Month: December 2020

2020-12-15T23:01:00

(BPT) – As 2021 approaches, the importance and urgency of physical and mental health are at an all-time-high due to COVID-19.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Regular physical activity helps you feel better, sleep better and reduces anxiety. It can also help with preventing weight gain and when combined with calorie reduction, helps with weight loss. It can also help boost immune function and help prevent diseases that also increase a person’s chances of having severe illness from COVID-19 such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.” The CDC also advises exercising regularly for improved mental health.

Anytime Fitness is making the journey to better physical and mental health more safe, accessible and social. To support the communities it serves, the franchise is announcing new virtual programming and resources that will inspire and enable new and current members to make healthy happen in 2021.

This month, the HeartFirst Charitable Foundation has awarded an initial $300,000 grant to the Movemeant Foundation, a nonprofit organization that designs fitness and movement programs to enable women and girls to embody confidence and develop healthy habits. By leveraging fitness and physical movement as platforms for social change, the foundation has served as a catalyst to create a new generation of healthy, strong and self-assured young women. It will share $25,000 in grant funds to Fast and Female, a Canada-based charity with a mission to keep girls healthy and active in sports.

In addition to the initial $300,000 grant, the HeartFirst Charitable Foundation will grant $1 for each 30-minute workout logged in the “Move With AF Event” on the Kilter mobile app during December (up to $50,000). In January, when new members sign up to join Anytime Fitness for $1 at participating locations, Anytime Fitness also will donate $1 (up to $90,000) to the Movemeant Foundation in addition to an initial $50,000 grant.

“At Anytime Fitness, we know that fitness is essential to living a healthy life — physically, emotionally and mentally,” said Stacy Anderson, brand president. “We’re proud to support Movemeant Foundation, an organization that believes, as we do, that fitness and physical movement is essential to unlocking the values of self-confidence, resiliency, commitment, balance and community.”

Anytime Fitness is partnering with Movemeant Foundation founder, fitness expert and confidence-life coach Jenny Gaither for the “Stronger for Good” virtual fitness event. The event offers an opportunity to move, learn and feel better together while strengthening physical and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event begins at 11 a.m. ET, Saturday, Jan. 2. Participation in the event is free, and open to all.

The event is part of the fitness franchise’s larger commitment to empower members to stay active and connected while remaining safe during the pandemic. The Anytime Fitness mobile app gives members access to thousands of online training programs. The app also offers several ways to virtually connect with a local coach who can help develop individualized workout plans to help start the new year off strong. Additionally, daily free workouts led by franchise coaches are available on Facebook at 9:30 a.m. ET

“Our coaching service and individualized fitness planning are what set us apart,” said Anderson. “We will continue to do everything we can for our members to deliver our service safely and at their convenience.”

For more information, visit www.anytimefitness.com.

2020-12-15T12:31:02

(BPT) – Connecting with other people is a huge part of our lives — and it’s essential to our health and well-being. It’s also a huge part of what makes the holidays special. The good news is there are many ways we can connect, even if we’re physically apart. And if you’re still looking for that perfect gift idea, you can’t go wrong with the gift of connection. Here are some ideas from the Administration for Community Living:

Send a letter-writing kit

Gift a kit so you and a loved one can keep in touch. Buy a ready-made kit or make one yourself. Include stationery and envelopes, postage stamps and a pen. Go further by adding extras like a wax seal, stickers or nice storage box. Make it even more personal with a list of monthly themes for your letters.

Share a recipe

Make a batch of your favorite cookies or bake a pie using the recipe passed down in your family for generations. Gift the treats to friends or neighbors through contactless delivery and include a copy of the recipe so they can recreate it. Take it up a notch with a video cooking lesson to go with your recipe.

Make a keepsake

Share memories and celebrate special connections with a scrapbook, photo album or keepsake box of event mementos, pictures, news clippings, and other small items. You can also make a show-and-tell video about these items instead of creating something you have to ship.

Write a legacy letter

These written or video letters are a formal way to pass on your memories, wisdom, values and hopes to your loved ones. There are websites and templates that can help guide you, or you can just start writing or recording about what is most important to you.

