Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-05-31T10:01:00

(BPT) – Peanut butter is one of those foods that evokes sensory memories baked in from childhood: classic peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, that “ants on a log” celery stick creation, plus a wide assortment of candy and treats. If you’ve been a peanut butter fanatic since you were a kid, or even if you’re not — chances are you’ve never tasted anything quite like Hell’s Kitchen Peanut Butter.

While typical mass-produced peanut butter is probably what you grew up with, this is something entirely different. Created only in small batches with care and expertise, Hell’s Kitchen Peanut Butter uses high-quality ingredients and a tried-and-true production method to make peanut butter that food critics have called “The world’s best peanut butter.”

Peanut butter origin story

The late Chef Mitch Omer first made his own peanut butter for his indie downtown Minneapolis restaurant Hell’s Kitchen, which he opened in 2002 long before Gordon Ramsay of the TV show came on the scene. It instantly became a hit.

The peanut butter was put on the map when food journalist Lynne Rossetto Kasper swooned over it on her “Splendid Table” NPR show years ago.

“When hundreds of emails poured in asking how to buy the irresistible peanut butter, we were blown away, since we had no clue about that pivotal broadcast,” said Cynthia Gerdes, co-founder of Hell’s Kitchen. “And the orders have poured in ever since.”

Despite the constant high demand for the crunchy concoction, Hell’s Kitchen still makes the prized peanut butter by hand in small batches, but not by choice. They’ve reached out to many co-packers in the past for help with scaling up production, but the viscosity of the peanut butter does not work well with automation machines; it’s too thick. So the ingredients, production process and quality have remained unchanged, to the delight of its legions of fans.

Just how good is it? Jane and Michael Stern of Roadfood.com said, “This could very well be the best peanut butter on the planet.” Over 23 years and thousands of nationally shipped orders later, not one customer has requested to return a jar of peanut butter — enforcing the delicacy’s high praise.

Although Omer sadly passed away in 2016, Hell’s Kitchen (now owned by its 95 employees) continues to make their legendary crunchy peanut butter by hand in extremely small batches.

Hell’s Kitchen Peanut Butter Recipe

If you’ve always wondered how to make really high-quality peanut butter, this recipe is for you. Chef Mitch Omer wasn’t afraid to share the recipe, often saying, “Why the hell wouldn’t I?”

Ingredients

• 3 cups salted raw Spanish peanuts, skins on
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 5 tablespoons brown sugar
• 4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 cup sweet cream butter
• 1/3 cup peanut oil

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place peanuts on a rimmed baking sheet and place on center rack of the oven. Roast peanuts for 10 minutes. Open oven door and check for color: Peanuts should be golden brown when done. If peanuts require more time, rotate pan and cook for another 5-7 minutes. (If they look like espresso beans, start over.)
• Remove from oven, cool to room temperature.
• Place peanuts in food processor with a steel chopping blade and process on low until finely ground, about 30 seconds. Don’t over-process, you want a chopped/chunky consistency.
• Dump ground nuts into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle. Add brown sugar and salt. Mix on low about 1 minute.
• Add peanut oil and butter into food processor and blend on low until completely emulsified, about 11 seconds.
• Scrape oil and butter into peanut mixture. Mix on low until smooth and creamy.
• Add honey slowly on low until fully incorporated.

How to enjoy Hell’s Kitchen Peanut Butter

The restaurant celebrates its renowned peanut butter in a variety of ways on its menu, from a simple breakfast offering on toast or an English muffin to being featured in their lunchtime Peanut Butter Bacon Double Smashed Burger and desserts like the Kiss My Lips Peanut Butter Chocolate Mallow Cup.

In other words, you can enjoy both sweet and savory uses for their famous creation — and you may never be able to go back to mass-produced peanut butter again.

The legendary peanut butter is available for purchase in-store, or on the Hell’s Kitchen website.

2025-05-29T09:17:00

(BPT) – When veterans transition to civilian life, they often search for jobs in civilian fields where they can put their unique experiences and skills to work. However, finding meaningful employment after their service is often easier said than done.

According to the latest Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) Warrior Survey*, nearly 6 in 10 warriors face underemployment. Furthermore, 67% of warriors reported experiencing financial strain, a rising trend since 2021.

The data highlights an important issue: Many former service members have trouble securing steady jobs and experience financial hardship, which impacts their mental health and overall well-being.

Businesses should consider initiatives to support veteran workforce development, hire veterans, and empower their transitions back to civilian life.

However, bridging the gap between military service and civilian employment begins with understanding the needs and distinct skills of veterans as they navigate an unfamiliar job market.

Turning Service into Strength in the Civilian Workforce

After being out of work for a while, it can be difficult for anyone to find employment and stand out from other applicants. This can be even more challenging for veterans.

Many warriors don’t know how to leverage their military experience. The WWP Warrior Survey found that 37% of unemployed warriors had difficulty translating military skills to the civilian workforce.

Veterans have critical skills that are transferable to civilian roles. They are proven leaders and collaborative workers with strong integrity and ethics, agility, adaptability, and risk analysis. Plus, employment gives them purpose and helps build their confidence and financial stability.

“Veterans served and sacrificed for our country and bring valuable perspectives to the civilian workforce,” said Kevin Rasch, Warriors to Work^® regional director at WWP. “Employers willing to invest in veteran talent aren’t just helping individuals — they’re fueling innovation, reliability, and leadership within their organizations, too. The discipline, strategic thinking, and growth mindset that veterans developed in uniform helps organizations thrive.”

When employers take action to serve those who served their country, they gain a mission-driven professional with exceptional training, leadership, and resilience. Veterans bring proven dedication and problem-solving skills to the team. Hiring a veteran means adding a highly skilled professional into the workforce, who brings a results-driven mindset forged through real-world experience. These skills, paired with a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, make them an asset to any workplace.

