Month: August 2023

2023-08-31T11:01:00

(BPT) – The market for battery-electric vehicles (EVs) has quickly grown over the last several years as more consumers look to take advantage of the overall cost savings that EV ownership promises, including skirting the gas pump for a plug that can lead to lower fuel costs and fewer parts that require regular maintenance.

While EVs may offer lower expenses over time, those looking to purchase a new vehicle should carefully consider the initial costs, their impact on insurance premiums compared to Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, and other factors that can affect the “total cost of ownership.”

“Along with the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of a vehicle, buyers need to think about additional costs of owning and maintaining a particular vehicle over time,’” said Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance. “The ‘total cost of ownership’ equation includes insurance premiums, fuel efficiency, repair expenses, the need for home charging infrastructure if purchasing an EV, along with other relevant factors.”

If you’re in the market for a new car, it’s highly recommended to assess all aspects of the type of vehicle you’re looking to purchase. A comprehensive understanding of the total cost can help minimize unexpected costs during your vehicle’s lifetime.

Fueling costs: The promise of no longer having to pay for gas is one of the main reasons people purchase an EV. With fueling up as simple as plugging in your smartphone, it’s no wonder more people are considering purchasing an electric vehicle. In fact, First Entertainment Credit Union based in Los Angeles, California, has seen a 233% increase in EV loans since 2019.

While plugging in a vehicle for a charge can be cheaper than buying gasoline, the cost of operating an EV can also result in significant savings over the life of the vehicle. The rise of public charging infrastructure is making the cost of owning an EV more accessible; however, public charging can be scarce or non-existent depending on your location and your commute. EV owners who are also homeowners can opt to install their own chargers, but they can be expensive when you include installation costs.

“Drivers will need to be cognizant to the cost of gas or access to charging stations in their area when making a decision about which type of vehicle to purchase,” said Quinn.

Maintenance: When it comes to maintenance for an ICE vehicle, there are several upkeep items that can add to the cost of ownership over time. ICE vehicles depend on a large number of moving parts, which can demand more servicing. With no internal combustion engine, no pistons, valves or moving parts that need oil, EVs don’t need many of the routine services required by their ICE counterparts. This can result in lower repair and maintenance costs than gas-powered vehicles.

Insurance: While EVs may offer a number of advantages in terms of reduced maintenance and fueling costs, insurance might offset these potential savings. EVs are typically more expensive to purchase and often come loaded with more complex technology than their gas-powered cousins. So, the cost of repairing or replacing them after an accident may be higher. As a result, comprehensive and collision coverage for EVs can cost more than coverage for regular cars.

It’s important to note that insurance companies also factor in an owner’s driving history and location when setting premiums. However, as more people adopt EVs and insurance companies gather more data in the future, their insurance cost may potentially even out.

“When it comes to their next vehicle purchase, it’s imperative for car owners to take a comprehensive view of all the facets involved,” said Quinn. “Knowing the difference in ownership costs between EVs and gas-powered cars before purchase can help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and ensure that you are happy with your choice. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each type of vehicle and find out the right information to make an informed decision.”

2023-08-30T23:01:00

(BPT) – September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness and challenge stigmas around Alzheimer’s and dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and it’s estimated that nearly 13 million will be diagnosed with the condition by 2050.

While an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can seem scary, many patients can continue to live healthy and fulfilling lives in the comfort of their own homes. In fact, a study published in the BMC Geriatrics journal suggests that living at home as long as possible is associated with a better quality of life for patients with dementia.

“Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia at home often falls to adult children, spouses and other family members,” says Sherri Snelling, gerontologist and spokesperson for Comfort Keepers. “While this can be a rewarding experience, it also presents some challenges. Because Alzheimer’s is neurodegenerative where there are progressive stages of the disease, family members need help navigating their loved one’s changing needs.”

Here are a few ways to make it easier to care for your parent, spouse or grandparent with Alzheimer’s at home.

