Posted on

Why you should hire a professional photographer for senior portraits

2021-01-07T07:01:00

(BPT) – High school graduation is a proud moment for not only your senior but the entire family. After all, it’s an important milestone that will never come again. Senior portraits commemorate this time in your son or daughter’s life and will be cherished for years to come. As your child grows into an adult, a senior portrait captures a meaningful moment in time — offering a great way to reflect on one’s journey through life.

From that yearbook page to the framed portrait hung proudly on the wall, senior photos are a memento worth taking with care — and by a professional who knows how to capture this moment best.

Here are ways a professional photographer can make your teen’s senior photo stand out, providing a one-of-a-kind keepsake of this important rite of passage.

Getting to know you

A good professional photographer takes time to get to know everyone they photograph. They will ask your senior about their hobbies and interests, allowing the finished product to artistically represent their accomplishments and personality. This occasion only happens once in a high schooler’s career, so it’s vital to make it a memorable experience. Working with a professional photographer, you will have the benefit of years of experience to ensure the portrait provides a memory you want to keep forever.

Helping you look your best

With the help of a professional photographer, the lighting, background and pose will all help enhance the finished portrait. An experienced photographer can offer advice about locations and props to use during a photo session. Consult them before making these final choices, as they know what will look best on camera.

A professional photographer has technical expertise and training, and knows what lens is best to use for each situation. They know about composition, and can use that knowledge to guide you throughout the process, ensuring that your portraits are outstanding. They are also skilled in post-processing techniques to produce a stunning final portrait.

Advising you about what to wear

Your professional photographer will help with wardrobe choices, so your portrait is both interesting and flattering. They understand color theory and can suggest the best color palette for your skin tone — as well as for the location or space where the portrait will be displayed. They can advise you about layers, accessories and other details to make sure your personality shines through in the final image.

Turning photographs into artwork

A professional photographer will provide you with more than just pictures. They create beautiful works of art meant to last for generations. Your teen may want to share photos with friends on social media, but as parents, you want to hang the portrait in your family room, or create an album to look at when the nest is empty.

These are memories you will cherish for years, and a professional photographer will produce the perfect art that can share with friends and keep forever.

Providing a memorable experience

Face it, not everyone is comfortable getting their portrait taken. A professional photographer delivers more than just great portraits. They will create an all-around unforgettable experience, making the experience enjoyable and stress-free — even for those who are camera shy.

This is a special time in your teen’s life, and you want them to have great memories about the whole process from prepping for the session through the photo session itself — all the way until receiving the final photographs.

Finding the right photographer

Start by visiting FindAPhotographer.com to locate a member of Professional Photographers of America near you. Ask to see their portfolio for a sense of their previous work. Anyone can snap a bunch of photos, but a true professional will have a clear track record of consistently delivering quality portraits. Your photographer can provide print options to make it easy for you to share photos with loved ones, plus digital options for social media.

Ask the photographer how to prepare for a session, and let your senior be involved in the process. If your teen can ask questions and help choose the photographer, they will feel more invested in the session. Then you can all be proud of the results: stunning portraits that commemorate this amazing milestone in their life.

Posted on

The sun is setting on swiping at the pump

2021-01-07T14:23:00

(BPT) – Among its downfalls, 2020 was a fraud-heavy year. However, there is one type of fraud that can be thwarted in 2021: pay-at-the-pump fraud using cloned payment cards, also known as counterfeit fraud. This happens when cybercriminals skim cards and steal payment card data at fuel pumps or buy them from the dark web, print them onto counterfeit payment cards, and use them at older fuel pumps that do not have an EMV® chip or contactless card reader.

And pay-at-the-pump fraud is rampant. Analysis from Mercator Advisory Group and Transaction Network Services shows that fraud losses on automatic fuel dispensers (AFDs) this year is estimated to be $17,315 per site.

This type of fraud is prevalent because most gas stations still use outdated fuel pumps with point of sale (POS) systems that read the magnetic stripe on the back of a card instead of POS systems that use more secure chip and contactless card readers.

It is time for station owners to upgrade their fuel pumps to protect themselves and their customers.

Upgrading these fuel pumps has been a long time coming. Awareness about the intent to shift to chip cards for secure payments started in 2011 and the date for fraud liability to shift from financial institutions to fuel merchants has been pushed back multiple times since then.

Visa is trying to stop fraudsters from taking advantage of consumers and merchants this way, and is encouraging fuel merchants to upgrade to EMV chip card and contactless readers at the pump — the most efficient way to prevent criminals from successfully using counterfeit payment cards — before the liability shift date of April 17, 2021.

