Category: Brandpoint

2023-11-20T12:25:00

(BPT) – If you’re ready to turn your winter holidays from ho-hum to ho-ho-ho, you’re in luck. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is making the most of the winter season with festive holiday offerings to delight visitors of all ages. If you’ve never imagined spending your holiday season on a beach, it’s time to envision winter on The Beach, with their 12 Days of Beachmas.

To please every visitor attracted by their 60 miles of sun-soaked coastline, Myrtle Beach is pulling out all the stops to help you and your loved ones make memories to last a lifetime.

For a highlight of holiday activities the Grand Strand has to offer this winter, Visit Myrtle Beach put together “12 Days of Beachmas” — a list of 12 fantastic unique experiences every visitor should check twice!

1. Winter Wonderland at The Beach is back — bigger, brighter and beachier than ever. Winter Wonderland Lights will be displayed nightly Nov. 14, 2023, through Jan. 1, 2024, from 6-9 p.m. Their Winter Wonderland Festival takes place Dec. 1-3, 2023, in Plyler Park, along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with spectacular activities like the free Winter Wonderland Drone Show and S’mores on the Boardwalk to warm up your holiday season.

2. Dazzling holiday shows and live entertainment will satisfy any taste. Immerse yourself in the joy of the season at major holiday shows such as The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, or sing along to your favorite festive tunes at one of The Beach’s many live music venues.

3. Seasonal strolls let you stretch your legs, whether under sunny blue skies or along inviting park trails. Soak up the beauty of Brookgreen Gardens, which offers beautiful botanical displays, an on-site zoo, fascinating historical sites and stunning art collections. Insider’s tip: If you didn’t score tickets to the spectacular Nights of A Thousand Candles, a daytime trip is the perfect opportunity to explore Brookgreen Gardens in December.

4. Ripley’s Festival of Trees will help you celebrate the heritage and diversity of the U.S. with a display of themed trees adorned in decorations and ornaments representing the 55 states and territories. The South Carolina tree is over 18 feet tall! The event is included with general admission to Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, Nov. 10 through Dec. 31, 2023.

5. Relaxing spa packages are guaranteed to help you unwind. You can opt for an end-of-the-year relaxation package at one of Myrtle Beach’s many first-class spa resorts and retreats, like the full-service offerings at the Cinzia Spa in North Myrtle Beach, or you could indulge in some much-needed self-care by booking your entire stay at the Anderson Ocean Club and Spa.

6. Say ‘Cheers’ to the year by making a toast on the Myrtle Beach Beer Trail, which takes you on a tour of the area’s best local breweries, brewpubs and craft brew experiences. Check off trail stops on the Trail Pass for an opportunity to win fun prizes along the way!

7. Holiday horseback riding: Giddy-up, let’s go! Explore miles of scenic coastline with a one-of-a-kind adventure on horseback. Inlet Point Plantation offers custom horseback rides along the beach at sunset to create a truly memorable holiday tradition.

8. Gifts galore can be found everywhere, from local mercantile and artisanal offerings to high-end boutiques and national outlets. Myrtle Beach has countless shopping experiences to help you check off your entire wish list.

9. Festive light shows will put you and your family in the holiday mood. You can feast your eyes on dazzling holiday light shows throughout the Grand Strand. At The Great Christmas Light Show located in the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, Nov. 20 through Dec. 30, 2023, you can adventure through over 500 magical light displays and take a stroll through Santa’s Village while sipping a delicious, hot cup of cocoa. Downtown Conway’s Celebration of Lights is also sure to delight with more opportunities to see Santa, while marveling at an array of lights on Thursdays through Sundays from Nov. 30 through Dec. 24, 2023.

10. Winter wildlife abounds at numerous wildlife sanctuaries and parks across the region. You can discover Myrtle Beach’s stunning seasonal flora and fauna and surround yourself with nature at sites like Huntington Beach State Park, which is known as a top spot for East Coast bird watching.

11. Seasonal cuisine: Sample flavorful local fare at Myrtle Beach’s plethora of mouthwatering restaurants. From fresh seafood, traditional southern fare and Gullah dishes to fusion fine dining and unique sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy all taste buds at The Beach.

