Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2026-02-23T11:13:00

(BPT) – As hopeful parents start their reproductive journeys, they may be offered a variety of tests and screenings, which can be opportunities to learn more about their own health and about a pregnancy and developing baby. These tests and screenings may provide reassurance that all is well, or chances to seek further information.

Prenatal genetic screenings, in particular, can help determine whether your baby may be at risk for certain genetic or chromosomal conditions. With the help of a clinician, you’ll be able to navigate genetic screening information without feeling overwhelmed and make a plan for what comes next.

What is prenatal genetic screening?

Prenatal genetic screenings use a blood sample to test the parents or the pregnancy. These screenings allow expecting parents to learn about their own genes and how those may impact their baby, or get insights into the baby’s development and discover the baby’s predicted sex — well before birth.

There are two types of prenatal genetic screenings:

• Carrier screening: This prenatal genetic screening lets parents know if they’re carriers of a serious genetic condition and can help determine a baby’s chance of having specific inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or fragile X syndrome. It’s possible to be a carrier of a genetic condition without showing any symptoms of the condition. Carrier screening can be done before or during pregnancy.
• Non-invasive prenatal screening: Cell-free DNA screening, also known as NIPS or NIPT, can help determine if a baby has a chance of having specific chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. This screening is done during pregnancy.

Why does clear information matter?

Prenatal genetic screening can play an important role in helping expectant parents make informed decisions during pregnancy. By identifying potential genetic risks early, screening may provide valuable insight into a baby’s health risks giving families time to learn, ask questions, and consider next steps such as diagnostic testing or other care options recommended by their healthcare providers. These screens can help guide conversations between families and their health care providers as well as support personalized care and informed planning during an emotionally complex time.

“Knowing medical information early in their pregnancy can give expectant parents the most options,” said Dallas Reed, M.D., FACMG, FACOG, obstetrician-gynecologist and medical geneticist, and principal medical advisor of Women’s Health for Myriad Genetics^®. “Normal results can provide reassurance, while positive results open the door to thoughtful conversations about next steps between families and their healthcare providers, helping them feel more prepared and supported as they make choices for their pregnancy.”

A prenatal genetic screen for everyone

Any expecting parent can benefit from a genetic test, not just those who have a family history of certain inherited conditions. If you’re considering having a baby, ask your doctor about the Prequel^® Prenatal Screen and the Foresight^® Carrier Screen, non-invasive blood or saliva tests designed for everyone regardless of ancestry or BMI.

The Prequel screen checks for increased risk of certain common chromosome conditions by analyzing placental DNA in the pregnant person’s blood, and with most results available in seven to 10 days. This prenatal screening can be done as early as eight weeks, giving parents as much time as possible to make a plan with their healthcare provider based on the screening results. The Foresight screen can help determine whether parents carry inherited health conditions that they may pass on to their child.

While most reports deliver low-risk results, if you do want to talk them through, Myriad offers on-demand access to board-certified genetic counselors to help interpret results and answer questions about your baby’s health risks.

Determining next steps

If a screen reveals a high-risk result, it’s important to keep in mind that screening is just the first step. Genetic insights based on prenatal screening give you precious time to pursue diagnostic tests like amniocentesis, consult specialists, find the best-equipped medical facilities for your birth, and connect with parents who have been in your shoes.

Your healthcare provider may offer follow-up testing or a conversation with a specialist to explore results further and discuss options.

Feel empowered, not overwhelmed

Genetic testing helps parents understand what to expect, giving them insights to help make thoughtful choices for their family.

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, check out Myriad’s Prequel Prenatal Screen, a screen that assesses common chromosomal conditions, as well as the Foresight Carrier Screen, which looks for genetic conditions that parents might pass down to their children, and SneakPeek^® Early Gender Test, which allows parents to learn about their baby’s predicted sex as early as six weeks.

Myriad Genetics also offers resources like Know More Sooner to help make the pregnancy journey clearer and more supportive for families, and debunk common myths about genetic screening.

2026-02-23T08:03:00

(BPT) – As spring draws near, allergy season follows close behind. While blooming flowers and budding trees may be welcome, they can also bring allergens that trigger sneezing, congestion and itchy, watery eyes for millions. Allergies are nothing to sneeze at: they currently affect approximately 30% of adults and 40% of children in the U.S., making them an ongoing struggle for many.

To help you better understand the ins and outs of allergies, the experts behind Clorox™ PURE™ — a new line of daily allergen neutralizer sprays designed to stop indoor allergens like non-living pollen, dust mite matter and pet dander before they become allergies — debunk common misconceptions.

