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Make your holiday meals pop with pomegranates

2024-11-22T12:01:00

(BPT) – Are you planning your menu for an upcoming holiday dinner? There are so many recipes to choose from when deciding on the main dish, sides and desserts.

This year, make your holiday dinner pop by adding pomegranates to your holiday menu. These ruby-like seeds are eye-catching and add a juicy sweetness to any dish.

Why pomegranates?

California-grown pomegranates are harvested from October to January. The season may be short, but it’s oh-so-sweet, just like the fruit. Because the pomegranate season is perfectly aligned with the holidays, there’s no shortage of festive ideas to make snack time and recipes pop with color, flavor and nutrition.

Best of all? Pomegranates are high in vitamin C and potassium, a great source of fiber and low in calories. If you have wellness goals this holiday season, eating pomegranates can help! Pomegranates are chock full of vitamin C, polyphenols, potassium and other necessary nutrients.

How to incorporate pomegranates into holiday meals

So, how can you incorporate pomegranates into your holiday meals? The possibilities are practically endless.

“From a gorgeous cheese platter to a holiday ham, the pomegranate’s bright, juicy, red arils elevate any dish. Not to mention, they make a fabulous centerpiece!” said Tara “Teaspoon” Bench. Tara served as the former food editor of Martha Stewart Living, and knows a thing or two about creating show-stopping holiday meals.

To celebrate the season, Bench has partnered with the Pomegranate Council to help you create a holiday dish that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. Check out her recipe for baked ham with pomegranate glaze that features these stunning ruby red fruits.

Baked Ham with Pomegranate Glaze

Garnish your holiday ham with a burst of freshness using vibrant pomegranate arils! Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s or Sunday dinner, this ham is sure to impress with a sweet pomegranate glaze.

Prep time: 30 minutes; Cook time: 2 hours 15 minutes; Yield: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

1 (7-pound) bone-in, spiral-cut smoked ham

1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

2 cups 100% pomegranate juice (divided)

2/3 cup light brown sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1 cup pomegranate arils

Herbs for garnish (if desired)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a large roasting pan and pour in chicken broth along with 1/2 cup of pomegranate juice.

2. In a medium saucepan, bring remaining 1 1/2 cups of pomegranate juice, brown sugar and lemon juice to boil over medium-high heat. Lower heat and let mixture simmer until it slightly thickens, about 10 minutes.

3. Stir in mustard and ginger and continue simmering until sauce reduces to about 1 cup, approximately 5 more minutes.

4. Pour half of glaze over ham, cover with foil and roast for 1 1/2 hours, basting occasionally. Internal temperature should reach 125°F in thickest part of ham.

5. Remove foil, brush ham with remaining glaze and roast uncovered for another 30 minutes until top is lightly caramelized.

6. Transfer ham to cutting board and carve it off the bone. Arrange slices on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs and sprinkle with pomegranate arils.

7. If desired, pour pan juices into a bowl to serve alongside ham. Leftover ham can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Want to know more about pomegranates and how to incorporate them into your holiday meals? Visit www.Pomegranates.org or www.TaraTeaspoon.com.

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Tips to help prevent holiday kitchen fires (and what to do if you have one)

2024-11-22T14:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays are just around the corner and for many people, that means big plans. It’s about traditional family recipes, new favorite dishes and your loved ones gathered around the table enjoying the bounty of it all. If you’re that holiday host, you know a lot of your time is spent in the kitchen. Along with the joy of cooking for friends and family, it’s important to keep an eye on fire safety as well.

According to the National Fire Prevention Agency, Thanksgiving Day is ground zero for kitchen fires. More fires happen on that day than any other. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day follow close behind. Nobody wants those kinds of holiday memories.

Kitchen fires can be simple to prevent with a little care and preparation. Here are some tips, from your good neighbors at State Farm®:

Stay alert and attentive. Always keep an eye on what you’re doing and check the food regularly. Don’t wander out of the kitchen to chat with your guests. Instead, create an outpost where they can join you in the heart of your home, or better yet, help out.

Save the wine for dinner. If you’re sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop. The same goes for any medications that might make you drowsy.

Watch for sleeves and oven mitts. Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

Be prepared. Keep a fire extinguisher approved for cooking or grease fires nearby and make sure you know how to use it. And, when’s the last time you changed the batteries in your smoke alarms? Make sure they’re working, too.

Do you really need to fry the turkey? Yes, deep fried turkey is delicious. But it’s also dangerous. Each year, deep fryer accidents cause 60 injuries, five deaths and $15 million in property damage. If you’re determined to deep fry your bird, never leave it unattended, do not use the fryer in your garage or in the rain or snow, wear goggles and protective clothing and have that fire extinguisher very close at hand.

