Category: Brandpoint

2025-11-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – November ushers in the festive holiday season and a renewed focus on the home, often the center of long-standing traditions and meaningful celebrations with family and friends. For many, being home for the holidays is a foregone conclusion, but for others — particularly people with disabilities and older adults — being at home may seem out of reach. With the gift of self-direction, however, they can be where the heart is for the holidays and all year long.

No place like home

Self-direction is a model of care for people who need the type of long-term services and supports (LTSS) that would qualify them for nursing home or other institutional care paid for with Medicaid dollars. This traditional type of care can be costly and isolating, and it tends to take control away from the person receiving care.

On the other hand, self-direction follows a person-centered philosophy. “In person-centered planning, the person needing care is in the driver’s seat. They choose who provides their support as well as when and where it’s delivered,” explains Pearl Barnett, chief operating officer of GT Independence, a financial management service (FMS) that helps people with the administrative tasks that come with self-direction. “Self-direction allows people to stay in their homes and communities, so they can keep making memories and maintain relationships that add joy to their lives.”

Rather than have Medicaid cover expensive institutional care, people participating in self-direction receive an authorized budget, seeded with Medicaid dollars, to manage and spend on the services and supports they need. Barnett adds, “For people who access it, self-direction is a priceless gift that recognizes their autonomy and enables them to remain in familiar surroundings, supported by caregivers they know and trust.”

Depending on the program, participants may be able to hire close relatives to provide support. Family members often step in, unpaid, to tend to personal care, and they are usually well acquainted with the individual’s needs and preferences. By paying family members in this role, self-direction programs are valuing their important work while also alleviating demand on a stretched caregiving workforce throughout the country, and especially in rural areas.

Happy in a million ways

With self-direction, people can and do thrive with the right supports in their homes and communities. Studies suggest that participants experience greater satisfaction with services and a better quality of life than those in traditional institutions.

People who self-direct can remain engaged in their communities, whether it’s viewing light displays and attending performances during the holidays or going to school, work, community groups or volunteer gigs throughout the year. Such activity builds connections and relationships that often go missing in traditional care models and that enrich both the people receiving services and people in their orbit.

“Self-direction will allow the person the ability to blossom,” says one participant, a disability advocate with a brain injury who is also a published author helping others “to see that things are not as stark as they may seem.”

Can’t beat home sweet home

Thousands of people from coast to coast are eligible for LTSS, often through Medicaid or other state-funded programs. If eligible for self-direction, they may discover that a holiday wish to stay in their home and community can be granted.

The self-direction journey often starts by reaching out to a state’s Medicaid agency to learn about available programs in an area. Other resources for information include state departments that serve older adults and people with disabilities.

Barnett notes that while her FMS isn’t in every state yet, “Our customer support staff is ready to point people to resources throughout the country. GT Independence serves programs in 18 states and the District of Columbia, and our reach is constantly growing. Our mission is to help people live a life of their choosing, so they can be home for the holidays and every day.”

More information about self-direction is available at gtindependence.com or by calling 1-877-659-4500.

2025-11-14T21:21:00

(BPT) – By Ha Sang-chul, president of LG Indonesia

As we celebrate LG’s 35-year journey in Indonesia, I am filled with both gratitude and optimism for what lies ahead. Our presence in this vibrant nation has been more than a business story — it has been a partnership built on shared growth, innovation and resilience.

Aligning With Indonesia’s Industrial Vision for Sustainable Growth

Indonesia’s manufacturing sector continues to be a vital driver of national progress, contributing between 17% and 20% of the country’s GDP and employing more than 20% of the workforce. The Industrial Services Roadmap 2025–2045 sets out a bold vision to expand industry, create future-ready jobs and integrate technology with sustainability — an ambition that closely aligns with LG’s own values and long-term direction.

Vice Minister of Industry Mr. Faisol Riza highlighted that in 2024, Indonesia’s Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) reached USD 265.07 billion (Rp 4,349 trillion), ranking 13th globally and first in Southeast Asia. This strong performance reflects the growing competitiveness of Indonesia’s industrial base and its crucial role in ensuring economic resilience.

