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10 ways to create a cool under-deck living space

2023-04-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Many homeowners don’t realize that the space below a deck can offer tremendous potential. With a little creativity and the simple addition of an under-deck drainage system, the area beneath a deck can be used for almost anything, from additional living space to discreet and waterproof storage. Using a network of troughs and downspouts, an easy-to-install system like Trex® RainEscape® captures and diverts water away from a deck, protecting the area underneath from the outdoor elements and allowing for it to be outfitted with everything from furnishings and accessories to ceiling fans, lighting, appliances and entertainment components.

Here are 10 ways to make the most of this bonus outdoor space:

Bring the indoors out.

By protecting the area beneath a deck, you can virtually double your outdoor living space. This patio incorporates a seating area, dining table, and an outdoor kitchen, creating a setting well-suited for any outdoor occasion.

Dine al fresco.

An al fresco dining area takes any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Think beyond the traditional grill and patio furnishings to create an elegant, open-air gathering spot. Incorporate soffit lights into the ceiling to enhance ambiance and extend the usability of the space.

Watch the seasons change.

Why create a space you can only enjoy for a few months? By enclosing the area beneath an elevated deck with windows and screens, you can enjoy the great outdoors in comfort no matter the season or the weather.

Get cooking.

There’s no need to miss a moment of fun with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. With the Trex RainEscape system, gas lines and electrical wiring can be run safely and discreetly between the deck surface and a soffit ceiling to accommodate whatever may be on the menu.

Soak in serenity.

If you love spending time outside, even during winter, a hot tub is a great addition that works with any size deck, so long as the overhead space is larger than the tub. This protection from the weather means you can enjoy a relaxing soak whether there’s sun, rain or snow.

Create an under-deck café.

Let’s say you enjoy the idea of dining outside, but you’re not up for a full-blown outdoor kitchen. Consider opting for an outdoor cafe-style area. This design turns a stone wall into a countertop for enjoying morning coffee, a cocktail or even a meal.

View with a view.

Shielded from the elements and outfitted with comfortable furnishings, a wet bar, and a mounted flat screen television, this space offers an oasis for watching movies, sports or binging your favorite shows with family and friends.

Factor in fun.

If you’re tight on space underneath the deck but still want a design element with unique flair, installing a swing is a fun addition. A swing doesn’t take up a huge amount of space and is the perfect spot to enjoy a breezy afternoon.

Keep it cozy.

Whether hosting a wine night for friends or having a night in with your family, incorporating a fireplace into your underdeck area creates a pleasant spot to enjoy a night of fresh air, while ultimately elevating the ambience.

Store in style.

When properly protected, the space beneath a deck is ideal for storage. Seasonal items such as pool equipment, gardening tools, patio furniture and yard games can be safely tucked away. Size permitting, this space can even be used to house grills, lawnmowers, bicycles, ATVs and snowmobiles.

For more ideas and information, visit TrexRainEscape.com.

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Adventure awaits: 4 ways to soak up summer on the water

2023-04-05T09:01:00

(BPT) –

Summer fun is right around the corner, and boating is the perfect addition to your bucket list. No boat? No problem. There are plenty of ways to get on the water and enjoy the unique adventures only boating provides, in addition to its many wellness benefits. Studies show being on the water boosts creativity, happiness, relaxation and mental health.

“Americans today prioritize experiences, work-life balance and outdoor recreation. There’s no better way to do that than spending time on the water with loved ones,” said Ellen Bradley, Discover Boating Senior Vice President. “Boating delivers fun, freedom and relaxation in a special way you can’t get on land — and we’re seeing more people giving it a try than ever before as they learn about the proven benefits of time on the water.”

Whether you’re into fishing, watersports, riding personal watercraft, sailing or simply cruising around the open waters, boating offers something for everyone, and it’s more accessible than you may think. Boaters come from all walks of life, backgrounds and areas of the country, with an estimated 100 million Americans going boating each year, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

Discover Boating, the leading resource for all things boating, helps people find easy ways to get on the water and provides tools and articles to get started. Check out these tips to start planning your next on-water adventure and make the memories of a lifetime this summer.

Rent or share a boat.

Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly, daily or weekly access to a variety of boat types. Rental outfitters should provide tutorials on operating a boat, share safety instructions and offer suggestions on destinations. Another option is peer-to-peer boat sharing, which allows you to rent boats near you directly through the boat owners and offers the choice to hire a captain.

Join a boat club.

Boat clubs offer access to a variety of boats. You’ll pay a monthly fee and be able to book your time on the water online. Most boat clubs take care of docking, cleaning, maintenance and boat training courses.

Take a class.

Take the helm and become a confident boater. Sign up for a boating lesson to hone your powerboating, sailing or watersports skills by mastering the basics while having fun along the way. On-water training courses, watersports camps, youth boating programs and more are offered across the U.S.

Find your dream boat.

Chart your own course to boat ownership by visiting DiscoverBoating.com, where you’ll find resources such as the boat finder and loan calculator to help you find a boat that fits your budget, lifestyle and interests.

Visit Discover Boating’s Go Boating Today tool to find out how you can secure your boating vacation on-demand this summer. Use the social media hashtag #SeeYouOutHere to share your boating moments.

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New tax credits can help you improve your home and transition to clean energy

2023-04-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – America has begun the transition to a clean energy future, but what does this mean for you and your family — and what smart energy choices can you make to significantly increase your home’s efficiency and make a difference in protecting the climate?

Clean energy is generated from renewable sources without producing any pollution, which helps to improve the health of the environment and reduces the amounts of harmful emissions people are exposed to. Electricity made from clean energy can power appliances, heat and cool homes, and fuel transportation.

On the other hand, burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas, either at the power plant or in your home or car, results in greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming and air pollution that impacts human health and the environment.

Benefits of clean energy abound — shifting to electricity generated from renewable sources of energy is important to slow down global warming and protect the environment from harmful smog and toxic buildups in the air and water. Using renewable sources of energy also helps conserve natural resources and reduces dependence on foreign oil.

At the same time, using energy efficiently is important to ensure there is ultimately enough clean energy supply to meet the demand. Here are some key steps you can take to be part of the clean energy future.

Step 1: Make efficient electric upgrades to your home

Start planning an ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade, which is a set of six high-impact, energy-efficiency improvements for your home that include upgrading to electric heat pump technology for heating, cooling and water heating. Working together to deliver significant energy and cost savings, an ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade is designed to help you transition from fossil fuels for an energy-efficient, healthier and more comfortable home.

For the average American household, almost half of the annual energy bill goes toward heating and cooling — approximately $900 a year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Therefore, finding ways to efficiently heat and cool your home — such as switching to a super-efficient heat pump for heating and cooling and integrating a smart thermostat for more efficient energy usage — is key to reducing energy usage and saving money year-round.

After heating and cooling systems, your water heater is the second largest energy user in your home and uses more energy than your refrigerator, clothes washer, dishwasher and dryer, combined. Given the energy intensity of water heaters, switching to an energy-efficient heat pump water heater, specifically one that has earned the ENERGY STAR label, can save you hundreds of dollars on your yearly energy costs.

Finally, you’ll want to pay attention to your home envelope and make sure to seal any air leaks and check for adequate attic insulation. These changes alone can save homeowners an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs — or an average of 11% on total energy costs — by air sealing key areas around your home such as attics, crawl spaces and basements, and making sure your attic is well insulated.

Step 2: Switch to green power

Choosing electricity generated by renewables, such as wind and solar, instead of fossil fuels, supports a cleaner energy supply and makes a difference in the fight against climate change. Take advantage of opportunities in your community to choose green power as the energy source for your home.

Step 3: Switch to an electric vehicle

Driving an electric vehicle can save you money and benefit the environment. For every mile driven using electricity, you can save half of what it costs to drive a similar gasoline-powered vehicle. On average, the savings can be $800 to $1,000 a year on fuel and $4,600 on maintenance over the vehicle’s lifetime, according to Consumer Reports.

Fully electric vehicles are also quieter than gasoline-powered vehicles and produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping you significantly decrease the level of toxic chemicals and greenhouse gas emissions emitted from your car.

