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Gifts with purpose: How to embrace a regenerative holiday season

2023-12-13T16:01:01

(BPT) – This holiday season, rise above the noise of excess and gift with purpose by selecting presents that champion your values. Consider purchases that restore ecology, improve livelihood and ensure animal welfare for farming communities. To support a sustainable and regenerative future, give clean and nourishing food and beverages. Rather than relying solely on sustainability labels, explore products actively contributing to communities and ecology.

A simple and effective approach is choosing companies certified by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, particularly those holding the Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC). These companies employ regenerative organic agriculture practices, meeting stringent environmental standards while upholding specific ethical and social criteria that enhance soil health, ensure social fairness and prioritize animal welfare.

To help you get started, here are some standout companies from the ROC product directory offering perfect gifts that can be shipped directly to loved ones (or enjoyed at home as a well-deserved indulgence) this festive season.

Say happy holidays or thank hosts with a great bottle of wine

Bonterra Organic Estates, nestled in Mendocino County, leads in regenerative organic viticulture. They employ time-honored methods like sheep grazing, cover cropping and compost application to nurture the soil. Situated at an elevation of 2,235 feet in the mountaintops of Mendocino’s rugged North Coast of California, their fruits boast intense and rich, complex flavors — a testament to the interplay of high altitude and maritime microclimate.

Known for exceptional wines, their ROC-certified The Bonterra Estate Collection features favorites like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and limited edition Red Blend. Priced at $22, these wines are widely accessible at retail, making it a perfect choice for enthusiasts. Their pioneering position as among the first globally certified Regenerative Organic Certified wines adds an additional layer of distinction to these remarkable offerings.

For those seeking an elevated experience, Bonterra.com offers single vineyard wines, including The Butler Red Cuvee 2020, The McNab Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 and The Roost Chardonnay 2020.

Elevate spirits with premium-quality coffee

Ampersand Coffee Roasters sources 100% organic coffee grown with cutting-edge regenerative organic farming techniques and uses 100% fair trade policies to empower coffee farmers and guarantee a minimum price for their coffee even when markets fluctuate. The organic agriculture practices for their sourced coffee encourage techniques like crop rotation, companion planting, biological pest control, mixed cropping and the fostering of insect predators.

The company also partners with the International Women’s Coffee Alliance and Cafe Femenino to support gender equality in coffee-growing regions. Consider their ground or whole bean coffee for gift-giving, or gift subscriptions for the coffee devotees in your life.

Unearth treasures for tea enthusiasts

If you’ve heard of Jeju Island, South Korea, it’s probably due to their famous women deep-sea divers. But the island’s rich volcanic soil and mild sea mist produce something else noteworthy — excellent tea. Wild Orchard’s exclusive partner farm on Jeju relies on natural sea winds to keep pests at bay, and benefits from fertilization offered by organically raised geese.

Over two decades ago, the first tea trees were grown from seeds (not cuttings) planted directly in the volcanic soil, causing them to develop extremely deep roots. Left largely untouched until recently, the trees grew wild to become larger and hardier than those grown on most traditional tea farms, for a superior final result.

Or surprise a tea aficionado with something truly unique: Yaupon tea, a refreshing brew derived from a naturally caffeinated native American plant that has 60% of the caffeine of coffee and a flavor profile similar to green tea.

CatSpring Yaupon is a woman-led company that uses sustainable practices to produce this flavorful drink. The plants are wild-grown with no added water, and hand-harvested. The company also uses a “people first” hiring policy that works with probation officers to hire individuals looking to create a new future for themselves, as well as hiring women with a history of generational poverty.

Pick up stocking stuffers like the tea sampler bag at CatSpringTea.com and a variety of loose and bagged teas at WildOrchard.com.

Gift single origin extra virgin olive oil

SIMPLi connects people around the world through the joy of food. The co-founders sought to bring the best single-origin ingredients from around the world to the market in a way that equally benefits people, producers and the planet. Simpli’s 100% Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil, perfect for gifting, plays a proactive role in land regeneration, carbon sequestration, and resource conservation on a significant scale.

Knowing that what you give others will benefit the planet makes every gift more meaningful to you as well as to the recipients of your carefully chosen gifts. You can feel good about everything you’re giving this holiday season using these criteria for your shopping.

Bonterra Organic Estates, Hopland, Mendocino County, California. Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

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How employers and employees can benefit from mental wellness resources

2023-12-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re in charge of making the holiday magic happen, you could be feeling a bit overwhelmed. Between organizing gatherings, buying gifts and attending seasonal events, your holiday sparkle may be a little dim. And for many, personal tragedies and local, national and global conflict have made it difficult to feel the joy of the season.