“In addition to consumers having an extra layer of protection, these upgrades benefit gas station owners by removing fraud dollars that impact their bottom line,” said Julie Creevy Scharff, vice president of consumer products at Visa. ”Based on Visa data, counterfeit fraud dollars decreased 87 percent among chip-enabled non-fuel merchants in the U.S. in March 2020 compared to September 2015, when the liability shift occurred for that community.”

Visa believes a similar reduction in counterfeit fraud perpetrated at fuel pumps can be experienced by fuel merchants if they embrace chip card and contactless card readers at the pump.

Fortunately, there is still time to upgrade. Merchants should contact their payment or fuel pump provider so consumers can take advantage of a chip card reader with their chip card or use contactless payment when they fuel up.

Posted on

5 ideas for helping your community’s teachers

2021-01-06T19:20:23

(BPT) – A love of learning and a passion for children is what makes teachers special. As COVID-19 has impacted schools across the country, teachers have proved their agility in shifting gears quickly to teach students as effectively as possible.

Whether your community’s schools are in person, online or a mix of both, it’s the teachers who have the hard work of making school a positive experience no matter the circumstances. This year, it’s critical to support teachers to position them for success so students can thrive. Consider these five steps in supporting teachers and showing you care.

1) Add extra supplies: Go beyond the supplies list and buy extras for the teacher. This might be adding extra glue sticks and pencils, or, making a teacher’s care basket with personal items like hand lotion, sanitizing wipes, tea and coffee, stickers, etc. What’s more, remember that supplies are needed all school year long. A mid-year supply drop-off is sure to be appreciated. You might even consider running a supply drive to help teachers in need throughout the year.

2) Ask about volunteer opportunities: In-person volunteer opportunities may be limited or unavailable right now, so be proactive and ask teachers about virtual or distance volunteering options. You might be able to lead a virtual story time, organize a book club, help by checking digital papers, dropping off items at students’ homes and much more. Simply reach out to your teacher to show your willingness to help and you can discuss volunteer opportunities that match your skills and interests. Beyond the classroom, check out volunteer opportunities at libraries, study halls, community centers and more.

3) Get involved: As a supporter of public school teachers and students since 2009, Sonic provides essential funds needed for learning materials and innovative teaching techniques to inspire creativity. The business donates to public school teacher projects multiple times throughout the school year including during a fall voting campaign and Teacher Appreciation Month in May, as well as through special funding events throughout the year. Visit LimeadesforLearning.com to learn more about how to get involved and help teachers.

4) Stay up to date: Being informed not only helps you understand what’s happening in your student’s world, it helps you be a more engaged partner in their education. Teachers appreciate parents and caregivers who stay up to date by reading grade newsletters promptly, checking emails from the school often and visiting classroom websites or social media pages regularly. Additionally, consider attending school board meetings, even if it’s virtually, so you know what’s happening in the district.

5) Practice patience and understanding: The 2020-21 school year contains a lot of unknowns. Whether it’s in-person, virtual or hybrid, remember to practice patience and understanding with educators as they navigate these new waters. Everyone is in this together and teachers are doing their best. Remember, the attitude you project about school is what your children will reflect, so make sure to stay positive and make the best of any situation as the year unfolds.

Posted on

Easy tips for cooking your favorite fish and shellfish at home every time

2021-01-06T12:23:00

(BPT) – Crab legs for a birthday. Scallops for an anniversary. Salmon for when family are in town. Many people enjoy eating seafood at restaurants as it is a favorite choice for celebratory meals. However, when it comes to cooking seafood at home, it can be intimidating. Seafood — fish and shellfish — is surprisingly simple to cook with a few tips and tricks.

“Seafood is easy, delicious and widely available, making it a great option for home cooks,” says Linda Cornish, president of Seafood Nutrition Partnership. “Whether it is shellfish or a fillet of your favorite fish variety, seafood makes any day special. Plus, you can feel good about enjoying immune-boosting food rich in vitamins A, B and D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and minerals such as calcium, selenium, iron, zinc and more.”

To help kick up your confidence in the kitchen when cooking seafood, Seafood Nutrition Partnership and its partners from the Eat Seafood America! campaign offer simple kitchen tips:

The 10-minute rule: Measure the fish at its thickest point. Cook it on medium-high (about 375 degrees F) for 10 minutes per inch, turning halfway through the cooking time. That means a thin fish like sole or pollock cooks in about 4-5 minutes while a thicker salmon or tuna steak might be 15 minutes.

