XMWare

2026-11-11T16:31:00

(BPT) – When winter power outages hit, older adults face the highest risk. They rely on electricity to power their homes, including everything they need to help keep them safe, healthy and comfortable no matter what the weather is doing.

In fact, over 3 million Medicare beneficiaries rely on electricity-dependent medical and assistive equipment at home, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services emPOWER program. Cold temperatures hit older adults hardest. As people age, it can be harder for them to tell when they are dangerously cold, which may increase their risk for hypothermia.

The winter calls for extra planning. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expects a very strong El Nino, which means wetter-than-average conditions will be most likely across the Southwest, the South and the East Coast. Americans are also spending more time without power: U.S. electricity customers averaged about 11 hours of interruptions in 2024, nearly double the average of the previous decade, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Families aren’t waiting for the first storm. Jackery saw sold-out demand for its home backup solutions in late October and early November, as more households look for power that doesn’t depend on the grid or the gas pump.

Before the holidays, take stock of what your household would need if the power stayed out. Water, food and electricity are the three essentials, and electricity is the easiest to overlook. Start with seven days, and consider building to 30. Here’s how you can make sure that you, and the people you love, are covered all winter long.

Give the gift of power, warmth and self-reliance

One of the best additions to your holiday gift list this year is a home that can keep running on its own power, no matter what the weather or the grid dishes out. Jackery, the world’s No. 1 solar generator brand by volume and revenue, according to Frost & Sullivan, offers ideas for lighter, easier-to-move solar-powered solutions to help give you and your loved ones peace of mind this winter.

A traditional generator runs on gas, and gas has averaged more than $4 a gallon this fall, according to AAA. That means trips to the pump and storage cans, often right when a storm is coming. It also has to stay outside. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns never to run a portable generator inside a home or garage, and reports that nearly 100 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning linked to portable generators.

Jackery’s solar generator solutions work differently. There’s no gas to buy, nothing to pour or pull-start and no exhaust, so they’re quiet, fume-free and safe to use indoors. Frost & Sullivan recognized Jackery as the Most Trusted Safety-First Solar Generator Brand. Paired with solar panels, they recharge on free sunlight, even while the grid is down. That matters especially for older adults who may be living alone.

Here are some of the options to choose from that can help you and your family members be better prepared for an outage.

• HomePower 1000 v2 is about 23.4 pounds and comes with a convenient carry handle. This model offers 1024 Watt Hours (Wh) capacity and 1500W output, with 3kV surge protection to ensure that the power station and your devices remain unharmed during power spikes, lightning strikes or sudden restarts. And thanks to Jackery Priority Routing™ you can decide what stays powered: When the battery reaches your preset level, it automatically shuts down less critical devices and keeps essentials like your refrigerator, router, lights and other appliances running as long as possible.
• HomePower 2000 Plus v2 also comes with a carry handle for ease of use, and it weighs just 41.45 pounds. This unit has a 2048Wh capacity and 2400W output, expandable up to 12kWh. Smart Energy Management and Jackery Priority Routing™ seamlessly keeps essential circuits running during shortages, based on your priority. With 6,000+ LFP battery cycles, you’ll enjoy peace of mind for years to come.
• HomePower 3600 Plus has built-in wheels and a pull handle to let you roll it wherever power is needed: indoors, outdoors or to your vehicle. You can keep your home running on its own even in extended outages thanks to its 3584Wh capacity and 3600W output; 7.2kWh when paired with a Battery Pack, expandable up to 21.6kWh. It’s built to last up to 16 years and connects directly to a home’s circuits through a Manual Transfer Switch. Best yet, there’s no complicated setup: Just plug in, press start and your home is protected.

A single unit runs 120V appliances like refrigerators, portable AC units, coffee makers and more. You can also connect two units to power larger appliances such as well pumps and dryers with 240V output. At just 30dB, which is about as quiet as a library, the HomePower 3600 Plus runs in the background without disturbing your sleep or your household.

When the lights go out, the last thing you or your loved ones need is more to worry about. A prepared home doesn’t wait for the grid to come back. If you’re looking for a meaningful, practical present for the people you love this holiday season, visit Jackery.com.

