Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2026-11-10T09:01:00

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

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

1. Gather in the heart of the home

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

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

2. Create moments that matter

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

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

3. Incorporate movement into holiday traditions

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

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

4. Fuel holiday gatherings

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

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

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

Eggland’s Best x Hallmark Channel Sweepstakes

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

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

Christmas Morning Egg Bake

Oven: 350°F | Bake: 25–30 minutes

Recipe by Eggland’s Best Partner Tamera Mowry-Housley

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

INGREDIENTS

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

INSTRUCTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-11-10T08:01:00

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

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

Carefully inspect your tires

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

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

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

See Better, Drive Safer by checking your lights

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

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

Change your oil and filter

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

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

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

Check your battery before the cold arrives

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

Listen to your brakes

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

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

Replace your wiper blades to keep a clear view

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

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

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

2026-11-09T16:31:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

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

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

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

Lucas Baker practices corporate law at a top global law firm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2026-11-09T09:29:00

(BPT) – Thanksgiving is a celebration of food and family, usually providing a feast that can feed many more people than you can fit around your table. The result? Plenty of leftovers in the fridge! But do you really want to eat the same Thanksgiving meal for the next three days?

To help you make the most of these ingredients, private chef and culinary creator Keegan McManus offers simple tips that any home cook can use for elevating leftovers and turning them into entirely new meals, with the help of Maple Hill’s 100% grass-fed organic dairy, from small family farms.

“To avoid leftover fatigue, the key is finding ways to change the texture, format or flavor profile of those ingredients, so that the next dish seems completely different,” said Chef Keegan. “One of my favorite ways to do that is with premium dairy, like Maple Hill’s 100% grass-fed organic Greek yogurt or whole milk, which can help modify a dish into something completely new.”

Maple Hill produces 100% grass-fed organic milk, kefir, butter and yogurt procured from small family farms. From day one, the brand has been committed to regenerative agriculture practices designed to create quality products that support healthy soil, vibrant pastures and the cows that graze them. The result is dairy that’s rich, creamy and versatile — the quality that you need when giving your Thanksgiving leftovers new life.

Here’s how you can reinvent common leftovers from Thanksgiving or any other meal during this busy holiday season with Maple Hill’s premium dairy:

1. From creamy to crispy

You won’t even recognize your mashed potatoes after you transform their texture. You can easily create crispy potato waffles or savory potato cakes to serve for breakfast, brunch or dinner. For waffles, just blend mashed potatoes with eggs and a little flour to help them bind together, and season to taste. Remember to use plenty of cooking spray so your mashed potato waffles will be easy to take out of the waffle iron! Similarly, add flour and eggs to mashed potatoes to form potato cakes, then pan fry them in butter. Feel free to add your favorite cheese, onions or other savory elements you have on hand to make these potato cakes your own.

To elevate the flavor and texture of the potatoes, choose a high-quality, rich-tasting butter like 100% grass-fed organic butter from Maple Hill to pan fry your potato cakes.

2. From stuffing to stuffed

Just like with mashed potatoes, you can use your waffle iron to transform leftover bread stuffing (or dressing, as some call it) into a completely different dish with a beaten egg, 100% grass-fed organic milk and flour to help bind it. Then add a little minced turkey and gravy before pressing the stuffing mix in your waffle iron. Top your “stuffing waffle” with a fried egg or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a hearty meal, any time of day.

3. Creamy, dreamy turkey

You’ll likely have plenty of turkey in the fridge, so consider heating up chopped turkey and combine with veggies and a dairy-based sauce for an easy second-day meal like a turkey-and-vegetable skillet or creamy turkey pot pie.

Use Maple Hill organic whole milk and organic butter to create a delicious cream sauce. A “roux” forms the base for your sauce: Heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat, add a tablespoon of flour and stir continuously for about a minute. Then slowly add about a cup of whole milk, constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Stir and cook 3-5 minutes until smooth, then add seasoning to taste plus cheese, if desired.

Want an easy pot pie? Use a pre-made pie crust to top a skillet or baking dish full of creamy turkey and veggies, then bake at 375 degrees for about a half hour, or until the crust is golden brown.

