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Protect your home from El Niño’s summer weather

2023-07-20T11:01:00

(BPT) – The arrival of El Niño weather conditions from the Pacific has made the summer of 2023 one of the hottest on record. Hotter conditions don’t just make it uncomfortable for you; it also takes its toll on your home. This extreme heat can lead to significant damage and costly repairs.

“Scorching temperatures can cause your home’s structure to expand and contract, putting stress on the physical building,” said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Homeowners can protect their property by performing routine inspections of their home, even during the summer months, to identify any problems and take appropriate measures to address them.”

Hot weather has a major impact on your roof. Roofs are particularly vulnerable to heat damage because of their constant exposure to the elements. Under persistent exposure to high temperatures, roofing materials can warp and crack, leading to leakages. Heat also tends to dry out caulking and may weaken the structural integrity of roofing components. Homes with attics may also experience extra heat because airflow is typically stagnant in this area, which can increase the temperature in the home.

During the summer, check on your roof’s insulation. Insulation prevents excessive heat from penetrating indoors, reducing the workload on your roof as well as the wear and tear on your heating and air conditioning system. Make sure to also examine ceilings and walls for water stains or spots that could indicate a leak from your roof. Schedule a routine roof inspection and attend to any small repairs that may be needed before the rainier weather sets in.

“Catching and fixing minor issues before they escalate into major problems can prolong the lifespan of your roof so it remains resilient against all kinds of weather,” said Lee.

Dry soil affects your foundation. The dehydrating effects of heat from the hotter months can cause structural damage to the foundation of your home. The foundation relies on the surrounding soil as a consistent support system. As the ground heats up and moisture evaporates, the soil can separate from the home which can lead to instability.

Large trees close to the home can compromise the ground around your foundation, as they draw moisture through their roots and quickly dry out the dirt. If you have large trees near the perimeter of your home, make sure they are getting adequate moisture so they don’t drain all the water from the surrounding soil. Consider using a timed sprinkler system to keep the grounds around your home hydrated.

Protect pipes from extreme heat. It may come as a surprise, but water leaks in your home tend to occur more frequently when temperatures rise. Heat can cause pipes to expand, leading to leaks and bursts. In fact, July is known to be one of the busiest months for homeowners’ claims related to water damage, especially those caused by blocked HVAC drains. Water damage accounts for nearly half of all homeowners’ claims.

Check the caulking and sealing around your pipes and look for any cracks or tears in appliance hosing regularly. Damaged pipes and hoses can cause significant water damage, making it important to replace them at the first sign of compromise.

Water leak detection devices are an excellent tool for identifying various types of leaks, even the ones that are hidden from sight. Professionally installed water pressure sensors that monitor water flow, for example, can send a notification to a homeowner’s smartphone to let them know of a potential issue. Insurance companies like Mercury will often provide a discount for homes that implement water leak detection devices.

Safeguard areas around windows and doors. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause caulking around windows and doors to dry out and crack, compromising their energy efficiency and making them vulnerable to air and water leaks. If you notice dry or cracked caulking, remove as much of it as possible and reseal. Weather stripping installed in these areas will help to keep hot air from entering the home and cool air from escaping.

“To protect your home from the extreme heat, conduct routine maintenance before, during and after the summer season to help avoid costly repairs,” said Lee. “A little preventive maintenance can go a long way in avoiding heat-related damage to your home.”

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Are You Air Aware? Help Protect Your Indoor Air Quality During And After Natural Disasters

2023-07-20T15:31:00

(BPT) – Natural disasters alter more than an area’s landscape. They can also affect the quality of indoor air we breathe … because what happens outside does not always stay outside. In the wake of natural disasters such as tornados, floods, and fires, outdoor air can enter homes, and bring with it pollutants that impact indoor air quality. Here’s what you need to know about the potential risks, the need to be “air aware,” and the steps you can take to create cleaner, fresher breathing environments indoors.

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5 tips for hosting a successful summer wine country themed party

2023-07-20T18:01:00

(BPT) – Not everyone can drop what they’re doing and be whisked away for the weekend to visit Sonoma’s wine country — but if you’ve always dreamed of living the relaxed and stylish wine country lifestyle, you’re in luck. You can bring that casual, sophisticated feeling to your own backyard with a wine themed party. While you may not have a vineyard just feet from your house, you can still savor the flavor and vibe of wine country by hosting an afternoon get-together or laid-back soiree.

Here are tips to give your gathering just the right notes.

Create a casual, intimate atmosphere

The best parties are small enough that everyone has a chance to enjoy good food, good conversation and of course, good wine, so keep your guest list on the smaller side. Then set up your backyard, deck or patio with seating options that allow space for guests to flow from one area to another.