1. Prep your house

Alzheimer’s and dementia can affect someone’s ability to keep themselves safe. By preparing the home to support your loved one’s needs, you can ensure they can safely live in the comfort of a familiar environment and achieve greater wellbeing. Some things you can do to make their home a safer place include:

• Locking garages, basements, sheds and other areas where you store potentially dangerous or hazardous items
• Using appliances with automatic shut-off or installing products that can achieve auto controls or alert you if there’s a problem through an app
• Keeping walkways and rooms well-lit — especially in task areas such as the kitchen
• Regularly checking safety devices like carbon monoxide, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
• Removing tripping hazards and keeping the home clutter-free
• Installing handrails or chair rails in hallways, grab bars and shower chairs in the bath and other assistive devices
• Using a GPS device to track keys and wallets
• Leaving written medication instructions near pill bottles

Not only will these steps grant you peace of mind, but they will also allow your parent or spouse to retain more independence and freedom at home while reducing their risk of harm.

2. Create a routine

A predictable schedule can help reinforce a loved one’s sense of familiarity and make it easier for caregivers to plan their day. When setting a routine, try to maintain older routines as much as possible to avoid confusion and anxiety.

Hygiene can become challenging because the person simply forgets their needs or resists the help. Make sure you give them time to groom and bathe themselves or with assistance.

Regular physical activity during the day, such as walking, will help Alzheimer’s patients have a normal sleep schedule and maintain a consistent routine. Fostering everyday positive moments through creative activities, reading, listening to music, and social events can help your loved one live a full and joyful life and raise their spirits.

3. Ask for help

It’s important to ask for help caring for your parent or spouse, because doing so can improve their quality of life and make it easier to provide them with proper care at home.

Get in touch with an in-home caregiver network like Comfort Keepers, which offers part- and full-time services. A professional caregiver can help create a custom care plan, so your loved one can experience greater well-being through positive moments, connection and a more purposeful life, no matter their age or acuity, in a comfortable, familiar environment.

These dedicated and trained professionals work with you to help your loved one maintain independence. More importantly, they’re trained to find ways to bring joy, purpose and positivity into clients’ lives to elevate the human spirit.

Comfort Keepers can also help with meal prep, transportation, running errands and helping with personal care. They understand the nuances of Alzheimer’s and how to help your loved one thrive by focusing on their physical, mental and social well-being. The company also brings joy to its caregivers, empowering them to get creative while bringing daily doses of joy to your loved one.

Seniors want the same things we all do: Connectedness, love, purpose, hope and joy. Using these three tips, you can safely and properly care for your parent or spouse with Alzheimer’s or dementia so they can continue to enjoy their life. For more information on how to help your loved ones, or if you’re interested in joining a team of uplifting caregivers, visit ComfortKeepers.com.

2023-08-30T06:01:00

(BPT) – Do you want to travel to a new place that will leave you in awe and open your eyes in new, profound ways? When you explore the globe, you get to enjoy a kaleidoscope of cultures, where each destination offers a mesmerizing adventure of history, art and traditions passed down through the ages.

Music can be an incredibly meaningful reflection of what makes a country unique. To demonstrate just how integral music is for travelers who desire an authentic cultural experience, the United States Tour Operators Association created the “USTOA On Tour Live” music campaign. The cornerstone of the campaign is an engaging music video that showcases some of the best musical acts, festivals and culinary temptations of countries from across the globe.

Want to know the top featured destinations that will captivate all your senses? Read on about five locations that eagerly welcome travelers to experience the sights, sounds and tastes that capture the essence of their culture.

Colombia

Colombian accordionist Gregorio Uribe with his song “Viva Colombia” perfectly portrays the history and culture of a country so full of life. Upbeat music, flavorful foods and ample festivals make this an exceptional destination for travelers of all ages.

If you’re looking for culture and fun, there’s no better place than the Caribbean Coast. Explore the city of Cartagena de Indias, the ideal vacation spot that offers cultural heritage, colonial architecture, stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, vibrant nightlife and numerous celebrations.

If you want to plan your trip to align with Colombia’s festivals, you’ll find there’s no shortage of options. This is a country that likes to celebrate! One of the main festivals is Barranquilla Carnival, an action-packed four-day event that honors the culture, folklore and ethnic diversity of Colombia. This important celebration occurs before Ash Wednesday, which is typically in February or March.

If music is your motivation, another unforgettable festival to attend is the Vallenato Legend Festival. Vallenato is a popular folk music genre from Colombia that traditionally features three instruments: a small drum, an accordion and the guacharaca, an indigenous instrument designed to mimic the call of the guacharaca bird. Held every April in the city of Valledupar, the festival searches for the best musicians, which sets the stage for friendly competition and a celebration of unique, cultural rhythms.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

With stunning pebbled beaches and crystal-clear waters, Croatia is a scenic escape for travelers. Make plans to visit Dubrovnik, a city in southern Croatia on the Adriatic Sea. The sights and sounds will take your breath away and the culture will leave a lasting impression.

If you’re lucky you’ll see the traditional Klapa singers that occasionally perform in the streets and squares of Dubrovnik; their energetic folk dance to upbeat rhythms will leave you smiling from ear to ear. You should also try to watch a performance from Folklore Ensemble Lindo, a music and dance ensemble that reflects the rich traditional culture, musical and dance heritage of the Dubrovnik region of Croatia.

Why is this music and dance combination so remarkable? The kolo lindo and/or poskocica is a dance that emerged in the early 19th century as a unique blend of elements from the local Dinaric dance culture and external influences from the Mediterranean and Central European dance traditions.

When visiting Dubrovnik, make time to experience other cultural delights that make this region one of a kind. For example, the highlight of Dubrovnik in the summer is impromptu concerts by the famous Croatian singer Ibrica Jusic. Visitors can watch the performance and savor prepared sweets such as candied almonds or local honey from the open-air market in Old Town called Gundulićeva Poljana.

Panamá

A country proud of its musical heritage, Panamá is full of toe-tapping rhythms that feed the soul. Travelers should make time to explore inspiring live music in venues such as Selina Casco Antiguo, Rock & Folk, Teatro Escondido and El Sótano in Panama City. You may even get to enjoy the infectious drumbeats of the legendary Panamá-based Afrolatino.

Of course, musical inspiration doesn’t end at the capital city. Head to Colon for musical inspiration at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Portobelo that features Congo drumming and dance performances for tourists.

If you want to experience the indigenous music of Panamá, ask a USTOA tour operator about visiting indigenous communities. Whenever you are visiting their communities, the people will welcome you with music and chants, inviting you to dance and play their traditional instruments with them. Consider visiting the Emberá communities along the delta of the Río Chagres, the Gunas in the Guna Yala archipelago and the Ngäbe-Buglé people in the Ngäbe-Buglé Reservations in the provinces of Veraguas, Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro.

Are you a musician yourself? What if you could take a trip that is equal parts inspiration and education? The Panama Jazz Festival is a regional event centered in music education where local and international talent present concerts and masterclasses. The festival is organized by Panamanian NGO, Fundación Danilo Pérez, which promotes social change through music. Panama Jazz Festival 2024 will take place Jan. 15 through 20.

Perú

To experience the energetic music and rich culture of Perú, start by exploring Cusco. Any day of the week you can enjoy a variety of foods and drinks as well as music in bars and discos. On weekends there are even more options, including local bands that offer live music in a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, rock and more.

If seeing the traditional music of Perú is on your bucket list, try to attend a performance from The San Pedro Band. Energetic horns rejoice as the percussion beats on, making it hard to stand still when you’re listening to the rhythms of this large musical group.

You can continue being immersed in all things Perú by planning a cultural trip alongside the locals. One to keep in mind is the Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i, in Ocongate, Quispicanchi province, which brings together thousands of devotees and faithful from many regions of the country. On religious holidays, like Corpus Christi, visitors can sometimes see 30 bands at once during the central day of the festivity.

Türkiye

Rituals and music go hand in hand in Türkiye, where tradition runs deep and heritage is a source of pride. Watch in wonder as the Whirling Dervishes dressed in distinctive white robes with tall conical hats symbolizing the tombstone of one’s ego twirl in unison. Accompanied by expert musicians, you’re likely to notice instruments you’ve never seen before, which entice the ears with attention-grabbing beats.

Traditional Turkish instruments are emblematic of the country’s cultural identity, reflecting the blend of Turkic, Ottoman and Anatolian influences. They are frequently used in religious ceremonies, such as Sufi music and mystical gatherings, and are integral to cultural festivities, weddings and traditional dances — infusing joy and rhythm into communal celebrations.

You can visit Istanbul, known for its vibrant music scene and craftsmanship to discover local shops where these instruments are handmade. In areas like Galata and the Eminönü district you’ll find a variety of shops offering traditional Turkish instruments like the oud, saz, ney and more. Additionally, the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is an iconic destination with several instrument shops where you can immerse yourself in traditional Turkish music and find handmade instruments crafted by skilled artisans.

Make a dream trip your reality

Now that you’re inspired and full of wanderlust, you might be wondering how you get to these wonderful destinations. As one of the world’s leading airlines, Turkish Airlines flies to more countries and international destinations than any other airline. With its centrally located hub in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines connects countries and cultures from over 340 destinations in 129 countries spanning five continents.

When planning your trip details, consider the benefits of working with a USTOA tour operator. They can help you plan logistics, itineraries, transportation, accommodations, sightseeing and so much more. Plus, they may be able to negotiate special rates. You’ll get personal, 24/7 hands-on services from tour directors with on-the-ground knowledge, local guides and experts, and, most importantly, access to experiences travelers can’t get on their own, at any price.

Learn more about the benefits of USTOA tour operators at USTOA.com.

2023-08-30T06:01:00

(BPT) – Looking to add more fruits and vegetables to your meals, but feeling uninspired? The key is to tap into your current eating habits and find simple ways to add them into the mix.

A recent report, Hacks To Habits: A Behavioral Research Study To Bolster Fruit & Vegetable Consumption, showed that piggybacking off moments in time when people are already eating or enjoying other foods they love can present an opportunity to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. The report found 40% of high-medium vegetable consumers add fruits and vegetables to favorite dishes, meals and snacks. For example, 43% said they add vegetables to sandwiches and burgers — an easy, tasty and healthy addition.

When you tap into moments that are already happening, it’s easy for everyone to add more fruits and veggies to their diet. In honor of National Fruits & Veggies Month, set a simple mindset for yourself and your family that “Every Time You Eat, Have A Plant^®!” Here is some inspiration and easy ways you can do so:

Create a color theme and make eating fun

If you’re putting together your kiddo’s lunchbox (or even your own), stick with a fun color theme! A “go green” lunch box filled with green fruits and veggies is sure to be a hit. Think cucumber slices, broccoli, celery plus some pesto hummus for a dip and green fruit like kiwi, honeydew melon or green grapes. You could even include green napkins and silverware to extend the theme and broaden lunchtime smiles.

Shop smarter, not harder

To save time and money, shop smarter by always making a list before you go. Start by noting what days or meals you’ll be eating at home for the week. Take a quick inventory of what you have in the fridge and pantry, then add your staple items and any other ingredients you may need for recipes to the list. When hitting the grocery store aisles, shop savvy by looking for deals on items you frequently purchase, utilizing the convenience of fresh-cut, frozen and canned produce, and purchasing seasonal fresh produce items.

Every time you order, Have A Plant^®

Buzzing through the drive-through or calling in delivery? The next time you’re ordering a meal, think of what fruits or veggies you could add. When ordering a burrito bowl, can you add extra veggies on top? Or maybe if you’re craving a burger and fries, add some apple slices for dessert. On pizza night, a bagged salad makes a great side dish and the crisp, cool greens perfectly complement the salty, gooey main dish.

Grazing boards are great for snacking

What do you do when your household has a case of the munchies? Make a grazing board for everyone to munch on as they walk by, do homework or wait for dinner to be ready. This is a great way to use up fruits and veggies that you have on hand as well. For example, pull out some fresh veggies, add canned or dried fruit and some nuts alongside crackers and dips or dressings. It’s very low effort and hits the spot every time.

Delight guests with taste-bud tantalizers

When planning your next party, think of simple ways to add produce to your appetizers, desserts and beverages. Toss together a vegetable or fruit salad to start or make fun fruit and veggie skewers for everyone to enjoy. Think of all the ways you can add fruit into baked goods, including pies, cakes and cookies. Don’t forget about the drinks — 100% juice along with fresh, frozen and canned fruits are perfect for sprucing up cocktails and mocktails. Every bite (or sip) counts!

Shifting your mindset matters. Eating is an important part of every day. Always asking, “What fruit or veggie can I add to this?” is a surefire way to up your intake of fruits and vegetables. So, whether you’re lunching, shopping, dining out, enjoying a meal with your family, snacking or hosting, every time you eat, Have A Plant^®. By doing so you can create healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Follow along on our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter channels and let’s build the #haveaplant hype! For more fruit and veggie tips as well as recipes and plant-passionate inspiration, visit fruitsandveggies.org.

2023-08-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – By Intuit vice president of education and corporate responsibility, Dave Zasada, and Super Bowl Champion Ndamukong and wife Katya Suh, Suh Family Foundation co-founders

The World Economic Forum has recognized financial literacy as a fundamental skill and essential form of literacy for all students. It holds significant influence over various aspects such as financial resilience, responsible retail investments and financial empowerment. However, shockingly, financial literacy remains scarce. A staggering two-thirds of Americans are unable to pass a basic financial literacy test. Additionally, three-quarters of teenagers lack confidence in their understanding of personal finance, with over six in 10 lacking confidence in applying the financial knowledge they possess. This disparity becomes even more concerning when considering underrepresented youth from historically disadvantaged communities. In fact, data from the 2018 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) Financial Literacy Results published by the National Center For Education Statistics reveals that White and Asian 15-year-olds exhibit significantly higher financial literacy rates compared to their Black and Latino counterparts of the same age.

The financial literacy gap threatens to put millions of young people on the road to high debt, low credit scores and the toxic stress that comes with money trouble. To navigate today’s world, young people need a fundamental understanding of budgeting, credit, taxes and investing. This knowledge and the skills to apply it will empower future adults to make productive decisions about money and protect themselves against financial predation and fraud. To help provide and encourage this knowledge, Intuit partnered with the Suh Family Foundation to empower youth and communities for long-term success.

Equal access to high school financial literacy to empower millions

Schools teach students many of the skills they need to build successful lives, yet only a quarter of high schoolers have access through their school to a financial literacy course. In fact, financial literacy education is only guaranteed to 5% of students in schools where more than 75% are either Black or Latino or eligible for free or reduced-priced lunch. Just 22 states require financial literacy education in high school. We believe that equal access to these courses in all states would empower millions more students to succeed in life and overcome generational wealth gaps and racial and socioeconomic inequalities, especially in low-income and disadvantaged communities with tighter resources. This lack of access perpetuates generational wealth gaps.

Engagement is essential

Research shows that financial literacy education works, but more critically, it needs hands-on instruction that engages students with real-life experiences.

For example, consider the national financial literacy education partnership our organizations have launched. Students learn to manage finances in custom scenarios using real-world tools, including TurboTax and QuickBooks — seeing firsthand how to finance a car, make a family budget, fill out tax forms, and navigate other essential aspects of adult finances. To maximize engagement, subjects are tailored to students’ needs and interests.

Partnerships like this can provide high school teachers with training and curriculum and bring engaging workshops, resources and ongoing support to high schoolers. We are proud to have brought resources to some of the country’s biggest, most underserved school districts .

Scaling Impact

Intuit is dedicated to helping Generation Z and all the coming generations thrive. After a successful joint program in Portland, Oregon, we expanded to the Los Angeles Unified School District, Inglewood Unified School District and Compton Unified School District, East Side Union School District and Dallas Independent School District. To roll out and scale the programming, we work with nonprofit partners already active in local school districts. The big overarching goal is to prepare at least 5 million individuals for jobs and life after graduation by 2025.

There’s also an opportunity to encourage students to bring what they’ve learned home and talk about personal finance. Intuit’s recently conducted Prosperity Study Index found that people are less comfortable discussing financial topics than anything else — including politics and mental health. After navigating financial literacy simulations at school, high schoolers can hold intelligent conversations with their parents and community about topics related to money, possibly for the first time. By providing financial literacy toolkits, schools can help equip families to hold constructive, ongoing dialogue around financial topics.

These regular discussions can help create a culture of financial literacy, both in individual families and in society at large. The more students, families and communities have the knowledge, skills and tools to use money wisely, the closer our country will be to putting the American Dream within reach of everyone.

We have the power to build a more prosperous future by providing high school financial literacy courses and ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to build successful, financially healthy lives.

2023-08-29T20:01:00

(BPT) – The acceleration of electrification, connectivity and autonomous driving is fundamentally changing the mobility industry. In the new era, vehicles will no longer be just a means of transportation, but multifunctional spaces that offer new and different experiences. LG Electronics (LG) has been actively preparing for this future by developing innovative solutions and technologies that drive mobility forward.

At IAA MOBILITY 2023, taking place in Munich, Germany next month, LG is set to tell its story of entering — and thriving in — the automotive component sector, and share its own unique perspectives on future mobility.

Attracting car manufacturers and auto enthusiasts from all over the globe, IAA has, over the years, been transformed from a car-unveiling event into an exhibition that covers the entire mobility market and ecosystem. In line with the IAA Mobility 2023 theme, Experience Connected Mobility, LG will present a differentiated mobility experience that connects seamlessly across users’ lives. The company’s goal is to firmly establish itself as a reliable partner and supplier to global automakers that continuously provides innovative mobility solutions.

10 Years of Innovation

This year, LG marked the 10th anniversary of the LG VS Company with a grand celebration. Messages of congratulations from customers such as Hyundai Motor Group, General Motors and Renault reaffirmed LG’s growing stature as a key mobility partner. The automakers also spoke about continuing to collaborate with LG, working closely together to enhance the driving experience and improve road safety.

The LG VS Company has been consistently expanding ever since its foundation in 2013. After a decade in the business, the company is now strengthening its global presence in three key areas: infotainment solutions, e-Powertrain and lighting systems. These areas of technology are at the core of the driving experience, and the LG VS Company is at the forefront of integrating in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems (which feature advanced telematics and digital cockpit technologies) with powertrain and premium lighting systems.

Technologies for Future Mobility

Cleverly combining display and communications tech with the company’s proprietary human-machine interface (HMI), LG IVI systems continue to become even more advanced. Intuitive to use, these systems can offer seamless connectivity and a personalized interface for each passenger, even extending to customizable digital clusters.

With its LG Magna e-Powertrain venture, LG has been developing state-of-the-art integrated drive systems for electric vehicles (EVs) since 2021.

Meanwhile, the company reinforced its capabilities in vehicle lighting systems through the 2018 acquisition of ZKW Group, and bolstered its auto cybersecurity expertise by acquiring innovative Israeli startup Cybellum in 2021.

A Look to the Future

The global vehicle industry is making significant strides in transitioning from traditional internal-combustion engines to more eco-friendly mobility solutions, chiefly EVs and autonomous driving technologies.

In this fast-evolving environment, LG is leveraging its technological capabilities and years of consumer electronics experience to offer differentiated mobility experiences. The company is redefining the very nature of mobility and paving the way to a new era of innovation, convenience and safety.

Those interested in learning more about LG’s innovative technologies and vision for the future of mobility can tune into the company’s IAA 2023 press conference at 08:30 (CEST) on September 4 via LG’s website.