Category: Brandpoint

2024-02-02T14:01:00

(BPT) – While COVID-19 activity is still below the levels seen last year at this time, COVID-19 hospitalizations are rising quickly. There is still time to get yourself and your loved ones vaccinated. Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to stay protected against serious illness from COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccination also lowers your risk of getting long COVID — a wide range of health problems that can last weeks, months or even years after COVID-19 infection.

Most adults can get a free updated COVID-19 vaccine through their private health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid plans. However, some health insurance plans don’t fully cover the cost of a COVID-19 vaccine, and an estimated 25-30 million people living in the U.S. don’t have health insurance. To address this concern, CDC’s Bridge Access Program is offering adults who are uninsured or whose insurance doesn’t fully cover COVID-19 vaccination a free, updated COVID-19 vaccine. This program will end by Dec. 31, 2024. To date, more than a million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been provided through the program.

Bridge Access Program

There is no enrollment process or application to qualify, and you don’t need to provide identification or proof of insurance to get a vaccine through the Bridge Access Program. If you are 18 years or older and don’t have health insurance, or your plan doesn’t fully cover an updated COVID-19 vaccine, the Bridge Access Program can provide one for free at participating CVS, Walgreens and eTrueNorth-partnering pharmacies, local health centers and health providers.

How to find a vaccine through the Bridge Access Program

Follow these steps to find pharmacies and health care providers participating in the Bridge Access Program near you:

1. Visit Vaccines.gov.
2. Select “Find COVID-19 Vaccines.”
3. Enter your 5-digit ZIP code in the search bar and select which vaccine option(s) you’re interested in finding.
4. Select “Search for COVID-19 Vaccines.”
5. Select the option “Bridge Access Program Participant” to show participating providers and pharmacies.

When you find a convenient location, call ahead to confirm that they can provide you with a free updated COVID-19 vaccine through the Bridge Access Program. If you can’t find a participating pharmacy or provider near you, check back later because new locations are still being added.

Why get vaccinated now?

Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new strain (or variant) of the virus. It’s important to know that the updated COVID-19 vaccines offer protection against the variants spreading throughout our communities right now.

The cold winter months are a time when people spend more time in crowded indoor settings, where respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, may be more readily transmitted. Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine will help protect you from serious illness.

Don’t let cost stop you from getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine this year. Free COVID-19 vaccines are still available. If you are uninsured or your plan won’t fully cover it, visit Vaccines.gov today to find a Bridge Access Program provider near you.

2024-02-02T08:01:00

(BPT) – In recent years, Gen Z has emerged as a pivotal force in the climate industry, significantly influencing the way climate change is addressed in our local and regional communities across the United States. This generation is not only actively participating in the climate conversation but also reshaping it with a diverse and inclusive perspective.

The Tom’s of Maine Incubator

One example is the Tom’s of Maine Incubator, which is designed to resource the next generation of leaders from underrepresented communities who are driving environmental solutions. The program provides funding, mentorship, amplification, and support to early-career changemakers to empower them to Do Good. For Real. The program was first introduced in 2023, and a second cohort of Gen Z leaders has been identified to address climate change in the year ahead:

Brittney Portes, Founder of Gardens of Sol based in Montclair, NJ. Brittney uses her business to raise awareness about sustainable agriculture and farming in her local community.

Danielle Lee, Content Creator of Battery Girlie based in San Francisco, CA. Danielle uses her platform to help Gen Z build impactful careers fighting climate change.

Diamond Spratling, Founder and Executive Director of Girl+Environment based in Atlanta, GA. Diamond created Girl+Environment to empower Black and Brown women to stand up for environmental justice.

Jasmine Lamb, Chair of the Sipayik Resilience Committee based in Orono, ME. Jasmine is committed to improving community resilience against climate change and elevating Native American voices in the climate movement.

Zanagee Artis, Founder of Zero Hour based in Washington, D.C. Zanagee founded his organization with the goal of elevating the voices of young people of color and people on the front lines of the climate crisis.

Representation in the Climate Movement

In the United States, Gen Z’s influence is particularly evident at the local and regional levels, as seen with this year’s Incubator Members. They are not just participants in climate discussions; they are initiators and leaders of grassroots movements, community projects, and policy advocacy. For instance, the Incubator Members are working with local governments to develop climate action plans, advocating for renewable energy projects, and raising awareness about sustainable practices within their communities. Their hands-on approach ensures that climate action is not just centered around certain individuals but speaks to the wider population, ensuring those most impacted by climate change are included in finding solutions.

