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Auto insurance 101 for new grads: Simple steps to get started

2024-07-03T16:01:03

(BPT) – Graduation is an exciting time, but it also means new responsibilities. If you’ve been on your parents’ auto insurance and now need your own, don’t worry! These simple steps from Mercury Insurance will help you get the coverage you need.

“Graduates are stepping into a world filled with opportunities and uncertainties,” says Kevin Quinn, VP, Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Understanding your insurance needs is a crucial step in protecting your future.”

Simple steps for shopping for auto insurance:

1. Review your current coverage

Talk to your parents and their insurance agent to understand what coverage you currently have. This will give you a good starting point.

“Knowing what coverage you’ve had under your parents’ policy helps you understand what protections you might need going forward,” explains Quinn.

2. Decide on your coverage

Learn about the different types of coverage:

  • Liability: Covers damage you cause to others.
  • Collision: Covers damage to your car from accidents.
  • Comprehensive: Covers non-accident damage (like theft or weather).

Understanding the different types of coverage ensures you choose the right protection for your situation.

3. Check state requirements

Every state has different auto insurance laws. Look up the minimum requirements for your state or ask an agent to explain them.

4. Get quotes

Contact multiple insurance companies to get quotes. Compare prices and coverage options to find the best deal.

Shopping around is essential. Different companies offer various rates and discounts, so take the time to compare. You can obtain a quote from Mercury at Mercury Insurance Quote.

Make sure to ask about discounts. You might get a lower rate for:

  • Good driving record
  • Completing driver education courses
  • Bundling with other insurance policies

Many insurers offer discounts for safe driving, good grades or combining policies. Be sure to ask about these potential savings.

5. Review and choose

Look over the quotes and coverage options. Choose the policy that best fits your needs and budget. Select a policy that provides adequate coverage without stretching your budget too thin.

6. Set up your policy

Once you’ve chosen a policy, work with the insurance company to set it up. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions.

Setting up your policy correctly is crucial. Ensure you understand all the details to avoid surprises later on.

Always have the right auto insurance to protect yourself. Mercury Insurance has a great team of agents ready to make this process seamless and easy for you. Contact an agent if you have any questions.

For more information, visit Mercury Insurance’s website or contact your local Mercury agent today.

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5 tips to take the stress out of moving to college

2024-07-02T12:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Office Depot OfficeMax

Heading off to college is a major life milestone and an exciting first step toward adulthood. But as anyone who has already started this college process can attest to, a lot goes into preparing for that move. In addition to shopping for standard school supplies like backpacks, laptops and more, there’s also a new dorm room or apartment to outfit. Plus, there’s the added emotional stress of leaving home and starting a new journey, not to mention parents adjusting to an empty nest. Without some upfront planning, this important transitional period can dissolve into a stressful, hectic rush.

But, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some tips for taking the stress out of prepping for the big move.

Tip 1: Create a budget

Tuition and housing expenses are only the beginning. There are books, meals, school supplies, transportation costs, and of course, all of the new supplies needed for the dorm like twin XL bedding, storage, and more. It’s important to take all of these into account, set a budget that works for you, and agree to stick to it. One way to get more bang for your buck is to consider enrolling in free loyalty or rewards programs to take advantage of special promotions, instant pricing discounts and more. With a free Office Depot® OfficeMax® Rewards Program membership, for example, customers earn 2% back in rewards in store and online on supplies, furniture, technology and more.

Tip 2: Make a college checklist

Preparing well in advance puts you ahead of the game so that you don’t get caught in a last-minute scramble. Creating a clear checklist with everything you need will help guide your shopping process. Not sure what to add to your list? Office Depot OfficeMax has you covered. Browse their College Supplies section online for a huge selection of backpacks, tech, supplies, and more to get you ready for college. Plus, Office Depot OfficeMax has partnered with Dormify, the college experts, this back to school season to expand their dorm decor selection to make sure incoming college students can find everything they need (and want) for their college dorms in one place.

