XMWare

2024-02-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – Ditch the boring broccoli and say hello to a purple powerhouse! Want to spice up your salads beyond the usual suspects? Then buckle up, veggie adventurer, because we’re about to embark on a journey to the unexplored territories of your taste buds!

Grow your own rainbow of rare veggies right in your backyard (or even on your balcony or fire escape). It’s easier than a bunny hopping over a carrot patch, and before you know it, you’ll be harvesting culinary wonders you never thought possible.

So, ditch the same old, same old and get ready to spice up your dinner plate with these unusual edible gems from National Garden Bureau.

Avalanche beets. Do you have a non-beet-lover in your household? This may be the beet to win them over. The Avalanche has a mild, sweet flavor with no reddish color and no bitter taste. It’s even delicious raw! This mild beet is easy to grow, and will be ready to eat in just 50 days or so. Providing vitamins B and C and fiber, this tasty beet deserves a try!

Prism peppers. Perfect for deck or container gardeners, these clever peppers produce multi-color sweet peppers on one plant. They are sized between a mini and standard bell pepper, and full of vitamin C and potassium. Prism peppers are a beautiful addition to your garden and your dinner plate.

Red Impact peppers. The Lamuyo variety of peppers are difficult to grow until now — enter the game-changing Red Impact. This pepper is packed with vitamin C and potassium, is sweeter than other varieties and is very easy to grow, even for the novice gardener.

Purple Magic broccoli. Called a “showstopper,” this beautiful deep purple vegetable is easy to grow, sweeter and more tender than traditional broccoli, and can be eaten raw, stir-fried, roasted, lightly blanched or steamed. It’s full of vitamin C, potassium and fiber, too.

Peas ‘N’ Pod Bernard pea. These unique petite shelling peas have afila tendrils, which means the vines stick together, keeping the pods off the ground. Ideal for containers or small gardens, it produces beautiful white flowers when it blooms. Pop these peas into salads or side dishes. They’re a great source of vitamin C and fiber.

Shiso Ohba. Versatile and citrus-y, shiso ohba has a bright flavor with a hint of anise and is often used in Asian cooking. But it’s also great added to salads and soups, much like you’d use basil. High in calcium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamin C, shiso ohba can even be used to make tea!

Sweet Jade Kabocha squash. This small, single-serving squash is green on the outside, deep orange on the inside. It’s packed with vitamins A and C, potassium and fiber, and has a sweet, dry and earthy taste. It’s delicious baked, roasted or pureed. It’s so cute, why not use it for an edible soup bowl?

Black Falcon sorghum. The cone-shaped heads are adorned with beautiful glossy black blooms and will “wow” any garden. A great source of protein, use sorghum like quinoa or rice. For a fun treat, make “popcorn,” just like you would with regular popcorn on the stove or in a brown paper bag in the microwave.

So, what are you waiting for? This year, ditch the supermarket sameness and cultivate your own rainbow of deliciousness! Every bite will be an adventure for your taste buds, and you’ll be the proud plant parent of a veggie masterpiece. Shop online for seeds through one of the National Garden Bureau’s members, or visit your favorite local garden retailer. For more information about these and other great veggies to grow at home this year, visit the National Garden Bureau website.

2024-02-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – When an unwelcome sickness or ailment creeps up, your home becomes both a sanctuary and a battlefield in the fight against sickness. Yet, recent research conducted by MDLIVE, an Evernorth company and leading virtual care provider, suggests many U.S. workers may be unknowingly engaging in activities that are hindering their recovery process.

“It’s easy to overlook the subtle ways in which our sick day habits can impede our path to wellness, especially when we’re distracted by our daily responsibilities or the physical symptoms of sickness,” notes Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, Associate Chief Medical Officer at MDLIVE. “However, navigating the road to feeling better when sick at home requires more than just rest; it involves adopting a holistic approach to self-care.”

Dr. Roundtree sheds light on the common missteps many people make during recovery efforts and offers expert advice on avoiding these pitfalls for a quicker and more effective healing process.

