Author: admin

2024-11-15T13:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific

After retiring from his career as a photographer, Pennsylvania resident Bob Skalkowski looked forward to spending his time sailing, gardening, exercising, fixing things around the house and taking photos just for fun — but he never expected atrial fibrillation, or AFib, to interfere with his goals and plans. Although he knew that his parents had AFib in their older years, Bob was still in his early 70s and led a truly active lifestyle.

When he suddenly began experiencing symptoms like lightheadedness and ankle swelling, Bob thought it might be simple dehydration. But his wife, Beverly, was concerned and encouraged him to go to see his doctor. Before he knew it, he was in the hospital for five days, with his doctors trying to lower his resting heart rate of 170 beats per minute (60-100 is considered normal for his age). That was when a doctor first diagnosed Bob with AFib.

“I think there needs to be more education about AFib, because most people don’t know what it is, what it feels like, or they confuse it with something else like I did,” said Bob.

What is atrial fibrillation?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), AFib is an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia that occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slowly or irregularly. AFib can lead to serious and even fatal events such as blood clots, stroke and heart failure.¹ It is estimated that over 12 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with AFib by 2030.²

While symptoms can include irregular heartbeat, palpitations, lightheadedness, fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain,¹ Bob described his AFib as a hollow feeling. He said it was like “a space in my chest was opening up.” After his initial diagnosis, he commonly used a mobile electrocardiogram device linked to his phone to track his pulse. As a first treatment step, patients are often given anti-arrhythmic drugs. However, they aren’t always effective and can cause side effects, which became yet another reason for concern for Bob.

“My underlying symptom was worry,” said Bob. “I was always worrying, even when I was taking medications.”

Bob didn’t think that the medications were working to resolve his condition, as his AFib episodes still lasted between two and 12 hours. Most of all, he continued to worry that his life would never return to “normal,” and that he would have to constantly monitor his heart rate, preventing him from relaxing and enjoying the things that he loved to do.

A new treatment option

Feeling frustrated by his current AFib treatment, Bob often scoured the internet for news about the latest treatments and to see if there were alternative methods to better manage his AFib. During a discussion, Bob’s doctor shared that there was a technology being studied in a clinical trial called the FARAPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System. He was intrigued and asked to learn more.

Some patients with heart arrhythmias, including AFib, undergo thermal ablation — a procedure that uses a catheter to apply extreme heat or cold to target areas of the heart. Bob’s doctor explained that the FARAPULSE PFA System uses electrical fields instead of extreme temperatures to target specific areas of the heart. He added that it was designed to avoid damage to the esophagus and other surrounding structures, which can result in complications or even death in some rare occurrences.

Bob soon became the first person in Pennsylvania to participate in the clinical trial for this innovative technology.

The FARAPULSE PFA System was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in January 2024 with an indication to treat paroxysmal (i.e., intermittent) AFib and is a unique, new alternative to standard-of-care thermal ablation therapy.

Feeling like himself again

Following his procedure with the FARAPULSE PFA System, Bob was beginning to feel like his old self again. Overall, he was thrilled with the results and delighted to return to sailing, doing home improvement projects and enjoying his life.

“Once you get to a certain age, you’re not invincible anymore — you need to see your doctor every year,” said Bob. “And if you do have AFib, don’t be afraid to ask about all the treatment options that are available to you, because your life can depend on it.”

There are risks associated with all medical procedures. Please talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of the FARAPULSE PFA System. For more information about AFib treatments and to see if you are a candidate for a FARAPULSE PFA procedure visit www.farapulse.com.

EP-2039316-AA

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Atrial Fibrillation. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/atrial_fibrillation.htm. Last Reviewed October 14, 2022. Accessed March 2024.
2. Colilla S, Crow A, Petkun W, Singer DE, Simon T, Liu X. Estimates of current and future incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation in the U.S. adult population. Am J Cardiol. 2013;112:1142–1147. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2013.05.063.

