Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2026-04-13T20:15:00

(BPT) – Global manufacturing is entering a period of fundamental change. Geopolitical uncertainty continues to disrupt supply chains, while AI and data technologies are rapidly reshaping the production floor. At the same time, new requirements such as carbon regulations are redefining the standards of manufacturing competitiveness.

Today, the challenge is no longer simply about improving efficiency. It is about how quickly manufacturers can respond to change, optimize operations on their own and build resilient systems that continue to perform under pressure. That is why many global companies are now building intelligent manufacturing systems across production and logistics, and those that can apply such systems faster than others will be best positioned to secure manufacturing competitiveness.

In this interview, Song Si-yong, head of the Smart Factory Solution Center at LG Electronics, explains what determines success in manufacturing innovation and how we are approaching the future of smart factory solutions.

Q1. Many people may not realize that LG Electronics (LG) provides smart factory solutions. How did LG come to build capabilities in this field, and what differentiates the company today?

The success of a smart factory solution ultimately depends on one question: Who has actually designed, built and operated real factories?

Experience and data validated in real manufacturing environments are critical. They do more than demonstrate technical capability. They help customers stabilize operations more quickly and improve the chances of successfully building and running advanced factories.

We are a global manufacturer that has directly designed, built and operated more than 60 factories around the world over the past 70 years. Leveraging AI and robotics, we have led the implementation of smart factory systems not only for ourselves, but also for other LG Group affiliates. Through this, we have accumulated practical experience across a wide range of manufacturing environments.

In the process, we have built vertical expertise across industries including secondary batteries, displays, automotive components and logistics. That field experience has been combined with more than 770 terabytes of manufacturing data, evolving into what we call LG’s manufacturing intelligence. Since AI can only make sound decisions in a factory when it is trained on high-quality data, data is often described as the key to smart factory success.

In addition, through our end-to-end offering, we enable integrated change management. Our solutions cover the entire manufacturing value chain — from production and logistics to quality — and support the full factory lifecycle, from diagnosis and consulting to design, implementation, ramp-up and renewal, all in a turnkey format.

Our integrated solutions and accumulated experience across industries and regions give us a strong foundation for applying solutions reliably in very different manufacturing environments. As a result, orders are now increasing rapidly not only from LG Group affiliates, but also from global external customers.

Q2. What results have you seen so far? How is the market responding?

The strength of our solutions has already been proven globally.

At LG Smart Park in Changwon, productivity improved by approximately 17%, while automation levels increased to around 45%. At our plant in Tennessee, automation reached 60%, defect rates fell by 61%, and test cycle time was reduced by 22%. Both facilities were selected as Lighthouse Factories.

Based on this level of validation within LG and across LG Group affiliates, we began expanding the business more actively to external customers in 2024. Since then, we have continued to demonstrate the competitiveness of our solutions in domestic and international markets. Discussions with customers are growing across multiple industries — including automotive, secondary batteries, semiconductors, heavy industry and logistics — rather than being limited to one specific sector or operating environment, and increasingly leading to tangible collaboration.

As a result, just two years after the business started, we recorded KRW 500 billion in annual orders in 2025. Going forward, our goal is not simply to deliver short-term project results, but to establish ourselves as a long-term partner that helps strengthen our customers’ manufacturing competitiveness.

Q3. What is LG’s mid- to long-term strategy for the smart factory solutions business?

We are pursuing a strategy that focuses both on global expansion and expanding the coverage of our solutions.

First, we are broadening our customer base by expanding across industries and regions, such as North America and Southeast Asia, based on existing references. At the same time, we are deepening our offerings by applying advanced technologies such as physical AI, while also expanding the scope of our solutions through collaboration with global partners.

We are also continuing to strengthen our risk-minimization framework across every phase — before, during and after deployment — so that, as a solution engineering partner, we can help customers adopt smart factory solutions more reliably.

Based on this strategy, we aim to grow this business into a billion-dollar global business in 2030.

Q4. What differentiates LG’s physical AI?

What sets our physical AI apart is that it is grounded in real manufacturing environments. It is built on manufacturing data accumulated across our global production sites, along with years of hands-on experience in production automation. On that foundation, we are gradually addressing labor-intensive processes that have been difficult to address through conventional automation by applying physical AI-based unmanned solutions.

We are now expanding these capabilities beyond our own manufacturing sites to LG Smart Factory customers around the world, with applications across high-growth industries such as semiconductors, automotive, heavy industry and pharmaceuticals.

Q5. What does LG mean by “solution engineering partner”?

We do not aim simply to provide individual solutions. We pursue solution engineering — designing answers to the unstructured problems our customers face.

That is because the essence of manufacturing innovation lies in solving problems beyond the technology itself.

Drawing on decades of manufacturing experience, we define the root of the problem and apply technologies validated in our Lighthouse Factories to deliver tailored solutions for each customer.

Through this approach, we have developed practical answers across a wide range of environments — from ultra-precision advanced industries to large-scale heavy industries — where standardized approaches alone are often not enough. Going forward, we intend to continue building our position as a trusted partner.

Q6. What does LG believe the “factory of the future” will look like?

We believe the factory of the future will evolve into one that can think and act on its own through physical AI and manufacturing intelligence.