4. Savory to sweet cranberries

Cranberry sauce is more versatile than you think and can be easily transformed into the perfect breakfast dish or deliciously simple dessert. Next-morning waffles or pancakes will be extra special thanks to a cranberry sauce topping, or you can add cranberry sauce to your favorite muffin or sweet bread recipe to create baked goods like cranberry-blueberry muffins or banana-cranberry bread.

Want an easy sweet treat? Simply swirl leftover cranberry sauce into tangy, organic Maple Hill Greek Yogurt and layer into a parfait dish, along with fruit like seasonal berries, granola and/or toasted nuts for a fun crunchy texture. Top with a drizzle of honey or dollop of whipped cream.

5. From supper to soup-er

Chilly fall days call for tasty soups. It’s easy to thin out mashed potatoes with your favorite dairy products, like Maple Hill organic whole milk or Greek yogurt, to create a quick, rich and creamy potato soup. Get creative with whatever else you have in the fridge, like crisped-up ham or bacon bits, grated cheese, caramelized onions or mushrooms for extra bursts of texture and flavor. Top with diced fresh chives, scallions or herbs for a pop of color.

You can also turn leftover veggies into a creamy vegetable soup or frittata. Using a food processor, blender or immersion blender, blend roasted vegetables with whole milk for a soup base, or fold into an egg-based dish for a perfect brunch option.

“Thanksgiving leftovers can be exciting and satisfying, if you reimagine them into entirely new dishes,” said Chef Keegan. “With a high-quality dairy option from small family farms like Maple Hill, you can really let your creativity shine as you make the most of the bounty in your refrigerator, and you’ll be eating well for days to come!”

Find more recipe inspiration at MapleHill.com/recipes.

2026-11-09T09:01:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A championship showcase beyond the Triple Crown

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

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

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

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

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

More than a day at the races

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

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

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

2026-11-05T11:01:00

(BPT) – Recent severe weather pummeled regions across the United States, bringing catastrophic flooding, destructive winds, and widespread, prolonged power outages that strained local infrastructure. These events arrive against a backdrop of mounting alarm over the stability of the nation’s energy grid. With multiple states recently falling under official power grid emergency declarations and the Department of Defense rolling out its new power grid failure initiative, the vulnerabilities of our basic utilities have never been more apparent.

As forecasters predict an increasingly volatile climate season ahead, the conversation has shifted far beyond standard storm preparation. From hurricane-ravaged coasts to inland communities facing grid instability and cascading service failures, households nationwide are being urged to drastically shore up their own self-reliance and emergency defenses before the next major system or infrastructure disruption hits.

All emergency response experts agree, the time to prepare is now. There are many lists of what emergency supplies to have on hand, and some communities publish their own based on unique geographic needs, but it is universally agreed that at minimum households should have first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries and access to safe water.

LifeStraw is the leading manufacturer of water filtration devices that families can use in an emergency. LifeStraw products filter out over 30 water contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, dust, sand, debris, chlorine, lead and microplastics. The products range from personal water filter straws to high-volume dispensers and purifiers, designed to remove viruses. And for the first time in the brand’s history, they have created Emergency Preparedness Bundles — the perfect addition to a family’s emergency kit.

The United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) warns that “following a disaster, clean drinking water may not be available. Your regular water source could be cut off or compromised through contamination.” To be properly prepared, you must have the ability to access safe drinking water without relying on your own water supply or the ability to sanitize it yourself through boiling.

LifeStraw products are user-friendly, do not require electricity or batteries and are lightweight and portable, allowing families to take their filtration devices away from home should they be required to evacuate. LifeStraw products also do not require the addition of chemicals, filtering the water through a unique membrane microfilter. Families can easily ensure every member has their own personal water filter straw, a household device such as LifeStraw Escape or LifeStraw Mission, or a LifeStraw Community water purifier that can support groups as large as 25 people per day.

Visit Ready.Gov/Kit to learn about what essentials you should have on hand as we enter the stormy winter months and purchase LifeStraw emergency products and replacement filters at LifeStraw.com.

2026-11-05T08:37:00

(BPT) – Some destinations feel almost mythical until you map the journey. Take the Galapagos Islands, for example. This remote chain of islands may seem like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity reserved for seasoned world travelers and renowned scientists. But the truth is a trip to the Galapagos is within your reach now. Read on to discover six compelling reasons why this fabled destination should be at the top of your 2027 travel list.