1. You take a hygiene hiatus.

According to the survey, more than half of respondents (52%) put their regular hygiene habits on hold, including showering, skin care and even brushing their teeth. However, maintaining personal hygiene is crucial when you’re sick, not only to thwart the spread of illness to others and improve mental well-being but also to help prevent additional health problems for yourself. Bacteria thrive and grow when you’re sick, and neglecting oral hygiene, for example, can accelerate bacterial and plaque growth, heightening the risk of dental issues.

2. You bail on a balanced diet.

Whether you avoid certain foods, overindulge with less-than-healthy foods, or simply don’t eat altogether when sick, ignoring nutritional needs can delay your body’s ability to heal promptly. Remember, vitamin C and chicken soup are merely supportive players rather than miracle cures. Instead, boosting your immune system’s response effectively comes from a more balanced approach to nutrition. A diet filled with nutrient-rich foods is the fuel your body needs to fight off illness. Hydration is equally important; drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out toxins and keeps your mucous membranes moist, aiding in the recovery process.

3. You worry over work.

Given the many work obligations and responsibilities, it’s natural to try and power through sickness. However, the stress of working while sick can delay recovery more than most realize. Surprisingly, the mental stress from work can directly impact your physical health by increasing cortisol levels, which in turn can suppress immune function, making you susceptible to longer recovery times or, worse, secondary infections. Taking the necessary time to recover can prevent longer-term health issues and ensure you return to work at full capacity, ultimately supporting a healthier, more productive work environment.

4. You’re all rest, no rally.

While rest is essential, particularly in the initial stages of illness, incorporating light to moderate activities can be beneficial for both physical and mental health. In fact, studies have found that exercise, when experiencing an infection or sickness, may not only be safe but could also reduce the severity of symptoms and the number of sick days needed as a result. Of course, it’s essential to listen to your body and consult a doctor to help tailor an appropriate balance between rest and activity for your individual needs.

5. You dodge a doctor’s diagnosis.

When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is pull yourself out of the house to a doctor’s office, battling the aches, pains, and fatigue that often accompany illness. In fact, 72% agree that the effort to spend even part of a sick day at the doctor’s office is more of a hassle than it’s worth, likely due to the time commitment and inconvenience it brings. However, consulting a doctor when sick is crucial for faster, proper recovery. Many conditions, particularly common or mild illnesses, can be effectively diagnosed through telehealth appointments from the comfort of your own home. This approach significantly cuts down on the hassle associated with travel and waiting in a doctor’s office or urgent care clinic with other sick people. Telehealth can serve as a convenient option for getting the care you need, with doctors recommending in-person follow-ups when necessary.

In the fight against sickness, knowledge and action are your greatest allies. The journey back to health is not just about overcoming the immediate symptoms but nurturing your overall well-being so that your days spent under the weather are as few and far between as possible.

2024-02-21T13:01:00

(BPT) – With many exciting games underway, it’s never too late to start planning a watch party that’s sure to be remembered. Watch parties are a great way to get the family together so you can bond over your favorite sports and spend quality time together.

If you haven’t hosted a game day watch party, there’s no need to stress. With these four hacks, you’ll be taking the W at the end of the night!

1. Decorations

Before everyone arrives, you’ve got to set the vibe. No matter which team (or player) you stan, find or make decorations and represent! Hang up flags and banners, print out pictures of your fave players and centerpieces that match the sport. Get your besties in on the fun! Encourage them to wear team colors or jerseys and bring sports-related accessories so you can serve looks while your team slays.

2. Snacks

You shouldn’t be the only snack at your watch party! Cheering on your team can work up an appetite, so serve a variety of foods to help keep everyone fueled. According to the Frito-Lay Snack index, “80% agree that combining multiple food products to create the perfect bite is an art form.” If you’re looking for the perfect bite of bold and iconic flavors, pick up the new Jack Link’s^® Fritos^® Chili Cheese flavored Beef Jerky, Meat Sticks and Cheese Stick & Meat Combos.

Take your game day snacks to the next level by stocking up on the new Jack Link’s Fritos Chili Cheese or Jack Link’s Flamin’ Hot flavored Cheese & Meat Combos, made with jalapeno cheese for a savory, bold flavor. To learn more about this collaboration, the flavors and where to find them near you, visit jacklinksfritolay.com.