Myth number 1: Allergies only affect people in the spring

While springtime is typically peak allergy season as pollen from many varieties of plants, trees and flowers are prevalent, many people can experience allergies year-round. In the fall and winter, dust mites tend to increase once you turn on your heating, and mold tends to peak due to outdoor decomposing leaves and damp spots in the home. And while summer lends itself to warmer weather and more time spent outside, we still see pollen and dust mites working their way throughout the home.

Myth number 2: You can avoid allergies by staying indoors

Many people who experience allergy symptoms all year may be reacting to common allergens like dust mites, pet dander and mold that can live inside your home. And no matter how hard you may try, it can be impossible to keep all pollen out of your home. Whether or not you or the other members of your household currently experience allergies, you can actually develop allergies over time simply from repeated exposure to common allergens, meaning the more you are exposed, the more sensitive your immune system can become to potential allergy triggers.

To manage indoor allergens, add Clorox™ PURE™ Allergen Neutralizer Daily Air and Fabric & Carpet sprays to your daily routine. Developed with allergists, these daily sprays neutralize common household allergens like non-living pollen, dust mite matter and pet dander by changing allergens’ active protein structure so they can no longer bond to receptors in your body and trigger allergies. You can use Clorox™ PURE™ Daily Air Spray in common living spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, entryways and more while Clorox™ PURE™ Fabric & Carpet Spray is designed for use on soft surfaces where allergens can lurk. Think hard-to-clean areas like carpets, upholstered furniture, curtains, pet beds and more.

Myth number 3: Most people react only to one allergen

It’s common for people with allergies to be allergic to more than one thing. This can be because an overly sensitive immune system tends to overreact in multiple ways, causing allergies to appear in clusters. In other words, once allergies take hold, new sensitivities can follow. This is all the more reason to take action to neutralize allergens in your home before they become a bigger problem.

Myth number 4: If you weren’t allergic to something as a child, you won’t develop allergies to it later

It is entirely possible to develop allergies later in life, often without warning. New environmental exposures, lifestyle changes, like getting a pet, and immune system changes as you get older can all increase susceptibility. While you can’t control every trigger, you can take control of your environment. One way to help decrease the likelihood of developing allergies is by reducing your exposure to typical indoor and outdoor allergens.

Learn more about managing indoor allergens in your home year-round at Clorox.com/PURE, and find Clorox™ PURE™ Allergen Neutralizer products nationwide at Walmart.com, Amazon and in the air-care aisle.

2026-02-23T10:05:00

(BPT) – For Kevin and Karin Sweeney, the distress was immediate. Moments after the birth of their daughter, Klara, doctors and nurses gathered in the delivery room in a quiet cluster. Their whispers were a vivid and unnerving sign that something was troubling them about the baby. Karin sensed it, too. Klara wasn’t crying and would not latch on to nurse. She needed a feeding tube and further evaluation in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Soon after, genetic testing revealed that she had Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), a rare disorder characterized by chronic hunger, growth hormone deficiency, and behavior changes.

Many questions, few answers

The diagnosis left the Sweeneys full of questions they couldn’t easily articulate. As parents of a newborn, their future felt uncertain.

“We felt isolated and alone,” says Karin. “But we refused to accept a future that was grim for our daughter. We focused on learning all we could about PWS to help us adapt to the new reality we were facing.”

“The hungriest you’ve ever been”

That new reality included dealing with one of the most challenging symptoms of PWS, called hyperphagia, or unsatisfiable hunger. If not proactively managed, hyperphagia-associated PWS can result in life-threatening obesity and lead to other health complications.

“People with Prader-Willi syndrome do not feel full. They usually cannot live independently because they are consumed with their overwhelming need for food,” says Jennifer L. Miller, M.D., professor of pediatric endocrinology at the University of Florida, Gainesville, who specializes in treating children and adults with PWS. “When I first started treating this disorder, a patient told me, ‘Imagine the hungriest you’ve ever been. That’s how I feel all the time.'”

A new version of life – in and out of the home

Families navigate the burden of PWS in different ways, often building their days around structure, including consistent mealtimes and controlled food access. For the Sweeneys, this has meant increased vigilance in controlling what and when their daughter eats. Inside their home, they have been able to keep Klara, now 15 years old, on a strict “clean” diet to help her maintain a healthy weight.

Other families coping with PWS often turn to more extreme measures to control their child’s food access, including locking fridges and pantries.

Outside the home, PWS can have a significant impact on quality of life. With less control over food access at parties and other social gatherings, families often are forced to isolate themselves from friends and loved ones.

“Hyperphagia is complex and challenging. If it were simple, we would have had an answer long ago,” says Dr. Miller. “Clinical research and education play a critically important role in giving hope to patients and families that we can find answers to help them thrive and have a better quality of life.”