How to save on green home upgrades

The Inflation Reduction Act is making it more affordable for families to purchase energy-efficient equipment, make repairs to their homes and save money on their utility bills each month. New federal income tax credits are available through 2032, providing up to $3,200 annually to lower the cost of energy-efficient home upgrades by up to 30%.

Combined with utility rebates offered in many parts of the country, these incentives could significantly reduce the cost of making energy-efficient improvements to your home. Learn more at Energystar.gov.

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A Summer of Adventure Awaits You in Arkansas State Parks

2023-04-04T05:01:00

(BPT) – Vacations are about making memories that last a lifetime. And, there is no better place than an Arkansas State Park to experience a variety of adventures that you will never forget. For 100 years, Arkansas State Parks have provided an oasis from the hectic pace of everyday life and have given millions of visitors an opportunity to hit the reset button. If you want the adventure of a lifetime, it’s waiting for you in an Arkansas State Park. If you desire the serenity of the silence in nature, you’ll find it in an Arkansas State Park. And, believe it or not, you can make a fortune — literally — in a one-of-a-kind Arkansas State Park. In Arkansas, adventure can be found on dry land or in the water.

Arkansas’s Monument Trails are a collection of world-class mountain biking routes within four Arkansas State Parks — Mount Nebo State Park, Hobbs State Park, Pinnacle Mountain State Park and Devil’s Den State Park. The shared-use trails, which were professionally crafted by the world’s best trail builders, showcase Arkansas’s natural beauty and are woven into the beautiful landscape. No matter your skill level, the Monument Trails will offer a meaningful and lasting experience in nature.

Even the world’s most experienced mountain bikers are discovering Arkansas. In May, the Big Mountain Enduro Series will kick off its lineup of races at Mount Nebo, making it the only such race to occur outside of the Rocky Mountain Range.

You can also challenge your intestinal fortitude by tackling a 2,753-foot rock climb on the south bluff of Arkansas’s highest mountain, Mount Magazine at Mount Magazine State Park. In central Arkansas, you can test your climbing skills just a few minutes from downtown Little Rock at Pinnacle Mountain State Park.

If you would rather find your adventure on the water, there is plenty of adrenaline-pumping white water rafting in Arkansas. Try Cossatot River State Park and the Class IV rapids of Cossatot Falls. If a leisurely float down the river is more your speed, then you can do that at Cossatot, too.

There are few activities more serene and calming than a hike along the 300 miles of trails in Arkansas State Parks. There is no better way to see The Natural State. Petit Jean Mountain State Park offers trails that are rather easy and others that are strenuous. Most everyone can navigate the Cedar Falls Trail, and it is definitely worth the effort because the trail’s end is the stunning 95-foot Cedar Falls Waterfall, which begins behind the breezeway at the park’s historic Mather Lodge.

And, finally, we aren’t kidding about making your fortune at an Arkansas State Park — specifically Crater of Diamonds State Park in south Arkansas. There is no other park anywhere in the world like Crater of Diamonds State Park. Visitors can get their hands dirty and dig for diamonds in what is the world’s eighth-largest diamond-bearing volcanic crater. Diamonds of all shapes, sizes, and colors are found here. And, what you find, you keep.

In 2015, a visitor from Colorado paid her $8 entry fee to the park and walked out with an 8.52 carat white diamond, which became known as the famous Esperanza Diamond.

More recently, in March of this year, a regular Arkansas diamond hunter discovered a 3.29 carat brown diamond. Already in 2023, 124 diamonds have been registered at the park. That could happen to you, too.

Since the first diamonds were discovered in 1906 by a farmer who owned the land at the time, more than 75,000 diamonds have been unearthed at Crater of Diamonds State Park.

The adventure of a lifetime awaits you and your family in Arkansas. Plan your vacation today at arkansas.com or arkansasstateparks.com.

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Need a small loan? Make sure you’re not adding to your financial woes

2023-04-04T11:21:00

(BPT) – April is Financial Literacy Month, and it’s an opportunity for people to take a closer look at their finances and be smart about their money. These days, it’s difficult to save money — whether it’s an appliance breakdown, car repair or other unexpected bill, sometimes you just need to borrow a little cash. When you need to find a little financial help, it may seem like plenty of options are out there for borrowing money. But the problem is, borrowing even a little can cost you. A lot. Even if you need just a small loan — but you don’t have much of a credit history (or none at all) — you may find yourself owing a lot more than you can afford, causing bigger problems down the road. If you don’t have a solid credit history, you may find yourself in deeper financial trouble just from borrowing as little as $500.