How Businesses Can Help

Veterans have already answered the call to serve — now it’s time for employers to do the same. Businesses can play a powerful role in supporting veterans by considering the following:

• Offering fair pay and creating clear pathways for growth ensures that those who served continue to thrive in civilian careers.
• Developing and facilitating productive onboarding processes and practices to help increase retention among veteran employees. The military community is a resilient and resourceful group. Many with injuries come to the workforce with an understanding of what they need for success. Others may need some time to figure out what works for them and what doesn’t. Time, patience, and education will go a long way — and warriors deserve it.
• Reducing stigma around service-related injuries and veteran employment by recognizing that disability does not mean workforce inability. For example, learning about and understanding some of the more frequently recorded combat-related injuries, like PTSD or sensory impairments, and appropriately accommodating for those, can go a long way in decreasing stigma and misconceptions.
• Identifying optimal roles for veterans. Employers can match veterans’ unique qualifications to their organization’s goals. Not only does this promote an inclusive workforce, but it strengthens it, too.

CSX, a leading rail transportation company, is an advocate for veteran employment. The company partners with WWP to create and foster workforce development opportunities for those who served.

This partnership provides opportunities for veterans to enhance their skill development and find new ways to translate their military skills to the civilian workforce, creating more financial stability for veterans and their families. For example, WWP and CSX work together to provide veterans with training to become certified drone pilots. CSX is also a partner in funding AI technologies to help warriors translate their military skills into civilian language.

Warriors in the Workforce

We must never forget the cost of freedom. Veterans served and sacrificed for their country and are ready to continue their service in the civilian workforce. They have unique and proven abilities and a strong sense of purpose. Their contributions enhance teams, cultures, and outcomes across every sector, especially when companies invest in their development.

Let’s not waste their potential. Let’s serve those who served us and ensure no warrior is left behind.

Resources like WWP’s Warriors to Work^® program gives veterans and employers a shoulder to lean on while navigating the transition to the civilian workforce. Warriors learn the skills necessary to find meaningful employment that makes the most of their experience and talents, and employers can learn about the success that hiring and retaining veterans will bring.

2025-05-29T09:01:00

(BPT) – Daydreaming about your next family getaway? Look no further than Northwest Florida! The location and climate are ideal, and thanks to its recent $35 million makeover, the sensational Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa in South Walton, Florida, offers everything you could wish for in a vacation destination.

Here are the 5 top reasons why this resort will be your ultimate family paradise.

1. It’s all about that beach

Wish you were on the beach right now? As the largest full-service beachfront resort on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Hilton Sandestin Beach lets you immerse yourself in calm, clear emerald-green water and sink your toes into the pristine white sandy beach. You’ll enjoy exclusive sun-bathing, sandcastle building, swimming, and soaking up the stunning views such as one of the most colorful sunsets you’ll ever see along Miramar Beach.

When all that swimming and sunbathing makes you hungry and thirsty, Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill lets you dine and sip while gazing out at the Gulf. And when you need a break from sand and saltwater, you can enjoy the two outdoor pools, and whirlpools.

Rainy day? No worries. Hilton Sandestin Beach has thought of everything, including a newly renovated indoor pool in a spacious tropical-themed atrium.

2. Endless fun

Adventure awaits at Hilton Sandestin Beach and beyond! Whether you’re up for a round of golf at world-class courses, or a game of beach volleyball, tennis, biking, paddleboarding, or kayaking, this resort has it all.

The resort is also near several off-property opportunities for water sports galore, like snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, and fishing.

Nearby, explore the surrounding area by taking a complimentary shuttle to the Village of Baytowne Wharf for family-friendly attractions like zip lines, water parks, a rope course, go-karts, shopping, seasonal events and live music, and more.

For a change of pace, you can also visit nearby state parks, including the Underwater Museum of Art, which is a diving area located off the state park where five resort-sponsored sculptures can be found among the growing aquatic installation 58 feet below the water’s surface.

3. Total relaxation

Need a place to chill beyond all that fun in the sun? Hilton Sandestin Beach is able to recommend local babysitting services, allowing parents to unwind at the renovated Serenity by the sea Spa — a world-class 14,500-square-foot spa offering an extensive menu of treatments, relaxation areas with cascading whirlpools, sauna and steam rooms, plush robes, zero-gravity loungers, and a 24-hour fitness center featuring top-of-the-line Precor equipment and Peloton stationary bikes, with fitness classes like yoga, Pilates, and more.

Relax with your partner in the spa’s new area for couples, complete with a wet bar and cozy fireplace. Adding to the wide selection of facials, body treatments, massages, salon services and rejuvenating experiences, the spa now offers new features including touchless wellness, using innovative technology to offer individualized experiences — like Hydrojet Massages or Prism Red Light Pad therapy.

If you want to update your look, the full-service spa also offers two styling rooms with a wide range of hair, makeup, and nail services.

4. Unforgettable events

Celebrating a momentous occasion? From weddings and anniversaries to birthdays, reunions, and more, Hilton Sandestin Beach has you covered with customizable venue options and group activities. The resort offers three main ballrooms, in addition to numerous outdoor and indoor event spaces of different sizes suitable for all kinds of get-togethers — plus event planners to work alongside each couple or family to plan their special occasion. Spa treatments, beachfront yoga on the deck, dining experiences, volleyball tournaments, beach relay races, and more can enhance your celebration.

For soon-to-be newlyweds, Hilton Sandestin Beach is one of the only resorts in the Northwest Florida area offering an all-encompassing wedding experience. Your full wedding itinerary is customizable — including options from a welcome beach bonfire to a farewell brunch.

