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Shop Your Values: How Tom’s of Maine is Doing Right by People and the Planet

2025-03-12T15:33:00

(BPT) – If you want to do right by the planet and help make a difference, you can choose brands that align with your values — whether it’s sustainability, waste reduction, social responsibility, or all of the above. Every purchase is a chance to support what matters to you.

Before you buy, take the time to do a little research on companies you shop from, so your purchasing decisions reflect who you are and what you care about most. Look for brands that demonstrate a concerted effort to help the planet.

A commitment to the planet

One company that has taken positive steps toward a more sustainable future is Tom’s of Maine. Along with their natural oral care and personal care products, including their well-known toothpaste, mouthwash, soaps, and deodorant, the brand champions doing right by the planet.

“A thriving planet is essential for everyone,” said Cristiane Martini, Vice President and General Manager of Tom’s of Maine and North America Sustainability. “That’s why we’ve committed to responsible ingredient sourcing, reducing waste, and alternative packaging options. Every choice we make considers the long-term health of the environment.”

Here are some of the ways Tom’s of Maine is taking action:

Reducing emissions and waste

Tom’s of Maine has a goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, and has already procured 100% renewable electricity at their Sanford Manufacturing Plant. The company achieved TRUE® certification for zero waste at their Sanford plant in 2024, which means 90% of their solid, non-hazardous waste is diverted from landfills, incineration (waste-to-energy), and the environment.

Plastic circularity

Imagine if your personal care products were made from last week’s yogurt cup? Well, Tom’s of Maine has made that a reality. While traditional deodorant packaging is made of virgin plastic, Tom’s of Maine redesigned the product to create a barrel made from 100% recycled material.

Tom’s of Maine is also working to reduce waste and make personal care products easier to recycle. In 2019, the company launched the first-of-its-kind recyclable toothpaste tube, designed to help keep tubes out of landfills and give them a second life. The company joined forces with Repurpose Global and The Recycling Partnership to expand access to recycling in communities that currently lack the necessary infrastructure.

“We’re working toward a more circular future where the plastic we put into the market is recycled,” said Michelle Waring, Steward for Sustainability and Everyday Good at Tom’s of Maine. “And we hope our actions will challenge others in the industry to advance their sustainability goals too.”

Tom’s of Maine’s sustainability goals

The company’s environmental goals are ambitious, reflecting their desire to effect real change.

• By 2025: Create alternative solutions in each product category that lead to plastic reductions, and support recycling collection efforts leading to recycling of an equivalent amount of plastic that they put into the market.

• By 2030: Use 100% sustainably sourced material including recycled content, certified sustainable fiber or biobased plastic.

• By 2040: Achieve net zero GHG emissions.

“We believe everyday actions create a positive impact for people and the planet,” said Waring. “That’s why we continue striving toward these sustainability goals and thoughtfully design all our products to be natural, and effective.”

What B Corp certification means

One thing to look for when seeking more environmentally responsible brands to shop from is whether they are B Corp certified, a distinction Tom’s of Maine has upheld since 2019. To achieve B Corp certification, a company undergoes a review of its social and environmental impact to meet standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. This continued commitment demonstrates the philosophy and driving force behind the people and products at Tom’s of Maine.

“This certification reinforces our commitment to making business decisions that benefit everyone — from our consumers and employees to the communities we serve and the planet we all share,” said Rob Robinson, Director of Brand Impact at Tom’s of Maine.

What you can do

Making the world a better place starts with small, intentional choices — like choosing products with recyclable packaging and supporting brands that share your values. By consciously shopping from companies that prioritize the planet, you can help drive change. And with brands like Tom’s of Maine, you can be confident you’re choosing natural products that work.

Tom’s of Maine lives this commitment by reinvesting 10% of its annual profits into nonprofit organizations that are doing good in their community. For example, one of the brand’s programs is “Get into Nature,” a partnership with the National Recreation Foundation (NRF) that works to create more equitable access to outdoor recreation and foster deeper connections with nature across the United States. The program has supported over 80 local organizations, and the next cohort for the “Get into Nature” program will be announced in April 2025.

With Tom’s of Maine, every purchase contributes to actively supporting organizations working toward a healthier planet.

To learn more about Tom’s of Maine’s sustainability efforts, read the Tom’s of Maine Goodness Report, or visit TomsOfMaine.com.

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Leading Fast-Casual Noodle Restaurant Unveils Irresistible New Dishes, Enhanced Classics, and a Fresh Brand Identity

2025-03-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – Today’s consumers are continuously seeking out elevated dining experiences, leading many fast-casual restaurants to look for new and innovative ways to bring guests through their doors. For Noodles & Company, this means the biggest menu transformation in its 30-year history, reimagining two-thirds of its menu to ensure every dish is designed to ignite guests’ taste buds with bolder flavors, more craveable sauces, and thoughtfully chosen ingredients.

No Noodle Left Unturned

After 18 months of passion, perseverance, and relentless testing and innovation, Noodles & Company’s refreshed menu delivers a more satisfying, tastefully curated experience while offering variety for every palate. From perfectly matched noodle shapes that maximize sauce coverage to layered flavors featuring premium ingredients like roasted cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and pickled red onions, every dish is thoughtfully crafted. Whether guests crave comfort, spice, or global variety, the new menu ensures a flavorful option for everyone.