The HERO study

One clinical research study being led by investigators such as Dr. Miller is exploring a potential treatment option for PWS. The clinical trial, called the Hunger Elimination or Reduction Objective (HERO) study, is focused on assessing the effectiveness and safety of an investigational drug for the treatment of hyperphagia in PWS. The therapy is being studied to see if it can help the body release certain gut hormones that may help reduce excessive hunger and food-seeking behaviors in people with PWS.

The study is open to males and females 7 years of age or older in the United States who have a documented diagnosis of PWS. Eligible participants will receive the study drug or a placebo orally twice daily for 12 weeks. Travel expenses and lodging, if required, for the participant and a primary caregiver will be covered. To learn more, visit www.heroforpws.com.

2026-02-21T11:01:01

(BPT) – By Jason Bittel, author of Grizzled: Love Letters to 50 of North America’s Least Understood Animals

North America is home to some huge and awe-inspiring creatures, from 800-pound alligators and surf-cracking great white sharks to rumbling herds of bison and mountain lions — the largest cat on Earth that is able to purr.

But for those who can’t get to a national park or seashore, there is still plenty of wonder waiting to be discovered on a backyard safari.

Death-Dealing Hummingbirds

The average hummingbird weighs about as much as a stick of chewing gum and lay eggs the size of jellybeans. And yet, if they were the size of a human, the tiniest birds on Earth would have to consume around 10,000 calories each day to perform their aerial acrobatics.

In fact, the hummingbird’s need for a constant supply of energy is so strong, putting a little sugar water in a special feeder is all it takes to draw the little wonders near. And if you watch a feeder long enough, you might just see the males do battle.

With speeds approaching 60 miles an hour and bills shaped like sharpened stilettos, male hummingbirds have been known to guard their territories with iridescent ferocity. The brightly colored sprites have even been documented attacking golden eagles, a predator that outweighs them by about a thousand times.

Amazingly, when hummingbirds battle each other, a beak to the heart can even result in fatalities.

The Opossum’s Oscar-Worthy Performance

Commonly spotted scurrying away from a tipped-over trash can or waddling along the roadways at night, opossums are about the size of a house cat and appear rather unconcerned about much of anything.

This may be because they have an evolutionary trick up their fluffy little sleeves.

When confronted by a predator, opossums can keel over and play dead. Scientists call this death-feigning, or thanatosis. You might know it simply as “playing possum.”

But opossums are not like fainting goats, falling over every time someone shouts BOO! Theirs is a last-ditch, all-or-nothing cascade of biological responses.

First the animal falls on its side and its legs and tail go stiff. The corners of its mouth tighten and drool starts gushing out. The opossum also poops itself and emits a stinky green goo out of its anal glands. The eyes remain open, while the rest of the creature appears to go positively catatonic.

You can’t help but admire the moxie of the opossum’s death dance.

Without big fangs or claws to fight off a foe, nor the ability to outrun a hungry predator, the opossum doesn’t fight or flee — it fouls, becoming so thoroughly inedible that the attacker turns its nose up at an otherwise free meal.

Bravo, indeed.

Fireflies Are Secret Savages

Scientists have discovered a whopping 2,000 species of fireflies on this planet, and their glowing lights can come in everything from pale blue and neon green to bright yellow and even burnt orange.

Also known as lightning bugs, fireflies typically use their flashes as a secret code to find and woo mates. But one type of firefly has found a way to use that code to its own diabolical advantage.

Meet the femme fatale fireflies. Females of the Photuris versicolor species complex mimic the flash patterns of other fireflies. And when an unsuspecting male touches down nearby, the femmes fatales pounce from the shadows and tear them limb from limb.

In addition to gaining an easy meal, evidence suggests the femmes fatales also steal defensive compounds from the fellas — nasty-tasting chemicals they cannot produce themselves. And the females actually lace their own eggs with those compounds as a way to protect them from predators.

So the next time you see a soft twinkle in the night, it could be a lightning bug looking for love. Or it might just be a femme fatale looking for blood.

But both are backyard magic.

Read more about these magical backyard animals in Grizzled.

2026-02-18T09:31:00

(BPT) – In the rolling foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, Oaklawn Hot Springs has evolved into something far bigger than its storied racing roots. Long synonymous with the thrill of Thoroughbred racing, the destination now stands as Arkansas’ most complete luxury resort — a distinction once again affirmed with its inclusion in the 2026 Forbes Travel Guide and Star Awards for the third consecutive year.

That continued recognition places Oaklawn Hot Springs among a rare group of resorts worldwide, evaluated through Forbes Travel Guide’s anonymous, in-person inspection process. The Forbes Travel Guide depicts the hospitality industry’s gold standard. More importantly, it reinforces Oaklawn’s position as the state’s premier resort destination, where thoughtful design, elevated service and a sense of place come together.

