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4 reasons to visit your favorite watering hole this summer

2021-07-13T06:01:00

(BPT) – The last year probably kept you cooped up at home, so as the world starts to open up again, it’s time to get out and meet up with some of your closest friends. For many, the local watering hole is a place to reunite, reminisce and ramble about life’s ups and downs.

They say home is where the heart is, or in this case, where the free peanuts, billiards tables and neon signs are. Either way, if you’re with the right crew, you’ll feel right at home. Here are a few reasons why you should get back out to your local bar:

1. You get to see old friends again

Sure, you may have been in touch with your friends, but Zoom calls aren’t as authentic as seeing them in person. You can only unleash so much of yourself on a video chat, and while bars can be noisy, you don’t have to worry about having to manage many people on a call or having someone’s chat freeze up by surprise.

2. You can enjoy a drink you didn’t have to make

Whether your local bar is a place where everyone knows your name, or where everyone knows to just leave you alone, it’s a welcome escape from the stress of everyday life. It’s also an opportunity to have a delicious drink that you didn’t make yourself. Let’s face it, your quarantine drinks probably never tasted as good as your local bartender can make them.

Your hometown bar isn’t just for singing sea shanties with your good friends and neighbors, it could be an opportunity to try a new drink. If you order a rum cocktail at your local bar, The Kraken Rum will pick up the tab. Not only will it be free, but Kraken will donate a portion of the proceeds from your cocktail to the United States Bartenders Guild Foundation’s Emergency Bartender Assistance Program. Even iconic hometown names like Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi and Mike Ditka have joined in to encourage people to get back to the local bars they love. Take it from Nicole herself:

“The Jersey Shore is nothing without its boardwalk bars and delicious cocktails, so it was a no-brainer to team up with The Kraken Rum to kick off summer right — with a free Kraken Rum cocktail,” said Polizzi. “This is my stomping ground and the bars here hold a special place in my heart, so let’s go, Jersey Shore — drinks are on us!”

Photographs of your drink and your receipt can be uploaded and itemized until Aug. 5. For more details on how to redeem yours, visit krakenkoupon.com.

3. It makes for a good change of scenery

After a long year at home looking at the same decor in your house, seeing the same neighbor walking around in their PJs, and drinking the same mixed drinks on the couch, being out and about can be a welcome change. Another benefit of a scenery change? Your local watering hole probably has more than just room-temperature light beer.

If you’re over age 21, you may be in for a pleasant surprise. To celebrate local bars in cities across America, The Kraken Rum is offering limited-edition “The Kraken Attacks” bottles that offer the opportunity to win a seaworthy prize. If you find a limited-edition bottle, you could win yourself a trip to Hawaii for the squid hunting adventure of a lifetime. Wondering if any limited-edition flavors are in your hometown bar? Kraken Rum has hidden these new sea beasts across 19 different American cities.

4. You can watch live sports again

While the pandemic was challenging for many, it’s finally reaching the end and you deserve to treat yourself (responsibly) by heading out to your local bar. A great way to have some fun is watching sports games with fellow fans. There’s nothing better than gathering at your watering hole to cheer on your favorite team and high-five strangers when you win the big game. Even if you don’t know someone, it’s the local sports teams that bring strong community ties. Take it from Coach Mike Ditka himself:

“Local watering holes have been the pulse of Chicago for as long as I can remember, especially after a big hometown win,” said Ditka. “I couldn’t be happier to finally be able to celebrate the reopening of these favorite local spots with The Kraken Rum, and for Chicagoans to mark the occasion with a free rum cocktail at da bars!”

Check out krakenattacks.com to learn how you can unleash the liquid of unparalleled darkness.

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One millionth milestone: Celebrating cleaner water and less plastic for over a decade

2021-07-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Elkay filtered ezH2O® bottle filling stations reduce lead and other harmful contaminants, putting cleaner, healthier water within everyone’s reach. Elkay continues to expand the ezH2O bottle filling station offerings and this year celebrates the production and installation of the one millionth bottle filling station and more than 40 billion plastic bottles saved. This innovative and award-winning product line upholds Elkay’s commitment to delivering clean water and sustainable design. It provides a rapid fill of drinking water to quench thirst, encourages healthy and hygienic hydration and minimizes plastic bottle waste in the environment.