New items on the menu include:

  • Buffalo Chicken Ranch Mac & Cheese: Elbow noodles in creamy cheddar and jack cheese sauce with parmesan-crusted chicken, topped with Buffalo sauce, green onions, crispy onions and a drizzle of ranch.
  • Garlic Bacon Crunch Mac & Cheese: Elbow noodles in a creamy garlic cheddar sauce with bacon and white cheddar, topped with crispy onions, parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
  • Pulled Pork BBQ Mac & Cheese: Elbow noodles in creamy cheddar and jack cheese sauce with smoky pulled pork, topped with tangy BBQ sauce, green onions and crispy onions.
  • Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine: Fettuccine noodles in Cajun-spiced alfredo sauce with shrimp, bacon and roasted red peppers, topped with parmesan and green onions.
  • Green Goddess Cobb Salad: Mixed greens, grilled chicken, bacon, hard-boiled egg, avocado, feta, grape tomatoes, Persian cucumber, pickled red onions, garlic croutons and green goddess ranch dressing.
  • Lemon Parmesan Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets topped with salted butter, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, and lemon.

Fan Favorites, Reimagined

The refreshed menu also brings an exciting new take on current guest favorites — now richer, saucier, and with more vegetables and elevated finishes than ever:

  • Creamy Cheddar Mac & Cheese: Noodles & Company’s most beloved dish — formerly known as Wisconsin Mac & Cheese — is now even better. Cheesier and creamier than ever, this fan-favorite features elbow noodles smothered in a creamy cheddar and jack cheese sauce, then topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
  • Rigatoni Rosa: Formerly known as Penne Rosa, this elevated dish now has more of the spicy tomato cream sauce guests love, slow-roasted tomatoes, 18-month aged Parmesan, and hearty rigatoni noodles that soak up every velvety bite of its delicious sauce.
  • Basil Pesto Cavatappi: A fan-favorite made even better, now with more of its signature basil pesto sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, and aged Parmesan for a deeper, more indulgent flavor in every forkful.
  • Chicken Caesar Salad: A fresh take on a timeless classic, featuring crisp romaine, grilled chicken, new buttery herb croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing, all finished with an irresistible combination of grated and shaved Parmesan for added depth and texture.

Staying true to its commitment to freshness, Noodles & Company continues to hand-chop vegetables and prepare noodles in-house daily — never relying on freezers. To enhance both the flavor of each dish and the appeal when it’s served, each dish is finished with premium touches and every bowl is made exactly to order.

Noodles & Company even encourages guests to step outside their comfort zones and try something new, backed by its Goodness Guarantee. This commitment guarantees satisfaction by offering guests free exchanges for any entrée that guests don’t love.

For more exclusive offers, guests can also join Noodles Rewards for free through the Noodles & Company mobile app or website. Members earn points on every order, which are redeemable for craveable favorites. And now through the end of March, everyone can score double points on the new menu!

Run, Don’t Walk, To Noodles & Company!

Whether you’re craving a quick and satisfying weeknight meal or eager to discover a new favorite, the latest menu has something for everyone. Now available at all locations nationwide, guests can enjoy these delicious new offerings by dining in, ordering through the mobile app, or opting for convenient third-party delivery.

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5 must-ask questions to identify a high-quality carbon project

2025-03-11T10:01:00

(BPT) – High-quality carbon projects, funded by verified carbon credits, are an effective way to help reduce emissions, support local communities and make an impact for the planet and its people. Unfortunately, not all carbon projects are created equally. From questions about the overall efficacy of projects to uncertainty about project financials and doubts about the additional benefits they provide, it can be tough to cut through the noise and find a project you can trust.

Here are five simple questions you can ask before supporting a carbon project that will ensure you’re selecting one with real impact.

Is the project based on sound science and does it actively reduce emissions?

This one may seem obvious, but verifying that a project is actually achieving its stated emissions goals is a crucial component of ensuring the project is a high-quality one. If a project doesn’t embrace transparency and isn’t willing to share all relevant internal data with you, that’s a big red flag.

High-quality carbon projects should have nothing to hide — for instance, from the years 2020 to 2024, the Cool Effect team retired 7,677,832 tonnes of carbon, and each of those individual tonnes can be tracked, traced, confirmed and verified to have occurred.

Solar panels leaning against a building
On average, rural Indian homes use less than 400 kWh of electricity per year — but a single solar panel, installed via a high-quality carbon project like the one above, can provide 355 kWh per panel, meaning that thanks to just one carbon project, 4,000+ families living in 16,000 villages can gain access to clean energy, improve their air quality and save money on fuel.

Are the emissions reductions additional?

Additionality is the concept that without income from carbon credits the project itself could not exist — meaning that a project is additional only if:

  • it is not already legally required to do what it is doing
  • it is not profitable without revenue from carbon credits
  • there are barriers that prevent its implementation regardless of profitability
  • it does not employ technologies that are already in common use

Cool Effect projects protected roughly 2,226,936 hectares of land from 2020 to 2024, prioritizing additionality by incentivizing the protection of vulnerable land, securing biodiversity and carbon sequestration benefits that would otherwise not have occurred.

Does the project provide benefits to local communities where they are based?

Any high-quality carbon project doesn’t just make an impact on the planet, it makes an impact for its people as well. The financial impact and benefits of reducing emissions is easy to calculate — in America alone, for every one dollar spent on programs to reduce emissions, its citizens receive nine dollars of benefits to public health and the environment.

An Imperial College University study also showed that for every tonne of CO2 emissions removed from the atmosphere through a carbon credit project, a value of $664 is delivered in economic, social and environmental benefits for local communities where those projects are based.

For example, in just five short years, Cool Effect sent $66,152,974 to carbon projects around the world, which helped 43 communities in Mexico gain financial support and job security through sustainable forestry initiatives. During that same time, just some of those funds helped install over 90,000 clean burning cookstoves in Honduras, reducing household air pollution in homes by 47%, providing 250 new jobs for local communities, and directly impacting the lives of over 350,000 people.