2026-11-11T10:01:01

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Your kitchen and bathroom are the first spaces you clean when guests are visiting.
• Get more out of your cleaning routine by following the right steps, choosing the right products and upgrading to fixtures that work harder for you, like those from Delta Faucet, America’s #1 faucet brand.[1]
• Four tips to help keep high-traffic spaces like kitchens and bathrooms clean.

When it comes to keeping your home clean, two rooms consistently demand the most attention: the kitchen and the bathroom. They’re also usually the first spaces you focus on before guests arrive. A few smart strategies can help keep these high-traffic areas looking their best every day. From maximizing your cleaning routine to choosing the right tools designed to make household tasks easier, simple changes help you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your home.

Work smarter, not harder

For the most effective clean, always start from the top of the room and work your way down. Dust, debris and hair naturally fall onto lower surfaces, making floors the last area you should clean.

In both kitchens and bathrooms, begin with a dry clean before using any cleaning products. Start by clearing surface clutter, then use a microfiber cloth to remove loose dust, crumbs, debris and hair. Once surfaces are free of buildup, follow up with your preferred cleaning spray or wipe.

You can also help avoid cross-contamination by color-coding your microfiber cloths, cleaning towels and sponges: Designate one set for the kitchen and another for the bathroom.

Kitchen and bathroom fixtures designed for easy cleanup

Most cleaning advice focuses on what to spray, wipe or scrub. But the fixtures in your kitchen and bathroom can also make a meaningful difference in how quickly everyday messes get cleaned up. One easy home upgrade to help streamline your cleaning routine are products featuring Delta^® ProClean™ technology. Designed to help make everyday cleaning faster and easier in both the kitchen and bathroom, ProClean™ technology uses a concentrated fan-shaped spray to cover more surface area and help tackle difficult messes with less scrubbing.

The Delta^® ProClean™ Kitchen Spray features a powerful, wide fan spray that helps tackle everyday messes — from food stuck to the sink to debris around corners and drains. Its broad stream covers more surface area than a typical spray, helping rinse the sink efficiently and reach awkward spots with fewer repeated passes.

In the bathroom, the Delta^® ProClean™ Hand Shower helps clean shower surfaces faster, tackling soap scum up to two times faster than standard sprays. The focused, wide fan spray lets you easily clean hard-to-reach places, such as corners and drains, and to rinse away soap scum on shower walls and tile surfaces, making routine shower maintenance quicker and easier.

Whether you’re cleaning up after a busy week or preparing for guests, products featuring Delta^® ProClean™ technology can help reduce scrubbing time and simplify everyday cleaning tasks. Available across a wide variety of Delta^® kitchen faucets and hand showers, ProClean™ technology offers options to complement virtually any kitchen or bathroom design style while helping homeowners spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying their homes.

How to let your cleaning products do the heavy lifting

One of the easiest ways to save time is to let your cleaning products work while you move on to another task. After decluttering and dry wiping surfaces in the kitchen, apply your favorite spray cleaner to surfaces and appliances. Let that cleaner sit for the time recommended on the label as you head to the guest bathroom to complete your dry wipe and apply cleaner there.

By the time you’ve finished spraying the bathroom, the products in the kitchen will have had time to help break down grime, grease and buildup. Return to the kitchen to wipe everything down, then repeat the process in other bathrooms as needed.

Opt for pull-down bathroom faucets for efficient cleaning

Bathroom sinks see a lot, from dirt and germs to toothpaste and hair trimmings. Another great option to help you clean your bathroom more efficiently is using Delta^® pull-down bathroom faucets. These nimble, pull-down bathroom faucets make clean-up of dirt and debris, including toothpaste and soap residue, a lot easier. And with Delta^® MagnaTite^® Docking, a powerful integrated magnet pulls your faucet spray wand precisely into place and holds it there, so it stays docked when not in use.

A little preparation can go a long way toward making everyday maintenance easier. Find more ways to elevate your kitchen and bathroom — and keep them cleaner — at DeltaFaucet.com.

[1] Based on 2025 US dollar sales

2026-11-11T09:01:00

(BPT) – About 7 in 10 people turning 65 will need some form of long-term care. Planning for long-term care now is a gift to your future self, and to everyone who would want to be there for you.