It’s closer than you think

The Galapagos lie about 620 miles off Ecuador’s coast, but getting there from the U.S. is more straightforward than you may imagine. Fly into Quito or Guayaquil on Ecuador’s mainland, in South America, then take a domestic flight to the islands — about two hours away.

Total travel time from many U.S. cities takes 8–12 hours, depending on connections. Upon arrival, travelers will find lava-sculpted shores, remarkable wildlife and days that move to the rhythm of the sea.

Every season is a good season to visit

There’s no such thing as a bad season or a perfect month to visit the Galapagos. The islands welcome explorers year-round. That said, each season offers its own perks.

December through May generally brings warmer temperatures and calmer water, ideal for sun-soaked cruising and relaxed time in sheltered bays. From June through November, cooler seas stir the marine life, making every outing feel charged with possibility. Choose the month that works best for your schedule and fits your list of must-see sights and must-do activities.

A cruise to remember

Overland journeys around the islands are always an option, but to make the most of your time in the Galapagos, consider exploring by boat. A seaborne expedition gives the journey an effortless rhythm, and perhaps the best way to experience this destination is aboard a small ship on an intimate cruise. For example, Galaxy Cruises is an expedition company specializing in small-ship experiences throughout the Galapagos Islands.

Book a cabin on the Galaxy Stella for an exclusive and personalized escape aboard a 12-guest, six-cabin ship. With a dedicated cruise director and naturalist guide, you can explore the islands’ splendor in comfort and elegance on a four- to eight-day expedition through the southern, eastern and western reaches of the islands. Designed for couples, solo travelers and groups, you can sail between islands, step ashore for a guided outing, return for a meal or a rest and then head out again.

Remarkably close encounters of the wild kind

The Galapagos is home to species that you can’t find anywhere else on Earth. The famed giant tortoises roam the highlands, marine iguanas bask on dark lava, and tiny Galapagos penguins dart near the water.

Bird lovers will be treated to a delightful bevy of avian fellows, including the astonishing blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, waved albatrosses, Galapagos hawks, flightless cormorants and — of course — Darwin’s famous finches.

Many of the islands’ animals show little fear of humans, creating extraordinary viewing and photography opportunities when respectful distances between people and animals are maintained.

Encounters are not guaranteed, but an English-speaking naturalist guide certified by Galapagos National Park can help you spot key details from animal behavior to the forces that shaped life across the archipelago.

Your choice of memorable outdoor activities

There are plenty of memorable outdoor activities to choose from when you visit the Galapagos, and every day opens a new door to adventure.

Hikers can enjoy a guided jaunt across volcanic terrain and through wildlife habitats. Snorkelers can get up close and personal with sea turtles, sea lions, reef fish and rays. Kayakers and paddleboarders can slip through the bays to revel in the quiet beauty of the tropical isles.

For those who want a close-up view of the cliffs, sea caves and rocky shorelines in comfort, book a panga excursion. As you cruise along in these small boats, a knowledgeable guide can explain what you’re seeing along the way.

“Every day in the Galapagos brings something new,” said Nelson Risueno, Travel Advisor Expert at Galaxy Cruises. “We thoughtfully design each journey to awaken your senses and turn unique encounters into lasting memories. Our mission is to create an extraordinary experience — one that stays with you long after you return home, shaping how you see the world.”

Travel through scientific history and learn about its future

Charles Darwin’s time in the Galapagos helped shape his ideas about evolution by natural selection. Now, you can see firsthand the wildlife and environments that sparked his revolutionary theory.

But the islands’ scientific story isn’t over. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos offers a firsthand look at the ongoing conservation work to protect its endangered species and fragile ecosystems. Explore Galapagos National Park with expert local guides, sharing deep knowledge and discoveries at every turn — enriching your understanding and transforming how you see the natural world.

“Just one visit to the Galapagos in 1835 was enough to change Darwin’s life, and with it, our understanding of how our world evolved,” said Alexis Gordillo, CEO and founder of Galaxy Cruises. “You could say the theory of evolution began in the Galapagos. Come join us and let us be your guides for what will surely be a life-changing experience.”