2024-11-14T08:01:00

When you’re busy celebrating the holidays, taking your heart medication may slip your mind. However, skipping doses can have serious consequences for your heart health. To help take care of your heart health, set reminders on your phone and keep track of your prescribed regimen.

For instance, if your cardiologist or physician has you taking a statin, a blood pressure drug or low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg be sure to remain consistent in taking your medications to effectively reduce the risk of cardiac events along with a healthy diet and exercise. Make sure you also have your prescriptions renewed and on hand for the holidays and any holiday travel so you don’t have to worry about holiday pharmacy hours or getting a renewal at the last minute.

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind

This holiday season, take a proactive approach to your heart health. Using these five tips, you can support your cardiovascular well-being and still enjoy your usual holiday traditions with friends, family, and loved ones.

Learn more about your risk and steps you can take to support your cardiac health at CVDInflammation.com.

2024-11-14T15:01:00

(BPT) – SunBriteTV, creators of the world’s first all-weather TV for outdoor use, celebrates its 20th anniversary this November. To commemorate delivering a safe, worry-free entertainment experience for two decades, SunBrite is offering world-class savings this winter.

In November 2004, the founders of SunBriteTV took matters into their own hands after witnessing the consistent dilemma many sports fans face: to watch the game and stay inside, or spend a beautiful day outdoors. They asked, “Why not enjoy both?” Through passion, technology and a vision, a line of true, all-weather, outdoor SunBrite TVs was born.

If you’re in the market for a full-shade outdoor TV, now through December 1, you can save $600 off the 43″ Veranda 2 Series, now priced at $1,058.95, or $900 off the 55″ Veranda 3 Series, now priced at $1,998.95. With built-in smart TV features, 4K resolution, and an ultra-bright 1,000 nit direct-lit screen, the Veranda 3 is perfect for outdoor cinematic experiences, and hosting in the darker months ahead.

If you’re looking for a partial sun outdoor TV, you can save $2,000 off the 55″ Signature 2 Series, now priced at $2,868.95, or $4,000 off the 65″ Signature 2 Series, now priced at $4,658.95. This sale is valid now through December 29, while supplies last. With its anti-glare technology, OptiView™ with day and night modes, and a temperature range of -24 to 122°F, the Signature 2 Series is an excellent choice for a year-round outdoor TV.

“We’re very proud to reach this incredible 20-year milestone,” said Jonathan Johnson, Director of Retail and Consumer Sales at SunBriteTV. “We look forward to continuing our mission of designing and supplying the highest quality outdoor entertainment products. And to celebrate and say thank you, we’re offering some incredible savings this holiday season.”

About SunBriteTV

SunBriteTV engineers and manufactures award-winning televisions and displays built specifically for outdoor use. SunBriteTV developed the industry’s first all-weather TV in 2004 and its products have been time-tested in in-home installations, outdoor sports arenas, including Wrigley Field and Yankee Field, restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, colleges, and airports.

2024-11-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – This season we’re teaming up with singer and actress Chloe Bailey to fulfill some ultimate holiday wish lists. Drop your child’s letter to S’Auntie Claus here now through November 29, and, while you wait, shop holiday picks from all four of our brands. (Psst … share your gift list with your favorite gift-givers, too!)

Chloe Bailey’s Holiday Picks

Baby 2-Piece Hooded Bodysuit Pant Set

As someone who just became a favorite auntie for her nephew, Chloe Bailey added this bear-y fave 2-piece set to her holiday wish list. An outfit in a snap is the perfect gift for baby and parents on the go.

Baby Faux Fur Vest

For baby girl, we’re loving this faux fur vest (of course!). The perfect dress-up accessory as you head out for holiday festivities. Bonus: She’ll be equal parts stylish and snuggly.

Toddler 2-Piece Zip-Up Fleece Hoodie & Pants Set

An outfit set made to stand the test of toddlerhood (aka their messy era!). Any parent — and toddler boy — will love this fleece hoodie and pant set. Not only is it an easy wear-together or mix-and-match style, it’s also comfortable for all day play.

