Amtrak's new high-speed trains – NextGen Acela – are now in service for travel trips and it's a fast and comfortable ride. How do I know? Because I rode on one of the first NextGen Acela trains from NYC to Boston.

Note: I was invited as media to this event. However, any views expressed are always 100% my own.

While being one of the select people to ride Amtrak's NextGen Acela train is exciting on it's own, there's lots more to enjoy besides the fast ride.

From the moment I stepped into the train's business class car, I could see the new interiors renovations. The train cars were bright, airy and the seats looked comfy with plush head rests and lots of leg room.

After settling into my seat, I looked over the brochure to learned about the new features including power outlets and reading lights on the seats. I also discovered the seats smoothly lean back and slide out when the side button is pushed.

I also learned about the new Cafe Acela, which has fresh, food and beverages. Of course I went to see what they had.

I was pleased with the variety of food options which included salads, sandwiches and fruit. There is also hot beverages and staff to help if you have any questions or specific needs.

After enjoying my mini meal, there was nothing else to do besides relax and watch the views. And the views were lovely.  There's lots to see during the swift ride from NYC to Boston and the stop in between.

But for those who need to do more then relax, NextGen Acela has seats with tables where you can plug in and get work done, or watch a movie on your laptop or tablet.

The bathroom area is also easily accessible and surprisingly huge, so no worries about squeezing into a tight corner. It also has hands-free system for you to wash and dry your hands.

With everything designed so well, my ride was nice, easy and fast. I arrived in Boston within 4.5 hours ready to start my #VisitBoston adventure. Of course I plan on taking Amtrak's NextGen Acela when I'm ready to head back to NYC.

Amtrak NextGen Acela Train

NextGen Acela is the all-new, premium ride from Amtrak, running between major city centers from Washington, DC, to New York to Boston and destinations in between. Designed with innovative features and amenities, customers can experience First Class and Business Class travel on America’s only high-speed rail service

• Free, high-speed, 5G enabled Wi-Fi, as well as individual USB ports, power outlets, and reading lights are at each seat.
• Wide, ergonomic seats have been designed to offer comfort with plenty of legroom, and a winged privacy headrest.
• A tilt system results in a smoother, quieter ride.
• More daily departures and 27% more seats per departure increase travel options for customers.
• A top speed of 160 mph, higher than today's fleet which has a top speed of 150 mph

ACELA First Class

First Class provides an exceptional experience with Metropolitan Lounge access, boarding made easy by the dedicated car at the front of the train, spacious seating, including solo seats, and at-seat meal service, featuring the dishes of James Beard award-winning restaurateur, Stephen Starr

Acela Food and Beverage

In Cafe Acela, the full-service attendant will assist customers with their purchase of new, fresh items, hot favorites, snacks, and a variety of beverages to suit every need.

New to Cafe Acela is the addition of grab-and-go self-service for quick and easy checkout. Cart service will also travel the aisles on select departures with popular drinks and food, enabling customers to purchase refreshments at their seats.

Made in America

The NextGen Acela fleet was assembled at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, NY by skilled Machinists Union workers, using components from over 180 suppliers across 29 states—creating approximately 15,000 U.S. jobs.*

“The NextGen Acela trains are the first high-speed trains built in America. The team at Alstom has brought nearly five decades of global experience in high-speed rail to the United States to deliver the fastest and most technologically advanced trains in the nation,” said Henri Poupart-Lafarge, CEO of Alstom.

*Calculation based on the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) 2020 analysis, “Economic Impact of Public Transportation Investment” which estimates that $1 billion of public transportation spending creates 12,600 jobs. Total estimate adjusted for inflation and provides general scale of impact.

Booking Amtrak NextGen Acela Train Service

NextGen Acela trains are marked with a unique ‘tag’ on Amtrak.com and in the Amtrak app, making them easy to identify when booking.

You can also look for the following train numbers (subject to change):
Weekdays: Trains 2153, 2154, 2170, and 2173
Saturdays: Trains 2250 and 2251
Sundays: Trains 2248, 2258, 2259, and 2271

Learn more, visit - www.amtrak.com/nextgenacela

Rokid hosted an event to unveiled their full-function Rokid Glasses, which are lightweight AI-powered AR smart glasses with a built-in 12MP first-person camera, Micro LED waveguide displays, and integrated audio.

Note: I was invited as media to this event. However, any views expressed are always 100% my own.

Designed for both consumer and professional use, the Rokid Glasses feature real-time translation, object recognition, navigation, transcription, notifications, and other AI-driven functions in a wearable frame.

First Thoughts about Rokid Smart Glasses

As a person who's on the go alot, I liked the nagiavtion and memo taking feature.

