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Don’t skip these 13 important homeowner to-dos for the spring months

2023-05-04T08:01:00

(BPT) – After a wild weather ride across the country, everyone is ready to welcome the beautiful summer months. Is your home and yard ready, too? If not, there’s no better time than the present to create a to-do list and get things done so you’re ready to enjoy your best life in your best home.

In honor of National Home Improvement Month, consider this top 13 list of important tasks for homeowners from the experts at Neighborly® — the world’s largest home services company with more than 30 brands and 5,000 franchises that collectively serve more than 12 million customers.

Clean your air conditioner: Start by looking over your outdoor condenser unit and clearing away external debris, such as leaves and dead branches. Special brushes and cloths are required to clean the coils on your air conditioner’s condenser unit to ensure safe and effective debris removal. Attempting to do this yourself could result in damage, so instead schedule a tune-up from a company like Aire Serv® so you know the job will be done right and you’ll be ready when the temperatures climb.

Repair garage door springs: Is your garage door getting noisier or something seems off? Garage door torsion springs are under tension and may require repair or replacement. While it can be tempting, doing this yourself can be dangerous to you and may damage your home. Contact a local Precision Door Service® professional who can inspect the situation, and if needed, use the correct tools and processes to fix any issues or replace the garage door.

Clean your dryer vents: Many homeowners don’t realize the importance of hiring someone to clean or repair dryer vents. Unkempt dryer vents can lead to fires or the buildup of toxins, mold and bacteria. You can protect your family and home by getting a professional inspection of your venting system and scheduling yearly cleanings from a company like Dryer Vent Wizard®.

Introduce a new shade of paint: A fresh hue can add a new look and feel to any space, indoors and out. Painting kitchen cabinets, interior walls or exterior trim are some examples. Some people enjoy painting and have the knowledge and time to do it themselves, but remember, painting the right way is a multistep process that requires expertise for things like picking the right paint, brushes, finish, coverage, primer and other details. If you’re unsure, call the painting professionals from Five Star Painting® for results you’re guaranteed to love.

Get creative with new storage solutions: Organization is an important part of spring cleaning that can make your home more streamlined. Creating highly organized spaces in your home is important, but to make them more useful you need to go beyond the basics. Consider working with professional designers from ShelfGenie® who can create custom solutions for every room in your house, leaving a lasting impact on the efficiency and value of your home.

Think green when you spring clean: Spring cleaning can be green and health-conscious with green tips from Molly Maid®. Creating your own all-purpose cleaner with essential oils, vinegar and baking soda can help reduce toxicity in your home. Being mindful of water use while doing laundry, scrubbing floors and doing dishes can also help keep water usage down. Microfiber dusting cloths can help you use less water and fewer paper towels — an earth-friendly win!

Revitalize lawn and update landscaping: Is your yard looking a bit drab? Consider completing tasks like trimming overgrowth, fertilizing grass and installing landscaping. Preventative measures are also important, such as adding weed barriers and treatments. Need assistance with any of these tasks? The Grounds Guys® can help make your yard the envy of the neighborhood.

Clean windows and your home’s exterior: Your home’s windows are your eyes to the outside world, but they can get dirty over time along with your home’s exterior. While cleaning the inside of your windows may be easily accessible, the outside of the windows can be more difficult, not to mention that cleaning different types of siding can be complex. Consider hiring Window Genie® to do the job for you and make your house shine.

Have your yard sprayed: No one wants their outdoor event to turn into a flurry of swatting or slapping away bugs. If you’re looking for an effective way to keep insects from ruining your outdoor fun, the experts at Mosquito Joe® will spray your yard in specific areas where mosquitoes like to hide and breed to help make your outdoor event more enjoyable.

Deck repairs and installation: Spring is the ideal time to inspect your deck for loose or rotting boards and other damage that can happen over time. You can opt to make repairs or perhaps you’ll decide to build a new deck. Either way, a deck is an important investment in a home’s value, and you want it to be attractive and safe, so it’s best to work with a professional. Mr. Handyman® is an expert at framing, decking, railing, staining and other areas of the project.

Make wiring upgrades: Want to add some new lighting to your deck or patio? Or, maybe you’ve noticed some existing wiring that’s frayed and in need of repair? Modifying or replacing electrical wiring can be extremely dangerous and lead to injury or fire damage. Stay safe and ask a qualifed electrician from Mr. Electric® to upgrade or replace your home’s wiring.