Choose a unified theme

For example, focus your wine tasting by trying wines from a highly respected wine producer such as Sonoma’s Hanna Winery, known for producing world-class Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Cabernet. To liven up the conversation and keep the theme thriving, invite your guests to compare the different wines, asking them to describe which are their favorites, and why.

Provide the perfect pairings

When creating a wine country theme, it’s important you serve food that will not only pair well with your wines but also is easy to eat with one hand. Think of skewers of all kinds, charcuterie and cheese, sliders, summer veggies and flatbreads.

A light, crisp white wine like Hanna Sauvignon Blanc will be perfect for a tangy goat cheese dip with veggies or grilled shrimp skewers with a citrus marinade. Hanna Chardonnay will complement slightly richer dishes like smoked salmon and herb flatbread, and Cabernet lovers will appreciate bite-sized lamb meatballs, grilled steak sliders and even a selection of bittersweet chocolates.

Regardless of what you choose, the Sonoma lifestyle is all about sustainable farming and knowing where your food comes from, so visit your local farmer’s market for fresh produce or raid your kitchen garden for herbs and veggies before your party.

Hanna Winery President Christine Hanna’s cookbook, The Winemaker Cooks, is a helpful source of inspiration.

“After a long day of working in the vineyards, there’s nothing more satisfying than a trip to our winery garden to see what’s ripe. This time of year, our Early Girl tomatoes are starting to flourish, and we serve them with Greek feta and fresh mint,” said Hanna. “A simple dressing of olive oil and lemon dressing is spiked with a touch of balsamic, which makes it a perfect complement with Hanna’s Sauvignon Blanc.”

Summer Tomato Salad

Ingredients:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
8 tomatoes cut into medium slices
1 cup crumbled Greek feta cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint

Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk together oil, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and pepper. Arrange tomato slices on a platter. Scatter feta on top, then the mint. Drizzle with dressing and serve.

Set the stage

Whether you’re hosting your party indoors or out, provide a lovely setting to enhance your guests’ experience. White linens are the perfect backdrop for guests to appreciate the colors of the wine. Make sure you have enough glassware to allow for comparison tasting.

Do your best to avoid scented candles which can distract from the aromas of the wines. If you choose to use flowers, also use low scent flowers, and if you really want that wine country feel, add colorful and festive grape clusters to your arrangements.

Serve your wine correctly

Most wine in America is served at the wrong temperature: White wine tends to be served too cold, and red wine tends to be served too warm. Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay should be served between 45-50 degrees and Cabernet should be served around 60, but since it’s summer, don’t stress over the wine’s temperature. Instead, offer frozen grapes (red and white) to your guests if their wine has gotten too warm. This will chill the wine without imparting additional flavors or watering it down.

Serve small tasting amounts in each guest’s glass (about two ounces). This will allow guests to taste all the different wines available and decide for themselves which they prefer.

Following these simple tips, your wine tasting party will help you feel like you’re living the good life in Sonoma, wherever you are.

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6 tips to help you spot and avoid financial scams

2023-07-20T14:27:00

(BPT) – Technology can make life convenient, especially with mobile phones that help us stay connected on-the-go. Unfortunately, today’s scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it more difficult to spot suspicious emails, calls or texts. But the good news is there are ways to identify the red flags of a potential scam if you know what to look for and understand the right steps to take — or not to take — when you suspect you’re being scammed.

Once you’ve learned about these techniques make sure to share the information with your friends and family — especially those who may be more vulnerable to these kinds of scams. For instance, start a conversation with older and younger adults who may be more trusting of digital technology.

Here are tips to help you and your loved ones be on guard against scammers from the security experts at Bank of America.

1. Didn’t expect it? Don’t click it.

Be wary of any message that’s unexpected — no matter who or what company it’s from — especially if it’s about something like a “problem with your account,” “confirmation of an order,” “difficulty delivering a package” or a “virus on your computer.” These messages may come by phone, email, text, direct message or pop-up with a request for personal information or money.

Rule of thumb: Never click on a link or open an attachment from any institution or individual unless you were expecting it. If you think the message could be legitimate, take a moment and find the contact information on the company website and then reach out to the institution or person directly and ask if the email, text or call came from them. If not, simply delete it.

2. Be wary of requests that pressure you to act immediately.

Watch out for messages that pressure you to act immediately. If a familiar company or someone you know comes to you with an alarming “emergency” or “problem” where time is of the essence, take a breath and recognize that this urgency may be a scam. Scammers know if they can get your emotions or adrenaline high that you’re less likely to think rationally. And don’t just trust caller ID to confirm who’s calling since numbers and voices can be easily spoofed or imitated. Even if it seems to be from a relative or friend, call that person directly at the number you’ve always used to contact them in the past to confirm if the message indeed came from them.

