It’s a transition day at Surfside headquarters in Kensington, as employees get ready to move to a new 10,000-square-foot space in Trevose. The company packed up while leaving behind remnants of their vibrant past at the original office, including an old mini fridge and a nearly empty whiteboard with brainstorming ideas. With 227 employees, the surge follows an explosive growth trajectory for Surfside, which broke into the market with its canned vodka-infused iced tea in early 2022. What started as a modest venture became a nationwide sensation, leading to a stunning demand that far exceeded initial projections.

The trajectory of Surfside has been astronomical since its inception. They manufactured 200,000 cases in their first year, skyrocketing to 1.3 million the following year, and an astronomical 4.9 million just two years post-launch, marking them as the fastest-growing alcohol brand in the U.S. with remarkable annual growth of 378%. Surfside’s distribution now spans all 50 states and further reaches into the Caribbean.

Initially, the founding brothers, Clement and Zach Pappas and Matt and Bryan Quigley, planned for a 40,000-square foot facility to house production and distribution. However, as sales soared, it became clear that this would not suffice. Hence, they decided to maintain operations at their distillery and vodka bar while developing a new warehouse and distribution center for Surfside.

The journey of Stateside, Surfside’s parent company, started in 2013 with a makeshift distillation setup in a basement, growing steadily to a spacious and sophisticated distillery today. The foundational drive for creating Surfside stemmed from an intuitive observation about consumer trends, steering clear of carbonation and focusing on low-sugar options to cater to a health-conscious demographic. This strategic choice, combined with nimble production capabilities, propelled Surfside into the spotlight.

A critical breakthrough came when sports collaborations bolstered their visibility. The Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl win and associated marketing efforts drove Surfside further into the public eye as fans celebrated with the brand. Their colorful branding, unique product offerings, and the ability to tap into local culture and trends established Surfside not just as another option but as a lifestyle choice among consumers, capturing attention across various venues, including major sports events.

Pappas and Quigley’s ambition doesn’t appear to wane despite past records of beverage brands that faded after initial success. They are keenly aware of upcoming trends while navigating through various seasonal demands and haven’t shied away from addressing challenges head-on. Their commitment is reflected in expanding partnerships with educational institutions and increasing production to meet surging demand. With plans for broader distribution and an ever-expanding flavor lineup, Surfside seems poised to maintain momentum.

As they settle into their new digs and strategize for the future, one thing is clear: the energy and vision driving Surfside forward are formidable. The team is eager to sustain and grow their market share in an ever-evolving landscape, transforming recognition into dominance. Surfside has not only made a mark but is on the radar to redefine the ready-to-drink category for the long haul.

For more information, visit Surfside and Stateside Vodka.

An exciting event is on the horizon for fans of Edgar Allan Poe as a pop-up speakeasy, themed around the esteemed author, is set to take place in Central New York. This unique experience will be hosted at The Historic Kallet Theater in Pulaski on June 5 and 6, featuring two separate 90-minute sessions each night.

Guests are invited to delve into the eerie tales of Poe, enjoying a "chilling cocktail experience" as they sip on creatively crafted drinks inspired by his notable works, including "The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Raven," "The Masque of the Red Death," and "The Black Cat."

Featured cocktails will include the Nevermore, a distinctive blend of black and gold with orange peach blossom vodka and secret spices, and the Pale Blue Eye, combining blueberry vodka and fresh lemon juice. The event promises to be an immersive journey into Poe’s macabre world under the guidance of knowledgeable historians and a skilled mixologist.

Tickets are priced at $49.25 and are available for those aged 21 and older through Eventbrite. This speakeasy represents a singular opportunity in New York state for 2025, part of a broader tour that features more than 40 dates across various locations.

Poe, renowned for his mastery in the realms of horror and detective fiction, has left an indelible mark on literature, influencing countless stories and cultural references, including television shows and the name of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens.

For further details on this immersive experience, you can visit edgarallanpoebar.com. Don’t miss your chance to step into Poe’s darkly enchanting universe!

When Mikael Blomkvist is shot in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Lisbeth Salander quickly comes to his aid with a needle and dental floss, but first, she douses them in Swedish vodka for sterilization. While this scene may seem dramatic, it reflects a common, albeit questionable, approach to wound care.

Proper wound management is crucial for all injuries, highlighting that not every small cut requires a trip to the emergency room. Paying careful attention to the wound type and how it occurred can significantly influence the healing process.