Test for the flake: The best way to tell if fish is done is by testing it with a fork: insert it at an angle at the thickest point and twist gently. The fish will flake easily when it’s done, and it will lose its translucent or raw appearance.

Create foil packets: Foil makes cooking seafood and cleanup simple. Choose your seafood, such as shrimp or a piece of fish, and vegetables such as bell pepper, green beans, cherry tomatoes or zucchini. Use a large piece of foil and layer fish on top of veggies, season to taste, add a couple of lemon slices, and add a drizzle of oil before cooking in the oven, on the grill or even campfire.

Steam on the stovetop: Steaming is a popular way to cook shellfish due to its simplicity. Fill a deep pot with 1-2 inches of water, add wire rack and bring to a boil. Add seafood and cover to cook. Seafood like lobster, crab legs and shrimp will turn pink or red when done, so look for the bright color and then enjoy.

Stock up with canned and frozen options: Fill your freezer with seafood when it’s on sale, so there’s something always ready to go when meal planning. When you’re at the grocery store, also grab canned seafood that is often a reasonably priced alternative. Then try adding into favorite recipes or toss into salads or pastas for an easy meal that is sustainable and planet-friendly.

Cook once, eat twice: Try doubling recipes to get ahead on cooking and have a dinner or lunch ready for later in the week. Recipes that freeze well, such as chowder or gumbo, are great to double. Also, consider cooking an extra piece of fish to use on a salad or in a sandwich the next day.

Explore grab-and-go options: Try pre-prepped seafood from your local grocery store to just bring home and heat. Instructions are typically on the package but if you have questions, ask the pros at the seafood counter.

Try new recipes: With everyone spending more time at home, it’s fun to try new recipes. You can enjoy restaurant-quality seafood dishes at home in a few simple steps. Be inspired with this recipe that can be updated with whatever fish fillets or veggies you have on hand. For a quick one-pan meal, choose vegetables and slice them to cook in about the same time as your fish.

Pesto Salmon Sheet Pan

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 acorn squash, cubed
1/2 medium red onion, chunked
2 cups baby multicolored potatoes, halved
1/2 cauliflower head, chunked
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
1 side of salmon or 4 fillets
1/2 cup pesto

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

2. On a large sheet pan, place acorn squash, red onions, potatoes and cauliflower. Salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil. Stir to coat well and place in single layer around the edges of the pan.

3. Add salmon to the sheet pan and spread with about half the pesto.

4. Roast at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes depending on thickness, until salmon is fork tender and fully cooked through.

5. Top with the remaining pesto and serve.

Share your finished seafood dish on social media and tag #EatSeafoodAmerica. For additional simple seafood recipes to try at home visit seafoodnutrition.org.

Posted on

Study: Most Americans say they’re optimistic about a brighter financial future in 2021

2021-01-06T10:01:00

(BPT) – As we enter 2021, here’s one more essential item to put on your list in addition to canned goods and masks: a financial checkup. According to Fidelity Investments’ 2021 New Year Financial Resolutions Study, more than two-thirds of Americans experienced financial setbacks in 2020, often from the loss of a job or household income or another emergency expense. Even those lucky enough to maintain their income still may have had to tap savings to help others, as nearly one in five attribute their financial setback to providing “unexpected financial assistance to family members or friends.” Despite this, many Americans remain optimistic and determined to make their money work harder in the New Year, with 72% confident they’ll be in a better financial position in 2021.

“Americans are clearly ready to leave 2020 behind and start 2021 off on the right foot, including when it comes to their finances,” said Stacey Watson, senior vice president with oversight for Life Event Planning at Fidelity Investments. “This year’s top financial resolutions are consistent with what we’ve seen in the past, however, what makes 2021 unique is how people will achieve them, given the financial pressures and major life events many continue to experience throughout the pandemic.”

This year, 65% of Americans are considering a financial resolution for 2021, which is down marginally from last year (67%), but still quite strong given the headwinds experienced by so many families. Younger generations appear to be more committed to actively improving their finances in the new year, with 78% of all Gen Z and Millennial respondents considering a financial resolution compared to 59% of all Gen X and Boomers.

“Younger generations are building up their careers, families and finances, so it makes sense they have important financial resolutions to make. Still, Gen-X-ers and Boomers also experienced significant financial challenges in 2020 and may want to consider making some resolutions of their own to build a stronger financial future particularly when it comes to retirement readiness,” continued Watson.