3. Asked to pay in an unusual way? Stop and assess the situation.

Scammers often ask for a payment method that can’t be traced or rescinded, such as through a bitcoin, prepaid debit cards or gift cards — this is a major red flag. If you’re asked to provide payment in an unusual way, stop and assess if this may be a scam. Financial institutions will never ask you to transfer money to anyone, including yourself, and will never ask you to transfer money because of possible fraud on your account.

4. When in doubt, don’t give it out.

It’s crucial to safeguard your personal and financial information. Be wary if you are asked to provide personal or account information. Keep in mind that a financial institution such as Bank of America will never contact you via phone, text or email to request personal information or an account verification code. Never provide this information to anyone unless it was you who initiated the call to the company.

5. Tempted to “get rich quick?” Trust your gut.

If you receive an offer for a free product, trip, or other “get rich quick” opportunity that seems too good to be true, trust your instincts. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Also, never cash a check for someone you don’t know personally even if they claim they will pay you extra for the favor. If you authorize a transfer or send money to a scammer, it can be very difficult for you to get your money back.

6. Take your security to the next level.

Use up-to-date technology to avoid falling victim to scams. You can help protect your online accounts by always using features like two-factor authentication, which makes your accounts harder to access, and activity alerts that keep you updated on what’s going on with your account.

Unsure how safe your accounts are? Check if your bank offers security tools to help you. The Bank of America Security Center brings together security features and tools as well as fraud and scam education, making it easy to get the latest info and protect yourself. Security Center in Mobile and Online Banking also includes a security meter that shows you the level of protection of your accounts and information.

Learn more about ways to protect your financial security and help avoid scams.

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Gene therapy offers people with rare bleeding disorder a new level of freedom

2023-07-20T06:01:00

(BPT) – –

Hemophilia B by the Numbers

  • Hemophilia B affects ~6,000 people in the U.S., and up to two-thirds have a moderate to severe version of the condition.
  • Some people with hemophilia B may require up to 156 intravenous infusions per year.
  • 43% of people living with hemophilia B experience depression, anxiety or other psychological disorders.
  • 95% report the condition negatively impacts their employment.
  • Overall total annual healthcare costs for people with hemophilia can be 25x higher compared to individuals who do not have a bleeding disorder.

Imagine you have a rare bleeding disorder and have spent much of your life knowing you are at greater risk of uncontrollable bleeding. You self-infuse treatment on a strict, regular schedule to make sure your blood will clot. This restrictive infusion schedule can impact work, education, lifestyle, and even where you vacation.

Now, imagine a treatment option that can offer consistent bleed protection for years after a one-time infusion, lowering the risk of bleeds and reducing the burden you’ve experienced as a person with a rare bleeding disorder. This is now a reality for some people with hemophilia B after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved HEMGENIX® (etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb), the first and only gene therapy for adults with hemophilia B who currently use factor IX prophylaxis therapy, or have current or historical life-threatening bleeding, or have repeated, serious spontaneous bleeding episodes.

The future of hemophilia B treatment is now

Hemophilia B is a rare bleeding disorder that affects around 6,000 people in the U.S. For people with the condition, their blood does not clot in the typical way because they lack sufficient factor IX, a protein primarily produced by the liver that helps blood clots form.

The more severe the condition, the less able a person is to form blood clots, making them more vulnerable to bleeding. If not adequately controlled, people with the condition are more vulnerable to trauma and spontaneous bleeding into their joints. Sometimes these bleeds can be life-threatening and can lead to permanent physical damage. The most common treatment for people with moderate to severe hemophilia B is lifelong prophylactic infusions to temporarily replace or supplement low levels of blood-clotting factor.

But with HEMGENIX, people with the condition can produce their own elevated and sustained levels of factor IX for years following a one-time single intravenous infusion. Now, people with hemophilia B are beginning to receive this innovative treatment at hemophilia treatment centers across the U.S.

How—and why—HEMGENIX breaks new ground for people with hemophilia B

HEMGENIX uses a gene therapy approach called gene transfer. This approach aims to introduce a working gene into the body to produce functional factor IX and support natural blood-clotting ability.

The working gene is loaded into an inactive viral shell, known as a vector. HEMGENIX uses an adeno-associated viral vector serotype 5, an AAV5 vector. Administered as a one-time IV infusion, HEMGENIX heads toward the liver with the working gene. Once it arrives in the liver, the working gene’s instructions are unloaded and the AAV vector shell is broken down and eliminated. The genetic instructions remain, however, so that the liver can produce elevated and protective factor IX on its own. Following administration of HEMGENIX, overall health, liver health, and factor IX activity levels should be tracked weekly for the first three months so the doctor can monitor the response to HEMGENIX.