5. Culinary delights

Savor a variety of on-site dining options at Hilton Sandestin Beach to tantalize your taste buds, including fine dining at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood (the area’s only AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse), plus casual eateries like Sandcastle’s Restaurant and Lounge, The Coffee Shop, and Hadashi Sushi Bar. Beachside and poolside dining with seasonal hours include Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill and Picnix Poolside Market. In-room dining is also available.

Plan your visit

Ready to make your dream vacation a reality? Great accommodations await you and your family at Hilton Sandestin Beach, with 590 spacious guest rooms and suites including private balconies with partial or full Gulf views, and first-floor rooms feature a covered patio. Junior deluxe suites are ideal for families, with bunk beds and sleeper sofas. The resort also offers ADA-equipped rooms.

Explore the possibilities for your next family vacay at HiltonSandestinBeach.com, and check out great package offers at HiltonSandestinBeach.com/vacation-packages.

2025-05-28T12:01:00

(BPT) – There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly made cheeseburger — and even more so when you can take pride in making it perfectly at home.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or craving comfort food on a weeknight, mastering the cheeseburger is a must for an at-home staple dish.

To help elevate your burger game, co-founder of Juicy Lucy, Inc., and TV personality Chef Aldo Lanzillotta, offers five tips for making the perfect cheeseburger at home.

1. Quality Beef = Patty Perfection

The foundation of any great burger is the meat. Lanzillotta recommends using an 80/20 beef blend for the ideal ratio of fat-to-lean meat.

“Fat is flavor,” says Lanzillotta. “That slight richness gives the burger its juiciness and depth.”

Lanzillotta says when forming patties, resist the urge to pack the meat too tightly, as overhandling can lead to tough burgers.

“Think of shaping the patty like shaping wet sand,” Lanzillotta explains. “It should just hold together — not be compressed like a hockey puck.”

Lanzillotta adds that seasoning is also key and that salt and pepper are the cornerstones of good burger seasoning and should be applied liberally just before cooking.

“You want the seasoning to form a crust on the outside,” Lanzillotta says. “That’s where a lot of the flavor comes from, especially when using a grill or cast iron pan.”

2. Say Cheese — Juicy Lucy Style

The cheese can make or break your burger, Lanzillotta says. And while topping a burger with cheese is a classic approach, Lanzillotta is a fan of stuffing the cheese inside the patty to create a molten flavor burst. This burger style, known as the Juicy Lucy, dates its creation back to 1950s Minneapolis dive bars and delivers a perfect burger bite with a gooey, cheese-stuffed center.

To make the Juicy Lucy achievable — and easy to make at home — Lanzillotta has created for the first time the Juicy Lucy in frozen form, which can be prepared on the grill, in an air fryer or Chef Aldo’s favorite: on the skillet.

“Don’t underestimate the versatility of the skillet. The skillet gives you some of the same delicious characteristics you would get if it were made on a flattop at a restaurant,” Lanzillotta says.

The Juicy Lucy, Inc., burgers are available in the frozen aisles of several retailers nationwide and are offered in two flavors: Cheese-Stuffed and Jalapeño Cheese-Stuffed. The burgers are ready to cook up right out of the freezer.

3. Embrace the Skillet

While of course a traditional charcoal or gas grill is always an option, Lanzillotta likes the option of a flattop to make his burgers. No flattop, no problem. Lanzillotta recommends using a cast-iron skillet for your burgers, as it’s quite versatile, and easily serves as a flattop.

“Skillets have stood the test of time and should be considered a go-to more often when cooking,” he notes. “A well-seasoned skillet cooks burgers thoroughly and allows for a nice crisp on each side, which adds even more flavor to an already great burger. Even if they aren’t really a secret, I consider a skillet the secret tool when it comes to making burgers.”

4. Butter Up Those Buns

Often overlooked, Lanzillotta stresses the importance of the bun. He says the bun should complement the burger, not overwhelm it. When grilling, he recommends starting with an uncut bun so it grills up just right. He notes toasting the bun adds structure and flavor.

“I like to toast the bun whole, still uncut, from the bottom up on top of the low heat side of the grill,” recommends Lanzillotta. “That activates the inside and makes the bun feel more like a freshly baked bun; then you cut it open, watch the steam come out, and spread the top and bottom with butter.”

5. Customize Your Beef Bite

After cooking up your burger, the final step of making a restaurant-quality cheeseburger at home is customizing it with toppings and favorable touches. For his Juicy Lucy, Lanzillotta recommends the traditional Minneapolis style of raw or fried onions or going beyond with toppings like pickled jalapeño relish, charred cumin tomatoes, candied prosciutto and smashed avocado.

“There are so many directions you can take your burger, evolving from the traditional options to new ideas,” says Lanzillotta. “A great burger is all about balance. Juiciness, flavor, texture — it all comes together in one beautiful bite.”

2025-05-28T09:01:00

(BPT) – Love traveling, but find your best adventures somewhere between big cities and crowded attractions? If your favorite travel memories involve exploring hidden gems on roads less traveled, you’re following the current travel trend — “detour destinations” — which seek amazing experiences beyond the usual tourist spots.

For one-of-a-kind and unforgettable travel, your next trip should include amazing small towns and coastal communities in Atlantic Canada — the four eastern provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

Ready to go exploring? Here are must-see places that are off the beaten path — and well worth the visit.

New Brunswick: Whales and lobsters and deer, oh my!

While your New Brunswick itinerary might include the capital city of Fredericton, or the stunning rock formations of Hopewell Rocks, you don’t want to miss two coastal towns offering one-of-a-kind experiences.

Saint Andrews: An hour from Saint John, this town on the Bay of Fundy was named the best place to visit in Canada by USA Today. Saint Andrews offers rich historical atmosphere, along with a variety of restaurants, pubs and cafes.

Love outdoor adventures? Join a whale-watching excursion to spot species like humpback, minke and finback whales. You could embark on a sport fishing adventure with Island Quest Marine — or join a shark tagging excursion, where sharks are caught, tagged with a microchip, then released and tracked for scientific research.

