Posts tagged with "advice"

Changing the Game in Cannabis

Q&A With Tatev Oganyan of the Oganyan Agency: Changing the Game in Cannabis

The 360 Magazine had the honor of interviewing a woman who is changing the game in the cannabis space as well as luxury consumer goods as one of the top attorneys in California. She is a force to be reckoned with due to her many accolades and talents. Mrs. Oganyan speaks on gender equality, balancing her professional and personal life, her favorite hobbies including her successful “Happy High Hour” events in Orange County, the future of the cannabis industry, and which A-list celebrities are investing in cannabis companies. Read the informative interview below and keep up with Tatev on INSTAGRAM and her website TheOganyanAgency.com

As a powerful female attorney in the cannabis space, do you find being a woman has made it harder for your success? We read all the time about actresses not being paid the same as their male co-stars. Would you say the cannabis industry is similar or not at all?

I think being a woman has its challenges in most industries including acting and cannabis, especially as you move up the corporate ladder. I have seen my fair share of gender inequality, which could be detrimental to cannabis companies. Without a doubt, there are a lot more hurdles for women to overcome but we are stronger because of it in an industry that requires thick skin. You must know your worth and advocate for yourself, negotiate your pay and work hard to get what you want because it will not be handed to you.

How do you balance your professional life and your personal life? 360 read that you work with your husband, what are your tips on leaving work stress at the office?

My husband is of counsel at The Oganyan Agency for corporate and commercial real estate matters so it’s not uncommon to talk business while we brush our teeth.

We just got back from our honeymoon in Croatia, which we had to postpone for eight months due to work deadlines. We powered through and our clients were very grateful. Here are some tips that work for us

Get organized and coordinate scheduling for work and personal time on a regular basis.

Respect professional boundaries and personal space at home and in the office, which is important for privacy and comfort.

Find ways to instill passion in each project and have fun. Your clients will appreciate it.

Make time for nature to unplug and stay active.

Be present.

Our readers would love to know some of your favorite hobbies.

My creative outlet is drawing, painting, and curating unique experiences through experiential marketing. This week, we hosted a Happy High Hour, which was an exclusive taste testing event for industry insiders and influencers to meet Trendi, an indoor premium California flower brand that launched this summer.

Where do you see the Cannabis Industry within the next year?

Without federal legalization, sound regulation, and tax breaks, the market will continue to be volatile as the illicit market thrives. Large operators will continue to buyout challenged operators. Mergers and acquisitions will accelerate as larger companies expand their footprint to boost revenue. The stigma will reduce as education and research improves and more states legalize cannabis. A lot more Americans will be open to using cannabis regularly for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Do you believe cannabis will be legalized on a federal level? If so, when do you see that happening?

I believe cannabis will be legalized but no time soon, unfortunately. I am optimistic about the prospects of full federal legalization in the long run because I believe it has broad popular support from the American people.

Just look at how long progress takes at the federal level with the SAFE Banking Act which was first introduced in 2013. It would be a huge boom to the legitimacy of the cannabis industry if cannabis companies could bank like every other legitimate business.

It’s 2022 and despite the Act’s continued bipartisan support, we see it held up for one reason or another by both Democrats and Republicans. Overall, we believe the momentum is there for the bill to eventually pass, but it is not a priority for this legislative season.

Tell us who inspires you and did they help influence you to pursue your career in the cannabis space?

My cannabis backstory happened largely by chance. I applied for a job on Indeed fall of 2016 and the industry was not disclosed to me until the final interview. I requested time to consider the offer since I was unsure if cannabis was legal at the time. My husband (then boyfriend) helped me research California laws on cannabis and encouraged me to pursue a legal career in cannabis. He also believed in my entrepreneurial spirit since law school and motivated me to start my own business in 2020. Today, we tag team our largest projects together.

What are 3 tips or professional advice you have for our readers who are looking to open a dispensary and have never been in the cannabis industry before?

Only the cream of the crop makes it. Don’t expect to get rich overnight. The heavy tax burdens (up to 40%), ever-changing regulations, and competing illicit markets make it challenging to operate a profitable dispensary.

Know your market. Integrate yourself into the cannabis culture for long-term industry success.

The industry is not for the faint-hearted. Learn to eat bad news for breakfast because you must be relentless to survive when navigating unseen waters.

Since 360 is a lifestyle magazine and also focuses on celebrities, do you see a shift in celebrities being open publicly about using cannabis recreationally?

We are seeing more celebrities openly discuss cannabis or CBD consumption especially celebrities who want to get into the cannabis industry. Fans expect authentic ventures and collabs. Cannabis consumers are very quick to reject cash grabs.

In order to succeed, celebrities must connect with the culture and lifestyle by openly sharing their story and relationship with weed. Otherwise, their involvement will seem merely opportunistic.

Do you think celebrities will start investing in cannabis companies?

Cannabis is an emerging industry and a hot commodity with strong ties to Hollywood, hip-hop, and reggae cultures. In recent years, more celebrities are investing in cannabis-connected businesses. Many like Mike Tyson, Bella Thorne and Seth Rogen are already creating their own cannabis brands. Brands that exemplify celebrity personas capitalize on an existing fan base, which can help drive retail sales. It’s exciting to see how celebrity-backed products attract new cannabis-curious consumers and audiences.

Lastly, if you could give advice and inspiration to your younger self starting off in law school, what would you say?

I would tell my younger self to enjoy the ride as much as the destination. Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun because the work will always be there. Trust your instincts and stop doubting yourself. Use your fear as fuel to learn. Being scared and uncomfortable is a sign of personal growth.

Eight Tips to Bring Life Back to a Stale Relationship

You might love your partner with all your heart. However, you might also feel concerned that the fizzle is dying. How can you reignite your former spark?

Partnerships don’t magically occur, as much as it may seem that way during the honeymoon stage. If you reflect, you’ll realize all the time and energy you expended during those days to capture your flame’s interest.

It’s natural to calm down after the initial blush but neglecting your loved one can breed resentment that kills your union. Fortunately, you can revitalize your love with these eight tips to bring life back into a stale relationship.

1. Learn Each Other’s Love Language

Elizabeth Barrett Browning might have counted the ways that she loved her husband Robert — but did she ever ask him how he preferred to receive affection? Hopefully, he identified with words of affirmation.

Your partner might speak a love language different from yours — and that’s okay as long as you identify what makes them tick. Otherwise, resentment could build. You might think mending the broken backyard fence is the perfect birthday treat, but your partner could feel deeply hurt and neglected if their love language is physical touch or receiving gifts.

According to Dr. Gary Chapman, there are five principal love languages:

Acts of service: If your partner speaks this love language, you can delight them by tackling a chore they despise or taking care of both dinner and the subsequent dishes when they come home from work exhausted.
Receiving gifts: If your partner speaks this language, you don’t necessarily need a bankroll. They should be equally delighted with smaller tokens of affection that show you were thinking of them in their absence, like stopping to pick up a roadside bouquet for no particular reason.
Physical touch: If your partner resonates with this love language, they need your affection. Delight them with lots of spontaneous cuddles and pecks on the cheek.
Words of affirmation: These folks light up when you validate their feelings and praise them for their talents. They may also need to hear those three little words more often than others, so don’t be stingy about saying, “I love you.”
Quality time: Can an evening together sharing popcorn while watching the latest Netflix hit qualify as romantic? It can be if quality time if your partner’s love language. Even accompanying them to the grocery store makes them feel more fulfilled.