3. Drinks

Screaming for your favorite team can be fun but exhausting for your vocal cords. Prepare some drinks that pair well with your snacks and keep you hydrated as your team scores point after point. You can even create your own drinks named after your favorite players, teams or events. It may seem a bit extra, but sipping on a themed beverage just hits different.

4. Breaks

Even when watching fast-paced sports, there’s a lot of downtime during game day. Fill time with fun games, trivia and more.

Before the game starts, have everyone make predictions about which team will take the win. During breaks, update the prediction board to see who’s winning the prize. Speaking of prizes, make sure they are fun prizes like sports gear or a gag trophy for the winners, although bragging rights are just as important!

If you know, you know. Using these four tips, you’ll throw a watch party so epic that your besties will call you the Game Day G.O.A.T.

Jack Link’s and its logos are registered trademarks of Link Snacks, Inc.

Frito-Lay and its brands are registered trademarks of Frito-Lay North America, Inc. © 2024

2024-02-21T08:01:01

(BPT) – Cointreau, the iconic orange liqueur and essential ingredient in The Original Margarita, is celebrating National Margarita Day by sharing tips from Brand Ambassador Lauren Trickett on how to make or order a Margarita the MargaRight way.

© 2024 Cointreau Corp., Cointreau® Liqueur, 40% Alc./Vol., Imported by Rémy Cointreau USA, Inc., New York, NY. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

2024-02-20T12:01:01

(BPT) – Hot Springs, Arkansas, gets its name from the natural thermal water that flows from 47 ancient hot springs down into the heart of the city each day. The unique therapeutic qualities of the springs have attracted visitors to the city for more than a century to soak in the historic bathhouses.

Today, guests are finding more modern transformative treatments at Arkansas’ first and only spa to achieve the coveted Four-Star rating in the Forbes Travel Guide — Astral Spa at Oaklawn, Hot Springs. Oaklawn also received a desirable “Recommended” rating for the 198-room Oaklawn Hotel.

Forbes Travel Guide is an independent global rating system for luxury hotels and spas. Inspectors, posing as regular guests, visit the facilities unannounced and test approximately 900 standards to determine the rankings.

Louis Cella, president of Oaklawn, says the Forbes rating is quite an achievement for the spa and hotel, which opened in 2021.

“Our hotel is one of the finest hotels anywhere. You would have to get on an airplane and fly outside of Arkansas to see another Forbes Four-Star rated spa,” Cella said. “The standards that we must meet for such a rating are extremely high. However, we look forward to pushing the envelope and looking for opportunities to refine the guest experience even further in the future.”

Astral Spa is an adults-only facility that provides visitors with a luxurious, customized experience. The spa offers all the traditional services that guests expect such as massages, facials, skincare and body treatments. What makes Astral Spa one of only 201 Forbes Four-Star rated spas in the world are the premium amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center, dedicated men’s and women’s wet lounges and locker rooms equipped with heated loungers, needle showers, steam rooms, infrared saunas, whirlpool tubs, cold rooms and a dedicated co-ed parlor.

There is also a couple’s suite with a soaking tub and exclusive couple-friendly amenities.

Oaklawn Hotel is located adjacent to one of the country’s premiere Thoroughbred racetracks. Race fans from across the globe travel to Hot Springs to experience racing at its highest level, with the best horses, best jockeys, best trainers and best owners. The road to the Kentucky Derby begins at Oaklawn.

A stay at Oaklawn offers guests valet services, an escort to your room by our friendly bellmen, luxurious room amenities, superb room service and concierge assistance for your every need.

Oaklawn is also home to fine dining, including two 2023 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award recipients — The OAK room & bar and The Bugler.

The OAK room & bar features an innovative menu and one of the most extensive wine lists in the region. The Bugler offers carefully curated seafood and steak options and a spacious outdoor patio where guests can dine overlooking Oaklawn’s historic racetrack.

