Month: February 2021

2021-02-25T09:01:01

(BPT) – Last year, many people took a fresh look at their outdoor living spaces, as life outdoors became of renewed importance as spaces to gather together. Backyards transformed into stay-cation retreats, and front entries were revamped into spaces for social distancing reminiscent of old-fashioned porches.

No matter where you live, your outdoor space can be enjoyed all season with simple upgrades using hardscapes, such as adding a fire pit for warm gatherings or an outdoor kitchen for the taste of summer all year. Whether you do it yourself or hire a landscape professional, hardscaping materials — including natural stone, interlocking concrete pavers and retaining wall systems — can add value to your home and help set the stage for a heated hot tub, cozy seating around a fire, wood-fired ovens for pizza parties and more.

1) Add a fire feature for chilly days and nights. A fireplace, fire table, fire pit, chiminea or patio heater will enhance any outdoor space with warmth and ambiance. “One of our most popular hardscape installations features a fire ring surrounded by a seat wall,” said Scott Arnold, manager of Villa Landscapes in St. Paul, Minnesota. “A fire feature is a useful and beautiful addition to any outdoor space that you can enjoy all year.” Fire pits and fireplaces also are available in kits including all materials that are popular with do-it-yourselfers.

2) A dedicated outdoor cooking space lets you grill in any season. Along with multifunction grills, compact wood-fired outdoor ovens are popular choices, and hardscape designs can make the perfect countertop or grill island. “Cooking outside isn’t just for summer,” Arnold says. “Easily accessible grills, wood-fired ovens or outdoor kitchens built with hardscapes are essential in outdoor spaces.”

3) Create easy access from indoors to outdoors. A raised patio, built with retaining wall units and pavers, is a low-maintenance solution as compared to a deck. Its surface absorbs heat and may help keep ice at bay. Pavers come in many styles, textures and colors, and require little to no maintenance if properly installed. “We often vary paver shapes, colors and textures to define space and create distinct outdoor rooms,” says Arnold.

4) Consider year-round seating, such as seat walls created with segmental retaining wall units. “VERSA-LOK is the one block I do 90% of my projects with; it can do it all,” says Stan Genadek, owner of Genadek Excavating and Landscaping in Mendota Heights, Minnesota, and creator and host of a YouTube channel on landscaping, “Dirt Monkey University.” Says Genadek: “Because of its versatility and ease of installation, VERSA-LOK is the gold standard in retaining wall systems.” Use it for retaining walls, freestanding and seat walls, couches, tiers with bermed seating, planters, columns, curves and more.

5) Accessorize with functionality in mind. Lighting, pergolas, shades, awnings, screens and year-round furniture should be considered in an outdoor space all-season refresh. Low-voltage LED lighting can be installed between courses of retaining wall units, under capstones and along paving stone patios and paths. Look for furniture, such as Comfort Craft Outdoor Furniture, that’s durable against the elements and doesn’t need storage or maintenance other than cleaning.

Outdoor living is an essential part of everyone’s health and well-being, and hardscaping materials help you create an outdoor space that adds value to your property and keeps you outside longer into the night, earlier in the spring and later into the season.

2021-02-24T09:37:00

(BPT) – Where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach is where you’ll find warm, inviting waters and a cool, laid-back feel. Home to three distinct beaches, you’re bound to bump into your vibe at one of them. With a delectable seafood-centric culinary scene, rich history and a variety of arts and entertainment, the destination is the perfect getaway whether you’re with the family, looking for a quick escape or flying solo. For some inspiration on vacation planning, here are five new reasons to visit Virginia Beach in 2021.

Captivating family-friendly activities and attractions

This summer, after a $25 million renovation, the South Building at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center will re-open with several new exhibits, perfect for educational and immersive visits. From interactive play areas to two new touch pools, a gallery with live jellyfish from around the world and an all-new Vet Center wing giving a behind-the-scenes glance at water quality, conservation and veterinary care, a trip to the aquarium will make learning fun. And, Apex Entertainment, a multi-level entertainment complex, the first of its kind in Virginia Beach, lets kids, and kids at heart, blow off a little steam with mini golf, bumper cars, bowling, indoor go karting, laser tag, ropes courses and more.

