Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-11-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – Are you tired of the same old adventureless vacations? Consider staying at a dude ranch! Vacationing at a dude ranch is a chance to experience the cowboy lifestyle in incredible locations.

Dude ranches have been around for over a century. Thanks to the hard work of the Dude Ranchers’ Association (DRA), these ranches have been able to continue to offer visitors the singular experience of living the western way of life.

To celebrate 100 years of preserving this special way of life and the wonderful environment in which dude ranching takes place, the DRA offers this helpful primer on dude ranches, so you can begin planning your own western adventure vacation.

What is a dude ranch?

Dude ranches (also known as guest ranches) are the original western vacation. In the late 19th century, East Coast and Midwest city dwellers, or “dudes,” began visiting working cattle ranches as a way to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

During their stay, visitors found a home away from home where they could discover adventure, reconnect with nature and nourish their body and soul. Dude and guest ranches have continued to offer visitors a chance to unplug while enjoying horseback riding, fishing, hiking, archery and other outdoor adventures, all while preserving the heritage and lifestyle of the American West.

Why should I vacation at a dude ranch?

A dude ranch vacation is like nothing else you’ve ever experienced. Much like the dudes of the past, you can get away from the stresses and responsibilities of modern living. Instead, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a taste of the western lifestyle.

For a solo traveler, a dude ranch stay allows you to get in touch with yourself while surrounded by forests, mountains and streams. Couples can use it as an opportunity for romance and connection. Families, big and small, can bond over shared activities and create lifelong memories. There’s something for everyone!

How do I choose a dude ranch?

Each dude ranch offers its own flavor of adventure. With almost 100 members in the DRA, you can choose from ranches that focus on horseback riding over unique terrain, cattle work and/or luxury amenities. From small, intimate guest ranches to traditional working cattle ranches to large resort-style ranches, there is a ranch to fit every budget and dream vacation.

All DRA member ranches are thoroughly vetted to ensure they offer all-inclusive getaways — including meals, lodging and most activities — and demonstrate the Association’s six core values: horses, hats, hospitality, heritage, honesty and heart.

If you need help narrowing your options, you can use the DRA’s handy ranch filtering system, or you can discuss your needs and expectations with a dude ranch expert. They can help you choose the ideal getaway based on location, ranch size, accommodations, riding programs, kids’ programs, lodging, food and activities. Call or email the DRA at 307-587-2339 or info@duderanch.org.

Are you ready to saddle up?

Don’t settle for an ordinary vacation. No matter where you choose to stay, you can expect an all-inclusive experience that welcomes you with warmth, hospitality, horses and the great outdoors. To start planning your dude ranch getaway, visit DudeRanch.org.

2025-10-30T10:31:00

(BPT) – If you’ve ever thought about gut support, you’re not alone. In fact, nearly 75% of U.S. adults experience digestive discomfort at least once a month, and approximately 40% aren’t comfortable doing day-to-day activities because of gut health issues. If this sounds familiar, the first thing you should do is consult with your health care provider. Additionally, you may want to consider resetting your health regimen this season, with a focus on supporting your digestive well-being.

To help you get started, Nature Made^®, the No. 1 Pharmacist Recommended vitamin and supplement brand* with over 50 years of expertise in delivering high-quality products with ingredients backed by science, is offering gut wellness tips to guide your seasonal revamp.

Focus on fiber

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s helpful to set specific goals for boosting your fiber intake and discover fiber-rich foods you actually enjoy. That way, it’ll be easy to incorporate more fiber into your everyday routine through foods like fruit, leafy greens, whole grains, legumes, seeds and nuts.

How much fiber should you aim for? Try to consume about 21-38 grams of fiber per day. To increase your daily fiber intake:

• include at least five servings of fruit/vegetables per day
• sub whole grains for refined grains
• eat oatmeal for breakfast
• consume beans and lentils daily
• swap popcorn for chips or candy

Drink more water with meals

Sipping water as you eat throughout the day aids in your digestive processes and promotes regularity, helping break down the food in your system so your body can absorb nutrients better. Not a fan of plain water? Spruce it up with slices of cucumber, lime or lemon, and flavored ice cubes, or opt for sparkling water.

Choose smart biotic supplements

Want to help your good gut bacteria do its job? Check out Nature Made^® Triple-Action Biotics Gummies, the latest innovation from the leading national vitamin and supplement broadline brand. Nature Made Triple-Action Biotics Gummies feature three grams of inulin prebiotic fiber per serving to nourish good gut bacteria, 2B CFU of clinically studied IS-2 probiotic to support regularity and 50 milligrams of clinically studied LP20 postbiotic to support immune health.^†

Available in a delicious raspberry lemon flavor, Nature Made Triple-Action Biotics Gummies are gluten free, pectin based and made with natural fruit flavors with colors derived from natural sources.

