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Dreaming of relocating? 5 reasons to consider living in Arkansas

2025-06-24T06:01:01

(BPT) – While actress Dawn Olivieri is best known for her role as Sarah Atwood in the “Yellowstone” television series, she may soon be recognized for her love of her new home state. In 2022, Olivieri left Hollywood for Arkansas in search of space, simplicity and adventure. What she found was an authentic connection to nature in a place she calls “the modern frontier.”

“I spent most of my adult years perfecting the city dweller,” said Olivieri. “I know how to order in upscale restaurants. I know what not to wear on a red carpet, and I learned how to get really good at my job. All for what, though? Well, what the masterclass of modernity taught me is that it wasn’t enough. So, I left.”

Inspired by what she’s found in The Natural State, Olivieri is producing a new documentary series that captures the people and places of Arkansas and why she chose to make it her home.

If, like Olivieri, you crave a slower pace of life and outdoor adventures, consider moving to Arkansas. In this state, you can easily achieve an enviable work-life balance. How? Read on to discover five reasons why you may want to call The Natural State your new home.

1. Enjoy a low cost of living

Get ready to live more and spend less. Arkansas has the lowest cost of living among the U.S. states, so you can save more, stress less and focus on doing the things you love with the people you love. In fact, compared to the national average, the cost of living in The Natural State is 14% lower, so you can benefit from lower grocery, utility, transportation and health care costs. Also, Arkansas has reduced taxes by 20% in the past two years.

Want to see how your current cost of living stacks up with The Natural State? Use this handy relocation calculator and find out how far your budget can stretch in Arkansas.

2. Find affordable housing

Owning your dream home with a sprawling backyard, a home office and plenty of space for you, your kids, pets and guests can become a reality. In Arkansas, you’ll find affordable housing, with an average home value of $217,895, according to Zillow. Plus, the state’s property tax rate is among the 10 lowest in the nation!

3. Explore career opportunities

Business is booming in Arkansas, which is ranked top in the nation for economic growth two quarters in a row. Jobs are plentiful, especially if you work or are looking to work in growing sectors such as technology, logistics, product distribution and supply chain management.

4. Benefit from being in a central location

Did you know that 40% of the U.S. population lives within a day’s drive of Arkansas? It’s true! Located in the heart of the mid-south and bordered by six states, Arkansas is centrally located. Whether you expect friends and family to travel to you or you regularly travel to them, living in Arkansas provides easy access to national travel by plane, train or car.

5. Spend time outdoors all year long

People paddling in boats on the water in Buffalo Parks

Because of its location, Arkansas offers visitors and residents a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. That means you can enjoy year-round recreational opportunities in the great outdoors. From pristine lakes and rivers to world-class hiking and biking trails to 52 free state parks, it’s no wonder that Arkansas is called The Natural State.

Happy family biking on a park path in Bentonville


Discover The Natural State for yourself

If you want to find what Dawn Olivieri found in The Natural State, then go to Arkansas and experience firsthand why it’s the premier state for life, work and play. To learn more, visit Arkansas.com.

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10 fun, fascinating places to visit in the Richmond Region

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.

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Stem cell transplants: A potential new start for people with blood cancers

2025-06-23T08:01:00

(BPT) – “New blood” can revitalize a struggling business, whether it’s a sports team on the wrong side of the wins and losses column or a retailer wondering where the customers went.

For some cancer patients, new blood is a literal lifesaver. Blood and bone marrow transplants, sometimes called stem cell transplants, offer a precious second chance to people with different types of blood cancers as well as sickle cell anemia and aplastic anemia, known as bone marrow failure.

Michelle Hudspeth, M.D., director of both the adult and pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT) and Cellular Therapy program at the Medical University of South Carolina, said these transplants are occurring at a quickening pace at MUSC Health, demonstrating the expansion of treatment options that may benefit many.

“Our accelerated growth occurred despite the COVID pandemic, which created not only an extraordinary challenge to care for the most immune-compromised patients but also the most difficult time to access the international network for stem cell donors,” Hudspeth said. “Our growth and outcomes are a true testament to the committed expertise and collaboration of our team.”

A new start for patients

For patient Kennedy Golden, 23, the transplant is a new start.

