Many Americans believe the 4^th of July is the best day of the year. I’m not arguing. No work, BBQ foods, sandy beaches, patriotic outfits, fireworks, free country…you get the point. This holiday doesn’t need much else to make it a great day, but a few drinks never hurt. These 10 patriotic recipes will for sure boost your American spirit!

1. Blueberry Strawberry Mojito

This colorful cocktail has a subtle spin on a classic mojito. Just throw in fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries and there you have it! Easy to make, easy to drink.

2. Red White & Blue Vodka Lemonade Slushies

You’ll need a blender for this recipe. Separately blend up three different slushies: cranberry, blue curacao, and vodka lemonade. Layer the flavors and admire the aesthetically pleasing drink you’ve just made.

3. Boozy Snow Cones

Snow cones make for a refreshing treat, especially on a hot 4^th of July day! Head to the kitchen and whip up red & blue alcoholic syrups for an All-American boozy snow cone.

4. Blueberry Lavender Hard Lemonade

If you’re a fan of the unique lavender flavor, then test out this cocktail. Personalize the sweet taste by adding in however much agave nectar. Add blueberries for a pop of patriotic color!

5. Red White & Blue Sangria

Nothing beats Sangria in the summer. Top off this drink with blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and apples to give the perfect 4^th of July vibe.

6. Watermelon Blueberry Cooler

Watermelons are the epitome of summer fruits, so why not make a cocktail out of them? Dip the rim in blue sugar and create star-shaped watermelon slices to complete the patriotic look.

7. Red White & Blue Strawberry Jell-O Shots

If you like strawberries, Jell-O, and shots, then check out this recipe. It’s a red, white, and blue cocktail that you can eat!

8. 4^th of July Layered Cocktail

This recipe is for the people who have mastered the art of layering drinks. If that’s not you, make the drink anyways (it all tastes the same).

9. Blue Mule Cocktail

Everybody loves a good Moscow Mule. Liven up this tasty drink with blue curacao and blueberries to complete the American holiday.

10. Red White & Blue Margaritas

There can’t be a cocktail list without a margarita on it. This explosive ‘merica margarita is a great addition to the party fun!

Looking for something to do this 4^th of July? If you don’t already have block-party plans, check out these ideas that will keep the whole family entertained!

1. Backyard BBQ

If you’ve already had a hectic start to the summer, keep it simple this 4^th of July with a Backyard BBQ. Throw some hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill, invite over some family and friends, and turn up the Turtle Shell! There’s nothing better than sippin’ on a cold beer with good company.

2. Freedom Run – Ladera Ranch

Participate in the 10^th Annual Freedom Run on 4^th of July morning to burn off those calories you know you’ll be drinking later. Choose from the 10k, 5k, or 1k Little Firecracker Dash!

3. Founders Park – Ladera Ranch

After the Freedom Run, watch the 10:30am community parade and get free pancakes until 11:30am! From 3-9pm, Founder’s Park will have live music, food vendors, and other activities going on. Make sure to stay for the fireworks once the sun goes down!

4. Emerald Bay – Laguna Beach

If you know friends or family that live in Emerald Bay, then hit up this spot for the 4^th. You can lounge out all day on this private beach and catch the fireworks above the ocean at night! Just remember you need a wristband to get into the gate.

5. Fireworks Extravaganza – Doheny State Beach

Doheny is a great spot in Dana Point if you want to spend this 4^th of July at the beach. There are BBQs for lunch and fire pits to sit around at night! If you tune in to the KSBR radio station FM 88.5, you’ll be able to listen to synchronized fireworks once they go off at night.

6. Old Glory Boat Parade – Newport Beach

If you’re looking for something new to do this 4^th, check out the boat parade at the Newport Harbor! There will be lots of fun boat décor for this year’s theme “America – Where Freedom Sails.” How patriotic can it get?

7. Golf Cart Decorating Contest

Don’t have a boat? Well a golf-cart is the next best thing. Enter a contest and put together an original design for your speedy cart! Pressure is on.

1. The Old Spaghetti Factory – Newport Beach

If you’re looking for traditional Italian food to satisfy your craving, then head over to The Old Spaghetti Factory! This space is great to host big parties for special occasions. I highly recommend trying the Mizithra Cheese & Browned Butter as your sauce choice!

2. Alessa – Laguna Beach

Alessa is another Italian favorite located down the street from Main Beach. This restaurant spot can get crowded though, so make sure to call ahead and get your name on the list! Their gnocchi is top notch, so definitely test out this special dish.

