Category: Brandpoint

2025-08-12T11:01:01

(BPT) – Jimmy Castillo has always welcomed new adventures. The Southern California native enjoys traveling and exploring new corners of the world. But after decades of global exploration, his most unexpected journey began close to home — in his doctor’s office.

At age 39, Castillo started noticing patches of painful, pus-filled blisters across his body, including his hands and lower back. Though he had been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis decades earlier at age 15, he knew immediately that this was something different.

“It was different than what I was used to as a teenager,” he recalls. “I knew something wasn’t right.”

Unbeknownst to Castillo, he was grappling with generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) — a potentially dangerous and distinct form of psoriasis. GPP occurs when there is an imbalance in one of the pathways that manages inflammation in your body — the interleukin-36, or IL-36 pathway.

GPP is characterized by the sudden appearance of multiple small blisters filled with pus (called pustules) on large areas of the skin of the body, arms, and legs, that also become red and painful. Intense symptoms can include fever, chills and loss of appetite. GPP can cause underlying inflammation, plus unpredictable flares which can occur several times a year and can become life-threatening. GPP is rare, impacting approximately 1 in 10,000 people in the United States.

While GPP can develop at any age, most people are diagnosed in their 50s, and it is more common in women. The physical and emotional toll can be substantial — impacting daily activities, triggering anxiety, and leaving many in fear of their next flare.

“It was in very noticeable areas,” Castillo shares. “Having it on my hands and using my hands to pay or to eat — I felt like everybody noticed. I became very shy, and I didn’t want to go out, I used to wear gloves with fingertips cut out just to feel a little more comfortable.”

Refusing to settle, he fought for a diagnosis and began learning more about his GPP. While flare-ups still occur, he now feels empowered with the knowledge and tools to navigate them.

A turning point came when he connected with others in the GPP community. “With GPP, you live in fear every day,” Castillo says. “Talking to peers, participating in events, and learning from others with GPP has made a world of difference. I realized I wasn’t alone.”

“Jimmy’s experience highlights the critical need for increased awareness of generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP), a chronic and rare disease that can leave individuals feeling isolated and misunderstood. By equipping those impacted by GPP with education and a sense of community, we can work to overcome diagnostic delays and alleviate daily challenges, creating a future where no one faces GPP alone,” said Vicky Brown, Senior Vice President, U.S. Therapeutic Head for Immunology, Oncology & Eye Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

For too long, patients with GPP have felt resigned to managing symptoms alone, but that landscape is changing. Jimmy’s story is a powerful reminder that patients deserve more than “good enough” care — they deserve to live openly without fear.

Boehringer Ingelheim is proud to sponsor the National Psoriasis Foundation’s first-ever GPP Awareness Day on August 13, reinforcing its commitment to raising awareness and supporting the GPP community through education, advocacy, and connection.

GPP and plaque psoriasis are different, so it’s important to speak with your dermatologist or other health care provider to get an accurate diagnosis and to help ensure the best care.

To learn more about GPP and to hear from others in the community, visit GPPandMe.com.

2025-08-11T09:55:00

(BPT) – By Chris Jo, head of the webOS Platform Business Center at the LG Media Entertainment Solution Company at LG Electronics

At LG Electronics, we are accelerating our drive for qualitative growth by focusing on B2B, non-hardware and direct-to-consumer (D2C) business models. This transformation is about more than just moving beyond the sale of physical products — it’s about building continuous customer engagement and diversifying revenue through long-term partnerships.

One of the most compelling examples of this shift is the evolution of our webOS platform business.

From Smart TV OS to Scalable Media Platform

Originally launched as a smart TV operating system, webOS has grown into a robust, multi-service platform that now includes AI-powered content recommendations, cloud gaming, home IoT connectivity and B2B display solutions. Its open and flexible architecture enables seamless integration with global device manufacturers and content providers — a key driver behind its global scalability and adaptability.

webOS Hub 3.0: Powering Display Innovation

Recently launched webOS Hub 3.0 is gaining rapid traction as a scalable Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) for display makers around the world. Supporting features like AI voice recommendations, cloud gaming integration and smart home control, it is built to operate across a wide range of display products — not just LG’s.