2. Ask 36 Questions

Remember when you first met your partner? You probably talked for hours because you were so hungry to learn about them as much as possible. Maybe your attraction didn’t fizzle as much as your interest — but your beloved still has plenty to share.

Deepen your love by asking questions that presumably can make you fall in love with anyone by revealing their true inner selves. The inquiries start relatively simple — would you want to be famous? If so, why?

They then dig into deeper questions, delving into regrets, things you wish you could do over and ways you would like to improve the world. They allow you to praise your mate for their greatest accomplishment and better understand the forces shaping them into the person they are today.

You shouldn’t ask all 36 at once like an interview. Why not print out the list and start date night with one or two?

3. Trade Places

Resentment often grows in relationships when one of you feels unappreciated, even invalidated, by the other. However, your partner might not understand what you handle each day — and vice-versa.

You might not be able to take over your partner’s workplace for a day, but you can swap what you do around the house. For example, if they typically tackle the landscaping while you cook and clean, try trading chores one weekend. You’ll open up opportunities to learn from each other and laugh together, both beneficial for your union.

4. Take a Solo Getaway

It might sound ironic to suggest alone time as a way to breathe life back into a stale relationship. However, there’s some truth to the cliche about absence making the heart grow fonder. Sometimes, the hubbub of daily existence makes you forget the many ways your loved one enhances your life every day.

If you have the means, why not plan a solo road trip? Go somewhere or do something you enjoy but they might not — for example, going camping if they aren’t the outdoorsy type. It’s even better if your trek makes you limit contact.

Chances are, you’ll miss your partner by the second day. If you fear you enjoy your alone time too much, get mindful. Ask yourself what you can do solo that you can’t with your partner and address the underlying problem. Perhaps you can come up with a compromise that addresses resentment you didn’t fully know you had.

5. Travel as a Couple

Taking a trip together can also bring life back into a relationship gone stale. Sometimes, it isn’t your partner but the daily grind making your mood low.

If travel is out of the question due to budget constraints, why not plan an escape at home? It doesn’t take too much to put together a DIY spa day, complete with facial treatments and a relaxing couples massage — if you take turns.

6. Adopt a Joint Hobby

Something about the joy of creation can bring you and your partner closer together. Rather than competing like you must in the workplace, you can nurture and admire each other’s skills. You can also make something that enhances your relationship in different ways.

For example, perhaps you’re both the artistic sort, each developing a line of crafts that you can add to an Etsy shop. You can use your earnings to take a much-needed holiday at the end of the year — maybe even that second honeymoon.

7. Do Some Good Together

Volunteering helps you as much as others. How? It prompts your brain to release a flood of feel-good neurochemicals such as dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin — the so-called “cuddle chemical.”

Working side by side with your beloved to feed needy families in your community or socialize kitties at a shelter fills you with warm emotions. It’s natural for these to transfer to your union.

8. Try Couples Counseling

Finally, there’s no shame in seeking counseling. Millions of people do so every day, even though they don’t have a mental illness. The right professional can help you see issues you might overlook, not out of neglect but due to your closeness to the situation.

Both you and your partner should agree on your choice of therapist. Different counselors have varying styles — please don’t get discouraged if you don’t mesh with your first treatment provider. Many facilities have multiple professionals in one office to help you find the perfect fit.

You and your partner fell in love for a reason. Before you throw up your hands and settle or walk, try these eight tips to bring life back into a stale relationship.

Baby And Beyond: Why You Need Healthy Sperm

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By: Ayla Barmmer

Although still commonly referred to as a “woman’s issue,” nearly half of all fertility problems are attributed to men. Statistics show that the rate of infertility is increasing and men and women are in this together. Nearly 9% of men and 10% of women under the age of 44 report infertility problems in America (CDC, 2013 and Office on Women’s Health, 2019). However, fixing the fertility problems tend to fall primarily on women while men are often sidelined. This is not a good situation for anyone, as not being part of the fertility journey can cause feelings of anxiety, helplessness, shame and guilt that can ultimately cause problems in relationships, performance at work and overall mental wellbeing.

Men Have A Biological Clock Too

Traditionally, we focus on the woman’s age as being a major factor in fertility success. Often referred to as a woman’s biological clock, which is a metaphor used to describe the sense of pressure many women feel to get pregnant while they are at the peak of their reproductive years, a man’s age makes a difference too. And just because a man marries a younger woman, it does not necessarily solve the fertility hurdles. A retrospective cohort study found that increased paternal age had negative effects on offspring and their mothers. Specifically, offspring born to fathers aged 45 years or older had higher odds of premature birth and seizures compared to fathers aged 25 to 34, and mothers had an increased risk of premature birth and gestational diabetes.

While it is true that fertility begins to decline for most people in their mid-30s, it is still possible to become pregnant later in life when you are ready to have a family, with targeted diet and lifestyle strategies being hugely supportive at this point. Being aware of the challenges going into the fertility journey and knowing all your options is the first step to having positive outcomes that do not put unnecessary stress on the relationship.

Skipped Steps = Stress

Most couples turn to medical interventions if they do not conceive within the first 3-6 months of trying to have a baby. While this may seem like a logical next step from a medical perspective, the process of using medical interventions can cause an enormous amount of stress and financial strain on the relationship. The average couple will often attempt two in vitro fertilization cycles, bringing the total cost of IVF, including procedures and medications, somewhere between $40,000 and $60,000 (SingleCare, 2020). Add to that an estimated 85% of IVF costs are often paid out of pocket (Fertility and Sterility, 2011). While IVF is costly and stressful, the alternative does not seem any better considering that infertility is one of the primary reasons for divorce among couples (International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine, 2020).

Couples who choose this path are often unaware that they are skipping over a cost-effective and less-stressful option. Like many aspects of our health, male and female fertility can be supported by improving lifestyle choices, such as exercise, sleep, targeted nutritional support and minimizing environmental exposures.

Don’t Underestimate Nutrition

An extensive amount of research shows that if men make positive changes with their nutrition and engage in good lifestyle choices, there is a clear connection to improved male fertility, ultimately resulting in healthier babies. Some immediate lifestyle choices men can make to help improve sperm health include exercising regularly and getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep daily.

While sleep and exercise may be easier to implement, the nutrition component of fertility may be new to men since it is not often talked about. Flooding the body with the right nutrients could really up your fertility game.

To start, a Mediterranean diet is often recommended as it focuses on foods that are high in antioxidants (such as selenium and vitamins E and C) and omega-3 fatty acids, which can be helpful in managing chronic inflammation. Mediterranean diets often include lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, seafood, nuts, legumes and olive oil; and lesser amounts of poultry, eggs, cheese and dairy. A man’s diet has a major influence on the health of the baby. Recent findings from an animal model study found that when male mice ate low-protein diets, ATF7 (a protein responsible for fat metabolism and cholesterol production) turned on, and led to metabolic reprogramming in offspring. Another key study showed that sperm and semen from male mice that were fed a poor-quality diet resulted in their offspring becoming overweight with symptoms of Type 2 diabetes and reduced expression of genes that regulate fat metabolism.