If you have a cooking fire, what should you do? Here are some tactics for what to do in case of fire from State Farm:

Turn off the heat source. Immediately turn off the burner for stovetop fires. For oven fires, turn off the oven and keep the door closed.

Cover the pan with its lid. Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you do have a fire in the pan, don’t throw water on it. Instead, slide the lid over the pan. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool until you’re absolutely sure the fire is out.

Do not move the pan. Moving it could cause the fire to spread.

Do not try to extinguish it with water. Using water on a grease fire is not effective and can cause grease fires to splash and spread.

Use your fire extinguisher. For larger fires, use the extinguisher you have close at hand.

When in doubt, get out! If you’re not comfortable doing any of these things, or if the fire hasn’t been suppressed, get everyone out of the house quickly. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you and your family are safe outside.

By following these tips, you can help keep your family, friends and home safe from kitchen fires. For more information on kitchen safety, visit: https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/putting-kitchen-safety-first.

This content is sponsored by State Farm.

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Tips for Holly, Jolly Customer Service This Holiday Season

2024-11-21T10:31:00

(BPT) – With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, you may be making your list and checking it twice to ensure you don’t forget a single thing this year. Meanwhile, endless options both online and in-store can make it feel overwhelming to find the perfect gift for everyone on your “Nice List.” In all that hustle and bustle, there’s nothing worse than adding another trip to the store or dealing with frustrating customer service.

Fortunately, retailers are helping take the hassle out of shopping for your loved ones by tapping into technology built to assist you during the entire process — from browsing, to purchasing, to shipping and service. According to a study by AI-powered customer experience orchestration leader Genesys, 76% of organizations are using AI to personalize customer experiences, which means support, product recommendations and discounts tailored specifically for you. As AI becomes more mainstream in customer service, it can become the personal assistant you need, giving you a more enjoyable experience without even having to visit a store.

While retailers are working to make shopping merry and bright, Ginger Conlon, customer experience advocate at Genesys, has steps you can take for better, faster customer service this holiday season.

  • Avoid the busiest hours: If you’re calling for support, reach out in the early morning or late afternoon. Genesys analyzed the number of calls to US retailers’ customer service lines during the 2023 holiday shopping season (Nov. 1–Dec. 25, 2023) and found that the hours of 10 AM through 12 PM ET were overall the busiest times, which could mean longer hold times for you.
  • Ask the bot: With 24/7 availability, using chatbots can make it easy to get help faster. Genesys research showed that nearly 90% of surveyed organizations are using chatbots for customer service. Taking advantage of this easily accessible support tool can save you a little extra time when you’re looking for information like return policies, the status of an order and other simple questions. And as AI continues to advance, expect chatbots to evolve into even more helpful virtual agents capable of handling more complex needs.
  • Explore your options: Reaching customer service by phone isn’t your only option. Using one of the many communication avenues businesses offer like chat, email, social media or texting can provide the help you need on your schedule.
  • Skip the hold music: Instead of waiting on hold, opt for customer service to call you. Many customer service lines offer callback options, letting you get on with your day without losing your place in line. In an era where time is money, enjoy the convenience and flexibility that this helpful support feature offers.
  • Don’t be a Grinch: The holiday season is a particularly busy and difficult time for customer service representatives who may deal with hundreds of frustrated shoppers every day. Don’t be one of the many customers who have lost their temper during service interactions. Remember that agents are there to help you. If you’re feeling stressed, pause for a beat — it will make for a better experience for both you and the representative.

This holiday season, use technology to your advantage to skip the lines, get top-notch customer experience and navigate the post-holiday service rush. Happy shopping!

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Three ways small businesses can capture consumer spend before the holiday season ends

2024-11-21T11:29:00

(BPT) – For many small businesses, the holiday season is crucial to hitting their yearly financial goals — and for some, it’s make or break. Small business owners project 33% of their total yearly revenue from seasonal shopping this year, and 61% say holiday revenue is a key factor to the success of their business. The good news? Ninety-three percent of consumers are planning to shop small this season, according to the QuickBooks Holiday Shopping Report 2024.

Holiday shopping is in high gear. Still, there a number of things small businesses can do to maximize their sales through the end of the season, including these three tips:

Be ready for peak shopping days to capture last-minute shoppers

Being prepared this holiday season will be critical — starting with ensuring you’re ready for the days when consumers plan to shop most. Two in three consumers plan to shop on Black Friday (November 29) and Cyber Monday (December 2) and more than a third (34%) plan to shop on Small Business Saturday (November 30), according to the report, based on a recent survey of U.S. consumers and small business owners commissioned by Intuit QuickBooks. Overall, consumers expect to do nearly 40% of their holiday shopping on these days.