Tom’s of Maine believes that addressing climate change is crucial for several reasons. First, it’s about preserving the planet for future generations. Climate change poses significant risks to our environment, health, and economy. By taking action now, you can help mitigate these risks and ensure a sustainable future. Secondly, addressing climate change is essential for social equity, as its impacts often disproportionately affect marginalized communities. As climate change continues, the increased risk from hurricanes is likely to disproportionately affect Black communities, according to McKinsey & Co.

The Power of Gen Z

Gen Z understands the challenges impacting marginalized communities and they are changing this narrative by bringing diverse voices to the forefront. They recognize that the impacts of climate change are not uniform and that solutions must be equitable and inclusive. By diversifying the climate movement, Gen Z leaders like those in the Tom’s of Maine Incubator ensure that the conversation reflects a broader range of experiences and perspectives, leading to more sustainable solutions.

As Gen Z continues to shape the conversation, you can take action at the local and regional level to address climate change in your community. You can help support and amplify the efforts of the Tom’s of Maine Incubator members, volunteer in climate change activities near you, and make a small difference for the health of our planet.

2024-02-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – This fall, students participating in the EcoCAR EV Challenge returned to their garages to kick off the second year of the four-year collegiate competition. The EcoCAR EV Challenge, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), General Motors (GM) and MathWorks, prepares college students to meet the changing demands of the automotive industry by providing them with hands-on training and knowledge of electric vehicles (EVs), connected auto technologies and autonomous vehicle systems.

Following the first year of the competition, which was primarily focused on student teams conceptualizing their vehicle designs, GM provided each team with a 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ which the students are reengineering to add new energy efficient and automated features.

This year, EcoCAR students get the full experience of designing, developing and deploying their own automated vehicle systems. Teams will explore these features with a unique focus on minimizing energy consumption through making energy-mindful decisions, integrating eco-driving control strategies and deploying connected vehicle technologies.

With an all-electric future on the horizon and autonomous mobility continuing to advance, the automotive industry is currently undergoing a once-in-a-century technological revolution and is grappling with massive shifts in technology, workforce, supply chains and its manufacturing base as a result. Vehicles with automated driving features are growing in popularity, with the capability and refinement of these features progressing rapidly year over year as automakers look to Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) features to improve vehicle safety and driver experience.

As the development of EVs and new CAV technologies continues to advance, programs such as the EcoCAR EV Challenge are critical for helping to bridge the current skills gap and build the talent pipeline needed to meet the industry’s future needs through cutting-edge automotive engineering education and practical application. The competition is uniquely designed to support the workforce pipeline needed to produce the next generation of EVs, enabling participating students to graduate with the skills and experience to immediately contribute to the development of EVs and CAV systems and drive new auto innovations.

Working closely with mobility and government leaders on a curriculum specifically tailored to align with future industry needs, programs such as EcoCAR and other Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions (AVTCs) managed by Argonne National Laboratory help address the toughest mobility challenges facing our nation, while building a skilled workforce that reflects the diversity of North America. They help prepare the auto industry leaders of the future by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skillsets to secure high-paying, highly desired roles post-graduation and pave the way for tomorrow’s auto industry advances.

To learn more about the EcoCAR EV Challenge and to follow along on each team’s journey, visit avtcseries.org and like, follow and subscribe to the competition’s Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn channels.

2024-02-01T12:01:01

(BPT) – In honor of American Heart Month this February, you can make positive changes to your well-being by evaluating how your everyday lifestyle affects your heart health. To get started, take steps to understand your risk, then consider making healthier choices to help lower your chances of heart disease.

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares a few of her tips to help you live a heart-healthy lifestyle, starting with your routine wellness visits.

1. Know your risk

Getting regular health screenings as part of your annual exam is crucial to understanding your risk for heart disease. By consulting with your primary healthcare provider on a regular basis, you can ask questions and get advice on practical steps you could take to improve your well-being.

“Regular wellness visits are a crucial part of staying healthier,” Blatner advises. “And it’s always recommended to talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine or nutrition program.”

2. Stay active

Try to fit 30-60 minutes of physical activity into your day, which can include walking, gardening or household chores as well as swimming, dancing, playing a sport or taking a fitness class. Various aerobic activities that get your heart rate up, strength exercises to build muscle, plus yoga or stretching for flexibility are usually a good mix.

Make it easier to exercise enough each day by breaking up activity into smaller chunks rather than doing it all at once.

3. Reduce stress

The good news is that many of the activities you can do to keep physically active have the added benefit of reducing your stress levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise can improve your mood, reduce tension and help you focus throughout your day.

Apart from exercise, you can try meditation, breathing exercises and any other relaxing activities that help you feel calm and reduce anxiety.

