family fun
LEGO Unveils Free Creativity Workshops for Young Builders
Unleashing Creativity and Imagination with LEGO’s Latest Workshop Series for Kids
ENFIELD, Conn. — The LEGO Group has announced an exciting continuation of its celebrated series of free in-store and online interactive creativity workshops. This initiative, known as “Play Unstoppable,” is specially designed to spark the imaginations of young creators aged 6-12. The latest chapter in this innovative series focuses on the power of Imagination and “DREAMZzz,” offering a variety of hands-on, playful learning experiences.
Dual Opportunities to Explore Creativity
LEGO fans can choose between two engaging formats to participate in these creative fests:
- In-store Creativity Workshops: Scheduled for August 17 and 18 at select LEGO Store locations throughout North America, these sessions promise a dynamic environment where children can engage in a spin-the-wheel game to decide what they’ll build. Whether it be a quirky animal, a dream house, or a fantastical vehicle, LEGO store associates are ready to guide each builder through their creative journey. Due to limited space, advance booking at LEGO.com/CreativityWorkshops is required, ensuring a personalized and immersive building experience.
- Creativity at Home – Online Workshops: For those who prefer the comfort of their home, LEGO has lined up Amy Jones (aka @studiojonesie), a renowned artist and illustrator, to lead virtual workshops. Participants will learn how to construct decorative and functional LEGO items such as vases, memory boxes, and artwork, enhancing their living spaces with a touch of LEGO charm. These sessions are accessible via LEGO’s dedicated workshop webpage.
A Commitment to Empowering Young Minds
These workshops are integral to LEGO’s longstanding commitment to nurturing creativity and confidence in young girls and boys alike. By rotating themes that include Entertainment, Space, Gaming, and now Imagination and DREAMZzz, LEGO continues to cater to diverse interests and inspire participants to explore boundless creative possibilities.
Star-studded Guidance
The Online Creativity Workshops feature a lineup of influential creators, including Dianne Buswell, known for her electrifying dance moves; Alexandra Doten, who brings a cosmic perspective as Astro Alexandra; and Kennedy, a gaming legend who guides attendees through the virtual realms of possibilities with LEGO.
Visit and Participate
To dive into this enriching LEGO experience, fans can now watch the online workshops or register for an upcoming in-store session. A list of participating stores in both the USA and Canada is available, covering a wide geographical area to ensure that many have the opportunity to join in the fun.
For more details about the workshops and to secure a spot in the nearest store, enthusiasts are encouraged to visit:
www.LEGO.com/CreativityWorkshops
About the LEGO Group
Founded in 1932 in Billund, Denmark, by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, the LEGO Group has grown from a small carpenter’s workshop to a global enterprise that is now one of the world’s major manufacturers of play materials. The LEGO name is derived from the two Danish words “LEg GOdt”, which mean “Play Well”. LEGO aims to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through creative play and learning. LEGO bricks are developed to provide fun and learning to children all over the world, and LEGO sets are sold in over 130 countries.
SOURCE The LEGO Group
LEGO: Inspire and Develop the Builders of Tomorrow
With each brick laid and every imagination sparked, LEGO continues to build a future where play is the foundation for creative problem-solving, innovation, and boundless creativity in children. We invite young builders to join us in these thrilling workshops to explore, learn, and nurture their creative spirits. Play well, dream big, and become unstoppable with LEGO!
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
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Last Updated on October 24, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Looking for a Halloween celebration that’s equal parts fun and wholesome? Natural Grocers is rolling out the orange carpet for families this October with their “Spooktacular” event—a free, family-friendly Halloween bash that proves treats don’t have to come with tricks (or questionable ingredients).
Mark Your Calendars: October 25
On Saturday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., participating Natural Grocers locations will transform into Halloween headquarters for kids and families. The nation’s largest family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer is pulling out all the stops with activities designed to delight little ghouls and goblins—without the sugar crash.
What’s Brewing at the Spooktacular Event?