2026-11-10T12:01:01

(BPT) – For Simone Duven, using her hands isn’t optional. Paralyzed from the waist down, she relies on them to move her wheelchair, transfer in and out of bed and shift her weight to help prevent pressure sores. When pain began shooting through both wrists, even everyday movements were tough.

The pain kept getting worse, sometimes feeling like a vise tightening inside her wrist. She often woke with numb hands and never knew which movement might set off the pain. “My hands are everything,” she said.

Eventually, Simone was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a condition caused by pressure or compression on the median nerve as it travels through a narrow wrist passageway, causing numbness and tingling in the wrists and fingers. CTS is especially common with wheelchair users, as it requires repetitive arm and wrist motions that can cause major strain on the median nerve.

When Surgery Didn’t Feel Like an Option

Heat provided some short-term relief, but Simone worried that surgery could jeopardize her independence. With traditional carpal tunnel release (CTR) surgeries, recovery can take weeks to months, potentially requiring time in a rehabilitation hospital and separate recoveries for each wrist.

While visiting her orthopedic clinic, Simone heard about ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release (UGCTR) using UltraGuideCTR^® from Sonex Health. By attending an informational session, she learned that physicians can perform the minimally invasive technique through a small wrist incision, using ultrasound guidance to visualize critical anatomy. It could be performed with local anesthesia and that she likely could recover at home rather than in a rehabilitation facility. That made a big difference to Simone, who decided to move forward.

An Accessible Procedure

Before her procedure, Simone asked her physician, Dr. Steven Niedermeier of TMI Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Surgery, if she could remain in her wheelchair since transfers onto exam tables can be difficult. He agreed and positioned a table beside her chair. Throughout the procedure, Simone talked with her physician and watched the ultrasound images as he worked. She felt like a participant in her own care.

Quickly Getting Back to What She Loves

Simone chose to have both wrists treated during the same visit. Afterward, she was able to transfer from her wheelchair into the car for the ride home. It was “pretty painful,” but she was happy to be headed home rather than to a rehabilitation facility, possibly in an ambulance.

The first weekend was challenging for Simone. She notes that if she had to do it again, she would have done one wrist at a time, “Even if I had done one wrist at a time, the amount of recovery time would still be next to nothing compared to what it would be if I had to have open carpal tunnel surgery.”

Despite the first weekend being tough, a few days after the procedure, Simone was already becoming self-sufficient again.

A Return to Independence

Today, she no longer wakes up with numb hands or spends her days worrying about wrist pain. She’s back to painting and doing arts and crafts without her wrists bothering her. And as a self-described “clean freak,” she’s happy to be able to sweep, mop and do laundry without the pain that once made everyday chores difficult.

For others who may be putting off treatment because they’re worried about recovery, Simone has some simple advice: “Don’t be afraid of it.”

And when she thinks about what the procedure meant for her independence, she puts it best: “My sense of autonomy remained mine.”

To learn more about UGCTR using UltraGuideCTR, visit www.CureMyCarpalTunnel.com.

2026-11-10T15:13:00

(BPT) – When Tony Hindhaugh was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 55, he learned that there are currently no approved therapies that slow the progression of the disease. Current treatments focus primarily on managing symptoms of the progressive brain disorder, leaving patients and families hoping for new options.

That’s why he was interested in NEULARK, a new study for people with early Parkinson’s who haven’t started medication for their symptoms yet.

“My Parkinson’s symptoms are very mild. At present, the tremor is the only thing that gives it away,” said Hindhaugh. “It hasn’t interrupted anything in my life, but it has made me think and slow down a bit.”

Although Hindhaugh’s symptoms are currently mild, Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms can worsen over time. Researchers are now studying whether new treatments could slow that progression, particularly when started in the early stages of the disease. That is why it is so important for patients recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their families to understand their options early.

What is Parkinson’s disease, and what are the early signs?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement and can cause symptoms that gradually change over time. While the disease affects everyone differently, early signs may include a slight tremor in the hand or fingers, stiffness, slower movement, changes in handwriting or difficulties with balance. Some people may also experience non-movement symptoms, such as changes in sleep, sense of smell or mood.

Because these early symptoms can be subtle, they may initially go unnoticed or be mistaken for normal signs of aging. Recognizing these changes and speaking with a healthcare provider can be an important first step toward diagnosis and exploring available care and research opportunities.

