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Jump start the spring season by getting vaccinated against this potentially serious lung disease

2024-03-20T06:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is the season of new beginnings — a time when we can finally get back outside and enjoy nature as we watch the world around us transition out of winter.

While there are many activities to enjoy this season, here are a few ideas to get you prepared for the first day of spring:

  • Go for a bike ride in your neighborhood
  • Plant a garden
  • Go bird watching
  • Enjoy a picnic with friends and family

It’s also a great opportunity to check off your health and wellness to-dos, like spring cleaning and talking to your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal pneumonia. It’s a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks and even put you in the hospital or be life-threatening.

This is especially important for certain people at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia including those 65 or older or 19 or older with certain underlying medical conditions like:

  • Asthma
  • Diabetes
  • COPD
  • Chronic heart disease

If you fall into any of these at-risk groups, vaccination is one of the best ways to help protect yourself from getting pneumococcal pneumonia.

Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike at any time, in any season. There’s a misconception that you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia in the winter or during flu season, but you can get it any time of year. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is a great time to ask your doctor or pharmacist if vaccination is right for you.

Even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia previously, your healthcare provider may recommend another vaccination for additional protection.

Don’t wait for spring to be in full bloom — talk to your doctor or pharmacist today about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination. Take advantage of all that this season has to offer.

You can visit knowpneumonia.com to learn more and assess your risk.

Brought to you by Pfizer.

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The ultimate in-and-out list for your backyard this spring

2024-03-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the weather begins to warm up, it’s time to breathe life into your backyard sanctuary and embrace the vibrant spirit of spring. Professional landscaper, author, and TV host of “I Hate My Yard” Sara Bendrick shares her In/Out list for spring, taking a look at today’s gardening trends, as well as her best tips for revitalizing your outdoor space this year.

What’s out?

You can say goodbye to these common substances and practices that aren’t great for your yard, your family, or the environment.

Harmful chemicals

People are more aware than ever of how harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides negatively impact the soil, your food, and your health. Reduce or exclude these toxic chemicals from your garden experience by planting insect-deterring herbs or by incorporating organic compost and mulch to add essential nutrients to your soil.

“If you’re starting a new garden and want to till in organic matter, the STIHL KombiSystem with the mini-cultivator attachment is a great multi-task tool,” said Bendrick.

Colored or rubber mulch

Because it’s sold everywhere and is often on sale, most people use bagged, dyed mulch to freshen up their flower beds. But the truth is, these dyed wood chips contain chemicals that can leach into your soil.

You may also fall for the convenience of rubber mulch, but that’s made of recycled car tires, which are toxic and can transfer chemicals by touch and into the soil as they wear down.

“Instead of colored or rubber mulch, opt for natural wood chips,” recommended Bendrick. “You can use wood bark, pine needles, or other natural materials that break down and add organic material back into the soil.”

Artificial turf

As water restrictions have become increasingly widespread, so has artificial turf, but that kind of turf can’t be recycled when it’s old. Eventually, you will see weeds popping up again if your artificial turf is not maintained.

“Most importantly, it’s hot and inorganic, increasing the ‘heat island effect’ that warms up the surrounding environment,” said Bendrick. “Homeowners should consider other lawn alternatives like tall native grasses or drought-tolerant ground covers.” Using local, native, and climate-appropriate plant selections can transform a high-maintenance yard into a beautiful oasis — while saving on water and scaling maintenance to quarterly rather than weekly or monthly.

What’s in?

Ready to hear about practical, easy-to-follow tips that can improve the look as well as the health of your yard? Bendrick recommends embracing the following trends.

Bugs

Insects are essential for pollinating food sources, and they are also great at cleaning up undesirables in your garden, like feces, dead animals and plants, recycling their nutrients back into the soil.

“Our relationship with creepy crawlies has not always been friendly,” noted Bendrick. “However, there is a resurgence of respect for the insect world and their integral work in balancing the ecosystem in our gardens.”

Collecting or harvesting rainwater

Rain barrels are great, but they’re limited by their smaller size, leaving lots of water uncollected for use. Passive infiltration and collection pits are great additional catchment methods or alternatives to rain barrels.

