Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-10-27T08:01:01

(BPT) – By Shantanu Bose, DeVry University’s Provost and Chief Academic Officer

In today’s rapidly shifting economic landscape, uncertainty is the only constant. To thrive amid change, it’s increasingly important to identify and master the skills that will lead to success. While it may seem obvious that skills-based learning is critical for career growth, workers who differentiate themselves understand that professional development is less about knowing a little about everything and more about knowing something extremely well.

Employers and workers agree learning is valuable

A recent report from DeVry University and Reputation Leaders surveyed more than 1,500 workers and 500 hiring decision-makers to explore how education and upskilling are shaping today’s workforce. According to DeVry’s research:

• 71% of workers and 81% of employers believe in the value of investing in education
• 86% of employers emphasize the importance of staying current with industry developments

But who is responsible for ensuring lifelong learning in the workplace?

While employers and workers agree on the value of education, their views diverge when it comes to upskilling.

• Less than half (45%) of workers report access to employer-provided reskilling, a decrease from 61% in 2024. However, 75% of employers believe they are doing enough to keep workers’ skills resilient in today’s economy.
• Nearly one-third of workers believe that employers are falling short when it comes to keeping skills relevant for the future. In contrast, 90% of employers say that they provide upskilling or tuition benefits to at least a few workers, a slight increase from 87% in 2024. Many employers express concerns that workers are not taking advantage of these available resources.

The reality is that both sides are left in a state of restless dissonance where workers and employers are quietly pointing fingers. Rather than assigning blame, DeVry’s report emphasizes the importance of unity in preparing for an uncertain future. By addressing the silent standoff between workers and employers, we can build workforce resiliency and accelerate competitive productivity. This process begins with open dialogue, clear direction and a shared commitment to lifelong learning.

Progress starts with partnership

Both workers and employers are responsible for taking proactive steps toward a more aligned and rewarding collaboration. Drawing from the key insights in DeVry’s report, here are actionable ways to progress together:

• Set clear career goals and engage in constructive feedback to align personal growth with organizational priorities
• Create visible career pathways and cultivate a sense of ownership to drive motivation and retention
• Foster open, ongoing dialogue to build trust and align aspirations across the workforce
• Prioritize durable skills development, such as empathy, communication and adaptability, that are essential for navigating change
• Equip workers with durable, future-ready skills in areas like technology and AI

To stay future-ready, cultivate these habits:

• Be ready to adapt to new skill sets
• Continuously look ahead to anticipate what’s next
• Frame everything as a learning opportunity
• Build your resilience through preparedness

So, what does lifelong learning look like in practice?

For professionals like Terance Clement, Manager National Sales Strategy at Comcast NBCUniversal and DeVry Alum, lifelong learning is a career imperative.

“Learning isn’t just about acquiring new skills; it’s about staying relevant as well,” he explained. “Staying curious and committed to learning has been pivotal to my moves across the company.”

Terance’s real-world experiences of navigating the workforce, earning his bachelor’s degree and continuing to grow his career exemplify a commitment to growth through education. Lifelong learning isn’t a one-time event; instead, it’s a continuous commitment to growth, adaptability and relevance.

For almost 95 years, DeVry has empowered students with future-ready skills, building the foundation for a higher education experience where societal change is infused into all its courses and hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. By going beyond traditional degree programs to offer alternative, flexible learning opportunities that cater to a diverse range of learners, the university supports learners at any stage in their academic journey and prepares them for thriving careers in an always evolving talent economy.

In a world shaped by rapid technological change and shifting economic forces, staying curious and committed to learning is the most powerful way to stay prepared. Read DeVry’s full report, Bridging the gap: Overcoming a silent standoff in America’s talent economy, to get ahead.

2025-10-24T12:01:01

(BPT) – New research found Americans are strategic about car maintenance, including when it comes time to replace their tires. Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index Survey found 4 in 10 U.S. drivers replace their tires on a regular schedule, while 5 in 10 replace only when necessary, and 1 in 10 wait for a rebate or promotion.