Get up close to Bay of Fundy marine life at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre, or immerse yourself in 27 acres of gorgeous plants, birds and animals at the multi award-winning horticultural masterpiece Kingsbrae Garden.

While you’re relaxing and enjoying the stunning views of the Bay of Fundy, you may just see a deer crossing the street.

Shediac: Known as the “The Lobster Capital of the World,” this town along New Brunswick’s Acadian Coast celebrates its heritage with a 90-ton lobster sculpture and hosts a major lobster festival each July featuring music, dancing and an outdoor lobster feast at a 600-guest table. Shediac Bay Cruises also offers 2.5-hour Lobster Tales Cruises, filled with humor, French Acadian music and the secrets of catching, cooking and eating lobster.

This seaside community 20 minutes from Moncton is steeped in French Acadian culture, offering unique restaurants, pubs and coffee shops to enjoy on the Pointe-du-Chene Wharf. You can also relax on pristine beaches like Parlee Beach, boasting the warmest saltwater north of Virginia.

Newfoundland and Labrador: What do icebergs and root cellars have in common?

Special places in Newfoundland and Labrador showcase the passage of time, delve into the past — and create memories to last a lifetime.

Twillingate, the “Iceberg Capital of the World,” embodies everything that Newfoundland and Labrador towns are famous for: stunning rugged coastlines, historical picturesque streets and lush country roads. You may see whales, dolphins, seabirds and, in the right season, icebergs.

An 85-minute drive from Gander, Twillingate is a stop along Iceberg Alley, a corridor of ocean that witnesses the slow-motion migration of these frozen leviathans. Enjoy the sights from locales like Long Point Lighthouse, looking out over Notre Dame Bay, or take a boat expedition and witness whales breaching and playing just yards away.

Known as the “Root Cellar Capital of the World,” Elliston is one of over a dozen geosites in the Discovery UNESCO Global Geopark. Perched at the tip of Bonavista Peninsula, the area is dotted with the tiny doors of root cellars from the 18th-19th centuries, when settlers needed to store potatoes and other root vegetables to endure the harsh winters. Every third weekend of September, Elliston becomes the backdrop to Roots, Rants and Roars, a culinary festival celebrating the natural gifts of Newfoundland and Labrador’s food, culture, land and sea.

You’ll also find a beautiful sandy beach in a sheltered cove on a coastline that’s home to hundreds of colorful puffins — the official bird of Newfoundland.

Nova Scotia: Quirky coastal communities

Nova Scotia is “Canada’s Ocean Playground,” and you can make the most of it by visiting these incredible coastal communities.

Mahone Bay: Named one of Canada’s top 10 most beautiful towns, Mahone Bay is an hour’s drive from the capital city of Halifax, offering water views, colorful artisan shops and culinary experiences to savor. Beauty abounds in the work of artisans such as Amos Pewter, where you can finish and personalize your own keepsake, or the Indigenous Glass Art Cultural Experience, where you can choose a pattern to create a glass mosaic while hearing stories of the Anishinaabe, Anishininew and Mi’kmaw cultures of your First Nation hosts. Or discover Canada’s first art maze — close to a mile of paths at BernArt Maze featuring sculptures, mosaics and murals by local artists and others from around the world.

Nearby Oak Island has resounded with tales of hidden pirate bounty for over 250 years, intriguing historians and treasure hunters alike, including the makers of the History Channel’s TV series “The Curse of Oak Island.” Hop aboard a tritoon with your knowledgeable skipper at Salty Dog Sea Tours to uncover its mysteries from the sea.

Tatamagouche is a charming seaside village 95 miles from Halifax, with a bustling Main Street where you can enjoy craft beer, handmade chocolates, baked goods, and so much more. After visiting the weekend farmers’ market, stop at Jost Vineyards or Vista Bella Farm for wine and cider tastings. The village is close to three provincial parks with sandy, warm water beaches, and the Wentworth Valley, which offers both downhill skiing and mountain biking (depending on the season).

Railroad aficionados will love the Train Station Inn: vintage Canadian-built cabooses and boxcars that are authentic on the outside, deluxe suites inside. Onsite, you will also find an eclectic gift shop and a locally roasted coffee bar and café, both housed in the former train station that was built around 1887. For a heartier meal, savor local seafood in the restored 1928 Railway Dining Car.

Prince Edward Island: From artisans and seafood to ultimate R&R

While PEI offers the bustling capital of Charlottetown and opportunities to revisit the story of “Anne of Green Gables,” two lesser-known towns should top your list.

Victoria by the Sea is an historic fishing village 30 minutes from Charlottetown that’s been revitalized by the many artists and creative people who live there. Enjoy restaurants showcasing local seafood like The Lobster Bar Pub & Eatery, Casa Mia by the Sea, The Landmark Oyster House and Richard’s Fresh Seafood, followed by award-winning treats at Island Chocolates. Then visit artisan shops like Michael Stanley Pottery or enjoy a kayaking experience to make this village your favorite PEI stop. You’ll find charming accommodations at OH Victoria Hotel or Victoria Cottages. Before saying goodbye, take advantage of a photo op at the picturesque Victoria Range Light & Seaport Museum.

You’ll experience the charm of a hidden gem on PEI’s Points East Coastal Drive in St. Peter’s Bay, with stunning coastal views, pristine beaches and warm hospitality — perfect for adventure or relaxation. About an hour’s drive from Charlottetown, St. Peter’s Bay offers artisan shops at St. Peter’s Landing, and several spots for seafood lovers, like Rick’s Fish & Chips restaurant. Julio’s Oyster Express, offering a small oyster bar with fresh oysters from across the Island and The Golden Dory, a food truck-style shack serves casual bites and classic Island flavors.