Repair your oven or stove: DIY oven or stove repairs can have serious consequences like gas leaks and fires. This is especially common with gas appliances, so if you have these units, it’s best to let expert service technicians provide an effective, long-lasting repair while keeping your home safe. Check out Mr. Appliance® for help with oven and stove repair.

Bonus tip for your vehicle: Many new vehicles have an Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system, a feature that reduces the likelihood of your vehicle running into the car in front of you. Be aware that even a minor crack can degrade the level of clarity the system needs to operate effectively to help prevent accidents. If your windshield is damaged or broken, trust the auto glass specialists at Glass Doctor® to repair your windshield and calibrate your systems.

Remember, everyone is different in their desire and abilities to do these tasks. That’s why expert help is available if you need it. Through Neighborly.com and the Neighborly mobile app, you can find trusted local service providers that meet rigorous franchisor standards so you can feel confident no matter which job you need to be completed.

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The fire dangers of mishandling lithium-ion batteries and how to avoid them

2023-05-04T09:47:00

(BPT) – Electric bicycles (e-bikes) and scooters are more popular than ever with kids and adults alike. Whether for having fun around the neighborhood, running errands across town or even commuting to work, these are convenient, eco-friendly options to get around thanks to rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.

These powerful batteries can be recharged and used over and over again; however, they also pose an often-overlooked danger: They can catch on fire. With the increase in Li-ion devices, it’s even more important to be aware of risks and take precautions to stay safe while preventing home fires that can lead to property damage, personal injury or worse.

In 2021, 880,000 e-bikes were imported into the U.S., and they can be conveniently stored in homes, apartments and public spaces, according to the Light Electric Vehicle Association. Li-ion powered devices are common in households and can include laptops, tablets and hoverboards.

To help prevent fires and ensure the integrity and safety of your Li-ion batteries, follow the acronym PREPARE, and these steps provided by Kidde, North America’s #1 home fire safety brand1:

P: Plug and unplug — don’t overcharge! Once a Li-ion battery is fully charged, unplug it as soon as possible and avoid overnight or unsupervised charging.*

R: Risky charging practices like using extension cords, plugging multiple products into one circuit, charging for 3+ hours, and charging in direct sunlight can lead to wire degradation and create a source of fire ignition.*

E: Exits are vital — don’t charge or store devices in an entrance or exit, as these spaces need to be clear in the event of a fire.

P: Pay attention and immediately stop using your device if the battery has an odor, change in color or gives off too much heat.*

A: Always shop smart and look for officially listed e-mobility devices, batteries and charging equipment that qualify for UL 2849, the Standard for Electrical Systems for e-Bikes.

R: Reach for Kidde products in stores, such as the HomeSafe™ enabled Kidde Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Indoor Air Quality Monitor, a triple detection, industry-first alarm that can send instant notifications of home safety threats right to your mobile device.

E: Engage your friends and family. Share this infographic on social media and download it to hang in your home.

Most importantly, if there is a fire, get out of the space immediately and call 911.

If you take inventory of the devices in your home that are powered by Li-ion batteries, there are probably more than you think. Remember these safety steps and invest in fire safety products to help protect your home and your family.

*Source: NFPA.org/ebikes

1. Based on total household installations as of December 2021

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Six ways homeowners can lower residential cooling bills this summer

2023-05-04T12:55:00

(BPT) – The YORK® brand of Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, has compiled six proven tips to help homeowners reduce cooling bills this spring and summer as energy costs nationwide remain above pre-pandemic rates.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates that home cooling accounts for 12% of the average household’s monthly electric bills. As many homeowners experience higher-than-average utility costs, simple HVAC upgrades and routine maintenance can help reduce cooling expenditures by improving system efficiency. Before setting the thermostat to cool, homeowners should try these cost-saving tips:

  1. Replace filters and clean vents: HVAC filters help keep dust and debris from being recirculated throughout a home. However, when these filters become too full, they can limit airflow and cause the blower to work harder. Maintaining a filter replacement routine can help improve efficiency and extend the life of the HVAC system. For most systems, the recommendation is to replace the filter every one to three months, but homeowners should follow the frequency indicated by the HVAC system manufacturer. Routinely cleaning the grates of the air vents will also help to maintain efficient airflow.
  2. Schedule preventative maintenance: The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) estimates that routine HVAC maintenance can reduce annual heating and cooling bills by as much as 30%. Routine maintenance involves cleaning and inspecting the evaporator coil, examining the drain pan and condensation line, evaluating blowers and fans, testing system controls and checking refrigerant levels. Establishing a routine of scheduled service prior to the hottest and coldest times of the year — when HVAC systems are used most — will ensure equipment is in peak working condition and can even help to reduce costly repairs over time.
  3. Cover windows: The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that as much as 76% of the sunlight that hits a standard, double-pane window will transfer as heat into the home. Window coverings of nearly any nature will help to reduce solar heat gains, especially when installed in south-facing rooms or homes with little to no exterior shade. But for the greatest energy reduction, homeowners should opt for insulated cellular shades certified by the Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC). These specially designed shades incorporate an interior layer of insulation and can reduce solar heat that enters through the windows by as much as 60%.
  4. Inspect and seal ductwork: EnergyStar estimates that as much as 20% of HVAC efficiency is lost to poorly connected or damaged ductwork. An HVAC technician can inspect the ductwork throughout a home and evaluate the system’s air supply and return balance. Airflow imbalances could be a sign of damage, loose seals or even that the ductwork isn’t sized correctly. Ductwork located within basements, attics or crawl spaces can also be a point of efficiency loss if the ductwork isn’t properly insulated.
  5. Update the thermostat: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that the average homeowner could reduce their annual heating and cooling bills by as much as 10% by using a programmable thermostat to reduce HVAC demands overnight or while away from the home. Some smart thermostats incorporate geo-fencing features to further reduce energy use by detecting homeowners’ proximity to the house and adjusting the temperature based on home and away settings. Some thermostats can even alert homeowners to potential system issues and provide the option to grant their HVAC contractor with remote service access.
  6. Utilize Inflation Reduction Act savings: With higher-efficiency HVAC equipment from YORK, homeowners can reduce their heating and cooling costs by as much as 50% compared to low-efficiency systems, helping homeowners see a reduction in their energy bills while lowering their environmental impact. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has made the transition to high-efficiency systems, including heat pumps, even more affordable by offering tax rebates up to $2,000 dependent on household income. IRA incentives can also be combined with local and manufacturers rebates to further increase cost-savings. Since heat pumps are powered by electricity and operate by transferring heat rather than producing it, heat pumps can reduce site energy use by as much as two-thirds when compared to a conventional, fuel-powered heating systems.

For more information on rebates, visit YORK.com.

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7 expert tips to make sure your lawn is healthy and beautiful

2023-05-04T10:01:00

(BPT) – Believe it or not, mowing season is now upon us. And depending on where you live, you may have less time to prepare than you think. Making sure your lawn stays healthy, green and beautiful all season long is a great goal — and with the right approach, it’s not hard to achieve.

Here are tips from the lawn pros at John Deere to help you grow a healthy, attractive lawn, so you can enjoy it with your family all summer long.

1. Prep your mower

Whether your first mow is days or weeks away, now’s the time to get your mower ready. The most important things are to make sure your mower blade is sharp, clean and above all, properly installed. A dull blade won’t provide a clean cut, which can make your grass look ragged. Even worse, it injures the grass, causing vulnerability to insects and disease. Your blade must also be correctly installed, as an upside-down blade won’t cut.

A yearly tune-up is recommended that would include an oil change and replacing spark plugs and filters. John Deere offers both a Home Maintenance Kit that includes all you need to perform this tune-up or, if you want to save time, call your John Deere Dealer — they offer spring maintenance specials on all types of turf equipment.

2. Set a proper mowing height

Cutting too short can cause problems down the road, as the lower canopy of a shorter lawn allows more light to reach the soil, which can allow weeds to prosper. On the other hand, if you let grass grow too long and then cut it down dramatically, that can stress the turf. This may cause grass to pull nutrients from its root system, causing a thinning, unhealthy lawn.

The rule of thumb is to cut no more than one-third of the leaf — so to maintain a two-inch lawn, cut down by one inch when it reaches three inches. Some grasses flourish with longer or shorter cuts, so it can help to find out what species your lawn has and ask advice about ideal length from your local county extension.