Heart Sweatshirt

One of this season’s “it” sweaters, the little fashionista in your life will adore this gift. Dress it up for winter activities, or dress down for a quick, easy school outfit or when running to the park. A versatile look and a bang for your buck!

OshKosh B’gosh^®

Classic Denim Jacket

It’s classic for a reason, and rest assured this gift will get some goooood use. The classic denim jacket is one of those gifts that becomes a closet staple, and before you realize it, you’re grabbing for it every day.

Baby B’Jolly Waffle Knit Jumpsuit

This thermal bodysuit is the perfect cozy holiday look — and is there anything cuter than a slogan on a baby booty? We think not. Browse more of our favorite pint-size looks here.

World’s Best Overalls

There’s a reason they’re the best, and they’ve made a great gift for nearly 130 years now. Choose from a variety of styles, from classic denim to archived favorites to seasonal must-haves. Can’t go wrong here!

Iconic Denim

From skinny to straight to classic, OshKosh B’gosh is every parent’s go-to for durable denim your kids will love wearing. Grab a pair of the tried-and-true fits or pick up one of our fashion or trend styles. We’re loving a fun flare for girls this year, like this pair with flower applique detail.

Skip Hop^®

Discoverosity 3-In-1 Toddler Sensory Table

Developed in collaboration with a sensory play expert, this 24-piece sensory set from Skip Hop offers toddlers limitless ways to explore, learn, create and play. Designed to grow with them, this is one gift that’ll last growing littles more than a season. Added Bonus: The included activity guide offers parents tons of ideas, plus inspo for your own sensory fillers.

Baby Stack & Crawl 4-In-1 Crab Baby Crawl Toy

Not only is this toy great for crawlers from beginner to experienced, it also features four grow-with-baby stages to play with along the way. Start baby off with rattle and teething play, then move onto sorting and stacking as your little one learns, grows and develops. A four-in-one gift: less stuff, less mess — something every parent will appreciate.

Silver Lining Cloud 3-In-1 Grow With Me Set with Activity Center & Toddler Chairs

Another multifaceted gift for growing littles, this activity center is an action-packed take on Skip Hop’s best-selling Silver Lining Cloud gym. The décor-friendly (read that again!) design features a 360-degree rotating seat, light-up piano and four toys that can be rearranged for customized play. Convert the activity center for easy cruising for growing babies, and, for toddler-aged, into a sturdy table with plastic chalkboard surface. The bow on top of this perfect gift? Two modern chairs with detachable legs make for easy, compact storing.

Little Planet^®

Baby Organic Cotton Gauze Wearable Blanket

Wearable blanket or cozy cocoon? It’s one and the same with this long-time favorite from Little Planet. You can’t go wrong with this gift, just tell the parents about its two-way zip feature — making nighttime changes quick and easy — plus it’s safe and keeps baby snug and at just the right temp for sound sleep.

Baby Organic Cotton Sweater Knit Pullover Set in Aqua Slate

This thoughtful essential is the perfect piece to gift. In a neutral color, this set can be worn over and over or passed down from one little one to the next. It’s crafted in 100% organic cotton and features details like a sweet front pocket and faux wood buttons.

Baby Organic Cotton Sleep & Play Pajamas in Pink

You can’t go wrong with a 5-Star Sleep & Play. Made for daily adventures in tummy time, nap time and beyond, this piece is blooming with thoughtful details like a 2-way zipper to keep baby’s arms and torso warm during diaper changes, plus built-in footies to keep tiny toes cozy.

2024-11-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – As a caregiver, focusing on someone else’s well-being is, quite literally, a full-time job, leaving little time or energy to focus on personal care. If you’re unwell, though, it can be especially difficult to fulfill a caregiving role, not simply because you won’t be feeling up to the task, but also because you might put others at risk.