Given all these stressors, it’s critical to practice self-care so you can strengthen your well-being, which is the foundation for good mental health. Only when you take care of yourself will you have reserves to draw upon to take care of what needs to be done for your family and at work. While there are things you can do on your own to unwind and recharge, there are times when you’ll need to tap into expert support.

Seeking out professional help may seem daunting, time consuming or inaccessible. The good news is you may already have mental wellness resources at your fingertips through your employer.

How your workplace can be a mental wellness resource

Many companies have prioritized employee mental wellness by incorporating counseling services into their Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and incorporating trusted clinical partners such as R3 Continuum. In fact, according to Deloitte, organizations with more than 20,000 employees have invested an average of $11 million a year in resources that drive health, well-being and productivity improvement. Typically, these services are available at no cost to the employee.

But even employees at small companies have resources. If you’re not aware of or haven’t used your employer-provided wellness resources, you’re not alone. According to Deloitte, more than two-thirds of workers don’t use the full value of well-being resources offered by their organization. But given how many waking hours Americans devote to their careers, it is becoming increasingly apparent that employers must support well-being at a greater scale, and the demand for mental wellness support has grown. Today, it is easier than ever to access licensed, experienced clinicians who can help employees manage uncertainties, stressors and anxieties, thanks to company leaders who recognize that they must support every employee’s whole self.

Talk to your human resources team about the services offered by your employer. When you connect with a qualified mental health professional, you can feel more confident participating in holiday activities that offer familiarity and comfort, and truly embrace the season.

What employers can do to better support their teams

Resilient employees build, sustain and grow high-performance companies, but offering mental wellness resources isn’t enough if employees aren’t using them. To build an emotionally healthy and thriving work culture, employers should educate their teams to recognize early signs of behavioral health struggles and encourage them to use the resources provided.

Turning to trusted resources like R3 Continuum, experts in behavioral health and recovery after workplace disruption, makes it easy for employers to invest in their employees’ mental well-being. By working with R3 Continuum, employers can fortify their current EAP to deliver a broad range of behavioral health services. Even members of the C-suite can benefit by accessing leadership coaching that helps executives build a sense of resilience and improve decision-making skills, empowering them to lead by example.

“There are several ways workplaces benefit from supporting the mental well-being of employees, such as decreased absenteeism and presenteeism, improved work satisfaction, improved work engagement, increased productivity, greater creativity and innovation, and the ability to retain and attract top talent,” said Dr. George Vergolias, chief clinical officer at R3 Continuum, in an interview with Authority Magazine. “Workplace leaders have a choice to pay now by investing in a reasonable amount of time and resources to support the mental well-being of employees or pay later and squander an unreasonable amount of time and resources managing maladaptive behaviors.”

During the holiday season and every day, tending to your personal well-being is vital. Ensure you are taking time to take care of you. Talk to your HR team about the mental wellness services offered through your workplace.

HR leaders and executives who want to offer clinical-level support and invest in wellness for everyone in the company can connect with R3 Continuum at https://r3c.com/.

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5 festive twists on classic eggnog for the holiday season

2023-12-13T08:01:01

(BPT) – The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a classic festive drink like eggnog? Shamrock Farms, a family-owned-and-operated dairy brand, has crafted rich and flavorful products, including seasonal favorite eggnog, for 100 years. A timeless holiday drink that has delighted folks since the 16th century, has evolved across cultures worldwide. While sipping it straight is wonderful, there are plenty of fun and creative ways to enjoy this traditional holiday drink.

Now, Shamrock Farms has released a must-try eggnog, perfected over three generations, exclusively at Aldi: Vanilla Spice Eggnog.

Shamrock Farms is no stranger to putting a modern twist on a classic favorite. Check out these five favorite festive ways to use their newest creamy Vanilla Spice Eggnog made from a custom blend of spices and sweet vanilla flavor this holiday season.

1. Eggnog Hot Chocolate

Elevate your hot chocolate by blending it with Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog for a cozy, new holiday favorite. Whether you’re fixing it up for yourself or the kids, eggnog hot chocolate is a great addition to your holiday drinks roster. Make sure your hot chocolate is made with delicious, quality eggnog by shopping for Shamrock Farms Traditional, Lite or Irish Whiskey — and the new Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog available at your local ALDI while supplies last.

Simply heat up your favorite hot chocolate, stir in some Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog and add a pinch of nutmeg. Add an extra dash of holiday cheer with a spray of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon and enjoy.

2. Eggnog French Toast

Infuse the holiday spirit into your breakfast with eggnog French toast! Swap out milk for Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog in your go-to French toast recipe for a sweet, custard-like breakfast treat. Finish with powdered sugar, syrup, whipped cream, nutmeg and cinnamon.