Tip 3: Know what to bring and what to leave at home

When making your list for dorm supplies, check with your college or dorm management to find out what items will be available to you and what you’re allowed — or not allowed — to bring. Do you need to bring your own desk? What about extras like a microwave or mini fridge? What’s the policy about TVs in your dorm room? By getting these questions answered before you shop, you can stick to your list so that you’re only buying what you need and stay on budget.

Tip 4: Make it a fun, bonding experience

This isn’t just any old shopping trip! Turn college shopping into a bonding experience for parents and college-bound students to do together! Parents can handle the essentials like computers, backpacks, tech supplies, and books. Incoming college students can be in charge of customizing their dorm room and personalizing their new space to feel like home. Select Office Depot OfficeMax stores now have stylish Dormify bedding, furniture, and decor that is specifically designed for small spaces like dorm rooms or off campus apartments. Browse an expanded product assortment on officedepot.com or find a store near you. From essentials like twin XL bedding and shower totes (trust us, you’ll need one for your new bathroom) to trending decor and smart storage solutions, you can find everything you need to create a comfortable and productive space. Planning and shopping together as you prepare for this next chapter is the perfect way to bond, create memories, and feel excited (not stressed!) about what’s next.

Tip 5: Find ways to simplify your move

Whether you’re going across the country or across town, moving into college is always a hassle, but now there are few hacks to make it easier. Instead of packing your car to the brim for a long drive or sorting through hectic shipping logistics, buy your items from Office Depot OfficeMax and have them shipped directly to the Office Depot store closest to your college campus where you can easily pick everything up on move-in day. Plus, if you forget anything on your initial order, you can take advantage of Office Depot’s 20-minute in-store and curbside pick-up and same day-delivery services.

Going off to college is a monumental time of transition for a student and their parents. In addition to everything needed for success at school, emotions are swirling. Planning ahead, setting a budget, creating a checklist, and making pick-up and shipping as convenient as possible will help reduce stress and make move-in day a breeze so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating this achievement together.

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Freelance Like a Pro: Insider Tips from Millionaire Freelancers on Fiverr

2024-07-02T08:01:00

(BPT) – As freelancers, we are at a major impasse within the larger future of work conversation. Freelancing has been booming around the world, with millions of professionals opting for the flexibility and autonomy it offers while businesses are relying more on freelancers to fill skill gaps in a pinch. According to 2023 research conducted by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services and Fiverr Business Solutions, freelancers make up over 20% of an organization’s output and will account for half of the United States workforce by 2027 per Statista.

Freelancing, despite its growing popularity and the allure of flexibility and independence, can be daunting. Navigating this increasingly competitive landscape requires more than just skill in your trade. It also takes a strategic approach to stand out and succeed.

Drawing from the insights and experiences of top freelancers who have just received Fiverr’s inaugural Breakthrough Achievement Recognition for surpassing $1 million in earnings on the platform, here are the secrets they’re unveiling to help you build a solid foundation, excelling in client management and sustaining long-term success in the freelance ecosystem to freelance like a pro.

Emphasize and Foster Client Relations

Beau Vallis, Grammy Nominated Mix Engineer:

Fiverr isn’t just a platform, it’s a gateway to showcasing your talents to a global audience. As you navigate its vibrant community, you quickly realize the power of connection. Each interaction fuels your passion, making every workday a thrilling adventure. Fiverr empowers you to dictate your schedule and be the master of your destiny.

Amidst the sea of talent, one factor reigns supreme: exceptional customer service. In a realm bustling with like-minded individuals, your swiftness, clarity of communication and client care become your distinguishing marks. I thrive on forging genuine bonds with every client, proud to now have thousands of friends here on the platform.

Whether actively engaged in a gig or simply conversing, I find myself chatting with many of them throughout my day. Fiverr transcends mere transactions — it’s a boundless world brimming with opportunities. Fiverr is the future. Fiverr is limitless.