Nature Made Triple-Action Biotics Gummies are now available exclusively via Costco.com and nationwide in Costco warehouses. Learn more and shop for them at Costco.com.

Exercise to support gut health

Did you know physical activity can support your gut muscles, too? Getting regular exercise helps support your circulation and metabolism, which contribute to a healthy digestive system. Research shows that exercise may even support the beneficial microbes in your gut.

What kinds of exercise are best? Anything that gets your heart rate moving faster than normal and helps you work up a sweat, including walking, biking, dancing or even yardwork and housework. Always be sure to consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen.

Get your z’s

Research shows that there’s a connection between getting enough good-quality sleep and a healthy gut microbiome. Since sleep is so crucial to your well-being, it’s always a good idea to review your sleep habits to ensure you’re getting the rest you need. Experts usually recommend eight hours for adults, but these needs can vary by individual, so try tracking your sleep for a couple of weeks to see how much you really need to feel your best.

Using these tips, your fall regimen can help support your gut health, which is a key component of overall wellness. By supporting this fundamental part of your body’s functions, you may also start to notice benefits in other aspects of your well-being.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

* Based on a survey of pharmacists who recommend branded vitamins and supplements.

2025-10-29T10:01:00

(BPT) – For small business owners, the holidays are crucial to their success. This year is no different, as small businesses expect holiday shopping to contribute nearly half (47%) of their total yearly revenue in 2025 — up from 33% in 2024. In addition, 93% of business owners say the holiday season is vital to their success this year, according to the Intuit QuickBooks 2025 Holiday Shopping Report. Data from the annual survey uncovers surprising consumer trends, as shoppers balance economic anxieties with the value of gift-giving, plus useful insights that reveal how consumers are utilizing tools like AI to aid their shopping.

The good news? Despite inflation concerns, consumers feel more financially confident than last year, actually planning to increase holiday spending by 25% this holiday season. This year’s holiday data from Intuit also estimates that $109 billion of this consumer spending is expected to go to small businesses, with 48% of consumers saying they “shop small” to support local businesses and strengthen their neighborhoods, providing a healthy boost in potential revenue for these businesses.

The value of gift-giving

The survey findings also reveal that while rising costs continue to play a role in consumer spending, gift-giving is one area they intend to prioritize this year. Nearly half of the respondents (47%) shared that they’re cutting back in other areas to expand their gift budget, including reducing discretionary purchases like dining out and traveling, and even essentials like groceries and healthcare expenses.

The desire to give to family and loved ones is the driving impulse, with 42% of consumers saying gift-giving feels even more important than ever this year. Additional Intuit research, from Mailchimp’s 2025 Holiday Shopping Unwrapped report, reinforces these sentiments, as the report found that over half of shoppers (52%) say their top motivation for giving gifts this year is to bring joy to others.

Here are some additional insights that can help small business owners make the most of their sales and revenue potential this holiday season.

Plan for peak shopping moments

The holiday shopping rush peaks in November, when 45% of consumers expect to do most of their buying. Thanksgiving is a key shopping moment, as Mailchimp data reveals that 71% of U.S. consumers make a purchase on this day. Many start even earlier, with nearly one in three starting holiday shopping in October.

To prepare for these busy shopping moments, small businesses should ensure they’re equipped with the right digital tools that can easily track and manage inventory in real time to meet the demands of shoppers, and ultimately, help increase their sales potential.

Help guide shoppers through search

The number of consumers planning to use AI tools to assist with gift buying has increased 70% from last year. Shoppers say the main benefits of using AI are to uncover better prices and discounts (64%), find new products (51%) and get personalized recommendations (47%).

To help shoppers find their products and services, small businesses should make sure they’re not just focusing on search engine optimization (SEO), but also generative engine optimization (GEO), which helps to optimize their content to increase the likelihood of their business and products appearing in AI-driven search results.

Use marketing channels that matter most

Over half of consumers surveyed (58%) shared that receiving coupon codes is a tactic most likely to get them to make a purchase. Reminders about sales or promotions sent via email (40%) and SMS (31%) are also influential in encouraging them to buy, even more than social media ads or influencer recommendations.

Small businesses should ensure they’re using a personalized omnichannel marketing strategy across email and SMS to alert customers to special deals and promotions — and sending timely reminders to help convert the sale.

Mobile is a must, but in-store shopping remains a priority

Two-thirds of consumers (65%) say they’ll use phones to browse, compare prices and buy gifts, with the biggest draws being easy mobile checkout (51%), mobile-friendly websites (47%) and retailer apps offering exclusive deals (43%). For that reason, business owners will want to be sure that they provide those key services to mobile shoppers.

But in-store shopping is still important: Over half of shoppers (52%) plan to shop both online and in-store, so small businesses should ensure they’re taking an omnichannel approach across their sales strategy.