“These systems are becoming increasingly popular as they can help recharge groundwater and hold moisture onsite longer, benefiting your lawn and garden in many ways!” Bendrick added.

Battery-powered outdoor power equipment

When it comes to maintaining your yard, there are many options to choose from, but battery-powered tools are in high demand because they provide a low-noise, zero-exhaust emissions, lightweight option that offers power and performance comparable to gas.

For example, Bendrick recommends the STIHL lineup of battery-powered homeowner tools that offer an interchangeable battery compatible with 15 different tools to tackle all your lawn care jobs.

Color is back!

Technically, color never went away, but grey tones have, until recently, dominated rooms and spaces indoors and out.

“Now we’re seeing a warming trend moving in, with a focus on earth tones like soft tans and natural greens, with pops of accent colors, like Peach Fuzz, Pantone’s color of the year, to create a warm yet vibrant and personalized space,” said Bendrick.

Smart landscapes

Tech has moved to the garden! Thanks to the latest technology, you can even go beyond irrigation systems that turn off when it’s raining or lighting apps that allow you to customize your backyard mood from your phone.

“Today, you can even use autonomous lawnmowers like the STIHL iMOW® for smart landscapes that reduce your maintenance tasks,” said Bendrick, “and offer quite the conversation piece as well.”

Knowing the latest trends in yard and garden design, care and maintenance can help you create a more eco-friendly, livable outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.

Visit STIHLUSA.com for more tips from Sara to help your lawn and garden thrive.

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Age matters: Embracing the value of growing older

2024-03-19T08:39:00

(BPT) – You don’t have to look too far to see the proliferation of positivity campaigns in our society today. Diversity and inclusion, coupled with the message of “you’re perfect just as you are,” are being shouted loud and clear. Advertising is reflective of it, hiring is focusing on it, and brands are making it a priority. It’s empowering and valuable. No matter what we look like, who we love or what our pronouns are, we’re all being invited to the table by advertisers, business owners and, not incidentally, our neighbors. And it’s about time.

One group, however, is typically not included in these positivity-forward movements. One big bias lingers, unaddressed. Most people don’t even know they’re holding onto it. It’s age. There is still the perception in our society that aging is a negative. A diminishment. Something that makes a person “less than” in our youth-obsessed world.

This nation’s top politicians might have something to say about the zeitgeist of aging right now. But you don’t have to be a politician who is deemed too old to do his job to feel it. You just need to be someone over the age of 50 who gets laid off and has to face the prospect of getting back into the job market. Or, who watches television on any given night and never sees a character older than 40 (Tom Selleck notwithstanding) who is not stereotyped, joked about or featured in ads, unless they’re selling prescription drugs or AARP memberships.

But it’s more serious than just representation. We know age discrimination and bias create barriers to health care, workforce development and services. It also negatively impacts people’s perceptions about themselves, which can negatively affect their overall health and wellness and even contribute to shortened life spans.

It shouldn’t be that way, not if our country’s demographics are any indication. By 2034, there will be more people over the age of 65 than under 18 for the first time ever on our planet. And by 2060, Americans 65 and older will comprise 23% of the U.S. population (95 million people), compared to just 17% (56 million people) in 2020, according to census projections. That’s a lot of consumers who aren’t being invited to the table. We can’t afford to discount our collective future by not valuing all the positives that come along with aging.

Where are all of the advertisements for age positivity? Where’s the Gray Pride parade?

At Next50, we’re committed to creating a future where aging is valued. We can see it on the horizon and hope you can, too. Here’s what it would look like, and how you can help ageism disappear.

Age-inclusive hiring practices. Hiring today is focused on skills and experience, with careful attention to diversity and inclusion. That’s great, but age needs to be part of it. The idea that job seekers in their fifties are not as bankable as those in their twenties is completely outdated. Why? It came into fashion decades ago, when people tended to stay in one place for their entire career. Back then, if you hired someone just out of school, they’d likely stay with you until retirement. Today, younger generations tend to job-hop their way up the ladder. Hire a Boomer or Gen Xer? They’ll not only bring a trove of skills and experience with them, but they’ll stick around.

