Author: admin

2026-06-25T14:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Homeowners are incorporating smart technologies throughout their homes, including solutions to improve indoor air quality (IAQ).
• Improving a home’s IAQ typically involves using multiple products that don’t work together.
• The Panasonic OASYS^® solves this problem by continuously bringing in fresh, filtered outdoor air that is balanced with indoor air to create a healthier living environment and improve IAQ, temperature and humidity.

Modern homeowners are steadily layering technology into every corner of their homes. Whether it’s a smart thermostat, voice assistants, connected security, EV chargers or app-controlled appliances, smart technology is making home life easier and — in some cases — healthier.

Take indoor air quality (IAQ), for example. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend on average about 90% of their time indoors, where the concentration of some pollutants is often two to five times higher than typical outdoor air. Although you can’t see them, these air pollutants can have very real visible effects on your health and have been associated with:

• Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
• Headaches, dizziness and fatigue.
• Respiratory diseases, heart disease and cancer.

There are numerous smart devices on the market to improve IAQ, including monitors, purifiers, dehumidifiers and more. However, these separate IAQ technologies don’t work together, requiring homeowners to monitor and adjust the settings themselves.

Seeing the need for connected IAQ technology that works in concert, Panasonic created OASYS^®, a whole-home air quality management solution that aligns comfort, air quality and energy management, providing homeowners with a true set-it-and-forget-it IAQ system.

Tech designed for integrated IAQ management from the start

Panasonic OASYS^® creates a house that breathes as intentionally as it was designed. The energy-efficient system manages indoor air quality, temperature and humidity without homeowner intervention. The result? Cleaner air, balanced humidity, fewer indoor allergens and pollutants, and consistent temperature control throughout the house from the moment you walk in.

So, how exactly does OASYS^® work to improve IAQ? It all begins with its fresh-air-first approach.

Improving ventilation with outdoor air is one of the fundamental strategies for reducing concentrations of indoor air pollutants. However, most home heating and cooling systems do not mechanically bring in fresh air. By flipping the traditional HVAC logic, OASYS^® provides homeowners with balanced airflow to every room, including hard-to-reach areas, supporting consistent comfort and well-being of families in their home environment.

Bringing in fresh air is especially important for homeowners who are moving into a new build. Construction materials, paint, new furnishings and cleaning products emit chemical vapors known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a common source of air pollution. By incorporating OASYS^® into building plans from the beginning, the whole-home air quality management system can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals by removing VOCs from paints, cleaning products and furnishings before you even move in.

Another benefit of OASYS^® is that it uses significantly less energy than conventional HVAC technologies. This isn’t theoretical. In fact, Panasonic built the Panasonic OASYS^® Concept Home in Houston, Texas, as a proving ground for the system. By actively removing pollutants, allergens and excess humidity in Houston’s challenging climate and air quality environment, OASYS^® supports better respiratory health and reduces energy consumption by up to 53% compared to traditional HVAC systems.^*

Homeowners aren’t the only ones who can benefit from installing OASYS^® technology in their homes. For builders and developers, it provides a compelling alternative to standard HVAC, combining energy efficiency, resilience and occupant wellness in a single solution that doesn’t require users to monitor and adjust settings constantly.

Other OASYS^® features that contribute to whole-home wellness include:

• Continuous ventilation: Provides a steady flow of fresh air, reducing indoor air stagnation, airborne pollutants and improving overall air quality.
• Dehumidification: Steady, balanced humidity levels to prevent mold, mildew and structural damage.
• Allergen reduction: Filters out pollen, pet dander, dust mites and other asthma triggers — ideal for sensitive individuals.
• Low maintenance: Designed for reliability and ease of use, with intuitive smart controls that require minimal upkeep.

Because OASYS^® combines multiple products into one cohesive system, ongoing maintenance is simple, predictable and designed to support long-term, whole-home air quality management. Best of all, it operates in the background, reflecting a growing preference for homes that are not just connected but thoughtfully integrated.

Whole-home comfort completes the modern, high-performance home

A cleaner, more comfortable home that supports holistic wellness doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built that way from the start, with smart technology that works together and does the work for you. For more information on the benefits of Panasonic OASYS^®, visit: iaq.na.panasonic.com/oasys.