Golden was working as a nurse at a hospital in Columbia, South Carolina, when she started having what she called “a year of tummy trouble.” Doctors couldn’t figure out the cause of her symptoms, until one day in October of 2023, she could barely walk.

She was admitted to the hospital, where she learned her bowel had ruptured. Doctors performed a biopsy, and she learned that she had intestinal T-cell lymphoma, a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which prompted her oncologist in Columbia to refer her to Hollings Cancer Center at MUSC.

Hope at Hollings Cancer Center

At Hollings, Golden met with an experienced health care team who put her worries at ease. She had six rounds of chemotherapy in Columbia, from that November through March of 2024, as her treatment plan progressed toward the stem cell transplant. Through most of it, she continued to work.

Golden’s transplant was autologous, meaning that it used her own stem cells instead of a donor’s. To prepare for the transplant, healthy stem cells are removed from the patient. This can be done in the operating room by removing the cells directly from the bone marrow. However, today, the majority of transplants use peripheral blood stem cell retrieval instead.

In this procedure, the patient gets injections of a protein that prompts the stem cells to start moving out of the bone marrow into the bloodstream. From there, they can be retrieved in a process called apheresis. Blood is removed from a vein and run through a machine that separates the stem cells from everything else. The remaining blood is returned to the body.

The patient then undergoes high-dose chemotherapy that kills off any remaining cancer cells as well as the bone marrow. The peripheral blood stem cells are then infused into the patient, where they will take root, or engraft, and start producing new blood cells.

Outcomes to be proud of

Golden’s treatment was successful, and she’s grateful to the many teams that provided her expert care. She is just one of many who receive life-preserving cancer care at Hollings every year. In fact, the 2023 annual quality report published by the MUSC BMT and Cellular Therapy team shows that the program has grown in the past few years while maintaining survival rates above the national average. In 2023, 144 adults received stem cell transplants, compared with 95 in 2018.

And in keeping with MUSC’s mission to bring high-quality care to all South Carolinians, the BMT team transplanted almost twice the percentage of underserved patients as the national composite, which Hudspeth said speaks to their mission of providing access and breaking down barriers.

Forging ahead with new cellular therapies

Every cancer patient is unique, so it follows that every treatment plan must be unique. Hollings has been a leader in BMT for decades – even making history in 1996 by performing the first outpatient matched unrelated transplant. Now at Hollings, half of autologous transplants are performed on an outpatient basis. Today, a large outpatient bone marrow transplant clinic is dedicated to these life-changing treatments.

Of course, not all patients can use their own stem cells, and Hollings is future-focused by offering options for those patients as well. MUSC was part of the original multi-center trial that changed the trajectory of transplants, making it possible for almost every patient to have a donor for transplant because an exact match was no longer necessary.

Hollings now routinely performs successful haploidentical stem cell transplants, also known as half-matched transplants. This transplant uses a donor’s tissue, but rather than a full match to the patient’s tissue type, it only requires a match at half of the HLA, or human leukocyte antigen, protein markers. This means more opportunities for matches, transplants and lives saved.

This is particularly meaningful for pediatric patients.

“In pediatrics, patients typically need more intensive chemotherapy and radiation for the best chance of cure. I helped to write the Pediatric Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Consortium multi-center pediatric trial using full-dose chemotherapy and radiation for pediatric patients with leukemia with half-matched family donors. This was nicknamed the ‘maxi-haplo’ trial,” Hudspeth said. “This has also revolutionized the field and made it possible for almost all patients to have a donor for transplant and still be able to receive the highest levels of chemotherapy and radiation safely.”

Positive performance and results

Results continue to be positive. A new report from the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research examining transplant centers that perform allogeneic transplants lists MUSC as one of 12 out of 172 that had outcomes better than expected during the evaluation years of 2020 through 2022. Even more impressive: The results were during the height of COVID, a time of logistical challenges as well as health challenges for this immunocompromised patient group.

Hollings is one of 73 National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers in the nation and the only one in South Carolina. To learn more, visit HollingsCancerCenter.MUSC.edu.