Multigenerational collaboration. When you hire those older workers, it creates an incredible opportunity for collaboration and mentorships across the generations. And not just older people mentoring younger ones. Mentorship goes both ways. That type of knowledge sharing can break down biases — yes, older people do like technology — strengthening intergenerational understanding and reinforcing the value of all ages.

Transforming the media portrayal of older adults. Dove put body positivity for women on the map, Subaru made us all want to get a dog and go hiking, Nike told us to just do it, and we did. That’s the power of advertising. A similar campaign for age positivity can invite older consumers (with deep pockets) to the table, and help shatter stereotypes, too.

Changing the narrative. Negative assumptions like physical decline, decreased mental ability, and being out of touch with the times need to be replaced with more positive aspects of aging. The beauty of a love story that has lasted 40 years and is still going strong. The freedom of following your bliss during retirement. The facts about how we’re aging better than our parents did, and what that might mean to society.

It’s time to flip the switch on ageism. At Next50, we’re working toward a society that values aging and makes growing older an empowering, fulfilling experience. We invest in innovative ideas that will help us get there. Contact us today, or visit us on Facebook or LinkedIn to find out more.

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5 expert tips to help you get your finances in order

2024-03-19T06:01:00

(BPT) – While many costs may be stabilizing or even slightly decreasing these days, the Consumer Price Index reveals that some prices remain stubbornly high, including basics like rent and many food items. These external circumstances can make it difficult to stay on top of your household finances, even with steady employment. Some things are still in your control, however, including how you manage your budget and work on paying down debt.

Many financial experts recommend taking a proactive approach, and not being afraid to put down on paper what you’re earning, spending and saving to help you reach your goals.

Here are top tips that can make a difference when it comes to managing your money.

1. Create a budget

The word “budget” may sound unpleasant, but if you view it as a simple tool for keeping your finances in order, it doesn’t seem so bad. Simply put, write down what all your income and expenses are over the course of a month or two. Then take a good look at what you’re spending, prioritizing needs like food, rent, utilities, insurance and minimum debt payments.

If it’s clear you’re spending more than you’re earning (or close to it), that means it’s time to cut down on some discretionary expenses — “wants” versus “needs,” like entertainment, gifts, etc. Also review how you’re spending on some of the needs — such as choosing to dine out frequently rather than making dinners at home. Spending less than you earn is key to a workable budget.

To get started, you can find plenty of free online budget templates and tools you can download and use without having to sign up for a budgeting app or service, if you don’t want to do that.

2. Budget for inflation

Unfortunately, the realities of things you can’t control — like inflation — mean that it’s also a good idea to allow for the possibility that prices may go up. For example, you may want to base your allowance for gas to help you get to work every day on what you’ve been paying, but gas prices can go up, especially during the summer, around holidays, or sometimes in response to world events. Adding a cushion into expenses that can be more volatile is a good idea.

3. Reduce your debt

Paying down as much debt as you can — especially higher interest debt — can help you get control of your finances more quickly. Two schools of thought around reducing debt are out there, and either one can work:

  • Pay down highest interest debt first: Bottom line, this will reduce the interest you’re paying on debt the fastest, which can mean saving more money in the long run.
  • Pay down smallest debts first: Psychologically, this can be very effective. You may see entire debts being erased more quickly, such as store credit cards, which can inspire you to keep going with your efforts (just make sure not to keep using those cards). That also means having fewer payments to track every month.

Whichever approach you take, set aside in your budget an amount that’s over the minimum monthly payment for the debt you’ll focus on first.

4. Pay attention to online spending habits

It can be all too easy to overspend when surfing the web — and easy to lose track of how much you’re spending. One tactic to avoid impulse buys is to give it 24 hours. Don’t click “order now” before thinking about it and reviewing your budget to see how you’re doing. Ask: Do you need this?

Don’t be fooled by sites that say there’s “only one left” or another tactic to urge you to buy on impulse. Chances are, it will not be your last opportunity to buy that product.