3. Carmelita’s Kitchen – Rancho Santa Margarita

On the hunt for quality Mexican food? Carmelita’s Kitchen has a variety of awesome choices. The best part about this restaurant is its prime location. The outside dining area sits right on the Rancho Santa Margarita Lake, so head over on a warm night to get a table outside!

4. The Loft – Laguna Beach

Enjoy great American food with a breathtaking view over at The Loft. This food spot is great for brunch, lunch, or dinner, so head over anytime! Don’t forget to make a reservation!

5. Anaheim Packing District – Anaheim

Not sure what type of food you’re in the mood for? Head over to the Anaheim Packing District and choose from over 20 merchants! They’ve got crêpes, Indian flavors, authentic Italian options, all sorts of comfort foods, and much much more!!

6. Urth Caffé – Laguna Beach

Another hot spot in Laguna Beach is Urth Caffé. If you’re sticking to a nutritious diet then test out Urth’s sandwich and salad options. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then Urth has plenty of baked goods for you. I recommend trying their Thai Boba tea or a fresh fruit smoothie!

7. Sundried Tomato – San Juan Capistrano & San Clemente

This American Bistro is often overlooked, but their food will definitely satisfy any craving! For first-timers, I recommend the Comfort Combo. There’s nothing better than grilled cheese and creamy tomato soup.

Wondering when you could use a Kodiak Powerbank? Here are eight situations where a portable charger will save the day.

1. Beach Day/Pool Party

There can’t be a complete beach day or pool party without good music. The Big Turtle Shell is ready for some tune action, but your phone battery must keep up! No worries. A water-resistant Kodiak Powerbank will fuel the party fun and keep up the energy.

2. Flights

Flying coach on long flights can become quite miserable. Sometimes the only way to get through it is to binge watch that Netflix series your friends have been raving over! Maybe you want to catch up on work emails while watching Game of Thrones. Good thing the heavy-duty Kodiak Plus 2.0 will provide all the power you need to endure those dreaded flights.

3. Concerts

Being a frequent concert-goer comes with consequences. Situation one: Record the live show and deal with a dead phone afterwards (good luck finding your way home). Situation 2: Phone stays charged all night, but you have minimal videos and pictures for memories (pics or it didn’t happen). Whether you’re making your way to Coachella or Burning Man, you’ll need the Kodiak 2.0.

4. Amusement Parks

Did someone say family Disney Day? I am sure the excitement is real. After all, it is the ‘Happiest Place on Earth.’ Camera dead? Phone dead? No charger? 90 minute wait for Space Mountain? Not so much fun anymore.

5. Sporting Events

No matter what time of year, there is always some big game coming up that can’t be missed. Say, a friend magically lands two tickets for the Super Bowl or World Series. Or, for us average folks, the reserved seats are the two best couch spots in the house. Either way, keep your phone handy and charged to document any crazy score that might happen.

6. Road Trip

Taking a road trip with some friends or family? Whether the drive is two hours or ten hours, you’re going to need some sort of entertainment to help the time pass. Bring a portable charger to stream movies or play music during the drive.

7. The Slopes

If you’re the type of person who loves to listen to music while cruising down the mountain, then a Kodiak Mini 2.0 is for you. It is small enough to fit securely in your snow jacket and powerful enough to boost your phone for long ski days.

8. Fishing/Camping Trip

Outdoor activities like fishing and camping are well supported by our Kodiak Power Line. Whether you have a day fishing trip planned or a weekend long camping expedition, a portable charger is a must. No one will believe you caught that huge fish or saw a wild bear unless you have a charged camera to snap pics!

With Summer approaching, these June Gloom days are no lie. Have you ever noticed that the sun is shining bright at home, yet coastal skies turn grey? We all just want to lounge around on our sandy beaches, but it’s hard to get that perfect tan when the sky is overcast all afternoon. What’s the next best thing? A Perfect, Personal Backyard Oasis. If you want in on our secret to the ideal backyard set-up, follow the steps below:

1. The Ideal Set-Up

Locate the sunniest spot in your backyard, preferably under direct sun to achieve that glowing tan. Or, if you want, set-up near a shady tree to get a break from the heat. Go grab your favorite striped beach towel and beach chair and set them up in your designated lounge spot however you’d like.

2. Necessary Accessories

I know you’ve heard this before, but don’t forget sunscreen! Everyone prefers a suntan, not a sunburn. Also grab your sunglasses and a hat for more sun protection. Remember to make a nice drink for yourself! Ice-cold water, margarita, beer, or whatever beverage is calling your name.

