Author: admin

2025-03-19T07:01:00

(BPT) – When Brandi and Delvin Peeks’ daughter Leah Michelle was born at just 23 weeks gestation, weighing 1 pound 8 ounces, doctors said her chances of survival were slim. Even more heart-wrenching for the Peeks was that Leah Michelle’s birth came after three and a half years of trying to conceive.

In the aftermath of a premature birth, with so many anxious feelings to process, most parents would never imagine that the nutrition provided to their fragile newborn in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) could actually increase their baby’s health risks.

Critical Nutrition Decisions

Though Leah Michelle was fed Brandi’s breast milk while in the NICU, doctors said Leah would require a substantial boost in nutrients and calories. Preemies typically need 20-40% more calories and protein than full-term babies because they missed important growth during the last trimester.

The hospital planned to use a standard human milk fortifier — which, despite its name, is typically made from cow milk.

“I recalled the advice a friend had given me when I went into preterm labor: ask for a fortifier made by a company called Prolacta Bioscience — it’s the only fortifier made from 100% donor breast milk,” remembers Brandi. “At first, I didn’t want to say anything about the fortifier and step on any toes, since Leah was doing okay.”

A Mother’s Instinct Proves Right

That hesitation vanished when Leah developed serious complications after receiving the cow milk-based fortifier. “I didn’t know it then, but the protein in cow milk can substantially increase the risk for intestinal problems in the smallest preemies like Leah. Among the most serious of these complications is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which occurs when the paper-thin lining of the intestine becomes inflamed and dies, leaving the baby vulnerable to intestinal perforation and sepsis.”

Soon after the NICU introduced the cow milk-based fortifier into Leah’s feedings, she began vomiting. Before long, her belly started to swell and there was blood in her stool. Tests confirmed she had developed NEC, the leading cause of death among extremely premature babies.

A Well-Studied Alternative

“We approached the hospital staff about changing Leah’s feedings to the human milk-based fortifier. They were initially resistant, but we took our demand all the way to hospital administration,” recalls Brandi. “They finally agreed and said that while they’d never used Prolacta in their NICU, they would add it to Leah’s feedings.”

The switch to human milk-based fortifier transformed Leah’s health almost immediately. The vomiting stopped, her stomach returned to normal, and she began gaining weight. Thankfully, after 131 days in the NICU, Leah finally went home.

Addressing Disparities

The experience has turned the Peeks into advocates for premature infant nutrition. Additionally, as a Black woman, Brandi is well aware of the studies showing Black women are 50% more likely than White women to give birth prematurely and that Black babies are nearly four times as likely to die from complications of prematurity. “Many preemie parents, Black and White, are never informed that a safer alternative to cow milk-based formula exists,” explains Brandi.

Getting the Word Out

Today, Leah is a healthy fifth-grader who enjoys playing the clarinet, acting, singing, and competitive swimming. “One of my life missions is to share our story as widely as I can, so that preemie parents are aware of human milk-based fortifiers. Every child deserves a fighting chance to grow up strong and healthy — just like our baby.”

As of last year, about half of the country’s highest-level NICUs now use human milk-based products for very low birth weight infants under 2.75 pounds.

If you have a very premature baby or know someone who does, advocate early and often for 100% human milk-based nutritional products. To learn more, visit Prolacta.com.

2025-03-19T02:01:00

(BPT) – As the American population ages, the desire to “age in place” — remaining in one’s own home during the golden years — has become increasingly prevalent. A recent survey by Point, a home equity investment company, reveals that 84% of older adults say staying in their homes as they age is extremely or very important. This preference is driven by a desire for independence, familiarity and the avoidance of high costs associated with assisted living facilities.

The desire to age in place is understandable, but it often comes with high costs and complex logistics. Rising living expenses, insufficient savings and the need for home modifications to ensure safety and accessibility are formidable obstacles for many seniors.

Financial Hurdles in Retirement

The financial landscape for older homeowners is becoming increasingly complex. Point’s survey of over 1,000 homeowners aged 50 and older found that nearly 30% of those not yet retired lack confidence in their ability to retire on time — or at all. This uncertainty is largely attributed to rising living costs and inadequate savings. Notably, 15% of working homeowners over 50 have saved less than $10,000 for retirement, and among this group, 88% doubt they’ll be able to retire on schedule.