5. Save on healthcare expenses with a VSP vision plan

While healthcare expenses overall may seem like another aspect of your budget that’s hard to control, you can make some smarter choices when it comes to your eye health. With VSP® Individual Vision Plans, for example, you can purchase vision insurance at any time, with no need to wait for an open enrollment period.

You can visit an eye doctor and save with VSP vision insurance, benefiting from 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. Best yet, you can find the best vision plan for you.

Unsure about what kind of plan you may need? Compare vision plans and find the one that meets your needs.

Making smarter decisions around budgeting, spending and finding ways to save will help you feel better as you work to improve your financial situation. These tips will help you get started.

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Tobacco imagery rising in top entertainment, including among the 2024 Best Picture winner and nominees

2024-03-18T14:01:00

(BPT) – To find a smoke-free setting among this year’s Oscar Best Picture nominees, you’d have to go to Barbie Land. Of the 10 films nominated for the Oscars top prize — including winner “Oppenheimer” — all except “Barbie” feature smoking, according to Truth Initiative’s sixth annual analysis of tobacco imagery in top entertainment, which finds an increase in on-screen tobacco use across the most popular streaming shows among 15- to 24-year-olds, music videos, as well as youth-rated and Oscar-nominated movies.

On-screen smoking, which is often glamorized and portrayed as edgy and cool, is rising despite well-established research that it influences young people to start using tobacco products — a conclusion reached more than a decade ago in a 2012 Surgeon General report. In addition, research from Truth Initiative has also found that exposure to smoking imagery in streaming shows can triple a young person’s odds of starting to use e-cigarettes — today’s top tobacco product among young people.

This year’s nine Oscar-nominated Best Picture films featuring smoking, which marks an increase from last year’s seven out of 10, include winner “Oppenheimer,” and nominees “Maestro,” “The Holdovers,” “American Fiction,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” “Poor Things,” “Anatomy of a Fall,” “The Zone of Interest,” and “Past Lives.” Moreover, 23 out of 24 of this year’s Oscars awards were awarded to movies that contained smoking. The only winner not including smoking was Barbie’s “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish in the Best Song category. Tobacco continues to be center stage at awards like the Oscars, Golden Globes, and Emmys year after year, garnering prestige and media attention, increasing viewership for films and TV shows, and amplifying the negative impact of on-screen tobacco use on young viewers.

A problem across top entertainment

In addition to films, this year’s report, “Lights, Camera, Tobacco?,” found troubling trends across entertainment media including movies, streaming content, social media and music videos. The number of tobacco depictions in top shows among 15- to 24-year-olds increased by 110% between 2021 and 2022, exposing an estimated 25 million young people to tobacco imagery. The report also found that tobacco imagery in top binge-watched shows nearly quadrupled, and twice as many music videos for the most popular songs contained images of tobacco. This puts tobacco imagery on repeat for many young people, ultimately increasing exposure and risk. As young people increasingly consume video content via social platforms (nine in 10 U.S. teens say they use YouTube, the top social media platform) a Truth Initiative study currently underway also finds that more than a third of 15- to 24-year-olds surveyed who used YouTube, TikTok and Twitch reported exposure to tobacco imagery.

Tobacco product use among young people remains a serious public health concern, with more than 2 million middle and high school students using e-cigarettes in 2023, according to the National Youth Tobacco Survey. Nicotine harms developing adolescent brains and may make young people more susceptible to addiction later in life, and nicotine addiction can also increase stress and intensify feelings of depression and anxiety, a growing concern given the Surgeon General’s report about the worsening national youth mental health crisis. And among young adults, there is high prevalence of dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes.

More than half of the streaming shows most popular among young people featured tobacco imagery

The latest data on tobacco imagery in streaming shows in 2022 are alarming: More than half (8 out of 15) of the streaming shows most popular with 15- to 24-year-olds contained tobacco imagery. Even more troubling, the number of tobacco depictions among these shows more than doubled between 2021 and 2022. Half of the shows were rated TV-14, appropriate for youth, and two featured tobacco use by minors.