Consistency is Key, Don’t Be Afraid to Build Gradually

Ada Mazurek, Designer:

Don’t worry if the big projects don’t roll in immediately. Start with smaller gigs to gain confidence and build your portfolio. Over time, as you gather more reviews and experience, bigger opportunities will naturally come your way. Stick with it, even when it feels slow! Regular updates to your gigs and consistently great work will help you stand out and maintain a steady flow of clients.

Quick and clear communication can make all the difference. Respond to inquiries and requests as promptly as possible. Being responsible with your project timelines and deliverables builds trust and can lead to repeat customers. Even though you might never meet your clients face-to-face, every interaction is an opportunity to build a lasting business relationship. Treat each client with respect and kindness, and they’ll likely return the favor with loyalty and recommendations.

Fiverr handles a lot of the administrative overhead, allowing you to focus on what you love doing. Use this to your advantage to hone your skills and experiment with new services that can enhance your offerings. Use the opportunity to continually develop your skills. The feedback you receive is invaluable for your professional growth, so take it seriously and use it to refine your approach.

Remember, every successful freelancer on Fiverr started exactly where you are now. With dedication and these strategies in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a thriving freelance career.

Constantly Evolve Your Skills and Grow Your Portfolio As You Go

Victoria Carroll, Professional Voice Actor:

Devote time to perfecting your skills and try to identify what makes your service unique. Fiverr is an incredible platform in that once you’ve established your offering, clients are able to come to you. It’s an incredible way to gain exposure for your business. Always be proactive, quick and kind when working with clients. You get what you put into it — if you devote yourself fully to becoming a freelancer on Fiverr, you’ll see wonderful returns.

Nancy Chauhan, Professional Graphic Designer:

For new or up-and-coming Fiverr freelancers, my advice would be to focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and expertise clearly. Be proactive in promoting your services, providing exceptional customer service, and delivering high-quality work consistently. Take advantage of Fiverr’s learning resources and community forums to continuously improve your skills and stay updated on industry trends. Finally, be patient and persistent, as success on Fiverr often takes time and dedication.

Ultimately, freelancing offers both an exciting and rewarding career path for all, but also requires strategy and dedication to truly succeed. By evolving your skills, persevering through challenges and maintaining a strong connection with your clients you can build a strong foundation for your online freelancing ventures and transform your independent work journey.

Working for yourself doesn’t just change your life; it can change the world. By leveraging these top tips, you can create a meaningful impact in your industry and beyond. Because as you embrace the freedom and possibilities that freelancing offers, you’ll find that your journey is not just a new career — but a path to creating the life that you want to live.

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4 reasons to fall in love with homegrown produce

2024-07-01T15:41:04

(BPT) – Are you one of the 185 million Americans who garden? If not, it’s time to consider joining the crowd. Gardening can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, especially if you grow your own produce.

When you grow your own fruits and vegetables, you can taste the difference between a store-bought tomato and one you pick fresh from the vine. Still not convinced? Discover four ways you can benefit from growing your own food.

1. Savor the taste and the savings

Growing your own produce guarantees you have the freshest fruits and vegetables at the best price. Inflation is top of mind for most Americans, and one especially spendy category is groceries. According to a recent U.S. Census Household Pulse Survey analysis, the average spending on groceries for a four-person household is $1,260 a month.

You can quickly curb your grocery bill by growing your own food. The National Gardening Association found that a 600-square-foot garden, which costs about $70 per year, can yield 300 pounds of fresh produce a year, worth $600. That’s well worth the time, expense and effort you put into cultivating your garden. It’s a win for your wallet and your taste buds.

2. Add variety to your diet

Depending on where you shop, your selection of produce can be limited. However, gardening offers the opportunity to expand your palate. With just a few packets of seeds, you can grow a rainbow of flavor in your backyard!

For example, Ferry-Morse, one of the leading and oldest gardening seed brands in the U.S., has a new Colossal Collection of seeds that will take your gardening to new heights. These six seed varieties will grow vegetables double the average size — or double the yield — for extra flavor, value and bragging rights!