Further underscoring this momentum, the Industrial Confidence Index (IKI) for September 2025 stood at 53.02, signaling continued expansion across 21 of 23 manufacturing subsectors, which together account for nearly 98% of non-oil and gas manufacturing GDP. Optimism about the coming months remains high, driven by confidence in policy direction, innovation and industrial strength.

Over Three Decades of Milestones: Building a Fully Integrated Operation

At LG, we are proud to have grown alongside Indonesia, becoming a trusted partner in its industrial and technological transformation. Over the past three and a half decades, we have invested in local capabilities, championed innovation and embedded sustainability into every aspect of our operations — all to enhance lives and strengthen industries.

Our manufacturing facilities in Tangerang and Bekasi produce a wide range of products, from refrigerators and washing machines to monitors, commercial displays and televisions — serving both domestic and regional markets. Last month, we expanded our production capabilities through a strategic partnership in air conditioner manufacturing, operated by a partner company. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to advancing Indonesia’s industrial ecosystem.

With a network of over 190 service centers across the archipelago and strong collaborations with local distributors and partners, we ensure that LG products and services reach customers in every region.

Today, our locally self-sufficient operation — spanning R&D, manufacturing, marketing and customer care — empowers more than 4,000 local talents and supports national priorities such as Making Indonesia 4.0 and the Industrial Services Roadmap. Together, we are driving continuous innovation, operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Beyond Business: Empowering Communities and Driving Inclusive Growth

Our commitment to Indonesia goes well beyond business. Through our CSR platform, LG Loves Indonesia, we focus on sustainability, education and community well-being to create meaningful and lasting impact.

Under LG Loves Green, we promote energy-efficient living and environmental responsibility — planting 32,000 trees and supporting recycling initiatives for fabric, food waste and e-waste to raise public and youth awareness.

LG Loves Children enhances early childhood literacy in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Culture, publishing and distributing two series of LG Children’s Books nationwide. We also established three libraries in low-literacy regions, each offering more than 350 curated titles to inspire learning.

Through LG Loves School, we help vocational students build practical skills for future careers by upgrading school labs with LG products and training tools.

Meanwhile, LG Loves and Cares supports local communities through initiatives like Lebaran Sehat, which provides food packages during festive seasons, as well as product donations that improve daily living standards.

Each of these initiatives reflects our belief that true progress must be inclusive — empowering individuals and uplifting communities across Indonesia.

Looking Ahead: A Shared Future of Sustainable Growth

As we look toward the future, LG’s dedication to Indonesia remains steadfast. We deeply value the trust and partnership we have built with the government, industry peers and the Indonesian people. Our approach — anchored in local manufacturing excellence, technology transfer and environmental stewardship — demonstrates our long-term commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.

Together, under the shared spirit of Life’s Good, we will continue to create a better, more sustainable tomorrow for all.

2025-11-14T05:45:00

(BPT) – Sweet, flavored coffee drinks — both hot and cold brew — are surging in popularity, driven by younger generations who love café-style customization. Surveys show that more than half of U.S. coffee drinkers add sugar or flavored syrups to their coffee, with caramel, vanilla, chocolate, peppermint and pumpkin spice among the most popular. Now, select models of JURA’s fully automatic coffee machines feature an exclusive Sweet Foam function, making it easy to prepare these coffeehouse flavors at home.

JURA’s Sweet Foam Function

Create indulgent specialties with the Sweet Foam Function, available on the Z10, J8 twin and S8 machines. Simply fill the attachment with flavored coffee syrup, connect it to the frother, and the system evenly and gently infuses the flavor throughout the milk foam for a silky-smooth, sweet finish. From amaretto and hazelnut to vanilla, gingerbread or even lavender, users can personalize the intensity of sweetness and flavor for endless creative possibilities.