What you cannot consistently get enough of through the diet, you should get through dietary supplements. To support male fertility, supplements that are helpful to include daily are choline, zinc, vitamin D, vitamin B12, magnesium, selenium and folate. Knowing the precise amounts to take of each nutrient can be overwhelming. This is one of the reasons why I started FullWell, a fertility wellness and education brand, to take the guesswork out of knowing which fertility supplements and what amounts were most effective. For men, FullWell’s Vitality + Virility supplement contains familiar antioxidants like vitamin E, C and selenium plus a unique antioxidant blend to offer more support than the typical men’s multivitamin. Beyond antioxidants, the nutrients included in this formula help support the very nutrient-intensive liver detoxification process, which in turn can encourage the healthy formation of sperm and the DNA contained within it.

The role of fertile, healthy sperm goes far beyond conception. Sperm quality, motility (movement) and morphology (shape and size) all contribute to an overall healthy pregnancy and the health of the baby for the long term. Some factors with sperm health are certainly out of a man’s control, but nutrition is not. If men focus on flooding their body with the right levels of these nutrients, through diet and supplementation, they can play a major role in conception, pregnancy health and the baby’s long-term health.

Inventory Your Environment

While women are often told to avoid smoking, alcohol and reduce exposure to chemicals during pregnancy and preconception, men can also make an impact here as well. Consider the evidence:

Findings from a longitudinal study revealed that paternal smoking and welding exposure prior to conception was independently associated with non-allergic asthma in offspring, even if smoking stopped five years prior to conception
Another study looking at sex-specific changes found that parental smoking at an early age also increased the risk of obesity in male adolescent offspring
A meta-analysis looking at paternal occupational exposure to herbicides, such as pentachlorophenol (PCP) used in wood-related industries, demonstrated that exposure increased the risk of lymphoma and leukemia in the father and their offspring

However, obvious environmental factors like smoking and pollution are not the only culprits for conception. Other more common environmental situations men could be exposing themselves to occur right in the home and car. Consider your exposure to unnecessary chemicals that can be found in scented candles, air fresheners, colognes and even heavy metals that could be present in the supplements you are taking. Be sure to check the label of dietary supplements for seals that indicate the company uses third-party independent testing. FullWell uses third-party independent testing to ensure no harmful contaminants, including heavy metals, are present in its fertility supplements for both men and women.

Beyond Baby: Do It For Your Health

Beyond fertility, male reproductive factors like low sperm count have been associated with increased risk of metabolic syndrome for men. In the largest study to date evaluating semen quality, reproductive function, and metabolic risk, researchers discovered that men with low sperm counts had a higher risk of greater body fat, higher blood pressure, insulin resistance and abnormally elevated cholesterol. This and other recent studies have provided more insight into how fertility status can act as a biomarker for future health whether you are planning to have a baby or not.

Biography

Ayla Barmmer, MS, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner and the founder/CEO, of FullWell, a fertility wellness and education brand. Her entire career focus has been to advance the health and empowerment of practitioners, patients and families through nutritional science, functional medicine and evidence-based holistic solutions. Barmmer launched FullWell to provide all families access to the same evidence-based, effective, high-quality prenatal and fertility supplements that she successfully uses with her own patients. Barmmer earned her undergraduate degree in dietetics and completed her dietetic internship at the University of Connecticut; a Master of Science in Health Communications from Boston University and has additional training in clinical nutrition, functional medicine, women’s health, herbal medicine and holistic and integrative therapies.

Why is it not recommended to buy bitcoin with PayPal?

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With time, people find a platform through which they can spend money. Many new bitcoin investing platforms are coming on the network, and it is becoming complicated for the novice to choose the right platform for investing in bitcoin. PayPal is also like an exchange such as Yuan Pay Group that provides only a payment transfer and receiving system, but now it has added some cryptocurrencies feature to buy from the same platform.

What is PayPal?

It is a payment exchange platform where you can send cash from your account to another PayPal account and receive money from your home country and foreign countries. PayPal was only the payment gateway, but the new feature of buying and selling cryptocurrencies in one platform increased the hope of this platform. So, in short, PayPal is a system of transferring national and international payments and provides the facility of selling and purchasing bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Buying bitcoin through PayPal

It is straightforward to purchase or sell crypto coins with this payment gateway because the process is steady and precise. There is the following procedure for buying bitcoin in a simple way given below:-

Go on the PayPal website or download the PayPal application to continue buying bitcoins.
You must upload your identity documents to know about PayPal and stop the fraudulent activities.
Now choose your currency according to your country, such as USD, INR, PKR, EURO etc.
Enter your bank account number and verify it through a one-time password, and you can also add your bank debit or credit card for instant depositing and withdrawing from PayPal.
When funds start appearing in your PayPal account, click on the UI search bar and search for Bitcoin. Then place your order by filling in the number of bitcoins, and after some time, your bitcoins will start appearing in your PayPal account.

Why should you not purchase bitcoin with this platform?

Privacy Issues like Exchanges: When you go with a bitcoin exchange, they will ask for your identity since the government regulates bitcoin exchange. They have to give the data to the government according to the rules and regulations. Since PayPal is also a centralized system thus, this platform also collects users’ information, which means your privacy is not secure. But if you will go with a separate wallet (decentralized wallet), there is no privacy issue because the government does not regulate it.
Exchanges Provide Better Interface: You know that thousands of bitcoin exchanges are made only for bitcoin and other cryptocurrency services. So they work only on one work such as buying and selling, trading and improving the user experience interface for smooth functioning. But PayPal becomes more complicated in one application because it provides a payment gateway in fiat currency and cryptocurrency. But people want simplification in purchasing, selling, sending, receiving or trading bitcoin.
No holding of Cryptocurrencies: In actuality, the PayPal system does not have any proof of holding cryptocurrencies in users’ accounts, which means when PayPal users buy bitcoin, they are not buying bitcoin in their ownership. In simple words, PayPal bitcoin buyers buy bitcoin indirectly, but holding bitcoins is in PayPal owners’ accounts. Thus, you cannot send bitcoin to another exchange wallet or decentralized software wallet.
No Private Keys: If there is no secret key to the bitcoin wallet, the owner or holder of bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies is the owner or founder of PayPal. Private keys recognize the absolute ownership of bitcoin crypto coins, but in this case, you do not have control over your cash.
High Fees: PayPal charges higher maintenance or management cost for bitcoin holding, buying or selling than bitcoin exchanges. Bitcoin exchanges get made to serve cryptocurrency users to minimize their fees because they provide the same service in bulk to many bitcoin users.
Less Selection: PayPal does not have enough cryptocurrencies to buy, which means it deals in limited cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin etc., even though there are over thousands of cryptocurrencies available on the network. On the other hand, cryptocurrency exchanges especially come into existence to provide the trading features in the market in one application or platform.

Expert Diet Advice

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Health is important, and having a good diet is necessary, but with a million “experts” out there, it’s hard to know what to take seriously. This is why to trust scientists like Nicole Avena, PhD, Associate Professor of Neuroscience at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Visiting Professor of Health Psychology and Princeton University. She gave the below advice.