This is especially true during cooler months when people spend more time indoors. Being in close quarters can make it easier for viruses to spread, while the drier air enables those viruses to linger longer. Colder, drier weather may even weaken our resistance to illness.

“Doing your best to stay healthy and energized during the fall and winter months can help reduce those risks and make the chilly season more enjoyable,” said Greg Marion, Senior Vice President of Health Products and Services at AARP Services. “Look for resources that can help keep you and those you care for healthy. AARP members can use their benefits to help them achieve their wellness goals and by keeping these tips in mind.”

1. Stay Well

As a caregiver, it’s important to be in tune with your health, especially to ensure you aren’t passing on illness to others. Primary care is important for both prevention and treatment. Schedule an annual wellness visit heading into the fall season to establish a baseline and check for any underlying conditions. If you’re not feeling well, you may want to schedule an appointment with a physician to determine if medication or other treatment is necessary.

If you haven’t yet established care with a primary care physician, and you are on Medicare, you can check whether there is an Oak Street Health location near you. Oak Street Health provides primary care for adults on Medicare and focuses on prevention with personalized care to help keep you healthy — physically, mentally and socially. Benefits include same-day/next-day appointments where available, convenient locations, a dedicated care team and a 24/7 patient support line. AARP membership is not required to visit an Oak Street location.

2. Eat Well

When we eat well and get proper nutrition, we tend to feel better. A well-rounded diet can also help your immune system be at its best. When you’re busy and tired after providing care all day, cooking a healthy meal for yourself might be the last thing you want to do.

Fortunately, you can have someone else handle the cooking without resorting to take-out. Silver Cuisine™ by bistroMD provides chef-prepared meals, including specialty diet meals such as heart-healthy, gluten-free, diabetic-friendly and more, directly to your door. AARP members save 25% and get free shipping on their first order of $99 or more, and save 10% and get free shipping on all subsequent orders of $99 or more. It’s a delicious, easy and healthy way to feed yourself and your family.

3. Get Outside

While cooler temperatures might make it more difficult to get outside, spending some time outdoors can be a nice reprieve. Put on a few extra layers and enjoy the fresh air, especially when the sun is shining, and get in some physical activity if you are able. It can boost your physical and mental well-being.

If caregiving keeps you inside for the better part of the day, try taking a quick walk in the evening. Wear reflective or bright clothing and bring along a flashlight or headlamp to light your way. Taking that little break will make the return to the warm indoors that much more enjoyable.

4. Take a Break

Whether you’re feeling unwell or simply need some time off, it’s important that you feel comfortable and well-supported to step away from caregiving. There are many resources that can make it easier to do so while ensuring the person being cared for is safe.

CareLinx In-Home Care is a nationwide online network that connects families with pre-screened, professional caregivers who can step in while you recover. AARP members who are new to CareLinx receive a 3% discount on in-home caregiving services.

With Consumer Cellular paired with the IRIS Ally device, any individual can have the confidence of reliable coverage with medical assistance at their fingertips. Plus, there are no long-term contracts and activation is free. The IRIS Ally Medical Alert Device and monthly service with Consumer Cellular provides one-touch emergency response, fall detection, GPS location tracking, two-way voice communication and is water resistant and shower safe, so even if you’re not there to provide care, support is available with the push of a button. AARP members save 5% on monthly subscription fees.

5. Take Advantage of Caregiving Tools

Having the right equipment in place can make your job a bit easier and give you more freedom to step away or take on other tasks. If a medication regimen is involved, simplifying prescription management can greatly reduce the time and stress involved in tracking it. Hero Smart Pill Dispenser stores, sorts and dispenses up to a 90-day supply of ten different medications. The connected medication management app helps you manage medication routines, track your supply and understand your adherence. AARP members get exclusive savings on a Hero subscription.