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The Hidden Price of Choosing a Cheap Macerator Pump for Your Renovation

2025-06-23T00:01:00

(BPT) – Macerator pumps are essential for certain kinds of bathroom or laundry remodels. For example, when homeowners want to install bathrooms, sinks or laundry areas away from existing plumbing lines, macerator pumps have the ability to handle wastewater and solids. This makes them a convenient alternative to traditional plumbing — but their prices can vary widely, which surprises some homeowners. You may see macerator pump prices ranging from under $200 to nearly $1,000.

Here’s what you should know about choosing the best and most cost-effective macerator pump for your project, before you remodel.

It’s not just about cost — it’s about value

When you’re purchasing a macerator pump, you’re investing in more than just a machine that moves wastewater. You’re also buying reliability, regulatory compliance, material safety and long-term serviceability.

While entry-level units may seem similar, appearing to offer comparable functionality, they often lack the essential certifications and construction quality needed for safe, long-lasting and code-compliant installations.

Materials matter

Price differences are closely tied to how and where each product is made, and whether it meets established safety and plumbing standards. Higher-end pumps are typically manufactured under strict oversight in regions like Europe or North America, with vertically integrated processes — from motor winding to plastic injection molding and final assembly.

You’ll want to look for products that carry third-party certifications such as from the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and Uniform Plumbing Code/International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (UPC/IAPMO).

One critical example is the use of V0-rated PVC instead of regular plastic to avoid fire risk. V0-rated plastic is a flame-retardant material often required in certified units. This is not just a quality assurance factor — it is a safety requirement under CSA standards, designed to reduce fire risk.

Meeting these certifications ensures that the product is legal for use under U.S. plumbing codes, helping your installation pass local inspections and meet required insurance standards.

Lower-priced alternatives frequently skip these measures. They may look the same externally, but can lack the internal safeguards that make the pump safe and compliant. Without venting options or certified parts, they may also be rejected during home or building inspections.

Comparing macerator pumps

To understand why some are priced higher than others, here’s a brief overview of what you’re paying for:

  • Value-tier brands ($169.99-$256.99):
    Produced in Asian countries that may not offer strict oversight.
    • No warranty or local support
    • No certification
    • Use PVC materials (which can be flammable, rather than V0-rated plastic)
    • No vent
    • Not suitable for inspection
  • Basic brands ($379-$398):
    Produced in China with a limited retail footprint and may only be available online.
    • No warranty or local support
    • No certification
    • Use PVC materials
    • No vent
    • Not suitable for inspection
  • Mid-premium brands ($850-$860):
    Some parts/manufacturing in China or other countries, but assembled in the U.S., with a better reputation for durability and service.
    • 2- to 3-year warranties
    • Local support, U.S.-based
    • CSA certification
    • Non-flammable PVC
    • Vent
    • Suitable for inspection
  • Super-premium brand Saniflo ($967):
    Premium European build quality, proven reliability and wide availability.
    • 4-year warranty (when registered)
    • Local support, U.S.-based
    • CSA, UPC certification
    • Reinforced non-flammable PVC
    • Vent
    • Suitable for inspection

After installation: Warranty, support and long-term value

Any macerator pump that’s installed in your home may break down over time, especially those that experience heavy use. This is why support infrastructure is so vital — and a key differentiator among the higher-tier brands.

Homeowners should look for:

  • 2- to 4-year warranties
  • U.S.-based customer service teams
  • Installation assistance and replacement part availability

By contrast, many budget-tier pumps lack any warranty coverage or local support, which can become a major issue in the event of installation complications or future breakdowns.

Make the right choice for your project

When selecting a macerator pump to install in your home, make sure to take the time to evaluate not just the initial sticker price, but also the regulatory compatibility, material quality and long-term reliability. For critical installations — especially those that must pass inspection or will be used heavily — investing in a properly certified and supported product can reduce risks to your home as well as overall lifecycle costs.

Price differences among the various macerator pumps on the market reflect distinctions in engineering, compliance and performance. Understanding these differences helps consumers and contractors alike make more informed decisions. Knowing what to look for and why is key to ensuring you’re buying the best possible product for your home renovation.

Learn more about Saniflo products at SFASaniflo.com.

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New clinical trial aims to prevent relapse in patients with DLBCL

2025-06-22T23:01:00

(BPT) – For many patients diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), the first step in treatment is a standard regimen of chemotherapy. This approach cures most patients, but research shows that one in three will see their cancer return — typically within a year following completion of their initial treatment.[1] Today, the current standard of care following initial chemotherapy is to “watch and wait,” an approach that monitors the patient for signs of relapse.