3. Mow according to need

To help nurture a thriving lawn, mowing should occur when grass needs a trim, not just when it’s convenient (like on weekends). If your lawn is heavily fertilized and irrigated, or during active growing, you may need to mow twice a week. But if your grass has entered a dormant season or is suffering from drought, it may not need to be mowed at all. In early spring, your grass might not need cutting yet, but winter annual weeds that pop up before grass starts growing can be somewhat controlled by mowing until the weather warms up. Keep an eye on your lawn and watch the weather in your area to set a proper schedule for mowing, ensuring you trim only when needed.

4. Maximize clippings

Your lawn clippings are full of nitrogen-rich nutrients that help feed the soil, so it’s best to deposit them right back onto the lawn. If you mow regularly, you shouldn’t have big clumps of clippings, but just enough to provide good nutrients — reducing how much fertilizer you’ll need. Even leaves can be mulched, as long as there aren’t so many that the grass is smothered with them. Mulch mowing allows clippings to be cut finely enough so they can’t be seen when redistributed into the lawn. Using the John Deere MulchControl™ Kit with One-Touch Technology is an easy way to mulch while you mow.

5. Mow grass when dry

If it’s rained recently, or early in the morning when there’s still dew on the lawn, resist the temptation to mow until the grass is thoroughly dry. Wet conditions can cause grass clumping and excessive buildup on the mower deck underside, leaving you with a poor-quality cut. Cutting when your grass is dry will allow you to get the sharpest trim on your lawn to ensure it looks beautiful all summer long.

6. Plan your mowing paths

Wherever possible, be sure to mow your lawn in a straight line. It’s also recommended to overlap your mowing paths by about 2-4 inches, to avoid leaving unsightly strips of uncut grass. Altering your mowing path prevents compaction that occurs from mowing on the same path. This also can create a beautiful-looking mowing pattern, adding curb appeal.

7. Water in the morning

The experts all agree it’s best to water your grass in the morning. If you water in the evening, droplets can cling to the grass and promote fungus growth overnight. Watering in the morning allows for moisture to reach the roots of the grass, improving overall lawn health.

Following these tips, you can ensure that your lawn will stay as healthy as possible for you and your family to enjoy, all season long. Visit YourBackyardTips.Deere.com for more tips on how to keep your grass looking great this summer.

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Why right now is a great time to buy — or sell — a boat

2023-05-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re looking to buy your first boat, upgrade your current boat or you simply want to sell, today’s market for previously owned boats is seeing a lot of movement — with plenty of opportunities for buying as well as selling. While boat-buying peaked during the pandemic, when travel was limited and many sought ways to enjoy the outdoors safely with friends and family, the interest in having fun out on the open water hasn’t slowed down, even as travel and other activities have resumed.

Nearly half of the pandemic boating boom buyers are here to stay. According to a study conducted by Boat Trader, over half of private sellers surveyed (56%) bought their current boat during the pandemic. What has happened since then? Out of all the private sellers who purchased boats during the pandemic, almost half (49%) have enjoyed the ride so much that they’re looking for a bigger, better boat.

In fact, almost 40% of these current boat owners are looking to upgrade, which means the market is hot for selling larger boats. In addition, you can still get top dollar for smaller boats (under 35 feet), according to the current market index report from Boats Group. In other good news, higher interest rates are not affecting most buyers’ boat purchase decisions, as the majority plan to purchase their next vessel with cash.

Who is buying and selling

The accelerated buying and selling of pre-owned boats today provides plenty of options for those looking to upgrade and those moving on to other pastimes. Millennials, who are now between 27 and 40 years old, are the largest generational group planning to upgrade their vessel after making a pandemic boat purchase — 40% of millennials who purchased a boat during the pandemic now plan to upgrade their vessel. As for baby boomers and older boat owners, one-third (33%) of those who bought during the pandemic also plan to upgrade. Among boat owners as a whole, Gen X and baby boomers are doing the most buying and selling overall.

Whether you’re a buyer or a seller (or both, if you’re upgrading) — what you really need is a great place to list and search.

