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How to Pick the Perfect Artificial Christmas Tree

2023-11-06T10:31:00

(BPT) – Your Christmas tree is much more than a place to gather around on Christmas morning and exchange gifts. It’s family tradition. It’s priceless memories. It’s the centerpiece of every holiday season, where you can reminisce on past special moments and let new ones unfold. It only makes sense then, that you invest some time in selecting the perfect tree that will withstand the test of time and earn a spot in your annual lineup of décor. Today, that often means opting for a high quality, low maintenance artificial Christmas tree that offers unmatched durability.

Hand crafted trees, like the ones crafted by King of Christmas, can even be used for up to five or more years when properly cared for. That means years of easy set-up, zero mess, and painless take-down, all while enjoying a Christmas tree that cannot even be distinguished from the real thing to the naked eye. Artificial trees also come in just about any style imaginable, from perfect replicas of fresh-cut specimens to fun, show-stopping pieces in vibrant colors. This ease and versatility helps explain why 12.9 million artificial trees will be purchased by U.S. households this holiday season, according to the American Christmas Tree Association.

With so many options, finding the right artificial tree can take some time. Fortunately, following these five tips will help make the process quick and easy.

1. Go Big. Not Too Big.

Always measure before buying and keep ceiling height in mind. While an eight-foot tree might squeeze into a room with eight-foot ceilings, it doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. At a minimum, your tree should have six inches of clearance, though many experts recommend a full foot for a balanced look that leaves room for your topper.

2. Read the Room.

Width is often a personal preference. However, there are some general guidelines to consider. If the tree is meant to be an eye-catching centerpiece, a wider and fuller design will always help achieve this effect. If a room is small, choosing a slim version will keep things from getting overcrowded, but still pack a monumental presence when decorated right.

3. Foliage Matters.

The tips of an artificial Christmas tree can have a couple different looks. “Classic tips” are crafted from PVC and usually more affordable, but still do a great job of mimicking real foliage. For maximum quality, look for realistic tips made from polyethylene in 3D molds. These realistic tips are so genuine, you often can’t distinguish the difference just by sight.

4. Winter Wonderland. Inspired by nature.

Flocking, when applied to artificial trees, gives the highly coveted appearance of branches covered in a fresh coat of snow. Choosing a flocked tree offers that “Winter Wonderland” effect but isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a more traditional vibe. For something more natural, a traditional green tree that’s inspired by nature works best.

5. Light up the Night.

Finally, you’ll want to decide how the tree is going to be lit. A pre-lit tree comes with lights strategically built in for a faster setup and clean appearance. It takes the hassle out of untangling lights every year and attempting to space them out perfectly. This convenience usually comes with a higher price tag but is often offset by the time saved. Alternatively, an un-lit tree allows for maximum creativity with your own lighting and spacing, offering a traditional decorating experience that more closely resembles working with a fresh-cut tree.

Artificial trees have come a long way, and choosing the right one for your space is now easier than ever. The perfect artificial Christmas tree will transform any home into a memorable holiday oasis that sparks the best memories with your loved ones. Check out kingofchristmas.com to explore a vast assortment of Christmas tree designs, get exclusive holiday decorating advice, and so much more!

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Your Winter Travel Guide: Top 10 Destinations and Hosting to Fund Your Getaway

2023-11-06T13:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re dreaming of a special winter getaway this year, you’re not alone. Just in time for the busy holiday travel season[1], Airbnb is sharing its annual winter travel trends, revealing the hottest trending destinations and most popular categories travelers are searching for and booking this upcoming season.

This winter, travelers are seeking memorable stays in every corner of the globe, looking for unique locations and experiences, while avoiding some of the most popular tourist spots in favor of lesser-known gems. To make exploring easier for travelers, Airbnb continues to disperse travel across the U.S. and globally, opening up more horizons for exploration beyond standard urban centers and famous venues. The diverse representation of trending destinations shows it’s possible to find something for every type of traveler on Airbnb, offering space and privacy to switch off and celebrate this extra special holiday season.