*Based on a July 2024 analysis commissioned by Panasonic comparing the OASYS solution against conventional system designs, using a two-story, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom house with light concrete tile roofing and a ventilated crawlspace underneath the first floor as the model home. Energy savings compare a Panasonic high-efficiency design, including an OASYS high-efficiency custom HVAC system and high-performance envelope, to a code minimum house design utilizing a standard gas furnace. Energy demand was converted and standardized to kilowatt hours (kWh), with the model estimating 5,932 kWh annual energy consumption for the OASYS system compared to an estimated 12,744 kWh annual energy consumption for the conventional system, a reduction in annual energy consumption of 53%. The U.S. Department of Energy’s IES Virtual Environment software was used to produce an HVAC load sizing report, while the building’s energy usage was assessed with the National Renewable Energy Lab’s BEopt tool.

2026-06-25T10:01:00

(BPT) – Receiving an unexpected medical diagnosis for a child can feel overwhelming for any parent. For families navigating a new diagnosis of achondroplasia, a rare genetic condition that affects how children grow and develop, knowledge is one of the most powerful tools available. Although achondroplasia is often associated with short stature, its impact reaches beyond height, affecting other vital areas of health and development. Understanding the full scope of the condition can help families feel grounded, informed and ready to support their child’s unique journey.

Understanding achondroplasia

Achondroplasia is the most common form of skeletal dysplasia (short-limbed, disproportionate short stature). At its core, the condition is caused by a specific gene variant that alters bone development and is expressed in tissues throughout the body.

Physically, people with achondroplasia typically have a long, narrow trunk, a larger head and shorter arms and legs. As children grow, these physical differences can shape how they interact with the world around them. Everyday milestones and activities, such as reaching a high shelf, using the bathroom independently, or participating in active play or sports may require adaptations and extra support.

The path to diagnosis and early monitoring

For some families, the journey begins before their child is even born, as achondroplasia can sometimes be suspected during pregnancy based on ultrasound findings. Genetic testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis before or after birth. In other cases, the diagnosis comes after birth and may involve a physical examination, imaging such as X-rays, and genetic tests.

Whenever the diagnosis occurs, early diagnosis is a crucial first step. It helps families to proactively partner with their child’s healthcare team to monitor growth and watch for potential complications over time.

“While achondroplasia is often thought of primarily in terms of height, it can affect multiple systems throughout the body,” explains Dr. Chaya Murali, Pediatric Geneticist, Baylor College of Medicine. “Medical complications of achondroplasia may vary across different stages of life and differ between individuals, which is why ongoing monitoring and individual care are vital.”

Looking at the whole picture: health considerations

As Dr. Murali notes, achondroplasia is about much more than just bone growth. It can also impact muscles, nerves, and breathing. Because achondroplasia affects each person differently, potential medical complications may vary across different stages of life and differ between individuals.

Throughout their lives, individuals may face an increased risk for specific health challenges, including spinal abnormalities and impaired muscle strength. Some of these complications may persist or evolve as a child grows into an adult and may occasionally require multiple medical procedures and surgeries to address specific functional or anatomical concerns.

Ultimately, these medical factors, combined with social and individual influences, can play a significant role in a person’s physical functioning, psychosocial well-being, and overall quality of life.

A team approach to individualized care

Because achondroplasia touches multiple systems in the body, care is rarely a solo endeavor. It often involves a multidisciplinary healthcare team, which may include pediatricians, geneticists, endocrinologists, ear-nose-throat specialists, neurosurgeons, sleep specialists, and orthopedic specialists.

Historically, the primary management approach has focused on closely monitoring the child and addressing complications as they arise. However, medical decisions remain deeply personal and are never one-size-fits-all. Families are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for their child.

Determining your approach and finding support

Parents are encouraged to speak openly with their healthcare providers to map out the most appropriate care approach for their child. Beyond the clinic, finding supportive communities and accessing accurate, reliable information can help families confidently track their child’s progress and navigate ongoing healthcare discussions.

To learn more about achondroplasia, visit: https://askaboutachondroplasia.com/.

Featured in the photo are Lawson (age 4) and his mother, Chelsea.

2026-06-25T12:27:00

(BPT) – A new wave of nostalgic ’90s summer mom energy is taking over — and it’s a welcome shift. Enter the Butter Mom: someone who brings warmth, ease and a sense of joy into everyday life, especially in the kitchen. Her philosophy is rooted in flexibility, where cooking and baking are less about chasing perfection and more about enjoyment, connection and a little creativity. Being a Butter Mom means embracing food that feels comforting, nostalgic and satisfying — whether it’s Sunday morning pancakes, a melty grilled cheese or an extra swipe of butter on warm sourdough. She has the kind of kitchen where you measure with your heart and keep things simple with wholesome ingredients. Butter Moms don’t overcomplicate, they keep things real. Some days call for something quick and practical, while other days invite you to slow down and savor the process.