“Unfortunately, just when you really need a loan, you can end up owing a lot more than you can afford,” said Matt Jenkins, chief operations officer, Oportun. Oportun’s customers, the majority of whom live in low- and moderate-income communities, are hardworking individuals who have limited savings. Approximately half of Oportun’s new loan customers did not have a FICO credit score when they first came to Oportun. “Understanding how much you’re expected to repay for any loan, and when, is crucial, so you don’t end up in a deeper financial hole.”

This is especially true with unsecured loans such as payday loans or online-only installment loans, as well as short-term secured loans such as auto title loans. While you may have needed to borrow just a small amount, after adding interest and fees, you could ultimately end up paying back many times more than the original amount you borrowed.

Unsecured versus secured personal loans

Personal loans fall into two categories: secured or unsecured. Secured loans require you to offer up an asset as collateral, while unsecured loans do not. Secured loans can give you access to larger loan amounts, especially if you don’t have as much credit history to qualify for an unsecured loan. However, being unable to pay back your secured loan could result in losing access to the property you put up as collateral — such as your vehicle — which creates even more challenges, especially if you need your vehicle to get to work.

Unsecured loans place a greater risk on the lender, since the borrower does not provide collateral. To account for that risk, lenders may offer unsecured personal loans in smaller amounts, charge higher annual percentage rates (APRs) and/or require the borrower to have a much higher credit score to qualify. These requirements can create barriers to accessing or building credit for anyone who is financially struggling.

How much borrowing can cost you

To find out how much these products can really set you back, a 2022 analysis by the Financial Health Network, “The True Cost of a Loan,” compares six financial products — payday loans, online-only payday loans, rent-to-own, installment loans, online-only installment loans and single-pay auto title loans — to unsecured installment loans from Oportun to estimate the total cost of these products to typical borrowers.

The study showed that even short-term, small-amount loans can end up being very expensive to borrowers in the long term, especially when compared to loans from Oportun. Across three loan amounts, alternative products could cost eight times more on average than an Oportun loan of an equal amount:

  • For a $500 loan, alternative products could cost ten times more on average than an Oportun loan.
  • For a $1,500 loan, alternative products could cost six times more on average than an Oportun loan.
  • For a $3,000 loan, alternative products could cost four times more on average than an Oportun loan.

Overall, Oportun loans can be significantly less costly than alternative products, as they often have lower rates and more affordable terms than many other choices on the market.

To learn more about your options to borrow money when you need it, as well as financial resources, information and tips to help you build a better credit history, visit Oportun.com.

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Americans aren’t eating enough fruits and veggies. Why?

2023-04-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – Most people know that fruits and vegetables are key to a healthy diet, but they may not know exactly how many, and the amounts, they should be eating daily. Some may believe they are on the right track but are surprised to learn they are underestimating the amount needed to meet nutrition recommendations.

A survey conducted by the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) confirms that Americans are largely underestimating how many fruits and vegetables they need to eat on a daily basis. Consumers surveyed estimate the daily number of recommended servings to be 3-4 servings a day, short of the actual recommended 5 servings per day defined by the World Health Organization. For consumers to work toward achieving a healthier lifestyle, accurate nutrition information must be available and accessible.

According to experts at IFPA’s Foundation for Fresh Produce’s fruitsandveggies.org, widespread misinformation and disinformation online and during the shopping experience contributes to Americans’ confusion over what, and how much, they are supposed to eat. Products across the marketplace can be marketed to make food and beverages appear more healthful than they are by depicting images of fruits and vegetables despite containing no or minimal amounts of them.

“Consumers constantly face an overwhelming amount of information online and in stores, whether the information is correct or not,” said Emily Holdorf, a registered dietitian at The Foundation. “When people hear conflicting messages of ‘eat this’ and ‘don’t eat that,’ they become understandably frustrated. By instead sharing a more inclusive approach to eating nutritious foods, consumers will feel empowered to choose fruits and vegetables at more meals and snacks throughout the day.”