Trending global destinations

If international travel is on your wishlist this winter, here are the top trending[2] spots to consider, based on Airbnb searches between Jan. 1 through Sept. 15, 2023:

  • Osaka, Japan
  • Hong Kong
  • Quebec City, Canada
  • Taipei, Taiwan
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • Hanover, Germany
  • Wanaka, New Zealand
  • Sao Paulo, Brazil
  • Muang Pattaya, Thailand
  • Tokyo, Japan

Cities on this list include a variety of fascinating destinations on almost every continent. For example, while tourists commonly flock to Japan’s exciting capital city of Tokyo, the less famous Osaka, known for vibrant nightlife, street food and historic sites, is quickly gaining attention. Other Asian highlights include Taipei, Taiwan, and Hong Kong — both boasting a fascinating mix of old and new architecture, enticing cuisine, bustling night markets and countless cultural attractions, as well as Muang Pattaya, Thailand — attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife.

Other attractions on the list of trending destinations include the celebrated parks and gardens of Hanover, Germany, and the strikingly European style of Quebec City, Canada — with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Those attracted to the dynamic music, arts and culture of Brazil will find plenty of excitement in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. And for visitors drawn to natural beauty, hiking and skiing, travel around the globe to Wanaka, New Zealand, will not disappoint.

If you dream of spending your vacation lounging around the pool, riding the surf or playing endless rounds of golf on a top-notch course, Airbnb Categories allows travelers to discover millions of unique places around the world, with homes in over 60 different categories based on style, location and other sought-after factors.

Based on the bookings between Jan. 1 through Sept. 15, 2023, here are some of the top booked Airbnb categories for U.S. guests:

  • Amazing pools
  • Beach
  • Tropical
  • National parks
  • Iconic cities
  • Amazing views
  • Golfing
  • Cabins
  • Countryside
  • Surfing

Hosting also brings benefits

The upcoming holiday season is not only a time for a relaxing trip away, it’s also the perfect time to consider hosting. According to Airbnb, during the 2022 holiday season, U.S. hosts collectively earned over $300 million, with hosts typically earning nearly $3,500 between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, 2022[3]*.

This year, the opportunity to earn from hosting extends from coast to coast — with the following destinations confirmed as being the top trending cities travelers are searching this winter:

  • State College, Pennsylvania
  • Greensboro, North Carolina
  • Lihue, Hawaii
  • Hanalei, Hawaii
  • Eugene, Oregon
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Knoxville, Tennessee
  • Gainesville, Florida
  • Universal City, California
  • Ann Arbor, Michigan

Households that have extra space can learn more about hosting at Airbnb.com/host to make the most of the upcoming holiday season.

[1] Winter and holiday time period defined as November 1 – December 31.

[2] Calculated by growth in global searches in 2023 thru Sept. 15, for checkin between Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022

[3] The typical Host earnings amount represents the median amount of earnings for Hosts between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, 2022. Earnings will depend on several factors, including your availability, price, and the demand in your area.

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Painting a real-time picture of patient health: A new monitoring approach

2023-11-06T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you or a loved one needs surgery, you may worry most about what happens during the surgery itself. But as healthcare providers are aware, the most vulnerable times for patient care are actually after surgery when patients are still in the hospital or recently discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU).

“We’ve made a lot of progress in patient care in the operating room. But we know the 30-day mortality rate for post-op patients represents the third-leading cause of death globally,”[i] said Randall M. Clark, M.D., FASA, past president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists and pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist.[ii] “So there’s still significant room for improvement on patient monitoring to provide the best possible care for post-op patients.”

During these critical recovery periods, continuous patient monitoring is crucial to help detect signs of patient deterioration, which can lead to hazardous — yet preventable — consequences.

Continuous monitoring is key

To make sure patients are recovering well post-surgery and not experiencing any complications, it’s essential for healthcare providers to closely monitor each patient’s vital signs, including their respiratory rate, pulse rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure. In particular, respiratory rate has been proven as one of the most sensitive signs for detecting early patient deterioration.[iii],[iv]

Typically, patients’ vital signs are measured by traditional “spot checks” every 4-6 hours and patients are often left unattended between rounds, which can sometimes result in missing early signs of patient deterioration.

“Evidence shows that many early signs of patient deterioration or instability have gone undetected with traditional spot checks,” noted Dr. Clark.

In fact, one study showed that nurses doing spot checks missed 90% of low blood oxygen signs, even when the condition persisted for an hour or more.[v] Even the smallest changes to a patient’s vital signs can indicate a bigger problem but may go unnoticed when spot checks are only done every few hours.

“Preventing post-operative adverse events is vital, and continuous monitoring and response helps us do that more effectively — which makes a difference for our patients,” said Dr. Clark. “It helps healthcare providers detect issues quickly and use that information to act immediately. That level of care can also impact a patient’s quality of life when they go home.”