The Cost of Aging in Place

While remaining at home is a priority for many, ensuring that a residence is safe and accessible for aging individuals often requires significant investment. Home modifications such as installing grab bars, non-slip flooring and barrier-free entries can be costly. Nearly half of homeowners estimate that necessary home modifications will cost more than $20,000, with some expecting to pay over $100,000.

Despite these upfront costs, aging in place can be more economical than alternative care options. Estimates for in-home care for part-time assistance average $21,600 annually, whereas assisted living facilities cost approximately $54,000 per year, and nursing home care can exceed $116,000 annually.

Leveraging Home Equity

For many older adults, their home is their most significant asset. The survey indicates that half of homeowners aged 50 or older consider their home a crucial part of their net worth in retirement planning, with almost half possessing more than $250,000 in home equity.

However, accessing this equity can be challenging. Traditional financing options like cash-out refinancing or home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) often come with stringent income requirements and monthly payments, which may not be feasible for retirees on fixed incomes.

Home Equity Investments (HEIs) offer an alternative solution. HEIs allow homeowners to access a portion of their home equity without incurring monthly payments or additional debt. Instead, homeowners receive a lump sum in exchange for a share of the home’s future appreciation. This approach provides the necessary funds for home modifications or other expenses, enabling seniors to age in place comfortably.

Planning for the Future

Proactive planning is essential for those wishing to age in place. Assessing financial resources, exploring alternative funding options like HEIs, and budgeting for potential home modifications can help bridge the gap between the desire to remain at home and the financial realities of doing so.

As the senior population continues to grow, addressing the financial challenges associated with aging in place will become increasingly important. By leveraging home equity and planning ahead, older adults can enhance their ability to remain in their homes, preserving both their independence and financial well-being.

2025-03-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you have fond memories of being read stories at bedtime or curling up with your favorite books? While reading has been a cherished pastime for many during childhood, today’s kids face multiple distractions, including video games and social media. The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the Nation’s Report Card, reveals a concerning trend in the declining reading scores of American students, a challenge predating the pandemic.

To better understand students’ reading behaviors, Renaissance, a global leader in education technology and learning solutions, began tracking and compiling the annual “What Kids Are Reading” report, which has become the world’s largest annual study of K-12 student reading habits. The report provides insights on reading growth, popular books and series by grade, titles to engage reluctant readers and authentic Spanish titles.

The research on student reading clearly outlines the power of 15 minutes of daily reading practice to drastically improve student outcomes. Data shows that just 48% of K-2 students read 15 minutes daily. In grades 9-12, this drops to a mere 20% of students. However, establishing a 15-minute-per-day average reading habit leads to marked improvement for all children — especially those who are behind.

“Overall, kids are reading less and less,” said Dr. Gene Kerns, chief academic officer at Renaissance. “That’s why we feel so strongly that this report can help anyone who wants to engage a child in the joy of reading.”

For parents and caregivers wanting to see their children read more, Renaissance’s team of researchers offers these tips:

1. Kickstart a 15-minute daily reading habit

It’s easier to encourage a reading habit when your child sees you enjoy reading. Choose a convenient time, such as right after dinner or before bedtime, for the whole family to enjoy 15 minutes of reading. This is a great way to wind down the day and discover new things to talk about together.

“Reading at least 15 minutes per day is one of the best habits kids can develop,” said Kerns. “Not only are they exposed to more words, but their understanding of themselves and the world expands as their ability to read more sophisticated material grows.”

2. Discover beloved authors

Identify authors who your child resonates with to kindle their enthusiasm for reading. If you notice your child loving one book, help them find other books by that author. Even if the book they choose is not what you would pick for them, any book that interests them can crack open the door to more reading. Using one favorite book as a springboard can turn a reluctant reader into a lifelong reader.

“For many students, finding pleasure in and truly connecting with reading begins with finding some success — often their first success in reading,” said Kerns. “Let reluctant or struggling readers read the books they want to read. Then work to guide their reading practice from there. Reading simple books is better than not reading books at all.”

3. Explore book series

Renaissance’s student reading data shows benefits for kids interested in a series. The more series a child reads, the more books they read overall. The largest leap the report found was from 23 total books read by kids who were reading just two series to more than twice that — 50 books — read by kids engaged with three or more series. Even better, kids who were reading multiple book series read for 46 minutes daily.

“Book series are providing students with some of the strongest reading growth seen in our research because they’re drawn in for multiple reads,” added Kerns.

4. Embrace graphic novels

While some parents might think graphic novels aren’t “real books,” the truth is, they do measure up well in terms of reading complexity — and they definitely spark and sustain reading interest for many kids.