To this end, IFPA and the Foundation are galvanizing the fresh produce industry and influential nutrition educators to help eliminate all barriers to consumption, including tackling misinformation.

“We are dedicated to finding solutions that make accurate nutrition recommendations easily accessible no matter what zip code an American resides in,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. “We are exploring initiatives like providing dietary guidelines to shoppers in the store and asking the government to crack down on deceptive nutrition labeling. These are places where we can make a real impact on how consumers think about their own nutrition and ultimately achieve a positive change at kitchen tables across America.”

According to WHO, eating the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet improves overall health and reduces risk of certain diseases including cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.

Many fruits and vegetables are plentiful in soluble fiber, which can lower LDL cholesterol, blood pressure and inflammation.

Even the colors of fruits and vegetables play a key role in health. The variety of colors within produce are known as “phytochemicals” that have been shown to potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease and diabetes.

“Diet-related diseases including heart disease, diabetes and hypertension add $1.4 trillion to the nation’s debt to treat annually, yet even with more than a trillion dollars going toward treatment, these diseases are still among the leading causes of death in the U.S.,” said Burns. “Fortunately, each of these can be prevented by having a healthier diet.”

Here are three tips for getting started:

  1. Start small – Don’t bite off more than you can chew with an extremely aspirational goal. Stir fruit into cereal or yogurt, add bagged salad to pizza night, top sandwiches with extra veggies, throw greens into your favorite pasta dish. Small wins build momentum and positive habits.
  2. Make it easy – Cut and prep fruits and vegetables up right away so they are quick to grab. Keep all forms of produce on hand for low- and no-cook ways to add fruits and vegetables to the meals and snacks you already have planned. The easier it is, the more likely it will get eaten.
  3. Focus on the flavor – When something makes you feel good, you want to do it again. When something tastes good, you want to eat it again. Utilize dips, herbs, spices and juices to add flavor and enjoyment to fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring!

“There are countless eating occasions that occur throughout our days, weeks, months. Asking, ‘What fruit or veggie can I add to this?’ is a great first step to adding more, one bite at a time,” said Holdorf.

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Kidney stones: How one common recurring symptom could signal a rare disease

2023-04-03T15:01:00

(BPT) – Throughout her life, Kim had no explanation for the recurrent, painful kidney stones she experienced. Growing up she and her doctors dismissed these stones and associated pain for other conditions like menstrual cramps and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It wasn’t until her sister Joy passed away from the same disease that Kim received answers in the form of an official diagnosis — Kim’s kidney stones were the result of a rare, inherited disease called primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1).

Kidney stones are a hallmark symptom of PH1. However, many people who experience recurrent stones in adulthood or even one kidney stone as a child do not consider or investigate a root cause, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and further complications. After watching her sister’s progressive PH1 symptoms, Kim is determined to ensure her sister’s memory lives on by sharing PH1 education and her own disease journey. Here’s some information to know about PH1, including signs and symptoms, to better understand what to look for and when to potentially suspect this rare disease.

What is PH1?

PH1 causes an overproduction of oxalate — an unneeded waste product that cannot be broken down further — in the liver. Normally, oxalate is present only in small amounts, is not used by the body for anything and needs to be eliminated by the kidneys. The overproduction of oxalate can lead to the formation of painful and recurrent kidney stones as well as progressive damage — meaning it can get worse over time and cause permanent damage.

How rare is PH1?

As a rare disease, PH1 affects approximately 1 to 3 individuals per million in the United States and Europe, with an estimated 1,300 to 2,100 diagnosed cases across geographies. In some regions, such as the Middle East and North Africa, the genetic prevalence of PH1 is estimated to be higher.

After getting diagnosed with PH1, Kim took a genealogy test that showed she is, in part, of Middle Eastern descent, giving her a higher likelihood of having PH1. Knowing this helped fuel her vigorous research to learn about disease management options, especially since she and her siblings are more likely to have PH1 due to their ancestry.

What are the common symptoms of PH1?