To get ahead of the inevitable rush, small businesses should have a connected inventory management system to track everything in one place, such as QuickBooks Commerce, offer flexible shopping and shipping experiences for customers, and increase marketing efforts that remind consumers of their unique products and offerings.

A seamless checkout experience is also crucial to making a sale, so small businesses should implement an integrated payments solution like QuickBooks Payments, allowing their customers to choose the way they’d like to pay via online invoicing, mobile payment apps, and in-person card readers.

Deals, deals, deals

Given tough competition from big-box retailers and decreasing consumer spending due to rising costs and inflation, it’s increasingly important for small businesses to offer competitive prices and holiday deals to attract customers. The report found that over two-thirds (64%) of consumers are prioritizing shopping at stores that offer low prices and deals, while a little more than half are looking for coupons and promotions to save money.

“Consumers are faced with tough financial constraints, and are increasingly looking for flexibility and convenience in how they shop and interact with businesses, as well as deals and offers to offset costs,” said Joseph Black, Director of Product Management, Accounting and Commerce, Intuit QuickBooks.

Equally as important is how to market those deals, coupons and promotions to customers. The survey found 54% of respondents prefer targeted emails as their top choice for learning about deals, followed by in-store promotions (40%) and direct mail (33%).

With the help of marketing platforms like Mailchimp, small businesses can turn their marketing data into personalized messaging, using the most effective channels to reach customers with the right discount at the right time.

Leverage digital tools

Digital tools help small businesses compete during the holidays (and any season). They can level the playing field between small and bigger businesses because they increase efficiency, helping to streamline operations and complete crucial tasks to keep their business running smoothly. Digital tools help easily track sales and inventory, manage payments and invoicing, and keep cash flow in check leading up to this season’s key shopping days.

The report found the best workplace systems to help small businesses glide through the holidays include project management software, customer relationships management (CRM) tools, and invoicing and payment tracking software, among others. These digital tools can help make workflow, sales, inventory and staffing seamless and efficient — the proverbial well-oiled machine — during the holiday shopping season to meet the increased demand.

For more information, tools and tips small businesses can use to have a very happy holiday season, visit the QuickBooks Success in Every Season hub.

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Dark Sweet Cherries Are Key to Secretly Healthy Holiday Sides

2024-11-21T11:43:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is here, and that means celebrations and gatherings are in the works. And where celebrations and gatherings are found, so are indulgent dishes to complement and enhance the festivities. For anyone trying to eat right and maintain a healthy balance, this time of year can be particularly challenging in terms of staying on track. But, thanks to nutritious and flavorful sweet dark cherries, it doesn’t have to be.

Sweet dark cherries have a host of health benefits. Picked at their peak in the summer, sweet dark cherries can be found frozen, dried and canned in the off-season, with their nutritional advantages and full flavor preserved for year-round enjoyment. Good sources of potassium and fiber, dark sweet cherries have lesser-known properties that may provide a boost to aspects under extra pressure during the holidays: gut health and rest.

Rich foods become a staple during the winter holidays, and swapping out traditional sides with versions featuring dark sweet cherries might help to keep the gut in balance. A recent study suggests that supplementing a diet with dark sweet cherries may be beneficial to bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome.

Additionally, dark sweet cherries are a natural source of tryptophan, melatonin and serotonin. Together, these compounds can help stabilize and regulate sleep patterns, giving the body needed rest before hitting the next holiday tradition on the list.

It’s easy to work dark sweet cherries into a dinner menu or a prepared dish to share. Northwest Cherries offers recipes that are simple and flavorful while injecting a dose of good health to keep the good cheer going.

Cherry Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. sweet cherries (fresh, frozen or dried)
  • 1 lb. cranberries (fresh or dried)
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the water and cranberries. Bring to simmering, stirring occasionally at first and more frequently as the sauce begins to form. Add sweet cherries and continue stirring. If using dried fruit or if the sauce thickens more than desired, slowly add water or another flavoring-enhancing liquid, such as pomegranate juice, 2 tablespoons at a time. Stir and recheck before adding more liquid. Once the sauce has reduced to nearly the desired consistency, remove from the heat and incorporate any other flavorings if desired (such as four 2-inch peels of fresh ginger, 3 tbsp. citrus zest, coarsely ground black pepper, fresh herbs or other flavors from a menu). Allow to cool completely, uncovered. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Roasted Green Beans with Dried Cherries and Feta

4 servings

Ingredients

1/2 lb. green beans, washed and trimmed

2 tbsp. olive oil

2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

1 tsp. salt

1/2 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped

1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. In a medium bowl, add the green beans, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, dried cherries and walnuts. Mix to combine until the green beans are coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Roast 15-20 minutes. Cool 10 minutes and top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Dried Cherries

4 servings

Ingredients

1 lb. Brussels sprouts, washed and cut in half

4 tbsp. olive oil

3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp. brown sugar

2 tsp. salt

1/2 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped

1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar and salt. In a medium bowl, add the Brussels sprouts, dried cherries and sliced almonds. Stir in half the olive oil mixture, reserving the rest. Transfer the Brussels sprouts to the prepared baking sheet. Roast 20-25 minutes. Cool 10 minutes. Drizzle with remaining olive oil mixture before serving.