As of 2025, over 600 global brands have adopted webOS Hub, solidifying our leadership in the OS market for display manufacturers.

What sets webOS Hub apart is the delivery of multifaceted services into a single, integrated platform — from global streaming apps to FAST (Free Ad-supported Streaming TV) via LG Channels or cloud gaming. This creates meaningful value for both manufacturers and end users alike.

Beyond the home, webOS is also expanding into commercial venues, hotels and public institutions, evolving into a smart platform solution that improves operational efficiency and enables targeted content delivery. This expansion supports long-term, contract-based business models with enterprise clients.

LG Channels: Elevating Content Discovery

Our owned-and-operated service, LG Channels, now delivers free, ad-supported streaming in 33 countries, with over 4,000 channels available. Exclusively curated content featured on LG Showcase (North America), LG 1 and LG 1 Spotlight (Europe), along with regionally customized programming and a growing network of partners including national and local broadcasters and news organizations, have helped LG Channels become a distinct competitive advantage in the smart TV content space.

As a recognition of its contribution to regional content delivery, LG Channels was honored with the ITVT/TVOT 2025 Award for Achievement in Local Broadcasting. Our original series The Rivalries — a documentary spotlighting college sports rivalries in the U.S. — also received a Webby Award for Best Sports Video last year.

webOS for Mobility: Living Space on Wheels

webOS is also extending its reach into the automotive sector through our Automotive Content Platform, redefining the in-vehicle experience and transforming the car into a “living space on wheels.”

Built on the proven success of webOS in smart TVs, the vehicle-optimized version delivers services like LG Channels in a seamless, entertainment-focused UX. This approach enriches life on the move by connecting vehicles to our broader content ecosystem.

From Cornerstone to Momentum: Accelerating LG’s Platform-Centric Business

The momentum behind webOS is undeniable. With an average annual growth rate of 40 percent over the past three years, our platform business surpassed KRW 1 trillion in revenue in 2024.

In emerging markets such as India, the Middle East and Latin America, webOS is experiencing accelerated adoption — driven by rising demand for streaming services, expanding digital infrastructure, and growing public and commercial display needs.

webOS is more than just a solution — it’s a cornerstone of LG’s platform-centric future, playing a vital role in enhancing profitability and business resilience. By transforming user experiences and enabling new business models, webOS is unlocking new value across industries.

2025-08-11T09:01:00

(BPT) – High school graduation is a milestone worth celebrating — but for 73 students at DeVry University Advantage Academy (DUAA), this year’s ceremony marked two academic achievements. In addition to their high school diplomas, 38 students earned associate degrees in information technology and networking and 35 earned associate degrees in business management — with the vast majority completing their degrees before turning 19.

“Graduating with both my high school diploma and associate degree was a really big personal accomplishment,” said 2025 DUAA graduate Ben Bednar. “The work and greater expectations of our college classes pushed me to realize that I just enjoy learning and DeVry further refined my personal ambitions for the future.”

A dual path, a singular goal

Founded in 2004, DUAA helps qualifying 11th and 12th grade students from 48 Chicago Public Schools (CPS) earn college degrees alongside their diplomas — all at no cost to families. Through a rigorous and accelerated model, students split their day between CPS coursework and DeVry University classes, with all tuition, books and technology covered.

The results speak for themselves: CPS’s Class of 2025, including the 73 DUAA graduates, alone earned more than 66,000 early college credits — the highest total in CPS history — with an estimated $10 million in tuition savings for families.

Real-world readiness beyond the credit

While affordability is a major draw, DUAA’s impact reaches far deeper. The program equips students with the time management, communication and critical thinking skills typically honed much later in college or early careers.

“DUAA students have two rigorous years of college work behind them,” said Brian Niro, assistant dean of DUAA. “Depending on whether they continue in the same field of study, many enter college as juniors. But beyond cost savings, these students leave knowing what it feels like to meet high expectations — and exceed them.”