The good4u® Crew has conjured up an impressive lineup of activities that’ll make this Saturday morning one to remember:
Limited-Edition Halloween Bags (and a Chance to Win Big)
Early birds get the worm—or in this case, a reusable Halloween bag. The first 200 customers at each location will snag a limited-edition tote, and here’s where it gets interesting: 20 lucky bags contain gift cards worth up to $50. It’s like trick-or-treating, but with better odds and no costume required.
Kids’ Treasure Hunt
Forget wandering the neighborhood in the dark. Kids can embark on an in-store treasure hunt, solving clues hidden throughout the aisles to discover healthy, spooky goodies. It’s part scavenger hunt, part nutrition education, and all fun.
Halloween Craft Station
Each participating store will host a craft table stocked with materials for kids to create festive Halloween-themed projects. Whether it’s decorating pumpkins or crafting paper bats, there’s something to spark every young artist’s imagination.
A Monster Mash-Up of Savings
The fun doesn’t stop at the event. Through October 25, Natural Grocers is offering “spooky-good” discounts across every department—perfect timing for stocking up on Halloween treats and fall favorites.
Snacks and Treats
Score deals on crowd-pleasers like Annie’s™ Organic Fruit Snacks, Quinn® Snacks Pretzels, Health-Ade Kombucha®, and Natural Grocers® Brand Beef Sticks. These are the treats parents can feel good about handing out—or keeping for themselves.
Bulk Savings
Natural Grocers Brand Bulk items are getting the discount treatment, including Organic Roasted Salted Sunflower Seeds and Organic Dark Chocolate Coconut. Stock up now and thank yourself later when holiday baking season hits.
Supplement Sale
Natural Grocers Brand Supplements are 25% off—a deal that’ll make even the most health-conscious vampires do a double-take. It’s the perfect opportunity to replenish your wellness arsenal before the holiday season kicks into high gear.
Recipes That’ll Make You Scream (With Delight)
Need inspiration for your Halloween spread? Natural Grocers has released a collection of festive recipes that balance fun with nutrition:
- Caramel Apples – A classic fall treat, elevated
- Cocoa Pear Chips – Crunchy, chocolatey, and surprisingly wholesome
- Vampire’s Pleasure Refresher – A blood-red beverage that’s actually good for you
- Bloody Zombie Mocktail – All the drama, none of the alcohol
- Thai-Inspired Pumpkin Curry – Because pumpkin deserves to be more than just pie
- Gluten-Free Spiderweb Brownies – Decadent dessert that accommodates dietary needs
These recipes prove that Halloween food can be both Instagram-worthy and nourishing—a rare combination in the world of seasonal celebrations.
Looking Ahead: Turkey Pre-Orders
Once the jack-o’-lanterns are composted and the costumes are packed away, Natural Grocers is already thinking about your Thanksgiving table. The retailer exclusively partners with Mary’s Free-Range Turkey® to offer humanely raised, high-quality poultry for the holiday season.
Customers can choose from eight turkey options and pre-order online or in-store. Here’s the kicker: {N}power Members who reserve their turkey by November 2 will receive a $5 reward, valid November 20-26. It’s the grocery equivalent of planning ahead and actually being rewarded for it.
The Natural Grocers Difference
Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers has built its reputation on uncompromising quality standards. Every grocery product must meet strict guidelines—no artificial flavors, preservatives, synthetic colors, or hydrogenated oils allowed. The company sells only USDA-certified organic produce, pasture-raised dairy products, and free-range eggs.
But what sets Natural Grocers apart isn’t just what they sell—it’s how they operate. The company is committed to its Five Founding Principles, including a “Commitment to Community” and “Commitment to Crew.” In fiscal year 2024 alone, they invested more than $15 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for employees.
With 168 stores across 21 states and headquarters in Lakewood, Colorado, Natural Grocers continues to prove that a smaller-store format can deliver big on affordability, quality, and community connection.