Use AI tools strategically

Small businesses are dramatically increasing use of AI in business operations, with nearly three-fourths (74%) planning to use AI during the holiday season compared to just 30% last year, representing a 147% increase. Plus, 42% of these businesses report they’ll be using AI during the holiday season for the first time. From predictive inventory management to customer segmentation, AI tools are helping small businesses stay ahead of demand, but leveraging the right tools to fit their needs is key.

Businesses should look to adopt AI-powered tools that do the work for them, including key tasks like auto-generating invoices and scaling ability to send personalized email and messaging campaigns, versus ones that add more complexity or require additional steps to complete tasks.

To learn more about how small businesses can optimize holiday sales and find the right tools to help their business grow and thrive, visit these resources from QuickBooks and Mailchimp.

2025-10-29T15:01:00

(BPT) – Temperatures are chilly, days are shorter, and it’s that time of year that everyone tries to avoid getting sick. In fact, adults on average get two to three colds per year, mostly over the fall and winter months. To help adults and kids alike avoid coughs and sniffles, it’s important to tackle wellness holistically by incorporating easy, practical tips into your everyday routine.

“While it’s natural for illnesses to circulate this time of year, there are many ways to adjust your routine to promote a more robust immune system and help you recover more quickly if you do get sick,” said Megan Roosevelt, RDN. “Simple everyday habits, from frequent handwashing, prioritizing sleep, eating real whole foods and utilizing the many amazing health benefits of herbs, can help minimize your chance of getting sick and keep you feeling your best!”

Here are simple tips to support your immune system and overall well-being this season:

Eat flavorful fermented foods to support gut health

A number of foods that have been fermented using natural processes and which contain probiotics have been shown to improve gut health. With a healthier gut, you’re building a stronger immune system, as most of your body’s immune cells reside within your gut.

To support gut health, try foods that have been naturally pickled or fermented. Yogurt is an easy and accessible option that strengthens your gut biome. Try low or no-sugar yogurts and top with seasonal fresh fruits like apples or persimmons. Add pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of maple syrup for a tasty and wholesome meal or snack.

Some other foods featuring fermented ingredients that are vibrant with seasonal flavors include pumpkin sourdough bread topped with apple butter, butternut squash soup with miso, and grilled cheese with kimchi filling.

One particularly versatile fermented food to keep on hand during cold season is apple cider vinegar. Use this ingredient in dressings and glazes for a tasty zip and don’t forget to add a splash to hot apple cider for a delicious health boost.

Take daily herbal supplements to supercharge the immune system

Introducing herbs with research-backed functional benefits into your daily regimen lowers inflammation and strengthens gut health, ultimately building up your immune system. An easy way to incorporate herbs is through supplements, like those from Harker Herbals, which draw from the power of plants.

For example, with ingredients like high-strength Echinacea, Astragalus, Eleuthero, Ashwagandha, Reishi mushrooms and Siberian Ginseng, Immune + Energy Daily helps nourish overworked adrenals, supports healthy energy levels and promotes optimal nutrient absorption, especially important during cold and flu season. Incorporating them into your morning routine in tea, a golden milk latte, or a comforting seasonal recipe like Winter Warming Energy Brew helps establish ongoing daily habits.

For active kids with busy schedules, fussy eaters who need a helping hand and little ones needing energy and immune resilience to navigate daycare and school, Children’s Immune Daily helps support a resilient immune system. Incorporating the herbs into something children already love like Immune Boosting Gummies will boost your children’s vitamin C and help maintain immune resilience all year long.

For 40+ years, the expert herbalists at Harker Herbals have blended botanicals into products trusted by generations to restore health and live well. Every formula is made in a GMP-certified facility using only the finest, premium natural ingredients.

“Incorporating Harker Herbals into my family’s daily routine is an effective tool in our wellness toolkit during cold and flu season,” added Roosevelt.

Plan movement to improve mood and overall wellness

Exercise is always important for overall mental and physical health, and it’s even more important during cold and sickness season. But as the weather gets colder and days get shorter, it’s tough to muster the motivation to get active.

It’s important to be intentional to get over any seasonal slumps. Try setting a daily time for movement so you can create a routine that helps you feel your best. For example, yoga in the morning before your shower, a walk over lunch to look at the evolving outdoor landscape, or a workout class after work before you go home and put on pajama pants.

Keep in mind, sunlight can impact your mood and the circadian rhythms that regulate your sleep cycles. A little sun each day will help you feel less sluggish, so put on some boots and layer up for an outdoor hike and you’ll feel energized by the time you return. If it’s just too chilly, try some exercise close to a window so you enjoy some natural light and feel rejuvenated even from the comfort of the indoors.