More recipes, from salads and entrees to desserts and drinks, can be found at nwcherries.com/recipe.

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Fall into Cafécore: Your Guide to a Home Café Setup

2024-11-21T06:15:00

(BPT) – Feeling nostalgic for the ambiance of neighborhood coffee shops before takeout and apps became the norm? You’re not alone. In early 2024, Pinterest predicted a trend called Cafécore, replicating the welcoming look of a neighborhood coffee shop in your home. Coffee lovers have embraced this trend, transforming areas of their homes into personal coffee havens. As cooler fall weather arrives, now is the perfect time to jump on board and create your own home café!

Styling Your Coffee Space

You don’t need a lot of room to achieve the Cafécore vibe. Even a small nook can be transformed into a coffee station where essentials are neatly organized and easily accessible. Open shelving, matching containers, and your favorite espresso and coffee cups can contribute to the style of your space. To complete the look, add a comfortable spot to relax — an overstuffed armchair in a sunny spot or a cozy corner surrounded by books.

Selecting the Perfect Coffee Machine

The centerpiece of any home café is, of course, the automatic coffee machine. Select top-of-the-line equipment that can produce your favorite coffee shop drinks brewed from freshly ground whole beans.

For the purist, the next-generation JURA E8 is an excellent choice. Building on the success of its predecessors, the E8 is incredibly easy to use, delivering exquisite coffee results with advanced technology and a sleek design.

For the adventurer, the JURA J8 twin is packed with innovations, including two high-performance disc grinders and two bean containers. Whether you’re preparing espresso in the morning or decaf at night, this machine can even blend two different types of beans. The J8 twin can prepare 31 different specialties and features JURA’s exclusive Sweet Foam function, which infuses a hint of flavored syrup to milk foam.

For the aficionado, the JURA Z10 is a masterpiece of Swiss engineering, capable of preparing up to 32 hot or cold brew beverages, from intense espresso to flat whites and cold brews. JURA’s exclusive Cold Extraction Process pulses cold water through freshly ground coffee to create a uniquely balanced, aromatic experience.

With JURA machines and a creative touch, anyone can create a warm, inviting space that reflects their passion for coffee.

For more information, visit jura.com.

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Secure your home this winter with electric backup power

2024-11-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is just around the corner. Are you prepared to weather potential power outages?

According to data from Climate Central, 80 percent of all major U.S. power outages reported from 2000 to 2023 were caused by weather. Of those weather-related events, 23 percent were specifically caused by winter storms. The cold temperatures, winds and ice can disrupt or damage a single home’s electrical and even the power grid for a whole neighborhood.

Power outages aren’t just inconvenient. They can be dangerous. If your primary source of heat is electric, a power outage can lead to frozen pipes and structural damage. A power outage can even pose a safety risk to your family if you can’t heat your home.

You can’t control the weather. However, you can prepare yourself for winter emergencies with an electric backup power generator.

A reliable source of power in your time of need

You may be familiar with traditional gas-powered generators. While these backups do provide power during emergencies, they can pose more risks than benefits.

Gas generators cannot be used indoors because they give off deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Also, you’ll need to keep gas on hand, which poses a fire risk to your home. Even if you have safely stored gas, you may run out, as power outages can last from a few hours to a few days.

Luckily, gas-powered generators aren’t the only option. Electric-based generators offer a safer, more reliable power source for homeowners when they need it most.

Whether battery or solar-powered, electric generators offer homeowners a safe, efficient and sustainable solution for whole-home power during winter emergencies. Unlike their gas counterparts, electric generators don’t give off poisonous fumes, so they can be safely used indoors.

Without the need for gas, an electric-based power backup can provide continuous, uninterrupted power without the risk of running out of fuel during extended outages. Some electric generators, like the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus, are even solar-powered, offering a sustainable, green solution for whole-home power needs.

Power you can count on

Jackery, a leader in innovative solar generators and green off-grid energy solutions, knows how important it is to have trusted home backup power. To that end, the company designed the 5000 Plus to help people stay connected, powered and secured, even in the most difficult and unexpected circumstances.

The powerful, portable and compact electric generator is the lightest in its class, offering homeowners operating convenience. This generator operates quietly and requires zero maintenance, making it an ideal option for indoor use and far safer than traditional gas generators, especially during extreme weather conditions.