Results from clinical trials of HEMGENIX showed people treated with the one-time infusion produced a mean factor IX activity of 37% and had a significant reduction in annual bleed rates. Encouragingly, 94% of people (51 out of 54) discontinued routine factor IX prophylaxis. The most common side effects reported in more than 5% of patients were liver enzyme elevations, headache, elevated levels of a certain blood enzyme, flu-like symptoms, infusion-related reactions, fatigue, nausea, and feeling unwell.

“I am proud to have been involved in a clinical trial program that had such good results and offers so much hope to the hemophilia B community,” said Dr. Steven Pipe, professor at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and medical director of the Pediatric Hemophilia and Coagulation Disorders Program. “As I follow those who have gone through this treatment and see their lives blossom, I continue to be excited. I have a clinical trial participant who says he celebrates two birthdays—the day of his official birth and the date he received treatment.”

In addition to the potential long-term health benefits from greater bleed protection and liberation from infusion schedules, HEMGENIX could also generate significant cost savings for the healthcare system at-large. Healthcare costs can be 25 times higher for a person living with hemophilia B compared to individuals who do not have a bleeding disorder—amounting to a total adult lifetime cost of more than $20 million per person.

Talk with your doctor

People living with hemophilia B who are interested in HEMGENIX should talk to their doctor about the potential benefits and eligibility screening.

Those who decide with their doctor to move forward with treatment can enroll in HEMGENIX ConnectSM where they will be assigned a dedicated support team, including a Patient Resource Navigator and CSL Case Manager, who can:

  • Provide education on gene therapy and how it works
  • Provide support and guidance on the HEMGENIX treatment journey
  • Assist with insurance questions and review, explaining benefits and determining eligibility for financial assistance programs

Get support

Having a rare disease can feel isolating and trying a new treatment can cause a mix of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. The B SupportTM app was designed specifically to help people with hemophilia B as they explore whether gene therapy is right for them.

The app allows people with hemophilia B to:

  • Record bleeds, factor IX activity and how they are feeling to better track their current treatment and progress over time. Having this information at their fingertips, either on their phone or tablets, allows people with hemophilia B to have robust conversations with their healthcare professional about whether they are meeting their treatment goals, and if needed, other therapeutic options.
  • Get valuable resources, reminders and support to enhance their experience managing hemophilia B.
  • Access education on gene therapy, including information on eligibility.

The app is available in the Apple and Google Play stores in the U.S.

With advanced research and new treatments, people with hemophilia B may have more freedom from their treatment schedule. To learn more, visit HEMGENIX.com.

Important Safety Information?

What is HEMGENIX?

HEMGENIX®, etranacogene dezaparvovec-drlb, is a one-time gene therapy for the treatment of adults with hemophilia B who:

  • Currently use Factor IX prophylaxis therapy, or
  • Have current or historical life-threatening bleeding, or
  • Have repeated, serious spontaneous bleeding episodes.

HEMGENIX is administered as a single intravenous infusion and can be administered only once.

What medical testing can I expect to be given before and after administration of HEMGENIX?

To determine your eligibility to receive HEMGENIX, you will be tested for Factor IX inhibitors. If this test result is positive, a retest will be performed 2 weeks later. If both tests are positive for Factor IX inhibitors, your doctor will not administer HEMGENIX to you. If, after administration of HEMGENIX, increased Factor IX activity is not achieved, or bleeding is not controlled, a post-dose test for Factor IX inhibitors will be performed.

HEMGENIX may lead to elevations of liver enzymes in the blood; therefore, ultrasound and other testing will be performed to check on liver health before HEMGENIX can be administered. Following administration of HEMGENIX, your doctor will monitor your liver enzyme levels weekly for at least 3 months. If you have preexisting risk factors for liver cancer, regular liver health testing will continue for 5 years post-administration. Treatment for elevated liver enzymes could include corticosteroids.

What were the most common side effects of HEMGENIX in clinical trials?

In clinical trials for HEMGENIX, the most common side effects reported in more than 5% of patients were liver enzyme elevations, headache, elevated levels of a certain blood enzyme, flu-like symptoms, infusion-related reactions, fatigue, nausea, and feeling unwell. These are not the only side effects possible. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect you may experience.

What should I watch for during infusion with HEMGENIX?

