XMWare

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.

2026-02-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Although you may not think of children when you imagine someone with heart problems, congenital heart defects are actually the most common birth defect in the U.S., occurring in about 1% of births. While many of these structural heart issues are discovered in infancy or before a child is born, about 9% of children with congenital heart defects may not have symptoms until later in childhood (or even adulthood).

What does this mean for parents? Simply that it’s important to recognize potential signs of heart issues in children that they might otherwise miss.

“The same way CPR or first aid can save a life, knowing what signs to look for can, too,” said Dr. Tara Karamlou, pediatric congenital heart surgeon at Akron Children’s. “And you should always feel free to ask your child’s pediatrician about any concerns you have about your child’s health.”

The pediatric cardiology experts at Akron Children’s want you to know about these indications your child may need immediate medical attention.

Shortness of breath

While shortness of breath can be caused by respiratory issues, persistent breathing difficulties, especially when engaged in active play or exercise, could point to a potential heart problem like congenital heart disease.

Shortness of breath is also a common symptom of heart failure in children, which occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively. This results in fluid buildup in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties.

“If you notice your child having shortness of breath when they’re active, especially along with other symptoms like chest pain, fainting, heart palpitations, extreme fatigue or swelling in their ankles, legs or abdomen, they need prompt medical attention to uncover the underlying cause,” Karamlou said. “Your child’s pediatrician can determine if they need to be seen by a pediatric cardiologist.”

Fainting during play

If your child suddenly faints while playing or exercising, make sure they see a doctor right away. Although fainting can be caused by dehydration, overheating or prolonged standing, fainting during physical activity (not afterward) could be a sign of a cardiac issue such as heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), a structural heart defect, and myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) that need immediate attention.

An evaluation from a health care provider is needed especially when fainting is also associated with chest pain, heart palpitations or your family has a history of cardiac issues in young people.

Excessive fatigue

“Excessive fatigue can be hard to recognize, especially when families are busy and nobody gets enough sleep. However, excessive tiredness is a common symptom in children with congestive heart failure or congenital heart defects,” said Dr. Robert Stewart, chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Akron Children’s. “In these cases, fatigue and weakness is due to the heart being unable to pump blood effectively, so that fatigue doesn’t improve, even with rest.

Contact your child’s doctor if extreme fatigue is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain; shortness of breath (especially with activity or while lying down); swelling in the feet, ankles, legs or abdomen; a bluish tint to the lips, tongue or nail beds; irregular/rapid heartbeat or excessive sweating. If fatigue lasts more than two weeks, seems severe, increases with physical activity or persists even when your child gets enough sleep, consult your child’s doctor right away.

Early detection and treatment are crucial

Recognizing the subtle signs of a cardiac condition in children is key to getting your child prompt medical attention, which can be lifesaving. If your child has a cardiac issue and you’re seeking the best possible treatment, look for a children’s hospital that specializes in pediatric cardiology. For example, Akron Children’s is ranked in Newsweek’s Best Children’s Hospitals for Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery. In recognition of Akron Children’s commitment to quality testing for diagnosis of heart disease, the organization’s echocardiography laboratories have been accredited by Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in areas of pediatric and fetal echocardiography.

“Akron Children’s uses the latest, most advanced technologies to diagnose and treat all types of pediatric heart disease, from the mild to the extremely complex,” added Stewart. “We’re at the forefront in treatment of abnormal heart rhythms, including development of a procedure to repair irregular heartbeats without the radiation commonly used in such procedures. Our pediatric heart surgeons work with interventional cardiologists even to repair certain types of heart defects in babies, who otherwise would have to wait until they’re big enough to undergo open heart surgery.”

For children needing highly specialized cardiac care, Akron Children’s collaborates with Cincinnati Children’s for procedures including heart transplantation, bi-ventricular repairs and virtual surgical planning. Both hospitals work together with patients and families to coordinate care throughout the process to help ensure the best outcomes.

Learn more about Akron Children’s Heart Center at AkronChildrens.org.

2026-02-02T13:47:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways:

• George Washington’s voice didn’t match his appearance.
• A viral infection caused Washington to speak in a high, breathy voice.
• Washington’s voice and poor dental health may have caused him to struggle had he lived in the modern era.

Two hundred and fifty years after the founding of the United States, most people know what George Washington looked like. But what did he sound like?

There are many well-known paintings of Washington. The museum at Mount Vernon displays a painstakingly accurate facial reconstruction to definitively show his appearance during his lifetime. He was a big, strapping guy at 6 foot 3 inches tall (which makes him equivalent to 6 foot 9 inches today), with large shoulders and legs.

