(Family Features) For most homeowners, their house’s exterior is a reflection of them, which makes it important to ensure its curb appeal is up to par. While there are plenty of ways to enhance the appearance of your home, these ideas can leave a lasting impression.
Choose the Right Plants
Opt for a mix of evergreen shrubs, perennials and seasonal flowers that provide continuous color visual interest. For example, billowy trees can add height and movement while ground cover plants and shrubs can fill in spaces and prevent weeds.
Incorporate Stonework
Hardscaping elements such as walkways, retaining walls and stone borders – as well as natural stone or stone veneer – can significantly enhance the structure and aesthetic of your front yard. Even if changing your home’s facade isn’t in your plans, natural stone, paver or brick sidewalks or landscape rings can be incorporated to complement its architectural style.
Update Lighting
Not only does outdoor lighting enhance safety and security, it can be used to highlight key features and create a welcoming ambiance after dark. Consider adding lighting to (or replacing fixtures around) your driveway, walkways and entryway to guide visitors and use spotlights to draw attention to architectural details, trees and garden beds.
Give It a Fresh Coat of Paint
One of the first projects that comes to mind for many homeowners looking to improve curb appeal, a fresh coat of paint can make a striking difference. However, if a full-scale paint job isn’t in the budget, refreshing the trim, bannisters and railings, gutters or other accent pieces can still help provide fresh pops of color.
Find more ideas to improve your home’s curb appeal at eLivingtoday.com.
The 2025 Jeep Compass carries over its familiar styling—squat profile, squinty headlights, and bold grille—while introducing subtle yet meaningful upgrades. A refreshed exterior features new LED lighting across trims, optional contrasting roof colors, and a late‑year Joose edition paint option for those seeking a splash of personality.
Powertrain & Performance: Turbocharged with Ambition
Under the hood sits a 2.0‑liter direct‑injection turbocharged inline‑4 producing 200 hp and 221 lb‑ft of torque. That’s a noticeable improvement over previous models, delivering quicker 0–60 times (as low as 7.9 seconds) and slightly better on-paper performance. An eight-speed automatic, standard all‑wheel drive, and a class-leading fuel stop-start system round out the drivetrain.
Fuel efficiency lands in middle territory—rated at 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, 27 combined—peeling off ground from key rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek but surpassing models like the Bronco Sport.
On-road, the Compass delivers confident highway composure and adept urban maneuvering. But it tends to reveal its compromises: suspension can feel harsh over rough pavement, the steering vague during spirited cornering, and the brakes suffer from front-end dive under repetitive hard stops.
Trailhawk: A Genuine Off-Road Companion
For off-road adventurers, the Trailhawk trim brings serious chills to seatbacks. It adds a 1‑inch lift, specialized Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires, skid plates, tow hooks, and a 20:1 crawl‑ratio low 4×4 system. Combined with Jeep’s Selec‑Terrain modes—including an exclusive Rock setting—this variant can ford up to 19″ of water and tow approximately 2,000 lbs.
Interior & Tech: Comfort Meets Connectivity
Inside, occupants will appreciate spacious legroom (41.8″ front, 38.3″ rear), besting some rivals, and a cargo capacity of 27.2 ft³ (up to 59.8 ft³ with seats folded). Base models feature cloth upholstery, while higher trims offer leather or leatherette, heated seats, and power-adjustable driver seats .
Technology includes the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system (10.1″ touchscreen standard on most trims), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and optional luxuries like wireless charging, Alpine premium audio, Amazon Alexa built-in, and a panoramic sunroof.
However, complaints surface around touchscreen responsiveness, infotainment glitches, and occasional electrical quirks—owners on forums report “screen glitching” or inconsistent automatic-start/stop behavior.
NVH & Ride Quality: A Mixed Bag
The Compass exudes “rental-car vibes,” according to Consumer Reports, citing a stiff, jittery ride and elevated cabin noise. Early startup reveals a rougher engine tone, and road noise infiltrates even at moderate speeds. Merely “okay” handling comes with body roll and sluggish steering feedback; brake feel is described as overly sensitive at low speeds.
Safety & Reliability
Safety gear is plentiful: forward collision braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-centering steering, rear cross-traffic alert, drowsy-driver detection, and optional full 360° camera and Active Driving Assist. Crash tests show IIHS “Good” ratings on many fronts, though the vehicle missed top honors due to updated protocols. Meanwhile, NHTSA gives the Compass a four-star overall rating, with a three-star rollover score.