“At every stage of Oaklawn’s growth, our focus has been on building a destination Arkansans are proud of,” said Louis Cella, president of Oaklawn Hot Springs. “Recognition from Forbes Travel Guide affirms that commitment and reflects the level of experience our team delivers to guests.”

Forbes Travel Guide Recognition

Oaklawn Hot Springs continues to draw national recognition from Forbes Travel Guide, with Astral Spa holding its distinction as Arkansas’ only Forbes Four-Star rated spa. The Oaklawn Hotel, The OAK room & bar and The Bugler restaurants are also recognized as Forbes Recommended experiences.

For many visitors, Astral Spa is a reason to visit on its own. The spa offers dedicated men’s and women’s wet lounges, heated loungers, steam rooms, infrared saunas, whirlpool tubs, cold rooms and a co-ed parlor — an array of amenities not commonly found together. Alongside customized treatments and a modern fitness center, the setting caters to travelers looking to balance relaxation with wellness.

“To see Astral Spa maintain a four-star rating, alongside recognition for our hotel and restaurants, reflects the level of care our team brings to the guest experience,” Cella said. “We want each visit — whether for a stay, a meal or a spa day — to feel thoughtfully done.”

A Full-Service Resort Destination

Luxury at Oaklawn Hot Springs extends well beyond the spa. Personalized touches — including valet service, attentive bell staff, room service and concierge support — help make each stay feel seamless from arrival to departure. Guest rooms feature upscale amenities, smart-room controls and contemporary finishes, while rooms look out to the bucolic racetrack or the scenic backdrop of the Ouachita Mountains.

The Oaklawn Hotel places guests steps from one of the country’s most storied Thoroughbred racing venues, where fans gather each season to follow the road to the Kentucky Derby. Just minutes from Hot Springs National Park and surrounded by outdoor recreation opportunities, the resort pairs a natural setting with full-service comforts. What began as a historic racetrack has evolved into a multifaceted destination resort offering Thoroughbred racing, gaming, sports betting, dining, spa experiences and live entertainment.

Plan your experience today at 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.

2026-02-13T17:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Nine U.S. Army Soldier-athletes and coaches, plus two alternates, are representing the country as they compete in bobsled, biathlon, Nordic combined and figure skating on the world stage.
• These Soldier-athletes are from the U.S. Army’s World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), and apply the teamwork, discipline and resiliency learned in the Army to compete at the highest level.
• The Army has been training Soldier-athletes to compete on the world stage for more than 75 years and has sent more than 600 Soldier-athletes to compete, earning more than 120 medals.

Nine U.S. Army Soldier-athletes and coaches and two alternates are representing the country in Italy, joining thousands of elite athletes competing on the world stage.

For more than 75 years, the U.S. Army has sent more than 600 Soldier-athletes to compete on the world stage, earning more than 120 medals across various sports and disciplines. These Soldier-athletes are members of the U.S. Army’s World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), an elite group of competitors who apply the teamwork, discipline and resiliency learned in the Army to compete at the highest level.

Army honors its history in Northern Italy

The backdrop of the competition is especially significant to these Soldier-athletes, as they honor the Army’s rich history in northern Italy and alpine warfare. The Army’s ties to this region date back to World War II, when the 10th Mountain Division — an elite alpine unit trained for mountain warfare — ascended critical terrain in northern Italy to secure a victory that shifted the momentum of the war. After returning home, many of these Soldiers went on to develop ski resorts nationwide that became the foundation of the modern ski industry.

Which U.S. Army Soldier-athletes and coaches are competing in Milan?

As the Army is making history in this region once again, meet the Soldier-athletes who are building on this legacy of success and putting their training to the test:

• Lt. Col. Chris Fogt, Lt. Col. Garrett Hines and Sgt. 1^st Class Shauna Rohbock lead bobsled for U.S.

The Army’s presence extends beyond the athletes, as Lt. Col. Chris Fogt, Lt. Col. Garrett Hines and Sgt. 1st Class Shauna Rohbock are coaches for the U.S. bobsled team.

Fogt — an active-duty Soldier, three-time Games competitor, silver medalist and current Head Coach — is hoping to lead the next generation of USA bobsledders to a podium finish. In reflecting on his journey, he says, “My two dreams were to join the Army and to be an athlete […] and the Army’s support has allowed me to be successful in both.”

Rohbock, an active-duty Soldier and assistant bobsled coach, is a pioneer in the sport and a natural leader for the team. She is one of the first women to compete at the national level in bobsled, eventually earning the silver medal in the two-woman bobsled event in 2006. Hines, a reserve Soldier, is coaching his second Games, drawing from his experience as a member of the U.S. four-man bobsled team that brought home the silver medal in 2002. He believes that one of the best aspects of sports is the team dynamic, which he also values as part of his broader Army experience.