The increase in smoking among the top 15 shows was driven largely by Netflix’s Golden Globe-winner “Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” which contained a third of all tobacco depictions. Other shows popular among youth featuring tobacco imagery included “Euphoria” (HBO), “The Simpsons” (Fox), “Stranger Things” (Netflix), “The Walking Dead” (AMC), “Family Guy” (Fox), “Bob’s Burgers” (Fox) and “Law & Order” (NBC). Two of these also featured tobacco use by minors.

Six out of seven networks (Netflix, FOX, HBO, AMC, CW and FX) all increased tobacco imagery in 2022. BBC One joined the list as top offender due to hit show “Peaky Blinders,” and Netflix, a reoccurring top offender, followed closely in second. Netflix more than doubled tobacco imagery in 2022 compared to the previous year, as did Fox, which rounded out the top three. Despite a 2019 pledge to eliminate tobacco in original, youth-rated shows and movies that are not historical, Netflix continues to include depictions in shows popular with young people, such as “Cobra Kai,” which is rated TV-14. Subscription services like Amazon Prime video, Hulu, Apple TV and even Disney+ are also amplifying reach.

More must be done to protect young people from on-screen tobacco imagery

Tobacco imagery has been stubbornly present in media most popular with youth, despite years of research tying on-screen tobacco depictions with youth tobacco use. While some studios and networks have worked to reduce tobacco imagery in their programming, the continued inclusion of tobacco in PG-rated films and skyrocketing tobacco use in streaming shows, music videos, and on social media platforms continues to expose too many young people to tobacco, putting them at risk of nicotine addiction.

The entertainment industry must recognize its power as well as its responsibility to change the picture, and not be unwitting spokespeople for the tobacco industry. More needs to be done to urge decision makers at all levels, including entertainment executives, leaders of streaming platforms and broadcast networks, showrunners, directors, writers, actors and music artists, to denormalize tobacco use and eliminate it on screens most popular with young people, including:

  • Expanding education and outreach to ensure stakeholders including directors, writers and producers understand the importance of keeping tobacco out of shows;
  • Informing actors of the power they wield when they use tobacco on screen, as actors rejecting smoking and vaping on screens would send a powerful statement;
  • Continuing the use of anti-tobacco and anti-vaping messaging before and after shows featuring tobacco imagery and featuring specific messages demonstrating the harmful effects of increasingly popular e-cigarette products;
  • Implementing a robust ratings system that ensures that titles with smoking are listed as TV-MA or R, which has the potential to reduce young people’s exposure to tobacco.

To read the full report and learn more, visit truthinitiative.org.

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Advancing your skills to stand out in today’s job market

2024-03-18T11:43:00

(BPT) – By Andréa Backman, President of Strayer University

You’ve probably heard a lot about “the skills gap”—the disparity between the skills an employer expects their employees to have and an employee’s actual skills—and perhaps you even feel that you lack certain skills to advance in your own career.

The skills in demand by the workforce continue to evolve rapidly.

The 2023 LinkedIn Workplace Learning report indicates the skillsets for jobs are likely only going to continue increasing. Specifically, the report claimed skill sets for jobs have already changed by around 25% since 2015. By 2027, this number is expected to double.

The question is, how can working adults continue to acquire the skills they need to support their career goals?

Returning to the classroom can be an intimidating proposition. Between work, family and other obligations, going back to school may present many challenges to working adults. Fortunately, there are several ways you can make today’s technology, your life experience, your job and flexible educational opportunities work for you.

If you are thinking about furthering your education and skills to help advance in your career, here are some questions to consider:

What is your goal? Decide what type of education will help you achieve your goal: Do you need a specific program? Would a certificate suffice? Would a certain credential further your career? What type of program is most achievable, and where will you get the most support?

What type of program is best for working adults? If you plan to work full time while earning a degree or credential, look for an online or hybrid program with flexibility that offers support for working adults. Ask your employer for the time and flexibility you need to complete an education program.

Are you eligible for credit for prior learning (CPL)? If you have prior work or learning experience, research whether you are eligible for credit for prior learning. This could help give you a head start and make it quicker to get to the finish line.

Will your employer support you? Many employers offer tuition assistance programs. Consider talking to your employer about what may be available to you and how furthering your education may help you advance in the organization.