3. Eggnog Cocktails

Spiked eggnog is a favorite adult holiday drink and serves as a perfect base for a variety of cocktails!

Whether you mix up an Eggnog Martini or White Russian, experience the warm, inviting flavors to pure, great-tasting cream and milk of Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog, a recent addition to the Shamrock Farms lineup. These modern twists on a classic drink will delight your guests. Best of all, you can turn any eggnog cocktail into a mocktail by simply omitting the alcohol.*

4. Eggnog Cookies

Freshly baked holiday cookies are a staple of the season. Add Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog to the mix to take your sugar cookies to the next level. Bring out the eggnog flavor in these sweet treats by adding nutmeg and rum extract to your recipe. Don’t forget to pick up a pack of holiday cookie cutters to make your cookies stand out at the next family gathering or holiday party.

5. Eggnog Bread Pudding

Bread Pudding is a crowd-pleasing dessert that you can bring to any holiday gathering. Make this classic dessert even merrier by infusing it with Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog! Lifestyle influencer, Erin O’Brien, is known for her delicious takes on everyday dishes. Here she upgraded the standard bread pudding recipe with the merry addition of Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog. Follow @Erin O’Brien’s recipe for the most mouthwatering results:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Place bread into a baking dish and sprinkle with cranberries.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined.

4. Pour mixture over the bread and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

5. Drizzle melted butter overtop and bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

6. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium-low heat, add eggnog, butter and sugar. Once warmed and all ingredients are well combined, add rum and cook for 1-2 more minutes. Pour over the bread pudding and enjoy!

Raise a glass (or plate) and cheers to a holiday fan-favorite! Let these five Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog-based holiday treats inspire you to craft your own festive creations!

*Drinking alcohol may be harmful to your health and addictive. Please drink responsibly. If you have a problem with alcohol, please visit Responsibility.org.

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Practical presents for tech enthusiasts: 5 ideas to spark joy

2023-12-13T08:01:01

(BPT) – Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for your tech-savvy loved one? Don’t worry. Tech-Life expert Jennifer Jolly knows the best gadgets and tech-ish tools for all the tech lovers in your life. Here are a handful of her top picks to help spark joy this holiday season.

1. Smartwatch with fitness tracker

For your health-conscious loved one who’s always on the go, Jennifer says a smartwatch with fitness-tracking features “hits the target every time.” On its own, a smartwatch is an invaluable gift your friend or family member will use every day with useful features like notifications, voice commands and music playback. However, smartwatches that track steps, heart rate, sleep patterns and sports activity can help users push their limits to reach (and even exceed) their fitness goals in the new year.

2. Smartphone

Do you have a preteen who has been begging for their first smartphone? Or has your spouse hinted that they’d like to upgrade their current model? The holidays are a great time to give your loved ones a gift that keeps on giving, and a smartphone is exactly that.

Jennifer says there are some great deals if you know where to look and cautions people of those “free” device offers that actually lock you into a two-year contract and end up costing $150-$300 more than the upfront price of the phone.

For a better option, take a look at Total by Verizon’s Holiday Deal: Now through the end of the year, people who switch to one of Total by Verizon’s Unlimited plans will get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G phone, for free, no strings attached. The Galaxy A13 offers quick, virtually lag-free downloading and streaming with awesome connectivity and a long-lasting battery that charges up fast. Your loved ones can use their new smartphone to capture holiday memories on video or photo using the high-res triple camera. Best of all, you can add four lines for $25 per line with Auto Pay. For more information, visit TotalbyVerizon.com.

3. Bluetooth Speaker

Audiophiles, rejoice! With a portable Bluetooth speaker, music lovers can enjoy their favorite beats while relaxing at home, out with their buddies, or anywhere they want to get their groove on. Make sure to look for dustproof and water-resistant models so your loved one doesn’t have to worry about using their new favorite gadget in the great outdoors.

4. VR glasses

For those in your life who value a truly immersive experience, virtual reality (VR) glasses are a must. You can choose from high-end options for at-home use or mobile options that work with a user’s smartphone so they can slip into the virtual world wherever, whenever. Whether they choose to explore virtual worlds, visit exotic locations or play immersive games, they can do it all with this handy gift.

5. Portable power bank

Make sure your loved ones can stay connected by gifting them a power bank. A powerful portable power bank is one of the most practical tech items you can gift a friend or family member this season. A power bank allows them to charge nearly any electronic product at home, in the office or when traveling by car, train or plane.

Jolly Holidays!