Trust your eyes, or someone else’s

Most Americans don’t hurry to buy new tires, with more than half (55%) of respondents saying they only purchase tires when they have no other option, like a flat that can’t be repaired. But if the tires are still rolling, how do you know when it’s time to replace them?

For many drivers, the “eye test” is all they need: one-quarter (25%) said visible damage is the main reason they would spring for a new set of tires such as tread that’s worn out after years of driving, followed by 17% of drivers who cited vehicle handling issues as their primary indicator. In other words, the car just doesn’t take the tight corners like it used to.

However, about as many drivers (16%) said that they leave it to the professionals to advise them, reporting that a mechanic’s recommendation on when to replace a tire is what prompts their purchase. More experienced drivers tend to lean toward this approach — Gen X and Boomer drivers are slightly more likely to heed professional advice (20%) compared to Gen Z and Millennial drivers (13%).

Routine or required tire replacement

When deciding the best time to purchase tires, attitudes vary by generation and region. Older drivers are far more likely to replace tires only when absolutely necessary (Gen X & Boomer — 62%) versus less experienced drivers (Gen Z & Millennial — 49%). On the other hand, Gen Z and Millennial drivers are more likely to follow a schedule for tire replacement (40%) in contrast to Gen X and Boomer drivers (31%).

From coast to coast, drivers on either end of the country differ when it comes to tire replacement management. Drivers in the Northeast are most likely (24%) to follow a mechanic’s recommendation, while those in the Pacific region are most influenced by visible damage to their tire (28%).

Regardless of age or place of residence, replacing tires every few years on a set schedule can help drivers avoid unexpected issues down the road.

Performance and safety drive decisions

Beyond price, a quarter (25%) of respondents say performance ratings are the most influential factor when choosing new tires, followed by 20% who say safety ratings are the top priority. Gen Z and Millennial drivers especially value performance (26%) and safety (23%), compared to drivers over 45 who are also swayed by performance ratings (25%), followed by brand reputation (21%).

For drivers in the Midwest where wet and snowy road conditions can be the norm, performance ratings reign (35%), while Pacific region drivers emphasize safety (27%) and warranty coverage (25%) above all else.

Where drivers seek advice

Regardless of when the time comes for Americans to change their tires, search engines remain the top tool for new tire research (21%), followed by 17% of drivers who say they base their tire research on recommendations from mechanics or repair shops.

Younger drivers (Gen Z & Millennial) prefer using classic search engines to research tires across the internet (25%), while Gen X & Boomer drivers chose to visit their local tire retailer website before any other site (21%). Alternatively, an estimated seven million U.S. adults are now turning to AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, as their first source for tire information.

The choices made by American drivers reflect broader shifts in attitudes toward vehicle safety, reliability and informed decision-making. Increasing reliance on both digital tools and expert advice suggests that consumers are looking for value when buying new tires, as well as confidence in their decision. These trends show proactive education, technological innovation and improved access to research will be key factors shaping tomorrow’s tire-buying habits and road safety outcomes.

2025-10-24T10:37:00

(BPT) – Have you ever returned from a grocery run, unloaded your bags and questioned some of your choices? It’s time for a new, more strategic approach to your shopping trips. What you put in your cart will feed your whole family, so better health starts with the selections you make at the store. Smart shopping comes down to planning, and utilizing the store layout to your advantage, as well as education — about food labels and the companies you buy from.

Here are four simple ways to make every grocery trip a little healthier for your family.

1. Plan ahead

Planning meals for the week is the smartest way to shop — it helps avoid impulse purchases and ensures you have everything needed for balanced, wholesome meals. Sketching out weekly meals ahead makes shopping and cooking easier, helping you focus on including plenty of protein, fruits, veggies and whole grains in your plan.

Take a quick inventory before heading to the store and make a list of what you already have — and what you actually need — to avoid getting too much or too little of anything. Once at the store, stick to your list! Don’t be distracted by overly processed, salty or sweet items that may tempt you, especially near the register.

2. Read labels carefully and do your research

Learning what food labels really mean helps you make better choices — and understand how farming practices can affect your diet. For example, many foods claim to be “organic,” but without the USDA Organic seal, there is no guarantee. The seal ensures the product was grown or produced with at least 95% organic ingredients and without unapproved synthetic substances.

When it comes to poultry, look for the “No Antibiotics Ever” (NAE) label, which means antibiotics were never used during the animal’s lifetime. Labels that simply say “antibiotic free” don’t guarantee antibiotics were never used.

Why does this matter? A recent study conducted out of Carleton University raises new questions about antibiotic use in animal agriculture and its potential link to human health. The research found that ionophores — a class of antibiotics long thought to be safe to use in animals — may contribute to making medically important drugs for humans less effective.

“One class of antibiotics commonly used in agriculture, known as ionophores, were long considered safe to use with poultry, but this new study changes that,” said Dr. Alex Wong, who led this research at Carleton University. “When ionophores are used, they can increase resistance in bacteria, which would make that bacteria harder to kill by medicines. This demonstrated impact of antibiotic use can increase the risk of bacterial resistance spreading from animal agriculture to human healthcare systems.”

Perdue Farms has remained committed to its trailblazing No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) promise since 2016, eliminating the use of all antibiotics, including ionophores, from its production. Instead, Perdue supports flock health through natural supplements like oregano and thyme, and by focusing on animal care practices that help chicken thrive without antibiotics.

3. Seek brands committed to transparency

As the antibiotic issue shows, it’s important to choose brands that are open and transparent about their ingredients and processes. Today’s brands all have websites where you can find information about their approaches to food production, ingredient sourcing, animal welfare, processes and quality assurance procedures to help you make informed decisions.

An easy way to learn more is to visit a brand’s corporate responsibility webpage. For example, Corporate.PerdueFarms.com/responsibility shares how Perdue ensures its animals are cared for responsibly and how its food meets the highest standards for safety and quality.

4. Shop the perimeter of your store for building blocks

Most grocery stores are arranged with fresh produce, proteins and baked goods along the outer aisles. Build your meals around the fresh staples found here whenever possible.

Think fresh, organically raised chicken breast with salad and a side of whole-grain pasta. Or potatoes, green beans and air fryer-ready frozen chicken filets.

The way you shop shapes the way you cook and eat each week. Using these tips, you can transform your grocery run into a tool for supporting both your family’s health and a more responsible food system.

2025-10-24T10:01:00

(BPT) – Halloween and the winter holidays are a fun, festive time of year when candy and other sweet treats appear everywhere — at home, in school and at parties and other seasonal gatherings. Because candy is so visually tempting, it’s especially important for parents and caregivers to make sure that any medications, vitamins or supplements that could be mistaken for candy are stored safely: up and away, out of sight and reach of young children.

To young kids, some medicines look just like the treats they enjoy during the holidays. Gummy vitamins and colorful pills often resemble candy, and liquid medicines can look like soda or juice. It’s critical to store and use these products safely, especially during this high-risk season.

Approximately 35,000 young children are brought to the emergency room each year because they got into medicines that were left within their reach. To help prevent these kinds of incidents, the Up and Away Campaign offers practical tips for parents and caregivers to keep kids safer during Halloween and year-round.

Store medicines up and away

Choose a high, secure spot in your home that children can’t reach or see, and store all your medicines, vitamins and supplements — especially those in gummy form — in that place, even between doses. If you carry medicine in your purse, bag, pocket or pill organizer, make sure to keep it out of sight and reach of young kids.

Remind all babysitters, houseguests and visitors to follow the same precautions when they are in your home.

Don’t leave medicine out between doses

If you or your child is ill and needs a dose every few hours, it can be tempting to leave the medicine in reach on a kitchen counter or a sick child’s bedside table. Put it up and away instead to avoid unintentional overdoses.

Keep medicines in child-resistant containers

Always relock the safety cap on medicine bottles every time you close them. If a bottle has a locking cap that turns, twist it until you hear the “click,” or until you can’t twist it anymore. If you must put medicines in other containers, such as pill organizers, check to see if they have child-resistant features. Many do not and can be easily opened by young children.

Teach your children about medicine safety

It’s important to teach your children what medicine is and why you or a trusted caregiver must be the one to give it to them. Never tell children that medicine is “candy,” even if they don’t enjoy taking it.

Be prepared for an emergency

Call Poison Help at 800-222-1222 right away if you think your child might have gotten into a medicine, vitamin or supplement, even if you are not completely sure. Save the number as a contact in your phone so you have it ready in case of an emergency.

For more tools and information to help safeguard children, visit UpandAway.org.

2025-10-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – Why more people say it’s time to hire the pros

For decades, moving meant calling in favors. Pizza, beer and guilt-tripped friends were the currency of choice. But times are changing.

According to a 2025 study by UniGroup — parent company of Mayflower — nearly half of Americans (44%) say there’s a time in life to hand the heavy lifting to professionals. The nationwide survey of 1,000 adults found that while DIY moves have their place, many now view hiring professional movers as a smart investment in safety, time and peace of mind.

After all, friends aren’t trained movers. They don’t have the equipment, insurance or muscle memory to protect your belongings. And frankly, they deserve a toast rather than a strained back.

From Obligation to Appreciation

The research revealed a clear shift in mindset. These days, instead of bribing friends with pizza, more movers are celebrating milestones the right way.

Hiring professionals means your loved ones can show up to celebrate, not carry boxes on your behalf. It turns moving day into a moment worth savoring — one that’s less about stress and more about new beginnings.

When you choose Mayflower, that celebration starts the moment your movers arrive. You’re not just changing addresses; you’re reclaiming moving day as something joyful.

Milestone Moves That Matter

A Growing Family
When diapers, naps and feedings fill your schedule, moving should be the least of your worries. Professional movers help new or expectant parents focus on what matters most, ensuring their boxes arrive as intended while taking care of the heavy lifting.

A New Job or Promotion
Starting a new role often means relocating fast. With Mayflower’s full-service options — from car shipping to custom crating — your belongings arrive on time, leaving you to focus on onboarding rather than unpacking.

Retirement
Downsizing or relocating for retirement? This chapter should feel relaxing, not risky. Movers can handle packing, debris removal and storage, helping you transition into a simpler, more comfortable lifestyle.

Protecting What’s Priceless
Some moves come with heirlooms, antiques or fine art — pieces that deserve expert care. Mayflower professionals use specialty packing, custom crating and Full-Value Protection coverage to safeguard your most valuable items. Because peace of mind is priceless.

How Mayflower Makes Transitions Smooth

• Full or Partial Packing and Unpacking: Skip the endless boxes and focus on your next chapter.
• Specialty Moving and Crating: From artwork to antiques, your valuables are handled with care.
• Car Shipping and Storage: We manage the details your friends shouldn’t — and can’t — be asked to.
• Move Coordination: A dedicated pro keeps you informed every step of the way.

Turning Bribes into Rewards
Mayflower makes it so you can still celebrate with pizza and beer — guilt-free. Once the boxes are in place, treat yourself to a curated meal, raise a glass and enjoy the moment. No sweat. No stress. No awkward favors. Just good vibes and a fresh start.

Toast to a New Beginning
Life’s biggest transitions deserve more than a group text and stack of pizza boxes. They deserve care, gratitude and expertise.

In fact, 47% of people say they’d now decline a “free pizza for moving help” offer, often citing health, mobility or safety concerns.

Mayflower makes it easy to move free of nagging guilt. Its pros bring the strength, skill and professionalism. You bring the excitement for what’s ahead. Together, you’ll make your move feel like the start of something worth celebrating. Explore the survey and get the ball rolling with a free quote.

2025-10-21T11:41:00

(BPT) – Every November, millions of families across Mexico and the United States prepare for one of the most meaningful celebrations in Latino culture — Día de los Muertos. Also known as the Day of the Dead, the celebration is far more than a holiday; it’s a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed.

At the heart of this ancient tradition lies the ofrenda, a carefully constructed altar that serves as both tribute and invitation. These beautiful displays aren’t mere decorations, but sacred spaces designed to welcome the spirits of loved ones back for a joyful reunion.

When creating your own ofrenda at home, start by including items that represent the four essential elements of life: water, fire, earth and wind. These components come together to guide and comfort the spirits on their journey. Whether you create an elaborate ofrenda or keep it small, these elements are essential in welcoming and cherishing passed loved ones.

Water: Quenching the spirit’s thirst

Water is offered to quench the thirst of souls returning after a long journey, and many families honor this tradition by placing their loved one’s favorite beverages on the ofrenda. For Mexican and Mexican American families, this often includes beers like Modelo — a gesture that reflects personal memories and cherished traditions.

Born in Mexico a century ago, Modelo Especial has been part of family gatherings across generations, making it a natural choice for ofrendas where families seek to honor their ancestors who emulated the Mark of a Fighter and recreate the moments they once shared. Whether it’s a cold bottle placed alongside fresh water and traditional aguas frescas, or raised in a toast to honor the departed, Modelo serves as both an offering and bridge — connecting families to their heritage while inviting loved ones to share one more drink across the veil between worlds.

“We’re honored that families include Modelo in their ofrendas, making us a part of a heartfelt and meaningful tradition,” said Logan Jensen, vice president of Brand Marketing, Modelo. “We look forward to being a part of the celebration as generations come together to honor loved ones for years to come.”

Fire: Lighting the way for remembrance

Fire is represented by candles, whose flames light the way for visiting spirits. Each candle is often dedicated to a specific loved one, illuminating their path and signaling that they are remembered and cherished. The gentle glow infuses the ofrenda with warmth and hope, embodying the enduring light of family and memory.

Earth: Nourishing connections

Earth is celebrated through marigold flowers, or cempasúchil, and traditional Mexican foods such as pan de muerto. The vibrant orange petals of cempasúchil are believed to attract spirits with their color and scent, while the sweet bread is both a treat for the souls and a symbol of the cycle of life. Together, these earthly offerings ground the celebration in the flavors, scents and beauty of Mexican heritage.

Wind: The breath of life

Wind finds form in papel picado, the intricately cut tissue paper banners that sway above the ofrenda. Their delicate movement in the breeze is said to represent the presence of spirits and the ephemeral nature of life. These colorful decorations add a festive spirit, turning remembrance into a celebration of life’s fleeting beauty.

With these four elements combined, an ofrenda becomes a vibrant reminder of heritage, legacy and tradition. So, raise a glass of Modelo and keep the memories alive. For more info on Modelo, visit ModeloUSA.com.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

2025-10-21T08:31:00

(BPT) – Some holiday gifts sparkle for a season. Others last a lifetime. This year, OshKosh B’gosh is making sure parents can give both with the launch of the OshKosh Reissued Collection, a nostalgic assortment that brings back the brand’s most iconic pieces, reimagined for babies and toddlers (up to 5T).

The 130-year-old heritage brand, known for its World’s Best Overalls, is celebrating its milestone anniversary by looking to the past to shape the future. From playgrounds to family portraits, OshKosh has defined childhood style for generations. Now, it’s inviting a new generation of parents to share that same legacy, reimagined for today, and ready to unwrap this holiday season.

With archival prints, heritage silhouettes, and the return of the Josh B’gosh — OshKosh’s hickory-clad bear first introduced in 1998 — these updated pieces combine nostalgic design with modern fabrics, colors, and fits to create new memories while honoring timeless ones.

Highlights of the collection include:

• The Hickory Stripe: A signature of early 20th-century workwear and OshKosh childhoods everywhere, now softer and stretchier than ever. Available in overalls, dresses, and jeans.
• The Return of Josh B’gosh: Everyone’s favorite ’90s bear is back and as adorable as ever, starring on plush sweatshirts and as a velvety-soft teddy bear, ready to be wrapped up and loved all over again.
• The World’s Best Overalls™: Nostalgic ’80s and ’90s corduroy prints, including Nutcracker, teddy bear, and train motifs, reintroduced in brighter, bolder hues. A timeless favorite, refreshed for a new generation.

The timing is perfect. With nostalgia rising in favor among today’s shoppers, the OshKosh Reissued Collection hits the sweet spot between cultural relevance and emotional resonance. It also connects with the holiday spirit, when families look to trade up for meaningful, heirloom-quality gifts.

The OshKosh Reissued Collection will be available at OshKosh.com and select stores while supplies last. Because when it comes to holiday gifting, some traditions are worth repeating.

2025-10-20T08:01:01

(BPT) – Oaklawn Hot Springs, one of America’s premier Thoroughbred racetracks and casinos, is making history. Beginning with the 2025–2026 season, Oaklawn’s racing calendar — long recognized for its high-stakes purses and nationally competitive fields — will feature two distinct racing seasons for the first time in its more than 100-year history.

A festive new tradition

The Holiday Racing Season launches Dec. 12, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026, bringing the thrill of Oaklawn racing into the most festive time of year. Guests can pair the adrenaline of live racing and the comfort of the Forbes Recommended Oaklawn Hotel with relaxation at the Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa. Whether it’s a holiday getaway, a New Year’s weekend celebration or simply a new tradition to share with friends, the Holiday Racing Season adds a fun and festive twist to the Oaklawn experience.

Elite racing returns in 2026

After a brief intermission, the spotlight returns with Oaklawn’s iconic Classic Racing Season, running Jan. 30 – May 2, 2026. This stretch showcases some of the nation’s most prestigious stakes races, drawing the sport’s elite horses, jockeys and trainers to Hot Springs. For racing fans, it’s an unmatched opportunity to see championship-caliber Thoroughbreds with the potential of winning horse racing’s coveted Triple Crown.

“Racing in December allows Oaklawn to welcome fans during the Holiday Racing Season, while our Classic Racing Season continues to deliver the elite competition for which Oaklawn is known,” said Louis A. Cella, president of Oaklawn. “We’re excited to offer even more opportunities for both longtime racing enthusiasts and new guests to experience what makes Oaklawn unique.”

A destination beyond the track

This new split-season format is designed to appeal to a broad audience:

• Racing enthusiasts: More opportunities to follow elite contenders and experience the traditions that make Oaklawn one of the premier tracks in the country.
• Young adults and new fans: A festive holiday atmosphere paired with approachable entry points to live racing, dining and entertainment makes Oaklawn a perfect first-time experience.
• Those planning a getaway: Beyond the track and great casino action, visitors can enjoy Oaklawn’s Forbes Recommended Hotel, unwind at the Astral Spa — Arkansas’ only Forbes four-star luxury spa — and indulge at Arkansas’ only Forbes Recommended restaurants, The Bugler and The OAK room & bar.

Experience Oaklawn’s elevated hospitality

Oaklawn’s innovation comes at a time when live experiences are more valuable than ever. The combination of holiday events, premier racing and the backdrop of Hot Springs’ scenic Ouachita Mountains creates an unparalleled destination for both locals and travelers.

Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for Opening Day on Dec. 12, 2025, and join Oaklawn in celebrating this historic new chapter in Thoroughbred racing.

Tips for visiting Oaklawn Hot Springs

• Check in and stay a while: Enjoy the Forbes Recommended Oaklawn Hotel, home to Arkansas’ only Forbes Four-Star luxury spa, a world-class casino and multiple Forbes Recommended dining options that make Oaklawn more than a day at the races.
• Explore Hot Springs: Discover the historic bathhouses, hiking trails and a vibrant local dining scene to round out your trip.
• Fun for the whole family: Holiday race days will feature a festive atmosphere with daily promotions, food, entertainment and family-friendly options.
• Plan ahead: Visit Oaklawn.com for hotel reservations, ticket information, schedules and special events.

With two distinct racing seasons, Oaklawn is ready to deliver unforgettable memories — whether it’s holiday cheer in December or Derby dreams in the spring.

Founded in 1904 and located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, Oaklawn is one of the premier Thoroughbred racetracks in the country. Make your reservations and plan your trip at www.oaklawn.com.

Must be 18 for race gambling and 21 for casino gaming in Arkansas. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org.

2025-10-20T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you get misty-eyed recalling favorite childhood vacations? Remember watching the scenery roll by from the back seat with the windows down, feeling the warm sun on your back and sand between your toes? Do you remember savoring cool ice cream while the sounds of arcade games echoed around you and the sweet smell of funnel cakes mingled with the ocean breeze along the boardwalk?

Memories like these have inspired the latest travel trend, “time tripping,” where travelers seek to relive the magic of family vacations. There’s no better place to create your own time-traveling experience than South Carolina’s Grand Strand. Stretching across 60 miles of shoreline and 14 unique communities, including Myrtle Beach, this region holds a special place in the American vacation story.

If you love the idea of pairing familiar vacation touchstones with new attractions, you’ll find it all at The Beach. Try these curated experiences combining the best of the past with fun new ways to enjoy your nostalgic getaway.

Gen Z: TikTok meets childhood throwbacks

This itinerary taps into Gen Z’s love of content-worthy moments and playful nods to the early 2000s. After a visit to the beach, check out oversized sweets at the iconic candy store I Love Sugar, then explore the mall-style vibes at the outdoor shopping and dining hub The Market Common.

Ready for a little action? The high-tech mini golf experience at PopStroke, backed by Tiger Woods, is well worth the visit. Then you can throw it back with skee-ball at the Fun Plaza Arcade, race bumper cars at The Track and make sure to catch a candy-colored sunset from the top of the SkyWheel. End the evening enjoying modern live music and rooftop vibes at Tin Roof. You’ll have an amazing time, with plenty of Instagrammable moments.

Millennials: Perfect remix of retro and modern

Get ready for a trip that embraces the “good old days” with grown-up upgrades. First snap some film-style beach photos along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, then satisfy your sweet tooth with bubble waffles and ice cream from The Dolly Llama.

After soaking in some sun and surf, enjoy dinner at The Hangout, a lively burger and seafood spot with dancing servers and throwback tunes. Then, unwind at the sleek new retro-inspired voco the Shelby hotel, featuring modern oceanfront digs with a pool and view that can’t be beat. Not ready to call it a night? Head to Crooked Hammock Brewery at Barefoot Landing for backyard vibes, live music and craft brews under the string lights creating a perfect grown-up twist on those carefree summer nights.

Gen X: Retro cool and chill vibes

For the “MTV generation,” this itinerary pairs throwback cool with laid-back coastal culture. Wake up to pancakes at Harry’s Pancake House, then browse the racks at Retro Active, a funky vintage shop offering everything from your favorite band tees to ’90s windbreakers. Then revisit classic amusement park thrills at Broadway at the Beach’s Pavilion Park or feel the rush of electric go-kart racing at K1 Speed. In the evening, enjoy timeless performances at The Carolina Opry, a tradition since 1986.

You can go full ’80s arcade at the Pinball Museum and enjoy mini golf at tiki-themed Mt. Atlanticus or catch a variety show at the Alabama Theatre, a venue that’s been entertaining visitors with nostalgic hits and classic humor for decades. And don’t forget to make time for a day at the beach that feels blissfully analog before you leave. It’s your soundtrack of summer, set to ocean waves and old-school charm.

Boomers: Classic Myrtle Beach, reimagined

For the timeless traditions Boomers remember and love, start with breakfast at Hot Stacks Pancake House, a longtime favorite serving traditional pancakes, omelets and hearty diner classics, then head south of the Strand to visit Brookgreen Gardens, followed by a treasure hunt for unique, handcrafted gifts and stylish apparel at The Hammock Shops Village. You could go really retro at the L.W. Paul Living History Farm in Conway, showcasing early 20th-century farm life, or plan a picturesque escape to the newly opened Barn View Winery in Loris for a taste of handcrafted wines and sweeping countryside views.