Parkinson’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, and scientists today are learning more about the biological differences that may contribute to Parkinson’s, opening the door to developing treatments matched to the specific cause of a person’s disease.

Research with a new focus

One area of growing interest involves a protein called LRRK2 (pronounced “lark two”). Proteins act like tiny machines in our bodies. In some individuals, LRRK2 works too hard and may lead to the build-up of damaged proteins that can harm brain cells.

“LRRK2 is a protein normally found in our bodies and is very important in normal cellular processes,” explained Dr. Danielle Larson, a movement disorders specialist and NEULARK trial investigator. “The LRRK2 protein can be overactive in certain individuals, and we know this LRRK2 protein pathway overactivity is found in approximately 30% of people with Parkinson’s disease.”

Researchers in the Phase 2 NEULARK clinical trial are studying whether inhibiting this LRRK2 protein could slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease, rather than focusing solely on managing symptoms.

What makes this research different?

This study is exploring a more personalized approach to Parkinson’s research. One of the challenges in treating Parkinson’s disease is that the underlying causes can differ from person to person. In the NEULARK study, researchers are using genetic screening to identify people who may have increased LRRK2 activity and could be more likely to benefit from a medicine designed to target that pathway. This approach allows researchers to study a potential treatment in a specific group of patients based on the biology of their disease.

Importantly, people interested in the study do not need to know their genetic status beforehand. The screening process begins with a simple at-home saliva test, available at no cost, to determine whether they may be eligible to participate.

“As clinicians and researchers, we know Parkinson’s disease is not a one-size-fits-all condition,” said Dr. Larson. “This is why it’s important to understand more about the underlying biological drivers of Parkinson’s. By understanding this more, we would be able to develop more targeted therapeutics.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Who may be eligible for the trial? The trial is seeking people between ages 40 and 80 who have been diagnosed with early Parkinson’s disease, have not yet started medications to manage Parkinson’s symptoms, and are not expected to need these medications within the next 12 months. Eligible participants will need to meet the trial’s genetic screening and other eligibility requirements.
• How does the genetic testing work? Interested individuals can access investigational genetic testing at no cost to help determine whether they may qualify for the trial. The screening process begins with a simple at-home saliva test, making it easier to explore potential eligibility without an initial trip to a clinical trial site.
• How is technology being used in the trial? NEULARK is using innovative smartphone-based technology to help researchers measure how Parkinson’s symptoms change over time. Participants will receive a smartphone equipped with specialized software to complete daily activities that measure movement, tremors and aspects of thinking and memory. Because Parkinson’s symptoms can fluctuate throughout the day, these more frequent measurements may help researchers capture changes that could be missed during scheduled clinic visits.
• How can people learn more? NEULARK is currently enrolling participants and recruitment for the trial is expected to conclude in the coming months. This makes now an important time to explore whether you or a loved one may qualify. Learn more about the study, eligibility requirements and free genetic screening at NEULARK.com.

“Participation in clinical trials is really important for our ability to understand more about Parkinson’s disease, its underlying biology and to understand if specific therapeutics and development are going to be safe and effective,” said Dr. Larson.

If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, visit NEULARK.com to learn more about the study, eligibility and genetic screening at no cost.

2026-11-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is filled with festive gatherings, beloved traditions and opportunities to make lasting memories with family and friends. Between decorating, shopping and planning celebrations, it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday rush. That’s exactly why taking the time to slow down and enjoy the little things together can make the season more special.

To help loved ones share meaningful moments during the hustle and bustle, actress, producer, mom and Eggland’s Best partner Tamera Mowry-Housley shares four simple tips to bring more joy and connection to celebrations and gatherings.

1. Gather in the heart of the home

Some of the best holiday memories are made in the kitchen. Mowry-Housley recommends inviting the whole family to prepare festive recipes together, turning everyday cooking and baking into opportunities for deeper connection and new traditions.

You can give kids easy tasks like whisking eggs, measuring ingredients and decorating treats. These experiences not only get everyone in on the fun, but also allow younger family members to build skills and confidence and learn how to make recipes that they can look forward to, year after year.

2. Create moments that matter

With so much happening during the holidays, it’s easy to want everything to be perfect, and that can make it more difficult to live in the moment. Mowry-Housley encourages families to slow down and set aside time to chat and share experiences with each other.