Young man standing next to a stove in a cabin
Local Honduran families can breathe a little easier thanks to these brand-new clean burning cookstoves, installed by project team members with the help of high-quality carbon projects.

High-quality carbon credits can provide real, tangible benefits for the communities where they’re based — just make sure the ones you select are making an impact for more than emissions.

Has the project issued credits from a major carbon standard?

A carbon standard is essentially a set of rules and guidelines that establish quality control for carbon offset projects. There are close to 10,000 active carbon projects in the world today, but only about 7,500 are registered with a recognized carbon standard like Verra, VCS, Gold Standard and the Climate Action Reserve — and even fewer of those meet the standards for high-quality carbon offsets. Adhering to a standard is a good first step, but it doesn’t guarantee the projects will be high quality — throughout its history, Cool Effect’s team has reviewed over 5,000 carbon projects and even then only about 1% of those passed their verification process.

Is the project pricing transparent?

It’s not enough that a carbon project lays bare its scientific and operational methodologies; its finances need to be an open book as well. To encourage radical transparency in the world of carbon, Cool Effect introduced The Seller’s Pledge, a legal commitment to pricing transparency made to any buyer of carbon credits from its platform. Over 90% of every donation goes directly to project partners, and there are never any hidden fees. The only fee Cool Effect places on any donation is a 9.87% fee which is disclosed to both the buyer and the project developer.

Tree roots under growing under water.
Cool Effect Blue Carbon projects have generated enough funds to plant 40,931,340 mangroves like these between 2020 and 2024 — absorbing carbon, creating jobs and protecting coastlines, all without hidden fees of any kind.

When using carbon credits to make an impact for the planet and its people, don’t just choose a carbon project — choose a Carbon Done Correctly project. Look for projects that incorporate trusted science, transparent financials, tangible co-benefits and verified impact.

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Through the recent release of a landmark Impact Report, Cool Effect demonstrates how its transparent pricing policy has mobilized substantial capital to support high-quality projects that execute urgently needed climate mitigation. Download the Impact Report at cooleffect.org/impact to see the real impact that carbon can make on the planet and its people.

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Breathe easier at home and on the road with these 5 tips

2025-03-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – How often do you think about your indoor air quality? While many might assume the risk of encountering pollutants and allergens only exists outside, these harmful toxins can’t be left at the door and can actually pose an unseen threat in your home, your office and even your car.

Even the cleanest indoor spaces can have harmful particles wafting around the air. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, pollutants are two to five times more concentrated indoors, where Americans spend approximately 90% of their time.

From dust to dander to pollen and smoke, outdoor pollutants and indoor allergens can invade your personal spaces through the tiniest of entry points and negatively impact your health. Sustained exposure to poor air quality can lead to more serious health conditions.

Luckily, indoor air quality is something you can control. Take a look at these five simple tips that you can try to improve the air quality in your most frequented spaces so you can breathe easier and live healthier.

1. Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter

Dust, allergens and pollutants can accumulate on your floors, carpets, car seats and more, and become airborne during daily activity. To promote healthier air quality, vacuum frequently using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

When it comes to indoor air quality, HEPA filters are the gold standard. According to the Allergy & Asthma Network, these filters are designed to capture 99.7% of all particles 0.3 microns or smaller, including mold, pet dander, dust mites, pollen and some small particles from smoke and pollution.

Aim to vacuum the whole house once a week and high-traffic areas, like the kitchen, entryway and living room, two to three times a week. As for your car, give the seats and carpets a good vacuum about once a month.

2. Clean your car often

Have you considered your car’s indoor air quality? Whether you spend hours commuting or making several quick trips around town, improving your in-car air quality is crucial. In addition to making changes like recirculating the air in the car instead of bringing polluted air from outdoors, you can improve your car’s indoor air quality by cleaning it often.

Much like your home, your car accumulates dust. The American Lung Association recommends regularly wiping down the console, dashboard and door panels to reduce these and other air contaminants. Don’t forget to vacuum the upholstery, floor and mats to get rid of dirt and debris.

3. Use air purifiers

One of the easiest ways to improve your indoor air quality is to use air purifiers throughout your house. These portable air cleaners draw in air and filter out allergens and pollutants, improving the health of your home.

Choose an effective model, such as the Bosch Air Series Purifier — which uses a 3-in-1 filter (including a HEPA layer) to remove over 99% of the impurities in the air, such as pollen, pet dander, dust, viruses and odors. Each purifier features smart sensors that detect pollutants and automatically adapt to the air quality and room. These quiet purifiers are available in three different sizes, so you can find the strength that best suits your needs.

4. Change air filters regularly (and not just in your home!)

Don’t go too long in between changing your air filters. These key components are essential in protecting the air around you — not just in your home, but in your car, too. Many drivers either aren’t aware of their car’s cabin air filter at all or don’t realize they need to replace it regularly, just as they replace the filter on their in-home HVAC unit. Over time, the particles the filter traps build up, clogging it and reducing its efficiency. To ensure you have continuous clean air, change your filters as often as your owner’s manual recommends.

If your car mechanic has recently mentioned it’s time to change the cabin air filter in your car, products like Bosch HEPA Cabin Air Filters can be a great solution for absorbing fumes, pollen, dust, mold spores, pollutants and odors that enter a vehicle, protecting you and other passengers from poor air quality.

Bosch recommends replacing your cabin air filter every 12,000 miles or so. You can find the cabin air filter behind the glove compartment or under the dashboard.

Graphic that shows how a cabin air filter works in a car.