• Staff Sgt. Deedra Irwin seeks a podium finish in biathlon

Vermont National Guard Soldier and biathlete Staff Sgt. Deedra Irwin is returning to the world stage in February. This follows a historic performance in 2022 in Beijing, where she placed seventh in the 15-kilometer individual event, the highest ever for an American in the sport of biathlon.

Irwin secured her ticket to Milan at the 2025 Biathlon World Cup in Annecy-Le Grand Bornand, France, and now she hopes to bring the United States its first podium finish in biathlon — the only sport in which the country does not have a medal.

With history on the line, Irwin is mindful of how she prepares for the competition and stays present in the moment by listening to what her body needs. “I like to make sure I check in with my energy levels and mental state on race days. If I need a nap, I’m not afraid to take one, and if I need a dance party to calm my nerves, I play my music out loud!” What artists earn a spot on her playlist? She says, “I love my throwback party songs from the early 2000s! Beyoncé, David Guetta, Taio Cruz, Rihanna, Pitbull. The list goes on!”

• After injury, Pfc. Spencer Howe makes Games debut in pairs figure skating

Active-duty Soldier Pfc. Spencer Howe is making history as the Army’s only Soldier-athlete to participate in pairs figure skating at the Games with his partner, Emily Chan. Howe’s journey to the world stage is a testament to the determination and resilience he learned throughout his Army training.

After suffering a shoulder injury in 2023, Howe underwent surgery and extensive physical therapy before returning to the ice. It was during this time that he learned about WCAP and enlisted in the Army as a Motor Transport Operator — successfully balancing his passion for service with elite competition.

After attending basic training, Howe continued to battle for a spot on the team — a journey that culminated with a nail-biting performance at the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in St. Louis. After a disappointing short program, the pair rallied with a strong free skate and secured the final pairs spot. In Milan, Howe is tapping into the determination he fostered in the Army to overcome his biggest competition yet.

• Bobsledder Spc. Azaria Hill continues family legacy while paving the way for others

After being named to the team, active-duty Soldier and bobsledder Spc. Azaria Hill is not only continuing her family’s legacy of elite competition, but she is also representing the growing number of women making their mark on winter sports.

As a collegiate sprinter, Hill had her eyes set on competing on the world stage, hoping to follow in the footsteps of her mom, three-time track and field medalist Denean Howard-Hill. But after discovering bobsled — a sport that surprisingly has many similarities to track and field — Hill realized her talent and love for the sport and joined the Army in 2024 to continue pursuing elite competition while also serving her country.

At the Games, Hill is carrying on her family’s history of competing at the highest level; however, this competition looks much different than the 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles, when her mom won gold in track and field. Women now hold 47% of overall athlete quota spots at the Winter Games — a percentage that has doubled since 1984, symbolizing the rising presence of elite women athletes in international competition.

• Sgt. Ben Loomis attends third Games in Nordic combined

Sgt. Ben Loomis is returning to the world stage for his third appearance, after attending the 2018 and 2022 Games for Nordic combined, a sport that combines ski jumping with cross-country skiing. Loomis was introduced to the sport through his brother and grew to love the endurance of racing mixed with the adrenaline of the jumps.

Loomis credits the Army with building the qualities and purpose to help him compete. “The honor, integrity and discipline required to be a Soldier directly improves my athletic career. The Army has given me a higher sense of purpose as an athlete and Soldier, and the privilege I have to represent the country as a Soldier-athlete is second to none.”

• Sgt. Frank Del Duca returns for second Games in bobsled

Growing up in Maine, active-duty Soldier and bobsledder Sgt. Frank Del Duca always had a passion for winter sports, originally becoming a state champion in downhill slalom skiing during high school.

Del Duca attended a bobsled combine in 2015, and after earning one of the highest scores of the group, he kicked off his career in the sport. He joined the Army in 2019 to continue training within WCAP, and the effort paid off with him making his Games debut in 2022 in Beijing.

Del Duca qualified for his second appearance with the goal of leading the United States to a podium. He attributes his physical readiness to the diverse training methods he has experienced in the Army, including long-distance running, ruck marches, interval sprints and strength training.

And when the workouts got tough, he learned to lean on his fellow Soldiers, noting, “I was around a great group of people, and that camaraderie pulls something out of you that is very special.”

• Biathlete Spc. Sean Doherty competes in fourth Games

After qualifying for a spot in Milan at the 2026 IBU Biathlon World Cup in Antholz, Italy, Vermont National Guard Soldier and biathlete Spc. Sean Doherty is making his fourth Games appearance, tying the all-time record for appearances by an American in the sport.

Doherty began biathlon at age 12 and soon rose in the sport’s ranks to become an eight-time U.S. World Championship team member and competitor at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 Games. Looking to extend his longevity of competing, Doherty joined the Army in 2018 as a Carpentry and Masonry Specialist, providing him with access to the world-class training of WCAP, as well as continued career opportunities once he moves on from elite competition.