The collection includes The Big Dill Cucumber, Jack’s Magic Pole Beans, Super Nacho Jalapeño Peppers, Beefed Up Beefsteak Tomato, Sasquatch Butternut Squash and Cinderella’s Ride Pumpkins. Not only do they taste good, but they also provide the most bang for your buck. One pack of The Big Dill Cucumber seeds can grow up to $250 worth of fresh cucumbers.

It’s not too late to start your culinary adventure either! Plant vegetables like carrots, corn and eggplant — which will complement a goth garden perfectly — in early summer for fresh produce later on in the season, or experiment with edible flowers like nasturtium for a beautiful, tasty garnish.

To start your culinary adventure, visit Ferry-Morse.com/Collections/Vegetable-Herb-Fruit-Seeds.

3. Get a natural workout

Skip the gym and get your hands dirty instead! Tending to your garden is a labor of love and an engaging workout. You’ll have to dig, plant, weed, water and harvest. Before you know it, you’ll have your exercise in for the day and be one step closer to enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. Best of all, you get to do this in the fresh air under sunny skies.

4. Be inspired to try new recipes, like this one for beef stir fry

When you grow your own produce, especially if you’re growing items you don’t usually buy at the store, you’ll be inspired to get creative in the kitchen. Tini Younger, a Next Level Chef season 2 contestant, was inspired by Ferry-Morse’s Colossal Collection to create a beef stir fry using Jack’s Magic Pole Beans.

Start by trimming your Jack’s Magic Pole Beans and combine with chopped broccoli, bell peppers, onions, minced ginger and garlic. In a bowl, season thinly sliced flank steak with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt and pepper. Add a splash of rice vinegar and a tablespoon of cornstarch, mixing to combine.

Add vegetable oil to a pan or wok and place over medium-to-high heat. Place your sliced steak into your pan and cook for two to three minutes on each side or until brown. Remove your steak from the pan and add your vegetable mixture, cooking for four to five minutes or until crisp. Once your vegetables are cooked, combine them with your cooked beef and keep to the side until your sauce is ready.

Make your sauce in a separate bowl, combining one-quarter cup of soy sauce, a tablespoon of hoisin sauce, half a teaspoon of sesame oil, a tablespoon of your minced garlic and ginger, one-quarter cup of beef stock, two tablespoons of dark brown sugar, and half a tablespoon of cornstarch, which will help thicken your sauce.

Simmer the sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat for one to two minutes, stirring consistently. Once your sauce has thickened, add your cooked vegetables and steak to your pan and combine. Plate your stir fry over a bowl of rice, garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, and enjoy!

These are just four reasons to fall in love with homegrown produce. This season and beyond, embrace the green goodness of growing a produce aisle right in your backyard.

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Times have changed: How to reclaim your power over perimenopause

2024-07-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Expert advice from Eva Beaulieu, M.D., a well-respected internal medicine specialist

As women, we’re accustomed to navigating many stages and transitions throughout our lives, each with its own unique joys and challenges. During these stages, it’s often easy to default to assuming our experience will be universally the same or similar to our mother’s or close friends’. As a physician with over 10 years of experience, I see this expectation rise up most often when treating women entering perimenopause or menopause. Women who believe that because their mom had severe hot flashes and mood swings at age 50, they will have the same symptoms around the same age. Or women who are caught off guard with the transition into perimenopause and are attributing their symptoms to the busyness of their daily lives. But I’m here to set the record straight by sharing steps that can help you take control of your own journey.