But it's the real-time translation feature that really impressed me. The world has become more globally connected and being able to connect without a language barrier or having to use multiple translation devices is impressive.

For a smart glasses that does so much, the frame itself is very light weight, so easy to wear during the day.

Rokid AI & AR Smart Glasses ($599)

Rokid Glasses is now available for early supporters on Kickstarter for $499, offering backers the chance to be the first to experience the future of AI-powered wearable computing.

Learn more - bit.ly/4myIhh9

Features include:

AI & AR Tools

• Real-Time Translation – Supports multiple languages with on-screen subtitles.
• Object & Scene Recognition – Identifies items or landmarks via AI-enhanced image processing.
• Live Transcription – Converts spoken conversation into on-screen text for accessibility or note-taking.
• Teleprompter Mode – Displays scrolling text for presentations or public speaking.
• HUD Navigation – Displays turn-by-turn directions directly in the field of view.

Camera & Media

Wide 109° field of view for immersive capture. Privacy indicator light to signal active recording. First-person stills and video recording for personal, professional, or creative use.

• LLHDR Night Vision Dynamic Range Optimization
• HDR: built-in HDR quality detection
• MFNR: multi-frame noise reduction
• Electronic image stabilization

Audio & Voice

• Built-in speakers for music, calls, and notifications without earphones.
• Four-microphone array with AI noise cancellation for clear voice commands and calls.
• Works with AI assistants, including ChatGPT integration, for contextual queries and task automation.

Specialist Insights: Panel on AI Glasses

The launch featured the panel “From Mobile to Wearable: The Rise of AI Glasses”, where experts explored the shift from smartphones to wearable AI devices and the broader implications for communication, industry, and accessibility.

The panel featured Andrea Smith, technology journalist with CNN Underscored and former ABC News correspondent; Dr. Vasant Dhar, Professor at NYU Stern School of Business and the Center for Data Science and founder of SCT Capital Management; Dr. Orson Xu, Assistant Professor at Columbia University specializing in human-computer interaction and AI for health; and Dr. Shawn Shen, founder of Memories AI and former research scientist at Meta.

Topics ranged from the adoption curve of AI glasses to their impact on human-computer interaction, healthcare applications, privacy, trust, and the future role of wearable AI in society.

Storytellers Kick Off Rokid World Tour

The launch also marked the beginning of Rokid’s “Dream Journey” World Tour, a global initiative designed to showcase how AI glasses integrate into real-life scenarios while fostering collaboration with creators worldwide.

From a skateboarder chasing foreign streets, to a tech analyst testing how wearables fit into fast-paced travel schedules, to a couple capturing the joy of their honeymoon, each will share their personal journeys through the lens of Rokid Glasses.

Together, these stories will build a broader narrative that highlights the real-world impact of AI-powered wearables, moving beyond technical demonstrations to meaningful, human-centered experiences.

Easy Street, a street-food inspired line of pre-trimmed, pre-diced, dry-seasoned chicken, that's antibiotic-free, is now in groceries across ten states.

Note: I received product samples for review purpose. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

In connected with the statewide availability, I received a package of Easy Street dry-seasoned chicken flavors including Street Taco, Korean BBQ, and Rotisserie.

I wanted to try Easy Street's Korean BBQ Chicken first since we love Korean food, but don't have a lot of time to visit restaurants. Being able to make a Korean BBQ Chicken meal at home would be wonderful.

After opening Easy Street's Korean BBQ Chicken, I noticed it smelled so flavorful, the chicken was well seasoned and nicely trimmed. Then when I added to my cooking pan, I had a lot more chicken then I realized. That package may look small but there's ALOT of chicken packed in there.

A few moments of cooking later, I had a full cooking pan of Korean BBQ Chicken ready to enjoy. And enjoy we did. It was very tasty. Can't wait to tryout the other flavors.

Since I have a busy schedule, I liked the idea Easy Street's chicken come pre cut and season, so I can cook quickly but still have a tasty meal.

Easy Street Dry Seasoned, Pre-Diced Chicken Line ($5.99)

Easy Street’s pre-trimmed, antibiotic-free dry-seasoned chicken is seasoned without the use of preservatives, food dyes, wet marinades or added oils.

Dry-seasoning means can be ready and fully cooked within seven minutes. Chicken products are fully prepped fresh, never frozen or precooked. Perfect for griddles, stovetops, tacos, bowls, and more.

Korean BBQ

Deep and perfectly balanced between smoky-sweet caramelization, savory soy, and a warm hint of ginger. This dry-seasoned blend delivers bold, umami-packed flavor that sears beautifully in the pan, creating crispy, caramelized edges with every bite.

Street Taco

The Mexican-inspired dry seasoning is packed with real savory garlic, warm spices, a hit of cilantro, and real lime zest—the kind of authentic Mexican flavor that sizzles on a hot pan and makes your kitchen smell like a roadside taqueria.

Rotisserie

Golden, juicy, and packed with bright, zesty lemon, savory garlic, and a perfect blend of herbs and spices. This is rotisserie chicken with a fresh twist—vibrant, deeply seasoned, and effortlessly tender. No carving. No waiting. Just straight-to-the-pan perfection in minutes.

Easy Street is available at Aldi, Giant Eagle and Giant Food, Harris Teeter, Market Basket, Weis, and ShopRite retailers in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia.

Learn more, visit - www.easystreetmeals.com

Looking for a thoughtful, fun, and ‘add to cart’ worthy beauty gift to surprise someone special? Here a few Amazon finds that make gift-giving less of a guessing game and more a great idea.

Quick & Easy Beauty Gift Ideas on Amazon

Denman Style & Shine Brush ($29.95)

The Style & Shine Brush is a cushion brush strategically filled with a mix of natural bristle and 'porcupine effect' nylon quill for excellent shaping and conditioning. It detangles whilst smoothing and polishing adding a healthy shine to your locks.

This high-quality tool is lightweight with a perfectly balanced handle for everyday use. Ideal for use on dry hair, wigs, and hair extensions. Perfect for brushing out barrel curls for a softer, more natural finish or perfecting a smooth up-do style.

Shimmee Glitter Skin Balms ($25)

Get ready to shine like never before with the Shimmee, a collection of three luxurious glitter balms designed to make you glow from head to toe.

The line includes Silver Glitter Balm, Gold Glitter Balm, and Pink Iridescent Hue, giving you the perfect sparkle for any occasion, with clean ingredients for guilt-free beauty.

Go Nutz - 2.0 Trimming Device ($99.99)

Go Nutz is developed to provide a safe and effective solution for sensitive-area grooming. Its unique patented design features a spherical, ergonomic shape that allows for continuous multi-directional shaving, minimizing the risk of nicks, cuts, or discomfort.

BrushMo - Super Sonic Electric Toothbrush ($39.95)

The Brushmo Super Sonic Toothbrush, features five brushing modes and is available in three sleek colors for a truly personalized brushing experience.

Brushmo believes that oral care extends beyond just brushing your teeth. That's why their products are designed to do more than just clean; they are crafted to improve your entire approach to health, confidence, and self-care.

RIAJN - Silk Saffron Noir Fragrance Oil ($19+)

Silk Saffron Noir, a gender-fluid, all-natural scented oil roll-on captures the essence of autumn with a cozy blend of sultry saffron, sweet almond, and warm ambergris.

What sets RIAJN apart is its uncompromising dedication to purity and sustainability. Every fragrance is handcrafted using natural and organic ingredients sourced responsibly from around the globe.

It’s The Balm Diggity Lip Balms - 3-pk ($9.99)

Crafted in the USA by a family-owned small business, started by a fourth-generation farmer and beekeeper, the luxurious lip balms feature just five simple ingredients: Beeswax, Jojoba oil, Coconut oil, Shea Butter, and Natural Flavors.

Beeswax is a natural ingredient, harvested from honeybees, making it an eco-friendly choice. Jojoba oil is an excellent moisturizer for the lips, while coconut oil soothes dryness, and shea butter also softens.

The natural flavor oils give the lip balm delightful scents, like Raspberry, Strawberry Lemonade, Apricot Peach, Watermelon, Pineapple, Mint, and Coffee.

With fall getaways on the horizon, Virginia Beach is a coastal destination that shines in the off-season with serene natural beauty, seasonal food experiences and a cultural calendar filled with hidden gems.

This dynamic coastal city, where the Atlantic Ocean kisses the Chesapeake Bay, boasts a rich history, vibrant food scene and passion for the outdoors, with 255 parks, 200 miles of waterways and 38 miles of pristine shoreline.

Travel Ideas for Fall 2025

• Cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking and biking through Virginia Beach’s 255 parks and green spaces, including the maritime forests of First Landing State Park and the secluded trails at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
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• Fall marks the peak of oyster season, when cooler waters make for the plumpest, most flavorful oysters --sample them fresh from a Pleasure House Oyster Farm boat tour or at waterfront restaurants throughout the coastal city


• The beloved Neptune Festival (September 26-28) brings together live music, parades, fireworks, sand sculptures and coastal celebration spanning 30 oceanfront blocks, a true local favorite


• The Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show (October 10-12) transforms the beachfront into an open-air gallery with nearly 200 juried artists, live performances and oceanfront creativity


• ViBe Creative District’s Mural Festival (October 3-12) adds to the city’s artistic energy with live mural painting, gallery events and artisan shops throughout this colorful neighborhood


• Pumpkin patches, apple orchards and corn mazes make the destination a perfect seasonal day trip, so don’t miss the Harvest Fair (September 27-November 2)


• Dolphin-watching continues into the autumn months, often better with fewer boats, clearer skies and more serene conditions via kayak or small group tour


• Peaceful beaches and striking ocean views make for a quiet, crowd-free coastal escape

As the summer crowds fade and the landscape turns golden, Virginia Beach becomes an ideal destination for slower travel and autumnal charm.