Amid a rising expectation of skill levels for employees, it can be important to seek out continuing education opportunities—both inside and outside of a traditional classroom.

Take advantage of flexible and affordable options to achieve your education goals. Utilizing some of the unique approaches listed above, such as online or hybrid learning, CPL, and tuition assistance programs, can make advancing your skills less intimidating and more attainable.

For more tips to thrive in an ever-changing jobs market, check out the Hire-Ed podcast.

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Tips to Maximize Your Outdoor Space

2024-03-18T10:01:01

(BPT) – Spring is almost here! The rising temperatures serve as a reminder that it’s time to start preparing for outdoor entertaining. Whether you are looking to completely revamp your setup or simply add a few upgrades, there are many ways to make your yard feel larger, more comfortable and more useful, no matter the time of day.

Here are eight simple upgrades to get the most out of your patio:

1. Join the Outdoors with the Indoors

Create an area that acts as a gateway between your home and the outdoors. Using similar colors, textures and themes enhances the flow of your yard and creates an inviting atmosphere. A patio provides an excellent opportunity to blend indoor and outdoor living. You don’t need to limit mealtimes to your kitchen table; instead, you can explore dining alfresco no matter the time of day.

2. Make the Outdoor Dining Table Your Focal Point

The patio table is one of the most important aspects of your yard, and it should be the center of attention. You can invest in affordable furniture or make simple upgrades to your current space by purchasing paint and other accessories at Lowe’s. Pair stylish tableware with cozy seating arrangements to create a warm ambiance. Whether you choose to enjoy a breakfast feast as the sun rises or host a dinner party for friends, your patio should serve as a gathering place where the whole crew is invited.

3. Invest in Pieces with Multiple Functions

Invest in versatile furniture and appliances to get the most out of outdoor entertaining without taking up too much valuable floorspace. A modular cooking system like the Charbroil® Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo can help you save space without having to settle for just one thing. You can unlock endless flavor possibilities and effortlessly swap surfaces to cook any meal, any time.

4. Create Sections to Divide Your Space

Build out different sections to divide your space and create intimate gathering spots for you and your guests. Rugs, tables and eclectic seating arrangements can help establish a flow and create designated spaces for your living and dining.

5. Go Bold with Color

Gone are the days of grays and beiges; now, you can try experimenting with bold hues. From bright furniture pieces to vibrant accessories, infusing bold colors can instantly revitalize your outdoor area, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere for entertaining.

6. Experiment with Organic Materials and Textures

Incorporating natural textures, such as wood and stone, into your outdoor decor not only adds a touch of authenticity but also creates a connection with nature, fostering a serene and inviting ambiance for outdoor activities and relaxation.

7. Play with Outdoor Lighting

Don’t hold out on outdoor lighting! Explore different options and combinations of lighting solutions like fire pits, torches and string lights to create ambiance, light pathways and generate warmth on cooler nights.

8. Embrace Native Plants

Your garden can foster biodiversity through a diverse selection of native flowers and plants that attract pollinators. Create eye-catching and ecologically sustainable habitats that benefit both wildlife and the environment while adding pops of color to your yard.

Once your outdoor space feels like home, you can start to invite the whole crew over to enjoy it with you over a delicious meal. Explore some of these tasty recipes from Charbroil that you can prepare using the Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo:

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Simple to create yet sure to impress, these reimagined pancakes elevate familiar ingredients to the extraordinary. Each subtly sweet, custard-like bite is a cloud of culinary bliss, lifting breakfast, brunch or snack time to exhilarating, fluffy peaks of perfection.

Seared Ahi Tuna Bowl: Loaded with sesame-crusted tuna, sweet grilled pineapple, a punch of umami and the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies, this isn’t just an incredible dish — it’s a thing of beauty.

Grilled Banana Split: Undeniably sweet and rich in flavor, the banana split is a fan favorite for good reason. Grilling fruit brings amplified flavors and rich caramelization to the classic vanilla-ice-cream-and-chocolate-syrup-topped banana split.

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Discover 5 affordable ways to make the most of summer

2024-03-18T06:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is just around the corner! With the kids out of school, it’s the perfect time to plan a trip or two and spend quality time together as a family. However, family vacations can get pretty pricey. With booking hotel rooms, flights and more, a summer trip can put a strain on your wallet.