Hot and cold brew creations with the Z10

For those who crave both hot and cold brew specialties, the Z10 is the ultimate all-in-one experience. With a menu of 40 beverages, it crafts everything from rich espressos to refreshing cold brew lattes. JURA’s 3D Brewing Technology optimizes hot drinks, while the exclusive Cold Extraction Process creates smooth, low-acid cold brew specialties. With the Sweet Foam Function, users can enjoy a Cold Sweet Salted Caramel or a Sweet Honey Latte at the touch of a button.

J8 twin: Double the beans, double the flavor

The J8 twin features two high-performance P.A.G.3+ conical grinders and dual bean hoppers, ideal for blending two single-origin beans for a custom flavor profile, or enjoying a bold espresso in the morning and a sweet decaf latte at night. The Sweet Foam Function adds perfectly flavored milk foam, allowing users to create hot specialties like a Sweet Amaretto Macchiato or a Sweet Cinnamon Cortado.

S8: Sleek and compact

Elegant, compact and easy to use, the S8 prepares 27 premium hot coffee specialties with easy-to-use swipe controls. The P.A.G. 2 Grinder and 3D brewing unit unlocks maximum flavor and aroma. Use the Sweet Foam Function to create a holiday-inspired Peppermint Mocha or a Gingerbread Latte.

With JURA’s innovative Sweet Foam Function users can create delicious coffee specialties with just the right amount of sweetness and the perfect milk foam texture at home. For more information, visit jura.com.

2025-11-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – As holiday travel planning kicks into high gear, Marriott Bonvoy is inspiring guests to pack their bags and embrace the magic of the season at one of their standout destinations throughout the U.S. and Canada. From festive flavors and charming family-friendly experiences to over-the-top décor and extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations, these properties are pulling out all the stops to capture the spirit of the season — and turn every stay into an extraordinary occasion.

Holiday decor: Twinkling lights and delights

One of the joys of the holiday season is the glow of twinkling lights, dazzling gingerbread displays, and the magical charm of festive decor. Even when you’re away from home, you can still bask in the season’s sparkle with stays that deck the halls in festive style.

If you’re dreaming of a warm weather escape, check out the Marriott Marquis Houston and experience the Texas Winter Lights. Encircling the iconic Texas-shaped lazy river, over 100,000 lights shimmer alongside a 360-degree photo spot and virtual Santa sleigh ride. Indulge in Western-style favorites like Totchos or a Brisket Sandwich or try Duck Bahn Mi as a nod to Houston’s dynamic culture. Don’t miss festive cocktails, including a secret off-the-menu drink or local Texas brews as you explore the magic of the lights.

At The St. Regis Chicago, step into a glittering winter wonderland with the hotel’s St. Regis Holiday Atelier — a dazzling pop-up boutique nestled within a transformed lobby that exudes festive elegance. Adorned with opulent holiday décor, an exquisite life-size advent calendar, and photo op moments, this immersive and shoppable experience invites guests to explore a curated selection of exclusive gifts and bespoke treasures — from artisanal chocolates by Vosges Haut-Chocolat with on-site chocolatier gifting guidance, to stylish branded pieces from Tom Adam and cozy beanies from Love Your Melon.

Holiday magic for the whole family

A holiday trip is the perfect opportunity to create memories your family will cherish forever. When selecting a hotel, look for experiences that bring holiday magic to life for the whole family.

Celebrate in style at Sheraton Centre Toronto with a magical overnight stay in Santa’s Suite, a cozy, family-friendly retreat filled with festive decor, including a sparkling Christmas tree, holiday bedding and stockings hung with care.

Beginning December 14, discover the Festive Season of Wonder at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch. Enjoy curated seasonal experiences including family game nights, snowshoe adventures, reindeer and sled dog encounters, daily fireside s’mores, and Santa sightings, all in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Savor the season with holiday bites and drinks

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without seasonal dishes and festive sips. These hotels are inviting guests to savor the flavors of the season with an array of festive culinary events.