Learn more, visit - www.visitvirginiabeach.com

Looking ahead to the holidays (and soup season!), Aneto Broth helps you make healthy, home-cooked meals easier.

Aneto tastes like real broth because it's made the traditional way. The broths are 100% natural (no concentrates, powders, or preservatives), crafted with only the freshest ingredients.

The brand starts with the best fresh, bone-in proteins, local organic vegetables, fresh water, and sea salt. These gourmet ingredients are then simmered for hours to extract rich flavor and nutrients.

Aneto Broths

Aneto’s fish, chicken, and vegetable broths, all slow-simmered to capture the depth and warmth of homemade flavor. The broths are dairy-free, gluten-free, and egg-free, making them especially perfect for cooking for family and friends with various dietary restrictions.

• Chicken Broth - The only ingredients in this chicken broth with Animal Welfare Certified free-range bone-in chicken are fresh vegetables, sea salt, and. Aneto Chicken Broth won the SOFI Silver Award for Best Broth in 2020.
• Chicken Broth (Low Sodium) - This low-sodium chicken broth is made with fresh vegetables, a reduced amount of sea salt, and Animal Welfare Certified free-range, bone-in chicken.
• Fish Broth - The broth uses no concentrates, flavorings, or powders. The resulting product is a satisfying broth or cooking base perfect for soups, stews, risotto, and paella. The fish broth is non-GMO Certified and won the SOFI Bronze Award for Best Broth in 2020.
• Vegetable Broth - This all-natural broth is made with the highest quality vegetables, sea salt, and olive oil and simmered over low heat for over three hours. Unlike other broths on the market, our broth uses no concentrates, flavorings or powders. The broth is non-GMO Certified. The resulting product is a satisfying broth or cooking base perfect for soups, stews, risotto, and paella.
• New! Roasted Pork Broth - Pork broth is best used in soups (such as ramen, tonkotsu, garlic kailan, and nilaga), sauces (including reductions and excellent gravies), stews (for savory dishes), hot pots, and Asian dishes (like pork ribs noodles, wonton noodles, and seafood noodles). The new screw cap is made from sugar cane plastic and recyclable tetra packaging.

For when you're preparing a show-stopping seafood paella, a comforting holiday risotto, or exploring international dishes like Korean mul makguksu (cold noodle soup), Aneto delivers the richness of tradition with modern convenience.

Aneto cares about its environmental footprint. The brand utilizes sustainable packaging made from plant-based materials, thereby reducing its CO2 emissions. Further, Aneto is Animal Welfare Certified and supports regenerative agriculture, purchasing its vegetables from social cooperatives.

For more information, visit - www.anetobroth.com

Rudy Youngblood, the Oscar-nominated star of Apocalypto, has been cast as Nico Cortez in La Matadora, a romantic epic set in 1940s Mexico that has already drawn attention across the country and is positioning itself for global audiences.

"Rudy brings an intensity and vulnerability that makes Nico Cortez an unforgettable character," said producer Lyle Howry. "La Matadora is a story that celebrates resilience and passion, and with Rudy leading the way, we believe it has the power to resonate worldwide."

Set in 1940s Mexico, La Matadora follows Isabel Fernández, a groundbreaking bullfighter who challenges tradition and takes her place in a male-dominated arena.

Youngblood will play Nico Cortez, a painter drawn to Isabel’s defiance and spirit, whose relationship with her forces him into a journey of passion and self-discovery. She, meanwhile, redefines herself in the bloodstained sand of the Plaza de Toros, where one wrong move could mean death - and where love, too, becomes a dangerous game.

Casting for the role of Isabel Fernández remains tightly under wraps, heightening anticipation for the woman who will embody this legendary character.

SYNOPSIS

The film is slated to begin production in Fall 2025.

La Matadora is inspired by the life of Mexican bullfighter Mary Rubio and the unsung legacy of female toreras who carved their place in history with grit and grace.

The film was conceived by Richard Maldonado, Rubio’s nephew, and penned by T.C. Dewett, whose script pulses with Mexican pride, bold femininity, and timeless romance.

The producing team includes executive producers Kevin Kinsey and Exodus Entertainment Studios, along with Lyle Howry and Skinfly Entertainment.