Lacrosse Alpha Deck Boots the Boss

I have been wearing a pair of popular brand, gingham-patterned rubber boots, ankle high, for years. I bought them at least 9 years ago to match my granddaughter's gingham boots, made by the same company. When Lacrosse reached out to me with an offer to review the new Alpha deck boots in Timberwolf/camo, I jumped at the chance, and looked forward to trying them.

I have not been disappointed. I received the boots shortly after saying yes, and slipped them on – noticing how much more cushy they are than the worn-out gingham numbers I've been clomping around in these days. 

I have worn the Alpha deck boots on short hikes in the woods, on antler hunts and while running errands. I find myself slipping them on to run outside to the greenhouse or to take a load of kitchen refuse to the composter. They have become my go-to boots and now, I may have to take a picture of the gingham boots and relegate that footwear to a thrift store, or to a dumpster.

Meanwhile, here's what I like about these boots:

• Constructed from premium rubber overlaid on insulating neoprene, which makes them waterproof





• Lined with a quick-drying mesh, which means my feet don't get super sweaty 





• Alpha fit means they come in half sizes, too, for a more accurate fit





• Kick-off heel plate, so you don't need a boot jack to do the job





• Foredeck outsole is slip-resistant, and as Lacrosse states, it's  "designed to provide traction in the wettest environments" 





• 6-inch height





• 2.3 pounds 





• Easy to slip on and slip off, includes a pull tab on back of each boot, too





• Recommended for temperatures between 30 and 80 degrees; non-insulated

The Alpha deck boot by Lacrosse comes in five funky colors/patterns, including Mossy Oak Original Bottomland, Sagebrush, Wild Dove, Sea Spray and my boots, the Timberwolf/camo. I'm liking all of the colors, and may just have to order another pair to sit by another door. Women's sizes run from 5 to 11. MSRP: $120

Source: Lacrosse Alpha Deck Boots the Boss

Planet Fitness Is Offering Free HydroMassages To Help Destress This Tax Season

Submitting our income tax information is not the way that most of us would like to spend our free time, but once you've completed the process, Planet Fitness hopes you'll forget the financial stuff and favor a free massage and full body workout. Here's what you need to know.

Through to Saturday, April 19, the gym chain is taking the terror out of Tax Day by offering an absolutely free HydroMassage to members and non-members alike. Subject to availability, you can redeem this offer at one of Planet Fitness's 2,700-plus locations nationwide, with no strings (or hidden taxes) attached!

As a regular amenity for Planet Fitness "Black Card® members, HydroMassage offers a relaxing experience that can be used before or after a workout to relieve tight muscles or cool them down. The bed's jets move up and down the body, delivering wave-like streams of heated water. Users can target specific areas, adjust the pressure, control the speed, and even pause on a desired section of the body for a personalized massage experience.

How To Get Your Free Planet Fitness HydroMassage

To receive your free session, visit your local Planet Fitness gym quoting this offer. "Tax season can be stressful, and we want to take some of that added pressure away by offering Planet Fitness members and non-members nationwide the chance to relax and rejuvenate with a complimentary HydroMassage," says Brian Povinelli, who is the Chief Marketing Officer at Planet Fitness. "Our Judgement Free environment is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the soothing benefits of a well-deserved massage during an often-dreaded time of year. We look forward to welcoming new faces and current members during the week." (source of quotes and additional info – https://www.planetfitness.com/newsroom/press-releases/relax-and-destress-this-tax-season-with-a-free-hydromassage-r-at-planet )

If you are finding that your taxes are becoming a pain in the neck, then "HydroMassage offers a great solution for muscle soreness and fatigue," says Paul Lunter, who is the CEO of WellnessSpace Brands. While the offer is open to non-members, there are a range of benefits to be had with the PF Black Card including the ability to bring a guest every day at no additional charge and access to the Black Card Spa® where you can find the HydroMassage and other wellness services. The company also touts that every Planet Fitness membership includes free fitness training with a certified fitness trainer and access to strength and brand-name cardio equipment as well as the free Planet Fitness App, featuring hundreds of on-demand digital exercises. PF say that the balanced mix of strength and cardio equipment ensures members of all fitness levels have everything they need to meet their fitness goals all in a comfortable, non-intimidating environment. Many Planet Fitness clubs are open 24-hours-per-day, for added convenience. Plus, all members have access to exclusive deals and discounts from top brands through its PF Perks program.

"Tax Relief" Planet Fitness Workout

To complement your relaxation experience, Planet Fitness has also created a special "Tax Relief Workout" designed to release tension and boost your spirits. Give it a try!

• Tax Return Squat & Twist: Start with feet hip width apart, lower into a squat, then drive up through your heels into a trunk rotation that'll help you twist away tax stress.


• Refund Reach & March: Step out with one foot, reach high like you're grabbing that tax refund, then celebrate with high-knee marches that'll get your heart pumping.


• Audit-Dodging Jacks & Jabs: Perform 4 Jumping Jacks, then transition to Plyo Jabs—jumping forward while throwing punches that knock out financial stress.


• Deadline Lunge & Kick: Step back into a deep lunge, then power up into a front kick to boot away tax anxiety. Your stress doesn't stand a chance!


• Extension Side Lunge & Knee Tuck: Move laterally into a side lunge, then drive up bringing your knee to chest—perfect for when you need that filing extension.


• W-2 Bicycle Crunch & Skyrocket Jacks: Perform standing bicycle crunches to crunch those numbers, then transition to Plyo Jacks raising your hands to the sky.

Note: you must be 18+ to redeem the free massage.

To locate the nearest Planet Fitness club and treat yourself to a HydroMassage from April 12 through April 19, click here.

Source: Planet Fitness Is Offering Free HydroMassages To Help Destress This Tax Season

Dietitians Fact Check 5 Claims Made About Seed Oils

If you've spent any time on health and wellness TikTok or Instagram, you've probably heard people warning you to toss your seed oils immediately—or else. 

Influencers claim they're toxic, inflammatory, and even to blame for . But is there any science behind the fear mongering? 

We asked dietitians to fact-check some of the most viral claims about seed oils and help you make informed choices.

Claim #1: Seed Oils Are "Toxic" and Cause Inflammation

You might have heard that seed oils—like sunflower, soybean, safflower, or corn oil—are harmful because they're full of "toxins" that cause inflammation. But according to MyFitnessPal dietitian Brookell White, this idea doesn't hold up.

"Seed oils are getting a bad rap," she says. "They're high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats, which are actually essential—we need them for brain development, metabolism, and overall growth (1)."

While it's true that omega-6 fats can lead to the formation of arachidonic acid, a compound linked to inflammation, your body only converts a small amount. In fact, studies show that diets high in omega-6 fatty acids can help lower cholesterol and improve heart health (5) .

What's more likely to drive inflammation? Ultra-processed foods that happen to contain seed oils, along with added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat. "There's strong evidence that reducing ultra-processed food supports better health," says White (2). "But that doesn't mean seed oils used in home cooking or whole foods are the problem."

Claim #2: Seed Oils Were Invented as Industrial Products

Yes, this family of oils has industrial uses. But that doesn't mean they don't belong in your kitchen.

White explains that seed oils were originally extracted using a mechanical screw press, an innovation from the 1880s that made oil production more efficient (6). 

Today, these oils are used not only in food, but also in eco-friendly products like soaps and cosmetics. That's not a red flag—it's actually a benefit for sustainability (7).

What about chemical processing? Some people worry about the use of solvents like hexane during refining. But White emphasizes that any residue in the final oil is minimal and regulated. 

The bigger issue, she says, is what happens when seed oils are overheated and reused repeatedly (ahem, like in deep fryers at restaurants) because that can lead to oxidation and harmful compounds (5).

Claim #3: Seed Oils Are Responsible for the Rise in Obesity

This one sounds simple, but the truth is far more complicated.

"While seed oils are often blamed for rising obesity rates, other factors likely play a bigger role," says Lauren Cuda, a dietitian with MyFitnessPal. "Diets high in ultra-processed foods—many of which contain seed oils—are associated with poor health outcomes, but not just because of the oils. These foods are also high in calories, added sugars, and low in fiber and nutrients (8)."

In other words, it's not the canola oil in your homemade vinaigrette. The problem is the combination of low-nutrient, high-calorie packaged foods that may contribute to weight gain. 

When people reduce seed oils, it's often part of a broader dietary change that includes eating fewer processed foods. That's what drives the weight loss results people sometimes get from eliminating seed oils. It's not cutting oils alone that does the trick.

Claim #4: Seed Oils Are Full of "Oxidized" Fats That Destroy Your Cells

Seed oils contain polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), which can be sensitive to heat, light, and air. But that doesn't mean they're destroying your cells (9), (3).

"The idea that seed oils are harmful because of oxidation is misleading," says MyFitnessPal dietitian Katherine Basbaum. "They also contain antioxidants like vitamin E, which help prevent oxidative stress in the body. In fact, eating these oils in appropriate amounts may actually help protect your cells," she adds (10).

Basbaum recommends keeping your oils in a cool, dark place. And when cooking, don't heat them beyond their smoke point. But used properly, these oils don't pose the oxidative risk some online voices suggest (11).

Claim #5: Fats Like Butter, Ghee, Beef Tallow, or Coconut Oil Are Always Healthier

This claim often comes with the idea that "natural" fats are better than "processed" ones. But when it comes to your heart health, saturated fat content matters more than social media trends.

"Fats like butter, ghee, beef tallow, and coconut oil are all high in saturated fat," says Basbaum. "And excess saturated fat has been linked to increased risk of heart disease and higher mortality (12)."

On the other hand,  unsaturated fats—like those found in olive, avocado, and canola oil—have been shown to decrease heart disease risk (13). 

That doesn't mean you can never cook with butter or enjoy coconut oil in a recipe. But making unsaturated fats your default choice for daily cooking supports long-term health.

And remember: no single ingredient makes or breaks your diet. "Health is about your overall eating pattern," Basbaum says. "That means aiming for more fiber, fruits, and veggies, and less added sugar, sodium, and saturated fat—while still enjoying the foods you love."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Bottom Line

These oils may be a social media scapegoat, but the science tells a different story. They're a source of essential fats your body needs and aren't inherently harmful. The real health risks come from ultra-processed foods—not the oils themselves. 

While it's smart to be mindful of how you store and cook with oils, there's no need to fear seed oils in your salad dressing or stir-fry. Instead of falling for viral nutrition myths, focus on your overall dietary pattern: more whole foods, fewer ultra-processed ones, and a balanced mix of healthy fats.

Wondering how much fat you’re really eating? Download the MyFitnessPal app to track stay on top of your nutrition and make progress toward your health goals.

The post Dietitians Fact Check 5 Claims Made About Seed Oils appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Source: Dietitians Fact Check 5 Claims Made About Seed Oils

Princess Kate is a royal rock star who needs protecting – I know how her team could have stopped the crazy conspiracies

"THEY'RE saying that video isn't Kate," read the text from a very intelligent, media-savvy friend of mine in America. "Is she dead? Be honest!"

I didn't know whether to laugh, cry or bang my head against a concrete wall.

The Sun / TMZ

Kate and husband William during a trip to a farm shop in Windsor on Saturday[/caption]

The Sun / TMZ

Kate looked relaxed as she strolled carrying her own shopping[/caption]

Not least because this just was one of literally dozens of similar messages I've received from mates all over the world during the past few weeks as the conspiracy theory mayhem surrounding the Princess of Wales has reached fever pitch.

I've had major pop stars demanding to know whether the theories are true, experienced political figures sidling up to me at parties whispering completely bonkers royal rumours and my family WhatsApp group chat exploding with such febrile, eye-popping claims that I'm only surprised my phone hasn't caught fire.

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Watch Piers’ explosive interviews on his Uncensored YouTube channel here

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"No, she's not dead," I replied to my American friend, "and yes, that is her in the video."

But these two definitive, incontestably factual statements did nothing to allay my friend's concerns.

And it was at that point I realised nothing would, short of Kate appearing on Piers Morgan Uncensored clutching a verifiable DNA test result to prove she is who she says she is. (For the record, Ma'am, as your humble and obedient servant, I'm available to perform such a selfless duty to my country . . . )

Kate's a crown jewel that must be protected

Even then, I fear my friend would remain unconvinced, and social media would erupt with a collective wail of "LIARS!"

But weird though this global outbreak of insanity is, it also confirms to me what I've thought for some time: Kate Middleton is now the biggest star in the Royal Family and has become a crown jewel who must be protected at all costs.

I haven't seen this level of hysteria since Princess Diana was alive, and we all know how that tragically ended.

A new YouGov/Sky News poll shows that Kate's the most trusted royal, and so far ahead of the ever-more-unpopular Meghan and Harry that the Sussexes would need a telescope to see how further up the trust chart she is than them.

And it's not difficult to see why; she is the epitome of a perfect princess, barely putting a regal foot wrong and conducting her public duties with remarkable poise, elegance and grace.

The poll highlighted that women especially love her, and that's why this latest crisis has hit them so hard; Kate's army of female fans are genuinely very worried about their favourite royal, desperate for details of how she is, and have grown increasingly susceptible to all the conspiracy nonsense when those details haven't been forthcoming.

Palace made the issue worse

While two-thirds of Brits think the royals got the balance of information release about right with King Charles's illness, far fewer said the same for Kate's and a third of those polled don't think the Palace disclosed enough.

I understand the Princess's desire to keep her health issue secret, as any woman would, and her strong-willed husband's even greater desire to stop the media finding out, but by not saying anything, they've made the scrutiny and rumour-mongering a million times worse.

As with the Mother's Day edited photo fiasco, transparency in this modern era of unregulated social media platforms such as X is always going to be better than suppression.

The good old days of "never complain, never explain" worked when there was no social media. It won't work now, as we've seen.