• Spc. Dana Kellogg (luge doubles) and Cpl. Hakeem Abdul-Saboor (bobsled) represent country and Army as alternates

Spc. Dana Kellogg is attending the Games as an alternate in luge doubles, a sport he was immediately drawn to during the 2010 Games. He began competing in 2013 and joined the Army in 2019 to continue his journey. He notes that one of the most important aspects of his training is mental work and visualization. When completing a luge run, the sled has the potential to move up to 80 mph with a minimum of 16 curves throughout the track — requiring significant mental preparation to ensure his body knows how to safely and efficiently operate the sled.

Cpl. Hakeem Abdul-Saboor — a former basketball, football and track star — is attending Milan as an alternate in bobsled. Growing up, he had no intention of competing in bobsled and only discovered the sport after a strength coach recognized his natural athletic ability. His career in the sport took off, and he attended the 2018 and 2022 Games in the position of pusher.

Tune in to cheer on these Soldier-athletes as they compete for the nation and learn more about the possibilities of Army service at GoArmy.com.

2026-02-10T10:13:00

(BPT) – Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean overbooked restaurants, prix-fixe menus, or elaborate plans. The most meaningful celebrations are often the simplest ones, rooted in good food, easy moments, and time spent together. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, hosting a cozy Galentine’s night, or treating yourself to something special, these tips from Fresh Express will help elevate the day without adding stress.

1. Create a cozy, intentional atmosphere at home

Setting the mood doesn’t require a full room makeover, just a little intention. Soft lighting, a few candles, and a thoughtfully set table can instantly transform an everyday space into something that feels romantic and celebratory. Small touches like cloth napkins, colorful plates, or a bouquet from the grocery store send a clear signal that this night is different. When the environment feels special, it naturally encourages everyone to slow down, be present, and enjoy the moment.

2. Choose food that feels elevated but effortless

Valentine’s Day meals should feel indulgent, not intimidating. Skip complicated recipes and multi-course menus in favor of fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver big flavor with minimal prep. Restaurant-inspired dishes at home strike the perfect balance, impressive enough to feel celebratory, yet easy enough that you’re not stuck in the kitchen all night. Fresh, vibrant salads add color and texture to the table and pair beautifully with warm, shareable mains, roasted proteins, or a favorite appetizer.

3. Turn cooking into part of the celebration

Instead of rushing through meal prep, make it part of the experience. Cooking side by side — tossing a salad, seasoning a dish, plating the final meal — creates natural moments to connect, laugh, and unwind. It transforms dinner from a task into something shared and memorable. Plus, when everyone has a hand in creating the meal, it feels even more rewarding to sit down and enjoy it together.

4. Try a fun new recipe that feels made for the moment

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to break out of your routine and try something new. A fun option to test out is the Valentine’s Flatbread with Korean Beef & a Zesty Orange Sesame Salad from Fresh Express. This recipe combines sweet-and-savory Korean-inspired beef with a craveable flatbread, topped with a bright, citrusy salad using the Fresh Express Orange Sesame Chopped Kit. The mix of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and easy assembly makes it feel special without being complicated, ideal for a relaxed but memorable celebration at home!

Valentine’s Flatbread with Korean Beef & a Zesty Orange Sesame Salad

Serving Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 1 (11.5-ounce) package Fresh Express^® Orange Sesame Chopped Kit
• 5 oz thinly sliced beef sirloin or flank steak
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1½ tsp gochujang
• 1½ tsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 1 (10–12-inch) flatbread
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the flatbread on a sheet pan.

2. Using a knife or kitchen shears, trim the flatbread into a heart shape by cutting a small V-notch at the top and rounding the sides.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the sauce for brushing.

4. Toss the beef with the remaining marinade and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.

5. Brush the flatbread with the reserved sauce. Bake for 4–5 minutes, until warmed through and lightly crisp at the edges.

6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lift the beef from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook in an even layer for 2–3 minutes, stirring once or twice, until browned and just cooked through. Remove from heat.

7. Scatter the cooked beef over the toasted flatbread and return to the oven for 2–3 minutes to warm everything through.

8. Prepare the Fresh Express^® Orange Sesame Chopped Kit by adding the greens to a large bowl. Drizzle with the included dressing and toss to lightly coat, then sprinkle with the included toppings.

9. Top the warm flatbread with the prepared salad, cut into strips, serve, and enjoy!

For more Valentine’s-inspired recipes and fresh ideas that make everyday meals feel a little more special, visit www.freshexpress.com.

2026-02-11T08:05:00

(BPT) – Humans need to brush their teeth daily to maintain good health, and the same goes for pets! However, many pet parents are unaware that daily dental care is an essential part of their pet’s overall well-being.