Go around the dinner table and have everyone discuss their favorite memory from the past year, look through old holiday photos or start a gratitude jar for everyone to write down what they’re thankful for. These lighthearted activities can help bring everyone closer and make unforgettable memories that last beyond the holiday season.

3. Incorporate movement into holiday traditions

Gathering around the table for meals isn’t the only way to spend quality time with family and friends. It can also be beneficial to incorporate movement into holiday traditions to boost energy and lift everyone’s mood.

Take an evening stroll to admire neighborhood holiday lights, bundle up to build a snowman or turn on your favorite holiday playlist for an impromptu dance party. These are fun and easy ways to stay active while enjoying company.

4. Fuel holiday gatherings

The holidays are all about bringing loved ones together, and hosting doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re planning a festive brunch or welcoming family for Christmas morning, preparing simple, crowd-pleasing dishes ahead of time can help take the stress out of entertaining and give you more time to enjoy the celebration.

For a delicious and nutritious addition to your holiday spread, try Tamera Mowry-Housley’s Christmas Morning Egg Bake featuring Eggland’s Best eggs. This savory, comforting dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and bringing everyone together around the breakfast table.

Compared to ordinary eggs, Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Vitamin B12 to help you feel full longer and six times more Vitamin D to support your body’s immunity throughout the holidays and cold season. Eggland’s Best eggs also have 25% less saturated fat, more than double the Omega-3s and ten times more Vitamin E. Eggland’s Best superior nutrition is due to its proprietary all-vegetarian hen feed that contains healthy grains, canola oil and a wholesome supplement of rice bran, alfalfa, sea kelp and Vitamin E.

Eggland’s Best x Hallmark Channel Sweepstakes

Eggland’s Best has teamed up with Hallmark Channel for the first time ever to help share fun, festive recipes and create unforgettable memories.

The “Egg-citing Hallmark Holiday” Sweepstakes gives fans the chance to win prizes designed to make the season even more special. Now through December 22, fans can enter daily at EBFamilySweeps.com for a chance to win the Grand Prize of $5,000 toward your celebrations, Hallmark Channel and Eggland’s Best swag and a three-month supply of EB eggs. Seven weekly winners will also have the chance to win a $250 gift card, branded swag and more.

Christmas Morning Egg Bake

Oven: 350°F | Bake: 25–30 minutes

Recipe by Eggland’s Best Partner Tamera Mowry-Housley

This oven-baked delight uses Eggland’s Best eggs as an egg-citing addition to a tradition egg bake. It’s perfect for your next holiday brunch party.

INGREDIENTS

• 12 Eggland’s Best eggs, large, beaten
• 8 slices bacon, diced
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 6 ounces baby spinach
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Butter, for greasing the baking dish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a baking dish.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until softened. Add the onion and continue cooking until the bacon begins to brown.

3. Add the red and green peppers. Cover and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the bacon is browned. Stir in the garlic and spinach and cook for another minute.

4. Remove from the heat and let the mixture cool.

5. Whisk the eggs with the salt and pepper in a large bowl. Stir in the cooled bacon and vegetables, followed by the cheddar cheese.

6. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Find additional recipe inspiration and learn more about Eggland’s Best eggs at EgglandsBest.com.

2026-11-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – Fall is a popular time to hit the road, and it’s not hard to see why. The cooler air, changing leaves, festivals, cabin weekends and camping trips make the open road especially inviting. But before you map a scenic route, pack a cooler and queue up the playlist, make sure to give your car a little seasonal TLC.

The summer heat and winter chill can be hard on a vehicle. That’s why fall is an ideal time to give your car attention, so you can hit the road this fall with confidence and be ready for the winter that follows. To help you get started, NAPA offers its top seven car maintenance tasks to do before your autumn adventure so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the ride.

Carefully inspect your tires

As the parts of your car that make contact with the road, your tires should be the first things you inspect. Check the tire pressure. Cooler weather can lower tire pressure, impacting your handling, fuel economy and tread wear. Check your owner’s manual or the driver’s door jamb label and inflate your tires to the listed pressure.

Now inspect the tread depth. If your tread is getting low (at or below 4/32 inches), it’s time to consider replacing them before you have to drive over wet leaves and chilly pavements.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to check your spare tire! Check for any cracks and make sure it is also properly inflated.