Making a resolution, and checking it twice

Resolutions are an important start, but the key is to keep good financial routines going strong well beyond January — and ultimately have them become life-long habits. The study reveals the key to a successful resolution is the good feeling of making progress and setting clear and specific financial goals. Having someone to help keep you on track and hold you accountable also plays a role, as nearly one-in-five indicated this was a major reason they were able to stick to a financial resolution last year. In fact, more than three-quarters (77%) of people working with a financial professional were able to stick to their financial resolution in 2020, compared to just half (50%) of those who did not work with one.

Putting 2020 in the rearview

To help build a better financial future, consider these three things you can do to move forward:

  • Begin with a budget
    • Of those who said they were in a ‘better’ financial situation this year compared to last, more than one in five attributed the success to budgeting better. With so many online tools to make tracking your spending and savings easier, including Fidelity’s Budget Checkup, there are simple ways to create and stick to a budget aligned with a ‘50-15-5’ guideline.
  • Replenish that rainy-day fund
    • More than 8 in 10 Americans say they’ll build up their emergency savings in 2021, an important money move considering that many may have tapped into their stash of cash due to financial setbacks in 2020.
  • Find new sources of income
    • Nearly two-thirds say they plan to find new ways to make money in the new year, whether with a side hustle, selling items online or getting a part-time job. And with 30% of Americans planning to ‘declutter’ their homes in 2021, there’s a good opportunity to find more than just loose change in those cushions and closets.

To get more tips for making and keeping your financial resolutions, visit Fidelity.com.

This study presents the findings of a national online survey, consisting of 3,011 adults, 18 years of age and older. The generations are defined as: Baby Boomers (ages 56-74), Gen X (ages 40-55), millennials (ages24-39), and Gen Z (ages 18-23; although this generation has a wider range, we only surveyed adults for the purposes of this survey). Interviewing for this CARAVAN® Survey was conducted October 14-21, 2020 by Engine Insights, which is not affiliated with Fidelity Investments. The results of this survey may not be representative of all adults meeting the same criteria as those surveyed for this study. Margin of error is +/- 1.79% at the 95% confidence level. Smaller subgroups will have larger error margins.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917
© 2021 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.
961172.1.0

Posted on

New Option for Certain Patients with Resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

2021-01-06T16:10:00

(BPT) – In 2018, Jenn Carroll, a human resources director from Connecticut, visited her doctor for what she thought was a routine exam. Although Jenn, a former smoker, was asymptomatic at the time of her allergist appointment, her doctor ordered a chest X-ray after Jenn asked about her allergy test results, specifically a result that suggested her lung capacity was that of an 80-year-old. She was 56 years old at that time. Upon referral, Jenn took the X-ray to a pulmonologist who confirmed through a biopsy that she had non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

This finding led Jenn on a medical journey that was unexpected, yet not totally unsurprising. Lung cancer runs in her family.

“I can’t say that I was taken totally off guard by the news. Knowing my history, there was always in the back of my mind the chance that it could happen to me. Still, nothing really quite prepares you for hearing the news of a lung cancer diagnosis,” Jenn recalls. “Even though the diagnosis and all it was to entail was scary, I was at least fortunate that there were treatment options for my type of non-small cell lung cancer,” said Jenn.

Jenn first had a surgery to completely remove her tumor, and her surgeon discovered the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes – which changed her diagnosis to Stage IIB NSCLC. Jenn was lucky that she was diagnosed early. The following month, her doctor recommended that she receive chemotherapy. Unfortunately, people with Jenn’s type of cancer face a risk of the cancer returning even when it is found early and treated with the standard of care (surgery, sometimes followed by chemotherapy).

Three months after receiving four rounds of chemotherapy, Jenn’s doctor mentioned that she was a potential candidate for a clinical trial – the ADAURA Phase III trial – to test a new treatment regimen in patients with Stage IB-IIIA epidermal growth factor receptor mutation-positive (EGFRm) NSCLC who had surgery to completely remove the tumor. Jenn’s Stage IIB NSCLC was found to have an EGFR mutation (exon 21 deletion), and therefore she was eligible to participate in the ADAURA trial. As part of the ADAURA trial, Jenn was given either osimertinib or placebo, and currently does not know which treatment she is receiving.

“I do sometimes worry about my cancer coming back but by continuing to participate in the trial, I have hope knowing that I am doing everything I can to give my disease a one-two punch,” Jenn said.

New Treatment Option May Decrease the Risk of Disease Recurrence

Based on the interim results of the ADAURA trial, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved TAGRISSO® (osimertinib) for the treatment of adult patients with EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to help prevent lung cancer from coming back after removal by surgery.