Knowing this you likely imagine him having a commanding, masculine voice. However, according to Stephen Yoch, author of “Becoming George Washington,” America’s first president didn’t sound like he looked.

What did Washington sound like?

“We all imagine Washington as a strapping guy who had a voice to match,” said Yoch. “But Washington suffered from pleurisy — a viral infection that causes an inflammation in the lining of the lungs — as a child and because of this he spoke in a high, weak and breathy voice.”

2026-02-08T18:01:00

(BPT) – AI is rewriting the rules across industries, and HVAC is no exception. What was once about cooling and heating is now central to energy efficiency, sustainability and industrial competitiveness. At LG Electronics, our HVAC business sits right at the center of that shift. By anticipating change and moving beyond hardware alone, we’re not just adapting to the AI era — we’re helping shape it.

LG’s HVAC journey began with residential and commercial solutions. Today, it has expanded into high value-added areas such as industrial sites, power plants and specialized facilities. Along the way, our portfolio has grown to include air quality and water temperature management — marking a clear transition from standalone products to integrated, end-to-end solutions.

Execution With Speed and Focus

From residential air conditioners and air care solutions to commercial system air conditioners, VRF systems and chillers, LG HVAC has built a strong foundation of technological leadership and customer trust. This has supported steady growth in global market share.

As competition intensifies, execution matters more than ever. Last year, our focus was on establishing a stable growth base following the launch of the Eco Solution (ES) Company. This year, we are accelerating — prioritizing speed, sharper execution and a stronger market position.

To support this, we are placing R&D, sales and engineering closer to our customers, while operating our global production footprint more efficiently. This approach allows us to respond faster and deliver solutions that reflect local market needs, creating a more sustainable growth structure.

Building “Winning Tech” Through Global R&D

LG HVAC’s proprietary technologies and advanced R&D capabilities are key to developing “Winning Tech” — solutions that deliver clear, differentiated value and a sustained competitive advantage in real-world operating environments.

Innovation runs across our entire portfolio, driven by a global R&D network and regional HVAC academies that enable solutions tailored to specific climates and market requirements.

Initiatives such as the LG HVAC R&D Center at Changwon National University focus on advanced HVAC technologies, while the Global Heat Pump Consortium validates performance in extreme environments — from Alaska and Oslo to Saudi Arabia. Testing under real-world conditions strengthens reliability and accelerates innovation.

Strengthening Local Value Chains

We are reinforcing local value chains by integrating product planning, R&D, manufacturing and sales in key markets. While strengthening sales capabilities across the Global South, we are expanding infrastructure in North America, Europe and India.

In the second half of 2026, a new product development center and India’s third air conditioner factory will open near Noida and Sri City. The product development center, in particular, will serve as a core development hub alongside Changwon, Korea — underscoring our commitment to local development and production.

AI is now a core pillar of HVAC competitiveness. It is embedded not only in our products, but across R&D, manufacturing and services. Our Digital Twin technology models the physical conditions of data centers in a virtual environment, forecasting server heat generation and enabling automated optimization of operations. Combined with AI-driven HVAC control that reduces energy consumption, these capabilities are accelerating our AI Transformation (AX) journey.

Moving Forward as a Total HVAC Solution Provider

As LG continues to evolve from a product manufacturer into a global HVAC Total Solution Provider, we are expanding end-to-end solutions in maintenance and services across the U.S., Europe and other major markets.

New growth opportunities are emerging as demand rises for high-efficiency cooling solutions in AI data centers, unitary systems and heating applications. Strategic partnerships play a critical role in these growth areas — particularly in clean-tech domains such as advanced cooling and heat pump solutions.

This expanding ecosystem is also opening pathways to next-generation thermal management technologies, such as chip-level cooling for data centers and advanced commercial heat pumps.

The future of HVAC will be shaped by how effectively companies execute, how deeply technology is embedded across the value chain and how closely solutions reflect local market needs.

By accelerating Winning R&D, strengthening local value chains and advancing AX, LG HVAC is moving beyond hardware toward a more integrated, solution-driven model. Through disciplined execution and continuous innovation, we are building a more efficient and sustainable future — powered by the growing potential of AI.

By James Lee, president of the LG Electronics ES Company

2026-02-06T14:11:00

(BPT) – February is American Heart Month, providing a timely reminder that there are many ways to support your heart health. Living a more heart-healthy lifestyle is easier than you might think, and it often comes down to small, everyday choices that can add up to improved well-being.

To help you make healthier habits part of your routine, Registered Dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner shares easy-to-manage tips designed to optimize your heart health this February, and for the long haul.