See Better, Drive Safer by checking your lights

As the days get shorter and daylight fades earlier, working taillights and signal lights matter more than ever. Start your car and have a friend walk around the vehicle to ensure the headlights, brake lights, hazards, turn signals, fog lights, reverse lights and interior lights are in working order. NAPA Headlights, Lamps and LED Bulbs – NAPA Auto Parts (napaonline.com)

Pro tip: If one headlight is out, replace both. This ensures that you have even brightness.

Change your oil and filter

An oil change before a longer fall trip helps keep the engine clean, lubricated and ready for changing temperatures, boosting fuel efficiency and avoiding costly repairs down the road. NAPA Oil: Synthetic Engine Oil & Conventional Oil – NAPA Auto Parts

While you’re at it, replace the oil filter, too. A clean filter helps capture contaminants that would otherwise circulate through fresh oil and damage your car. If you change the oil but keep the same old filter, you’re contaminating your fresh oil with debris.

When replacing your oil filter, choose a filter built for real-world driving. For example, NAPA Platinum Filters are designed to help protect modern engines and deliver consistent oil flow and engine protection. When used with full synthetic oil, NAPA Platinum Oil Filters are the most efficient, longest-lasting filter in NAPA’s lineup, so you can set out on your fall travels with confidence.

Check your battery before the cold arrives

Don’t wait for the first cold morning to find out your battery has given up the ghost. Check the terminals for corrosion, make sure cables are clean and tight, and consider a battery test if the battery is older (3-5 years) or slow to start. Doing so can prevent an unpleasant surprise in the driveway or a hotel parking lot.

Listen to your brakes

Make sure your brakes can handle the demands of winding back roads, start-and-stop seasonal event traffic and screeching halts for deer and other woodland creatures. If you hear your brakes squeal, see a warning light come on or notice heavy brake dust, it may be time to get new brake pads.

Pro tip: If you are rotating tires, it is a smart time to have the brakes inspected, too.

Replace your wiper blades to keep a clear view

Can’t remember the last time you replaced your wiper blades? Then it’s time to switch them out. Blades that streak or leave a haze aren’t ready to take on a rainy highway or an unexpected flurry of snow later in the year. Check your owner’s manual to find the correct size blades for your front and rear wipers.

Pro tip: Grab a jug of winter-grade washer fluid. You’ll be thankful when the temperatures inevitably drop.

Fall road trips should be about making memories, not waiting for roadside assistance. Before you hit the road this fall, set aside a weekend afternoon and perform these essential car care tasks. If something needs a closer look, ask an expert at a local NAPA Auto Parts store or NAPA Auto Care location. To learn more, visit NAPAOnline.com.

2026-11-09T16:31:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• More than 8 million military Veterans work in the U.S. civilian workforce today.
• U.S. Army Veterans possess a unique skill set of adaptability, resilience, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving ability that employers across industries seek out in their employees.
• Today, Army Veterans work at some of the world’s top companies, including Amazon, UPS, PepsiCo, JP Morgan Chase, Booz Allen Hamilton, Deloitte, GE, and Stryker.

For military service members, transitioning to civilian life brings about the question: What comes next? The answer isn’t the same for everyone, but for the 8 million Veterans who are part of the civilian workforce today, there’s no question that service has shaped their journeys.

This Veterans Day, meet five Army Veterans whose training and experiences in uniform have paved the pathway to new careers that prove that a Soldier’s ability to build community and make an impact continues long after military service ends.

Lucas Baker practices corporate law at a top global law firm

Lucas Baker is an associate attorney at Latham & Watkins in Washington, D.C., where he practices corporate law. He earned a master’s degree in security studies and a JD from Georgetown University using the GI Bill and Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits.

Originally from Grimes, Iowa, Baker joined ROTC at Drake University and commissioned as an Army Infantry Officer. At 22, he was leading 40 junior Soldiers, many of whom had combat experience, an assignment he remembers as daunting but crucial to his development as a leader. He also completed Ranger School, where he says he learned perseverance, adaptability, and resilience.

“The Army taught me how to lead under pressure, communicate effectively, and manage competing priorities in demanding environments,” Baker said.