And should a caregiving recipient fall or have a medical emergency, you can rest assured that they can easily send for help even if you’re not at their side. Lifeline Medical Alert Service offers medical alert systems that provide fast access to help at the press of a button, and with automatic fall detection, the device can alert responders even if the person can’t press the button. AARP members save 15% on medical alert service and get free shipping and activation. You can select the service option that fits your lifestyle and get fast, 24/7/365 access to help when and where you need it.

Taking steps to stay well during colder weather is a good idea for everyone, and especially so for caregivers. Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup, so fill yours by seeking out resources that can help you stay physically and mentally well. To learn more about AARP member benefits, visit aarp.org/benefits.

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2024-11-14T10:01:00

(BPT) – For centuries, the Roman Colosseum has been the stage for epic battles and legendary gladiators. Now, for the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum returns to its original purpose as a venue for performances, inviting daring warriors to step foot inside the historic arena to forge their own paths and shape their destinies.

Those brave enough to rise to the challenge will follow in the footsteps once traversed by victorious fighters, suit up in historically accurate armor, and put their skills to the test to determine their fate in battle. May you emerge triumphant and establish yourself as the ultimate gladiator, earning your place in history.

“Think you have what it takes to become the supreme gladiator?” asks Lucius. “This trial will separate the weak from the strong, where only those with true strength and honor will rise above. For the courageous who accept the challenge, I open the gates of the Colosseum for you to prove your worth before the highest of Rome. Suit up and get ready for battle, for what we do in life echoes in eternity…”

About the Experience

Located at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, guests can request to book one of two, three-hour experiences occurring May 7 to 8, 2025, at $0 per person¹. Each experience has capacity for up to 16 guests each (8 guests and their +1). As young warriors step foot inside the historic arena, here’s what awaits:

• The patron will meet you at the Colosseum after sunset and lead you inside. Whether you emerge from this night victor or vanquished, know this — your eyes will embrace a sight not often seen. The memory of the Colosseum aglimmer in candlelight will be yours.
• Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators prepare for battle. There, you will don armor that most closely reflects your gladiator type, whether that be murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius or contrarete. Choose wisely.
• Traverse the torch-lit, labyrinthine bowels of the Colosseum where Maximus and countless other warriors walked before you. Reflect on their fate, and yours, as you trace their historic steps.
• Savor the symphony of swords and shields as seasoned gladiators engage in a thrilling showdown for your benefit. You must study them — for your turn will soon follow.
• Enjoy a spread of victuals like grapes, pomegranates, almonds and walnuts. You’re a gladiator, not an emperor. You cannot afford to be gluttonous. Overindulgence will dull your senses and slow your reflexes.
• Train in the art of gladiator combat and test your mettle as you face off against your fellow warriors. A summa rudis — your referee — will ultimately determine your fate. May you taste the sweetness of glory with infestus pollex and join the ranks of victorious gladiators since time immemorial.

And don’t forget to catch Gladiator II, only in cinemas this November.

How to Request to Book

Courageous souls ready to step into history can request to book¹ the Colosseum for an exclusive gladiator experience starting November 27 at 6:00 AM PT at airbnb.com/gladiatormovie through December 9 at 11:59 PM PT when request periods close. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Rome, Italy.

Interested in other Airbnb Icons? Learn more at airbnb.com/icons.

Airbnb’s commitment to heritage

These special experiences at the Colosseum follow a series of measures and commitments by the platform to revitalize heritage tourism in Europe, including donations to heritage across Europe for over ten millions dollars.

As part of this program, Airbnb is offering its support to the restoration and enhancement of Colosseum’s heritage, including an ongoing project to restore the permanent exhibition at the Colosseum.

¹ Brought to you by Airbnb. There is no cost to submit a request. See full rules for terms, including age and geographic eligibility, and how data is used.

2024-11-14T06:01:00

(BPT) – Dreaming about a trip to Italy? Italy is a magical, mystical blend of timeless history and artistic masterpieces, scenery that will take your breath away, warm, friendly people who will make you feel like family, and all of it wrapped up in un amorè per la cucina Italiana — a love of Italian food.

