XMWare

2025-03-25T10:21:00

(BPT) – Why put all your eggs in one basket? With food prices rising, families are embracing a playful, budget-friendly tradition: Easter potatoes!

Potatoes are a durable and versatile pantry staple that provides the perfect blank canvas for Easter fun. To celebrate the growing Easter trend, Potatoes USA is showing folks how to paint, craft and cook potatoes, proving that creativity and tradition go hand in hand.

“Kids of all ages love potatoes, and parents love that they offer an easy, fun, and affordable way to get creative,” says Kayla Vogel, mom and senior global marketing manager at Potatoes USA. “They don’t require delicate handling. Just grab some edible paint or removable stickers, and let the fun begin!”

Are you ready to add your own tater twist to a classic Easter tradition? Check out these pro tips for celebrating with potatoes this spring.

1. Paint with food coloring

For gold-star-level results, use food coloring for a delicious, edible dye. Paint the coloring directly onto the potato for the most vibrant color. If you don’t plan to eat the potatoes, apply a coat of hairspray to seal the color.

2. Choose the right materials for paint-based projects

For paint-based projects, look for non-toxic, washable paints. Use a white primer coat to make the colors pop!

3. Create potato cookies

The great thing about potatoes is that you can cut them into pretty much any shape.

“This year, we’re slicing our potatoes and using cookie cutters and food coloring to paint Easter shapes and spring animals before putting them in the air fryer,” said Vogel. “It’s a really fun activity. My kids love eating potato bunnies, and I love my kids eating their vegetables.”

4. Make potato stamps

Parents can also cut potatoes in half to create Easter stamps! Once halved, children can use a pen or marker to draw a shape or design on the potato’s flat edge. Adults can carefully cut around the drawing using a carving knife, leaving the raised shape on the potato. After the adults have finished carving, the little artist can paint the potato stamps and use their creations to make Easter-themed paintings on paper.

5. Minimize cleanup

For your potato crafting time, it helps to cover the workspace with newspapers or plastic tablecloths to minimize cleanup. Also, consider using gloves to keep little hands clean from food coloring or paint.

Celebrate Easter meals with easy potato recipes

Easter is a time for family, fun and, of course, delicious meals. Potatoes are not only a staple on the holiday table but also a versatile, nutrient-dense vegetable. They have one-third of your daily vitamin C, are a good source of potassium, and have 3 grams of plant-based protein.

After your family finishes their potato crafts, use any leftover potatoes to make these easy, kid-approved recipes for Easter celebrations.

Herb and cheese deviled potatoes

This potato-based take on the classic hors d’oeuvre makes for a fun and filling finger food for kids and adults alike. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up enough deviled potatoes for everyone to enjoy while you put the finishing touches on the other dishes.

You can garnish the potatoes with pretty much anything you have on hand. Try using sun-dried tomatoes, smoked salmon, radish slices, fresh herbs, tiny pickles or chilies.

Fingerling potato hash with turkey bacon

Roasted fingerling potatoes with onions, smoky turkey bacon, charred Brussels sprouts, and lemon make for a great vegetable side for any meal, but especially for an Easter brunch. The best part? You can make this hash in just 35 minutes.

Apple spiced potato muffins

Wake up to a sweet treat with these apple-spiced potato muffins. This recipe combines whole wheat muffins with spiced apples and shredded potatoes, topped with a potato cream cheese streusel. While these muffins are perfect for breakfast, you can eat them for any meal!

This Easter, take your celebration from good to great by using potatoes to create art and eats. Visit PotatoGoodness.com to learn more about the many health benefits of potatoes and find some delicious spring recipes.

If your family hops on the #EasterPotatoes trend, send us your photos! Tag @PotatoGoodness on Facebook or Instagram.

2025-03-24T10:01:00

(BPT) – For anyone facing tooth loss, dental implants offer more than just a cosmetic solution. They can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. However, it’s important to do your homework to ensure you’re receiving care from an experienced and qualified professional and to avoid costly mistakes. After all, dental implant treatment is a complex procedure, and one you do not want to cut corners on to save a little time and money. Mistakes in initial treatment may forever negatively impact your final results.

Cost is a big consideration when it comes to dental implants, and you may be tempted to go abroad to save on your dental procedure. In 2022, more than 787,000 Americans were projected to seek medical and dental treatments abroad. However, doing so can cost you down the line.

Receiving medical treatment abroad can leave you without recourse if complications arise after returning home. If an implant fails or your new prosthesis requires adjustments, obtaining follow-up care can be difficult and expensive.