If I was working in those Palace press offices, my constant mantra to the royals would be this: Get the real news out there to stop the fake news spreading or reap the unfortunate consequences.

To those who say, "but they're entitled to their privacy!", I would simply say this: Of course they are, but being a senior working member of the Royal Family is a public job paid for with taxpayer money.

It brings great perks — the palaces, servants, trinkets and adulation.

But it also carries with it great responsibilities and accountability.

Media attitude has changed

It's important to note that since Diana died, the royals have enjoyed massively enhanced levels of privacy.

Even her brother Earl Spencer, who made that media-excoriating address at her funeral, has suggested as much during interviews for his new book.

It may not seem like it, but it's much easier to be a royal these days.

The British media largely doesn't take or publish intrusive photos or footage of them any more, and the current royal children are considered totally off limits in a way that never applied to their predecessors.

When a paparazzi picture of Kate in her mum's car on the school run two weeks ago was published in America, nobody in Britain used it.

But recent events have shown the media/royal game has irrevocably changed, and the Palace needs to change with it.

All the crazy conspiracy stuff could have been avoided if they had said from the start exactly what Kate's health issue is, and her press team should have persuaded her to agree.

That may not be "fair" on Kate but what part of the insanely intrusive onslaught she has received for not sharing the information has been "fair"?

Just as all the fallout from the Mother's Day photo could have been prevented if the Palace had checked with Kate if she had done any editing when she sent it over to them. The fact they didn't do that when the picture was supposed to quash conspiracy theories is mind-boggling to me.

The royals' biggest star needs better protection, and as she prepares to re-enter public life, that needs to start right now.

Kensington Palace

Kate’s edited Mother’s Day photo sparked even more conspiracy theories[/caption]
Source: Princess Kate is a royal rock star who needs protecting – I know how her team could have stopped the crazy conspiracies

JFK files: Five biggest bombshells revealed as Trump declassifies 80,000 documents



A trove of documents released relating to the assassination of JFK has provided a glimpse into the events before and after the killing of the US President.


Source: JFK files: Five biggest bombshells revealed as Trump declassifies 80,000 documents

The Key to Sounding Good on a Diaphragm Turkey Call

Every archery turkey hunter should master the diaphragm call because it allows the hunter to manipulate the turkey and have both hands free to draw a bow or raise a crossbow.  Eddie Salter is a champion turkey caller many times over and is so successful that he has accrued the nickname “The Turkey Man.”  Box and slate callers are ideal for locating and drawing a turkey closer to your blind or setup, yet once the bird enters sight distance, using them becomes problematic.

Practice in the Truck

As a young man, I tried using a diaphragm caller but gagged constantly.  I had a dentist make an impression of my teeth and sent that off to a dentist in Texas who made a diaphragm holder to fit my mouth.  Ironically, that device taught me that I was putting the diaphragm in my mouth backward LOL.  Soon, I could switch to standard mouth calls for deer and elk.  Practicing at home can annoy others, so I often keep calls in my vehicle and practice on the way to work or a hunt.

Match the Cadence

I’ve had the good fortune to hunt with Eddie Salter on several occasions, and he stresses the importance of “give them what you get.”  Matching the cadence of a calling turkey is more important than matching the tone or pitch.  To call a gobbler with hens, it’s often best to call the hens so that the gobbler tags along.  If the lead hen makes five yelps, you should make five.  If it’s a fly-down situation where the dominant hen calls repeatedly, match the same cadence it uses.

Here’s The Turkey Man

Source: The Key to Sounding Good on a Diaphragm Turkey Call

Turkey Calling Contest 2025: Brent vs. Bear

Turkey season is here, folks, and it's time for the MeatEater Crew to strut their stuff and see who is the best turkey-talker of the bunch. Over the next week, crew members will be facing off head-to-head in three rounds: best turkey call sequence, owl hoot, and turkey gobble—and you get to pick who wins.

The winner of the contest will get to donate $500 to the National Wild Turkey Federation in their name. Watch the videos and cast your vote below to select who you think should make it to the next round. Don't delay—voting will only be open for 24 hours!

We'll also be giving away a MeatEater X Phelps Slate Over Glass Turkey Pot Call along with a Moultrie Edge 2 Cell Cam every day this week! To enter to win, tell us what you think of our calling in the comment section.

It's round two, and surprise, surprise, the Southern fellas made it. We've got old school versus new school in this round—Bear takes on Brent. Who has the better turkey calling chops? Let us know below!

Note: Votes will not be counted in the comment section, so please use the voting box below to vote for your favorite caller. Likewise, voting alone won't enter you for a chance to win a prize, so make sure you leave a comment!

To view the entire contest, click here.

Source: Turkey Calling Contest 2025: Brent vs. Bear