This summer, the fan-favorite butter brand, Land O Lakes, is championing Butter Moms everywhere and celebrating the simple, feel-good indulgences that define this easygoing approach to living well. With dependable recipes and versatile, everyday staples like butter and cheese, the brand helps make weeknight meals and special moments feel approachable and satisfying. Because in a Butter Mom’s kitchen, life doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful — it can be a little messy, a little playful and still full of heart.

Here are a few effortless ways to channel your inner Butter Mom all summer long, keeping things simple and real:

1. Live a Little — and Own It

At its core, Butter Mom energy is confident. It’s knowing what you like, trusting your gut and not apologizing for it … including seconds at dinner, an extra pat of butter on the potatoes, dessert just because. This is balance. This is joy. Butter Moms embrace the beautiful messiness of life and savor it fully.

2. Choose Joy Over Perfection in the Kitchen

Butter Moms aren’t chasing perfection, they’re chasing enjoyment. Taking a page out of their playbook, remind yourself that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With a few quality ingredients and a little confidence, you already have everything you need. Trust your instincts and keep it simple! Cooking becomes less about getting everything “just right” and more about care — feeding yourself and the people you love in a way that feels warm and grounded. It’s not about perfection, it’s about following your gut. Get inspired this summer with a special recipe collection created specifically for the Butter Mom in all of us.

3. Embrace No-Stress Entertaining

Hosting doesn’t have to feel like a production. Butter Moms keep it easy: Invite guests to bring a favorite side, set out a simple drink station and build a grazing board from whatever’s in the fridge. Add Land O Lakes^® Extra Sharp Cheddar & Habanero Jack Cheese Cubes for a creamy, flavorful touch that ties everything together. No pressure, no fuss — just good company and good food.

4. Lean Into Nostalgia

When it comes to style, Butter Moms don’t overthink their wardrobes — their fashion is as uncomplicated as their food choices. They always show up unique and genuinely as themselves. To get the look of the moment, opt for vintage jeans, oversized button-downs and perfectly worn-in tees. Their vibe is relaxed, unfussy and authentic. If it feels a little nostalgic and a lot more comfortable, you’re on the right track.

5. Say “YES” to Real Ingredients

In true Butter Mom form, don’t hold back on what feels right, including the butter! Butter has this way of turning something simple into something unforgettable. Think fluffy waffles with melted butter and maple syrup on top, or hot buttered pasta tossed with lemon and herbs until it glistens, or melted over salmon for that golden, tasty finish. Butter Moms know that a little extra richness isn’t overdoing it — it’s the whole point. With Land O Lakes^® Butter on hand, even the simplest meals feel like a small upgrade in comfort.

6. Make Room for a Little Indulgence

At their core, Butter Moms believe in moderation and truly enjoying the moment. Whether it’s an afternoon snack plate or a cozy, late-night bite, they savor the little things and give themselves permission to indulge, with no overthinking and no guilt. So, go ahead and enjoy a handful of buttery popcorn, a scoop of cold pasta salad or maybe a warm blueberry muffin straight from the oven. These moms know that putting out a welcoming plate of crackers and cheese can quickly turn into a special moment with friends or loved ones.

This summer, be the Butter Mom you long to be: Keep things easy, cook what feels good and don’t overthink things. Because when you slow down and let yourself enjoy it all, everyday moments can become a little more magical.

2026-06-24T11:53:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Today’s tech-dependent lifestyles, extreme weather events and aging power grids all mean one thing: Backup power is essential.
• Solar generators provide a noise-free, fume-free battery backup option for power outages.
• The HomePower Series from Jackery offers a range of power solutions to fit every home, every family and every budget. And yes, it’s possible for a solar generator, even a portable power station, to power a house during an outage.

How homes are actually used has changed a lot in recent years. Between needing work-from-home options and the growing popularity of smart household appliances, home upgrades in 2026 reflect the demand for continual power without worry about outages, or the stress being placed on the aging power grid.

Why you need home backup power

Among today’s remote-capable U.S. employees, over 27% work fully remote and over half (52%) work hybrid. That means the home office is a permanent fixture for most white collar or information workers. For others, a home office is convenient for performing work-related duties on occasion, or managing household tasks.

When you make upgrades in 2026, you’re more likely to be increasing your computers or other electronic devices, adding a standing desk, buying high-tech appliances or installing a smart thermostat. All these needs are part of today’s lifestyle, which further increases grid stress during the hot summer months.

But power interruptions have also become an expected occurrence. In 2024, U.S. electricity customers experienced an average of 11 hours of power interruptions, nearly twice the annual average of the prior decade. In the first half of last year alone, nearly half (45%) of U.S. utility customers experienced power outages.