Most people with PH1 have their first symptoms as children or teens, but some people don’t have signs until they’re adults. Kidney stones are the most common symptom of PH1, which may include pain in the side of the body, painful and/or bloody urination and urinary tract infections. However, not everyone with PH1 may have kidney stones. Other symptoms of PH1 include, but are not limited to, nephrocalcinosis (crystal deposits in kidney tissue), failure to thrive in babies and end-stage kidney disease (kidney failure).

Kim was not the first person in her family to experience kidney stones. In fact, this seemingly common symptom ran in her family. Her brother passed away at birth due to crystallization in his kidneys, and her sister also experienced kidney stones, among other PH1 symptoms, throughout her life. Their symptoms were undiagnosed by doctors for years until they received a formal diagnosis later in life — which unfortunately, was too late in her sister’s battle with PH1.

How are patients diagnosed with PH1, and how can they manage a positive diagnosis?

PH1 can be diagnosed by a doctor measuring oxalate levels in the urine or blood, and/or with a genetic test. While managing PH1 is life long, there are various ways to address the symptoms. A person diagnosed with PH1 should work with their doctor or care team to create a personalized care plan, which likely would include monitoring oxalate levels and kidney function. Management options include hyperhydration (drinking a lot of water to dilute urinary calcium oxalate), dialysis (removing oxalate and other waste products from the blood) and certain supplements or oxalate-lowering medications.

How often are people diagnosed with PH1?

For many patients, like Kim, PH1 is not diagnosed immediately. Half of people living with PH1 may be undiagnosed. Unfortunately, Kim’s sister was also diagnosed later in life and, due to the delayed diagnosis, developed severe oxalosis throughout her body, including in her legs and heart before passing away.

Today, Kim is passionate about telling her story, so she was happy to be sponsored to share her story with Alnylam. She also advocates for herself and others with PH1. To learn more about PH1 and access educational resources about the symptoms and management of PH1, visit www.TakeOnPH1.com. If you suspect you may have PH1, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and testing.

A message from Alnylam Pharmaceuticals

PH1-USA-00257-V1

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Top 5 tips for your next family sports experience

2023-04-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – If it’s one thing Americans love, it’s sports. Nothing can bring family and friends together quite like watching your favorite team go for the goal. Whether you’re bonding over watching your favorite hockey team win the tournament, playing catch in the backyard or cheering on your child at peewee soccer, you’re building unforgettable moments together that will last a lifetime.

One way to create these memories is to plan family sports days. Head out and support your local sports teams of all levels — professional, semi-pro and collegiate — or cheer on your friends and family as they shine on the field. Doing so will help you spend quality time with your loved ones, create traditions and make touchstone moments you’ll look back on fondly years from now.

Like the pros, you’ll need a game plan to make the most of your family sports day. Make sure you follow these five tips to take your upcoming sports excursion to the next level.

1. Do your research

If you’re traveling to a sporting event, see what else is in the area to make the most of the day. Is there a sports museum you can visit as you wait for an afternoon or evening game? Do you want to find a restaurant so you can enjoy a delicious dinner before you head to the stadium or after the game? Do your research to properly plan your day so you can have fun before and after the main sporting event and make the most of your time together.

2. Stock up on snacks and beverages

No sports day would be complete without treats and drinks. Think about what nuts and fruits you’ll want to munch on during the game. Also, think about what sports drinks or waters you want to take.

Don’t forget to bring a fun treat for the family! A classic snack like a CRUNCH Bar adds more fun and playfulness to your sport outing experiences and memories. This MVP of snacks is the perfectly balanced combination of 100% milk chocolate and crispy rice that makes an audible, satisfying crunch that will have you jumping for joy as your team scores another home run.

3. Pick up the fan gear

Just like the pros, you can’t go to the big game without the proper gear. In addition to wearing team jerseys, you’ll want to bring along a few additional necessities to thoroughly enjoy the sporting event.

For a sunny sports day, make sure you have sunscreen, a hat or visor, a water bottle and a handheld fan to keep you and your family cool and comfortable through the game. If you’re attending an indoor sporting event or a match during the cooler months, don’t leave without a jacket, mittens or beanie to stay warm in the stands as you watch your favorite player score the winning goal.

Most importantly, ensure your phone is fully charged or bring a digital camera to capture your family’s smiling faces throughout the game.