Prioritize relaxation and sleep to help the body heal

Quality sleep is crucial for optimal health, but the change in seasons and daylight saving time can mess with routines. The CDC recommends preschoolers sleep 10-13 hours per day (including naps), school-aged children sleep 9-12 hours and teenagers get 8-10 hours of sleep. For adults, 7-9 hours is recommended each night.

To support everyone’s sleep schedules, establish a consistent family evening routine by reducing screen time two hours before bed. Then, create a cozy environment by dimming the lights and quieting noise levels. This can help boost relaxation and ensure the hours spent in bed are quality ones.

Embrace the coziness that comes with the cool months. Much like the Danish concept of hygge that encourages contentment with comfortable living during the cold seasons, you can make time to relax in soft blankets, light a candle, or switch to a small lamp and enjoy some warm tea (caffeine-free herbal teas, like chamomile, are good options in the evening for relaxation).

Additionally, try incorporating an evening family meditation after dinner, as meditation has been proven to improve the quality of sleep, and it sets the tone to wind down after a busy day. There are many different meditation apps available that can help make this an easy daily habit.

During cold and flu season, with so many family, friend and school outings and gatherings, it can feel like illness is constantly making the rounds. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you’ll feel your best throughout the season.

Learn more at HarkerHerbals.com, and find products to support your family’s wellness at Amazon.com: Harker Herbals.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

2025-10-29T06:01:00

(BPT) – Content creators that stand out from the crowd attract and engage followers at first glance — with striking, high-quality visuals. If you want to boost your storytelling with images that stop the scroll, relying on your phone’s camera might not cut it. Instead, take a page from the pros by using cameras and lenses specifically designed to meet your needs.

Whether you’re a rugged, outdoorsy vlogger, a top fashionista or any other kind of creator, Canon has you covered.

“You won’t believe the difference really great photos make for eye-catching content,” said Mason Olds, executive vice president, Business Partner Group President, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “And we’re happy the content creator community is discovering how Canon’s line of products can enhance their stories. No matter what kind of content you make, we can help you meet your needs — and speak to the audience you want to reach through your unique images.”

What kind of content creator are you? Find your niche and the right camera kits to help you achieve your goals.

1. Vanlife Vlogger: Epic shots on the open road

Looking for tools to help you capture the journey just as you’re experiencing it? You’ll want to check out the Canon EOS R6 Mark II kit, a weather-resistant, vari-angle LCD and electronic viewfinder (EVF) great for any-light shooting. It’s ideal for rugged adventures and stunning visuals.

Lenses and accessories: To convey sweeping landscapes in crisp detail, you’ll want a wide lens like the RF14-35mm F4 L IS USM, while the RF24-105mm F4 L IS USM is a standard lens that’s versatile for capturing vlogs or campfire scenes. Need a compact zoom for distant subjects? The RF70-200mm F4 L IS USM telephoto lens will do the trick.

Why it’s fire: Image-stabilized 4K video with this camera and L-series lenses make every bumpy road look cinematic.

2. Social media chef: Mouthwatering visuals

Whip up drool-worthy content in the kitchen with the Canon EOS R5 Mark II kit, designed for vibrant colors and livestream flair. Its 45 MP sensor captures rich food textures and colors to make your content look good enough to eat.

Lenses and accessories: The RF16-28mm F2.8 IS STM wide lens is amazing for bright overhead kitchen shots, and the RF28-70mm F2.8 IS STM standard lens is flexible for vlogs and medium shots. Need to nab close-ups of garnishes and tweezer-worthy plating? The RF100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM macro lens will hit the spot.

Why it’s fire: High-res detail and bright f/2.8 lenses capture every sizzle, leveling up your streams.

3. GRWM (Get Ready With Me): Flawless makeup and fashion

You’ll slay all your makeup tutorials and outfit transitions with the help of the compact Canon PowerShot V1 kit, outstanding for beauty creators due to its 1.4-inch Type sensor with skin-smoothing effects for pro-quality video.

Accessory: The HG-100TBR Tripod Grip with BR-E1 Remote will make your hands-free filming easier than ever.

Why it’s fire: Scene Intelligent Auto mode and fast autofocus deliver stunning indoor results — without the gear hassle.

4. Action junkie: Heart-pounding stunts

Looking for the right camera to catch every thrill? The Canon EOS R6 Mark II kit is built for speed and durability, with high-speed bursts and 4K 120fps for epic slow-mo takes.

Lenses and accessories: The RF16-28mm F2.8 IS STM wide lens lets you capture dynamic wide shots, while the versatile RF28-70mm F2.8 IS STM standard lens is great for action vlogs. And the RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM telephoto lens will stay sharp even for far-off shots. Need greater flexibility for your action lighting setups? You’ll want the Speedlite EL-5 and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E10 for compact, weather-resistant lighting.