  • Know the difference between perimenopause and menopause. It’s important to understand that perimenopause and menopause are two distinct stages. Perimenopause is the stage before menopause when ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, leading to irregular periods. Menopause is defined as going 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle and is often oversimplified to experiencing symptoms like hot flashes. However, both perimenopause and menopause involve much more than hot flashes and night sweats and present uncomfortable, life-disruptive symptoms that can exacerbate each other, creating a symptom cycle.
  • Learn more about your symptoms and the solutions available. While some women may sail through these life stages unscathed or experience milder symptoms, others may find perimenopause and menopause makes it more challenging to live their daily life as they battle burdensome symptoms like fatigue, irritability, sleeplessness, as well as increased mood changes, especially heightened anxiety and stress — all related to hormonal changes. Educating yourself about what to expect during these periods is a great way to help set your expectations for symptoms and begin to explore the solutions to address them. To learn more, take this confidential online quiz here.
  • Talk with your doctor about the best solution for you. As an Amberen® Brand Partner, I am excited to talk about a new solution — Amberen® Energy Mood Sleep Gummies, a dietary supplement formulated to address symptoms triggered by hormonal changes occurring during perimenopause and menopause*. The key ingredient in Amberen Energy Mood Sleep Gummies is Pycnogenol®, an extract of French maritime pine bark, which is nature’s super ingredient that has antioxidant properties and provides effective relief from common symptoms such as occasional sleeplessness, mood swings, fatigue, hot flashes and night sweats.‡‡ Pycnogenol has been clinically tested and used in health and wellness products for the past 40 years and does not affect estrogen levels. You can also explore Amberen.com to find products formulated to relieve the most common symptoms stemming from perimenopause and menopause.
  • Talk with your friends about it. We’re entering a new era for menopausal awareness that is devoid of some of the shame and secrecy our mothers faced when experiencing this life change, but awareness is still low for what to expect or where to find relief. In fact, a recent consumer survey of more than 1,000 U.S. women aged 35-65 revealed that many women may be attributing perimenopausal symptoms to other common challenges they find in their daily lives, especially since symptoms can appear as early as 35 years old. According to this survey:
    • The majority (66%) of women aged 45-54 have been aware they are either perimenopausal or menopausal. However, women under 45 are highly likely to deny they are perimenopausal, with almost half saying they haven’t entered this phase yet.
    • Despite this denial, 90% of women have experienced at least one symptom that could be attributed to perimenopause or menopause, and the average woman reports experiencing six symptoms.1
  • Remember that your mother’s menopause is not yours, nor can it fully predict your experience. While some symptoms are hereditary, you only have 50% of your mother’s genes. Factors like your environment, physical and mental health and lifestyle play a role in perimenopause and menopause. Fortunately, there has been so much research and innovation since your mom went through menopause, and now, more than ever, there are options available to treat your symptoms and help you feel like yourself again.

Perimenopause and menopause are natural transitions every woman will experience in her lifetime. But we don’t have to “just deal” with it, especially considering the advancements in women’s health since our mother’s menopause journey. By understanding the changes happening in your body, discussing treatment options with your doctor and adopting strategies to manage symptoms, you can navigate this journey with confidence.

1Flow Strategy conducted the menopausal study on behalf of Amberen using an online omnibus survey of n=1,002 U.S. women ages 35-65. This survey was conducted from January 18 to January 20, 2024.

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

‡‡In a clinical trial of perimenopausal women.

Pycnogenol® is a registered trademark of Horphag Research.

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7 home security to-dos before your summer vacation

2024-07-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – As temperatures have risen and summer has arrived, the anticipation of vacation has filled the air. Whether you’re planning a local getaway or an international adventure this summer, ensuring your peace of mind before departure is crucial.

To help you with this, here are some tips to keep your home protected while you’re away.

Install a home security system. Few things offer the same peace of mind as knowing you can stay close to what’s important to you while you’re away, and when it comes to your home, smart home security products can help. A Ring Alarm Security Kit or Ring camera provides just that — the ability to monitor what’s happening in and around your home, even while you’re away. Ring Alarm offers affordable, commitment free, DIY home security with real-time alerts to the Ring app when your Alarm is triggered. Ring cameras have built-in motion sensors that can alert you in real-time when motion is detected, and features like Live View and Two-Way Talk allow you to see what’s happening on your camera anytime, and have a conversation with anyone on the other end, no matter where you are.