Collin D’Antonio helps organizations solve complex problems as a management consultant

At Boston Consulting Group, Collin D’Antonio helps organizations solve complex problems, navigate change, and improve how they operate. He recently earned an MBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and says his Army experience strengthened the leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills he brings to the work.

As a child, he was living in Albuquerque, New Mexico, when he witnessed the Sept. 11 attacks unfold on television, an event that inspired him to consider a career in service. “When something bigger than yourself needs to be done, you have a duty to contribute,” he says. He went on to attend West Point and graduated in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering.

During his 10 years in the Army, he began his aviation career as an AH-64 Apache helicopter pilot before being selected to join the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, where he transitioned to flying the MH-47 Chinook. He flew in combat and led teams into combat zones, where each mission depended on trust and teamwork.

Leading soldiers in high-pressure environments taught him how to navigate uncertainty, build trust quickly, and solve complex problems, skills he now applies to his work at Boston Consulting Group.

“If I didn’t have my time in the Army, if I wasn’t able to do time in Special Operations, I probably wouldn’t have gotten into the business school I got into. I definitely wouldn’t be here at Boston Consulting Group,” said D’Antonio. “Those hard experiences I had shaped me.”

Antonio Johnson helps Soldiers transition from service by connecting them with civilian employers

Antonio Johnson is a program manager with the Army’s Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) program, which builds partnerships between the Army and corporate America to create employment opportunities for Soldiers transitioning to civilian life, grounded in the belief that planning for the transition should start much earlier than most people expect.

Johnson spent 22 years in the Army, including time as a recruiter, an experience that influenced his current career. He also earned his bachelor’s degree through the Army Tuition Assistance program and a master’s degree in management and leadership from Western Governors University.

“My ability to influence senior executives at an organization to partner with the Army stems from my 14 years of Army recruiting experience,” Johnson said.

Jared Beckham leads a team of 35 at two John Deere dealerships

Jared Beckham is the general operations manager for two John Deere dealerships in Arizona, where he oversees operations generating more than $35 million in annual revenue and leads a team of 35 employees.

Originally from Flagstaff, Arizona, Beckham joined the Army because, when college looked out of reach financially, he saw opportunities to further his education through service. As an Armor Crewmember, he served with the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea and the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, on two tank crews that earned the top tank designation in their brigades. The Post-9/11 GI Bill later made it possible for him to earn his bachelor’s degree and MBA at the University of Arizona.

“The Army gave me the discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills that have been instrumental throughout my career,” Beckham said.

Former Green Beret and ex-NFL player Nate Boyer helps combat veterans and retired athletes find community beyond the uniform

Nate Boyer co-founded Merging Vets & Players (MVP), an organization that builds connections between retiring military service members and professional athletes to ease the transition to civilian life, alongside television personality and sports reporter Jay Glazer. He says careers for both groups often end young, and that it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-doubt afterward. He is also a filmmaker whose work includes Indivisible, MVP, Survive the Raft, and an upcoming D-Day 80th Anniversary documentary.

Boyer enlisted in the Army in 2005 and served as a Green Beret in the Special Forces, completing three overseas combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. A self-described “city boy,” he entered the Army with limited experience and confidence in his real-world abilities. But through hands-on training in skills like land navigation, developing long range communications systems, and overall tactical proficiency, he learned to step outside his comfort zone, solve problems under pressure, and trust his training — skills that would serve him well in the Army and beyond.

After six years of service, Boyer swapped one uniform for another by earning a spot on the University of Texas football team. Despite never having played organized football, he walked onto the Longhorns in 2011, eventually becoming the team’s starting long snapper. He continued serving in the Texas Army National Guard during summer breaks before signing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2015, becoming the oldest rookie in NFL history at 34 years old.

“It was because of the training in the military that I had the confidence to just dive into new ventures, like filmmaking and football, and know eventually I’d figure it out,” said Boyer. “Going into the military, I didn’t really know this world, and I wasn’t familiar with it, but I just told myself that it was OK and that I may suck for a bit. I told myself I would have to work harder than everybody else and hang in there. Just don’t quit and you’ll start to figure it out. And that applies to anything in life.”

Ask any of these five Veterans where they learned to lead a team, solve a problem without all the information, or keep going when they wanted to stop, and the answer traces back to their time in uniform.