12. Artful celebrations are bound to delight and move you. Marvel at awe-inspiring art installations and masterpieces at museums, galleries and numerous public spaces on the Myrtle Beach Arts and Gallery Trail, featuring over 100 stops around the Grand Strand.

If you’re searching for a holiday experience that’s warm and welcoming, you’ll find much more than just a day at The Beach when you visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Ready to plan your holiday getaway? Explore all your options at VisitMyrtleBeach.com, or call 888-Myrtle-1.

2023-11-20T12:45:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is upon us. Nearly half of Americans are planning to travel for the holidays this year, according to a recent survey.[1] With more people passing through high-contact spaces like airports and hotels and gathering with loved ones, it also means your exposure to respiratory illnesses will be greater in the coming weeks.

In recent years, the U.S. has seen a surge in COVID-19, flu and sometimes RSV activity during the holiday season.[2],[3],[4] This year, we’ve already experienced major late summer spikes in COVID-19 activity nationwide and RSV activity in the Southeast.[5],[6] National flu activity is also steadily increasing, with a 50% rise in cases over the past week.[7]

“While it’s exciting to resume bigger holiday gatherings and trips, it’s important to remember that respiratory illnesses are in circulation. We don’t want to bring flu, COVID-19 or RSV home for the holidays,” says Michael Pedro, PharmD, Walgreens Pharmacist. “I encourage everyone to get their recommended vaccines as soon as possible before you travel or gather, to allow time for immunity to fully develop and increase your protection. I also recommend COVID-19 and flu testing, because knowing for sure can help keep your family healthy this holiday season. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare providers and are ready to discuss any questions you may have about vaccines, testing or other steps you can take to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.”

4 reasons to get vaccinated this holiday season

If you haven’t gotten the flu, COVID-19 or RSV vaccine, it’s not too late. Here are four reasons to put vaccination on your to-do list before you travel or gather with family and friends for the holidays.

1. You’re expanding your protection during peak respiratory illness season. While respiratory illness season is unpredictable, cases tend to peak during and after the holiday season, which is why the CDC recommends getting vaccinated around this time of year. Getting the flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines now will provide you with the best protection against getting seriously ill during potential surges later this winter.
2. You’re protecting your at-risk loved ones. Getting vaccinated reduces the chances that you’ll spread respiratory illnesses to people who are at high risk of developing severe complications as they return to traveling and seeing their loved ones this year.
3. It’s easy when you come to Walgreens. Walgreens makes it simple for you and your loved ones to get all the vaccines you need ahead of the holidays in one visit. You can easily schedule online or using the Walgreens app, and you can book multiple immunizations during the same visit. Walgreens offers flexible openings, including nights, weekends and walk-ins when available.
4. It may be at no cost to you. COVID-19 vaccines are often covered by insurance or government assistance programs, such as the CDC’s Bridge Access Program. The flu shot is covered by most insurance plans with a $0 copay, although provider networks may vary; those enrolled in Medicare Part B and many with Medicaid in certain states may also receive the flu and RSV shot at no cost. Walgreens remains focused on driving equitable and convenient access to life-saving vaccines.

Walgreens: Your partner in health

Walgreens is your one-stop resource for all your immunization, testing and treatment needs this holiday season. Stay prepared by stocking up on at-home tests and medicine cabinet essentials when you come in for your vaccination appointment or via 24-hour same-day delivery. If you begin experiencing sniffles or other respiratory symptoms over the holidays, call or visit a local Walgreens. Your pharmacist can discuss in-store or virtual care treatment options and advise you on the best next steps to get back on your feet and keep those around you safe.

To schedule your vaccination appointment today or learn more, visit Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine.

2023-11-20T11:23:00

(BPT) – For many family caregivers, supporting a loved one through a health journey can be overwhelming, isolating and lonely. Fortunately, CaringBridge, the global leading no-cost health platform, addresses those needs by improving emotional health and social support, helping people come together in support of healing. As the world gears up for GivingTuesday, you have the opportunity to contribute to this transformative mission and make a lasting impact.

One person who has benefitted from CaringBridge during health challenges is Sabeeha. After her breast cancer diagnosis, her friends and family were constantly reaching out to show support and to find out what was going on.