Why it’s fire: The tough build of the camera and bright f/2.8 lenses keep stunts vibrant in virtually any condition.

5. Aesthetic home cleaning: Sparkling spaces

Show off stunningly spotless vibes with the lightweight Canon EOS R50 kit, which is compact and offers beginner-friendly controls for crisp content — making it great for effortless vlogging.

Lenses and accessories: You can artfully capture full rooms in tight spaces with the RF-S10-18mm wide lens, then use the RF-S18-150mm standard lens for vlogs and details. Need a tripod that’s easy to use both for handheld or hands-free? Check out the HG-100TBR Tripod Grip with BR-E1 Remote.

Why it’s fire: The lightweight camera and wide-angle lenses make filming bright, sharp indoor content a breeze.

Ready to level up your content? Check out these and other options for all your creative storytelling at USA.Canon.com.

2025-10-28T15:31:00

(BPT) – With access to more news and social media than generations past, Gen Z parents are faced with more options than ever before when it comes to raising their own kids. In fact, a new Kiddie Academy survey of 2,000 parents of children ages 0-6 found that more than four in five parents polled (85%) agree that there’s no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to parenting, as they blend an average of three different parenting styles.

According to The Bump, parenting priorities likely reflect the environments each generation grew up in. For example, millennials who came of age in the ’90s have seen a growing cultural focus on mental health, while Gen Zers, who came of age during a challenging post-COVID job market, see the need to be “practical, resilient and future-ready.”

Here are three ways Gen Zers parent differently from their parents:

Tough love trumps warm-and-fuzzy

Gen Z parents prioritize preparing their child for the real world (54%). And when asked how similar or different their parenting styles were to how they were raised, 40% of those surveyed said their approach was “somewhat” to “very different” from their parents. This paradigm shift in parenting reflects the real-world focus of Gen Zers compared to previous generations, notably their own parents. It’s more “actions have consequences” than “trophies for everyone.” There’s an intentional focus on preparing children for life’s inevitable disappointments instead of sheltering them. Survey findings also revealed these younger parents follow their own intuition (47%) slightly more than they follow their parents’ advice (46%).

Gen Z parents face generational trauma head on

Despite Gen Z being the first generation raised with “gentle parenting” in mind, only 32% employ this approach as parents themselves, instead leaning more towards “cycle-breaking parenting” (41%) which focuses on healing generational trauma by actively identifying and addressing negative family patterns. Not only does this parenting style require self-awareness and empathy, it takes courage to face unresolved issues and uncomfortable emotions.

Gen Zers parent each child uniquely

The majority of Gen Z parents are choosing parenting styles based on what their individual child needs — rather than trying to make their preferred style work regardless of their child’s personality. And they’re tailoring their parenting style to suit the circumstances as well as the child. What’s more, 84% of parents surveyed say their styles have evolved as their children have gotten older.

Perhaps because they’re having fewer children than previous generations and delaying having children due to the desire to achieve financial stability first, Gen Zers plan to be less traditional about raising children. They have a strong desire to make the world a better place and model this outlook for their children. Consequently, Gen Z parents are using a mix of styles focused on prioritizing real-world consequences, healing generational trauma and treating each child as a unique individual. And they’re flexing flexibility by being willing to change their approach as their children grow.

“What’s true across generations is that parents are learning to parent as they go,” said Joy Turner, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy. “Creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported and loved is ultimately the most important thing we can do for our little ones.”

2025-10-28T11:31:00

(BPT) – Have you noticed that your family’s grocery bill has gone up? You’re not alone. According to a recent Save A Lot survey, 79% of respondents say their average grocery costs have increased, compared to just three months ago.

With the rising price of groceries, it can be difficult to feed your kids quality food on a budget. However, there are plenty of options that offer flavor and value. Check out these 10 must-have lunch items that kids will enjoy at a price parents will love.

1. Trail mix

Trail mix is a convenient and versatile food that’s perfect for a lunchtime treat or as a post-practice or after-workout snack. Choose a product like Nutsome Mountain Trail Mix that combines the salty taste of peanuts, almonds and cashews with sweet raisins and chocolate.

Pro tip: Portion trail mix into reusable containers or sandwich bags for an easy grab-and-go snack.

2. Chips

Chips are a classic lunch staple and snack for a reason. The salty taste, satisfying crunch and portability make chips a favorite for kids and parents. Pick up a couple of bags of J. Higgs Kettle Cooked Chips for thick chips that are great on their own or as a sandwich topping for added saltiness and texture.

3. Deli meat

Deli meats are a tasty sandwich staple, but that’s not their only use. Try rolling Farmington Select Deli Meat Ultra Thin Lower Sodium Oven Roasted Turkey with cream cheese to create pinwheels or simply cut them up as part of a casual charcuterie board for lunch or as an after-school snack.

