Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2026-07-13T13:13:00

(BPT) – When a heat wave arrives, homeowners depend on their air conditioning system to keep their home comfortable despite soaring outdoor temperatures. While many people expect their AC to work harder during these periods, they may be surprised to learn just how much additional demand extreme heat can place on a cooling system.

From longer run times to increased energy use, heat waves can impact how an air conditioner operates. Knowing why this happens and what steps can support system performance can help homeowners stay comfortable all summer long.

Extreme heat creates greater demand on cooling systems

Air conditioners cool homes by removing heat from indoor air and transferring it outside. As outdoor temperatures rise, that process becomes more challenging. The larger the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the harder the system must work to maintain comfort.

Most residential air conditioning systems are designed to operate efficiently under typical seasonal conditions. During prolonged periods of extreme heat, however, homeowners may notice longer cooling cycles, higher energy consumption and less dramatic temperature reductions during the hottest hours of the day.

In many cases, these longer run times are normal. Rather than cycling on and off frequently, a properly functioning system may run continuously during peak afternoon hours to maintain consistent indoor temperatures and humidity levels. However, if a homeowner’s system frequently struggles to keep up during extended periods of extreme summer heat, it may be time to consider an upgrade. For example, the Ruud^® RP17AY Endeavor^® Universal Heat Pump features a variable-speed compressor with inverter technology that adjusts output to match your home’s cooling needs. Instead of repeatedly cycling on and off like traditional systems, it operates at lower, more precise speeds to deliver steady comfort, better humidity control and improved energy efficiency — all while helping reduce power spikes.

Maintaining strong airflow for consistent comfort

One of the most common reasons an air conditioner struggles during hot weather is restricted airflow.

Dirty air filters, blocked vents and clogged ductwork can prevent conditioned air from circulating properly throughout the home. When airflow is restricted, the system must work harder to deliver the same level of comfort, increasing strain on components and reducing overall efficiency.

Homeowners should inspect air filters regularly throughout the cooling season and replace them according to manufacturer’s recommendations, using the correct filter type and MERV rating for their system. It’s also important to ensure that the supply and return vents remain open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs or other household items.

Proper airflow allows the system to operate as designed and can help improve cooling performance during periods of extreme heat.

Maintenance and equipment age play a critical role

Like any mechanical system, air conditioners require routine maintenance to perform at their best. Over time, normal wear and tear can impact efficiency and reliability. Dirty coils and worn components can reduce a system’s ability to meet cooling demands when temperatures soar.

Regular professional maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they become larger problems. Seasonal inspections can also help ensure the system is operating safely and efficiently before the hottest days of summer arrive.

Equipment age can also influence performance. Older systems often operate less efficiently than newer models and may struggle to maintain comfort during extended heat waves. Homeowners with aging equipment may benefit from consulting a trusted HVAC contractor to determine whether repairs, upgrades or replacement options are appropriate. Working with a qualified contractor, such as a member of the Ruud Pro Partner^® network, can help homeowners receive expert guidance on maintaining, repairing or upgrading their system to support comfort and efficiency throughout the cooling season.

Humidity and indoor heat sources

Temperature is only part of the equation for indoor comfort. Air conditioners also help remove moisture from the air. During periods of high humidity, systems must work harder to both cool and dehumidify the home. Excess humidity can make indoor spaces feel warmer than the thermostat reading suggests, leading homeowners to lower temperature settings and increase system workload.

Making sure the home is free of leaks around doors and windows and access points to attics and unconditioned basements can help control the influx of unwanted humidity issues. In some cases, standalone dehumidifiers can be used to tackle the humidity, putting less work on the AC unit.

Everyday household activities can also contribute additional heat. Cooking, running clothes dryers and operating other appliances can raise indoor temperatures, forcing the air conditioner to work even harder. Simple measures such as keeping blinds closed during peak sunlight hours, limiting heat-producing activities during the hottest parts of the day, and ensuring windows and doors remain closed can help reduce cooling demand and support overall system performance.

Staying comfortable when temperatures rise

While no air conditioning system is immune to the challenges of extreme weather, homeowners can take proactive steps to help maximize comfort and efficiency during a heat wave.

Regular filter changes, routine professional maintenance, unobstructed airflow and smart temperature management can all help reduce strain on cooling equipment. Homeowners should also recognize that longer run times during extreme heat are often a sign that the system is actively working to maintain comfort, not necessarily that something is wrong.