List to sell fast

Did you know you can list your boat on BoatTrader.com in under three minutes? The site specializes in only boats, and they’re the largest boating marketplace in the U.S. — meaning you’ll reach the largest number of qualified, interested buyers possible. They have a 30-year history of helping people sell boats, along with dedicated customer service to help sellers at any time.

Because Boat Trader is where highly interested shoppers around the country go to look, you’ll generate more leads and can list your boat for a higher price. The 2023 survey found that about 81% of boats listed for sale by owner on the site sell within 12 weeks.

Tips for the best listing include:

  • Take plenty of photos: Aim for 20 photos (as well as a video) of your clean boat, showing the overall look of the boat plus every feature important to buyers, including the engine. Capture all angles, from bow to stern, both in and out of the water.
  • List at an appropriate price: Research what comparable boats are selling for today. You can use Boat Trader’s Price Checker Tool to learn the range of listed prices for your boat, including the average, lowest and highest prices.
  • Include lots of detail: Be specific. Use accurate boat builder’s specs, minimum draft, exact dimensions, onboard equipment, engine hours, tank capacities, accessories, outfittings and brand names — plus information about maintenance.

You can find more tips and start selling today at BoatTrader.com/sell.

Find your dream boat

Looking to upgrade? Searching for your next vessel is easy and fun on Boat Trader. You can search by features including location, condition, size, type and price range to find the boat of your dreams. You’ll be able to access detailed specs on each listing, along with photos and videos, plus information on financing if needed. It’s also easy to use the platform to contact the seller during the process. Browse boats for sale, plus outboard motors and engines, boat trailers and more at BoatTrader.com/boats.

Ready to get started? Learn more at BoatTrader.com or download the Boat Trader app on the iOS App Store and Google Play.

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Eisai Is Pioneering Alzheimer’s Research and Working to Improve the Experience of People Living with the Disease

2023-05-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Eisai Inc.

Understanding Alzheimer’s disease

Dementia — a term that encompasses a group of disorders that can affect memory, language, and thinking — can have many causes, but Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. AD is a brain disease that’s caused by damage to nerve cells in the brain, called neurons.

It’s the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States and the Alzheimer’s Association says 1 in 3 seniors dies from Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia, according to its 2023 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures special report. The association also reports that 55 million people worldwide are living with the disease or another dementia, including an estimated 6.7 million Americans 65 and over. This number could more than double by 2060 without development of medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow, or cure the disease.

AD is also a major challenge for families and caregivers, as well as healthcare systems and the community at large.

The first symptoms of the progressive disease are problems with memory, language, and thinking. Over time, more brain neurons get damaged and those with the disease may have increased difficulty carrying out daily activities.

While a family history of AD isn’t necessary for someone to develop the disease, those with a first-degree relative with AD are more likely to develop it than those without a family history.

Delivering solutions for patients and families

“Never giving up” is the message Eisai Inc. emphasizes when it comes to the company’s four decades of Alzheimer’s research. The global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Tokyo, with its U.S. headquarters in Nutley, New Jersey, is focused on developing innovative solutions for people and families living with AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Driven by its commitment to human health care (hhc) — thinking first about patients and their families — Eisai uses its science, technology, and real-world expertise aims to push past scientific boundaries to deliver innovative and health-related solutions to patients. They know they have a responsibility to listen to and learn from patients and families.

“Our comprehensive approach to drug development is designed to serve patients with the goal of helping them live healthier and more fulfilling lives,” said Michael Irizarry, M.D., Senior Vice President, Deputy Chief Clinical Officer, Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Health, Eisai Inc., noting that the company’s personal interactions with patients and caregivers drive its innovation.

The right intervention

Eisai is working to slow the disease progression of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. The company’s long-term goal is to streamline diagnostics and research in early disease detection, which can help improve the patient and caregiver experience.

For example, by using blood-based biomarkers, which are measures used to perform a clinical assessment (e.g., blood pressure, cholesterol level), Eisai can monitor and potentially predict health states in individuals or across populations so appropriate therapeutic intervention can be planned.

“The biomarkers not only help physicians diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, but they can allow researchers to refine their recruiting processes for clinical trials,” Dr. Irizarry said. “With these new approaches and diagnostic techniques in place, this may lead to better outcomes.”

Eisai is committed to discovering novel biomarkers to identify the root cause and stage of each person’s disease, and to provide the right intervention, for the right person, at the right time.