Ben agreed, noting the network and confidence he built in the program’s immersive, college-level environment.

“The professors taught me a lot more than just the subject matter. The supportive atmosphere helped me take initiative I might not have otherwise,” Ben added. “The students and friends I made were all very future-focused and that set the standard for my own goals.”

Recognized for rigor and results

In 2024, DUAA was ranked No. 13 on Chicago Magazine’s list of the Best Public Schools, recognized for its curriculum strength, outcomes and college readiness. The program also earned the AP Access Award in 2023 for serving a representative percentage of AP exam takers from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds — a key marker of equity and access.

While the broader field of dual enrollment has grown, with 2.5 million U.S. high school students taking at least one college course in 2022-23, according to the Community College Research Center (CCRC), Black, Hispanic and low-income students remain underrepresented nationally. DUAA’s model helps shift that trend, offering a structured, supported and no-cost path to early college success.

Building momentum with students’ futures in mind

DUAA’s success isn’t limited to Illinois. A new Advantage Academy launched last year in partnership with DeKalb County School District in Georgia, expanding access to students from any high school in the county. This expansion is part of DeVry’s commitment to providing access and opportunities to high school students nationwide.

Programs like DUAA show what’s possible when institutions invest in students early and intentionally. For this year’s graduates and the thousands who follow, the impact isn’t just academic. It’s personal, financial and deeply empowering. Their stories remind us that when students are given the opportunity to rise, they do — and they don’t rise alone.

For students enrolled in a dual education program, the future is bright. To learn more about how DUAA is helping high school students step into their futures early, with confidence, momentum and savings behind them, visit DeVry.edu.

2025-08-11T09:49:00

(BPT) – Back-to-school season can be exciting with the anticipation of starting a new grade. However, it can be a hard transition for families after the easy days of summer. Try these five tips to make fall mornings easier.

1. Create morning and night routines

The late nights and lazy mornings of summer are on their way out. Before fall arrives, ease your family back into the school year by creating morning and night routines. That means consistent bedtimes and wake-up times as well as built-in time for hygiene and chores.

Everyone’s routine will look different depending on their children’s age. Little ones may need more help creating their routines than older kids, but children of all ages can benefit from some parental encouragement.

Pro tip: Set a good example by creating your own morning and night routines and sticking to them.

2. Stay on top of daily chores

Now that school’s back in session, you may find it difficult to stay on top of daily chores between shuttling kids to and from school and activities. However, some appliances can make everyday tasks easier to tackle.

For example, a cordless stick vacuum like the LG CordZero™ Q3 gives you the freedom to quickly clean up dust, dirt and debris from carpet and hard surfaces without having to navigate around a cord. With a 60-minute battery life, automatic multi-surface detection, a five-step filtration system and detachable hand vacuum, you’ll have everything you need to keep your floors clean no matter what the kids track back in after soccer practice.

Speaking of sports, cleaning basketfuls of practice clothing on top of daily outfits and uniforms can make laundry seem endless. Make laundry a simpler task with the LG WashTower™ Combo. The large-capacity washer and dryer allow you to clean and dry larger loads with ease. Plus, built-in AI takes the guesswork out of laundry by selecting the optimal wash and dry settings for a particular load.

3. Stock up on easy meals and snacks

Some mornings, you won’t have time to make and eat a full breakfast. To help make rushed mornings easier, stock up on easy-to-make meals and snacks. Consider buying pre-made yogurt and berry parfaits, and microwavable breakfast bowls or meal-prepping hard-boiled eggs and smoothie bowls.

Simple snacks can also make mornings and afternoons easier. Whether you throw in a couple of bags of trail mix for your kid’s lunch and sports practice or keep cheese and cracker snack packs in the fridge for an after-school snack, these items can make it easier to feed your kids, even when you’re on a time crunch.