Implant parts and pieces are not interchangeable, and even if you find a willing dentist, the parts may not be available or identifiable. That is why many dentists will not accept a patient who has already been treated by another dentist. Without proper post-procedure monitoring, the risk of infection, improper healing, and implant failure can increase.

Why long-term success matters more than quick fixes

Treatment timelines are another consideration when it comes to dental implants. There has been a rise in treatment centers that offer permanent teeth within 24 hours of surgery. While this option might sound appealing, especially for someone who is eager to have new, permanent teeth, it can come with significant trade-offs, including:

• Improper fit and bite misalignment
• Gaps between the gums and the teeth
• Compromised speech and articulation
• Lack of customization, leading to discomfort and speaking issues

You should be certain that if any of the above situations arise after the 24-hour period that the treating dentist agrees to address these issues and predetermine if there are additional costs. While fewer appointments may sound ideal, the follow-up process after surgery is worth your time. You’ll want to choose a provider who offers you the option to customize and refine your new smile in the weeks and months following surgery.

How to choose the right dental implant provider

When considering dental implant treatment, asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision and avoid costly complications down the line.

Who you choose to perform your dental implant surgery can make the difference between a smile of joy and a grimace of pain. Prosthodontists and oral surgeons at ClearChoice Dental Implant Center, a national leader in fixed full-arch restorations, have collectively treated over 200,000 patients and placed over one million implants. In fact, ClearChoice doctors regularly perform corrective surgeries for the types of cases mentioned above. Unfortunately, these corrections, if at all possible, can cost more than the original unsuccessful treatment.

Understanding the full journey of implant treatment helps set expectations and ensures you receive comprehensive care. Use the following tips to help you make an informed decision about your dental implant provider.

1. Ask the right questions about the full treatment process:

While you may not know the answers, you can begin your journey to quality dental implants by asking the right questions. During a consultation, ask your dental implant provider:

• How will dental implants benefit me?
• What are the many procedures and steps I can expect?
• How will my treatment plan be customized to my needs?
• What will you do if I have complications with the implants or prosthesis in the future?
• What does the healing process look and feel like?
• What is the expected recovery time?
• What steps are taken to ensure the implants last long-term?

Asking these questions can help you make an informed decision about your oral condition and may put you at ease when considering undergoing dental implant surgery.

2. Verify qualifications

Not all dental professionals have the extensive training and experience that is necessary to perform dental implant treatment. Do your research to ensure your dental implant procedure is performed by trained specialists like prosthodontists and oral surgeons who have extensive experience in complex treatments and full-arch restorations.

You may be able to look up a dental implant provider’s credentials online. However, during your consultation, you should ask about their qualifications and how many dental implant procedures they have performed.

3. Be wary of red flags

In addition to verifying a provider’s credentials, be on the lookout for any red flags. Be cautious and watch for the following signs:

• A promise of permanent teeth within 24-48 hours with no promise for follow-up appointments.
• No option to refine and customize the look, fit, and feel of your prosthesis during the healing process.
• The doctor not being present during the initial consultation visit and only a support staff discussing the treatment plan and fees.

4. Look for providers who stand behind their work

A reputable provider should offer long-term assurances of their dental implant procedures. ClearChoice, for example, offers patients a lifetime warranty on full-arch zirconia prostheses, demonstrating their commitment to quality and patient satisfaction.

ClearChoice’s Lifetime Warranty covers a “no cost replacement” of the zirconia prostheses for all new patients in the rare event of a fracture or crack in the prosthesis. This warranty underscores ClearChoice’s commitment to both clinical excellence and patient satisfaction, ensuring peace of mind and long-term protection on your investment. ClearChoice doctors stand behind their work for life and are trusted providers to perform this procedure the right way.

5. Choose long-term outcomes over short-term convenience

Dental implants are a long-term investment in both health and confidence. The best outcomes come from providers who emphasize:

• Research-backed healing methods
• Precision in implant placement and bite alignment
• High-quality materials designed for longevity
• Ongoing support and care to optimize implant success

Invest in the Right Care for a Lifetime of Benefits

Choosing the right provider means prioritizing expertise, technology, and long-term care over short-term cost savings. With proper placement and follow-up care, dental implants can last for decades, providing lasting function, comfort, and confidence.

Using these five tips, you can find a provider who offers quality work that will make you smile. To learn more about whether dental implants are right for you and to find a local provider, visit ClearChoice.com.

