Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-08-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – Summer isn’t done yet — there’s still time to squeeze in one more epic adventure! Get ready to embrace the spirit of the season in the most unforgettable way possible: an incredible road trip.

The No. 1 rule of an unforgettable trip — knowing the journey is just as important as the destination. So, make sure your ride is on point to create those mind-blowing experiences you’ll be bragging about for years to come. Let the drive take you places you never imagined and live your best life to the absolute max.

You might be wondering how to get started with the best road trip. As the most crucial snack on any road-tripper’s packing list, Jack Link’s^® knows how to put together the best road trip possible. You can start by following these five essential tips that will make your road trip legendary.

1. Pick a destination that screams fun!

Whether you’re flying solo, escaping with your fam or going on an adventure with your friends, you get to decide where the road will take you. Brainstorm some options and choose a destination that sets the vibe for an insanely good time.

Once you know where you’re headed, plan out the route and all the stops you want to make along the way. We’re talking gas stations with unique food options, unexpected detours that lead to unique experiences and quirky hangouts that give you a taste of the area’s culture.

While Route 66 and Zion National Park are classic road trip destinations, try digging deeper to find those hidden gems that will blow your mind as fun detours along the way. Plan stops at places like vintage towns in Utah, the caverns of Lim Rock, Alabama, or the blue oasis springs in southern Idaho. You never know what cool places you can find when you’re searching for new recommendations.

2. Snacks & goodies

Road trips and snacks are total BFFs. Pack all your favorite snacks and be ready to satisfy your hunger while you’re on the move. Sweet, salty, savory, you name it — just make sure you’ve got enough so you don’t get hangry.

According to the U.S. Snack Index from Frito-Lay and Quaker, three in four people say road trips are a prime opportunity to try new snacks. If you’re looking for the perfect grab-and-go option to level up your snacking experience on the road, check out new Jack Link’s^® Doritos^® Spicy Sweet Chili and Flamin’ Hot^® Original flavored beef jerky and meat sticks from Jack Link’s and Frito-Lay.

Both Jack Link’s^® Doritos^® Spicy Sweet Chili and Flamin’ Hot^® Original flavored beef jerky and meat sticks are available for purchase online and at retailers nationwide. To learn more about this collaboration, the flavors and where to find them near you, visit jacklinksfritolay.com.

3. Get your wheels in tip-top shape

Now that you’ve got your destination and route locked down, it’s time to give your wheels some serious TLC. Schedule an appointment to get your car road-trip ready with a tire rotation and oil change (because let’s be real, when’s the last time you actually did that).

Pay special attention to your air conditioning, especially during those scorching summer days. If your AC is acting up, sort it out before you hit the road. Everyone will appreciate the cool breeze as you carry on through your adventure.

And don’t forget to pack all the back-up necessities. Umbrellas, first-aid kits, and jumper cables are musts, but to really up your travel game, don’t forget your favorite water bottle, a packable cooler and portable phone chargers. Stash a few disposable cameras in the glove box to break out at the stops along the way to document your adventure. Once your car is good to go, you’ll be able to focus on the fun at every turn for the ultimate unforgettable trip.

4. Have your playlist ready for the aux cord

Now that you’ve got your destination set, your wheels ready and your snacks loaded, it’s time to crank up those tunes and rock out on the road. Before you head out, create a killer playlist that passes the vibe check for your entire journey.

Start with a mix of everyone’s favorite artists and tunes and remember not to limit yourself to just one genre. Mixing it up with a variety of different artists helps to make even the longest of drives feel like they aren’t long enough.

5. Let the good times roll

For lengthy road trips, keep the entertainment going with some fun games! Conversation starter packs are perfect for those long hours on the highway and can spark wild discussions you never saw coming.

A long road trip is also a great time to try out the new podcast your friend recommended that you haven’t gotten around to yet or listen to an audio book you’ve been wanting to read. Become a true crime junkie or stay up to date with the latest news in pop culture, sports and celebrities. No matter what topic you’re looking for, there’s an option for everyone.

Above all else, remember that a summer road trip is all about having the time of your life. Enjoy every moment, soak up the beauty around you, have the best snacks in the car with Jack Link’s and capture all the magical memories with tons of pictures. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make it count!

2023-08-13T00:01:00

(BPT) – Have you ever checked in an important piece of luggage for a flight, like a guitar, a stroller or your favorite golf clubs, only to discover it was delayed or lost upon your arrival? You were probably frustrated at the lack of answers you were given and how long you had to wait. Were you able to easily replace it?

Now imagine you use a wheelchair and that it was not only lost or delayed, but damaged beyond repair. How could you even manage it?

You couldn’t. Specialized wheelchairs aren’t quickly and easily replaceable. They are customized for the people who use them.

Because of a lack of proper stowage and an inability to fly in their personal wheelchair, people with mobility disabilities are often forced to pray, worry or hope for the best outcome upon their arrival. This is just one of many issues that arise for people with disabilities when they travel by air. Others include inaccessible in-flight bathrooms and being dropped, or otherwise injured, in the process of getting on and off the plane.

Air travel takes a toll on equipment that’s vital for survival — over 32,000 wheelchairs were damaged, delayed or lost during air travel between 2019 and 2022. That’s about 31 wheelchairs per day, or like breaking the legs of up to 31 people every day without no timely support. And broken wheelchairs and scooters can result in the total loss of independence for weeks or months.

Surprisingly, air travel is light years behind all other modes of travel when it comes to accessibility, including buses and trains.

The solution? Congress must include accessible air travel standards in the upcoming Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization. They need to ensure that the reauthorization includes things like:

• Increased training for workers
• Improved complaint processing
• Continued study into the ability to fly in a wheelchair

If this key language is not implemented, that will mean setting back civil rights for people with disabilities by 35 years. It would also mean more avoidable injuries, more broken chairs and more senseless deaths, like that of Engracia Figueroa, and more disabled veterans being trapped in their homes.

How Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) is fighting for change

If you think this barrier to safe, comfortable air travel doesn’t affect many people, think again: over 65 million Americans have a disability, with people aging into disability every day. The number is expected to skyrocket within the next five years. Even worse, many of these disabled people are veterans, who have already sacrificed so much to serve their country.

PVA is leading the fight for accessibility — and air travel accessibility is a major battle.

How you can join PVA’s fight

Everyone is in this together, and everyone has a part to play to protect the human rights of veterans and others with disabilities and make air travel more accessible. Contact your member of Congress to ensure that meaningful improvements are included in the FAA reauthorization and use #JustPlaneWrong on social media to continue the conversation.

Visit PVA.org/AirTravel for more information — and to access vital resources and travel tips for you or someone you know with a disability.

2023-08-11T08:01:00

(BPT) – For Elijah, age 6, of Westchester County, New York, life hasn’t been easy since he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, a recent surprise has given him and his family a bright spot in an incredibly challenging time in their lives.

Elijah arrived at Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru, thinking he was going to look at cars with his family. But when he walked in, he was surprised by a large group of friends, family and community members with a party to celebrate his wish reveal.

Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru partnered with Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley to host a send-off party in its showroom, featuring an oversized “boarding pass” for Elijah’s first time on an airplane, along with cake, favors and exciting gifts for his upcoming trip to a major theme park in Orlando.

“We know how physically and emotionally difficult medical treatments can be for children and their families,” said Christopher Flood, general manager of Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru. “As a supporter of Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley, we hope to provide local children like Elijah with strength and positivity to fight against a critical illness.”

Changing lives, one wish at a time

According to Make-A-Wish, approximately 27,000 children are diagnosed with a critical illness each year and research shows that granting wishes can improve children’s quality of life and produce better health outcomes. When a wish is granted, it brings lasting impact to wish kids, their loved ones and their community.

Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru is one of a dozen Subaru retailers across the country helping to grant children’s wishes as part of its national “Week of Wishes” initiative to make a lasting impact for wish children, their families and entire communities.

“Subaru and its retailers continue to provide support and exceed expectations for creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses nationwide,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “We are incredibly thankful for our longstanding partnership and look forward to continuing to work together to provide hope to wish kids and their families through initiatives like Week of Wishes, the Subaru Share the Love^® Event and more.”

Sharing the love

Elijah is just one inspiring example of the children across the U.S. whose wish has been granted thanks to the partnership between Subaru and Make-A-Wish. Some of this year’s “Week of Wishes” surprises also included:

• Chloe, age 12, who wished for a “cheer cave” basement makeover. Quality Subaru in Wallingford, Connecticut, hosted a cheer-themed celebration where Chloe, her friends and family got a sneak peek of what her cheer cave will look like when complete.
• Alejandro, age 13, who wished to go on a shopping spree. He arrived at Garcia Subaru North in Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a red-carpet surprise party before being whisked away in a limo for his shopping adventure at a local mall.
• Lillian, age 4, who wished to play in the sunshine on St. Johns Island. AutoNation Subaru Hilton Head, in Hardeeville, South Carolina, hosted a beach-themed send-off party to surprise the Bluffton resident.
• Goel, age 14, who wished for a gaming system. Autobarn Subaru of Countryside in Countryside, Illinois, hosted a gaming-themed bash along with exciting gifts for his brand-new console.

Through the annual Subaru Share the Love Event, more than 600 Subaru retailers across the country have partnered with Make-A-Wish to help support children and families impacted by a critical illness. Since 2011, the automaker and its retailers have helped grant more than 3,300 wishes in the U.S.

Subaru is the largest automotive donor to Make-A-Wish, and this partnership is just one of the many ways the automaker realizes its vision to show love and respect to all people at every interaction. To learn more about the automaker’s long-standing partnership with Make-A-Wish, visit Wish.org/Subaru.

2023-08-11T02:01:00

(BPT) – Millions of eager college students across the country are starting a new school year. The excitement is electric on and around campuses, but to help ensure students have a year full of learning and fun, it’s an important time to brush up on student safety.

While primarily a space for education, enrichment and community, college campuses, unfortunately, can also be a place where crimes and other incidents occur. According to Clery Act Reports, an average of over 24,000 crime and safety incidents have been reported annually on college campuses since 2009. These include:

• 2,411 robberies were reported on average annually
• 1,840 fires were reported on average annually
• 20,521 burglaries were reported on average annually

Students living in off-campus housing face a similar situation. No matter where you live, it’s important to be proactive about things like theft, fire and crime so that people of all ages can feel secure while at school.

Theft prevention

Students bring many things to college, including expensive items like laptops, smartphones and bikes. Always be aware of your surroundings and protect your things whenever possible by taking a few simple steps.

For example, consider getting your laptop engraved with your name, use complex passwords and only take it with you when needed. Keep your laptop zipped in a secure bag or backpack that you keep on you or within reach at all times. If you use a bike, always lock it when making stops.

When it comes to your home, it should be your safe space. Whether you live on or near campus, get into the habit of locking your door. If you have a room, consider a lock on your private space as well. Some students even have small safes for valuables.

Fire safety

Fires can occur on and off campus in dorms, fraternities, sororities and elsewhere. Fires pose a risk to your health and safety and can damage or destroy your personal items.

To lower your risk for fires, first check that fire alarms are in all living spaces and in working order. Next, know your fire escape plan for where you live, noting two different ways out. Finally, talk with roommates and others in the building about the importance of fire safety and basic steps like double checking stoves and hotplates are off and not putting flammable items too close to lamps.

Renters insurance

While being proactive and prioritizing safety can make a big difference, crimes and other incidents can still happen. Most colleges do not cover the cost of stolen or damaged student property. Even if the event was not the student’s fault (like a burglary or burst pipe that caused water damage), the student would likely be on their own to cover the financial cost.

“Families are smart to consider if they can afford to replace everything if it is stolen or damaged. For many students, the answer is no, not to mention the disruption to the entire college experience. Among rising college costs, many families would feel the sting of replacing a $1,500 laptop or $500 bicycle,” said John Fees, cofounder of GradGuard, whose insurance programs have protected more than 1.3 million students since its founding in 2009.

GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance contains an exclusive student endorsement that provides worldwide property coverage, liability protection, a low $100 deductible and no credit check. They work with hundreds of colleges and universities to offer affordable rates for coverage that start at jut $11 a month. So, whether you’re studying abroad or visiting home for winter break, you can rest easy knowing your belongings are covered. Learn more at GradGuard.com.

As energies run high on college campuses nationwide, it’s important also to be mindful of safety and security. These simple steps can help ensure students stay well so they can focus on their studies, personal growth and making cherished lifelong memories.

2023-08-10T23:01:00

(BPT) – Community organizations are vital for fostering strong societies, addressing local challenges, providing essential services, driving advocacy and more. Recognizing their significance, Quest recently awarded four nonprofit organizations a total of $80,000 through its second annual Quest for Impact initiative. This program underscores Quest’s commitment to giving back and supporting organizations dedicated to their local communities.

Behind these organizations lie motivated leaders and dedicated staff and volunteers who drive their mission forward. Quest has asked the leaders in each organization what inspires them to stay motivated to reach their goals.

1. How do you stay motivated while working toward your goals?

Keep your eyes on the prize: Chelsea Wood, director of leadership and outcomes at Soccer in the Streets, shared that the kids and her teammates keep her focused. “I am a team player and am so grateful to be surrounded by the greatest teammates who push, challenge and encourage me to strive for excellence and continuous growth.”

Damen Fletcher, founder and CEO of Train of Thought, stays motivated through his passion for the program and embracing it as his life’s purpose. He says, “It’s not a choice. It’s an organic manifestation of my true self.”

Look for support within your environment: Stacy McAlister, founder of 5-Eleven Hoops, likes to meditate and look at his daily notes to remind him of what he’s doing and the lives he’s impacting. He says, “The smile on my kids’ faces after lessons and their progression motivate me daily to keep pushing.”

Similarly, Campbell Lillard, co-founder of DEUCE Community, also believes in creating environments and processes that can help lead to success as he believes no one can stay motivated all the time. He says, “I stay motivated by keeping in mind my purpose, the process and that all roads worth traveling are fraught with more hardships than we could imagine.”

2. What is one tip you would give someone who is starting their journey to reach their goals?

Take care of yourself: When you’re working to build up your community, it’s easy to ignore your own needs. Wood finds that when starting out their journey, many people underestimate the importance of self-care. “You need to take time to come up for air, release the hard work and replenish your tank.”

When you ignore your own needs, it’s easy to burn out, which can negatively affect your job. McAlister recommends preventing burnout by “seeing a therapist, working out 3-5 times a day if possible, maintaining a good diet, resting and taking vacations.”

Be curious and believe: Whether someone is just starting out on their journey as a community leader or they’ve been one for decades, it’s important to keep growing and learning. Lillard says that being curious and maintaining a “white-belt mentality” is key to reaching current and future goals. “If you are always a student, you can always learn and grow. Whatever you are striving toward will force you to grow in capacity, most likely in ways that you cannot predict. Be open to growth and anything is possible.”

As you strive toward your work goals, it can be easy to be discouraged. That’s why Fletcher’s advice is to continue to believe in yourself throughout the journey. “Belief is extremely powerful. The universe will adjust and reshape itself to align with your beliefs.”

If you want to know more about these grant recipients and their organizations, follow their journeys by visiting QuestNutrition.com or following on Instagram @QuestNutrition.

2023-08-10T10:35:00

(BPT) – The time is finally here to dust off the jerseys, wrangle up the crew and get ready for football season. But first — the tailgate. From providing shade, space and support to firing up the grill, RealTruck is here to share its favorite truck accessories to make the most of your game day this season. You’ll need additions to your truck that are stylish and reliable — the kind of gear that will have everyone else in the lot envious of your party before kickoff!

1. Body Armor 4×4 Sky Ridge 270XL Awning

No one wants to stand in the hot sun before entering the stadium. Having a cover that protects against all of Mother Nature’s worst elements is an investment worth making. The latest technology in awning creation provides UV protection and waterproof coating while maintaining a lightweight frame. This model from Body Armor mounts to a roof or bed rack with both driver- and passenger-side mount options. Anyone who visits your tailgate will be comfortable and cool — all you have to do is provide the snacks and drinks.

2. Husky Liners Heavy Duty Truck Bed Mat

When you host a great tailgate, as you may already know, your truck bed runs the risk of getting damaged by loading and unloading supplies every weekend. Adding a protective layer can make all the difference. A great solution is the Husky Liners Heavy Duty Bed Mat for its super-tough, rubberized construction that keeps moisture out of the bed. This durable liner provides a secure surface for all your stadium essentials and makes for a quick and easy cleanup so you can beat the post-game traffic.

3. AMP Research Bed Step

A bed step is essential for any tailgating host who doesn’t want to miss a minute of the game. The AMP Research Bed Step helps by making sure cleanup is quick, safe and easy. This bed step is anything but ordinary with its versatile features including a non-slip pad. The retractable step mounts directly to the side of the bumper and supports up to 300 pounds. With a frame that fits directly under the rear bumper it stays hidden until you need it. You might even be tempted to hop up and celebrate after your team scores the winning touchdown.

4. BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover

Having the best products combined with an electric atmosphere is essential for an exciting tailgate. Tonneau covers are all about durability and reliability. They get the job done and look good doing it. The BAKflip MX4 is a hard-folding option to manage your full range of supplies to host the most popular pre-game event. Engineered for weather protection and security, this cover will make sure your party gear gets to the lot safely so you can focus on getting that W.

5. Hitchfire F-20 Grill

Last but most importantly, the ultimate tailgate has to have great food ahead of the game. You don’t want to lug around a giant grill or compromise the quality of your game-day grub with a tiny BBQ that cooks one burger at a time. But with the Hitchfire F-20 you can get the latest tech in truck accessories without taking up space. This grill hooks up to your receiver hitch, so you don’t need to store it in the bed. It comes with twin 10,000 BTU burners for speed and quality. You’ll have hungry rival fans switching jerseys for this one.

Tailgate prep for your truck should be the last thing you worry about on game day. Score points with your friends and family with the best products and visit RealTruck.com for more accessories to amp up your football season.

2023-08-09T10:49:00

(BPT) – Back-to-school is a busy time of year filled with errands and appointments to make sure parents and kids are ready for the upcoming transition. It can also be somewhat stressful — but it doesn’t need to be. By planning ahead and maximizing your time, you can even make it fun. With a little creativity from Crayola, you can turn back-to-school prep into a great opportunity for family time and happy memories.

Plan before shopping

It’s easier than ever to plan shopping ahead by scoping out products online first, whether that’s new shoes and clothes or those all-important school supplies. Limit shopping trips to just a few locations, and don’t try to do everything in one day. Let online searching help you create your to-do list — then enjoy checking off each item as you get it completed!

Involve the whole family

According to a recent survey conducted by Crayola, parents view back-to-school shopping as spending quality time with their child and 74% consider it a special bonding experience, so it’s a perfect time to get kids excited about school by letting them help with shopping and prep. Assigning one or two items for young kids to find when you search for supplies makes them feel part of the process. Older kids can do more to help you stock the cart with assigned items from your list. Make sure to offer limited options (such as between two or three different lunch boxes or backpacks) so kids aren’t overwhelmed by too many choices.

Trust the classics for home and school projects

Crayola is the leader for back-to-school season, and for good reason. In fact, Crayola 24 Count Crayons were the top selling non-grocery item in all U.S. retail during back-to-school, outpacing everyday items like paper towels and toilet paper last year, according to Numerator TrueView.

Their staples include 24 Count Classic Crayons, perfect for coloring and creativity at home or at school — with each Crayola crayon double-wrapped for extra strength and durability, and 10 Count Broad Line Markers which are great for any child looking to create with ease. Featuring 10 vibrant colors, these markers are the classic art tool for arts and crafts, school supplies and more. Long-lasting and durable, their conical tips make it easy to color in detailed areas or lay down full coverage lines.

Crayola 12 Count Colored Pencils help kids bring ideas to life with a wide range of vivid colors that inspire their imagination. Each pre-sharpened drawing pencil has a thick, soft point that won’t break easily, making them great for school projects and detailed artwork.

All these items will be must-haves on your school list this year and for many years to come.

Explore new products to amp up the excitement

Further encourage color and creativity with all-new Crayola products to thrill your budding artists.

For younger kids, there’s nothing more enjoyable than scented markers that make art time even better. Crayola Silly Scents Smash Ups add all new scents with their vibrant Broadline Washable Markers, Fine Line Washable Markers, Dual-Ended Markers, Colored Pencils and Twistable Crayons. Delicious new smells include Mint Chocolate Chip, Orange Dreamsicle, Strawberry Shortcake, Key Lime Pie, Red Velvet Cake and more! Each pack also features a new crew of Silly Scents characters to add fun and dimension to kids’ art projects.

For tweens, the new Crayola Doodle and Draw Line offers detail-oriented tools to take their art to the next level:

• Fine Point Doodle Markers to create colorfully bold statements.
• Ultra-Fine Doodle Markers for the most intricate details.
• Dual-Ended Doodle Markers to create thick and thin lines with a dual-sided brush and chisel tip.
• Color Change Doodle Markers to transform 8 marker colors to 24 vibrant colors by creating magical layers.
• Sketch and Shade Doodle Pencils including two Graphite Pencils, ideal for standing out against light and dark paper.

Stay organized — creatively

Make back-to-school time run smoothly while letting kids enjoy their new supplies by creating tools to manage scheduling and school papers. Have kids help make and decorate a large family wall calendar to keep track of birthdays, appointments and school events. Then let each child decorate a cubby, folder or box where they’ll keep important school notes and homework so everything stays organized this fall — and year-round. Their new markers, crayons and colored pencils will help kids personalize their spot and express their creativity.

Ready to get started? Check out all the items you’ll need for back-to-school prep at Crayola.com.

2023-08-09T08:01:01

(BPT) – Planning a backyard bonfire, or a summer ride on a motorized vehicle? Make sure that you’re using the utmost care when starting any type of fire or filling a vehicle with fuel, by keeping flammable liquids away from ignition sources.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), thousands of people go to emergency departments with burn injuries related to flammable liquids every year. Many of these incidents happen when liquid fuel is used outside on a backyard fire pit, a campfire, a bonfire, or when burning trash. Incidents can also happen when flammable liquids such as gasoline and alcohol are near ignition sources like flames.

To help prevent severe injury or death when using flammable liquids and fuel containers, CPSC wants everyone to follow these top five safety tips.

1. Never use gasoline for fire pits, campfires, bonfires, or when burning trash

You may feel tempted to use gasoline to quickly light an outdoor fire or to keep it going if it dies down. Don’t do it! Pouring gasoline on a fire pit can cause an explosion and release toxic fumes that can harm you and those around you.

Only use appropriate fire starters before lighting the fire. Even the fuel vapors can catch fire before the liquid fuel ever touches the flames, causing a flashback explosion that can severely burn those nearby.

2. Keep a hose or fire extinguisher nearby

Fire is unpredictable and can quickly get out of hand, even under the best circumstances. Be prepared to put out a fire quickly if it becomes dangerous. Before starting a fire, make sure to have a garden hose or fire extinguisher near your fire pit.

Also, remember to check weather conditions in case there is a high risk of wildfire. Embers from even a small fire can blow onto dry leaves or other flammable materials.

3. Play it safe around fire

Teach your children how to “play safe and stay safe” when near a fire. Let them know that only an adult should handle lighting and maintaining a fire, and that a careless mistake could result in burn injuries or even death. Keep matches and fire starters away from children and keep an eye on them when enjoying a backyard bonfire.

4. Store gas cans outside and out of reach of children

If you use a motorcycle, ATV, lawnmower, snowblower, generator or other equipment that requires gasoline, you’ll need to properly store gas cans outside your home and out of reach of children.

Buy a child-resistant gas container with a flame arrestor, a simple device that can help prevent injuries. Keep gas cans in a well-ventilated, cool area outside the home, as vapors can ignite and start a house fire.

5. Transport gas cans safely

Whether you’re buying or refilling a gas can, it’s crucial that you use care when transporting it in your trunk or the bed of a pickup truck. Properly secure it so it won’t spill or tip over.

If buying or filling a gas can is on your “to-do” list, make it your last stop. As soon as you get home, remove the fuel container from your vehicle and store it in a safe, cool place.

Using these five tips, you can reduce your risk of serious burns or life-threatening injuries when using a fire pit or liquid fuel this summer. To learn more about fire safety and proper use of liquid fuel, visit CPSC.Gov/Safety-Education.

2023-08-09T08:01:01

(BPT) – Just in time for the Little League^® World Series, Lance Sandwich Crackers and Positive Coaching Alliance are celebrating coaches who inspire players and give back to their communities.

Little League teaches children so much more than the love of the game, from sportsmanship to instilling leadership, having fun, and fostering community spirit. To celebrate all the ways Little League coaches help our kids and communities, Lance^® — the Official Snack of Little League Baseball and Softball — and Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) are honoring coaches with the 2023 Little League Coach of the Year Award.

After a record-breaking number of submissions, a panel of judges from Lance, PCA, Little League, former Coach of the Year winners, and former MLB player and Little Leaguer^®, Todd Frazier, has identified two incredible individuals as the 2023 Little League Coaches of the Year.

“As a professional athlete, I know firsthand the immense influence coaches have on a player’s development. That’s why I’m honored to partner with Lance and PCA to celebrate Little League coaches with the 2023 Coach of the Year Award,” said Todd Frazier, former Little League and MLB player. “From my Little League days to the majors, I had coaches who not only believed in me but pushed me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the field. The Coach of the Year award is an opportunity to give back to the Little League community and inspire the next generation of coaches.”

Drumroll, please! It’s time to meet our 2023 Little League Coaches of the Year:

2023-08-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Smart home automation is top of mind for many homeowners. According to a report by Grand View Research, the smart home market is currently worth over $79 billion and is expected to continue to grow at a rapid pace.

With so many smart home product options, such as cameras, smart lights, kitchen appliances and more — as well as the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) — it’s no surprise that homeowners are seeking products that make life easier in an increasingly tech-forward world. From convenience to security and more, home automation through smart technology offers consumers many benefits that simplify life while providing peace of mind.

One company that understands the benefits of home automation and continues innovating with customers in mind is Vivint Smart Home. While known for years as a trusted home security company, it’s also an innovative smart home provider that prides itself on being customer-centric, currently serving over 2 million customers across the U.S. Below are some thoughts on what the company believes are the benefits of home automation and how it can only be improved through prioritizing the user experience.

The benefits of home automation

Integrating smart technology into your home can help you in your day-to-day life, allowing you to control virtually everything in your home, even when you’re away.

Did your teen get locked out of the house? No worries. You can unlock the doors from your mobile device, view the feed from your indoor cameras and even talk to them through the cameras. Or did you forget to shut the garage, shut off the lights or turn on your security alarm? With smart home device integration, you can check all these details and control these products from anywhere.

Beyond convenience, smart technology can help you save money, especially when it comes to reducing your utility bills. For example, a smart thermostat can automatically adjust your home’s temperature according to the time of day, who’s at home and local weather. These small adjustments add up, shaving off up to 12% of your energy bill.

If security and safety are important to you, smart home security systems are a must. From motion sensors to smart locks to security cameras, with smart home security products, you can rest easy throughout the day knowing your home is protected. Using mobile apps, you can get real-time notifications to your phone whenever the system detects suspicious activity, a water leak, fire and other types of danger and security threats.

These are just a few of the many benefits of smart home automation. Of course, with so many gadgets, you’ll want to be able to control them easily. Unfortunately, not all smart technology companies create user-friendly apps or integrated platforms that allow you to control all your devices in one place.

If smart home products are designed without customer experience at the center, what was supposed to be a convenient, secure and helpful device can become a chore to use.

Centering customer experience for business excellence

Vivint is dedicated to centering the customer experience, which is evident in its smart home platform. Vivint’s platform is seamless, secure and intelligent, enabling customers to effortlessly manage their home appliances, enjoy convenience and comfort and protect their homes all from one central app. That means you can get rid of extra, clunky apps on your phone and stop worrying about apps refreshing and disconnecting from each other. Prioritizing the customer experience and simplifying the smart home process is likely why, on average, customers interact with the Vivint app 15 times per day.

Because smart home technology can be complex and confusing, the company offers professional in-home consultations and installations. This service helps customers pick the right system to fit their individual needs, and ensures that everything is accurately set up for the optimal experience from day one.

By focusing on the user experience and delivering innovative, reliable experiences, Vivint has secured its customers’ loyalty, with the average customer staying with the company for nine years. If you’re considering home automation and want to learn more about the various smart home products that can add safety, security and convenience to your life, visit Vivint.com.