4. String cheese

String cheese is a fun snack for kids, old and young. This handheld snack is great for eating between classes or meetings. Choose a product like Coburn Farms String Cheese, which is made with milk that’s 100% free from artificial growth hormones.

5. Fruit snacks

Fruit snacks are a sweet way to satisfy hunger. In addition to adding these fruit-flavored snacks to your kids’ lunch boxes, consider keeping a few bags of Tipton Grove Fruit Snacks in the car. They’re made with real fruit and are free of fat and preservatives, so you can keep hunger at bay when running errands or on the car ride back from school.

6. Applesauce

Whether you eat it on its own as a snack, as a side dish for lunch or as an accompaniment to pork chops for dinner, applesauce always satisfies. Opt for a product like Fairhill Farms Unsweetened Applesauce that leans in to apples’ natural sweetness for a light, no-added-sugar snack that’s perfect any time of day.

7. Crackers

Crackers are simple, shelf-stable and easily pair with other great snacks like cheese and deli meats. Pick up a couple of boxes of Newbury Mills Golden Rounds Crackers. Not only are they great for an individual snack, but you can add them to a snack board when hosting your child’s group study sessions.

8. Peanut and honey spread

Level up a regular peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a spread like Nutsome Creamy Honey Roasted Peanut & Honey Spread. The salty and sweet combination of nuts and honey pairs well with any jelly flavor.

Pro tip: Pack a small container of peanut and honey spread so kids can dip an apple slice or celery.

9. Tacos

Want a meal that pulls double duty? Pick up a Señora Verde Taco Kit for Monday night dinner and pack leftovers for a delicious Taco Tuesday lunch. This easy meal kit comes with 12 shells, sauce and seasoning, so all you have to do is pick your taco filling.

10. Lasagna

Another meal that you can make for dinner and eat for lunch the next day is lasagna. Choose a frozen meal like Mantia’s Signature Lasagna with Meat Sauce for a tasty meal that’s simple to heat up when you’ve come home from a long day at the office or sports practice during the week.

This fall, don’t stress about feeding your family on a budget. Pick up these and other affordable, high-quality foods at your local Save A Lot. To find your nearest store, visit https://savealot.com/coupons/*?showStoreLocator=true.

2025-10-28T06:01:00

(BPT) – Millions are in the throes of navigating the endless holiday gifting gauntlet. Trying to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list is stressful. And expensive. What do you get your picky teenager? Your kid’s teachers? Your coworker you barely know?

Here’s the ultimate holiday hack: the perfect holiday gift is giving recipients the freedom to choose for themselves. Skip the stress, delight the people you’re buying for and protect your budget with everyone’s favorite present — gift cards.

Gift cards have been the most requested present for nearly 20 years. And for good reason. They’re versatile, thoughtful and empower the people on your holiday shopping list to get exactly what they want.

There’s always a perfect fit

Imagine giving a gift that’s always a hit, never needs to be returned and puts a smile on everyone’s face. That’s the magic of a gift card.

No more worrying if your aunt likes the color sweater you gave her or if your brother has already read the book you picked. They get to choose precisely what they truly want, eliminating the hassle of returns for both of you.

One of the best parts about gift cards is that people can use them however they like. They can splurge on something they’ve been eyeing for a while, save them for a bigger purchase down the road, or even tuck them away for a rainy day. It’s like giving “free money” to use when they want or need.

Personalizing a gift card is easier than you think

Gift cards give you endless ways to make your gift feel personal. Choose brands they love, deliver it however you want (in-person, in a text, through an email or in fancy greeting card), pick the perfect amount and even pair it with a little something extra.

Need a gift for your BFF across the country? Send an animated digital gift card that will arrive instantly and make them laugh. Don’t want to worry about carrying wrapped gifts as you travel out of state to visit family? Gift cards are light and easy to pack.

Some tips to make it personal:

• If you’re not sure of their favorite brand, go for a themed card they can redeem at more than one brand for plenty of options.
• Match the holiday vibe by choosing festive, holiday-themed gift cards.
• Add some flair with fun packaging, like a decorative box or miniature stocking.
• Include a few heartfelt words for the recipient.
• Pair gift cards with another small gift, like a coffee shop gift card with a cute mug or a card to the movies with a bag of gourmet popcorn.
• Don’t overlook experience-based gift cards for people who are less into stuff and more into concerts, spas or dining out.

Gift cards protect your budget

Gift cards aren’t just for giving to others. They’re also a smart budgeting tool for you.

When you’re buying a gift card, you can set your own limits by choosing the exact value on the card to avoid overspending. And the person you’re gifting? They can use it right away, put it toward something they’ve been eyeing or save it for whenever.