4. Arrive early

While you could get to the stadium just as the game starts, it’s smart to plan to arrive early. If you’re driving to the event, decide if you’ll park at the stadium, use public transport, or park nearby and walk. Get there early to find a parking space and avoid a last-minute rush that could make you late for the game.

Getting to the sports event early also allows your family to find your seats and settle in before the game. Take this time to go to the bathroom, check out the concession stand and get any gifts or memorabilia to commemorate the day.

5. Have fun and make memories

Between the packing, planning and travel, don’t forget to have fun! Get excited, practice chants on your drive over, and focus on being present for every moment. This may be just another sporting event, but these moments make memories you and your kids will remember long after the final buzzer sounds.

Following these helpful tips will make your next family sports day a guaranteed home run!

Are you looking for another way to upgrade your next family sports day? Enter CRUNCH’s Make MVP Memories Sweepstakes. You could have the chance to win the ultimate sports experience with a trip to the Championship game of your choice. To enter, grab any CRUNCH product at select retailers for your chance to win thousands of dollars in instant win prizes. To learn more, visit MakeMVPMemories.com.

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Innovative ways to incorporate unexpected design into your bathroom

2023-04-03T06:01:00

(BPT) – Bathrooms are frequently used spaces in a home that are brimming with design potential. Plus, these smaller rooms are ideal to experiment with new aesthetics and unique features. Incorporating unexpected elements in your bathroom’s design can add character and interest, while still creating a functional space you’ll love.

Consider these tips to help you incorporate unexpected design into your own bathroom:

Experimental color: Rather than traditional white or neutral color schemes, try strategically incorporating rich colors or patterns. Colorful tiles, a bold accent wall or brightly hued towels are just a few examples. Wallpaper is another way to add color and pattern, with modern options available appropriate for the more humid bathroom environment. Not only will pops of color make the space more visually interesting, but it will also create a joyful atmosphere in the bathroom.

Glam glass: The sink is the ideal location to feature this luxe material. Inspired by a Champagne glass, the Salute vessel sink by Kohler is artistic and elegant — and at 15 inches is ideal for small spaces, making an impression extending well beyond its stature. If you prefer an undermount, rectangular glass sink, the Yepsen Artist Editions sink is for you. Reminiscent of the carved textures on marble and architectural facades, it’s available in both translucent and opaque colorways.

Mixed materials: Blending complementary textures and materials adds depth to a space in a subtle yet unexpected way. For example, pairing a sleek and modern shower with a vintage clawfoot tub can create a unique and eclectic feel. Adding natural elements such as wood or stone can also add interest to the room, creating a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.

Modern metals: The right metals elevate and define a faucet and bathroom accessories, refining its overall look. Thanks to the Kohler Finish Program, you don’t have to feel limited in your choices. The program offers eight key finishes across product categories, including matte black, brushed modern brass, French gold, vibrant titanium and more. Plus, these finishes resist corrosion and tarnishing to ensure enduring beauty for years to come.

Curated decor: A great way to create an unexpected design in your bathroom is by curating interesting decorations. Look for pieces that show off your style, but be sure not to go overboard with the clutter. One or two pieces of art or sculpture are plenty for the average bathroom space. A pro tip: Use walls and vertical spaces for art rather than taking up valuable countertop space.

Statement pieces: Invest in remarkable pieces that attract the eye, like the new Aureus Artist Editions Vessel sink that mixes two design inspirations — Asian art and marble. The Asian art Kintsukuroi, which means golden repair, is the process of fixing broken pottery with lacquer resin dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver or platinum. In looking at marble, the sink draws inspiration from the natural veining patterns. Combined, these influences evoke contemporary design with bold veins and subtle hints of gold and brown.

Elevated lighting: Instead of relying only on harsh overhead lighting, consider incorporating more ambient lighting throughout the bathroom space. This could be achieved by adding new lighting elements or installing dimmer switches. Flexible lighting options in visually appealing fixtures create an environment that is as fashionable as it is functional. Whether you want soft light for a long soak or bright light to prep for the day, you will have options.

When it comes to home design, bathrooms are just as important as any other room. By incorporating unexpected design in these frequently used rooms, you’ll create spaces that reflect your style and intrigue visitors. With a little creativity and effort, the bathroom can become a stunning space in your home.