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Don’t let cataracts make you miss out on living life to the fullest

2018-06-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Does your life today look different than it did in your younger years — literally? If things seem more cloudy and blurry than usual, even with your glasses on, you may be one of 24 million Americans living with cataracts.[1] Cataracts might be slow to make themselves known, but the ultimate impact they have on your life can be profound.[2]

As daily activities like driving become more difficult, you might be feeling like you’ve lost some of your independence and may experience fear of missing out (FOMO) on the things you love, like traveling to your favorite destinations and spending quality time with your family.[3] But that doesn’t have to be your reality.

“Many patients who come into my practice are unhappy with the way cataracts are making them miss out on experiences, but they’re hesitant about undergoing cataract surgery — even though it is the only treatment for cataracts,” said Dr. Bonnie Henderson*, a Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at Tufts University School of Medicine in Massachusetts. “I talk to my patients about the benefits of cataract surgery so they are comfortable undergoing treatment and don’t waste any more precious time missing out on what life has to offer.”

June is Cataract Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the toll this condition can take on the lives of millions of Americans. Whether you’re someone living with cataracts or concerned about a loved one struggling with their eyesight, Dr. Henderson sheds light on cataracts and answers important questions about the latest cataract surgery options.

What exactly are cataracts?

Cataracts cloud the eye’s naturally clear lens, blocking or changing how light passes through and resulting in blurry vision.[2] Nearly everyone who lives long enough will develop cataracts.[4] It’s one of the leading causes of vision loss in the United States and the primary cause of blindness in the world.[5],[6]

What are people with cataracts missing out on?

A survey conducted by Alcon, the global leader in eye care, unveiled that people living with cataracts report experiencing poor vision when driving, having difficulty working and feeling fearful about falling.[3] Many are also worried that cataracts may keep them from being able to clearly see vibrant colors, or the faces of their loved ones.[7] These experiences could be further increasing their fears and frustrations about missing out on the things that bring them joy.

What are the treatment options for cataracts?

Surgery is the only way that you can correct cataracts. Nearly four million Americans go through the brief procedure each year, and many are able to quickly resume their lives.[8] Today, there are even new options that allow you to correct cataracts and other eye conditions at the same time, like eye pressure associated with glaucoma, presbyopia or even astigmatism — potentially reducing the need for glasses that you may have worn your entire life.

What’s keeping people from having cataract surgery?

Despite the difficulties cataracts may cause, survey findings show that many who are impacted aren’t aware of the options available to help overcome the condition.[3] Some decide not to seek treatment at all because they’re afraid of eye surgery or they simply accept cataracts as a natural part of aging.[7]

The good news is that with the advancements in technology available today, cataract surgery is not something to fear — or delay. In fact, more than 90 percent of people 60 years and older who underwent cataract surgery said they realized that their worries about the surgery and recovery process were unfounded and they would advise someone they know to get the surgery.[3]

You can hear real people talk about their cataract stories and learn more about available treatment options at MyCataracts.com. Be sure to talk to your doctor about how treatment can make sure you never again miss out on what’s important in life. Take control of your time — the earlier you start the conversation, the faster you can get back to doing the things you love.

* Dr. Bonnie Henderson is an internationally recognized surgeon who is also a paid consultant for Alcon.


[1] Prevent Blindness. Vision Problems in the U.S. Report. http://www.visionproblemsus.org/cataract/cataract-definition.html. Accessed April 2018.

[2] National Eye Institute (NEI). Facts About Cataract. https://nei.nih.gov/health/cataract/cataract_facts. Accessed May 2018.

[3] My Cataracts Survey Results. 2017.

[4] University of Louisville Physicians. Cataracts. http://uoflphysiciansse3.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=10&isArticleLink=false&pid=10&gid=000026. Accessed May 2018.

[5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Common Eye Disorders. https://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/basics/ced/index.html. Accessed May 2018.

[6] World Health Organization. Causes of Blindness and Visual Impairment. http://www.who.int/blindness/causes/en/. Accessed May 2018.

[7] Know Your Cataract Eye-Q Survey. 2016.

[8] Lindstrom R. Thoughts on cataract surgery. Review of Ophthalmology. March 2015.