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Take Charge of Family Security: 5 Vital Actions for a Safe New Year

2023-12-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – Amidst the many New Year’s Resolutions families set at the top of the year, creating household safety habits and ensuring preparation in an emergency should be at the top. With the CDC reporting 48% of Americans do not have first aid kits and 52% of Americans do not have copies of crucial personal documents, it’s evident Americans have a lot of work to do to ensure family members are knowledgeable and have safety plans in place.

This year, to ensure safety is a top priority, check out these five important actions to help keep your family safe.

1. Create a home safety checklist

A comprehensive home safety checklist helps create a home environment that promotes security and peace of mind. The checklist should include checking smoke and CO detectors, including changing out batteries, locking windows, ensuring fire extinguishers are readily available in the kitchen and other shared spaces, and properly storing household chemicals like cleaning products. Regularly review and update this checklist.

2. Enroll in hands-free safety services

Did you know only 28.7% of U.S. households have a landline? Without a landline, it can be difficult to contact emergency services, especially for young children. However, technology can be a valuable ally. The new personal and family safety subscription Alexa Emergency Assist allows anyone in the home to use their voice to call for help, giving more peace of mind with fast access to urgent response agents 24/7 365 days a year — without having to search for your phone in the time of an emergency.

When you say, “Alexa, call for help” on an Echo device, including an Echo Kids device, you will be connected to a dedicated, professionally trained agent who can request dispatch of police, fire, or ambulance, avoiding potentially long call hold or wait times.

Agents also have access to pre-saved critical information during the call — like your home address, medications, or allergies — saving time spent collecting information on the call and allowing first responders to be thoroughly prepared when they arrive at your home. The Urgent Response agent can also stay on the line with you until help arrives.

3. Teach personal safety habits

Encourage and empower your family members to develop personal safety habits. Emphasize the importance of staying aware of surroundings, exercising caution when speaking with strangers, and practicing basic self-defense techniques.

When talking with your family about safety habits, underscore the importance of paying attention to smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, and to never ignore them. If you subscribe to Alexa Emergency Assist, Smart Alerts allow Alexa to detect signs of trouble — like if your smoke or CO alarm is ringing — and will notify you so you can take action whether you’re at home or away.

Don’t forget to highlight the importance of trusting your instincts and foster open communication so everyone feels comfortable voicing their concerns. By learning and practicing personal safety habits, you’ll equip your loved ones (and yourself!) with the tools they need to confidently navigate changing situations.

4. Develop a trusted network

When it comes to keeping your family safe, you don’t have to do it alone. Cultivate relationships with neighbors, friends, extended family, and community members to build a strong mutual support network. A network of trusted individuals is an invaluable resource that can help provide assistance during times of need.

If you subscribe to Alexa Emergency Assist, you can quickly notify your network in case of an emergency. The Emergency Contacts feature allows you to save up to 25 family members, friends, or loved ones to be automatically notified and informed when a call is placed to Urgent Response. A reliable network not only improves your family’s safety, it also fosters a sense of belonging and community.

5. Create an emergency plan

A detailed and thorough emergency plan can make a huge difference in a crisis. Sit down with your family to discuss evacuation routes, emergency contact numbers, and designated meeting points. Talk about each family member’s responsibilities during different types of emergencies. Even young children and teens have a role to play in an emergency, just by taking care of themselves.

Once you have a plan in place, review and practice the plan so everyone is familiar with the procedures in case of an emergency. By preparing for unexpected moments, you’ll foster a sense of security and resilience.

Use these five tips to kick-start the new year with a focus on family safety. In doing so, you’re laying the foundation for a safe and secure future and creating peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

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5 energy-efficient home features guaranteed to help save you money

2023-12-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – Imagine this — a home that is not only good for the planet but good for your wallet. That’s the allure of energy-efficient homes. Home buyers today aren’t just looking for a place to hang their hats. They’re seeking sustainable sanctuaries that lessen their environmental impact. But the cherry on top? The potential for significant cost savings. This is especially true when it comes to homes built to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Zero Energy Ready Homes™ specifications. It’s not just a purchase, it’s a step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future.

Last year, the average residential electricity price increased more than 14% across the country, double the rate of American inflation. As a result, more than 20 million families in the U.S. struggled to pay their utility bills. Luckily, some home builders are designing certified Zero Energy Ready Homes with energy-efficient features that can help homeowners save money.