When paired with Jackery’s Smart Transfer Switch (STS), a single 5000 Plus delivers up to 7200W of power. Thanks to its modular design, you can extend the power capacity to fit your needs. When connected to a second unit, users can get up to 14,400W, making it more than sufficient to power a home in the most unpredictable situation.

Since the 5000 Plus is equipped with dual-voltage solar charging, you have options. You can recharge the battery through a high-voltage rooftop solar system or with the company’s portable solar panels. You’ll never run out of fuel or be forced to brave the weather to refuel your generator.

Stay powered all winter long

This winter, keeping your home safe and comfortable, even during severe weather, has never been easier. By prioritizing preparedness and safety with an electric, solar-powered generator, you’re investing in your family’s well-being and your own peace of mind during serious winter storms.

To learn more about electric-based power backups and solar power, visit Jackery.com.

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5 ways to maximize comfort and minimize your energy bill this winter

2024-11-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to ensure your home is ready to help keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. From preventing frozen pipes to optimizing heating costs, proactive steps can help safeguard your property and well-being.

“A system tune-up at the beginning of the cold weather season can prevent problems and expensive repairs as the temperatures get more extreme later in the winter,” says Jon Ryan, president of Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating based in Minnesota and Honeywell Home HVAC customer. “We’ve been servicing homes for over 70 years — my team has seen it all — and we know that being proactive with system maintenance is one of the best things a homeowner can do to keep their systems running smooth and the home comfortable.”

To prepare your home for the cold, consider these tips:

Schedule a Pro to Check the HVAC System

Just like your car, your furnace needs regular maintenance. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect and tune up your system to keep it at peak performance. An inspection can check system performance, air filters, and identify indoor air quality opportunities. Professionals also can check the system for harmful cracks, which could potentially lead to carbon monoxide (CO) seeping into the home.

“Have your heating system serviced every year,” suggests Ryan. “As temperatures drop, the use of fuel-burning heaters increases as people try to stay warm, and winter can bring a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning — so be sure your professional tests for cracks in the heating unit.”

Also be sure your utility room and home are properly outfitted with CO alarms.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

By learning your home’s heating trends and adjusting temperatures accordingly, smart thermostats can ensure your home stays comfortable and can help you optimize your energy consumption. For example, during winter, smart thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat can automatically lower temperatures when you’re away and increase them as you return, creating a cozy atmosphere without wasting energy through Geofencing technology. Thermostats also offer programmable features that let you effortlessly adjust temperatures based on your schedule. By lowering your thermostat just 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day, you can potentially cut heating costs by 10% annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, many utilities offer rewards for enrolling in demand response programs that can reduce energy consumption during peak times.

Change Air Filters

Regularly replacing your air filters is a proven way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment.

Ryan said: “We get a lot of calls about systems not working properly, and in fact the issue was a result of a dirty air filter.”

Clean air filters also help the overall health of your heating system and allow for better air flow, reducing the stress on your home’s HVAC system and promoting energy efficiency. Inspect your filter once a month for signs of dirt or dust buildup.

Protect Your Pipes

Following a cold snap, pipes in the home prone to freezing (i.e., pipes on outside walls, in the basement, or crawl spaces), could burst following the water expansion. As the water melts, it could create costly water damage and disruptions. To help protect your home, cover pipes with insulation and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. For added protection, consider installing a First Alert L1 Water Leak and Freeze Detector in areas like basements, laundry rooms and utility closets to effectively detect winter leaks or freezing temperatures and help prevent home damage. Talk to a professional plumber about installing an automatic shutoff valve that can turn off the water to the whole home in case of a leak.

Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs. To prevent heat loss, inspect the areas around your windows and doors for gaps. Use weatherstripping to seal cracks and gaps and consider applying caulk to larger openings. For extra insulation, install thermal curtains or blinds. By blocking cold air from entering your home, you’ll enjoy a warmer and more energy-efficient living space.

“Just a few easy steps can help make sure your family stays cozy and your home is protected from the havoc winter weather can wreak,” said Ryan.

For more winter home preparation tips or to find an HVAC professional visit Honeywellhome.com.

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How to Help Families and Friends Prevent Respiratory Illnesses This Holiday Season

2024-11-20T11:01:00

(BPT) – By Sanofi

The holiday season is upon us — along with the many in-person gatherings that come along with it. This time of year, it’s important to know how to help keep your family protected from illnesses like the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and whooping cough.

In the winter months, we often see a rise in cases of the flu and RSV.[1] But there are several preventive actions we can take to help avoid getting sick this holiday season. Avoiding gatherings when you are not feeling well, covering your mouth when you cough, and washing your hands can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses.[2] Immunizations can also be key to helping avoid serious complications from respiratory illness. Some immunizations can help to keep your family and friends protected.[3]

“As we enter the holiday season, it’s critical to ensure that all eligible members of your family are up to date on their immunizations, particularly as illnesses can spread through close contact during holiday gatherings,” said Dr. Sean X. Leng, geriatric medicine and infectious disease expert.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maintaining a routine immunization schedule is one of the best ways to help protect against certain respiratory illnesses.[4] If you are headed to your healthcare provider or pharmacy for an annual flu vaccine, it can be a good time to ensure eligible members of your family are also up to date on other immunizations.

The Risk of Complications of the Flu in Vulnerable Populations

Flu vaccinations can help reduce the burden of illness and hospitalization — especially for people who are at higher risk of developing serious complications, such as older adults or people with chronic conditions like lung or heart disease.[5]

Anyone can catch the flu, but people 65 years and older bear the greatest burden of severe illness and flu-related hospitalizations.[6] The CDC estimates that 70% to 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths occur in people of this age group, making them a high priority for receiving vaccination.[6]

Several vaccines are available for more vulnerable, older adult populations including Sanofi’s Fluzone® High-Dose (Influenza Vaccine) and Flublok® (Influenza Vaccine).[7],[8] Flublok and Fluzone High-Dose are vaccines indicated for the prevention of disease caused by influenza A and B strains contained in (or in the case of Flublok represented by antigens contained in) the vaccine.[7],[8] Flublok is given to people 18 years of age and older.[8] Fluzone High-Dose is given to people 65 years of age and older.[7] Flublok or Fluzone High-Dose should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine (including egg or egg products for Fluzone High-Dose).[7],[8] In addition, Fluzone High-Dose should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of any influenza vaccine.[7] See below for additional Important Safety Information about Flublok and Fluzone High-Dose.

Helping to Protect Babies from Serious Lung Infection Caused by RSV

Healthcare worker wearing rubber gloves placing a bandage on a baby's leg after having given her a vaccination.

It is equally important to help provide protection for babies who are at risk of developing a serious lung infection caused by RSV.[9],[10] The holiday season can bring an increase in cases, as RSV can be spread from a kiss or touching a shared toy.[11]

“RSV is a highly contagious virus that can progress from mild cold-like symptoms to hospitalization in less than a week.[12] While hospitalization is uncommon, it is the most common cause of hospitalization in babies, with a staggering two out of three getting RSV by age 1,”[9] said Dr. Kerry-Anne Perkins, Board-Certified Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN).

There is an immunization to help prevent serious lung infection caused by RSV.[13] Beyfortus® (nirsevimab-alip) 50mg and 100mg Injection is a preventative antibody that helps provide an extra layer of protection against serious RSV lung infections for babies under 1 born during or entering their first RSV season, and certain kids up to 24 months.[13] Your child should not take Beyfortus if your child has a history of serious allergic reactions to nirsevimab-alip or any of the ingredients in Beyfortus. Beyfortus may not protect all children.[13] See below for additional Important Safety Information about Beyfortus.

Continuing the Conversation About Immunizations

And while respiratory illnesses are top of mind, it’s a good time to ensure that eligible members of the family are up to date with a Tdap vaccine, such as Adacel® (Tdap vaccine), to help combat the risk of whooping cough (pertussis). In addition to whooping cough, Tdap vaccines help prevent diphtheria and tetanus.[14] Adacel is indicated for:

  • active booster immunization against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. Adacel is approved for use in persons 10 through 64 years of age.[14]
  • immunization during the third trimester of pregnancy to prevent pertussis in infants younger than 2 months of age.[14]

You should not take Adacel if you’ve had severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of Adacel or any other diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid and pertussis antigen-containing vaccine.[14] See below for additional Important Safety Information about Adacel.

Whooping cough also poses a serious risk for babies and young children.[15] The bacterial infection, also known as pertussis, can cause uncontrollable and violent coughing.[15] It can be extremely serious and even deadly for babies and young children.[15]

While infection rates had been falling in previous years, the United States is beginning to return to pre-pandemic patterns.[16]

Be a Health Advocate This Season

Immunizations are a great tool to help protect eligible members of your family during times of peak illness and throughout the year.[1],[3] Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about options that may be right for you or your loved ones this holiday season.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR FLUBLOK® (INFLUENZA VACCINE) AND FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE (INFLUENZA VACCINE)

Flublok or Fluzone High-Dose should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine (including egg or egg products for Fluzone High-Dose). In addition, Fluzone High-Dose should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of any influenza vaccine.

Tell your health care provider if you have ever had Guillain-Barré syndrome (severe muscle weakness) after a previous influenza vaccination.

If Flublok or Fluzone High-Dose are given to people with a compromised immune system, including those receiving therapies that suppress the immune system, the immune response may be lower than expected.

Vaccination with Flublok or Fluzone High-Dose may not protect all people who receive the vaccine.

Fainting has occurred following vaccination with Flublok and Fluzone High-Dose. Procedures should be in place to avoid injury from fainting.

For Flublok, in adults 18 through 64 years of age, the most common side effects were pain where you got the shot, headache, tiredness, and muscle pain. In adults 65 years of age and older the most common side effects were pain where you got the shot, tiredness and headache.

For Fluzone High-Dose, in adults 65 years of age and older, the most common side effects were pain where you got the shot, muscle pain, tiredness, and headache.

For Flublok and Fluzone High-Dose, other side effects may occur.

Before administration, please see the full Prescribing Information for Flublok, or Fluzone High-Dose. Also, please see complete Patient Information for Fluzone High-Dose.

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BEYFORTUS (nirsevimab-alip) 50mg and 100mg Injection INDICATION

Beyfortus is a prescription medicine used to help prevent a serious lung disease caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in:

  • Newborns and babies under 1 year of age born during or entering their first RSV season.
  • Children up to 24 months of age who remain at risk of severe RSV disease through their second RSV season.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Your child should not take Beyfortus if your child has a history of serious allergic reactions to nirsevimab-alip or any of the ingredients in Beyfortus.

Before your child receives Beyfortus, tell your healthcare provider about all of your child’s medical conditions, including if your child:

  • has ever had a reaction to Beyfortus.
  • has bleeding or bruising problems. If your child has a problem with bleeding or bruises easily, an injection could cause a problem.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines your child takes, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your infant should not receive a medicine called palivizumab if they have already received Beyfortus in the same RSV season.

Serious allergic reactions have happened with Beyfortus. Get medical help right away if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:

  • swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue
  • difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • unresponsiveness
  • bluish color of skin, lips, or under fingernails
  • muscle weakness
  • severe rash, hives, or itching

The most common side effects of Beyfortus include rash and pain, swelling, or hardness at the site of your child’s injection. These are not all the possible side effects of Beyfortus. Call your healthcare provider if you have questions about side effects.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information, for more details.

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ADACEL (Tdap vaccine) INDICATION

Adacel is a vaccine indicated for:

  • active booster immunization against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. Adacel is approved for use in persons 10 through 64 years of age.
  • immunization during the third trimester of pregnancy to prevent pertussis in infants younger than 2 months of age.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Adacel is contraindicated in persons who have had a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other tetanus toxoid, diphtheria toxoid, or pertussis containing vaccine, or to any component of Adacel; or encephalopathy within 7 days of a previous dose of a pertussis containing vaccine with no other identifiable cause.

Epinephrine hydrochloride solution (1:1,000) and other appropriate agents and equipment must be available for immediate use in case an anaphylactic or acute hypersensitivity reaction occurs.

If Guillain-Barré syndrome or brachial neuritis has occurred within 6 weeks following previous vaccination with a tetanus toxoid or if progressive or unstable neurologic disorders exist, the decision to give Adacel should be based on careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks.

Persons who experienced an Arthus-type hypersensitivity reaction following a prior dose of tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine should not receive Adacel unless at least 10 years have elapsed since the last dose of tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine.

Some individuals with altered immunocompetence, including receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may have reduced immune responses to Adacel.

Syncope can occur in association with administration of injectable vaccines, including Adacel. Procedures should be in place to prevent falling injury and manage syncopal reactions.

After the first and second dose of Adacel, the most frequently reported solicited reactions were pain, swelling, and erythema at the injection site; headache, body ache or muscle weakness, tiredness, myalgia, and malaise.

Other adverse reactions may occur. Vaccination with Adacel may not protect all individuals.

Please click to see full Prescribing Information.

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[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu Season. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season.html. Accessed October 2024.

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits/index.htm. Accessing October 2024.

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Immunizations for Respiratory Viruses Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/immunizations.html. Accessed October 2024.

[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaccine Schedules for You and Your Family. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-schedules/index.html. Accessed October 2024.

[5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Benefits of the Flu Vaccine. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu-vaccines-work/benefits/index.html. Accessed October 2024.

[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu and People 65 Years and Older. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm. Accessed October 2024.

[7] Fluzone High Dose [Prescribing Information]. Swiftwater, PA: Sanofi.

[8] Flublok [Prescribing Information]. Swiftwater, PA: Sanofi.

[9] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RSV in infants and young children. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/high-risk/infants-young-children.html. Accessed October 2024.

[10] Glezen WP, Taber LH, Frank AL, Kasel JA. Risk of primary infection and reinfection with respiratory syncytial virus. Am J Dis Child. 1986;140(6):543-546.

[11] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. How RSV Spreads. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/causes/index.html. Accessed October 2024.

[12] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About RSV. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/index.html. Accessed October 2024.

[13] Beyfortus (nirsevimab-alip). Prescribing Information. Sanofi.

[14] Adacel. [Prescribing Information]. Sanofi.

[15] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms of Whooping Cough. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/signs-symptoms/index.html. Accessed October 2024.

[16] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Whooping Cough Outbreaks. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/outbreaks/index.html. Accessed October 2024.

MAT-US-2410270-v1.0-10/2024

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Top luxury experiences in the Mexican Caribbean

2024-11-20T08:01:00

(BPT) – Yearning for a luxury vacation unlike any other? Consider the unique cultural, culinary and wellness experiences in the Mexican Caribbean. This signature paradise offers a winter getaway where you can indulge in natural beauty, nurturing environments and flavors that nourish the soul.

While the entire region boasts beautiful tropical weather and is steeped in rich Mayan culture, each of the Mexican Caribbean’s 12 destinations has its own distinct identity. You’ll enjoy turquoise waters, white sand beaches and remarkable archaeological sites. The region is also home to otherworldly cenotes for freshwater swimming, boundless nature and more. Along with these natural wonders, you’ll discover an enticing culinary scene, rich culture, world-class entertainment and top-notch accommodations.

Ready to plan your trip? Here are some Mexican Caribbean experiences you won’t want to miss.

Make a splash in over-the-top pools

Travelers seeking the perfect vacation filled with sipping, sunning and relaxing in unique pools have their choice of options in the Mexican Caribbean. In the Riviera Maya, the adults-only luxury inclusive La Casa de la Playa features a stunning 130-foot-long swimming waterway overlooking the sea that provides breathtaking horizon views. For ultimate relaxation, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers villas with private pools, creating a more intimate experience. Similarly, Cancun’s Nizuc Resort & Spa offers opulent pool villas for guests looking for total seclusion and privacy. Wellness takes to the water at Grand Velas Riviera Maya‘s Floating Sound Baths. This meditative practice allows individuals to discover their inner peace and achieve maximum relaxation by gently moving while floating in water.

Indulge in next-level spa treatments

The Riviera Maya offers a wealth of opportunities for indulgence and rejuvenation, with several resorts dedicated to wellness. At Fairmont Mayakoba, locally inspired spa treatments like the Copal Mayan Purification and the Cha Chac Rain Ritual provide a deeply calming, refreshing and energizing experience. St. Regis Kanai Resort features rituals inspired by ancient Mayan astronomy. Senses can be further awakened at the Maroma Spa by Guerlain at Maroma, a Belmond Hotel in the Riviera Maya. Their unique Bee Healing Ritual incorporates resort-made honey from the stingless Melipona bee which is sacred in the Mayan culture, helping guests connect with nature. At the Waldorf Astoria Cancun, luxury spa treatments include the Yaxche Journey which facilitates personal discovery and healing on a spiritual, emotional and physical plane to balance the body, mind and spirit.

Savor custom-made culinary experiences

The Mexican Caribbean has become a culinary powerhouse offering myriad globally recognized restaurants and exceptional dining experiences. At Etereo, Auberge Resorts Collection in the Riviera Maya, guests can enjoy a regionally inspired four-course menu during a private moonlit dinner at the beach or alongside the Tranquilo pool. Alternatively, discover the secrets of Mexican cuisine through the hands-on Comal Cooking Class, which offers the opportunity to craft fresh tortillas and prepare delicious small dishes using a traditional Mexican griddle. At the MICHELIN Recommended Maria Dolores at ATELIER Playa Mujeres, celebrity Chef Edgar Nunez presents seasonal dishes with an haute cuisine approach to Mexican gastronomy. His signature creations combine flavors and stories from every corner of Mexico, creating a sensory experience in each dish. At the one MICHELINE Star HA’ at Hotel Xcaret in the Riviera Maya, Chef Carlos Gaytan presents contemporary Mexican cuisine through a 9-course tasting menu, where each dish is perfectly harmonized with exquisite wines and spirits.

Imbibe in modern mixology

Cocktail aficionados will be thrilled at the region’s offerings, including Chaak in the Jungle at Conrad Tulum, an enchanting tropical mixology experience in the magical jungle under the stars. For a speakeasy vibe in the tropics, Bambuco by Handshake at Marmona, a Belmond Hotel, offers a haven for creative cocktailing; it’s the perfect spot for a nightcap and small plates among lush tropical palms. Or check out the award-winning Zapote Bar at Rosewood Mayakoba, a love letter to the Yucatan Peninsula, celebrating the heritage, culture and people of the region.

For more information, visit MexicanCaribbean.Travel. Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.