“Parents may be concerned that graphic novels are not building the necessary reading and comprehension skills their children need, but our research shows these titles are on par in terms of text complexity with others across various grade levels,” said Kerns.

5. Consider STEM books for young readers

Encourage your child’s curiosity by seeking STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) books for younger readers: topics like the natural world, how machines work, outer space and more. Books about science and math spark interest in the world around them, which is an effective way to foster engagement with other subjects as they grow and develop.

Learn more about Renaissance, one of the nation’s leading providers of educational programs used by more than 60% of students across the U.S., at renaissance.com.

To access the complete findings and discover popular books by state and grade, download the 2025 “What Kids Are Reading” report at renaissance.com/resources/what-kids-are-reading.

2025-03-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – When the beauty of spring begins to blossom, roads often become ugly.

That’s because early spring’s freeze-thaw cycle wreaks havoc on road surfaces as conditions warm, opening up potholes that threaten even the toughest vehicles. Drivers celebrating the departure of icy conditions often find their safety just as threatened by the obstacle course that characterizes their daily commutes.

How can drivers avoid the damage inflicted by potholes and rough roads this time of year? Nokian Tyres, a tiremaker that offers a Pothole Protection program with many of its tires, offers a few tips. It’s part of a campaign the company is hosting that invites drivers to vote for the Worst Roads in North America.

Embrace Pothole Protection

The first step to overcoming bad roads? Keeping a close eye on the only part of a vehicle that touches the road.

Some tires come with materials that help them resist punctures and blowouts. For instance, all of Nokian Tyres’ all-season tires are infused with Aramid fibers — the same material used in bulletproof vests.

The lightweight fiber strengthens tires’ sidewalls to help them stay strong when they encounter bumps in the road. And Nokian Tyres even offers a Pothole Protection warranty with its Aramid-infused products. If a tire suffers damage beyond repair from a pothole or road hazard, the company replaces it for free (within terms and conditions).

Other tiremakers are also experimenting with compounds and materials that help tires withstand rough roads. Drivers who live in pothole-prone areas should ask their tire dealers about tires that are designed to keep them safe.

Swap to the Right Tires

Not all types of tires are created equal. Drivers should make sure they’re riding on a set engineered for the time of year in which they’re driving.

Winter tires, which remain soft and responsive on frigid weather, aren’t equipped to hold up consistently when temperatures warm. Their soft compounds are vulnerable to heat, and they tend to wear prematurely and unevenly in the spring and summer months, in addition to being more prone to damage. So, it’s important for winter tire consumers to swap to all-season tires once conditions rise above 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius).

Keep Tires in Working Order

Once the right tires are on the car, drivers need to make sure they’re set up for safety.

That means inflating them to the recommended level, which drivers can find on the door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Tires that are underinflated are more likely to rupture when they encounter road hazards. They’re also less energy efficient.

Drivers should also inspect their tires monthly to ensure there is no visible damage or tread wear. And it’s valuable to schedule an annual appointment with a local tire dealer, who can examine every aspect of the tires to ensure they’re in good working order and don’t need to be replaced.

Potholes can derail journeys and push tires to their breaking point. For more tips on avoiding damage from rough roads, drivers are invited to visit NokianTyres.com/Potholes. Between March 17 and 28, they can enter to win free tires with Pothole Protection by saying why they have the worst roads in North America.

2025-03-18T11:01:00

(BPT) – Brunch is the ultimate meal that brings people together. It’s casual yet special; indulgent but still versatile enough to please all palates. Whether families are celebrating a special occasion, such as Mother’s Day, or simply gathering for a weekend meal surrounded by warm weather, hosting a brunch that everyone loves requires thoughtful planning, including offering a variety of options to keep things stress-free.

Offer a Variety of Options for Everyone

One of the best ways to ensure your brunch is a hit is to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Some people prefer a classic breakfast spread, while others may want heartier lunch-inspired options. By offering both breakfast and lunch dishes, you can please every guest.

For breakfast lovers, consider classics like pancakes, waffles, or scrambled eggs. For those who prefer lunch, add a savory quiche, fresh salads or a sandwich platter. Don’t forget to include vegetarian and gluten-free options, such as fruit salads, yogurt parfaits or avocado toast on gluten-free bread.