Eat your fruits and veggies: It’s a cliché tip that many individuals have heard from their parents from a very young age. But it’s true. Each day you should strive to have at least a handful of both fruits and vegetables. Try finding foods that are high in antioxidants like blueberries, strawberries, and kale. In light of this year’s theme, ‘Celebrate a World of Flavors,’ go outside your comfort zone and try a new recipe or food from a different country. It might become a new favorite!
Daily vitamin intake: In addition to a healthy and balanced diet, it’s important to cover all your bases when it comes to daily vitamins. Each person’s dietary needs will vary slightly. While most people can get enough from diet alone, others may need to take a supplement, and nowadays, there are many vitamin options for men and women of all ages. For men, try vitafusion™ Men’s multivitamin, and for women, try vitafusion™ Women’s multivitamin, both easy to take chewable gummy supplements that include the necessary vitamins and minerals to stay on track. With the weather so unpredictable this season, I also recommend having a cold shortening product on hand that contains zinc, like Zicam RapidMelts, that can help get rid of a cold quicker when taken at the first sign of symptoms. Taking vitamins is a simple yet often overlooked habit for maintaining proper health. If you need an extra reminder, set a daily alarm to ensure you get your necessary vitamin intake.
Water is your friend: Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health. Not only does water help increase your energy levels and flush out toxins, but it also helps your body maintain regularity and improves your skin complexion. It can be easy to forget to drink water throughout the day, so keep a water bottle at your desk or area where you spend most of your time. This will serve as a constant reminder to stay hydrated.
Spice up your life: This month, try incorporating more herbs and spices into your diet and ‘Celebrate a World of Flavors.’ Herbs and spices allow you to season food using less salt and sugar while imparting health benefits. Fresh ginger, basil, rosemary, and mint are all excellent additions to many foods and recipes widely consumed around the world. In celebration of flavor, I challenge you to try a spice you have never tried before.

IVF Contracts

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Natalia Wilson, managing partner of Ain & Bank, is one of the most highly respected attorneys in Washington D.C. and is one of the nation’s leading matrimonial lawyers. Ain & Bank is a boutique law firm offering bespoke legal solutions and protections to some of the country’s most high-profile individuals from captains of industry to leading figures in the entertainment and sports world.

Wilson consults with clients who require advice and firm guidance to resolve matters of relationship breakdown, management of custody disputes, and preparation of prenuptial agreements. In addition, Wilson is at the cutting edge of what the legal world refers to as “modern family creation” advising clients on the legal implications of assisted routes to parenthood including in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy, and more.

The miracle of pregnancy and childbirth is revered by cultures across the globe. The creation of life on earth forms the basis of mythology, old wives’ tales, and spiritual teachings that have endured since ancient times. This combined with cultural and social expectations, makes many couples feel pressure to conceive. According to the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health, approximately 10 percent, or 6.1 million couples face infertility issues annually.

Expectant couples flaunt photographs of pregnancy gender reveals, birth announcements, baby showers, and beautiful, happy families celebrating on social media—adding to the pressure and disappointment for couples unable to conceive. For many, assisted routes to parenthood are the only options for possible conception.

Every year, thousands of intended parents decide to pursue modern family creation. Thanks to modern technology and the normalization of gestational carriers, IVF and surrogacy are popular options for many. But what are the potential pitfalls of such an arrangement?

“Although I’m a divorce lawyer by trade, nothing gives me more pleasure than to see couples embark on the journey of parenthood,” said Wilson. “Modern family creation is a dynamic area of family law and, unlike marriage, one in which many couples do not think about what might happen should their relationship end”.

Wilson points to the recently reported Virginia case of Jessee v. Jessee as a cautionary tale in which a trial court’s award of a frozen embryo to the wife in a divorce matter was reversed by the Court of Appeals. Wilson uses this judgment to illustrate the hurdles that some intended parents with stored embryos may face down the road and provides some helpful advice about what to consider when embarking on IVF.

Here are tips that couples should consider:

Is there a contract in place regarding what should happen to the frozen embryos in the event of relationship breakdown or divorce?

It is common for fertility clinics to provide proforma contracts stating that the ownership and/or rights to embryos are to be directed by court decree or settlement agreement. If the court has not yet issued a decree and if the parties have not reached a settlement agreement, there is no contract in place directing who should be awarded the embryos.

Don’t wait until things turn sour to determine the fate of the embryos. Spend time talking to each other about parenthood and what it means to each of you. Engage with experienced professionals who can represent your individual interests to draft an agreement much like a prenuptial agreement resulting in a contract recording what will happen to the embryos should the relationship end.

What does the court consider if it all goes wrong?

When parties do not have a contract in place dictating who should be awarded frozen embryos, the court will work to understand the interests of each party. The court will want to know why the parties engaged in IVF, whether each party is physically able to have biological children through other means and the impact that that carrying an embryo to term would have on the intended parent who may no longer wish to have children. The court will also try to understand whether one party is seeking the embryos simply to punish their former partner by preventing them from being awarded the embryos. The court has broad discretion.

Will the court compensate you financially if your ex-partner is awarded the embryos?

No. The issue of financial compensation is something clients struggle with. Many clients believe that to quantify the value of an embryo is tantamount to placing a monetary value on life. Others feel that it is their right to be awarded compensation in exchange for their genetic material.

Consider the full force impact of parenthood

When couples decide, whether by necessity or design, to embark on a journey to freeze embryos they must fully consider the implications of their choice. Although events leading to a decision to engage in IVF may have been painful, couples are afforded the time and space to think about the commitment they are making. Parenthood requires that couples recommit to each other as a parenting team and to the life for which they may ultimately be responsible. Think about why you want to be a parent and what it is about your partner that you think will make them a great co-parent.

Talk to each other

How does your partner articulate their desire to parent? Are you entering parenthood to please each other? Does one of you want to parent a child more than the other? If your partner is more apprehensive than you are that doesn’t necessarily mean that they will be a bad parent. Trust your instincts and communicate openly and honestly.

Don’t get swept up in the wave

Even when pursuing IVF treatments, it is all too easy to get swept up in the idea of parenthood because it is something that society expects. The path to parenthood is not created equal and the strain couples experience when undergoing assisted fertility treatments can place a real burden on an otherwise carefree relationship. Work to futureproof from the very first steps you take, preparation and planning may just help to prevent great heartache down the road.

“Creating a family is not something anyone should rush into,” said Wilson. “Make sure that you work together as a couple to thoughtfully and fully think through all of the potential future scenarios and address them.” She added, “Although we all hope that we’ll live happily ever after, it’s always better to be prepared, and having these in-depth discussions upfront will help you to better understand each other and become a stronger team.”

Karen Gershowitz – Travel Mania: Stories of Wanderlust

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Yes, You CAN Fit Travel into a Busy Career. It Just Takes Planning.

By Karen Gershowitz

I know what you’re thinking: Travel is opening back up and I’m itching to go. But when I’m drowning in deadlines and work and want to spend time with family and friends, how can travel possibly fit in? The answer is, with planning.

My career as a marketing researcher and strategist is intense. Yet in 5 decades, I’ve managed to travel to 90 different countries. Travel is my passion. Reducing or giving it up, even for work, is out of the question. These competing priorities have taught me to plan ahead and be creative. I talk about some of the many ways I’ve done this in my memoir Travel Mania: Stories of Wanderlust.