This summer, you can make the most of the sunny season while sticking to your budget using these five tips.

1. Book early

Don’t wait! One of the best ways to make the most of your summer and save is to plan ahead and book early. This is especially true when planning air travel.

According to the CheapAir.com Annual Airfare Study, a fare will change 49 times on average from the day the trip first goes on sale. If you want affordable, flexible flights, aim to book your trip 2.5 to 7.5 months in advance.

In addition to flights, accommodations, concerts and activities like summer camp can sell out months in advance. To make sure your family doesn’t miss out on the fun, book ahead. Booking early not only secures your spot, but you can also get some discounts.

2. Look for deals

Watch for promotions and special offers on activities, attractions and events. Check an organization or company’s websites and social media accounts to make your summer outings more budget-friendly.

Another way to save is to see if any of your existing accounts or services have member perks. For example, T-Mobile customers on qualifying plans now have Magenta Status, which unlocks VIP treatment with premium one-of-a-kind deals and experiences across nationally loved brands. One amazing perk of Magenta Status is getting a special rate at Hilton’s 22 leading hotel brands worldwide and automatic upgrade to Hilton Honors Silver status when you sign up for a Hilton Honors membership. Silver benefits include free Wi-Fi, a fifth night free on rewards stays, an all-inclusive spa discount and more. To learn more, visit T-Mobile.com/Status.

3. Explore the great outdoors

Nature offers endless entertainment for free or on the cheap. It’s no wonder that 26% of Americans plan to take an outdoor trip this year, according to Forbes.

For day trips, head to a nearby regional or state park for a hike and picnic or catch some waves at the beach. If you’re seeking longer excursions, plan a family camping trip. If you don’t have the right gear, don’t feel pressured to spend a ton of money. Ask family and friends to borrow tents, sleeping bags, coolers, lanterns and camp cookware.

As long as you pack your snacks, sunscreen and sense of adventure, you can make lasting memories in nature without draining your bank account.

4. Hit the road

Pack the car and get ready for a good old-fashioned road trip! A family road trip can be an exciting and budget-friendly vacation where the journey there can be just as fun as the destination.

Plan a weeklong trip to a historic site, a natural wonder or a city you’ve never visited. No matter where you choose to go, preparation is key. Load up the car with snacks, games, movies and all your device charging cords. Don’t forget to stop along the way. You may be surprised at the hidden gems you discover on the way to your destination.

If you’d like to keep the miles off your car, don’t stress! Renting a car with extra amenities is an affordable way to make a road trip comfortable and convenient. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, renting a gas or electric vehicle is a breeze. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about filling up the gas tank at Dollar or recharging your electric vehicle (EV) at Hertz before returning it.

5. Plan a staycation

Sometimes, the best summer memories are made right at home. Staycations surged in popularity during the pandemic, and an international study found that the travel trend is unlikely to flag anytime soon. A trip where you stick close to home with loved ones can’t be beat for affordability and convenience.

Need some staycation ideas? Turn your living room into a day spa, host a game night, camp in your backyard or plan a scavenger hunt. The only limit is your imagination. If you want to look a little farther afield, use your staycation to explore your town! During the summer, your town or city may host celebrations and festivals your family can enjoy. Find out if local museums, theme parks and community centers offer discounts to children, students and families.

Make a list of upcoming summer blockbusters and hit the theaters. If you have T-Mobile Magenta Status, you can get a $5 movie ticket to a new major motion picture every single month, guaranteed.

With a little creativity, planning and a willingness to think outside the box, you can make the most of summer without putting a strain on your finances.

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You may be eligible for additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine

2024-03-15T10:01:01

(BPT) – As COVID-19 continues to circulate in our communities, it has become apparent that the virus is here to stay, and that getting infected is possible year-round.

Staying up to date with your annual COVID-19 vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19. It’s a proactive step that can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.1 Additionally, if you’re 65 years of age and older, or someone who is immunocompromised, an additional shot may provide continued benefits.