5. Use natural products

What you use to clean your home and car may actually be polluting your air, as many conventional cleaning products are made with harsh chemicals.

Air fresheners can also be a source of hazardous pollutants. Be it a cardboard freshener hanging around your rearview mirror or a plug-in freshener in your living room, these products have been known to emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that could compromise your health.

You can keep your spaces clean and minimize toxic chemicals in the air you breathe by opting for natural products. The next time you visit the store, look for nontoxic air fresheners and green or eco-friendly cleaning products that contain natural, plant-based ingredients.

Using these five simple tips, you can improve your in-home and in-car air quality and keep it clean for seasons to come.

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Grillmaster answers age-old question: What’s better, charcoal or pellet?

2025-03-11T09:31:00

(BPT) – With warmer temps comes the return to grilling, one of America’s most beloved pastimes. Given all the options available today — from equipment, fuel and methods to what you can grill (answer: pretty much everything) — your choices may seem overwhelming. But one fundamental question is paramount: Should you opt for a charcoal grill?

Whether you’re new to grilling or looking to upgrade this year, you’ll want to know why so many grillmasters prefer charcoal. If you’re looking for real BBQ flavor, there’s one fuel source that pitmasters, backyard pros, and competition teams choose: charcoal. Pellet grills may have the reputation of being easy to use, but they can’t match the depth of smoke, searing power, or versatility of charcoal cooking. And with today’s technology, charcoal grilling is just as easy — if not easier — than pellets.

To help you better understand the ins and outs of charcoal grilling, one of Masterbuilt’s chef partners and star of the Netflix series “American BBQ Showdown,” Rasheed Philips, answers questions you may have about charcoal grilling, and about his experiences.

What first drew you to charcoal grilling?

The aromas. They remind me of grilling and cooking with my grandfather. Cooking with coals just imparts such a deeper level of flavor than using something like propane or pellets. It also provides a much higher BTU (British thermal unit) output, making it perfect for grilling.

Man setting the temperature on a Grillmaster grill.

How does the flavor differ between wood pellet and charcoal grilling?

Pellets are compressed sawdust particles. Though it is technically wood, it loses so much of the flavor and cooking attributes that are found in cooking with an actual piece of wood.

What kinds of dishes does charcoal grilling excel at?

Everything. It may seem like the easy answer, yet it is true: Roasted/charred veggies, grilled chicken. There’s nothing like a steak grilled over coals with the fat rendering, hitting the coals and releasing smoke elements back into the meat … And no one has ever said, “Hmm, love that propane/pellet taste.”

Man grilling beef on a Mastergrill grill.

When it comes to temperature control, is charcoal or pellet preferred, and why?

I prefer charcoal for several reasons, including the level of consistent burn and heat output. Charcoal also adds a true char and smoke flavor, whether it be briquettes or lump charcoal.

Besides flavor and temperature control, are there other benefits of one fuel source over the other?

The honest answer is rather simple: Damp or wet coal can still be lit and cooked with. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen a pellet get the slightest bit of moisture, but it immediately turns to sawdust.

Many people think charcoal is more complicated. What do you say to someone hesitant to make the switch?

Most things seem complicated or intimidating until you try them. It’s like riding a bike; once you do it you never forget it, and it’s never as scary after the first time. Charcoal allows you to impart amazing flavors, while giving you a consistent and even cooking experience.

Do you have tips for someone transitioning from a pellet grill to charcoal?

1. You don’t need nearly as much coal for a cook as you do pellets. Most cooks can be done with one-half to one full chimney of charcoal.

2. Experiment with flavors. Try adding fresh herbs to your bed of coals toward the end of the cook for additional flavor. Adding wood chunks also helps add additional depth of flavor.

3. Safety first: Make sure to have proper heat/fire handling equipment.

4. Lastly, have fun. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, not one that you stress over.

Getting started with charcoal

Don’t settle for a shortcut — have the real backyard BBQ experience with charcoal grilling. If you’re ready to experience the enhanced flavor and temperature control with a charcoal grill, check out the Masterbuilt Gravity Series. Here are some benefits you’ll enjoy using a product like the new Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker:

  • Better temperature control — You’ll be able to get higher temps with your charcoal grill for a better sear, which is key to maximizing flavor. You can’t sear with pellets, as they don’t get hot enough. The Gravity Series grills get to your desired cook temp quickly — up to 225F in nine minutes, and 700F in fifteen minutes. Charcoal also allows for better low-and-slow cooking for longer smoking.
  • Better flavor — And you can enhance that further by adding your choice of herbs and/or wood chunks.
  • Better overall experience — The open flame is not only more aesthetically pleasing, but you’ll also be able to gauge the cooking process more accurately, to see and understand how your food is cooking.
  • Easy to use — The latest grilling technology improves your experience and control you’ll have while cooking. Push a button, set your temp, and let the grill do the work — just like a pellet smoker, but with better results.

Thinking about buying a pellet grill? Don’t settle. Get bold, smoky flavor, real fire cooking, and easy digital control — all with charcoal. Upgrade to the Masterbuilt Gravity Series today. Learn more about your grilling options, find amazing recipes and where to locate Masterbuilt Gravity Series grills, smokers and useful accessories near you at Masterbuilt.com.

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Want a bold new style? Choosing the bald look is totally on trend

2025-03-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – From the dazzling runways of New York Fashion Week to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood red carpets, among star athletes and mega-influencers, a striking trend has taken center stage: embracing the beauty of the bald head. An increasing number of men — and women — are making unique, fashionable statements with their daring new looks, and there’s no doubt about it: Bald heads are definitely turning heads.