One crowd-pleasing option that combines both breakfast and lunch elements is the Overnight Bagel and Egg Casserole, made with Kraft Shredded Colby and Monterey Jack Cheeses from Kraft Natural Cheese to make it extra gooey and delicious. It’s easy to prep the night before — and simple enough for little ones to assist with creating by sprinkling in the cheese! — so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests in the morning.

Kraft Natural Cheese has been a trusted household name since 1950, delivering exceptional quality and flavor to mealtimes around the world. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Kraft Natural Cheese continues to be the go-to choice for families and food enthusiasts alike with its broad portfolio of natural cheeses, including shreds, chunks and slices. As part of the Lactalis Heritage Dairy portfolio of brands, a subsidiary of Lactalis USA which offers an unrivaled collection of dairy brands enjoyed in homes across the United States, Kraft Natural Cheese has more than 150 years of combined dairy experience reflected in its cheesemaking.

Prepare Dishes Ahead of Time

No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen while guests are mingling. Opt for make-ahead dishes like casseroles, muffins or overnight oats so that you can focus on hosting rather than cooking. The Overnight Bagel and Egg Casserole is a perfect example of a dish that comes together effortlessly ahead of time while still tasting impressive at mealtime.

Set Up a DIY Drink Station

Beverages are just as important as the food at a brunch. Instead of serving individual drinks, set up a DIY drink station with coffee, tea and fresh juices. Consider including fun mix-ins like cinnamon sticks or fruit slices to elevate the experience.

Create a Beautiful and Functional Buffet Setup

Rather than serving individual plates, set up a buffet-style spread where guests can serve themselves. This allows everyone to choose what they like and keeps the host from being stuck in the kitchen. Use tiered trays and platters to create an eye-catching display and ensure everything is easily accessible.

Brunch is all about enjoying good food and great company. By offering a mix of breakfast and lunch dishes, setting up an inviting buffet, and adding fun interactive elements such as a drink station, you can host a brunch that everyone will love. And with easy, crowd-pleasing recipes like an Overnight Bagel and Egg Casserole made with Kraft Natural Cheese, you’ll have more time to relax and savor the moment with your guests.

2025-03-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – In 2025, wellness is about more than just what we eat or how we stay active — it’s a holistic approach that includes the way we drink. Today’s consumers are seeking quality, transparency and ingredients that align with their wellness goals, making more intentional choices about what they pour into their glass.

So, what defines a better drinking experience? Whether you’re toasting with friends, unwinding at home or simply prioritizing balance, every choice plays a role in overall well-being. And when it comes to alcohol, quality matters just as much as quantity. From knowing the ingredients in your glass to choosing spirits made with care for both people and the planet, here’s what sets organic tequila apart — and why it’s the better way to drink.

Know what’s in your glass

As more people choose to drink in moderation, the selection of what to drink becomes increasingly important. Wellness-conscious consumers are gravitating toward spirits with lower calorie content, reduced sugar and fewer congeners (impurities that contribute to hangovers), making tequila a preferred choice over vodka, whiskey and rum. However, most spirits don’t disclose their ingredients, leaving consumers unaware of potential additives or chemicals.

Organic tequila offers a solution to this uncertainty. Choosing brands like Casa Azul Orgánico Tequila, you know exactly what’s in your glass. Casa Azul Orgánico sets itself apart by offering complete transparency in its ingredients and production process. Made with just three ingredients — organic blue agave, yeast and water — Casa Azul Orgánico follows the rigorous USDA certification process to ensure that every sip is free from unnecessary additives and chemicals. This commitment to organic purity means you can trust that what you’re drinking is as pure as it gets.

What makes organic tequila superior?

A USDA-certified organic designation signifies more than just pesticide-free agave — it guarantees purity at every stage, from cultivation and fermentation to distillation, all while adhering to strict organic standards. Casa Azul Orgánico Tequila stands out for its exceptional purity, quality and sustainability, making it a superior choice over non-organic options. Here’s more on why organic tequila is the smarter, cleaner choice:

• Superior agave plants — Organic tequila begins with the highest-quality agave, cultivated without synthetic chemicals, pesticides or fertilizers. Growing organic agave takes patience — seven years on average — requiring careful attention and dedication. This results in agave that is not only healthier but also richer in natural flavors, delivering a truly authentic taste.
• Additive-free — While not all organic tequilas are additive-free, Casa Azul Orgánico goes beyond organic certification by ensuring its tequila contains no artificial additives or flavor enhancers. By relying on the natural quality of its agave, Casa Azul Orgánico delivers a clean and pure drinking experience with no unnecessary enhancements.
• Environmental responsibility — Organic farming practices promote soil health, reduce chemical runoff and conserve local ecosystems. Choosing organic tequila supports a cleaner planet and a more sustainable future.
• Quality from start to finish — Organic certification extends beyond the fields. Every step, from production to bottling, adheres to strict standards that prioritize cleanliness, sustainability and authenticity.