At the Marriott Bethesda Downtown, the Hip Flask rooftop winter igloo experience offers an elevated winter escape for those seeking intimacy and indulgence from high above. Available exclusively at night, the experience features two transparent geodesic domes and a cocktail menu crafted to complement the wintry atmosphere including the spirit-forward Erick Egg Nog and the light and refreshing Lil Gin Gin That Could.

For a taste of European holiday cuisine, escape to The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. Discover an enchanting pop-up inspired by Europe’s beloved holiday markets. Guests can cozy up under the radiant lights with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine and savor festive dishes such as Duck Confit Tourtiere and Crepes Suzette. Each dish is crafted to capture the season’s warmth and nostalgia, creating a true celebration of taste, tradition, and togetherness. Guests can also shop for an array of artisanal gifts, perfect for holiday gifting.

Countdown to 2026: Exclusive New Year’s celebrations

Welcome 2026 with an unforgettable stay that rings in the New Year in style at these Marriott Bonvoy properties.

Countdown to midnight at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells, and book the NYEsmeralda Package to enjoy a sparkling toast, festive party favors and a late check out. Join the resort’s annual New Year’s Eve party at the popular gathering spot, The Place!, where you can dance the night away and indulge in delicious culinary bites.

If it’s been your dream to celebrate the new year in Times Square, make it a reality at The Times Square EDITION. The two-night stay Garden Party Room Package includes a guest room and two tickets to the Garden Party, featuring an open bar, sweet and savory bites, and exclusive access to the live ball drop in the iconic Times Square.

Make this holiday season one to remember

Celebrate the holidays wherever your travels take you this season and make it one to remember!

When planning your next getaway, book a stay at one of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 6,700 properties in the U.S. & Canada across more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands. Whether you’re planning a luxury trip or an extended stay, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler.

2025-11-13T11:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know 73% of pet owners believe veterinary technicians only perform basic tasks at the clinic?¹ In reality, veterinary technicians are vital members of the pet care team and play an essential role in supporting your pet’s health and well-being. They work closely with veterinarians, veterinary assistants and others — not only in animal hospitals and clinics, but also at zoos, universities, large-animal facilities and nonprofit organizations.

Credentialed veterinary technicians are highly trained professionals whose responsibilities extend far beyond what many people realize. Their expertise includes collecting and analyzing laboratory samples, conducting blood draws, performing diagnostic imaging such as radiographs, leading nutritional consultations, assisting veterinarians during surgeries, maintaining equipment and ensuring accurate patient medical records. Equally important, they educate clients, advocate for patients and strengthen the human–animal bond through compassionate, science-based care.

As a pet owner, you naturally want the best for your animal. With the overwhelming amount of information online, it can be difficult to know what is accurate. This is where your veterinary technician becomes an invaluable resource. These professionals are ready and equipped to answer your questions, offer guidance and empower you to make well-informed decisions about your pet’s health and care.

By recognizing the important role veterinary technicians play in your pet’s care, you can build stronger relationships with them and feel confident turning to them for answers and advice. In celebration of their dedication, Royal Canin is highlighting six important questions you should ask your veterinary technician at your next visit to help keep your pets healthy:

• What food or diet is best for my pet’s life stage, size and specific conditions?
• Is my pet maintaining a healthy weight?
• How much exercise does my pet need?
• What can I do to help with my pet’s itching?
• What grooming routines should I follow at home?
• Are there any potential health risks or early warning signs I should watch for based on my pet’s age, breed or lifestyle?

“Many pet owners don’t realize how much veterinary technicians contribute to their pet’s care,” said Brianne Morrow, Licensed Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Technician Specialist in Nutrition and Senior Scientific Communications Technician, Royal Canin North America. “We’re trained professionals who provide hands-on medical support, comfort nervous pets and help owners understand complex medical information. Knowing what to ask your veterinary technician is a great way to get personalized guidance on nutrition and overall pet care to keep pets healthy at every stage of life.”