Your doctor will monitor you for infusion-related reactions during administration of HEMGENIX, as well as for at least 3 hours after the infusion is complete. Symptoms may include chest tightness, headaches, abdominal pain, lightheadedness, flu-like symptoms, shivering, flushing, rash, and elevated blood pressure. If an infusion-related reaction occurs, the doctor may slow or stop the HEMGENIX infusion, resuming at a lower infusion rate once symptoms resolve.

What should I avoid after receiving HEMGENIX?

Small amounts of HEMGENIX may be present in your blood, semen, and other excreted/secreted materials, and it is not known how long this continues. You should not donate blood, organs, tissues, or cells for transplantation after receiving HEMGENIX.

Please see full prescribing information for HEMGENIX.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

You can also report side effects to CSL Behring’s Pharmacovigilance Department at 1-866-915-6958.?

HEMGENIX is manufactured by uniQure Inc. and distributed by CSL Behring LLC.

HEMGENIX® is a registered trademark and B SupportTM is a trademark of CSL Behring LLC.

HEMGENIX ConnectSM is a service mark of CSL Behring LLC.

©2023 CSL Behring LLC 1020 First Avenue, PO Box 61501, King of Prussia, PA 19406-0901 USA

USA-HGX-0456-JUL23

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Satisfy your savory breakfast cravings with ‘Sausage Waffles’

2023-07-17T13:51:00

(BPT) – Breakfast goes hand-in-hand with the age-old question: sweet or savory? If you are looking for something more savory to enjoy first thing in the morning, you’re not alone. A recent CARAVAN survey*, fielded by Big Village, found that 70% of Americans crave savory breakfast foods, and 7 in 10 Americans said they want to add more protein to their morning meal.

So, what’s the solution to this breakfast conundrum? Many would be surprised to find that it is possible to whip up a protein-forward dish that replaces a traditionally sweet breakfast in just minutes. Get ready to say goodbye to mid-morning sugar crashes and enjoy Sausage Waffles to satisfy your cravings for savory flavors!

A surprisingly easy, tasty and savory waffle recipe

Whether you’re trying to get your family out the door on a busy weekday morning or you want to enjoy a delicious but simple weekend meal, swap out that traditionally sweet doughy breakfast in favor of Sausage Waffles made from Jimmy Dean Brand Pork Sausage Roll.

The good news is that they are quick and easy to make. First, preheat your waffle maker for 5 minutes on the waffle setting (or until hot). Then place one sausage patty into each waffle cavity and cook for 4-5 minutes until the sausage patties reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit and are no longer pink. Pro tip: before cooking, place the Jimmy Dean Brand Pork Sausage Roll into the freezer for 10-15 minutes for easier slicing.

You can serve your savory waffles along with your favorite fruit, eggs or other breakfast foods for an effortless, tasty dish your entire family will love — or to take breakfast up another notch, try:

For plenty of other delicious recipe ideas to help turn your breakfast (and other meals) into a more protein-forward, savory experience for any day of the week, visit JimmyDean.com.

*This CARAVAN survey was conducted by Big Village among a sample of 1,008 adults 18 years of age and older. The online omnibus study is conducted three times a week among a demographically representative U.S. sample of 1,000 adults 18 years of age and older. This survey was live on June 2-4, 2023. Completed interviews are weighted to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total U.S. population, 18 years of age and older.

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Busting AC myths: Experts say skip these tricks and try these 5 steps to beat the heat instead

2023-07-19T09:01:00

(BPT) – You want your home to be comfortable, especially as summer temperatures soar. However, there is much misinformation on the internet and in social posts that claim to offer tricks that help reduce the heat in your home, but that, in reality, can cause lasting harm to your home’s HVAC system.

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It’s like the heart of your home, pumping conditioned air where you need it to feel comfortable indoors. Damaging this system can leave you without AC during the dog days of summer, not to mention that fixes can be costly.

Eric Weiss, expert tech trainer at Trane Residential, busts some of these potentially dangerous myths and shares tips to help you safely stay cool this summer by making choices that are better for your HVAC system and for your own home comfort.

Myth: Spray the outdoor unit with water

Fact: One hack making the rounds is spraying the outside unit with a hose for a quick burst of cool air inside. However, this only works temporarily; worse, long-term water exposure can damage the fan and coils. A better choice is having a local maintenance professional proactively clean the system twice a year, ensuring the cooling charge is correct, the coils are clean, and the filter is changed.

Myth: Put an umbrella over the unit

Fact: Ambient temperature is the same outside, in a specific location, whether shaded or not. The shade makes the temperature feel 10-15 degrees cooler than it actually is because you are out of direct sunlight. Therefore, adding shade does not help the unit run better by supplying cooler air. In fact, it may inhibit circulation and trap hot air around the unit, making it work harder to cool your home.