This year, Clayton, a national builder of attainable, single-family homes, launched its newest housing initiative, eBuilt™ homes, which are built to DOE Zero Energy Ready Home specifications and come equipped with dozens of energy-efficient features. eBuilt homes can save a homeowner up to 50% in annual energy costs(1) compared to a traditional off-site built home, allowing homeowners to potentially save thousands of dollars throughout their homeownership journey. Check out five important features of eBuilt homes that can help significantly lower homeowners’ utility bills and environmental impact:

1. Tight thermal envelope with additional insulation

Heating and cooling a home year-round can cost a pretty penny. In a typical residence, as much as 40% of energy consumption costs can come from heating and cooling escaping through windows, doors and walls. eBuilt homes are designed with a tight thermal envelope, allowing the home to better manage and retain its temperature.

eBuilt homes have sealed ductwork, which helps prevent drafts, moisture and unwanted noise. All windows, vents, plumbing and electrical penetrations — even the recessed lighting — are tightly sealed. Together, these features contribute to the home’s energy efficiency.

2. Low-E windows

Low emissivity (low-e) windows with argon gas are in all Clayton eBuilt homes. Low-e windows allow less heat to enter and leave your home thanks to the microscopic thin coating that manages daylight transmittance. According to the DOE, low-e windows can reduce a home’s energy loss by 30%-50%.(2) Paired with the thermal envelope with the home’s added insulation and insulated exterior door, homeowners can expect to significantly cut their heating and cooling bills.

3. ecobee® smart thermostat

eBuilt homes also feature ecobee smart thermostats. According to ecobee, North American customers saved 26% on their heating and cooling costs by keeping their homes at a consistent temperature and minimizing the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures.

4. Energy-efficient water heating

For the average American household, water heating is the second largest expense on monthly utility payments, representing up to 18% of their utility bill. With energy-efficient water heating, homeowners can take a chunk off their monthly bills without reducing their hot water use.

All of Clayton’s eBuilt homes feature a Rheem hybrid water heater, which uses less energy than a 100-watt light bulb.(3) That translates to as much as $491 in energy cost savings per year!

5. ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances

Clayton’s eBuilt homes feature several enhancements that are ENERGY STAR®-certified, like dishwashers and refrigerators. A typical ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator uses less energy than a 60-watt light bulb, and freezers use 10% less energy than a new non-certified counterpart.

These are just five of the 25 enhancements that contribute to an eBuilt home’s energy efficiency. In addition to the energy-efficient enhancements, eBuilt homes are built to accommodate a solar energy system if the homeowner chooses to add one after purchase. With the addition of solar panels, eBuilt homes can transform into a “net zero” home, which can offset up to 100% of its annual energy use by generating the power it consumes.

To learn more about the benefits of buying an eBuilt home, visit ClaytonHomes.com.

(1) ZERH Logo Use Guidelines (energy.gov)

(2) https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/window-types-and-technologies

(3) Compared to the energy needed to power a single 100-watt incandescent light bulb constantly for one year

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5 ways to save money on any home’s heat and air conditioning

2023-12-13T08:01:01

(BPT) – HVAC systems not only enhance home comfort but, when operating efficiently, can also contribute to cost savings. As colder temperatures begin to sweep the country, many homeowners are wondering how to best utilize their HVAC system to avoid costly heating bills. Similarly, these tips apply to warmer temperatures and savings on cooling bills.

Here are five strategic ways in which a home’s heating and air conditioning system can optimize the climate and serve as a savvy tool for trimming down home expenses. From smart usage practices to regular maintenance tips, these insights can help any homeowner’s HVAC system to last for years to come and provide additional comfort and savings.

Maximizing the efficiency of a home’s current system is key to ensuring it works optimally over the years while continuing to provide utility bill savings due to efficiencies.

Consider implementing the following strategies to minimize expenses with an existing HVAC system:

1. Enhance the home’s weather resistance

The operational dynamics of an HVAC system are significantly influenced by how well the home functions. A well-functioning home correlates with an efficiently operating HVAC system. Weatherizing the home not only amplifies its overall effectiveness but also elevates comfort levels while reducing energy expenses.

Weatherization entails sealing all windows, doors, attics and basements to thwart heat loss. If the home has an older duct system, consider sealing it to prevent conditioned air leakage into unconditioned spaces, potentially leading to prolonged HVAC system operation. In regions with hot or warmer climates, installing blinds or solar shades can effectively mitigate the entry of the sun’s heat, minimizing the reliance on air conditioning.

2. Regulate the home’s humidity levels

Effectively managing the humidity within the home contributes to maintaining optimal comfort and reducing costs. During the winter, introducing humidity into the living space prevents dryness and also enhances comfort at lower temperatures. In the summer, maintaining lower humidity levels promotes comfort even at higher indoor temperatures. In both scenarios, controlling home humidity lessens the operational duration of the HVAC system required to sustain a comfortable environment.