Love the outdoors? Walk or bike part of the Confederation Trail, which runs 273 kilometers from one tip of the Island to the other, or visit nearby Greenwich, PEI National Park. If your goal is rest and relaxation, unwind at Mysa Nordic Spa, PEI’s first and only Nordic spa, or enjoy glamping in a yurt along with yoga and other wellness experiences at Nature Space Resort.

Learn more about the four provinces of Atlantic Canada at VisitAtlanticCanadaNow.com.

2025-05-28T07:01:01

(BPT) – When the sun’s out and the weather is warm, there’s nothing better than enjoying a meal al fresco! Skipping a fancy restaurant patio for a relaxing outdoor picnic is not only fun, but much more affordable! It doesn’t have to be overly planned — just fill a basket with your favorite foods and head outside!

Whether you’re packing for the park or enjoying a backyard hangout, these five smart tips make it easy to put together a delicious spread with minimal effort, no mess and all the flavor.

1. Skip the Prep with Ready-Made Sides

A winning picnic doesn’t have to mean making everything from scratch. Combining a few homemade favorites with high-quality, prepared dishes allows you to ditch the prep and kitchen mess. Reser’s delicious deli salads — like their Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Cole Slaw and Rotisserie Chicken Salad — taste just like homemade and are ideal for sharing. Add a few fresh fruits, sliced meats and crackers to round out the spread. The deli section of your local grocer can be your best friend.

2. Pack Smart Essentials

Cut down on overpacking by choosing items that do double duty. Use frozen water bottles instead of ice packs to keep your cooler cold and serve as drinks later. A large scarf or lightweight blanket can double as a picnic cloth. Compostable or recyclable plates and cutlery will save clean-up time, stackable containers mean fewer trips to the car, and trash bags are essential for when it’s all done.

3. Keep Safety in Mind

Pack sunscreen and consider a shady spot to keep clear of harmful rays. Place deli salads and dips over ice to prevent food spoilage. Citronella or bug spray can help repel insects, while towels and wet wipes keep hands clean and spills at bay.

4. Add a Personal Touch

Thoughtful details like fresh flowers, throw pillows or a hand-written menu create an Instagram-worthy presentation and make the day special.

5. Turn Up the Fun

Bring along a card game, Frisbee or football for some laid-back fun. Remember to pack a Bluetooth speaker to let the good times roll. Solo picnicking? A book or journal is a great way to take in the natural surroundings and relax.

“With these simple tips, you can spend less time prepping and more time enjoying the day,” comments Megan Torres, brand strategy manager, Reser’s Fine Foods. “We’ve been helping our fans create good times and fun memories for 75 years. The key to packing for a picnic is making it easy, delicious and stress-free!”

2025-05-28T07:01:01

(BPT) – Lisa Roberts has raised a family, reached an impressively high level in her career, and been an anchor for her mother and other family members. Suddenly, within a very short period, her brother and son were diagnosed with chronic illness, and her mother passed away after a too-brief illness, leaving her feeling unmoored. She found herself wondering why she was not grieving, and why she was not feeling much at all. She no longer enjoyed her job or even got out of bed in the morning.

“My problems were not going away, and I found myself wishing I could just not be here,” said Roberts.

She made an appointment to see Whitnee Brown, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice in nearby Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Brown worked with Roberts on exercises to help her accept her grief, and they did help. Yet they both acknowledged that Roberts needed more. Together, they agreed to try a medication treatment plan.

“But I was concerned,” Roberts noted, “as I did not want to experience side effects; I needed relief.”

Roberts is not alone in her trepidation. For many Americans, concerns about potential side effects remain a significant barrier. In fact, despite nearly 9 out of 10 Americans (89%) diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety believing that mental health medications are somewhat or very effective, more than half of those who have never been on mental health medication (52%) say they would not take medication because of possible side effects. That’s according to the latest GeneSight^® Mental Health Monitor*, a nationwide survey from Myriad Genetics, Inc., a leader in molecular diagnostics testing and precision medicine.

In the survey, a majority of these patients (54%) agree that genetic testing for mental health medications (known as pharmacogenomic or PGx testing) could reduce these concerns.

Whitnee Brown uses just such a tool in her practice. The GeneSight test from Myriad Genetics is a pharmacogenomic test that analyzes how a patient’s genes may affect medication outcomes. The GeneSight test looks at clinically important genetic variations in DNA providing results that may inform healthcare providers how a patient may break down or respond to certain medications commonly used for depression, anxiety, ADHD and other psychiatric conditions.

Dr. Brown recommended the GeneSight test for Roberts and used the results, along with her medical history, to help inform her mental heath medication prescription.

“The GeneSight test gives me insights and takes out some of the guesswork associated with prescribing mental health medications.”

The GeneSight test includes more than 60 FDA-approved medications commonly prescribed for depression, anxiety, ADHD and other psychiatric conditions. Insights from the test can help your clinician understand if you may need dose adjustments, if certain medications may be less likely to work or if they may have an increased risk of side effects based on your genetics.

Is genetic testing right for you?

Today, Roberts is on a medication that works for her.

“I’m here!” exclaimed Roberts. “I am able to help my family members, taking them to appointments, going to my job — in fact, I was just promoted — without wanting to just run away!”

If a mental health medication has failed you in the past, if your current medication is not working or if your medication is causing unwanted side effects, the GeneSight test may help. If you think genetic testing could help you or a loved one find better mental health treatment options, contact your healthcare provider or learn more at GeneSight.com.