The solution: Wireless technology that offers continuous monitoring.

To provide clinicians with a real-time view of a patient’s vital signs, GE HealthCare has introduced Portrait™ Mobile, a first-of-its-kind wireless and wearable monitoring solution that uses innovative measurement technology to continuously capture a patient’s respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and pulse rate. Continuously monitoring patients can help clinicians recognize any potential signs of deterioration earlier than traditional spot check methods and enables them to provide the right care at the right time.

Because of its small size and wireless technology, Portrait Mobile allows patients to move about and it easily goes wherever they do during recovery in the hospital. Getting mobile as soon as possible can also help improve a patient’s recovery and rehabilitation after undergoing surgery.

To learn more about how Portrait Mobile can support care that can flex with changing patient needs, visit GEHealthCare.com.


[i] The Lancet, The Global Burden of Post-operative Death, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(18)33139-8/fulltext#gr1, accessed July 24, 2023.

[ii] Freundlich RE, Maile MD, Sferra JJ, Jewell ES, Kheterpal S, Engoren M. Complications Associated With Mortality in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database. Anesth Analg. 2018;127(1):55-62. Published July 1, 2019. doi:https://doi.org/10.1213/ane.0000000000002799 Accessed October 9, 2023 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6150605/

[iii] Churpek, M. M., Yuen, T. C., Huber, M. T., Park, S. Y., Hall, J. B., & Edelson, D. P. (2012). Predicting Cardiac Arrest on the Wards. Chest, 141(5), 1170-1176. https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.11-1301

[iv] Churpek, M. M., Yuen, T. C., Winslow, C., Meltzer, D. O., Kattan, M. W., & Edelson, D. P. (2016). Multicenter Comparison of Machine Learning Methods and Conventional Regression for Predicting Clinical Deterioration on the Wards. Critical Care Medicine, 44(2), 368-374. https://doi.org/10.1097/ccm.0000000000001571

[v] Sun Z, Sessler DI, Dalton JE, et al. Postoperative hypoxemia is common and persistent. Anesth Analg. 2015;121(3):709-715. doi:10.1213/ane.0000000000000836

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4 menopause myths, debunked by new science

2023-11-05T17:03:00

(BPT) – Menopause is a natural transition every woman goes through. Yet, it remains misunderstood and often misidentified.

A groundbreaking study of more than 32,000 women may revolutionize this. The study, conducted by Phenology — a pioneering women’s health brand that provides non-hormonal menopause solutions — offers insights that debunk some of the most prevalent myths surrounding menopause. Knowing the facts can empower women to advocate for effective care from healthcare professionals.

Myth 1: Menopause usually happens after age 50.

According to Phenology’s study, the average age of menopause onset was 53, but women as young as 35 were observed in the early stage of perimenopause.

Ultimately, there’s no standard timeframe for the menopausal transition, which can last between 7 and 14 years. In the Phenology study, 50-year-old women were in the 25-75th percentile range across four different menopause stages: early perimenopause, late perimenopause, early postmenopause and late postmenopause. This means that at the age of 50, some women are just starting their journey in early perimenopause while others have already entered late postmenopause.

Myth 2: Postmenopause means it’s over.

Postmenopause is the last stage of menopause; but counterintuitively, it’s marked by an increase in symptom number and frequency. Phenology found that women experience an average of 11 symptoms during postmenopause, compared to 8 during perimenopause. Late postmenopause had the highest incidence of hot flashes (73%), night sweats (68%), brain fog (77%), and insomnia (70%). Sexual issues also intensified in this phase, with 62% of women reporting low libido and 52% noting vaginal dryness, which can lead to painful intercourse.

The label “post” in this case is somewhat deceiving, and doesn’t capture women’s actual experience.

Myth 3: Hot flashes are the main symptom worth treating.

Menopause is more than just hot flashes, with women experiencing an average of 9 symptoms simultaneously over the course of the transition. They range from physical — hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and brain fog — to emotional — anxiety, mood swings, irritability and depression — to sexual, like low libido and vaginal dryness. These are frustrating at best, life-disrupting at worst, and plenty deserving of treatment.

Early perimenopause especially is marked by emotional symptoms that could be mistaken for mental health. Phenology’s study found that 72% of women in this stage reported mood swings, 70% felt anxiety, 67% experienced irritability and 60% indicated a depressed mood. Understanding that these emotional changes might be caused by hormonal shifts can help women get proper care.