Set up a connection hub

Create a place online where friends and family can connect. Choose from a range of options, including photo-sharing albums, private chat rooms, social media groups and message boards. Take it to the next level by creating a family webpage or recording a podcast for your friends.

Show you care in real time

Simply reaching out can be a gift. Count down to something, like New Year’s Day, with a call, text or email every day. For a gift that keeps giving, check out things like digital photo frames you can update from a distance and pairs of lamps that light up in one location when touched in another.

Make connection easier

Improve their virtual experience by gifting accessories like a phone stand, webcam or headphones. Another option is to set up a conference call line that friends and family can use anytime. Many services have free or low-cost options and are easy to use.

You can easily customize these suggestions to make them helpful and meaningful to your loved ones. Show them how much you care by keeping in mind their unique needs and wants.

Visit acl.gov/engage for more on how to create these gifts, suggestions for things you can do by yourself or with family and friends to stay connected, and resources that can help — this holiday season and beyond.

2020-12-15T17:53:37

(BPT) – Uncertainty continues into the holiday season, with limited travel, canceled events and strict budgets changing how Americans will celebrate this year.

According to a recent Coinstar Holiday Survey, the majority of Americans said COVID-19 will influence how they celebrate the holidays.

Fortunately, by thinking outside the box and keeping a positive attitude, you can stay healthy, stretch funds and create merry moments. Let these tips inspire you to celebrate the holiday season safely and on budget:

1) Maintain traditions in new, safe ways

Traditions bring comfort and hope, so rather than forgoing beloved activities due to coronavirus concerns, get creative. Plan a car caravan to look at holiday lights and have everyone keep a scorecard of favorite houses including winners for most creative, brightest, funniest and overall best. Set up a video chat and bake favorite holiday treats in real time from afar. Relatives can virtually tuck kids into bed by reading classic holiday books through a free digital video platform. These activities are safer to enjoy and will create meaningful memories to make the season special.

2) Make gifts to save money

You can still have a wonderful holiday even on a tight budget. A budget-friendly option is to make it a homemade holiday this year. Face masks and hand sanitizer are great stocking stuffers that you can make and will be appreciated, especially this year. Patterns are readily available to make face masks and you can find recipes online for creating custom hand sanitizer. Another idea is to choose all handmade gifts from Etsy or local artists in your area, so you can give unique presents while supporting small businesses.

3) Cash in spare change

Even with fewer in-person gatherings and reduced gift giving this season, most people have increased expenses during the holiday season. Cashing in spare change is a good way to stretch your budget. Research shows Americans with spare change at home estimate that they have on average $113 in and around their homes. These funds can be used to buy gifts or apply to other holiday expenses. Coinstar kiosks found at most grocery stores are an easy way to convert loose change for cash, a no-fee eGift card or tax-deductible charity donation.

4) Plan a virtual gift exchange

According to the Coinstar Holiday Survey, two in five Americans who say their holiday will be different due to COVID-19 say they do not plan to travel or attend in-person gatherings. To enjoy the holidays safely, consider a virtual gift exchange with friends or family. Drop off or mail gifts and plan a time for everyone to video chat and open presents together. Get dressed in your favorite holiday attire to make the event feel special, whether that’s festive formal wear or ugly sweaters and sweats. Then, take turns opening gifts and feel the joy.

5) Give gifts with meaning

Rather than a traditional present, consider alternative gifts that show you care. Do you have a talent that would benefit others, such as tutoring a friend’s child who is studying remotely? Could you drop off a meal for a senior who’s homebound? Could you donate a snack basket for hard-working delivery personnel? Lastly, instead of a present, you could make a donation in the recipient’s name to a charity close to that person’s heart.

6) Delay holiday celebrations

All of these ideas can help you maximize the holiday season, but if you still long to celebrate in person, consider planning a gathering for later in 2021. According to the survey, about half said they would consider “Christmas in July” in 2021 for in-person celebrations. So, whether it’s a summer Christmas event or another holiday, it’s something to look forward to once it’s safe again. Send out “save the date” invitations and put your creative juices to work for a summer get-together.