For more information on these opportunities and all the possibilities of Army service, visit GoArmy.com.

2026-11-09T09:01:00

(BPT) – Oaklawn will open its 2026-2027 Thoroughbred racing season earlier than ever before, introducing a new Thanksgiving weekend tradition and nearly five months of racing that could give fans two early looks at the next Kentucky Derby champion.

The season begins Friday, Nov. 27, marking the earliest opening day in Oaklawn history. Across its Holiday Racing and Classic Racing meets, Oaklawn will offer 61 stakes races worth a record $18.79 million, with approximately $60 million in total purses.

The Holiday Racing meet runs Nov. 27 through Jan. 10, followed by the Classic Racing meet from Jan. 22 through May 1. The season builds toward a spring racing calendar featuring four $1.5 million stakes races, including two major stops on the road to the Kentucky Derby.

“For four generations, our family has worked to make Oaklawn a place where great horses come to compete,” said Louis A. Cella, Oaklawn president. “With the Rebel Stakes and Arkansas Derby each offering $1.5 million, we essentially have two derbies on our calendar this season. Their timing gives more of the nation’s top Kentucky Derby prospects an opportunity to compete at Oaklawn, and our fans two incredible chances to see racing’s next great champions.”

Two $1.5 million races, one road to the Kentucky Derby

Before the horses enter the starting gate at Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May, some of the nation’s most promising three-year-olds will have their sights set on Hot Springs.

Oaklawn will host two of the spring’s major Kentucky Derby prep races: the $1.5 million Rebel Stakes on Saturday, March 13, and the $1.5 million Arkansas Derby on Saturday, April 10. Each race offers a chance to see emerging stars compete for major purses and establish themselves as contenders for the most celebrated race in American Thoroughbred racing.

The Rebel Stakes has a history of showcasing future champions. In 2015, American Pharoah won the Rebel before returning to capture the Arkansas Derby and going on to become the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years. Smarty Jones followed a similar path in 2004, winning both Oaklawn races before capturing the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.

With the Rebel seven weeks before the Kentucky Derby and the Arkansas Derby just three weeks out, the two races occupy important positions on the national racing calendar. Their timing creates opportunities for contenders following different paths to Churchill Downs, while giving Oaklawn fans two major occasions to see horses whose names could soon become part of racing history.

The excitement begins even earlier with the Smarty Jones Stakes and Southwest Stakes, as promising young Thoroughbreds begin competing for a place among the nation’s leading Kentucky Derby prospects.

A championship showcase beyond the Triple Crown

The excitement continues beyond the Kentucky Derby trail, with two of Oaklawn’s signature races receiving significant purse increases for 2027.

On Saturday, April 17, the Apple Blossom Handicap and Oaklawn Handicap will each offer $1.5 million following $250,000 purse increases, bringing another major weekend of racing to Hot Springs just one week after the Arkansas Derby.

The Apple Blossom, one of the nation’s established races for older fillies and mares, also carries an added incentive this year. As a Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” qualifying race, its winner will earn an automatic berth in the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Distaff. The Oaklawn Handicap provides another major stage for established Thoroughbreds competing at the highest levels of the sport.

Together, the April 10 and April 17 programs will feature four $1.5 million stakes races, bringing $6 million in combined purses to Hot Springs over consecutive Saturdays and giving racing fans an opportunity to see both rising stars and accomplished champions.

“Our commitment extends well beyond any one race or weekend,” said Cella. “From the Kentucky Derby trail to some of the nation’s most prestigious races for established champions, we’ve built a season that brings exceptional competition to Hot Springs. That’s what makes Oaklawn special, and it’s what we continue to build on year after year.”

More than a day at the races

From a historic Black Friday opening and the chance to see future Kentucky Derby champions to a spring lineup featuring some of the sport’s most prestigious races, Oaklawn’s 2026-2027 season gives fans more reasons than ever to experience Thoroughbred racing in Hot Springs.

And the experience extends well beyond the track. Oaklawn combines luxury accommodations, exceptional dining, gaming, entertainment and a Forbes Four-Star spa with the unique charm of Hot Springs.

For visitors, that means the opportunity to turn a day at the races into something much bigger: a chance to experience one of Thoroughbred racing’s most anticipated seasons at one of the sport’s most distinctive destinations — Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort.