Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-05-01T09:15:00

(BPT) – Have you heard about Maycember? If you’re a parent, you’ve probably lived it — even if the name’s new to you. Maycember is that hectic, stressful period at the end of the school year filled with final projects, back-to-back events and the scramble to prepare for summer. Suddenly, you’re juggling camp sign-ups, childcare logistics — all while still in school-year mode.

According to a new poll of 2,000 U.S. millennial parents of school-aged children, many parents find the end of the school year makes them feel exhausted (29%), anxious (28%) and overwhelmed (21%). This period of stress begins on average 28 days before the last day of the school year, in the middle of May. Commissioned by Bob Evans and conducted by Talker Research, the study found that many parents believe the final month of the school year is busier than fall break (42%), spring break (41%), winter break (37%) and even back-to-school season (35%).

Parents who feel stressed by the final weeks of the school year said the anxiety stems from having to figure out how to balance work with their child’s summer schedule (49%), having an unpredictable schedule (41%) and not having enough time for household tasks (37%).

Sound familiar? If so, you probably already know that one of the biggest stressors of the season is handling dinnertime, especially on busy weeknights full of after-school activities, homework and other demands. The survey also discovered that more than 1 in 4 parents (27%) find it challenging to prepare dinner and sit down to eat it with their families. Dinner struggles, according to these parents, are due to feeling too exhausted to cook at the end of the day (59%), running out of ideas for what to make (53%), and not wanting to deal with prep or clean-up afterward (45%).

If mealtime feels extra stressful this time of year, you’re not alone. Here are a few strategies and tools to manage your time better and make weeknight dinners feel a little less like a chore.

Build in time cushions

When planning schedules around after-school activities, overestimate how long things will take — from getting out the door to travel time between stops. Adding an extra 15-20 minutes here and there can give you some breathing room and help prevent those last-minute scrambles when things don’t go as planned.

Have breakfast for dinner

Breakfast staples like eggs and sausage come together fast, making them ideal for busy nights. Using protein-rich ingredients like Bob Evans Liquid Egg Whites and Pork Sausage give you a satisfying balanced meal in minutes. Pair them with sweet favorites like pancakes or waffles, for a dinner that feels fun and fills everyone up.

Repurpose your leftovers

Leftovers don’t have to feel like a repeat. Use extra chicken or beef from a meal earlier in the week to create something new — toss them in a stir-fry, wrap them in a tortilla or add them to pasta. A few fresh ingredients can give yesterday’s dinner a whole new spin.

Mix and match family-favorite sides

Not every part of dinner needs to be made from scratch. Stock your kitchen with easy side dish staples like Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese and Mashed Potatoes. These sides are ready in just 10 minutes, with minimal prep and cleanup, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time connecting with your family around the dinner table — even on the busiest nights.

Bob Evans 12 Days of Maycember Giveaway

Now through May 12, consumers can enter to win a new prize each day — from time-saving helpers to a little well-deserved self-care by visiting the Bob Evans Instagram or Facebook pages. On Instagram, you must follow Bob Evans, like the sweepstakes post and fulfill the daily prompt with #sweepstakes. On Facebook, you must fulfill the daily prompt with #sweepstakes.

Find more quick and convenient dinner staples, plus easy recipes to take the stress out of weeknight meals, at BobEvansGrocery.com.

2025-05-01T12:25:00

(BPT) – Imagine spending your entire work day, every day, in a windowless room, with only artificial light to illuminate your space. It’s not an inspiring, motivating or pleasant place to spend hundreds of hours every month, yet for some American children — particularly those attending schools built in the 1960s and 1970s — this is an unfortunate reality. Windows were once seen as posing a distraction to children, and as such, were purposely eliminated from building designs.

Fortunately, times have changed, and the benefits of natural light and views to the outdoors are now well known. Physicians now believe that more interesting visual environments help to boost memory, cognitive development and even childhood eye development. Furthermore, spending more time with natural light has been shown to benefit mood, alertness, nighttime sleep quality and overall well-being.

Why natural light matters

In fact, natural light has been shown to enhance students’ focus, improve test scores and even boost creativity. Even adults who work in offices with windows have been found to sleep better and be more physically active than those whose workplaces have no windows. Research has revealed that, all other things being equal, students in daylight-rich classrooms:

• Are more motivated and engaged.¹
• Score higher on standardized tests.²
• Progress 20% faster in reading and math compared to students in classrooms with no windows or daylight.³

“I’ve spent my career researching the importance of natural light in our daily lives, and it’s clear that there’s an immediate opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students and teachers by adding more daylight into buildings,” said Lisa Heschong, architect and founding principal of the Heschong Mahone Group (HMG), a building sciences consulting firm. “I’m glad to see more efforts to not only benefit schools but also raise awareness on the importance of natural light in learning environments.”

Windows of Opportunity

To help address this concern, a pilot project called Windows of Opportunity, spearheaded by Windex, brought more light into one elementary school’s windowless classrooms, Eisenhower Elementary in Jacksonville, Illinois. The school is sparking further conversation about the importance of natural light for students’ growth, development, focus and learning. It’s clear that with windows in a classroom, students can really shine.

According to a survey of Eisenhower Elementary teachers, 84% reported that student mood and overall well-being improved after installing the windows, while 93% reported a positive impact on their own mood and well-being. See the transformation firsthand in this video, where teachers and staff share how the upgraded windows have enhanced the school environment for everyone.

Windex is shining a light on this overlooked but important issue that continues to affect some students in schools across the country, and hopes to help motivate other parents and school districts to make similar changes in their buildings. In fact, Windex was so moved by the impact at Eisenhower and the positive response from consumers that it was inspired to do more. The brand is continuing to explore ways it can expand this project to other communities.

Brighter classrooms create brighter futures. Learn more about the Windows of Opportunity project by watching the YouTube video about Eisenhower Elementary.

2025-05-01T09:15:00

(BPT) – Severe temperatures, whether scorching heat or frigid cold, can put a strain on a home’s HVAC system. Preparing systems for these conditions is essential to ensure reliability, efficiency and comfort throughout the year. Without proper preparedness, a system may struggle to keep up, leading to potential breakdowns, costly repairs and discomfort when homeowners least expect it.

The following shares insights as to why temperatures so greatly affect HVAC systems and easy tips homeowners can put into practice.

The Impact of Intense Heat or Cold on HVAC Systems:

When temperatures soar, HVAC systems must work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. This increased energy demand can lead to higher utility bills and the potential for overheating, causing components to wear out faster. Reduced efficiency can be another concern, as continuous operation without adequate maintenance may result in service interruptions.

Just as extreme heat may strain HVAC systems, frigid temperatures can also wreak havoc on heating components. Freezing temperatures pose the risk of frozen pipes, which can cause damage if they burst. Thermostat malfunctions and insufficient heating are examples of common issues homeowners may face during the winter months. Ice buildup in outdoor units can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency, making it even harder for the system to operate effectively. Without proper preparation, homeowners may find themselves without heat when they need it most.

Three Tips to Prepare HVAC Systems for Extreme Weather:

Perform routine upkeep

One of the most important steps in preparing a home’s HVAC system for unpredictable weather is conducting regular maintenance checks. Scheduling seasonal inspections with a professional technician ensures that potential issues are identified and addressed before they lead to system problems. Key components such as filters, refrigerant levels and thermostat calibration should be closely monitored to maintain optimal performance.

Adopt smart technology solutions

Investing in smart technology is another effective way to optimize HVAC performance during unpredictable weather. Smart thermostats offer more accurate temperature control by adjusting settings based on occupancy and external conditions. Rheem^®, a leading HVAC manufacturer, created its EcoNet^® Smart Thermostat as an advanced solution designed to optimize home comfort and efficiency. With intelligent temperature control, remote access via the EcoNet app and real-time system alerts, it helps homeowners monitor and adjust their HVAC settings effortlessly.

Ensure the home is well insulated

Another crucial step is improving insulation and sealing any air leaks. Proper insulation helps prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, reducing the strain on the HVAC system. Sealing ducts, windows and doors can enhance efficiency and prevent energy waste, leading to lower utility costs and improved overall performance.

Preparing a home’s HVAC system for severe weather helps safeguard against unexpected issues while maintaining efficiency. Utilizing these steps can ensure any home is better prepared. Also, it is helpful to consider reaching out to a trusted, local HVAC professional for a maintenance check to guarantee a system is weather ready. Visit Rheem.com to find a local professional.

2025-04-30T09:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is here, making it the perfect time to dream up your vibrant garden. This year, think of your garden as a personal masterpiece, where colors blend and nature takes center stage. Just like a painter, you can make your colors pop by pairing bold, warm tones — yellows, pinks, reds and oranges — against cool blues and greens to express yourself through gorgeous, living art.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, there’s a whole community ready to welcome you, plus garden stores and online resources brimming with inspiration. To help you get growing, the experts at Ball Horticultural Company are sharing their top plant picks to bring your garden to life with color.

1. A pollinator’s paradise

If you love the idea of butterflies, bees and hummingbirds fluttering through your yard, try these long-lasting, pollinator-friendly blooms:

• Foxglove Arctic Fox™ Lemon Cream — Tall stems of light yellow flowers call to hummingbirds and bees who just love to feed in the tubular florets. An easy way to keep things cheerful and buzzing in the garden.
• Ageratum Monarch Magic — Monarch butterflies can’t resist these fluffy purple beauties, perfect for hanging baskets or ground cover.
• Zinnia Elegant Hot Mixture — Bursting with pink, orange, scarlet and rose hues, these colorful zinnias add warmth to any garden bed or container.

2. Gardens that smell as good as they look

For those who enjoy the sweet aromas of flowers, these fragrant varieties will delight your senses with their natural perfumes:

• Dianthus DiaDeur™ — These full, double-bloomed carnations bring fresh bursts of pink, white and red to your garden, with a delicate fragrance to match. They thrive both indoors and outdoors and make a thoughtful hostess gift!
• Agastache Summerlong — Not only beautiful, but also fragrant! These mid-size, sorbet-inspired blooms stand atop minty-scented foliage that attracts both people and pollinators.
• Lavender ‘SuperBlue’ — With deep blue blooms and a classic calming scent, this long-lasting English lavender is a must-have for any aromatic garden.

3. Moody and elegant blooms

Dare to be different and go for deep, rich hues that add a touch of drama and stand out in your landscape or containers:

• Angelonia AngelFlare™ Black — The darkest Angelonia on the market, this flared variety adds an air of mystery to your flower beds and containers.
• Petunia Easy Wave^® Navy Velour — These rich navy blooms create a stunning contrast when paired with silvery foliage.
• Coleus FlameThrower™ Adobo Pink — A striking pink-hued foliage plant that adds texture and intrigue to any garden or container.

4. Vegetables that wow

Why not add color to both your garden and your plate! These unique veggies and herbs are as delicious as they are beautiful:

• Kitchen Minis Bonsai Basil — A countertop-friendly basil plant with small, flavorful leaves — no chopping required!
• Tomato WonderStar Red — A large, bright red beefsteak tomato that’s as juicy as it is eye-catching.
• Squash Green Lightning (AAS Award Winner) — This early-ripening patty pan squash features striking green stripes and a tender, delicious flavor — perfect for roasting or soups.

No matter what your gardening style or experience level, these stunning plants make it easy to create a space filled with color, fragrance and life. So grab your gloves, dig in, and let your garden bloom with color and joy.

2025-04-29T16:31:00

(BPT) – As rising temperatures and humidity signal the start of tick season, many Americans remain unprepared for the risks ahead. A recent survey commissioned on behalf of OFF!^® brand insect repellents reveals that 80% of U.S. adults are concerned about the diseases ticks and mosquitoes may carry, and yet 26% are not confident they’re taking enough precautions to avoid tick bites when outdoors*.

These tiny pests are easy to miss but can cause big problems, transmitting potentially harmful diseases like Lyme disease, which the CDC reports is the most common vector-borne disease in the U.S. Whether hiking through the woods, relaxing in the backyard or forging through tall grass or forested areas, ticks can easily latch on, often without notice.

“Ticks are known for being stealthy opportunists that can survive on blood and can spread diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and alpha-gal syndrome,” said Dr. Tom Mascari, principal entomologist at the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science and Family Health^®. “Many ticks can be found in wooded areas, but even grassy environments — like backyards — are suitable for some species.”

Dr. Mascari emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant about tick protection and being especially mindful of tick species known for carrying disease. “There are more than 90 tick species in the U.S., however, people should be especially wary of black-legged ticks — which commonly carry Lyme disease — and Lone Star ticks, that are associated with alpha-gal syndrome or the ‘red meat allergy.’ While most cases of Lyme disease are found in the Northeast and Upper Midwest, taking preventative measures in any region is imperative for staying protected from biting insects and the diseases they may carry.”

To help stay protected against tick bites, consider these tips from Dr. Mascari and SC Johnson’s Center for Insect Science^®.

1. Dress to Protect. Dressing smart can help prevent tick bites. Light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot ticks. If weather permits, wear a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toed shoes, socks that cover the shins and long pants for an added layer of protection.

2. While Outdoors. Minimize time spent walking through tall grasses and heavily wooded areas where ticks thrive. When hiking or walking, stay in the center of trails and stick to well-maintained paths. Remember, ticks don’t just live in the woods — they can also be found in backyards and other outdoor areas, so don’t assume a manicured lawn is tick-free.

3. After Being Outdoors. Conducting a thorough tick check can greatly reduce the risk of infection. Ticks prefer warm, hidden areas and can be as small as a poppy seed, so pay close attention to spots like behind the knees, between the toes, around the waistband and along the hairline. If a tick is found on the skin, remove it immediately with tweezers and clean the bite area. Showering within two hours of exposure further reduces the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses by washing off unattached ticks. Wash clothes in hot water to help eliminate any ticks that may have latched onto clothing, then toss the clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10-15 minutes to kill any remaining ticks.

4. Adopt a “PREtection” Routine. It’s essential to take precautions to prevent tick bites. Understanding tick behavior — and knowing which active ingredients, like DEET and picaridin, are effective in repellents — helps support ongoing protection. Incorporating “PREtection,” the act of applying insect repellent before heading outdoors, into a daily routine is a simple yet important step while spending time outdoors. Several OFF!^® products contain these tick-repelling active ingredients, offering protection for a range of use occasions. Below, see two great product options that are the perfect fit for the outdoors. For more information visit the OFF!^® brand’s website.

• OFF!^® Deep Woods^® Insect Repellent V Tick Aerosol: For effective, long-lasting protection, this repellent is formulated with 25% DEET to repel ticks (including ticks that may carry Lyme disease), mosquitoes, stable flies, black flies, sand flies, deer flies, chiggers and gnats. Ideal for extended outdoor adventures, it provides uninterrupted protection from biting pests. For on-the-go protection, OFF!^® Deep Woods^® Insect Repellent Towelettes offer the same 25% DEET formula in individually wrapped wipes that are easy to carry and provide up to 8 hours of coverage.
• OFF!^® Clean Feel Insect Repellent I Aerosol: Perfect for everyday use, this is a fragrance-free repellent that provides non-sticky, non-greasy protection from mosquitoes and ticks. Formulated with 20% picaridin, it’s lightweight and won’t damage fabrics. With up to 8 hours of protection, this repellent is ideal for daily outdoor activities.

Remember: Ticks are tiny parasites that can hide almost anywhere, not just in the woods or tall grass. Whether exploring the wilderness or simply taking a walk around the block, it’s important to stay protected. By following these tips, the outdoors can still be enjoyed with peace of mind.

For more information, check out the CDC guidance on preventing tick bites. To explore the full range of OFF!^® products, visit OFF.com.

*Survey Methodology: This online survey was fielded in the United States between January 16 and January 21, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 3,051 adults above the age of 18. It was conducted by the market research company The Harris Poll. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level.

2025-04-29T11:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is full of opportunities to get outside, enjoy the beautiful weather and have fun spending time with your family — but too often, a mountain of spring chores and everyday obligations gets in the way. Fortunately, you can make the most of smart gadgets designed to make your life easier, so you can spend less time doing and a lot more time enjoying.

At a recent product showcase in New York City, Anker Innovations unveiled a selection of cutting-edge solutions in charging, power storage, smart home tech, and more, all designed to make everyday tasks easier and enhance your spring experience.

Here are eight ways to optimize the latest tech to put a little more spring in your step:

1. Spring cleaning starts at the bottom

Is there a better way to get rid of months of dirt, dust and grime than mopping or vacuuming all your floors yourself? Absolutely. Thanks to Eufy’s E28 Robot Vacuum with Portable Deep Cleaner, you can do just about anything else while your floors practically clean themselves. The E28’s deep-cleaning system features the world’s first vacuum and mopping system equipped with a detachable portable deep cleaner — and its HydroJet™ self-cleaning mopping capabilities and industry-leading 20,000 Pa suction power will make spring cleaning a breeze. Best yet, the system includes 15N (3.3 pounds) of downwards pressure to deep clean hard floors.

Don’t need to have the separate portable deep cleaner? You can opt for the E25 Robot Vacuum and Mopping system, which features the same effective turbo suction power and mopping capabilities of the E28. The E25 is available now under pre-sale for a June launch at eufy.com.

2. Outdoor chores made simple

Grass growing already? Check one more weekend chore off your to-do list with one of two models: the E18 & E15 Auto Robot Lawn Mowers. With eufy’s first foray into outdoor lawn robotics, these two options both feature eufy’s Vision-FSD 1.0. With no buried wires or RTK setups, these Auto Robot Lawn Mowers feature high-precision cameras and intelligent algorithms to autonomously map your lawn while accurately identifying lawn edges, obstacles and paths. The eufy Robot Lawn Mower E15 can tackle a lawn area of just over 2,600 square feet (800m²), while the E18 covers nearly 3,940 square feet (1200m²). Once your lawn care is covered, you can get back to enjoying that bike ride, evening stroll or ball game.

3. Upgrade your backyard experience

What better way to spend a weekend night than watching a movie in the backyard with friends and family. And Nebula’s X1 4K Projector makes it incredibly easy to set up, resulting in a bright, colorful picture on up to a 200-inch screen — that’s over 16 feet diagonally. With the built-in micro gimbal and optical zoom, you can place the X1 on a table, projector stand or even the floor and with the push of a button, the projector can automatically zoom in or out for the proper screen size and position — even taking the hassle out of adjusting for keystone correction. Combine the X1 with a pair of Nebula’s wireless accessory speakers for an immersive 4.1.2 surround experience.

4. Be storm-ready

To help you feel prepared to cope with outages from unpredictable spring and summer storms, the Anker SOLIX F3800 Plus Portable Power Station provides powerful, customizable whole-home power backup with industry-leading solar efficiency. The F3800 Plus supports dual 165V solar inputs for up to 3,200W of input — fully recharging the power station in just 1.5 hours — and is compatible with 240V generators for extended outages. With a 6,000W dual-voltage output and expandable capacity from 3,840Wh-26,880Wh, the SOLIX F3800 Plus Portable Power Station can power everything from fridges to well pumps during long-term outages.

Even better, when paired with the Anker SOLIX Home Power Panel, the power station becomes a full home backup solution, seamlessly switching between solar, grid and backup in just 30 milliseconds — delivering uninterrupted power and energy independence.

5. Boost your home security

You can also have better peace of mind all season long by upgrading to the eufy ProSecure system, which offers Tri-Cam bullet pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras with Power over Ethernet (PoE) integration for non-stop power and recording capabilities. The bullet camera delivers 4K resolution, while the PTZ camera offers 2.5K resolution and 360-degree pan and tilt flexibility to dramatically reduce blind spots. The Network Video Recorder (NVR) includes 2 terabytes (TB) of onboard memory, with expandable memory up to 16TB, as well as the ability to support 24/7 recording for up to 16 channels at the same time.

You can get this best-in-class security hardware, plus seamless cross-camera tracking and advanced color night vision, with no monthly subscription fees. Check eufy.com for details on the ProSecure system.

6. Level up your home office

Need to do a little work from home? Creative professionals and advanced users alike will appreciate Anker’s Thunderbolt™ 5 Docking Station and high-speed cable, which provides up to 120Gbps bandwidth, support for dual 8K displays and integrated Gallium Nitride (GaN) power delivering 232W. The dock features HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1, advanced cooling and smart firmware updates via Anker Dock Manager — all housed in a sleek aluminum design with ambient lighting. Available April 24 on Anker.com, Amazon and select retailers.

7. Personalize your belongings

Is there a better way to spruce up your decor than by transforming everyday belongings with personalized design, such as tumblers, mugs, phone cases, fridge magnets and even LEGO bricks? That’s exactly what the eufyMake UV printer E1 is designed to do — turn your creativity into reality. It can print millions of true colors with 3D texture onto over 300 materials including wood, metal, acrylic, leather, etc.

Thanks to its compact design — no bigger than a microwave — it’s perfect for home use on a desk. What makes the whole printing process even easier is the AI-powered studio that boasts over 20,000 templates and creative tools that help you quickly finish the design. The printer is also low maintenance, due to its self-cleaning system that cleans the printhead on its own, so you can focus on your creativity without interruption. E1 is available to order on Kickstarter starting April 29.

8. Focus on safety and translation

With so many distractions in today’s world, it’s important to stay present. Whether walking or biking down a city street or taking kids for a walk in a stroller, using noise-cancelling earbuds can make it hard to hear what’s going on outside. Soundcore’s AeroFit 2 and AeroClip offer two different ways to listen to music or podcasts without blocking out the sound of what’s around you. The open-ear AeroFit 2 uses a flexible earhook design to stay on your ear throughout the day, while the AeroClip simply clips on to the outer ear.

Sometimes while traveling, you may want a way to communicate with others in foreign languages. The AeroFit 2 also adds an A.I. translation tool to help you translate over 100 languages in real time for conversations between two people, or while listening to a tour operator. Whether ordering lunch in a restaurant, checking into a hotel or just watching a video, the translation works through the Soundcore app and directly through the earbuds.

All these latest tech solutions can help make your life easier, so you can get back to what matters most — enjoying the season with your friends and family.

2025-04-29T10:25:00

(BPT) – Verizon is excited to announce that its free STEM summer program — now in its 10th year — is open for registration.

Hosted on 45 college campuses in 26 states across the country, the Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program, in partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), offers FREE summer programs on college campuses across the country where middle school students gain access to hands-on learning in STEM fields, exposing them to technologies like augmented reality, 3D printing, drones and robotics, and the possibilities of college education. Students collaborate on real-world projects, engage with industry professionals, and develop problem-solving skills that prepare them for future careers.

The program’s interactive curriculum, developed by Verizon in partnership with Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute, centers on four educational tracks: immersive media, smart solutions, digital product innovations and AI.

Learn more and sign up.

“As tech and AI continue accelerating the pace of innovation, it’s up to all business leaders to ensure the next generation has tech access and advancement opportunities,” said Donna Epps, Verizon’s Chief Responsible Business Officer. “The Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program, in partnership with NACCE, offers an opportunity for students to engage with tech over the summer and propel their own learning and digital skills to set them up for success during the school year, beyond middle school and in life. Program participants are extraordinary individuals inside and outside the classroom, and Verizon is honored to be a part of their journey.”

“One big thing I remember from the [program] was that every morning there would be a new, accomplished woman to talk to us, and tell us what her career journey had been like and the obstacles she has had to face. I have always remembered the impact that [guest speakers] had on me. Having those role models really solidified to me that I can have a career in STEM, and gave me the confidence to go to college, since I am a first-generation student, to accomplish those goals,” said Danielle Amos, Patrick & Henry Community College program attendee. Danielle is double-majoring in biology and anthropology with a concentration in medical anthropology on a pre-med track at the University of Virginia.

“The program opened my understanding of technology, but also had a significant impact on my social development. When I first arrived, I was quite reserved, but the experience helped me out of my shell a bit and to explore my chosen career path more deeply,” said Ricky Richardson, North Carolina A&T State University former program attendee, turned program mentor, now a program instructor. Ricky is pursuing an automotive engineering technology degree at North Carolina A&T State University.

“Before the program, I definitely didn’t know about other career possibilities in STEM. It 100% helped my path up to now,” said Ravion Lightfoot, Jackson State University program attendee. Ravion is now at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Verizon Innovative Learning is a key part of the company’s responsible business efforts, with a goal to equip 10 million youth with digital skills training by 2030.

2025-04-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Slowing down while traveling is what Pure Michigan is all about — from the foothills of the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the quiet lakeshores of Lake Huron to the serenity you can find amidst the changing of the seasons.

In Michigan, travelers can use all available senses to tap into wonder and connection while soaking in the scenery across all corners of the state. It’s time to embrace the beauty, culture and excitement across our two pleasant peninsulas on a deeper and more rewarding level.

Learn about the art of slow travel in Michigan — and how to embrace it. No matter where your next adventure takes you, the journey itself is just as meaningful as the destination.

What is slow travel?

Slow travel is the practice of travelers taking a more immersive and mindful approach to experiencing the destination in which they travel. Unlike traditional, fast-paced tourism where visitors try to see as many places as possible in a short amount of time, slow travel focuses on making more meaningful connections with the places and people they come in contact with — from engaging in deeper observation of local culture, to opting to travel more sustainably, to lowering stress by breaking the mold of jam-packed schedules and stiff agendas.

Slow travel allows for an almost meditative way of connecting with what’s around you while you travel. Instead of rushing to what’s next, seeking high-thrill and high-energy experiences, and checking off a to-do list of stops, travelers can opt to slow down and engage all five senses (sight, smell, hearing, taste and touch) for a deeper connection to the community.

5 tips for successful slow travel

1. Skip the agenda – Packed schedules are more conducive to stressful travel when you’re constantly pivoting to the next thing on your to-do list. Take a go-with-the-flow approach to travel with ample free time and flexibility to embrace the moments (and the surprises you’ll find) along the way.

2. Opt for longer stays – Choose accommodations that offer longer stays so you can visit your destination over a longer period of time. This gives you time to live like a local and build deeper relationships with the people and places you explore and meet.

3. Engage with locals – Introduce yourself and dive into deeper conversations with locals. They’re your best bet for intel on hidden gems and must-see sights you wouldn’t have known of otherwise.

4. Choose more sustainable options – Whether it’s your mode of transportation, like biking instead of driving, or supporting local businesses, sustainability plays a big role in slow travel. For example, try sitting in the coffee shop to enjoy your drink in a real coffee mug instead of taking a disposable cup to go. You never know who you’ll meet or the conversations you’ll have while slowing down.

5. Prioritize quality over quantity – Pick educational, purposeful and emotionally enriching experiences, even if they take longer or require more of your attention. You’ll be thankful for more depth and less distraction while you travel.

Here’s how to slow down and savor the sights, sounds and sensations of Michigan

Ditch the whirlwind mentality of travel for a more mindful escape in Michigan — on your own time.

Take a scenic train ride

You can embark on an adventure along lesser-traveled tracks as you sit back and take in the scenery along the way on a train ride through Michigan. The Pere Marquette Amtrak route offers stunning views along Michigan’s western coast between Grand Rapids and Chicago. Or, the Southern Michigan Railroad Society runs seasonal trips from Clinton through scenic farmlands and the Little River Railroad in Coldwater offers nostalgic steam train rides through the countryside of Southwest Lower Peninsula.

Find a farmers market or local food experience

Let your taste buds take over and support your local farmer by visiting a Michigan farmers market for a true, local food experience. Not only is it a sustainable way to shop but it’s a sensory overload when you can touch and taste the food, and talk with the very farmer who grew the produce you’ll buy. Check out the Eastern Market in Detroit, the Midland Area Farmers Market on the east side, the Kalamazoo Farmers Market on the southwest side, and the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market in the Upper Peninsula.

Michigan leads in producing fruits like apples, tart cherries and blueberries, as well as vegetables including asparagus and cucumbers. Post-market, visit a local restaurant that showcases these fresh flavors in their dishes, like The Apparatus Room in Detroit, Grove in Grand Rapids, Salt of the Earth in Fennville, and Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay.

Visit one (or more) of Michigan’s many art trails

Exploring art and sculpture parks encourages visitors to take a leisurely stroll and form deeper connections with the art and nature around them. Unlike crowded museums and scripted tours, these parks invite contemplation and discovery as you meander on trails, perhaps studying the way sunlight strikes a single sculpture or pondering how seasonal changes change each piece that particular time of year.

There are endless places to enjoy manmade and natural works of art in Michigan’s great outdoors, like the expansive Frederik Meijer Gardens, featuring sculpture galleries, a tropical conservatory, a children’s garden and Japanese garden with over 200 sculptures in Grand Rapids. Or explore the winding and whimsical Michigan Legacy Art Park, a 30-acre preserve with hiking trails, sculptures, poetry stones and an amphitheater at Crystal Mountain.

Watch for wildlife and wander through wilderness

Birdwatching at Arcadia Dunes wetlands, elk viewing in Pigeon River County State Forest, or spotting a moose on the remote Isle Royale National Park are just a few ways to explore nature and watch for wildlife along the journey. Wildlife viewing in wilderness is the essence of slow travel, as it requires patience, quiet observation and a willingness to let nature reveal itself in its own time. Just remember to keep a safe distance and maintain awareness of your surroundings when you’re near Michigan’s wildlife.

Whether you’re waiting silently near a wetland to spot sandhill cranes at Phyllis Haehnle Memorial Sanctuary in Jackson County, or slowly hiking through Seney National Wildlife Refuge hoping to see a glimpse of a loon, this unhurried approach allows you to notice subtle details like animal tracks, listen for distinct bird calls and truly immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of wild places — making each moment more meaningful and memorable.

2025-04-29T08:15:00

(BPT) – Love your feline family member but feel stretched thin juggling work, family, and life? Don’t worry — you can still give your cat the love and attention they deserve, even on your busiest days.

With just a few adjustments and handy tricks, you can ensure you are able to support your cats’ needs around your busy day. Check out these four easy tips from Purina pet behaviorist Dr. Miles Bensky to keep your pets happy and healthy without adding to your busy schedule.

1. Create a Routine

A consistent routine creates a happier household for you and your cat as the foundation for a cat-friendly household.

“Just like humans, cats thrive on predictability. Knowing when they get to eat and play can help reduce their stress,” says Bensky. “Take a look at your daily schedule and see how you can seamlessly integrate your cat’s needs.”

Habit stacking is a simple way to set a routine for your cat and include them in your own. Typical habit stacking works by attaching a new habit to an existing one. For example, you could time your cat’s meals to coincide with your own, ensuring everyone gets fed at the same time.

If you’ve built in time to drink coffee and make your to-do list in the morning or have a wind-down hour at night, use that time to play with your cat.

2. Stay on Top of Litter Box Maintenance

“Maintaining a clean litter box is one of the most important things you can do for your cat,” says Bensky. “Cats like clean, and if a box isn’t tended to, your cat may avoid it, resulting in more accidents outside the litterbox, or potential health issues. “

To make the litter box chore as easy as possible, try a self-cleaning litterbox like Litter-Robot^® by Whisker, featuring The Perfect Cycle™ with Tidy Cats Designed for Litter-Robot — both created to simplify life for busy cat owners. Litter-Robot uses patented sifting technology to remove cat waste, depositing the clumps into a drawer below the globe. It leaves a fresh bed of litter every time it cycles, so your cat always has a clean place to go.

Tidy Cats Designed for Litter-Robot offers hard and fast clumping for better sifting, motion activated scent that provides a fresh, clean boost with each cycle, and powerful odor control technology to minimize odors in the waste drawer.

During The Perfect Cycle™, Litter-Robot uses advanced sifting technology to automatically separate the dirty clumps from the clean Tidy Cats Designed for Litter-Robot litter. As a result, your cat companions enjoy a consistently clean and odor-free environment, a key factor in keeping them happy and healthy.

3. Make Your Cat Your Co-Worker

Does your cat sit in front of your monitor or lie down on your keyboard while you work from home? They’re not trying to prevent you from working!

“If your cat is seeking you out during work hours it’s because they crave companionship and want to be part of whatever you’re doing,” says Bensky. “To keep your feline co-worker happy while staying on task, try placing a box near or on your desk to give your cat their own workspace. Reinforcing your cat with treats or some play when they use this spot encourages them to seek it out more often, helping it become their go-to place.”

Another way to keep the boss happy? If you work near a window, consider setting up a bird feeder or birdhouse outside. Your cat can sit and watch on the windowsill while you prepare your notes for your next meeting.

“Bird watching is an enriching activity for cats, it keeps them entertained so you can get some work done, and it’s mentally stimulating for them,” explains Bensky.

4. Keep Them Occupied with Fun Activities

Keeping your cat entertained while you’re busy can be a challenge, but the right tools can help ensure they stay happy and active.

Cats love to scratch, so consider getting a post or cat-scratching furniture that both you and your cat will enjoy. In addition to keeping them entertained, scratchers cater to their natural instincts and soak up the cat’s scent, making them feel even more at home.

Puzzle toys that dispense treats can be an excellent way to keep your cat engaged and mentally stimulated throughout the day, providing both entertainment and enrichment.

Cats also love to climb and jump, which is part of what makes them playful and lovable. Set up a human-approved vertical play space for your cat, which could include cat trees, special cat shelves or cat walkways. Just be sure to test them after installation to ensure they’re safe for your cat and can hold their weight.

“Every cat is unique so you may need to experiment with options to find the perfect fit for your cat’s needs,” says Bensky. “Keeping them entertained ensures they stay active while you focus on your to-do list.”

By implementing these four tips, you can balance your busy schedule with your cat’s well-being, ensuring plenty of love and playtime for years to come.

2025-04-29T13:01:00

(BPT) – A deck is more than just an addition to your home — it’s a relaxing retreat, a gathering space for friends and family, and an investment in your property’s value. But without proper waterproofing, that investment can deteriorate faster than you’d expect.

Here are three simple steps you can take to ensure a stronger, safer outdoor space:

1. Safeguard the deck foundation – hidden but crucial

Even if you’re using weather-resistant composite decking, the wood components — joists and beams — that make up a deck’s foundation remain vulnerable to water exposure. That’s where a waterproof flashing tape, like Trex^® Protect, comes into play. Covering joists and beams with this tape acts as a protective shield, preventing water from seeping into the wood and causing rot. Unlike asphalt-based tapes, which can dry out and crack over time, this butyl-based tape maintains a long-lasting, flexible seal. Additionally, it protects metal fasteners from corrosion, ensuring the structural integrity of your deck remains intact. Taking this simple step can extend the life of your deck’s frame and save you from expensive repairs down the road.

2. Protect the ledger board – the backbone of your deck

The ledger board is a critical component of any deck’s structure — it’s the connection point between the deck and your home. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most vulnerable elements when it comes to water damage. Without protection, moisture can not only weaken the ledger and lead to deck failure but also seep into your home. Here again, applying flashing tape is a simple, yet highly effective, solution. Specialized flashing, like Trex^® Seal, creates a waterproof barrier around the ledger board. Reinforced with an aluminum liner, the 11″-wide butyl tape covers the entire surface of the ledger board and creates a seamless seal over any gaps between the ledger and deck substructure for optimal protection against moisture and water penetration.

3. Keep the space below your deck dry – maximize your outdoor living

If you have an elevated deck, consider adding an under-deck drainage system. The purpose of these systems is two-fold: 1) to protect the substructure by diverting water, and 2) to create dry, usable space beneath the deck. For optimal protection and aesthetics, look for a system that installs over the joists of the foundation, such as Trex^® RainEscape^®. This will ensure total moisture protection of your deck’s framing and also allow you to safely run gas and electrical lines so you can outfit your patio space with furnishings, appliances and entertainment components to create a fully-functional outdoor room.

The key to a long-lasting, worry-free deck is to protect it from water damage from the very beginning — before the deck boards are installed. If you’re hiring a contractor, discuss in advance what products and techniques they’ll use to guard against moisture damage. By investing in the right waterproofing solutions, you can prevent big headaches later on and preserve your deck’s beauty and longevity. Learn more at www.trexrainescape.com.