After a morning relaxing at Astral Spa, a day at the races and dinner at one of the world-class restaurants, guests can test their gaming skills at Oaklawn’s casino. There are several gaming options available including classic slots, table games and sports betting.

As the sun sets, Oaklawn’s resort transforms into a hub of live entertainment, where the Oaklawn Event Center stage comes alive with diverse and captivating performances from some of the biggest names performing today. Whether you prefer a night of soulful melodies or the thrill of a live comedy show, Oaklawn’s entertainment offerings promise to leave you enchanted.

A day at the Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa or a stay at the Forbes “Recommended” Oaklawn Hotel are not merely visits; they are immersions into the soul of Hot Springs, where the essence of the city’s history intertwines seamlessly with the modern allure of a world-class destination.

Indulge in the unique harmony of luxury, history and relaxation that only Oaklawn can provide. Discover a world where Forbes stars align, promising an unparalleled escape in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Must be 18 for race gambling and 21 for casino gaming. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org. Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

2024-02-20T13:25:00

(BPT) – Multitasking has become the theme of the decade as people try to balance work, family and social obligations in a world where time seems to be shrinking while the number of things to do is expanding.

While multitasking might be a good strategy in some situations, it is potentially disastrous when you are behind the wheel of a car. Why? When you are in control of a multi-ton object going forward at freeway speeds, a little lapse in attention can have very serious consequences.

“We all understand the pressures of trying to do more in less time,” said Mercury VP, Claims, Kevin Quinn. “And in this era where connectivity feels critically important, many people don’t want to wait to field that text, look at the most recent TikTok, or return their boss’s email. But driving should take all of your attention, not just some of it.”

Quinn offers these suggestions to those who might find the temptations of distractions like social media, in-car entertainment and hunger to be difficult to resist:

• Don’t text and drive. Texting using a smartphone keyboard requires a great deal of attention. Even using voice-to-text functions can take your attention from the road ahead. A recent Mercury Insurance survey revealed that over 1 in 4 American drivers have come dangerously close to or been involved in an accident due to texting behind the wheel.
• Limit phone use on the road. Even hands-free phone use draws your attention from the driving task.
• Don’t eat or drink when driving. These behaviors force driving with one hand on the steering wheel, a practice more dangerous than two-handed driving.
• Don’t apply makeup when driving. Applying makeup necessitates looking in the mirror rather than down the road.
• Secure personal items within the car. If something drops, don’t begin looking for it while still underway. It will still be in the car when you stop.
• Secure pets in the car, and don’t let them wander around the cabin. Having your dog, cat or iguana on your lap might seem comforting, but that pet can become an instant distraction.
• Set up the vehicle for driving before you get underway. Adjusting mirrors, seats, temperature and audio choices as you drive can pull your attention from the driving task for multiple seconds at a time.

Why does all this matter? Distracted driving accidents continue to be a national problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say nine people in the United States are killed every day in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver. According to DefensiveDriving.org, texting makes you eight times more likely to get into an accident. The impairments associated with using a cell phone while driving can be as damaging as those associated with driving while drunk.

Here are some sobering statistics from Mercury Insurance’s October 2023 survey of 1,000 active drivers on distracted driving behaviors:

• 86% of active drivers think people are more distracted while driving compared to five years ago
• 26% of active drivers have either come close or been in an accident due to texting and driving
• 67% of active drivers do not wait until they’ve reached their destination before checking phone notifications
• 66% of active drivers admit to using their phone while driving
• 48% of active drivers have been distracted by their navigational system

While the problem of distracted driving is very real, there are hopeful signs on the horizon. Many auto manufacturers are now making voice-to-text and text reader systems more prevalent in the vehicles they build. Societal pressure is helping to make a dent in distracted driving, illustrated by the fact that 58% of respondents to the Mercury Insurance survey said that they are less likely to be on their phones when they have a passenger in the vehicle.

The best advice is this: When you are behind the wheel of an automobile, driving should be your only task. Everything else can wait.

For additional safety tips regarding distracted driving, visit:

• mercuryinsurance.com
• cdc.gov
• nhtsa.gov
• iihs.org
• nsc.org