3. Quality Sound Entertainment

Music is the last step to achieve your Perfect Backyard Oasis. That means it’s time to pull out the Big Turtle Shell. Simply pair with Bluetooth to enjoy your personal music favorites. Try out the Turtle Shell 3.0 Bundle to pair two speakers for an even louder experience. What’s the best part? You can jam out to whatever you want, as loud as you want, in the privacy of your own backyard.

This Father’s Day get your Dad an awesome gift that shows how cool he really is. Sentimental, make-shift cards are appreciated and all, but portable and wireless sound will for sure amp up his life. Outdoor Tech will top all your past Father’s Day presents and will definitely make you the favorite daughter/son.

1. Buckshot Pro – $79.95

Upgrade from the Buckshot 2.0 and get your Dad the Pro. The Buckshot Pro provides a 3-in-1 speaker and a powerbank for when he’s on the move and needs to charge-up. The best part? There is a built-in flashlight for the Dads who like to think of themselves as Mr. Handyman or Mr. Prepared.

2. Big Turtle Shell – $199.95

Let me guess. The Bigger the Better? That’s right, so why not give your Dad the Big Turtle Shell this Father’s Day. BIG dual speakers create the loudest audio experience that fills any space. Perfect for family beach days, a campfire setting, or the backyard BBQ your Dad has had planned for weeks.

3. Rhinos – $129.95

These wireless, waterproof headphones have a Walkie Talkie feature that will really get your dad excited. Maybe get yourself a pair too so you can answer your Dad’s questions without even having to go downstairs! Not in the mood to talk? Don’t worry, wear the Rhinos to tune out fatherly responsibilities for a little afternoon break.

4. Tags 2.0 – $39.95

The last thing your Dad wants to do before rocking out to his music is deal with a tangled mess of cords. Good thing the Tags 2.0 snap together to prevent the frustrating cord chaos! These are the perfect wireless earbuds for any Father, whether he’s the kind of guy who enjoys music while strolling along the beach or hiking up rugged trails.

5. Kodiak Powerbanks – $24.95 – $99.95

Lastly, if your Dad is always the man on the go, get him a powerbank from our Kodiak Power Line. Take power anywhere and everywhere so he doesn’t miss out on any Proud Father Moments.

If none of these awesome items win over your Dad, check out some other stuff you probably want to get for this upcoming Father’s Day.

Although this is the third contest of the season for the Collegiate Skate Tour, we were stoked to be participating for the first time. We donated a few of our products as prizes for the competitors, and it seems to have been a great turnout.

The event was held at the Possum Creek Skate park in Gainsville, and students came out from colleges and universities from all across the state. Non-student rippers are also allowed to enter into the competition (under a different division), and many came out and showed everyone what they had to offer.

Here’s who ended up on top:

College Division:

1. Haze Miller – student at Pasco-Hernando State College

2. Jordi Zapata – student at University of Florida

3. Marlee Miller – student at University of South Florida

Non-College Division:

1. John Belote – Gainesville, FL

2. Tommy Walsh – Gainesville, FL

3. Landy Collada – Miami, FL

Shout Out to the Gainesville Sun for running a local story on the event: http://www.gainesville.com/news/20170225/skateboarders-showcase-skills-at-possum-creek-park-competition

All PHOTOS were taken by Sean Devlin (@soggypita).

VIDEO was filmed and edited by Alex Baucom (@alex.baucom).

The look of pure satisfaction of getting faceshots in your contest run.

The land of the rising sun. A label true to the name, Japan is one of the most amazing spiritually connecting places in the world. To be in Japan is something that every snowboarder dreams about, one experience I will treasure for the rest of my life. To not only be there, but get 6 days in a row of the best days I’ve ever had on my snowboard in addition to the most fun contest there could be, felt like an absolute dream come true.

After hours of travel a makeshift office in the airport.

The ride into Hakuba Valley, enjoying my PHGB trailmix!

After hours of travel, planes, trains, and automobiles I was happy to get out of the big city and start making our way up into the “Japanese Alps” a.k.a the Hakuba Valley, a landscape which is sincerely remarkable.

The “Japanese Alps”

Happy Ladies!

Upon arriving in Japan we heard they were having a bad year, but since the Freeride World Tour Qualifier was making its debut in Asia, regardless of the conditions we were fired up. These events take an enormous amount of planning and coordination from everyone, from the Hakuba tourism department to the FWT organizers, to the volunteers, and the athletes. Everyone has to come together, be understanding that we do a winter sport, and the conditions and safety take priority over how badly we all want to compete. That being said, luckily someone had the foresight that we might need a lot of extra weather days, and did we ever!