Protect your valuables by storing them securely. Don’t forget: visible valuables can be a magnet for unwanted attention, so move them away from windows. Better yet, store valuable items such as important documents, electronics, and jewelry in a designated safe spot at home. Alternatively, you may opt for a safety deposit box to provide an added layer of protection.

Avoid hiding spare keys. Putting a key under the mat or in a false rock is an old trick that needs to be retired. Many homeowners still do this, and it’s a bad habit and a major security risk. Investing in a smart lock or leaving a spare key with a trusted neighbor are much safer options.

Take a moment to double-check your appliances. Unplug non-essential appliances and electronic devices to prevent electrical fires or damage during your absence. Not only does this promote safety, but it also helps reduce energy consumption while you’re away. For added peace of mind, consider installing smart detectors that can alert you to trouble. With a Ring Alarm Security Kit, you can purchase a separate Ring Alarm Smoke and CO Listener and get alerted via the Ring app anytime your existing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors sound their sirens. Additionally, the Ring Alarm Flood and Freeze Sensor will alert you via the Ring app when water or low temperatures are detected. (Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital arming/disarming and certain other in-app features. For more information on which features require a subscription and subscription pricing, check out ring.com/subscriptions.)

Prepare for packages in advance. With summer sales in full swing, a buildup of packages can inadvertently signal an empty home. Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery is a perfect option to prevent that. In-Garage Delivery is exclusive for Amazon Prime members, and is a convenient and secure way to receive Amazon packages. Drivers scan your package to receive one-time access to deliver inside your garage. No need to give out garage codes or let the driver in yourself. The service works with the majority of smart garages, so you may already have what you need to get started. Just select In-Garage Delivery at checkout and Amazon Key will take care of the rest.

Add smart lighting throughout your home. Install smart lighting systems or timers to mimic your usual patterns of activity at home. This can create the illusion that someone is present, even when the house is vacant, deterring potential intruders. Utilize smart LED bulbs indoors and smart outdoor lighting, and easily customize control settings from your smartphone.

Avoid posting real-time updates on social media. Although it’s tempting to share your vacation excitement on social media, broadcasting your whereabouts while you’re away can inadvertently make your home a target for unwanted visitors. Save the vacation photos and stories to share once you return.

Once you’ve checked off everything on your home security checklist, it’s time to kick off your summer adventure with peace of mind knowing your home is well protected.

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3 winning ways of sweet Northwest cherries

2024-07-01T12:31:00

(BPT) – Summer brings an abundance of fresh fruits to local markets, and competition can be fierce for a place in a shopper’s cart. When it comes to choosing a nourishing snack, bringing home sweet Northwest cherries is like bringing home the gold, every time.

As the eyes of the world turn to competitions in Paris, growers in the U.S. will be focusing on harvesting heaps of luscious sweet cherries from farms throughout the Northwest. Available fresh for a limited time during the summer months, these delectable fruits deliver fiber and essential vitamins and minerals — like vitamin C and potassium. Plus, they have lesser-known attributes that bring them to the top of the podium when it comes to keeping a body well fueled, rested and recovered.

1. Steady fuel when on-the-go

Despite their sweet taste (and name), sweet Northwest cherries are actually ranked among low glycemic index fruits, and their glycemic load is nominal. Like other fruits, sweet Northwest cherries have natural sugars, or carbohydrates, but what makes them stand out is that when those carbohydrates are converted into glucose by the body, it happens slowly. And that allows blood sugar levels to stay relatively steady, so consumers don’t experience sugar spikes followed by energy crashes.

2. Natural aid for sleep

Sweet Northwest cherries are a natural source of compounds that are critical to regulating sleep, including melatonin, serotonin and tryptophan. When present together, these three elements can help improve the quantity and quality of sleep. Just one serving, or about one cup, of sweet cherries about an hour before bedtime can aid a more restful night. Some studies show that consumers don’t just benefit from better sleep; they may also find that their mood and mental health improve.