Myth 4: Menopause is the same for everyone.

While all women will go through the menopausal transition, Phenology’s study found that the experience is remarkably different for each individual. Across 32,000 women, Phenology identified over 15,000 completely unique symptom combinations. Chances are, a woman and her closest friends will each experience different symptoms — making it near impossible to get accurate advice from peers.

With only 31% of OB-GYNs receiving formal menopause training, getting proper care from a doctor isn’t always easy, either. Private companies like Phenology are stepping in to fill this gap, leveraging technology to deliver the personalized, non-hormonal relief that 82% of women prefer. They’ve partnered with Vitamin Shoppe to make non-prescription menopause solutions more accessible. Women can now get personalized supplement advice at Vitamin Shoppe, paving the way for a transformed menopause experience.

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3 ways to find more meaning at work

2023-11-03T11:01:00

(BPT) – Employees make career decisions for a variety of reasons, but an increasingly popular factor that many consider is whether their work will be meaningful — especially among younger generations.

According to Fidelity Investments, 86% of all workers say it’s important to them to work for an employer with values that align with their own and half of all employees are considering changing employers in the next year — with many searching for more meaningful work.[1]

As such, employers are realizing it’s more important than ever to connect with their employees on the things that matter most to them and to put their company’s values at the front and center.

With so many workers considering a career shift, employers are turning to workplace giving programs to demonstrate their authentic company values and attract and retain their workforce. In fact, Fidelity data shows nearly 8 in 10 employees at companies offering a workplace giving program say their company’s values align with their personal values — compared to only 56% of employees at companies without one. Workplace giving programs include any employee benefit that supports and encourages employees to volunteer or make donations to charities. Here are three ways employees use workplace giving benefits to find more meaning at work.

  • Setting up or attending organized group volunteer opportunities in their communities.
  • Receiving a matching donation from their employer when they donate to charity.
  • Working with local organizations in need and holding corporate giving drives around the holidays.

These programs not only boost engagement at work, but they also help employees find a deeper sense of connection to their company, and their jobs. Additionally, employees also feel more connected to their coworkers — many of whom are returning to in-office work for the first time in years.

For more information about workplace giving opportunities, visit Fidelity.com/giving.


[1] Fidelity Charitable Giving in the Workplace 2023

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Latte Dressing: The Fall Color Trend for Everyone, Including Your Little Ones

2023-11-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – There’s a new trend taking the fashion world by storm, and it’s inspired by your morning cup of coffee. Latte dressing is all about embracing the warm, rich shades of brown — everything from creamy caramel to deep espresso, mocha and chocolate — for a fun, versatile take on traditional neutrals. Think of it like capturing that cozy, first cup of coffee feeling in an outfit (we’re here for that!).

Make this season’s tasty new trend even sweeter with matching looks for your tiny trendsetter. Here we rounded up some of our favorite latte-inspired styles from Little Planet™ by Carter’s, each crafted in the softest and purest certified organic cottons and recycled fibers.

Organic Cotton Sweater Knit Bubble

With its rich copper hues, ribbed texture and chunky knit design, this cozy bubble is a must-have for baby’s latte dressing era.

Waffle Knit Jumpsuit Made With Organic Cotton

Another look inspired by your morning cup of joe! Your little one will look adorable in this super soft waffle knit jumpsuit made with recycled materials.

Striped Organic Cotton Sweater Set

A dash of nutmeg to spice up your coffee — and baby’s closet, too! In fine sweater knit, Little Planet’s striped organic cotton set is the ultimate cozy latte outfit.

Organic Cotton Gauze Overalls

Snag this signature Little Planet™ style in the color of the season. Soft, natural, and crafted of 100% certified organic double-layered cotton gauze, this is one cup of fashion perfection.

Organic Cotton Ribbed Sweater Knit Dress

With cozy ribbed details and warm sweater knit, this nutmeg number is the perfect addition to your little one’s fall wardrobe.

Organic Cotton Sweater Knit Overalls

Upgrade baby’s wardrobe with heirloom quality overalls in the perfect khaki hue. Crafted of 100% organic cotton sweater knit, this sustainable latte-inspired outfit can be passed down from baby to baby.

Shop Little Planet by Carter’s for additional latte looks or other fall-inspired styles to dress your little one.