I don’t think anyone was complaining about having to wait for the contest because every single competitor got to go ride at multiple resorts around Hakuba Valley and have literally, the BEST days of our lives. We rode chest deep powder all day, soaked in the natural hot springs (onsens) with a view after riding, then ate the most incredible fish every night, this was paradise.

One of my favorite buildings in Hakuba

A few days later the weather and snowpack was finally stable enough to have the contest in the backcountry of Hakuba Happo One Ski Resort. By this point I think half the field forgot we were there for a contest, because we were all grinning ear to ear all day every day with the meters fresh snow accumulating.

Possibly one of the best days of my life. Hakuba 47

The morning of the competition the sun greeted us for a little while, just enough time to give us the vitamin D we were missing from the huge storm that we were submersed in for the last week. By the time we were at the lodge to get our avalanche equipment checked, the storm moved back in, and made visibility a little bit more difficult.

Since they had to move the venue last minute they ended up giving us a snowmobile ride up a couple miles almost to the top of the venue. Lucky for us or we would have had to boot pack nearly an hour and half to the top of the venue. I’m amazed how efficiently it all went given the number of competitors and limited snowmobile usage,  not a single person missed their start.

Women snowboarders were the third group to drop, I was the third person to drop and I ended up in 3rd place on the podium! It was difficult to find my line after getting a faceshot first turn into the unbelievably steep venue.  I lost my line I inspected the day before nearly immediately, and just went for a soul inspired run, nearly blind. Congrats to all of the athletes and especially the ladies battling challenging near white-out conditions, and persevering with smiles on your faces. It was amazing to watch all of the competitors in their elements and especially watch the ladies absolutely SEND IT! Special shoutout to my friend Michaela Davis Meehan for her aggressive line that put her in 2nd place and the Russian sensation Anna Orlova for charging her way to the top spot!

Pure stoke with my girl Michaela Davis Meehan!

Another highlight for everyone was the fact that not only Travis Rice decided to show up to compete and absolutely dominate, but he was one the nicest people at the contest, kudos to him for being a humble human being and inspiring so many to do what we do.

The legend himself

Girls just wanna have fun!

A big thank you again to the FWT organizers, Hakuba Tourism, and the Japanese people. Without whom this contest would not have made history the way it did. I am so honored to be a part of this event, and to stand atop the podium with some of the world best athletes is just a bonus! Thank you to DISCRETE HEADWEAR for helping me to get to Japan as well as PlayHardGive back for your support and keeping me fueled up and ready to ride. Another huge shoutout to NICHE SNOWBOARDS for shipping me a board suitable for these conditions all the way to Japan. As well as Aura Optics, XS Unified, Outdoor Tech, Polar Pro, and Shred Betties.

I love JAPAN!

A burning cleanse before entering the temple

Big city lights. Tokyo, Japan.

Near the famous Tokyo Scramble

Sake Barrels in Tokyo

There is nothing more entertaining on a rainy Sunday in February then tuning into the Grammy Awards. I mean, I am actually 100% sure there are multiple people in our office that would way rather be doing anything else, (because I asked) but either way, it’s damn entertaining. As I asked each person here at ODT if they watched the Grammy’s, the answer they gave me, and the tone in which it was in, really hinted at how they would react to the next question I had, or rather task. I told them to watch the video below so I could see how they would react to it. My reaction, on Sunday night when I watched it live, was “are you f*cking kidding me?!”. Watch for yourself and see why.

Here is what our employees thought:

“My eyes… they’re burning” – Chayne

“I bet Lady Gaga has a bigger… than James Hetfield.” – Andy

“I don’t like the Grammy’s, I don’t like Lady Gaga, and Metallica just dropped points in my book.” – Eric (who refused to watch it)

“GAGA ROX SO HARD!!” – Lisa

“If I was on stage right now, I would get 1000 miles away from those flames. If they can’t get the microphone to work then there is no way I am trusting them with fire.” – Taylor

“So glad i’m not there” – Gabriela

Eric finally decided to watch the video due to some serious FOMO… Here’s what he said:

“Wow, I will never get these few minutes back. Why am I watching this? Where’s my emo-gency?”

Wow, Eric, you’re funny.

“Not sure what I just watched, but I liked it!” – Justin

“Oh no.” – Jeff

The sound guy was asleep, Lady Googs was clearly off her medication, and James Hetfield was PISSED. It was an unplanned, outrageous, complete train-wreck of a performance and I loved every second of it. Now let’s hear what you think…