Will you answer the call?

If you’re dreaming of an iconic adventure in 2027, answer the call now and reserve your spot for a Galapagos experience. It’s a rare chance to see unique wildlife, otherworldly geology, the origin of Darwin’s theory of evolution and days shaped by the rhythm of the ocean.

To learn more about the adventures that await and to reserve your spot on an intimate expedition to the Galapagos, visit GalaxyCruises.com.

2026-11-04T09:56:18

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) affects more than half of postmenopausal women.
• Learn seven symptoms of GSM, which can occur with menopause or after certain medical procedures.
• Several effective options are available to treat GSM, including moisturizers and lubricants.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to rethink your menopause wellness routine. From vaginal dryness to painful sex, understanding genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and available solutions can help women prioritize their comfort, intimacy and overall well-being.

A new year often inspires healthier habits, but for women navigating perimenopause and menopause, there’s one area of wellness that deserves more attention: vaginal and urinary health.

GSM affects more than half of postmenopausal women, yet many don’t recognize the symptoms or realize effective options for relief exist. This year, make vaginal health a priority in your self-care routine, starting with a better understanding of GSM.

What Is GSM?

GSM describes vaginal, vulvar and urinary symptoms associated with declining estrogen levels experienced during menopause.

Estrogen helps maintain vaginal moisture, tissue thickness and elasticity. As levels decline, vaginal tissues can become thinner, drier and more sensitive, contributing to discomfort that can worsen without management.

“As estrogen levels fall during the menopause transition, vaginal tissues may become thinner, drier and less elastic, contributing to discomfort during sex, as well as disruptive urinary symptoms,” explains Chief Medical Officer of Bonafide^®, Dr. Alyssa Dweck.

GSM can also occur following certain medical procedures, such as a hysterectomy, oophorectomy, or pelvic radiation, or due to medications that reduce estrogen, including certain breast cancer therapies.

Recognizing the Signs: 7 GSM Symptoms to Know

Symptoms of GSM vary from woman to woman, but may include:

• Vaginal or vulvar dryness, itching or burning
• Increased sensitivity or reduced vaginal elasticity
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Shortening and/or narrowing of the vagina and vaginal opening
• Changes in sexual arousal or satisfaction
• Urinary urgency, frequency or painful urination
• Risk of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Pelvic discomfort during everyday activities

Unlike vasomotor symptoms, which may cease in postmenopause, GSM symptoms may persist or worsen without proper management.

Refresh Your Routine: What Are Some Options for GSM Relief?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing GSM. Depending on symptoms, medical history and personal preferences, several effective options are available, including:

• Hormone-free vaginal moisturizers and lubricants: Moisturizers provide ongoing relief from vaginal dryness, while lubricants reduce friction and enhance pleasure in the moment during intimacy. Products containing hyaluronic acid, a molecule often known as a super moisturizer, may be particularly helpful for women in menopause.
• Local vaginal estrogen: Available in prescription creams, tablets, inserts and rings, low-dose vaginal estrogen can improve dryness, irritation and painful sex. Certain formulations may also help reduce recurrent UTIs.
• Other prescription options: Vaginal DHEA and oral ospemifene may be appropriate depending on individual needs.

Women with a history of breast cancer should consult with their healthcare team before deciding on a management approach that may be right for them.

2026-11-03T15:09:00

(BPT) – As more older Americans choose to age in place — remaining in their own residences and communities as they grow older — a new wave of tools, programs and innovations is making that goal more achievable than ever.

This comes at a time when growing research continues to highlight the benefits of aging at home. According to AARP, Americans are placing greater importance on not just how long they live, but how well they live, with 75-80% of adults ages 50 and over saying they want to remain in their homes as they age.

Aging in place isn’t one-size-fits-all

The definition of “home” is also changing these days. Aging in place looks different for everyone based on their health, mobility and circle of support, but with the right preparation and precautions, it can be achieved across a wide variety of circumstances and living situations.