Backup power solutions for every home

To help ensure your home’s system can cope with increased energy needs uninterrupted, you’ve probably considered backup power. The good news is, backup power is more accessible than ever and with advancements in battery technology, a solar generator can power a house during an outage.

Home backup power used to be an unvaried product for just one type of household: storm-country homeowners with a generator and a garage. Not anymore. The Jackery HomePower Series offers customized solutions designed for remote workers in a one-bedroom apartment, families that want a backup power solution for keeping a refrigerator running, and homeowners wanting whole-house protection without a fuss. One series. Every home.

2026-06-24T09:41:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• Homeowners today want to minimize clutter while improving storage.
• The right door hardware, with options including pocket, wall-mount, bypass and multi-pass, can improve function and design.
• Modern sliding door hardware hides the mess while enhancing the look of the space.
• Johnson Hardware’s American-made hardware offers smart sliding door solutions for any home.

Clutter is one of the biggest challenges homeowners face today. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, homeowners say minimizing clutter and cleaning while improving storage and space-efficiency are the design needs they’re craving. The good news? Modern sliding door hardware is emerging as a design-forward solution that not only conceals mess but enhances the overall look and flow of a space.

From playrooms to pantries, here are five space-efficient room ideas from Johnson Hardware that hide clutter beautifully — designed with innovative sliding, folding and pocket door hardware.

1. Create a kid zone with wall-mounted doors

Customized slide-away doors are made easy with soft-closing wall mount door hardware, providing a smart way to hide toys, books and games in seconds. Whether using a single panel or a converging door kit, these doors are quick to install and glide smoothly along the wall, keeping visual clutter out of sight when needed most. Ideal for open-concept homes, they create flexible spaces that transition effortlessly from family-friendly to guest-ready.

2. Slide open seamless storage with pocket doors

Pocket doors slide neatly into the wall, making them perfect for hiding storage areas without taking up valuable floor space. From entryway drop zones to compact laundry nooks, soft-operating pocket door frame hardware kits offer a minimalist look with maximum function.

3. Consider closets that close in style

Creative spaces can quickly become chaotic. Special “full-access” bifold door hardware allows doors to fold flat against the walls, providing complete closet access when open and a tidy appearance when closed. This makes them ideal for craft areas, hobby stations or small workshops.

4. Glide into streamlined pantries with bypass doors

Bypass sliding doors are a go-to solution for closets in kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms where space is limited. Unlike swinging doors, they glide past one another, keeping walkways clear while housing shelves, toiletries or pantry items.

5. Transform cozy nooks with designer appeal

Two converging pocket doors can transform a hallway overwhelmed by household traffic and storage needs into a tranquil passageway to a relaxing den or reading nook. When closed, these doors create a seamless wall appearance — perfect for modern interiors that value both form and function.

As homeowners continue to seek smarter storage solutions, sliding, folding and pocket door hardware is proving to be a simple upgrade with a major impact — combining organization, flexibility and modern design.

The right door hardware can improve both function and design in the home. Whether you’re renovating or simply upgrading, leveraging options like pocket, wall-mount, bypass, multi-pass and bi-fold door hardware will help you make a smart choice. Each type has unique benefits that suit different spaces, from saving floor space in compact bathrooms to dividing areas in spacious home gyms.

For more information on the advantages of pocket, sliding and folding door hardware, visit www.johnsonhardware.com or call 574-293-5664. Family owned and operated since 1958, Johnson Hardware prides itself on the precision design and the production of leading-quality, American-made hardware for residential and light commercial applications. Follow the company on Instagram, X, Pinterest and Facebook.

2026-06-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• Despite common stereotypes about who plays video games, the truth is video games are for everyone. More than 2/3 of Americans play every week.
• A 2026 report from The Entertainment Software Association reveals who, how and why Americans are playing video games.
• The average age of video game players has increased to 37 years old.
• Men and women both enjoy video games, in roughly equal numbers.
• Players and non-players see the benefits of playing video games: creative thinking, problem solving, mental stimulation, communication skills and stress relief.

Close your eyes and imagine someone playing video games. Who do you picture? Your image of a typical video game player may not be entirely accurate. Those who play video games are constantly evolving, as new games and methods of playing appeal to people of all ages.

The 2026 report* from The Entertainment Software Association reveals that video game players may not be who you think: They might be your grandmother, your sister, your dad … or anyone!

Playing video games is more popular than ever. The number of Americans who play video games every week totals 212.3 million, up 3% over last year. That means over two-thirds of Americans (67%) are playing at least one hour every week.

Here’s what the report discovered about who’s playing — and the benefits they see in video games.

What ages of people play video games?