Once skin is breached, biological processes activate to control bleeding and initiate healing. Platelets in the blood form clots to seal damaged vessels while white blood cells work to repair tissue. For optimal healing, it is important to bring the edges of a cut together using stitches, staples, or adhesive strips for larger wounds. In certain cases, specialized skin glue is an option.

Maintaining cleanliness and preventing infections are essential to healing. When bacteria infect a wound, they may obstruct healing and allow for further complications. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, heat, pain, or pus, and these symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention.

Minor wounds should be kept covered with a clean dressing to prevent contamination. Change dressings regularly and use antiseptic creams as necessary. Once a scab forms, typically within a few days, it’s acceptable to let the wound breathe exposed to the air as long as it remains clean and dry.

Some wounds, however, are more serious and require professional intervention, such as deep cuts or those that won’t close. Contaminated wounds may require tetanus treatment, and significant trauma may necessitate X-rays to check for foreign objects.

Improvised Wound Treatments

A variety of odd and dangerous DIY methods exist for treating wounds, many of which are best avoided:

1. Gaffer Tape: While great for household repairs, gaffer tape can irritate the skin and trap moisture in wounds, risking infection. Instead, medical micropore tape should be used to secure dressings without direct contact with the wound.

2. Honey: Although honey has shown antimicrobial properties, only medical-grade honey should be applied to open wounds due to potential immune reactions.

3. Super Glue: While some resort to super glue for a fast fix, it is not recommended for wound closure due to potential tissue damage and eye irritation. Only medical-grade adhesive should be used, ideally by healthcare professionals.

4. Fishing Tackle: Using fishing supplies as makeshift sutures is dangerous and should never be attempted.

5. Grout: Applying grout to a wound may seem appealing for its sealing properties, but its alkaline nature can cause severe chemical burns and introduce bacteria, leading to serious infection.

In conclusion, while many unconventional methods might seem tempting for quick fixes, they often do more harm than good. The best approach remains to assess the severity of a wound and seek professional help when in doubt. Always prioritize proper wound care practices to ensure safe and effective healing.

ST. LOUIS, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Introducing Vodkade, a new player in the adult beverage market that’s taking the scene by storm. This innovative product is a hand-crafted, canned vodka cocktail specially designed for those who thrive on fun—an ideal choice for anyone who plays to win.

Vodkade combines high-quality vodka with natural fruit flavors to create a refreshing beverage that stands out from the crowd. With its unique recipe conceived to evoke the experience of a sports drink—but with an adult twist—Vodkade offers a smooth taste that energizes your social interactions and competitive spirit.

Available in four delicious flavors—Fruit Punch, Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Berry Cherry—each serving of Vodkade brings nostalgia with a modern kick. It’s packaged conveniently in both four-packs and the larger Victory Pack, which features two cans of each flavor.

Currently distributed across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa, Vodkade can be found in liquor stores and major retailers, with plans for expansion throughout the United States in the summer of 2025. Multiple distribution partners are involved, including Grey Eagle Distributors and Krey Distributing Company.

For more details, visit www.vodkade.com, and follow them on Instagram at @Vodkade_cocktails or Facebook at @Vodkade.

About Vodkade:Vodkade represents a blend of bold flavors and invigorating refreshment now available in the Midwest. It’s crafted uniquely for individuals who seek excitement and playfulness in their beverages. More information can be found at www.vodkade.com and encourages consumers to enjoy responsibly.

A major accident occurred early Wednesday morning, causing the closure of northbound I-25 in the Colorado City area. The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) reported that the incident took place just after 4 a.m. near Thacker Road, with traffic being diverted accordingly.

Motorists are advised to use alternate routes and expect delays, as the closure is expected to last most of the day. While the driver was taken to the hospital, details regarding their injuries remain unclear. The collision involved a semi-truck carrying vodka.

For live updates on highway closures, the Colorado Department of Transportation offers a resource here.

A Colorado whiskey has been recognized as America’s best at an international spirits competition. Talnua Distillery, based in Arvada, won the prestigious title of America’s Greatest Whiskey 2025 for its Bourbon Cask & Stave Series Whiskey at the American Distilling Institute’s annual contest.

The contest featured 290 whiskeys among a total of 700 spirits from various countries. Judges rated the entries based on quality and taste, giving each one a score out of 100. Gold medals are awarded for scores of 90 or higher, with double golds for outstanding examples of specific styles. The distillery’s use of pot still methods, similar to those used in Irish whiskey production, sets it apart. This approach, combining malted and unmalted barley, contributes to the whiskey’s distinct flavor profile.