Going bald can elevate your style game

The bald look has the potential to unlock a sense of confidence, authenticity and originality that few other looks can rival. Ditching the focus on hair shines a spotlight on a person’s captivating eyes, unique head shape or striking facial features, which can lead to a transformation in their overall appearance and how they greet the world around them.

Discover the advantages of rocking the hairless style and learn how to craft your own unique look with this trend.

Say goodbye to bad hair days

A hand holding a Remington<sup><sup>®</sup></sup> Balder Ultimate Head Shaver” width=”600″ border=”0″></div> <p>Are you frustrated with trying to style your hair and tired of spending so much time, energy and money to achieve that elusive “perfect look”? If so, prepare to fall in love with the minimalist chicness of the bald look.</p> <p>For anyone who has struggled with trying to style thinning or receding hair, or who doesn’t like the gray or white hair that may be coming in, liberating yourself with a clean shave can actually make you feel — and look — younger. Many people find the sense of confidence and authority exuded by people who’ve chosen the bald look to be very attractive, making it a surefire way to stand out and express your true self with style.</p> <p>Don’t let bad hair days hold you back — consider the bald look if you’d like to test drive a new level of confidence and style.</p> <p><strong>Achieving your fresh bald look with ease</strong></p> </p> <div style=A Remington Balder Ultimate Head Shaver laying on a counter next to its storage case and a towel.

To effortlessly attain — and maintain — your new look, turn to the Remington® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver. This grooming tool empowers you to achieve your desired look quickly and easily, complete with an integrated pop-up trimmer for further styling flexibility.

This shaver’s 5X dual track blade-cutting heads and pivoting neck provide maximum skin contact for even all-over results. Moreover, its new Turbo Speed Mode delivers a boost of power to cut through denser areas of hair with just the touch of a button. Best yet, with the Remington® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver you can achieve a comfortable, skin-close shave in under two minutes.*

You’ll get up to 60 minutes of cordless use — over one month of use on a single charge. The shaver is also 100% waterproof, so you can shave your way. It’s also easy to clean, with the less mess hair pocket. Cut hair collects in a chamber underneath the shaver heads for easy disposal and cleanup. The Remington® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver also comes with a protective head guard, premium zippered storage case and cleaning brush. You can trust the #1 brand of head shavers in the U.S.** to be your ultimate grooming ally.

Tips for mastering your bald look

When you’re ready to dive into the bald trend, familiarize yourself with your shaver’s instructions for optimal results.

  • Begin by trimming your hair as short as possible.
  • You can use your shaver dry or wet, but it may help to shower to soften your hair, or to use a pre-shave oil or gel.
  • Shave by following the contour of your head with the shaver in the direction of your hair growth to minimize irritation.
  • After shaving, soothe your skin with a moisturizer.

Once you’ve achieved your celebrity-worthy bald appearance, maintain it with periodic touchups using your Remington® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver whenever needed.

Adopting the bald trend grants you the freedom to elevate your own fashion sense in new, unique ways through how you style your facial hair, clothes and accessories. Using the Remington® Balder Ultimate Head shaver, you’ll be joining the many bold, confident individuals who have proudly embraced the beauty of the bald head.

A Remington Balder Ultimate Head Shaver against a white backdrop with a golden icon next to it reading:

*based on 2-day growth.
**Source: Circana, Retail Tracking Service, U.S. Unit Sales, 12 months ending April 2024.

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Never Settle: How One Man Refused to Give Up and Took Charge of His Psoriatic Disease

2025-03-10T11:51:00

(BPT) – As an avid skier, Mike was alarmed when he unexpectedly started experiencing pain in his lower extremities and back that prevented him from hitting the slopes. At the time, he had no way to know that this pain would set him on a path to a diagnosis of active psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause symptoms including joint pain, stiffness and swelling.1

Active PsA is frequently undiagnosed and affects up to 1% of the U.S. population,2,3 including up to 30% of people with psoriasis (PsO),4 another inflammatory condition that occurs when the immune system is overactive, resulting in thick, scaly patches, called plaques, on the skin.5 Collectively, active PsA and PsO are known as psoriatic disease.

“I’m pretty active and try to stay in shape, so when this unexplained pain started to interfere with my passions like skiing and playing the piano, as well as my ability to quickly perform simple daily tasks like buttoning my shirt, I knew I needed to visit my doctor to get to the bottom of it,” Mike reflects. “Originally, my doctor told me I had psoriatic arthritis, and I quickly learned that this was something I was going to have to deal with for the rest of my life.”

Unfortunately, by the time Mike received this psoriatic arthritis diagnosis, his condition had progressed to the point that his hands were significantly impacted by the joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Additionally, about a year later, he started developing psoriasis lesions on the skin. The lesions first appeared on his ankles, legs and calves, and then later on sensitive areas of his body like his scalp.

“I was very concerned when the skin lesions started to appear. Since it was a while after my diagnosis, I wasn’t aware that they might have been caused by my psoriatic arthritis,” Mike shares.

Mike’s TREMFYA® Journey

Mike began working with his primary care doctor, rheumatologist, and dermatologist to find a treatment plan that could address his active PsA and his psoriasis lesions.

Mike tried a number of medications to address his PsA symptoms, but, over time, he was unable to keep his symptoms at bay and stopped responding to them. Mike’s rheumatologist suggested he try a biologic, a medication that can target overactive cells in the immune system and that can help improve active PsA symptoms. He was prescribed TREMFYA® (guselkumab), a prescription medicine approved to treat adults with active PsA.

Since starting TREMFYA®, Mike has noticed improvements in his symptoms, specifically joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Mike was able to go back to doing things that meant so much to him such as playing the piano. And, for his husband, that has meant doing some of the things they had to put on hold, like traveling, without having to worry about how his symptoms might impact their ability to explore and fully enjoy the experience together.