Video games aren’t just for kids: It’s true that more than 80% of Gen Alpha (ages 5-13) and Gen Z (14-29) play video games, but a majority of adults are powering up as well. Over 7 in 10 Millennials (ages 30-45), 56% of Gen X (45-61) and half of Baby Boomers (62-80) say they play weekly. Even 32% of the Silent Generation (ages 81-90) are joining in on the fun.

It may surprise you that half of all people who are currently playing video games in the U.S. are 35 or older.

How many women play video games compared to men?

Contrary to popular belief, playing video games is actually split about equally between men and women, with 53% of men and 46% of women actively playing. Only slightly more boys and men play than girls and women across all generations, with one notable exception: 52% of Boomer women play games, compared to 47% of men in that generation.

2026-06-24T06:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Scoring seats to watch your favorite football team doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
• Budget-friendly tips like choosing the right games, using deal-finding apps, taking advantage of rewards programs and planning for game-day expenses can help you have a great time and save money.
• You can visit sites or apps like Vivid Seats to find NFL tickets at some of the lowest prices.

It’s football season, and fans across the country are gearing up to see their favorite teams. If you count yourself among the crowd, it’s time to pick the games you want to attend, choose your seats and dig up your fan gear so you can cheer your team on to victory.

Whether you are spending the preseason planning ahead, or looking for last-minute deals, think about ways you can save on your day out. Check out these four expert tips that can help you have a great time at the stadium without breaking the bank.

The right games for the best value

The game you choose can make a huge difference in ticket prices.

Primetime matchups and playoff tickets, particularly those played on Thursday and Monday nights, often come with a premium price tag for fans. Data suggests that opting for a Sunday game can offer meaningful savings. On average, tickets for Sunday matchups are about 6% cheaper than Monday Night Football games and around 4% cheaper than Thursday Night Football games, making them a more budget-friendly choice for fans looking to cut costs.

Also, consider looking beyond marquee matchups, games featuring popular or high-performing teams and players. Instead, buy tickets for games featuring lower-ranked teams, which are often more affordable. No matter the matchup, you’re guaranteed to have fun at an NFL game. The game day experience is what it’s all about.

Buy affordable seats on deal-finding apps

Not all ticket sites or apps offer the same ticket prices or customer service experience. Look for affordable tickets to see your favorite NFL teams on apps like Vivid Seats.

Bought your tickets and then thought you found better prices somewhere else? Don’t worry. If you bought tickets on the Vivid Seats app, you can take advantage of its in-app Lowest Price Guarantee*. If you spot the same NFL ticket for less on a qualifying competitor site, Vivid Seats will match the price.

Always make sure you are buying from a trusted source. Look for third-party credentials to confirm that the site is legitimate and a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB). When you purchase a ticket from a verified and trusted brand like Vivid Seats, you can count on transparent ticket prices thanks to its all-in pricing model, which shows the full ticket price, including all fees, up front. That means the price you see when choosing your seats will be the same price you’ll see at checkout, no surprises, so you can choose seats that best match your budget.

Offset costs with rewards

Just like you would for hotels and flights, don’t forget to look into loyalty and rewards programs. If you plan to attend more than one football game throughout the season, choose a site or app that rewards repeat customers.

For example, the Vivid Seats Rewards program allows football fans to earn rewards on every purchase, which they can redeem for free tickets, while also getting surprise seat upgrades and other game-day exclusives.

How to save on game day beyond the ticket price

Ticket prices aren’t the only expenses you need to budget for when going out to a football game. Costs like parking and concessions can quickly add up, especially when you’re going out as a group or family.

A simple way to save on parking can be to purchase or reserve a spot ahead of time to avoid day-of prices. Not only can you save on parking at or around the stadium, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to waste time looking for a spot, and you can look at options like tailgates to make the most of your game day visit. You can also research whether the stadium offers a park-and-ride service that will drop you off right in front of the gates. Many of the apps and sites you use to find tickets can also help you find affordable parking options.

Stadium concessions can also put a strain on your wallet. The good news is that many stadiums offer discounts and value meals, so you can enjoy a drink or two and a hot dog while staying on budget.

Ready to kick off football season on a budget?

Cheering on your favorite football team doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Using these four tips, you can enjoy watching live football and save some money while you’re at it. To learn more about ticket pricing and find games for your favorite football teams, visit VividSeats.com/NFL.

*Submit claim within 1 hour to get 115% of the price difference as a Vivid Seats credit. Valid only on comparable tickets at eligible marketplaces. Limit $200 Vivid Seats credit per claim; 2 claims per year. Additional restrictions and terms apply. See full terms.