“Eisai is at the forefront of research and development for AD, and we continue to tackle the underlying disease processes,” said Dr. Irizarry. “We are working to improve the experience of people living with the disease.”

Read more about Eisai and its research into Alzheimer’s disease at us.eisai.com.

US3074 © Eisai Inc. April 2023

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Non-flushable wipes with “Do Not Flush” symbol go in the trash, not the toilet

2023-05-03T02:01:00

(BPT) – If you have a pack or two of wet wipes around the house, you know how convenient and helpful these household items can be. However, baby wipes, makeup wipes, and disinfecting wipes are classified as non-flushable products. Wet wipes make life easier when pressed for time but if consumers don’t dispose of non-flushable wipes properly, it can lead to serious problems for local and state infrastructures.

According to a survey by The Responsible Flushing Alliance (RFA), 93% of California consumers feel that practicing responsible flushing habits is somewhat or very important to their local community. However, the data also found that many Californians falsely believe it’s safe to flush baby wipes (26%), disinfecting wipes (17%) and makeup wipes (18%). Even among those who are aware, 60% admitted to flushing something they knew wasn’t flushable within the last year.

“When you look at the data, we see there is a clear disconnect between perception and reality,” said RFA President Lara Wyss. “When the wrong things are flushed, it can cause massive problems in the form of clogs and fatbergs in California communities and home pipes.”

Downstream damage

It’s easy to think that flushing a non-flushable wipe every once in a while isn’t a big deal, but even one can cause issues downstream. Non-flushable wipes represent 93% of wet wipes in the U.S. and are made of long, often synthetic fibers, making them durable for their intended uses. While this benefits consumers, their durability means they aren’t designed to disintegrate when flushed, blocking home or sewage pipes, pumps and wastewater equipment.

Clogs aren’t just inconvenient; they’re costly. The National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) estimates that flushing non-flushable wet wipes costs $441 million a year in additional operating costs for U.S. clean water utilities. Also, on the municipal level, the average utility pays about $100,000 a year in additional collection system operating costs because of issues caused by flushed wet wipes.

California is leading the charge

While these facts are discouraging, consumers do have the power to make a difference. To raise consumer awareness and encourage Californians to dispose of non-flushable wipes properly, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Proper Labeling for Wet Wipes law in October 2021. This law requires non-flushable wipes packaging to include the “Do Not Flush” (DNF) symbol. Washington, Illinois, and Oregon have similar laws as well.

While the law is fairly new, the RFA survey found a growing consumer awareness of the DNF symbol, with 75% of Californians claiming they recall seeing it on wet wipe packaging. More importantly, most Californians (68%) are willing to change their behavior after learning about the costs of improper flushing.

Ultimately, educating the public about the consequences of improper flushing to their wallets, community, and environment is critical to reducing fatbergs and clogs across California and beyond.

“We know consumer education works; we’ve seen that in our 2022 pilot #FlushSmart campaign,” Wyss said. “It’s just a matter of connecting with audiences on the issue in a way that hits close to home, making sure we’re getting the message out to as many people as we can.”

Everyone can do their part to stop the wastewater issues caused by inappropriately flushed items like non-flushable wipes by always looking for the “Do Not Flush” symbol. To find educational resources on the subject and learn more about RFA, visit FlushSmart.org or check out @FlushSmart on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Popular Home Chefs with Mexican Heritage Dish Over Their Favorite Cinco de Mayo Traditions

2023-05-02T16:35:00

(BPT) – Mexican food is a staple during this time of the year in the United States. Whether you’re gathering with friends to indulge in your favorite Mexican-inspired meal, celebrating Mexican culture with family or commemorating Mexico’s win over France in the Battle of Puebla in 1862 on Cinco de Mayo, the makers of the HERDEZ® brand are honored to partner with Mexican-American home chefs to inspire you with their own authentic recipes and traditions to help you celebrate.

Here is how a handful of popular Mexican-American content creators take part in the annual tradition, along with tasty recipes they recommend to make your celebration complete:

This Cinco de Mayo, Jerlynn Torres, a Mexican-American chef whose family grew up in Guerrero and Jalisco, Mexico, will bring out her original Mexican Talavera pottery plates and kick off the day by making her family an authentic Mexican breakfast, Chilaquiles Divorciados. Torres plans to use the holiday to educate her children on the significance behind Cinco de Mayo.