Mike also saw clearing of psoriasis lesions on his skin, which provided a sense of relief to not have to constantly explain that his disease was not contagious to others. Mike notes, “thankfully, I had the support of my husband, family and friends who were understanding of my condition and didn’t make me feel self-conscious, which I am extremely grateful for.”

In two active PsA medical studies, more than 5 out of 10 patients treated with TREMFYA® had at least a 20% improvement in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling at 24 weeks compared with placebo.6 Additionally, at 24 weeks, people taking TREMFYA® showed an overall improvement in their ability to perform daily activities such as getting dressed, eating, and walking, which was assessed in Disability Index of Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ-DI).6 Some patients also reported improvement in PsA-related fatigue at 24 weeks as measured by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy — Fatigue (FACIT-F), a questionnaire to measure self-reported tiredness, weakness, and difficulty conducting usual activities due to fatigue over the last seven days.6,7 Furthermore, patients with active PsA who were treated with TREMFYA® saw an improvement in psoriasis skin plaques at 24 weeks. Individual results may vary.

TREMFYA® is not for everyone; only your doctor can decide if it’s right for you. Do not use if you are allergic to TREMFYA®. TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including serious allergic reactions and infections. TREMFYA® affects your immune system. It may increase your risk of infections and lower your ability to fight them. Please read the Important Safety Information below and the Medication Guide for TREMFYA® available at www.tremfya.com to learn more about these and other risks for TREMFYA®. Discuss any questions you have with your doctor.

The Importance of a Supportive Care Team

“Growing up as a Chinese American, I was taught to respect my doctors and follow their guidance without question,” Mike says. “I’m thankful that I’ve learned how to work collaboratively with my full healthcare team to come up with a treatment plan that worked for me.”

Along with support from his healthcare team and family, Mike enrolled in the TREMFYA withMe program, which offers education about TREMFYA® and its administration, as well as one-on-one guidance and assistance related to insurance coverage or cost support options.

“I’m proof that you don’t have to struggle with a condition or just learn to live with it,” Mike shares. “I know how hard it sometimes can be to get the help you need — I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you that you can find the right care and the appropriate treatment option. Don’t give up, and don’t be afraid to speak with your doctor about your needs to get the most from your conversations and develop a true partnership.”

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Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson

In consideration of the time Mike spent participating in this article, he was paid honoraria by Johnson & Johnson.

INDICATION

WHAT IS TREMFYA® (guselkumab)?

TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet or UV light).

TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with active psoriatic arthritis.

TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA®?

TREMFYA® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Serious Allergic Reactions. Stop using TREMFYA® and get emergency medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
  • fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure)
  • swelling of your face, eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue or throat
  • trouble breathing or throat tightness
  • chest tightness
  • skin rash, hives
  • itching
  • Infections. TREMFYA® may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections. Your healthcare provider should check you for infections and tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with TREMFYA® and may treat you for TB before you begin treatment with TREMFYA® if you have a history of TB or have active TB. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during and after treatment with TREMFYA®.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection, including:

  • fever, sweats, or chills
  • muscle aches
  • weight loss
  • cough
  • warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body different from your psoriasis
  • diarrhea or stomach pain
  • shortness of breath
  • blood in your phlegm (mucus)
  • burning when you urinate or urinating more often than normal

Do not take TREMFYA® if you have had a serious allergic reaction to guselkumab or any of the ingredients in TREMFYA®.

Before using TREMFYA®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have any of the conditions or symptoms listed in the section “What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA®?”
  • have an infection that does not go away or that keeps coming back.
  • have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB.
  • have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). You should avoid receiving live vaccines during treatment with TREMFYA®.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TREMFYA® can harm your unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: If you become pregnant during treatment with TREMFYA®, talk to your healthcare provider about registering in the pregnancy exposure registry for TREMFYA®. You can enroll by visiting www.mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/tremfya-guselkumab, by calling 1-877-311-8972, or emailing MotherToBaby@health.ucsd.edu. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of TREMFYA® during pregnancy.

  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TREMFYA® passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of TREMFYA®?

TREMFYA® may cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA®?”

The most common side effects of TREMFYA® include: respiratory tract infections, headache, injection site reactions, joint pain (arthralgia), diarrhea, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), fungal skin infections, herpes simplex infections, and bronchitis.

These are not all the possible side effects of TREMFYA®. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Use TREMFYA® exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

Please read the full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, for TREMFYA® and discuss any questions that you have with your doctor.

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.

Dosage Forms and Strengths: TREMFYA® is available in a 100 mg/mL prefilled syringe and One-Press patient-controlled injector for subcutaneous injection, a 200 mg/2 mL prefilled syringe and prefilled pen (TREMFYA® PEN) for subcutaneous injection, and a 200 mg/20 mL (10 mg/mL) single dose vial for intravenous infusion.