* The GeneSight Mental Health Monitor is a nationwide survey conducted online by ACUPOLL Precision Research, Inc. between January 24 – February 10, 2025, among a representative sample (n=1089) of U.S. adults age 18+. The margin of error in survey results for the total base population at a 95% confidence interval is +/- 3%. A nationally representative sample of adults aged 18 years or older was recruited and balanced to match U.S. Census quotas across five primary metrics (i.e., age, gender, income, region, ethnicity). In addition to the nationally representative sample, a statistically reliable sample was desired of respondents who were self-reported as being diagnosed by a medical professional with depression or anxiety. The study also used mental health screening instruments, the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) for depression, and the General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-2) for anxiety, to better understand this population. ACUPOLL has more than 30 years of experience conducting statistically valid research through careful recruiting and quality control measures.

2025-05-23T10:31:00

(BPT) – Are you trying to plan a vacation but feeling uninspired? Consider taking a road trip through the Northeast this summer!

Whether you’re looking forward to exploring bustling urban epicenters like Boston and Philadelphia, dreaming of those New Hampshire mountain views or looking forward to discovering the literary history of Amherst, a road trip through the Northeast balances culture and nature while giving you the freedom to try something new every day, all at your own pace.

To help you get started on your itinerary, check out these six hotels. Travel north to south along this route, and you’ll discover some truly amazing stays that are slightly off the beaten path, but well worth the drive.

1. Hotel Ursa in Orono, Maine

Start your road trip adventure by going back to school in Maine. Hotel Ursa is located on the University of Maine Orono campus and reimagines the university’s Coburn and Holmes Halls, offering visitors a collegiate feel through historic preservation and intentional, nostalgic design touches.

Named for the Ursa Major and Ursa Minor constellations, the hotel is near grand views of the night sky. Stargazers can book the “Stargazing Over Hirundo” package and explore the constellations, galaxies and beauty of the night sky with guidance from Versant Power Astronomy Center Director Shawn Laatsch once a month from June through September.

During the day, take advantage of the summer weather and enjoy all of Maine’s natural wonders. In Orono itself, you’ll have plenty of choices for outdoor adventure like fishing and kayaking the Penobscot River to hiking miles of trails in the DeMeritt Forest or Caribou Bog Conservation Area. However, don’t forget to take a day trip to Acadia National Park. Located just 90 minutes away, the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast” is one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the U.S. and offers 158 miles of hiking trails to explore.

At night, head 15 minutes down the road from Orono to Bangor, Maine, and enjoy one of the many bands playing at the Waterfront Concerts series. Some standout names in the lineup include Halsey, Def Leppard, The Lumineers and Shania Twain!

2. The Glen House in Gorham, New Hampshire

Continue your trip inland and visit The Glen House, a four-season destination for solitude seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Just three hours north of Boston, this eco-hotel is inspired by the past and designed for the future. As one of the most sustainable in New England, it features a hydro generator and geothermal system.

Nestled at the base of Mount Washington, the hotel is in an ideal location for summer activities like hiking, biking and paddling. If you need to rest your legs, get in the car and take a scenic drive on the Mount Washington Auto Road, America’s oldest man-made attraction.

If you want to experience the White Mountains and iconic Presidential Range but aren’t keen on roughing it, you can book The Glen House’s All-Adventure Package. The three-night stay includes a guided tour of the Auto Road by partner Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, a choice of sunset kayak or wildlife tour, bike rentals and a $30 breakfast credit to fuel up each day!

3. Beacon Hill Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts

Are you ready to explore one of the most historic neighborhoods in Boston? Make sure to book a room at the Beacon Hill Hotel. The boutique-style hotel is well known among locals and is a hidden gem for travelers, offering European hospitality with New England charm.

Located in the heart of Beacon Hill, with an enviable mix of history, cultural offerings and culinary creativity, it is just steps from the famed Boston Common and Public Garden. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the hottest events Boston has to offer, like a game or concert at Fenway Park, a delicious dining and eclectic shopping experience at Faneuil Hall or a leisurely stroll through the Copley Square Farmers Market.

During your stay, check out the hotel’s new Book Bar Menu, which has a selection of literary works for guests to “order” and borrow for the duration of their stay. Whether you enjoy classics like The Great Gatsby or contemporary works like Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These, you’re sure to find a book that suits you. If you’re staying overnight, book the hotel’s Bookworm offer for two complimentary literary-themed cocktails or mocktails at the lobby bar and a $50 gift card to a local bookstore.

4. Inn on Boltwood in Amherst, Massachusetts

Continue your scenic adventures by driving down to Amherst, Massachusetts — home to literary giants like Emily Dickinson — and stay at the Inn on Boltwood. Nestled right on the town green, the near century-old Inn on Boltwood blends modern comfort with historic New England charm, making it an ideal summer stop.

With school out of session, Amherst slows down to a relaxed pace, so you can enjoy this hidden gem and all it has to offer. Take a walk and discover the college town’s museums, music venues, galleries and locally owned restaurants. You can also spend your mornings biking the Norwottuck Rail Trail or taking in the sweeping views from the Mount Holyoke Range. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for a moonlit paddle down the Connecticut River and take in the beauty of nature at night.

For those looking for a deep connection to the place and a reason to slow down, check out the Adventures Inn Amherst program, which offers guests curated outdoor experiences for two operated by the experienced guides from Adventure East. Choose the Pedal the Pioneer Valley adventure for a guided three-hour bike tour through the scenic Connecticut River Valley. You can also check out the Aim & Exhale adventure to experience a peaceful forest bathing session followed by guided archery.

5. The Heartwood at Vassar in Poughkeepsie, New York

When you stay at The Heartwood at Vassar, you’re checking into the ideal homebase to explore the Hudson Valley, the place to be this summer for art lovers, foodies and naturalists alike. Much like the other campus hotels on this list, the Heartwood at Vassar celebrates the longstanding history of the college it calls home with modern touches and easy access to the nature, history and culture of Poughkeepsie, New York.

Sustainability is at the heart of the hotel. The building’s cooling and heating are supplied by 56 geothermal wells, reducing the hotel’s reliance on fossil fuels. Continuing the eco-friendly theme, guests can dine at the hotel’s restaurant, The Salt Line Hudson Valley. The 57-seat establishment’s hyperlocal, seasonal menu showcases the region’s diverse ecology and agricultural heritage, making it a must-try destination for foodie-focused travelers.

During your stay, make sure to explore the Hudson Valley’s natural beauty by hiking the region’s top trails, visiting the Walkway Over the Hudson, and taking in the summer series at the Powerhouse Theater at Vassar College. Not to mention, there’s plenty of farm-to-table fare and agritourism experiences that will have you reminiscing about the trip long after it’s over.

6. The Inn at Swarthmore in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Have you ever wanted to live among art? Art enthusiasts should consider a stay at The Inn at Swarthmore. Located on the edge of the Swarthmore College campus, the Inn embraces the institution’s tradition of creative arts by showcasing alumni paintings, photography and sculptures throughout the hotel. Your room will even feature an original piece of work!

During your stay, enjoy locally sourced cuisine at the Broad Table Tavern. The menu celebrates the restaurant and Inn’s partnership with local farms, vineyards and breweries, and the restaurant itself is a popular local gathering place for the tight-knit Swarthmore community.

Located just outside of Philly, Swarthmore offers a leafy, intellectual escape. Nature lovers can head to the Ridley Creek State Park for a host of outdoor summer activities like biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and more. If you want to stick close to the campus, you can head over to The Scott Arboretum, where the plants are in full bloom, and learn about the college’s horticultural endeavors. For more arts and culture, stop by The List Gallery on campus and in the evening, take a short drive and catch a show at the Hedgerow Theater.

Get ready for a summer to remember! Whether you visit one or all of the locations on this list, you’ll be well on your way to a summer road trip that you’ll be longing to recreate year after year.

2025-05-22T05:01:00

(BPT) – Any true beach lover knows that there is no such thing as the world’s “best” beach. An avid surfer and a family with young kids are drawn to different coastlines, while a city dweller and a wilderness adventurer may each find beauty in their own stretches of shoreline. But that’s the beauty of beaches: There’s so much diversity in what one can be, from iconic sandy shores to inland beaches in landlocked places.

In 100 Beaches of a Lifetime we explore coastlines around the world, celebrating everything from wildlife to sports. And you might be surprised by what we found, including these remarkable beaches right here in the U.S.A.

Bowman’s Beach

Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island in Florida is an undeveloped stretch of sand carpeted with shells: false angel wings, coquinas, conchs, whelks, junonias, cockles, sand dollars and banded tulips, to name a few. A quarter-mile walk from the main road gives the beach a hidden feel, but to beachcombers it’s famous. In the early dawn, you’ll find the most devoted beachcombers with flashlights in hand, bent in a crouched position — the so-called Sanibel stoop — fingers needling the water’s edge. If you’re fortunate enough to visit and spot one of the prized souvenirs, you may find yourself doing the stoop yourself.

Lake McDonald Beach

You might not think “Montana” when dreaming of a beach getaway, but one of the world’s most striking shorelines sits in Glacier National Park. The shores of Lake McDonald offer an intriguing spin on the park’s geological wonders: smooth stones in a spectacular array of seemingly unnatural colors, from reds and purples to greens and yellows. These brilliant hues are made more striking by exceptionally, almost bafflingly clear water. The mountains around the lake create a temperate climate that attracts wildlife, so your visit here might include spotting black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep and elk.

Papakolea Beach

Hawaii is known for its beaches, but this one stands out with its prime coastline tinted olive green by volcanic forces. There are just four green-sand beaches in the world, and Papakolea, on the south point of the island of Hawaii, is by far the most popular. Formed around 49,000 years ago with the eruption of Pu’u Mahana, its hue comes from olivine, an element left behind in the eruption. Getting to this legendary cove is a challenge — it’s a 2.5-mile hike from the parking lot. The payoff: panoramic views over Mahana Bay and the surrounding eroded cliffs. (Only swim if the water is calm.)

Ship Island Swim Beach

Located an hour east of New Orleans and 11 miles off the coast of Biloxi, Mississippi, Ship Island is a crescent-shaped barrier island bordered almost entirely by white sand. Now part of the expansive Gulf Islands National Seashore, the spot takes its name from its remarkably deep natural port, which played a key role in U.S. colonial history. Today, Ship Island is largely undeveloped except for historic Fort Massachusetts, a boardwalk, and a concession stand selling beach gear and snacks.

Ship Island Swim Beach in Biloxi, Mississippi

Sand Beach

Four miles south of Bar Harbor, Maine, the aptly named Sand Beach is the only, well, sandy beach in Acadia National Park. It’s also a place so cinematically striking that significant scenes form the 1999 movie The Cider House Rules were filmed here. Tucked away in the Gulf of Maine on Mount Desert Island, the beach is just 300 yards wide and is made almost entirely of shell. Despite the cold ocean water here (generally ranging from 50 to 60° F) the beach is popular for swimmers and families.

For more fabulous beaches, be sure to pick up a copy of National Geographic’s 100 Beaches of a Lifetime.

2025-05-22T10:01:00

(BPT) – When a woman receives a breast cancer diagnosis, the journey ahead can feel overwhelming. Breast cancer affects one in eight women in their lifetime, and while treatment options have advanced significantly in recent years, not all women have benefited equally. According to a 2024 report on health care, women of different racial and ethnic backgrounds may experience varying health outcomes based on their unique biology and individual circumstances. For breast cancer specifically, research shows different mortality rates across population groups, with some experiencing higher rates than others despite similar or lower rates of cancer incidence. These variations highlight why personalized approaches that recognize each woman’s unique biology are so important in breast cancer care.

As personalized medicine continues to evolve, genomic testing and inclusive research are playing a key role in ensuring that all women receive care that reflects the unique biology of their cancer. By supporting more informed, individualized treatment decisions, these tools are helping close gaps in care and improve outcomes for patients of every background, toward a future where every woman receives the care that is most appropriate for her unique diagnosis.

While similar in name, genetic testing and genomic testing serve different but complementary purposes in breast cancer care. Genetic testing examines inherited genes, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, to identify mutations that may increase cancer risk for an individual and within families. Genomic testing, by contrast, analyzes gene activity within the tumor itself to understand its unique biology and behavior. This genomic information helps doctors and patients make more precise decisions about treatments like chemotherapy or extended hormone therapy based on the specific characteristics of each woman’s cancer, rather than relying solely on traditional clinical factors.

Understanding tumor biology: The key to personalized care

Traditionally, physicians have relied on clinical factors like tumor size, patient age, and whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes to guide breast cancer treatment decisions. But these factors alone cannot reveal what’s happening at the molecular level inside each unique tumor.

“Every woman’s breast cancer has its own unique biological profile that influences how the cancer might behave and respond to treatment,” said Dr. Joyce O’Shaughnessy, national principal investigator of the FLEX Study and director of Breast Cancer Research at Baylor University Medical Center, Texas Oncology. “Through genomic testing, we can examine the activity of specific genes within a tumor that drive its behavior, helping personalize treatment plans and potentially improve outcomes for women of all backgrounds.”

Genomic testing that works for everyone

A recent review has highlighted disparities in outcomes across different racial and ethnic groups and the need to expand research to bridge this gap.

MammaPrint^®, a gene expression profiling test that analyzes 70 key genes associated with breast cancer recurrence, has demonstrated consistent reliability across diverse populations. It classifies tumors into four risk categories: UltraLow, Low, High 1, and High 2 — to help guide decisions about chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. BluePrint^® examines 80 genes that define the tumor’s molecular biology and what fundamentally drives cancer growth. Together, MammaPrint and BluePrint provide a comprehensive look into 150 genes that uniquely define a breast tumor. With results typically available in ten days or less, this 150-gene signature informs more personalized, data-driven treatment strategies by providing insight into how the cancer grows and its likely response to specific therapies.

Together, these tests offer a comprehensive genomic profile that supports more personalized, data-driven treatment decisions. They help patients avoid over- and under-treatment while offering insights that guide physicians throughout a patient’s journey — from initial diagnosis through extended therapy planning.

“Having detailed information about the biology of a woman’s cancer quickly helps pinpoint the most effective and timely treatment,” said Dr. Regina Hampton, breast surgeon and chief of Breast Surgery at Doctors Community Medical Center, part of Luminis Health in Lanham, Maryland. “These tests provide some of the most specific information we can currently get to help women of all backgrounds receive the best possible health outcomes.”

The FLEX Study: Building a more inclusive dataset

To further address the ethnic and racial differences in personalized care, Agendia launched the FLEX Study (NCT03053193), a real-world evidence initiative that has enrolled over 20,000 early-stage breast cancer patients to date. The study includes significant representation from Black, Latin American/Hispanic, and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) participants — making it the most diverse genomic study of its kind. This diversity ensures that genomic insights derived from the FLEX database can be confidently applied to women of all backgrounds, helping to close historical gaps in care.

The FLEX Study combines detailed genomic data from breast cancer tumors with real-world patient data, creating one of the most comprehensive breast cancer research databases of its kind. Current research, led by internationally renowned breast cancer investigators, is underway analyzing which genes are active in tumors from women of different racial and ethnic backgrounds, researchers can better understand how tumor biology varies between patients — and why outcomes sometimes differ. These insights, regularly published at academic conferences and peer reviewed journals, are helping uncover new ways to predict how a tumor will behave and which treatments may be more effective, with the goal of improving care for all women.

“Enrolling such a diverse patient population is an extraordinary accomplishment for the FLEX Study,” O’Shaughnessy noted. “It underscores the critical progress being made in breast cancer research and the continued advancement of personalized treatment planning for patients across diverse, racial groups.”

Why genomic testing matters for women’s health

Access to the right genomic testing insights at the right time can have a significant impact:

• Preventing overtreatment: Nearly half of women who appeared to have high-risk tumors based on conventional clinical assessments were found by MammaPrint to be Low Risk, empowering these women and their care teams to choose the best therapy plan with the potential to safely avoid chemotherapy without compromising survival
• Uncovering hidden risks: BluePrint can identify tumors that behave more aggressively than they appear on standard pathology tests.¹ This detection of hidden risks is especially important for Black women, who are disproportionately affected by more aggressive tumor types and could receive inadequate treatment without this deeper molecular analysis
• Supporting timely decisions: These genomic tests support informed decisions both before or after surgery — which can be especially important for women with more aggressive disease
• Guiding long-term therapy decisions: Recent clinical data shows that MammaPrint can help determine which patients will benefit from extended endocrine therapy years after their initial diagnosis, further extending its utility throughout the cancer care journey²

A path forward: Precision medicine for all

The ongoing FLEX Study aims to enroll 30,000 patients and follow them for more than 10 years to generate high-quality peer-reviewed research, advancing the scientific understanding of breast cancer biology that could help transform breast cancer care for generations to come.

“Through innovative genomic testing and inclusive research, we’re working to ensure that every woman, regardless of her background, has access to the most accurate information about her unique cancer,” O’Shaughnessy emphasized. “This knowledge empowers patients and their healthcare teams to make truly personalized treatment decisions that can improve outcomes while maintaining quality of life.”

By combining innovative genomic technology with inclusive research practices, the healthcare community is making strides toward ensuring that precision medicine truly benefits all patients.

To learn more about genomic testing and its role in personalized early-stage breast cancer care, visit Agendia.com.

References:

1. Lee PRE et. al., AACR 2018
2. Rastogi P et. al., J Clin Oncol. 2024;00:1-9