The NCP Blog

Paw-ty Time: National Dog Day

Paw-ty Time: National Dog Day

Every year on August 26th, dog lovers across the country come together to celebrate National Dog Day; a day dedicated to honoring our furry companions and recognizing the countless ways they enrich our lives. From loyal best friends who greet us at the door, to hardworking service dogs who provide safety and support, dogs play extraordinary roles in our world. National Dog Day also shines a light on …

How Hobbies Enrich Daily Life

How Hobbies Enrich Daily Life

Do you have any hobbies? They’re more than just a way to pass time: hobbies are activities that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment outside of your daily responsibilities. Some people pursue hobbies to learn new skills, while others find ways to express their creativity. Many people enjoy hobbies for the fun and stress relief they provide. From reading, cooking, and gardening to crafting, DIY projects, or gaming, hobbies …

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Wyoming

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Wyoming

We’ve reached the end of our Spotlight on States series! Today we’re featuring the final state: Wyoming.

Wyoming is a landlocked state in the western United States, bordered by Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. It’s the tenth largest state in area, but with a population of 587,618 as of 2024, it is the least populous state. It has the second-lowest population density after Alaska. Wyoming’s …

The Inside Scoop on Ice Cream

The Inside Scoop on Ice Cream

Ice cream is a popular treat year-round, but there’s something about the blazing heat of summer that makes it feel almost like an essential treat, and a refreshing way to cool off.

For many of us, the familiar jingle of an ice cream truck instantly brings us back to our childhood and those warm summer evenings spent racing down the block, money in hand, full of excitement.

Whether …

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Wisconsin

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Wisconsin

Wisconsin was the 30th state to join the union on May 29, 1848. Madison is the state capital and Milwaukee is its largest city. Wisconsin is bordered by Minnesota, Michigan, Iowa, and Illinois and is the 23rd largest state.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the estimated population of Wisconsin is 5,960,975 (July 2024 est.); it ranks as the 20th most populous state.

Official Wisconsin State Facts and

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in West Virginia

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in West Virginia

Up next in our Spotlight on States series: West Virginia!

West Virginia is a mountainous state in the southern and mid-Atlantic region of the country. It was admitted to the Union on June 20, 1863, as the 35th state. West Virginia was formed during the Civil War from western counties of Virginia that were loyal to the Union. The state is bordered by Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, and …

Power Up With Protein

Power Up With Protein

As a National Consumer Panel member, you’re not just shopping — you’re shaping the future of the products on store shelves. But while you’re scanning and earning rewards, have you ever thought about what’s fueling you? One powerhouse nutrient that deserves a closer look is protein.

In this post, I’ll share some reasons why you should consider eating more protein, as well as some easy ways …

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Washington

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Washington

Washington was the 42nd state to join the union on November 11, 1889. Olympia is the state capital and Seattle is its largest city. Washington is bordered by Idaho and Oregon and is the 18th largest state.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the estimated population of Washington is 7,958,180 (July 2024 est.); it ranks as the 13th most populous state.

Official Washington State Facts and Symbols

Every …

Pickles, Please!

Pickles, Please!

This past weekend, I visited a couple of farmer’s markets on a mission: pickles! And guess what? I found them! I just love the wide variety offered by the pickle vendors. One of the best parts of buying from a vendor is being able to buy individual pickles, so I can try a new flavor without committing to a whole container (pickle-on-a-stick, anyone?). While I’m a fan of …

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Virginia

NCP Spotlight: Panel Members in Virginia

Up next in our Spotlight on States series: Virginia!

The first permanent English settlement in America was established at Jamestown in 1607. Virginia became a colony in 1624 and entered the Union as the tenth state on June 25, 1788. The state was named for Queen Elizabeth I of England, known as the “Virgin Queen.” It is one of four states, along with Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, to …

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Meow Is the Time: Celebrate National Cat Day!

Meow Is the Time: Celebrate National Cat Day!

Every year on October 29th, cat lovers celebrate National Cat Day. It’s the purrfect day to give extra attention, treats, and appreciation to the independent felines who grace our lives.

National Cat Day also serves as a day to bring awareness to adoption from local shelters and reminds us that neutering and spaying helps reduce the abandoned population.

The day was founded by pet & family lifestyle expert, …

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Halloween Candy Reimagined: Sweet Treats and Thoughtful Alternatives

Halloween Candy Reimagined: Sweet Treats and Thoughtful Alternatives

Happy Halloween week! Halloween is one of my family’s most anticipated holidays — a time for costumes, creativity, and, of course, treats. My kids have always loved dressing up in costume, and, well… so do I!

For many families, trick-or-treating is the highlight of the season, and candy aisles across the country transform into a colorful display each October. But how did this beloved tradition begin, and how …

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