1. Manage daily stress through simple practices

Stress is a part of everyday life, but small, intentional practices can help manage it more effectively. Even a few minutes of deep breathing, spending time outdoors and taking regular breaks from screens can support overall well-being. Practices like deep breathing, meditation and yoga have been shown to help lower blood pressure and stabilize your heart rate.

2. Stay active in ways you enjoy

While you may think you have to spend hours at the gym using various machines to be fit, being active does not have to be complicated. Any form of movement can provide benefits, especially when it fits naturally into your day. Walking, stretching or participating in social activities like group walks can make it easier to stay consistent over time. Finding activities you enjoy can help make movement feel like a regular part of your routine rather than a chore.

3. Focus on small, sustainable habits

Rather than making drastic changes all at once, starting with small, achievable habits — like taking the stairs, drinking more water or choosing a balanced meal during the workweek — can be easier to maintain over time.

“Choose a couple of these things to try, repeating them until they become a natural part of your routine,” said Blatner. “This approach can help you see a lasting improvement for your heart health and overall wellness.”

4. Start each day with a nutrient-dense breakfast

Beginning the day with a balanced, nutrient-rich breakfast can help support heart health from the very first meal. Choosing foods that provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients can help fuel your body and support overall wellness. Eggland’s Best eggs provide more of the nutrients people need in their daily diet, including Omega-3s and Vitamin D, to help support heart health.

“Eggland’s Best eggs also have 25% less saturated fat compared to ordinary eggs,” said Blatner. “A diet lower in saturated fat supports healthier cholesterol levels.”

Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Vitamin B12, ten times more Vitamin E and six times more Vitamin D compared to ordinary eggs. Eggland’s Best’s superior nutrition is due to its proprietary all-vegetarian hen feed that contains healthy grains, canola oil and a wholesome supplement of rice bran, alfalfa, sea kelp and Vitamin E.

Eggland’s Best continues to be a proud national supporter of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good™ movement, which encourages people to take small steps every day to build lifelong healthy habits for themselves and for their families.

Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and Mushrooms

Prep Time: 5 mins; Cook Time: 35 mins; Yield: 6 servings; Serving Size: 2

Ingredients

• 7 Eggland’s Best Eggs (large)
• Cooking spray
• 1/2 tablespoon canola or corn oil
• 1 onion (yellow preferred), finely chopped
• 1 (8-ounce) package sliced white mushrooms
• 1 (6.4-ounce) package frozen, nitrate-free turkey sausage links (thawed, chopped)
• 1/4 cup fat-free milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded, fat-free cheddar cheese

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.
2. In a medium nonstick pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Cook the onions and mushrooms for 10 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, warm the turkey sausage according to package directions. Chop the turkey into bite-size pieces. Stir into the onion mixture until well blended. Spoon into the muffin cups.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the muffin cups. Top with the Cheddar.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the eggs are set. Remove from the oven. Let cool slightly. To easily remove the muffins from the pan, run a knife around the edges of each muffin.

Find more health tips, recipes and products at EgglandsBest.com.

2026-02-02T13:51:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• George Washington reportedly couldn’t tell a lie, but can you tell fact from fiction about this president?
• Washington was more soft-spoken and less truthful than you might expect.
• Read on for facts about his life, decisions, offspring — or lack thereof — and death.

As the United States celebrates its 250th birthday this year, award-winning author Stephen Yoch’s research has revealed several interesting facts about President George Washington.

1. Washington was strong in stature, weak in voice

There are many well-known paintings of Washington. The museum at Mount Vernon displays a painstakingly accurate facial reconstruction to definitively show his appearance during his lifetime. He was quite tall at 6 foot 3 inches (which makes him equivalent to 6 foot 9 inches today), but he lacked the commanding voice one might expect from a military leader.

“We all imagine Washington as a strapping guy who had a voice to match,” said Yoch. “But Washington suffered from pleurisy — a viral infection that causes an inflammation in the lining of the lungs — as a child and because of this he spoke in a high, weak and breathy voice.”

Washington’s contemporaries often described him as soft-spoken. Yoch says this undoubtedly came from this high voice and his teeth, which gave him the habit of keeping his mouth closed to hide their appearance and the bad breath that comes with tooth decay.

As is often the case with past presidents, Washington would have struggled in the modern era. “Certainly his dental problems could be corrected,” said Yoch, “but his quiet demeanor and high voice would not have played well in our modern 24/7 news cycle.”