Results from the ADAURA Phase III trial showed adjuvant treatment (i.e., after surgery) with TAGRISSO in patients with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC reduced the risk of their cancer coming back or death:

  • Primary Endpoint: In the ADAURA clinical trial, patients with Stage II and IIIA EGFRm NSCLC patients treated with TAGRISSO following surgery to completely remove their tumor were 83% less likely to experience their cancer coming back or death than with placebo
  • Key Secondary Endpoint: Patients in the overall trial population (Stage IB, II and IIIA) treated with TAGRISSO following surgery were 80% less likely to experience their cancer coming back or death than with placebo
  • The safety and tolerability of TAGRISSO in the ADAURA trial were consistent with the established safety profile. In the ADAURA trial, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were diarrhea, rash, changes in your nails, mouth sores, and dry skin. Please see the Important Safety Information for TAGRISSO below and a link to the complete Prescribing Information including Patient Information

This targeted adjuvant treatment regimen is offering new hope for resectable EGFRm NSCLC patients – potentially increasing the odds of disease-free survival (DFS) by lowering the risk of the cancer coming back or death. Before the FDA approval of TAGRISSO, there were no approved targeted treatments, given after surgery, that demonstrated improvement in DFS outcomes in EGFRm NSCLC following surgery.

“TAGRISSO given after surgery has the potential to change the way we treat NSCLC patients after surgery, giving them another option to treat their cancer if appropriate,” said Roy S. Herbst, MD, PhD, Chief of Medical Oncology at Yale Cancer Center and Smilow Cancer Hospital. “Given in this post-surgical setting to patients diagnosed with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC, TAGRISSO may help prevent the disease from coming back after surgery.”

Spotlighting the Importance of Diagnosing and Treating NSCLC Earlier

Just as each patient has a unique profile, so does each tumor. Tumors are driven by unique sets of genes that have their own mutations and alterations, called biomarkers. When doctors identify the specific thumbprint of a tumor, through biomarker testing, they can often prescribe medicines that are designed to target the tumor’s specific traits. Testing for biomarkers can be done by surgically removing a portion of the tumor during a biopsy.

TAGRISSO is designed to target a specific genetic mutation, called an EGFR mutation, which can be identified through this type of testing. Though biomarker testing is more commonly used as a standard of care when patients are diagnosed with metastatic (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body) NSCLC, the availability of TAGRISSO for EGFRm NSCLC patients after surgery emphasizes the importance of testing for EGFR mutations.

“I believe it is really important for others facing resectable non-small cell lung cancer (lung cancer that can be removed by surgery) to have their biomarker testing done for EGFR mutations as soon as they can,” Jenn said.

TAGRISSO IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

TAGRISSO may cause serious side effects, including:

  • lung problems. TAGRISSO may cause lung problems that may lead to death. Symptoms may be similar to symptoms from lung cancer. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new or worsening lung symptoms, including trouble breathing, shortness of breath, cough, or fever
  • heart problems, including heart failure. TAGRISSO may cause heart problems that may lead to death. Your healthcare provider should check your heart function before you start taking TAGRISSO and during treatment as needed. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following signs and symptoms of a heart problem: feeling like your heart is pounding or racing, shortness of breath, swelling of your ankles and feet, feeling lightheaded
  • eye problems. TAGRISSO may cause eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms of eye problems which may include watery eyes, sensitivity to light, eye pain, eye redness, or vision changes. Your healthcare provider may send you to see an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) if you get eye problems with TAGRISSO
  • skin problems. TAGRISSO may cause skin problems. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop target lesions (skin reactions that look like rings), severe blistering or peeling of the skin
  • inflammation of the blood vessels in your skin. TAGRISSO may cause blood vessel problems in your skin. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop purple spots or redness of the skin that does not fade in color when pressed (non-blanching) on your lower arms, lower legs, or buttocks or large hives on the main part of your body (trunk) that do not go away within 24 hours and look bruised

Before taking TAGRISSO, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have lung or breathing problems
  • have heart problems, including a condition called long QTc syndrome
  • have problems with your electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, calcium or magnesium
  • have a history of eye problems
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. TAGRISSO can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with TAGRISSO or think you may be pregnant
    • Females who are able to become pregnant should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment with TAGRISSO. You should use effective birth control during treatment with TAGRISSO and for 6 weeks after the final dose of TAGRISSO
    • Males who have female partners that are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment with TAGRISSO and for 4 months after the final dose of TAGRISSO
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TAGRISSO passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with TAGRISSO and for 2 weeks after your final dose of TAGRISSO. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during this time

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take a heart or blood pressure medicine

The most common side effects of TAGRISSO are:

  • low white blood cell counts
  • low platelet counts
  • diarrhea
  • low red blood cell counts (anemia)
  • rash
  • muscle, bone, or joint pain
  • changes in your nails, including: redness, tenderness, pain, inflammation, brittleness, separation from nailbed, and shedding of nail
  • dry skin
  • mouth sores
  • tiredness
  • cough

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of TAGRISSO. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is TAGRISSO?