2025-03-24T09:01:00

(BPT) – Homeowners today are reimagining their outdoor spaces, moving beyond a basic patio and grill to create thoughtfully designed areas that blend style, comfort, and functionality. According to the latest Houzz Outdoor Trends Study, one in three homeowners are upgrading their outdoor areas as functional, beautiful extensions of their homes with an emphasis on convenience, style and sustainability. If you’re among those looking to transform your outdoor space this year, following are five top trends to consider:

1. Seamless segues from inside out

As the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces continue to blur, homeowners are finding creative ways to bring the comfort of the indoors outside. Picture large glass doors gliding open to reveal a deck adorned with stylish outdoor furniture, cozy rugs and ambient lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels just as welcoming as a living room.

2. Climate-friendly features

As climate resilience becomes a top priority, outdoor areas are being designed to withstand every season and adapt to a wide range of conditions. Homeowners want solutions that offer a year-round balance of comfort, durability, ease and style to ensure these spaces remain practical and inviting. Heat-mitigating composite decking, weather-resistant furniture, and shade structures help keep outdoor spaces enjoyable, no matter the season. Water-resistant materials are also becoming essential for decks, poolside areas and docks, ensuring durability against moisture, sun exposure and heavy foot traffic. Low-maintenance solutions, such as Trex^® composite decking, require only occasional cleaning to maintain their beauty for years.

“People want outdoor spaces that adapt effortlessly to their homes and lifestyles, no matter the climate, setting or season,” says Adam Zambanini, COO of Trex Company. “Our Performance-Engineered™ products offer the ability to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style, whether you live along the salty coast, high up in snow-capped mountains or in the heat of the desert.”

3. Cozy, curated spaces

Rather than sprawling, undefined yards, many homeowners are designing smaller, purpose-driven outdoor spaces tailored to specific activities like dining, relaxing or entertaining. Defined zones with level changes, pergolas, privacy screens and stylish deck railings create a sense of intimacy and character. And don’t forget the space beneath the deck. The simple addition of a deck drainage system, like RainEscape^®, makes it possible to add furnishings, lighting, appliances and other electronics to transform this underutilized area into a fully functional, all-season retreat.

4. Smart features for comfort and convenience

Technology is making outdoor spaces more comfortable and functional than ever. Smart lighting, weatherproof entertainment systems, app-controlled irrigation, and outdoor Wi-Fi hotspots are turning backyards into high-tech havens. Features like built-in USB ports and wireless charging stations ensure outdoor spaces stay as connected and convenient as any indoor room.

5. Sustainable and serene retreats

More homeowners are prioritizing eco-friendly choices when designing their outdoor spaces. Products made with recycled and reclaimed materials and native plants contribute to a sustainable backyard oasis. Elements like rainwater collection systems and solar-powered lighting not only help reduce environmental impact but also create a peaceful and natural atmosphere.

Outdoor living continues to evolve, offering endless possibilities for relaxation, entertainment and connection with nature. Whether you’re envisioning a multi-level deck, a cozy garden escape or a poolside retreat, let these trends help you create your dream outdoor space. For more inspiration, visit Trex.com.

From marine-grade protection and Sun Comfortable™ technology to more color choices and durability backed by strong warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years, every product in our portfolio is Performance-Engineered for your life outdoors™.

2025-03-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Supporting student mental health in higher education is a growing priority. College life can be very stressful, with challenging academics, financial worries and social pressures — not to mention the transition into adulthood. How common are these concerns? Last year’s Healthy Minds Study of over 104,000 university and college students found that:

• 38% screened positive for moderate or severe depression.
• 34% screened positive for moderate or severe anxiety.
• 13% experienced suicidal thoughts in the past year.

Mental health challenges impact students’ academic performance and overall wellbeing, which affects the entire campus. This includes faculty, staff and other students — who are often first to notice problems, but may not know what to do.

“Over 45% of college students in the United States struggle with mental health, contributing to incompletion rates of 39%,” said Tramaine EL-Amin, vice president, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. “Faculty, staff and other students want to help, but may not feel adequately trained to intervene. One way to assist is by offering MHFA training to both students and staff, giving campuses the tools to help create a supportive environment for everyone.”

A huge barrier to mental health care for college students is stigma. In addition to feeling uncomfortable asking for help, many students lack access to, or don’t know about, available resources and services. The impact of not getting care is very real, as mental health challenges are a leading cause of student withdrawals. In one study, 33% of student withdrawals cited mental health as the reason, with 11% citing it as the primary factor.