4. Lay out clothing the night before

Figuring out what to wear for school or work during the morning rush can lead to decision paralysis, frustration and delays. Take the pressure off your weekday mornings by choosing outfits the night before. Younger children may need some guidance choosing their school outfits, but older children can generally do this task on their own. Just make sure to help them build this habit into their nightly routine.

Now that the kids are sorted, it’s time for you to pick an outfit and lay it out so you can get dressed as soon as your feet hit the ground in the morning. Of course, keeping clothing — especially office wear — wrinkle-free and neat can be a challenge and require extra time so you can look your best.

You can make sure you look good without any extra work, even on the busiest mornings, with a handy tool like the LG STUDIO Styler. This steam-closet system is the perfect laundry companion that refreshes and deodorizes your clothes with the power of steam. Its gentle-dry feature keeps all your delicates at their best, and crease care for pants ensures you always look put together. When you’re ready to put your outfit on, the mirror-finish door lets you admire your clothing from head to toe.

5. Adjust as you go

As everyone settles into the school year, you may find that some routines, chores and meals need to be adjusted to better suit your family’s needs. Remember to stay flexible and take your mornings one at a time.

Feeling ready for the back-to-school season? Keep these five tips in mind this fall, so you can turn your mornings and evenings from chaos to calm and set your family up for success this season and beyond.

2025-08-11T04:01:00

(BPT) – Is your child starting kindergarten this fall? There are many things you’ll need to do before they start their education, but one task that should be at the top of your to-do list is reading.

While your child can’t read on their own, reading to them can make a huge difference in and outside the classroom. Check out these six benefits of reading to your young child ahead of kindergarten.

1. Nurture imagination

Your child has a natural capacity to dream, and reading can help nurture this innate ability. According to an article by All for Kids, reading aloud to your child helps them explore people, places, times and events beyond their own experiences, expanding their imagination.

2. Vocabulary

Learning new words and concepts can be simple and fun when reading a book together. In fact, reading at home can boost your child’s vocabulary before they ever set foot in a classroom. According to research from Ohio State University, kids who read a book a day will hear about 290,000 more words by age 5 than those who don’t regularly read books with a parent or caregiver.

3. Social and emotional skills

Dealing with big feelings can be challenging for kids. However, you can make it fun to learn about tough emotions and how to manage them in a healthy way through reading.

According to the Child Mind Institute, reading can help children learn important social and emotional skills, such as empathy, compassion and problem-solving. When children read about characters experiencing similar situations, they have a chance to name their own feelings.

For example, reading a book like “We Don’t Eat Our Classmates” gives you and your child a chance to talk about how starting kindergarten and making friends may be difficult. As they read Penelope the Dinosaur’s funny adventures in the classroom, they can laugh, learn and process with your support and guidance.

Similarly, you can pick up a copy of “Embarrassed Ferret,” a comical picture book about Ferret’s embarrassing first day at school and how she learns that everyone has these moments from time to time.

4. Cognitive development

Reading is one of the easiest and most important ways you can help your child’s cognitive development. According to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, brain scans showed that when children hear stories, it strengthens the part of the brain responsible for visualization, comprehension and word meaning.

5. Reduced stress

Starting school can be a stressful transition for young children. The routine they’re used to at home will naturally have to change as they enter the classroom. Thankfully, reading can calm children, reducing stress and providing reassurance.

If your child is stressed or nervous about starting kindergarten, read Kitty vs. Kindergarten with them. Your kids can identify with Kitty, who is struggling with changes to his routine when attending school. This funny and heartwarming story can help them deal with the stress of change … and may even calm your own anxiety about your child starting school, too.

6. Bonding and connection

Reading to your child every day can be a fun and meaningful way to connect with them. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, reading aloud can help strengthen the bond between children and caregivers. By providing this special time for connection with your child, you’re laying the groundwork for a bright future and a loving parent-child relationship as they grow.

Are you ready to read? You can add these books to your home library and ease your children into the school year by visiting https://books.disney.com/?s=we+don%27t+eat+our+classmates.