“They are asking because they care,” said Sabeeha’s husband and primary family caregiver, Huzefa. “But it is very difficult to be so repetitive and still have a positive mindset. It was a lot of drain to repeat and repeat and repeat.”

To help capture and communicate their journey to family and friends around the world, Huzefa, Sabeeha and their family turned to CaringBridge — the donor-supported nonprofit that provides a private, ad-free space for communication, support and connection for anyone on a health journey.

“The caregiver’s journey is an endless journey,” says Huzefa. “I would not have been able to remain as positive if it was not for CaringBridge to offload that part of it. It gave me the forum to be positive, to be open, to be vulnerable.”

Connecting from afar

For other families, treatment logistics or protocols require isolation, which can cause them to feel alone. When Katie Stanley and Betsy Olesen found out their soon-to-be-born baby, William, had heterotaxy syndrome, a rare condition where organs form abnormally, it meant he needed a heart transplant shortly after birth. Katie and Betsy started a CaringBridge page for William about a month before he was born to share updates with their community.

“Nobody could even visit us for the first three months of William’s life, and it was extremely lonely,” Katie said. “Sharing our story definitely made us feel less alone because people were celebrating the exciting things William was doing, and they were grieving the things that we needed to grieve.”

Now two years after his transplant, William is a thriving, tenacious toddler and his moms still use CaringBridge to share positive updates and exciting milestones with their loved ones.

Controlling your own story

When Robin Yoder was diagnosed with Pleomorphic Undifferentiated Soft Tissue Sarcoma, a leg amputation was the only thing that could save her life. As a counselor, Robin was no stranger to health journeys and wanted to make sure she had control over the narrative so there would be no misinterpretation of her story.

“Some of the hardest dynamics are once information in your family goes out, everyone has their own interpretation of how they share it with the next person,” she explains. “Then, everybody absorbs the social context with which they understand cancer and they create a bigger story.”

Together with her teenage son, Robin documented her journey through photos and words on CaringBridge as she underwent surgery and began to heal. She was also grateful for the support of her community through their uplifting comments on her page.

“It was so comforting late at night, when I didn’t want to wake my husband,” she says. “I could log onto CaringBridge and read the comments that people were giving me, uplifting me. It was a way that everybody could participate.”

Each day, 300,000 people visit CaringBridge to surround family caregivers and their loved ones with support. This GivingTuesday, you can help ensure the incredible impact CaringBridge has on the lives of family caregivers and their loved ones continues to grow in support of their vision: A world where no one goes through a health journey alone.

Plus, now your generous donation will go further because this year, the CaringBridge Board of Directors has committed to providing a matching gift of up to $75,000. Donate today to double your impact and ensure that CaringBridge is available for everyone, anytime, anywhere, whenever someone needs to support a loved one on a health journey. Learn more at CaringBridge.org/Give.

2023-11-20T08:13:00

(BPT) – It’s a familiar situation — a light tickle in your throat soon turns into a cough that sounds like it could be trouble. Is it allergies, a cold, RSV or something worse? With so many potential causes of cough, especially during cold and flu season, it can be hard to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. Moreover, despite how common a cough is, there are several misconceptions that can lead to further confusion about what your cough might mean.

“Clearing up the common myths can not only help people get to the root cause of their symptoms, but it can also empower them to take charge of their health in an informed way,” said Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, associate chief medical officer at MDLIVE. “Identifying the underlying condition or trigger of one’s cough is crucial in ensuring appropriate and effective treatment.”

To combat the confusion, Dr. Roundtree outlines common misunderstandings about coughs and how to determine when to seek care from a doctor.

1. Myth: Antibiotics will cure any cough.

For coughs associated with a respiratory infection caused by a virus, you won’t find much relief through antibiotics. Contrary to popular belief, antibiotics are ineffective against viruses as they are designed to combat bacterial infections. When antibiotics aren’t needed, they can ultimately cause more harm than good — such as abdominal pain, rashes and allergic reactions.