2. Is it a fact that Washington couldn’t tell a lie?

One of the great legends of the nation’s first president was created by biographer Parson Weems. In his account, George Washington chops down a cherry tree and later admits the act to his father, claiming he “cannot tell a lie.” According to author Stephen Yoch, not only is this story made up, but it’s also in direct contrast to young Washington’s behavior.

Yoch says there’s a pattern throughout Washington’s life of claiming victory but blaming others for defeat. “It’s difficult for many people to accept this reality given the legend concocted by Parson Weems relating to the Cherry Tree,” says Yoch. “But the truth that Washington lied and blamed others for his own failure is irrefutable. His lies and willingness to blame others moved his military career forward.”

3. Washington’s worst decision nearly spelled disaster for the Revolution

George Washington was indispensable in the Revolution. Without him, the army may not have achieved victory. His willingness to repeatedly give up power — including the return of his commission to Congress and later stepping down as President — makes him one of the most laudable figures in world history.

Yet, Washington made a catastrophic blunder, appointing Benedict Arnold as the commander of American forces in Philadelphia. Arnold was placed in charge of a city locked in turmoil and led by radicals that opposed the Continental Army. This act, as much as any other, could have meant the failure of the Revolution and Washington’s death, if not for Washington’s luck.

Washington would say “the hand of providence” saved him from his worst mistake and Arnold’s plot was foiled.

4. The father of our country had no children of his own

By the time the Revolution ended, the “father of our country” was father to no one. In a draft of Washington’s first inaugural address, he wrote: “Divine providence hath not seen fit that my blood should be transmitted, or my name perpetuated by the enduring, though sometimes seducing, channel of immediate offspring. I have no child for whom I could wish to make a provision — no family to build in greatness upon my country’s ruins.”

As Yoch notes, “This may have been a fortunate happenstance, as many called for him to be America’s new king. His lack of children allowed him to truly act in the country’s best interests and sealed his legacy as ‘first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.'”

5. Did Washington die peacefully?

After a life of action and harrowing battles, George Washington died peacefully in his bed at Mount Vernon. Or so many school children are taught. In reality, the nation’s first president died a slow and bloody death that was far from a pleasant end of life.

Yoch says the founding father was a lifelong believer in “bleeding” (removing blood) as a medical treatment to balance body humors. “Because of this, Washington and his physicians virtually guaranteed his death by excessive bleeding,” explained Yoch.

For more information on George Washington’s life as well as the life of other historical figures like Benedict Arnold, visit Yoch.com.

Historical fiction writer Stephen Yoch is based in Minneapolis/St. Paul. He is the author of “Becoming George Washington” and “Becoming Benedict Arnold.”

2026-02-06T14:35:00

(BPT) – Date night doesn’t have to mean reservations, candles or a big production. Sometimes all it takes is a small twist to make a familiar night in feel fresh again.

A fresh take on date night

Date night is being reimagined, with staying in creating space for something different. With less pressure to perform, there’s more room to play, experiment and enjoy rituals that don’t always fit into a traditional night out.

In moments like these, date night doesn’t need more time or more effort. It just needs a spark. A small twist on the familiar, a little experimentation and a bottle that fits the mood can turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.

Start with one of these ideas and see where the night takes you.

Ready-made date night plans

Partner portraits

Channel your inner Picasso as you grab some paper and sketch each other, talent optional. With results usually more silly than serious, it’s a playful, low-pressure way to break the ice and reset into date-night mode. Chardonnay from Bonterra Organic Estates, known for its commitment to organic farming, is a deliciously crowd-pleasing pour that keeps things light and lets the evening build a little spark of its own.

Turn up the heat

A little heat has a way of changing up the vibe. One of the simplest ways to spice up date night is with a Spicy Sauvy B, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with a subtle kick from a few slices of jalapeño or spiced rim. Bright, zesty, and unexpected, it wakes up the glass and brings instant lift to the moment. Bonterra California Sauvignon Blanc has the freshness and balance to make this twist feel anything but routine.

Spontaneous stargazing

Grab a blanket, step outside, and look up. Under a glittering night sky, crisp air sharpens the senses and shifts the mood, turning an ordinary night into something quietly electric. Bonterra Cabernet Sauvignon brings bold flavor with notes of berry and spice, a natural companion for a date night that’s cozy, connected, and just a little charged.

Whether it’s sketching across the table, stepping outside under the stars or adding a little spice to a familiar pour, these moments invite connection without pressure. That’s where Bonterra fits in, making it easy to turn any evening into something worth lingering over.

Date nights in don’t need a big plan. They thrive on small twists, playful moments and the kind of rituals that linger. When the mood is right, even a simple night in can feel perfectly, unmistakably right for two.

For more information, visit bonterra.com.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.