To further support your pet’s health and celebrate the essential work of veterinary technicians, visit Royal Canin’s Instagram for more insights from veterinary technicians and other pet experts to help ensure you are providing the right care based on your pet’s specific needs.

1 North American Veterinary Community’s 2022 Survey

2025-11-13T02:01:00

(BPT) – Companies in most industries need to collect and use data. Especially for enterprises with large volumes of information to manage — with much of it being highly sensitive — the magnitude of managing all that data safely and effectively can seem overwhelming. Information management is especially crucial for organizations in heavily regulated industries like Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI), health care, legal, government and public sector agencies, among others.

Huge repositories of data from legacy systems and separate information streams that have accumulated over the years result in storage of unstructured data and dark data: large collections of disorganized or unused information that could be redundant or irrelevant, leading to potential risk or compliance issues.

But that untapped data store may also unlock vital insights for any organization, if it could be effectively and efficiently processed, organized and analyzed.

“How can you turn passive assets like unstructured and dark data into active intelligence that could benefit your company?” asked Narasimha Goli, chief product and technology officer, Iron Mountain. “Many organizations typically have vast amounts of data — hundreds of thousands of documents stored across various systems. These files are not just static records; they contain highly valuable hidden insights. You just need the right mechanism to sift through the noise and locate the intelligence within them.”

Enter agentic AI

With agentic AI, the next evolution in automation is here and enterprises are rapidly adopting this new technology. Agentic AI uses AI-powered, autonomous agents that can think, learn and make dynamic, context-based decisions to achieve specific goals.

Global leader in information management services Iron Mountain has launched the latest version of its InSight^® Digital Experience Platform (DXP), which uses agentic AI to streamline manual document and data processes and unlock actionable insights from unstructured data, all while governing information intelligently and compliantly in a secure, AI-powered data platform, transforming that data into intelligence to ignite productivity.

Here are the results you can achieve for your enterprise from InSight DXP:

• Remove the ROT: Streamline data storage and organization by getting rid of the Redundant, Obsolete and Trivial (ROT) content. Improve relevance by de-duplicating records and clearing the clutter.
• Improve workflows: The latest InSight DXP platform makes it easier to intelligently structure formerly unstructured data and build AI-ready workflows. Agentic workflows can autonomously navigate complex, multi-step, document-intensive processes, allowing AI agents to uncover insights and patterns that are virtually impossible to find through manual review.
• Increase searchability: An AI searchable database streamlines work efficiency. InSight DXP provides a powerful, unified search layer across all your physical and digital assets. This is more than just searching; it uses Knowledge Graphs to understand the relationships between documents and data, enabling the system to answer complex, multi-document questions and deliver immediate, comprehensive insight, supporting faster, more informed decision-making.
• Enhance compliance: With 23% of BFSI companies citing regulatory and compliance hurdles as a major roadblock to digital transformation, InSight DXP integrates with Iron Mountain’s Policy Center to automatically apply records retention schedules and legal hold rules. The platform can unify and govern digital and physical information, enabling agents to operate on consistent, compliant data across different repositories, formats and jurisdictions.
• Protect sensitive information: New personally identifiable information (PII) redaction capabilities further reduce manual effort and minimize compliance risk by automatically detecting and obscuring sensitive data like individual names, account information, Social Security numbers and more.

Humans stay in the loop

Iron Mountain’s platform keeps humans and AI agents working together, with humans firmly in command to define decision rights and escalation paths and provide oversight. The system affirms responsible AI use with tactics such as preserving data lineage and audit trails.

Information guides future action

Responsibly and intelligently storing and managing all of its information in the digital age is key to an enterprise’s ability to thrive and grow into the future.

“The increasing struggle to store, organize and analyze vast volumes of data can slow down processes and make decisions more difficult for any business,” said Goli. “Using the power of AI to manage information effectively on a single, secure platform can help turn formerly unusable or inaccessible data into an intelligent asset to uncover valuable new insights.”

Learn how agentic AI can streamline your information management processes at IronMountain.com.