Latest news with #LauraPrice
BBC News
21-07-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Oxfordshire charity staff face burnout amid 'triple crisis'
Charity leaders in Oxfordshire have said staff in the sector are struggling with burnout caused by a "triple crisis".In a roundtable discussion for BBC Oxford, they said demand for services had "gone up massively", raising money had become more difficult and costs had are about 4,000 registered charities in the Flutsch, CEO of Ark-T, said staff "from junior right up to the CEOs are absolutely exhausted... the need is rising, the funds are contracting and we're trying to hold our communities together". Kate Parrinder is deputy CEO of Oxfordshire Community Foundation which distributes about £2m in grants every year."Charities are facing a perfect storm, a triple crisis. ...they're facing a real sort of crunch moment," she said."Charities... are filling gaps that, in the past, the government would have filled, and they're dealing with things like mental health issues, homelessness, poverty – they're helping people who might be incredibly vulnerable or not even be with us any more if those charities didn't support them." Laura Price is CEO of Oxfordshire Community & Voluntary Action (OCVA), which supports the county's voluntary and community said: "During Covid a lot of organisations were running on adrenaline and then there wasn't really a natural break or a chance to rest and reset – and charities went straight into a cost of living crisis and a lot of big financial challenges."Tess McCay is executive director of Charity Mentors Oxfordshire, which provides pro bono mentoring for charity leaders in the said her mentors had been hearing about leaders having to deal with "a reduction in staff, low salaries and an inability to cope with the cost of living". The Ark-T charity is based in Cowley, one of the most socially deprived parts of the county, and uses art and creativity to help tackle a wide range of Catherine Flutsch said "I think a lot of charities will go under. Oxfordshire has a huge numbers of charities and I don't think any charity is safe."...then those vulnerable people who are relying on those charities may not have anywhere to go to get help."She added there was a "constant pressure on me and my team and that really does grind us all down and so we have to be extremely careful about looking after ourselves otherwise we're not going to be here".In April, Oxfam put 265 of its 2,100 staff at risk of redundancy, citing the state of the economy and increased National Insurance contributions. Ms Flutsch also said they were finding it "extremely difficult" to recruit trustees."Where we are [east Oxford], they're some of the most deprived areas in the whole of the UK."People need to work, they need to earn their living, they might not have four to five hours every couple of months to give because they need to feed their families."Ms Price said there was a crisis in recruiting volunteers across the board and highlighted a particularly reluctance for people to take on treasurer Parrinder said "Charities should be funded and not run by volunteers…"...the people working for charities deserve to be remunerated fairly and equitably… so that it attracts the right people to those jobs... because we can't afford to have charities run only by volunteers when they are dealing with life and death situations." Ark-T has an annual budget of about £350,000 which it needs to raise every Flutsch says its average grant is about £10,000, with an application success rate of about 5%."In the corporate world you would never put in that level of energy and time for a 5% success rate," she Parrinder made a "cry for help from people who are feeling philanthropic"."I think it should just become part of our culture that philanthropy is a thing that anybody with means, does," she Price added "We have to stop that rollercoaster for communities of getting and then losing support… if we really want to tackle those long-term inequalities that exist in our county then there's got to be some more sustainability about the social infrastructure that charities and community groups bring."At the same time as the discussion was happening, the government published its Civil Society Covenant - describing it as "a new chapter in the relationship between this government and the remarkable civil society organisations that form the backbone of our communities".Culture secretary Lisa Nandy said: "It has been a difficult decade for many civil society organisations who have been asked to do more with less."Less funding, less recognition and less power. Funding has reduced as need has soared and the right to speak up on behalf of those most in need has routinely been challenged." You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Buzz Feed
03-07-2025
- Buzz Feed
35 Walmart Travel Essentials For Family Vacations
A Master Lock portable safe with a resettable combination to keep your valuables safe (or at least safer than stuffing them into a shoe at the bottom of a bag) while you're at the beach, pool, or anywhere that allows you to concentrate on fun instead of potential theft. Promising review: "This is great for carrying personal items like jewelry and cash on trips. Has a way to connect it to your purse or luggage." —dianaPrice: $19.92 A three-pack of Tide To Go stain remover pens for those trips where you're packing light and there's no washing machine. Little clothes will most likely get stained, so you'll be glad you have this on hand for sauce and juice spills. Promising review: "I feel like a superhero with these in my purse. Blood, gotcha. Wine, no prob. My kiddos mysteriously get spots on absolutely any shirt they wear, thank goodness." —LauraPrice: $7.88 A 12-pack of travel-sized Purell advanced hand sanitizer gels because you can never have enough clean hands, and there's nothing worse than catching a bug while on vacation. Price: $14.99 A waterproof car trash can with a lid and storage pockets for instilling just a modicum of hope that you might be able to keep the car somewhat cleaner than the house. Maybe. Promising review: "Best thing to keep in your car when you have kids!! Keeps the back of my car mess free now, and good size!" —anonymousPrice: $11.99 (available in three colors) An Anker PowerCore Select 10000 portable charger because one of the worst moments you'll experience while traveling with kids is when their favorite device runs out of juice at the absolute worst time. This power bank allows for simultaneous charging, so no fighting over it (hopefully). Promising review: "Good size, easy to handle and hold. I charged three phones, one charger, and two small fans, including one with light. It's great to have during the hurricane season and/or if you're in an area where the power now goes out for no known reason. Great price, too!" —JayniePrice: $23.99 ($29.88) A pair of foldable, wired, and wireless (thanks to Bluetooth) cat ear headphones that'll purr for up to 10 hours of listening time. The adjustable headband makes them comfortable, while the light-up kitty ears make them spectacular. Promising review: "I bought these for my daughter's 8th birthday, and she loves them. The setup was very easy; she connected them to several tablets and my phone without an issue. Bluetooth connects quickly and doesn't have any issues disconnecting. The lights are awesome and charging is a breeze." —RachelPrice: $16.98+ (available in three colors) A Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game (a personal favorite of mine) where players take turns calling out the words taco, cat, goat, cheese, and pizza (in that order) until the word matches the card. But watch out for those gorilla, groundhog, and narwhal cards! Promising review: "My kids and I really like Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza! You go around the circle, and each person says an item. If the card matches what you say, everyone tries to slap the deck. The last person to slap the deck must take all the cards. There are also action cards in the deck. This game keeps you on your toes, and there will be laughing!" —LisaPrice: $9.84 A rechargeable and flexible stroller fan with three settings so the kids (and you) can keep cool throughout your trip. Promising review: "Worked perfectly for the warm summer day! Very quiet, quick, and easy to set up." —melissa Price: $19.99 (originally $39.99; available in four colors) A colorful rolling backpack built for school but, like your kids, has earned a well-deserved holiday. Great for wheeling around the airport and carrying on to the plane, and if it'll fit everything from books to lunch boxes, it'll undoubtedly accommodate vacation items too. Promising review: "I absolutely love this little rolling backpack! It travels well. I went on a vacation for three weeks in Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales, and this little bag went through seven flights, several trains, subways, buses, and car trips, and it is lightweight enough for the overhead compartments. So if you want something lightweight but strong enough to be stuffed with all your traveling belongings, this is the one you need!" —ArtsynursePrice: $44.99+ (available in seven colors) A pack of four TSA-approved travel bottles for all of the lotions and potions that babies and kids require so you don't have to travel with all of those full-size bottles taking up extra luggage space. Promising review: "Absolutely perfect! They're easy to fill and come with labels. It's perfect for my busy traveling life!" —MorganPrice: $10+ (available in two color options) A do-it-all travel duffel/weekender bag that features a shoe compartment, a wet pocket, two inner and three front open pockets, and plenty of room inside. Works great as a carry-on or in the car. Promising review: "It's beautiful and is so spacious, I definitely can use it as a weekender!" —MaryPrice: $24.99 (available in 11 colors) A two-pack of portable clotheslines with 12 clothespins because most hotel rooms aren't built for properly drying clothes and there's nothing worse than that not-quite-dry swimsuit smell when you're packing to go home. Price: $10 An inflatable swim tube pool float so that you don't have to pay an outrageous price (tourist pricing) wherever you're staying for something that's probably not going to make the trip back home. Promising review: "Thick material. We used it in the ocean, and it held up. Buying more." —JessicaPrice: $2.47+ (available in four colors) A 250-piece first aid kit packed with bandages, butterfly closures, gauze pads, ointments, examination gloves, an instant cold compress, and more for any emergencies that don't (hopefully) require a trip to the emergency room. Promising review: "This is that kit you buy, put in the back of the car, go on a road trip with friends/family, and then thank yourself for later. The kit itself is fairly inexpensive, and the first aid gear inside of it reflects that. We chose it due to its ideal size and list of contents. It is just as expected. Let's just hope we don't have to use it too often." —JasminePrice: $16.98 An allergen-free, plant-derived, child-safe, vegan-approved Foot Glide anti-blister balm because you and the kids are going to do a lot of walking on vacation (maybe in sandals), and you can't let any skin irritation slow you down. Price: $9.99 A 20-pack of disposable, hooded, button-down kids' rain ponchos for those times when you forgot to check the weather app (re: most of the time) or when a storm blows in unannounced. Price: $19.83 A UPF 50+ sun-protective, wide-brim bucket hat to keep kids' heads, faces, and necks safe from that summer sun while the drawstring keeps it secured from blowing away and getting lost. The hat also folds up for easy on-the-go storage. Promising review: "Works just like what I needed! Baby can't pull it off! Easy to put on him and cute!" —JillPrice: $10+ (available in six patterns and sizes 6/12 Months–4/8 Years) A three-pack of kids' sunglasses so little eyes stay protected, and little hands can't break them with any twisting or bending. Plus, every baby looks cool wearing these! Promising review: "Wow. These glasses are better than I expected. The material is soft and flexible; it won't hurt your kid's skin. They are very well-made and polarized!! I have to say it's the best deal ever !! My kids love them." —LanPrice: $10 An inflatable bathtub because even though you're on vacation, you still have to wash that kid, and unless otherwise requested, most hotel/motel rooms don't have a tub. Promising review: "I bought this tub for my grandson because my daughter only has a shower. And it really helped a lot. Because he's a toddler now, and she can't give him a bath in the sink anymore. And he loves it. This isn't just for babies it can be used for a toddler also." —ValeryPrice: $24.99 An eight-piece packing cube set that's not just for organizing suitcases for family trips. Use these to store an extra set of clothes (kids are gonna kid) in your go-bag or in the car. Promising review: "These bags are perfect! They hold so many clothes. I bought these because they were machine washable. I've washed them a few times now, and they are holding up perfectly! I like being able to organize everything. It's so much easier to go through the luggage when everything is sorted into bags." —KristinaPrice: $10.90+ (available in three colors) A pair of Crocs because they're easy to slip on, easier to clean, and protect little toes better than flip-flops, especially when running on hot sand or slippery concrete around the pool. Promising review: "This is my second pair for my son this year (he grew out of the last pair). Great quality, it is easy and comfortable for him to get on and wear on his own." —ChelseaPrice: $24.99+ (available in 16 kids' sizes and 18 color options) A six-pack of Munchkin jumbo microwave bottle sterilizer bags so you can thoroughly disinfect bottles or breastfeeding equipment by eliminating 99.9% of the most common bacteria and germs. Just add water and pop it in the microwave for as little as 90 seconds. Promising review: "I love this sterilizer bag. Before using these I would sterilize all my bottles and pump parts in a pot of boiling water. With this bag, I just toss a bunch of parts in, add a little water, and in a few minutes, I'm done. You can easily dump out the water without opening the bag and avoid burning your hands immediately by handling the bag using the cool tab. I love the check boxes on the front to remind me how many times I've used each bag. These can be used up to 30 times." —sorrycharlie625Price: $12.99 A machine-washable, 70 x 60-inch packable blanket made with 100% recycled polyester fabrics. It includes a sack for easy storage in the car or a carry-on and it's great for for impromptu naps, snuggle times, or general chilling outdoors, thanks to its durable protective bottom. Promising review: "Perfect camping or trip blanket that is easily stored and lightweight for travel, and honestly does its job well in keeping one toasty and comfortable. Not to mention, the colors are beautiful, making it an attractive blanket." —YootuniPrice: $23.92 (available in two colors) A kids' travel tray, which is like their own little backseat workstation. The "desk" part is actually a dry-erase board, and there are dedicated holders for the two most important things for kids on long car trips: tablets and water bottles. Promising review: "Used this for my two boys driving over 2,000 miles for vacation and it was A HIT! They loved it and so did I! Very functional! Easy to unclip to go to the bathroom and clip back up! Keeps everything zipped up, and nothing spills over!!!" —VioletPrice: $28.95+ (available in five colors) A four-pack of sand removers so the beach doesn't follow you and your kids back to your room, car, or anywhere else. If you're someone who hates sand getting everywhere (like me), these are a must. Price: $4.39+ (available in two colors) A kids' travel air mattress inflatable bed with raised sides for any trip where the sleeping situation isn't so clear (like when the hotel promises a crib or pack and play and then they don't have one). It's also great for camping and sleepovers! Note: No air pump included. Promising review: "This inflatable mattress has been a lifesaver for travel with kids! It's comfortable, with raised sides that help keep my little one from rolling off. It's easy to inflate and deflate and fits well in our car. The pink color is a cute touch too." —Walmart CustomerPrice: $24.98+ (available in two colors) A foldable Oxo Tot 2-in-1 Go Potty because when they gotta go, you know they gotta go! Like, right now! No bathroom? No problem; extend the legs, and voilà, you've got an instant roadside commode. This potty also lays flat on regular toilets for a more comfortable seat on the throne. Includes three disposable bags with absorbent pads and a travel review: "This is perfect for keeping in the back of the car for travelling. Right now, we are potty training, and we can just pull over and have him go on the side of the road. It is also perfect for public restrooms, so he feels like he won't fall in. He likes it too, which is a huge plus." —debbiePrice: $20.99 (available in three colors) An Evenflo Hummingbird ultra-lightweight stroller that can be opened and closed with one hand, which is clutch because you'll most likely be holding the baby with the other! Drives well, travels well, and fits almost anywhere. I used an older Evenflo model on all our family trips with two children. It lasted for years. But I got a chance to test this new model (my youngest hasn't quite grown out of the stroller yet), and it's even better. It is amazingly light, which is the best thing it can be when packing it onto a plane or a car trunk. How light? When the box arrived, I literally tossed it to my wife and said, "Check out how light this is!" Luckily, she caught it and didn't wing it back at my head. Price: $229.99+ (available in three colors) A pack of 80 DEET-free mosquito repellent patches for kids and adults infused with peppermint and citronella oil for 24-hour protection. Stick one on, and those bugs won't be bothering you. Price: $9.96 A travel white-noise machine because you never know what the sleeping situation is going to be on the road. Choose from four sound options (heartbeat, white noise, ocean, or lullaby). Clip it to the stroller, car seat, bag, or crib, and here comes sleepy time (hopefully). Note: Requires three AAA batteries. Promising review: "Perfect for travel, on-the-go naps! Hooks easily onto the baby carrier. Has been dropped with no issues. Good size and volume level." —HeatherPrice: $19.99 A 3-in-1 multi-charging cable so you can cut down on packing an excessive amount of cords, always have the right plug, and be able to juice up several devices at once. Promising review: "Oh my gosh, this is the way to go when your devices are charged with different cords. I can plug the one into the wall adapter and then into all my devices. And I do mean I plug in my Apple phone, Kindle, and new iPad all at once instead of using three different cords and switching them out all the time. What a game-changer. Little things like this sure do help." —DebraPrice: $9.99 for a 3-in-1 two-pack (available in five colors) A 26-piece Micro Magna-Tiles travel set, because regular-size Magna-Tiles are too heavy to pack for trips, and this shrinked-down version is just as fun to play with, especially with a metal carrying case that works as a stand for building. Promising review: "I love that the case is sturdy enough to throw in a bag and go. The tray is perfect for containing building projects. They work well with their larger counterparts." —Mary Price: $19.97 An easy-to-use portable hotel door lock that offers a little extra security when you're staying somewhere unfamiliar. Promising review: "It worked pretty well, and the instructions were clear. I don't know if it would stop someone who was determined to get in. But it will discourage someone from finding an easier target." —KrystalPrice: $12.79 An eight-count of grape-flavored Dramamine Motion Sickness chewables for kids so you can get through any car trip without stopping, scrambling for a plastic bag, and eventually having to clean up puke. Promising review: "My family truly enjoys this product. My kids get motion sickness when driving in the car for long periods. They always do great as long as they have Dramamine before our trip. They love the flavor of these chewables! The little container they come in is great for travel. Highly recommend!" —KadyPrice: $7.20 for an eight-pack A pack of 120 dog poop bags because, now hear me out here, you're not going to be traveling with a Diaper Genie, but you're still going to have to deal with dirty, stinky diapers piling up. Promising review: "Best poop bags! They are large and thick. It's nice to know my nails won't poke through. The price is great for something to pick up poop with! —tat2dmama70Price: $5.88 Need ingredients for all your new recipes? Shop each recipe directly through the app, or check out Walmart's grocery selection to get veggies, meat, seafood, and more delivered right to your door. Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Buzz Feed
27-06-2025
- Business
- Buzz Feed
Best Things To Get At Wayfair's Fourth Of July Sale
Fourth of July means pool parties, fireworks, and *drumroll please*... up to 70% off at Wayfair! They're having a mega Fourth of July Sale with major discounts on outdoor furniture, home decor, kitchen appliances, and more! 🎆 The sale is officially live, but it ends on Sunday, July 6 — so don't wait too long! In fact, if you shop *now*, you'll be able to enjoy your new Wayfair items over the holiday weekend. 😉 Not sure where to start? We've rounded up some of our fave finds below: A set of cooling down-alternative pillows for 51% off because getting a good night's rest should not cost a premium (looking at you, expensive mattress brands). Reviewers say these are soft, fluffy, and oh-so-comfy, so it's safe to say you're gonna drift off to dreamland no problem. 💤 Promising review: "The first night I slept on this pillow I fell asleep like a rock. I originally bought for my son, but I hated my 'purple' pillow so I traded a 200 pillow for this gel fiber pillow from y'all. Thank you for this wonderful essential item. I highly recommend this." —AnonymousPrice: $36.99+ for two (originally $75+; available in queen and king sizes) A swing chair for 53% off that'll make all your neighbors envious of the outdoor oasis you've created on your balcony — and smack dab in the middle of downtown, no less! You're just that good. Promising review: "Almost everyone who comes to my house wants to take this home. It's wonderful!" —LauraPrice: $390.82 (originally $838; available in two colors) A Henckels 15-piece knife block set for 72% off since they're high-quality blades capable of ~slicing~ through your culinary tasks with ease (and, dare I say, a touch of style, too). The set comes with a bread knife, chef knife, paring knife, santoku knife, six steak knives, kitchen utility knife, and kitchen shears/scissors all in in a wooden storage review: "I LOVE these knives! They're amazing! Literally the best knives I've ever used!" —AnonymousPrice: $150.90 (originally $543) A 2-in-1 showerhead for 67% off so you can ~shower~ yourself in luxury at the end of a long day (or the beginning!). Enjoy a steady full-spray mode, gentle massage mode, or both simultaneously — you can even detach the inner handheld part if you want. Promising review: "I was worried that it wouldn't work the way I wanted it to so I'm pleasantly surprised that it works exactly how I wanted it to! Loved it so much I bought two!!! Plus, it matches my bathroom tiles perfectly!!!" —LisselPrice: $46.26+ (originally $139.25; available in three finishes) A seashell-inspired velvet barrel chair for 50% off because you're secretly a mermaid on land, so this is obviously the throne you need. JK, JK — but I'm not joking when I say it's a seriously chic accent piece that'll have you *feeling* like a Disney princess. 👑 Promising review: "Cute, comfortable and very sturdy." —Emmanuela Price: $197.99+ (originally $399; available in 14 colors) A sleek stainless steel pull-down kitchen faucet for 57% off to give your sink a fancy-shmancy upgrade, both in terms of looks and functionality. Promising review: "This faucet is stunning in my kitchen. I love it. It has 360-turn access as well as a few different spray options. Having the handle on the side allows for complete space in your sink. The look is great. It is not the same old typical faucet. Perfect and I recommend it. It works extremely well with zero leaks." —SherryPrice: $189.59+ (originally $442.85; available in five finishes) A set of buttery soft, hypoallergenic microfiber sheets for 81% off that reviewers love not only for their luxurious feel but also the fact that they don't shift around on the bed at night — and for under $23, what a steal! Each set comes with a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and four review: "Wonderful. Wash after wash, these sheets are cozy and comfortable, light and airy, breathable — and stay on the mattress!" —JamesPrice: $22.99+ (originally $119+; available in sizes twin–California king and in 21 colors) A set of blackout curtains for up to 71% off if you need complete and total blackness to sleep (same). These won't let a single peep of light in on your precious Sunday morning snooze... no matter how late you sleep in. Promising review: "I got these curtains on a sale and it's amazing how quality they are for the price! I got the mineral color, it's exactly like it looks online and it's such a pretty color. Everything is exactly what I expected. They did come quite wrinkled and I haven't had a chance to steam them out yet but they are starting to look better on their own and I'm sure they will be great once I steam the wrinkles out! Highly recommend!" —CathleenPrice: $17.19+ (originally $59.99+; available in four sizes and eight colors) A set of 10 cabinet pulls for 50% off giving you an easy (and affordable) way to spruce up your kitchen — even if you rent! These are quite easy to install/swap out but will make a huge difference in making the place look more modern. Promising review: "I love these, they have looked amazing in every picture I've seen. They look amazing in person, I love them on my uppers and my drawers. I just hate them on the lower cabinets. They stick out pretty far which in all other kitchens with countertops that have an inch or more of overhang wouldn't be an issue. My counter tops have a quarter-inch of overhang so these really stand out. Install was easy, shipping quick, each drawer pull has a bit of variation which looks authentic. Quality is 10 out of 10." —MeganPrice: $18.99+ for 10 (originally $38.10; available in five finishes) A 12-pound weighted blanket for up to 68% off so you can snuggle up and keep the anxiety at bay — wrapping yourself in this feels like a giant, comforting hug. 😌 Read more about how to choose a weight and what these blankets help with and how from Cleveland review: "I've been interested in trying a weighted blanket since they first became popular but I kept hesitating because I was convinced I was going to feel trapped and it would cause anxiety instead of helping. I couldn't have better more wrong! It is a slightly odd feeling at first but is actually really soothing and has helped my sleep a ton. The quality of the fabric is excellent, I love that it's reversible and it's so soft and comfortable. Surprisingly warm too!" —JenniferPrice: $40.99+ (originally $129.99+; available in three weights and six colors) A Lodge enameled cast iron Dutch oven for 40% off because it's just as gorgeous and high-performing as the more expensive brands, only way more budget-friendly, especially since it's on sale. Fresh sourdough bread, steamy stews, hearty roasts, and more await you! Promising review: "LOVE THIS! Perfect for almost everything, stovetop and ovens!" —LisettePrice: $99.90+ (originally $166.50+; available in two sizes and seven colors) A 12-inch medium-support hybrid mattress for 65% off that comes with a special cooling ice cover to keep you from overheating at night. Add to that six layers of plush memory foam padding, and you're in for a comfy, thermo-regulated good night's rest! Promising review: "Super high quality mattress! The cooling technology on it works really well and it is beyond comfortable! We highly recommend for anyone. Great addition to any bedroom or bed and is supportive enough for all." —AlexandraPrice: $269.99+ (originally $705+, available in sizes twin–California king) Plus, a high-tech king-sized adjustable bed base for 61% off since it not only lets you elevate your feet and/or head to just about any degree but also has a dual massage function for each end of the bed. Talk about luxury! Promising review: "I love this bed base. It's perfect for my back pain. The massage is amazing I wish it had a light under it but it's still perfect. I weigh 124 lbs and I was able to set this up entirely by myself. I am a small female. It's super easy to set up and takes about 15 min" —CarlaPrice: $669.99 (originally $1,700; also available in sizes twin XL, full, and queen) A gold floor lamp for 71% off with a decorative S-shaped twist and plenty of ~posh~ vibes. Just what your living room needs! Promising reviews: "Much prettier in real life than in the picture. The hardest part of putting it together was getting the lampshade on evenly. Will be ordering a second one for another corner of the family room." —Sara"Great lamp, beautiful gold!! If putting it in your living room, do a bright daylight light bulb." —DomoniquePrice: $87.99 (originally $299) A string light curtain for 35% off if you want to create a romantic, twinkling backdrop for your late-night outdoor hangs. Hang these over a balcony edge or deck rail for ~dreamy~ vibes. Promising review: "This is perfect on my outdoor patio. Gives very nice lighting at night and creates a great summer ambience!" —RhondaPrice: $23.99 (originally $37.10; available in two styles) A white open ladder bookshelf for 58% off to artfully showcase all your knickknacks, photos, and books together in a sleek display. Is it storage or stylish decor? Trick question — it's both! Promising review: "This is an adorable bookshelf. It was easy to assemble, and took less than an hour. It's not really heavy, but is very sturdy. All the pieces were in the box, although I did have a few wooden dowels leftover." —KristyPrice: $111.99 (originally $265) A weather-resistant outdoor umbrella for 32% off that's not only super duper functional during the day (shade, anyone?) but also long after the sun's gone down as it has LED lights on the underside to keep the good vibes going and add even more ambiance. Promising review: "This umbrella is everything I expected from a Sunbrella umbrella. Very sturdy and love the fabric. Color is bright and delicious. Couldn't be happier." —GailPrice: $319+ (originally $469; available in two frame colors and 29 fabric colors) A Rachael Ray 18-piece cookware set for 50% off because these beautiful nonstick pots, pans, and measuring cups are gonna bring both your cooking and your kitchen style to the next level. Set includes a two saucepans, saute pan, and stock pot all with lids, two frying pans, large cooking spoon, spatula, and six-piece measuring cup review: "I bought the set in cranberry red. They are just beautiful. I had worked with them in a rental unit in Florida and came right back home and ordered my own set. They clean beautifully, cook evenly, and are just a pleasure to use." —JuliePrice: $179.99 (originally $360) A set of bath towels for 80% off that'll let you mix up your bathroom decor with both solid colored towels and complementary leaf-patterned ones. Turning a practical bathroom item into a style statement? We love to see it. The set comes with two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths. Promising review: "Very very nice towels all around. the bath towels are excellent size not too big not too small and the thickness is also just what I was looking for not too thick not too thin. I like that a couple of the towels are reversible I got the lavender and the reverse side is kind of gray lavender which goes with my color scheme in the bathroom. yep these are definitely towels to have and now I have them thanks Wayfair for having everything I need at a very reasonable price." —AnnaPrice: $29.99 (originally $149.99; available in five colors) An indoor/outdoor woven area rug for 55% off featuring a mesmerizing geometric design but a fairly neutral color palette, which means it'll look good absolutely anywhere inside or outside your home. Promising review: "Perfect rug for my outdoor space! Brings a color and pattern but not too overbearing. Quickly shipped and arrived in great condition. Amazing quality for the price." —MorganPrice: $71.99+ (originally $160+, available in four sizes and four colors) A programmable air fryer for 36% off for folks ready to experience the magic of the all-mighty air fryer. Not sure what to expect? Here's a preview: All the deliciousness of your fave crispy fried foods with little to no oil! Seriously, what are you waiting for?? Promising review: "Love this multipurpose air fryer!!!! Have made several small meals and cooks it to perfection. Appetizers, meat, potatoes, and plenty of room!!" —TariPrice: $129.99 (originally $203.30) A stylish pet crate for up to 48% off since it doubles as a trendy and decorative piece of furniture. No more boring, ugly crates cramping your ~aesthetic.~ Promising review: "I acquired a third dog, and wanted to have a better look in my living room for the crates. These look great, and the pups love them. They were very easy to assemble, and a week in, they are holding up very well. All three of my dogs are crate trained, and are in their crates while I work." —GeorgettePrice: $101.99+ (originally $189.99+, available in four sizes and four colors) A sun- and rain-resistant acacia wood bar cart for 47% off that's not only super charming but also highly useful. You might use it as a plant stand, for mixing up drinks on your back deck, or maybe even to serve up some snacks for your BBQ guests. Promising review: "One of the best buys. Very good looking, functional and good quality. Love it." —NilgunPrice: $116.99 (originally $219.99) A pair of cute and stylish lamps for 36% off to help you curate a cozy cabin feel inside your urban residence. Place 'em on your nightstands to frame the bed or on end tables besides the couch — either way, you'll love unwinding in the soft, golden glow they create. Promising review: "These lamps are so cute and perfect for my space and style. For not I have one nightstand so one is in the room and one on the living room. Doesn't come with any lightbulbs whatsoever so downer on that. And the shade is a cardboard poster like material but pretty sturdy. I put some Philips Hue lights to control the ambiance and it's been great so far!" —AliciaPrice: $44.99 (originally $69.99; available in two shade colors) A Weber 3-burner gas grill for 22% off if you're ready to level up your grilling game this year! While it'll sizzle your steaks and burgers to perfection, you can swap the grate for special grillware to *also* roast, bake, steam, and even stir-fry. 🔥 Promising review: "Beautiful grill. Have only used once but love the look and performance. Price was in line with competitors but purchased at Wayfair due to the free assembly offer." —AnonymousPrice: $899 (originally $1,149; available in two colors) A Cuisinart 12-speed stand mixer for 33% off destined to become your new kitchen BFF, thanks to how versatile (and gorgeous) it is. Reviewers love this beauty for everything from baking bread and cookies to whipping up eggs, cream, and fresh pasta. Yum! Promising review: "There's nothing better!!! You'll be surprised how much you use it." —FamilyPrice: $319.95 (originally $480; available in 10 colors) A white contemporary-style desk for 51% off reviewers love for being spacious (yet still relatively small in size) and having a great workspace. The fact that it's also pretty stylish is really just a bonus! Promising review: "Love my desk, I originally bought this in 2013 and I gave it away to get a new, more modern looking desk. Big mistake. So happy I was still able to purchase this desk again! Amazing storage, great work space. Yes, it does take time to put together but it is very sturdy and worth the effort. Not the best picture but I did change the handles with mini brass hex knobs from CB2. Totally changes the look of the desk. :) I will be so sad if they stop making this desk! There is nothing out there like it! Such a great workspace. :)" —PattyPrice: $449.99 (originally $919) Enjoying the holiday weekend in your new egg chair from Wayfair's Fourth of July Sale like: Check out the rest of the savings you can score right now at Wayfair's Fourth of July Sale!
Buzz Feed
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
27 Chewy Items To Make You A Dog Ownership Genius
A Toy Story aliens rope toy so your dog can feel like "The Claw" from the movie. And look how freaking CUTE these little guys are! Promising review: "Our pug loves this toy!! He brings it over every evening to play tug. He lost interest in his regular rope toys fairly quickly, but still loves this one after six months." —LauraPrice: $10.99 A refillable dog treat dispenser toy you can fill with homemade snacks or premade Pupsicle Pops because this will keep your doggo occupied while you sit through your Zoom meetings. Promising review: "Our Lab mix has always suffered from anxiety, fear, aggression with strangers, and breaks in routine. We ordered this product after seeing several ads on our social media. He LOVES it, and so do we! Super easy to clean and refill, long-lasting, and the treat refills don't smell bad like other dog treats! Our sweet boy recently began to lose mobility in his rear end and gets super upset when he is unable to get around independently; this gives him the comfort he needs to just relax and lie down while enjoying a treat!" —Elizabeth Price: $19.99+ (available in three sizes) A jar of Zesty Paws Aller-Immune Bites for dogs, which are packed with wild-caught Alaskan salmon and probiotics to help keep your pup's immune system in tip-top shape in between vet visits. Promising review: "My dog Charlie scratches and chews all over himself almost constantly. Since putting him on this chew daily, his symptoms have greatly reduced. He has only been using the product for a week, and every day shows improvement. I'm hoping in a few days, he'll be symptom-free. Furthermore, he thinks he's getting a daily treat and is so excited when I offer him his daily dose. I highly recommend Aller-Immune Bites!" —CharliePrice: $4.97+ (available in three flavors and six quantities) An engaging jumbler ball if your pup has seemingly endless energy (but you don't). This will surely tire him out and give you a second to just ~chill out.~ Promising review: "Toy is an entertaining, nice squeaker. Our German shepherd plays with this for hours. The toy is challenging to pick up and carry. All of which helps our high energy German shepherd burn off energy." —TracyPrice: $14.99+ (available in two sizes) An orthopedic dog bed with a removable, machine-washable cover and a wraparound bolster that your doggy will absolutely love snuggling up in. Promising review: "I bought the XL bed for my 55-pound husky mix. My dog prefers the bolster-style bed for prime cuddling sessions. The quality is top-notch. The center is extremely soft, and the structure of the bed is rigid enough to support my pup all day without feeling like plastic. Overall, this bed exceeded all my needs. He now has a bed in every room, and this one is by far his favorite." —DoYouHaveChangeForADollarPrice: $63.99+ (available in three sizes and two colors) A sliding sushi-themed puzzle for the dog who is super restless and gets bored easily. This will keep them occupied long enough for you to maybe even get some work done of your own! Promising review: "Our dog quickly figured out how to get treats out of this puzzle toy, but it is so handy because he loves it, and it calms him and occupies him whenever we leave. Love this!" —LinmarpiePrice: $16.95 A nonskid slow-feeder bowl because your puppy may be known to scarf down the food a little too fast and accidentally make themselves sick. Promising review: "Our Zoey was a fast eater. By fast, I mean her food was gone in less than a minute. As she aged, we noticed her vomiting and belching more, in part because she was eating so fast. Once we purchased this bowl, it forced her to slow down. It was perfect for our needs. She is enjoying her food, has stopped belching after eating, and we have not had any vomiting issues." —RobynPrice: $5.52+ (originally $9.99+, available in two sizes) A package of Greenies Pill Pocket treats so giving your dog their meds doesn't have to be a traumatic experience for either of you. I give these to my Chiweenie, and she loves them! A lot of reviewers compliment these pill pockets for picky dogs and cats that haven't responded as well to other brands. Promising review: "Two of my dogs require medication on a daily basis. There is no way I can manually try to force these meds. I tried another reputable brand of pill pockets, and they worked for a couple of days until my dogs realized that there were pills in them, so I decided to try Greenies Pill Pockets. First of all, the consistency of the pocket was easy to form over the pill. Then came the test of flavor. My dogs love breakfast and dinnertime now that they get the Greenie treat. They don't even blink. I love these!" —CiscoPrice: $8.96+ (available in four flavors, four quantities, and two capsule sizes) A hip health and joint-function supplement fortified with glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM if your doggy has arthritis and needs a little pain relief. Promising review: "My almost 6-year-old longhaired dachshund has had mild arthritis since she was a baby. I noticed she was having difficulty ambulating. She could no longer go upstairs with me, nor could she step up/off small curbs while walking. I knew this product worked in humans and thought I would try it with my pup. Wow! In one week, she's climbing stairs, jumping on/off curbs, and able to walk further. I give her two soft chews, and they work beautifully. Very affordable at Chewy. I will continue to keep my baby on this product." —MinniePrice: $17.83+ (originally $23.90, available in two styles and four quantities) A practically indestructible Kong chew toy you can fill with your dog's favorite treat so they can get all their energy out and enjoy a lil' snack at the same time. Promising review: "Being on the market like forever just might be the proof dog owners need to actually buy this toy. It comes in all dog sizes and has a lot of potential. For my rescue dog, it doesn't need to be stuffed with treats or peanut butter (too fattening). She loves it for the erratic bouncing action. A regular ball bores the heck out of her. Plus, she's exercising more muscle groups, trying to grab a hold of it. And the Kong is about as indestructible as they come. Buy it once and wait 'til the end of days before it wears out." —StephenPrice: $7.99+ (originally $8.99, available in six sizes) A level-two difficulty Hide N Slide puzzle perfect for the pup who has little to no experience with puzzles. This is a great way to introduce your dog to the world of puzzling! Promising review: "Love this! You put either kibble or bits of treats in the holes and slide over the cover. It gives my dog a challenge to find and eat the treat, and it takes her a bit of time to get all the holes emptied, yet it is very doable for them to figure it out. They move the slider cover with their nose, and I like the stimulation it gives them." —Nora Price: $17.94 (originally $24.99, available in two colors) A fleece pet carrier bag with mesh panels and a spring wire frame that's approved by most airlines so your companion can travel in comfort. I have one of these for my dog, and she loves cuddling in it even when we're not traveling! It also works great for transporting other small pets, like hedgehogs, chinchillas, and bearded dragons!Promising review: "Such an improvement over the large plastic carriers I used to use. Both my cats love these bags and will hang out in them and nap in them if I leave them out after a trip. I think they're just the right size for them to feel cozy and safe. The two entry points are really handy, too. I love that they fold flat for storage, too, since my apartment is pretty small. Would highly recommend!" —KatePrice: $47.99+ (originally $143.99+, available in two sizes) A flavored tooth-cleaning chew toy if your dog has stinky breath and you want to trick them into taking care of their own teeth, so you don't have to brush them yourself. Promising review: "My dog has been chewing on the Hartz dog bones that are bacon flavored for the last five years and has perfect teeth. Stopped her from chewing on my shoes when she was younger, too. Still keeps her busy at 7 years old. :) " —Glucas1211Price: $3.47+ (available in four sizes and assorted colors chosen by Chewy) A set of carpeted pet stairs because some of the shorter doggies may have trouble getting up and down off the couch or bed. Promising review: "I bought this step for one of our cats who can no longer jump up on the bed due to age, and it works like a charm. He took to it right away and is one happy kitty! These steps are well constructed and sturdy." —ShaundaPrice: $59.99 (available in two colors) A silicone food bowl mat for the furry friend who makes a huge mess anytime they eat, and you want to make cleanup a little easier. Promising review: "Both of my cats like to pick up their wet food nuggets and drop them several inches away from the bowl before picking them back up and eating them. I tried wider bowls to relieve whisker tension, but they still dragged the moist morsels away like it was freshly snagged prey. This mat is large enough that they can't drag it too far away and get my floors messy. Perfect solution. I don't put it in the dishwasher, but clean up is still super easy with a soapy paper towel, then quick rinse." —DaniPrice: $13.99+ (available in two sizes and two colors) A container of calming chicken-flavored hemp treats that are perfect for the doggy who gets panicked when traveling or during thunderstorms. Promising review: "My Great Dane calms down and remains calm to the point of falling asleep. One piece does the trick with her, but two really knock her out. She is just over 100 pounds. You get a lot of treats in one container, so don't balk at the price. Yes, sometimes thunder or the garbage truck makes her bark or wake, but she rarely even gets off the couch if she has had one or two of these. Worth every penny in my book." —MJBoyer8118Price: $32.99+ (available in three sizes and two flavors) A Zesty Paws Itch-Soother dog shampoo packed with aloe vera, oatmeal, and vitamin E to help your pooch with dry, flaky skin. Promising review: "We used to use a popular name brand for our dog's shampoo. She never had any skin issues until last winter, when she got super flaky. We switched her to this shampoo and started giving her skin vitamins. This shampoo really helps moisturize her skin without leaving a weird odor, and a little goes a long way during bath time. It was definitely a great purchase!" —mm13Price: $15.47 (also available in a two-pack) A volcano and dinosaur hide-and-seek toy your pup will have so much fun taking apart. Plus, it's also a squeaky toy, so they will have the added bonus of auditory stimulation. Promising review: "My dog loves these toys, and he was thrilled. He just kept pulling out dinosaur after dinosaur! Six of them, and all of them decently sized. This really is a great value, and the toys are very well made and adorable." —TaylorPrice: $14.99 A West Paw chew toy made of a special nontoxic Zogoflex material — that is BPA-, phthalate-, and latex-free — your dog will love chewing on, and that won't damage their teeth like some plastic chew toys might. Promising review: "I have five dogs. One is a pit mix who destroys all chew toys in the house and has broken teeth on toys that were too hard (more money spent at the vet). My others don't get their chewing needs met because other toys are either destroyed so quickly or removed to protect my busy pit, but THESE toys last months. They are not so hard to hurt my strong chewer's teeth, and all my dogs love them! My pups stay occupied for hours on end with these. I ordered five large and my home became the happiest home on the planet. Definitely worth the money. Also, both Chewy and West Paw have such EXCELLENT customer service that you can't go wrong. Thank you, Chewy!" —SharlsPrice: $12.95+ (available in three sizes) A Furminator pet hair deshedding brush to help your doggo get rid of excess hair that may be overheating them in the summertime weather. Plus, you'll be able to see your couch again since it won't be covered in hair anymore! Promising review: "I am so amazed with this brush! I have tried several brushes and the bristles always end up breaking and they never get deep down to the undercoat. However, this brush is sturdy and no broken pieces after several uses! I love that there is a fur release button to get the stubborn hairs out of the brush. My dog gets so excited when it's time to get brushed and he was like a brand-new dog after using this for the first time!" —NicolePrice: $31.85+ (originally $37.49+; available in three sizes and colors) An elevated bed so your puppy can have the perfect spot to lounge outside beside you while you're enjoying your favorite book in the sunshine. Promising review: "My dog loves her new bed and so do I. She sleeps in it all day long. It keeps her cooler than any of the other beds she has had. She sleeps on it with her blankets, no problem. No more laying on the hard floor to keep herself cool. With this bed, she stays cool and comfortable." —4dogsPrice: $16.99+ (available in three sizes and four colors) A natural paw balm because you want to protect those precious toe beans from hot summer asphalt and harsh salt in the winter. Promising review: "We live in a condominium complex that hires snow plowers to do our parking lots and sidewalks. Unfortunately, they salted everything heavily once the initial plowing was finished. Every dog we've had in the 28 years we've lived here starts out their walks so frisky and happy, and five minutes into it, they're lifting paws and stopping due to the salt, which super-cools the ice, and consequently their poor little paws. One of my friends found this product and used it every winter with her dog, and always said how effective it was. So I thought I would buy a tin and try it. Yup! It's like magic! I work a small amount on each pad and in between her toes, and we're good to go! It's a reasonably priced product, and I highly recommend trying it!" —MaryPrice: $15.99+ (originally $16.99+, available in three sizes) A package of presoaked tear stain wipes to gently clean away your pup's eye goop. These are especially great for dogs with white fur, where you can clearly see the stains. Promising review: "I'm very impressed with these pads. A dog who was staying with me for a few weeks arrived with very matted, crusty eyes. I ordered and received the eye pads, used them 2x daily, and they cleared up! She loved it!" —AngelPrice: $11 (originally $12.99) An adorable raincoat if it feels like pulling teeth to get your pup to go outside when it's raining. Plus, now you won't have to towel dry them after a walk in a storm. Promising review: "So cute, and great functionally! Kept my dog dry during our last walk through heavy rain. The hood is a bit bigger than my dog needs; it falls into her eyes sometimes, but it's an easily solved problem and works wonderfully otherwise!" —JackyPrice: $12.99+ (available in seven sizes, two colors, and with or without a personalization option) An LED light-up collar so your pup can remain visible while it's dark out for extra safety. And who doesn't love a puppy rave moment?? Promising review: "These things are so bright, they're amazing. Our dogs run loose, supervised, around our property, and you can see the dogs from hundreds of feet away. Three dogs, three different colors, it's so easy to keep track of them and know when to call them back if they get too far. We only use them when we are walking our property with the dogs, but we go out quite a few times before I recharge them." —JustinPrice: $18.99+ (originally $24.99, available in four sizes and seven colors) A variety pack of dental chews in fun shapes so your doggy can enjoy a yummy chewy experience while also getting their teeth sneakily cleaned. Promising review: "My bulldog didn't want me brushing her teeth. The vet said to try these. Now I say 'whimsey,' and my dog runs to get one! She gets one a day and loves them! And she has great teeth! I am SO happy to have found these!!!!" —ChelseaPrice: $34.77+ (originally $38.99+, available in two sizes) And finally, a big package of freeze-dried beef liver treats your pup will absolutely go gah-gah over. My dog's vet has these, and it makes her actually enjoy going to the vet. Promising review: "At first, Willow wasn't quite sure about these freeze-dried beef liver treats. The texture gave her a moment of 'paws' (pun intended). But once she took that first crunchy bite, it was game over — she's absolutely hooked! Now, these treats are her go-to favorite. She'll sit, stay, and maybe even do a backflip if it means getting one. The 14-ounce tub is the perfect size to keep her tail wagging without running out too soon. If your pup needs a high-value treat to bring out their inner superstar, these are a must-try! Willow gives them two paws up!" —KathyPrice: $4.99+ (originally $5.99+; available in five sizes and in a pack of two)
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
'You can't find better people than Stokies'
Stoke-on-Trent has been marking its 100th birthday this week, after King George V declared it a city on 5 June 1925. As part of the celebrations, BBC Radio Stoke is gathering residents' stories and asking them to sign a giant oatcake card. These "Stokie stories" will be displayed in an exhibition later this year at the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Hanley. Here are some of the Stokies who have spoken to us so far. Laura Price studied in London for two years and was so "terribly homesick" she couldn't wait to get back. "I absolutely hated it - the people weren't like Stokies, I missed Stoke." Laura says she particularly missed her hometown's friendly and chatty atmosphere. "You can't go into a shop in Stoke without [getting to know] the cashier's life story." "Just the craic, the laugh – you can't find better people than you can in Stoke-on-Trent." Laura, who returned after studying complementary therapies and beauty therapy, now works in the city and lives with her husband and daughter. Harji Kaur, who teaches Bollywood and Bhangra dance classes, says she feels "blessed" that people come to her sessions and enjoy themselves. "I am really grateful and thankful to the community," she says. "I am from a different country, from a different language, but still they accept me the way I am." Harji adds that she has psoriasis which has affected her bones, meaning that she is often in pain before a session starts. "[But] when I come to this class, when I see people come to me and they trust me, I just forget my pain," she says. Sue Smith moved to Stoke nine years ago with her husband Barry, after closing her eyes and pointing randomly to a place on a map of England. "As soon as we got here, I loved it," she says. Sue says her approach to life is to "try anything once" - she did a parachute jump when she was 18 and emigrated to Canada when she was 21. She returned to the UK in her 50s and met Barry. He died last year and Sue says losing him has been "the most horrendous thing". "We met in later life and we had lots of things planned," she says. "I really wish I'd met Barry when I was younger, but I didn't, and I had 14 wonderful years with him so it was magic." Moonii Jawadin was told he might die within a fortnight due to an aggressive type of leukaemia. "It was just a shock - being told you've got two weeks to live," he said. At one point during his illness, he was in an induced coma at Royal Stoke Hospital and his loved ones came to "say goodbye to me". "My sister was my donor and she saved my life. She's my hero - she can ask for anything and I'll get it [for] her," he says. "I wake up every day [now] knowing I can breathe, I can walk - these are all blessings that we take for granted," he says. Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. 'This city accepts me as I am' - Stoke-on-Trent celebrates being 100 Events to celebrate city's 100th anniversary Giant oatcake and stories to mark city at 100 Stoke-on-Trent City Council