2. Myth: The duration of the cough isn’t that important.

Believe it or not, the sound of a cough isn’t the only thing that matters when determining the severity of an underlying condition. The duration of a cough is often more telling in getting to the root cause of the issue. For instance, an acute cough, which typically lasts less than three weeks and is often accompanied by additional cold-like symptoms, can pinpoint a short-lived illness. On the flip side, a cough that lasts more than eight weeks can point to a chronic condition, like asthma or allergies.

3. Myth: The scarier the cough sounds, the worse it is.

Some coughs may sound more alarming than others, but it is important not to judge a cough by its sound alone. A scary-sounding cough doesn’t always indicate a serious condition. While a cough can be a vital symptom in determining the underlying issue, it should always be evaluated in conjunction with other symptoms. If you or your loved one experiences difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face, seek emergency care.

4. Myth: No cough means no real sickness.

It’s easy to think that a lack of coughing equates to a lack of illness, but this isn’t always true. Some illnesses, like strep throat and mononucleosis, don’t usually come with a cough. Remember, diseases can show up in different ways — and sometimes, coughs develop later. If you are unsure about being sick, you can conduct a visit with an MDLIVE virtual care provider from the comfort of your home — usually within 15 minutes or less — and avoid exposure to other sick people in crowded urgent care centers, walk-in clinics or ER waiting rooms. MDLIVE physicians can also help you determine if your cough may require an in-person assessment.

5. Myth: All coughs are contagious.

While it’s common to associate coughing with a contagious illness, the truth is that not all coughs are transmissible. Coughs that are a result of non-infectious conditions, including allergies, asthma or GERD, do not pose a risk to others. Without getting a diagnosis from a healthcare professional, it is difficult to tell if your cough is contagious.

Once you understand your cough better, you’ll be more equipped to properly manage and treat your symptoms. For immediate relief, remedies like hot tea and honey, steamy showers, or over-the-counter medications like cough suppressants or expectorants can help alleviate your cough. If you are grappling with a persistent, severe or worrisome cough, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a trusted medical professional to get to the bottom of what’s causing your symptoms

2023-11-20T08:01:00

(BPT) – Thanksgiving should be a time to enjoy a delicious feast and spend time with loved ones. However, many households face plumbing issues the day after this joyous meal.

While most people call the day after Thanksgiving Black Friday, those in the plumbing industry know that day as Brown Friday. According to Mr. Rooter Plumbing, the day after Thanksgiving has historically been the busiest day of the year for plumbers, when they receive a surge of calls about clogged kitchen sinks.

Why do so many sinks clog after Thanksgiving? Cooks and guests often make common mistakes that back up a kitchen’s plumbing system. Don’t let a clogged sink ruin your long holiday weekend. Follow these six expert tips to maintain your plumbing so you can focus on celebrating Thanksgiving.

1. Don’t stuff Thanksgiving favorites down the sink

Cleaning up after a typical Thanksgiving dinner puts a greater strain on your kitchen sink than your daily meals. The greater volume of food and the types of food of a traditional Thanksgiving meal are especially prone to clogging sinks.

For example, potatoes, rice and pasta can also wreak havoc on your plumbing. All three foods are starchy, and when they get wet, they become glue-like and clump together, gumming up your pipes and causing backups, clogs and other issues.

2. Collect and toss oils and fats in the trash

Roast turkey, gravy and other Thanksgiving favorites are rich in fats and oils. As they cool, fats and oils re-solidify, coating your drain and leading to stubborn clogs. To keep your pipes clean and clear, avoid pouring greasy substances down the drain. Instead, collect fats and oils like turkey drippings into cans or containers that you can dispose of once the grease has cooled.

3. Clean your plate!

One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning up after Thanksgiving dinner is leaving food scraps and grease on plates and cookware that can easily clog up a kitchen sink.

Make sure to have a trash or compost bin handy, so you and your guests can quickly and easily scrape leftover food off plates before placing them in the sink for washing. Also, use paper towels to sop up leftover grease on plates. These simple steps that take a few extra minutes can go a long way in protecting your sink from nasty clogs.