Built on large-scale manufacturing data, intelligent operating systems will enable people, robots and equipment to seamlessly share information and collaborate. This will allow factories to evolve into autonomous operations that are more flexible, agile and responsive to changes in their environment.

This transformation will not happen all at once. It will be built through the steady accumulation of innovation on the ground. At LG Electronics, we will continue to support our customers across the entire manufacturing lifecycle — combining proven production technologies and know-how gained through real manufacturing experience with practical, deployable physical AI solutions. In doing so, we aim to help make the factory of the future a practical reality.

We believe the factory of the future will evolve into one that can think and act on its own through physical AI and manufacturing intelligence.

Built on large-scale manufacturing data, intelligent operating systems will emerge in which people, robots and equipment seamlessly share information and collaborate, enabling factories to evolve into autonomous operations that are more flexible and agile in responding to changes in their environment.

This transformation will not happen all at once. It will be built through the steady accumulation of innovation on the ground. At LG Electronics, we will continue to support our customers across the entire manufacturing lifecycle — combining proven production technologies and know-how accumulated in real manufacturing experience with practical, deployable physical AI solutions to help make the future factory a practical reality.

2026-04-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – While kids today have more entertainment choices than ever, books still hold incredible power to inspire, engage and grow young minds. The opportunity isn’t lost — it’s actually wide open. With the right approach, parents and families can help make reading just as exciting and rewarding as anything on a screen.

Reading isn’t just about academics. It builds imagination, strengthens focus and helps kids better understand the world and people around them. From developing critical thinking skills to building empathy, books play a vital role in a child’s overall growth.

And here’s the good news: Many kids are still reading — and enjoying it. With the right encouragement, every child can find books that capture their interest and keep them coming back for more.

For more than 15 years, Renaissance, a global leader in education technology, has published the “What Kids Are Reading” report. The new 2026 edition highlights insights from 4.7 million students who read 161 million books — proving that when kids are engaged, they will read.

“There is no reason why reading can’t be as exciting for students as scrolling social media feeds,” said Dr. Gene Kerns, chief academic officer at Renaissance. “They just need to understand reading’s appeal.”

What parents need to know about book reading

The best way to improve reading skills is to read more. Becoming a better reader is fostered through more reading, and daily reading sessions have been shown to build those vital skills.

“Reading skill develops through reading itself, and there’s no shortcut around extensive practice with connected text,” said literacy and language expert Dr. Tiffany Hogan. “Children need opportunities to read frequently, across genres and formats, in school and beyond.”

Older kids need to read, too. As kids get older, they often read less. The “What Kids Are Reading” data show that most elementary students read 15 or more books per school year, but they often read fewer in middle school and beyond.

“Engagement fuels persistence, and persistence builds proficiency,” Hogan said. “Kids need texts that are both accessible and challenging — books they can successfully navigate while still encountering new vocabulary, complex sentence structures and sophisticated ideas.”

Digital reading counts. Book reading experiences support your child’s development, regardless of the medium. To increase your child’s access to interesting books, consider digital formats.

“While we should remain thoughtful about screen time and possible digital distraction, digital platforms can expand access, scaffold struggling readers and meet children where their literacy lives increasingly unfold,” Hogan said.

If your school uses Renaissance products, your kids may be able to access books digitally using the myON platform or use Accelerated Reader to find books that match their interests, demonstrate comprehension and track progress toward personalized reading goals.

What parents can do right now

Make reading as engaging as scrolling. Kids are drawn to what feels fun and rewarding. Reading can be just as exciting when kids discover stories, characters and topics they love. The key is helping them find that connection.

Encourage daily reading habits. Just 15 minutes a day can make a big difference. Consistent reading builds confidence, stamina and skill over time.

Support reading at every age. As kids grow older, their reading habits often decline — but their need for strong literacy skills only increases. Keeping reading relevant and interesting during middle and high school years is critical.

Embrace both print and digital. Books come in many formats, and digital platforms can expand access and meet kids where they are. The goal is simple: more reading, in any format.

Four simple ways to get kids reading more

1. Let them read what they love. Whether it’s graphic novels, fantasy, sports or even books slightly below their current grade level, reading for enjoyment builds confidence and positive habits.
2. Give them choice. When kids choose their own books, they’re more invested. Trips to the library or browsing online together can help them discover new favorites. You might also consider asking your favorite AI tool for book suggestions, based on your child’s age and interests. (The “What Kids Are Reading” report includes several “We Asked AI” features that highlight favorite genres and titles at different grade levels.)
3. Set small, achievable goals. Start with a goal like 15 minutes of daily reading. Progress builds momentum — and confidence.
4. Create a reading culture at home. Kids notice what adults do. When they see you reading and talking about books, it reinforces that reading matters.

The next step: Let’s get kids reading

Now is the perfect time to help your child build a lifelong reading habit. Start small, stay consistent and make reading fun.

Explore the latest insights, discover popular titles by age and interest and find new ways to inspire your child by downloading the new “What Kids Are Reading” report at renaissance.com/resources/what-kids-are-reading.

Because when kids read more, they grow more — in every way that matters.

2026-04-12T07:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• You can make a difference for the environment by starting with individual actions.
• From spending time outside to choosing the right personal care products, change starts with simple actions.
• Learn more about one company making a difference at www.tomsofmaine.com.