Instead, the DOE recommends ensuring no nearby objects block airflow from your outdoor unit. You can achieve this by keeping the area surrounding your AC clean and debris-free. A good rule of thumb is not to let plants or other wildlife grow within a 2-foot radius of your unit. Plants, trees, or weeds growing too close to your AC could interfere with its functionality. Additionally, if you see things like leaf buildup or animal nests around your unit, you should remove them so they don’t get caught in blades or coils.

Myth: Turn the temperature down for quicker cooling

Fact: Your air conditioning unit works just as hard whether you lower it 3 degrees or 30 degrees — getting to the temperature you want is just a matter of time. A properly sized AC system that maximizes your energy savings may not have enough capacity to drop your indoor temperature by several degrees in the peak summer afternoons or evenings. Reaching a new set point takes time. Use a smart thermostat like the ComfortLinkII XL824 thermostat to help save money by setting schedules and being able to adjust your home temperature remotely.

Myth: Regular vacuuming keeps HVAC air filters clean

Fact: While vacuuming does help collect and remove dirt and grime from the home, it’s still important to change the air filter in your HVAC system at least seasonally (every 30-90 days should do the trick). These filters collect dust and even small particulates you can’t see in the air. Over time they get dirty, restricting airflow, making your HVAC system work harder, and reducing its efficiency in cooling your home.

Myth: Run your AC unit until it dies

Fact: Replacing an air conditioner might be more expensive up front, but running your unit past its expiration date will be less efficient and could cost you money in the long run on repairs. Start saving money on your energy bills sooner by replacing your old unit before it quits on you. One to consider is the XV20i Variable Speed Heat Pump with Trane Link that continuously adjusts its speed to deliver a consistent flow of cool, comfortable air for ultimate comfort and efficiency.

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Spotlight on Progress: CDC Shares Community Drug Overdose Prevention Successes in New Resources

2023-07-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Putting Data into Action

Drug overdoses are preventable, yet more than one million people died from a drug overdose between 1999 and 2021. Every day, almost 300 people lose their lives due to drug overdose. Public health professionals, policymakers and communities all play a role in preventing overdose deaths. Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) is a CDC-funded program that helps state and local health departments, and the communities they serve, to get high-quality, timelier data on nonfatal and fatal drug overdoses and use those data to inform prevention and response efforts. CDC supports OD2A-funded communities in their ability to address drug overdoses by providing access to subject matter experts and tailored technical assistance, and overdose prevention resources. “The impact of this crisis is far-reaching, touching the lives of our families, friends and neighbors in deeply personal and profound ways. By prioritizing successful prevention and response efforts and providing tailored tools and resources, we can help ensure everyone has access to the care and support they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives — building stronger, more resilient communities,” says Christopher M. Jones, PharmD, DrPH, MPH (CAPT U.S. Public Health Service), Director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.

Sharing state and local overdose prevention and response strategies

CDC developed the OD2A Case Studies to capture in-depth information from funded jurisdictions about current and emerging practices related to overdose prevention and response. Designed for public health practitioners, these case studies share examples that can be adapted at the state and local levels. Partners on the ground asked for more relevant and applicable strategies, so CDC identified six key topic areas for interviews, analysis and write-ups in these case studies.

  • Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are preventable, potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). Recognizing the lasting negative effects ACEs can have and focusing on their intersection with substance use disorders, this case study highlights OD2A-funded initiatives addressing ACEs in Louisiana and South Carolina.
  • Harm reduction is a public health approach that focuses on reducing the harmful consequences of drug use. It can include syringe services programs, naloxone distribution, fentanyl test strip distribution, and community overdose prevention and education. Focusing on the Illinois Harm Reduction Community Linkage Project, this case study describes a novel harm reduction program that funds local organizations.
  • Linkage to care is the process of connecting people at risk of overdose to evidence-based treatment, services and support. Access to care and services is critical to addressing the overdose epidemic. Using an example from Massachusetts, CDC shares practices specific to improving linkage to care in non-public safety settings.
  • Public safety-led post-overdose outreach can help identify people at higher risk of overdose by linking them to care and other overdose prevention and harm reduction efforts. Two case studies describe successful public safety-led post-overdose outreach initiatives in West Virginia and Franklin County, Ohio.
  • State and local health departments are uniquely positioned to respond to the drug overdose crisis, with the authority to enact policies, deploy resources and coordinate various partners. State and local integration activities engage health departments, community organizations, coalitions and community members in working together on prevention. The case studies presented on this topic illustrate what successful state and local integration looks like in Rhode Island and California.
  • Reducing stigma at multiple levels and creating a culture of change is important to helping people at risk of overdose. Stigma occurs when people with certain social identities are labeled, stereotyped and devalued, leading to discriminatory behavior and internalized shame that can negatively affect access to health care and other support services. CDC shared two examples of state programs addressing stigma related to people who use drugs, from Vermont, Motivational Interviewing and Compassion Training, and Stigma/Harm Reduction Training.