Fabrizio Villalpando, a New York-based foodie and content creator, believes Cinco de Mayo is all about gathering with family and friends with platters of food, drinks and Mexican music to celebrate. This year, he plans to blend the old with new traditions and will experiment with a new Michelada recipe that features HERDEZ® Traditional Salsa, which he’ll pair with bottomless tortilla chips and HERDEZ® Traditional Guacamole, made with real Hass avocados that follows an authentic Mexican recipe.

Recipe developer and home cook Alfredo Garcia says he finds joy in passing along his own culinary traditions and helping his fans cook simple, approachable Mexican recipes. His choice for this Cinco de Mayo: Easy Beefy Chipotle Empanadas topped with a creamy flavorful Chipotle Salsa Cremosa, which features the smoky, spicy flavor of chipotle and is inspired by Mexican cuisine from the ages. It is also a great complement to chicken, pork or seafood, and may be enjoyed in shrimp tostadas or chipotle chicken taquitos, according to the HERDEZ® product website.

Leonor “Lilo” Vargas, an Instagram-famous Mexican American known for sharing easy and authentic homecooked meals, is looking forward to celebrating Cinco de Mayo with her family, all of whom are from Durango, Mexico, at her mom’s house cooking a family recipe. This year’s favorite? Spicy Steak Fajitas with HERDEZ® Traditional Salsa and Guacamole, Vargas explains, while listening to her dad’s ranchero music.

The key to a festive holiday meal is combining the authentic flavors of Mexico with the ease and convenience of a day spent with family and close friends. For more recipe inspiration, or to find delicious, ready-to-serve dips, hot sauce and salsas that will enhance celebrations of any size, visit www.herdeztraditions.com.

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7 reasons eBikes are a sustainable and fun transit option that’s here to stay

2023-05-02T14:37:00

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(BPT) – You’ve probably seen them at charging stations around town, but have you tried riding an electric bike (eBike)? It’s a sustainable transit option that makes it easy and accessible to get around town.

More and more people are buying eBikes as an alternative to driving their cars. In fact, eBikes are actually outselling electric cars. According to a recent study, eBikes sold over 500,000 units in the U.S. in 2021, and the trend doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.

There are many reasons why eBikes are having a moment. The most obvious benefit is the pedal-assist feature that amplifies your pedal power, making it faster and more comfortable to ride. However that’s not the only benefit of owning and riding an eBike. Check out these seven reasons why eBikes are a sustainable and fun transportation option that’s here to stay.

1. Ecofriendly transportation

Transport accounts for a fifth of all CO2 emissions worldwide. Because they are quiet and don’t create exhaust fumes, eBikes are an attractive form of eco-friendly transportation. Many people are leaving their cars at home in favor of using eBikes for their commute, running errands or just getting from point A to point B. Also, eBike batteries can be recharged using renewable sources of energy like solar power, reducing your environmental impact.

2. Safety

Not all eBikes are created equal. There have been dozens of reports of fires caused by their lithium-ion batteries. However, industry leaders are stepping up to enhance eBike safety. Bosch, for example, has ensured that their eBike system goes above and beyond the strict legal requirements for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries used to power the bikes.

The entire Bosch eBike system is certified to UL 2849 safety standard to protect consumers from the dangers of eBike fires and reduce the risk of potential assembly errors. The battery management system (BMS) in particular detects potential problems of the high-quality lithium-ion batteries, effectively protecting cells from overheating and overloading. Not only does this system protect you, but it also makes the battery even more durable.

In addition to this effective and safe BMS, Bosch has even included other safety features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to further improve eBike safety.

3. Exercise

A common misconception about eBikes is that you don’t get as much exercise as you would riding a conventional bike. However, research shows that eBike users log more weekly exercise minutes than riders who only use conventional bicycles. Researchers also found that eBike owners don’t solely use eBikes and tend to also own and use conventional bikes. In fact, the study showed that when eBike users did ride conventional bikes, they did so longer than those who only rode conventional bikes.

4. Go farther

Not only do eBike riders get more exercise, but they also ride farther and on terrain that would be difficult for conventional bikes. Norwegian researchers found that eBike riders, on average, quadrupled their cycling distance per day.