4. Focus on foods that boost wellness

Eat a variety of nutritious foods to help improve your blood pressure and cholesterol, including veggies and fruits, whole grains, healthy fats like avocado, lean meats and eggs.

“When it comes to eggs, I always recommend Eggland’s Best,” Blatner adds. “Eggland’s Best eggs have more than double the Omega-3’s compared to ordinary eggs, which support heart health in a variety of important ways such as boosting good cholesterol, lowering triglycerides, and promoting healthy blood pressure.”

In addition, Eggland’s Best eggs contain 25% less saturated fat compared to ordinary eggs, which helps support healthier blood cholesterol levels and overall heart health. Eggland’s Best eggs also have more than double the amount of Vitamin B12, ten times more Vitamin E and six times more Vitamin D.

To help you include more eggs in your daily diet, Blatner shares this recipe from the American Heart Association and Eggland’s Best for easy-to-make egg tostadas that are a delicious and hearty snack or breakfast.

Eggland’s Best is a national supporter of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative. To learn more, visit EgglandsBest.com.

POACHED EGG TOSTADAS WITH AVOCADO-TOMATILLO SALSA

Prep time 10 minutes; cook time 20 minutes.

Ingredients

· 4 Eggland’s Best eggs, large

· Cooking spray

· Four 6-inch corn tortillas

· 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Salsa Ingredients

· 1 medium avocado (diced)

· 1 medium Anaheim pepper (seeds and ribs discarded, diced)

· 1 medium tomatillo (papery husk discarded, diced)

· 1/2 medium tomato (diced)

· 1/4 cup diced red onion

· 1/4 cup chopped, fresh cilantro

· 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

· 1 medium garlic clove (minced)

· 1/8 teaspoon salt

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray.
2. Arrange the tortillas in a single layer on the foil. Lightly spray the tortillas with cooking spray. Using a fork, pierce the tortillas a few times to prevent them from filling with air. Bake for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to serving plates.
3. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, bring the water and vinegar to a boil over high heat.
4. In a medium bowl, gently stir together all the salsa ingredients. Set aside.
5. Once the water has come to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer. Break an egg into a cup and then carefully slip the egg into the simmering water. Repeat with the remaining eggs, placing them in the water so they don’t touch. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the whites are completely set and the yolks are beginning to set, but aren’t hard. Using a slotted spoon, drain the eggs well. Place each egg on a tostada. Serve with the salsa.

2024-02-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Pet Dental Health Month (February) marks the perfect time to prioritize your pet’s wellbeing and kick-start a dental care routine. A staggering 80% of dogs, particularly small breeds and seniors, face the risk of dental disease, with 70% of cats experiencing dental issues in their lifetime.

Supporting your pet’s dental health starts with annual veterinarian visits and consistent daily at-home dental care. When done together, pet parents contribute not only to their pet’s dental health but also to their overall wellbeing, because there are many ways the two are tied together that some pet parents may not even consider.

The following are five additional health benefits your pet may experience when you prioritize their dental health:

1. Optimal nutrition and digestion

Proper digestion starts in the mouth, and healthy teeth allow pets to chew their food effectively, breaking it down into smaller, easily digestible pieces. This not only promotes improved digestion but also enhances optimal nutrient absorption. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet contributes to a pet’s overall health and immune system, promoting an active, joyful life while reducing susceptibility to illness.

2. Emotional wellbeing

Supporting your dog’s dental health with a dental chew offers multiple benefits: It helps clean teeth, exercises jaw muscles and provides mental stimulation. Wellness^® WHIMZEES^® Natural* Dental Treats for dogs acts like a chew, which helps to release endorphins (“feel-good hormones”) promoting pleasure and relaxation to help reduce pain and stress.

For cats, boost chewing with Wellness^® WHIMZEES^® Natural Dental Treats to help address the key areas vets check most: plaque, gums, tartar and breath. These daily cat treats have a crunchy, porous texture that mimics a toothbrush with an added benefit of encouraging bonding time with cat parents while treating.

3. Gut and microbiome health

Strong dental health can support a happy microbiome in the gut and safeguard against potential health risks. Neglected oral care may lead to untreated dental infections, allowing harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and potentially cause systemic infections in the heart, liver or kidneys. This imbalance can influence digestion, behavior, immune function and various other aspects of your pet’s health.

4. Reduced tooth loss and better breath

Preserving your pets’ wellbeing involves addressing the risk of tooth loss, a crucial aspect of their ongoing health. Like children, kittens and puppies naturally lose baby teeth, but adulthood should not bring tooth loss from unattended dental issues. Such tooth loss can impair a pet’s ability to eat, play and interact normally, evolving into a health concern.