At the beginning of my career, two weeks of vacation was the maximum allowed. I planned those weeks around long weekends to get the most out of them. Four vacation days became nine-day trips.

Another possibility I discovered is to rollover vacation time, allowing for a longer trip. You might take one week the first year, then plan for a three-week trip the next. That strategy allowed me to go to Tanzania for a photo safari and then climb Mt. Kilimanjaro.

If you can afford it, consider unpaid leave. I did that for a trip to Australia that took me across the globe when after the flight and recovering from jetlag, two weeks would have been whittled down to just over a week of satisfying travel. That extra vacation time is unlikely to change your career trajectory and will leave you with memories for a lifetime. Negotiating extra travel time when taking a new job is a great tactic, and in this post- COVID world where labor supply is short, now might be the perfect time. Two weeks is far too short to satisfy a travel itch. In negotiating for extra vacation time when changing jobs—four weeks in total—I only brought it up after we had settled on pay. The deal with my boss was that the month had to be split into three periods scattered across the year. That worked for the company; my absence didn’t stop any projects from proceeding. It also satisfied my desire for travel.

You might also consider taking an extended break prior to starting with a new employer. time off between jobs. It’s a magical time with no stresses about what you’ve left behind. When I negotiated for four weeks of vacation time, I also negotiated my start date. I gave myself a full month, which allowed me to take three separate trips–Hawaii, Spain and Puerto Rico. I began my new position fully rested, with a clear head and excitement about the work.

If you do find yourself with a quiet stretch take advantage of it. Rather than fretting about not having work or creating make work, scour the internet for last minute deals. Traveling to a lesser known place may lead to fabulous, unexpected finds. Years ago, I went to Venezuela at the last moment and discovered nearly empty pristine beaches and an Italian village in the Andes.

Here are some tips for making whatever time you have enjoyable, worry-free and non-jeopardizing to your career.

Give everyone lots of advance notice if you will be gone for more than a few days. No one likes surprises, least of all clients and colleagues. This gives them time to discuss what should happen while you are away.
Try to anticipate any issues, problems, or questions and make sure you’ve dealt with them before you leave.
Update your boss and co-workers on any current projects in detail and in writing so they have a reference document if they need information.
Make it clear that you will be unreachable during your away time (you don’t want to be brought back to “reality” while traveling). If necessary, tell them wi-fi is likely to be unreliable where you will be staying.

For much of my career I have also traveled for business, both domestically and internationally. This allowed me to see the world while my clients paid for my flights and other expenses. If you are also lucky enough to travel for business, here are some ideas for how to experience the location beyond meeting rooms.

Try to plan the trip near a weekend, then stay a couple of extra days. Or even plan your whole vacation in some desirable destination. I traveled for two weeks in Asia, following a meeting in Singapore.
Once virtual conferences become an option instead of a necessity, if you attend them and can choose, find ones that meet your needs and are in a destination you’d like to see.
Ask local business associates what to see and do. Because they live there, they may have some great tips for restaurants and sites off the usual tourist routes.
Before going, look for events taking place while you’re there—concerts, ball games, walking tours, cooking classes, art or antique shows.

I hate clichés, but where there’s a will, there’s a way really applies to fitting travel into a career. If you want it enough, plan ahead, don’t keep it a secret and enjoy every moment.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Karen Gershowitz, author of Travel Mania: Stories of Wanderlust, has been traveling since age 17 when she boarded a plane to Europe and stayed there for three years. She has since traveled to more than 90 countries, experiencing countless bold, once-in-a-lifetime adventures: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, trekking atop an elephant in Thailand, hiking in the blistering heat of the Moroccan desert—and much more. While studying ceramics as an undergraduate at the Kansas City Art Studio, Karen proposed and received a grant to photograph ceramics studios, potters and their work throughout Japan. She later built a career as a marketing strategist and researcher with companies who sent her around the globe to conduct focus groups, interviews and meetings. She lives in New York City, but is a citizen of the world.

3 Reasons You’re Not Losing Weight

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Sometimes despite your best efforts it can be hard to lose those extra pounds. Chemist, nutrition and exercise expert Christine Hronec shares three tips on why you may not be losing weight.

1. Because you are eating too much.

In order to drop weight, now we’re not talking about fat just yet we’re just talking about weight, you need to take your total daily energy expenditure. Which is your body’s basal metabolic rate plus all the energy and calories you burn in a day. Those two items added together is your total daily energy expenditure. In order to sustain your current body mass, you need to be eating that amount of calories.

Now if you are not in a caloric deficit, you will not lose any body mass. Here’s a problem. Some of you are losing body mass but you are not losing body fat. You’re thinking: “You know what, I need to eat less and to exercise more.” Yeah, to a point. But the thing is if you’re trying to lose body fat, I’m not talking about losing muscle, I’m not talking about losing water, I’m talking about just the parts of your body you don’t want, like the part that makes you look fat, the fat. If you want to lose that, that is something that you cannot just wing. You cannot just do more cardio and eat less and expect to lose body fat. So, you’re going to lose muscle and you’re going to lose water.

And the thing is your body is going to spare protein first and is going to want to hold on to your fat more. Why? Because fat is more energy dense, and if you are starving your body wants to keep the fat as a longer-term sustainable energy source to keep you alive. Your body is going to want to get rid of the protein first. So, that is why your body will get rid of muscle first. If you are eating too much and your macros are not dialed in, you will not lose any body mass whatsoever. So, don’t fool yourself and think that you can just wing it. Because if you want to go from point A to point B, you need to be more strategic.

2. Your body is not able to metabolize body fat.

Why? Because you’re drinking too much alcohol. If you are drinking alcohol, your body cannot store it anywhere. Alcohol is a poison and your body can’t hold it. The second it comes into your body, your body needs to break it down and turn it into something else. When that is happening, all other metabolic processes stop.

So, when you consume alcohol, your body passes its ability to burn body fat for 48 hours at least, sometimes even 72. I do not recommend consuming any alcohol if your goal is to lose body fat. This goes for fitness competitors, this goes for people who are getting ready for their wedding, people who have a photo shoot. Alcohol has to be the number one thing out the door if you are serious about those types of goals.

3. You are eating too little.

There are lots of circumstances where you need to eat more. And it’s going to vary on a case by case basis, but if you have been in a caloric deficit for so long and nothing is changing on your body. Meaning you are not seeing any changes in your measurements; you are not seeing any changes in the scale. You most likely have been in a caloric deficit for far too long. And as a result of that, you are not able to part with your stored body fat.

If your carbs are too low for too long what happens is your insulin levels drop. When your insulin levels drop, your Leptin levels will drop. Leptin is the hormone that tells your body it is starving. It tells your body you need to hold on to body fat as a means of survival. If those levels get too low, you’re not going to release any sort of body fat. So, there are times when it makes strategic sense to increase your insulin having a refeed day, because that’s going to pull up your Leptin levels.

About Christine Hronec

Christine Hronec is an award-winning chemist and three-time champion fitness competitor, nutrition, and exercise expert. Since founding her company Gauge Life in 2013, Christine has helped approximately 40,000 women transform their bodies and switch to a body-positive self-image. Her YouTube channel has over 25 million views. Christine has received awards from the American Chemical Society and was published in the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. Christine was part of the team that created Time magazine’s “Invention of the Year” for her work in the biotech field.

Brain Tumor Infocon

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By: Skyler Johnson

The Brain Tumor Infocon was an event that took place this past week, via Zoom because of the pandemic. The event was not for cancer patients themselves but for those that cared for them. They gave four talks on four separate days, each regarding a different topic. I attended the workshop focusing on children and young adults. All different types of people attended, from parents caring for children to friends caring for friends. But they came for the same reason, to try and gain advice towards dealing with cancer patients. And hopefully they left gaining more information then they had entered with. Here’s what I learned from the event:

Brain Cancer Changes Who a Person is

This must be terrifying to go through, but it does make sense. After all, the brain is where a person’s thoughts, feelings, and emotions are stored, and cancer destroys that. When a person has cancer you have to see them change. There’s not much anyone can do about it, there’s no way to prevent it, but it is something that happens nonetheless.

Don’t Be Afraid to Say “Cancer”

For a person with cancer, it can be incredibly isolating when their caregiver doesn’t use the actual word. For children, it can be hard to understand what’s wrong with them if they don’t know what they’re going through if they don’t have the actual term to define it. It’s the same with emotions. Caregivers shouldn’t be afraid to show emotions just because they don’t want to upset those they’re caring for. It’s another thing that can make people feel very alone.

The Question Jar

The presenter recommended a question jar for child patients who may be shy about asking questions regarding their cancer. The caregiver, a parent, would leave the jar in a heavily trafficked part of the house, like a kitchen or living room, and the child can put questions in the jar whenever they’d like. The caregiver would answer their questions periodically, not directly after the child put the concern in. You wouldn’t want them to know you’re keeping track.

Feel Free to Take Time for Yourself

Having to take care of a cancer patient can be a daunting task, and one thing that was heavily encouraged was having caregivers taking time for themselves. They can’t be there for another person if they can’t be there for themselves. Exercise. Watch TV. Walk the dog. Anything that’ll help calm.

Everyone has a Different Definition of Caring

This is the first lesson I learned, and the most important. The presenter asked the group how they defined caring, which is not something I’d thought about previously. Several of the attendees answered, each in different ways. To some people, caring meant what caring means to most people: helping someone else through their day, making sure they’re content. If I answered the question I might’ve used an anecdote. But for one person it meant “loving and hurting,” which is, I can imagine, the most accurate. Caring can be painful. Caring can be suffering. Because you have to watch them fall apart, and get emotional in front of them, and despite all the advice people may give you, while caregiving will always be loving, it will also be hurting.

How to Drive a Class A Motorhome

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With so many Americans embracing the RV lifestyle, there’s bound to be a learning curve on how to drive and manage a large motorhome.

Holiday Rambler® has partnered with Spencer and Kristi Blu from the Adventurtunity Family to share their experiences as they travel the United States in a 2017 Vacationer® 36H from Holiday Rambler with their four-year-old son Kade and puppy Ruko Blu. The family purchased their 37-foot RV in July 2020 and started living on the road full time that September.

Since then, they’ve chronicled their adventures on Instagram and the Holiday Rambler blog.

Holiday Rambler is an award-winning brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group, Inc. The Holiday Rambler 2022 line includes four diesel and three gas motorhomes, including the Vacationer model that the Adventurtunity family owns.

Dad Spencer does the majority of the driving of the family’s Holiday Rambler and recently shared his tips and advice for handling a Class A motorhome in a blog post.

Learning to Drive a Class A Motorhome by Spencer Blu from Adventurtunity Family

There is something about learning to drive a Class A motorhome that gives some people pause when they are trying to decide what type of RV to buy for their family. It was one of the most frequent questions I got when we brought home our Vacationer. Friends and family alike would look at it and say, “That’s a beautiful motorhome…no way I could drive that!” Or something like, “That’s gotta be so scary to drive. How did you learn?” If I’m honest, Class A’s were not at the top of my list when we started looking for an RV because I had never driven anything nearly that big! But, the reality is that it’s not all that daunting. And, like anything else, the more you do it, the better you get!

So, to help put nerves at ease for those considering a motorhome purchase, I’m going to be talking about the aspects of driving a Class A motorhome to give you a better idea of what it’s like, how it differs from driving a passenger vehicle, and ideally give you the confidence to go take that test drive!

To be clear, I am not an expert or an instructor. The ideas and thoughts are based on my experience driving our Holiday Rambler Vacationer with a gas engine. I have not driven a diesel pusher, and, while I understand there are some fundamental mechanical and operational differences, the concepts below should by and large apply to either platform.

The First Drive

“So, you want to take it for a drive?” Those words hit me in the face like a right hook from Mike Tyson. My family and I were standing in the living area of a beautiful Holiday Rambler motorhome. It was the very first RV we went to look at when we started our search. We had been given the tour and were honestly a little giddy with the thought that it could possibly be our new home for an incredible journey to come! And then the seller asked that question and I was snatched right out of my daydream. “You mean right now?” I said, as if his question was poorly timed. I mean I knew it was coming, we were there as potential buyers. I certainly wouldn’t buy a car without driving it, this shouldn’t be any different, right? So, after about a 15 second internal pep talk, and the realization that, if I was going to drive this thing across the country, I had to start somewhere, I said, “Let’s go!” And you know what? It wasn’t nearly as big a deal as I had made it out to be in my head! So now I can say with confidence that if you’re hesitant about getting a Class A because you lack the experience to drive it, don’t be. You can do it, and you’ll be glad you did!

The Basics of Driving a Class A Motorhome

Let’s get the obvious out of the way off the bat. Regardless of what length the coach you decide to get is, it will be bigger and heavier than what you’re used to driving. By a lot. I had driven a few rental box trucks before. But none of them even came close to the size of our 37-foot-long Vacationer. Time and space will be your biggest allies as you pilot your coach! So, as long as you keep these fundamental things in mind every time you turn the key, you’ll be in good shape.

Know your height and weight (fully loaded). Write them down on a sticky note and place it on the dash where you can see it. Better to know you won’t fit under an overpass before you get to it than to find out while you’re stuck under it.
Take left turns wider than you think you need to, and right turns even wider. As nicely as these machines can handle being on the road, they will not turn on a dime.
Allow yourself additional space to get up to speed with traffic. More importantly, leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you to slow down. Acceleration and braking distances are greatly increased in a vehicle this size.

Road Signage

Another thing that you will realize is that there are a lot of road signs that now apply directly to you as the driver of a large vehicle. You will start to pay attention to all those signs you ignore when driving a passenger vehicle. Those suggested speed signs for off-ramps and sharp curves you always thought were comically slow will all of a sudden make perfect sense when cruising in your rig. You’ll also want to be aware of height and weight restriction signs that may now apply to you when approaching bridges and overpasses. A quick glance at that aforementioned sticky note will be quite helpful!

When travelling in mountainous or hilly regions you will want to keep an eye out for signs that tell you the grade percentage of an upcoming steep climb or descent. You’ll definitely want to slow down when approaching a steep descent. Manage your speed by gearing down and braking intermittently to save your brakes. The “Runaway Truck Ramp” signs you see on steep downhills are there for a reason and you do not want to have to use one of them!

What it boils down to is that you’ll now need to take note of all the signs that are there for truck drivers. While you may not be driving an 80,000 lb. tractor trailer, you are closer to their level than you are to the Honda Civics buzzing around you on the road. So being aware of those signs will go a long way in helping you arrive safely to your destination!

Conclusion

And there it is my friends! I knew nothing and had zero experience the first time I drove our coach. But I took my time and made sure to be very aware of my surroundings. It really is enjoyable once you get comfortable and familiar with your coach. Hopefully this information helps give you some confidence to go find that Class A you and your family have been dreaming about! You’ll be rolling down the road to adventure in no time! By the way, we ended up buying that Holiday Rambler Vacationer. The very first one I drove is the one we own, and I couldn’t be happier!

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY VISITING MANUFACTURING SITES THROUGHOUT THE U.S.

Curated by the Holiday Rambler® Brand

The long Labor Day weekend is an ideal time to sneak in a warm weather road trip before temps begin to cool off. For RVers and travel lovers looking for something different, try visiting a few manufacturing sites suggested by Holiday Rambler.

While many traditional manufacturers haven’t reopened their factory tours, there are still plenty of interesting (and tasty) companies to visit for a behind-the-scenes look. Think potato chips, baseball bats, whisky, cars, hot sauce, and more. The ten sites on the Holiday Rambler travelogue start on the East Coast, dip into the South, wind through the Midwest, head into the Mountain states, and finish on the West Coast. Each stop is paired with a recommendation for a local establishment that’s a bit different from the norm, along with an RV park.

While Holiday Rambler has temporarily suspended its factory tours, the brand has released a series of four videos showcasing how its motorhomes are made at its manufacturing headquarters in Decatur, IN. The exclusive tours deliver a peek into a few of the steps involved in manufacturing a 16,000 to 30,000 lb. Class A motorhome. To watch the factory tour videos, visit Holiday Rambler’s website, select the About tab, click on Factory Tours, and provide an email address.

Holiday Rambler RVs are known for their superior functionality and luxury design amenities that allow travelers to explore far and wide with confidence and in comfort. The 2021 Nautica model from Holiday Rambler earned Best New Model from RV Pro and Top RV Debut from RVBusiness. Nautica is a Class A Diesel motorhome that is less than 40′ and built on a Freightliner Custom Chassis^®. While the Nautica is shorter in length, it still boasts a roomy interior with lots of storage. Amenities include an electric fireplace, stainless steel appliances, pantry storage, master bedroom suite with a skylight shower, and an exterior entertainment center with a 50″ LED TV.

Holiday Rambler is a Class A RV brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group^®, Inc. For more information, visit HERE.

Please note: each manufacturing stop has been researched but be sure to call ahead to confirm hours of operation, advance ticketing requirements, and other relevant details. Be sure to travel safely by following the CDC guidelines related to COIVD-19.

10 Manufacturing Stops from Holiday Rambler

Cranberry Bog Tour – Harwich, MA

The U.S. is the world’s leading cranberry producer and MA is one of the leading cranberry growing states. Take a scenic drive to the largest organic cranberry bog on Cape Cod. During a 90-minute tour, learn about the 12-month operation of a bog. Before or after the tour, visit the farm stand for all things cranberry – fresh and dried cranberries, cranberry sauces, cranberry bog honey, and cranberry cookbooks.

Daily tours are offered throughout the spring, summer, and fall, reservations are required, and tickets are $15 each.

To experience the local culture, grab a bite to eat at Mooncusser’s Tavern or Brax Landing, which offers waterfront dining on the Saquatucket Harbor. RVers can stay overnight at Adventure Bound Camping Resorts.

UTZ Potato Chips – Hanover, PA

For snack lovers, the Utz Potato Chip Trip is a must. In 1921, William and Salie Utz began making potato chips in their summer kitchen. 100 years later, the company continues to be family managed and has expanded to make a number of other brands, including Bachman, Zapp’s, Dirty, TGI Fridays Snacks, and Good Health.

This free, 30-45-minute self-guided tour lets visitors see (and smell) the process that starts with farm-fresh potatoes and ends with crispy Utz chips. An observation gallery, closed-circuit monitors, and audio program deliver interesting details about the production process. And, of course, the tour ends with a bag of Utz potato chips and a coupon to the factory outlet store – the perfect place to stock up on road-trip snacks.

The tour is open Monday – Thursday but call ahead to confirm the hours since the daily production schedule is subject to change.

Staub’s Landing Restaurant and Pub is nearby and offers lunch and dinner options, including the area’s best burgers and a selection of more than 60 craft beers. RVers can stay overnight at Gettysburg Farm RV Campground.

Maker’s Mark Distillery – Loretto, KY

Visit one of the most picturesque production sites in the country to learn about the history of Maker’s Mark bourbon whisky. Watch the fermentation process, see the charred oak barrels used to age whisky for five to seven years, and don’t miss the bottling area where workers hand-dip the top of each bottle in Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax.

The origin story of Marker’s Mark is relatively new, dating back to 1953. It began when Bill Samuels, Sr. purchased an existing distillery in Loretto, KY, and began making whisky based on his family’s 170-year-old recipe. Maker’s Mark is unusual because it uses red winter wheat in its mash bill instead of rye. And, instead of the American spelling of “whiskey,” Samuels chose “whisky” to pay homage to his Scottish-Irish heritage.

All tours must be booked online in advance and all guests must be 21 years of age or older.

Visit LaGwen Drive In that’s known for its home-made chili sauce, hamburgers, and hand-dipped cones. RVers can stay overnight at Elizabethtown Crossroads Camp.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – Louisville, KY

Louisville Slugger got its start in 1844 when 17-year-old Bud Hillerich played hooky from work to take in a Louisville Eclipse baseball game. When the team’s superstar hitter broke his bat, Hillerich offered to make him a new one. 177 years later and Louisville Slugger remains family owned and proudly produces 1.8 million wood and aluminum bats a year.

The fun begins outside with the world’s largest baseball bat that stands 120 feet tall and is a replica of Babe Ruth’s 34-inch Louisville Slugger. During the factory tour, walk through the production line to see a few of the 22 steps that turn raw wood into a sleek bat. Each visitor walks off with a better understanding of this iconic brand, along with their very own souvenir mini-bat. After the tour, check out the baseball museum that’s dedicated to the game and some of its legends.

Tickets for the museum and factory tour range from $16 to free and reservations are required.

Afterwards, get a Southern fix of ribs, beef brisket or shrimp and grits at Hammerheads. RVers can stay overnight at Elizabethtown Crossroads Camp.

Ford Rouge Factory Tour – Dearborn, MI

The Ford Rouge Factory dates back to 1917 when Henry Ford first began developing the site. His vision was to achieve “a continuous, nonstop process from raw material to finished product.” At its peak in the 1930s, more than 100,000 people worked at the expansive industrial complex, and one new car rolled off the line every 49 seconds. Today, the Rouge Factory is an example of engineering and modern manufacturing coming together to create one of the country’s most popular trucks – the Ford F-150.