When it comes to the environment and supporting the planet, people often think of big, sweeping changes. But more often, change begins with everyday decisions: what to eat, how to support the community and the products you bring into your home. Individual actions can feel small, but multiplied across millions of people, they become something else entirely.

Here are four ways those everyday choices can make a difference.

1. First, spend more time in nature

Beyond the well-documented effects on mood and stress, time in nature has been shown to shift behavior — making people more considerate of those around them and more likely to take action to protect the environment.

It reflects something intuitive. The more time people spend outside — whether hiking, biking or simply walking through a park — the more invested they become in protecting those spaces.

That mindset also shapes the choices they make at home.

2. Learn more about plastic circularity

Not all plastic is created equal, and not all of it has to end up in a landfill. The concept of plastic circularity is about keeping materials in use for as long as possible, through products designed to be reused, refilled or recycled; and through better systems for recovering them at end of life.

At home, that can look like prioritizing products made from recycled content, choosing packaging that’s designed to be recycled and taking advantage of take-back programs for items your curbside bin won’t accept. Tom’s of Maine builds this thinking into its products with recyclable toothpaste tubes and a free TerraCycle program for hard-to-recycle personal care containers.¹

3. Think about the personal care products you choose

Personal care products are often bought on autopilot. A quick stop at the store, the same familiar brand tossed in the cart and the decision is done. But sourcing and formulation decisions behind those products have implications.

Tom’s of Maine was founded in 1970, the same year as the first Earth Day. Not a coincidence so much as a reflection of the same shift: the belief that responsible practices weren’t optional extras but the right way to do business. The company’s Stewardship Model guides every sourcing and formulation decision, evaluating not just what an ingredient does but where it comes from and how it gets there.

Take peppermint oil or lavender oil. When Tom’s of Maine refers to a naturally sourced ingredient, it means something that hasn’t changed much from how you’d find it in its original state, removed and concentrated, but otherwise much the same.

“Tom’s of Maine was founded on the idea that personal care shouldn’t come with compromises. We’re thoughtful about every step of the process, starting with where our ingredients come from — choosing only naturally sourced or derived ingredients and leaving out artificial flavors and fragrances altogether,” said Michelle Waring, Steward for Sustainability and Everyday Good at Tom’s of Maine.

4. Support organizations working to protect nature

American Forests, the oldest national forest conservation organization in the country, reforested more than 240,000 acres in 2024 alone. Additionally, their Tree Equity movement has expanded to more than 1,000 U.S. communities, working to ensure everyone has equitable access to green spaces and the benefits trees provide.

Tom’s of Maine is backing that work through a three-year partnership with American Forests, reflecting the brand’s broader commitment to protecting nature for generations to come. Finding an organization with a mission aligned with your values and supporting it — as Tom’s has — is how a personal value becomes collective impact.

Small choices make a real impact

Everyday decisions don’t always feel like environmental actions. But collectively, they shape the world around us — and when millions of people make them with intention, progress adds up.

To learn more about Tom’s of Maine’s ingredient sourcing, safety standards and sustainability commitments, visit www.tomsofmaine.com and www.tomsofmaine.com/pages/our-mission.

¹ Tube recyclability varies by community; check locally. TerraCycle program participation is limited.

2026-04-10T14:31:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways:

• Physical inactivity costs Americans billions each year. Prioritizing your health today pays dividends in longevity, energy and reduced healthcare costs.
• The U.S. Army is experiencing the benefits of investing in Soldier health through programs like the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system. For every $1 invested in H2F Performance Teams, the Army sees a return of over $8 in force readiness improvements.
  
• The performance triad — consisting of daily movement, quality nutrition and restorative sleep — can build a strong foundation for long-term health.

At the start of spring, many Americans are planning for the long term by reviewing and refreshing their financial portfolios, but there is one critical investment that many overlook: their own health. A recent study showed that physical inactivity costs the United States roughly $192 billion annually in healthcare expenses — an $80 billion increase from 2015 — proving that early investment in health is one expense guaranteed to pay dividends for years to come.

One organization committed to this practice is the U.S. Army. With the launch of the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system, the Army made its largest-ever investment into the well-being of Soldiers, aimed at offering the education, resources and expert guidance needed to optimize their physical, mental, nutritional, sleep and spiritual health. The results speak for themselves, with every $1 invested in H2F Performance Teams returning over $8 in force readiness improvements.

Many of the techniques used by Soldiers can be applied to anyone looking to invest in their own well-being. And while countless “quick fixes” clutter the health and fitness space, breaking it down to the fundamentals of the “performance triad” — building physical and cardiovascular readiness, ensuring proper nutrition intake and maintaining quality rest and recovery practices — often delivers the greatest impact. When combined, individuals can build a solid base for their health and fitness and improve long-term health and longevity.

Ready to invest in your future in a new way? Read on to learn how you can incorporate the performance triad into your routine:

Move your body every day to improve cardiovascular strength

Consistent daily movement is fundamental in establishing a routine that strengthens and maintains the body’s cardiovascular system — a key indicator in overall health and longevity. “Staying active is the cheapest doctor’s visit you can get a prescription for,” says Lt. Col. Jason Barber, high-performance coordinator for the Army’s World Class Athlete Program, which trains Soldier-athletes to perform at the highest level of international competition.

One way to track cardiovascular improvement is through VO2 max, the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during exercise. Barber notes that higher levels are usually associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases and improved longevity.