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Tips for talking about Alzheimer’s with a family member

2018-06-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – It’s a conversation no family wants to have, but one that can be vitally important — talking to a loved one about memory loss or cognitive decline.

Mary Foss of Eagan, Minnesota, said she knew it was time to broach this sensitive topic with her husband Darrell when she noticed he was having difficulty doing the home improvement projects he had enjoyed all his life.

“Darrell would spend hours building and fixing things around the house — it was his hobby,” Mary said. “But it got to point where he was having trouble doing even routine tasks. He would get frustrated and soon began doing less and less. I knew something was wrong, but dismissed it for a while.”

As Darrell’s retreat from activities he once loved grew, so did Mary’s concern. Eventually, Mary and the couple’s adult daughter, Michele, decided to share their concerns.

“We just told him that something is not right and you need to see a doctor and figure out what it is,” Foss said. “I thought maybe he had a mini-stroke or a brain tumor. We were shocked when the diagnosis came back as mild cognitive impairment, possibly Alzheimer’s.”

The Fosses’ story is not uncommon. Talking about memory or cognition problems with a family member can be daunting for many families. Denial, fear and difficulty initiating conversations about this sensitive subject are common barriers.

“Alzheimer’s disease is challenging, but talking about it doesn’t have to be,” said Ruth Drew, director of Information and Support Services at the Alzheimer’s Association. “Family members are typically the first to notice when something is not quite right and it’s important to discuss these concerns and follow up with your doctor.”

During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month the Alzheimer’s Association is offering these six tips to help families facilitate conversations about Alzheimer’s and other dementias:

1. Have the conversation as early as possible — Addressing memory or cognition problems early offers an opportunity to identify the cause and take action before a crisis situation occurs.

2. Think about who’s best suited to initiate the conversation — If there is a family member, close friend or trusted adviser who holds sway, include them in the conversation.

3. Practice conversation starters — Be thoughtful in your approach. For example, consider an open-ended question such as, “I’ve noticed a few changes in your behavior lately, and I wanted to see if you’ve noticed these changes as well?”

4. Offer your support and companionship — Let your family member or friend know that you’re willing to accompany them to the doctor and offer your continuous support throughout the diagnosis process.

5. Anticipate gaps in self-awareness — Someone experiencing cognitive decline may be unaware of problems. Be prepared to navigate confusion, denial and withdrawal, as people may not want to acknowledge their mental functioning is declining.

6. Recognize the conversation may not go as planned — A family member may not be open to discussion. They may get angry, upset or simply refuse to engage. Unless it’s a crisis situation, don’t force the conversation. Take a step back, regroup and revisit the subject in a week or two.

While receiving the diagnosis was difficult, Mary Foss said it also provided a path forward.

“As difficult as it was to receive Darrell’s diagnosis, it provided an answer to what we’re facing,” Foss said. “We took a few days to grieve, but then we focused our attention on getting educated about the disease and what we can do to fight it. We are staying active and focusing on the things that are most important to us.”

For more information, visit alz.org/6Tips or www.alz.org.


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4 tips for keeping your pet safe this summer

2018-06-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – There are thousands of reasons to love the summer, and if you’re a pet owner, you love summer more than most.

Summer is the perfect opportunity to get outside and get active with our pets. Between cool swims in the pool and brisk walks in the sunshine, summer is a great bonding time for you and Fluffy or Fido.

However, it’s also important for pet owners to have a proper understanding of factors that can affect their pet’s health and safety during the warmer months. This includes varying weather conditions, maintaining proper nutrition and preparing for other summertime events.

With June being National Pet Preparedness Month, Dr. Kurt Venator, Purina’s Chief Veterinary Officer, suggests four things for pet owners to keep in mind this summer so that we can live safe, healthy and happy lives together with our pets whether at home or on the road.

Beating the heat

Just like the heat can make people feel unwell, the particularly hot days of summer can leave pets dehydrated or ill if not properly attended to. Pet owners should be mindful of a pet’s exercise, outdoor time and hydration to keep them feeling their best.

More specifically, if heading out for a walk, be sure to go outside during cooler parts of the day like early morning or early evening. Also, before you start your walk, use your hand to feel the pavement. If it feels too hot to touch, then it’s way too hot for your pet’s paws. Stay in the grass or possibly try booties so his or her paws don’t burn.