TAGRISSO is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has certain abnormal epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene(s):

  • to help prevent your lung cancer from coming back after your tumor(s) has been removed by surgery, or
  • as your first treatment when your lung cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic), or
  • when your lung cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic) and you have had previous treatment with an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) medicine that did not work or is no longer working

Your healthcare provider will perform a test to make sure that TAGRISSO is right for you.

It is not known if TAGRISSO is safe and effective in children.

Please see complete Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

©2020 AstraZeneca. All rights reserved. US-43140 Last Updated 12/20

Posted on

Best ways to personalize your workspace and stay organized

2021-01-05T11:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re working remotely, heading into the office, or a hybrid of the two, your workspace is probably looking a little different these days. Now more than ever, it’s important to make your space feel like your own and stay organized with personal touches.

Fortunately, with a few simple steps you can have a workspace that is clean, functional and full of style no matter where you are.

Curated organization: Desk clutter can reduce productivity and create more stress throughout the day. It’s important when organizing your space to group like-minded items together so you always know where they are. What’s more, keep frequently used items by your dominant hand so you can quickly get what you need without missing a beat. Use Noted by Post-it® Acrylic Accessory Trays for pens and pads. Need a place to file papers and other documents? File away with colorful Noted by Post-it® Folios with elastic bungees, keeping everything in its place.

Colorful reminders: Color-coding is great for work organization as well as organizing family to-dos. Noted by Post-it® Planner Dots are a colorful way to keep tabs on your activities and projects. Use them for list making, task reminders or a colorful way to check off. For easy reference and reminders, use Noted by Post-it® Tab Notes on your lists and in your notebooks. And finally, grab a handful of colorful Noted by Post-it® Pens to jot down all your reminders and to-dos.

Think vertical: If your space is small or you’re trying to rethink workflows, explore the potential of vertical spaces. White boards, pin boards or chalk boards can be hung on walls for planning or visual inspiration. Add shelving to help open desk real estate, giving you room to work without clutter, especially useful in small or unique spaces.

Make new habits: Plan your day with intent and use Noted by Post-it® Notebooks for bullet journaling or notetaking. List to-dos and action items to meet your goals with Square Notes and use Weekly Planner pads, marking off each task and to-do. A great way to get ahead of the next day is to plan priority tasks the night before so you can hit the ground running in the morning.

Add art: Your workspace should reflect your personality; consider adding in artwork and photography that match your curated style — but don’t forget, less is more. One key piece of artwork complemented by a family portrait adds a personal touch without unnecessary clutter that starts to look untidy.

Organize your computer desktop: It’s not just your actual desktop that needs organizing, your computer’s digital desktop could use some attention, too. Start by choosing a fun background and screensaver to personalize your technology. Then, go through desktop files, icons and documents and organize what you need into appropriate folders and delete what you don’t.

A few simple steps and you’ll transform any office into a functional and fun space that reflects your personality with style. To learn more and discover other useful tips, visit www.Post-it.com/noted.

There’s probably no real need for you to have your modem and your router sitting on your desk, looking unsightly and blinking at you. Put them on the floor or in a drawer to create a more visually pleasing, less distracting work space.

Posted on

New world, new business: 5 ways small businesses are adapting to COVID

2021-01-05T23:01:00

(BPT) – COVID-19 has irrevocably altered the way that we do business. Some small businesses have floundered, while others have completely reinvented themselves.

In a recent survey by SCORE, just 34% of U.S. small business owners now categorize their companies as profitable, compared to 55% in 2019. As a result, they’re working hard to adapt — reconfiguring their offerings to boost revenues and planning such new strategies.

“The unexpected has forced many to reevaluate plans, practices and procedures,” notes Andrea Forstadt on USChamber.com. “Yet one of the advantages of being a small business is the ability to more easily lean in to, embrace and adapt to change. For many, the short-term alternate plans or adjustments are fast becoming the realities of the foreseeable future.”

Here are five trends that have impacted small business this year.

Freelancing has surged. As people rely on contract work to replace lost jobs, the number of freelancers in the U.S. is growing steadily. NPR reports that two million more Americans began freelancing between September of 2019 and September of 2020, boosting the freelance portion of the U.S. workforce to 26%. Studies also show that women lost jobs at a faster rate than men during the past year; and are more likely to pursue full-time freelance careers due to autonomy and flexible schedules.

Cashless commerce is growing. To reduce person-to-person contact, businesses of all kinds are discouraging or completely eliminating cash payment options in favor of card or digital payments. “Ongoing shifts toward e-commerce, digital payments (including contactless), instant payments and cash displacement have all been significantly boosted in the past six months,” confirms an October McKinsey report. In one example, the raw volume of invoices sent on Invoice2go, which saw more than $24 billion in invoicing volume in 2019, has risen from 58 million to 78 million invoices sent per month — a boost of about 30%. As consumers seek efficiency and convenience, Invoice2go also has seen a 50% boost in digital payments via its payment platform — a crucial assist to help small businesses stay competitive.

Demand is up for digital tools. As small businesses lean more on online business functions and/or e-commerce during social isolation, they’re calling for leading-edge tools that can help them navigate the logistics. Women-owned businesses are often primary customers for financial management tools — studies show they’re 43% more likely than male business owners to be concerned that limited access to funds could hurt their businesses. Around 43% of U.S. small businesses plan to expand their businesses through digital and related technology as a response to COVID-19, according to the Verizon Business Survey. In fact, 30% of these businesses have already added ways to deliver products and services digitally. To meet this demand, Invoice2go has recently added “Reviews” and “Profiles” features — prompting a star-based review after each transaction and enabling creation of an auto-generated website to help small businesses get discovered and build credibility. This is especially crucial for solopreneurs (37% of the platform’s users), who can’t always devote valuable time for customer follow-up and encourage the word-of-mouth that generates future business.

Businesses are diversifying. Many small businesses have devised new offerings as previous income streams dwindled. For example, hotels are now offering day-rate rooms for people who need to work remotely, distilleries are producing hand sanitizer in addition to spirits and restaurants are offering better, easier take-out options. “Difficult times often lead to changes in the way the world operates,” says Wade Thomas in Forbes. His advice to business owners is, “Develop products and services that not only solve today’s challenges, but will also thrive in the new, post-difficult-times world.”

Virtual experiences are expanding. Companies have transformed in-person events into digital experiences. From virtual happy hours, to podcast product releases, to YouTube customers videos, everything is going online. “The real opportunity is to somehow provide the experience and connectivity of former live events to a virtual one that actually can sustain itself over time, even after the end of the pandemic,” explains Bernhard Schroeder in Forbes.

Need a suite of effective digital tools that will help you run your small business smoothly and efficiently? Invoice2go offers user-friendly products that can streamline your day-to-day workflow so you can focus on your business. Functions include estimates, expenses, invoices, payments, appointments, ratings and reviews. It’s going above and beyond for passionate small business owners and freelancers looking to improve and streamline processes in the new year. Learn more at Invoice2go.com.

Posted on

5 quick tips for prioritizing health and wellness

2021-01-05T13:01:01

(BPT) – Making it through a day, month and especially the busiest time of year, deserves a pat on the back these days. The new year brings a time to reset and look at new ways to put your wellness — and your family’s — front and center. Now, when focusing on your health and wellness is more important than ever, it can also be difficult to manage. Fortunately, there are easy solutions and helpful tools available that can help you prioritize these almost effortlessly.

Here are a few simple ways to approach a healthier new year and bring on an improvement in your overall well-being:

1. Rethink organization

The new year provides an opportunity to take stock, reset and reorganize. Physically getting your house in order or using an online calendar or tracking app to organize busy schedules and to-do lists can be helpful in mitigating stress. As you take a look at how you utilize the space in your home and your time, you may also find a reorganization of priorities is what 2021 calls for. Looking at organization from all angles will help to make sure all areas of your life are in order as best as possible.

2. When it comes to shopping, prioritize convenience

We already create a ton of excuses to ignore our health and wellness needs — difficulty buying essential items should not be one of them. Did you know that Walgreens redesigned their app with new features to help you live a healthier life? Through myWalgreens you can order online and grab essentials in-store, curbside or drive-thru pickup in as little as 30 minutes.

“We know how difficult it can be to put your health and wellness first, especially with the added stress of this pandemic,” said Stefanie Kruse, vice president of digital commerce and omnichannel, Walgreens. “But myWalgreens is designed to make it easier for your individual needs, whether that’s curbside pickup, 24/7 pharmacist access or daily, local health forecasts.”