By understanding how heat waves affect air conditioning performance and taking steps to support system operation, homeowners can help keep their homes comfortable while minimizing unnecessary wear on their HVAC equipment throughout the summer.

2026-07-12T07:01:04

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• The U.S. aerospace and defense industry needs a skilled workforce, supply chain resilience and continual innovation to remain competitive on the global stage.
• A new white paper from the Washington Post Creative Group and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) examined four key pillars of today’s defense and aerospace sector: workforce development, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and innovation.
• States are taking on a bigger role in U.S. defense and national security in 2026.
• Michigan leads the way, modeling a robust workforce, solid manufacturing infrastructure, top research institutions and a legacy of innovation.

2026 is a year of challenges and change for the U.S. aerospace and defense sectors. Facing massive growth and shifting needs, many organizations in the industry are evaluating their goals and looking for new ways to stay competitive.

A new white paper from the Washington Post Creative Group in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) surveyed 150 senior U.S. leaders in defense and aerospace, manufacturing and industrial products and engineering or supply chain logistics.

The biggest industry concerns are contained in these four pillars:

1. Workforce development
2. Infrastructure
3. Advanced manufacturing
4. Innovation

“Across all four pillars, ecosystem-level readiness matters as much as any individual advantage,” said Col. John T. Gutierrez, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), executive director of Michigan’s Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation (ODAI). “Weaknesses in one area can undermine strength in another.”

At a time when the U.S. aerospace and defense industry relies on states more than ever, these pillars also define regional competitiveness.

What’s influencing defense and aerospace sectors in 2026?

The white paper revealed the main factors shaping the competitiveness of the defense and aerospace sector, and how they impact decisions on where to invest and scale operations.

1. Location and workforce development

Survey respondents cite workforce availability as a crucial factor in new location decisions. An overwhelming 9 in 10 executives (90%) report difficulty recruiting employees for today’s defense needs.

The survey also finds 51% of AI roles and 50% of advanced manufacturing roles are hard to fill across the sector. Cybersecurity recruiting difficulty is twice as high in defense as in other sectors, due to regulatory and security requirements.

“A defense-ready workforce is technically skilled, security-cleared or clearable, digitally fluent and trained in manufacturing and engineering disciplines underpinning many modern systems,” said Gutierrez.

2. State-level modern infrastructure

Over half the survey respondents (52%) state the importance of a modern regional infrastructure to the aerospace and defense industry, while 45% cite access to research institutions. Access to AI-enabled testing ranges was also cited by 57% of respondents.

Infrastructure at the state level is crucial for growth: Nearly one-third (31%) say infrastructure and connectivity constraints are factors influencing defense manufacturers’ new-location choices.

3. Localized, advanced manufacturing capabilities

The defense and aerospace industry relies on advanced manufacturing, including automation, computer numerical control (CNC) and robotics. It’s key for these manufacturing capabilities to be localized to help reduce supply chain strain and weak spots during unpredictable times.

Nearly all executives (98%) say they’re actively preparing for supply chain localization or reshoring during today’s near-unanimous call to reshore American defense production. In the survey, 73% identify advanced manufacturing as a strategic asset, and 53% are actively investing in supply chain technology.

Today’s U.S. defense industry widely prioritizes supply chain resilience — over cost and production output — as the workforce crisis deepens. This reflects a fundamental shift in how defense and aerospace leaders define competitiveness.

For years, manufacturers optimized supply chains around cost, speed and efficiency. In a sector where disruption can affect mission readiness, that model is no longer enough. Defense leaders seek localized supply chains to help them shorten development cycles while reducing risks like geopolitical uncertainty, material shortages, cyberattacks and demand spikes.

4. Innovation and access to research institutions

Innovation has always been a hallmark of defense and aerospace, but innovation itself is changing, with a new emphasis on applied research and development. Innovation is increasingly judged by its ability to move from concept to capability.

Survey respondents consistently value modern regional infrastructure (52%) and access to research institutions (45%) as the strongest contributors to innovation environments, indicating the importance of coordinated partnerships and infrastructure. Access to R&D and university or industry research partnerships is ranked as important by 82% of respondents.

What role do states play in defense and national security?

The U.S. is in the midst of a localization and reshoring drive. But defense and aerospace supply chains face unique constraints, requirements and challenges that are crucial for states to understand if they want to contribute to the industry.

The Department of Defense (DoD) increasingly looks to states as proactive strategic partners in national security, evaluating regions by their individual assets and how effectively their systems work together. A defense-ready state offers something no single company can: a coherent, integrated industrial ecosystem capable of supporting missions from ideation through production.

“Defense readiness is a system-level challenge, and states are the connective tissue that binds together suppliers, infrastructure, workforce, research institutions and testing environments,” added Gutierrez.

Michigan offers a practical example of what today’s model requires: a region where commercial manufacturing strength, defense suppliers, research institutions and testing infrastructure are part of one coordinated industrial system.

Michigan is home to over 4,000 defense-aligned companies, over 900 aerospace suppliers and two of the U.S. Army’s critical commands: Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) and Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Ground Vehicle System Center (GVSC), placing the state at the center of ground vehicle design, engineering and procurement.

Major defense manufacturers include General Dynamics Land Systems, BAE Systems and American Rheinmetall, while a 12-university National Security Consortium aligns academic research directly to DoD priorities.

The state also supports multi-domain testing — land, air, maritime, space and cyber — in a single state through the National All-Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC), Camp Grayling and Selfridge Air National Guard Base. This is critical, as 88% of defense leaders say regional innovation corridors where R&D, manufacturing and testing are co-located are vital to their strategy.

The Michigan ODAI connects this ecosystem by guiding defense businesses through certification, funding access and DoD market entry.

For defense and aerospace companies aiming to invest or expand, Michigan offers a skilled workforce, a strong academic base and assets that are increasingly organized around resilient, integrated readiness.

Download the white paper, and learn more about Michigan’s aerospace and defense readiness at MichiganBusiness.org.

2026-07-09T07:01:05

(BPT) – Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common type of uterine cancer, yet it is under-recognized, and patients may feel unprepared or overwhelmed when it comes to making treatment decisions after a diagnosis. The infographic below shares information from a patient survey about the burden of EC and the importance of empowering people living with EC to take control of their treatment journeys.

2026-07-09T04:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• In today’s economic climate, customers need financing options to help them shop at small businesses.
• Small business owners can offer a variety of financing options to help boost customer loyalty and avoid costly discounting practices.
• Synchrony helps small businesses offer private-label credit cards with promotional period financing and installment loans — like Buy Now, Pay Later — to help retain customers and compete with larger companies.
• Synchrony partners with over 500,000 business locations across the country, providing services designed to help small businesses thrive.

When a customer hesitates at the register, the problem may not be the product or service. It may actually be the payment method.

In a year when affordability tops the priority list for many consumers, demand hasn’t disappeared. Consumers are just waiting for a better path to purchase. Offering flexible financing options can help small businesses capture that demand and win customers that bigger competitors might otherwise scoop up.

For years, it seemed that only the big chains were able to offer financing. Not anymore. Synchrony partners with more than 500,000 merchant locations across the U.S., including independent auto shops, dental practices, furniture stores, powersports dealers, home improvement contractors and more, giving them the digital tools, training and financing infrastructure to help them compete with brands that have entire teams dedicated to those functions.

It’s worth asking: Are you giving every customer the best possible chance to say yes? No matter your line of business, the right financing tools can help protect your margins, reduce cart abandonment and build the kind of loyalty that keeps customers coming back and helps your business grow.

Here’s what you need to know about giving your customers more financing options.

Smart customer financing solutions help drive sales

Has your small business been resorting to tactics like offering discounts to entice customers? You could be losing out. Not only are you tightening your margins, which hurts your bottom line, but you’re also setting the expectation that if customers wait long enough, you’ll offer another discount.

When you’re ready to launch a customer financing program for your business, Synchrony provides the digital tools, training, marketing support and account management that helps small business owners compete with brands that have dedicated teams for those functions.

Small and medium-sized businesses can use multi-source financing and tools like Synchrony PRISM to offer credit access to customers:

• Multisource financing (MSF) is how Synchrony connects applicants who might otherwise have been declined with expanded financing solutions offered through our secondary financing partners. With a single application, Synchrony is able to reduce friction at the point of sale by facilitating more approvals and driving conversion. And merchants benefit from significantly higher approval rates for their customers, which can drive more sales and customer satisfaction.
• Synchrony PRISM is a credit decisioning platform that goes beyond the traditional credit score. In determining whether to extend credit, many of Synchrony’s competitors only use credit bureau data, while Synchrony PRISM incorporates up to 20,000 data attributes, including cash flow, rent payment history and other behavioral signals, to identify creditworthy customers that a conventional model might miss. By offering a more holistic view of consumers, Synchrony PRISM increases approval rates for a similar level of risk while reducing fraud. For small business partners, that can translate to fewer lost sales and more customers walking out the door satisfied.

To make these financing tools even easier to offer at the point of sale, Synchrony can integrate financing directly into the systems your team already uses every day.

Independent software vendor (ISV) integrations embed Synchrony’s financing options directly into your company’s practice management systems, point-of-sale platforms and field service tools your team uses every day. This makes financing a natural part of the conversation rather than a separate step your staff has to introduce and manage.

Flexible financing options for your customers

Synchrony provides a suite of consumer financing options that can be offered together through a single application, to help match more customers with more potential payment paths.

Offering multiple financing solutions early in sales interactions helps reduce sticker shock and gives customers more purchasing power.

Through Synchrony, your business can empower customers by offering:

• Private-Label and Network Credit Cards: These revolving credit accounts feature the merchant’s brand or a Synchrony network (such as the Synchrony HOME or Synchrony Car Care credit cards) which can be used at thousands of merchant locations. Customers can keep and reuse them for repeat purchases, helping build loyalty to that business. These cards may also offer promotional financing, which can help make larger purchases more manageable by allowing the cardholder to pay over time.
• Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)/Installment Loans: This model lets customers split a purchase into fixed, scheduled payments over a defined term, creating a one-time-use loan rather than open-ended revolving credit. It’s commonly used for customers who prefer predictable payments and is especially prevalent in big-ticket categories — such as powersports, trailers, musical instruments and lawn and garden equipment — often offered through dealer channels on Synchrony’s platforms.
• CareCredit Credit Card: A dedicated health and wellness credit card, from Synchrony, is accepted at over 290,000 locations including dental, vision, audiology, chiropractic, veterinary and wellness practices. This option offers promotional financing that can help patients pay over time for the care they want or need. Health and wellness providers accepting CareCredit receive payment quickly, helping protect cash flow so they can focus on care rather than collections.

In a market where every dollar is considered, the businesses that make spending feel manageable are the ones customers return to.

Learn more about boosting your business at Synchrony.com/business.

Financing is subject to credit approval.

2026-07-08T08:05:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Whimsy-maxxing is a growing lifestyle trend often found in home design.
• Adding special decor to your home helps create a playful, joyous feeling.
• Items with bold colors or patterns are ideal for whimsy-maxxing.
• MacKenzie-Childs Barn Sale offers significant discounts on unique, whimsical items.

As people move away from minimalist interiors, whimsy-maxxing has emerged as one of today’s most playful design movements. When everyday routines start to feel a little boring and bland, whimsy-maxxing is the solution. This home trend embraces touches of color and playfulness, adding imagination and joy to your favorite spaces.

Elevating your home and personal spaces with whimsical touches can impact your outlook and attitude, inspiring happiness each day for you and your guests. This doesn’t require major renovations — a beautifully patterned accent or thoughtfully handcrafted piece can instantly brighten a room and spark a whimsical feeling.

Now is the time to embrace and experience whimsy-maxxing because for five days between July 16 and 20, 2026, iconic home decor and lifestyle brand MacKenzie-Childs is having their annual Barn Sale, making it easier than ever to refresh your home without paying full price. This highly anticipated event features daily surprises and deep discounts on their iconic enamelware, hand-painted ceramics, seasonal must-haves and more.

“Whimsy has always been at the heart of MacKenzie-Childs, long before it became a design trend,” said Rebecca Proctor, Chief Brand Officer of MacKenzie-Childs. “We believe every home should reflect the people who live there, which is why our collections are designed to bring joy, creativity and personality to any space. Whether it’s a colorful tea kettle, a patterned serving piece or an unexpected decorative accent, whimsical touches are an easy way to make a home feel more personal. Barn Sale is the perfect opportunity to embrace the trend or refresh your space with artisanal pieces that make distinctive design more accessible.”

Want to get started? Here are 5 simple tips to whimsy-max your home:

Use playful patterns and creative colors

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to whimsy-max a space is to add pattern and color. Embrace combinations that feel collected over time. Think colorful florals, vibrant striped hues or bold polka dots that instantly energize a room. MacKenzie-Childs’s classic Courtly Check pattern is the perfect example of tradition with a twist, and is available in a variety of colors to suit your personality. Check out the gorgeous Emerald Check and viral Mocha Check for inspiration, featured in this year’s Barn Sale for the first time.

Mix patterns with confidence

Say goodbye to the beige blahs! Pattern layering is often found within the whimsy-maxxing trend, so don’t be afraid to experiment. For example, mix organic patterns and checks or strips and dots. Pattern-on-pattern draws the eye and creates moments of happiness within a space. Designer tip: Incorporate a unifying color that appears in both patterns to ensure cohesiveness that looks intriguing and intentional.

Add imaginative extras that bring you joy

Whimsy is often found in the small extras that make everyday life special, so focus on adding decor and housewares that elevate life. For example, consider fun photo frames, delightful dishes and smile-worthy mugs. MacKenzie-Childs’s best-selling 2-Quart Tea Kettle, available in a variety of colors, is as much a visual feast for the eyes as it is an item you’ll use often to create a moment of magic. The handmade details and artisan craftsmanship give whimsical spaces authenticity, making them feel curated instead of overly themed.

Reach for refined accents to create cozy comfort

A warm cup of your favorite tea. A soft blanket that inspires relaxation after a long day. Accent pillows that make your house feel like a home. Refined accents help you relax and get cozy, and are the perfect whimsical additions to any space no matter the season. Make the mundane more magical with special touches like these that personalize your home. These items also make great gifts for birthdays, holidays and other special occasions.

Turn everyday gatherings into occasions

Whimsy-maxxing helps you enjoy your life to the fullest and can inspire you to share that feeling with others. Invite loved ones over and enjoy entertaining them with some fun and functional pieces. For example, patterned serveware, funky tablecloths and that perfect platter that inspires conversation. Think outside the box and consider using items in new ways for your gatherings, such as your teapot as a centerpiece or as a vase for fresh flowers.

Save big when you become a MacKenzie-Childs VIP

For shoppers hoping to score the best selection, MacKenzie-Childs Loyalty Rewards members receive VIP early access to the Barn Sale beginning Wednesday, July 15, 2026, giving them first pick of many of the event’s most sought-after pieces. Not yet a member? Joining is quick, easy and unlocks a whole new level of Barn Sale benefits. Visit www.mackenzie-childs.com/rewards to join today.

Whimsy-maxxing infuses joy and imagination into your living spaces, transforming them into havens of happiness for you and your guests. With the annual MacKenzie-Childs Barn Sale, there’s no better time to explore unique artisan-crafted pieces that will elevate your home with whimsical charm.

2026-07-08T09:01:00

(BPT) – The postgraduation season is seen as a major milestone, but it’s just one of many moments when young adults begin taking greater control of their finances. Whether they’re starting a new job, moving into their first apartment, pursuing additional education or becoming more financially independent, many young people are focused on building a strong financial foundation.

However, as they begin to review their finances, certain young adults will discover that they’re entering adulthood without a financial identity.

Why credit matters early on

Roughly 17 million Americans — many of whom are young adults — are considered “credit invisible” or “thin file.” This means they either have no credit report or insufficient credit history to generate a valid score.

Without a credit history, young adults can struggle to rent an apartment, qualify for loans and credit cards, and are locked out of other financial opportunities that are key to gaining independence and financial mobility. This is particularly concerning for Gen Z as they’re entering adulthood during a period of rising costs, growing debt and economic uncertainty.

When young adults try to establish credit, they realize they’re caught in a paradox: They need credit to get credit. The traditional credit system has historically created a catch-22. You need a credit history to access financial products, but you often need those products to build a credit history in the first place.

How to spark a credit history

Data from Intuit Credit Karma found that Gen Z is highly motivated by financial wellness, yet almost half say they don’t know where to start when building credit.

The good news is that digital tools like Credit Spark can help credit-invisible consumers establish credit by using responsible financial habits they already demonstrate. This free financial tool, created by Intuit Credit Karma, helps consumers turn their existing utility and phone payments into credit history.

With Credit Spark, building a credit history is simple. The platform reports positive payments to TransUnion to help consumers establish credit faster. More importantly, the platform does not require consumers to open a credit card or take on new debt, giving them more control over how they begin building credit.

Tools for every stage of the financial journey

For consumers who are just getting started, Credit Spark can help establish a credit history, creating a foundation for future financial opportunities. As their needs evolve beyond building credit, Credit Karma is designed to grow with consumers throughout their financial journey. Whether it’s helping them save interest on their revolving debt with Debt Assistant or maximizing the rewards and perks of the credit cards in their wallet with Cards Optimizer, Credit Karma meets members wherever they are on their path.

As part of Intuit’s Consumer Platform, Credit Karma works alongside TurboTax to help consumers make financial decisions with greater confidence. Together, they support consumers throughout the year to navigate important milestones — from building credit and managing debt to filing taxes and planning for future financial goals.

The first step toward financial progress

Credit building should be accessible from the start. With a little help, Gen Z graduates can build financial confidence and establish habits that support long-term financial progress. To learn more, visit CreditKarma.com/Credit-Spark.

2026-07-06T23:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• Having a car today is increasingly expensive, due to the total cost of ownership: higher vehicle prices, financing rates, maintenance, insurance and fuel.
• Buying or leasing usually requires a multi-year commitment that may not be flexible enough to adapt to life changes.
• New, flexible, more affordable leasing models like Flexcar provide a simpler alternative: month-to-month car access.

The rising cost of getting a car in 2026 is causing more Americans to rethink traditional methods like buying or leasing. The upfront cost of higher vehicle prices combined with long-term financing and ongoing expenses add up to a much higher investment. Insurance alone averages almost $2,700 per year, and then there’s ongoing maintenance, repairs and today’s high fuel costs.

Another big issue is that buying and leasing typically require multi-year commitments that don’t take into account lifestyle changes. Instead, they lock drivers into financial obligations without much flexibility.

“Life changes. We move cities, switch jobs. Families grow and plans shift. But one thing hasn’t changed: how we buy cars,” said Jake Marston, VP of Marketing, Flexcar. “Historically, buying a car meant large down payments, unexpected repair bills, long-term debt and fixed contracts out of step with the way people live today.”

A new solution to getting a car without traditional buying or leasing

In response to these concerns, newer car ownership alternatives are gaining traction. For example, Flexcar offers an innovative, more affordable leasing model that bundles the major costs of having a car into a single monthly payment, including insurance, maintenance and roadside assistance.

Flexcar is designed for flexibility, letting members switch vehicles or adjust mileage plans as needs change. Members can upgrade to a larger SUV, choose a more efficient option for a new commute or drive something different for one season. Members can return their car at any time, without early termination penalties.

“Our members have driven over 350 million miles across our markets since 2021. This is a clear sign that drivers are ready for a different model,” added Marston. “Flexcar gives people a simpler, more flexible option, minus the unpredictable costs and multi-year loan commitments of traditional car ownership.”

2026-07-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – For more than 50 years, opening Valpak’s iconic Blue Envelope has meant discovering savings from businesses across the country. This July, it could also mean discovering something unexpected: the chance to appear in an upcoming Hallmark Channel original movie.

Thanks to a special partnership between Valpak and Hallmark Channel, this month’s Blue Envelope is delivering more than great deals. In addition to exclusive savings from local and national brands, this month, consumers will find the opportunity to enter the “From Mailbox to Movie Set” Sweepstakes, plus an exclusive Hallmark+ subscription offer. Here are four top reasons to make sure you open your Valpak Blue Envelope this month:

1. The envelope, please: Turn your trip to the mailbox into a brush with stardom

This month’s biggest surprise may be waiting inside the iconic Blue Envelope.

Through a special partnership between Valpak and Hallmark Channel, one lucky winner will receive a walk-on role in an upcoming Hallmark Channel original movie. The grand prize also includes an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience and all-expenses-paid travel for the winner and a guest.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step into the world of Hallmark movie magic and experience it firsthand.

The sweepstakes launches in July 2026. Look for details in your Valpak Blue Envelope or visit Valpak.com/WalkOn for official rules, eligibility requirements and entry information.

2. Enjoy a one-year discounted Hallmark+ subscription

July’s Blue Envelope will feature a new look, spotlighting the upcoming Hallmark+ exclusive limited series, Paris is Always a Good Idea, based on the novel by Jenn McKinlay, and starring fan favorite Lacey Chabert.

As part of the partnership, consumers can take advantage of an exclusive Valpak Hallmark+ offer: a one-year subscription for just $39 — more than 50% off the regular price. In addition, anyone can access the discounted subscription by visiting HallmarkPlus.com and using the code “ValpakParis.”

3. Discover savings from businesses you know, and new favorites too

Whether you’re looking to save on dining, home services, shopping or everyday essentials, Valpak continues to connect consumers with valuable offers from local and national businesses.

Savings matter today more than ever, and the Blue Envelope is filled with deals designed to help consumers stretch their dollars while discovering new businesses, products and services in their communities. And because those savings aren’t limited to a mailbox, consumers across the country can also access savings and offers anytime by visiting Valpak.com.

4. Discover something unexpected

Part of the fun of opening the Blue Envelope is never knowing exactly what you’ll find inside.

Alongside savings from favorite local businesses and national brands, consumers often discover new restaurants, retailers, services and experiences they may not have otherwise considered. This July, that spirit of discovery extends even further with the chance to go from mailbox to movie set.

After all, there’s always a reason to open the envelope.

To learn more, discover savings in your area or enter the sweepstakes, visit Valpak.com.

2026-07-06T07:01:00

(BPT) – At The Home Depot, the goal is to be a one-stop shop that helps Pros manage and grow their business — but running a business means fueling the teams behind it.

A Pro’s workday doesn’t start in the lumber aisle. It starts at 5:00 a.m. with a full tank of gas and a coffee on the road. It hits its stride during a working lunch on the back of a tailgate. It demands gear that can tackle the toughest job site. It wraps up with back-office tasks like invoicing and payroll.

That’s why Pro Xtra, The Home Depot’s loyalty program for Pros, launched partner offers designed to reward members everywhere their workday takes them. This new Pro Xtra benefit is kicking off with trusted, national brands including 7-Eleven, Jimmy John’s, Tecovas and Rosie’s AI Answering Service.

“True partnership means understanding everything it takes to keep a Pro’s business moving,” said Molly Battin, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for The Home Depot. “We’re continuously evolving our Pro Xtra program to deliver meaningful benefits that help Pros save time and money so they can focus on supporting their teams and customers.”

Powering the Pro’s Entire Day

• The Morning Pit Stop — Fuel & Fleet (7-Eleven): A contractor’s day starts early. Before the first blueprint is unrolled, Pros can start the day fueling up their trucks and keeping their crews moving with special fuel discounts and app-exclusive fuel deals to reduce everyday commercial transit expenses.
  • Offer: Get $0.25 off per gallon (up to five fills)

• The Tailgate Lunch — Food & Beverage (Jimmy John’s): When lunchtime hits on a busy jobsite, keeping crews energized and sustained is priority number one. Pros can easily buy a round of lunch for the entire crew without missing a beat.
  • Offer: Save $20 on orders of +$100

• The Jobsite-to-After-Hours Uniform — Lifestyle & Travel (Tecovas): Supporting the Pro on and off the clock means providing gear that survives a 10-hour workday of grit and mud while maintaining comfort for once the job is done. Members unlock access to durable, premium handmade work boots built to outlast the jobsite without sacrificing professional style.
  • Offer: 20% off Tecovas work boots

• The 24/7 Jobsite Admin — Business Management (Rosie’s AI Answering Service): Pros will never miss a call or lose a lead while their hands are full on the job with Rosie’s AI business management tools. Pros get the support of a dedicated office administrator without the overhead cost, ensuring they capture every incoming call and land more business while staying focused on their projects and customers.
  • Offer: Seven-day free trial + two months free of the Professional Plan or Scale Plan
    

Always Evolving to Meet the Needs of Today’s Pros

Pro Xtra partner offers will refresh quarterly and are available now within the Rewards Hub on The Home Depot mobile app or online dashboard. Offers are available to all members regardless of spend or membership tier.

The Pro Xtra Rewards Hub was recently refreshed to centralize all member benefits in one place, including partner offers, discounts, paint rewards, business tools and tier benefits. Instead of relying on one-off communications that can get lost in a cluttered inbox, members can access all rewards within the exact same app or online dashboard where they manage the rest of their business.

