Parents, What’s Your Food Allergy Game Plan?

2024-04-02T09:31:00

(BPT) – Brittany Mahomes, co-owner of the Kansas City Current soccer team and mom of two young children with food allergies, knows all too well how frightening a severe allergic reaction to food can be. Last summer, Brittany and husband Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, had a food allergy scare when their son Bronze had a severe allergic reaction to peanuts, resulting in a trip to the emergency room.

Since that day, Brittany has prepared herself to quickly respond in case either Bronze or daughter Sterling has a severe reaction.

“Our family is very active, so Patrick and I made a game plan. We wanted to make sure everyone who spends time with our kids knows what to do in the event of an allergic emergency,” she said.

To help other parents and caregivers, Brittany shares her family’s game plan for recognizing and confidently responding to a food allergy emergency.

1. Know the signs and symptoms

“Based on my experience, I can tell you a severe allergic reaction may not look how you think it will, especially in babies and toddlers,” said Brittany.

“Both of my kids got really fussy and irritable,” she added. “With Sterling, the vomiting, sneezing and red eyes were pretty heavy cues that something was wrong. And with Bronze, the hives and the welts quickly began to cover his body.”

Brittany’s experience isn’t uncommon.

“Food allergies affect 1 in 13 children in the U.S., and I’m seeing more families experience severe allergic reactions with their kids,” said Dr. Ruchi Gupta, Professor of Pediatrics and Director of the Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. “In fact, more than 40% of children with food allergies have experienced a severe reaction.”

Young children often cannot describe what they are feeling and some symptoms like fussiness and spitting up can be confused with behavior seen in healthy babies.1,2 That’s why it’s important to watch out for skin reactions, such as hives, and stomach-related issues, like persistent vomiting, in infants and toddlers.3,4

2. Keep your diaper bag stocked

“A key part of my family’s game plan is to keep our bag stocked when we’re on the go,” said Brittany.

“After our kids’ allergic reactions, our family’s doctor prescribed them both AUVI-q® (epinephrine injection, USP),” she said. “What I love most about AUVI-q is the calm voice and clear instructions that can help parents and caregivers confidently administer epinephrine. It even reminds you to call 911.”

AUVI-q is the only FDA-approved option for infants and toddlers weighing 16.5 to 33 pounds.

“Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering or football game, you can always find four AUVI-q devices — two for Bronze and two for Sterling — in my bag. I also pack snacks that are safe for them to eat and extras for sharing with their friends,” she added.

3. Pass on the knowledge

“If I had to give new moms one piece of advice, it’d be to be confident in protecting your child,” said Brittany. “Don’t be afraid to speak up for your child and help those around you recognize and respond to an allergic emergency.”

“Food allergies have become more common. If you’re going out with other moms, one of them has likely experienced it or knows someone who has. So, while it can be scary, there is a community out there and there are resources to help you,” she added.

“It’s important to educate your friends, family and caregivers — including at school or daycare — about what foods your child is allergic to, how to avoid those foods and what to do in case of an accidental exposure,” Dr. Gupta reiterated. “Discuss your action plan, signs and symptoms of a food allergic reaction and how and when to use epinephrine.”

4. Act quickly

Anaphylaxis, or a life-threatening allergic reaction, is most commonly triggered by food, such as peanuts, milk and eggs, in children. A reaction can happen within minutes of exposure and requires immediate treatment with epinephrine.2,4,5,6

“As a pediatrician and mother of a child with peanut and tree nut allergies, I know how scary these reactions can be. But, with the right preparation, you can take back control and help ensure a fast response in the event of a food allergy emergency,” said Dr. Gupta. “Have an action plan, keep two epinephrine auto-injectors with your child and talk about this with your school and other caregivers.”

To learn more about Brittany’s story and how to be prepared for a severe food allergy reaction, visit www.FoodAllergyGamePlan.com.

Brittany Mahomes was compensated for her participation in this campaign.

Dr. Gupta is a paid advisor for Kaléo.

Indication

AUVI-Q® (epinephrine injection, USP) is a prescription medicine used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in people who are at risk for or have a history of serious allergic reactions.

Important Safety Information

AUVI-Q is for immediate self (or caregiver) administration and does not take the place of emergency medical care. Seek immediate medical treatment after using AUVI-Q. Each AUVI-Q contains a single dose of epinephrine. AUVI-Q should only be injected into your outer thigh, through clothing if necessary. If you inject a young child or infant with AUVI-Q, hold their leg firmly in place before and during the injection to prevent injuries. Do not inject AUVI-Q into any other part of your body, such as into veins, buttocks, fingers, toes, hands, or feet. If this occurs, seek immediate medical treatment and make sure to inform the healthcare provider of the location of the accidental injection. Only a healthcare provider should give additional doses of epinephrine if more than two doses are necessary for a single allergic emergency.

Rarely, patients who use AUVI-Q may develop infections at the injection site within a few days of an injection. Some of these infections can be serious. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms at an injection site: redness that does not go away, swelling, tenderness, or the area feels warm to the touch.

If you have certain medical conditions, or take certain medicines, your condition may get worse or you may have more or longer lasting side effects when you use AUVI-Q. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, especially medicines for asthma. Also tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, especially if you have asthma, a history of depression, thyroid problems, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, heart problems or high blood pressure, have any other medical conditions, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Epinephrine should be used with caution if you have heart disease or are taking certain medicines that can cause heart-related (cardiac) symptoms.

Common side effects include fast, irregular or ‘pounding’ heartbeat, sweating, shakiness, headache, paleness, feelings of over excitement, nervousness, or anxiety, weakness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, or breathing problems. These side effects usually go away quickly, especially if you rest. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Please see the full Prescribing Information and the Patient Information.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

CC-US-AQ-0048

1. Dosanjh A. “Infant anaphylaxis: the importance of early recognition.” J Asthma Allergy. 2013;6:103-107.

2. Greenhawt M, Gupta RS, Meadows JA, et al. “Guiding Principles for the Recognition, Diagnosis, and Management of Infants with Anaphylaxis: An Expert Panel Consensus.” J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2019;7(4):1148-1156.e5.

3. Pistiner M, Mendez-Reyes JE, Eftekhari S, et al. “Caregiver-Reported Presentation of Severe Food-Induced Allergic Reactions in Infants and Toddlers.” J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021;9(1):311-320.e2.

4. Simons FE, Sampson HA. “Anaphylaxis: unique aspects of clinical diagnosis and management in infants (birth to age 2 years).” J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2015;135(5):1125-1131.

5. “Food Allergy.” American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/. Accessed 4 Jan. 2024.

6. Campbell RL, Kelso, JM. Anaphylaxis: Emergency treatment. UpToDate. Updated January 30, 2020. Accessed March 1, 2024. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/anaphylaxis-emergency-treatment?search=anaphylaxis-emergency-treatment.

Reinventing Services with Customers at Heart

2024-04-02T10:29:00

(BPT) – For consumers, it’s the ‘experience’ that counts. According to PwC, 73 percent of all customers place experience near the top of their checklist when making purchasing decisions, following only price and product quality in order of importance.

LG, a company that strives to ensure that ‘Life’s Good’ for all, has prioritized the art of providing F.U.N. — first, unique and new — core values for customers.

To successfully deliver the types of experiences that customers desire, LG first had to make sure that all parts of the organization were aligned and properly equipped for the task at hand. In 2024, a new CX performance management system was applied to the entire executive organization structure — not just Korean executives at the company’s headquarters but global executives and employees in charge of sales, manufacturing and management — with a view to adding CX to other crucial measurements of overall business performance, such as sales and operating profit.

The data from the CX indicator is analyzed to assess the various teams involved and to instill a ‘customer-first’ mindset throughout the entire company. The definition of ‘customer’ in this equation is not limited to end-users, but includes business partners and relevant internal departments as well.

The company made meaningful changes by promoting various customer value innovation activities. However, it was identified that a process was needed to properly evaluate business performance as well as reward the achievement of increased levels of customer satisfaction.

Accordingly, starting from this year, all LG Electronics executives will be evaluated based on the level of customer satisfaction within the organizations under their purview, and also on whether or not they have achieved their allotted tasks. Customer satisfaction is graded based on LG’s in-house-developed measurement tool, which quantifies the satisfaction level of LG customers during each stage of the customer experience journey.

Now, each organization is charged with the mission of determining how it will go about innovating target customers’ experiences. In this way, each unit or team can give in-depth consideration to the important question of “What constitutes a differentiated experience from the customers’ perspective?” and then gauge whether or not a specific CX innovation can be realized.

For teams that don’t work directly with customers, CX tasks can include identifying the relevant customer groups, such as internal departments or suppliers, for a certain aspect or piece of organizational work, and generating appropriate and actionable innovation activities to drive meaningful results. LG strongly believes that customer value innovation is not just the domain of ‘management’ or select customer-facing teams. Rather, it takes a whole company working together to consistently create it, with each person adopting a ‘customer-first’ mindset and seeking to view all pertinent matters from the customer’s perspective.

This belief reflects LG CEO William Cho’s management philosophy, which states that the start and end of all innovation is the customer. Since taking charge of the company at the end of 2021, CEO Cho has continuously emphasized how accelerating customer experience innovation plays a critical role in improving customers’ lives. As a result of his astute direction, and as underscored by LG’s ‘Future Vision 2030’ document and recent brand reinvention, the company is actively expanding its CX innovation initiatives.

To boost the innovation of customer experience, the company has launched a company-wide project calling on all employees to meet with customers directly to hear their honest feedback and concerns in order to empathize with them. As a part of this internal project that focuses on LG’s commitment to advancing CX, executives partook in an on-site experience program designed to ensure the implementation of customer-centric management practices and policies. Last year alone, more than 280 LG executives from the Korean headquarters visited key offline sites to see firsthand a broad range of customer contact points and associated activities, including product purchase, phone consultation, rental, delivery and after-service care.

Many of these executives even visited Hi-Tele Service, an LG subsidiary that provides remote customer service. While there, the executives had the valuable opportunity to hear feedback direct from LG customers — giving them insight into how and where the CX might be further improved and refined.

On top of these activities, in order to hear from customers, LG hosted seminars where employees could share CX innovation cases as well as programs where they could directly listen to customers’ stories. And, to boost empathy for customers, the company is carrying out company-wide activities that enable employees to set their own customer and determine the value they can provide to these customers.

Customer value innovation is not just a task for management or teams that work directly with customers. It is the job of everyone at LG to make meaningful changes by rethinking and differentiating everything the company does from the customer’s perspective.

LG is committed to providing differentiated customer value. The company will continue to pursue a customer-centric way of working — one that is based on a detailed understanding of and empathy for its customers.

Not limited to HQ, our system of actively meeting, hearing and empathizing with customers is being put into place in LG offices around the world. In a dedicated series on LG Newsroom, we will introduce how various LG teams and subsidiaries are making changes to reinvent CX, so stay tuned.

By Kang Je-nam, director of Customer Value Innovation Division at LG Electronics

4 ways to achieve financial empowerment this year

2024-04-02T11:01:00

(BPT) – Finances are consistently a top concern for many Americans, with “saving money” ranking among their primary common goals. This year, Americans are more concerned than ever due to the uncertainty created by high inflation, rising interest rates, lack of income growth and dwindling savings. According to investment research site YCharts, the U.S. personal savings rate for January 2024 was 3.8% vs. 19.3% in January 2021, a 15.5% drop in just three years.

Here are some interesting stats on the state of the U.S. economy:

  • Per Gallup, 45% rate the American economy as poor; with 63% saying it is getting worse, not better
  • 63% of respondents tell Gallup that high prices pose a severe or moderate financial hardship
  • A 2023 survey conducted by Payroll.org highlighted that 78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, a 6% increase from the previous year. In other words, more than three-quarters of Americans struggle to save or invest after paying for their monthly expenses
  • Similarly, a 2023 Forbes Advisor survey revealed that nearly 70% of respondents either identified as living paycheck to paycheck (40%) or — even more concerning — reported that their income doesn’t even cover their standard expenses (29%)
  • The Labor Department reported that in October of 2023 nearly 8.4 million people held multiple jobs — the highest level since July 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic began
  • According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, U.S. consumer credit card debt topped $1.1 trillion in the last quarter of 2023

The economy and job markets remain in a state of constant flux, which is causing many families to worry about their ability to pay an unexpected bill, continue to pay off student loans, mortgages or credit card debt, or save money for the future.

“Saving money is more than just putting spare change into a coffee can or simply ordering takeout less often,” said Sam Jarman, financial expert, Mercury Content Partner. “Sure, those things can add up over time, but people may find that their greatest savings can come from taking a look at the necessary expenses they pay for every month, such as insurance.”

Jarman recommends these four tips to help protect your finances:

1. Check your auto insurance coverages. There’s no reason to pay for more coverage than you need, but being underinsured can leave you exposed. “The cost of repairs after a collision has grown in recent years, both as a result of more crossovers and SUVs on the road, and more technologically advanced vehicles,” said Jarman. “Beyond paying for more expensive repairs if your insurance doesn’t cover it, if you’re underinsured, you may also be responsible for paying out of pocket for medical bills, which could potentially devastate savings for a down payment on a house, your child’s college tuition or a future vacation. It’s vitally important to make sure you have the right amount of auto insurance coverage to protect against unforeseen events.”

2. Know what your homeowners insurance covers. First and foremost, be sure to read your homeowners insurance policy so you’re clear about what it does and doesn’t cover. It’s a good idea to check in with your agent each year to ensure you have adequate coverage, especially if you’ve made renovations, own collectible or valuable items, or live in an area that’s prone to flooding or earthquakes, as standard homeowners insurance policies typically don’t cover these situations. Also, maintain a home inventory to make sure to have an accurate record of your belongings and property.

3. Be aware of potential gaps in coverage. A standard homeowners insurance policy often doesn’t cover mechanical failures to your home’s appliances, HVAC or other essential systems, nor does it cover a break to service lines on your property that supply your home with electricity, gas or sewer functions. In either of these scenarios, this means you would be responsible for writing a big check to a repair company or having to purchase a pricey replacement. However, adding home systems protection and service line protection endorsements can help provide coverage for costly repairs and replacements, saving you both money and peace of mind. Pennies spent now can save you dollars down the road.

4. Regularly shop for the best coverage and price. Insurance prices can vary significantly from company to company, so it’s a good idea to take a few minutes to see if you’re getting a good deal. Shop around at least once a year — making sure to look for the exact same coverage limits — to see if you can find a more affordable rate. Additionally, check what discounts your carrier may offer. You may qualify for a discount you didn’t know existed.

“Often, regional insurers like Mercury Insurance are more attuned to their policyholders’ needs and can offer better rates,” Jarman added. “For example, the California Department of Insurance found that Mercury auto insurance policyholders save an average of $1,008, which can go a long way in feeling more secure in your savings.”

The most effective way to make sure your finances are minimally impacted by insurance costs is to speak to an independent insurance agent. They can help make sure you have the proper amount and type of coverage to keep yourself, your family and property protected.

3 ways to maximize nutrition in your baby’s diet

2024-04-02T10:01:00

(BPT) – As a parent, it’s normal to be focused on your baby getting enough of the nutrients their little bodies need to grow and thrive. Once babies are eating solid food, it’s the perfect time to start widening their palates by introducing a variety of healthy plant-based options.

Here are three tips from Plum Organics to help you choose foods that will start your baby on a good path toward adventurous flavors and textures for years to come.

1. Introduce bitter and savory flavors early

You may naturally want to choose sweet foods like fruit when you first start feeding your baby solid food, like mashed-up bananas and applesauce. However, it’s a better idea to get your child acclimated to a wider variety of flavors that represent more foods they will encounter as they grow early on, including savory and even bitter tastes. That way they will be more open to liking foods like vegetables and proteins, which are not sweet.

Some parents will opt for baby foods that combine fruits and vegetables to sneak veggies in, but fruits often mask the bitter flavor of vegetables, which defeats the purpose. Instead, try foods that introduce different flavors through vegetables only, so babies learn early that all foods are not — and don’t need to taste — sweet.

“Babies are born with an innate preference for sweet foods and an aversion to bitter foods,” said Whitney English, M.S., R.D. and co-founder of Plant-Based Juniors. “To foster a diverse palate and support adventurous eating, we need to train babies’ palates to enjoy bitter flavors by introducing them early and often!”

To help you get started, leading organic baby food brand, Plum Organics offers a Zucchini, Pea + Kale with Thyme pouch which is organic, non-GMO and contains no added sugars.

“Herbs and spices also contain bitter compounds, and it’s helpful to get babies acquainted with them early too,” added English. “Right from the start, you can add them to meals to create interesting and diverse flavors. The only spices you’ll want to avoid are those with heat, like chili powder or peppers.”

2. Focus on vitamin C to boost iron absorption

According to the Mayo Clinic, iron is a priority nutrient for children, as it aids their bodies in many important ways such as using oxygen and helping to make red blood cells, both of which are crucial for growing children. And unfortunately, many children do not get enough iron, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia.

“Iron is a critical nutrient for growth and development, which is why needs are high during pregnancy and early childhood to support rapid growth and the production of energy, red blood cells and brain cells,” said Alexandra Caspero, M.A., R.D. and co-founder of Plant-Based Juniors.

But because iron can be harder to absorb in the body, it’s important to include vitamin C in the diets of babies and young children, as that nutrient can better enhance iron absorption.

“Iron is found in two forms: heme and non-heme iron. Heme iron is found only in animal foods like meat, poultry and seafood. It’s much more easily absorbed than non-heme iron. Non-heme iron is found in both animal and plant foods such as legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds and leafy greens and is harder to absorb than heme iron,” explained Caspero. “Fortunately, pairing non-heme iron with a source of vitamin C can increase the absorption of non-heme iron by three to six times.”

For this reason, Caspero recommends serving infant-friendly sources of vitamin C alongside iron-rich meals. For example, many Plum Organics pouches include vitamin C-rich foods like broccoli, sweet potato, blueberries, mango and more.

3. Make it easy to feed your baby healthier food on-the-go

While it may seem challenging to feed your little one nutritious food when you’re running from one appointment or playdate to another, you can make it easier for yourself by picking up some Plum Organics pouches, which are veggie-packed and great for parents and caregivers to make feeding a breeze.

With a variety of flavors your baby is bound to love, you’ll be ready to offer a quick meal or snack whenever it’s needed, expanding your baby’s palate and providing the peace of mind that you’re feeding them well.

Learn more tips about feeding your baby or toddler at PlumOrganics.com.

7 Tips for Spring Yard Prep

2024-04-02T10:01:00

(BPT) – After winter’s last gasp, spring is just around the corner. That means it’s time to get out into the yard and tackle some spring cleaning. With a little DIY prep work now, your yard will be your family’s oasis for months to come.

Here are seven spring cleanup tasks from ECHO Inc. to put on your to-do list, along with the right tools to get the job done.

Clean up debris. Gather up any stray branches, twigs and trash that have blown into your yard. Tool tip: Keep two bags handy, one that you regularly use for garbage and a bag specifically designed for yard waste. Garbage services in many cities have specific windows of time in which they’ll pick up yard waste in the spring, so check with yours and make sure you get your debris to the curb on time!

Rake the lawn. Didn’t get to those leaves before the first snowfall? Now’s the time to rake them up. This will let sunlight and air reach your grass, sparking it to grow. Tool tip: They go in that same yard waste bag you’re using for debris.

Do you need to aerate? Take a hard look at your lawn. Is the soil too compacted? Do you have bare patches? It could mean you need to aerate the soil. Tool tip: You can do this job yourself by renting an aerator from your local hardware store. Or, bring in a lawn service to do it for you. This is also the time to apply fertilizer if your yard needs it.

Deal with downed trees or branches. After this unpredictable winter, many people are faced with downed trees or large branches in their yards. Cutting them up and disposing of them now will save lawn headaches later. Tool tip: This is a job for a chainsaw. The battery-powered ECHO eFORCE DCS-5000 chainsaw is quiet, easy to use and you don’t have to mess with gas and oil. Or a power cord. You’ll get 200 cuts on a single charge delivering professional-grade power via the ECHO eFORCE 56V battery system.

Trim up shrubs. Since you’ve got that ECHO chainsaw powered up, take a look at your shrubs. Did you find any dead or diseased branches? Zip them off. Now is also a good time to shape your bushes and plants, cutting away any stray branches for a clean look.

Prune your trees. If you have low-hanging or dead branches, the time to clean those up is early spring, before the leaves start budding out. Tool tip: An extendable pruner is the safest tool for this job. It allows you to prune branches without climbing onto a ladder. Read more about it in this article from Almanac. One important rule to remember when doing this task: Stay away from branches that are anywhere near a power line. That is a job for the pros, period.

Tend your garden. Whether you have an in-ground garden or containers, remove any dead plants and other debris like sticks from those beds. Also, cut your perennials back to just a few inches off the ground. This will facilitate new growth. Tool tip: Turn over or till your soil with a simple hoe if your garden is small. For bigger plots, you’ll want to use a tiller.

With these tips and the right tools, you can spruce up your yard, making it ready for your family to enjoy until the snow falls again. For more information about how to use ECHO’s line of outdoor power tools, visit their website at www.echo-usa.com.

My child’s tooth got knocked out! What should I do?

2024-04-02T06:01:00

(BPT) – At this time of year, kids are itching to shake off winter’s cabin fever and get outside. Spring sports are in session, and kids are heading off to summer camp, riding their bikes with friends, or just exploring the great outdoors.

Along with the fun and adventure, every parent knows this is also the season of skinned knees, bumps and bruises. Some parents will say that it’s not summer without a trip to the ER, and most households have a first aid kit stocked with bandages and antiseptic spray. A little TLC after a minor mishap and your child is good to go.

There is one childhood injury that calls for a different treatment process than parents might be accustomed to — a child’s tooth getting knocked out. The image of your child walking, dazed, into the kitchen, carrying his or her tooth, perhaps bleeding, can strike fear into parents. A skinned knee is one thing, but the loss of a tooth can seem much more serious.

The first thing to do, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, is take a deep breath. Stay calm. You’ve got this, and the big authority on little teeth has got you. Here’s what Dr. Scott Cashion, President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, says to do when your child’s tooth gets knocked out:

For baby teeth:

If it’s a baby tooth, give your child some TLC. This isn’t an emergency situation.

Have your child rinse out their mouth with cool water. No need to put the tooth back in the socket; in fact, that can damage the growing permanent tooth. Wrap it up for the tooth fairy or toss it.

For permanent teeth:

This requires quick, careful action, says Dr. Cashion. The goal here is to save the tooth. But don’t worry. Your pediatric dentist is trained for emergencies like this. Until you get to their office, here’s what to do:

Control any bleeding. Ensure your child is positioned so he or she will not choke. Place a wet cloth into the mouth to control the bleeding and apply gentle pressure.

Locate the tooth. If you can’t find it, it might be pushed up into the gum.

Don’t handle the tooth by its roots. If you have rubber or medical gloves in your first aid kit, this is the time to put them on.

Rinse the tooth gently with water. Don’t scrub it or use antiseptic.

Put the tooth in a small plastic bag with some milk. Yes, milk. Not water! Milk enzymes can help preserve the root and keep it “alive.” Place the bag into a cup of ice.

Call your dentist and let them know you have an emergency and are on your way. If it’s after hours or on the weekend, contact an emergency dentist in your area. It’s wise to have the number of an after-hours or emergency pediatric dentist handy on your fridge, before you need it.

If you aren’t sure whether it’s a baby tooth or permanent tooth, follow the steps above for permanent teeth, and place it in milk rather than reinserting.

Ideally, try to get your child into the dentist’s chair within 30 minutes of the accident. If this isn’t possible, get there as soon as you can. Your dentist knows what to do. For more information or to find a pediatric dentist near you, visit mychildrensteeth.org.

USS Wisconsin commemorates 80th anniversary with World of Warships collaboration

2024-04-02T09:01:00

(BPT) – In a salute to naval history and video game innovation, Wargaming’s World of Warships — a massive multiplayer online naval combat game — is adding the USS Wisconsin to its roster of more than 800 vessels starting April 17, which also marks the ship’s 80th anniversary.

Steeped in history, the USS Wisconsin played a pivotal role in World War II and beyond. From the Pacific Theater battles to its resurgence during Operation Desert Storm, this battleship has left an indelible mark on military history. Today, as part of Nauticus, a Maritime Discovery Center located in Norfolk, Virginia, the Wisconsin serves as a floating museum — a tangible link to the past — by offering visitors a glimpse into its illustrious legacy.

To commemorate the USS Wisconsin anniversary and the upcoming 80th anniversary of D-Day, World of Warships is spreading awareness about this historical vessel, honoring military families, and making naval history accessible to video game and history enthusiasts alike through several USS Wisconsin-focused initiatives.

Active service members and veterans who visit the Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin during April will enjoy complimentary admission courtesy of World of Warships. For those unable to visit in person, World of Warships is offering a virtual alternative.

The game makers recently conducted a livestream providing a tour of the USS Wisconsin, examining the ship from stem to stern and exploring the vessel’s storied past. This stream allowed viewers to delve into the ship’s history. It featured a special appearance by a Desert Storm veteran who served aboard the vessel, offering valuable insights and anecdotes. The 60-minute archived stream is available to view on World of Warships’ Twitch channel.

Photo courtesy World of Warships

World of Warships has naval history coded into its DNA and remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving naval history. Through educational initiatives like the “Naval Legends” YouTube series and partnerships with maritime museums like Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin, the game fosters an appreciation for naval heritage. Because many of these museums are underfunded and run by volunteers, often veterans, World of Warships actively fundraises to restore museum ships and raise awareness of their vital role in preserving history for current and future generations.

World of Warships is a free-to-play naval warfare game where players command historical warships from various nations in intense multiplayer battles. The game offers a wide range of vessels, from nimble destroyers to powerful battleships and aircraft carriers. With strategic gameplay, realistic ship mechanics and stunning visuals, World of Warships immerses players in epic naval combat across diverse environments.

Photo courtesy World of Warships

And now, with the addition of the Wisconsin (fondly called “Big Wisky”), players will have three months to build a virtual USS Wisconsin, known as a Tier X ship in the game, from the ground up in 30 phases and at each of those phases receive different rewards to ease their progress in the game, as well as another ship, a recreation of the USS West Virginia, a Colorado class battleship. Once complete, players will have the opportunity to captain the ship in naval battles independently and in group missions.

To learn more about how you can visit the USS Wisconsin at Nauticus, visit Nauticus.org/Battleship-Wisconsin-Turns-80/. If you want to build your own Wisconsin and captain the ship in history-altering battles, visit WorldofWarships.com.

Battleship Wisconsin photo courtesy Nauticus.

5 Financial Tips to Take Your Business to the Next Level

2024-04-02T08:01:00

(BPT) – By Irana Wasti, Chief Product Officer at BILL

Building a business is an incredible journey — and like all journeys, every stage is different. Running a startup, for instance, is very different from running a midsize business.

As your business grows, your needs evolve too. Scaling a business often means navigating different types of risks, expanding product or service offerings, and executing more complex operations. The tools or technology solutions you had as a startup may be different to the resources you need now to help you manage a larger team, support more customers, or solve more complexities in your business.

Just one example: when it comes to thinking about finance tools or technology, there are so many different choices on the market that it can be difficult to understand which is the best one for your growing business.

If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, here are four finance-focused tips to help your growing business continue thriving.

1. Be Smart About Spend & Expense Management

As your business grows, you need full visibility into your evolving company budgets and how your employees are spending. Adding new employees and departments makes it harder to fully monitor organizational spending, opening your business up to the risk of overspending or fraud (whether intentional or not). Finding efficiencies in the overall spend and expense process can also deliver valuable time back to employees so they can focus on your business and customers. Automating your spend and expense management can help.

Stay agile with budget management: Scaling up means more budget complexity. Adopting a spend management solution helps to keep you nimble and can allow businesses to approve and delegate budgets adeptly, ensuring control over financial health without the hassle.

Automate your expense processes: For every business owner, streamlining the approval and reimbursement process is a game-changer as you scale. Automation in expense management can significantly reduce the administrative burdens, enhancing efficiency and allowing for a smoother financial workflow. For example, BILL customer Marine Layer, a growing retail apparel brand that focuses on sustainability, saved at least three to four hours per week on expense management. “BILL gives us more up-to-date expense reporting. It’s just a real time saver and definitely speeds up our financial close. Not having to manually code for our monthly close really saves time and makes the close more efficient,” said Kelly Ransom, Financial Accountant at Marine Layer.

2. Get Ready To “Pay Global” Even if You Are Not Global Yet

As your business grows, you might also be looking at partners and vendors you’re working with to ensure they can help you scale the operations for your business needs. At this stage, many small and midsize business (SMB) owners will look to expand their vendor network, both domestically and internationally, in order to improve cost, quality, and business efficiency. But to do that, SMBs need safe, secure and efficient financial platforms that can handle vendor payments, whether domestically or internationally. This is particularly important as traditional international wire transfers can be expensive and complex. Leveraging integrated financial automation software for international payments can help ensure a faster, more secure and effective process.

Choose the right global payment partner: It’s important to look for a technology partner that will simplify operations, offer competitive exchange rates and provide comprehensive data management. The right financial platform can provide seamless global payments integration and robust features to process international payments quickly, securely and easily. I also always encourage businesses to look for a global payment solution that grows with your business.

Diversify payment methods: Payment preferences vary depending on what part of the world your sales or services are coming from. It’s helpful to offer a variety of payment options to your vendors, such as credit or debit card payments, contactless payments, and digital wallets. The right technology partner can allow you to offer multiple options for international payment needs.

Sync with accounting software: I also encourage businesses to leverage payment partners that integrate with major accounting software providers to ensure seamless management of both domestic and international payments, by streamlining your workflows and eliminating the need for double data entry.

New York-based apparel brand Bombas sends roughly 50% of their payments to 10 international vendors, even more when they need to bulk up their inventory to prepare for the holiday rush. However, Melissa Harris, Director of Accounting Operations at Bombas, isn’t worried about making international payments because they use BILL. “BILL Accounts Payable does it all in one shot, using the same process for both domestic and international payments. It’s been a much more seamless process with BILL than it has been with other AP systems I’ve used,” said Harris.

3. Get Real-Time Data and Insights for Growth

A frequent challenge for businesses is they don’t typically have large teams of finance professionals to provide analysis, insights, data and forecasting. Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) technology is changing that. With FP&A, SMBs can predict future cash flow, understand trends and opportunities, and make better business decisions, faster. Timely data and analytics can help you make the best decisions to help take your business to the next level.

Strategic financial planning: FP&A technology enables SMBs to collaborate closely with executives and department heads, aligning financial goals with the overarching business strategy. By assessing market trends, competitive landscapes, and internal capabilities, businesses can create robust long-term financial plans that support sustainable growth.

Budgeting and forecasting: Businesses can also develop detailed annual budgets that reflect accurate cash flow forecasts. This technology supports the creation of rolling forecasts, allowing companies to adjust their financial plans in response to changing market conditions and evolving business needs.

4. Maximizing Financial Rewards

Taking advantage of financial rewards is not just about the bottom line — it’s an opportunity for businesses to show appreciation and build a positive workplace culture. Many SMBs are already familiar with rewards programs for travel, but why not extend those benefits to everyday spending?

Virtual cards with rewards programs can be a game-changer for SMBs. One common way businesses like to use virtual cards is for business subscriptions management. This ensures payments are made on time, within budget, and without the risk of overcharging, with real-time visibility into spending.

Implementing rewards programs: Similar to consumer rewards programs, virtual cards with rewards programs are a powerful tool for businesses. Choosing financial tools that offer cashback, points or other incentives transforms everyday expenses into opportunities for savings or investment. It’s a great way to turn routine transactions into opportunities that add value to your business.

5. Choose Technology Partners that Can Increase Operational Efficiency

According to The BILL 2024 State of Financial Automation Report, SMBs are increasingly looking to AI and automation to improve efficiency and productivity. In fact, 85% of SMBs are enthusiastic about using AI for their financial operations.

One of the most important considerations is which company you choose to partner with to deliver these AI capabilities for your daily operations. You want to work with technology partners that understand the opportunity for you to harness the use of AI for your business to drive impact. For example, AI can help you improve customer experiences, gain efficiencies, or scale. This in turn can free up your valuable time, allowing you and your staff to focus on more strategic tasks that can foster innovation and growth for the business.

While AI technology is still developing and will continue to evolve, there are great technology partners that can help your business maximize AI. Choose a partner that is innovation-forward, already innovating with AI, and is an early adopter with your unique needs and interests top of mind.

Key Takeaway

There’s a transformative shift happening in how SMBs are served by technology. Innovative finance tools like spend and expense management, international payment processing, and FP&A technology are increasingly essential for growth-focused businesses. As your business evolves, embracing these financial technologies will be crucial in shaping your journey toward sustainability and success.

At BILL, we’re dedicated to helping businesses get more control, visibility, and efficiency in their financial operations. Automating financial operations can be a game changer for your business, saving valuable team time on inefficient manual processes, and enabling you to focus on high-value strategic business needs instead. To find out more, visit Bill.com/Signup to start your risk-free trial.

Excited about spring? 5 top ideas for fun new adventures

2024-04-01T05:01:00

(BPT) – If visions of sunny days, blooming flowers, and warm breezes get you excited to go to new places and do fun things, you may want to shake off the winter blahs by planning a spring getaway or event with family and friends. To help with your spring vacation planning, National Geographic offers books with something for everyone.

Here’s a look at the vacation inspiration you’ll find inside these fun books.

1. Visit a national park

Did you know April 20–28 is National Park Week? To celebrate the occasion, entrance fees to National Parks are waived on April 20, so plan ahead to take advantage of the free admission.

National Parks are an American treasure that could take a lifetime to fully explore. Why not start now? Three helpful books, Complete National Parks, Atlas of the National Parks, and Yellowstone National Park Trail Map, provide valuable information about parks near you and throughout the country—just waiting for you to visit.

2. Plan a unique vacation

A vacation along the road less traveled may be just what you need this spring. If you’re the type of person who doesn’t want to go to the same places that every other tourist visits, and you love uncovering hidden gems in the U.S. and around the world, Here Not There is the ideal book for you.

You’ll appreciate travel guidance that finds you lesser known locales to discover—which can also help you avoid excessive crowds and costs. For example, you may choose to visit San Antonio, Texas, instead of Venice, Italy, for a city full of colonnades, canals, and carnivals. You could discover that Cleveland, Ohio, offers theater performances rivaling what you can find on Broadway, or that a water-filled excursion through New York’s Thousand Islands offers beauty to match Germany’s Rhine River.

3. Get your pedals turning with ultimate cycling experiences

Geared for everyone from casual enthusiasts to expert riders, this vibrant book offers a wide variety of routes that are suitable for every type of cyclist. In 100 Bike Rides of a Lifetime you’ll discover quick jaunts in your own neighborhood, challenges that belong on every cyclist’s bucket list and more.

This handy guide also provides essential information such as the best times to ride, great spots to refuel, cultural highlights along each route, where to stay, and how to relax post-ride.

4. Try a tasty new treat in every state

Ever wanted to eat your way across the country? Now you can, with help from 50 States 1,000 Eats. You’ll find must-have diner breakfasts and food trucks to can’t-miss farm-to-table dinners and apple farms with the best cider—with flavors and food experiences for every type of traveler.

Whether you just love going on road trips or you’re an avid foodie, you can explore the best dishes in every state, check out expert advice on where to find top meals at local eateries, learn how to schedule your trips around popular food festivals and read about inspiring activities to pair with your favorite dishes.

5. Optimize your staycation with incredible barbecue

Staying at home for your next vacation? Gather friends and family for some good eats with the help of Big Moe’s Big Book of BBQ. Learn about the best kinds of wood, premium grills, and how to concoct the tastiest rubs and sauces. Pitmaster Moe Cason, winner of over 250 barbecue competitions, shares 75 family-favorite recipes for perfect barbecue classics.

Ready to make your spring plans? Find all these books and more at Books.Disney.com.

Taste the Sunshine: 5 Ways to Explore the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail

2024-04-02T04:01:00

(BPT) – It’s National Brunch Month, the perfect time to experience the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail! With over 40 stops along the way, the trail offers a self-guided tour of restaurants that serve brunch’s favorite cocktail (usually a combo of juice and sparkling wine) along with a wide array of breakfast cuisine.

“The Richmond Region Mimosa Trail gives visitors and locals alike a new way to explore all the delicious brunch beverages that our region has to offer,” said Tom Loftus, vice president of marketing at Richmond Region Tourism. “We believe the Richmond Region is the first and only destination in the country to offer a mimosa trail, and our trail will always be special because it comes with the unique Richmond Region experience.”

Here are 5 ways to make the most of the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail:

Celebrate a Special Occasion

Don’t wait until dinner — celebrate anniversaries, birthdays or engagements at brunch instead. For a truly memorable experience, consider dining at a rooftop venue like Kabana, with picturesque views of the city. Or in cooler months, cozy up in historic restaurants like Martha’s Kitchen or Liberty Public House. Book your stay at The Commonwealth where you can enjoy a Blood Orange “Moon-Mosa,” crafted with Richmond’s own Belle Isle Moonshine (35 percent ABV), at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, Rueger’s.

Enjoy a Unique Experience

For an entertaining day date or an out-of-the-ordinary gathering of friends, the Richmond Region Mimosa Trail has just the thing. Play a round of mini-golf at Hotel Greene, tour historic Hanover Tavern, or enjoy a world-famous Drag Brunch performance at Godfreys, with a side of bubbly. Relax and revive after your lively brunch with spa treatments and a few splendid nights at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa/Short Pump.

Make it a Memorable Meal

When it’s Mimosa time, it’s also time for the most important meal of the day. The Richmond Region has countless options for morning munchies to accompany your tasty beverages. Order the Devil’s Mess alongside a Manmosa at Millie’s Diner, or indulge in a red velvet waffle with tropical mimosas at Lulu’s. For organic, natural ingredients and mimosa carafes, The Daily Kitchen & Bar offers two locations to meet your needs. Treat yourself to luxury and tradition with a stay at The Jefferson Hotel, which offers a decadent Champagne Sunday Brunch and memorable fine dining in its restaurant, Lemaire.

Go All Out for Girls’ Weekend

Gather your besties and raise those glasses for an unforgettable girls’ trip to celebrate friendship or a bachelorette bash. A get-together of gal pals calls for a grouping of the best bubbly, so choose from mimosa flights at Kregger’s Tap and Table, Cooper’s Tavern or Napa Kitchen and Wine, just to name a few. Think pink for your overnight accommodations with a stay at the Quirk Richmond, a light, airy, art-inspired boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Richmond — with a restaurant that serves mimosas, of course.

Just Because

Sometimes, the best reason to treat yourself is no reason at all. Toast to the weekend with a traditional mimosa from Capitol Waffle Shop or Joe’s Inn or sample a new flavor from ML Steak or Les Crepes. Keep some extra cash for the trail when you book your stay at one of the area’s newest and highly rated hotels for mid-budget travelers, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chester.

What Are You Waiting For?

Make plans now for your Richmond Region Mimosa Trail adventure with friends and family. No matter the occasion, there’s a stop (or a few) on the trail to start your day in a refreshing, bubbly way!

The Richmond Region Mimosa Trail is presented by Visit Richmond VA. Learn more at www.richmondmimosatrail.com.

Please drink responsibly. Remember to bring along a designated driver or use a ride service for transportation. Find more information at responsibility.org.