Dental disease is the No. 1 health issue in pets, impacting up to 70% of pets — especially small breeds and seniors — and often developing before visible symptoms.¹ However, it remains one of the most preventable health issues with consistent daily care.

Drs. Ben and Erin Schroeder, DVM, Education Partners for Wellness Pet Company, are no strangers to pet dental health issues. As the owners of Cedar County Veterinary Services and stars of National Geographic Wild’s show “Heartland Docs, DVM,” they’ve seen firsthand how daily dental care can help prevent diseased teeth and gums and keep four-legged friends happy and healthy. If you’re a pet parent who wants to start investing in your cat or dog’s dental care but don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. Check out the Schroeders’ list of expert tips that can help you simply support your pet’s overall well-being today, tomorrow and the rest of their lives.

Start dental care early

When it comes to lifelong dental health for your furry family members, the sooner you start dental care the better. In fact, if you adopt a puppy or kitten, you can start dental training as early as six weeks. All you need is a toothbrush and pet-friendly toothpaste to get started!

Make dental care fun with treats

You can make daily dental care easier for you and fun for your pets with delicious dental treats that help clean your pet’s mouth while they enjoy a snack. A great pick for felines and canines alike is Wellness^® WHIMZEES^® Dental treats. These are favorites because they contain simple, healthy ingredients and never have any artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. The Schroeders recommend them as a daily routine that provides consistent cleaning support when given regularly.

WHIMZEES cat dental treats are designed scientifically for feline oral care, addressing common dental concerns through daily treats that support breath, plaque and tartar reduction. Their crunchy, porous texture allows cats’ teeth to sink in, increasing surface contact for more effective cleaning with every bite.

For dogs, WHIMZEES dental treats are scientifically proven to support all four vet-checked areas — breath, plaque, tartar and gums — when chewed daily, helping maintain oral health between vet visits and brushing. Designed with grooves, ridges and firmer, high-fiber texture, WHIMZEES encourage longer chew time for more effective cleaning, helping reduce plaque before it hardens into tartar when chewed daily. There are even options for smaller or older dogs with sensitive teeth, like Wellness^® WHIMZEES^® Freshzees™. Available in XS, S and M sizes, this is a great option for a more comfortable chew.

Schedule your yearly vet visit and practice at home

Annual vet exams are important for every aspect of your pawed pal’s well-being, including dental. During every vet exam, one of the first tasks a vet will do is look at a pet’s mouth and teeth. Just by lifting a lip, they can evaluate the health of the gums, whether plaque and tartar are present and if the pet has bad breath. A great tip for helping get your pet ready for their health examinations is to practice lifting the lips (both sides), opening the mouth and gently touching the gums at home. This quick training will make future vet visits more informative for the veterinarian, less stressful for the pet, and will be a great bonding experience that your pet looks forward to daily!

Don’t ignore bad breath

Speaking of bad breath, it’s one of the first signs that something isn’t right with your pet’s health. Rotten, stinky breath (called halitosis) is one of the first signs of dental disease, along with buildup of food material (plaque); brown, yellow or gray residue (tartar); and/or red gums. If you notice bad breath or any of these other signs, don’t wait to contact your vet and start implementing simple, everyday care into your pets’ routines.

Aim for consistency, not perfection

No one is perfect. Aim to brush your pet’s teeth every day, but don’t get down on yourself if you miss every once in a while. Life is full of surprises, interruptions and last-minute obligations. Consistency, not perfection, is what makes a difference in your pet’s dental and overall health and wellness.

With a little time and effort, you can make a huge difference in your cat’s and dog’s dental health and set them up for lifelong well-being. To find more tips and find fun treats to help your pet look forward to their dental care routine, visit https://www.wellnesspetfood.com/whimzees/.

1. World Small Animal Veterinary Association Global Dental Guidelines JSAP2020; 61:E50

2026-02-11T10:35:02

(BPT) – Whether you’re a longtime Myrtle Beach fan or you’ve always wanted to visit, 2026 is the year to make it happen. With brand-new attractions and thrilling activities for every age and budget, there’s never been a better time to experience The Beach. From its 60 miles of sunny coastline to its 14 distinct coastal communities, Myrtle Beach is filled with crave-worthy dining experiences, natural beauty and entertainment you can’t find anywhere else.

Some of the exciting offerings Myrtle Beach has in store for visitors this year include:

A Full Lineup of Live Entertainment

The Carolina Opry Theater celebrates 40 years of entertainment, with Grammy winners, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, country chart-toppers and beloved music icons delivering one of their most exciting years of performances.

Carolina Country Music Festival kicks off summer with must-see headliners Blake Shelton, Post Malone, Luke Bryan and Riley Green, along with up-and-coming talent. The beachfront music festival draws thousands to downtown Myrtle Beach for boots in the sand excitement each year. June 4-7, 2026.