2025-08-08T14:09:01

(BPT) – Love to travel, but worry about bringing special pieces of jewelry? You’re not alone. According to a Jewelers Mutual^® 2025 travel study,* nearly 80% of surveyed travelers who wear jewelry while traveling choose dedicated travel pieces (or duplicates) — items selected to reduce the chance of losing expensive or sentimental items.

Whether attending a destination wedding, going on a honeymoon or planning an overseas trip, you can take steps to ensure your beloved jewelry stays safe, so you’ll look and feel your best throughout your trip. Wearing duplicates won’t bring you the joy of wearing your favorite pieces.

“Dupe or travel jewelry is a trend that’s grown in recent years,” said Emili Vesilind, jewelry trends expert with Jewelers Mutual. “The disconnect often stems from education — many people simply don’t know there are dedicated jewelry insurance policies out there that cover loss even when you’re traveling.”

Protect valuables while traveling with dedicated jewelry insurance

Instead of bringing dupes on your next vacation, consider investing in dedicated jewelry insurance. All fine jewelry can be covered by jewelry insurance, including rings, bracelets, earrings, chains, watches, pendants and more.

“Jewelry insurance offers protection wherever in the world you travel,” Vesilind explained. “It covers not just loss, theft and damage, but also disappearance. After all, the most common place to lose jewelry when traveling is at the beach or near water.”

Dedicated jewelry insurance provides protection specifically designed for your fine jewelry. While homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might provide some coverage for lost, stolen or damaged jewelry when you travel, coverage often isn’t as comprehensive as a dedicated policy. Get a quote for a dedicated jewelry policy here. Insuring your jewelry could cost as low as 1-2% of your jewelry’s value per year.

The greatest benefit of a policy with Jewelers Mutual is that they work with your jeweler of choice to ensure any damaged piece is repaired or lost or stolen items are replaced.

Practical safety tips

In addition to a dedicated policy, there are safety precautions you can take while traveling to ensure your beloved pieces are protected. To prevent loss or damage before it happens, follow these guidelines:

• Wear fine pieces. By keeping jewelry on your person, you’ll know where it is at all times. Worried about a large diamond engagement ring or special necklace? Turn your ring around or wear your necklace beneath your shirt.
• Store in a carry-on. For items you can’t wear, store them in a solid, zippered jewelry travel case with enough space for pieces to prevent damage en route — in a carry-on bag, not checked luggage.
• Use hotel safes. Safe storage is recommended for fine pieces anytime you’re not wearing them. The best safes allow you to create your own security code.
• Document jewelry. Take pictures of pieces to support your claim in case of damage, theft or loss, and store photos to the cloud for safekeeping. It’s recommended to have fine pieces appraised every two years, since the value of gems and precious metals fluctuates. Keep all appraisal records and receipts to support potential claims.

Purchasing jewelry while traveling

Many travelers plan purchases while traveling to take advantage of lower prices or even duty-free purchasing options. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or choosing a piece to commemorate a meaningful trip, it’s important to know what to look for when purchasing jewelry away from home.

• Check for red flags: Do a quick online check before purchasing. See multiple bad reviews? Consider finding a well-known brand you can trust.
• Choose items with reputable gem certifications or serial numbers: Certifications provide documentation to authenticate your purchase.
• Read fine print on return policies/receipts: If an issue arises before heading home, can you return it?
• International purchases: Be aware that import taxes may increase the cost.
• Insure jewelry while traveling: Many travelers plan purchases while traveling to take advantage of lower prices or duty-free purchasing options. Jewelry is no different — and it’s important to understand the value of investing in dedicated coverage right after a purchase.

Jewelry purchases while traveling are no different than at home, and dedicated coverage is a must to ensure your new pieces are protected. Don’t delay coverage until your trip is over, set up a policy as soon as you can as the unthinkable could happen at any time.

Bring your favorite pieces along, worry-free

Wherever you’re headed, preventive measures help ensure your jewelry stays where it belongs — with you — and dedicated jewelry insurance gives you peace of mind that if jewelry is lost, stolen or damaged, your insurer will work with your jeweler to have it repaired or replaced.