Talnua’s award-winning bourbon is aged in former bourbon barrels infused with charred oak staves, which enhance its complexity with notes of floral aromas, fresh hay, and vanilla. Patrick Miller, Talnua’s founder and master distiller, expressed pride in the achievement, highlighting the significance of recognition among esteemed peers in the industry.

In addition to the first-place win, Talnua also obtained a gold medal for its American White Oak Cask Bottled in Bond whiskey and a silver for the Old Saint’s Keep whiskey released in 2025. Other Colorado distillers also brought home awards, including Stranahan’s in Denver, which garnered five medals.

For more information on Talnua Distillery, visit their official website, and details about the competition can be found at the American Distilling Institute.

Each year, the American Distilling Institute (ADI) hosts the International Spirits Competition, which showcases the best in craft spirits from American and international distilleries. In 2025, the competition honored several whiskeys, with notable winners in various categories.

America’s Best Whiskey

Talnua Bourbon Cask & Stave Series Whiskey was chosen as the best whiskey. Located in Arvada, Colorado, Talnua is the first distillery in the U.S. that exclusively focuses on single pot still whiskey. This distillery was founded in 2017 by Patrick and Meagan Miller, who were inspired by their experiences in Ireland. The whiskey is produced using a mix of malted and unmalted barley, and it is aged for a minimum of three years in ex-bourbon casks.

The tasting notes reveal a nose filled with fresh marshmallows, charred oak, cereal, caramel, and a sweet hint reminiscent of bubble gum. On the palate, it delivers understated flavors of cooked grain, marshmallow, and caramel, culminating in a medium-length finish marked by seasoned oak and subtle vanilla.

Best Barrel Strength Whiskey

Knobel Spirits, Tennessee Whiskey took home the award for best barrel strength whiskey. This whiskey is meticulously crafted using the Lincoln County Process, in which the spirit is filtered through maple wood charcoal before undergoing aging in charred American oak barrels. The result is an exceptionally sweet and rich nose, showcasing caramel and orange zest, while the palate offers delightful notes of baked apple and sweet spices.

Best of Category Winners: American Single Malt Whiskey

Stranahan’s Mountain Angel 10-Year-Old was recognized in this category. Stranahan’s, based in Colorado, has made a name for itself as a pioneer in American single malt whiskey. Its Mountain Angel expression features a mash bill of 100% malted barley and is aged in new American oak barrels. It boasts a complex nose of fruit liqueurs and pipe smoke, leading to a rich palate filled with brown sugar and maple flavors, finishing with savory notes of dried fruit.

Additional Best of Category Winners

Other notable distillers included Bird Creek Distillery with their Cask Strength Baronesse, which uses a rare heirloom barley to provide a creamy, sweet profile, and Proof and Wood’s Seasons 2024 Extraordinary, which blends aged spirits from Canada and the U.S. for a balanced taste experience.

The significance of the ADI International Spirits Competition lies in its commitment to highlighting lesser-known brands that often craft exceptional spirits. Many of these whiskeys may not yet be widely available but represent the future stars of American whiskey.

For Americans feeling apprehensive about flying, particularly following alarming news about airline safety incidents, United Airlines has rolled out a unique reassurance campaign featuring “Captain Morgan.” This is not a reference to the popular rum but instead a message from Captain Miles Morgan, the director of United’s flight training center.

In light of numerous flight delays attributed to recent system outages at Newark Liberty Airport, United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, sent an email to travelers and MileagePlus members living near the airport. The correspondence aimed to calm the nerves of passengers and directed them to a video in which Captain Morgan highlighted the rigorous training United’s pilots undergo and the sophisticated systems on board that ensure visibility of other aircraft.

Kirby emphasized, “The truth is that all the flights in and out of EWR are absolutely safe. When there are FAA issues, such as technology outages or staffing shortages, the FAA requires all airlines to fly fewer aircraft to maintain the highest levels of safety.” He reassured that neither the FAA nor United would ever compromise on safety standards.

Despite the intention behind the message, social media reacted with humor, poking fun at Captain Morgan’s name. One X user quipped about the irony, questioning if passengers should feel secure under the care of “Captain Morgan.” Another joked about a possible collaboration with First Officer Jonathan Daniels.

This outreach initiative followed a 45-minute ground stop due to a temporary failure of a back-up air traffic control system, compounded by previous telecommunications issues and ongoing staffing shortages at the Newark air traffic control facility. The email and video were sent as United sought to reassure travelers amid these challenges.