Aging in place can look like:

• Staying in the same home they have lived in their entire adult lives, with modifications like grab bars and stairlifts

• Downsizing to a smaller, more manageable home that requires less upkeep and/or is only one floor

• Moving into a home with adult children or siblings

• Moving to a retirement community that supports independent living

• Shared housing, where older adults live alongside their peers

The benefits and risks of aging in place

“For most people, home represents a lot more than just a physical place,” says Dr. Julie Daftari, chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement. “It’s about being able to remain autonomous in a familiar setting, where people are still connected to community. When done well, it supports physical health by helping people stay active and maintain their routines.”

These ties to place and people can have a real impact on health. One 25-year study of nearly 5,800 older adults found that the stronger a person’s social network, the longer they lived, and the more of those years they spent healthy and independent.

“Social connection is one of the strongest predictors of whether living independently is sustainable,” Julie said. “People do better when they have regular contact with family and friends and people in their community.”

While not everyone is able to age in place, those who can may also benefit not just from keeping their own sleep schedule and diet, but a lower risk of facility-acquired infections and hospital visits.

A 2025 study of 219 veterans (average age 81) found a Veterans Affairs (VA) home-based care program:

• Reduced ER visits by 63%
• Reduced hospital admissions by 48%
• Reduced time spent in the hospital by 55%

The findings suggest that when older adults get the right support they need at home, they don’t just avoid institutionalization, they use fewer crisis-level medical services.

To be successful, aging in place requires a holistic, coordinated approach, Julie said.

“We should think about aging in a person-centered way — not just asking what care someone might need, but what type of support they need to continue to live a life that matters to them,” she said. “When that coordinated effort isn’t there, safety risks emerge, including the risk of isolation.”

Without the right support systems in place, older Americans aging at home are vulnerable to falls and medical emergencies that could go undetected for hours or even days. Medications could be mismanaged, with missed or wrong doses, and social isolation can set in, accelerating cognitive decline. Family caregivers who support loved ones also face a heavy toll on their mental and physical health, which can lead to burnout or compromise the quality of care they’re able to provide.

Making home a safer place to age

Thankfully, technological innovation, the expansion of community-based support networks and increased collaboration in recent years among insurers, providers and communities can help mitigate the potential risks of aging in place.

In addition to critical home modifications like securing loose rugs or installing grab bars in bathrooms, smart home devices can help detect warning signs before a major health issue occurs. These include medication reminders, fall detection and even data that tracks whether a person has touched their refrigerator. Wearables and health tracking devices also offer real-time data to both caregivers and clinicians.

“Aging in place requires careful planning and home modifications,” Julie said. “Definitely talk to your physician; they can provide suggestions.”

Community-based support networks including local nonprofits, senior services organizations and neighborhood programs offer critical services like transportation to doctors’ appointments and for errands, as well as meal delivery. For example, the Village-to-Village Network links people with neighbors and volunteers for everyday support, while Lotsa Helping Hands helps families and caregivers organize the logistics of care — from meal drop-offs to rides to appointments — among those who already know and love them.

“A lot of people underestimate the planning that it takes to actually live independently,” Julie said. “And it’s a shared responsibility that includes not only the individual, but also the community, the provider and the insurance payers.”

This sort of unified coordination can, and does, take many forms. For example, a doctor or a care team might identify that a patient needs help getting around and then connect them with a benefit their insurance plan covers, like a ride to the pharmacy to pick up their medications or a trip to the grocery store.

Supporting independence and well-being for older adults

With the right tools and early planning, people who can age in place can do so more safely, comfortably and with greater peace of mind. The ingredients for success include a safe home environment, strong social ties and access to reliable health care — and caregiving that’s able to adapt when needs change.

“Asking for advice and input from your healthcare provider and everybody involved in your life will help to ensure an individual ends up in the safest place possible,” Julie said. “It’s never too early to start planning.”

2026-11-03T10:01:01

(BPT) – Small Business Saturday (Nov. 28) celebrates the 36,207,130 small businesses in the U.S. that give communities character and form the backbone of the American economy. For business owners, it is also a chance to show customers what makes your brand worth choosing before the holiday rush peaks. That said, visibility is hard to earn in the digital age for any business but can be especially challenging for small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with a one-person or even two-person marketing team.

The good news is that AI tools are helping small businesses stay competitive and visible even with limited personnel, resources and knowledge. The right AI platform can help a business owner turn scattered ideas into a workable marketing plan, create and post marketing content, and evaluate what is and isn’t working.