Helping communities put effective practices to work

When people’s lives are on the line, integrated data and effective programs help communities take action to protect people from drug overdose and related harms. The overdose crisis requires prevention, treatment, recovery and harm reduction efforts that are tailored to promote optimal health for all.

Communities are demonstrating innovation in reducing overdose and are sharing compelling examples of collaboration and teamwork. CDC is showcasing these so that communities can learn from each other. Beyond promoting the critical work that continues nationwide, tools and resources like the OD2A Case Studies encourage applying solutions that work to help communities that need it most.

For additional OD2A resources or to learn more about how CDC is working to prevent overdoses and substance use-related harms visit: https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/od2a/index.html/.

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Becoming an iconic and beloved brand

2023-07-18T11:21:00

(BPT) – By Kim Hyo-eun, vice president of the Global Marketing Center at LG Electronics

Until now, as a leader in the consumer electronics industry, LG has grown into an innovative and trustworthy brand with a focus on products such as TVs, refrigerators and washing machines. LG has always deeply understood the lives of its customers and, based on this insight, solidified its position as one of the most beloved brands thanks to innovative products boasting reliable quality. However, in our pursuit to take the brand to the next height and transform it into a global iconic brand, we recognized the need to go beyond products and services and effectively communicate our core brand values to customers. This has led us to embark on the brand reinvention journey.

What’s more, as we live in a world of constant change where consumers’ lifestyles are shifting, diversifying and evolving at an increasingly rapid pace, companies have to strive harder to understand the needs and wants of their customers, and that requires a willingness to change and a passion for innovation.

An organization that has always embraced change, LG recently introduced its reinvented brand strategy to build a stronger, consistent brand image and better convey its commitment to providing a message of ‘Life’s Good.’ As the first step toward strengthening its brand identity, the company undertook a rigorous process to redefine its values and philosophy. After clearly defining three core values of ‘Uncompromising Customer Experience,’ ‘Human-centered Innovation’ and ‘Warmth to Power a Smile,’ the company set about reinterpreting and reinvigorating the LG brand, creating new visual assets that mark a new era in its history. The result of this reinvention is a younger and more dynamic visual identity that resonates more deeply with consumers across all generations and backgrounds.

To be successful in today’s market, a company must be able to connect with consumers at an emotional level. With its reinvented brand identity, LG is already fostering a deep connection with customers, showing that compassion and humanity are as much a part of ‘LG-ness’ as the technological and design innovation that the company has long been known for.

The look of LG’s iconic Life’s Good slogan has also been revamped and refreshed to better communicate the brand’s firm belief that life is good. A custom typography — inspired by various LG products’ form factors — makes the company’s well-known slogan more distinctive and unique, while the period at the end conveys LG’s confidence and sincerity in its mission to make people’s lives better through innovation.

A prime example of the ‘reinvent’ is how LG’s instantly recognizable brand symbol has been brought to life. In digital environments, the iconic LG symbol, designed as a smiling face using the letter ‘l’ and ‘g,’ can now perform eight different actions, including greeting, nodding, spinning and winking. Known as LG’s “face of the future,” the digital logo symbolizes the company’s legacy while also strengthening its bond with today’s consumers.

And, to highlight the brand’s bold and youthful nature, LG has introduced a vibrant new shade of red that will be used across all platforms — physical and digital. The new, energetic “active red,” complemented by LG’s traditional “heritage” red and a deep black, represents a passion for innovation and the boldness to deliver exceptional customer value. By incorporating these dynamic colors, LG aims to express its passion for pushing boundaries and creating meaningful experiences for its customers and attracting younger generations. This approach allows LG to emanate a youthful, dynamic, vibrant, confident and innovative image that aligns with the company’s diverse businesses, products and services.

In addition to introducing its brand reinvent to the world, LG has been sharing its updated brand and visual identity with its own employees, bringing together personnel from all levels and departments to experience first-hand what the new changes mean. LG firmly believes that its employees are the best brand ambassadors. By ensuring they understand the brand’s value and vision and incorporate it into their daily task, the company can more effectively deliver a message of ‘Life’s Good’ to customers.