You can double down on saving by using gift cards to pay for items that are already on sale or discounted, which helps avoid credit card debt or debit overdraw fees. Many stores offer special gift card promotions where, in addition to buying the perfect gift for someone else, you get rewarded with a gift card to use later on yourself.

Gift cards are there when you need them

Life is busy and convenience is key, especially around the holidays. Gift cards fit right into your lifestyle, making them incredibly easy to buy and use. They’re also available to you anytime, anywhere.

Grab a few gift cards while you’re grocery shopping and avoid extra trips to different retailers. Buy them online while you’re cozied up on the couch binge-watching holiday movies. Scoop them up from a retailer’s app while on the train headed to work.

Gift cards stay convenient from purchase to use and everyone can store them their own way. For example, your dad may want to keep a physical card in his wallet while your techie colleague may want to add a card to their digital wallet. Doesn’t matter their preference — in the end, the choice is all theirs.

Gift cards spread joy

Take the stress out of gifting and give the gift of joy. Gift cards are the thoughtful, flexible, budget-friendly choice that everyone on your list (including you) will appreciate. Happy shopping!

2025-10-27T07:01:01

(BPT) – Sponsored by Merck

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive system. It affects about 10 million people around the world.^[1],[2] The two main types of IBD are ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD).

Do you or someone you love have moderate to severe UC or CD? You may want to learn about one of two clinical trials. In these clinical trials, researchers are evaluating an investigational medicine to see if it is safe and effective for people with moderate to severe UC or CD.

“Clinical trials help researchers learn how our bodies respond to medicines and other treatments,” said Dr. Richa Shukla, Associate Professor of Medicine-Gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine. “Clinical trials, including those for UC and CD, test whether investigational treatments or new uses for existing treatments are safe and work well.”^[3]

ATLAS-UC: Clinical trial for people living with moderate to severe active UC

More than 5 million people around the world have UC.^[4] It is a type of IBD where the immune system attacks the large intestine and rectum, causing sores and inflammation.^[5]

How to qualify

You may qualify for this study if you:

• Are between 16 and 80 years old
• Have had active, moderate to severe UC for at least 3 months
• Have taken other medications that either did not help your UC, or caused side effects you could not tolerate
• Do not have CD or any other type of IBD

ARES-CD: Clinical trial for people living with moderate to severe active CD

CD affects millions of people around the world and is becoming more common.^[6] It causes inflammation that can happen anywhere in the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus.

How to qualify

You may qualify for this study if you:

• Are between 16 and 80 years old
• Have had active, moderate to severe CD for at least 3 months
• Have taken other medications that either did not help your CD, or caused side effects you could not tolerate
• Do not have UC or any other type of IBD

“Diseases can impact people differently based on their age, gender, weight, race, ethnicity, and other factors,” said LaShanda Gordon, Clinical Trial Diversity Program Lead at Merck. “Therefore, it’s important for clinical trials to include people from a wide variety of backgrounds.”^[3]

Please note that people may or may not directly benefit from being in a clinical trial. Being in a clinical trial is voluntary, and you are free to leave at any time for any reason. Your personal information will stay private throughout the clinical trial. The study doctor can answer any questions you may have, including those related to potential risks and benefits of participation.

Talk to your doctor to learn more and find out if you may qualify for one of these clinical trials. For more information, visit Merck IBD Studies.

Copyright © 2025 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

[1] Li Y, Wang Y, Sun Q, et al. Inhibiting the activation of enteric glial cells alleviates intestinal inflammation and comorbid anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors in the ulcerative colitis mice. Neurochem Int. 2024 Sep:178:105789. doi: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105789. Epub 2024 Jun 7.

[2] Pathiyil MM, Jena A, Raju AKV, et al. Representation and reporting of diverse groups in randomised controlled trials of pharmacological agents in inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2023 Dec;8(12):1143-1151. doi: 10.1016/S2468-1253(23)00193-0. Epub 2023 Oct 10.

[3] Merck. Let’s Talk Trials. https://www.merckclinicaltrials.com/Lets-Talk-Trials/. Accessed September 16, 2025.

[4] Le Berre C, Honap S, Peyrin-Biroulet L. Ulcerative colitis. Lancet. 2023 Aug 12;402(10401):571-584. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00966-2.

[5] National Institutes of Health: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Ulcerative Colitis Definition and Facts. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/ulcerative-colitis. Accessed June 20, 2025.

[6] Alatab, Sudabeh et al. The global, regional, and national burden of inflammatory bowel disease in 195 countries and territories, 1990–2017: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017. The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Volume 5, Issue 1, 17–30. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langas/article/PIIS2468-1253(19)30333-4/fulltext. Accessed June 20, 2025.