3. Flavorful boost for exercise recovery

Sweet Northwest cherries can attribute their deep, dark color to pigments called anthocyanins. These and other phenolic compounds in cherries are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and research suggests that athletes who consume cherries experience improved recovery after workouts. Studies show that one serving after exercise has been linked to decreased muscle soreness and a quicker rebound in strength.

Sweet Northwest cherries for the win

Beyond their role in keeping bodies fueled, rested and recovered, sweet Northwest cherries can do much more in a balanced diet. Keeping fresh cherries on hand for snacking in summer can also help support the immune system, manage blood pressure and reduce inflammation.

Although the fresh cherry season is short, the benefits of this wholesome food can be accessed any time — drying, canning and freezing this fruit at its peak can preserve its goodness for year-round enjoyment.

More information about the many health benefits of sweet Northwest cherries can be found at nwcherries.com.

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When will rural areas get good internet?

2024-07-01T07:31:00

(BPT) – Do you live in a rural area? How’s your internet service? Is it good, bad … or just not there?

People in big cities usually have at least one good option to get strong internet. It’s a different story if you live in a small town. There is a big gap. And good internet is about more than watching TV shows or your kids playing video games. Good internet can help with:

Economic equality. With a strong internet connection, small businesses in rural areas can sell products online. Individuals can even start businesses right from their homes. This means someone in New York City can buy honey directly from a little business outside of Tupelo, Mississippi. Without the internet, that sale can’t happen.

Remote work. With good internet, people can work high-paying jobs remotely — no matter where they live. They don’t have to choose between a well-paid job and a nice life in a small community. Many people move away from big cities because they want a better quality of life, lower cost of living and more time in nature. When people can work remotely from rural areas, this brings more money — people spend money locally, and the tax base grows.

Educational opportunities. Good internet gives rural students the same opportunities as everyone else. They can access research materials, take online courses, and easily work with peers and teachers. Kids do not have to do homework in the parking lot of the local diner because they do not have internet at home.

Health care. In rural areas, the closest doctor or hospital might be many miles away. Broadband enables them to use telehealth, which helps people see a doctor online, without leaving home. A good Wi-Fi network in a rural area can also make it easier for first responders to provide potentially life-saving services.

There is a big need for good internet in rural areas. But delivering good internet takes time. Starting a local internet service is very complicated and expensive. The good news is the federal government is providing a lot of money to help rural areas get connected.

One program, BEAD (Broadband, Equity, Access & Deployment), provides $42.45 billion to expand internet access — specifically for remote and rural communities. Any business that applies for and wins this funding can plan, install and deliver broadband internet to rural areas.

But there’s a problem. The funding process can be complicated. If local providers do not apply for these funds, big telecom companies that don’t understand these communities as well might take over in their areas.

Local broadband providers are great for rural communities. In some cases, they are cooperatives (owned by members) or municipal utilities. They know their communities well and can offer a lot of exciting internet services, at a fair cost. They are flexible, open and understand the needs of their customers.

That is why the Calix Funding Consult Program is important. By offering expert advice, along with tools like automation and data analysis, the program helps local internet providers with every step of the BEAD process. This includes planning, applying for the money and following the rules of the program.

Over the past three years, this program has helped local broadband providers get nearly $2 billion in funding. This free program is available for any local business — not just Calix customers. It has been so successful that almost 75% of all government-funded broadband providers are Calix customers.

Calix has been in the broadband industry for 25 years. They have invested a lot in creating a complete broadband platform that helps local internet providers succeed. Calix is dedicated to helping local providers with Build America Buy America (BABA) solutions.

Are you a customer of a local broadband service company? Do you work for one, or do you know someone who does? Ask them to contact Calix for a free consultation about applying for federal funding. Because good internet means good living for all rural communities.

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7 ways to ensure your structure stands up to the elements

2024-07-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that last year alone, the U.S. saw 28 weather-related disasters exceeding $1 billion in damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration? While no one can predict or stop Mother Nature, you can choose to build with materials that are better designed to withstand her wrath.

When it comes to reliability, versatility and strength, concrete block is in a class all its own. Not convinced? Check out these seven ways concrete block can weather whatever the weather holds in your area.

1. High winds

High winds are known to cause roof damage and trees to topple in your yard and on your home. However, they can also cause foundation issues, leading to serious structural problems for a home and other buildings.

While high winds can happen anywhere, the central U.S. is especially prone to this weather issue and it’s only getting worse. According to research by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), damaging thunderstorm winds in the central U.S. have increased fivefold over the past 40 years.

With concrete block, you don’t have to worry about high winds and flying debris from hurricanes and tornadoes. Thanks to its inherent mass, high compressive strength and interlocking design, concrete masonry structures can generally endure speeds of 120 to 200 miles per hour.

2. Wildfire

In 2023, the National Interagency Fire Center recorded 56,580 wildfires across the U.S., destroying almost 2,700,000 acres. As of June of this year, there have been 17,865 wildfires.

For homes, buildings and other structures in fire-prone areas, using a durable and naturally fire-resistant building material like concrete block is crucial. The composition of concrete, with inert materials like gravel, sand and crushed rock, prevents the material from burning or contributing to the spread of flames.

A performance hall built primarily with concrete blocks.

3. Flood

Floods are the most frequent and expensive disaster in the U.S., responsible for two-thirds of the costs of all natural disasters. According to the nonprofit Flood Defenders, floods have cost U.S. taxpayers $850 billion since 2000. That’s billion with a “B.”

When dealing with potential flooding, concrete masonry is a smart choice because of its exceptional water-resistant properties. Concrete’s dense nature minimizes water absorption, decreasing the risk of erosion or degradation.

4. Earthquakes

While the state of California is statistically the most at-risk of major earthquakes, they have occurred in 39 states since the turn of the 20th century, according to the Insurance Information Institute. In fact, just earlier this year, the East Coast experienced a 4.8 magnitude earthquake that took residents by surprise.

No matter where you live, concrete blocks provide stability and protection from earthquakes. Reinforced concrete masonry structures absorb and distribute seismic forces, reducing the risk of collapse.

Six story office building built of concrete blocks.

5. Extreme temperatures

Extreme hot or cold temperatures can spell trouble for your home. Extreme cold can freeze pipes and cause flooding, but it can also create cracks in your foundation.

Meanwhile, extreme heat strains your home’s infrastructure, including the roof, facade, foundation and air conditioning. This is of particular concern in the U.S. as extreme heat has increased over time and will likely become more frequent and intense, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Block is also less prone to thermal expansion compared to other materials. This means it’s less likely to crack in hot climates due to temperature fluctuations, maintaining your home’s structural integrity. Also, buildings made of concrete block require less energy for cooling, which can save you money on electricity!

6. Mold and mildew

Mold and mildew aren’t just smelly. They can also lower air quality and cause health problems and surface and structural damage. To get rid of mold, you’ll need specialists, which can cost an average of $5,000, according to Forbes.

Concrete block is devoid of organic material, which creates an inhospitable environment for mold growth. The non-porous nature does not cultivate the necessary nutrients and residual moisture mold and mildew need to grow.

7. UV rays

You probably know that UV rays harm your skin, but did you know they can damage buildings, too? UV rays can penetrate solid surfaces, damaging parts of a structure that are constantly exposed to the sun for long periods.

Concrete masonry can provide protection from UV rays. The mineral composition and density of block make it durable and resistant to deterioration or discoloration caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.

A durable structure starts with a resilient and versatile material. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, contractor or homeowner, you can benefit from using concrete block. To learn more about the lesser-known benefits of concrete block, visit ConcreteMasonryCheckoff.org.