Aligned with this, the company launched its first Life’s Good event for its employees in South Korea on June 12. With Life’s Good trucks reflecting the new visual identity touring LG Electronics’ business sites in Korea, the company handed out branded coffee cans and provided a chance to win various branded goods during lunch time, enabling everyone to take the time to discover the new changes to the brand. The event garnered overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic feedback from executives and employees, who expressed their excitement about the brand reinvention. They also shared that the event enabled them to better understand and visualize the reinvented brand.

We are hopeful that LG’s brand reinvent will serve as a starting point for the innovation of new customer experiences that can provide value and benefits for real customers, enabling them to feel that ‘life’s good’ and fully enjoy each precious moment of their lives.

LG acknowledges that there will be moments when people may struggle to resonate with the Life’s Good slogan and message. However, the intention is not to present an unrealistic picture of unwavering hope and positivity. Instead, it serves as a declaration of what life has the potential to be and should strive to be. It also acts as a reminder that even in challenging times, life remains incredibly precious and invaluable. In this context, the Life’s Good slogan embodies the lifestyles that LG aims for and aligns with our commitment to assisting customers in achieving a better life through our products and services.

At LG, we are driven by the desire to make consumers’ lives better than they are now. With this spirit and our unshakable belief that Life’s Good, we will endlessly take on challenges and never stop innovating. LG is a company where people work tirelessly to discover the needs of consumers — needs that they themselves aren’t even aware of — and find smart, practical solutions that deliver convenience, joy and connection.

LG’s new brand identity is infused with the collective effort and enthusiasm of the entire company. It reflects an unwavering determination to make every single day better than the last and showcases the company’s aspiration to become a globally iconic and beloved brand.

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Unlock optimal health: Discover the 4 key factors for choosing the right nutritional supplements for you

2023-07-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – As more people focus on their health with goals to boost their immune system and improve fitness, diet is center stage. Eating healthy, well-balanced meals supports overall wellness, but it’s not always easy to get all the vitamins and nutrients you need.

Whether it’s to fill gaps in diet or a meal replacement option, there are a variety of products to support a healthy and active lifestyle. Some might argue there are too many, causing confusion for consumers on what they really need and what’s actually effective.

How can you feel confident in a supplement’s claims? Consider this expert insight from Kristy Appelhans, doctor of Naturopathic Medicine and vice president of Global Consumer Safety for Herbalife, a leader in the dietary supplement market.

1. Review ingredients

The first step is to identify a brand of interest and review the ingredients of the product to make sure they are well-suited for your nutritional goals.

It is also helpful to explore the Company’s FAQ or customer support portal online for additional information. Some good things to know include:

  • How ingredients are sourced
  • Manufacturing process of products
  • If the product is compatible with your specific conditions, dietary restrictions or other preferences
  • Additional ingredients that you should be aware of such as those identified in allergen disclosure statements or cautionary wording on the label
  • Certifications, logos and other product label claims

Transparency is key. A credible brand should be open and honest about these points and your other questions. Lack of this information or non-response to your inquiries is a red flag that you should continue your research elsewhere. You can also discuss questions you have about ingredients or products with your doctor.

2. Evaluate brand reputation

The market is filled with new nutrition products that promise compelling results. However, these claims can be inflated or misleading. Before adding a new product to your diet, take the time to research the company you are purchasing from.

Here are some questions you should ask:

  • How long has the company been in business?
  • Does it have a reputable group of advisors, such as a science-backed advisory board?
  • Are they meeting or exceeding expectations for current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)?
  • Has the company been a recipient of any industry awards or recognition for product quality, research or customer service?
  • Do they stand behind their products with a guarantee?

It’s important to use products from a company with a long history of results and commitment to quality standards.

3. Be critical

Reading health articles and other information online is smart, but it’s important to be critical and search for the truth. Sometimes researchers have a predisposed bias, which can be detrimental to a product’s reputation and misinform consumers.

For example, in 2013 a group of independent scientists set out to prove that hepatotoxins, which cause liver disease, would be found in Herbalife products. Their research did not prove their hypothesis, but instead, they had to conclude in their publication that they did not see any association between liver disease and the company’s products, based on their study results.

4. Compare options

Supplements today come in many forms, including pills, protein shakes, nutritious snacks and beverages. After you decide which are best for your needs and lifestyle, it’s time to dig in to learn more about testing, processing and sourcing for each option.

Take time to explore the company’s level of testing they do with their ingredients, the third-party verifications (such as NSF and ISO), and their manufacturing transparency. Sourcing is critical in ensuring that your supplements, vitamins and other nutritional products are created with care.

Adding supplements or other nutritional support to your diet can help you reach your wellness goals. By taking these steps, you’ll learn more about what you’re putting into your body to ensure it’s what you need to feel your best. Learn more at IAmHerbalifeNutrition.com.