3. Set aside time to recharge

When thinking about packed to-do lists, we usually find it easiest to deprioritize our own personal needs, but to show up as your best self for others you need to show up for yourself. Specifically designate time in your schedule each day — and abide by it — to address your wellness. Blocking off even 15 minutes to meditate, stretch, get fresh air, eat a healthy snack or simply relax can rejuvenate you and leave you feeling better.

4. Get moving

With a lot of workout facilities closed and exercising outside being difficult in the winter months, look for creative ways to stay active.

Carve out 30 minutes every day to get your body moving. You don’t have to do a high-intensity workout or pay for an expensive streaming membership. Create movement challenges with your friends and family to get your heartrate up. Do a workout over Zoom with a friend and check out the plethora of free workout videos available online.

5. Reward yourself for meeting your goals

Setting sights on new health goals can keep wellness top of mind, and incentives can even make it fun. Reward yourself along the way with wish list purchases, treats or guilty pleasures. If tracking by hand feels inconvenient, myWalgreens allows you to earn bonus Walgreens Cash Rewards for reaching health goals. With the app you can get daily, personalized recommendations for health and wellness, and real-time local environment and health forecasts which make hitting your goals even easier.

And remember, it doesn’t have to be Jan. 1, to start taking note and implementing these tips to lead a healthier, happier life. Starting today is better than no day.

Posted on

It’s a win-win: 5 ways businesses can help themselves by giving back

2021-01-05T11:01:00

(BPT) – Most businesses recognize the importance of finding ways to give back to their communities. But it often takes time for them to discover the full range of benefits they can realize when they commit to corporate giving.

The good news? Philanthropic donations from U.S. businesses are on the upswing. When polled in 2019, such corporations had gifted charities with an impressive $21.09 billion — a 13.4% increase over the year before. That giving has likely impacted the businesses themselves in a multitude of direct and indirect ways.

“Corporate donations are a great way to generously help nonprofit organizations that matter to you, your employees and your community,” writes Molly St. Louis on Inc.com. “(And) enterprise businesses have come up with some pretty creative ways of doing social good. You don’t need a huge budget or full marketing team to execute a strong ‘giving back’ campaign.”

Thinking of initiating or increasing a corporate giving campaign? Here are five key benefits to such a campaign that you may not have considered.

It’s probably important to your employees. Today’s more socially conscious workers, especially millennials, tend to have strong preferences for employers that give back. Statistics gathered by Charities.org show that 71% of U.S. employees place importance on working in a culture that’s supportive of giving and volunteering, while 87% of U.S. corporate leaders believe their employees expect them to support causes and issues that matter to those employees.

It can strengthen the communities that support your business. Targeting donations toward your local community or communities can be mutually beneficial, since it bolsters your customer base even as it demonstrates appreciation to your supporters.

For former Maryland state senator the Honorable Francis X. Kelly Jr., helping lead a philanthropy-minded employee benefits, administration and payroll business has been in alignment with a career defined by public service, business and civic involvement. He and his wife Janet founded Kelly & Associates Insurance Group in 1976 as a way to help small businesses secure affordable health care benefits for their employees. After bringing those small organizations together through common industry, trade and profession associations, they were able to form larger groups, which then allowed for access to the same health insurance benefits as larger companies. “This was a way we could create a business by helping existing businesses, and how we could sink roots into the community and earn a living at the same time,” Kelly explains.

These days, the Kellys and their Maryland-based company are committed to supporting a number of key charitable organizations including the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation.

It can teach you about your community. Involving yourself in the joys and challenges faced by your customers and other community members can teach you lessons that can be applied to your business strategy. “Being involved in your community and giving your time, talent and/or treasure exposes you to different perspectives and experiences,” notes Kelly. “While you may think you are giving to someone else, if you really put your heart into it, you will take away far more than you could ever give.”

It can help build relationships. Businesses tend to live or die based on the strength of the relationships they form with people and organizations. “Giving of yourself expands your ‘network’ in a personalized way that social media could never replicate,” Kelly advises.

It can inspire new perspectives, ideas and strategies. Interacting with the nonprofit community — and learning about the different goals, challenges and achievements of various organizations — can be a way to open your eyes and challenge your own assumptions. “Giving back to the community gives you the opportunity to be involved in bold proclamations, big goals and inspired vision,” Kelly explains. “That naturally will lead you to further drive your own business strategies, heighten your goals and develop a bolder vision for yourself and business.”

Corporate giving can be more than just another imperative to cross off your “to-do” list as a company leader. Think about all the benefits such philanthropy can offer, and use them to enrich yourself and your company in myriad ways. For more information, visit kellyway.com/about-kelly/kelly-in-the-community.