3. Get smart about the thermostat

Take charge of temperature settings to suit your preferences, whether at home or away. Utilize solutions such as Rheem®’s EcoNet® Smart Thermostat that enable seamless temperature adjustments from any location. Leveraging geofencing technology, EcoNet intelligently detects the homeowners’ presence, adjusting the heating or cooling settings to maximize energy efficiency based on whether they are home or away.

4. Implement energy-efficient practices

Incorporate energy-conscious practices as part of a daily routine to optimize the efficiency of your HVAC system and achieve substantial long-term savings on home energy bills. Begin by ensuring that doors and windows are closed when the HVAC system is in operation, preventing the unnecessary loss of conditioned air and ensuring that the home maintains a consistent and comfortable temperature. Utilize ceiling fans strategically to enhance air circulation, promoting even distribution throughout the living space. These straightforward yet impactful habits collectively contribute to heightened energy efficiency, translating into tangible and lasting reductions in overall energy expenses.

5. Keep current with routine maintenance inspections.

Scheduled service checks guarantee the optimal and efficient operation of any HVAC system, simultaneously averting potential major issues that could jeopardize both efficiency and the overall health of the system. It is advisable to conduct maintenance checks at least bi-annually, ideally before the onset of significant heating and cooling seasons during the winter and summer.

Looking to do a complete overhaul and in search of an energy-efficient HVAC system but unsure where to begin? Explore leading HVACR manufacturer, Rheem’s Sustainability Standouts for a comprehensive lineup of efficient solutions designed to ensure a comfortable home and efficiencies that provide long-term budget savings.

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How open communication and early planning can help create a seamless farm succession

2023-12-13T00:01:00

(BPT) – The passing of the head of the family is an emotional event. Their passing has even larger implications when that transition also includes an agricultural business and decades of family tradition. By planning in advance for the farm’s future, farmers can help protect their families’ relationships, finances and legacy.

Cari Rincker is an Illinois attorney whose firm, Rincker Law, PLLC, specializes in helping families plan for farm succession. Coming from a farm family herself, Rincker’s experience with farm succession issues is more than professional.

“My father is a farmer, and he’s looking at gradually reducing the time he spends doing physical labor,” she said. “So, as we go through that transition, we’re starting to have more conversations about what’s next.”

Talking to a loved one about the farm’s future can be difficult. However, such conversations lay the groundwork for a smoother transition from owners to successors.

“The law is one thing, but every family has its own dynamics,” said Rincker. “When you’re talking about money, business and family, a lot of raw emotions can come up. Balancing it all can be quite a dance.”

The anatomy of a farm’s future

Plotting a farm’s future depends on three overlapping components: Estate, business and succession planning.

Estate planning may include making a will or trust to distribute assets to the intended beneficiaries, whether a farm-specific asset or a more standard personal inheritance.

“I recommend trusts,” said Rincker. “Assets in a trust don’t have to go through probate, so they pass to beneficiaries instantaneously. A trust is also private, so it never becomes public record.”

Business planning includes designating the farm or ranch as a business entity, like a limited liability company or corporation, to help protect assets and reduce personal liability. Rincker points out that general partnerships and sole proprietorships don’t protect the land or personal assets in a lawsuit.

Finally, succession planning spells out who will assume the farm’s operation and in what roles, which helps transition management and knowledge.

“Succession planning is probably the most delicate aspect of a farm’s future, but it’s also the most important,” said Rincker. “Without that, it doesn’t matter how great your estate and business plans are. You won’t succeed in passing the farm business to the next generation.”

Because of the emotionally charged nature of farm succession planning, Rincker suggests having a neutral third party in the room — or on the video conference — to help soothe family tension.

Expect the unexpected

Passing on the family business may not always go as planned, so it’s critical to have a backup plan. According to Andrew Branan, an attorney-turned-professor at North Carolina State University who focuses on farm succession planning, a succession plan must include how the farm will pass to the successors and what happens if it doesn’t.

Both Rincker and Branan note that the planning components are living documents that should be reviewed and revised as necessary. They also recommend families gather information while the legal documents are in the works. Basic operation manuals, written procedures and redundancies in access to everything from building keys to account and policy numbers prepare heirs and employees for the future, including unforeseen events.

“Sometimes I get terrified thinking, ‘If something happened to my father, am I going to be able to find the FSA numbers or get all the details in order to deal with the growing season?'” said Rincker.

She stresses that it’s important to not let perfect get in the way of good.

“Just get something in place and then perfect it over time,” said Rincker. “Even if you don’t have a will or trust, there is still a plan, but it’s a plan the law in your state has given you. I think we’d all rather have the autonomy to decide for ourselves how things will pass to the next generation.”

To read more articles on planning for your farm’s future, visit SyngentaThrive.com.