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Master the art of holiday hosting with these 5 expert tips

2023-11-03T02:01:00

(BPT) – It’s time to start prepping for the winter holidays! If you regularly host intimate family gatherings or bustling parties with friends and co-workers, you know that holiday hosting is an art. For the uninitiated, it can seem daunting, but the joy of creating an experience your guests won’t soon forget is worth the effort. Whether you’re a pro or a novice, the following five tips will help you master the art of hospitality just in time for the holidays.

1. Plan ahead

Avoid last-minute stress by starting your holiday event planning a few weeks in advance. Once you’ve chosen a date, create a guest list so you have an idea of how much food and drink you’ll need to prepare for the big day. Send out your invites and adjust your grocery list as needed as the RSVPs roll in.

Next, make a detailed timeline and to-do list to help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any important tasks. This will also help you figure out which errands and preparations can be accomplished ahead of time and which need to be completed on the day of the party.

2. Create a cozy ambiance

Embrace the season and decorate accordingly to create a cozy environment for your guests. Seasonal decorations — like flowers, wreaths, twinkling lights and scented candles — can set the mood for the holiday gathering and make your home feel festive and inviting. Don’t overdo it! Simple, elegant decor is more effective and comfortable than an overcrowded space.

Don’t forget the tunes! Pick holiday songs, crowd-pleasing hits or even simple background music to play during your gathering. You can even invite guests to contribute their picks using a collaborative playlist.

3. Prepare an upscale menu

Plan a menu of appetizers, main course, sides and desserts for your holiday dinner. You don’t have to make enough food to feed an army, but make sure you’ll have enough to feed everyone and perhaps have leftovers for guests to take home.

When choosing the main course, pick dishes that are filling and fancy. For example, treat your family and friends to an elevated eating experience by serving premium beef and pork from a purveyor like Creekstone Farms. The Pecan-Crusted Strip Steak recipe is perfect for the holidays, or anytime you want to get together! Also, consider cooking a Reverse Seared Standing Prime Rib, a smoky dish that melts in your mouth. Pair it with creme fraiche horseradish and you’ll have no regrets.

4. Offer a variety of drinks

Once you have dinner planned, think of drinks that complement the dinner menu. Make sure to have a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic options so everyone can enjoy the festivities. You can even create a signature holiday cocktail for the event to add a memorable touch. After dinner, offer coffee (regular and decaf), tea, cider and hot chocolate to amp up the cozy factor.

5. Organize entertainment

Organize activities your guests can look forward to after dinner when there’s a lull in energy as people digest the delicious meal. This is the time to dig into your board game closet and pull out some childhood favorites or set up a gift exchange. You can also find some interesting card games that help guests get to know each other, which is particularly fun if your holiday gathering is a mix of friends, family and colleagues.

Bonus tip

Hosting can be a lot of work, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself! In the midst of the hustle and bustle, take a moment to savor the event you’ve created.

Prepping ahead should help you get into the festive spirit, but you can also consider saving time by purchasing meal boxes to make decadent, savory holiday meals with minimal fuss. You can check out Creekstone Farms’ online store and peruse their meat boxes that offer convenient yet upscale holiday dinners.

Using these five hosting tips, you can elevate your holiday gathering so everyone can create fond memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t be afraid to put your own personal spin on them so the holiday dinner reflects your special brand of hospitality. Happy hosting!

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Superior WiFi Has Arrived, Bringing Connectivity to Every Corner of Your House

2023-11-02T17:01:00

(BPT) – NETGEAR leverages nearly three decades of WiFi expertise to deliver the best WiFi performance across your entire home.

Over the years, WiFi has enabled us to do much more than we thought possible – like video call family, game in high definition, and stream music or the latest show on demand. It seems like every new gadget we buy, from kitchen appliances to children’s toys, requires a seamless connection to get the full experience. It’s difficult these days to think of life without WiFi.

Consider all the connected devices you have today, from cell phones and a doorbell camera to the smart grill in your backyard. Or perhaps you have a smart oven or meat thermometer to ensure your favorite meal is cooked to perfection.

We upgrade and buy new connected devices all the time – like the latest iPhone 15 – yet the dusty WiFi router in the corner of your home remains untouched for years. Even the high-speed internet you’re paying for through your provider might not be fully utilized because your router is outdated. If this sounds like it could be you, it may be time for a router upgrade so you can ensure your cool, new devices, including your iPhone 15, are supported the way they’re intended to be.