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How prunes can feed your health at 4 important stages of life

2021-07-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – Seeking more plant-based options for healthy aging? This approach is right on track with the 2020-2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) that advocate for greater fruit and vegetable consumption. One easy way to expand your plant-based options and incorporate the Mediterranean diet as advised by the DGA is by adding in California Prunes. They not only provide plenty of health benefits but can also be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

Registered dietitian and nutritionist, Leslie Bonci, MPH, RDN, CSSD, provides tips for adding prunes to meals, while explaining how these tasty dried fruits support health and wellness — at all life stages.

“California Prunes deliver fiber, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals,” said Bonci, “so they provide the wealth on your shelf for digestive, bone and immune health.”

Here are creative ways to use prunes to support your family’s well-being.

1. Kids and teens

It’s never too early to establish healthy eating patterns. Nutrient-dense foods like prunes can not only help maintain healthy weight during growth and development but also help build strong bones as a preventative measure against bone fractures. Bone mass is acquired while kids are still growing. Physical activity helps develop healthy bones, but what kids eat matters, too. California Prunes contain nutrients like boron, potassium and Vitamin K that help support healthy bones and improve bone strength.

How can you get your kids to try them? “With kids and teens we have to bring the flavor, the familiar and the fun,” said Bonci.

This twist on the classic PB and J is great for lunches or on-the-go snacking:

Peanut Butter and California Prune Pinwheels

Ingredients:

1 whole-grain tortilla or wrap (8 inches)
2 tablespoons California prune puree
1 ½ tablespoons peanut butter (crunchy or smooth)

Directions:

Lay whole grain tortilla onto cutting board. Use soft spatula to spread peanut butter in thin layer, covering side-to-side but leaving one edge uncovered (allowing for spreading while rolling).
Repeat with prune puree, spreading in even layer atop peanut butter. Starting at one end, tightly roll tortilla until you reach uncovered edge. Use sharp knife to slice cross-wise into pinwheels.
Enjoy immediately or store in airtight container or sealed bag until ready to eat.
Makes 1 serving

Prune puree

Ingredients:

8 ounces pitted California prunes
1/4 cup hot water

Directions:

Add prunes and hot water to blender or food processor. Pulse to combine, then blend until paste consistency forms. Use soft spatula to scrape sides of blender.

2. Young adults

Did you know the bone mass you acquired in childhood is still developing throughout young adulthood? Plant-based eating habits can have a ripple effect for a healthier lifestyle no matter what your goals are.

“During our 20s and 30s, we’ve got busy lifestyles,” said Bonci. “We want to bring the quick and the delish to whatever we eat.” She recommends finding creative ways to add more nutrients, like Turkey Prune Lettuce Wraps — combining ground turkey and prunes in an Asian-inspired lettuce wrap that takes only 15 minutes to prep.

3. Expectant mothers

A healthy mom-to-be nurtures a healthy baby, and consuming plenty of protein and produce supports the health of both. The fiber content found in California Prunes promotes overall digestive health as well, a welcome bonus for expectant mothers. Here’s a quick, easy way to get necessary nutrients in a delicious, healthy smoothie that’s super simple to make:

Purple Power Smoothie

Ingredients:

1/4 cup diced California Prunes
1 cup baby spinach leaves
1/2 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
3/4 cup pomegranate juice
1/2 cup frozen berries
1 teaspoon honey
1 cup ice

Directions:

Add all ingredients into blender except ice. Puree until smooth. Add ice until you reach the desired consistency.

4. Forties and beyond

As adults age, they need to focus more on their overall health and well-being, especially women nearing menopause. Fiber, calcium, potassium and Vitamin D are under-consumed by most Americans, and not getting enough of these nutrients can cause health issues. Eating more fruits — like California Prunes — and vegetables helps increase fiber and nutrient intake. Each serving of prunes contains 3 grams of fiber to support good gut health, powerful antioxidants to prevent cellular damage, plus vitamin B6 and copper — both needed for proper immune health. California Prunes have been shown to also help slow bone loss, an especially important factor at this stage of life.

For an easy, healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth, try California Prune and Almond Truffles, which are naturally vegan and gluten-free.

“For 40s and beyond, we have to think about preservation and maintenance of our supporting bone structure,” noted Bonci. “California Prunes are great for this because of the Vitamin K, boron and polyphenols.”