4. Run the garbage disposal when you put food in, not after

If your sink has a garbage disposal, it’s crucial to use it correctly to avoid a clogged drain. A common mistake folks make when running the garbage disposal is to wait until the sink is full of food scraps. However, running the garbage disposal as you put food down the drain lessens the burden on your plumbing system because it can efficiently break down waste into smaller particles that are less likely to create a pipe blockage.

Also, remember to run cold water while operating the garbage disposal to prevent it from overheating, but run hot water after to help dissolve and flush residual grease and oil.

5. Use a food catcher

A food catcher (also called a drain screen or strainer) is another simple and efficient way to prevent food particles from entering your plumbing. Your local grocery or hardware should have food catchers that fit most kitchen sink drains.

When you’re done washing dishes, empty the catcher into the trash and rinse it out. This simple, effective tool easily prevents plumbing issues and can extend the life of your kitchen plumbing.

6. Call a professional

If you’re already experiencing kitchen draining and clogging problems, don’t wait until your guests arrive. Schedule a professional drain inspection or cleaning to keep your plumbing system working in tip-top shape. By taking care of kitchen sink issues as soon as they pop up, you can avoid Brown Friday and prevent costly plumbing repairs down the road.

Using these six proven tips, you can prevent your sink from clogging up and dampening your holiday festivities. To learn more about Brown Friday and how to take care of your plumbing, visit MrRooter.com/BrownFriday.

2023-11-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – Giving back to your community is an important and powerful way to create positive change right where you live. In addition to making an impact on the lives of others, volunteering also offers personal benefits. According to the Cleveland Clinic, regularly volunteering can boost physical and mental health. Researchers have found that people who volunteer tend to have lower blood pressure, increased self-esteem, lower rates of depression and live longer.

Volunteering is also a great opportunity for building confidence and personal growth. By giving your time, skills and resources, you can greatly impact the world around you and show people what you value. Think of this as your personal brand. What do you want people to associate with your brand, and how do you want to demonstrate your commitment to social change?

Knowing how to give back effectively can be difficult if you haven’t volunteered before. And now, especially with charitable giving declining, according to GivingUSA.org, it’s important to find the right opportunities to make the most impact. Jenny Perez, executive director of the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation (HNF), offers a guide on how to give back to your community (and the world!) in small and big ways.

Identify your personal values and passions

Do you feel strongly that your neighborhood needs a community garden? Are you interested in building structures for people experiencing homelessness? Are you passionate about mentoring young minds? Or what about holding eco-friendly events like beach cleanups and clothing swaps?

It’s important to reflect on the issues close to your heart so you can find ways to give back that reflect your core values. For example, Herbalife’s global sustainability strategy, in partnership with the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation, focuses on helping communities around the world access nutrition and healthier lifestyles, fostering healthy communities both nutritionally and with a business opportunity, while also supporting a thriving planet. This aligns with the company’s commitment to changing people’s lives with quality nutrition and serving people in the more than 90 markets where its products are distributed.

Start small

Once you know what you’re passionate about and what you value, start looking for ways you can give back with your time and resources. You don’t have to commit your whole life to volunteering or other charitable actions. In fact, doing so may cause you to burn out quickly and turn your passion into a dreaded chore.

Think of small ways you can give back to those around you. For example, if you’re passionate about health issues, start a walking club in your neighborhood. If you want kids and adults in your neighborhood to have access to literature, establish a Little Free Library. Even mundane acts like donating your gently used clothing and shopping locally can make an impact and show your commitment to your values.

Learn about local projects

Your neighborhood or city likely already has social or charitable programs you can join. Do some research online or head to your local library to see what programs and initiatives are looking for volunteers or need resources.

If you have a green thumb, see if you can dedicate some of your free time to nurturing plants at the community garden. Look through your pantry and see if there are unexpired items you know you won’t use and donate them to your local food pantry. Local schools may need mentors and tutors, so ask around and see if your expertise can help a child succeed. Whatever interests you, chances are there’s a group you can join and make a difference in your community.

Get involved with volunteering opportunities at your workplace

Many businesses recognize the value of giving back to the community and encourage their employees to volunteer. Find out if your company or organization offers work volunteering opportunities.

Giving back to communities through volunteerism is central to our culture at HNF and at Herbalife, and part of how we fulfill our purpose of helping people live their best lives. We encourage employees to volunteer their time and skills for causes and communities that are important to them. In select regions, Herbalife even offers paid time off for employees to volunteer.