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  1. About psoriatic arthritis. National Psoriasis Foundation. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriatic-arthritis/#:~:text=Psoriatic%20arthritis%20(PsA)%20is%20a,age%20and%20may%20affect%20children
  2. Gladman DD, Antoni C, Mease P, et al. Psoriatic arthritis: epidemiology, clinical features, course, and outcome. Ann Rheum Dis. 2005;64 Suppl 2(Suppl 2):ii14-7. doi: 10.1136/ard.2004.032482; PMID: 15708927; PMCID: PMC1766874.
  3. Mease PJ, Armstrong AW. Managing patients with psoriatic disease: the diagnosis and pharmacologic treatment of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis. Drugs. 2014;74(4):423-441. doi: 10.1007/s40265-014-0191-y; PMID: 24566842; PMCID: PMC3958815
  4. Mease PJ, Gladman DD, Papp KA, et al. Prevalence of rheumatologist-diagnosed psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis in European/North American dermatology clinics. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69(5):729-735. Epub 2013 Aug 24. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.07.023; PMID: 23981683
  5. Psoriasis. National Psoriasis Foundation. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20a%20skin%20disease,make%20it%20hard%20to%20concentrate
  6. TREMFYA® [Prescribing Information]. Horsham, PA: Janssen Biotech, Inc.
  7. FACIT-Fatigue. FACIT.org. Accessed February 27, 2025. https://www.facit.org/measures/facit-fatigue

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Top trends coming out of the 2025 Builders’ Show

2025-03-10T10:25:00

(BPT) – Are you eager to stay on top of cutting-edge home design and construction trends? This year, Las Vegas hosted the International Builders’ Show (IBS), attracting an array of the best construction and design professionals in the world. This makes it the ideal event for exploring the latest innovations to inspire your next home renovation.

This year’s show did not disappoint, revealing remarkable trends in technology and energy efficiency from more than 1,800 exhibitors, making this the largest show in 17 years. Electrical, lighting and networking leader Leviton showcased an impressive portfolio of wiring devices, in-home connectivity solutions and smart home upgrades designed to support the future of residential building.

Here’s a highlight of standout trends and innovative products from brands like Leviton during this year’s event.

Going all in on electrification

The trend toward electrification is being driven by consumer interests and concerns including cost savings, energy efficiency and a desire for more environmentally friendly energy solutions. This movement is evident in the increasing adoption of smart home devices and networks, electric appliances and EV chargers.

In today’s residential market, electrification is all about efficient, safe and future-proof solutions. As builders and homeowners use more electricity to power things like larger appliances and vehicles in an aim to decarbonize their homes, considerations for increased amperage and smart energy management is required.

To meet the escalating electricity demands of homeowners, cutting-edge products have been developed to enhance standard circuit breakers and electrical panels. Leviton has responded to the call for home electrification with groundbreaking innovations including advanced load centers, smart devices, EV chargers, modular solutions and more.

For example, the modular design of the Leviton Load Center allows homeowners to customize their energy management system with 2nd Generation Smart Circuit Breakers that enable remote monitoring and control of specific circuits and appliances. With this design, upgrading an existing Leviton Load Center to a Smart Load Center is as easy as removing standard circuit breakers out of the panel, snapping the Smart Circuit Breakers in their place and installing Leviton’s Whole Home Energy Monitor. This allows homeowners to remotely control breakers while also monitoring their home’s output and energy use. The plug-on breaker design offers homeowners a panel with both traditional and smart breakers depending on their preference. Smart breakers can be used for intentional monitoring and management of high-draw devices like pool pumps, AC compressors and water heaters, while also using traditional breakers for other energy needs.

Smart homes getting even smarter

According to Realty Executives, the continuing embrace of smart home technology is due to factors including recent AI advances, the quest for energy efficiency and the allure of increasingly customizable control features.

Homeowners can achieve enhanced control by opting for comprehensive smart home devices. For example, integrating Leviton’s Decora Smart switches and dimmers can help homeowners remotely control and schedule their lighting through the My Leviton App. With smart lighting devices, homeowners can create more energy-efficient light schedules and settings whether based on natural light or ensuring lights are switched off when not in use. For those with electric vehicles, smart chargers are also an option to optimize energy-efficient charging. With Leviton’s EV Series Smart Home Charger, homeowners can start and stop sessions, as well as plan charging around off-peak utility hours to lessen the strain on the grid and their wallet.

Electrical upgrades made easy

With the construction industry facing challenges due to labor shortages, the demand for products that streamline processes and simplify installations has never been more critical. Leviton offers a range of products designed to make upgrades effortless for both builders and homeowners.

For example, Decora Evolve is Leviton’s modular switch and outlet system that offers a unique solution for new home builds, giving builders the efficiency of a spec build while providing homebuyers the satisfaction of customization. Builders simply install the Decora Evolve base modules throughout the home, allowing homeowners to personalize each module in seconds with the type of lighting control or outlet that suits their specific needs, all without having to turn off the electricity or use a screwdriver. Eight interchangeable modules are available: standard outlet, dimmer, smart switch, smart dimmer, motion sensor, timer, night light and USB charger. Best yet, you can securely schedule and control all your lighting from the My Leviton app, making it simple and free to connect all your smart switches and dimmers.

Lever Edge is another Leviton technology revolutionizing how electricians install common residential switches and outlets, making installation time even faster and easier. Leviton’s award-winning Lever Edge wiring devices offer a unique patented design simplifying installation through three quick and safe steps: push the wire into the corresponding terminal, click down the lever and terminate with confidence. The Lever Edge line was recently expanded with four new residential devices, including a 15A Tamper-Resistant GFCI, a 15A Weather/Tamper-Resistant GFCI, a Dimmer and a 20A Tamper-Resistant Duplex Outlet.

Good for business and your monthly budget

Considering escalating living costs and environmental concerns as well as evolving technology, homeowners want to be better prepared for the long term while also seeking systems that enhance their lifestyle — with the expectation that the solutions they choose are safe and efficient.

“Leviton stands at the forefront of this shift toward sustainability, offering innovative products that cater to the evolving needs of environmentally conscious consumers,” said Justin Berghoff, Leviton vice president and general manager, Residential. “As a leader in electrical innovation, we continuously strive to bring products to market that make today’s home electrical system options attractive to contractors, builders and their customers. It’s our goal to exceed customer expectations for safer, smarter and more convenient electrical solutions that help drive efficiency and cost savings.”