The self-guided tour includes two high-tech theater experiences. The Manufacturing Innovation Theater combines “floating” 3D laser projection mapping and exciting behind-the-wheel footage to take visitors from concept to highway. Top off the tour with a visit to the observation deck to see a remarkable display of industry in motion as Ford F-150s are assembled on the plant floor below.

Tickets to the Henry Ford Museum include the Rouge Factory Tour and are currently limited due to a reduced daily capacity. Tickets should be purchased in advance online.

To continue the “Ford experience,” grab lunch at Ford’s Garage that’s designed to look like a 1920s service station with vintage Ford vehicles, gas pumps, and fixtures. RVers can stay overnight at Haas Lake Park RV Campground.

Wisconsin Foamation Cheesehead Factory – Milwaukee, WI

For a “cheesy” factory tour, look no further than Wisconsin. The tour begins with everyone taking a “Wedge of Allegiance” and continues from there with plenty of groan-inducing jokes. From start to finish, see how cheeseheads are made in a small production facility in Milwaukee. On the deluxe tour, everyone can make their own cheesehead or other style of cheese-inspired hat. FYI – cheesehead was originally coined by Chicagoans as a derogatory term to describe Wisconsinites.

Ralph Bruno started the cheesehead craze in 1987. While reupholstering his mother’s couch, he took an extra piece of foam, cut it into a wedge, added holes, and made it the color of American cheese. He then wore it to a Milwaukee Brewers’ baseball game and, based on the attention and interest from fans around him, began making and selling cheeseheads. Today, cheeseheads are known around the world and can be found in various styles – top hats, visors, sombreros, and more!

The tour that includes a cheesehead hat is 45-60 minutes and starts at $25.

Visit Sobelman’s for a true Milwaukee bar/restaurant experience and be sure to take a look at their Bloody Mary offerings. RVers can stay overnight at Wisconsin State Fair RV Park or River Bend RV Resort.

Budweiser Brewery Tour – St. Louis, MO

Adolphus Busch was a German immigrant and U.S. Civil War veteran who joined his father-in-law, Eberhard Anheuser, in the brewery business after serving in the Union Army. In 1876, thanks to Busch and a friend, the brewery introduced a light-colored beer called Budweiser that Americans loved. Before Budweiser, many were drinking heavy, dark ales so a palatable, crisp lager was appreciated. In 1879, the company’s name was changed to Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association, and in 1880 Busch took over as president after Anheuser’s passing. Busch pioneered the use of refrigerated railcars and pasteurization in the brewing industry as part of his efforts to create the first nationally selling beer in the U.S.

Visitors can choose from a number of different tours. The Beermaster Tour lasts approximately 120 minutes and visits exclusive locations on the Anheuser-Busch campus. The Clydesdale VIP Experience lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes a visit to the stables and time with a Clydesdale handler who will share in-depth information about their lifestyle, training regimens, and mannerisms.

Tour tickets range in price, depending on the experience selected. When booking online, note that some tours are for guests 12 years and older while others are open to all ages.

After the tour, combine Blue’s music with a po boy or red beans and rice at Blue’s City Deli. RVers can stay overnight at Pin Oak Creek RV Park.

Hammond’s Candies – Denver, CO

10 million – that’s how many candy canes Hammond’s Candies in Denver hand makes each year. In addition to that signature cane-shaped candy, the company also produces chocolate bars, rainbow lollipops, and lemon drops. Take a free, 30-minute tour to see how this company that’s one of the oldest candy manufacturers in the U.S. makes its sweet treats.

Hammond’s Candies was founded by Carl T. Hammond, Sr. who quit high school in 1913 and got a job as a candy maker apprentice. After serving in World War I, Hammond returned to Denver and picked up where he left off in a candy factory. With several years of experience under his belt, he ventured out on his own. Early on, Hammond did everything. He developed the recipes, made the candy, sold it, and handled all the tasks required of a fledging business. Today, the company sells its handmade candies worldwide. In the U.S., its treats can be found in Whole Foods, Nordstrom’s, Dean & Deluca, Cracker Barrel and specialty shops.

Tours run every 30 minutes and online reservations are required to ensure availability.

For a self-described “square meal, stiff drink and a fair price,” visit Work & Class. RVers can spend the night at Dakota Ridge RV Park.

TABASCO Factory Tour & Museum – Avery Island, LA

Avery Island, the location where world-famous TABASCO is made, is unique just like the sauce. The island actually rises above the marshes found along coastal Louisiana and sits atop a deposit of solid rock salt that is believed to be deeper than Mount Everest is high.

The TABASCO tour is self-guided and features nine stops including the TABASCO Museum, Pepper Greenhouse, Barrel Warehouse, and TABASCO Country Store(the bottling line stop is currently closed). The Country Store shouldn’t be missed since visitors can taste a variety of TABASCO products, including Tabasco-flavored ice cream and “Original Red” that’s sold in more than 195 countries and territories. The original recipe was created by Edmund McIlhenny in 1868 and has been used by the McIlhenny family for more than 150 years. Most visitors are surprised to learn that only three ingredients are used in the sauce – aged red peppers, salt, and distilled vinegar. Once the three ingredients are combined, the pepper mash is placed into oak barrels, topped with a layer of salt, stored in the Barrel Warehouse, and aged for three years.

Tickets range from $12.50 to free and the tour is open daily.

Check out the Tabasco Restaurant on Avery Island or venture to Landry’s Cajun Seafood & Steakhouse 15 minutes away. RVers can spend the night at Frog City RV Park.

Tillamook Creamery – Tillamook, OR

Tillamook Creamery is the largest tourist attraction on the coast of Oregon and one of the most popular in the state. The creamery offers a free, self-guided tour that shares details about life on a dairy farm, allows visitors to watch milk being made into cheese, and, most importantly, provides complimentary samples. For those who would like to learn the secrets behind Tillamook’s extra creamy ice cream, make a reservation for the small group Exclusive Ice Cream Experience. Get a hands-on look, and taste, of how extra creamy Tillamook Ice Cream goes from milk to market.

Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) was founded in 1909 when several small creameries each contributed $10 to start the cooperative to ensure all cheeses made in the Tillamook Valley would be produced with the same high level of quality. Today, the TCCA is owned by almost 80 farming families, and is proud to make award-winning cheese, yogurt, sour cream, ice cream, and butter.

The creamery recommends visiting during the week to see employees working in the facility. Tickets to the Ice Cream Experience range from $15 – 20 for children and adults.

Just a few minutes away, visit Dutch Mill Café, a ’50s diner with checkerboard flooring, old time booths, and the front clip of a 1957 Chevy. RVers can spend the night at Pleasant Valley RV Park.

About REV Group, Inc.

REV Group^® companies are leading designers and manufacturers of specialty vehicles and related aftermarket parts and services. Our companies serve a diversified customer base, primarily in the United States, through three segments: Fire & Emergency, Commercial, and Recreation. They provide customized vehicle solutions for applications, including essential needs for public services (ambulances, fire apparatus, school buses, and transit buses), commercial infrastructure (terminal trucks and industrial sweepers) and consumer leisure (recreational vehicles). REV’s diverse portfolio is made up of well-established principal vehicle brands, including many of the most recognizable names within their industry. Several of our brands pioneered their specialty vehicle product categories and date back more than 50 years. REV Group trades on the NYSE under the symbol REVG. Investors-REVG