Long, leisurely meals with family and friends are not just a tradition here, they are the heart and soul of the Italian people. Regions in Italy are revered for their specialties, and for travelers, a must-do experience is enjoying these regional dishes in the places they originated. You will never have heavenly, silky pasta carbonara better than in Rome. The most delicious pizza of your life? Look no further than Naples.

But planning a trip around Italy’s legendary cuisine can be a bit daunting. How do you know where to go and what to eat when you’re there? That’s where Steve Perillo comes in. The third-generation owner of Perillo Tours, Steve Perillo is an expert in all things Italia, especially its cuisine and culture. With deep roots in Italy, travelers can feel confident that Perillo will deliver unforgettable Italian experiences at an exceptional value, whether traveling on an escorted tour or an independent custom vacation.

Here are some regions where Perillo Tours takes visitors, and the dishes Steve says are must-haves when you’re there.

Rome. In the spring, Roman markets are filled with just-picked artichokes. If you’re lucky enough to be in the Eternal City during this season, you are in for a culinary treat you can’t get anywhere else on the planet. Rome is known for Carciofi alla Romana, or Roman-style artichokes, an otherworldly concoction of whole artichokes, lemon juice, parsley, mint, garlic, olive oil and white wine, braised to perfection. The braising brings out the artichoke’s flavor like no other cooking method, elevating it to “food of the Gods” status. They’re a perfect side dish or a light supper with crusty bread.

Tuscany. The light in Tuscany is different than the light anywhere else in the world. It bathes the landscape in a golden glow that makes everything more beautiful, including their tables. Siena and Florence are known for many hearty wild boar stews and soups using cannelli beans and stale bread, but the one must-have here is Bistecca alla Fiorentina, which is a Chianina beef steak, cut to exact specifications and grilled rare. Perillo offers a Taste of Siena tour that includes a cooking class in the home of a local chef, who can teach you the secrets of local Tuscan cuisine.

Naples. Pizza was invented in Naples in the 18th century as a quick, affordable meal for the working class and people soon started visiting those neighborhoods just to get a taste of it. You haven’t had pizza until you’ve had it in Naples, and Perillo Tours offers a 15-Day North Classic tour that includes a pizza-making class in this beautiful city. News you can use: Steve Perillo’s top three pizza places, all in Naples: Starita (Always crowded with locals. One of the best pizzas Steve has ever had!), Sorbillo (Long lines but the pizza is worth the wait!) and Pizzeria Brandi (Delicious pizza with a special story behind it. This is where the Margherita pizza was invented!)

Sicily. This legendary Mediterranean island is familiar to many Americans from “The Godfather” film, but it is most famous for its food. Perillo is offering a new 8-Day Taste of Sicily tour that includes wine tastings, strolls through medieval villages and a visit to Mount Etna. Palermo’s bustling street markets are a highlight. What to eat when you’re there? Cannoli, of course. It’s a crisp pastry shell stuffed with sweetened ricotta cheese and sometimes sprinkled with pistachios or chocolate. Another must-have: Arancino, a fried rice ball stuffed with tomato sauce, peas and meat, or get one with ham, béchamel and cheese.

Venice. This city of romance, with gondolas floating down lazy canals and shops along winding, ancient cobblestoned streets and alleyways, is a treat for the senses. Try the Cicchetti, which is a bit like the Venetian version of tapas. Small portions of several dishes that are served to the table, meant to be shared. You’ll get crostini topped with a variety of spreads, panini sandwiches, shrimp or other seafood, and polpette, fried balls with tuna, meats or potato. And do not miss the tiramisu. Trust us on this one.

One popular food you won’t find in Italy? Spaghetti and meatballs. That’s a creation of Italian Americans. Try the Bolognese or wild boar ragu instead.

Since 1945, three generations of the Perillo family have perfected the art of traveling to Italy. To start planning for your dream vacation, visit www.perillotours.com.