California Prunes naturally contain polyphenols — antioxidants that protect against DNA damage and inflammation. New research suggests polyphenols may also help grow the amount of good bacteria in your gut.

Bottom line: There’s more to California Prunes than meets the eye. Check out these recipes and more at CaliforniaPrunes.org.

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How you can help reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration

2021-07-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Creating a tapestry of vivid colors and patterns, Geri Wires, an avid quilter, relies on her sight to create her art. So, in 2007 after her dilated eye exam and speaking with her eye doctor, she was alarmed at the diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at age 64. AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss among people 50 and older and affects 16 million Americans – more than glaucoma and cataracts combined.

“After my diagnosis, the reality of AMD and its potential effects on my vision became very serious to me,” Wires said. To help manage her condition, Wires began taking Bausch + Lomb PreserVision® AREDS 2 Formula eye vitamins twice daily at her doctor’s suggestion as part of an action plan that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise. PreserVision® AREDS 2 formula eye vitamins contain the nutrient formula recommended by National Eye Institute (NEI) researchers to help reduce the risk of progression in people with moderate to advanced AMD.

AMD is a progressive eye condition caused by degeneration of the part of the retina that impacts central vision. Early-stage AMD often does not present any symptoms or vision changes, as symptoms usually appear gradually over time. In its later stages, AMD can lead to difficulty with daily activities like driving, reading, or recognizing the faces of loved ones, according to the NEI.

New NEI data shows specific vitamin mix can help reduce risk of AMD progression

In 2001, data from the AREDS2 study demonstrated that taking a specific combination of antioxidants and zinc could help reduce the risk of progression of AMD. Most recently in May 2021, results of the 10-year follow-up on the AREDS2 study show that a specific nutrient mix and dosage, known as the AREDS 2 formula, continues to reduce the risk of AMD progression and further clarify the importance of an AREDS 2 supplement as part of a patient’s action plan.

The exact combination of vitamins and minerals in the AREDS 2 formula – vitamin C (500mg), vitamin E (400 IU), lutein (10mg)/zeaxanthin (2mg), zinc (80mg zinc oxide) and copper (2mg cupric oxide) – is difficult to achieve from diet alone, and standard multivitamins or other eye vitamins generally do not contain the same level of nutrients.

Today, Wires continues to take her eye vitamins as part of her overall plan to help manage her condition and visits her eye doctor every six weeks for a check-up.

“I’m involved in a group that helps sew masks for the community and without taking steps to help reduce the risk of progression of my AMD, I may not have been able to help sew more than 1,000 masks at the height of the pandemic,” Wires said. “I’m glad that by working with my eye doctor and following my plan, I’m still able to quilt and enjoy time with my family.”

Reducing your risk of AMD

As people age, their risk of eye-related diseases like AMD increases dramatically, according to U.S. Census data. Smokers, women and those with a family history of AMD are at higher risk of developing AMD.

Over 50? The following lifestyle changes recommended by NEI can help protect your eye health.

1. Quit smoking. Smokers are at higher risk. If you smoke, preserving your vision is a good reason to quit.

2. Stay active. Regular exercise may lower your risk or slow progression of the disease.

3. Safeguard against UV light. Especially if you work outdoors, protect your eyes with sunglasses.

4. Boost your diet. Maintain a healthy diet and take vitamins that contribute to eye health and ask your eye doctor what eye vitamin is appropriate for you.

5. Get regular eye exams. See your eye care provider regularly to help detect minor changes that may otherwise go unnoticed. Eye doctors can check for AMD as part of a comprehensive dilated eye exam. During this painless exam, your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupil and then check your eyes for AMD and other eye problems.

To learn more about AMD, visit SightMatters.com.

PreserVision is a trademark of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

AREDS2 is a registered trademark of the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

©2021 Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

PV2.0074.USA.21

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5 essential parenting tips to encourage girls to stay in sports

2021-07-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – A recent study, commissioned by Always, found that girls who played sports during puberty built confidence and critical life skills, like teamwork and resilience. Yet nearly half drop out during puberty, according to the nationally representative survey, conducted by OnePoll in 2021.