“Our Pro customers live on the go,” said Mike Rowe, executive vice president of Pro for The Home Depot. “They are managing crews, bouncing between jobsites and working long hours. Two-thirds of our Pro online users leverage The Home Depot app regularly to help manage their business, projects, orders and more, so it only made sense to embed these new partner offers right inside the app to give them a frictionless way to access them.”

The Home Depot selected its launch offers based on direct feedback from its Pro customers and will continue to reflect four key categories: food and beverage, fuel and fleet, lifestyle and travel, and business management — providing Pros with added benefits outside of traditional building supplies.

Not a Pro Xtra member? Pros can sign up for free online or in-store at any time to unlock membership benefits.

One-Stop Shop for the Pro

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2026-07-02T17:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Summer road trips expenses can add up, but with some simple planning, you can score rewards along the way.
• Get your car checked up before you hit the road to improve fuel efficiency and drive with confidence.
• Mapping out stops along your route can help you save time and money along the way.
• When stopping, make sure to shop at gas stations that offer rewards and savings
• Look for a rewards card like the bp rewards Visa^® that makes the most of your everyday purchases and offers you the flexibility to spend your rewards points how you want.

By Alyssa Callahan, head of marketing for bp’s mobility and convenience business

Summer travel planning can quickly become a full-time job. Creating budgets, booking hotels and mapping out rest stops can be exhausting, especially when seeking the best values.

Fuel may be a top-of-mind cost, but it is often just one part of a broader mix of purchases tied to time on the road. Multiple convenience-store runs, dining and little impulse buys add up fast. Plus, there are the purchases you’ll make before your trip to stock up on road essentials and the big grocery trips and takeout dinners when you get home.

The good news is that with a little extra planning, you can save hundreds and even score some rewards along the way. For households hitting the road this summer, here are a few simple moves that will put some money back in your pocket.

Map it out. Summer has a funny way of turning one stop into four. Planning routes in advance, grouping errands and checking traffic before heading out can help drivers make the most of the miles they are already covering.

Treasure hunt for value. Sometimes, the best way to save money is knowing where to spend it. Plan your rest stops so you’re always stopping at gas stations that offer savings and rewards for filling up and buying trip snacks.

Don’t skimp on the tune-ups. Properly inflated tires, regular oil changes and routine service can improve your car’s safety and efficiency. It’s not exciting, but basic maintenance can make a huge difference over a busy summer of driving.

Make routine spending work harder. Outside of road trips, summer can be an expensive season with multiple nights of dining out, grocery runs and daily purchases that can put a strain on your budget. But what if you could make those purchases work in your favor? Consider signing up for a rewards card that offers value for your routine purchases. The best ones tend to fit the way you already live, not reinvent your routine.

Don’t leave rewards on the table. When it comes to credit card rewards, flexibility is key. Opt for cards like the bp rewards Visa^® that offer rewards and multiple redemption options, including cash back, fuel cards and gift cards from major retailers, so that you can spend your rewards on your own terms.

Best of all? New bp rewards Visa^® cardmembers save 50 cents per gallon¹ on fuel at participating bp and Amoco stations for their first 60 days, and a 15 cents per gallon¹ discount thereafter, for accounts opened between May 18, 2026 – September 30, 2026. The card has no annual fee², earns points on qualifying purchases, including nonfuel purchases at participating bp and Amoco locations, as well as groceries and dining elsewhere.

Any rewards card is only useful if it fits a person’s actual habits. As with any financial product, it is worth reviewing the terms carefully and deciding whether the value holds up beyond an introductory offer.

For most drivers, summer spending is not about one dramatic splurge. It’s the steady rhythm of a season spent in motion. And the little decisions before, during and after the road trip really matter. A smarter route, a well-maintained car and a rewards tool that fits everyday habits may not sound flashy, but together they can make a busy summer feel a little more rewarding as well as fun.

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The limited-time-offer is valid for new accounts opened between May 18, 2026 – September 30, 2026.

*Offers vary depending on where you apply, for example online or in person. To take advantage of this offer, apply now directly through this advertisement. Review offer details before you apply.

¹See the Rewards Terms and Conditions for details, including earning, redemption, expiration, and forfeiture (subject to applicable law). Valid at participating bp and Amoco stations. Restrictions may apply.

²For additional information about Annual Percentage Rates (APRs), fees and other costs, see the Summary of Credit Terms.

Cards are issued by First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO^®), pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A., Inc. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and used under license.

© 2026 BP Products North America Inc.