How to Join the Fun
Ready to experience the Spooktacular event? Visit www.naturalgrocers.com to find participating store locations near you. While you’re there, consider downloading the Natural Grocers App to unlock {N}power rewards and digital coupons, or subscribe to the good4u Health Hotline® for recipes, educational articles, and sale highlights.
This Halloween, skip the processed candy corn and mystery-ingredient treats. Instead, head to Natural Grocers for a celebration that’s genuinely good for your family—and your community. After all, the best treats are the ones that don’t come with a side of regret.
The Spooktacular event takes place Saturday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at participating Natural Grocers locations. Arrive early for the best selection of limited-edition bags and to avoid the midday rush. No purchase necessary—just bring your family and your Halloween spirit.
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Entertainment
Grande Lakes Orlando Transforms into a Winter Wonderland with New Ice Rink and Holiday Magic
Last Updated on October 20, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Orlando’s premier luxury resort destination debuts exciting new experiences alongside beloved seasonal traditions for the 2025 festive season
When you think of Florida in winter, ice skating might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Grande Lakes Orlando is changing that narrative this holiday season with the debut of Orlando’s only resort ice rink, part of an expanded lineup of festive experiences that promise to make this 500-acre luxury destination the ultimate winter escape.
A Sparkling New Addition: Orlando’s Only Resort Ice Rink
Beginning November 27 and running through January 3, guests can lace up their skates and glide across a brand-new outdoor ice rink set beneath the Florida winter sky on The Ritz-Carlton’s Da Vinci Lawn. Open nightly from 5-9 pm, this picturesque rink offers something truly unique—the chance to ice skate in the Sunshine State while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Florida Everglades headwaters.
But the magic doesn’t stop when you step off the ice. Adjacent to the rink, glowing fire pits create the perfect spot to warm up and indulge in seasonal comfort food. From 5-7 pm and 8-10 pm, guests can savor baked brie, roasted apple and pumpkin salad, or hearty chili topped with gourmet fixings—the ideal way to cap off an evening of skating under the stars.
The Return of Fan Favorites
While the ice rink is making its debut, several beloved traditions are making their triumphant return to Grande Lakes Orlando this season.
Winter Wonderland Market
The resort’s charming European-inspired village returns on select dates (December 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27) from 4-8 pm. Guests can wander through quaint cottages showcasing local artisan crafts, holiday delicacies, and seasonal beverages—all while experiencing hourly snowfall that transforms the Florida resort into a true winter wonderland.
Santa’s Teddy Bear Tea
In the Lobby Lounge, families can enjoy an enchanting afternoon featuring a lavish tea selection, thoughtfully curated sweets, live entertainment, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself.
Gingerbread School
For those who love hands-on creativity, the resort’s expert pastry chefs lead guests through crafting their own edible gingerbread masterpieces—a delicious way to create lasting holiday memories.
Magic Show: Holiday Edition
Acclaimed magician and America’s Got Talent finalist Drew Thomas returns with his award-winning colleagues to present an extraordinary holiday magic show. Expect mind-bending tricks, large-scale illusions, and plenty of humor in this electrifying performance (dates to be announced).
Elevated Holiday Experiences
Grande Lakes Orlando goes beyond the basics with several premium offerings designed to make the season truly special:
- Holiday Cocktail Tour: Sample artfully curated festive spirits and handcrafted libations throughout the resort
- Merry & Bright Tree Delight: Have a sparkling Christmas tree delivered directly to your guest room
- Fireworks & Fizz: Ring in the New Year in The Ritz-Carlton Lobby Lounge with live music, martinis, Dom Perignon, and a seafood tower
- Ritz Kids Night Out Bash: Ages 4-12 can enjoy face painting, s’mores, games, and more
- New Year’s Eve Firework Cabanas: The ultimate al fresco celebration with champagne, caviar, and prime fireworks viewing
Beyond the Holidays
Of course, the festive programming is just the beginning. Grande Lakes Orlando’s year-round amenities ensure there’s something for everyone, including sparkling pools, a dedicated waterpark, a 40,000-square-foot award-winning spa, 12 restaurants and bars, a championship golf course, and expansive outdoor sports facilities—all set within the natural beauty of the Florida Everglades headwaters.
Special Holiday Packages
To make planning easier, the resort offers two attractive packages:
Festive Escape Package: Includes a $100 resort credit per night, valet parking, and four one-hour ice skating tickets per stay.
Grande Escape Package: Provides up to a $100 daily resort credit and complimentary parking—savings of more than $230.
The Bottom Line
Grande Lakes Orlando is proving that you don’t need snow to create authentic winter magic. By combining innovative new experiences like Orlando’s only resort ice rink with beloved returning traditions, the resort has crafted a holiday destination that appeals to families, couples, and groups of all ages. Whether you’re gliding across the ice, sipping cocoa by the fire pits, or exploring the Winter Wonderland Market, this Florida resort offers a festive escape unlike any other.
For more information and reservations, visit www.grandelakes.com.
Grande Lakes Orlando is anchored by The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, offering 500 acres of luxury accommodations and world-class amenities in the heart of Central Florida.
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(Family Features) With school out for summer, children will be away from teachers and coaches who might be trained in first aid and CPR, making it crucial for parents and summer caregivers to brush up on safety tips and life-saving skills. No matter where your summer plans take you, make sure you’re equipped with the knowledge and tools you need for safe, fun days in the sun. Keep a First Aid Kit on Hand Having basic first aid supplies handy lets you take care of minor boo-boos so the summer play can carry on. Plan to include cleansers, wound dressings, bandages and tape; antibiotic ointment; scissors and tweezers; bug bite treatment; and over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers and antihistamines for allergic reactions. Learn CPR Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any age. Summer activities like swimming, boating and other watersports can lead to drowning or serious injuries, but so can outdoor play and sporting events in extreme heat. In fact, more than 23,000 children experience cardiac arrest outside of the hospital each year, according to the American Heart Association, approximately 40% of which are related to sports. Immediate CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) use can double or even triple someone’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest. For teens and adults, Hands-Only CPR could save their life. For infants and children, CPR with breaths is recommended. Studies show children as young as 9 years old can learn and retain CPR skills. This summer, there are many learning options available to families, including online CPR courses, local in-person Heartsaver courses, CPR Anytime Training Kits and CPR kiosks, available in public places and airports across the country. 
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion Even when it doesn’t seem extreme, heat and humidity can take a toll. On one end of the heat stress spectrum are heat cramps, which may ease if you take a break, drink water and cool off. More serious heat exhaustion may occur when the body’s temperature rises to 100-102 F and can include an inability to maintain physical activity, dizziness, nausea, dehydration and rapid heart rate. Try to cool down and drink water, but if symptoms worsen or vomiting occurs, seek medical help. Heat stroke may cause death or permanent disability. It is characterized by a body temperature of 104-106 F or higher, heat exhaustion symptoms, trouble walking and neurological difficulties such as slurred speech or confusion. Be Smart Around Water Drowning can happen quickly and silently. Every day, an average of 10 people of all ages die in the United States from accidental, non-boating related drowning. Always swim with a friend and keep watch, especially where water isn’t clear and underwater obstacles may be present. When boating, always wear a life jacket. At home, install fencing at least 4 feet high around pools and remove toys from the pool when it’s not in use so children aren’t tempted to play without supervision. Bike Safely Taking some safety precautions can make bike rides even more enjoyable. Before heading out, check all riders’ bikes to ensure everything is in good operating condition, including brakes, tires, chains and gears. Always wear a helmet and consider guards to protect your knees, elbows and hands in the event of a fall. Avoid riding at night, when you’re less visible to drivers, and wear bright colors that make you stand out. Drive with traffic (not against it) and follow the same rules as a car when it comes to street signs and intersections. Remain alert at all times and avoid distractions such as music that can prevent you from hearing warning sounds such as a car horn. Join the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers and make this summer as safe as it is fun with tips on CPR and other safety concerns at heart.org/nation. Photo courtesy of Getty Images Discover more from Daily News
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