2024-11-13T10:01:01

(BPT) – The holiday season is full of joy, gatherings, food and merriment. It’s also full of parents and grandparents trying to maintain a budget as they shop, plan and execute those gatherings. AARP members can unwrap a myriad of deals on products and services that help ease the burden of spending and planning as you celebrate during this festive time of year.

“The holiday shopping season kicked off in early October this year with a slew of retailer sales, and sales will continue to roll throughout the season,” said Trae Bodge, Smart Shopping Expert at truetrae.com. “Whether you’ve made headway in your holiday shopping or are just getting started, take a measured approach and capitalize on additional discounts for gifts, travel and more, available through memberships like AARP.”

Here are just a few ways you can keep the “Happy” in Happy Holidays without going over budget.

Affordable Tech

With many companies showing off their latest technology over the past few months, it’s a safe bet that you’ll see plenty of devices on wish lists. AARP members don’t have to throw budgets out the window to cover any additional expenses that can come with tech gadgets. For example, if someone in your family receives a new smartwatch, AARP members save 5% on monthly smartwatch cellular data services with an active Consumer Cellular plan. Or pair that new cell phone with an AT&T Unlimited Premium^® PL plan and save $10 per line per month. Plus, receive up to $50 in waived activation and upgrade fees. For a limited time, AARP members get $100 in credits per line when you switch to AT&T (offer ends December 7, 2024). Don’t forget to take advantage of any new stunning screen displays by streaming over 40,000 episodes and blockbuster movies, live sports, news and exclusive originals all in one place with Paramount+ while saving 10% with an AARP membership.

Taking a Holiday

The holiday season can be a tricky time to travel thanks to bigger crowds, weather delays, and more expensive tickets and hotel bookings for certain destinations. However, AARP members get exclusive deals, seasonal offers, and special savings when they book through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia — which can also help you find those off-season deals for destinations like Europe which may be seeing lower prices versus the summer. AARP members also receive a $50 gift card when booking a vacation package for extra savings when you bundle your flight and hotel. Plus for a limited time, take advantage of 20% off stays and plan your next family escape for all ages ahead of the holidays. Whether that’s sea, snow or a new city, book that family vacation and create memories that last a lifetime (offer ends December 31, 2024).

If you’re hosting guests this year but need extra space for lodging, AARP members save 10% off the best available rate at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which includes iconic hotel brands La Quinta^®, Super 8^®, and Baymont^®. With more than 6,000 properties throughout the U.S., your visitors can enjoy their stay in a comfortable room nearby. Show off your hometown to out-of-town guests worry-free by being prepared in case something goes wrong while you’re out exploring. AARP 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. Allstate Roadside plan benefits can be used 24/7 in any car you drive, including rented and borrowed ones.

Lastly, consider renting a car — whether you just touched down in a city away from home or are hosting for the holidays. A rental vehicle can be a more efficient and affordable option than public transportation and helpful to transport multiple guests who may arrive at different times. As an AARP member, save up to 35% off base rates with Budget with the Pay Now option or up to 30% off when you choose to Pay Later. Plus, members receive a 3% credit to apply to future rentals, a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (subject to availability) and an additional driver at no extra cost.

Home is Where the Heart Is

Sometimes the best holiday vacation is a staycation. If you won’t be physically visiting family or friends for the holidays, you can still share festive wishes and gifts with everyone on your list. AARP members can save 5% off domestic and international UPS^® shipping services at The UPS Store^®, plus 15% off other eligible products and services.

The holiday season can be a difficult balancing act between your normal responsibilities and juggling more gatherings and expenses. AARP members can use their benefits to help lessen the burden so all they have to worry about is enjoying the festive season wrapped in love and topped with savings.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you plan and save this holiday season, please visit aarp.org/save.