Check in, and check out Virginia Beach’s newest property

The new Delta Hotels Virginia Beach Bayfront Suites is Virginia Beach’s only beachfront hotel on the Chesapeake Bay. Situated on its own private beach with 295 spacious one- and two-bedroom suites, an outdoor pool and lounge, kayak and bike rentals plus a 24-7 ultra-modern fitness center, guests will also enjoy sampling a local delicacy, oysters, and coastal cuisine at the signature restaurant, Tin Cup Kitchen + Oyster Bar, from an expansive outdoor patio with views of the Bay.

Explore the nation’s early history and diverse waterways

Virginia’s most visited state park, First Landing State Park, holds a special place in our nation’s history. English settlers landed here in 1607 and established the first elective government. These hallowed grounds are also home to 1.25 miles of beach and more than 19 miles of interpretive hiking trails through protected salt marsh habitat, freshwater ponds, dunes and more. For a private tour of Virginia Beach’s biodiverse waterways with a seafood feast finale, Moore to See Photo Expeditions River Crab Feast is not to be missed. Soak up the beauty of North Landing River before landing at a secluded dock surrounded by nature for the freshest locally caught and steamed blue crabs, indulging in a feast unlike any other.

Sip, shuck, repeat

Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene is exploding with an eclectic mix of flavorful suds. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a seasonal sipper, the Virginia Beach Beer Trail is a new downloadable guide to local breweries and taprooms passionately pouring ale for all. New on the scene: beloved local brewery Three Notch’d Brewing Company, where beer lovers can imbibe fruity sours and hoppy flagship brews, is opening a new flagship this spring in Town Center. And, to truly dine like a local, pair your ale with the irresistible Lynnhaven oysters. Coveted by English Aristocracy, once you experience these little rays of sunshine, you’ll realize a best-kept secret about Virginia Beach: it’s a seafood lover’s paradise.

Keep the fitspo on the go

Whether you’re aiming to close those rings, or you’ve got a daily step count to meet, with more than 200 miles of trails, Virginia Beach has myriad fun activities that will keep you on track. The city is a haven for bikers, and you can experience it from two wheels via a new offering of three distinct self-guided trails: Bike, Brew and Arts Trail; Bike, Brew and History Trail; or the Family Fun Trail. Each has a downloadable map that allows riders to see the city at their own pace. For a fun full-body workout, learn how to ride the waves in the birthplace of East Coast surfing. After engaging muscles you didn’t know you had, a more leisure activity will be best. Take a stroll through ViBe Creative District where the walls come alive with colorful murals and quaint shops burst with creativity. Before you know it, you’ll crush that step count.

2021-02-24T09:37:00

(BPT) – Where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach is where you’ll find warm, inviting waters and a cool, laid-back feel. Home to three distinct beaches, you’re bound to bump into your vibe at one of them. With a delectable seafood-centric culinary scene, rich history and a variety of arts and entertainment, the destination is the perfect getaway whether you’re with the family, looking for a quick escape or flying solo. For some inspiration on vacation planning, here are five new reasons to visit Virginia Beach in 2021.

Captivating family-friendly activities and attractions

This summer, after a $25 million renovation, the South Building at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center will re-open with several new exhibits, perfect for educational and immersive visits. From interactive play areas to two new touch pools, a gallery with live jellyfish from around the world and an all-new Vet Center wing giving a behind-the-scenes glance at water quality, conservation and veterinary care, a trip to the aquarium will make learning fun. And, Apex Entertainment, a multi-level entertainment complex, the first of its kind in Virginia Beach, lets kids, and kids at heart, blow off a little steam with mini golf, bumper cars, bowling, indoor go karting, laser tag, ropes courses and more.