But what if there were a way to identify patients at risk of relapse earlier and treat them before the cancer has a chance to come back? That’s the goal of the ALPHA3 clinical trial, a groundbreaking study investigating whether early intervention with an investigational CAR T cell product (cemacabtagene ansegedleucel or cema-cel, pronounced “SEM-a-sell”) can help prevent relapse in DLBCL patients. CAR T therapy is a revolutionary approach to treating cancer that has shown promising results and high remission rates, particularly when used in blood cancers[2].

A New Approach May Predict and Prevent Relapse

The ALPHA3 trial uses an investigational blood test designed to find signs of cancer earlier, often well before it shows up on scans. The test looks for minimal residual disease, known as MRD, or traces of cancer left in the blood after chemotherapy that are too small to be seen on scans. Being MRD positive can indicate whether or not a patient is at high risk of their cancer coming back, also known as relapse.[3]

If MRD is detected, patients may be eligible to join the ALPHA3 trial, where they will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group would undergo more thorough observation, and the other group would undergo treatment with cema-cel. Unlike traditional treatments given after relapse occurs, cema-cel is administered as a one-time infusion shortly after MRD is detected and is designed to target and eliminate the remaining cancer cells in the body, potentially preventing relapse before it happens.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Research suggests that treating cancer when it is still microscopic — before it grows large enough to appear on scans — may improve outcomes.[4] Think of it like putting out a fire as soon as you see the first puff of smoke rather than waiting until the flames spread. By intervening early, the ALPHA3 trial aims to improve cure rates for DLBCL patients who are at high risk of relapse.

What Makes the ALPHA3 Trial Different?

Older woman talking with doctor in an exam room

Most clinical trials test new treatments only after cancer has relapsed and grown large enough to be detected on scans. The ALPHA3 trial takes a different approach by focusing on prevention. It combines cutting-edge MRD testing technology with a novel CAR T cell therapy to address cancer at its earliest stages.

This innovative approach could transform the treatment landscape for DLBCL patients, offering hope to those who might otherwise face relapse and more intensive treatments down the road.

For more information to share with your patients about the ALPHA3 trial, visit DLBCL.ClinicalEnrollment.com.


[1] Tilly H., et al: Polatuzumab Vedotin in Previously Untreated Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. New England Journal of Medicine. 2021

[2] Estimation of eligibility for and response to CAR-T therapy in the United States. Haslam, A. Blood Adv (2024) 8 (4): 1032–1036.https://doi.org/10.1182/bloodadvances.2023011184

[3] Foresight Diagnostics. Foresight Diagnostics Presents Independent Validation of its CLARITY Minimal Residual Disease Assay in Multi-center Study of Frontline DLBCL at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting. LINK

[4] ALPHA/ALPHA2 Phase 1 data, Locke FL, et al. J Clin Oncol. 2025

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Medications for managing opioid use disorder can safely and effectively support treatment

2025-06-18T13:17:00

(BPT) – By Allison Arwady MD, MPH, Director, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control

Research shows that medications can help people with an opioid use disorder recover, greatly lowering the risk of overdose and death.

Only a quarter of adults in need of treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) receive medications to support their recovery. For those struggling with substance use disorder, there is hope for recovery. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) help lower the risk of overdose and support long-term recovery.

Despite evidence for the benefits of MOUD, it is underused. In 2022, almost 1 in 3 adults (30%) who needed treatment for an OUD received treatment without medication.

In 2023, more than 80,000 opioid-involved overdose deaths were reported in the United States, and people aren’t always getting the treatment they need:

  • An estimated 9.4 million Americans needed OUD treatment in 2023.
  • Almost half (43%) of the Americans who needed OUD treatment didn’t think they needed it.
  • Among those who received OUD treatment, there were more than twice as many adults ages 35–49 that received MOUD compared to those ages 18–25 and those ages 50+.

MOUD Supports Recovery

Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are FDA-approved to treat OUD. MOUD can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms or even blunt or block the effects of opioids. In addition to treating OUD and helping to reduce overdose risk, MOUD can also aid in sustaining recovery long term.

Stigma and Treatment Beliefs

Despite strong evidence supporting the efficacy of MOUD, several factors have been cited as reasons MOUD is sometimes not included as part of standard treatment plans. The barriers may stem from stigma, treatment beliefs, and access issues. Some factors include stigmatizing beliefs that a person is choosing not to change their behavior and treatment beliefs that can limit access to MOUD despite strong recommendations for their use. Some clinicians prefer an approach that does not include medications, and some hold beliefs equating MOUD with illegal substance use. This may be due to misconceptions about how the medications work. Understanding OUD as a medical disease can help to dispel these myths, potentially leading to increased use of MOUD as a valuable tool for OUD treatment and recovery.

Treating OUD like a Chronic Disease

MOUD is an important first step in treating and recovering from OUD. We now know that OUD is a long-term medical condition, like heart disease or diabetes, that needs to be managed over time. Just like those conditions, OUD can be treated, and medications are a key part of that treatment. It is safe to stay on MOUD for many years, even for life.

While MOUD is the key first step in treatment, mental health services and other supports are also very important for recovery. These services can help people focus on their long-term health and happiness by improving things like diet, exercise, and sleep, and by helping them with other important parts of life, like building strong relationships and finding satisfying work.

It is critical for Americans who are struggling with OUD to have access to OUD treatment options to support their recovery. Our communities can work together to make sure that people can stay in recovery, living happier, healthier lives.

Everyone can play a part in reducing overdose deaths. If you or someone you know may be struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. Talk to friends, family members, or a healthcare professional and get the support you need. No one should suffer in silence.

If you or someone close to you needs help for a substance use disorder, talk to your doctor or call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or go to SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services.

Additional resources:

If you have questions about any medicines, drugs or suspected/known poisonings call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.

To learn more about CDC’s Division of Overdose Prevention, visit:

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When Heroes Wear Scrubs: Nurses Go Above and Beyond with Compassionate Care

2025-06-19T13:05:01

(BPT) – Nurses are experts at their craft, delivering patient care with a unique blend of expertise, empathy and dedication — 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Recognizing the profound role nurses play in caring for people enables healthcare organizations, patients and family members to express gratitude for the difference they make.

DaVita, a comprehensive kidney care provider, employs thousands of nephrology nurses who specialize in caring for people living with chronic kidney disease across the nation.

Nephrology nurses skillfully care for patients throughout every stage of their kidney care journey — from early interventions to slow the disease’s progression to supporting transplantation, from acute hospital care to dialysis at home. Because dialysis patients typically need multiple treatments each week, they often develop deep relationships with their care teams.

DaVita recently honored 56 of its nephrology nurses with the DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses. The DAISY Award is a special honor given through the DAISY Foundation to recognize extraordinary nurses for the compassionate contributions they make every day.

“The empathy and compassion that nurses bring to their interactions with patients and their loved ones is a foundational part of healthcare,” said Tina Livaudais, chief nursing officer for DaVita. “Nurses are at the heart of the care we provide at DaVita, and our DAISY recipients lead with these qualities, helping to deliver on DaVita’s mission as a provider of choice through their unwavering dedication to clinical excellence.”

DaVita’s 2025 DAISY Award recipients were nominated by fellow employees (teammates) and patients for helping to deliver outstanding clinical outcomes and consistently demonstrating caring behaviors. Their stories are a powerful reminder that nursing is more than a profession; it’s a calling. Here are just a few.

Nicole Morales

Nicole Morales embodies what it means to be a nurse. For DaVita patients across greater Milwaukee, Nicole provides steadfast dedication, compassion and selflessness. As a home dialysis nurse, she is committed to teaching patients how to safely and effectively perform the treatment. She also goes the extra mile to support her patients’ needs inside and out of the dialysis center. Earlier this year, a patient in her care was experiencing deteriorating vision but could not afford glasses. Upon learning this, Nicole scoured the community to find low-cost eye care options. She shared her findings with the patient, who was then fitted with a new pair of glasses and given back the gift of sight.

Cindy Johnson

In Eastern Kentucky, Cindy Johnson is known for managing difficult situations tactfully and gracefully. She devotes her days to caring for DaVita patients who, without her support, may otherwise not have the opportunity to receive dialysis at home. By leading with compassion, Cindy meets patients where they are. No barrier is too great. In caring for a patient who struggled to read, she took time to teach him to perform dialysis at home on his own. Cindy never makes her patients feel inadequate. Instead, her solutions-oriented mindset uplifts and empowers them.

Irene Banks

Irene Banks is a nurse in Little Rock, Arkansas, at a high acuity center, where the patients she cares for receive specialized attention due to the medical complexity of their care needs. Irene is creative and compassionate in the way she cares for her patients. For one patient who experiences cognitive delays, she has offered activities, such as math worksheets and crossword puzzles, during treatment to help support an improved care experience. Irene continually goes above and beyond to help patients in her care feel comfortable and welcome.

No matter the treatment environment, DaVita nurses create special connections with their patients. DaVita is honored to present the DAISY Award to nurses across the nation. Visit davitaforward.com/difference for more inspiring DaVita care stories, and see below for more of this year’s honorees:

  • Cindy J. – Jenkins, KY
  • Crystal R. – Victoria, TX
  • Nicole M. – Wauwatosa, WI
  • Kelly H. – Elmira, NY
  • Debra L. – Champaign, IL
  • Raquel Murua-S – Fort Wayne, IN
  • Jeremy B. – Atwater, CA
  • Irene B. – Little Rock, AR
  • Caressa H. – Weaverville, NC
  • Irene V. – Renton, WA
  • Kaye A. – Eatontown, NJ
  • Shoua L. – Marysville, CA
  • Victoria C. – Jacksonville, NC
  • Paul F. – Hainesport, NJ
  • Angely O. – Ruskin, FL
  • Gurloveleen S. – Fresno, CA
  • Briana B. – Lewiston, PA
  • Raheem J. – Clinton, SC
  • Clyde W. – Metairie, LA
  • Ryan D. – Nashua, NH
  • Kristi B. – Chicago Ridge, IL
  • Conswelo S. – Boaz, AL
  • Connie C. – Tempe, AZ
  • Lindsay G. – Palm Beach Gardens, FL
  • Keri W. – Omaha, NE
  • Angie U. – Riverside, CA
  • Katie B. – Manassas, VA
  • Diane B. – Brighton, MI
  • Jeffrey S. – Troy, OH
  • Linda S. – Farmington, NM
  • Abigail H. – Salem, OR
  • Stephanie A. – Milford, CT
  • Kyung Mo K. – Los Angeles, CA
  • Michael S. – Coppell, TX
  • Vanessa C. – Harrisonburg, VA
  • Rachiratou T. – O’Fallon, IL
  • Edgardo Y. – Orlando, FL
  • Elizabeth H. – Athens, OH
  • Marianne M. – Alpena, MI
  • Sarah H. – St. Louis, MO
  • Tina C. – Milton, FL
  • Susan H. – Fairfield, OH
  • Laressa B. – Dilworth, MN
  • Bryan J. – Orlando, FL
  • Maria R. – Midland, TX
  • Tami V. – Hastings, NE
  • Demijohn B. – Houston, TX
  • Samantha R. – Dumas, TX
  • Lucy L. – Jamaica, NY
  • Fancynelle J. – Shreveport, LA
  • Shelby B. – Greensboro, GA
  • Angel N. – Santa Maria, CA
  • Amy M. – Ripley, TN
  • Nicole W. – San Diego, CA
  • Khristine D. – Las Vegas, NV
  • Hiyasmin H. – Easton, MD

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5 simple and delicious recipes to make in your blender

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.

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2025 Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report reveals the safest and riskiest driving cities

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.

Infographic about the 2025 America's Best Drivers 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.

Infographic about Massachusetts the Riskist Drivers in America

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?

Infographic about DMV danger zone

Infographic aout LosAngeles Risky roads and Hard Brakes
  • 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

Infographic about 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

Infographic about Pacific Northwest 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

Infographic about the Midwest pedal to the metal.
  • 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.

Infographic about Alabama's Need for Speed

Infographic about Honolulu Aloha on the Asphalt

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.

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Beat the heat: Urban Air offers special pass for unlimited summer fun for kids

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

Girl on warrior ropes over ball pool.

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?

Boy playing in ball pool at 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.