When you go to purchase a new router, it’s important to know what the latest WiFi standard is – and today, that’s WiFi 7. WiFi 7 unleashes unprecedented speeds and performance, up to 5X greater speeds than previous generations. If you need to upgrade but also want to future-proof your home and connected devices, WiFi 7 also supports the ever-increasing growth of bandwidth-intensive applications such as high-quality live streaming to watch sports and cultural events, high-definition video calls, intricate graphics work, and immersive gaming experiences.

Upgrade to the Latest WiFi 7 Mesh System

In your home, you need WiFi at every corner to maximize the use of all of your connected devices. When it comes to elite performance across your home, the new Orbi 970 Series WiFi 7 mesh system is in a class of its own.

With mesh systems, you have one main router that communicates to additional satellites placed around your home, so you’re always connected to the strongest WiFi signal.

The Orbi 970 Series features a central router and multiple satellites, which can be strategically placed throughout the home to provide 10,000 square feet of coverage (that’s more than two NBA basketball courts), from the front door to the backyard, across all devices simultaneously. To extend coverage even further, just add another satellite. It’s built to keep your devices seamlessly connected no matter the structure or materials from which your house is constructed.

NETGEAR Armor™ Powered by Bitdefender® also provides an unparalleled level of security for your home’s vulnerable smart devices such as a smart refrigerator, smart speaker, and more. Unlike your phone or PC on which you can load the latest security software, these devices can provide cybercriminals with dangerous inroads to invade your home network and access sensitive information. Armor provides an automatic protective shield of security for all of your connected devices. Moreover, if you’re a parent, NETGEAR’s Smart Parental Controls feature allows you to promote healthy internet habits with kids and manage how much time they spend online.

What’s more, the Orbi 970 Series is available in black or white and sports an elegant, cylindrical design. The sleek bodies of the routers and satellites are purposefully designed for optimal performance while gracing the home with their slim profile that fits neatly on a desk, entertainment unit, or shelf.

In today’s world, one thing is clear, WiFi 7 is the latest standard to keep our connected devices in and around our home working the way they should. The Orbi 970 Series ensures the best possible performance, speed, coverage, and security for all your WiFi-connected activities – today and tomorrow.

Need better WiFi? Learn more about Orbi 970 Series from NETGEAR.

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How an innovative solution helps keep kids safer around school buses

2023-11-02T11:13:01

(BPT) – Did you know the most dangerous part of riding a school bus is when children get on or off the bus? Between distracted driving, the end of Daylight Saving Time and the busy holiday season, children are at greater risk this time of year, especially when drivers illegally pass a stopped school bus as it lets children embark or disembark.

The 2023 National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services illegal passing survey found the number of drivers passing stopped school buses is rising, projecting over 43.5 million illegal passings occurring across the 180-day school year.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that this is one of the biggest risks to children who take the school bus, and although passing a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended is illegal in every state, drivers persist in breaking this law. This unnecessarily puts more than 25 million children at risk of being injured or killed every day.

What can be done about illegal school bus passing?

It would be impossible for local law enforcement to monitor all the traffic in and around school zones, as well as neighborhoods, to watch for illegal school bus passing. To confront this problem, one company, Verra Mobility, has developed two different solutions for schools and communities to help enhance their students’ safety in and around school buses and school zones.

1. CrossingGuard. The school bus stop-arm safety solution incorporates all of the services required to enhance student safety, reduce illegal school bus passing, enforce traffic laws and change driver behavior. CrossingGuard provides a high-resolution stop-arm camera, physically attached to the school bus, that is deployed when the bus is picking up and dropping off students.

Confirmed data from the Verra Mobility school bus safety camera programs (32 total) during the 2022-2023 school year shows that 71,386 citations were issued to drivers for illegally passing the school bus stop arm. However, nearly 99% of the drivers who received and paid a ticket did not receive a second citation, indicating that the message was received, loud and clear. Collectively, Verra Mobility’s school bus stop-arm safety programs witnessed a 12% reduction in citations from the beginning of the school year to the end.

How CrossingGuard works: High-definition cameras are installed on the exterior of the school bus, and when the school bus extends its stop arm, the system automatically detects vehicles passing the stopped bus within the enforcement zone. Cameras record a video of the passing vehicle, license plate and extended stop arm. The event data and images are wirelessly uploaded to Verra Mobility’s back-office via a secure VPN, and are then processed according to the customer’s business rules.