Why college students, faculty and staff should be trained in MHFA

Provided by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, MHFA for Higher Education offers training that helps reduce stigma by encouraging open conversations and teaching faculty, staff and students to respond appropriately to someone in need.

Whether they intend to help students struggling with anxiety, faculty feeling burnout or staff experiencing depression, participants in MHFA for Higher Education learn effective techniques to help someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis and ways to connect them to professional resources for care. MHFA does not replace professional care, and participants do not learn to diagnose mental health conditions.

MHFA is an evidence-based course supported by over 72 peer-reviewed studies in the United States. In a recent evaluation of the MHFA for Higher Education course, learners who took the course experienced the following:

• 75% are more confident in recognizing and responding to mental health challenges.
• 72% increased their mental health literacy.
• 54% had increased intentions to use their new MHFA skills/help someone in distress or need.
• 59% felt that providing resources and referrals became easier.

Transform your campus environment with MHFA

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) trained nearly 900 staff and faculty members in MHFA, leading to positive outcomes in mental health support. Faculty and staff put signs on their doors to show they were trained in MHFA, encouraging students to seek help. This shift in campus culture made it clear that mental health is a priority, and many shared how they used their new skills to help students as well as people outside campus.

“We spend time diving into scenarios of how folks might present with early signs and symptoms versus worsening signs, up to crisis level. If folks are at crisis level, we want to get them connected to professional support immediately, so it really helps to identify those differences,” said Alicia Freeman, MHFA program manager for UNC-Chapel Hill’s Behavioral Health Springboard. “The program doesn’t train you to be a therapist. We’re just recognizing who may need support, the same way if we see somebody fall down and sprain their ankle.”

Before the training, only 48% of learners at UNC-Chapel Hill felt confident about being able to respond to a substance use crisis; after the training, 82% felt confident. In addition, over 81% who completed training reported feeling confident about asking someone directly if they were considering suicide. In follow-up surveys, 98% of the participants said they would recommend MHFA training to someone else.

“From a faculty and staff perspective, there’s a lot of frontline work that happens in the classroom, noticing students’ struggles day in and day out,” added Tiffany Edouard, MHFA Coordinator for the Behavioral Health Springboard. “It’s incredible professional development to not just refer them to an academic counselor, but to intervene and assess what resources they need. From a student perspective, it’s invaluable to have conversations with peers, as they’re often the first to hear from someone in need. MHFA provides a foundational tool that enhances the campus culture for everyone.”

Learn more about UNC-Chapel Hill’s experience with MHFA in this video.

How MHFA can make a difference for your school

Since 2008, MHFA has helped over 650 colleges and universities learn the tools they need to support student mental health, offering a safe, nonjudgmental environment where students feel empowered to seek help. MHFA private trainings bring experts to campus (virtually or in person) to guide faculty, staff and students to be mental health champions, making a difference in students’ lives.

Investing in student mental health and resilience improves overall wellness, setting up students for success on and off campus. By promoting mental health awareness, colleges can ensure everyone — students, faculty and staff — feels better prepared to support mental health needs for themselves and others.

Learn more about bringing Mental Health First Aid to your campus or join an upcoming higher education webinar hosted by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing on Tuesday, April 1.

2025-03-20T12:45:00

(BPT) – The most transformative chapter of life is about to unfold, beginning with a celebration of love surrounded by friends and family from near and far. The right venue sets the tone for this memorable occasion, not just for the wedding ceremony itself, but for the entire weekend of pre- and post-nuptial festivities that will be cherished for years to come.

If you’re not sure where to begin, look no further than the stunning wedding venue options across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 hotel brands. Whether couples envision a traditional or modern celebration, Marriott Bonvoy’s team of event and catering experts are dedicated to bringing dream weddings to life.

From opulent ballrooms to picturesque beachfront settings, discover these unique locations to inspire every moment of an unforgettable wedding weekend.

1. Welcome parties that wow

Choosing the right venue for the welcome party is essential for encouraging guest interaction and setting the tone for the weekend.

For a venue with historic ambiance, explore the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection, offering hacienda-style rooms and suites. Party-goers can mingle among lush fruit trees against a backdrop of twinkling string lights at the outdoor Olive Grove, or savor California comfort food infused with authentic Spanish flavor at the Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge.

Looking for a coastal vibe? Treat guests to a sunset welcome reception on the Chula Vista Terrace at the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, opening this May, where breathtaking views of sparkling San Diego Bay and warm ocean breezes set the tone for a magical weekend. This resort is designed to be a destination unto itself, where every corner is thoughtfully planned to host the moments that matter most for weddings of all sizes.

With the rehearsal in the rearview, newlyweds-to-be can unwind and reconnect with their closest family and friends. The rehearsal dinner provides a chance to share an intimate moment, express gratitude, and enjoy relaxed conversations before the wedding day. This tradition allows the couple to raise a toast with the wedding party and loved ones, strengthening the bonds that will support them throughout the celebration and beyond.

For a unique rehearsal dinner experience, add Sheraton Kauai Resort to the list. The breathtaking venue, Ocean Cove, offers sweeping views of Kaua’i’s coastline from the iconic Po’ipū Beach to the distant waves near the Spouting Horn. After dinner, arrange for the wedding party to experience the island’s quintessential sunsets while they make lasting memories learning the art of weaving lei in a Haku Lei-Making class.

Guests will be enraptured by the open-air rooftop Sky Terrace at the Epicurean Atlanta, Autograph Collection. This one-of-a-kind destination features 4,000 square feet of space, including an expansive events lawn. Offerings include setting up action stations, incorporating a live chef and custom-made dishes for each guest.

3. Say “I do” in style

The defining moment and centerpiece of the weekend has arrived — the wedding ceremony, and choosing the right venue is essential to set the tone for the entire celebration.

For an off-the-beaten path option, consider the championship golf course at Hawks Landing Golf Club at the Orlando World Center Marriott. Designed by noted golf architect Robert Cupp Jr., couples can host an indoor reception or an outdoor event on the driving range to create a one-of-a-kind celebration.

For a truly unique option, consider the recently opened Sky Island at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. This island, just off the main pool complex, features multiple large cabanas and a lush lawn, providing a breathtaking setting for a memorable ceremony guests won’t forget.

4. Toast the happy couple

Let the festivities take flight after the ceremony by selecting a venue that blends elegance with energy — whether it’s a dance floor where guests can let loose, or a chic setting that wows from the first toast to the last dance.

Dance the night away at the Courthouse Ballroom at Le Méridien Tampa, The Courthouse, a century-old architectural gem restored to its former glory. The exquisite room comfortably accommodates even the largest guest lists with its grand vaulted ceiling and windows offering panoramic city views.

A nature-inspired oasis awaits at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, offering three indoor garden atriums spanning a total of nine acres. Each space offers a lush paradise housing exotic plants and serene water features, creating a tranquil and enchanting ambiance alongside a quarter-mile long river.

5. Let the party live on

After the reception ends, keep the celebration going with a fun space where guests can gather all night long. Whether it’s a game room or karaoke, engaging elements create a relaxed atmosphere for everyone to continue the fun.

At the newly reimagined W Hollywood, host your wedding after-party poolside on the rooftop WET Deck. Celebrate with 360-degree views of Hollywood, private cabanas and a full-service bar. A large projection wall and pre-installed gobos offer creative ways to personalize the space and set the mood for an unforgettable night.

Guests will have a blast at Philadelphia Marriott Downtown’s Liberty Lanes, a four-lane duckpin bowling alley featuring large-screen TVs, specialty cocktails, craft beer and delectable bites to keep the party alive. Between strikes and spares, slip over to the hotel’s speakeasy-style pub for specialty cocktails and light fare.

6. Wedding brunch bliss

As the weekend winds down, a next-day brunch offers the perfect chance to relive the magic, share stories from the night before, and enjoy a final heartfelt gathering before guests head home.

At the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, the Crescent Terrace offers a charming outdoor setting with an oak tree canopy, market lights and scenic waterfront views enhanced by passing Disney Friendship Boats. Nestled beside the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, it’s a relaxing environment where guests can reminisce and savor the final moments of wedding magic.

Host a farewell brunch in the serene oasis of Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel’s Waterfall Garden & Outdoor Terrace, a two-acre natural space. Bask in the sunshine and unwind in this tranquil urban retreat before sharing a delicious meal, reflecting on cherished moments, then enjoy locally inspired flavors at 43 Down.

No matter the vision or destination for your perfect wedding weekend, Marriott Bonvoy provides an array of venues and expert teams ready to turn dreams into reality. From rehearsal dinners to post-wedding brunches, every moment can be flawlessly orchestrated. To explore venues and the exceptional services designed to elevate every moment of a celebration, or to request information, visit MarriottBonvoy.com/weddings.