Above all, never leave your pet unattended in the car. Your car acts like a greenhouse on hot days, and overheating can set in quickly, causing permanent damage to your pet, and even death. On hot days, it’s best to just leave your pet at home.

Summer snacks and proper ingredients

With blueberries, strawberries and other yummy treats in season during the summer, you can share these healthy indulgences with pets too. Fruits like peaches, strawberries and mangoes are great treats for pets as long as pits, stems and leaves are removed and fruit is thoroughly washed.

What’s great about these fruits is that they contain vitamins, fiber and antioxidants and tend to be low in sugar, so when fed in moderation, they’re actually quite healthy for dogs in the same ways they’re healthy for humans. That’s why Purina includes fruits, like blueberries, in their Beneful Playful Life and Beneful Grain Free formulas. Made from real protein sources and blended with an optimal amount of fruit and veggies, these foods can give your pet the nutrition they need to play all day.

Did someone say vacay?

Taking to the skies? When flying with a pet, it’s important to understand your pet’s needs. Therefore, you should conduct the appropriate research, plan ahead and understand airline/aircraft policies on the day of departure to ensure the trip is just as safe for your pet as it is for you. For instance, did you know that in order for your pet to fly you should obtain a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection? Most airlines require this document within ten days of travel. This document must be signed by an accredited veterinarian, and should indicate that your pet has been examined and able to fly.

Hitting the road? Buy a travel harness that comes across your pet’s chest and clips onto a safety belt. This keeps your pet secure and prevents him or her from interfering with your driving. To keep your pet feeling comfortable and entertained on the journey, also consider bringing a cozy blanket, spill-proof bowl and time-consuming treats, like the Purina Busy(R) Bone, to pass the hours till you reach your destination.

Be prepared for natural disasters

Although it’s difficult to predict when natural disasters will occur, preparing for the worst for your family and your pet can make the difference when every second counts — especially during hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires. Understand what weather impacts your area, have resources on hand and have a plan to keep everyone safe.

Just like you, your pet should also have a disaster kit that includes basic pet essentials such as bottled water, cans of wet food, blankets, collapsible bowls, cat litter and pan, and a leash and collar. A one- to two-week supply of food that your pet usually eats is an ideal amount to include in your disaster kit as well; however, be sure to check the expiration dates. Pack the foods your pet eats routinely to ensure complete and balanced nutrition in stressful moments like this.

For more information and tips about keeping your pets safe, healthy and always prepared, please visit www.Purina.com/Summer.


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National Donut Day [Infographic]

2018-06-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – June 1 is National Donut Day and at BFGoodrich Tires we’re no strangers to the art of the perfect victory donut. Check out a dozen donuts from our kitchen.


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4 simple tips for hosting a memorable summer party

2018-06-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – From outdoor cookouts to dinner parties on the patio, summer is the ideal season for entertaining guests. According to a recent survey commissioned by Delta Faucet, an overwhelming majority of homeowners (89 percent) plan to host at least one summer gathering this season. To ensure hosts are well prepared, below are tips on how to throw a simple summer soirée.

Embellish with blossoms

Subtle touches such as a fresh floral centerpiece help create a warm and welcoming ambiance. Design a floral arrangement with varying heights for the illusion of a fuller, larger table centerpiece without spending the time or money. As a bonus, create a foundation for your bouquet with foliage — like magnolia leaves — as the framework to provide a leafy contrast to your favorite flowers.

Embrace seasonal ingredients

Incorporate a blend of seasonal ingredients such as garden strawberries and fresh basil into gourmet treats for guests. Highlight fresh raspberries and lemon with a fruit-infused water or make a variety of berry and goat cheese toasts for sweet and savory flavors in every bite. For less time in the kitchen, goat cheese appetizers can be made in advance, so all you need to do the day-of is set and serve.

Stay spotless as you go

To host your dream gathering without the stress, take advantage of the latest and greatest innovations. The Delta Charmaine Faucet with ShieldSpray Technology, available at The Home Depot, ensures quick and easy cleanup throughout the event. Designed with a concentrated jet stream within a protective sphere of water, ShieldSpray Technology powers off grit and grime while containing mess and splatter. This way you can clean as you go to avoid dish pile-up; spend less time soaking, scrubbing and shirt swapping; and have more time with your guests.