Discover the latest innovative products showcased at IBS to elevate your home at Leviton.com/builders.

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Half of Americans feel more comfortable using AI in their finances now, compared to a year ago

2025-03-10T09:31:00

(BPT) – New research from Empower explores how Americans are seeing the “AI Advantage” with nearly half of Americans (47%) feeling more comfortable using the tool in their financial lives compared to a year ago.

Some 56% of people say they would use AI to recommend money moves to plan for retirement, provide tips to consolidate debt (58%), and help with budgeting (54%).

Importantly, 62% of Americans value the human component of financial advice, especially for significant financial decisions like investing. Many Americans see AI as a powerful tool to complement human expertise in financial decision-making: 61% say they would use AI alongside human financial advisors to achieve better results.

AI at work

AI is becoming a regular part of the modern workplace, with 58% of Americans currently using AI tools in some capacity while on the job. Among these users, 60% rely on AI mainly for writing and other content-generation tasks. While AI adoption is growing, more than a third (34%) say they do not use AI at work. Others are uncertain about their company’s policy on AI usage at the office (38%).

AI is indispensable for some — 28% of Americans, including 29% of Millennials and 27% of Gen Z, can’t imagine working without these tools. But there is hesitation around adoption: Only 15% of Americans have received AI-specific training at work, and 14% avoid AI altogether due to fears it may one day replace their job.

Gen Z employees are leveraging AI to support their professional growth and workplace readiness: Over half of them (52%) use AI tools to build or edit their resumes, streamlining the job application process. Nearly half of Gen Zers (47%) use AI to prepare for important presentations, while 43% rely on it to practice for job interviews.

Methodology

The Empower “AI Advantage” study is based on online survey responses from 1,009 Americans ages 18+ fielded in December 2024.

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Give Your Wallet a Spring Break

2025-03-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – As winter begins to dissipate, students and families are eagerly preparing not just to make the most of sunny weather and spring holidays, but for saving hacks so they aren’t returning home with a big travel debt in addition to souvenirs.

“People are prioritizing quality, unique travel experiences this spring break,” said travel expert and award-winning travel journalist Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon. “But there are plenty of ways to save money when traveling. AARP members can take advantage of their benefits to plan, save, and enjoy their spring break.”

Planning a premium vacation doesn’t mean you have to pay premium prices. With an AARP membership you can check off all your vacation “musts” and save while doing so.

Flights, Hotels, Transportation, Oh My! To help take the sting out of planning a vacation during a peak period like spring break, head to the perfect one-stop shop — AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia — to create a seamless itinerary. Members save up to 10% on select hotels, 30% off car rentals and receive a $50 gift card with any flight package. Plus, for a limited time, you can refresh your travel plans this spring and save 15% or more on select stays and get a $50 gift card when you book any flight package through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. Book by March 31, 2025.

Whether your travel plans take you near or far, an AARP membership gives you access to a variety of benefits and discounts at hotels worldwide. AARP members save 10% at Choice Hotels. When staying at Sleep Inn hotels, guests can scan a QR code to access curated nearby trails from AllTrails and explore over 750,000 miles of hiking, biking, and running routes. Plus, they’ll enjoy a free month of AllTrails+ with offline maps, trail previews, and more. Or, in addition to saving 10% off rooms at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, wellness-minded members can take advantage of spa deals and packages at over 80 properties, including Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, Florida, and Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa in Tucson, Arizona. After a full day of sightseeing, choose from blissful treatments like massages, facials, body wraps, and salon services.

Ready for Take Off. Now that all your travel plans are coming together, don’t let an expired passport get in the way of your picture-perfect getaway. AARP members and their families can save 15% on expedited U.S. passport and travel visa services with RushMyPassport, which offers rush options for all passport types. RushMyPassport also offers customer support to simplify the process of obtaining travel documents.

All-American Road Trip. If you prefer driving to flying for spring break, save up to 30% off base rates or 35% with the Pay Now option when renting a vehicle from Budget. AARP members also receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, you can get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability) and add an additional driver at no cost. Now, AARP members can unlock exclusive rates starting at just $54/day on spacious SUVs and powerful pickup trucks. Choose from intermediate, standard, or elite SUVs — or go bold with a midsize or full-size pickup truck. This special offer won’t last long, so don’t wait.

Break up a long drive by enjoying diner classics or all-day breakfast goodies at Denny’s — AARP members save 15% on their checks, maximum discount cannot exceed $10. To redeem this offer, present your AARP membership card with your check, or mention your membership number over the phone for pick-up orders.

Another thing to keep in mind on the road is that you can’t predict everything. AARP member benefits can help you prepare for speed bumps along the way with Allstate Roadside Assistance. Members save up to 20% on annual membership fees for Allstate Roadside plans, including Roadside Assist and Roadside Elite. Upon enrollment, you’ll have access to assistance for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, fuel delivery and more.

Open Line of Communication. Having a reliable phone line while traveling helps you stay connected with family and friends back home, access crucial information like maps and directions, handle emergencies, and generally navigate your way around a new location with ease. AARP members can save $10 per line, per month, on the AT&T Unlimited Premium® PL plan, plus receive up to $50 in waived activation and upgrade fees. Present your AARP membership card in-store or enter your membership number when shopping on the AT&T website. And now is the time to switch. For a limited time, AARP members get $100 in credits per line when you switch to AT&T. Offer ends 3/31/25.

Book your bucket-list spring break vacation without worry using your AARP membership. To learn more about additional discounts for AARP members, by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits.