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Parents Can Take Control to Address Another Summer Slide: Teenage Gambling

2024-07-29T16:53:25

(BPT) – Summertime can be a challenging and risky period for teenagers, as the extra free time and lack of structure can lead to boredom and often risky behaviors like distracted driving, drug or alcohol use and more. Adding to these concerns among parents and caregivers is added screentime, which can be tied to a spike in gambling behavior.

In fact, despite gambling being illegal for people under 18 in Minnesota, the National Council on Problem Gambling reports 60 to 80 percent of high schoolers have gambled in the past year, and teens are four times more likely to develop a gambling disorder than adults.

These facts should be a red flag for parents, according to the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG), an organization that provides resources and education to support people and families with gambling problems and gambling addiction.

“Teenagers have more access to mobile gambling than ever before, and summer break is a critical time for parents to talk to their teen about gambling while looking at signs of addictive behavior,” says Susan Sheridan Tucker, executive director, MNAPG. “While many parents are aware of the dangers that alcohol and drugs pose to teenagers, gambling is another serious issue that can lead to addiction and other high-risk behaviors that can derail a teen’s future.”

MNAPG notes there are also risk factors that make people under 18 more likely to develop a problem, such as an early experience with gambling, a family history of gambling addiction or substance addiction, as well as a personal history of substance abuse, depression or ADHD.

MNAPG offers these tips for parents and caregivers to address gambling with their teenager:

  • Don’t engage your children in gambling activities or reward them with gambling-related items such as lottery tickets, pull tabs or poker chips.
  • Listen to what they say about gambling and encourage an ongoing discussion.
  • Let them know about the potential harms of gambling, as well as the differences between lower-risk play and risky gambling.
  • Teach them about the odds and emphasize that “the house always wins in the long run.”

MNAPG says parents should look for possible signs of teen gambling, such as an increased amount of time spent on screens and if their teen has unexplained sources of money, as well as intense reactions during sporting events.

“We often see teenagers who are engaged with gambling losing interest in activities they once enjoyed and becoming more secretive,” says Sheridan Tucker. “The best thing parents can do is to be engaged with their teen and have a sense of the apps and sites their child is frequently visiting.”

As one solution, MNAPG offers free subscriptions to Gamban, an award-winning app that can be applied to smartphones and other devices to block online gambling sites and apps. The app also monitors progress by tracking the number of gamble-free days and the time and money saved. Parents can request a free subscription at www.mnapg.org/gambling-addiction/problem-gambler-resources.

And to address the absence of problem gambling education in Minnesota’s high schools, MNAPG has designed a digital toolkit to help high schools educate and spread awareness on the dangers of gambling. The Lead the Way to Safer Play toolkit focuses on safe gaming and gambling disorder, offering free printed materials for schools to order, plus turn-key social media content, educational pieces, customizable newsletter articles, sports public address announcements and more. Schools can request the kit online: https://school-toolkit.mnapg.org/.

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Closing your cash flow gap with an end-to-end payments platform

2024-07-29T12:13:00

(BPT) – The way we pay is continuously evolving — from cash as king, to the dominance of credit cards, and now the contactless revolution. These payments developments mean business owners must have a comprehensive payments platform that allows customers to pay any way they want and gives the business owner a seamless, easy way to manage back-end tasks.

Intuit QuickBooks Payments helps solve the end-to-end payments needs for businesses, and unlocks three key benefits that any business owner should look for when choosing a payments solution.

1. Provide flexibility to your customers with a variety of payment methods

With so many payment options available today, it’s important your business allows customers to use their preferred method. This includes more traditional options for in-person, live or digital payments — cash, credit or debit card — but also newer options like contactless payments through a smartphone or widely popular payment apps, such as PayPal or Venmo. Accepting various forms of payment ensures your customers have fewer hurdles in their path to purchase, ultimately helping drive additional sales for you.

2. Get paid faster and help close the cash flow gap

Cash flow is one of the greatest pain points for a business owner. As you make sales, it can take time for the money to actually arrive into your business bank account, which can impact cash flow. With instant deposit, eligible businesses using QuickBooks Payments can receive payments from customers in as little as 30 minutes and when banks are closed, helping close the crucial gap between the sale and when you see the funds in your account. Unlocking these funds faster can allow the business to grow in a variety of ways, including investing in new equipment or marketing opportunities, purchasing additional inventory, and more. Other payment features include pay-enabled invoices that can help ensure customers are able to easily and quickly pay in just a few clicks when they receive an emailed invoice, as well as recurring invoices that automate billing for you and allow your customers to set up autopay, providing convenience for everyone.

3. Free up time when payments is integrated with other financial tools

Managing your finances as a business owner extends well beyond accepting payments. That’s why it’s important to use a payments solution that integrates seamlessly with your other financial tools. This saves time toggling between different platforms and can unlock automation features that will eliminate work for you. For example, QuickBooks offers an autoreconciliation feature, which works within your books to match deposits to payments with high confidence in accuracy, helps ensure books are up-to-date come tax time, and frees up time to focus on other areas of the business. It’s also important to look for a payments solution that works the way you do — whether it’s web-based when running your business in an office, via a mobile app if you’re on the go, or even better — one that offers both!

To learn more about QuickBooks Payments and the robust capabilities it offers today’s business owners, visit here.

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Ready for Hurricane Season? These U.S. Army Soldiers Have Got You Covered

2024-07-29T15:01:00

(BPT) – The 2024 hurricane season is underway, and the Atlantic is expected to see a record-breaking number of storms, driving communities across the region to batten down the hatches. First responders are at the center of helping residents weather the storm, but some may not realize that U.S. Army Soldiers are often critical members of the relief teams.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), one of the world’s largest public engineering agencies, never hesitates to run toward disaster, providing life-saving support where it’s needed most. And for Col. James Booth and his USACE Soldiers, who work across Florida and the Caribbean, the needs can be frequent and dire. What does it take to get through the storm season in one of the most hurricane-heavy parts of the country?

Read on to learn how Soldiers in the USACE Jacksonville District make an impact at every stage of hurricane responsiveness.

Before the Storm — Readiness

The best preparation for a hurricane starts well before it hits. 1st Lt. Amanda Warren has always had a passion for the environment and after graduating from West Point, now travels to at-risk communities year-round to help residents proactively improve their infrastructure in advance of hurricane season. This can include bolstering sand dunes for beachfront properties and conducting emergency management assessments for hospitals and other public facilities to ensure they can support the needs of the community during a storm. These projects help minimize damage and improve resilience in the event that disaster strikes.

Two U.S. Army soldiers standing on the field in JAX Stadium
As Soldiers in the USACE Jacksonville District, Lt. Col. Matthew Miller and 1st Lt. Amanda Warren are trained to provide the engineering solutions needed to secure homes and communities, and ensure they are properly equipped to withstand the risk of disasters.

On the Ground — Response

Once a hurricane makes landfall, USACE springs into action. The most critical needs for impacted communities are managing flooding and restoring power, and USACE is equipped to handle both. In the 2022 hurricane season, the Jacksonville District acted quickly to take on three major hurricanes in just two months. And in the first weeks after Hurricane Ian, Col. Booth and his unit assessed thousands of buildings and installed over 20,000 temporary roofs and 20 generators for Florida residents in need. He remembers the immediate impact it made for residents at a senior living facility who otherwise would have faced a dangerous situation. Moments like this give USACE Soldiers the purpose and motivation to keep going, even once the worst passes.

Workers applying a temporay blue roof to a building to protect it from hurricane damage

In response to Hurricane Ian, USACE Soldiers provided temporary roofing to homeowners to protect property and allow residents to remain in their homes while recovering from the storm.

Building Back Stronger — Recovery

The work of USACE doesn’t end after the storm; in addition to ongoing power and water assessments, Soldiers continue partnering with local authorities on civil works projects to aid in recovery. Lt. Col. Matthew Miller is the Deputy Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District, and as a Florida State University alum, he is no stranger to the intense storms felt by the East Coast during hurricane season. He helped repair levees in the years following Hurricane Katrina and saw that effort tested when a recent storm hit New Orleans; because of this work, the improved infrastructure held strong. Reconstruction efforts help affected communities get back on track faster and prepare for what the next season may bring.

Two U.S. Army soldiers inspect smartphone photo they took on beach

Col. James Booth and 1st Lt. Amanda Warren survey a coastline in Western Florida to conduct post-damage assessments following Hurricane Idalia in September 2023.

So, what should you do if you find yourself in the path of a hurricane this year? In addition to keeping an emergency cache of supplies on hand, above all, Col. Booth and his unit say it’s most important to follow the direction of local government and emergency services, especially as it pertains to evacuation. Staying connected to their guidance will help you make the best decisions to stay safe.

Find out more about how the Army is making an impact in communities around the country at GoArmy.com — and go through hurricane season knowing U.S. Army Soldiers are ready to help.

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How to implement mixed metals throughout your next home renovation project: Tips from a designer

2024-07-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – Design is a major component for any home renovation. Introducing mixed metals into the kitchen and bath is one of the latest design trends that should be considered when thinking through that next project. The eclectic aesthetic behind the mixed metal trend is popular across the design world and it only takes a few different types of materials, finishes and personality to get the job done. See below for ideas and easy ways to bring it all together, all while keeping budget in mind.

Where to look for inspiration

No matter the interior style you’re trying to go for, getting inspired by the world around you or getting acquainted with what’s trending in the interior decor space (via home/lifestyle magazines or vlogs) are good places to start.

Maris Park Borris, Color Material & Finish (CMF) designer at Delta Faucet Company, says inspiration can strike from a variety of ways and reminds homeowners, “Regardless of style or design intent, I think we can all find inspiration from different times or places in our lives. From your past, present or future, to online or even nature sources. People pick up on things that are meaningful to them!” Park Borris says.

By reading up and taking inspiration from others and trends happening within the design space, you’ll start to notice general themes that are frequently incorporated, including the mixed metal trend. A little dedication and creativity are all that’s needed. To start, pick two or three contrasting metals with different tones to implement character and depth into the space, while selecting one of those as the cohesive thread across all. This will not only keep guests’ eyes entertained, but it’ll also give you the opportunity to introduce different textures and finishes for an elevated look.

That’s so metal

Mixing metals is a simple way to give spaces a unique touch. Metals like steel and copper offer a shinier, flashy aesthetic in the home while chromes and nickels give off a more polished, sophisticated look. Once the most prominent metal is identified for the space, complement it with either warmer metals like brass, gold and nickel or cooler ones like chrome and silver. Keep in mind that metal choices and combinations are all just a matter of the homeowner’s taste and preference in the end.

Pro tip — avoid using metals that look too much like one another so that the result doesn’t look like a mistaken matching effort. Spaces and journeys within the home are also important to consider. Keep an eye on how one finish can mix and translate to the next room. This will create new experiences and an enjoyable walkthrough for your guests.

Complement metals via beautiful, affordable fixtures

When renovating kitchen and bath spaces with the mixed metal look in mind, selecting beautifully designed fixtures is a simple start to get the trend in motion. This year, Peerless® Faucet launched its all-new Ezra™ Kitchen and Bath Collections — all with an array of unique finish options to choose from. Designed with sharp lines, soft curves and functional features, these collections deliver long-lasting performance while uplifting any space.

In the kitchen, the Ezra Collection is available in Chrome, Stainless Steel and Matte Black finishes — all can be easily paired with everyday decorative pieces one may already have on-hand. For example, try accessorizing around the faucet with soap dispensers, cabinetry handles, lifestyle pieces or even other appliances — pairing the finish with a contrasting metal.

“You don’t have to spend a lot of money to achieve the mixed metal look,” said Borris. “Identify where metal is already being used in your home. It’s shocking to find that many decor pieces in one’s home already come with a metallic finish that can be accessorized. There are endless inexpensive ways to bring some different hued metals into the home!”

Apply it to your space

Mixing metals into a home renovation project is sure to turn heads. Think through design plans, brainstorm metal selections and put it all together — it’s as simple as that! With endless finishes, accessories and combinations, one’s imagination is the limit when it comes to beautifying a space. Remember, there are only a few key notes to keep top of mind when implementing this trend:

  1. Remember to pick two or more metals that are distinct from one another — perhaps picking one with a cooler tone and one that is warmer.
  2. Designate one metal for more prominent use and use the others as accents.
  3. Leverage fixtures and products that automatically provide a specific tonal look to complement the space.

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Moving soon? These tips can make it easier

2024-07-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Have a move on the horizon? You may feel overwhelmed. But moving can be the perfect opportunity to declutter and set yourself up for a smooth ride into your new neighborhood.

It’s likely that you want to keep control of how your belongings are packed and moved by taking charge of the move yourself. In fact, many people share this same sentiment — Penske Truck Rental’s Settling In: Consumer Moving Trends Survey found that 57% of people planning a move prefer to rent their own moving truck.

If that sounds like you, here are tips to help you successfully execute your move.

1. Plan ahead

The more you prep, the better. Create a checklist and calendar to stay on track.

Assess what you’re bringing to your new home and start planning for a moving date. Once identified, you’ll need to find a truck that’s best suited for your move. Not sure where to start? Penske offers a “Truck Wizard” which provides customized truck recommendations based on a quick questionnaire. After you identify the perfect size truck, you’re all set to book your truck rental. Many rental companies, like Penske, offer quick and easy bookings, and additional services that will make your move a breeze. You can grab packing supplies, furniture pads, tow dollies and more right from the pick-up location.

Pro tip: Save time on moving day by renting your truck the day before the move.

2. Maximize decluttering

You’ve probably always wanted to declutter, but moving provides the incentive to get it done. Start with areas you use least, like guest rooms. Label boxes “donate,” “trash” and “recycle,” then ask yourself: “Do I want this item enough to pack and move it?” If not, into one of those boxes it goes. Create a room-by-room schedule on your calendar to spread sorting over several days or weeks.

For moving day, create a bag for essentials like toiletries and phone chargers, then pack a toolkit with things you’ll need for setting up your new home, like power strips, towels and trash bags.

Pro tip: Label boxes on tops and sides so they’re easy to see.

3. Don’t miss the details

Moving requires bureaucratic details, including:

  • Change of address with the post office, your bank, credit cards, driver’s license, etc.
  • Utilities need to be turned off or transferred. Moving to a new town? Research whether current providers can service your new area or if you’ll need to switch.

Pro tip: Many tasks can be performed online. Check provider websites for information.

4. Pack carefully

Pack valuable breakables in bubble wrap or other quality materials. You can recycle cardboard or use coffee filters between everyday dishes and bowls to prevent chips and scratches. Secure dresser drawers and appliance doors with rope and tape.

Pro tip: Take pictures of the back of your TV before disconnecting so you’ll know how to re-wire, and tape remotes to the back.

5. Loading and driving your moving truck

Familiarize yourself with your moving truck, including knowing what fuel it needs. Learn the height and width (clearance) dimensions to avoid mishaps entering narrow drive-thru lanes or driving under low bridges. Consider an extra padlock for lengthy/overnight stops.

Organize heaviest items in an “I” formation, balancing weight evenly, and use tie-downs to prevent sliding. Smaller items and boxes can fit in gaps around heavy items to fill the truck. Keep anything valuable or that you’ll need to access easily in the cab.

A larger vehicle can take time to get used to. Watch your speed and proximity to other vehicles to avoid sudden braking.

Pro tip: Check the weather forecast to know what to expect, and leave extra time if needed. Avoid busy urban areas around holidays like Labor Day.

6. Enjoy the move

Enlist help from friends and family, take breaks and enjoy the experience! Moving to a new place can lead to fun and exciting discoveries, and the chance to make new friends.

7. Explore your new area

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and challenging. Finding ways to connect with your new community can make the transition smoother. The Penske Settling In survey found that certain activities helped movers acclimate to their new neighborhood and build a sense of community. Top activities included: exploring new restaurants and shops, meeting neighbors, discovering new parks and outdoor spaces, plus participating in local events. The majority of people moving to a new neighborhood (72%) found that establishing a consistent routine helped them get used to their new area.

Moving can be a wonderful experience, full of new adventures. Find tips and resources to improve your next move at PenskeTruckRental.com.

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Better Sleep, Better You! 4 Reasons to Use Liquid Melatonin

2024-07-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – By Vimergy

Getting a good night’s sleep is about more than just feeling well-rested the next day. Quality sleep is important to lead a happy, healthy life. However, sleeping well is easier said than done.

If you occasionally struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep, you may need to add a sleep aid to your bedtime routine. For example, a supplement like melatonin can support healthy sleep habits.*

Melatonin is a natural hormone that signals to your body that it’s time to rest.* Sometimes, you may not produce enough melatonin, so adding a supplement can help you get to sleep and sleep more soundly.*

The experts at Vimergy, a premium health supplement company, know how important it is to get good quality sleep. If you’re on the fence about taking melatonin, check out their four reasons to add melatonin to your nightly routine.

1. Helps you maintain a regular sleep schedule*

Your circadian rhythm (or sleep-wake cycle) is your 24-hour internal clock that responds to the shifts in light throughout the day, affecting melatonin production.

According to the Sleep Foundation, melatonin production begins in the evening when the sun goes down and peaks about seven hours after sunset. In the morning, exposure to light inhibits melatonin production.

If your sleep cycle is off — whether from jetlag, late nights or night shift — incorporating a melatonin supplement can help keep it in sync.* Aim to take melatonin at the same time every night so you can prepare your body for sleep.

2. Customize to suit your needs

Don’t like taking tablets? No problem. Melatonin supplements are available in various forms, from gummies to capsules to liquid formulations.

Liquid formulations are especially helpful because you can customize the serving to suit your unique needs.† Consider purchasing a quality liquid supplement like Vimergy Restful You* Liquid Melatonin.

The liquid formula absorbs faster than tablets, capsules and gummies.* It is also formulated with only four clean ingredients, and does not include any unnecessary fillers or binders. The supplement comes in a glass bottle with a convenient dropper, so you can adjust the serving size based on your unique health needs†. Best of all, you can easily add it to your nighttime sleep routine. Take the supplement on its own or mix it with water or chamomile tea about thirty minutes or an hour before bedtime.

Woman holding dropper and tincher bottle of Restful You.

3. Supports a healthy immune response*

Did you know lack of sleep can weaken your immune system? According to the Mayo Clinic, sleep is closely linked to your immune system.

By taking melatonin, your body will be well-rested, which can help boost your body’s immune response and support your overall wellness.*

4. Improves general well-being

Taking melatonin can help you get consistent, high-quality rest, which can improve your general well-being.* According to the National Institutes of Health, good sleep bolsters your brain performance, mood and health.

These are just four of the many benefits of incorporating melatonin into your daily routine. Pick up a supplement like Restful You* today and get relief from restless nights so you can tackle your day with ease.* To learn more about how melatonin can empower you to be your best self by having a healthy, happy life, visit Vimergy.com.

†Do not exceed recommended serving size.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The health information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.

Photo courtesy Natalie Rey.

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How one company helped to create a playroom fit for a princess

2024-07-25T04:01:00

(BPT) – Like many little girls her age, 6-year-old Francesca loves her pets, mermaids, swimming, ice pops, playing with her brothers — and all things princess. Her favorite activities are jumping, sliding, swinging, playing with dolls and singing pop songs.

But this playful girl, known as “Frankie” to her family, has also been bravely fighting a rare nervous system disorder since she was 3 years old, which requires daily medications, plus frequent infusion appointments that can last up to seven hours. The condition can also impact her speech, motor and cognitive skills.

A wish from her heart

To help provide more fun, hope and positivity in her daily life, Make-A-Wish® Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana partnered with nationwide retailer Big Lots to help make Frankie’s wish come true: she wanted a special place all her own, filled with everything she loves — in other words, the perfect princess playroom.

To help transform Frankie’s basement into her ideal princess playroom, a group of 30 Big Lots associate volunteers came together to include every detail they knew she would love, including a ball pit and slide, a swing, a chest stocked with art supplies, and of course, an armoire full of beautiful princess dresses. Many of the products used for creating the space came from Big Lots!

A representative from the Big Lots team said, “Seeing Frankie’s face when she saw the playroom for the first time was an experience our team will never forget.”

And her mother Estela was equally moved, saying, “We asked Make-A-Wish to create a space full of joy and excitement that Frankie can revisit every day. Big Lots and Make-A-Wish did just that.”

Partnerships that make wishes come true

Big Lots has been a proud local supporter of Make-A-Wish since 2009, and the company’s associates have been directly involved in granting the wishes of three children so far — with another planned for the upcoming fall.

“We grant more wishes during the summer than any other time of the year, making support from partners like Big Lots absolutely vital,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO, Make-A-Wish America. “Big Lots prides itself on helping people to ‘live big,’ and they’re making that sentiment a reality by helping grant wishes that can be truly life-changing for wish kids and their families.”

How everyone can help

Big Lots stores nationwide are helping to raise funds for Make-A-Wish this July by launching their first-ever in-store campaign as a national partner with Make-A-Wish. Customers can donate at the register when shopping in-store, and they’ll receive a coupon for $5 off their next purchase of $15 or more at Big Lots when they choose to donate.

This campaign aims to give children renewed energy and strength, bring families closer together during difficult times, and unite communities.

“Partnering with Make-A-Wish allows us to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses,” said Bruce Thorn, president and CEO, Big Lots. “We believe in the power of a wish to bring hope and joy to these courageous kids and their families, and it’s an honor to support Make-A-Wish through this campaign.”

Big Lots also encourages customers to leave messages for wish kids with special donation notes displayed in stores to help spread the hope and positive encouragement.

Learn how you can help grant wishes for children at wish.org.

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4 ways to incorporate off-whites into your home’s design

2024-07-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Interior design styles are always changing. Since the 1990s, interior styles have moved from sleekness to warm tones to clean basics and now, to a natural warmth that introduces a holistic balance that is inviting and raw. There are many ways you can invite natural warmth into your home, and one of the easiest ways is by using white.

Whites can easily elevate a space, creating a light and tranquil atmosphere with a touch of elegance. Over time, white has evolved from a bright white with blue undertones to take on more natural hues from wood tones and stones for a softer, more natural and approachable aesthetic.

You don’t have to plan a full design overhaul to embrace warmth in your home design. Check out these four simple ways to incorporate warm whites into your home’s design.

1. Living room

The living room is the heart of your home. Because the living room is often a gathering place for family members or guests, the space should be open and inviting. You can, of course, paint your walls in a warm white with red undertones to reflect natural lighting. However, painting isn’t your only option.

If you’ve been thinking of replacing your furniture, opt for a creamy white plush sofa or armchairs. You can also add a basket made of natural materials like rattan and fill it with cozy off-white blankets. Don’t forget to accentuate the room with white sheer curtains that can filter natural light for a soft glow.

2. Kitchen

A well-designed kitchen should balance functionality with style. Incorporate warm whites by choosing cabinetry that almost feels taupe in color and pair this with leathered marble countertops. You can complete the look by adding white kitchen tools and appliances; Crate & Barrel does a great job curating color for your kitchen!

Kitchen gadgets, especially tools you use every day, can act as an extension of your design. Instead of hiding an appliance, choose appliances that serve as an extension of your kitchen design. For example, coffee lovers should consider the KitchenAid Espresso Collection, which includes semi-automatic and fully automatic espresso machines that were designed specifically for the countertop.

With the trend of white color tones in the home increasing, the Whirlpool Design Team created the Porcelain White colorway for the KitchenAid Espresso Collection, available exclusively at Crate & Barrel and KitchenAid.com.

KitchenAid® Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic Espresso Machines in Porcelain White are designed to integrate into your home seamlessly and bring everything you love about espresso right to your countertop. They’re also Quiet Mark-certified, so you can make your morning cup of Joe without waking up the whole house.

3. Bathroom

Natural white hues in your bathroom can evoke a sense of serenity and cleanliness, similar to a spa. Using ivory-colored tiles on the walls, countertops and flooring, you can create the illusion of a larger, more open space. You can pair this brilliant tile with unlacquered brass or brushed nickel fixtures for a touch of elegance. Don’t forget to add plush white towels and bathmats!

4. Bedroom

Turn your bedroom into an escape from the every day by creating a calm environment. If you’re shopping for new furniture, look for an upholstered headboard in natural whites and pair it with a bed frame in white oak. For a quick infusion of style, add crisp white linen bedding and layer with textured throws and cushions in various natural white hues and earth tones for depth and visual interest. Remember to opt for soft, ambient lighting to complete the space.

Are you ready to embrace warmth in your home? Embrace the versatility of whites in your design choices! Use these four easy tips to create a home that is inviting, grounded and on-trend with a color that illuminates your living spaces.

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How to bring optimistic content to your social media feeds

2024-07-24T11:02:12

(BPT) – For many Gen Z-ers, scrolling on social media has become a primary source of entertainment and a tool for staying connected. In fact, the majority of Gen Z Americans report going on at least one social media platform each day. Reasons for turning to social media include combatting boredom (66%), the desire to laugh or smile (59%) or to see what’s happening in the world (49%).

However, often, when scrolling, the content isn’t necessarily what you were looking for — or worse, it causes stress or anxiety. In fact, over half of Gen-Zers (53%) said they are frustrated because what they see on their social media feeds doesn’t match what they want to see and just as many (54%) believe they have either “some,” “little,” or “no control at all” over the content that pops up on their feeds.

This data, from a new survey by LG Electronics and conducted by Talker Research, found 62% of Gen Z-ers wish they could just reset their feeds and start all over. The survey also found 73% of respondents associate at least one social media platform with a negative impact on their mental health.

According to social media expert and associate professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., algorithms play a significant role in the content you see, so understanding how they work is key to improving your feed.

“Algorithms are recommendations that determine what you see on social media by predicting content you’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send you down ever more specific niches — for good and bad. When left unchecked, you can quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content. The good news? You do have some control over the input for these algorithms: by choosing to engage with optimistic content, you’ll probably see more of it.”

Increasing optimistic content in your feeds

One way to improve your algorithm to include more positive content is to avoid engaging with negative content, and making a point to engage with content you actually want to see.

To help everyone have a positive experience and regain some control of social media feeds, LG created a global playlist called “Optimism Your Feed,” which is designed to bring more positivity to your social media feed.

“Optimism Your Feed” is part of LG’s Life’s Good campaign, introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude. Created in collaboration with global influencers renowned for their positive outlook, including Tina Choi, Victoria Browne and Josh Harmon, the playlist includes over 20 short-form videos full of motivational messages and feel-good content.

“When you see content on your feed that improves your mood, such as LG’s ‘Optimism Your Feed’ playlist, give it extra attention,” said Fiesler. “‘Like’ the content and leave positive comments on your favorite posts or videos. Giving upbeat, optimistic posts increased engagement means you’re more likely to see positive content like that in the future.”

How to get started

Nothing feels better than taking back a little control, so take action to make the time you spend on social media what you wanted it to be — opportunities to check in with friends, see what’s happening in your community and get a little lift to brighten your day.

LG’s global playlist gives you opportunities to see positive, uplifting posts every time you check out your social media. By being more conscious about what you choose to engage with, you can have more optimism, balance and happiness in your life.

It’s easy to start engaging with positive content today! Just go to LG’s global TikTok channel @lge_lifesgood or YouTube channel @LGGlobal to check out the videos and subscribe if you like what you see. You can also visit the campaign page at LG.com/lifesgood.

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Gen Z Craves More Positivity on Social Media: New Playlist from LG Electronics Brings Optimistic Content to Feeds

2024-07-24T10:07:00

(BPT) – For many Gen Z-ers, scrolling on social media has become a primary source of entertainment and a tool for staying connected. In fact, the majority of Gen Z Americans report going on at least one social media platform each day. Reasons for turning to social media include combatting boredom (66%), the desire to laugh or smile (59%) or to see what’s happening in the world (49%).

However, often, when scrolling, the content isn’t necessarily what you were looking for — or worse, it causes stress or anxiety. In fact, over half of Gen-Zers (53%) said they are frustrated because what they see on their social media feeds doesn’t match what they want to see and just as many (54%) believe they have either “some,” “little,” or “no control at all” over the content that pops up on their feeds.

This data, from a new survey by LG Electronics and conducted by Talker Research, found 62% of Gen Z-ers wish they could just reset their feeds and start all over. The survey also found 73% of respondents associate at least one social media platform with a negative impact on their mental health.

According to social media expert and associate professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., algorithms play a significant role in the content you see, so understanding how they work is key to improving your feed.

“Algorithms are recommendations that determine what you see on social media by predicting content you’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send you down ever more specific niches — for good and bad. When left unchecked, you can quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content. The good news? You do have some control over the input for these algorithms: by choosing to engage with optimistic content, you’ll probably see more of it.”

Increasing optimistic content in your feeds

One way to improve your algorithm to include more positive content is to avoid engaging with negative content, and making a point to engage with content you actually want to see.

To help everyone have a positive experience and regain some control of social media feeds, LG created a global playlist called “Optimism Your Feed,” which is designed to bring more positivity to your social media feed.

“Optimism Your Feed” is part of LG’s Life’s Good campaign, introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude. Created in collaboration with global influencers renowned for their positive outlook, including Tina Choi, Victoria Browne and Josh Harmon, the playlist includes over 20 short-form videos full of motivational messages and feel-good content.

“When you see content on your feed that improves your mood, such as LG’s ‘Optimism Your Feed’ playlist, give it extra attention,” said Fiesler. “‘Like’ the content and leave positive comments on your favorite posts or videos. Giving upbeat, optimistic posts increased engagement means you’re more likely to see positive content like that in the future.”

How to get started

Nothing feels better than taking back a little control, so take action to make the time you spend on social media what you wanted it to be — opportunities to check in with friends, see what’s happening in your community and get a little lift to brighten your day.

LG’s global playlist gives you opportunities to see positive, uplifting posts every time you check out your social media. By being more conscious about what you choose to engage with, you can have more optimism, balance and happiness in your life.

It’s easy to start engaging with positive content today! Just go to LG’s global TikTok channel @lge_lifesgood or YouTube channel @LGGlobal to check out the videos and subscribe if you like what you see. You can also visit the campaign page at LG.com/lifesgood.