Parents and caregivers can help tackle that. Research from the Women’s Sports Foundation found that girls, and other underrepresented youth in sports, find it beneficial to have multiple champions in their lives. These champions can help counter the cultural and societal barriers that young people face playing sports (e.g., teasing, exclusion, inequality and feeling less valued). Ultimately, parents and caregivers who encourage and support girls’ sport participation will help reduce the dropout rates.

The following five top tips, based on the Foundation’s research, can help you engage the girl athletes in your life and keep them motivated in the long run.

  1. Create a community of support: Invite your daughter’s friends and family to her games and broaden her cheer team. For remote kudos, keep people regularly updated with her game schedule, photos and stories. For example: Maintain a group text or email thread to share highlights in real time and record a video compilation of support from her champions that she can treasure at the end of the season.
  2. Diversify how you show up: There’s no rulebook on what parental support can look like. Realistically, scheduling can make it tough to go to every practice and competition, so think about all the creative ways you can be there for her that work for both of you. For example: Make time to watch women’s sporting events together when you can. Buy her books by female athletes and have regular conversations about the women’s sports figures she admires. You can also cater team outings to show your love and support.
  3. Be her champion, not her coach: Parents who step into automatic coach mode can diminish her confidence and leave her with a negative experience. It can be tempting to review the game in detail as a way of “helping” her improve but it’s always better to support, not instruct. Words of encouragement and positive affirmation go a long way. For example: Instead of focusing on what went wrong, talk through her overall feelings about the game and have her lead the conversation on what she feels she’s learned from the experience.
  4. Encourage exploration: Not everyone knows what they want to do right away. Give her the space and opportunity to try different types of sports and find her true passion on her own time. For example: Make it a bonding activity by watching new sports together or by introducing her to another sport in a more casual setting, such as a local community center.
  5. Help her set her own goals: Many girls will compete to please their parents, not themselves. Avoid pressuring her with unrealistic expectations or playing a comparison game. For example: Ask her what “success” looks like for her and help her build personal goals to get there. These could be different qualifiers such as the confidence she’s building or the friends she’s making.

This year, in partnership with the Women’s Sports Foundation, Always and Walmart have donated $500,000 in #KeepHerPlaying Youth Grants to help schools and organizations across the country provide access and opportunity to puberty-aged girls in sports. Visit www.walmart.com/always to read and share the stories of the girls receiving these grants and learn more about the campaign.

This summer, you can also help them do more. From July 1 to 31, when you buy Always at Walmart, they’ll donate to the YMCA to help keep more girls in sports. Always will donate 5 cents per pack of Always period pads or Tampax tampons purchased at Walmart to the YMCA. Find out more at always.com/keepherplaying.

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5 top reasons to do business in Casper, Wyoming

2021-07-12T07:01:00

(BPT) – The spirit of the American West is legendary, representing an entrepreneurial attitude that remains strong today, especially in Wyoming. That spirit of innovation, along with collaboration, creates an environment where businesses thrive. Whether your company is a start-up or an established business looking for greener pastures and wider skies, Casper, Wyoming, provides an expansive landscape to grow and expand.

Casper currently hosts a range of companies taking advantage of the area’s welcoming business climate. For example, medical equipment supplier McGinley Orthopedics has seen tremendous success in Casper for nearly 10 years. McGinley Orthopedics designs, develops and manufactures groundbreaking orthopedic medical devices, and its founder, Dr. Joseph McGinley, is also a doctor at a local hospital.

Another innovative company calling Casper home is Flowstate, which creates machine-learning software to detect pipeline leaks, resulting in safer pipelines.

“The business environment of Casper is uniquely welcoming,” said Flowstate co-founder and CEO Jerad Stack. “It fosters creativity and collaboration, with many local businesses complementing each other in valuable ways.”

From the popular family-owned and operated Backwards Distillery Company to bioscience and aerospace/defense companies, Casper provides an environment where businesses from these and other industries thrive and grow.

“Casper is becoming known as one of the best places for companies to do business,” said Justin Farley, CEO of Advance Casper. “It offers the best of both worlds — with the amenities and infrastructure in place to be successful while also offering a high quality of life for employees.”

Here are the top reasons more companies today are choosing Casper as their home.

1. Business-friendly features

With no corporate or personal state income tax as well as low energy costs, Casper also offers the only foreign trade zone in the state of Wyoming, plus the state’s only international airport — helping to welcome international business and trade. Wyoming is leading in areas like blockchain and cryptocurrency-enabling legislation, making the area ripe for businesses looking to relocate — or start from the ground up.

How attractive has Casper become to businesses looking for a place to start up? Advisor Smith named Casper, Wyoming, as number six in their list of “Top Cities Where Americans Start the Most Businesses.”

2. Infrastructure

Project-ready sites with low operating costs abound in Casper, and essential light manufacturing and industrial infrastructure — including reliable broadband service — is already in place for any industry looking to establish itself or relocate. Reliable broadband service is crucial for employees seeking an ideal home while working remotely. Downtown Casper also provides opportunities for companies needing office space, while also offering a lively atmosphere.

3. Resources

Advance Casper offers businesses and investors opportunities to connect, network and develop their business ideas. The organization collaborates with businesses and community leaders to encourage and support local businesses, while also attracting and recruiting new companies. Their goal is to help spur entrepreneurship, job creation, economic development and business diversification in Casper through collaborative efforts and initiatives.

4. Education

No business community would go far without a strong foundation in education, both for children and those looking for higher education opportunities. For families in Natrona County, open enrollment allows parents to choose from 28 schools in the county — with dual language immersion offered at select elementary schools in Mandarin or Spanish.

The newest high school in the area, Pathways Innovation Center, provides technical training to help grow the next generation of skilled employees, while the state’s largest community college, Casper College, offers over 140 academic transfer and technical and career programs. At the University of Wyoming, Casper, students earn degrees in fields ranging from biology and medical laboratory sciences to technical education and organizational leadership.

5. Quality of life

For your company’s employees, Casper attracts families wanting wide-open spaces and outdoor recreation opportunities — from fishing and hiking to skiing and biking, and everything in between. Parks and trails abound, with the North Platte River, the Rocky Mountains and Wyoming’s plains providing beautiful scenery. The area offers family-friendly neighborhoods, with entertainment including festivals, performing arts venues and museums to interest all ages. Find out why Business Insider named Casper the number six city to live in the West at ChooseCpr.com.

Want to learn how your business could thrive in Casper? Visit AdvanceCasper.com.

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COVID-19 Vaccine Concerns: 6 Things You Need to Know

2021-07-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – COVID-19 vaccines are authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for widespread use for those who are eligible. But while vaccines are now more accessible, vaccination rates are slowing across the country.

The seven-day average of first doses administered continues to decline[1], with virtually no change in the number of Americans who say they will get vaccinated “only if required” or will “definitely not” get vaccinated.[2] Further, nearly half of adults say the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance is confusing and hard to follow.[3]

The reasons for vaccine hesitancy are nuanced and complex, with everyone having their own personal reasons for why they remain unsure about the vaccine. The leading causes of vaccine hesitancy can be attributed to mistrust in scientific institutions and the government and worry about the vaccine’s safety and potential side effects. On top of that, some people are concerned about the accelerated vaccine development process, mRNA technology and uncertainty around long-term side effects for COVID-19 vaccines.

Those still uncertain about whether the COVID-19 vaccine is right for them can look to trusted health experts within their communities like pharmacists to address key questions or concerns about getting the vaccine, the vaccination process, and common or expected side effects. Dr. Kevin Ban, Walgreens chief medical officer, addresses six common questions about getting the vaccine.

1. What are the benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

Getting a COVID-19 vaccine has many benefits, including reducing the chances of severe illness if you do get sick with COVID-19 and allowing you to get back to pre-pandemic activities, like gathering indoors without a mask. Additionally, getting the vaccine can help prevent you from getting and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to those around you.

COVID-19 can have serious, life-threatening complications that may lead to hospitalization, intensive care or even death. There is no way to know how contracting COVID-19 might affect you, or anyone else, so it’s important to get the vaccine to protect yourself and those around you. With COVID-19 vaccine rollout, infections have declined significantly[4], but more people need to get vaccinated in order to continue to reduce community spread and protect from variants that have proven to be more transmissible. In short, the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh the risks associated with getting COVID-19.

2. COVID-19 vaccines were developed quickly, how do I know they’re safe?

Vaccines were evaluated in clinical trials with tens of thousands of participants, meeting the FDA’s rigorous scientific standards for safety, efficacy and manufacturing quality needed to support emergency use authorization.

In addition, the safe and speedy roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccines is backed up by decades of research from a variety of prestigious medical and research institutions on this type of vaccine. Millions of people in the U.S. have received COVID-19 vaccines and these vaccines have undergone the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history.[5] Experts are regularly reviewing and monitoring adverse events to assess whether there is a true safety concern.

Vaccines have played a vital role in protecting the health and safety of communities throughout history. I’ve done my homework and recommend the vaccine to anyone who is eligible. I’ve gotten vaccinated, as well as my wife and children. If you’re eligible, I recommend the same for you.

3. Are there any long-term side effects caused by the vaccine?

Some people will experience no side effects at all, while others may experience common short-term symptoms, like pain at the injection site or tiredness. These are normal signs that your body is building protection against COVID-19 and should go away in just a few days. You can talk to your doctor or pharmacist about taking over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen to relieve any arm soreness or aches you may feel after getting vaccinated.

Serious side effects are extremely rare following any vaccination, including the COVID-19 vaccination. The FDA required each of the authorized COVID-19 vaccines to be studied for at least two months (eight weeks) after the final dose even though anticipated effects occurred weeks before that. Hundreds of millions of people have received COVID-19 vaccines, and no long-term side effects have been detected[6]. Pharmacists are thoroughly trained to respond and manage any instances of allergic reactions in the rare case they occur, as well as report to the CDC.

4. Do I really need more than one dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines?

If you receive a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, it’s vital that you receive both doses to get the maximum protection they provide . Although the first dose provides some level of protection, the exact length of time you are protected is unknown. Getting the second dose sends a powerful response to your immune system to boost your antibodies, making them more effective against COVID-19.

If you’ve waited longer than the recommended time between doses, it’s better to get the second dose late than not at all. Get the second shot as soon as possible if you missed the recommended window.

5. If I’m young and healthy, why do I need a vaccine?

Although COVID-19 symptoms can vary from person to person, people can get very sick and have complications, long-lasting symptoms or die from contracting the virus. COVID-19 can also be transmitted to others if you’re infected, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Further, the Delta variant, recently deemed by the CDC a “variant of concern” for being more transmissible,[7] continues to spread, accounting for more than 10 percent of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

Until more people are vaccinated against COVID-19, the virus will continue to mutate, and there is no knowing how much the currently authorized vaccine will be able to protect you. The vaccine is meant to protect not only you, but also those around you, like family members and friends who may have weakened immune systems.

6. Where do I go to get a vaccine?

You can conveniently and safely get the COVID-19 vaccine at numerous locations including your primary care provider, off-site vaccination clinics or at your local pharmacy. Not only do they have pharmacists to help answer any questions you may have, but they are now offering same day and walk-in appointments. For more information, visit Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine or call 1-800-WALGREENS.

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Groom your way to the top with the ‘Most Talented Beard in America’ contest

2021-07-09T15:01:00

(BPT) – Got a beard, got a talent? The millions of men who raised their hand are in luck. Last year, men’s grooming company Wahl launched the first-ever ‘Most Talented Beard in America’ contest, where hairy-faced men from across the country filmed themselves showcasing their best talents and brush. The top three contenders walked away with the following prizes:

  • 1st place: $20,000 and the ‘Wahl Man of the Year’ title
  • 2nd place: $10,000
  • 3rd place: $5,000

Wahl is once again searching for furry phenoms, and in addition to the above prizes, this year’s winners will also get a visit from Wahl’s mobile barbershop and an arsenal of grooming gear.

“We created this contest to spread positivity and celebrate all of the bearded guys out there,” said Steven Yde, division vice president for Wahl. “We were blown away by the talent last year and even more impressed with the inspiring stories of our top three winners. It’s our hope that we can again find exemplary men who are making the world a better, or ‘bearder,’ place to live.”

How you can enter

From now until Aug. 6, 2021, you can submit a video of your talent and your beard to the contest entry page. You can also get to the page by following @WahlGrooming on Facebook or Instagram.

What skills can you showcase? The possibilities are endless. Whether it’s singing, juggling, martial arts or something no one’s ever heard of, Wahl encourages you to show the world what you got. Wahl’s facial hair experts will select the top ten fuzzy-faced finalists based on their talent, creativity and beard grooming abilities. Each finalist will get $500, plus a Wahl Lithium-Ion Stainless Steel Trimmer and a new Beard Care line starter kit. Public votes will then determine which three finalists receive the big cash prizes.

Do you have what it takes?

No one knows what talent is in store for this year, but 2020’s winners may give you a good idea of who might take home the gold. Here are the three winners from last year and their stories:

1st place winner

Jonathan Brannan from Ocean Springs, Miss., didn’t have an easy facial hair journey. When he was finally able to grow a beard, his career as a TV reporter didn’t allow for it. However, once he left the business, he said his beard could finally flourish. What won Brannan the top ‘Wahl Man of the Year’ title and $20,000 was his ability to carry a tune and drop a dad joke, all with a good set of facial hair. He used his winnings to cover the cost of adopting his new son, who arrived in April 2021. Brannan said he never knew how displaying his beard loud and proud could pay off. “I took a chance and put myself, and my beard, out there,” he said. “In my family’s case, winning this contest was literally life-changing.”

2nd place winner

Benjamin Taylor from Glenwood, Md., is a biologist who happens to be deaf. He’s a man who loves the outdoors but has a few hidden talents as well. In his video, Taylor showcased his inner magician, fire artist and comedian, all through sign language. He donated some of his $10,000 winnings to an organization that provides resources to families with deaf children.

3rd place winner

Cliff Prowse from Little Rock, Ark., is a versatile musical producer, composer and instrumentalist. Affectionately known as the “Bearded Fiddler,” his multi-instrumental talents and his beard landed him the third spot. His $5,000 prize was more than welcome when the music industry took a hit during the pandemic.

For more information about the contest, including official rules, check out WahlUSA.com.

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You Can Help Create a Future with Better Lyme Disease Diagnosis

2021-07-09T02:01:00

(BPT) – With summer in full swing and COVID-19 restrictions easing up, many people are heading outdoors after over a year of being confined to their homes. Along with warmer weather comes tick season, especially if you live on the East Coast or in the upper Midwest where reports of ticks responsible for Lyme disease are more prevalent.

It is important to check for ticks after spending time in wooded areas, the grass or garden, as ticks can transmit a bacterial infection known as Lyme disease. Lyme disease, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks, is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. In fact, experts are predicting that this year may bring one of the worst tick seasons yet and are already reporting an increase in Lyme disease-related tick exposures across the country.

The Disease

A bullseye rash is one of the hallmarks of Lyme disease, identified by a circular, expanding rash with target-like appearance, which can vary in size and shape. However, up to 30% of infected people never get a rash at the site of the tick bite. Other Lyme disease symptoms (fever, headache or fatigue) can be non-specific and even overlap with symptoms of many other common diseases or illnesses, like the flu or even COVID-19.

Early Detection Matters

About 300,000 Americans are affected by Lyme disease each year, but current tests only provide accurate diagnoses for about 30% of those that are newly affected. What’s more, current tests are less likely to capture a positive Lyme case at its earliest stages, which also happens to be when the disease is easiest to treat. Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis can increase the chances of more severe complications, like chronic joint inflammation, facial palsy, memory loss and/or irregular heart rhythm.

How You Can Get Involved

If you’ve recently developed Lyme disease, your immune system may provide information for earlier-stage detection of Lyme disease. To help advance new tests for Lyme disease, Adaptive Biotechnologies launched the ImmuneSense™ Lyme Study to better understand the body’s immune response.

You may be eligible to participate in the research study if you are exhibiting the bullseye rash. Participants have the option of completing study activities at a local clinical site or through a free mobile phlebotomy service and no-contact telehealth appointments.

Why Your Participation Matters

If left untreated, Lyme disease may become a serious illness for many people, but if caught early, it can typically be treated with antibiotics and long-term complications can be avoided. Early detection is key for treatment and now there is an opportunity to help bring about new detection methods for this serious and often overlooked disease.

Find a Study Site

The research study is being conducted at multiple sites across the country, especially in regions where ticks are more prevalent like the East Coast and upper Midwest. Visit www.immunesensestudy.com to find out how to get involved with the research study and be part of the solution for better testing for Lyme disease. The test being studied is an investigational use only product.

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Smart ways to get your health and fitness back into a normal routine

2021-07-08T07:51:00

(BPT) –

This past year has been a rollercoaster, adding a lot of stress to everyone’s lives and, for many, their health, fitness and nutrition have suffered because of it. Gyms and even outdoor exercise spaces were closed. People worked and studied from home full time, meaning they were more sedentary. Being at home meant it was easier to snack and the temptation to order delivery was ever present. As so many people prioritized staying safe and limiting the spread of the virus, some healthy lifestyle choices were forfeited.

If you put your health and fitness goals on hold over the last year, you’re not alone. Now that the world is reopening and people are seeking a return to more normal routines, it’s time to take smart steps to get your wellness habits back again. Consider some simple suggestions from the experts at The Vitamin Shoppe to get your health and fitness back on track and build momentum toward a better you:

Create a daily routine

There were probably times during the pandemic that felt like your main goal was to simply get through the day. Now that life is starting to balance out, it’s time to create a routine to give your day structure and set you up for success. Try waking up and going to bed at the same time every day, allotting space for seven or more hours of sleep. Designate times for breaks throughout the day so you can manage stress. Plan walks and other fitness activities into your day to move your body. Make a system that works for you and stick with it.

Additionally, consider incorporating the fitfactor™ Weight Management System from The Vitamin Shoppe® into your routine. The system is inspired by consumer research to be an integrated offering of nutritionist-recommended, personalized top-quality products combined with free nutrition coaching. Through a simple online quiz The Vitamin Shoppe can help you find the right products for your lifestyle or wellness goals.

Start your day the right way

Breakfast helps fuel you for the day ahead, and just because you’re heading back to work or school in person doesn’t mean you should skip it. Meal replacement shakes can be an option for getting ample nutrition with lots of satisfying protein to keep you energized when you’re in a hurry. Try a delicious fitfactor Protein Shake in Milk Chocolate that provides vitamins and minerals as a low-calorie meal replacement while supporting blood sugar control for a nutrient-packed breakfast option.

Try a plant-based option

Whether you’ve maintained a plant-based diet or are looking to adapt to one, your fitness journey doesn’t have to take a lot of guess work in trying to keep your diet consistent. One idea is incorporating smoothies into your meal plan since they are an efficient and effective way to get all your nutrients. One of our favorite plant-based protein options is fitfactor Plant-Based Protein Shake in Vanilla, which is low in calories and high in fiber. Try adding some green veggies, berries or fruits for added flavor and nutrients. With 24 grams of plant-based protein that helps with appetite control and Fibersol®-2 vegetable fiber that aids in digestive health, you can feel good about sipping on this shake.

Re-introduce healthy snacking

It’s possible that during stressful times, you may have given in to comfort foods, especially not-so-healthy snacks (we’ve all been there at some point!) but try to remember that constant, heavy snacking can lead to the consumption of a lot of empty calories. Re-introduce healthy snacking into your wellness habits by buying fresh fruit, pre-chopping veggies like carrots and celery into snack-ready portions, and stock up on fitfactor High Protein Bars in great tasting flavors like Chocolate Covered Strawberry for those moments you feel a snack craving. The bars taste like a treat but are designed to help you control cravings and keep you satisfied throughout the day. With 20 grams of protein, 16 grams of fiber, six grams of net carbs and only three grams of sugar per serving, you can be confident you’re making a good snacking choice. Tuck one in your purse, backpack or workout bag for a fun and fit snack on the run.

Research supplements to support your goals

Ask your health care provider about which supplements can help support your health journey. Many people take a multivitamin daily and there are other supplements that can help make a difference in reaching your goals. For example, fitfactor Control 360 is thermogenic (fat burning) and a non-stimulant advanced formula to help you burn more calories with Capsimax® and support appetite control. This supplement also promotes healthy cognitive function and stress management with Sensoril® ashwagandha extract, an ingredient backed by clinical research, but without common allergens like gluten, dairy or nuts.

Stay positive

The pandemic started over a year ago and breaking unhealthy habits can take time. If you slip, be kind to yourself and start again with an open mind and positive outlook the next day. Your health and wellness are worth the effort and now is the ideal time to start on a fresh journey to help you be your best self, however you define it. For more information and inspiration, visit VitaminShoppe.com, the leading destination for lifelong wellness solutions.