Reliability is a mixed story: RepairPal places it above average, but forums are replete with warranty shop runs—especially concerning touchscreen failures or coolant-related worries—even in brand-new examples.
Pricing & Trim Walk
Base Sport models start around $27,500–27,900. The mid-level Latitude rings in at ~$29.8k. The upgraded Limited hits roughly $33.8k, while Trailhawk tops at about $33.99k—just slightly more than Limited but packed with off-road readiness media.stellantisnorthamerica.com. Destination fees (~$1,595) are roughly in line with segment norms.
Verdict: For Whom the Compass Points
The 2025 Compass upholds its Jeep heritage with hearty off-road capability, especially in Trailhawk trim, and offers strong power and modern tech. It’s an appealing choice for those seeking a compact SUV with weekend-outing potential and bold style.
Yet, trade-offs are real. Buyers should brace for a ride that’s firm, cabin noise that intrudes, occasional infotainment bugs, and a mixed reliability reputation. For urban commuters prioritizing comfort and refinement, rivals like the Honda CR‑V, Mazda CX‑5, and Subaru Crosstrek might offer a quieter, smoother daily experience.
Bottom line: The 2025 Jeep Compass is ideal for adventure-minded buyers who value rugged styling, off-road chops, and a bold tech package—but those after polished on‑road comfort and near-flawless reliability may want to consider other compact SUVs.
Pros & Cons at a Glance Pros
Vigorous turbo engine with quicker acceleration
Trailhawk shines off-road with genuine Jeep ability
Spacious rear seats and cargo capacity
Modern Uconnect 5 with standard wireless phone integration
Solid safety and driver-assist suite
Cons
Ride quality is stiff; cabin can be noisy
Steering and brake feel lack refinement
Infotainment and electrical bugs reported
Reliability is average—not segment-leading
Competitors offer smoother, more polished rides
The 2025 Jeep Compass stays true to its roots: bold, capable, and ready to explore. It embraces adventure with open arms—but sacrifices comfort and polish to do so. For road warriors and weekend warriors alike, it’s a compelling, characterful compact SUV
Summer Skin Essentials: Time to switch up your skin care regimen for summer
(Family Features) Summer is all about sunshine, vacations and outdoor adventures, but warmer weather and environmental changes can be harsh on your skin. Excessive sun exposure, sweating and dehydration can leave your skin feeling less than its best. Thankfully, with the right skin care essentials, you can maintain glowing, hydrated skin all season long.
Explore top solutions for summer skin care, chosen from Herbacin’s Skin Solutions and Foot Care lines, and discover how they can restore and protect your skin from summer stressors no matter the adventure at herbacinusa.com.
Deep Cleansing for Radiant Skin
Summer heat makes oily, sweaty skin more common, leading to clogged pores and dullness. That’s why a gentle yet powerful exfoliation is crucial with a solution like Gentle Face Scrub, which is formulated with exfoliating jojoba wax particles to remove dead skin cells and cleanse deep into the pores. Infused with aloe vera, chamomile and marigold, this scrub eliminates impurities while promoting skin regeneration. Plus, it’s suitable for all skin types and is free from parabens and mineral oils.
How to Use: Apply the scrub 1-2 times per week for instantly smoother, brighter skin.
Hydration That Lasts All Day
Hydration is key to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Try Daily Skin Moisturizer that offers 24-hour hydration thanks to its hyaluronic acid-rich formula. Enhanced with inositol for elasticity and fucose biopolymer for moisture retention, it deeply nourishes your skin without leaving an oily residue. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and perfect relief for sun exposure or after a day outdoors.
Pro Tip: Apply this lightweight moisturizer as the final step in your morning skin care routine for all-day skin hydration.
Soothe and Clear Blemishes Quickly
Consider Anti-Blemish Gel to keep your skin clear and blemish free. Packed with soothing aloe vera, chamomile, marigold, panthenol and bisabolol, this targeted treatment promotes skin healing while drying out blemishes and reducing irritation. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for tackling acne and preventing future breakouts.
How to Use: Apply a small amount to blemishes several times a day until the irritation subsides.
Nourishment for Stressed and Rough Areas
Sun, saltwater and chlorine can cause specific areas of the body, like elbows and hands, to become rough and dehydrated. Designed to restore softness, this Special Care Cream improves skin elasticity in even the driest areas. Enriched with plant-based glycerin, allantoin and vitamin E, this cream provides intensive nourishment and protection without a greasy finish.
Essential Tip: Apply regularly to areas prone to dryness for soft, smooth skin all summer.
Extra TLC for Your Feet
Between barefoot walks on the beach and sandal season, your feet deserve special attention. Take care of them with Herbacin’s Foot Care line, which includes a range of products such as Leg Lotion, Cooling Gel and Foot Cream, designed to revitalize tired legs and feet. Infused with active ingredients like red vine leaves and horse chestnut, these products boost circulation, tone the skin and prevent the formation of calluses and cracks.
Step Up Your Routine:
Smooth on the Leg Lotion to nourish and protect legs and feet from dehydration.
Use the Cooling Gel after a long day to soothe sore legs.
Apply Foot Cream overnight to soften and maintain smooth, crack-free skin.
Photo courtesy of Pexels (woman overlooking ocean)
(BPT) - Imagine streaming your favorite show from your backyard hammock or enjoying a playlist with friends by the pool this summer. From relaxing escapes to backyard gatherings, elevate your outdoor adventures this summer by upgrading your mesh wifi system with an outdoor wifi device, extending your internet for tech-fueled fun all summer long.
With outdoor wifi, you can give yourself the freedom to stream, work, play and create outside anytime, anywhere on your property. Check out these seven ways outdoor wifi can help you bring the indoors outdoors so you can make the most of the season.
1. Boost Your Backyard Entertaining
Whether you're new to outdoor entertaining or regularly host backyard movie nights or game-day watch parties, you'll need fast, reliable wifi to stream all your favorite media content this summer and beyond.
Make sure you and your guests can enjoy your cinematic experience nearly buffer-free with eero Outdoor 7. This dual-band mesh wifi router allows you to enjoy unlimited outdoor entertainment, rain or shine. With an IP66 rating, eero Outdoor 7 will hold up in even the most extreme temperatures year-round, whether it's a freezing -40°F or sweltering 131°F.
The eero Outdoor 7 is designed for easy setup via a user-friendly app and was designed with various outdoor surfaces in mind, so your device can seamlessly blend into its environment and be easily installed on stucco, vinyl siding, wood or fiber cement walls.
2. Pump up the Jams With Outdoor Speakers
Do you enjoy DJing your summer pool parties, or streaming music on your smart speakers while you garden or grill? Or maybe you're just looking for some fun tunes to play during an evening around the firepit. With eero Outdoor 7, you can keep the beats going day or night — or at least until the neighbors ask you to quiet down!
3. Keep Your Home Secure With Outdoor Cameras
Security cameras are a must for large properties. Not only do they provide peace of mind, but they can also help you keep an eye out for packages or make sure your kids get home safe from their summer activities.
But maintaining a strong wifi connection across a large area can be challenging. With a 15,000-square-foot reach, eero Outdoor 7 extends your existing eero wifi network for maximum coverage so you can easily keep those cameras connected.
4. Bring Intelligence to Your Yard With Smart Gardening Devices
Technological advancements have made gardening easier than ever before. With long-range outdoor wifi, you can monitor birds through wildlife cameras to protect your garden from backyard visitors, or install wifi-enabled smart sprinklers to water your flowers, herbs and vegetables automatically, helping them flourish with ease.
5. Create a Strong Signal in Your Garage
Your garage may not be the first spot you think of needing outdoor wifi, but how many times has your smart garage opener failed to connect or your car operating system update stalled? An eero mesh wifi system with eero Outdoor 7 can fix those everyday headaches and keep everything running smoothly by extending your wifi network to those previously untapped dead zones.
For those whose garages double as a workout space, special project workshop or woodworking station, eero Outdoor 7 can help you stream workout videos or keep you entertained as you listen to podcasts while dedicating time to your crafts.
6. Bring on the Backyard Barbecue With a Smart Grill
Are you ready to level up your grill game? Whether you already own or have your eye on a specific smart grill model for your summer cookouts, make sure you get the optimal cookout experience with outdoor internet. Wifi-connected grills let you monitor and adjust temperatures remotely through an app, helping you serve up perfectly cooked food every time. With a strong wifi connection powered by eero Outdoor 7, you'll never have to worry about overdone or underdone meat again.
7. Turn Your Patio Into Your Outdoor Office
If you work from home, give yourself the freedom to roam and work remotely from your patio. With eero Outdoor 7's lightning-fast Wi-Fi 7, you can enjoy wireless speeds up to 2.1 Gbps. That means you can join your weekly team meetings or video calls from the comfort of your backyard without buffering or dropouts.
This summer, soak up every second of sunshine and fresh air. To learn more about how eero Outdoor 7 can help you take your outdoor summertime fun from good to great, visit eero.com.
The Puerto Rican Festival of New Haven is a regional celebration of Puerto Rican culture held annually on the Second Saturday of August in New Haven, Connecticut. The event features food trucks, family activities, arts & crafts, and live music.
Saturday August 9 2025
Carlos Juan el Lunatico y su Grupo Tipico DJ Red Bomba Fusion OMG Apollo Carlos Cruz el Cimarron del Verzo Negro Y Mucho Mas!!
Nestled along Puerto Rico’s northern coast, the town of Manatí is a vibrant municipality rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as La Ciudad Metropolitana (The Metropolitan City), this coastal gem offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. With its dramatic karst landscapes, charming colonial architecture, and strong cultural identity, Manatí stands out as a destination worth exploring.
Founding and Early History
Manatí was officially founded on June 15, 1738, during Puerto Rico’s Spanish colonial era. The town was established by Don Pedro Menéndez Valdés, a Spanish official who sought to create a permanent settlement near the Río Grande de Manatí, one of the island's major rivers. The town quickly developed around its central plaza and church, which were typical of Spanish colonial urban planning.
In its early years, Manatí flourished due to its fertile lands and access to trade routes. Agriculture played a dominant role in the local economy, with sugarcane, tobacco, and coffee as the main crops. Its strategic location near the coast and proximity to rivers also made it an important stop for merchants and travelers moving between the northern and central parts of Puerto Rico.
Town Colors and Symbols
Manatí’s official town colors are blue and white, which represent both its coastal heritage and its aspirations for peace and unity. The town’s coat of arms prominently features a manatee, paying homage to the creature from which it gets its name, as well as symbols of agriculture, Christianity, and native Taíno heritage. These emblems reflect the diverse influences that have shaped the town over centuries.
Sites of Interest
Manatí offers an array of attractions that showcase its natural beauty, historical legacy, and cultural charm:
Mar Chiquita Beach – One of the most iconic beaches in Puerto Rico, Mar Chiquita is a natural cove formed by limestone rocks that protect a small bay from the open ocean. Its unique shape, turquoise waters, and dramatic surroundings make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Hacienda La Esperanza Nature Reserve – Managed by the nonprofit Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, this expansive coastal reserve includes wetlands, mangroves, and preserved agricultural land. Guided tours highlight the region’s ecological importance and its historical sugar plantation ruins.
Teatro Taboas – Built in the early 20th century, this historic theater has been restored and now serves as a cultural hub for concerts, plays, and art exhibitions. It’s a symbol of Manatí’s dedication to preserving and promoting the arts.
Cueva de las Golondrinas – A stunning cave located along the coast, accessible during low tide. It's known for its dramatic cliffs and the swallows that nest inside. The views here are breathtaking and popular with adventurous hikers and photographers.
Historic Town Plaza and Church – At the heart of Manatí’s historic district lies the Plaza de Recreo and the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, a beautiful neoclassical building that dates back to the 18th century.
Patron Saint and Celebrations
Manatí’s patron saint is Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of Candelaria), a Marian devotion widely venerated in the Caribbean and Latin America. The town celebrates her feast day on February 2nd each year with a vibrant fiesta patronal that includes religious processions, music, dancing, traditional food, and cultural events. These patron saint festivals are a beloved tradition in Puerto Rican towns and serve to reinforce community bonds and preserve local heritage.
Final Thoughts
From its historic roots to its modern cultural offerings and natural wonders, Manatí embodies the spirit of Puerto Rico’s northern coast. Whether you're exploring its scenic beaches, learning about its colonial past, or joining in the lively patron saint celebrations, Manatí offers something for every kind of traveler. With its blue and white banners waving proudly in the breeze and the legacy of its founders echoing through cobbled streets, La Ciudad Metropolitana continues to thrive as a beacon of Boricua pride.
Every summer, a vibrant tradition brings together families, friends, and cultural enthusiasts to honor the spirit and heritage of Puerto Rico in the heart of Missouri. The Puerto Rican Society’s Annual Picnic stands as a proud expression of identity, community, and joy.