Another day may find you indulging in nostalgia with a scoop at Original Painter’s Homemade Ice Cream, a local favorite since 1952, followed by classic car displays at Wheels of Yesteryear and a throwback live music performance at the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre. Before heading home, stroll the famed Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for souvenirs and saltwater taffy, followed by a step back in time with classic Lowcountry flavors and pirate lore at Drunken Jack’s.

No matter your generation, rediscover the magic of Myrtle Beach, where classic vacation memories meet fresh, new experiences. Start planning your adventure today at VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

2025-10-16T12:01:00

(BPT) – Over the next two decades, more than $84 trillion in wealth is expected to transfer from Baby Boomers to younger generations.

This unprecedented event, known as the “Great Wealth Transfer,” marks the largest intergenerational handoff of wealth in history. The question is: are families truly prepared?

Without proper planning, much of this hard-earned wealth can be lost in a generation. In fact, data shows 70% of families lose a portion of their wealth due to interfamilial conflict, with nearly 60% of estates ending up under court control because of improper estate planning.

This intergenerational wealth transfer has imposed unprecedented strain on familial relationships, thanks to the complex nature of today’s globalized and blended family structures, where cross-border assets and multiple marriages add new legal and emotional elements.

Blended families and families with estranged members face particular challenges, with inheritance issues often magnified in households with ex-spouses, new partners or children from previous marriages.

To further complicate matters, new spouses may have legal entitlements that clash with the expectations of children from previous relationships, leading to confusion and legal ambiguity. Without clear documentation and communication in advance, the lines between emotional attachment and financial entitlement can become blurred. In such situations, perceived slights, whether intentional or not, can easily spiral into formal disputes.

In fact, more than half of wills are contested among these families. Disputes can arise when surviving spouses are granted significant control or perceived favoritism creates resentment among heirs.

But inheritance battles among heirs aren’t the only risk. Older, high-net-worth individuals may find themselves vulnerable to manipulation by relatives acting in bad faith. Potential heirs may exploit weakened relationships or unclear succession plans to access wealth prematurely — or even take control of family businesses.

While Rupert Murdoch’s high-profile legal dispute with his children ended well for him in protecting his empire and succession plan, the ongoing legal case involving another media mogul, Polish billionaire Zygmunt Solorz, illustrates that other wealth transfer disputes may have a less favorable outcome.

Solorz is entangled in a dispute with his three children over control of his media empire. Court filings suggest that the billionaire was manipulated by his children into initiating a premature succession process, exploiting the company’s financial holdings in Liechtenstein and engaging in a hostile takeover of his business — leading to a continuous decline in stock prices and harming shareholders.

While these two examples involve ultra-wealthy individuals, the cases serve as a warning to Baby Boomers across the income spectrum on the importance of wealth management and asset protection to prevent interfamilial conflict for family businesses from Wall Street to Main Street.

For high-net-worth individuals navigating succession, governance and asset protection, caution and preparation are key. Of primary importance is the inclusion of clear, legally binding succession plans that are difficult to overturn. These arrangements should include built-in dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration clauses or mediation panels, to prevent costly and public legal battles.

Further, experts stress the need for independent oversight, particularly when assets are held through foundations or trusts. Appointing neutral curators or trustees can help enforce the founder’s intent and reduce the risk of family infighting derailing a legacy. Transparent communication among family members is equally critical, especially when it comes to roles, decision-making powers and potential health issues.

In particular, planning for “what if” scenarios such as illness, mental incapacity or new family dynamics should also be part of any long-term strategy for wealth management and planning.

The Solorz case also underscores the importance of carefully selecting jurisdictions. While tax havens like Liechtenstein are often trusted for wealth management, local court interventions can still pose risks. And in cross-border arrangements, conflicting legal frameworks can further complicate matters, making proactive, well-documented planning essential.

Improper handling can fracture families, derail business empires and lead to significant loss in generational wealth.

With the Great Wealth Transfer underway, thoughtful, professional and forward-looking preparation is needed to protect assets and preserve relationships and legacies across generations.