In addition, Herbalife dedicates a month for global volunteering and acts of service, our Global Month of Purpose. During the month, employees and Herbalife independent distributors give back to their communities, including at the 168 Casa Herbalife Nutrition Programs sponsored by HNF, which provide millions of dollars in funding to orphanages, hospitals, schools, and organizations in more than 59 countries. In 2023, across our countries in Asia, Herbalife employees donated 3,200 hours by volunteering in various activities benefiting people and the environment in Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Search for worldwide volunteerism

If your heart goes out to communities around the globe, you can make an impact even from a thousand miles away. Many national and international programs are tailored to the needs of local communities.

For example, World Food Program USA, Feed the Children, and The Global FoodBanking Network address hunger in the U.S. and worldwide. You can make donations to these organizations or find out if they have a local chapter that needs volunteers. If you want to travel to a foreign community, you can find an organization like Habitat for Humanity and build homes for unhoused families. No matter what you find, your time, money and skills are incredibly valuable and can make a global impact.

Volunteer Online

As a result of the pandemic and the increased need for community support, virtual volunteering opportunities are even more prevalent. Based on your skills and area of interest, there are several resources and databases that can help you find the ideal online volunteer opportunity. For example, United Nations Volunteers connects you with organizations working for peace and development that are seeking volunteers skilled in research, writing, art, and design. Additionally, virtual volunteer tools like Catchafire refine your search by skill, cause area and time commitment, helping match you with a fulfilling opportunity more efficiently.

These are just a few different ways, big and small, to give back to your local community and the world. Let these examples help you find ways every day to make the earth a better place and live out your values.

To learn more about the Herbalife Nutrition Foundation, and to show your support for #GivingTuesday, visit www.herbalifenutrionfoundation.org.

2023-11-19T23:01:00

(BPT) – As the heart of the home, the kitchen comes even more alive during the holiday season. From baking favorite treats and preparing beloved family dishes to hosting special events of all sizes, it’s the hub of the holidays.

To prepare for all the buzz and make a great first impression on guests, consider upgrades to elevate the kitchen space. A few smart swaps and simple additions will enhance your kitchen to make it stylish and functional — both must-haves for the holidays and into the new year.

1. Create cohesiveness with hardware

Just like the right accessories complete an outfit, new drawer pulls and knobs can polish a kitchen aesthetic and provide cohesiveness. Remove old hardware and replace it with quality options in modern finishes and designs to add a touch of sophistication. Consider matte black or modern brass which are currently trending, but also timeless finishes.

2. A new faucet adds function

An old, dated faucet can be an eyesore that lacks functionality. Swap in the Edelyn kitchen faucet by Kohler x Studio McGee for a fresh look with a distinguished, high-profile spout and clean lines. Beyond its striking appearance, the faucet is practical, providing three spray functions for tackling kitchen tasks. With multiple finish options, matching to your kitchen design is a breeze.

3. Find containers for functional items

As much as you use your cupboard and pantry for storage, there are certain items like dish soap, coffee and sugar that you keep on the countertop for easy access. You can easily elevate the look of your kitchen by putting everyday items into special containers. For example, dish soap can be stored in an olive oil decanter that looks pretty next to the sink.

4. Enhance functionality with layered lighting

Drab, dated lighting fixtures make it difficult to get kitchen tasks done. Consider upgrading with Keren Lighting and Embra Lighting by Kohler x Studio McGee that allow you to thoughtfully layer task, ambient and accent lighting. With timeless design elements like glass spheres and textured details in numerous finishes, you’ll add fashion in addition to function to the kitchen.

5. Refresh the walls with paint and more

A new coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to update the kitchen aesthetic. Earth tones are popular in kitchens as well as nature-inspired greens and blues. You might even consider adding wallpaper to a focal wall or as an alternative to a tile backsplash. Adding a few pieces of art can also enhance the kitchen appearance.

The kitchen provides the backdrop for many important memories. From celebrations to sharing recipes to handing down cooking traditions, it’s important to create a space that is beautiful and functional. For more ideas and inspiration for kitchen upgrades, visit Kohler.com.