That doesn’t mean you’re handing your business over to a machine. To effectively leverage an AI platform to create a consistent and streamlined marketing content plan requires collaboration between owner and digital tool. Below are just a few ways business owners can work with an AI platform to spend less time staring at a blank screen while still reaching would-be customers.

Give AI a brand it can recognize

AI tools work best when your brand is more than a logo. You need to define your specific point of view for these tools to generate content that actually reflects your brand’s personality and mission. Consider the following questions to get started:

• What do you make or do?
• Who is it for?
• What promise do you keep?
• Which words, phrases and tones define your brand voice?
• What colors define your brand?

These questions form the foundation of your brand story and brand guidelines, which are essential for effectively prompting AI to create successful marketing content. For example, when you connect an AI social marketing platform like OnVibe to your social profiles, it reviews your brand, audience, niche and content patterns to create personalized, timely and purposeful content that best fits your voice. By knowing your brand, you can work with the platform to truly capture your vision and craft your brand’s ongoing personality through marketing posts.

“AI tools that will help SMBs truly succeed in the modern marketing landscape must move beyond generic prompts,” said OnVibe CEO Sahar Arshad. “Our platform evaluates a brand’s social media content, understands its goals and recommends what to post, when and why. That gives a small team strategic direction without requiring a dedicated marketing department.”

Define your marketing goals

Now that you’ve defined your brand, it’s time to consider what you want a specific piece of marketing content to do. For example, your content’s goal for Small Business Saturday may be to drive people to your store, collect preorders or simply introduce your business to nearby shoppers.

The more specific your goal is, the better. Why? Because when it comes to AI tools, the more specific the input, the more useful the output. “Help me promote my limited-edition gift set to local shoppers” gives an AI tool far more direction than “Write an Instagram post.”

Turn one idea into a week of content

One post or caption is not enough to stand out in a sea of content. Using AI tools, you can develop a complete set of assets from one strong idea.

For example, after you’ve created a holiday gift guide, you can use that marketing material to create a photo carousel or generate a script for a short video. In essence, you’re using the same core message in different formats. Having this content ready to deploy ahead of an important sales opportunity like Small Business Saturday can help you build hype around your business before the day and sustain momentum afterward.

To help get you started, you can use OnVibe’s agentic AI conversational workflow to move from ideation, writing, visual creation, scheduling and direct publishing to Instagram, with no tool-switching. You can also use the platform’s Daily Drop feature for content recommendations that provide strategic context and ready-to-use creative assets, such as captions, scripts, hashtags and visuals.

Audit before you add

Not all content performs the same. Before adding more posts to your business’s social media accounts, review your previous ones and identify which content formats perform best. This will help guide your marketing content strategy going forward.

A simple and effective way to review your content is using OnVibe’s VibeCheck. By analyzing up to 50 recent posts for consistency, engagement and content formats, this feature turns a content audit into next steps.

You can request a free Instagram or LinkedIn performance evaluation at Audit.OnVibe.co. It shows what resonates, highlights gaps and includes suggested posts and practical recommendations.

Keep a human in the loop

AI doesn’t replace the human element. Treat AI-generated content as a first draft, then refine it with details only you, as a business owner, would know.

For example, an AI tool can create a post promoting a product launch, but it doesn’t know the product’s origin, the reasoning and choices that preceded its creation or the questions customers regularly ask you in store about the product. Adding in these details creates the human touch behind the brand that resonates with consumers.

Also, before posting, check every claim, price, date, link, photo and caption. Remember, AI tools are just that — tools. They’re becoming more and more sophisticated, but they’re not infallible. Think of it this way: an AI platform like OnVibe is your employee. You can trust it to create content, but ultimately it’s your responsibility to ensure that what you post is accurate and truthful.

Make consistency the win

The best marketing strategies don’t rely on a massive influx of posts. For a business of any size to succeed, it requires consistent and sustainable marketing content. Strategically using AI tools can help SMB entrepreneurs manage their time and resources wisely, giving them more room to lead.

To learn more about how AI tools can help jump start or revamp your marketing content ahead of Small Business Saturday, visit OnVibe.co.