This year’s celebration promises to be even more exciting, with a full day of cultural festivities, mouthwatering cuisine, and authentic performances set against the charming backdrop of Kirkwood Park.
August 16 — A Saturday Full of Celebration
Mark your calendar for August 16. The Puerto Rican Society’s Annual Picnic will run from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, providing seven hours of uninterrupted cultural celebration. This date, falling on a Saturday, makes it the perfect weekend escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Puerto Rican traditions, whether through live music, dancing, or simply relaxing under the shade of Kirkwood Park’s towering trees.
Venue Details
The event will be held at Kirkwood Park, located at 111 S Geyer Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122. This scenic park, known for its lush green spaces and family-friendly amenities, transforms into a vibrant stage for one of Missouri’s most colorful cultural gatherings. Its central location and open layout offer an ideal setting for festival tents, food stalls, and music stages, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees of all ages.
Music and Live Performances
One of the highlights of the Puerto Rican Society’s Annual Picnic is the captivating live music that fills the air throughout the day. Expect traditional genres such as Bomba, Plena, and Salsa, performed by local musicians and cultural groups committed to preserving the island’s musical legacy. These performances offer not just entertainment but also a deep connection to Puerto Rican identity, echoing through every beat and melody.
Cultural Activities and Community Bonding
The picnic will feature a wide range of cultural activities designed to engage participants with Puerto Rican history and customs. From traditional dance demonstrations to storytelling sessions and interactive art displays, attendees will have numerous opportunities to learn, participate, and connect with the vibrant traditions of Puerto Rico.
The event fosters a powerful sense of unity among both Puerto Ricans and allies who appreciate and respect the island’s legacy.
Puerto Rican Cuisine
Food plays a central role in Puerto Rican culture, and the Annual Picnic brings the full culinary experience to Kirkwood. Expect tables filled with arroz con gandules, pernil, tostones, and pasteles, alongside refreshing drinks like limber and coquito (non-alcoholic versions for public spaces).
These dishes, lovingly prepared by community members and local vendors, are not just meals—they’re an edible connection to the island’s history and identity.
A Family-Friendly Experience
The event is designed for families, offering a balance of entertainment and comfort for all age groups. Children can enjoy games, face painting, and dance contests, while adults socialize and take in the cultural atmosphere. With its inclusive setup, the Annual Picnic becomes a multigenerational space where grandparents share stories, parents dance with friends, and children explore cultural roots in a lively yet safe environment.
Nearby Attractions in Kirkwood
While in Kirkwood, guests can enhance their cultural excursion with a visit to the National Museum of Transportation, located at 2933 Barrett Station Rd, St. Louis, MO 63122. Home to one of the largest collections of transportation vehicles in the U.S., the museum offers engaging exhibits on trains, automobiles, and aircraft, making it a perfect Sunday follow-up to Saturday’s Puerto Rican celebration.
Making It a Full Weekend Experience
Visitors coming in from outside the Kirkwood area can plan a complete weekend around the picnic. From charming local diners to nature trails and art galleries, Kirkwood provides a relaxing yet dynamic environment. It’s an ideal setting for those who want to combine cultural festivity with leisure, all within one vibrant Missouri town.
Cultural Importance and Community Impact
The Puerto Rican Society’s Annual Picnic is more than an annual gathering—it’s a statement of presence, pride, and cultural continuity. As a grassroots initiative, it strengthens community bonds, educates younger generations, and shares the beauty of Puerto Rican heritage with the broader public. It’s a cultural lifeline that reminds everyone that traditions live on when they are celebrated in unity and joy.
Make the Weekend Even More Thrilling
As you immerse yourself in the festivities of the Puerto Rican Society’s Annual Picnic, consider enhancing your weekend experience with the latest Caesars Sportsbook promo Missouri, offering exciting opportunities for sports enthusiasts.
Whether you’re into MLB, NFL preseason action, or international soccer, these promotions bring an extra layer of entertainment for those looking to add a little thrill to their weekend getaway in Kirkwood.
A Must-Attend Celebration of Puerto Rican Culture
August 16 promises to be an unforgettable day in Kirkwood, MO, as the Puerto Rican Society brings the soul of the island to the Midwest.
With its vibrant blend of music, dance, food, and fellowship, the Annual Picnic at Kirkwood Park in Missouri is a cultural anchor and a joyful tribute to everything Puerto Rico represents. It’s not just a day at the park—it’s a heartbeat of heritage echoing through generations.