2023-11-16T15:01:00

(BPT) – As we head into the holidays, there’s nothing better than your favorite seasonal flavors. Peppermint candy cane, sea salt caramel, creamy hazelnut, gingerbread and more — all help you get into the spirit of the season and spread holiday cheer.

Whether you’re looking to satisfy your own sweet tooth or stock up on tasty treats to gift to your loved ones, here’s a roundup of bites and bars with festive flair that are perfect for fulfilling holiday wish lists and cravings:

Chocolove Holiday Tree Bites: These individually wrapped Christmas tree shaped chocolates make great stocking stuffers. They are available in two flavors while supplies last:

1. Dark Peppermint Crème: A cherished holiday flavor combination, the vegan-friendly bites are made with exceptionally smooth 55% dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint oil.
2. Milk Hazelnut Truffle: This flavor is made with 33% milk chocolate, rich hazelnut butter and a touch of salt for that irresistible classic hazelnut taste.

Chocolove Holiday Collection Bars: Also available for a limited time are Chocolove’s three holiday bars, which are a wonderful match for chocolate lovers who crave seasonal indulgences.

3. Fruit-Nut Medley in Dark Chocolate: A delicious twist on a classic holiday flavor, this chocolate bar is made with 55% dark chocolate, dried currants and cherries, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, orange peel and ginger for the ideal balance of flavor and texture.
4. Frosted Gingerbread in Milk Chocolate: Made with 33% milk chocolate and bits of real gingerbread, this is a chocolatey take on a classic holiday dessert.
5. Candy Cane Crunch in Dark Chocolate: Made with 55% dark chocolate and pieces of candy cane for a classic peppermint flavor that packs a nostalgic and rich holiday punch.

Chocolove’s holiday collection is available at Sprouts, Albertsons, Raley’s Supermarket, Whole Foods Market, Natural Grocers, New Seasons Market, Thrive Market, and Chocolove.com for a limited time.

If you’re craving salty and sweet flavors, or perhaps a blend of fruit and chocolate, Chocolove also has many classic bars to choose from, available year-round at major retailers, Chocolove.com and Amazon:

6. Almonds & Sea Salt in Dark Chocolate: Made with 55% cocoa, the crunchy almonds and sea salt crystals make a tantalizing combination.
7. Salted Caramel in Dark Chocolate: You can’t go wrong with salted caramel and chocolate. Made with 55% cocoa, this rich European chocolate delightfully complements the premium salted caramel filling.
8. Classic Milk Chocolate: A creamy Belgian milk chocolate blended with notes of caramel into a light cocoa finish that feels luxurious.
9. Toffee & Almonds in Milk Chocolate: Buttery sweet toffee and dry roasted almonds are enveloped in creamy Belgian milk chocolate; delicious with an afternoon cup of coffee.
10. Raspberries in Dark Chocolate: Crispy bits of freeze-dried raspberries burst with flavor in this light, semi-sweet dark chocolate bar.
11. Hawaiian Sea Salt in Dark Chocolate: Hawaiian sea salt provides a delicate and soothing complement to the 72% strong dark chocolate.
12. Looking for the perfect recipe for a cookie exchange, holiday gathering or to give to your next party host? Try out this Crinkle Cookie recipe that can be customized with your favorite Chocolove chocolate bar.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 bar Chocolove Strong Dark Chocolate 70%, melted, or your favorite Chocolove bar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt in a medium-sized bowl. In a separate large bowl, combine eggs, white sugar and brown sugar. Add melted butter, vanilla and your melted Chocolove bar, stirring to combine.

Add flour mix to sugar mix and stir until just combined. Place dough in freezer for one hour to harden. Roll into ping-pong-sized balls, drop each ball into a bowl of granulated sugar, and then into a bowl of powdered sugar. Place sugared dough balls onto a parchment-lined tray and bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Choose Chocolove for all of your holiday gifting needs and entertaining plans this season. Chocolove chocolate is made with traceable cocoa beans, is non GMO Project Verified and Rainforest Alliance Certified, meaning the chocolate is sourced using methods that support social, economic and environmental sustainability.