Illuminate your space

The perfect lighting can take your party décor to the next level, night or day. If you’re planning an evening event, use string lights or scented candles around the space to create a cozy environment. For daytime gatherings, hang details tailored to your party décor like foliage garland, paper lanterns or colorful ribbon.

For more design inspiration, visit DeltaFaucet.com/InspiredLiving.


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How universities are revitalizing urban areas

2018-06-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – In the middle of the country, between two coasts and the two metropolises of New York and Los Angeles, is the friendlier, more mild-mannered version of the two: Chicago.

One hundred years ago, the poet Carl Sandburg famously called Chicago the “hog butcher of the world,” and the “nation’s freight handler.” The character of the city has changed with each decade, and throughout the years.

Chicago has established itself as an educational hub, with world-class research universities, robust community colleges and ample opportunity for people to earn degrees and get ahead in life.

A force of change

During uncertain times, Chicago’s colleges and universities have stood as a guiding light for the city, signaling hope, change and opportunity.

In a city that has long had neighborhoods underserved and marked by economic hardship — one university has had a particularly strong impact on the community and the city as a whole: Saint Xavier University.

For more than 170 years, a mission to serve the community and inspire future generations to succeed and make a difference has guided the university.

As the city has changed, this core mission has adapted to serve students in the 21st century. Through the dedication of students, faculty and staff, the university has been acknowledged as a source of growth in the community in the following ways:

* Ranked No. 4 in Illinois for helping underserved students overcome barriers to complete their bachelor’s degrees, according to the Illinois Education Research Council’s 2017 report.

* Saint Xavier University has a stable and optimal student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1.

* Two-thirds of Saint Xavier’s student body are the first in their family to attend college.

* As part of the university’s mission, Saint Xavier directs academic programs and units to partner with local, national or international nonprofit, public, private or faith-based organizations to provide opportunities for engagement, scholarship or service/service learning for students, faculty and staff.

Degrees that open doors

While Chicago’s universities and colleges are the pride of the city, the question on almost every parent’s and incoming student’s mind is: What will I get out of the financial investment?

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Saint Xavier University offers top-ranked programs in the high-demand fields of nursing, speech pathology, exercise science and more. The job market for certified nurses is expected to grow by 16 percent during this decade.

This combination of high-ranking programs in growing career fields has led U.S. News and World Report to call Saint Xavier one of the best-value schools for students.

Saint Xavier University is a strong example of how universities are reviving the city of Chicago and opening doors for those who may have thought those doors were closed.


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Lower temps at a lower price: How to improve the energy-efficiency of your home today

2018-05-31T14:31:00

(BPT) – When the seasons change, the energy needs in your home change right along with them. And yet, whether you need to heat or cool your home, there’s one thing that never shifts: You want to do so as efficiently as possible.

An energy-efficient home is more than just good for the environment. It’s good for your pocketbook as well. By eliminating any unnecessary energy expenses you ensure you have more money to spend enjoying all the season has to offer.

You can start making your home more energy-efficient today and it begins with these four tips.

* Get proactive about your insulation. Your home’s insulation is often treated with an out-of-sight, out-of-mind mentality, yet improvements here could dramatically support your home’s energy-efficiency. While insulation is commonly seen as a benefit to keep your home warm in the winter, it also works to keep cool, air-conditioned air inside as well. Your insulation needs depend, in part, on where you live, but it’s worth your time to research this opportunity. Check to see that you have sufficient insulation and make additions or replacements as necessary.

* Have your HVAC system serviced. A well-functioning HVAC system can have a dramatic impact on your home’s energy-efficiency and now is the perfect time of year to have your unit serviced. During their visit your HVAC contractor will monitor refrigerant levels, clean the evaporator, the condenser and the coils as well as adjust the blower components. This should improve your unit’s output, however, if your cleaned unit still cannot keep the house comfortable at a reasonable rate, you can replace it with a more energy-friendly model. LG HVAC units, for example, are highly efficient and several have been recognized as “Energy Star 2018 Most Efficient” winners, meaning they represent the highest energy-efficiency in the category. From indoor units like the ultra-quiet, sleek wall-mounted Art Cool Gallery to outdoor units like the Multi F ductless option, there’s an HVAC unit to match your needs.

* Bring your windows into focus. The role your windows have in dictating the temperature in your home can be considerable. Older windows allow cool air to escape outside and that makes your air conditioner work harder to control the interior temperature. Replacing them eliminates this problem and sets you up to more easily retain heat during the winter. And if new windows simply aren’t possible right now, you can also make a smaller, more immediate impact on your energy-efficiency by closing the curtains during peak sunlight hours. This helps keep the temperature of your home cooler and reduces stress on your HVAC unit.

* Consider alternative energy sources. Instead of simply focusing on what you can do with your current energy situation, expand your options to alternative energy sources as well. Installing home solar panels can drastically cut or even eliminate your electricity bills and even increase your home’s resale value. Newer systems like the LG NeOn R maximize sunlight absorption and generate the maximum possible output — as much as 26 percent more than other comparably sized solar panels. This higher efficiency means that your solar panels can work in any climate or season to deliver for you.

Start improving your energy-efficiency today

Improving your home’s energy-efficiency benefits you not only during the summer but all year long, so what are you waiting for? Start applying the tips above today and you’ll see the benefits on each and every single energy bill going forward.


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Caring for caregivers: Resources for navigating an important job

2018-05-31T15:33:00

(BPT) – When David Bowen’s father fell taking out the trash in 2016, it set in motion a series of health challenges the family is still battling together. Bowen, 62, hired a part-time professional caregiver to assist his father along with his mother, who was battling Alzheimer’s, but he found himself serving as a caregiver much of the time, too.

“I’d go by [their home] after work three days a week; we called it the ‘40-mile triangle’ — 40 miles to work, 40 miles to their house, then 40 miles back home,” Bowen said. “I’d stop and get dinner on the way, sit and visit, redress dad’s wounds and humor mom, then head for home.”

Caregivers are the unsung heroes of the health care system. The responsibility can mean increased stress and anxiety, which can affect family dynamics, nutrition habits, physical fitness and overall well-being. Many people take unpaid leave from their jobs, reduce work hours, change careers or quit altogether to care for an aging loved one.

The 2018 Northwestern Mutual C.A.R.E. Study revealed that two of three caregivers reduce their living expenses to pay for the medical and practical needs of their loved ones, yet nearly half of future caregivers said they have made no financial plans to prepare.

While this can be challenging, caregivers take immense pride in this important role, and most wouldn’t trade the opportunity. In fact, a recent Merrill Lynch-Age Wave study found that 91 percent of caregivers feel grateful to care for someone and 77 percent would do it again.

Regardless of what leads someone to assume the role of caregiver, and whether they do so willingly, out of a sense of obligation or both, one thing is certain: Caregivers need and deserve support as they navigate a demanding, emotional and critical responsibility. The good news is there are resources and services that can help make life as a caregiver a bit easier.

* The National Family Caregiver Support Program offers medical, emotional, financial and legal advice and training to adult family members who provide in-home and community care for people aged 60 or older and to people older than 55 who care for children under 18.

* AARP’s Caregiver Resource Center offers guides for first-time caregivers, families and those who care for a loved one at home. These include financial and legal considerations and advice on how to maintain caregiver-life balance.

* While the Administration for Community Living doesn’t work directly with individuals, it can be a good place for a caregiver to start on the circuitous path to financial support. The organization provides funds to help older adults and people with disabilities live where they choose to for as long as they can, and has provided billions of dollars to programs in every state.

* UnitedHealthcare proactively addresses caregiver needs by sharing relevant information and resources. Its Solutions for Caregivers program, for example, is a website for eligible members to get advice from medical professionals, financial advisers and experienced care managers; take advantage of discounted products and services; and access educational resources. Non-members can register as guests and check out the comprehensive directory of organizations that focus on issues including Parkinson’s disease, substance abuse, blindness, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and diabetes. UnitedHealthcare also offers free monthly caregiver education calls, open to the public.

* The National Alliance for Caregiving focuses on caregiving research, innovation and technology, state and local caregiving coalitions, and international caring. It is working to build a global network of caregiver support organizations.

* The Caregiver Action Network (CAN) serves a broad spectrum of family caregivers, ranging from parents of children with special needs, to families and friends of wounded soldiers, to adult children caring for aging parents. Aiming to promote resourcefulness and respect for the more than 90 million family caregivers across the country, CAN provides free education, peer support and resources.

* The Eldercare Locator, a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, provides a search tool that allows visitors to search by topic and location for services pertaining to older adults and their families.

“Dad and I, we’re trying to put a new life together for him, and it’s tough,” said Bowen. “But support from all over has kept me on my feet and moving forward. Amid all the challenges, I am grateful for that.”


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Chocolate pairings: Innovative entertaining with a sweet twist

2018-05-31T13:01:01

(BPT) – Whether a fancy five-course social event, a laid-back barbecue or a progressive dinner party, what separates average from impressive entertaining is innovative and original ideas. One way to surely catch the attention of your guests while tempting their taste buds is to feature chocolate pairings in your entertaining itinerary.

Fine chocolates add decadence to any event, but they are relatable and broadly enjoyed. Chocolate platters have replaced cheese platters at soirees, but what’s really on trend for 2018 is chocolate pairings. This interactive offering is a conversation starter that will delight guests — the perfect way to conclude a meal with friends or family.

While the idea of chocolate pairings might seem complex, it’s actually quite simple. These tips from the expert chefs who create Kohler Original Recipe Chocolates will make it virtually effortless to pair fine chocolates with beer, wine and spirits so you can impress guests at your next event.

Offer an array of flavors

To ensure you have something for all guests no matter their preferences, opt for a variety of chocolates. Selections from the white, milk and dark chocolate categories offer an array of flavors. Some guests may gravitate to one over others, while other guests may choose to sample all three varieties. Suggest sampling from light to dark to balance the palate.

Pairing 1 suggestion: White chocolate

White chocolate is sweet and buttery, integrated into numerous types of confections, many of which feature fruit. The Kohler Cranberry Terrapin showcases cranberries and white chocolate with its signature smoky caramel. Cranberry and white chocolate are delicate flavors and this piece is crafted so that those flavors balance well and are not overpowered by the smokiness of the caramel.

With that in mind, consider serving with a a stout beer that will bring out that buttery goodness. If selecting a wine pairing, opt for a zinfandel or another variety that won’t overpower those delicate flavors. Spirits can be a nice pairing addition, too. A classic bourbon complements the smoky caramel perfectly.

Pairing 2 suggestion: Milk chocolate

Americans adore milk chocolate and expert chocolatiers can transform this delight into virtually endless tempting flavors. The Kohler Butterscotch Hop is one such example. The smooth, creamy butterscotch filling is enhanced by a custom blend of premium chocolate to elevate this flavor combination. It’s velvety on the tongue with a light finish, plus the beautiful mold impresses the eye.

Milk chocolate is smooth and sweet, and drink pairings should complement that element without overwhelming. A light crisp beer or a refreshing chardonnay brings out the buttery undertones of silky-smooth milk chocolate. If you decide to serve butterscotch, it’s sure to be unique as it’s a pretty rare find in the chocolate world. A honey whiskey is the perfect pair for butterscotch chocolates.

Pairing 3 suggestion: Dark chocolate

Rich and undeniably decadent, dark chocolate is the ideal final pairing to offer guests. The flavors of coffee and dark chocolate are often fused together as they mingle together well. For example, the Kohler Caffé and Cream has dark chocolate coffee ganache with a layer of creamy mascarpone in a dark chocolate shell. This multi-layer chocolate is meticulously crafted and offers a burst of satisfying richness.

A bold, rich beer or heavy ale matches dark chocolate well. A tawny port that isn’t too fruity can be a nice complement to coffee flavors while bringing out the dark chocolate elements. Finally, a sweeter bourbon with a smoky finish pairs nicely with the dark chocolate, which in turn brings out the barrel notes of the spirit.

Serving

You can serve chocolate pairings in a variety of ways. If you prefer to set up a beautiful buffet, you can display chocolates on a platter and place drink pairings nearby, each labeled appropriately. Guests can help themselves at their leisure. You may also opt to serve guests by bringing out each pairing one by one and offering guests their choice of beverage to pair with the featured chocolate. No matter how you choose to serve, it’s bound to be a memorable moment at a fantastic event.