlimited Play Summer Pass” is your ticket to unlimited visits to Urban Air for 90 days this summer.

This all-access pass is perfect for keeping kids active, engaged and out of the heat at a great value. With prices starting at $59.99 (depending on location), families nationwide can enjoy unlimited indoor summer fun with no blackout dates and daily access to the park’s top attractions. Summer Pass members also get exclusive food and beverage deals at the Urban Air Café all summer long.

“Our guests loved last year’s Summersational Pass and this year, we wanted to go even bigger with our Unlimited Play Summer Pass,” said Kyle Martin, chief marketing officer at Urban Air. “With rising temperatures and growing demand for screen-free activities, we’re proud to offer families an affordable, exciting option where kids can be active, explore and have fun every single day.”

Why Urban Air?

As a part of the Unleashed Brands family — which includes other leading youth enrichment businesses such as The Little Gym, Premier Martial Arts, Snapology, Sylvan Learning, Water Wings Swim School, XP League and Class 101 — Urban Air knows how important it is to give kids a space to learn, play and grow. You can rest easy knowing your kids are playing in a safe, climate-controlled environment that’s ideal for beating the summer heat and boredom.

Serving 20 million families nationwide, Urban Air Adventure Park offers kids a diverse lineup of attractions. Attractions vary by location, and include the Sky Rider, Adventure Slides, air court, warrior course, climbing walls, trampolines and more! Urban Air is open seven days a week, so you can have fun on your schedule. This indoor adventure park may soon become your family’s go-to destination for affordable, action-packed fun all summer long!

Are you ready for 90 days of summer?

Don’t let your kids spend the summer indoors just because of the heat. Families who act fast will lock in an entire season of adventure for the price of just a few visits. Visit UrbanAir.com/Summer-Pass to purchase your “Unlimited Play Summer Pass.” You can also head to your nearest Urban Air location and purchase a pass in-park.