Check in, and check out Virginia Beach’s newest property

The new Delta Hotels Virginia Beach Bayfront Suites is Virginia Beach’s only beachfront hotel on the Chesapeake Bay. Situated on its own private beach with 295 spacious one- and two-bedroom suites, an outdoor pool and lounge, kayak and bike rentals plus a 24-7 ultra-modern fitness center, guests will also enjoy sampling a local delicacy, oysters, and coastal cuisine at the signature restaurant, Tin Cup Kitchen + Oyster Bar, from an expansive outdoor patio with views of the Bay.

Explore the nation’s early history and diverse waterways

Virginia’s most visited state park, First Landing State Park, holds a special place in our nation’s history. English settlers landed here in 1607 and established the first elective government. These hallowed grounds are also home to 1.25 miles of beach and more than 19 miles of interpretive hiking trails through protected salt marsh habitat, freshwater ponds, dunes and more. For a private tour of Virginia Beach’s biodiverse waterways with a seafood feast finale, Moore to See Photo Expeditions River Crab Feast is not to be missed. Soak up the beauty of North Landing River before landing at a secluded dock surrounded by nature for the freshest locally caught and steamed blue crabs, indulging in a feast unlike any other.

Sip, shuck, repeat

Virginia Beach’s craft beer scene is exploding with an eclectic mix of flavorful suds. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a seasonal sipper, the Virginia Beach Beer Trail is a new downloadable guide to local breweries and taprooms passionately pouring ale for all. New on the scene: beloved local brewery Three Notch’d Brewing Company, where beer lovers can imbibe fruity sours and hoppy flagship brews, is opening a new flagship this spring in Town Center. And, to truly dine like a local, pair your ale with the irresistible Lynnhaven oysters. Coveted by English Aristocracy, once you experience these little rays of sunshine, you’ll realize a best-kept secret about Virginia Beach: it’s a seafood lover’s paradise.

Keep the fitspo on the go

Whether you’re aiming to close those rings, or you’ve got a daily step count to meet, with more than 200 miles of trails, Virginia Beach has myriad fun activities that will keep you on track. The city is a haven for bikers, and you can experience it from two wheels via a new offering of three distinct self-guided trails: Bike, Brew and Arts Trail; Bike, Brew and History Trail; or the Family Fun Trail. Each has a downloadable map that allows riders to see the city at their own pace. For a fun full-body workout, learn how to ride the waves in the birthplace of East Coast surfing. After engaging muscles you didn’t know you had, a more leisure activity will be best. Take a stroll through ViBe Creative District where the walls come alive with colorful murals and quaint shops burst with creativity. Before you know it, you’ll crush that step count.

2021-02-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – As many pet owners have spent more time at home during the pandemic, there has been an opportunity for dog lovers to enhance their relationship with their pet, like they never have had before. Thanks to newfound work-life balance and more quality time together, the bond between dog owners and their furry friends has strengthened over the past year, and many dogs have found their forever homes. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the number of pet adoptions as a percentage of intake rose more than 13% from 2019 to 2020.

With the abundance of time spent at home, pet owners are spoiling their four-legged companions. Consumers are counting on treats to keep their pets occupied and ease the guilt when they are too busy to give their dog attention. In a Cargill survey conducted last April, 18% of dog owners said they were giving their dog more treats, and 12% said they were giving their dog more chews and bones.

What are pet owners looking for when purchasing treats? Research from Packaged Facts points toward four main motivators: function, entertainment, training and bonding. Consumers want treats that are healthy, transparent with their ingredients and can serve multiple usage occasions and purposes, such as rewards and long-lasting entertainment.

To address these trends and the needs of dog owners, Cargill recently launched The Chompery, a new brand of butcher-quality dog treats. The products are all natural, single-ingredient, sourced and produced in the U.S., and span an expansive portfolio consisting of bully sticks, pig ears, slow-roasted bones, organs, jerkies and more.