2025-10-27T07:01:01

(BPT) – Love sharing the thrill of the gridiron with fellow football fans in the comfort of your own home? Take your homegating game over the top by creating an epic atmosphere, before your friends even get out of their cars.

These tips will help you score big with your next watch party, from the experts at Govee, a proud partner of the Miami Dolphins.

1. Set the scene brilliantly

Nobody will have trouble finding your house in time for kickoff when you illuminate your home’s exterior with home team colors. Thanks to the latest smart features, you can easily control and customize your lighting with the Govee Home App, or use voice command as Govee smart lights work with Google Home and Amazon Alexa, and are compatible with Matter for even broader smart home connectivity.

Showcase your team’s colors with the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Prism, featuring 100 feet of 36 triple-color lighting heads and over 100 scene mode options. Built with custom LEDs, proprietary chipsets, and the LuminBlend™ color management system, it delivers more than 16 million vibrant colors and seamless gradients, turning any home exterior into a personalized canvas for holidays and celebrations. Say goodbye to dull, monotone lighting and embrace a dynamic palette that proudly displays your team spirit. Designed for all-weather performance, these lights remain reliable through heavy rain and extreme temperatures ranging from -22°F to 140°F. It offers an immersive, intelligent lighting experience all year round. Prism offers smart control via Alexa, Google Home and Matter compatibility.

Other options available for decorating your home with lights include Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Pro, equipped with 100 feet of 60 RGBIC (Red, Green, Blue and Independent Control) LED lights, with a choice of 75 scene modes, or Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights 2, which offer 50 feet of RGBIC outdoor lights with 36 LED lights for 100 scene modes.

Add a colorful welcome to your yard for an exciting football weekend with Govee RGBIC Outdoor Neon Rope Light along your patio, porch, deck or walkways. Measuring a whopping 32.8 feet, these patio decorations readily bend to fit any desired pattern. These rope lights can even detect music and audio to match the lighting effects in real time to enhance the game-time atmosphere.

Make a visual statement celebrating your home team using Govee Net Lights, with 64 modes to light up your yard. You can even upload pictures and GIFs for instant animated decoration. Thanks to new AI-generated lighting using the Govee AI Lighting Bot or uploading images, you can embrace a world of infinite creativity to celebrate your favorite team and players. Simply lay the mesh net light onto any bush, shrubbery or other place in your yard, use the cable ties to fasten it down and plug in the cable for instant outdoor ambience!

With these options, you can personalize your ambiance easily with a single command to suit any occasion, including the biggest game of the season.

2. Brighten your outdoor watch party

Love watching the game on your deck or patio? Create a festive party atmosphere with Govee Outdoor S14 Bulb String Lights 2, providing 48 feet of Smart RGBIC lights that let you effortlessly fill your patio with vivid team colors. Best yet, you’ll enjoy hassle-free installation without needing pro tools or complex steps.

Help friends navigate your yard as evening falls with Govee Outdoor Pathway Lights 2. These IP66-rated waterproof patio lights offer over 60 scene modes and 8 music modes. You can independently control colors and brightness in upper and lower sections, perfectly blending vibrant party modes with functional white light to create the perfect outdoor watch party ambience, well after the sun goes down.

You can also amp up the fun during your outdoor watch party with Govee Outdoor Garden Lights, sporting a nature-inspired design resembling trees to integrate harmoniously into any garden decor — and millions of color combinations to choose from.

Perfect for gardens, pathways and patios, shine a spotlight on the occasion with Govee Outdoor Spotlights 2, equipped with upgraded RGBWIC beads and a 16-bit LuminBlend™ color management system, delivering 16 million vivid colors that are ideal for making your outdoor party stand out. Enjoy one of 64 preset scene modes or create your own customized personal effects. With both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, you can adjust brightness, color and scenes with just a tap.

3. Dazzle your guests with curtains of light

Curtain lights help you create distinct visual effects to highlight windows or outdoors spaces like porches, patios and pergolas with gorgeous color and sparkle.

The Govee Curtain Lights Pro offers 960 ultra-dense RGBIC LEDs for smooth animation and complex, detailed visual effects. These curtain fairy lights bring any occasion to life with over 250 preset modes, plus 10 music sync modes to let lights pulse in perfect harmony with sound — perfect for half time! You can go even bigger by combining up to three sets of these curtain lights to create a giant 16.2 × 5.77 ft display.

Govee Curtain Lights 2 is another option that provides 520 LEDs and RGBIC color changing lights to create visualized patterns and a smooth GIF display to fill windows and smaller outdoor spaces with home field vibes.

With this wide array of smart lighting options, Govee provides the ultimate home-field advantage for sports fans everywhere, offering the perfect lights to illuminate the legendary moments you share with your home team. Through the Govee Home App, you can also create custom lighting effects and use Group Control to link all their outdoor lights together, transforming your entire space into a unified display of team pride.