“Travel should be all about enjoying things you love, including your favorite jewelry,” said Vesilind. “With the right precautions and dedicated jewelry insurance, you can travel with your best pieces, worry-free.”

Learn more about dedicated jewelry insurance before your next trip, and get a quick and easy coverage quote for all your jewelry online in just minutes by visiting JewelersMutual.com.

* The Jewelers Mutual study was conducted in February 2025. A sample of over 1,500 adults in the U.S. aged 18+ who were responsible for making insurance decisions in their household and had at least one piece of fine jewelry were recruited via an online research panel and surveyed via online self-completion.

Insurance coverage is subject to underwriting approval, and actual policy terms. Any descriptions of coverage are not a substitute for the actual policy language. Coverage options may vary by state and product. Coverage is offered by a member insurer of the Jewelers Mutual Group, either Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, SI (a stock insurer) or JM Specialty Insurance Company. Policyholders of both insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company.

2025-08-08T07:33:00

(BPT) – Do you love technology? Do you enjoy diving into the past of companies that broke technological barriers to create cutting-edge inventions that are now part of everyday life?

For anyone fascinated by the history of technology — which provides a window into the future — look no further than LG, a company with a strong foundation and steady eye on innovation.

Fun fact: Did you know the company started as “Goldstar” in 1958? Now LG Electronics is ranked the No. 1 appliance brand in the U.S. and designated as one of America’s “most reliable lines of home appliances” by Consumer Reports.

Highlighting a legacy of innovation

History buffs and modern tech gurus may find it interesting that there’s the invite-only LG Heritage Lounge in Changwon, South Korea, an immersive space where visitors can witness over 60 years of LG’s technological progress in the home appliance industry. The exhibition showcases past milestones, while also offering revealing glimpses into the future of AI-powered home appliance solutions.

Organized into five distinct zones, each offers insights into different aspects of LG’s technological journey. For example, in the Core-Tech Zone, some key LG innovations highlighted include:

• Inverter Direct Drive: This revolutionary washer’s Inverter Direct Drive motor directly connects the motor to the drum, eliminating the need for belts and clutches. LG’s AI Direct Drive motor optimizes each wash cycle based on fabric type and weight, providing a smarter and more efficient laundry experience.
• Inverter Linear: LG’s Inverter Linear Compressor, which is used in refrigerators, utilizes a linear motion mechanism. This technology reduces friction and improves energy efficiency. With the help of AI, it also minimizes temperature fluctuations to ensure that food stays fresher longer while saving energy.
• Dual Inverter: The Dual Inverter Compressor in LG air conditioners combines two rollers for enhanced energy efficiency, reduced noise, and better performance. Another noteworthy innovation is AI Air, LG’s next-generation climate control technology that uses AI to manage temperature and airflow more precisely, offering a tailored indoor environment.

The lounge is a testament to LG’s rich legacy and its unwavering commitment to innovation, showcasing how its AI-driven technologies will continue to lead the way in creating smarter, more efficient homes.

Past inventions drive ongoing innovation

Knowing insider facts is a fun way to showcase your tech knowledge, but true technology enthusiasts may want to see technologies of the past, present and future up close and personal. For an immersive experience, be sure to check out the Goldstar Refresh Center in Seoul, South Korea.

In collaboration with Starbucks, LG built the Goldstar Refresh Center in the old Kyungdong Theater location within the Kyungdong Market. The retro-themed space provides novelty to new generations and nostalgia for older generations, highlighting vintage elements alongside futuristic technologies.

While there you can explore numerous interactive exhibits, solve fun puzzles, control smart appliances and even escape from your worries. Get your clothing refreshed in the LG Styler and play retro video games on an LG Ultrawide Curved OLED Screen. This experiential space has something for everyone.

With novelty for new generations and nostalgia for older generations, the Goldstar Refresh Center showcases LG’s “Life’s Good” philosophy, and its longstanding commitment to technological excellence.