5. Conquer hills and difficult terrain

Hills can be challenging on conventional bikes, but an electric motor combined with pedaling makes going uphill much easier. If you use your bike to commute to work, you can arrive at your office without worrying about sweating through your work clothes. Also, eBikes can make riding on paved streets, dirt or even sand a bit easier to manage.

6. Plenty of cargo room

Whether you specifically buy a cargo eBike or install a rack and panniers, you can easily carry groceries, camping gear and more to any destination. This is especially useful for families. By attaching a passenger seat, you can take your kids on rides to the park, school or Grandma’s house.

7. Something for everyone!

There are so many models of eBikes that you can find the right one that fits your lifestyle. An all-terrain eBike can make off-roading easy, fun and accessible. A sleek and efficient commuter bike allows you to cycle the city streets with ease. Cargo eBikes make it easy to take whatever you need on your adventures.

To learn more about how eBikes work, safety features and to find an eBike that allows you to do everything you love, visit Bosch-eBike.com.

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Got retinal disease? Retina specialists’ unique imaging tools can help preserve vision

2023-05-02T11:29:00

(BPT) – Advances in early detection and treatment of retinal diseases made possible by retina specialists can preserve sight and virtually eliminate vision loss from conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment.

People who are at risk or experience symptoms of a retinal condition should visit a retina specialist’s office which is equipped with cutting-edge imaging technologies, allowing for earlier diagnosis, closer monitoring and breakthrough treatment approaches that can help save sight.

According to the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS), advanced imaging techniques and technologies a patient may encounter during a visit with a retina specialist include:

  • Indirect ophthalmoscopy: A diagnostic technique used to examine the back of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve and blood vessels. During the exam, the retina specialist shines a bright light into the eye from a special head-mounted device. The retina specialist then uses another lens, called a handheld lens, to magnify the image of the back of the eye and examine it in detail.
  • Fundus photography: Fundus photography and ultra-widefield fundus photography use a specialized camera with a low-power microscope to capture a series of high-resolution images of the fundus, or back of the eye including the retina and macula, while a patient’s eyes are dilated. During this painless test, the patient is seated in front of a specialized camera and looks straight ahead while a bright light is shone into their eye. The camera then takes multiple images of the back of the eye, which are reviewed by the retina specialist for any abnormalities or signs of disease.
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging technique that uses waves of light to capture individual images of cross-sections of the retina giving retina specialists a three-dimensional look at its structures and the ability to measure the retina’s thickness. During the test, the patient is seated in front of a machine that looks like a camera and asked to rest their chin on a support to keep their head still. The patient’s eyes are then scanned with a special light, which captures images of the back of the eye. The results are available immediately which allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
  • Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A): A novel, non-invasive technique, OCT-A allows a close, three-dimensional look at the blood vessels and blood flow inside the retina and surrounding tissues. The resulting images may be in color or black and white. During the procedure, the patient is seated in front of a machine that looks like a camera and asked to rest their chin on a support to keep their head still. The patient’s eyes are then scanned with a special light, which captures images of the back of the eye, including blood vessels and blood flow.
  • Fluorescein Angiography/Indocyanine Angiography (FA/ICG): A diagnostic technique that uses a dye injected into the bloodstream and a highly specialized camera to record blood flow within the retina and the rest of the eye. After a patient’s eyes are dilated, a small amount of dye is injected in the arm or hand. The patient is positioned in front of a specialized camera and looks at a series of bright lights while a series of pictures are taken which shows the dye as it moves through the blood vessels in the retina.
  • Ophthalmic ultrasound: Ophthalmic ultrasound or eye ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the structures inside the eye. During the non-invasive test, a probe is placed on the eye or eyelid and the patient may be asked to move their eye in different directions. Ophthalmic ultrasound is useful in diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions, including retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, tumors and other abnormalities.

“Retina specialists have access to highly specialized imaging equipment right in their office, allowing patients to have all tests and imaging done to track the progress of their retinal condition in one location, eliminating the need to travel to a different medical office or clinic,” said Philip J. Ferrone, M.D., FASRS, president of the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists. “Our goal is to reduce the burden on patients and their families and provide a one-stop shop for diagnosis, monitoring and treatment for everyone facing a retinal condition.”

For more information visit www.SeeforaLifetime.org.