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Building Hope: 9 Essential Steps to Reducing Youth Suicide

2023-12-12T14:01:00

(BPT) – Adolescence is a critical time in everyone’s development — teens and young adults learn to make decisions, manage emotions, create deeper connections with peers and their communities, and build resilience. Young people’s developing brains are well suited to these tasks, but too often the systems that serve them are not. And the unique pressures they face today have fueled escalating rates of mental health challenges and the number of youth who die by suicide.

The Jed Foundation (JED) — a leading nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide among our nation’s teens and young adults — recently issued “Youth Suicide: Current Trends and the Path to Prevention,” which highlights suicide trends among youth. One of the report’s key findings was that 10% of high school students attempted suicide in the past year.

“Over the past few years, young people have been significantly impacted by society’s greatest challenges, including the pandemic, war, climate change, racial disparities and school shootings. They do this without the context, experience and resilience that adults possess,” said John MacPhee, JED’s chief executive officer.

Although overall suicide rates have continued to increase, there is reason for hope and actions to be taken. The report highlights provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that found that suicide rates for youth ages 10–24 declined between 2021 and 2022, including a significant drop (22%) for girls ages 10–14. With knowledge and resources, parents, educators, communities and policymakers can help reduce suicide rates among teens and young adults.

“We have an opportunity to actively protect teens and young adults by compassionately providing them with the skills and care they need to succeed while also working to reduce the barriers and risk factors in our society,” said MacPhee.

Supporting youth mental health and preventing suicide requires a systemwide, evidence-based approach. As part of the report, JED outlined nine essential steps to reducing youth suicide that offer solutions to support all youth — including specific recommendations for groups of young people who face additional stressors — improve youth mental health, and prevent suicide.

1. Take a comprehensive approach

Adopting a comprehensive approach is the first step in reducing suicide risk. A great example is JED’s Comprehensive Approach to Mental Health Promotion and Suicide Prevention, which focuses on developing life skills, promoting social connectedness, identifying and supporting students at risk, increasing help-seeking behavior, providing mental health and substance misuse services, establishing and following crisis management procedures, and promoting means safety.

2. Create connection and community

In U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s 2023 advisory “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” he points out that youth are especially disconnected and isolated, which can fundamentally affect mental, physical and emotional health. Designing communities of care in schools, creating opportunities and spaces for young people to meet and gather organically, and supporting intergenerational connections can help address youth loneliness.

3. Meet basic needs and address trauma

There are strong links between poverty, societal and racial inequity, trauma and mental health struggles. That’s why it’s important to strengthen social safety nets to meet students’ basic needs — like housing, food, education and health care — and expand access to trauma-informed care.

It’s also critical to use community- and family-based, trauma-informed approaches for reducing youth involvement in the criminal legal system to address important root causes of suicide. Youth (ages 10–24) involved with the criminal legal system die by suicide at rates two to three times higher than the general youth population.

4. Increase coping and emotional support skills

Self-awareness and interpersonal skills help young people better solve problems, manage emotional stressors, and control impulses, improving their ability to move through challenges. Trained, caring adults and young people can play a vital role in helping youth develop and access emotional support and coping skills, including how to identify and reach out to someone who may be struggling and connect them to professional support.

5. Meaningfully increase access to care

Too many young people reach out for professional help and run into barriers. We must support the implementation and enforcement of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, require insurance coverage of mental health services delivered in schools, ensure that provider networks adequately serve diverse populations, and design crisis services to meet the needs of communities.

6. Make widespread use of proven suicide prevention treatments and interventions

There are underutilized treatments that meaningfully reduce suicidal thoughts and attempts. Prioritizing the use of proven approaches like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS), cognitive behavioral therapy for suicide prevention (CBT-SP), attachment-based family therapy, brief safety planning interventions, and pharmacological interventions can help lower suicide rates.

7. Reduce access to lethal means

Reducing access to lethal means is a powerful way to reduce suicide. This is especially true for firearms. Firearms are the leading method of suicide death overall, and approximately 90% of suicide attempts by firearm are fatal. Everyone from families to gun owner groups to legislators can play a role in advocating for and implementing responsible gun storage to meaningfully reduce suicide risk.

8. Advocate for safe online spaces

More and more young people are engaged in online activities in a largely unregulated space. Policymakers and other stakeholders must take a pro-safety approach to apps and platforms where young people spend time, centering youth in any efforts to improve them.

9. Leverage technology to support youth mental health

Although technology can pose risks for young people, it also offers more ways to connect with each other and access mental health care. By leveraging technology, we can provide youth with access to professional help through telemedicine, connect to young people where they are in digital spaces, and use the virtual worlds of gaming, the metaverse, and extended reality to offer resources and support in real time.