2020-12-16T00:01:00

(BPT) – The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult on small businesses. Whether it’s a local eatery, service provider, retail store or another type of business, when you shop small, you’re supporting a real person who is striving to keep his or her entrepreneurial dream alive.

“Small businesses are the heart of our country and at the heart of Ball brand home canning products,” says Kris Malkoski, CEO of the Food Business Unit at Newell Brands, makers of Ball^® home canning products. “We have been moved by the love our small business customers have shown their communities this past year. Still many small businesses are facing hardships, and this holiday season, they need our support more than ever.”

You can personally help make a difference by considering 10 simple ways to support small businesses:

Shop now: No need to wait for a sale or special event. By shopping now you’re putting much-needed funds into a small business that is depending on income each month to make ends meet and keep doors open.

Reverse shopping: Rather than thinking of the recipient and then where to shop for a gift, think of the shop first and then the recipients that would most like items from that particular business.

Go online: For small businesses that offer e-commerce options, be sure to consider online orders that ship directly to your home. This is a safe and convenient way to support your favorite businesses.

Shop in person: For businesses with physical locations, visit shops in person if you can use proper safety measures. If you know what you want, many businesses let you order ahead and opt for curbside or doorway pickup as well.

Consider gift cards: Not sure what to buy? Gift cards are always one of the most desired gifts, so if you need to send a little love to a loved one, wrap up a gift certificate in a beautiful card and feel good about your present choice.

Leave reviews: Online reviews can make a big difference for small businesses in expanding clientele. Go online and leave rave reviews for your favorite stores and why others should support them as well to help spread the word.

Be vocal: In addition to online reviews, talk up your favorite small businesses among friends. From independent restaurants to local service providers, use your voice as a powerful tool to build their reputation and support growth.

Partnerships: Look for small businesses who partner together to offer products or services that complement each other in packages, such as a gift basket bundle featuring your favorite local treats. You’ll support multiple businesses at once and often get a discount compared to buying separately.

Double up: For businesses like independent coffee shops or bakeries, consider a larger order. For example, go with that grande latte and order two dozen cookies to share with your neighbors.

Be patient: Small businesses are dealing with a multitude of challenges these days, from supply chain holdups to sluggish shipping and beyond. Your kindness is valued and your patience is crucial during these times.

“Actions big and small will help make a difference,” says Malkoski. “This is our time to give back to the businesses that help build our culture and communities, and we at Newell Brands want to give back too.”

Made For More Small Business Fund

Malkoski shares that the makers of Ball brand home canning products want to support its loyal small businesses and has established the Made For More Small Business Fund, open for applicants from Dec. 15, 2020 through Jan. 31, 2021. Ten winners will be awarded $10,000 and applications are open to U.S. based for-profit small businesses that have 0-99 full- or part-time employees, use Ball brand home canning products in some aspect of their business, and have supported their communities in some fashion during the pandemic.

The Made For More Small Business Fund was created to give an opportunity for small business customers that use Ball brand home canning products to be awarded $10,000 to help fuel more — more business, growth and community support. Learn more at www.freshpreserving.com/MadeforMore.

2020-12-15T09:01:01

(BPT) – Due to the pandemic, some parents have delayed doctor visits and immunizations for their babies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported fewer children and infants having recommended vaccinations during the spring 2020 lockdowns, leaving those children at higher risk of getting diseases like the measles.

While it’s understandable that parents are worried about taking children to the doctor now, babies and toddlers need to see a healthcare provider for wellness visits while their bodies are growing and developing. Eight well-child visits are recommended between birth and 15 months. If you have a little one, remember these regular in-person wellness visits — and vaccinations — help make sure your baby stays healthy.

If you’re behind on visits and immunizations, don’t worry — simply call your pediatrician to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Rest assured that your baby’s healthcare provider is taking all necessary steps to keep you and your child healthy during your visit.