Taking proactive daily measures to support dental health, such as reducing plaque and tartar buildup, can effectively minimize the risk of teeth loss due to advanced dental disease. This ensures that pets maintain vitality and enjoy various activities as they age, while also contributing to fresher breath and enjoyable interactions.

5. Positive behavior and comfort

Dental discomfort can influence a pet’s behavior, resulting in reduced food intake, irritability or mild changes in mood. Pain from dental problems may lead to avoidance of eating or difficulty with regular food consumption. Consider the last time you had a toothache — addressing it likely improved your behavior and energy levels. The same applies to our pets.

Investing in your pet’s dental health is not just an act of care; it’s a supportive move toward ensuring their physical health, comfort and overall wellbeing. Dental chews and treats are a simple way to maintain dental health at home. To learn more and find Wellness^® WHIMZEES^® near you, visit https://www.whimzees.com/.

*With added vitamins, minerals & taurine

2024-02-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – Love isn’t the only thing worth celebrating in February, it’s also important to celebrate our actual hearts.

This month is American Heart Month — which is aimed at raising awareness for heart health, educating about risk factors for heart disease and sharing tips on how to live a heart-healthy lifestyle.

There are many ways you can celebrate American Heart Month. Here are just a few:

• Wear red to raise awareness for heart health
• Create a walking routine with friends and family
• Try new heart-healthy recipes and share with others
• Engage in stress-relieving activities like yoga, art, and meditation
• Get vaccinated for pneumococcal pneumonia if you have chronic heart disease

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can put you in the hospital for weeks and even be life threatening.

Our heart and lungs work closely together and that’s why it’s important to take a holistic approach.

If you have chronic heart disease, you are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia — and getting vaccinated can help protect you.

Adults 65 or older and adults 19 or older with certain other chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes are also at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and should consider asking their doctor or pharmacist about vaccination.

Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike at any time, in any season. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is the time to ask your doctor or pharmacist if vaccination is right for you.

Even if you’ve already had a previous pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine, your healthcare provider may recommend additional vaccination to help prevent the disease.

Kick off American Heart Month strong by asking your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination and visit knowpneumonia.com to learn more.

Brought to you by Pfizer.

2024-01-31T14:01:00

(BPT) – Carter’s is starting off the year with a bang, launching its first-ever Most Loved Sale. Live now, the new sale is two full weeks of deals on the brand’s bestselling, most-hearted styles. And as the #1 most trusted brand of apparel for babies and young children, Carter’s is the perfect place to stock up on all the essentials for your little ones. Ready to start shopping? We’re breaking down the must-have, must-buys here:

The Original Bodysuit™: Carter’s #1 all-time bestseller; one sold every second

As any parent knows, bodysuits are a must when it comes to babies. The more, the better. Carter’s Original Bodysuit™ is a historic favorite for a reason. With 30 million bodysuits sold and loved per year (that’s 1 sold every second!), bodysuits have become Carter’s all-time bestselling baby item, and now they’re at the lowest price of the season. You know what that means — it’s time to stock up.

Let’s talk features: Strong, long-lasting snaps that hold up after wear, wash, repeat; overlap shoulders that expand over baby’s body for easy changes (life saver!); 100% cotton that’s gentle on baby’s skin; and of course, all the fun graphics and loveable prints.

Shopper tip: Multipacks are a must. Shop 4- & 5-pack bodysuits now on sale from $2.40 per piece ($12+ for the pack). Because as any parent knows, you can never have too many.

5-Star Sleep & Play™: The do-it-all style purchased 10,259 times per day

Another baby must-have, the 5-Star Sleep & Play™ truly does it all. Known as the day-to-night, tummy time, nap time, anytime staple, this is the most practical outfit for new babies, featuring both snap and 2-way zip options, as well as fold-over cuffs for preemie and newborn sizes so you can skip the mittens. The best part? It’s now on sale from just $8 — the lowest price of the season — so be sure to add to cart (we recommend getting 5 to 8).

Most-Hearted for Toddler & Kid: The top sellers worn & loved by millions last year

Our most loved styles for toddler and kid? Simple. It’s the day-in, day-out favorites they love. It’s the top-selling graphic tees, with 9 million worn and loved last year, and 25,000 (!) sold every single day. It’s the tried-and-true leggings that 6 million children wore and loved last year. It’s the go-to colors — black, navy and knit-denim — that never go out of style. It’s the outfit sets that take the thinking out of getting dressed. And it’s the new additions like moisture-wicking BeCool™ activewear. So don’t miss out on all of this and more, because these bestsellers speak for themselves.

The styles you love. The sale you’ve been waiting for. Now through February 14 at carters.com and oshkosh.com.