Pet treat buyers are particularly concerned with pet health and treat origin. More than half of dog owners seek out pet treats that are made in the USA. Consumer research revealed that the most important product claims for American treat buyers include easily digestible, made in the USA and natural, demonstrating that pet owners want only the best for their four-legged friends.

Consumers are also seeking bones and chews that provide dental hygiene benefits. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends daily teeth brushing for pets but says brushing several times a week can also be effective. Busy schedules can make it hard for pet owners to brush that often, so they look to products that can help decrease plaque accumulation.

While humans keep in mind what is best for their dog’s health, dogs are returning the favor. During the pandemic, people have counted on their pets for emotional support, daily interaction, comfort and companionship. Some dogs even help their owners with physical health by accompanying them on walks and routine exercise.

Of course, there is nothing a dog loves more than hearing “do you want a treat?” after a long walk. Whether you’re offering your pup a treat following good behavior, exercise, the completion of a learned trick or just because, seeing the immense joy on your pooch’s face can ease stress and be a bright spot each day.

Fortunately for pets, financial concerns are not curbing owners’ willingness to bring home tasty treats. In a survey conducted last July, 90% of dog owners reported spending the same or more on their pet as they did before the pandemic.

Pet treat purchases are also frequent and often spur of the moment, commonly picked up in the midst of a routine grocery store run. Nielsen data revealed that 72% of dog owners said they purchased treats in the past 30 days, and 65% of dog treat purchases are unplanned. To provide consumers with a new dog treat option outside the pet aisle, The Chompery products will be available in the meat aisle at grocery stores.

As many organizations continue to encourage a work-from-home policy, it looks like life will continue to be anything but ruff — and filled with tasty treats — for our favorite furry companions.

2021-02-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Thanks to the pandemic, many people have gone from working in an office to working from home, giving cat owners a chance to spend more time with their furry friends. With all this extra time, you have the opportunity to strengthen the bond you share with your cat while helping them get active and stay healthy.

Fortunately, there are several enrichment activities you can set up indoors to give them some much needed mental stimulation and prevent destructive behaviors.

1. Plan a treasure hunt

One of the easiest ways to make a quick activity for your cat is to create a treasure hunt. All you have to do is hide small amounts of dry cat food in various spots around your house. Throughout the day, your cat can “hunt” for their food, which will keep them active in a fun and engaging way.

2. Play a game

Cats need mental stimulation just as much as humans — playing a game is a simple way to provide a stimulating, enriching experience. Friskies Cat Fishing 2, a free app available for iOS or Android, is a game designed specifically for cats. The app plays special sounds and displays schools of fish, encouraging your cat to pounce like she would in the wild. The more fish your cat catches, the higher the score. You can even keep track of her score and share it on social media.

3. Make a puzzle feeder

The active pursuit of food is instinctive for cats. A puzzle feeder is a great way to appeal to your cat’s desire for physical and mental stimulation. All you need is a plastic water or soda bottle and a utility knife. Use the knife to cut a few small holes in the sides of the clean, sanitized bottle. Make sure the holes are big enough for pieces of kibble to pass through. Place some dry kibble into the bottle, screw on the cap and let your cat get to work.

4. Create your own cat toy

Cat toys don’t have to be expensive or complicated. Get crafty to keep your cat busy with a DIY wand toy. Start with a wooden dowel (about three feet in length and half-inch diameter), a barrel swivel and some fishing line. Then, gather materials to customize your wand — like colored pom poms, colored felt, feathers and jingle bells.

5. Go for a walk

It may seem unorthodox, but cats can be trained to walk on a leash. Many cats enjoy getting out to explore the neighborhood. Taking your cat for a walk lets them safely experience the great outdoors. It can also give them some necessary exercise.

Planning activities for your cat keeps them entertained, helps them stay healthy and can strengthen the bond you share. Try these activities for quick and easy ways to enrich your cat’s life at home.