“Healthcare providers nationwide are doing everything they can to safeguard the health of patients and families,” says Dr. Arethusa Kirk, chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare. “Think of your baby’s pediatrician as your partner in helping to keep your baby safe and healthy, because that’s their primary goal.”

Here are the main reasons for keeping your baby’s regular wellness visits.

1. Your pediatrician can identify concerns

Seeing your baby helps a pediatrician identify signs of illness or developmental concerns. Recognizing issues early helps your pediatrician give your child prompt treatment to keep them healthy.

2. Your infant needs immunizations

The CDC recommends vaccinations proven to help protect children against dangerous diseases like polio and measles. These vaccinations must be given early to protect babies when they are most vulnerable.

All vaccinations have been proven by extensive research to be safe and effective for your child. According to Johns Hopkins University, most childhood immunizations work for 85%-95% of people who get them. But some vaccinations, like the two required doses of MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) have been proven to offer up to 99% protection from those diseases.

Schools and daycares require children to be immunized to protect all enrolled children. Not vaccinating your child leaves them at risk of getting serious, possibly life-threatening illnesses.

Vaccinations are designed to protect from and reduce the effect of illnesses like the flu if contracted. Making sure your whole family is protected with up-to-date immunizations creates a circle of protection around vulnerable newborns and developing babies.

3. You can ask questions

Face it, parenting is hard. New parents especially have many questions arise about their child’s development and behavior.

Here are common questions your pediatrician can answer:

• What can I do to make breastfeeding more comfortable?
• Should I put my baby to sleep on their back?
• How often should I bathe my baby?
• Should I be using formula while breastfeeding?
• I’ve been feeling sad and anxious since delivering my baby. What should I do?
• How long should my baby nap each day?
• I think my baby is behind in development. What can I do?
• Are my baby’s sleep patterns normal?
• How can I treat diaper rash?

4. Pediatricians can provide resources

If your family needs help finding childcare, getting a car seat or food assistance, babyproofing your house or with any other concerns, your pediatrician can assist you in finding helpful programs and resources.

5. Well-child visits are usually covered by insurance

Most insurance plans will cover early well-child visits and immunizations, so they may be free of charge. Call your health insurance provider to ask about your family’s coverage.

If you are a UnitedHealthcare Community Plan member, you may have access to the Healthy First Steps program, which can help you find a care provider, schedule well-child visits, connect with educational and community resources and more. (Healthy First Steps is only available to members in some states. For all other states, contact the number on your insurance card for assistance.) Call 1-800-599-5985, TTY 711, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For help getting to appointments, getting formula or healthy food, call the number on your insurance card.

Prepare for your visit

Write down questions to ask the pediatrician and bring them with you, along with anything your baby might need (like diapers, wipes, a bottle).

Call your healthcare provider to ask about their safety guidelines. Always practice social distancing, wash hands often and wear a mask to protect your family and others during COVID-19.

To learn more about wellness visits, visit www.uhc.com/childrenswellness.

2020-12-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – As holiday gatherings may be smaller this year, celebrating with immediate families or small groups can still be special. In fact, it’s the perfect reason to try new recipes that use simple pantry staples to create sharable dishes everyone will love.

The culinary experts at S&W Beans share these easy ideas for festive recipes using canned beans you likely already have in your cupboard. It doesn’t get much easier — and tastier — than that!

Scrumptious Bean and Avocado Toasts

A delectable blend of tomato, avocado, basil and other seasonings atop toasted bread is why Bean and Avocado Toasts are a family favorite. This simple dish is an easy appetizer or addition to your holiday brunches, adding a touch of savory flavor that is impossible to resist.

Sensational Snickerdoodle Hummus

A wholesome dip that tastes like one of your favorite cookies? Yes, please! Serve Snickerdoodle Hummus this holiday and watch as everyone raves. S&W Garbanzos blend with classic snickerdoodle flavors like cinnamon and vanilla for a guilt-free dessert dip. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels or vanilla wafers.