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show commemorates its 15th season with a brand-new South Pacific Celebration added to their magical live programming, treating audiences to a vibrant luau featuring colorful costumes, dynamic dance and thrilling fire stunts.

The downtown Myrtle Beach performing arts center is in the works, revitalizing the former Broadway Theater and continuing expansion of Myrtle Beach’s Arts and Innovation District. The historic building will host numerous cultural events in the 300-seat, state-of-the-art theater.

Thrills, Sports & Open-Air Adventure

Family Kingdom Amusement Park celebrates its 60th anniversary this year by adding a custom single-rail roller coaster to its roster of rides like the iconic “Swamp Fox,” marking a bold step into modern thrills while honoring the park’s nostalgic, carnival-like roots. Three more new rides will also make their debut this year. Opening summer 2026.

Brookgreen Gardens recently unveiled its stunning new welcome center and $17 million conservatory, with expanded event and educational spaces, a great hall and scenic courtyard. Ever-changing botanical displays, a flourishing floor-to-ceiling Green Wall and a future butterfly center provide immersive garden experiences.

Pelicans Ballpark, home of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Single-A Minor League baseball team, is wrapping up a $20 million renovation with brand-new offerings for spectators and players from field enhancements to upgraded seating and refreshed viewing suites. Completion spring 2026.

Alley Oops will bring their “Dine. Bowl. Play.” concept to North Myrtle Beach with a stellar combination of great food and high-energy entertainment, featuring 12 duckpin bowling lanes, arcade games and virtual reality experiences. Opening spring 2026.

The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic is back again this Mother’s Day weekend with A-list celebrities and some of the world’s top golf pros taking on the iconic Dunes Golf & Beach Club, renowned for its coastal scenery and challenging play. Now in its third year, this PGA TOUR event continues to expand its laid-back fanfare to bring even more exciting energy to the official Golf Capital of the World. May 7-10, 2026.

The PicklePort, on track to become Myrtle Beach’s premier indoor and outdoor pickleball venue, will soon feature 12 climate-controlled indoor courts and six covered outdoor courts. Players will also be able to enjoy their snack bar, pro shop, instruction and practice spaces, plus areas for socializing. Opening fall 2026.

Fresh Flavors

Historic 9th Ave North continues to be reimagined by local entrepreneurs bringing community-focused hospitality and inventive dining to the heart of Myrtle Beach. Standout spots include Winna’s Kitchen, Boteco VIP, The Dolly Llama and The Tasting Room on 9th as well as the nearby Grand Strand Brewery and Nance Plaza offering seasonal concerts.

The Whistling Duck is now open at Surfside Pier, offering an elevated culinary experience featuring locally sourced charcuterie boards and creative appetizers. With oceanfront views, fine wine and warm hospitality, every visit promises unforgettable flavors and memorable waterfront dining.

Ole Smoky Distillery and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. is bringing a new distillery and brewery experience to Broadway at the Beach. The indoor-outdoor venue features a beer garden, full-service bar and immersive spaces for enjoying craft spirits, beers and memorable experiences with friends and family. Opening spring 2026.

Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown will soon bring the second restaurant concept of the celebrity chef to Myrtle Beach, featuring a playful menu of comfort foods, a tiki bar, a bowling alley and arcade games. Opening 2026.

The Latest in Lodging

Ocean Reef Resort, located on the north end of Myrtle Beach, has completed a $15 million renovation in 2025, modernizing guest rooms, the lobby, the fitness center and meeting spaces.

Ocean Escape Boardwalk Oceanfront offers modern one-, two- and three-bedroom oceanfront accommodations along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Each spacious condo features full kitchens and private balconies, placing guests just steps from the beach, shops, dining and entertainment. Opening Feb 2026.

Captain’s Quarters Resort, located on the south end of Myrtle Beach, is completing major renovations with updated exteriors, modernized rooms, enhanced pool and recreation areas and a new arcade and restaurant. The resort continues to welcome guests throughout renovations.

Enhanced Access

Thanks to the newly expanded A-Concourse at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), flying into Myrtle Beach is smoother than ever, with nonstop service available from over 50 destinations.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll find you belong at The Beach. Explore VisitMyrtleBeach.com or call (888) Myrtle-1 to plan your next getaway.

2026-02-10T08:19:00

(BPT) – Your cat may seem perfectly healthy, but sometimes serious health problems can be hiding beneath the surface. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of the most common feline heart diseases — and here’s the scary part: most cats don’t show any symptoms until it’s too late to intervene. As a cat parent, you might not know anything’s wrong until it becomes urgent. But here’s the good news: A simple yearly vet visit could make a difference.