Sustainability from soil to sip

By choosing organic tequila, you’re making a choice that benefits both you and the planet. Casa Azul Orgánico blends time-honored distillation techniques with modern sustainability efforts, going beyond standard eco-friendly practices by integrating thoughtful initiatives throughout the production process.

Efficient water use and recycling methods help reduce waste and protect natural resources, while sustainable, organic farming eliminates synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promoting healthier soil and supporting biodiversity. Additionally, eco-friendly packaging and responsible sourcing further reduce environmental impact, reinforcing a deep commitment to sustainability at every stage.

Drink better, live better

Mindful drinking is about more than just moderation — it’s about choosing quality over quantity, transparency over mystery and sustainability over shortcuts. With Casa Azul Orgánico, you’re not just enjoying premium tequila; you’re aligning your choices with your values.

So, raise your glass to a cleaner, smoother and more intentional way to enjoy tequila — because drinking well means living well.

Explore Casa Azul Orgánico’s three varieties — Blanco, Reposado and Añejo — at CasaAzulSpirits.com.

Please enjoy responsibly. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, visit Responsibility.org.

2025-03-17T13:51:00

(BPT) – If you drive during the winter, especially in climates where the temperature reaches below freezing, it’s important to know how to take care of your car so you can drive comfortably and safely.

Understanding how to maximize range and performance in cold conditions will ensure you drive with confidence — whether commuting to work or heading out for a winter weekend adventure. Check out these five expert tips from Ford to best prepare your electric vehicle for even the coldest conditions. More detailed tips can be found here.

1. Park your electric vehicle in a garage when possible

Protect your car from the harsh weather conditions outside by parking your electric vehicle in a garage. Maintaining a warm storage temperature will aid in vehicle and battery performance.

2. Remove all snow from the vehicle before driving

Removing all snow from your electric vehicle isn’t just important for visibility while driving; it also reduces weight and air resistance.

If your car has driver assistance technology, clearing snow off your electric vehicle is a must. The sensors and cameras must be free of snow to function properly.

3. Plug in your electric vehicle when parked for extended periods

Leaving your electric vehicle parked for a while? Whether you’re away on a trip or just parking your car at home overnight, it’s important to plug in your electric vehicle.

When the vehicle is plugged in during extended periods, the battery temperature is kept above freezing. Whether or not the vehicle is actively charging, plugging it in works to maintain battery health, optimize battery performance and prevent range loss.

If you purchase a Ford vehicle like the 2025 Mustang Mach-E, make sure to take advantage of the Ford Power Promise to set up your garage charging station. The program provides retail customers ordering any new Ford electric vehicle — including the Mustang Mach-E — with a complimentary home charger, standard installation and 24/7 access to a dedicated electric vehicle support adviser.

4. Set a departure time and precondition your vehicle

If you have a regular driving schedule, like a daily commute, aim to depart around the same time every day and precondition your car before driving.

Preconditioning your electric vehicle allows your battery to perform at its best by adjusting the battery temperature to an ideal state before you start driving or charging. This not only increases charging efficiency but also helps to ensure consistent vehicle performance.

If you have a Ford electric vehicle like the Mustang Mach-E or the F-150 Lightning, you can use the handy Departure Times feature on your FordPass app to precondition the battery and cabin at a set time every day. With zero tailpipe emissions, you can safely warm up the vehicle’s cabin while parked in the garage, so you can get into a warm cabin and set off to work in comfort.

5. Reduce energy consumption

If you’re on a weekend trip to the cabin or on a day trip to the lake or slopes, you may be worried about your car’s energy consumption. But fear not! You can reduce the energy used by your car’s HVAC with a few simple tricks. For instance, if your electric vehicle features heated seats and a heated steering wheel, use them as your primary source of heat while lowering the cabin temperature setting.

Travel cold, icy terrain with confidence

By following these five winter driving tips, you can ensure your electric vehicle can tackle any cold weather challenge. To learn more about Ford electric vehicles like the electric Mustang Mach-E, visit here.