Perfect Pinquito Pico de Gallo

Small but flavor-packed pinquito beans are the highlight of this scoopable masterpiece. Pinquito Beans add a hearty dose of protein to classic pico de gallo salsa with chopped onion, Roma tomatoes, jalapeno pepper and lime juice. Make Pinquito Pico de Gallo and serve it with tortilla chips, or use as a topping for tacos or enchiladas for a holiday fiesta.

Savory Cilantro Chutney Bean Dip

With just the right balance of savory and spice, Cilantro Chutney Bean Dip is a sure crowd-pleaser. In a food processer, blend S&W European Soldier Beans — rare, colorful varieties of beans, exclusively grown and hand-picked by farmers — with flavorful cilantro, fresh ginger, lemon juice, cumin and more for a delicious dish that will disappear before you know it.

Wholesome White Bean and Herb Spread

If you’re looking for a filling and wholesome spread, look no further than this recipe for White Bean and Herb Spread. With ingredients like garlic, onion, fat-free yogurt and S&W White Beans, it’s sure to be flavorful. One serving of S&W Beans contains 6-9 grams of fiber: a whopping 24-32% of your daily value! Plus, it provides 6-7 grams of protein, which is about the same amount found in one egg!

Jacob’s Cattle Turkey Club Pinwheels

These colorful bite-size swirls won’t last long! Featuring ingredients like bacon, turkey, cream cheese, mustard, S&W Jacob’s Cattle Beans and lettuce, Jacob’s Cattle Turkey Club Pinwheels are simple and look beautiful displayed on a serving dish. You can even make them the day before or morning of to save time!

2020-12-15T09:01:01

(BPT) – Sherry is a classic wine that’s been around for hundreds of years, yet is recently receiving renewed interest among people of all ages and is being embraced in new and inventive ways. Sherry isn’t just great for sipping — it has loads of potential as a cocktail ingredient and more, making it a wonderful option for winter celebrations.

The best-selling Sherry in the world is Harveys Bristol Cream, the only Spanish product with a Royal Warrant from the British Royal Family. Produced from four different styles of Sherry — Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez — it’s one of the most versatile Sherries around, a testament to its best-selling status. In fact, here are seven reasons to enjoy Harveys this winter that showcase why Sherry is experiencing a rebirth.

Sherry keeps for a month refrigerated: When properly chilled, many Sherry styles, such as Harveys, can stay good for up to a month. This means you don’t need a big group or special occasion to keep a bottle on hand. For proper storage, keep the bottle closed and in a refrigerator when not being used. This helps the Sherry maintain its incredible flavor.

Pair Sherry with snacks like nuts: Winter celebrations often call for a variety of nuts for snacking. Whether they are sweet, spiced or raw in their shell waiting for cracking, Sherry is the perfect pairing for nuts. In fact, Sherry can be a tasty aperitif with nuts or other light appetizers to start a meal.

Sherry can be used as a baking ingredient: You can use Sherry in traditional winter recipes such as pumpkin pie, spice cookies or fruit cake. Recipes for Sherry brownies are indulgent and the perfect ending to a meal. Of course, pair these rich treats with a glass of Sherry to delight the palate.

Sherry can be used as a cooking ingredient: Add interest and depth to sauces with Sherry. A splash of Sherry increases flavor when sauteing meats or vegetables. Need to deglaze your pan? A bit of Sherry helps those crispy flavors at the bottom of the pan to release and is an easy way to make a quick pan sauce for meat or seafood.

Serving Sherry is simple: Just like any other wine, Sherry can be enjoyed straight. Chill the Harveys bottle and the label tells you when it’s ready by turning blue. Try enjoying it chilled over ice with a slice of orange. You don’t need special glassware; a regular white or red wine glass is ideal for Sherry.

Sherry is a versatile cocktail substitute: Have fun swapping in Sherry for other spirits to create flavorful cocktails that often have lower alcohol by volume. Another insider tip is that Sherry can be swapped one-for-one with cocktail recipes that call for sweet vermouth, so shake up your favorite drinks and enjoy something fresh.

Sherry inspires new cocktail recipes: While great enjoyed alone or as a substitute in recipes, why not make the most of the winter months by trying new recipes that feature trending Sherry, like this one for the Adonis?

Adonis