2024-11-13T10:51:00

(BPT) – In case you’ve never heard of it, “Brown Friday” is as famous as Black Friday — at least in plumbing circles. The name refers to the brown sludge that builds up in kitchen sinks following major holidays like Thanksgiving. Large gatherings mean more cooking and cleanup, which causes grease and food waste to accumulate inside your pipes and clog your garbage disposal, leading to slow drainage or blockages that put a damper on your festivities — making Brown Friday the busiest day of the year for professional plumbers.

To help you prevent or cope with common plumbing problems over the holidays, the experts from Mr. Rooter^® Plumbing, a Neighborly company, offer tips and tricks for keeping your plumbing in good working order.

Careful cleanup

Whether you’re prepping vegetables for the big meal or cleaning plates afterward, be mindful of what you’re putting down the drain. Even the best-working garbage disposal is no match for the food and grease a typical Thanksgiving dinner can dish up.

Try these tactics:

• Peel and scrape veggies into the trash instead of your sink to keep your pipes and disposal from getting clogged.
• Let grease cool, then wipe out with paper towels and discard instead of pouring it down the drain. Fats congeal when cold, combining with debris to create clogs.
• Scrape dirty plates into the trash to keep bones, food scraps and fatty deposits out of your plumbing.

Coping with a clog

If you end up with a clogged sink, take these steps first:

• Use hot water, then soap and a plunger: Sometimes clogs soften with hot water enough to be dislodged with a little dish soap and a plunger.
• Reset your garbage disposal: A button or switch on the side or bottom of your disposal can reset it.
• Baking soda and vinegar: Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of distilled vinegar, and cover the drain with a stopper. Cover for 30 minutes, and then run hot water to see if the clog clears.

If these efforts don’t work, the issue may best be handled by a professional plumber, like those at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, to avoid damage to your pipes.

Be proactive when hosting an event

To keep your system from overloading, ask houseguests to give your shower or bath a rest for 10 minutes or so between uses.

It’s also best to remind guests that some things — like wipes (even those that may claim to be “flushable”) — shouldn’t be flushed down a toilet, as they can create clogs.

If your home’s plumbing is on a septic system, ensure everyone is fully informed about what’s acceptable to put into the system and what is not. A quick reminder: Wipes, just like with regular toilets, don’t go in a septic system; neither do cigarette butts, diapers, feminine hygiene products, food scraps, pet feces or litter, latex products, paper towels and tissues.

Be prepared for freezing temperatures

Another issue that crops up this time of year is when temperatures plummet, leaving pipes vulnerable to freezing. Frozen pipes can create inconvenient and costly problems, especially when they burst and cause water damage in your home.

To protect your pipes:

• Insulate your home: Insulating your entire home means better insulation for your pipes. While not as effective as pipe-specific insulation methods, a warmer home can keep pipes freeze-free most months.
• Run the heat: Hopefully you’re already running the heat when temperatures drop below freezing, but if you aren’t, you should — even while you’re away from home.
• Insulate your pipes: Pipe insulation prevents frozen pipes and improves the efficiency of your hot water heater, saving energy. Good insulation helps regulate your pipes’ temperature in colder months, making it virtually impossible for them to freeze.
• Consider air sealing: This form of insulation wraps around pipes, is easier to install than other forms of insulation, and helps stabilize pipe temperatures.
• Leave taps dripping: If you leave taps dripping when temperatures are below freezing, the water won’t stay still, preventing the likelihood of a freeze.
• Increase airflow to pipes: When temperatures plummet, consider opening cabinets and cupboards to increase airflow to pipes. This allows warm air to help keep pipes from freezing, and it also works for thawing frozen pipes.

If you live in an area that commonly experiences extremely cold temperatures over the winter, you may want to consider pipe insulation as your first defense against frozen pipes.

Whether you have a plumbing problem right after the holidays or want to ensure your pipes are ready ahead of time, the experienced plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help! For drain cleaning services, pipe insulation or repairs, their courteous plumbers have the skills and tools to tackle whatever problem you have — or to ensure your plumbing is in top shape before your guests arrive.

Learn more at MrRooter.com/BrownFriday.