Everyone can do their part

“Suicide rates for young people have been rising for over a decade due to factors that include isolation, increasing access to firearms and difficulty connecting to mental health treatment. Particular groups of youth are disproportionately impacted because of the effects of social determinants of health,” said Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth, JED’s chief medical officer. “Our first-of-its-kind report aims to provide a nuanced perspective on how these influences are driving suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts and deaths among different groups of youth, and identifies strategies that can help parents, educators, public officials and policymakers mitigate these trends to improve young people’s mental health and save lives.”

However you’re involved in the life of a young person — as a parent, educator, coach or any other type of mentor — you can be the support they need.

If you or someone you know needs to talk to someone right now, text, call or chat 988 for a free confidential conversation with a trained counselor 24/7.

You can also contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “HOME” to 741741.

If this is a medical emergency or if there is immediate danger of harm, call 911 and explain that you need support for a mental health crisis.

Download “Youth Suicide: Current Trends and the Path to Prevention” at jedfoundation.org/youth-suicide-current-trends-and-the-path-to-prevention. To learn more about how you can support the young people in your life, visit jedfoundation.org.

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How to plan an unforgettable weekend vacation for the whole family

2023-12-12T08:01:01

(BPT) – Family vacations aren’t just a break from the daily grind or routine, they’re also an opportunity to enjoy fun experiences together to build connection and try new things to make memories that will last a lifetime. Has it been a while since your family’s had a vacation? It may be time to start planning a weekend getaway for 2024! While planning a vacation for the whole family is easier said than done, here are five tips to plan your next family getaway effortlessly.

1. Choose the right destination

Before you can truly start planning your weekend trip in earnest, you’ll need to pick a location. When picking a vacation destination, consider your method of travel and if stopovers are required, the distance, necessary visas, and paperwork, as well as your family’s preferred climate.

You’ll also need to take into account everyone’s interests. For example, if one or more of your family members has a passion for theater, pick a city with a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Or, for thrill seekers, choose a location with a theme park. Need a sunny, warm getaway from your home’s winter weather? Look for a beach resort. No matter where you choose to vacation, factoring in everyone’s preferences will ensure the destination has something for all.

2. Book family-friendly accommodations

Now that you know where you’re going, you’ll need to set up accommodations. It’s crucial to look for family-friendly hotels or resorts with plenty of amenities, including spacious rooms, kid-friendly activities, and maybe even a pool or playground. Always check online reviews to make sure that the accommodations listed on the hotel’s website meet travelers’ expectations.

Once you’ve chosen a hotel, don’t wait to book. Securing a room in advance removes the hassle and any last-minute scrambling during peak travel season.

Give yourself the flexibility of booking your family adventure your way by using Citi Travel with Booking.com. With a selection of 1.4 million hotels and hundreds of thousands of attractions, this convenient booking platform allows eligible Citi® cardmembers to book hotels, air travel, car rentals, and attractions all in one place. To learn more, please visit ThankYou.com.

3. Pack wisely

One way to reduce pre-travel stress is by packing efficiently for your vacation. Your luggage checklists should include weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, special items for planned activities, important travel documents like IDs, travel insurance, and essential medical information.

When traveling with little ones, you may need to tote bulky items, such as strollers, playpens, and bouncers. Consider popular baby equipment rental services that provide a hassle-free solution for travelers dealing with baggage restrictions.

4. Create an itinerary, but leave room for discovery

To make the most of your trip, build out a rough itinerary to hit your family’s priority events and attractions. Planning a mix of activities, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, as well as scheduled downtime will keep the vacation fresh and entertaining for everyone. Make sure to leave room to discover local spots along the way. When compiling your itinerary, make sure to research local attractions and purchase tickets in advance. If you have an eligible Citi® credit card, you can book attractions across the globe with the Citi Travel™ site. Heading to Chicago? Secure a reservation for the Chicago Architecture River Cruise. Dreaming of a long weekend in the Big Apple? Look into passes for the Manhattan Sky Tour and New York Helicopter Flight. Are you an outdoorsy group? The Grand Canyon Guided Tour would be a perfect addition. Wherever you roam, you can book your trip on the Citi Travel™ site and easily compare your options to find the perfect activities for your family.

5. Share responsibilities

You don’t have to (& shouldn’t!) do all the trip planning on your own. Before the trip, lighten the load by assigning responsibilities to each family member. Someone can be in charge of organizing the group to and from planned events, another can be responsible for always keeping snacks on hand, and another can keep everyone on track with the itinerary. This collaborative approach not only relieves any overwhelming stress, but also ensures everyone feels involved!

Are you ready to go on your next family vacation? Use these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to planning a trip your family will remember for years to come.