Data has shown vaccine protection against COVID-19 wanes over time. To account for this, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for those with a higher risk of developing severe and long-term symptoms of COVID-19, even if they’ve already received an initial dose of the updated 2023-2024 vaccine in the fall.2

Here are the top three reasons to speak to your doctor or pharmacist about receiving an additional dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccine this spring.

1. Make no mistake, COVID-19 remains a year-round public health threat

At the start of 2024, the CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System reported 35 states were experiencing “very high” COVID-19 viral activity, including Texas, New York, California, Illinois and Georgia.3 In addition to the case surge, we also saw a new dominant variant, JN.1, which now accounts for approximately 62% of all currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.4

Unlike the flu, COVID-19 spikes can occur at any point throughout the year. During the summer of 2023, COVID-19 hospitalization rates rose by 21.6% across the country.5 Summer heat waves can lead many to spend extended time indoors, which enables the virus to spread among people gathered together in close quarters.

As the year progresses and the COVID-19 virus evolves, it’s important that we stay up to date with the latest facts about COVID-19.

2. Vaccine protection needs to be refreshed

The virus that causes COVID-19 is always changing, and COVID-19 vaccination or protection from infection wanes over time. Receiving an updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine can restore and provide enhanced protection against the variants currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States.6

For adults aged 65 years and older, and those living with a compromised immune system, it may be helpful to receive a second dose of the vaccine at least two months after their previous dose or three months after recovering from a COVID-19 infection.7

“Data continues to show the importance of vaccination to protect those most at risk for severe outcomes of COVID-19,” said Dr. Jacqueline Miller, Senior Vice President, Therapeutic Area Head, Infectious Diseases, at Moderna. “An additional dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccine may restore protection that has waned since a fall vaccine dose for those who are at an increased risk of complications from a COVID-19 infection.”

3. Chronic conditions like hypertension can increase the risk of severe symptoms, and may lead to Long Covid

Long Covid is more common than many people realize. One in five adults have reported experiencing a continuation of COVID symptoms, including the development of fatigue and shortness of breath.8 According to research by the CDC,9 some other common symptoms include brain fog, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression.

Those who are older or living with a compromised immune system are at a greater risk of developing Long Covid or severe symptoms from COVID-19 infection.10 Specifically, high blood pressure is the most common condition associated with hospitalization from COVID-19.

Older people and those who have conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes are more than twice as likely to develop Long Covid, according to Dr. Philip Levy, Professor of Emergency Medicine at Wayne State University. “It’s critically important to get vaccinated and to get updated vaccines so you stay protected,” he said.

Vaccines are the first line of defense against COVID-19. Consult with your doctor and get an additional vaccine today. Visit Vaccines.gov to find a location near you.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control. “How to Protect Yourself and Others.” Updated July 6, 2023. Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html#vaccines

2. Centers for Disease Control. “Older Adults Now Able to Receive Additional Dose of Updated COVID-19 Vaccine.” Updated February 28, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s-0228-covid.html

3. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Current Wastewater Viral Activity Levels Map.” Updated December 7, 2023. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/COVID19-currentlevels.html

4. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Activity Increases as Prevalence of JN.1 Variant Continues to Rise.” Updated January 5, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/JN.1-update-2024-01-05.html#

5. American Medical Association. “Questions patients may have about this “hot COVID summer.” Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/questions-patients-may-have-about-hot-covid-summer

6. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness.” Updated February 1, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/covid-19-vaccine-effectiveness.html

7. Centers for Disease Control. “COVID-19 Vaccines for People Who Are Moderately or Severely Immunocompromised.” Updated March 8, 2024. Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/immuno.html

8. Centers for Disease Control. “Nearly One in Five American Adults Who Have Had COVID-19 Still Have “Long COVID.” Updated June 22, 2022. Accessed March 11, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2022/20220622.htm

9. Ford ND, et al. Long COVID and Significant Activity Limitation Among Adults, by Age — United States, June 1–13, 2022, to June 7–19, 2023. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:866–870.

10. National Institutes of Health. “Long COVID.” Accessed 11, 2024. https://covid19.nih.gov/covid-19-topics/long-covid