Law enforcement then receives and reviews the evidence and determines whether a violation has occurred. If there is a violation, a notice is issued and mailed to the vehicle owner. A bonus of the program is that the cameras for this solution are not funded by taxpayers, bonds or school fees. They are paid through the violations, so the system pays for itself.

2. Safe School Zone Speed Enforcement. Because 17% of children 14 and younger who are killed in traffic crashes are pedestrians, according to the NHTSA, it’s crucial to keep children safe, especially when they’re walking to and around school. School zone speed enforcement encourages traffic compliance to reduce the average vehicle speed and rate of dangerous driving.

This safety solution provides communities with an automated speed safety enforcement camera system to detect dangerous driving and to capture images of drivers speeding in school zones. When implemented, traffic slows before the school zone, improving pedestrian, bicyclist and motorist safety.

“Parents have enough on their plate without having to worry about their children’s safety when they’re going to and from school,” said Melissa Wandall, president of the National Coalition for Safer Roads. “It’s important for schools and communities to use the latest technology available to hold reckless drivers accountable, and to help keep kids safe.”

To learn more about these innovative safety solutions and how they help protect all of the school children in your community, visit VerraMobility.com.

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Home safety measures to keep your seasonal celebrations joyful

2023-11-02T13:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season brings a sense of excitement and togetherness, but preparing for lively gatherings or traveling can present distinctive safety challenges.

“Anyone preparing for guests should be mindful of how they organize their celebrations and understand the coverage provided by their insurance policies,” said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims for Mercury Insurance. “Homeowners need to identify and address any areas needing extra attention for a safe and inviting environment.”

To guarantee an enjoyable and festive get-together for you and your guests, take time to review some of the more commonly overlooked items in the home.

Keep holiday lights bright and safe

The magic of the holidays often finds its sparkle in glimmering lights. Preserve their charm without risking safety and property. While most lights, ornaments and other decorations are insured for damage from fire, vandalism or theft, they aren’t insured against the wear and tear of normal use.

Before stringing any lights, check lighting cords to make sure there aren’t any tears or deformations. Looking for signs of excess wear on all indoor and outdoor lights, including fading, frayed wiring, or twisted and kinked cords. Replace any damaged bulbs and test each strand of lights by plugging them in before decorating to confirm they are operational and safe. Make sure any cords or lights you are using for outdoor displays are made for outdoor use and never overload extension cords or outlets.

Install and update security systems for peace of mind

Holiday excitement can interfere with awareness of potential risks. Break-ins and thefts increase this time of year since thieves know many families might be distracted with the busyness of the season, or traveling and leaving their homes unattended. Homeowners can significantly reduce their risk by installing surveillance cameras, video doorbells, alarms, deadbolts and other types of home security. Some insurers may offer policies with a theft protective device discount.

“It’s also important to note that if you recently received or purchased an expensive gift, make sure that your insurance policy extends to cover such presents,” said Lee. “Homeowners policies often cover theft, so you’ll be able to file a claim with your insurance company should something happen, but it’s always a good idea to check your insurance policy to see how your personal property is covered, including high-end gifts.”

Share with care

One of the enticing factors thieves consider when scouting for homes to target is whether a home is currently unoccupied. By sharing holiday plans and locations in real time on social media, homeowners unwittingly publicize that their house is vacant. Even with privacy settings on, sharing extensively online still poses a risk due to extended friend networks and other potential breaches.

Consider waiting to share pictures, status updates and check-ins until you return home,” said Lee. “By postponing these posts, homeowners reduce the risk of attracting unwanted attention to their empty property.”

Kitchen safety

Increased cooking times, a higher number of dishes being prepared and a flurry of guests can lead to forgotten stovetops and ovens, or grease fires due to spillover from pots and pans.

“Fire insurance is typically included in your policy and protects the contents and the surrounding property, helping with the cost of replacing or repairing your home in case of such an event,” said Lee. “However, it’s best to stay attentive. Avoid leaving cooking areas unattended when the stove or oven is in use and make sure cooking areas are free of combustible materials like wooden utensils or dish towels. It’s also a good idea to keep a working fire extinguisher that is easily accessible in your kitchen.”

As the holiday season progresses, remember to review your homeowners insurance policy to understand exactly what coverage it offers and that it has been updated to suit your family’s needs, particularly if you’ve made any high-value renovations or purchases.

“The holiday times are for joy and celebrations, not for dealing with unanticipated losses or accidents. Following a few simple precautions will be the best gift you can give yourself for a peaceful and festive season,” said Lee.