Barber recommends prioritizing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts to improve VO2 max. “HIIT workouts are designed to push the cardiovascular system for short periods followed by recovery. The alternation of these intensities stimulates adaptations in your heart, lungs, muscles and bloodstream, thereby increasing your ability to utilize oxygen efficiently.” To incorporate a HIIT workout into your routine, he suggests:

• Warm up with dynamic stretching or a light jog.
• Alternate between 30 seconds of a sprint, bike or row at maximum effort, followed by 90 seconds of an active recovery, like walking.
• Repeat the sequence 6-8 times.
• End with a cooldown and static stretching.

Nutrition is one of the most powerful tools for improving health, energy levels and longevity, and eating a heart-healthy diet composed of lean proteins, vegetables, fruits and whole grains will compound the work being done in the gym.

A heart-healthy diet also doesn’t mean deprivation or extreme restrictions. Maj. Kelly Kaim, lead sports dietitian for the Army’s World Class Athlete Program, says, “A very common myth is if you keep decreasing calories, you will lose weight.” Alternatively, she encourages individuals who are interested in losing weight to find their Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR), or the number of calories an individual burns for their body to function at rest. “Try not to go below this number. Doing so will often break down muscle and burn fewer calories, which in turn, can make weight loss even more difficult.”

Kaim encourages individuals to identify their RMR and track their calorie intake for a few days to see where there can be minor, sustainable modifications. “One of the first things I look at is high-calorie beverages. If someone is drinking their calories, creating a healthy deficit can be as easy as removing soda and substituting for flavored water.”

Develop a nighttime routine for a strong foundation

The third component of the performance triad is often the most overlooked. Healthy sleep hygiene is not just a nice-to-have — it is the foundation to maintaining an effective holistic routine. Without adequate sleep, your physical, nutritional and mental readiness deteriorates, with some studies suggesting that inadequate sleep can raise the risk of heart attack, dementia and diabetes, among other health conditions.

Maj. Lina Ochoa, occupational therapist and sleep domain lead for the H2F system, says, “Just like physical training and nutrition, sleep must be planned and protected. The most important factors for better sleep are consistency and routine.” While there are endless hacks for getting better sleep, Maj. Ochoa suggests five strategies:

• Find your anchor: Pick a consistent time to go to bed and wake up each day. Keeping this routine steady helps your body know when it’s time to sleep and recover.
• Be disciplined with light: Expose yourself to bright light within 30 minutes of waking and dim the lights 90 minutes before bed. A tip for night shift workers is to wear sunglasses during morning commutes home.
• Time your caffeine consumption: Try not to have caffeine within 8 hours of intended sleep.
• Drop the temperature: Keep your bedroom temperature around 60-67 degrees.
• Wind down: Take 5-10 minutes to do parasympathetic breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 8 seconds), and limit exposure to any emotionally activating content — in other words, avoid late-night phone scrolling.

Bonus: Invite others along for maximum impact

The World Health Organization has reported that 1 in 6 people worldwide is affected by loneliness, leading to significant impacts on health and well-being. The performance triad is powerful, but it becomes truly transformative when practiced with others. Seek out communities around movement — whether that’s a running club, gym or training partner, and share intentional meals with loved ones rather than eating in front of the TV.

In the Army, camaraderie and connection is key to succeeding in every mission. Lt. Col. Rebecca Shanahan, clinical psychologist and mental readiness lead for the H2F system, says, “Humans need other people for survival. Often when you get stressed, you stop engaging in social support and personal networks. When you isolate and pull away from interpersonal connectivity, it can be very detrimental.”

She recommends reserving five minutes for a family or friend check-in every day. Ask each other what went well throughout your day, what went wrong, where you can use help and what you’re looking forward to tomorrow. She notes, “The intent is to be consistent, tangible, and five minutes or less.”

Unlike other long-term investments, the performance triad can lead to big payoffs quickly, with sustained benefits for years to come. This spring, make the choice to allocate your time and attention to the one asset that makes everything else possible: your health. Learn more at GoArmy.com.

2026-04-09T10:53:00

(BPT) – Solar generators are more than just an insurance policy for emergency situations. In addition to keeping your refrigerator humming and the lights on during a power outage, a portable solar generator offers clean, renewable energy on the go, providing a gateway to outdoor freedom.

With a solar generator, you can enjoy a latte at sunrise, host a spontaneous backyard movie night or blend a refreshing cocktail or mocktail while you dance on the beach, without ever worrying about running out of power. It’s the simplest way to enjoy the great outdoors and incorporate the indoor creature comforts you’re used to.

Jackery solar generators bring modern convenience to every outdoor adventure, with a solution for every expedition you can dream of.

The backyard or RV adventure

Imagine a movie night in your backyard or air conditioning in the RV. For those who want to power a backyard party or an extended RV trip, the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus makes it possible.

This solar generator is a true replacement for its gas counterpart, offering the same amount of power without fume emissions, noise or fuel replacements. Plus, the built-in wheels and handle provide easy portability, and the smart app lets you monitor and control power from your phone without having to leave the firepit.

Using this solar-powered generator, you can turn your backyard into a resort. Confidently run an electric grill, string lights, a projector, speakers and a mini-fridge all from a single unit without a single extension cord running to your home.

Or, if you’re planning a road trip, this RV companion allows you to avoid extra gas station stops to fill up on generator fuel. Simply plug into an RV hookup, keep the AC running on a hot night, and charge at a trailhead on the way home.

The memorable tailgate or campsite adventure

If you’re a regular tailgate host or want to turn your campsite into a festive basecamp, the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus can bring the party to a parking lot or campground.

Find the best tailgate parking and easily set up a TV, sound system, electric grill and small refrigerator. Now, you can watch the game in style while enjoying a cold drink and making burgers and hot dogs for friends and family as you cheer your team on.

If you want to be the talk of the park, bring this solar-powered generator while camping, and invite your neighbors for a movie night under the stars, a dance party around the fire or a cookout where the only thing anyone will smell is the aroma of perfectly grilled food without a whiff of gas. It also comes with a dedicated 30A RV port, so you can plug directly into your camper or trailer and power lights, appliances and electronics without a single adapter.

Best of all, you won’t have to worry about charging or performing maintenance on your generator before your tailgate or camping trip. Thanks to Jackery’s ZeroDrain technology, the HomePower 3600 Plus can sit quietly in your garage all year and still retain 95% charge, so you’ll have one less task to check off your party to-do list.

The last-minute, spontaneous adventure

The sun is shining and the beach is calling, so there’s no time to waste. Luckily, the lightweight Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 is the perfect grab-and-go portable energy solution that you can toss in the trunk.

As the lightest 2-kilowatt-per-hour power station on the market (weighing in at just 39.5 pounds), you’ll be able to rethink where you can go and what you can do when you get there. Whether you’re loading up the car for a last-minute beach trip, camping weekend or picnic in the park, you’ll have enough power to play tunes on the beach, create a workspace at a campsite or use a real coffee maker on a road trip.

If you forget to charge your power station, don’t worry. The Explorer 2000 v2 goes from empty to ready in under two hours, so you can answer the call of the wild, even during a late Friday afternoon. Plus, the whisper-quiet operation means that you won’t disturb your local campers or beach-goers.

Prepared for emergencies and adventures, whenever, wherever

You may have bought it for a blackout, but a solar generator is your key to unlocking everyday fun and freedom outdoors at home, on the road and in nature. No matter where you roam, you’ll have clean, sustainable energy to power your adventures. Visit Jackery.com to explore the full lineup and find the generator that fits your outdoor journey.

2026-04-08T14:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Sports fans are seeking game day appetizer ideas to wow guests for watch parties during this summer’s biggest soccer tournament.
• Ranch dressing tops the list for fans wanting to enhance game day dips and dunks.
• Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing & Dip is ideal for dipping, dunking and drizzling for crowd-pleasers including wings, pizza and more.

The summer of 2026 is offering exciting opportunities to cheer on teams from around the world during heart-pounding soccer action on the pitch. To make the most of these thrilling matches, sports fans everywhere are looking for tasty recipes for their watch parties.

What’s the most important ingredient to add to your game day shopping list? Litehouse Homestyle Ranch dressing, of course.

Is ranch dressing the most popular choice?

The stats are clear: According to a 2026 Instacart survey, ranch dressing is ordered 53% more often nationwide than the second most popular dip (French onion). Ranch dressing also tops the list of most popular condiments, second only to mayonnaise.

To commemorate its rise in popularity, Litehouse has you covered with nearly all the ranch varieties you could dream up from the classic Homestyle Ranch, to Jalapeno Ranch, Buttermilk Ranch, Avocado Ranch and more. Regardless of what flavors your fans demand, Litehouse has you ready for your next get-together with America’s No. 1 Refrigerated Ranch Dressing Brand.*

Ranch so good it’ll leave you screaming LITEHOUSE IN THE HOUSE!

How can ranch dressing be used for game day appetizers?

Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing & Dip is perfect for dipping, dunking and drizzling on easy-to-make crowd favorites including chips, an array of cut-up veggies and even tacos. Enjoy spicy foods? Ranch dressing offers a cool, creamy contrast to spicy game day MVPs like buffalo chicken wings or bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers.

You can also try some of these options, which all taste even better with ranch:

• Potato skins
• French fries
• Fried pickles
• Mozzarella sticks
• Stuffed jalapenos
• Soft pretzels

Best yet, Litehouse Homestyle Ranch is refrigerated, so it’s always cold and closely mimics the restaurant style ranch dressing flavor that many love. You’ll find it in grocery stores across the U.S. in the produce department, right next to where you’re picking up carrots, celery, bagged salads and other veggies to fill your snack tray. You can also buy Litehouse Homestyle Ranch on Instacart and Walmart.com.

2026-04-08T09:01:00

(BPT) – For decades, the traditional fee-for-service model has followed a “more is more” philosophy, rewarding volume over quality. Now, value-based care is transforming health care by incentivizing health outcomes instead of the number of services provided. Today, nearly 45% of all health care payments are tied to value-based models, and physicians are joining this movement in record numbers.¹ In 2026, more than 700,000 health care organizations are participating in an accountable care organization (ACO) to deliver value-based care through the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) — a 12.3% increase from 2025.²

Value-based care is here to stay

The human impact of coordinated care has never been more evident, with 14.3 million Medicare beneficiaries now estimated to receive care coordinated by ACOs in 2026.² This patient-first approach is proving its sustainability: In 2024, the MSSP achieved its highest savings to date, totaling $2.5 billion in Medicare savings and $4.1 billion in performance payments.³ While 75% of all ACOs earned shared savings, some networks saw even higher levels of physician success. Ninety-three percent of Aledade‘s member ACOs achieved shared savings, proving that high-quality care and financial health go hand-in-hand.⁴ To ensure this momentum continues, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) continues to support and incentivize value-based care, most recently evidenced by new models like ACCESS and LEAD, designed to further increase physician success in value-based care.

Partnerships are the key, Aledade leads the way

Success in value-based care is not guaranteed by participation alone. For primary care organizations, partnerships are key, and the right one requires tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Aledade offers a national footprint, local market expertise, customized support and advanced technology to help primary care organizations thrive in value-based care. These organizations retain full clinical autonomy and ownership while benefiting from Aledade’s resources.

Today, Aledade supports more than 3,000 primary care organizations across 46 states and the District of Columbia, caring for more than 3 million patients in value-based care programs. The results speak for themselves: In 2024, Aledade’s ACOs saved Medicare more than $1 billion, generating nearly 20% of the entire program’s shared savings while caring for just 11% of its beneficiaries.

On average, Aledade partners earned $390,000 in shared savings payments in 2024 alone. These payments allow primary care organizations to invest back into their staff, businesses and communities.

“The financial benefits of obtaining shared savings are significant. These resources have enabled us to hire and retain staff, strengthening our ability to support our patients and enhance the services we provide. Shared savings has been vital in helping our private practice remain independent while continuing to deliver high-quality care to our communities,” said Jennifer Boyer, director of operations, Integrated Medical Group, PC, Pottsville, Pennsylvania.

AI-enabled insights and expert support

Aledade’s success is built on a foundation of future-forward technology and human-led support. Experienced, dedicated teams provide tailored, readily available guidance to primary care organizations of all types, from independent private practices and community health centers to larger health systems.

Alongside tailored support, Aledade’s AI-enabled technology unifies data from electronic health records (EHRs), hospitals, labs and pharmacies into a single, intuitive platform. The platform surfaces actionable data at the point of care to actively identify patients in need of preventive care or crucial follow-ups, driving earlier interventions and smarter care coordination.

“Having the ability to look and see care gaps, who is eligible for chronic care, who’s recently been in the emergency room, who’s recently been hospitalized — those things are huge,” said Jennifer Richardson, PA-C, Emerald Coast Medical Group, Pensacola, Florida. “It’s not only important for patient care and their long-term outcomes, but it’s also beneficial to the practice as a whole.”

With the right tools and resources, preventive care saves lives: Aledade partners prevented nearly 263,000 avoidable hospitalizations and emergency department visits in 2024. Additionally, partners who have worked with Aledade for two years or longer achieved an 83.3% average for hypertension control, outperforming some of the most prestigious academic medical centers in the nation.⁴

A perfect balance of scale and service

Aledade’s performance, as measured by KLAS Research, reflects strong customer satisfaction with both its national scale and level of support. In the 2026 Best in KLAS: Software & Services report, Aledade received an overall performance score of 95.7 (out of 100) in the Value-Based Care Enablement Services segment. Aledade received “A+” grades across several critical categories in the KLAS Value-Based Care Enablement Services 2026: Customer Validations of Firm Offerings report:

• Loyalty: 100% of interviewed clinicians indicated they would choose to partner with Aledade again.
• Relationship: Partner feedback reflects executive involvement and strength of partnership.
• Services: Partner feedback reflects the quality of strategic guidance and expertise provided.

“Aledade feels like a secondary office that’s taking care of our patients right behind us. They make sure that your patients are what comes first,” said Makaila Cornelius, medical assistant at Physicians Care Group of West Georgia, Carrollton, Georgia.

An Aledade partnership is the path forward

The transition to value-based care is no longer a question of “if,” but “how.” Success requires choosing a partner that understands the clinical and administrative workloads they face.

Aledade offers a proven path, combining over a decade of experience, national scale, local knowledge and award-winning technology and services to ensure that doctors can get back to what they do best: practicing medicine.

Visit aledade.com/more-information to get started.

¹ 2025 APM Measurement

² 2026 Medicare Accountable Care Organization Initiatives Participation Highlights

³ Medicare Shared Savings Program Accountable Care Organizations Updated Performance Year 2024 Financial and Quality Results

⁴ Performance Year Financial and Quality Results, Data.CMS.gov. The individual performance of non-Aledade ACOs may be better or worse than the average.

2026-04-06T12:33:00

(BPT) – Mother’s Day is the perfect time to plan a meaningful and memorable celebration focused on cherishing time with family. To help make the day special, New York Times bestselling cookbook author and four-time James Beard Award-winning chef Pati Jinich shares some simple, thoughtful ways to bring families together through food, while keeping the experience joyful and stress-free.

1. Choose recipes that resonate

A shared meal can feel even more special when it reflects your family’s story. Consider preparing dishes that reflect your family’s heritage, honor traditions or bring back favorite memories. You can ask relatives to share beloved recipes or explore cookbooks to discover something new together that still feels personal to your family.

2. Make it a family affair

Bringing everyone into the kitchen helps turn meal prep into part of the celebration. Invite kids into the kitchen to take the burden off mom as you get ready for your celebration by taking on simple, age-appropriate tasks like mixing, assembling ingredients or helping set up and decorate the table. Not only does this ease the workload, but it also creates meaningful moments along the way.

“Nothing makes me happier than sharing recipes with my kids,” said Jinich. “And I appreciate it even more when they take over in the kitchen and prepare me one of their favorite dishes, because then they are bringing their stories into our home.”

3. Go with the flow

Create a more relaxed, flexible approach to your get-together so you can really enjoy the day. Rather than sticking to a strict schedule, consider a format that allows guests to gather and connect easily. Whether you offer your guests a casual brunch, grazing table, light bites or a dessert later on, keeping things flexible helps ensure the focus stays on spending time together.

4. Prep dishes ahead to save time

Incorporating a make-ahead recipe can help simplify the day and ensure there’s something special ready to enjoy. This takes away some of the stress from your preparations and saves time, too. A recipe like this Mango Key Lime Tart made with Eggland’s Best eggs offers a bright, flavorful dessert that can be prepared in advance.

“The best thing is, you can make it the day before and keep it in the fridge overnight, so it’s ready to go whenever you need it,” said Jinich.

When preparing your Mother’s Day menu, choosing high-quality ingredients can help support both flavor and nutrition. You can feel good knowing that Eggland’s Best eggs contain 10 times more Vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs, which acts as an antioxidant in the body to reduce oxidative stress and protects the cells from damage. In addition, Eggland’s Best eggs are an excellent source of Vitamin B5, which helps maintain a healthy digestive system and assists the body in using other vitamins.

Mango Key Lime Tart

Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

• 3 Eggland’s Best eggs, large (egg yolks only will be used)
• 6 ounces Maria cookies, ground to a fine crumb, about 2 cups cookie crumbs
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar divided
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
• 1 large ripe mango peeled, cored and cut into chunks (about 1-1 1/2 cups)
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup heavy cream, divided
• 1/4 cup cream of coconut

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In the bowl of a food processor, or in a medium mixing bowl, pulse or stir together the cookie crumbs, butter, 1/4 cup of the sugar and salt until completely combined.

Press the mixture into a 9-inch tart pan so that it covers the bottom and the sides completely. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and baking sheet and cool on a rack until ready to use.

Add the mango chunks and lime juice to a blender and puree until very smooth. Add the egg yolks from the Eggland’s Best eggs and the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and pulse a few times to combine. With blender running, steadily stream in the sweetened condensed milk until all is combined.

Pour the mixture into the cooled tart shell and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center is set.

Allow to come to room temperature on a rack, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

While the tart is chilling, in a small bowl, whisk the cream of coconut with 2 tablespoons of the heavy cream until the cream of coconut is dissolved. Add the coconut mixture and the remaining heavy cream to the bowl of a stand mixer, set with the whisk attachment. Whip until soft peaks form. Chill until ready to serve.

When ready to serve, remove the tart from the pan and top with the coconut whipped cream. Slice and serve.

Find more recipe inspiration at Egglandsbest.com/recipes and learn more about the nutrition provided by Eggland’s Best eggs at EgglandsBest.com.

2026-04-03T13:01:00

(BPT) – April 15 is quickly approaching, so it’s essential to prepare to file your taxes as soon as possible. While it’s human nature to procrastinate, there are definite benefits to starting now.

One of them is refunds. Last year’s average tax refund was over $3,000, making it the largest check many Americans receive all year. With rising costs putting the squeeze on your budget, there’s no reason to delay receiving your refund. According to a new study conducted by Qualtrics on behalf of Intuit TurboTax, a majority of Americans (69%) say they expect to receive a tax refund this year, and most of those respondents (70%) say they use their refund to cover basic living expenses, like paying rent and paying bills. And due to new tax laws, filers are expected to see an up to $1,000 increase in their refund, providing plenty of motivation to start now.

People who file late and rush to make the deadline may leave out important information — like W-2 and 1099 forms that report your income, or receipts or forms that could provide valuable deductions.

“Many people procrastinate because they don’t know where to start or from fear they may owe,” said CPA and tax expert with TurboTax Lisa Greene-Lewis. “Don’t let the thought of gathering documents or of owing keep you from getting started as soon as possible. By the time you get all the deductions and credits available, you may not owe anything. Plus TurboTax is here to help you.”

Having trouble getting started? The experts at TurboTax offer these tips.

Get your docs lined up

Start gathering documents that report your income, like W-2s and 1099s. If you can’t find documents, ask your employer(s) — it’s probably easier than you think to access copies online. Then collect forms or receipts related to deductions and credits you can claim. With TurboTax you can automatically import your information directly from hundreds of payroll providers and financial institutions.

Decide how to file

Whether you want to DIY, have someone help you along the way, or have an expert fully do your taxes for you virtually or in person, TurboTax can help you. When you DIY with TurboTax, you’re easily guided through your taxes, and TurboTax AI agents can assist you from the start — whether by helping you figure out what docs to gather (one of the main reasons people procrastinate), to automating data entry for over 92% of the tax forms, eliminating manual entry. You can also jump-start your return by snapping photos of your W-2s and 1099s, and the information will automatically transfer to the right forms.

If you want someone to do your taxes for you, contact one of the 13,000 tax experts with an average of 13 years of experience at TurboTax, whether virtually or in person at one of TurboTax’s 20 local retail locations or 600 service centers. If you’re new to TurboTax Full Service, you can have a Full Service tax expert prepare your taxes for a flat $150 through March 31, regardless of complexity, even if you’re self-employed or an investor. If you use TurboTax Expert Full Service, you can talk to a tax expert year-round if you have questions that come up.

Meet the deadline

Doing taxes yourself? Use TurboTax online and e-file with direct deposit, the fastest way to get your refund. The IRS expects to issue refunds within 21 days or less of acceptance of your return.

Running behind? With TurboTax, you can file up until 11:59 p.m. on April 15 and still make the deadline.

Maximize your refund

Make sure you take advantage of new deductions and credits you could be eligible for, including:

• Deduction for qualified tips up to $25,000
• Deduction for qualified overtime up to $12,500 ($25,000 for married filing jointly)
• Child Tax Credit up to $2,200 for each child under 17
• Increased SALT (State and Local Tax) cap of $40,000, especially if you have high state and local taxes and property taxes
• $6,000 deduction for seniors 65 and over
• Deduction for auto loan interest up to $10,000

Don’t forget the most frequently missed credits:

• Earned Income Tax Credit (up to $8,046 for a family with three kids)
• Retirement Savers Credit (up to $1,000 single and up to $2,000 married filing jointly)

The IRS reports that 1 out of 5 people miss these credits every year.

Additionally, for those who are self-employed, a business tax expert can also help you navigate the new tax code to maximize deductions and save you money.

File even if you made under the threshold

Every year, the IRS reports over a billion dollars in unclaimed refunds due to people not filing, the majority being students and others who make under the IRS income threshold. If you earned under $15,750 single ($31,500 married filing jointly) this year, you could receive a refund. If you had federal taxes withheld or are eligible for a refundable credit like the Earned Income Tax Credit, you should file so you don’t leave any money on the table.

Benefit from IRA contributions

Have an IRA? You can make a 2025 IRA contribution up to $7,000 ($8,000 for those 50 and over) by April 15 of 2026 and you may be able to deduct the contribution on your 2025 taxes. Make sure to tell the plan administrator the contribution is for tax year 2025.

How to get an extension

Missing important information? You can file an extension with TurboTax or by filling out IRS Form 4868. But remember: This is an extension to file and not an extension to pay if you owe taxes.

How to handle payments

If you owe money to the IRS, pay as much as you can when you file. Then you can contact the IRS for an Installment Agreement, which allows you to pay what you owe over six years.

Safeguard your information

Never share sensitive information with new general public LLMs (Large Language Models) popping up like chatbots or AI searches. TurboTax is built specifically for tax preparation and is designed for accuracy, compliance, reliability and security. TurboTax is also certified by the IRS to prepare and e-file tax returns. Also, don’t share your information with anyone posing as the IRS via phone, email or text. The IRS will only reach out via mailed correspondence.

Learn more and get started at TurboTax.com.

2026-04-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• Staying up-to-date on vehicle safety recalls should top every driver’s maintenance checklist.
• It’s easy to check for open recalls at CheckToProtect.org.
• An authorized dealership can complete your recall repair at no cost to you.

Just as staying on top of regular oil changes, tire rotations and other essential vehicle maintenance helps ensure driver and passenger safety, it’s vital to make sure your car or truck is recall-free. However, many drivers don’t realize there’s an easy way to check. According to a survey by Stellantis, nearly half (43%) of American drivers don’t know where to find out if their vehicle has an open safety recall.

There’s an easy solution: Any driver can see if their vehicle has a recall by visiting the National Safety Council’s CheckToProtect.org. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just want to be sure your vehicle is safe for you and your family, checking for recalls can give you peace of mind.

How do you check for recalls?

Simply enter or upload a photo of your license plate number or the 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN) into the search tool on CheckToProtect.org. If your vehicle has a recall, you can contact an authorized dealership in your area to schedule a free recall repair.

While it’s especially important for owners of used or older vehicles, or for anyone who changed their address since purchasing their car or truck, all drivers should ensure their vehicle is safe for themselves and their passengers by checking for recalls.

Why do vehicle recalls matter?

Safety recalls may be issued by an automaker when a part stops functioning properly as it ages, or when a group of vehicle owners experience a similar problem. Safety recalls can affect everything from brakes and steering to batteries and airbags.

Research commissioned by automaker Stellantis found that 40% of drivers believe a recall is fine as long as it doesn’t affect a vehicle’s performance. However, while some recalls may not change the way a vehicle drives, they can still present a safety risk. For example, if a recalled Takata airbag deploys in a crash, the airbag’s inflator can break apart, sending shrapnel throughout the vehicle that could severely injure or kill vehicle occupants.

Another example relates to car seat anchors. CARFAX released new data showing that nearly one million vehicles have open safety recalls for child car seat anchors, a critical safety feature that secures car seats firmly in place.

According to CARFAX, as many as 57 million vehicles currently on the road have an unrepaired safety recall — that’s about 1 in every 5 vehicles. Any driver can take the proactive step to check their vehicle’s recall status. This is especially important for those with older, used vehicles or who have changed addresses, because manufacturers may not have updated contact information to notify them of recalls.